Governance

Nigeria @65: The worst is over, hope rising for Nigeria – Tinubu

By Web News 454

President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday assured Nigerians that the country’s “worst days are over.”

He declared that his economic reforms are beginning to deliver results and that hope is rising for a more prosperous nation.

Delivering his national broadcast to mark the country’s 65th Independence anniversary, Tinubu said his administration had chosen “the path of tomorrow over the comfort of today” since coming into office in May 2023, and that Nigerians are now beginning to see tangible results.

“I am pleased to report that we have finally turned the corner. The worst is over, I say.

“Yesterday’s pains are giving way to relief. I salute your endurance, support, and understanding.

“I will continue to work for you and justify the confidence you reposed in me to steer the ship of our nation to a safe harbour,” the President said.

Tinubu hailed the resilience of Nigerians, saying the country had survived a civil war, military rule and political crises, and is still striving to build “a more perfect union.”

He described the 65th anniversary as a moment for reflection on the sacrifices of the nation’s founding fathers and the progress achieved since Independence in 1960.

The President highlighted achievements in education and healthcare, noting that Nigeria has grown from just two tertiary institutions at Independence to 274 universities, 183 polytechnics and 236 colleges of education by 2024.

Tinubu defended his economic reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of foreign exchange rates, which he said ended decades of distortions and rent-seeking.

According to him, these difficult decisions freed resources for investment in infrastructure, education, healthcare and social programmes.

He argued, “In resetting our country for sustainable growth, we ended the corrupt fuel subsidies and multiple foreign exchange rates that created massive incentives for a rentier economy, benefiting only a tiny minority.

“Our administration has redirected the economy towards a more inclusive path, channelling money to fund education, healthcare, national security, agriculture, and critical economic infrastructure.”

The President reeled out a list of 12 economic milestones achieved in the last two years and four months in office.

He said Nigeria’s GDP grew by 4.23 per cent in the second quarter of 2025, the fastest in four years, while inflation had declined to 20.12 per cent, the lowest level in three years.

The President added that non-oil revenue had risen sharply, debt service costs had reduced, foreign reserves had increased to $42.03bn, and the tax-to-GDP ratio had grown to 13.5 per cent.

He also noted that Nigeria had posted trade surpluses for five consecutive quarters, with manufactured exports up by 173 per cent and non-oil exports now representing 48 per cent of total trade.

Oil production, he said, had recovered to 1.68 million barrels per day, while local refining had restarted for the first time in four decades, alongside the export of aviation fuel.

Tinubu argued that the naira had grown more stable. He also boasted of improvements in credit ratings, a booming stock market, and the Central Bank’s first interest rate cut in five years as evidence of renewed investor confidence.

The President said his government was investing heavily in security to consolidate economic gains.

“They are winning the war against terrorism, banditry and other violent crimes. We see their victories in their blood and sweat to stamp out Boko Haram terror in the North-East, IPOB/ESN terror in the South-East and banditry and kidnapping,” he said, adding that peace had returned to hundreds of communities and thousands of displaced persons had gone back home.

He also promised to prioritise food security and agricultural production to lower food costs.

“We must build the roads we need, repair the ones that have become decrepit, and construct the schools our children will attend and the hospitals that will care for our people. We have to plan for the generations that will come after us,” Tinubu said.

Addressing young Nigerians, the President described them as the “greatest assets of this blessed country,” highlighting initiatives such as the Nigeria Education Loan Fund, which has already benefited over 500,000 students, and credit schemes like Credicorp and YouthCred that provide loans for housing, devices and resettlement.

He added that the government was pushing ahead with the $600m iDICE programme, backed by international development partners, to support the digital and creative sectors.

Under the social investment programme, Tinubu said N330bn had been disbursed to eight million households.

He also cited significant progress in transport infrastructure, including rail, roads, airports, and seaports, with major projects such as the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and the Eastern Rail Project underway.

Tinubu acknowledged the pain of reforms but urged Nigerians to remain patient.

“I have always candidly acknowledged that these reforms have come with some temporary pains.

“The biting effects of inflation and the rising cost of living remain a significant concern to our government.

“However, the alternative of allowing our country to descend into economic chaos or bankruptcy was not an option,” he said.

The president concluded his third Independence Day address with a call for productivity and national unity, saying, “Let us be a nation of producers, not just consumers. Let us farm our land and build factories to process our produce.

“Let us patronise ‘Made-in-Nigeria’ goods. I say Nigeria first. Let us pay our taxes. Finally, let all hands be on deck.

“With Almighty God on our side, I can assure you that the dawn of a new, prosperous, self-reliant Nigeria is here.”

Punch/Olaolu Fawole

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Politics

Declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers Illegal – Makinde

By Web News 69

By Iyabo Adebisi

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo state has criticised the declaration of a State of Emergency in Rivers State and the suspension of its executive and legislative arms by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing the move as an illegality.

He made his position known in a newsletter released on Thursday night.

Governor Makinde who stressed the need to protect Nigeria’s democracy urged Nigerians to stand up for fairness, equity, and justice.

He said, “The declaration of the State of Emergency in Rivers State and the suspension of the executive and legislative arms of government by the presidency is an illegality that right-thinking members of society must oppose.Our democratic tenets must never be trifled with no matter our personal feelings and loyalties. This is the time to take a stand for fairness, equity and justice”. The governor said.

“And I am glad that our great party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is demonstrating the needed strength and leadership. Yesterday, the PDP Governors’ Forum rose from an emergency meeting where we unanimously decided to challenge the actions of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in a court of competent jurisdiction.

“We cannot fold our hands and watch the democracy we built for almost three decades trampled upon,” Makinde concluded.

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Education

Quality Education Healthcare Remain Our Priority – FG

By Web News 298

By Mojisola Oladele 

The administration of Senator Bola Tinubu will not relent in ensuring that every citizen of the nation has access to quality Education, Healthcare, and economic opportunities.

The Personal Assistant to the President on Constituency Affairs, Alhaja Khadijat  Kareem gave the assurance during a Town hall meeting organized by the Presidency in partnership with the Osun government, held at the Local Government Service Commission, Abere, Osogbo, Osun State.

Alhaja Kareem, who said relevant Stakeholders would be engaged to achieve the goal, maintained that a more tangible impact would be made on the lives of Nigerians through massive Empowerment Programmes aimed at keeping the Renewed Hope Alive.

Alhaja Kareem “Mr President is committed to working tirelessly to address the issues that matter most to you all. Mr President Administration is dedicated to transparency, accountability, and responsiveness to your needs.”

The Personal Assistant to the President on Constituency Affairs reiterated that President Tinubu’s administration remained dedicated to transparency, accountability, and responsiveness to the People’s needs.

She assured that the various requests and recommendations from the Stakeholders would be relayed accordingly to the President for prompt action.

