NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Buhari condoles Boss Mustapha over sister’s death

Buhari condoles Boss Mustapha over sister’s death

212 total views today

By Nana Musa

Former President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed sadness over the demise of Charity Mustapha.

 

Charity was sister to Boss Mustapha, the former Secretary to the Government of the Federation during Buhari’s administration.

 

This is contained in a statement by Malam Garba Shehu, spokesman to Buhari on Monday in Abuja.

 

The former president said he received the news of the passing of Charity after a prolonged illness with great sadness.

 

He praised her strength and resilience in the period of her sickness, saying that “such a loss leaves a void that can never be filled.

 

“The warmth and kindness for which she was known and with which she treated everyone will always remain in the hearts of her family and all those who met her one way or the other.

 

“She would forever be remembered with respect and affection by all who knew her.

May you and your family find the strength and fortitude to endure this grievous loss,” he said.(NAN

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

FEC approves Renewed Hope Nigeria First Policy to boost local industries

FEC approves Renewed Hope Nigeria First Policy to boost local industries

346 total views today

By Salif Atojoko

The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved the Renewed Hope Nigeria First Policy, an initiative by President Bola Tinubu aimed at placing Nigerians at the heart of all business and economic activities in the country.

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, disclosed this to State House Correspondents after the FEC meeting on Monday.

“If there are any businesses to be done by anybody, the priority will be Nigerians first. If you have local content, there is no reason to go outside this country to import,” Idris said.

According to him, the policy is designed to encourage investment in Nigerian people and industries by reshaping how government spends, procures, and builds the economy.

“Going forward, Nigerian industries will take precedence in all procurement processes.

“Where local supply falls short, contracts will be structured to build capacity domestically.

“Contractors will no longer act as intermediaries sourcing foreign goods while local factories remain idle,” the minister added.

He cited the sugar industry as an example, noting that in spite of the existence of the Nigerian Sugar Council, “the country still imports significant quantities of sugar.”

He said that the president was determined to halt the importation of commodities that could be produced locally.

The Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) was also directed to create a local content compliance framework for all government procurements.

The minister said BPP was also directed to maintain a register of high-quality Nigerian manufacturers and service providers regularly engaged by the Federal Government.

Similarly, he said the BPP was directed to deploy all procurement officers from ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) to BPP as a first line agency.

Idris noted that quota allocations under the Sugar Master Plan must now consider each participant’s backward integration plans and investment in Nigeria, with strict compliance required.

He explained that all MDAs had been directed to immediately audit their procurement plans and submit revised versions in line with the new policy.

“Non-compliance will attract sanctions, including the cancellation of procurement processes and disciplinary actions against responsible officers.”

Idris emphasised that Tinubu believed the policy would mark the beginning of an era of industrial growth, national self-reliance, and pride in local enterprise.

“This policy is about generating national pride, believing in ourselves, and enhancing our capacity to produce goods and services without relying on foreign alternatives,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited Kevin Okunzuwa

Ignorance, social media abuse threaten journalism – Babarinsa

Ignorance, social media abuse threaten journalism – Babarinsa

209 total views today

By Remi koleose

Mr Dare Babarinsa, former Executive Director of TELL magazine, has identified poor reading culture, social media misuse, and laziness to seek genuine information among African youths as major threats to modern journalism.

Babarinsa said this at a breakfast roundtable with selected journalists on Sunday in Lagos.

The event discussed the fast-eroding reading culture among youths and the decline in the fortunes of newspapers in Nigeria, as part of activities marking his 70th birthday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the veteran journalist was also a former Editor-in-Chief of the Westerner newspaper and has served in various capacities in major newspapers in Nigeria.

Babarinsa noted that many African youths used social media as an excuse to cover up their ignorance.

He pointed out that many youths lived comfortably with a kind of contagious laziness that prevented them from seeking out genuine information.

“If the social media says Calabar is in northern Nigeria, many of our youths in Nigeria will be quoting it as fact.

