News Agency of Nigeria
Tinubu celebrates music icon 2Baba at 50 ‎

Tinubu celebrates music icon 2Baba at 50 ‎

‎By Muhyideen Jimoh

‎President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Afrobeats legend, Mr Innocent Idibia popularly known as 2Baba on the occasion of his 50th birthday.

‎The President’s message was conveyed in a statement issued by Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, on Friday in Abuja.

‎Tinubu praised 2Baba’s enduring impact on Nigeria’s music scene, commending his creativity, resilience, and the unwavering spirit that defines the Nigerian identity.

‎“For more than 20 years, 2Baba serenaded us with soulful melodies, inspired generations, and carried the Nigerian flag with pride worldwide.

‎“His legendary song, ‘African Queen’, remains an evergreen classic that introduced the beauty of African music to the world, placing Nigeria at the heart of the global entertainment map,” Tinubu stated.

‎The President also lauded 2Baba’s commitment to national unity and his use of music as a tool for peace, advocacy, and good governance.

‎Tinubu prayed for continued joy, fulfilment, and sound health for the music icon in the years ahead. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Deji Abdulwahab

Tinubu hails FAAN MD Kuku on election as ACI Africa VP

Tinubu hails FAAN MD Kuku on election as ACI Africa VP

‎By Muhyideen Jimoh

‎President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), on her election as Vice-President of Airports Council International (ACI) Africa.

‎The President’s message was conveyed in a statement by Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, on Friday in Abuja.

‎ACI is the global trade body representing airports worldwide. It sets international standards, policies, and best practices for airport management and operations.

‎Kuku’s election was ratified at the 34th ACI Africa General Assembly, held in Lusaka, Zambia, from Sept. 13 to Sept. 19.

‎President Tinubu praised the dedication of FAAN’s leadership to ensuring safe, efficient air transport in Nigeria—an effort now recognised on the global stage.

‎He commended Kuku’s foresight and leadership, which previously earned her the role of ACI Africa Regional Advisor and now a permanent seat on the ACI World Governing Board.

‎The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that ACI, founded in 1991, has more than 2,000 airports in more than 170 countries and territories under the supervision of the Governing Board.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chioma Ugboma

‎Nigeria ready to host Africa’s first Commonwealth games in 2030 – Tinubu ‎

‎Nigeria ready to host Africa’s first Commonwealth games in 2030 – Tinubu ‎

By Muhyideen Jimoh

‎President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed Nigeria’s readiness to host a world-class 2030 Commonwealth Games, aiming to become the first African nation to achieve this historic milestone.

‎Represented by his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, Tinubu gave the assurance on Thursday during a visit by the Commonwealth Sport Bid Evaluation Committee to the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

‎The President reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to hosting an inclusive, diverse, and world-class 2030 Commonwealth Games on African soil.

‎Gbajabiamila held strategic meeting with the delegation led by Darren Hall, Commonwealth Director of Games and Assurance, and member of the 2030 Evaluation Commission.

‎Tinubu emphasised that the Commonwealth champions unity and diversity, and Africa deserves its moment after nearly a century.

‎The games have never been hosted in Africa since inception in 1930, making Nigeria’s bid historic and overdue.

‎”You’re very welcome to Nigeria. I hope you enjoy our great hospitality which we are known for, Mr President also asked me personally to convey his regards, he’s fully in support of this bid.”

‎”As I said the President has written a Letter of guarantee to you, he’s full weight is behind this bid.”

‎”What I can assure you is that we’re ready. We’re willing, we’re able, and we actually want this. It’s been 100 years… The games have not been held on any soil in Africa.”

‎”The element of inclusivity is what Commonwealth is, and we hope that to our benefit.”

‎”You know, this administration has set some bold reforms to reposition sports. We see sports as a strategic driver of national development.”

‎”The President intentionally scrapped the Ministry of Sports and created a National Sports Commission to drive sports development,”

‎President Tinubu assured the delegation that all infrastructure, security, and hospitality needs will be met ahead of schedule.

‎He stressed that Nigeria’s bid is not just about hosting but leaving a legacy for youth and national development.

‎Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), made a strong case for Nigeria over India, stressing that Africa has 22 Commonwealth nations, and Nigeria as the giant of Africa deserves the honor.

‎”One thing I want to assure you is that the President sees the hosting of the Commonwealth Games in 2030, if we win the bid, as a celebration of the country’s growing force in sports, beyond just participation.”

