NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
MACBAN lauds Tinubu’s peace efforts in Benue
General News

MACBAN lauds Tinubu’s peace efforts in Benue

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By Salisu Sani-Idris

The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), has commended President Bola Tinubu for his intervention and timely visit to Benue State.

The National President of MACBAN, Alhaji Baba Othman-Ngelzarma, made the commendation in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja.

Othman-Ngelzarma also lauded the Federal Government and security agencies for their prompt actions to restore normalcy in the affected areas.

“We wish to thank President Bola Tinubu, for his intervention and timely visit to Benue.

” We also thank Mr President for having the courage to urge political and traditional leaders in Benue to seek peaceful coexistence among themselves.

“We hope that this visit will help restore the much-needed peace to Benue State and the nation at large,” he said.

He expressed condolences to the Federal Government, the Government and people of Benue State, and all Nigerians over the senseless loss of lives and destruction of property in the state.

“As the umbrella organisation of Fulani cattle breeders and herders in Nigeria, MACBAN remains committed to the peaceful and harmonious coexistence of Nigeria’s more than 300 ethnic groups.

“As major stakeholders in the Nigerian project and one of the biggest contributors to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product, it is in our best interest to promote peace with other Nigerians,” he stated.

Othman-Ngelzarma emphasised the need for political, traditional, religious, and community leaders in the state to commit to promoting peaceful coexistence between agrarian and livestock-rearing communities.

He also urged leaders to stop pushing divisive narratives that undermine peace and unity.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Vandalism: NAGGW tasks Jigawa communities on safeguarding investments, projects
Environment

Vandalism: NAGGW tasks Jigawa communities on safeguarding investments, projects

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By Muhammad Nasir Bashir

The National Agency for the Great Green Wall (NAGGW) has urged communities in its 11 frontline states to take ownership of its projects and assets.

The agency’s Director-General, Alhaji Saleh Abubakar, made the call during a high-level advocacy visit to Gov. Umar Namadi of Jigawa in Dutse on Thursday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the agency operates in 11 northern states: Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Jigawa, Kebbi, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, Yobe, and Zamfara.

He said community ownership is vital to safeguard projects and reduce vandalism incidents affecting NAGGW’s investments across Northern Nigeria.

Abubakar explained that the visit aimed to promote collaboration, awareness, and support for the agency’s activities within the state.

He stressed that in rural areas, people rely on natural resources, making it crucial to advocate for human capital development and resource diversification.

Abubakar warned that unchecked desertification, land degradation, and climate change could ruin livelihoods, destroy habitats, and trigger conflict or forced migration.

“Human misuse drives land degradation, but through behaviour change and action, communities can reverse the damage,” the DG stated.

He said the visit was designed to raise awareness and encourage communities to protect NAGGW projects by treating them as their own.

He listed agency services, including degraded land restoration, afforestation, and alternative livelihoods to reduce pressure on natural resources and boost rural economies.

Abubakar also highlighted efforts in promoting alternative energy, managing water resources, supporting irrigation, and conducting awareness campaigns across the 11 states.

He urged the governor to help protect current investments, replicate the awareness drive, and identify communities needing immediate NAGGW interventions.

Namadi, represented by Jigawa Commissioner for Environment, Dr Nura Ibrahim, praised the DG’s visit and appreciated the state being chosen for the first advocacy effort.

Namadi promised to sensitise residents on project protection and urged NAGGW to involve locals in project implementation for better outcomes.

He said local participation would enhance a sense of responsibility and encourage communities to protect projects in their areas.

“The vandalism of NAGGW facilities causes economic loss and hampers the sustainability of development efforts,” the governor warned.

He added the consequences affect not just communities but the nation as a whole.

“We will ensure our people recognise the projects as theirs and take collective responsibility for their protection,” Namadi assured. (NAN)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

MACBAN commends DSS, lauds Tinubu’s appointments
General News

MACBAN commends DSS, lauds Tinubu’s appointments

279 total views today

By Salisu Sani-Idris

The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has commended the Department of State Services (DSS) for its professional handling of the security situation in Plateau, Benue, and other states.

The National President of MACBAN, Alhaji Baba Othman-Ngelzarma, expressed the association’s commendation in a statement released on Friday in Abuja.

