NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Banking

Wema Bank to boost entrepreneurship, investment with Hackaholics 6.0

199 total views today

 

 

By Taiye Olayemi

Wema Bank says it aims to further stimulate entrepreneurship, attract investment, and accelerate Nigeria’s economic development by fostering a thriving technology ecosystem that complements the creative economy.

Executive Director, Retail and Digital Business, Wema Bank, Mr Tunde Mabawonku, disclosed this at a news conference on call for applications for the sixth edition of the bank’s Hackaholics 6.0 initiative,  in Lagos.

Hackaholics 6.0 focuses on attracting “bold, cutting-edge solutions” in key sectors like AI, blockchain, renewable energy, customer experience, and cybersecurity.

He explained that the innitiative aligns with the bank’s strategic vision for its 80th anniversary in 2025, while it serves as a platform for developing solutions that address critical economic challenges.

According to him, the programme has the potential to generate innovations that create new avenues for economic activity and job creation, and has recorded past successes in areas like transportation and healthcare.

He emphasised that with the inmitiative, the bank focuses on Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education and technological innovation as essential for future economic competitiveness.

Similarly, Chief Transformation Officer, Wema Bank, Mr Babatunde Mumuni, said that the bank had continued to give support to innovative start-ups to progress.

He said, “From inception to date, we have had a total of 18 winners and we have given out about 200,000 U.S. dollars in grants to all the winners from inception to date.

“As the years have passed, we have continued to increase the prize money. And note that by saying grants, the focus of the bank has basically been to find ways to empower these guys to progress.”

Head of Innovation, Mr Solomon Ayodele, said the theme of the 2025 innovation programme is, “Steep beyond algorithms, engineering, disruptive innovation”.

According to him, the innitiative aims to position Africa at the forefront of global technology and will feature a dual-track approach for technical talent and high-growth startups, focusing on verticals like customer experience and financial inclusion.

He explained that Regional hackathons would be held across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones and Lagos, culminating in a grand finale.

Expanding its reach, he said that the programme would also include events in Accra, Ghana, and Kigali in Rwanda, acknowledging the growing number of applications from these regions.

Ayodele emphasised the programme’s accessibility, welcoming applications from various tech professionals and startups.

He noted that finalists would have the opportunity to join an accelerator programme, gaining access to resources and potential funding.

Past participants, such as Sophia Sadeeq, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of MyTherapist.ng, and Ugonna Ginigeme, CEO of FIGO, shared their success stories.

Sadeeq, winner of the Women-Led Prize, praised the programme’s mentorship and networking opportunities.

Ginigeme, winner of the MetaLog Prize, highlighted the significant partnership opportunities with the bank.

Both entrepreneurs encouraged startups to apply, citing the programme’s transformative impact. (NAN) (nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

Culture & Tourism

FG partners Creative Park Ltd. on 30-hectare creative city in Abuja

302 total views today

 

By Salif Atojoko

The Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy (FMACTCe) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with The Creative Park Ltd. to establish a creative park, in Idu, Abuja

The 30-hectare Creative City in Abuja is aimed at transforming Nigeria’s creative and cultural industries.

The MoU was signed on Thursday in Abuja by Hannatu Musawa, the Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy and Mr Bayo Omoboriowo, Chief Executive Officer, Creative Park Ltd.

Musawa said the MoU would set the framework for a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) designed to drive economic diversification, empower creative talent and boost cultural tourism.

She said that the Creative Park, conceived as a world-class hub, would offer state-of-the art infrastructure, training, and investment opportunities, positioning Nigeria as a global leader in the creative economy.

The Minister reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to fostering an enabling environment for the creative sector to thrive.

”Today is a day I am extremely proud of because I can see President Tinubu’s vision coming to fruition. Being Nigerian is one of the greatest honours of my life.

“The vision of President Bola Tinubu is not just about building the creative industry; it is about empowering future generations.

“When you step into Nigeria, you feel a different energy. We are a great people, and it is because of our content and creativity,” she said.

The Minister added that the creative industry had the greatest power of messaging with the ability to reach and empower Nigerians across socio-economic backgrounds.

“Not every Nigerian can be a lawyer, benefit from oil wealth or attend on Ivy league schools.

“But every Nigerian, whether in a rural or urban community, has the ability to create content on their phone, become an influencer, or express their cultural identity.

“This industry has the ability to change Nigeria’s image and reposition the country on a global stage,” she said.