“They will not ask if Calabar could actually be in northern Nigeria. They have forgotten that everything on social media is not written by machines; they are products of human beings,” he said.

The Okemesi-Ekiti-born veteran added that many African youths found ignorance so attractive, while their counterparts in other parts of the world still embraced reading.

He cited the large circulation of newspapers outside Africa as proof.

“The Jerusalem Times still circulates 500,000 copies per day, and Israel is not as big as Lagos state, and is only about half as populous.

“So why should a newspaper in that country, half the size of Lagos, circulate 500,000 copies? And yet, with all the newspapers in Nigeria combined, I am not sure we are circulating 500,000 copies.”

He said 500,000 copies were what the old Daily Times used to circulate when Nigeria had only five universities.

“When I entered the University of Lagos in 1978, there were only five universities in Nigeria. Now, we have more than 200 universities, yet young people are not interested in knowledge.”

Babarinsa noted that while social media could be blamed, it was not the sole factor affecting reading habits.

He pointed to other countries, such as India and Japan, where newspapers circulated millions of copies daily.

He emphasised that Africa had a large number of undergraduates who were comfortable with being extremely ignorant, which posed a greater danger to the continent.

“Africa cannot be isolated from the rest of the world.

“People will come from other locations, from India, China, from everywhere, to take what belongs to us if our children do not have enough knowledge to preserve and protect what belongs to them.

“So, we have a generation embracing ignorance, and if we have people who are ignorant, they cannot maintain what they are preparing for, let alone improve on it.

“The greatest threat to press freedom is the increasing epidemic of ignorance that many of our young people find dangerously attractive,” he warned.

Babarinsa also frowned at some past leaders for withdrawing the provision of newspapers to certain civil servants.

He believed the decision had significantly contributed to the declining fortunes of newspapers in the country.

He urged media managers in Nigeria to advocate for the return of this privilege for civil servants, as it would positively affect the fortunes of many media houses.

“We inherited something from the First Republic: every civil servant on Grade Level 8 and above was entitled to at least one newspaper per day.

“When that privilege was withdrawn, many officers in the civil service simply decided not to buy newspapers. If we want to change the fortunes of newspapers, we must advocate for the return of that privilege.”

Reflecting on his journalism experience from the early 1980s, Babarinsa highlighted the resilience of journalists who faced significant challenges, particularly the pressures from the military government at the time.

He emphasised that in spite of many journalists being arrested and imprisoned, they remained steadfast in their commitment to truth and justice.

Babarinsa acknowledged that, while those challenges were tough, they helped build the foundation for stronger, more resilient journalism today.

He noted the critical support from patriotic Nigerians, including some members of the security agencies, who helped to protect journalists and ensured their voices were heard.

Babarinsa, who was born on May 9, 1955, will be 70 on Friday, NAN reports. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

TEXEM: Transforming Leadership for Sustainable Value Creation

TEXEM: Transforming Leadership for Sustainable Value Creation

201 total views today

 

TEXEM, UK’s recently concluded two-day capacity development programme, themed “Strategic Foresight: Developing Winning Strategies for Unparalleled Value,” delivered by Dr. Alim Abubakre, Founder of TEXEM, and Dr. T.B. (Mac) McClelland, Jr., Chair of Luxury International and former US Marine Leader, represents a watershed moment for leadership development in Nigeria.

 

In a world defined by volatility, technological disruption, and shifting stakeholder expectations, the programme transcended traditional learning models. It immersed executives in the art of strategic foresight, the science of data-driven decision-making, the craft of stakeholder alignment, and the discipline of agile leadership execution.

 

Participants embarked on a transformational journey, beginning with understanding strategic foresight. They explored how forward-thinking organisations, unlike reactive institutions, scan the horizon for weak signals, anticipate emerging risks, and position themselves to lead rather than follow. Through vivid examples, such as Kodak’s downfall due to missed innovation opportunities versus Amazon’s relentless reinvention, leaders recognised the cost of complacency and the dividends of anticipatory leadership.