He noted that the DSS had managed the security challenges in the mentioned states with utmost professionalism, deserving of recognition.

Othman-Ngelzarma also lauded President Bola Tinubu for appointing Mr Tosin Ajayi as the Director-General of the DSS, describing it as one of the best decisions of his administration.

He urged other security agencies to learn from the way the new DSS leadership had approached securing lives and property.

The MACBAN President highlighted the efforts of the DSS to investigate the root causes of the problems affecting the states.

“We salute the professionalism with which the DSS has been handling the delicate security challenges in Plateau, Benue, and several other states,” he said.

He also noted that the DSS, under Ajayi’s leadership, had successfully distinguished between law-abiding Fulani herdsmen and criminals.

Othman-Ngelzarma further alleged that more than 20 per cent of MACBAN members and four million heads of cattle have been forced to flee Nigeria due to insecurity, with many families displaced.

He pointed out that the exodus of herders had driven up the cost of beef, which had traditionally been the cheapest source of meat in Nigeria.

He reiterated the association’s readiness to cooperate with both the Federal and State Governments to support security agencies in restoring peace, thereby ensuring the smooth functioning of business and economic activities.

He also thanked President Tinubu for fulfilling one of his campaign promises with the creation of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development.

According to him, the ministry will significantly improve Nigeria’s livestock industry.(NAN)(www.nannews,ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Nigeria on new growth trajectory – Shettima
Economy/Business

Nigeria on new growth trajectory – Shettima

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By Salisu Sani-Idris

Vice-President Kashim Shettima says Nigeria is on a new growth trajectory, welcoming investments across different sectors.

Shettima said this on Tuesday at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, during an update meeting with some Ministers and Heads of agencies ahead of the forthcoming Nigeria-Brazil Strategic Dialogue Mechanism.

According to Shettima, the growth trajectory is sequel to President Bola Tinubu’s bold, courageous leadership and well-thought-out policies.

He noted that, “in President Tinubu, Nigeria has a leader who has shown the dexterity and audacity of hope for a better tomorrow.”

Shettima expressed satisfaction with the firm grasp of the real issues by the ministers in the key sectors targeted for deliberations during the Dialogue.

He called on all the key actors on the Nigerian side to make adequate preparations for the dialogue slated for the later part of the year

The Vice-President underscored the need for clarity, strategic coherence and a deep understanding of issues that will be tabled for discussion at the meeting

” I want to urge all Ministers involved in this Nigeria-Brazil strategic dialogue to take charge of the initiative of the discussions so that we can take it to the next level.

“Drive the process, engage with different strategic groups to give you weekly updates to prepare us for the visit of the Brazilian Vice President and his delegation.

“The most important thing at this moment is for us to actualise the dreams of our nation’s development.

” We have the resources and institutional knowledge to make this work for our country” he said

On the similarities between Nigeria and Brazil, Shettima stressed the need to leverage the huge opportunities inherent in the partnership between both countries.

Earlier, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, said the dialogue presents a renewed opportunity for Nigeria to revitalise the nation’s agricultural sector to attain food sovereign goals of the administration.

“On behalf of the agriculture sector, it is time for us to walk the talk. It is a good day for Nigeria because agriculture will play a major role in the partnership.

”We have an opportunity to catch up with the rest of the world and be on our way to food sovereignty,” the Minister said.

Also, the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, spoke on the cultural significance of the partnership.

“There is a huge population of Nigeria descent in Brazil who have a lot of interest in Nigeria.

“What we have done in the Ministry is to engage Brazil actively in working together. Already, we have an MoU, but we want to expand that beyond cultural diplomacy.

“Brazilians have a lot of interest in tapping into our creative industry,” she added.

The Minister hinted on plans to rebuild the Nigerian House in Brazil as well as host an annual Orisha Festival, soon.

On defence cooperation, Minister of Defence, Muhammad Badaru, said all is set for the signing of a defence agreement with Brazil.

“We are also engaging with them on defence industry development to start production centres in Nigeria.”

Also, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Ali Pate, highlighted healthcare opportunities that dialogue presents to Nigeria.

“Brazil is able to produce almost everything they need, including pharmaceuticals and vaccines.