She commended Omoboriowo, former official photographer to President Muhammadu Buhari, for his dedication to the creative industry and his commitment to national development.

“This PPP is in safe hands because it is in the hands of people who care about the creative industry and are deeply rooted in the industry.

“This park is going to be the direct personification of the great vision for Nigeria as Africa’s creative and cultural hub,” Musawa added.

Omoboriowo in his remarks described the initiative as a transformative step toward unlocking Nigeria’s creative potential.

”Through Abuja Creativity City, we are laying the foundation for a thriving ecosystem where creativity meets opportunity; where ideas become industries; and where culture drives economic growth.

”This 30-hectare hub will be a space where artists, designers, entrepreneurs, and cultural practitioners can come together to build, innovate, and create lasting impact.

“More importantly, it will be a catalyst for job creation and poverty reduction, addressing some of the most pressing socio-economic challenges facing Nigeria today.

”This initiative is not just about infrastructure and investment; it is about people – about empowering Nigeria’s creative talents, preserving our cultural heritage, and unlocking the immense potential within our creative economy,” he said.

According to Omoboriowo, the partnership brings together the government, the private sector, international development organisations, and key stakeholders who share a common vision of a creative Africa that is bold, innovative, and globally competitive.

“Under the agreement, the ministry will provide policy support, facilitate access to financing opportunities, and coordinate inter-agency collaboration to ensure seamless project execution.

“The Creative Park Ltd. will oversee the design, development, and operational management of the Creative City, working closely with private investors to ensure long-term sustainability.

“The MoU, which will be in effect for an initial period of five years, aligns with the Federal Government’s strategy to harness the creative economy as a key driver of national development,” Omoboriowo said.

The collaboration is expected to generate employment opportunities, support local content production, and enhance Nigeria’s global creative footprint. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Deborah Coker

Foreign

Trade war has no winner, protectionism leads nowhere, says China

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By Busayo Onijala

The success of China and the U.S. will present opportunities not threats because both share extensive common interests and a broad cooperation space, says China’s Commerce Minister, Wang Wentao.

Wang said this at a news conference organised on the sidelines of the Third Session of the 14th National People’s Congress (NPC) on Thursday in Beijing.

He was speaking on China’s strategy in addressing tariff increments by the U.S. on Chinese goods.

He said that trade war had no winner and protectionism led nowhere.

“These practices of extortion with the threat of tariffs are typical of unilateralism and seriously disrupt and undermine normal China-U.S. economic and trade cooperation, and disrupt the stability in global industrial supply chains, impeding the development of world economy,” He said.

Wang said that coercion, intimidation and extortion will not work on China due to its firm resolve to uphold and safeguard its own interests.

“As for the unilateral tariffs imposed by the U.S., we have already taken necessary response measures in accordance with basic principles governing international law and the relevant laws and regulations.”

He said that China had always believed  that China-U.S. economic ties would  be mutually beneficial and that one side would not suffer losses and the other side  gaining benefits.

The minister recalled that in 2024, China-U.S. trade amounted to 688.2 billion dollars, up 18 per cent from 2017.

Quoting the China Business Climate Survey Report 2025, he said  that 46 per cent of the respondent companies planned to increase investment in 2025 and the same percentage expected to gain profits by a large margin.

“Chinese corporations have the fundamental interests of the two countries that meet the expectation of international community.

“As committed countries with different national realities, it is normal for us to have differences in economy and trade.

“We hope that the U.S. will work with China with respect, peaceful cooperation, in-house dialogue, and together, we push for healthy, stable and sustainable development of China-US economic ties,” Wang said. (NAN)(nannews.ng)

Edited by Ijeoma Popoola

Banking

First Bank receives certificate to build 43-storey headquarters

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By Taiye Olayemi

 

Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State on Wednesday approved the construction of First Bank’s 43-storey building headquarters within the Eko Atlantic City.

 

Sanwo-Olu, while presenting the certificate of approval to First Bank, commended the effort of the management of the bank toward sustaining the bank’s legacy over the years.

 

He gave the commendation during the groundbreaking ceremony of  First Bank’s 43-storey headquarters performed by Vice President Kashim Shettima.

 

Thr governor appreciated Mr Gilbert Chagoury and his brother, Mr Ronald Chagoury, owners of Eko Atlantic City, for the transformative role they played in developing the city.