 

The session on leadership agility in uncertain times revealed that agility is not merely about moving fast but about moving strategically with purpose. Participants discovered that enduring organisations are those that empower decentralized decision-making, iterate fast, and maintain a clear yet flexible strategic vision. Drawing lessons from Apple’s crisis-era leadership and SpaceX’s pioneering resilience, the executives sharpened their ability to pivot intelligently in dynamic contexts.

 

A crucial part of the programme focused on data-driven decision-making. Leaders were challenged to rethink their relationship with data, not as an overwhelming sea of information, but as a powerful compass that guides strategic navigation. Case studies, including Netflix’s data-driven content creation model, showcased how data analytics, when deployed effectively, can sharpen strategic focus and fuel sustainable innovation.

 

Beyond anticipating future threats and leveraging data, participants immersed themselves in the often-overlooked art of winning stakeholder support. Through structured stakeholder mapping exercises and reflections on Airbnb’s crisis management strategy, executives internalized that successful leadership is not simply about top-down directives, but about orchestrating diverse interests into coherent action toward common goals.

 

Further enriching the leadership arsenal, the facilitators delved into the discipline of strategy execution and change management. The difference between strategy as theory and strategy as lived reality was explored through powerful narratives such as Microsoft’s cultural transformation under Satya Nadella. Leaders learned actionable frameworks for building internal coalitions, creating accountability loops, and transforming bold strategic visions into tangible, measurable outcomes despite organisational resistance.

 

The programme culminated with a focus on strategic resilience and digital transformation. Participants were exposed to real-world examples such as Alibaba’s pivot during the SARS crisis and Tesla’s relentless embedding of innovation into organisational DNA. It became clear that resilience is not about enduring one crisis; it is about systematically building adaptive muscles for an age where disruption is the new normal. True digital transformation, it was emphasised, goes beyond adopting new technologies — it demands a fundamental shift in organisational culture, mindsets, and behaviours.

 

This intensive programme delivered not just knowledge but equipped leaders with actionable frameworks, battle-tested tools, and world-class case studies that they can immediately deploy in their organisations.

 

For the leaders, the programme was profoundly beneficial. They now possess the strategic agility to pre-empt threats, the influence strategies to rally stakeholders behind ambitious visions, and the data literacy to make precise, timely, and impactful decisions. Their ability to move beyond survival tactics towards shaping the future of their industries was markedly enhanced.

 

For their organisations, the gains are substantial. By embedding foresight, agility, stakeholder mastery, data intelligence, and resilient cultures, organisations represented at the programme are now positioned to achieve stronger competitive positioning, reduce the risk of strategic failure, foster continuous innovation, and achieve greater stakeholder trust — all essential ingredients for enduring growth.

 

For Nigeria as a whole, the ripple effects are transformative. Building a critical mass of executives equipped with foresight, agility, and resilience enhances national economic competitiveness, boosts investor confidence, strengthens governance structures, and catalyses innovation ecosystems critical for the country’s sustainable development.

 

This programme reinforced TEXEM’s enduring commitment to inspiring strategic leadership, nurturing transformative action, and catalysing positive change. As participants return to their organisations, they do not merely carry certificates — they carry the seeds of profound, systemic impact.

 

In an era where those who fail to anticipate the future are doomed to be disrupted by it, TEXEM, UK’s “Strategic Foresight” programme did not just prepare leaders to survive disruption — it prepared them to shape the future.

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

FG developing framework on responsible use of AI – Idris

FG developing framework on responsible use of AI – Idris

212 total views today

By Collins Yakubu-Hammer

The Federal Government says it is developing a national policy framework on responsible use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the media space.

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris. disclosed this on Saturday while commemorating the World Press Freedom Day.

Idris explained that the framework would ensure that innovation does not come at the cost of ethics, press freedom and national security.

Speaking on the theme of the day, “Reporting in the Brave New World: The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and the Media,” the minister underscored the critical role of the media in shaping informed societies.