“We are keen on turning things around and with the efforts of President Bola Tinubu, we are unlocking the healthcare value chain.

“Manufacturing vaccines, diagnostics and pharmaceuticals is on the agenda, but it’s a very long journey and we are determined to walk through it,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi

Kebbi, coy sign deal for 3m tonne cement factory
Business

Kebbi, coy sign deal for 3m tonne cement factory

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By Salisu Sani-Idris

The Kebbi Government on Friday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with MSM Cement Ltd. to establish a cement factory with a capacity of three million tonnes per annum in the state.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the MoU was signed by Gov. Nasir Idris of Kebbi and the Chairman of the company, Alhaji Mu’azzam Mairawani at the Kebbi Governor’s Lodge in Abuja.

In his remark, the governor assured of his unwavering commitment to provide an enabling environment for the cement factory to fully take off and thrive in the state.

He stated that establishing the cement factory in Kebbi was a privilege, adding that other places wished for “this kind of opportunity but didn’t have it”.

“And also couple with reducing the number of unemployed youths, is also very key and important to us because the Chairman of MSM group said they are going to employ direct and indirect jobs of about 45,000.

“So, this is not a small thing. Honestly you have added value to us as people of Kebbi.

“I want to assure you that Kebbi will do everything possible to ensure that we provide an enabling environment for you to operate.

“The Federal Government will benefit, the State Government will benefit, apart from the company, even our people will also benefit”.

The governor, who noted that Kebbi and the Federal Government have a strong working relationship, thanked President Bola Tinubu for the recent award of several road contracts in the state, particularly the Koko-Dabai road.

Earlier, the Chairman of MSM Cement Ltd., Mairawani, stated that the event marked a significant milestone not only for the company but also for the future of Nigeria’s cement industry and Kebbi’s economic landscape.

He affirmed the company’s commitment to constructing a modern cement factory in Kebbi using the latest technology, with the brand name MSM Kebbi Cement.

“The decision is not only for the availability of limestone deposits in Kebbi but for the welcoming attitude and business friendly reception of the people of Kebbi and most encouraging, the good heart of the Kebbi Governor.

“Today, we are not just signing a document but we are lying the foundation of transformative journey that would reshape the industrial and infrastructure frame work of Kebbi and Nigeria at large,” he noted

The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun, said: “The factory, which is a huge investment by MSM group is expected to create 20,000 direct jobs and 25,000 indirect jobs.

“Let me say here that also given the border location of Kebbi, it means that this plant will be well situated to take advantage of manufactured exports.

“It will also take advantage of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement that is facilitating exports of manufactured goods all over the continent of Africa.

“This type of investment; the public sector facilitating investment by the private sector, domestic private investment, foreign direct investment, is exactly the type of transaction, the type of outcome, the type of result that President Tinubu, has been working to bring to fruition.

“So, it is very much in line with his commitment, with his policy and his strategy to stabilise the economy, so that private sector investment can come in, invest, increase the productivity, grow the economy, create jobs and thereby reduce poverty.”

Also, the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Sen. Abubakar Atiku-Bagudu, commended Kebbi governor for convincing investors to invest in the state.

The minister noted that investing in Nigeria wouldn’t have been possible if investors are not confident with the measures put in place by President Tinubu.

“The totality of the reforms that are undertaken by Mr President are reforms that ensure that we are not choosing winners.

“We have created a level playing ground, so that entrepreneurs who are willing to compete, entrepreneurs who are willing to play in a rule-based environment that is evolving are playing.

“And as Mr President has encouraged all state governors that he stands willing to support each and every state,” Atiku-Bagudu said. (NAN)

Edited by Muhammad Lawal

Patients from US, others throng Nigeria hospitals – Shettima
Health

Patients from US, others throng Nigeria hospitals – Shettima

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By Salisu Sani-Idris

Vice-President Kashim Shettima says patients from the United States (US) and other countries are thronging Nigeria hospitals to seek affordable and high-quality kidney transplants.

Shettima said this on Thursday, during a courtesy visit by the Nigerian Association of Nephrology at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, ahead of the association’s 37th Scientific Conference.

According to the Vice-President, Nigeria is witnessing a surge in reverse medical tourism.