‎Habu Gumel, President of Commonwealth Sport, Nigeria, said the country is ready to host an environmentally sustainable Games.

‎Mainasara Illo, Chairman of the Bid Committee, presented Nigeria’s proposal, highlighting key plans and innovations.

‎He revealed that Nigeria proposes 15 sports, with football introduced to boost excitement, global visibility, and audience engagement.

‎Darren Hall, Commonwealth Director of Games and Assurance, thanked President Tinubu and the Nigerian team for their warm welcome.

‎“I have been most thrilled by the passion of the Nigerian people in all their endeavors, including sports.”

‎He said the Commonwealth, now comprising 56 nations, is aiming for greater diversity as it approaches its 100-year milestone.

‎Minister of Information and National Orientation, Muhammed Idris, Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Musa Dangiwa and Minister of Police Affairs, Ibrahim Gaidam, attended the meeting and made statements in support of the bid.

‎They all assured of Nigeria’s readiness to host the Games, with each focusing on strategic sectors that will ensure a hitch-free sporting fiesta.

‎The Commonwealth delegation who are on a four-day visit will meet will key stakeholders and inspect key facilities.

‎Nigeria and India are the two official bidders for the 2030 Games, with Abuja and Ahmedabad as their proposed host cities.

‎The Commonwealth Games General Assembly will decide the host city in November 2025, after thorough evaluation of both bids. (NAN)

‎Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Tinubu to visit Buhari’s widow in Kaduna Friday ‎

Tinubu to visit Buhari’s widow in Kaduna Friday ‎

‎By Muhyideen Jimoh

‎President Bola Tinubu will depart Abuja on Friday for Kaduna State on a one-day visit.

‎This is contained in a statement by Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, on Thursday in Abuja.

‎The President will attend the wedding ceremony between Nasirudeen Yari and Safiyya Shehu Idris during the visit.

‎Nasirudeen is the son of the senator representing Zamfara West, Abdul’aziz Yari.

‎Tinubu will also pay a courtesy visit on Aisha, widow of late former president Muhammadu Buhari, at the family residence in Kaduna.

‎The President will return to Abuja on the same day after the visit. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chioma Ugboma

Air Peace MRO facility to create 50,000 jobs – Onyema

Air Peace MRO facility to create 50,000 jobs – Onyema

By Itohan Abara-Laserian

‎The Chairman of Air Peace, Dr Allen Onyema, says the airline’s N32 billion Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility will create over 50,000 jobs.



‎Onyema made the remarks at the groundbreaking ceremony for the development of the facility at Murtala Muhammed International Airport on Wednesday in Lagos.



‎Expressing excitement over the milestone, Onyema noted that the airline acquired the 34,000-square-metre land eight years ago in anticipation of this historic project.



‎He explained that the facility would service not only Air Peace aircraft, but also those belonging to other local and international airlines.



‎According to him, the facility, expected within 24 months, will attract significant foreign investment into Nigeria’s aviation sector.



‎Onyema said it had become difficult abroad to secure maintenance slots, forcing many airlines to South Africa. The facility would reverse that trend in Nigeria’s favour.



‎He praised President Bola Tinubu for appointing the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo, SAN, who he said enhanced Nigeria’s global aviation visibility.



‎Onyema recalled past difficulties in running aviation businesses in Nigeria, adding that conditions had now improved remarkably for local operators.



‎He said Keyamo ensured that the capacity of domestic operators had increased substantially in the last year.



‎“The coming of Mr President and his appointment of a square peg in a square hole has propelled aviation to new heights. We are beneficiaries.



‎“The ease of doing business has returned. For the first time, airlines are being massively supported to achieve their dreams.



‎“Last year alone, we spent over N180 billion on aircraft maintenance abroad. The capital flight on spares and repairs is alarming,” he said.



‎He said the facility would attract foreign airlines, including those from Europe and the Americas, because maintenance slots were increasingly scarce abroad.



‎According to him, government support for private investment gave the airline confidence to embark on a project costing N32 billion.



‎He stressed that the MRO would eventually operate independently, servicing Air Peace, other Nigerian airlines, and international carriers.



‎Onyema disclosed that Air Peace had signed a partnership with Embraer of Brazil to provide maintenance support, ensuring Embraer aircraft worldwide could be serviced in Nigeria.



‎He said the facility would also cater for Boeing, Airbus, and private jets, thereby curbing capital flight.



‎“This MRO will create over 50,000 direct and indirect jobs. Engineers and technical staff will be trained. There will be shops for brakes, wheels, and batteries,” Onyema added.



