News Agency of Nigeria
Wait till 2031, Akume admonishes Northern politicians

Wait till 2031, Akume admonishes Northern politicians

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By Collins Yakubu-Hammer

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Sen. George Akume, has called on politicians from the Northern Region to wait until 2031 for them to contest for president.

 

Akume made the call during his remarks at a two-day Interactive Session on Government-citizens’ Engagement on Tuesday in Kaduna.

 

The event, with the theme “Assessing Electoral Promises: Fostering Government-citizens’ Engagement for National Unity’, was organised by the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation.

 

The SGF commended the foundation for providing a platform where the citizens and government could sit and explore ways to enhance governance, democracy and development.

 

He said that the government of President Bola Tinubu had spent two years and two months, adding that its achievements were fundamental and remarkable.

 

The SGF said: “Tinubu promised impartiality in governance and he has done that without breaking the promise.

 

“There is need to encourage someone who is doing well, so that he can do more.

 

“There is a lot of misinformation in some aspect of the media.

 

“Tinubu has strengthened the security architecture in the country, revitalised agriculture with progressive initiatives.

 

“We have witnessed intervention that led to reduction in prices of food produce, improved food security and infrastructure across the country.”

 

Akume said that Tinubu was on course to take Nigeria to the promised land, adding: “I will urge politicians from the Northern Region to wait till 2031.

 

“Do not join a group that will stagnate the various developments achieved by President Tinubu.

 

“The president had positively touched all parts of the country and every citizen.

 

“The removal of fuel subsidy has now provided more funds to the government at the sub-national levels to carry out huge projects and deliver quality dividends of democracy.”

 

The SGF explained that the Renewed Hope Agenda was not a slogan but determination to restore hope to all the regions of the country.

 

He narrated some of the achievements in diplomacy and foreign policies, transportation, job creation, education, tax reforms, Local Government Autonomy, national security, sports, war against corruption, peace, stability and others.

 

“Tinubu has laid a foundation stone for New Nigeria through visionary leadership and commitment to bring dividends of democracy to all citizens and regions of the country without bias.

 

“Tinubu has appointed so many people from the Northern Region to work with him, and they are doing well.

 

“The narrative that the North is not carried alone is not true. The Super Highway from Sokoto to Bagary is longer than that of Lagos-Calabar.

 

“However, the contract for road, from Akwanga through Jos, Bauchi, Gombe, Taraba and other parts of the Northern Region will soon be awarded.”

 

He reiterated that with the various developments in two years and two months by Tinubu, patriotic politicians should jettison their ambition for presidency till 2031.

 

He added that 2027 should not be in their minds, saying, “this is because Tinubu has done so well and will continue in that line to better the lot of the citizens and the country.”

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event brought together all appointees in the Tinubu administration from the Northern region of the country to interact with the citizens, including the agency’s Managing Director, Malam Ali M. Ali.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Dorcas Jonah/Bashir Rabe Mani

My govt’ll not leave any region behind- Tinubu

My govt’ll not leave any region behind- Tinubu

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By Hussaina Yakubu

President Bola Tinubu says his administration will ensure equitable development across all regions of the country.

 

The assurance was made by Tinubu on Tuesday in Kaduna at a two-day interactive session on Government-citizens’ Engagement organised by the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation Tuesday in Kaduna.

 

He said the Ministers’ interactions with stakeholders at the event would unveil empirical facts and figures that the North was not neglected.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Tinubu was represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume.

 

Tinubu, who highlighted key achievements under the Renewed Hope Agenda, spoke on several interventions of the present administration including economic reforms, education, health, security, Infrastructure and food security.

 

On economic reforms, the president said his administration had implemented bold reforms to stabilise and grow the economy, including unifying the exchange rate and restructuring debt profiles.

 

Tinubu stressed that investments had been made in modernising security equipment and upskilling personnel

 

He listed major projects to include the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, Sokoto- Badagry super highway, ongoing rail projects; Kaduna, Port Harcourt-Maiduguri, and housing initiatives.

 

NAN also reports that Akume led a high-powered Federal Government’s delegation made of Ministers, Director-Generals of many agencies and top political aides from the North.