In his Speech, The Representative of the State Governor, Mallam Olawale Rasheed reiterated the resolve of Senator Ademola Adeleke to the President’s reform efforts and drive to rebuild the nation’s economy.

Mallam Olawale Rasheed “Our people also appreciate  Mr President for the palliatives. Our government distributed the palliatives and also expanded the content and reach. 

Our people support the president’s reform efforts. The president has our support in the drive to rebuild the national economy.”

While maintaining that his administration remained committed to federal-state partnership, The Governor urged the President to complete the abandoned federal roads across the state.

“We remain committed to federal-state partnership. We look forward to the completion of abandoned federal roads across the state. There are many abandoned projects in Osun State.” He spoke further 

Earlier in separate remarks, The State Chairman, of the Nigerian Labour Congress, NLC, Dr Christopher Arapasopo and The State Chairman, of the Nigerian Union of Journalists, NUJ, Mr Wasiu Ajadosu commended the President for approving Seventy thousand naira minimum wage for Federal Workers.

In separate goodwill messages, the Iyaloja General of Osun State, Chief Mary Oyebode and the State Coordinator, Nigerian Women in Agriculture Development and Initiative, Alhaja Idayat Raji lauded President Bola Tinubu for the distribution of food palliatives and fertilizers to the State.

In his remark, The Secretary, of the National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS, Mr. Oluwole Aboke who emphasized that Youths were the bedrock of the Nation lauded the President for the Student loan Initiative, NELFUND and provision of Compressed Natural Gas, CNG Buses for Students.

The event had in attendance; Civil Society Organizations, Labour Leaders, Parent Teachers Association Osun State amongst other distinguished guests and groups.

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Labour

Present new minimum wage template by Wednesday – Tinubu Directs Finance Minister

By Web News 628

President Bola Tinubu has directed the Minister of Finance and Co-ordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun, to calculate the cost implications of the proposed new national minimum wage.

The President gave the directive in Abuja when he met with members of the Federal Government’s Negotiation Team, which briefed him on the outcome of its engagement with the Organised Labour.

After the meeting, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, said the Minister of Finance had been given Wednesday (today), to provide the figures that would guide government on the issue at stake.

“It’s been quite challenging, but we thank God that we’re at this point. We thank Labour that true to their words last night, they have suspended their strike early this morning.

“Government on its side, you can see that the President has just summoned a meeting of all those who negotiated on behalf of the federal government, led by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.

“The Minister of Finance was there, the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, myself, the Minister of Labour, the Group Managing Director of the NNPC.

“We were all there to look at those issues and then the President has directed the Minister of Finance to do the numbers and get back to him between today and tomorrow so that we can have some figures ready for negotiation with Labour”, he said.

The Minister of Information emphasised that the President was committed to an acceptable and sustainable new minimum wage realistic for Nigerians, involving not just the Federal Government, but also states and the organised private sector.

He noted that the government was not opposed to wage increment, but that it wants to ensure that any agreement reached is sustainable and realistic, given the economic realities on the ground.

“Let me say that Mr President is determined to go with what the committee has said, he’s also looking at the welfare of Nigerians. Like I said earlier, government is not an opponent of Labour discussions, it’s not an opponent of wage increase, but what is there is that government is desirous of ensuring that there is balance between what its pronouncement is and what realities are on ground, therefore we’ll work assiduously to ensure that whatever we do, whatever promises government makes will be kept. That’s the idea of this meeting.

“The President has given a marching order that all those who have negotiated on behalf of government and those who are representatives of other sectors, the organized private sector and the sub-nationals, come together so that we can have a new wage award that is acceptable, sustainable and also realistic for Nigeria.

“A wage award is not just that of the federal government. Like I mentioned, the sub-nationals are involved, the organized private sector is involved, the Labour is involved. It was Labour that staged a walkout during those proceedings, now that we’ve come back to the negotiating table, all of us will work together again, assiduously, within the next one week to ensure that we have a new wage for Nigeria that is acceptable, sustainable and also realistic for all Nigerians”, Idris said.

He explained that the meeting, attended by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Atiku Bagudu, the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, and the Group Managing Director of the NNPC, Alhaji Mele Kyari, was aimed at finding a balance between the government’s pronouncements and the economic realities on the ground.

FRCN Abuja

Politics

ICYMI: Full Text of Inaugural Address by President Bola Tinubu on May 29, 2023

By Web News 752

So far, how well…

My Fellow Citizens,

I stand before you honoured to assume the sacred mandate you have given me. My love for this nation is abiding. My confidence in its people, unwavering.

And my faith in God Almighty, absolute. I know that His hand shall provide the needed moral strength and clarity of purpose in those instances when we seem to have reached the limits of our human capacity.

This day is bold and majestic yet bright and full of spirit, as is our precious nation.

As a nation, we have long ago decided to march beyond the dimness of night into the open day of renewed national hope.

The question we now ask ourselves is whether to remain faithful to the work inherent in building a better society or retreat into the shadows of our unmet potential.

For me, there is but one answer. We are too great a nation and too grounded as a people to rob ourselves of our finest destiny.

This nation’s journey has been shaped by the prayers of millions, and the collective sacrifices of us all.

We have endured hardships that would have made other societies crumble.

Yet, we have shouldered the heavy burden to arrive at this SUBLIME moment where the prospect of a better future merges with our improved capacity to create that future.

To the surprise of many but not to ourselves, we have more firmly established this land as a democracy in both word and deed.

The peaceful transition from one government to another is now our political tradition. This handover symbolizes our trust in God, our enduring faith in representative governance, and our belief in our ability to reshape this nation into the society it was always meant to be.

Here, permit me to say a few words to my predecessor, President Muhammadu Buhari. Mr. President, you have been an honest, patriotic leader who has done his best for the nation you love. On a more personal note, you are a worthy partner and friend. May History be kind to you.

For many years, Nigeria’s critics have trafficked the rumour that our nation will break apart, even perish.

Yet here we are. We have stumbled at times, but our resilience and diversity have kept us going.

Our burdens may make us bend at times, but they shall never break us. Instead, we stand forth as Africa’s most populous nation and as the best hope and strongest champion of the Black Race.

As citizens, we declare as one unified people devoted to one unified national cause, that as long as this world exists, NIGERIA SHALL EXIST.

Today, Fate and Destiny join together to place the torch of human progress in our very hands. We dare not let it slip.

We lift high this torch so that it might shine on every household and in every heart that calls itself Nigerian. We hold this beam aloft because it lights our path with compassion, brotherhood, and peace. May this great light never EXTINGUISH.

Our administration shall govern on your behalf but never rule over you. We shall consult and dialogue but never dictate. We shall reach out to all but never put down a single person for holding views contrary to our own.

We are here to further mend and heal this nation, not tear and injure it.

In this vein, may I offer a few comments regarding the election that brought us to this juncture? It was a hard-fought contest. And it was also fairly won. Since the advent of the Fourth Republic, Nigeria has not held an election of better quality.

