Philip Daniel Yatai - NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA

Philip Daniel Yatai
Jun, Fri, 2025

Institute urges FG to harness new technologies to boost food safety

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By Olasunkanmi Onifade

Nigeria Institute of Food Science and Technology (NIFST), FCT Chapter, has urged the Federal Government to harness the power of next-generation food science and technology to guarantee food safety.

The President and Chairman, NIFST Governing Council, Bola Osinowo, said this on Thursday at the 11th Regional Food Summit and NIFST Day celebration held in Abuja.

The event had its theme as “Next-Generation Food Science and Technology Solutions for Nation Building”.

“Food science offers solutions through biofortification, breeding crops to naturally contain higher levels of vital vitamins and minerals.

“Imagine what we can achieve with cassava enriched with Vitamin A or maize with increased iron content, reaching communities most in need.

“We can also leverage advanced food processing to fortify staple foods with essential nutrients, making healthy diets more accessible,” he said.

Osinowo said food was the foundation of life and the bedrock of national stability.

According to him, a nation’s development is intricately linked to its capacity to produce, distribute, and consume nutritious food efficiently.

He said historically, advances in food science -such as the Green Revolution – had transformed societies from hunger and malnutrition to abundance and prosperity.

“In Nigeria, a significant portion of our agricultural output is lost due to inadequate storage and processing.

“Next-generation solutions like novel preservation techniques, intelligent packaging that extends shelf life and efficiency can address the challenge.

“Similarly, cold chain logistics, powered by Internet of Things (IoT), can drastically reduce this wastage, ensuring more food reaches our tables.

“Beyond just quantity, we must focus on nutritional security. Hidden hunger – the deficiency of essential micronutrients, affects millions and hinders national productivity,” he said.

The Director-General, National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NBRA), Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha said to fully harness innovations, the government and stakeholders should have a dynamic curriculum on genomics, proteomics and nutrigenomics.

Mustapha, who was represented by Director, Genetics, Genomics and Bioinformatics, Mrs Shakirat Solebo, called for expanded access to innovation, grants, venture capital and improved Public – Private Partnerships (PPPs).

He also said there was a need to establish centres of excellence for youths and women in agro technology.

Mustapha said the future of food security and economic growth was in sustainable innovations.

According to him, this can be achieved by embracing biotechnology and digital agriculture.

The Director-General, Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) , Ifeanyichukwu, Okeke said embracing innovative solutions would create a more resilient and sustainable food system.

Okeke, who was represented by the Group Head, Healthcare Group Standardisation, SON, Mrs Uduak Udoso said SON remained committed to supporting the innovative initiatives.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that NIFST was established in 1976.

It provides professional support to individuals, public and private institutions in the food industry by promoting food science and technology, (NAN)

Edited by Uche Anunne

Infrastructural development, Nigeria’s foundation for progress – Wike

Philip Daniel Yatai
Jun, Fri, 2025

Metro

Infrastructural development, Nigeria’s foundation for progress – Wike

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By Philip Yatai

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has described infrastructure as not merely about roads and bridges, but about connecting destinies, unlocking potentials, and laying groundwork for national transformation.

Wike said this in his 2025 Distinguish Personality Lecture, titled, “Nigeria of our Dreams” presented at the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife on Thursday

According to him, the Nigeria of our dreams cannot materialise without robust infrastructure, one of the pillars upon which people’s aspirations must be built.

“The Nigeria of our dreams is a place where a child in rural Zamfara should access the same quality of education, healthcare, and opportunity as one in urban Lagos.

“It is a nation where seamless transportation, uninterrupted power supply, and digital innovation are not luxuries but essentials, woven into the fabric of everyday life.

“Infrastructure, therefore, is the architecture of equality; it delivers dignity, inclusion, productivity, and hope.”

The minister argued that even the strongest critic of President Bola Tinubu would agree that things were getting better as far as infrastructure was concerned in the country.

Wike equally said that through massive investment in infrastructure, Tinubu had demonstrated a commitment to tackling the inherited complexities of Nigeria’s federation with candour and courage.

“Without infrastructure, development is crippled; with it, progress is not only possible – it is inevitable.