 

Tinubu also highlighted the Renewed Hope Agenda’s priorities to include reforming the economy for sustained growth, strengthening national security, boosting agriculture for food security, unlocking energy and natural resources and enhancing infrastructure and transportation.

 

Others are focusing on education, health and social investment, accelerating diversification through industrialisation and innovation as well as improving governance for effective service delivery.

 

“The removal of fuel subsidy, though painful, has been a necessary reform that saved trillions of Naira.

 

“The Palliative Measures Plan and interventions through state governments, MSME support, and public transportation upgrades are mitigating the impacts.

 

“The savings are now being redirected into critical infrastructure and human development while states are receiving increased allocations for development,” Tinubu said.

 

Reflecting on the theme of the event, ‘Assessing Electoral Promises: Fostering Government-Citizen Engagement for National Development,’ he said the renewed hope agenda has been a pragmatic vision built on pillars of good governance.

 

They, he said, include transparency, accountability, participation, responsiveness, equity, rule of law, and inclusivity, going beyond just a campaign slogan.

 

“The economic reform strategies are designed to create a robust, diversified, and resilient economy.

 

“By fostering an environment conducive to investment and innovation, the administration aims to stimulate growth across all sectors, reduce unemployment, and ensure equitable wealth distribution.

 

“Security is the bedrock of national development. The focus here is on enhancing the capabilities of our security forces, promoting peace and stability, and ensuring that every Nigerian feels safe and protected, no matter where they reside.

 

“Agriculture holds the key to our nation’s self-sufficiency and economic empowerment.”

 

According to Tinubu, this is by modernising farming practices, increasing access to finance, and expanding market opportunities for farmers.

 

“This administration places Nigeria on a path to achieving food security and transforming our country into an agricultural powerhouse.

 

“Through reforms, the government is unlocking the potential of Nigeria’s vast natural resources and energy sector.

 

“Through sustainable management, increased investments, and the adoption of modern technologies, the goal remains to drive economic growth and ensure environmental sustainability,” the president added.

 

According to him, over 400,000 students in tertiary institutions had so far benefitted from the Students’ Loan Programme, while an estimated N53billion had been disbursed.

 

He also highlighted the importance of patience and collective efforts in achieving the agenda’s goals.

 

Tinubu extolled the virtues of the late Premier of Northern Nigeria, Sir Ahmadu Bello, describing him as a phenomenal being who promoted national cohesion and unity in Nigeria.

 

He also saluted the courage, sincerity and patriotism of other leaders such as Chief Solomon Lar, Malam Adamu Ciroma, Shehu Dan Musa, Abubakar Rimi, Prof. Suleman Kumo, Issac Shaahu, Prof. Jerry Gana and others.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

FG to revive Kaduna Textile industry- SGF

FG to revive Kaduna Textile industry- SGF

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By Collins Yakubu-Hammer

The Federal Government says it intends to revive the moribund Kaduna Textile to boost the economy of the country.

 

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume made this known at a 2-Day Interactive Session on Government-Citizens Engagement on Tuesday in Kaduna.

 

The event with the theme “Assessing Electoral Promises: Fostering Government-Citizens Engagement for National Unity’’, was organised by Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Akume is the leader of federal government delegation which consists of all the appointees of President Bola Tinubu from the Northern part of the country.

 

According to Akume, Tinubu’s desire to develop all parts of Nigeria is sacrosanct and a task that must be achieved.

 

“Tinubu is doing a lot in about eight different areas to ensure that Nigeria experience holistic development in all spheres of endeavours.

 

“The Tinubu administration intends to industrialised the country through diversification. We are looking at those days of Kaduna Textile and many other industrialised areas in the north.

 

“We intend to revisit those good old days of the Kaduna Textile to further boost and solidify the economy of the country via industrialisation.

 

“These and many more will be achieved by the administration of Tinubu, who after two years and two months in office has achieved so much,” Akume said.

 

NAN reports that those in attendance include Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaam Suleiman-Ibrahim, Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa.