Shettima attributed the choice of Nigeria for treatment, to affordability and high-quality expertise within the country’s medical community.

He stressed the need for further investments in specialised medical education to sustain this progress.

“There is reverse medical tourism these days fundamentally because of the level of care at some of our hospitals.

” Recently, 13 patients from the United States came to Nigeria for kidney transplants at Zenith Medical and Kidney Centre, because it is much cheaper here.

“They received the same level of expertise available anywhere in the world,” Shettima said.

The Vice-President commended Dr Olalekan Olatise, Chief Medical Director of Zenith Medical and Kidney Centre, for his contributions to kidney care.

Shettima described Olatise as “a very decent man who is highly altruistic” in his efforts to assist humanity.

The Vice-President, however, noted the financial strain on patients, many of whom he said, sold their houses or rely on government support to afford the transplants.

“While getting a kidney transplant is a significant challenge, life after a transplant presents even more difficulties.

“Many patients struggle with the cost of post-transplant care, including immunosuppressants, which are essential to maintaining their health,” he said.

The Vice-President recalled healthcare initiatives he had embarked on during his tenure as Governor of Borno, as well as the success of ongoing free maternal care programmes he introduced.

“At a hospital in my neighborhood, we provide a bag of rice and beans to every new mother.

” They record about 30 births daily, more than even the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH).

” Over 4,000 deliveries have been recorded in less than eight months, with all medical expenses covered, including caesarean sections,” Shettima said.

The Vice-President reiterated the need for Nigeria to build its medical workforce, noting that when he was in Borno as Governor, he took 60 female students to study Medicine in Sudan.

“About 58 of them completed their education and passed the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) licensing exams.

” Most of them are now in their medical residency programmes. The beauty of training women in medicine is that they are more likely to stay back and serve their communities.

“We must make deliberate and targeted investments in specialised healthcare education in this country,” the Vice President said.

Earlier, Dr Olatise said that the conference with the theme, “Revolutionising Kidney Care in Nigeria: Evidence-Based Innovations,” will take place in Abuja from Feb.19 to Feb. 21.

Olatise, who is the Chairman of the Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the 37th Scientific Conference and Annual General Meeting of the association, announced plans to honour Shettima with the Kidney Champion Award.

This, according to him, is in recognition of his advocacy and direct support for kidney patients, including funding immunosuppressants and proposing the establishment of a specialised laboratory for post-transplant care.

“We have noticed the role the Vice President is playing in looking after kidney patients in the country.

” He has been involved in purchasing immunosuppressants, providing post-transplant care, and even considering setting up a lab to monitor calcineurin inhibitor (CNI) levels for kidney patients.

” This award is a recognition of his commitment,” Olatise said.

Other members of the delegation included Secretary of LOC, Dr Adegboyega Faponle, and the association’s Treasurer, Dr Manmak Mamven. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi

AU commissioner pledges enhanced security, good governance
General News

AU commissioner pledges enhanced security, good governance

412 total views today

By Salisu Sani-Idris

Amb. Bankole Adeoye, the African Union (AU) Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, has reiterated commitment to advancing the union’s Agenda 2063.

Adeoye, who is seeking reelection for the second term, made the pledge in his report card made available to newsmen on Friday in Abuja.

The diplomat also promised to promote good governance and security on the continent.

First elected in 2021, Adeoye said he has made transformative efforts in peace, security and governance and championed conflict prevention and counter-terrorism across Africa.

” Under my leadership, the African Union Commission’s (AUC) Department of Political Affairs, Peace and Security (PAPS), advanced a transformative agenda for peace, security and governance across Africa.

“ We also reinforced AU’s role as a proactive, unified force in addressing continental challenges.

“ We also championed pan-African ideals for effective governance, peace and stability to ensure the realisation of AU’s Agenda 2063.

” Similarly, we facilitated the Ethiopia-Tigray peace process, culminating in the landmark 2022 Cessation of Hostilities Agreement.”

The AU commissioner stated that the union advanced the operationalisation of the African
Standby Force, which enhanced Africa’s capacity for rapid response to conflicts.

He noted that AU had also secured sustainable financing for peace operations through the its Consensus Paper on Predictable Financing, contributing to UN Security Council Resolution 2719 (2023).