 

He invited other financial institutions to emulate what First Bank had done while promising that the state government would continue to create the right environment for businesses to thrive.

 

“We want to see the tower on a month-on-month rising out of the sun of the aquatic city. I will be presenting the certificate of approval for the bank to begin the construction of the 43-storey building.

 

“I invite the Managing Director of First Bank to come forward and receive the certificate, so that they know that we are doing it properly. From tomorrow, start the construction.

 

“We want the Chagoury brothers to give other financial institutions approval as well. If they have not bought their land.

 

“You will be given generous payment plan so that you can start your own development as well.

 

“Lagos and First Bank have had about 13 decades of relationship and I must state that this Eko Atlantic City is one of the wonders of Lagos. It is going to accommodate more corporate organisations,” he said.

 

Also speaking, Mr Olusegun Alebiosu, Chief Executive Officer of First Bank Holdings, said the journey of the bank could be defined by resilience, adaptability and commitment to the its customers.

 

He described the groundbreaking ceremony as a momentous occasion which signifies the bank’s commitment to repositioning it for the future.

 

“This groundbreaking ceremony is a momentous occasion for us, signifying our commitment to repositioning sturdily as ‘the’ Bank for the future.

 

“This new head office complex is not just about a modern architectural masterpiece; it is about reimagining banking for generations yet unborn.

 

“It will serve as a hub for financial innovation, digital transformation and operational excellence; ensuring that FirstBank remains ahead in an era where technology is reshaping the industry.

 

“The 43-storey edifice will become the tallest building in Nigeria and West Africa upon its completion.

 

“It will be a symbol of strength, embodying the progress we have made as an institution and reflecting our ambition to set new benchmarks in service delivery, operational efficiency and customer experience.

 

Mr Femi Otedola, Chairman, Board of Directors, First Bank Holdings, said that the building represents a significant milestone in the history of Lagos and Nigeria.

 

He assured everyone that First Bank would continue to build a legacy to behold as it moves further to focusing on becoming customer-centric bank

 

He said: “I am extremely grateful to President Bola Tinubu and Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu for their unalloyed support for this project and for creating a conducive environment for doing business in Lagos.

 

“I also appreciate the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Mr Olayemi Cardoso, for his remarkable effort in maintaining the stability and growth of Nigeria’s banking industry.”

 

Gov. Dapo Abiodun of Ogun promised to continue to support the bank.

 

“This is a bold and audacious move by First Bank. This is what tenacity does. Even with over 700 branches across the world, it stands as a financial institution with the largest network.

 

“This building, upon completion, can be an incubation centre for learning in the financial sector. We will continue to support First Bank and I congratulate Odetola and Alebiosun for being dodged.

 

Gov. Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State also lauded the effort of the bank.

 

He saluted those who had contributed to the growth of the bank since its creation in 1894, noting it had evolved to being a generational bank. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

Culture & Tourism

Olu of Warri leads call to protect Niger Delta mangroves

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By Joan Odafe

The Olu of Warri Kingdom, Ogiame Atuwase III, has called for the protection of the Niger Delta mangroves from foreign interests seeking to exploit them under the guise of carbon credit offsets.

The traditional ruler made the call during an ongoing art exhibition showcasing the works of Art scholar and environmentalist, Dr John DeBebs, on Wednesday in Lagos.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the solo exhibition, organised by Crimson Fusion Curators, will run from March 5 to March 13.

The exhibition is with the theme, ‘The Intersecting Worlds of Climate Change, the Mangrove and Art’.

The Olu of Warri said there was urgent need for indigenous communities to safeguard their land and heritage.

He said that the forests absorb and store carbon at an astonishing rate, offering a natural solution to climate crisis.

The traditional ruler said: “They are more than just ecosystems; they are the lungs of our heritage.

“They sustain our life, they protect our shores, they preserve our identity.

“While we have looked upon them for generations, others from far have begun to look at them differently through satellite images, through the lens of economic speculation and with intentions that threaten the collective sovereignty of the people of Niger Delta.

The world now acknowledges what we have always known about, that mangroves are among the most efficient carbon sources on this planet.”

He noted that  the Itsekiri’s, and the entire Niger Delta would not allow their heritage to be exploited by those who neither understood its significance nor bear the cost of its destruction.

The Curator of the works, Oriiz Onuwaje, said the exhibition was aimed at celebrating the beauty of the Niger Delta, and the beauty of the mangroves.