The outcome reflected the will of the people. However, my victory does not render me any more Nigerian than my opponents. Nor does it render them any less patriotic.

They shall forever be my fellow compatriots. And I will treat them as such. They represent important constituencies and concerns that wisdom dare not ignore.

They have taken their concerns to court. Seeking legal redress is their right and I fully defend their exercise of this right. This is the essence of the rule of law.

Over six decades ago, our founding fathers gave bravely of themselves to place Nigeria on the map as an independent nation.

We must never allow the labor of those who came before us to wither in vain but to blossom and bring forth a better reality.

Let us take the next great step in the journey they began and believed in.

Today, let us recommit our very selves to placing Nigeria in our hearts as the indispensable home for each and every one of us regardless of creed, ethnicity, or place of birth.

My supporters, I thank you. To those who voted otherwise, I extend my hand across the political divide. I ask you to grasp it in national affinity and brotherhood. For me, political coloration has faded away. All I see are Nigerians.

May we uphold these fitting and excellent notions as the new Nigerian ideal.

My fellow compatriots,

The Nigerian ideal which I speak of is more than just an improvement in economics and other statistics. These things are important, but they can never convey the fullness of our story.

Our mission is to improve our way of life in a manner that nurtures our humanity, encourages compassion toward one another, and duly rewards our collective effort to resolve the social ills that seek to divide us.

Our constitution and laws give us a nation on paper. We must work harder at bringing these noble documents to life by strengthening the bonds of economic collaboration, social cohesion, and cultural understanding. Let us develop a shared sense of fairness and equity.

The South must not only seek good for itself but must understand that its interests are served when good comes to the North. The North must see the South likewise.

Whether from the winding creeks of the Niger Delta, the vastness of the northern savannah, the boardrooms of Lagos, the bustling capital of Abuja, or the busy markets of Onitsha, you are all my people. As your president, I shall serve with prejudice toward none but compassion and amity towards all.

In the coming days and weeks, my team will publicly detail key aspects of our programme. Today, permit me to outline in broad terms a few initiatives that define our concept of progressive good governance in furtherance of the Nigerian ideal:

The principles that will guide our administration are simple:

  1. Nigeria will be impartially governed according to the constitution and the rule of law.
  2. We shall defend the nation from terror and all forms of criminality that threaten the peace and stability of our country and our sub-region.
  3. We shall remodel our economy to bring about growth and development through job creation, food security, and an end to extreme poverty.
  4. In our administration, Women and youth will feature prominently.
  5. Our government will continue to take proactive steps such as championing a credit culture to discourage corruption while strengthening the effectiveness and efficiency of the various anti-corruption agencies.

SECURITY

Security shall be the top priority of our administration because neither prosperity nor justice can prevail amidst insecurity and violence.

To effectively tackle this menace, we shall reform both our security DOCTRINE and its ARCHITECTURE.

We shall invest more in our security personnel, and this means more than an increase in number. We shall provide better training, equipment, pay, and firepower.

THE ECONOMY

On the economy, we target higher GDP growth and significantly reduce unemployment.

We intend to accomplish this by taking the following steps:

First, budgetary reform stimulating the economy without engendering inflation will be instituted.

Second, industrial policy will utilize the full range of fiscal measures to promote domestic manufacturing and lessen import dependency.

Third, electricity will become more accessible and affordable to businesses and homes alike. Power generation should nearly double and transmission and distribution networks improved. We will encourage states to develop local sources as well.

I have a message for our investors, local and foreign: our government shall review all their complaints about multiple taxation and various anti-investment inhibitions.

We shall ensure that investors and foreign businesses repatriate their hard-earned dividends and profits home.

JOBS

My administration must create meaningful opportunities for our youth. We shall honour our campaign commitment of one million new jobs in the digital economy.

Our government also shall work with the National Assembly to fashion an omnibus Jobs and Prosperity bill. This bill will give our administration the policy space to embark on labor-intensive infrastructural improvements, encourage light industry, and provide improved social services for the poor, elderly, and vulnerable.

AGRICULTURE

Rural incomes shall be secured by commodity exchange boards guaranteeing minimal prices for certain crops and animal products. A nationwide programme for storage and other facilities to reduce spoilage and waste will be undertaken.

Agricultural hubs will be created throughout the nation to increase production and engage in value-added processing. The livestock sector will be introduced to the best modern practices and steps taken to minimize the perennial conflict over land and water resources in this sector.

Through these actions, food shall be made more abundant yet less costly. Farmers shall earn more while the average Nigerian pays less.

INFRASTRUCTURE

We shall continue the efforts of the Buhari administration on infrastructure. Progress toward national networks of roads, rail, and ports shall get priority attention.

FUEL SUBSIDY

We commend the decision of the outgoing administration in phasing out the petrol subsidy regime which has increasingly favoured the rich more than the poor. Subsidy can no longer justify its ever-increasing costs in the wake of drying resources. We shall instead re-channel the funds into better investment in public infrastructure, education, health care, and jobs that will materially improve the lives of millions.

MONETARY POLICY

Monetary policy needs a thorough housecleaning. The Central Bank must work towards a unified exchange rate. This will direct funds away from arbitrage into meaningful investment in the plant, equipment, and jobs that power the real economy.

Interest rates need to be reduced to increase investment and consumer purchasing in ways that sustain the economy at a higher level.

Whatever merits it had in concept, the currency swap was too harshly applied by the CBN given the number of unbanked Nigerians. The policy shall be reviewed. In the meantime, my administration will treat both currencies as legal tender.

FOREIGN POLICY

Given the world in which we reside, please permit a few comments regarding foreign policy.

The crisis in Sudan and the turn from democracy by several nations in our immediate neighborhood are of pressing concern.

As such, my primary foreign policy objective must be the peace and stability of the West African sub-region and the African continent. We shall work with ECOWAS, the AU, and willing partners in the international community to end extant conflicts and resolve new ones.

As we contain threats to peace, we shall also retool our foreign policy to more actively lead the regional and continental quest for collective prosperity.

Conclusion

This is the proudest day of my life. But this day does not belong to me. It belongs to you, the people of Nigeria.

On this day, Nigeria affirms its rightful place among the world’s great democracies. There, Nigeria shall reside forever.

The course of our past and the promise of the future have brought us to this exceptional moment.

In this spirit, I ask you to join me in making Nigeria a more perfect nation and democracy such that the Nigerian ideal becomes and forever remains the Nigerian reality.

With full confidence in our ability, I declare that these things are within our proximate reach because my name is Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and I am the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

May God bless you and May He bless our beloved land.

News

Tinubu in Netherlands for Three-Day Official Visit

By Web News 266

President Bola Tinubu has arrived in the Netherlands on a state visit.

President Tinubu, during his visit, is expected to engage in high-level meetings with Dutch government officials, and business leaders.

The president will also engage in discussions around trade, investment, security cooperation, and cultural exchange.