 

Others are the Managing Director of NAN, Malam Ali M. Ali, the Chairman of National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, retired Brig-Gen. Buba Marwa among others (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Francis Onyeukwu

Tinubu has kept his promises- Northern Governors’ Forum

Tinubu has kept his promises- Northern Governors’ Forum

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By Hussaina Yakubu

The Chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum (NSGF) and Governor of Gombe State, Inuwa Yahaya, has said that President Bola Tinubu has kept the promises made in 2023, adding, “he is still keeping them.”

 

 

Yahaya made this known at a two-day Interactive Session on Government-citizens’ Engagement Organised by the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation (SABMF) at the Arewa House, on Tuesday in Kaduna.

 

 

He said that the theme of the programme,  ‘Assessing Electoral Promises: Fostering Government-citizens’ Engagement for National Unity’, speaks to the very heart of what makes democracy meaningful.

 

 

According to him, true democracy and good governance are not a one-way street, but a continuous dialogue between leaders and citizens.

 

 

Yahaya said: “Forums like this are crucial to building public trust and strengthening citizens participation in governance.

 

 

“They are not just meant to showcase achievements, but to create spaces where citizens can question, suggest, and hold power accountable.

 

 

“As leaders, we must have the humility to accept our mistakes where we err, and make adjustments where possible, based on the needs and feedback of the people.

 

 

“As we review, engage with representatives of the Federal Government, let us do so with fairness and wisdom.”

 

 

The Governor added that the North’s partnership with Tinubu’s administration had yielded concrete results, from infrastructure to security and governance.

 

 

“In 2027, we must reward performance and hard work, and by that measure, President Tinubu has earned our continued support.”

 

 

He recalled that when Tinubu stood before them during the 2023 campaign, he made specific commitments to Northern Nigeria.

 

 

“The North, believing in President Tinubu’s vision, voted strongly for him, contributing to over 60% of Tinubu’s winning votes.

 

 

“Today, we gather not for empty rhetoric, but to examine those promises and assess the level of progress so far.

 

 

“What we find is an administration that has delivered meaningful results for our region despite facing significant national challenges.”

 

 

According to him, this shows that democracy can only work when leaders deliver on their promises.

 

 

He said that leaders can only deliver when citizens are engaged, and policies and programmes are designed and implemented in ways that reflect the yearnings and aspirations of the citizenry.

 

 

“I make bold to say that the evidence of progress is visible across our region.

 

 

“Thanks to Mr President’s renewed hope agenda, many projects started by the previous administration are now racing towards completion.

 

 

“These include the Abuja-Kaduna-Kano Expressway, the Kano-Katsina-Maradi rail line, the rehabilitation of the Kaduna Refinery, the Abuja-Kaduna-Kano Gas Pipeline project, and continuation of drilling activities in Kolmani Oilfields.

 

 

“These projects promise to bring industrial growth and energy security to Northern Nigeria.”

 

 

According to Yahaya, new infrastructure projects are also coming up, including various inter-state road networks like and the ambitious Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway that will connect Northern producers to southern markets.

 

 

Others are agriculture value chain initiatives targeting Northern states, expansion and upgrade of healthcare facilities, saying all points to a deliberate policy towards uplifting the wellbeing of the people.

 

 

“On the security front, we have witnessed significant progress.

 

 

“Through coordinated military operations and improved intelligence gathering, over 300 bandit kingpins and terrorist commanders have been eliminated, disrupting criminal networks that terrorized our communities.

 

 

“While challenges remain, the trajectory is clear – the siege on our people is being lifted.

 

 

“The creation of the Ministry of Livestock Development addresses a generations-old challenge, providing a framework to modernise our pastoral economy.

 

 

“This administration has also demonstrated commitment to our youth through targeted grants and renewed efforts to tackle the Almajiri and out-of-school children crisis through partnerships with state governments, traditional institutions and international partners.”

 

 

Yahaya said there was no doubt that the economic reforms undertaken by Tinubu’s administration, including fuel subsidy removal and exchange rate floatation, have come with debilitating side effects.

 

 

“However, these were necessary measures in order to stabilise our economy for long-term growth. The pain is real, but so is the progress.”