‎Mrs Ifeoma Uzokpala, Executive Director, Large Enterprises, Bank of Industry, said the bank was proud to partner with Air Peace on a project fostering sustainable employment.



‎She noted that the facility would also positively impact Nigeria’s foreign exchange.



‎Mr Victor Ebong, representative of MO and A Contractors, said the site covers 32,000 square metres, including a 6,150 clear space hangar for a Boeing 777ER.



‎He added that there would be 5,000 square metres of apron space, 2,800 for storage, and 1,500 for workshops, alongside a four-storey office building.



‎Mr Abolore Solebo, Executive Director, Corporate Banking, Fidelity Bank, said their support and partnership with Air Peace led to establishing a dedicated aviation desk.



‎He assured the airline of the bank’s full support.



‎The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Zenith Bank and other partners were represented at the groundbreaking ceremony.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

‎Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

Fubara returns as emergency rule lifted ‎

Fubara returns as emergency rule lifted ‎

By Muhyideen Jimoh

‎President Bola Tinubu has lifted the State of Emergency in Rivers State, and directed that Gov. Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy and members of the State House of Assembly to resume duties on Thursday.

‎In a statement released Wednesday in Abuja, the President said the decision followed the restoration of peace and order in the state.

‎“It therefore gives me great pleasure to declare that the emergency in Rivers shall end with effect from midnight today.”

‎”The Governor, His Excellency Siminalayi Fubara, the deputy governor, Her Excellency Ngozi Nma Odu, and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly and the speaker, Martins Amaewhule, will resume work in their offices from Sept. 18.”

‎The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the emergency rule  was imposed on March 18 amid political tensions and a breakdown in governance.

‎With calm restored, Tinubu emphasised the importance of returning to democratic governance and institutional stability in Rivers.

‎The sole administrator appointed by Tinubu, retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ette Ibas who has led the state since March, had prepared his exit with an interdenominational thanksgiving service held on Sunday in Port Harcourt.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Tinubu hails Gumel, Amusan for making Nigeria proud

Tinubu hails Gumel, Amusan for making Nigeria proud

By Muhyideen Jimoh

President Bola Tinubu has congratulated two distinguished Nigerians, Farouk Gumel and Tobi Amusan for their recent international achievements that have brought pride to the nation.

‎Tinubu’s message was conveyed in a statement by Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, on Tuesday in Abuja.

‎Gumel was appointed Chairman of Botswana’s Sovereign Wealth Fund Limited, while Amusan won silver in the women’s 100m hurdles at the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo.

‎The President said Gumel’s appointment reflects his expertise and underlines the global respect earned by Nigerian professionals.

‎‎”As Vice Chairman for Africa at the Tropical General Investment (TGI) Group, among other accomplishments, Gumel has remained a consistent player in Nigeria’s determined efforts in food sufficiency.”‎

‎”His leadership in this significant role brings immense pride to our nation, and I am confident he will excel and further cement Nigeria’s reputation for excellence in global finance.”

‎‎Tinubu also lauded Amusan for her stellar performance on the world stage, praising her relentless pursuit of excellence.

‎The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Nigeria’s track queen, Tobi Amusan, won silver in the women’s 100m hurdles at the Tokyo 2025 World Championships.

‎The 28 -year-old claimed the prize after clocking a brilliant 12.29s in the final of the 100m hurdles.

‎”Tobi has once again demonstrated that with patriotic fervour, coupled with hard work and determination, any height is surmountable.”

‎”Her achievement is a source of national pride.” Tinubu said.

‎The president wished both Gumel and Amusan continued success in their respective careers and assured them of the government’s unwavering support.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Kaduna community hit by flood seeks govt’s intervention

Kaduna community hit by flood seeks govt’s intervention

By Amen Gajira

Residents of Manchok community in Kaura Local Government Area of Kaduna State have appealed to both the Federal and State Governments for urgent assistance over severe flooding of their homes and farmlands.

The floods, resulting from heavy rainfall over the past three days, submerged several streets and left behind widespread destruction of properties and crops in the community.

Speaking to newsmen in front of his flooded house, Duniya Sambo, lamented his losses, stating that the flood destroyed his electronics, sofa and other household items.

“The flood destroyed my properties, and made my family members stay up all night draining water from the house,” he said.

Similarly, Luka Ishaya, a local farmer, said that the flood wiped out his food crops and plantation, his only source of his livelihood.

“The rains, rather than being beneficial to crops and plantation, have brought nothing but devastation. It is really sad,” he said.