“While in the Netherlands, the President will participate in the Nigerian-Dutch Business and Investment Forum that will bring together heads of governments.”

Recall that President Tinubu had earlier departed Abuja for the Kingdom of the Netherlands on Tuesday.

The President is expected to attend the World Economic Forum (WEF) meeting scheduled for April 28-29 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Presidential spokesman, Ajuri Ngelale, in a statement on Monday, said, “On the invitation of the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Mark Rutte, President Tinubu will engage in high-level discussions with the Prime Minister, as well as hold separate meetings with His Royal Majesty, King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima of the Kingdom.”

Vanguard / Titilayo Kupoliyi

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Lifestyle

Tinubu, Buhari, Govs Mourn Ogbonnaya Onu

By Web News 687

President Bola Tinubu, former President, Muhammadu Buhari and other prominent Nigerians have expressed sadness over the passage of the former Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation and the first civilian Governor of Abia State, Dr Ogbonnaya Onu.

Onu, who served as minister in the immediate past administration of President Buhari, before he resigned to contest the presidential primary of the All Progressives Congress, which he lost to President Tinubu, died in an Abuja Hospital.

His family confirmed the death on Thursday, disclosing that he died during a brief illness in an undisclosed hospital.

The late 73-year-old politician, author and engineer hailed from Uburu in the Ohaozara Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.

A graduate of the University of Lagos, Onu became a teacher at St. Augustine’s Seminary in the Ezzamgbo area of Ebonyi State.

After the completion of his doctoral studies at the University of California, he became a lecturer in the Department of Chemical Engineering at the University of Port Harcourt, where he rose to become the pioneer Head of the Department.

The ex-minister began his political career as an aspirant for a senatorial seat in the old Imo State, under the umbrella of the National Party of Nigeria.

In 1991, he contested for the position of Governor of Abia State on the platform of the National Republican Convention and won and was sworn in as the first civilian governor of the state in January 1992.

He governed Abia State before the creation of Ebonyi State out of the old Abia and Enugu states.

His family, announcing his death in a statement, said, “In total submission to the will of the Almighty God, the family of His Royal Highness, the late Eze David Aba Onu, Eze Adu of Uburu, in Ohaozara Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, announces the death of our distinguished illustrious son, His Excellency, Dr Ogbonnaya Onu, who died earlier today, the 11th day of April 2024 at the age of 73 years.”

Mourning the APC chieftain, President Tinubu, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, described Onu as a luminous star in Nigeria’s political firmament.

He extended his condolences to the family of the deceased, whom he praised for being a principal draughtsman in the founding of the APC and a valiant partner in the victory of the party in the 2015 elections.

“Most importantly, the President celebrates the life of an accomplished scholar, first-class engineer; a man of proven integrity; defiant to indiscipline, but ever yielding to the highest standards of rectitude,” Tinubu said.

According to the President, Onu “believed in and defended Nigeria’s unity, advocated peace, and promoted fellowship across the Niger.”

Also, ex-President Buhari, in a statement signed by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, described Onu an “intellectual giant” and “one of Nigeria’s most outstanding scientific minds and intellectuals.”

Buhari extended his condolences to the family of the former chairman of the All Nigeria Peoples Party, whom he termed a notable politician.

Similarly, the APC described Onu’s death as a big loss.

“He was a gentleman, focused and very deliberate. Everything we know about life is a continuum. He has run his race and gone to his Maker. We can only continue to wish for his soul to be at rest wherever he is,” the APC Deputy National Organising Secretary, Chidi Duru, said.

Also, the APC National Vice Chairman (South-East), Dr Ijeoma Arodiogbu, said, “Onu was a wonderful man. He was one of our best. You remember he was a presidential candidate but had to drop his ticket for Chief Olu Falae when the Presidency was zoned to the South-West.

“During the merger, he was one of the founding fathers of the party and remained a party man until his death. He was a big wig of the party in the South-East. We will miss him so much,” he stated.

Also, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, expressed sadness over Onu’s death.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Levinus Nwabughiogu, Kalu described Onu’s death as a huge loss to Ndigbo of the South-East and Nigeria in general.

According to Kalu, Onu championed “people-oriented policies that elevated the status of Abia State” during his stewardship as governor.

He added that as a minister, Onu was zealous about the scientific growth and the technological development of the country.

Also mourning, the founding National Chairman of the All Progressive Grand Alliance, Chekwas Okorie, said, “The sad reality is that my long-standing friend, Dr Ogbonnaya Onu, has returned to his Maker, the Almighty God.”

The Governor of Abia State, Dr Alex Otti, expressed shock and sadness over Onu’s death.

In a statement by his Special Adviser, Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma, Otti described Onu’s death as “a huge loss to Abia State, Ebonyi State, the Igbo nation and Nigeria as a whole.”

He added, “Dr Onu is one of such living statesmen with the character, carriage and statesmanly disposition required to reposition the nation for the better.”

Otti promised that Abia State would honour and immortalise Onu by ensuring that the democratic journey he started in Abia State as a civilian governor many years ago is advanced to a level where the welfare and well-being of Abia people would be made an institutionalised priority at all times.

Also, ex-Abia State governor, Dr Orji Kalu, expressed his sadness, describing Onu as “a frontline politician and a nationalist with passion for unity and progress of Nigeria.”

“The demise of former Governor of Abia State, Dr Ogbonnaya Onu, is a huge loss to Ndigbo and Nigeria in general. The late statesman was a consummate politician and selfless philanthropist who was committed to nation-building.

“Having served meritoriously in various capacities in the public sector, his wise counsel on national issues will be greatly missed,” Kalu said in a statement.

Similarly, a former Deputy Governor of Abia State and former Senate Minority Leader, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, expressed shock and sadness at Onu’s death.

Abaribe, who represents Abia South in the Senate, in a statement by his Media Adviser, Uchenna Awom, in Abuja, on Thursday, described Dr Onu’s death as a huge loss to Nigeria, Ebonyi and Abia states.

“Dr Onu charted the course for the modern-day Abia State, such that he is still being remembered for long after Afikpo was carved out of the state.

“As the first civilian governor of the state, he laid a solid foundation for which the God’s Own State became the first in all ramifications in the comity of states in Nigeria.

“His demise came to me as a shock and I will continue to remember what he stood for while alive: uprightness. straightforwardness and epitome of civility and politics,” Abaribe said.

Similarly, ex-Abia governor, Theodore Orji,  described Onu as “a frontline politician whose invaluable contributions to Abia State and to nation-building as a nationalist will continue to be cherished.”

Also, the immediate past governor of Abia State, Okezie Ikpeazu, in a statement, said, “An iroko has fallen, a brilliant scholar and astute democrat! One who believed in politics without bitterness is gone! Abia State, Ndigbo and indeed Nigeria have lost one of our best!”