Onuwaje said, in spite of the disaster and underdevelopment used in describing the Niger Delta, there is beauty in the region, one of which is the mangroves.

The curator, however, said that climate change was affecting the mangroves, such that there was need to protect, conserve and regenerate them.

“Everywhere you turn, they’re talking about the crisis in the Amazon in South America.

“The mangroves of the Niger Delta hold more value to the world than the Amazon,” Onuwaje said.

Describing a mangrove, Oriiz said: “This is a piece of engineering because as it grows, it brings out more roots from the top into the ground to secure the ground itself.

“So, that is why it is the barrier between the water, the ocean, the sea, and the land.

“You can see how strong the wood becomes because it takes in water in high tide and it releases water in low tide.”

Dr DeBebs told NAN that that the role of the mangroves in the ecosystem, which takes carbon from the atmosphere to provide a cleaner atmosphere, inspired his works.

He expressed hope that the exhibition of his works would generate interest, and raise awareness of the vital importance the mangroves play in the extraction of carbon from the atmosphere, and provide a cleaner environment.

“Once the awareness grows, then the mangroves will thrive more because people will now be more interested in ensuring that they are not just destroyed,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

Science & Tech

Experts applaud FG over investment in cybersecurity

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By Jessica Dogo

Some experts have applauded the Federal Government for investing heavily on cybersecurity infrastructures and skills to protect Nigeria from cyber attacks and disruptions.

The experts spoke at a three-day customer workshop organised by Flexip Group (FPG) Technologies and Solutions Ltd. and Checkpoint Technologies on Wednesday in Abuja.

They said that the cybercrimes economy had reached nine trillion dollars with about 86 billion dollars transactions being monitored on daily basis globally.

Mr Rex Mafiana, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of FPG Technology and Solutions, commended the Federal Government institutions for their investments in Critical National Infrastructures (CNI) and assets to protect the nation’s cyber space.

Mafiana decried the increasing rates of cyber attacks across the globe, but expressed delight on measures put in place by government to be far ahead of cyber crooks and criminals.

He advised both the public and private sectors to establish digital boundaries and borders against cyber attacks, adding that the security, trust and integrity of critical national infrastructure and assets, should under no circumstance be compromised.

The Chief Technology Officer, Checkpoints Africa, Issam El-Haddioui, spoke on how attacks were carried out by cybercrooks and criminals.

El-Haddioui said that cyber criminals targeted mainly stealing of information, intellectual properties and financial data, amongst others.

He said that the cyber criminals were motivated by either activism or financial gains, warning that most attacks commenced from phishing and identity theft.

He urged government authorities and the private sector to pay close attention to the vulnerability level in different environments and adopt seamlessly, technologies capable of checking any form of attacks.

“Cybersecurity is a journey. It is not something that you do once and forget. You have to constantly upgrade and update.

“Security is becoming more complex in the cyber space, so,it is important that all stakeholders take action and prevent attacks,” he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the experts listed the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) as institutions that are top-notch in their operations against cybersecurity.

They also listed the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation Ltd. (NNPCL) and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

The workshop had representatives of the NNPCL, CBN, NITDA, Data Protection Commission and members of the Organised Private Sector (OPS) in attendance. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Chinyere Nwachukwu/Kadiri Abdulrahman