Another resident, Thomas Yatai, attributed the flooding of the community to blocked water ways and the absence of an appropriate drainage system in the area.

Yatai also decried the lack of waste bins, which forces many residents to dispose of refuse on roadsides and drains.

He emphasised the need for government investments in urban renewal projects, including proper channelisation and the construction of drains that are wide enough to accommodate large volumes of water.

A community youth leader, Moses Mathew, regretted the plight of the community, stressing that the devastation would have been contained but for the blocked drainages in the area.

Mathew said that the youths of the area had resolved to engage in self-help measures to salvage the situation pending any assistance from the government.

“We cannot sit idly by and watch our community ravaged by floods and therefore we have resolved to take the bull by the horn.

“Starting on Monday, we will mobilise to excavate makeshift water channels in our community.

“We are also going to be clearing all blocked drains in order to prevent further damage.
“We will do this while we await possible intervention from the government and other well meaning individuals or organisations,” he added.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that although no death was recorded, the residents of Manchok were facing a precarious situation as they struggled to recover from the impact of the flood. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

Atiku not in touch with Nigeria’s progress – Presidency ‎

Atiku not in touch with Nigeria’s progress – Presidency ‎

‎By Muhyideen Jimoh

The Presidency has dismissed recent criticisms by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar on rising hunger, asserting that Nigeria is making steady economic progress under President Bola Tinubu.

‎This is contained in a statement issued by Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, on Monday in Abuja.

‎Onanuga described Atiku’s comments on hunger and possible revolution as, “cheap talk” disconnected from Nigeria’s current trajectory.

‎”Talk is cheap. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and his handlers are clearly out of touch with the positive developments currently unfolding in our country.”

‎”Their claim that hunger is ravaging Nigeria, and their comparison of our situation to the unrest in France before the 1789 Revolution or the 1917 Bolshevik Revolution in Russia, is grossly misleading,” Onanuga said.

‎Onanuga argued that recent data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) contradicts Atiku’s assertions.

‎”Their latest statement demonstrates a disconnect from the authentic Nigerian reality, as recent data tells a different story.”

‎”Just today, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) released its figures for August, showing that headline inflation has declined for the fifth consecutive month.”

‎The NBS also reported a record trade surplus, with non-oil exports now nearly matching crude oil at a 48:52 ratio.

‎”Over the weekend, the NBS also reported a record trade surplus, with the contribution of non-oil exports to our trade balance now nearly matching that of crude oil at a ratio of 48:52 per cent,” he said.

‎onanuga further stated that Nigeria’s foreign exchange reserves are nearing 42 billion dollar – up from 32 billion dollar, when Tinubu took office.

‎”When President Tinubu assumed office, reserves stood at 32 billion dollar, much of it encumbered.”

‎”This administration has since cleared over seven billion dollar in arrears, including 800 million dollar owed to airlines,” he said.

‎He stressed that revenue has significantly improved, allowing states to pay salaries and pensions on time while funding capital and social projects.

‎Onanuga noted that the level of financial stability under Tinubu has not been seen in years.

‎Onanuga said, while Nigeria moves forward, Atiku and his party remain locked in the past.

‎”Ironically, many of the challenges we face today stem from the economic mismanagement during the PDP years, when Atiku was Vice President.”

‎”President Tinubu and his team are working relentlessly to correct those errors, with bold reforms.

‎”After just two years and five months in office, we are proud of the progress being made under President Tinubu’s leadership,” he said.

According to Onanuga, Nigerians can see and feel the positive changes in the country under Tinubu

‎He added that Atiku his allies might choose to ignore the gains, but Nigerians can see and feel the positive changes taking place across the nation. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi

‎Tinubu ends vacation, returns to Abuja Tuesday

‎Tinubu ends vacation, returns to Abuja Tuesday

By Muhyideen Jimoh

President Bola Tinubu has concluded his vacation ahead of schedule and will return to Abuja on Tuesday to resume official duties.

‎This is contained in a statement by Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, on Monday in Abuja.

‎Tinubu left for France on Sept. 4 to spend part of his annual holiday, with initial plans to split the time between France and the United Kingdom.

‎Onanuga in a statement had said that the vacation will last 10 working days.

‎During his stay in Paris, President Tinubu held a private luncheon with French President Emmanuel Macron at the Élysée Palace.

‎The two leaders discussed key areas of cooperation and agreed to strengthen Nigeria-France ties for shared prosperity and global stability.(NAN)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

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