 

 

Yahaya said that to sustain and build on these gains, all Northern stakeholders must play their parts, adding, “our state governments must complement federal initiatives with local investments in infrastructure and human capital development.

 

 

“Traditional rulers and religious leaders should continue their vital role in community mobilisation and conflict resolution.

 

 

“Business leaders and civil society must maintain their constructive engagement.

 

 

“Our region’s decisive support for this administration was rooted in the understanding that the North-Southwest alliance is not merely political arithmetic, but a stabilising force for national unity.”

 

 

In attendance were serving and former Governors, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), National Security Adviser (,NSA) Service Chiefs, and ministers.

 

 

Others were: Aides, Heads of government parastatals, MDAs and Captains of industries from the North.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

Midterm review: FG delegation honours Ahmadu Bello Foundation invitation

Midterm review: FG delegation honours Ahmadu Bello Foundation invitation

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By Collins Yakubu-Hammar

A delegation of the Federal Government is currently in Kaduna for a two-day government-citizen engagement.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the forum holding at the Arewa House was organised by the Sir Ahmadu Bello Foundation (SABMF)

 

NAN also reports that the forum has as theme: ” Assessing Electoral Promises: Fostering Government-Citizen Engagement for National Unity.”

 

Among the dignitaries attending the event are President Bola Tinubu represented Gov. Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq of Kwara.

 

Also present are the Minister of Information and National orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, and his Women Affairs counterpart, Hajiya Imaam Suleiman-Ibrahim.

 

Chief Executives of parastatal agencies in the information ministry, including the Managing Director of NAN, Malam Ali Muhammad Ali, are also attending the forum.

 

The Chairman of NDLEA, retired Brig.-Gen. Buba Marwa as well as the Commandant General of NSCDC, Dr Ahmed Audi, are among dignitaries also present.

 

SABMF is a non-political, non-profit and nonreligious organisation established in 2009 to honour the legacy of Sir Ahmadu Bello, the Sardauna of Sokoto.

 

Bello, the only Premier of the defunct Northern Nigeria, was renowned for his contributions to the political development, educational reform, regional unity and economic advancement in the region.

 

NAN also reports that the Foundation was established in response to a collective desire among stakeholders in Northern Nigeria to preserve the legacy of the late Sardauna.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Dangote Cement sponsors Africa Housing Show 

Dangote Cement sponsors Africa Housing Show 

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By Nana Musa

The Dangote Cement is sponsoring the Africa International Housing Show (AIHS) which opened on Monday at the Transcorp Hilton, Abuja.

 

A statement from the company said aside from the sponsorship, the company is also participating in the event, which is the 19th in the series.

 

The statement signed by the spokesman of the company, Anthony Chiejina, said the event would host participants from 21 countries.

 

Chiejina said that the show was a rare platform for the company to connect with key players in the housing industry across the continent.

 

“As the Housing Show brings together over 40,000 participants, including key industry leaders, government representatives and investors, the Dangote Cement Plc will leverage on this opportunity to directly showcase its innovative products to clients and decision makers.”

He said that the company has consistently sponsored the Show over the years, assuring that it would continue to partner with key stakeholders to support the provision of shelter in Africa.

 

According to Chiejina, AIHS will help amplify the Dangote brand and boost strategic partnership with stakeholders.

 

He said that the theme of this year, “Reimagining Housing Through Innovation”, aptly resonates with the company’s core value.

 

Coordinator of the Show Festus Adebayo said that the housing deficit in the country can be mitigated through Public Private Partnership (PPP).

 

“Innovation and collaboration are top priorities for us, given the rapid technological advancements in housing construction, financing and system improvements.”

 

Adebayo said he was optimistic that the partnership with Dangote Cement Plc would help address the housing shortfall in the country.