“As we commemorate this day, let us all; government, media and civil society, work together to protect freedom of expression while embracing technology that advances, rather than diminishes the values we hold dearly.

“Let me reaffirm that President Bola Tinubu’s Administration remains deeply committed to upholding press freedom as a cornerstone of our democracy.

“A free and responsible media is the life blood of any democratic society; it gives citizens the power to express themselves freely and hold leaders accountable,” he said.

The minister added, “In this new era, our resolve must be matched with action, through policies that promote media innovation while protecting journalists from the misuse of technology.

“As part of this commitment, the Federal Government is currently developing a national policy framework on the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence in the media space.

“This framework will ensure that innovation does not come at the cost of ethics, press freedom, or national security”.

The minister expressed concern that, at a time when AI powered misinformation, deepfakes, and disinformation, campaigns are being used as weapon to exploit divide and sow discord.

He stressed that the role of the media, as a gatekeeper of truth, had become more critical.

Idris noted that the media must take a principled stand to protect the information ecosystem from being polluted by falsehoods and manipulated content.

“Media organisations must be vigilant and not allow their platforms, whether traditional or digital to be hijacked by subversive elements, terrorists, anti-state actors, or ultra nationalist groups, who seek to undermine our collective peace and the sovereignty of our nation.

“Granting such elements access to the public sphere without scrutiny, will not only endanger national security, but also erodes public trust in the media,” Idris said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Remi Koleoso/Rotimi Ijikanmi

NAN is AI compliant, upholds accountability, ethical journalism-MD

NAN is AI compliant, upholds accountability, ethical journalism-MD

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By Collins Yakubu-Hammer

The Managing Director (MD) of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Malam Ali M. Ali, says the organisation is Artificial Intelligence (AI) compliant and has improved in upholding accountability and ethical journalism to meet up with global best practices.

Ali stated this during a panel discussion at an event to mark the 2025 World Press Freedom Day on Saturday in Abuja.

The event with the theme “Navigating the AI Frontier: Strengthening Press Freedom in Nigeria’s Digital Transformation” was organised by the Nigerian Press Council (NPC).

The panel discussion with the topic “AI Transformation of Nigeria’s Media Landscape” was moderated by Mr Ben Agande.

The NAN boss explained that the media has the responsibility of setting an agenda for the growth of every sector in the country.

He said AI has proved to be a game changer in what we do every day.

“Unless you adapt to AI, chances are that you will be left behind. Now, from AI, when Google started, we believed it will make our job a lot easier as journalists.

“I came from the old school of journalism where you have to go to the library to do your research. For some of us who have navigated the newsroom for years, close to four decades, you will see a lot of transformations.

“Why are we going back to history? So that we understand the impact of AI and how it has affected content generation. And where also, if you don’t shape up, then you have to shape out or shoot down.

“However, it is dangerous to use AI especially in the absence of a regulatory framework.

“Since we took charge of NAN, we have made a healthy tradition of accountability, ethical journalism, which sometimes is at the brink of it. Sometimes we are slow in breaking the news.

“We subject ourselves to the highest standard of accountability, ethical journalism, and transparency. These are the core and the values of real journalism.

“We are using AI to drive some of our goals and vision, especially in broadcasting in local languages, especially in Hausa,” the MD said.

The managing director explained that the use of AI to generate news in Hausa made the job easy, adding that the organisation will extend the same to other local languages in the country.

He described journalism as a calling like priesthood, stressing that a good journalist cannot be compromised.

“You are there because you want to always be on the side of the truth. You cannot be compromised. You rise above the divisions that define us in terms of religions, tribe and culture.

“What we try to do in the agency is that we see people for their competence, who they are and not what they are,” Ali said.

One of the panellists, Dr Oluyemisi Bamgbose, admonished media practitioners to take AI very seriously, while another panellist, retired Lt. Col. Abdulwahab Lawal said culture must be integrated into AI.