“The road to Nigeria we envision is paved, quite literally, with concrete investment in infrastructure, and with leadership bold enough to see it through.

“The rapid transformation of Abuja is a clear testimony to the President’s dedication to infrastructural revolution in Nigeria.

“It goes without saying that although I drive the process in Abuja, it would not have been possible without the overwhelming and ceaseless support of President Tinubu,” Wike said.

He pointed out that just within two years, Abuja had accelerated its evolution into a befitting modern city and capital of a great nation like Nigeria.

He added that in the journey towards realising the “Nigeria of our dreams”, it was both necessary and noble to acknowledge the efforts of Tinubu through his “Renewed Hope Agenda”.

Wike said that the renewed hope agenda was not just a mantra, but a bold recalibration of national priorities aimed at repositioning Nigeria on the path of sustainable development.

He identified other pillars upon which the Nigerians aspirations would be fulfilled as democracy and good governance, rule of law, quality education, health and human development, and economic prosperity and inclusive growth.

Others the minister said include security and national cohesion, unity in diversity, cultural renaissance and moral rebirth, and strengthening local government and community resilience.

On democracy and good governance, Wike envisaged a thriving democratic culture that transcends periodic elections and manifests in everyday accountability, transparency, and active citizen participation.

He added that democracy and good governance were dreams rooted in the belief that leadership must be anchored on competence, integrity, and a genuine spirit of service.

“In this vision, public office is not a privilege to be exploited, but a sacred trust to be honoured, a platform for transformation, not self-enrichment.

“Good governance is the engine that drives this dream, ensuring that institutions function efficiently and equitably, and that the government remains responsive to the needs and aspirations of the people.

“As we reflect on this noble ideal, let us be reminded that democracy, though the best form of government, is perhaps the most challenging to establish on firm footing and even more difficult to sustain,” he said.

The minister further said that democracy was not a potted plant that could simply be transported into any soil and expected to flourish without commitment, sacrifice, and vigilance.

He agreed with Larry Diamond, a professor of political science and sociology at Stanford, who argues that “it is one thing to get democracy and another thing, often more difficult, to keep it.”

“The Nigerian dream, therefore, calls us not just to wish for democracy, but to work for it – to build it daily through responsible leadership, engaged citizenship, and unyielding commitment to justice and equity,” he said. (NAN)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Wike, a pragmatic, result-driven public servant – OAU VC

Philip Daniel Yatai
Jun, Fri, 2025

Metro

Wike, a pragmatic, result-driven public servant – OAU VC

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By Philip Yatai

Prof. Adebayo Bamire, Vice-Chancellor, Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Osun, has described the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, as a pragmatic and result-driven public servant.

Bamire spoke during the university’s 2025 Distinguished Personality Lecture titled, “Nigeria of our Dreams,” delivered by Wike in Ile-Ife, on Thursday.

He said that as a former minister of education, former governor of Rivers and currently the minister of the FCT, Wike had distinguished himself through bold urban renewal initiatives.

He added that the minister had accelerated infrastructure development and had taken actions to restore order and dignity to Nigeria’s capital.

“His commitment to service delivery, political courage and uncompromising leadership style are undeniable attributes that have earned nationwide recognition.

“Whether in governance, policy execution, or institutional reform, he exemplifies the kind of purposeful leadership needed to move Nigeria forward.

“We have heard, seen, and tasted the transformative work Wike is accomplishing in the FCT, – beautiful and quality road networks.

“We will love to experience and taste such an impact here at OAU,” he said.

The vice-chancellor said that the theme of the lecture, ‘’Nigeria of our Dream” was timely and thought-provoking.

“At a critical juncture when our nation’s democratic journey, when the challenges of governance, civic trust, and equitable development are at the forefront of public discourse, this lecture offers a vital platform for reflection, engagement and forward thinking.

“It calls us to interrogate the structures that uphold democracy, the principles that guide responsible governance, citizenship and the strategies that can unlock Nigeria’s development potential,” Bamire said

Also, the university Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Prof. Siyan Oyeweso, said the distinguished personality lecture was the institution’s first since its establishment in 1961.