Adeoye is a diplomat, Nigeria’s ambassador to Ethiopia from 2017 to 2020 and permanent representative to the African Union.

Since February 2021, he has been the AU commissioner for politics, peacekeeping and security. (NAN )(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Hadiza Mohammed-Aliyu

FG approves 4 airlines for 2025 hajj operation – NAHCON
Metro

FG approves 4 airlines for 2025 hajj operation – NAHCON

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By Salisu Sani-Idris

The Federal Government has approved four airlines as official air carriers to transport intending pilgrims for the 2025 hajj pilgrimage in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The Executive Chairman, National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Prof. Abdullahi Usman, made this known in a statement by the commission’s Assistant Director, Information and Publication, Mrs Fatima Usara, on Sunday in Abuja.

Usman explained that the four airlines were selected out of the 11 companies that submitted applications to transport Nigerian pilgrims to Saudi Arabia for Muslims pilgrimage.

According to Usman, the four approved airlines are Air Peace Ltd., Fly-Nas, a Saudi Arabia designated airline, Max Air, and UMZA Aviation Services Ltd.

The NAHCON boss said that the airlines were screened and shortlisted by a team of 32 members that were inaugurated by the NAHCON on Nov. 26, 2024.

He said that the composition of the Aviation Screening Committee included representatives from State Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards, three members from Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and one member each from the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN).

He also said that some members of the committee were drawn from the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET), and Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB).

Similarly, Prof. Usman said that one member each was drawn from Nigerian Customs’ Service (NCS) and Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC).

Others, he listed, were NAHCON Board members representing each geo-political zone of the country, NAHCON Heads of Aviation, Procurement, Legal, Internal Audit, Special Duties as well as Board Member representing the Aviation industry.

The NAHCON boss also disclosed that three excess cargo carriers were selected for the hajj operations.

He named them to include; Aglow Aviation Support Services Ltd, Cargozeal Technology Ltd and Qualla Investment Ltd.,

The Chairman, who congratulated the successful companies, urged them to fulfill their responsibilities as promised during the screening.

Meanwhile, Prof. Usman signed the 2025 Hajj Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah on behalf of the Nigerian Government.

Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was represented by the Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dr Abdulfatah Masahat, at the signing ceremony.

The event was held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia to formalise this year’s Hajj engagements. (NAN)

Edited by Maureen Atuonwu

NEC ratifies Board of NSIA Ratification
Economy/Business

NEC ratifies Board of NSIA Ratification

521 total views today

By Salisu Sani-Idris

The National Economic Council (NEC), on Thursday ratified the Board of Directors of the Nigeria Sovereign Wealth Investment Authority (NSIA).

The Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Sen. Abubakar Bagudu, made this known while briefing newsmen at the end of NEC chaired by the Vice-President Kashim Shettima, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the NSIA is an independent investment institution, set up to manage Nigeria’s Sovereign Wealth Fund in excess of budgeted hydrocarbon revenues.

It also plays a leading role in driving sustained economic development for the benefit of all Nigerians by building a savings base for the Nigerian people.

Bagudu stated that the council received presentation on the financial statement of affairs of the NSIA and gave its approval

The minister, said the council commended the board and management of the NSIA for their efforts.

Bagudu also said that NEC received presentation from the Chairman, Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Physical Commission on alternative funding revenue for the commission.

“The council noted the mandate of the institution and its critical role in ensuring equatable distribution of resources.

” It however disclosed that there is challenge of inadequate funding which severely constraints its capacity to effectively discharge its constitutional duty.

” The implications of the underfunding were discussed and the council resolved and appreciated the challenge being faced by the commission.

“The council directed the secretariat to study the submission as regards to the quantum presented by the commission as well as the legality of request,” he said.

NAN recalled that the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun, in August inaugurated the new Board of Directors for the NSIA tasked with the critical mandate of steering the nation’s economic growth and stability

The minister had charged the board members to leverage their expertise and wealth of experience to bear in driving the NSIA’s mission of creating a sustainable future for generations to come.

The appointed Board of Directors for the NSIA comprises distinguished professionals from various sectors, carefully selected through deliberations and recommendations made by the Executive Nominations Committee.

The final approval was given by President Bola Tinubu, following endorsement by the Vice President who serves as the Chairman of the National Economic Council (NEC).