In his contribution, Prof. Ani Casmir maintained that building an AI that does not take into consideration the language of the people would be counterproductive and cause destruction.

In the same vein, the National Secretary of Nigeria Union of Journalists, Mr Achike Achude, said the government and the people have to synergise in achieving national development.

He said that inventors of AI have warned about its dangers, hence caution should be applied when using AI. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yakubu Uba

First Lady, SDGs office empower 500 Rivers women

First Lady, SDGs office empower 500 Rivers women

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By Salif Atojoko

The Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals (OSSAP-SDGs) and the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), has empowered 500 women from the 23 Local Government Areas of Rivers.

The RHI is the flagship humanitarian platform of Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, the First Lady; Mr Desmond Utomwen, Special Assistant Media, Publicity and Strategic Communication, OSSAP-SDGs, said.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the empowerment programme held in Port Harcourt, was part of a nationwide initiative aimed at lifting vulnerable women out of poverty.

This is in line with Nigeria’s commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goals 1 (No Poverty), 5 (Gender Equality), and 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth).

The 500 women received empowerment equipment such as deep-chest freezers, gas cookers with ovens, generators, and industrial grinding machines to boost their small-scale enterprises.

Tina Pepple, one of the beneficiaries, described the gesture as “a miracle that would change her life.”

She added, “with this, I can support my family. I thank our mother, the First Lady, and the SDGs Office for remembering us.”

Other beneficiaries – Blessing Dickson, Kariba Dives, Doris Jaja, Stella Ohochukwu, Gloria Kuki, and Salome Ohochukwu – also showered encomiums on the First Lady and the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on SDGs.

Dr Theresa Ibas, the wife of the Sole Administrator of Rivers, who represented the First Lady at the event, noted that the initiative was aimed at planting seeds of economic revival in the lives of women.

“Today, we are equipping our women with essential tools like deep-chest freezers, gas cookers with ovens, generators, and industrial grinding machines to build successful businesses and contribute to our nation’s prosperity,” said Tinubu.

The President’s wife linked the initiative to broader national and global objectives, noting: “Women’s empowerment is central to achieving all the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially SDG 5 on gender equality and SDG 8 on decent work and economic growth.

“These items are not just tools; they are stepping stones towards financial independence and a better future for Nigerian women.”

She encouraged beneficiaries to maximise the opportunity.

“Use these resources wisely to build better lives for yourselves and your families. Let what you receive today prosper in your hands as you contribute meaningfully to our nation’s progress,” she stated.

She also commended the OSSAP-SDGs for its leadership in aligning the empowerment programmes with global best practices and for providing the technical and financial frameworks for effective implementation.

Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on SDGs, highlighted the programme’s broader impact on national development.

“Today’s programme is not just about distributing empowerment items; it is about unlocking potential, fostering economic independence, and creating opportunities for women to thrive,” she stated.

She reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to inclusive development through strategic partnerships and direct support to vulnerable populations.

“By equipping 500 women per state and the FCT with tools such as gas cookers, generators, deep freezers and grinding machines, we are strengthening their capacity to build sustainable livelihoods and contribute meaningfully to inclusive national development,” she added. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Tayo Ikujuni

World Press Freedom: ACCI urges FG, others to prioritise journalists welfare, security

World Press Freedom: ACCI urges FG, others to prioritise journalists welfare, security

180 total views today

By Vivian Emoni

The Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) has urged the Federal Government and other relevant stakeholders to prioritise the welfare, security and capacity development of journalists across the country.

Chief Emeka Obegolu, President of the ACCI, said this in his message to mark World Press Freedom Day in Abuja.

Obegolu said that the effort by the government, private sectors and other stakeholders would enable the journalists to perform their duties effectively and ethically.

According to him, the commitment will support the media, particularly in this era of misinformation and technological disruption.

“Advocates for the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in journalism, ensuring it serves the public interest and enhances, rather than undermines, press freedom,” he said.