Oyeweso said that Wike was chosen to inaugurate the maiden edition of the lecture because of his commitment to the noble ideals of good governance.

Describing Wike as “the man that knows how to collect debt from debtors”, the pro-chancellor said that the lecture was to celebrate his accomplishments in the political space and his impact on people’s lives.

“In no distant time from now, people will be studying Wike’s brand of politics as a distinguished Nigerian,” he said.

The Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Ogunwusi, who welcomed the minister to Ife, said that Wike was one politician that needed to be studied.

Ogunwusi commended President Bola Tinubu for giving Wike the opportunity to serve his country, without minding his political party. (NAN)

Edited by Buhari Bolaji

Eid-el-Kabir: Wike assures tight security in FCT

Philip Daniel Yatai
Jun, Thu, 2025

Religious

Eid-el-Kabir: Wike assures tight security in FCT

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By Philip Yatai

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr. Nyesom Wike, has assured residents that security agencies are working around the clock to ensure the safety of lives and properties during the Eid-el-Kabir holidays and beyond.

Wike made the statement in his Eid-el-Kabir message to FCT residents in Abuja on Thursday.

He emphasised that the FCT Administration would continue to maintain close collaboration with security operatives to keep Abuja safe and secure.

“I am proud to say that Abuja remains the safest city in the country, and we are doing everything possible to keep it that way.

“As we gather with family and friends in celebration, let us not forget the less privileged among us.

“Let the spirit of Eid inspire us to share, uplift, and show kindness to those in need.

“As you join millions around the world to celebrate this sacred occasion, we are reminded of the profound values embodied in Eid-el-Kabir, sacrifice, obedience, and unwavering faith, as exemplified by Prophet Ibrahim,” he said.

The minister urged residents to reflect on the deeper meaning of submission to the will of Allah and to recommit themselves to compassion, generosity, and unity.

According to him, the celebration is not only a spiritual milestone but also a time to renew the collective commitment to peace, tolerance, and mutual respect.

He commended the Muslim community in the FCT for their enduring contributions to the growth and peaceful coexistence within the territory.

“Your values and sense of community are integral to our shared progress,” he added.

The minister also noted that President Bola Tinubu, through his “Renewed Hope Agenda,” had been working tirelessly to ease the burdens faced by the people.

He highlighted the commendable progress made by the FCT Administration in infrastructure development, security enhancement, and social welfare interventions.

“These efforts are all aimed at improving the quality of life for every resident of the FCT.

“We owe the rapid development of the FCT to the unwavering support President Tinubu has given to the FCTA.

“Therefore, I urge you to use this occasion to pray that the Almighty grants Tinubu good health and more guidance to lead the nation to greater heights.

“In the coming days, we will begin commissioning a plethora of completed projects across the territory in celebration of Tinubu’s second year in office.

“These are critical projects aimed at advancing healthcare, education, agriculture, transportation, and more sectors within the FCT.

“They stand as visible proof of our commitment to delivering tangible, impactful change and building a capital city that reflects the hopes and aspirations of all Nigerians,” he said. (NAN)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Sallah: CAN chairman urges leaders to deepen sacrifices for Nigeria’s security

Philip Daniel Yatai
Jun, Thu, 2025

Religious

Sallah: CAN chairman urges leaders to deepen sacrifices for Nigeria’s security

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By Sarafina Christopher

The Christian Association (CAN) in the 19 Northern States and the FCT has urged all Nigerians in positions of authority, particularly the political leadership, “to make a double sacrifice to secure Nigeria just as Muslims offer sacrifices in obedience to God during Sallah”.

The Chairman of the association, Rev. John Joseph Hayab, gave the advice in a Sallah message to the Muslim faithful as they join other parts of the world to celebrate Eid-el-Kabir.

“This season, which honours Prophet Ibrahim’s total obedience and willingness to sacrifice for the sake of God, is a timely call for both leaders and citizens to demonstrate renewed faith, unity, and responsibility towards our nation.

“In this spirit, Northern CAN encourages those in positions of authority, particularly the political leadership, to make a double sacrifice to secure Nigeria just as Muslims offer sacrifices in obedience to God during Sallah,” he said.