Vanguard / Titilayo Kupoliyi

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Security

Tinubu, N’Assembly, Remember Fallen Heroes

By Web News 388

President Bola Tinubu, alongside Senate President, Godswill Akpabio and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, were among those who laid wreaths at the 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance Day in honour of the Nigerian military personnel who died in the line of duty.

For the first time since assuming office, the President presided over the historic event at the National Arcade in Abuja, inspecting the Guard of Honour mounted by detachments of the Nigerian Army, the Navy, the Air Force and the Nigerian Legion.

Afterwards, Tinubu laid a wreath on the tomb of the unknown soldier as a mark of last respect to the fallen heroes who paid the supreme price to preserve the nation’s territorial integrity and peace globally.

Three volleys of 21-gun salute were fired at the event, followed by the President’s signing of the Remembrance Day Anniversary registers and the release of white pigeons to indicate the nation’s harmony.

Also, at the laying of wreaths were the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola; Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesome Wike,  the Minister of Defence, Abubakar Badaru, and the Minister of State for Bello Mattawale.

Others were the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, service chiefs, the Inspector-General of Police, a member of the diplomatic corps, the Chairman of the Nigerian Legion and a representative of the widows of the fallen heroes.

The Armed Forces Remembrance Day, observed annually on January 15, honours the country’s military veterans, both living and deceased, who have served in World Wars, the Nigerian Civil War and various peacekeeping missions.

The day marks the end of the Nigerian Civil War in 1970 and serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by the armed forces to maintain the country’s territorial integrity and peace. The highlight of the ceremony is the laying of wreaths at the National Cenotaph in Abuja, a solemn ritual performed by the President, top government officials, and military chiefs.

Speaking after the event, Senate President Akpabio said Monday’s wreath-laying ceremony was the administration’s way of identifying with those left behind by the fallen heroes. He promised to “do everything possible” to ensure their welfare.

“Today’s ceremony is to signify to all of them that they are not alone, that we also mourn with them and we continue to pray for God Almighty to console them and provide for the children and their siblings that they have left behind,” said Akpabio.

Similarly, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, said the National Assembly would ensure the welfare of the surviving family members of the fallen soldiers.

He said, “They should know that what they are doing is a noble cause and we will be with them all the way. ”

On his part, the Minister of Defence said his ministry had all the support it needed to cater to the needs of the surviving families and ease the operations of living service personnel.

Meanwhile, widows of the fallen heroes lamented what they called a lack of progress in their welfare. They urged the present administration to prioritise their welfare by setting up structures supporting their businesses and finance access.

The National President, Military Widows Association, Mrs Veronica Aluko, said though the wreath-laying ceremony showed that their husbands did not die in vain, the living were in dire need of adequate welfare.

She said, “We are remembering today that these people left us for real. And the significance of today is remembering their sacrifice, that it is not in vain. Some have died and are forgotten but remembering them gives us more strength.

“But we don’t want to go cap-in-hand begging, because if you beg today, people will close their doors tomorrow. So we wrote to the former President that we wanted to sell little things, to partner with some of these unions to generate revenue, like tickets. Some states have given us approval, including Osun State, where the governor gave us approval to sell in the state. And we say thank you to him.”

National Secretary Military Widows’ Association, Mrs Deborah Abel, who recounted the association’s milestone in the past decade, said, “We’ve not achieved much in the past 10 years. So, we are hoping and praying that this present government will be of assistance, and maybe from then, we will start achieving. But for the past 10 years, military widows, just like the police widows have not achieved anything.”

On his part, the Chairman of the Nigerian Legion, Maj. Gen. Abdulmalik Jibrin (retd.), called for a review of benefits due to military veterans as the current remunerations had been devalued by inflation.

Jibrin argued, “There should be a corresponding increase of the pensions of those who have served and left. The families of the fallen heroes, after giving them the entitlement of gratuity and death benefits, are left in the hands of the Nigerian Legion. But the Nigerian Legion is not well grounded in terms of finances to be able to shoulder the enormous responsibilities of looking after all the families of the fallen heroes.

“So we call upon the government to continuously look at our allowances and pensions in relation to the inflationary trend we’re all experiencing now.”

Punch / Titilayo Kupoliyi

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Lifestyle

Tinubu Extols Bisi Akande @ 85

By Web News 325

President Bola Tinubu, on Monday, celebrated former Osun State governor and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, Chief Bisi Akande, at 85.

This was contained in a statement signed by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale.

It was titled “President Tinubu Celebrates His Longstanding Ally, Chief Bisi Akande, At 85.”

Tinubu celebrated his long-time ally as both of them were governors in 1999-2003, with the President leading in Lagos.

Both contested and won under the platform of the defunct Alliance for Democracy.

The statement read, “With a heart full of joy and gratitude to God, President Bola Tinubu celebrates his long-time confidant, Chief Bisi Akande, as he marks his 85th birthday on January 16, 2024.

“Chief Akande, CFR, was the governor of Osun State from 1999 to 2003 and the first interim National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress.”

Tinubu extolled Akande’s defining principles of integrity, loyalty, truth, and justice, recalling his exemplary leadership odyssey and selfless service to Nigeria.

“Baba was a principal actor in the founding of our great party, the All Progressives Congress. He has always been a progressive; always noble and disciplined in thoughts and actions, and given to rational and enlightened ideals.

“He is a cherished friend and confidant, ever so generous with his wise counsel. I celebrate him,” Tinubu concluded.

Former President Muhammadu Buhari described the former Osun State governor in 2021 during his 82nd birthday statement as “one of the biggest and strongest pillars of democracy in the country.”

Earlier in December 2023, Akande warned against labelling members who disagree with the ideology or affairs of the APC as agents of the opposition.

Punch / Titilayo Kupoliyi

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Politics

Reactions Trail Tinubu’s New Year Message

By Web News 365

By Lilian Ibomor / Olawale Asake

Following the nationwide broadcast of President Bola Tinubu to Nigerians marking the first day of the year 2024, residents of Ibadan, Oyo State capital have reacted to the address.

The respondents described the address as a great relief capable of dousing the tension being experienced by the citizens.

They said, implementation of the promises made by the government would ameliorate suffering of the people, particularly, the less privileged.

Analysing the broadcast, a former Nigerian Ambassador to Burundi, Elijah Onyeagba applauded President Tinubu for being proactive.

President Tinubu in the address enjoined Nigerians to keep hope alive for a prosperous year, with socio-economic advancement.

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Environment

Flood : FG Assures Residents of Isheri on Permanent Solution

By Web News 487

By Abimbola Bamgbose

The Federal Government has assured residents of Isheri in Ifo north Local Government Area of Ogun State, of its readiness to address the challenge of perennial flooding confronting the community 

The assurance was given on behalf of President Bola Tinubu by the Ministers of State for Environment and Water Resources and Sanitation, Dr. Kunle Salako and Professor Joseph Ustev, when they came on a quick response tour to assess the Isheri North Community which had rendered many homeless.