The new Board Members include: Mr Segun Ogunsanya – Chairman, Mr Aminu Umar-Sadiq – Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Prof. Fabian Ajogwu and Mr Abdullahi Gaya.

Others are Mr Ahmed Goniri, Ms. Ada Osakwe, Dr Suleyman Ndanusa, Ms Ijeoma Taylaur and Mr Kola Owodunni. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi

FG to establish national youth development bank
Metro

FG to establish national youth development bank

698 total views today

By Salisu Sani-Idris

The Federal Government on Tuesday revealed plan to establish a National Youth Development Bank and a Youth Data Bank.

President Bola Tinubu, represented by his vice, Kashim Shettima, disclosed this at a Stakeholders Roundtable on Northern Youth Development organised by the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation, in Abuja,

The President described the banks as crucial tools for “providing financial and informational support to young Nigerians.”

He said since assumption of office, his administration unveiled a comprehensive youth development strategy spanning multiple key sectors to drive Nigeria’s economic transformation.

Tinubu extolled the legacy of the late Sardauna of Sokoto and former Premier of Northern Nigeria, Ahmadu Bello

” The late Sir Ahmadu Bello, the Sardauna of Sokoto, was one of the towering giants on whose shoulders we have ascended as a nation.

” His vision was clear: the North cannot progress in isolation, and Nigeria cannot prosper unless every part of this nation thrives,” he said.

Tinubu declared that the development of Northern Nigeria remains fundamental to the nation’s prosperity.

According to him, “whatever disrupts the growth of one region sets back the entire nation.

“For far too long, we have been taunted as a nation with the most children out of school—a reality that should not elicit pride but provoke urgent action.

“This alarming statistic has turned the promise of our population into a challenge rather than the dividend it ought to be,” he added.

Tinubu re-echoed his administration’s pioneering youth development initiatives, including the three million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme and the Presidential Initiative for Youth Enterprise Clusters.

“Our creative and digital economy is another goldmine,” the President said, outlining programmes such as the Skill-Up Artisans Programme (SUPA), Nigerian Youth Academy (NIYA), and the National Youth Talent Export Programme (NATEP).

He listed other programmes to include the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) for higher education access, Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) for digital entrepreneurship.

They also included, Outsource to Nigeria Initiative (OTNI) for global market participation, Youth Enterprise Clusters for business development, and the Renewed Hope Housing Scheme to address accommodation needs.

On agriculture, the President said that investments in the sector and industrialisation would further position the North as Nigeria’s foremost agricultural hub.

Addressing the region’s security challenges, Tinubu further outlined measures “to restore stability to the North.

” The measures include strengthening community policing, rehabilitating displaced persons, and addressing cross-border challenges like smuggling and insurgency.”

He emphasised the urgency of the moment, saying ” By 2050, Nigeria will become the third-largest nation globally, with three-quarters of our citizens under the age of 21.

“Our challenge here is to engineer a transition towards a federation defined by order, stability, and safety,” he added, noting that “this task is both urgent and achievable.”

The President also made a direct challenge to young Nigerians: “You are not just the future of this nation—you are its present.

” Your energy, ideas, and determination are already shaping our policies and programmes.”

“Our commitment is to provide you with the skill set and opportunities to thrive in a competitive world”.

He assured that the administration would unlock the potential of the Nigerian youth, ensuring that their dreams transform the country into an enduring symbol of democracy, development, and progress.

Speaking in the same vein, the Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar III, emphasised the critical role of youth education in national development.

‘ Our youths are the foundation of any development we envisage in our society. They are not just leaders of tomorrow but leaders of today,” he said.

The Sultan further highlighted the importance of continuous dialogue with the youth, stating that “forums like this must be held continuously to dialogue with our youths across the northern states.”

He emphasised the primacy of education, asserting that it “is the strongest legacy any leader can leave to society.

“Without education, you are a nobody. I believe in infrastructural development like roads and bridges but more money should be spent educating our children.

“That is why we need to dwell more on how we can ensure that our children are educated.”

Earlier, the Chairman of the foundation’s Board of Trustees, Muazu Babangida, noted that the event marked the foundation’s 15th anniversary.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi

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