The further advised the political elite to act in consonance with their constitutional obligation and moral responsibility in the interest of every Nigerian.

“Our leaders must likewise act in obedience to their constitutional duty and moral responsibility to protect the lives and dignity of every Nigerian.

“The country is groaning under the weight of insecurity, economic distress, and social disillusionment.

“Nigerians are living in fear, and this climate of uncertainty is what gives room for enemies of peace to perpetrate evil without restraint.

“It is no longer enough to issue statements or make promises.

“The government must urgently remedy the conditions that have cast doubt on its commitment to the people.

“Let the leadership act decisively so that Nigerians will no longer have reasons to question or complain,” Hayab added.

According to him, the time has come for the Federal Government to take steps aimed at restoring public confidence and healing “our national wounds”.

“CAN calls on Nigerians to use this solemn period to pray for the peace and unity of the country, while also reaching out to the less privileged in the true spirit of Eid.

“We urge all religious and community leaders to continue fostering peaceful coexistence and to avoid making statements or taking actions capable of deepening our division.

The CAN chairman expressed warm greetings and heartfelt felicitations to the Muslim Ummah on the celebration of Eid-el-Kabir, as well as a joyful and spiritually rewarding Eid-el-Kabir. (NAN)

Edited by Emmanuel Yashim

COAS backs Early Voting Bill for military, security personnel

Philip Daniel Yatai
Jun, Thu, 2025

Defence/Security

COAS backs Early Voting Bill for military, security personnel

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By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede has declared his support for the early voting bill introduced by the Senate for military and security personnel deployed during elections.

Oluyede expressed the support of the army for the bill at a meeting with the Chairman, Senate Committee on Army, Sen. Abdulaziz Yar’Adua (APC-Katsina state) in Abuja on Thursday.

He said that the job of the army on Election Day in collaboration with sister security agencies, was to create an enabling environment for Nigerians to exercise their franchise freely.

According to him, the army has been doing very well in support of the lead agency which is the Police and they have not had time to exercise their own franchise.

“The bill is actually long overdue, it is a laudable effort by the senator and we appreciate you; you have all our support for all the bills.

“As an army, we will support you as much as possible and for the programmes you have highly noted, be sure we will be well represented,” he said.

The chief, however, urged the crafters of the legislation to put measures in place to avoid impersonation and to enhance communication among security agencies and other essential workers.

He commended the senator for all the support for the army and the legislative support

Earlier, Yar’Adua said that the aim of the visit was to solicit the support of the army for three bills currently under consideration in the National Assembly.

He said that the bills generally seek to strengthen the army forces and deepen its democratic participation in the country.

“The bills are, the Electoral Act Amendment Bill, the Arm Forces Trust Fund Amendment Bill and the Arm Forces Act Repeal and Reenactment Bill.

“I am here basically to seek your support and the partnership in the passage of the bills,” he said.

The senator said that the Electoral Act Amendment Bill was necessary to address the number of eligible Nigerians that are disenfranchised because of essential duties.

According to him, we have close to two million Nigerians who work on election day from the military, INEC staff, Ad hoc staff, NYSC corps members, security agents, journalists and election observers.

Yar’Adua recalled that during the 2023 general elections, the Nigerian Army deployed 95 per cent of its personnel for election related security issues.

He said that together with the Department of State Security (DSS) the military deployed 93,495 personnel.

The lawmaker said that the police deployed 310,973 personnel, the NYSC deployed 200,000 corps members while the National Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC) deployed 81,000 personnel.

He said the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) deployed 21,000 personnel, the Nigerian Correctional Centre (NCC) deployed 11,336 officers, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) deployed 350 operatives while National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) deployed 9,447 personnel.

Yar’Adua said that when the numbers are put together and added to the number of election observers, it would be enough to determine the outcome of an election.

He said that the wide disenfranchisement raised concerns given the declining voter turnout saying that in 2015, voter turnout was 4.7 per cent, in 2019 it dropped 34.7 per cent and in 2023, 27. 3 per cent.

“To allow early voting for military personnel , it is not only a matter of fairness, it is a necessary step to restore confidence, engage young Nigerians and uphold the principle that says those who defend our democracy should not be excluded from it.