Dr Salako in his remarks explained that the flood challenge was as a result of climate change being experienced globally.

The Minister of State for Environment said this occurrence cannot be reversed, hence the need for people to be environmentally responsible to mitigate the effects of global warming.

He also hinted that the Federal  government would find a permanent solution to the problem by undertaking a comprehensive study of the area.

Professor Ustev in his remarks noted that the FG had set up a committee that would be working entirely on different challenges of Nigeria .

The Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, while leading the assessment tour noted that some buildings within the Isheri residential areas constructed on waterways would be pulled down to give way for free flow of water.

Governor Abiodun commended the federal government for sending a powerful delegation to assess the impact of the flooding on the residents.

Prince Dapo Abiodun however appreciated the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) and the Muslim organisation, NAFSAT, for making their premises available as IDPs, for those displaced by the flood.

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Politics

3rd BRI Forum : Shettima Leaves for China

By Web News 482

Vice President, Kashim Shettima on Sunday departed Nigeria to represent President Bola Tinubu at the 3rd Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) Forum in Beijing, China, holding from Oct. 16 to 18.

Mr Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, disclosed this in a statement in Abuja on Sunday.

Nkwocha said that Shettima would join world leaders from over 130 countries in Africa, Asia, Europe and Latin America to deliberate on the theme, “High-quality Belt and Road Cooperation: Together for Common Development and Prosperity.”

According to him, the vice president is expected to avail Nigeria of the platform provided by the forum to woo investors for more developmental projects.

Nkwocha added that the Vice President would hold bilateral meetings with other world leaders to promote Nigeria’s trade and investment relations in line with the economic development agenda of the Tinubu administration.

“The 2023 edition of the BRI will mark the 10th anniversary of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) championed by the President of China, Xi Jinping, as an initiative for global infrastructure development strategy.

“Adopted and launched by the government of the People’s Republic of China in 2013.

” The initiative seeks international action to enhance cooperation and promote infrastructure investment in nearly 70 countries across Asia, Africa and Europe through land and maritime routes. ”

He recalled that in 2018, former President, Muhammadu Buhari, on behalf of Nigeria, signed the Belt and Road cooperation agreement with China.

“Nigeria and other partner countries across the world are to benefit from the initiative in areas of infrastructure investments such as ports, skyscrapers, railroads, roads, bridges, airports, dams and coal-fired power stations.”

Nkwocha said that the delegation of the vice president to the forum includes the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Yusuf Tuggar, Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Atiku Bagudu and the Minister of Transportation, Sa’idu Alkali.

Others are the Minister Of Works, David Umahi, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Doris Uzoka-Anite; the Managing Director of the Nigeria Railway Corporation, Fidet Okhiria, and the Director-General, Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission, Michael Ohiani.

In a related development, Nkwocha said in pursuance of the food security and diversification policy of the Tinubu administration, the vice president will, from China, depart for the United States of America, USA.

“While in US as the special guest, Shettima will deliver a keynote address at the African Development Bank (AfDB) and World Food Prize – facilitated Norman E. Borlaug International Dialogue slated to commence on October 24th, 2023.

“Also, he will join other African international leaders, Heads of State and Government who in the past have delivered keynote addresses at the Borlaug Dialogue.

“They include former United Nations Secretary-General, Kofi Annan; World Food Prize Laureates; Ghana President, John Kufuor, AfDB President, Akinwunmi Adeshina and former President Olusegun Obasanjo and others,” Nkwocha said.

The media aide also stated that Shettima was expected to highlight reforms being instituted in the Nigerian Agrifood sector by the Tinubu administration.

“The vice president will engage several stakeholders, partners and investors in opportunities for investments in Nigeria.

“Several meetings and engagements have been slated for the vice president who is expected to be back to the country after his commitments in the US,” he informed.

PM News / Titilayo Kupoliyi

Governance

Ola Olukoyede is New EFCC Chairman

By Web News 728

President Bola Tinubu on Thursday approved the appointment of Mr. Ola Olukoyede to serve as the Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, for a renewable term of four years in the first instance, pending Senate confirmation.

This comes nearly four months after he suspended the erstwhile anti-graft agency chief, Mr Abdulrasheed Bawa.

“Mr. Olukayode’s appointment follows the resignation of the suspended Executive Chairman of the EFCC, Mr. Abdulrasheed Bawa,” a statement signed by the President’s Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, read on Thursday.

The statement is titled ‘President Tinubu appoints new EFCC, Chairman and Secretary of the Commission.’

Olukoyede is a lawyer with over 22 years of experience as a regulatory compliance consultant and specialist in fraud management and corporate intelligence.

He has extensive experience in the operations of the EFCC, having previously served as Chief of Staff to the Executive Chairman (2016-2018) and Secretary to the Commission (2018-2023). As such, he fulfills the statutory requirement for appointment as Chairman of the EFCC.

President Tinubu also approved the appointment of Mr. Muhammad Hammajoda to serve as the Secretary of the EFCC for a renewable term of five years in the first instance, pending Senate confirmation.

Hammajoda is a public administrator with extensive experience in public finance management who holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from the University of Maiduguri and a Masters in Business Administration from the same university.

He began his career as a lecturer at the Federal Polytechnic, Mubi. From there, he went into banking, including successful stints at the defunct Allied Bank and Standard Trust Bank.

The president tasked the new leadership of the commission to justify the confidence given to them in this important national assignment as a newly invigorated war on corruption undertaken through a reformed institutional architecture in the anti-corruption sector remains a central pillar of the President’s Renewed Hope agenda.

Punch / Titilayo Kupoliyi

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News

Tinubu Eulogises Wife @ 63

By Web News 421

President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday, eulogised his wife, First Lady, Remi Tinubu, as she turns 63 Thursday.

Tinubu, who is in New York for the United Nations General Assembly, described the First Lady as a trusted partner whose sacrifices remain the foundation of where he stands.

In the letter he signed personally, the President said, “Happy 63rd birthday to the love of my life, Oluremi. My trusted partner in every venture, and the one special person who has consistently filled my days with joy and laughter over 36 amazing years.

“Today is not only a day to mark another year of your purposeful life but a beautiful reminder of the journey we have embarked upon together.

“Through all these years, we have shared in the uncertainty of dangerous, but principled stands against tyranny. Many can not fully appreciate the sacrifices you made for us during that harrowing, dark era, but I do and always will.

“We have experienced adventure, love, and laughter. We have celebrated victories, and we have wrestled down the monster of defeat, and we have done all in an inextricable bond.

“Our bond has only grown stronger through thick and thin, and our love and commitment to each other has only deepened with time.

“Thank you for being the ever-present sunshine that brightens my darkest hours.

“Your kindness, your wisdom, and your inner and outer beauty continue to amaze me more each and every day.

“As we celebrate your birthday, I want you to know how profoundly grateful I am for your serene presence in my life.

“I look forward to many more years filled with even greater laughter and love as we continue on this path together, which God Almighty had predestined for us.