Economy/Business

Banks engine of growth, we’ll support expansion – Tinubu

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By Taiye Olayemi
President Bola Tinubu says the current administration is diligently working to establish a sustainable and globally competitive system for Nigerian banks and other financial institutions to thrive.
Tinubu, who was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, said this at the groundbreaking ceremony for First Bank’s 43-storey headquarters at Eko Atlantic City on Wednesday in Lagos.
The President noted that banks could only prosper in a thriving economy.
He said what the current administration had set out to achieve rests on the cooperation and capacity of the financial institutions.
“Banks are the engines of economic growth, and we owe it to them to champion a system that guarantees sustainability and global competitiveness.
“Our expectation is for our banks to excel, to expand beyond our shores, and to earn their place among the world’s most viable and profitable enterprises,” he said.
According to him, the administration is ensuring an enabling environment for businesses to flourish.
He acknowledged that the government assumed office during a challenging period, which required making difficult but necessary decisions to stabilise the nation’s economy.
He said, “We assumed office at a time that demanded bold, progressive thinking, a time that called for difficult but necessary decisions to stabilise our fiscal and monetary landscape.
“Our policies are inspired by the reality that we can no longer afford to postpone our economic transformation.
“This administration is committed to creating an enabling environment for businesses to flourish, and I assure you that you have a partner in this government. We are here to climb the hills of progress with you.”
The President commended First Bank for standing the test of time, saying the secret of the bank’s steadfastness, legacy of innovation and adaptability lies in the art of reinvention.
“From the Bank of British West Africa to Standard Bank of West Africa and, finally, to this 130-year-old success story, First Bank has remained a towering institution, outliving disruptions and redefining banking through the decades.
“In an industry where the fate of many banks is sealed in the dusty pages of history, surviving let alone thriving demands more than just calculated risks; it takes ambition, and the brilliance of refined minds.
“I join you here today to celebrate a legacy of innovation and adaptability that has kept First Bank ahead of the curve,” he said.
The event was attended by Gov. Dapo Abiodun of Ogun;  Gov. Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State; Lagos Deputy Governor, Dr Obafemi Hamzat; former Senate President Bukola Saraki; and prominent business leaders, including Aliko Dangote; Gilbert and Roland Chagoury; Deji Adeleke; Mohammed Indimi; and Sen. Daisy Danjuma. (NAN)
Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa
Health

FG approves N10.3bn products procurement to enhance health services

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By Salif Atojoko

The Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Dr Ali Pate, has announced that the Federal Executive Council (FEC) approved a contract worth N10.3 billion for various medical products aimed at improving accessible and affordable healthcare services for Nigerians.

Pate disclosed this while briefing State House correspondents after the fourth FEC meeting of the year, held on Wednesday.

“The first category is N997 million for the contract to procure third line antiretroviral drugs for those who are HIV infected.

“I believe you will understand the importance of this, given the changes in global health financing and moving towards domestic financing to allow Nigerians to continue the treatment they require,” he said.

According to the minister, the second category is the procurement of locally manufactured diagnostic kits for diabetes.

“Diabetes is a major issue in our country. It’s among the fastest growing segment. We have lots of our population suffering from diabetes, and some are not even aware they have diabetes.”

In addition, the minister said a private company based in Lagos had been commissioned to manufacture diagnostic test kits.

“So, the government is procuring the diagnostic kits for blood glucose monitoring system that is manufactured here in Nigeria.

“This is bringing to life the effort to unlock the healthcare value chain by encouraging local manufacturers.

“The Federal Government is procuring N2 billion worth of those diagnostic kits.

“Out of this total amount, there will also be in addition, points of glucose monitoring, such that anybody who has diabetes will know where to monitor over time,” he said.

Pate also said the President had previously indicated the need to have a medical relief programme to lower the costs of medical commodities.

In line with this, he said N4.5 billion would be used to procure antibiotics, anti hypertensive and anti diabetic medications, beyond the test kits, which would be distributed to help lower costs.

He added that the test kits were manufactured in Nigeria as part of efforts to patronise local manufacturers.

The minister stated that the second approval was N2.1 billion for the procurement of a mobile X-ray machine, the rehabilitation, and equipping of a 64-slice CT scan at Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital, Bauchi.

Pate esplained that the hospital’s diagnostic and clinical care services would be of the highest quality, making it a referral center not only for the state but also for the wider region. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Editing by Kevin Okunzuwa

General News

Ramos-Horta urges Nigeria to prioritise trade, technology, diplomacy

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By Taiye Olayemi and Henry Oladele

President Ramos-Horta of Timor‑Leste, Southeast Asia, has urged Nigeria to leverage its significant resources to shape its future in international trade, technology and diplomacy.

Ramos-Horta made the call during a symposium organised in honour of a diplomat, Prof. Babafemi Badejo, on his 70th birthday on Tuesday in Lagos.

Badejo is a scholar and former deputy special representative of the UN Secretary-General at the UN Political Office for Somalia

The theme of the symposium is “Politics is Interest: Interrogating the Role of Special Interests in Nigeria’s development”.

The president called on Nigerians and African leaders alike to assert themselves in the evolving global order.

“Rather than being a pawn in global rivalries, Nigeria should leverage its position to shape international trade, technology and diplomatic partnerships that align with its developmental goals.

 

“Nigeria must define its interests, not have them dictated by others. A huge country, with the human and natural resources that Nigeria has, should not have anything to do with competing for paltry international aid that only builds dependency.

 

He urged Nigerian leaders to prioritise national development.