“I wish to encourage the Nigerian Army to collaborate with INEC in identifying eligible personnel to vote,” he said.

On his part, the Coordinator, Centre for Legislative Engagement, YIAGA-Africa, Dr Sam Ogwuche said that the bill was apt and timely.

He said that election is the hallmark of democracy and all Nigerians should be able to vote as it is a civic responsibility.

He said that YIAGA-Africa and many other stakeholders at the forefront of canvassing for increased citizen participation were in support of the bill. (NAN)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Diaspora voting will benefit all Nigerians – Agency D-G

Philip Daniel Yatai
Jun, Thu, 2025

Politics

Diaspora voting will benefit all Nigerians – Agency D-G

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By Fortune Abang

Dr Loretta Ogboro-Okor, Director-General of the Edo Diaspora Agency, on Thursday emphasised the importance of diaspora voting, stating that it would benefit Nigerians both at home and abroad.

Speaking in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja, Ogboro-Okor urged Nigerians in the diaspora not to relent in advocating for diaspora voting.

She noted that sustained advocacy was essential to achieving the desired outcome in future elections.

“I want to tell us that diaspora voting is going to benefit everybody. Right now, some people think it will only benefit those in government, but that’s not true.

“It’s a combination of top-down and bottom-up approaches to pushing Nigeria forward,” she said.

She emphasised that legislating and passing the diaspora voting bill into law would help ensure Nigerians elected competent leaders.

“We’ll be putting square pegs in square holes, and that will enhance governance in Nigeria,” she added.

Ogboro-Okor explained that a diaspora voting policy would empower Nigerians abroad to contribute more actively to nation-building by bringing back skills and expertise developed overseas.

“Imagine voting and not feeling left out, you’ll feel a responsibility to return and contribute your quota to national development.

“This is why we in Edo believe it’s a key step towards future growth. We also need to consider second- and third-generation Nigerians abroad.

“They proudly identify as Nigerians, just like I proudly identify as Edo. We must harness their civic engagement at the national level.”

The director-general revealed that an estimated 17 million Nigerians live in the diaspora, with a significant number from Edo State.

She noted that Edo contributed around 31 per cent of Nigeria’s total diaspora remittances.

Ogboro-Okor reiterated that the substantial contribution underscored Edo’s role as a major player in Nigeria’s economic development.

She cited World Bank data from 2017, which reported 22 billion dollars in total remittances to Nigeria, 6 billion dollars of which originated from Edo State alone.(NAN)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Centralised data key to tackling insecurity, economic woes – BRISIN

Philip Daniel Yatai
Jun, Thu, 2025

Science & Tech

Centralised data key to tackling insecurity, economic woes – BRISIN

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By Angela Atabo

The Basic Registry and Information System in Nigeria (BRISIN) has been identified as a critical tool in addressing Nigeria’s persistent issues of insecurity and economic instability.

Dr Anthony Uwa, Head of BRISIN Implementation in Nigeria, made this known in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja.

According to him, BRISIN is an integrated data and information infrastructure designed for real-time data governance across all sectors of the economy and government.

He explained that in May 2007, the Federal Government signed a service agreement for the implementation of BRISIN, selecting the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) for the pilot phase.

“However, 18 years later, the system is yet to be implemented, in spite of its numerous benefits.”

Uwa emphasised that effective governance and sustainable development were impossible without a reliable and comprehensive data infrastructure.

“You cannot run a government without data governance that guides decisions on national security, social systems, economic planning, revenue generation, and democratic development,” he said.

He added that BRISIN could support sectors such as rural development, employment, diaspora integration, migration control, and social welfare.

“Nigeria lacks a foundational system because there is no data and information infrastructure.

“You can’t solve problems like insecurity, unemployment, or economic instability without it,” Uwa stressed.

He noted that BRISIN was conceived during President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration as a fundamental infrastructure to drive lasting change and attract both local and foreign investment.

He also said it would help Nigeria access international grants and funding, identify Nigerians at home and abroad, and provide reliable demographic data.

“With BRISIN in place, Nigeria would command more respect globally, operate credibly, and manage governance effectively. Unfortunately, the FCT Minister is yet to activate the pilot phase,” he added.