“May the Good Lord, whom you serve with all your heart, continue to bless you with good health and longevity.

“Happy birthday, Iyawo Mi!”

Punch / Titilayo Kupoliyi

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News

Tinubu Condoles Moroccan King as Earthquake Claims 1,305 lives

By Web News 528

President Bola Tinubu on Saturday offered his condolences to King Mohammed VI of Morocco, following an earthquake that struck the village of Amizmiz, near Marrakech, Morocco.

The incident, which occurred around 11pm on Friday, claimed the lives of 1,305 persons and left 1,832 persons injured.A United States Geological survey revealed that the earthquake had a magnitude of 6.8 and an epicentre depth of 11.5 miles.In a video posted on social media, a building was seen shaking, while people ran for safety.

Caroline Holt of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent, described rescue efforts as “complicated”, saying, “This happened at night when people were maybe sleeping in bed so only this morning did we start to see the impact of the earthquake unfold.”

The Moroccan troops and emergency services had been dispatched to continue the search.Meanwhile, Tinubu in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, described the incident as unfortunate, adding, “In the face of this adversity, Nigeria will continue to stand in solidarity with Morocco as they recover, rebuild and come out stronger than ever from this unfortunate event.”

Friday’s earthquake was described as Morocco’s deadliest since 2004 when a tremor in the northern Rif mountains killed over 600 people.When contacted on the effort by the Federal Government to ascertain if any Nigerian was affected, the spokesperson for the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, said in a message, “None has been brought to our notice till now.”

Punch/Olaolu Fawole

News

Tinubu Redeploys Oyetola, Tunji-Ojo, Renames Environment Ministry

By Web News 330

President Bola Tinubu on Sunday redeployed ex-Governor of Osun State and minister-designate, Adegboyega Oyetola, from the Ministry of Transportation to the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.

The President also redeployed another minister-designate, Abubakar Momoh, from the Federal Ministry of Youth to the Federal Ministry of Niger Delta Development.

“The Federal Ministry of Youth is to be re-assigned to a Minister-Designate soon,” said presidential spokesman, Ajuri Ngelale, in a statement on Sunday.The changes take immediate effect, said the presidential spokesman.

According to Ngelale, Tinubu also redeployed a minister-designate, Bunmi Tunji-Ojo, to the Ministry of Interior while Sa’idu Alkali was redeployed as the Minister of Transportation.

The statement added, “Furthermore, both Ministers of State in the Oil & Gas sector are now domiciled in the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources with the following designations:“(i) Sen. Heineken Lokpobiri is the Hon. Minister of State (Oil), Petroleum Resources“(ii) Hon. Ekperipe Ekpo is the Hon. Minister of State (Gas), Petroleum Resources.

“The President approves the renaming of the Federal Ministry of Environment and Ecological Management as the Federal Ministry of Environment,”

The President had last week assigned portfolios for the 45 ministers-designate and reserved the Minister of Environment and Ecological Management for Kaduna State.

Channels/Olaolu Fawole

Security

Tinubu Pledges to Tackle Security Challenges

By Web News 439

President Bola Tinubu says his administration would make adequate provision for the enhancement of the operational capability of security and law enforcement agencies and improved welfare of personnel in its renewed drive to address security and related concerns across the country.

The President, represented by Vice-President Kashim Shettima, gave the assurance at the Passing Out Parade of the 5th Regular Course of the Nigeria Police Academy, Wudil, Kano.

He said, “This administration is committed to implementing effective measures to combat the security challenges in Nigeria and our synergy is the surest ticket to that destiny. We are implementing a comprehensive approach that focuses on key areas.

“First, we are investing in our law enforcement agencies to enhance their capabilities and effectiveness. We are offering extra resources, training, and equipment to bolster our Police Force and Security Agencies.”

Continuing, President Tinubu said, “Simultaneously, we are enhancing our intelligence and systems on both national and information-sharing international levels. We acknowledge that addressing security challenges necessitates cooperative endeavours with other countries. Hence, we are establishing alliances to adeptly tackle transnational threats.

“Furthermore, we are executing all encompassing social programmes and economic development projects aimed at fostering inclusiveness, social unity, and economic prospects for everyone,” the President added.

While commending the leadership of the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies for their efforts, the President said, “Our moral duty now is to support the Nigeria Police Force and other security organisations in intensifying their bids to improve public safety.”

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Security

Customs ACG Decorates New Mgt Members

By Web News 362

The acting Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Adewale Adeniyi, has decorated the newly appointed management team of the service.

In a statement on Tuesday Adeniyi charged the decorated management team members to redouble their commitment and dedication to the success of the service.

The President, Bola Tinubu, had last week approved the appointment of six new management members of the NCS.

However, Adeniyi in the statement, said the appointments of the three Deputy Comptrollers-General and three Assistant Comptrollers-General were due to their exemplary dedication and commitment to service.

Adeniyi while decorating the officers, charged them to heighten their devotion and determination in promoting the NCS.

He said, “The newly promoted officers know that there are high expectations on them. Therefore I urge them to renew their dedication and commitment to add value to the Nigeria Customs Service.” he said.

Deputy Comptroller General of Customs, Festus Okun, in his vote of thanks on behalf of the newly appointed members, expressed his appreciation to President Tinubu for the unwavering belief in their capabilities.

He assured the President that they will discharge their responsibilities with utmost professionalism.

Independent / Titilayo Kupoliyi

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News

Tinubu Makes Broadcast to Nigerians Monday

By Web News 447

The President, Bola Tinubu, will address Nigerians on Monday at 7pm.

The President’s Special Adviser on Strategy, Communication and Special Duties, Dele Alake, announced this in a statement on Monday morning.

“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will make a broadcast to the nation on Monday, July 31, 2023 at 7 pm.

“Television, radio stations and other electronic media outlets are enjoined to hook up to the network services of the Nigerian Television Authority and Radio Nigeria for the broadcast,” the terse statement read.

Details later.

Punch / Titilayo Kupoliyi

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Tourism

Lanlate Homes First Agritourism Village in Nigeria

By Web News 523

By Jeffery Ahonmisi

Nigeria has inaugurated its first Agritourism village in Lanlate, Ibarapa East local government area of Oyo state.

The ground breaking and foundation laying ceremony was attended by representatives of security agencies.

In an address of welcome Chairman, Nigerian Agritourism village project initiative, who is also the President, World Agritourism Organisation, Mr Trust Ogboi said the project when completed would not only serve as an industrial hub for agricultural produce but a relaxation spots for tourists and Nigerians in general.

Mr Ogboi commended President Bola Tinubu for declaring a state of emergency on food security noting that the project would food sustainability in the country.

The Agritourism boss also said the project would be replicated in the six geopolitical zones of the country

In her remark, Representative of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr Florence Kakulu maintained that the establishment of the agritourism village would immensely contribute in developing the agricultural and tourism sector of the country 

Representatives of one of the stakeholders, the Catholic Archdiocese of Ibadan, Reverend Father Bernard Azeez noted that the church provided the land for the project to empower two million youths in the southwest.