 

He said this was important considering Nigeria’s history which is characterised by resilience, also a history shaped by competing interests of political elites, multinational corporations and global powers.

 

He said that this was what Badejo aptly referred to as “external dynamics”.

 

“Nigeria must harness its wealth, its intellectual capital, human resources, and its abundant natural endowments to serve its people first.

 

“Just like Donald Trump has been reiterating “America First”, Nigerian governments and its people should increasingly insist on “Nigeria First”.

 

“This projection of “Nigeria First” must be done in a manner that boosts production and productivity and promotes healthy competition in the lookout for the best Interests of its people.

 

“Ideally, “America or Nigeria first” does not equate to crushing down on other countries.

 

“Our lives are so interconnected across the globe that economic illnesses starting in a major economy quickly reverberate and sink other economies across its borders and beyond.

 

“And instability and conflicts in mineral rich countries of the South fuelled by external interests always have a boomerang effect,” he said,” he said.

 

The president commended Badejo’s wealth of contribution toward nation building.

 

He describeed the scholar as an accomplished academia who writes beautifully.

 

He said “Prof. Badejo was my Chief of Staff in Guinea-Bissau when we began a working relationship that evolved into friendship lasting till today.

 

“I am very pleased to join you today in celebrating the life and achievements of a distinguished scholar, friend and colleague in global affairs, Prof. Badejo.

 

“His contributions to political thought and governance have enriched Nigeria’s intellectual society and offered insights into the complex interplay of interests that shape politics.

 

“He facilitated meetings with Heads of State in the West African sub-region. We worked hard together to restore constitutional order, return the military to the barracks, and hold free and transparent elections in Guinea-Bissau.”

 

Going forward, Badejo said, “I will have to reinvent myself because as you know, this is retirement at the formal level. However, if you want to be taking annual extension, I will not find it difficult.

There is so much that I need to write. I have many books that I’ve written. One is almost ready on the peace process in Somalia.

 

“I am also interested in looking at federal character in Nigeria and the problem of development that we face as a result. I will reinvent myself for all of these.

 

“The essence of this symposium is to make people realise that it is important they always get involved… getting their interests satisfied in society.” (NAN) (nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo
General News

Tinubu pays tribute to Obasanjo at 88

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By Salif Atojoko

President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday paid tribute to former President Olusegun Obasanjo who turned 88 on Wednesday.

“I pay a special tribute to an extraordinary leader and statesman who has made enormous contributions to Nigeria’s development and whose life for the past six decades is woven deeply into the fabric of Nigeria’s history.

“Providence has constantly thrust Obasanjo to the forefront at critical junctures in Nigeria’s story.

“As a Colonel, fate beckoned on him while commanding the Third Marine Division to receive the instrument of surrender from Col. Philip Effiong, the Biafran Army Commander, signalling the end of Nigeria’s 30-month civil war,” Tinubu said.

He said Obasanjo also made history as the military leader, who took over the reins of power following Gen. Murtala Mohammed’s death in 1976.

“He completed the administration’s transition programme and successfully handed power to a civilian regime in 1979.

“In 1999, 20 years later, he emerged as civilian president, freed from prison a year earlier, to herald the rebirth of another democratic dispensation, which recently clocked 25 years and still counting,” continued the President.

He stated that during the two eras, Obasanjo implemented critical policies and reforms and made important decisions that impacted the lives of many Nigerians.

“As the head of state, he consistently demonstrated a selfless commitment to national unity, peace and progress.

“Out of office, only a few will deny that the former president continues to wield considerable influence among the political elite at home and is well-regarded abroad, where he is an ambassador of global peace and a troubleshooter.

“His tireless efforts in conflict resolution, advocacy for good governance, and dedication to Pan-Africanism through institutions like the African Union and the United Nations are testaments to his statesmanship,” said Tinubu.

He added that Obasanjo’s regular interventions in national affairs, which were sometimes controversial, had helped shape public policies and acted as a check on leadership.

Tinubu thanked Obasanjo for his contributions to Nigeria, and commended him for his statesmanship and leadership.

“At 88, the former president is still gaining strength. I pray that God Almighty will grant him the grace and strength to live for more years so the nation and Africa can continue to benefit from his wisdom and knowledge.

“On behalf of the Government and people of Nigeria, I extend heartfelt congratulations to this great patriot.

“Happy 88th birthday, President Obasanjo,” Tinubu said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Ijeoma Popoola

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