Uwa revealed that the Italian government, through the MATEI Programme for Africa, approved 600 million dollars for BRISIN in Nigeria.

“However, the release is pending a letter from the FCT confirming the project’s commencement and counterpart funding, still not submitted 14 months later.”

He urged FCT Minister Nyesom Wike to act swiftly, stating that implementing BRISIN in the capital would modernise the city and improve governance structures.

Uwa added that the system had the potential to generate up to N1.5 trillion annually in internally generated revenue (IGR) by effectively monitoring and controlling all economic activities within the FCT.

Also speaking, Mr Lorenzo Santangelo, Director at Dermo Impex Nigeria Ltd, the BRISIN solution providers, said the system could create up to 10 million jobs in Nigeria.

He explained that by integrating data systems across all ministries and agencies, governance would become more efficient and credible.

“When every government body has access to the same accurate data, it becomes easier to identify needs, streamline services, and eliminate duplication,” Santangelo said.

He added that BRISIN would improve national planning by tracking population movements, consumer preferences, and regional needs, informing decisions on infrastructure, imports, and public services.

“Credibility comes when citizens are properly identified from birth, with clear data on their parents and place of origin.

“This builds a foundation for proper governance and national development,” he added. (NAN)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Philip Daniel Yatai
Jun, Thu, 2025

Metro

Wike seeks support for Tinubu-led FG

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By Philip Yatai

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, has called on Nigerians to support President Bola Tinubu-led Federal Government to transform the country for the good of all.

Wike made the call in his 2025 Distinguish Personality Lecture, titled, “The Nigeria of our Dreams” delivered at the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun, on Thursday

He said that no leader, no matter how endowed, equipped or selfless, could truly succeed without the support and cooperation of the citizenry.

The minister advised Nigerians to wake up from years of cynicism, indifference and hopelessness and embrace a new era being birthed by Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

According to him, no nation has made any reasonable progress without the robust cooperation and collaboration of its leadership and followership.

“South Africa for instance, under Mandela, achieved independence and made progress as shown in his book’ Long Walk to Freedom’ through this cooperation.

“Dubai is also recording all these great feats through synergy between its leadership and followership.

“The time for belief is here; the time for action is also here. Together with President Tinubu, we can as a people begin the real process of building the Nigeria of our dreams,” he said

The minister also urged Nigerians to reject the negative narrative that Nigeria would never change for good, stressing that “with the right leadership, nothing is impossible”.

He said that to reclaim Nigeria’s dream, the people must first reclaim the belief in the possibility that the country would be better and reject the defeatist narratives that nothing would change.

According to him, change does not come from the top alone; it bubbles up from the conviction of a determined people.

“The Nigeria of our dreams is not a utopia; it is a Nigeria that works; it is a Nigeria where merit trumps mediocrity, where justice flows like a river.

“The Nigeria of our dream is also where every child, regardless of ethnic group, religion, tongue, or class, has the opportunity to live with dignity and die with honour.

“It is a nation that listens to the heartbeat of its people and allows the soul of democracy to find expression, not only in periodic elections, but in the daily dignity of citizenship.

“It is a place where leaders are not predators on the public purse, but custodians of the people’s trust; where leadership is purposeful, and followership is responsible,” he said.

The minister added that the “Nigeria of our dream is a nation where institutions are stronger than individuals; where the rule of law is not a slogan, but a sacred covenant”.

Wike emphasised that reclaiming Nigeria’s dream demands a rekindling of its vision and values, stressing that Nigerians must reimagine the country not as victims of its history, but as architects of its destiny.

He also stressed the need to rebuild trust between government and the governed, among ethnic nationalities and across faiths and generations.

The minister also said that to make meaningful progress, Nigerians must rediscover the dignity of labour, the sanctity of truth and the strength of unity.

“Most of all, we must believe again that our country, however flawed, is not beyond redemption.

“This work belongs to all of us. No one is too small to matter or too big to fail.

“Nigeria’s redemption will not be delivered by heroes on horseback, but by ordinary citizens doing extraordinary things: living with integrity, speaking truth to power, raising children with values, and holding firm to hope even when the night is long.