The Balogun of Itabo, Lanlate, Chief Olusegun Adeosun said the laudable project would bring immense development to the people of the community.

Goodwill messages was delivered by representatives of the Nigerian Police, the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, and the Nigerian Correctional Service.

Highlights of the event was the foundation laying, planting of seed and award of street drive to security agencies.

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News

Oba of Benin Visits President Tinubu in Aso Rock

By Web News 326

By Wale Asake

Presidents of Benin, Niger, and Guinea-Bissau Have arrived at the Aso Rock Villa, Abuja, to visit their counterpart, President Bola Tinubu. ⁣

President Patrice Talon of Benin, Mohamed Bazoum of Niger, and Umaro Embaló of Guinea-Bissau were received on Tuesday by the President at the forecourt of the Presidential Villa, Abuja.⁣

Soon afterward, he led the West African leaders into a private session at his office. ⁣

The leaders are expected to discuss security and economic development in the sub-region.⁣

Tinubu is likely to reiterate his stance on defending democracy in the subregion given the spate of coups in recent years. ⁣

Guinea-Bissau had survived an attempted coup in February 2022.

However, the civilian governments of Guinea, Mali and Burkina Faso had been toppled between 2019 and 2022.

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News

President Tinubu Leaves Nairobi After AU Meeting

By Web News 282

President Bola Tinubu has departed Nairobi, the Kenyan capital, after participating in the 5th Mid-Year Coordination Meeting of the African Union (AU).

The Nigerian leader left Abuja on Saturday for the meeting with other leaders in the continent and is expected back in the country on Monday.

At the AU meeting, the President, on Sunday, said Africa cannot attain integration and prosperity while Africans languish in pain and anguish.

He reaffirmed Africa’s unity and strength, while strongly rejecting the notion of a new scramble for the continent.

Also, on Saturday, Tinubu called on African leaders to respect democracy, rule of law, and ensure political stability.

He also called on the United Nations to take firm stance against military coups.

Tinubu also urged African military institutions and states to recognize and respect the need for democratic renewal.

The Nigerian leader, who is also the Chairperson of ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, said coups d’état should be discouraged in the continent, especially in the face of challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, insecurity, and climate change.

Channelstv / Titilayo Kupoliyi

Security

FG on Course to Tackle Insurgency with ‘Pulaku Solution – Shettima

By Web News 517

The Federal Government is set to unveil “Pulaku solution” to address the root causes of banditry and insurgency in Nigeria, Vice President, Kashim Shettima has said.

He said both kinetic and non-kinetic solution must be embraced to ending the decade-long security menace.

The Vice President spoke on Sunday in chat with journalists while on a condolence visit to Kano State over the passing of elder statesman, Kashim Shettima.

Pulaku in Fulfude means brotherhood but it can be used in different context including helping or assisting the Fulani community.

Shettima also expressed the commitment of the President Bola Tinubu administration to ending all forms of terrorism in the country.

“The President is determined to define the meaning and concept of modern governance, and the crisis we have in the northwest which is further accentuated by poverty,” he said, according to a statement by his Director of Information, Olusola Abiola.

“The social exclusion is also something that the President is determined to frontally confront and in the coming weeks he is going to unveil the Pulaku solution.”

“Unless we want to engage in an endless war of attrition, there cannot be a military solution to the crisis in the northwest. There has to be a kinetic and non-kinetic solution.

“In the next couple of weeks, we will unveil the Pulaku solution which will address the grievances and social exclusion of our Fulbe cousins in the northwest and also towards addressing the root causes of all the banditry and insurgency in the nation,” Shettima added.

Earlier on arrival in Kano, the Vice President was received by Governor Abba Yusuf. From Kano, Shettima then flew to Katsina on another visit to condole renowned businessman, Dahiru Mangal over the demise of first wife, Aisha, who died Saturday evening in Abuja after a brief illness.

Channelstv / Titilayo Kupoliyi

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Politics

Respect Democracy, Tinubu Tells African Leaders

By Web News 295

President Bola Tinubu, on Saturday, called on African leaders to respect democracy, rule of law, and ensure political stability.

He also called on the United Nations to take firm stance against military coups.

The President spoke in Nairobi, Kenya at a high-level event organized by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) on the margins of Fifth Mid-Year African Union (AU) Coordination Meeting.

Tinubu also urged African military institutions and states to recognize and respect the need for democratic renewal.

The Nigerian leader, who is also the Chairperson of ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, said coups d’état should be discouraged in the continent, especially in the face of challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, insecurity, and climate change.

The President, in his statement, presented by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Adamu Ibrahim Lamuwa, said it was regrettable that West Africa, despite its numerous instruments and mechanisms for promoting democracy and good governance, is leading other regions in the use of unconstitutional means to change governments.

He warned that the ugly trend of the military straying into the political arena is causing threats to peace, security and stability, and engendering poverty, displacement, and humanitarian crises.

”This ugly trend has only succeeded in threatening the peace, security and stability of the sub-region and by extension the African continent, leaving in its trail poverty, internally-displaced persons and humanitarian crisis. In the same vein, this ugly trend has also led to food shortages and escalated health challenges,” the President said, according to a statement by his spokesman, Dele Alake.

”We therefore must take deliberate steps to address the root causes of unconstitutional changes and coups d’état in Africa. As a continent, we cannot make progress toward achieving the goals and targets of the UN Agenda 2030 for sustainable development, as well as those of AU Agenda 2063 for the ‘Africa We Want’.

”Between 2020 and now, Africa has witnessed six successful coups d’état and three unsuccessful attempts. This rise in military takeovers and unconstitutional changes in government disrupts our democratic processes and undermine stability on the continent.

”It is for this reason that I call on all African leaders at all levels to make concerted efforts in respecting the tenets of democracy and the rule of law, in order to ensure political stability on the continent,” he said.

Channelstv / Titilayo Kupoliyi

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Politics

AU Meeting : Tinubu Departs Abuja for Nairobi

By Web News 355

President Bola Tinubu has departed Abuja for Nairobi, Kenya, where he will join other African leaders for the 5th Mid-Year Coordination Meeting of the African Union.

He was accompanied by his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, and Dele Alake, his Special Adviser on Special Duties, Communication, and Strategy.

Tinubu will attend the meeting in his dual capacity as the President of Nigeria and the newly appointed Chairman of the Economic Community of West African States.

The meeting, themed “Acceleration of African Continental Free Trade Area Implementation,” will bring together the Bureau of the AU Assembly, comprising the Heads of State and Government from Comoros, Botswana, Burundi, and Senegal, alongside leaders from the eight Regional Economic Communities.

President Tinubu is expected to return to Nigeria upon the conclusion of the meeting.

Punch / Titilayo Kupoliyi

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