 

He said that over 82 per cent of attendees hold decision making positions, ensuring exhibitors engage directly with individuals who have purchasing power.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Nigerian Institute of Building and other stakeholders in the housing industry had described the Dangote Cement Plc as one of the major drivers of real estate development in Nigeria.(NAN)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

”Beyond Expectations”, A legacy of integrity: Yakubu Mohammed, journalist, reformer & reluctant politician

”Beyond Expectations”, A legacy of integrity: Yakubu Mohammed, journalist, reformer & reluctant politician

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By Yusuf Mohammed

In Beyond Expectations, veteran journalist and media entrepreneur Yakubu Mohammed delivers a deeply personal yet historically significant memoir that chronicles not only his extraordinary life journey but also key moments in Nigeria’s political and media evolution.

For readers who have long sought clarity on Dele Giwa and the infamous Gloria Okon saga, Mohammed offers crucial insights.

In this no-holds-barred book, there’s a chapter dedicated to political betrayals: naming names and making clarifications without mincing words. It is one of the boldest sections in the book.

From humble beginnings in Igala land, Yakubu Mohammed’s rise is the stuff of legend. His early life, marked by poverty and hardship, did not deter him.

With quiet determination, he rose to the editorial helm of MKO Abiola’s National Concord Newspapers and later became a founding member of Nigeria’s first news magazine, Newswatch, alongside Ray Ekpu, Dan Agbese, and the late Dele Giwa.

While the four are often celebrated as co-founders, Agbese writes in the preface that Yakubu was the true initiator, the man who brought them together and made the vision a reality.

The memoir is rich with behind-the-scenes stories from Nigeria’s turbulent years. One standout episode is Mohammed’s first-hand account of the military’s brutal raid on Fela Anikulapo Kuti’s Kalakuta Republic in 1977.

In spite of direct threats from security agents, Mohammed refused to be silenced. His paper, New Nigerian, published the story when most others backed down. In a military era, it was an act of courage that could have cost him his freedom or worse.

Speaking of freedom, this memoir reveals that his liberty was taken from him several times throughout his career.

The worst instance was during the dictatorship of General Sani Abacha, when he was thrown into the “gulag” in 1994.

Perhaps the most unexpected part of Mohammed’s journey was his brief entry into partisan politics. In the foreword, Prof. Olatunji Dare expresses surprise at the decision, describing Nigerian politics as a domain filled with “dirty tricks, betrayals and sordid deals.”

Mohammed’s experience confirmed this. Yet even in that muddy arena, he remained true to his values and left with his dignity intact.

Beyond politics and journalism, Beyond Expectations also sheds light on Yakubu Mohammed’s quiet acts of leadership, defending the oppressed during his time as pro-chancellor of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria; mentoring young professionals, and refusing to take undue credit.

even with this towering achievements, he is described repeatedly as a man of humility, someone who “hates to blow his own horn.”

In fact, it is the unforced modesty of this memoir that will give it lasting power. Mohammed does not attempt to paint himself as a hero. Instead, he lets the facts, and his consistent principles, speak for themselves.

Just like his days in Concord and later Newswatch, his storytelling is clear, elegant, and deeply human. Whether describing a diplomatic trip, a newsroom crisis, or a quiet act of betrayal, Mohammed writes with a subtle wit.

For his contemporaries and those who were old enough back in the day, Mohammed’s recollections will evoke a deep sense of nostalgia.

For the younger generation, those too young or not yet born at the time, it offers a chance to understand why he and his colleagues were arguably the biggest stars in Nigeria during the 1980s. They weren’t musicians or actors. They rose to prominence with the power of the pen.

His reflections on loyalty, and the pain of ingratitude, are especially moving. “Some pay him back with the coins of ingratitude,” writes Agbese. Yet Yakubu, ever gracious, “takes it in his stride.”

The memoir closes with a sense of fulfilment rather than triumph.

This is a man who has stood at the intersection of power, truth, and service, and emerged with his soul intact.

From the dust of Ologba in Kogi State, to Buckingham Palace, where he once had an audience with Queen Elizabeth II, Yakubu Mohammed’s story is not just a personal success; it is a national asset.

Beyond Expectations is a powerful, necessary book, especially in today’s Nigeria, where ethics in public life often feel endangered. It is a reminder that one can be principled and still be impactful. That one can lead quietly and still shape history.

Whether you are a student of journalism, a lover of Nigerian history, or simply a reader in search of a story that uplifts, informs, and inspires, this is a book worth reading.

In telling his own story, Yakubu Mohammed reminds us of what is possible when character, courage, and competence meet.

**Mohammed is the publisher of The Columnist NG

WAFCON: Nigerians in South Africa celebrate Super Falcons

WAFCON: Nigerians in South Africa celebrate Super Falcons

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The Nigerian community in South Africa has hailed the country’s women national team, Super Falcons, for winning the Women’s Africa Cup of Nation’s title.

The Super Falcons came from a two-goal deficit to defeat the Atlas Lionesses of Morocco 3-2 to win the title for the 10th time.

The community, under the auspices of the Nigeria Union South Africa (NUSA), said in a statement on Sunday that the team showed the typical Nigerian fighting spirit to win the title.

” The Super Falcons were composed, focused and determined to win the game,” the statement signed by NUSA President, Smart Nwobi, said.

” It is not easy for a team to come from two goals down and win, especially against a home team,” Nwobi, a lawyer, said.

Nwobi also said Nigerians in South Africa were proud of the Super Falcons for accomplishing the Mission X feat.

” We join Nigerians to congratulate the Super Falcons for this feat.

” We also advise that preparations for the defence of the title should commence immediately.

” You will understand that the standard of women football in Africa has improved.

” This implies that opposition will be stronger in future tournaments,” he said.

NUSA also congratulated the Banyana Banyana of South Africa who finished fourth for winning the fair play trophy.(NAN)(www.nanews.ng)
Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Cleric advocates strong moral values to curb youthful vices

Cleric advocates strong moral values to curb youthful vices

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By Joshua Olomu

An Abuja-based cleric, Pst. Rotimi Olugbile, has called for a renewed focus on family values and moral education to combat the rise of youth vices.

He made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on the sideline of the First Year Anniversary Celebration and Graduation of the Mountain Top Schools on Friday   in Abuja.

The event held at the Gwarimpa premises of the school, brought together parents, teachers, clerics and other stakeholders to celebrate their children.

According to Olugbile who is the Mega Regional Overseer in charge of North Central Region 5 of the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries (MFM), there is an alarming rate of  moral decadence among youth.

The cleric said the spate of vices like drug abuse, indolence, disobedience to authorities and other harmful behaviours among young people was worrisome and renewed efforts were needed  to curb it.

He said the ugly trend needed to be seriously addressed at the family level to complement  efforts of the schools and churches in order to save the larger society.

“The  issue is that, in bringing up children, you have the parents, because the children practically start from there, then you have the school and you have the church.

“These three have their roles to play, but we have discovered over the years that sometimes the children are taught very well in the church, and unfortunately, some parents fail in their responsibilities

“I think the school platform is very essential, especially a Christian school like the Mountain Top School, to  shape  the children properly.

“However, on the home front, it is very crucial that parents too should imbibe godliness, because if they don’t, all that  are  being done in the schools and the church will be  watered down.

“There is so much moral decadence all over the place but  we won’t lose hope. We know that there is a better tomorrow ahead of us as we imbibe these moral teachings into the lives of the children,” he said.

Earlier , Pst. Emmanuel Ayantuga,Regional Overseer MFM North Central Region 47 and host of the event, said the school was committed to raising Godly children both in learning and in character.

Ayantuga, who appreciated the leadership and members of the church, said the event was  a celebration of vision growth, and of the grace of God in the past one year.

“We extend our heartfelt thanks to our Father in the Lord, Prof. Daniel Olukoya, and our Mother in the Lord, Dr (Mrs.) Folashade Olukoya, whose divine inspiration and unwavering vision gave birth to the Mountain Top Schools.

“Their passion for building godly foundations in the lives of young learners continues to inspire us.

“When I was transferred to MFM North Central Region 47 Gwarinpa, as an educationist, I saw the need to align with this great vision.

“It became clear that establishing a Mountain Top School here, rooted in sound academics and strong Christian values, was both a calling and a privilege.