“The dream is not dead. It merely sleeps, waiting for those bold enough, brave enough, and burdened enough to awaken it,” he said. (NAN)

Edited by Buhari Bolaji

Only Tinubu can lead us to Nigeria of our dreams – Wike

Philip Daniel Yatai
Jun, Thu, 2025

General News

Only Tinubu can lead us to Nigeria of our dreams – Wike

178 total views today

By Philip Yatai

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, says the country needs leaders like President Bola Tinubu to achieve the “Nigeria of our dreams”.

Wike said this in his 2025 Distinguish Personality Lecture, titled, “The Nigeria of our Dreams” presented at the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife on Thursday.

Wike pointed out that the greatest challenge confronting Nigeria and militating against its development was the plague of bad leadership.

He agreed with Chinua Achebe, whose seminar, ‘The Trouble with Nigeria’, graphically captured the challenge, when he stated that ‘the trouble with Nigeria is fairly and squarely the absence of proper leadership’.

“This statement, damaging as it may appear, is extremely difficult to controvert.

“Our leaders have, in the main, emerged through self-serving conspiracies that have little or nothing to do with national interests and development.

“This has been the case in both military and civilian contexts,” he said.

He, however, said that Tinubu had stood out as the leader the people needed to drive Nigeria to progress and prosperity.

He explained that Nigeria needs a leader that was prepared to lead with sound character and resilience in the face of challenges.

He added that the leader must also be a person who believed in the infinite possibilities that the Nigerian nation exemplifies, while taking solid, proactive, logical and well-informed decisions that would maximally actualise her potential.

This leader, he said, must have the courage and audacity to act, build, innovate and generally expand the frontiers of development with a hands-on approach that would emphasise excellence over mediocrity.

He added that more importantly, the leader of Nigerians’ dream must create a society of free and responsible citizens whose potentials flowed freely and free enterprise thrived.

“Let me make bold at this juncture to state that today, in our country, we have such a leader in the person of Tinubu.

“He has shown in several ways and at different times, a stout commitment to the enthronement of democracy in our country, to the extent of even putting his own life on the line in the process.

“He has shown great capacity for engendering development as captured in the unprecedented rapid and exponential development of Lagos state under his watch and even beyond,” he added.

He also said that Tinubu had demonstrated a rare courage by removing fuel subsidy on his first day, upon being sworn in as President.

According to him, leaders before him all spoke about the evil of fuel subsidy, but none had the courage to dare the blackmail of removing it.

“Tinubu did and is fittingly grappling with the inevitable, unintended and sometimes orchestrated consequences of this removal.

“Today, our states have far more resources to develop, the debts are no longer piling and the price of petrol is gradually but steadily adjusting downwards in tandem with the forces of demand and supply and the strict implementation of regulatory conditionalities.

“Also, the overwhelming cry of over-centralisation of power and resources at the national level and the attendant abuse of the doctrine of federalism is being systematically addressed.

“This is being addressed through the creation of zonal/regional commissions empowered to devolve developmental impetus to the respective zones and regions, so that power can truly return to the people.”

On security, Wike said that the situation was being addressed through proper funding and the training and retraining of security forces.

The minister added that Tinubu’s approval for the recruitment of forest guards across the country to take charge of the nation’s forests, bandits and terrorists would no longer find incubation points and free territories to operate.

“Put simply, the era of banditry and terrorism will soon come to an end.

“These and many other policies and measures are being put together by Tinubu to reposition our country on the path of progress and development,” Wike said.

Earlier, Gov. Ademola Adeleke of Osun, described Wike as a straightforward politician, adding that his wealth of political experience and leadership style was exemplary.

Represented by the Deputy Governor, Kola Adewusi, the governor said that the minister’s infrastructural transformation in the FCT was visionary.

Also, the Vice-Chancellor of the university Prof. Adebayo Bamire, said that the theme of the lecture, ‘’Nigeria of our Dream” was timely and thought-provoking.

The Royal Father of the Day, Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Ogunwusi, said he has deep respect for Wike because of his fearlessness.

He described the minister as an “upright politician” who “said things as they are.

“Hate him; like him – what will be will be.” (NAN)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru