Politics

Former lawmakers, Political leaders, Stakeholders Plan on National Development

By Web News 479

By Abimbola Bamgbose

Former and serving political leaders have restated the importance of national unity as the foundation for Nigeria’s development.

This was the focus at the 2025 Southern Summit of Former Legislators, organised by the National Forum of Former Legislators, with the theme “National Unity: Bedrock of Nation Building,” held at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Abeokuta, Ogun State.

In his goodwill message, Speaker of the 8th Assembly, Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara, commended the Chief of Staff to the President, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, and the forum’s leadership for the initiative. He stressed that Nigeria could not attain true nationhood unless leaders and citizens deliberately embraced unity beyond faith and ethnicity.

Chairman of the Southern Governors’ Forum and Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, described the summit as a strategic meeting of experienced political leaders in Southern Nigeria to forge a common front for peace and unity. He also lauded President Bola Tinubu’s “transformative leadership” and courage in undertaking difficult reforms aimed at building a resilient nation.

Delivering his remarks on behalf of President Tinubu, Chief of Staff, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, said the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda is focused on reforms, infrastructure, human capital development, and inclusive governance. He highlighted the removal of fuel subsidy, establishment of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, and tax reforms as bold policies to secure Nigeria’s future.

Gbajabiamila praised the contributions of former legislators to nation-building and cited economic data showing improved growth, reduced deficits, and rising foreign investment as proof of progress. He urged Nigerians to embrace diversity, reject division, and work collectively to build a peaceful and prosperous nation.

The summit brought together former lawmakers, political leaders, and stakeholders from across the southern region to deliberate on strengthening unity as the cornerstone of national development.

Religion

Venerable Faleye Admonishes Political Leaders on Palm Sunday

By Web News 263

By Morenike Tony-Esan

Political Leaders have been admonished to be selfless in their service to humanity.

The Vicar St Anne’s Church,Molete,Ibadan, who is also the archdeacon of Molete Archdeaconry,The Venerable Olusegun Faleye gave the admonition in his sermon in the church auditorium at the celebration of this year’s palm Sunday.

The Venerable Faleye noted that leaders should emulate Jesus Christ who lived his life for others and never see themselves as more superior than others.

“When Jesus came,though as God in flesh in the midst of men,he did not parade himself as God who created the heaven and the earth.”

Speaking on the theme ,”Emulating Christ in his humanity and simplicity”,the vicar explained that Jesus riding on a donkey to Jerusalem and showcased his simplicity .

The Venerable Faleye said Palm Sunday was another great celebration for Christians because it marked the beginning of Christ ‘s suffering which also reminded christians the beginning of the pactual redemption.

Palm Sunday commemorates Jesus triumphant entry into Jerusalem riding on a donkey.

It marks the beginning of the Holy week and the last Sunday in Easter.

Highlight of the service was the procession of the worshippers round the church singing and chanting Hosanna showcasing Christ to the world.