“We have worked diligently to create a nurturing, spiritually sound, and academically excellent environment, one where pupils are encouraged to grow in wisdom, knowledge, and godly character.

“I am proud of the strides we’ve made: the remarkable development of our pupils, the dedication and sacrifice of our teachers, and the overwhelming support from the members of the Church,” he said.

Some parents and stakeholders, who spoke with NAN, attributed the success story of the school in the last one year to discipline, hard-work and godliness.

Mrs Taiwo Elegbede, Head Teacher of the School, said: “The number one thing we are doing differently is godly mentoring because we actually want to shape the lives of our young ones.

“We have   discovered that when you grab them from the foundation, you let them know the right thing to do at the right time in godly ways.

“Then we also have zero tolerance for examination malpractice, even right from the nursery session and that has helped our success story.

“I remember we started with three kids.one of them is on scholarship, because they are our foundation, but today we have pupils in Creche, Pre-School, Nursery and Primary Schools,” she said.

Mrs Victoria Ayantuga, wife of the host pastor, lauded the school leadership for staying true to its creeds of godliness, adding that parents needed such an environment to raise their children.

“My call to parents is that there is a need for us to give our children the foundation of a godly school where the principle of good morals based on the Bible is being taught.

“When you give a child only academics without having God it ends in disaster, most times, so, I want to encourage parents to bring their children to a school like this”, she said.

NAN reports that the event featured Choreography, News, dance and other presentations by the pupils, and then awards to outstanding ones.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Joseph Edeh

Group seeks forensic audit of refineries, disputes bn repairs claim

Group seeks forensic audit of refineries, disputes $18bn repairs claim

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By Lucy Ogalue

The Independent Media and Policy Initiative (IMPI) has called for a comprehensive forensic audit of Nigeria’s four state-owned refineries covering the period from 2000 to 2023.

 

Dr Omoniyi Akinsiju, Chairman of IMPI, said this in a statement on Friday in Abuja.

 

Akinsiju also faulted allegation by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) that successive All Progressives Congress (APC) administrations had spent 18 billion dollars on refinery rehabilitation.

 

The IMPI chairman dismissed the claim as misleading, insisting that decades of mismanagement and opaque spending predated APC rule and deserves full scrutiny.

 

“We do not object to an audit, but limiting it to the APC years alone is a disservice to transparency.

 

“A credible audit must trace all disbursements from the year 2000 onward, which is when Nigeria’s refinery woes deepened under civilian rule,” he said.

 

Akinsiju provided a historical breakdown of the various Turnaround Maintenance (TAM) contracts awarded since the 1990s, many of which he said delivered little to no improvement.

 

He cited specific cases, including a 1994 contract awarded to Chrome Oil Services Limited for the Port Harcourt refinery, which reportedly yielded poor results in spite a 216 million dollar spend.

 

The IMPI boss recalled how successive administrations spent over 4.6 billion dollars between 2000 and 2015, yet left the refineries in disrepair.

 

He said that this included administrations led by former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan collectively.

 

He pointed to a 2015 NNPC internal report which revealed that no proper maintenance had occurred since 2001, with aging infrastructure and untraceable components stalling operations.

 

On the role of the APC administrations, Akinsiju said that while late former President Muhammadu Buhari did commit resources to refinery rehabilitation, the process was fundamentally different from past TAM exercises.

 

He referenced contracts awarded in 2021 for full-scale rehabilitation and quoted former NNPC Group Chief Executive, Mele Kyari to explain the distinction.

 

“We are not doing turnaround maintenance; we are doing rehabilitation of the refineries, and this is very different.

 

“It means that we are replacing certain major components. In rehabilitation, we normally do not shut down the plant completely.

 

“We repair a segment of it, and then it starts working, and then you move to the next segment.

 

“You continue to scale up, which is why, within the four years, the contractor would have completely left your premises,” he quoted Kyari as saying.

 

Akinsiju said that a full-spectrum audit would help Nigeria account for billions of dollars and shape future oil and gas policies, particularly in the midstream sector.

 

“We must clarify history and ensure accountability. This is not about party politics but national interest and public trust.”(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kadiri Abdulrahman

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