The ACCI boss said that the theme for the 2025 World Press Freedom Day tagged, “Reporting in the Brave New World, The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and the Media”, was timely, thought-provoking and calls for attention to the rapidly evolving digital landscape.

“The digital landscape, where artificial intelligence is reshaping on how information is created, consumed and regulated.

“As AI influences the journalism profession, the need to uphold ethical standards, ensure truthfulness, and protect press freedoms remains paramount,” he said.

Obegolu explained that the World Press Freedom Day was a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by journalists around the world.

He said that some of the journalists paid the ultimate price in pursuit of the truth.

“The ACCI joins the global community in celebrating World Press Freedom Day 2025.

“A day that underscores the vital role of a free, independent and responsible press in the advancement of democratic societies, economic development, and good governance.

“We honour their memory and pledge our continuous support for a free and safe press.

“At ACCI, we acknowledge the unwavering support and partnership of the media over the years,” he said.

Obegolu said the press has been instrumental in amplifying the chamber’s voice, promoting advocacy for private sector development and advancing the interests of the business community within and beyond the Federal Capital Territory.

He added that their coverage has significantly contributed to visibility, policy impact and stakeholder engagement.

The president also said that the press remained a vital pillar in the chamber’s movement globally.

“Through accurate and balanced reportage, journalists help create an informed business environment, encourage investment and hold institutions accountable.

“We commend the courage, professionalism and resilience of media practitioners, especially those who report under challenging conditions.

“In commemorating this important day, the ACCI, reaffirms commitment to supporting the press through strategic engagement, media partnerships and advocacy for freedom of expression and access to information.

“As we celebrate today, we encourage media professionals to remain steadfast in upholding the ethics of the profession while embracing innovation and new technologies responsibly.

“Together, we can build a press that is empowered, secure and aligned with the aspirations of a just and prosperous society,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Vivian Ihechu

Tinubu tasks governors on performance

Tinubu tasks governors on performance

238 total views today

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By Salif Atojoko

 

President Bola Tinubu has called on governors to remain focused on delivering tangible results that improve the lives of their people, urging them to disregard armchair critics.

 

The President gave the charge during a two-day visit to Katsina, adding that the accurate measure of leadership is a positive, visible impact.

 

“Let the people be at the heart of your programmes. Your hard work and concrete achievements will answer any criticism. Ignore distractions – your results will speak for you,” he said.

 

The President commissioned a 24 kilometre road, which Gov. Dikko Radda completed within 18 months.

 

He also commissioned the Katsina Agricultural Mechanised Centre.

 

The road commissioned was the Eastern Bypass, which stretched from Dutsin-ma Road through Kano and Daura Roads and terminated at Yandaki in the Kaita Local Government Area.

 

“We have decided for peace and stability. I know you face terrorism and banditry attacks in the state, but you have shown determination and courage to move Katsina State forward.

 

“You will not walk alone. The federal government will be with you,” he added.

 

Tinubu noted that hunger and poverty remained the biggest threats to peace in the country.

 

“The economy is sailing in the right trajectory. Today, we are seeing an effort to banish hunger and a commitment to food security and the empowerment of our people.

 

“Small and large-scale farming will be encouraged. Once we liberate ourselves from hunger, we will appreciate peace and harmony.

 

“The remarkable progress in the state will continue to be rewarded. I want to assure the Nigerian public that agriculture is the heart of our progress and must be for all.

 

“We have dedicated ourselves to food security. We must invest in mechanisation and water management. The old style of agriculture is gone,” he stated.

 

The President said the Bank of Agriculture would be resuscitated and properly repositioned to meet farmers’ needs and improve farming and agricultural production.

 

“When resuscitated, the bank will make funds available for large, medium and small-scale farming,” he said.

 

Tinubu commended Radda for impacting agriculture, healthcare, education and infrastructure in less than two years.

 

“I listened to your report card. It is a big task. In just half of your tenure, you have made remarkable progress.

 

“The commitment you have shown and the efforts you have put into government are highly commendable. You are a patriot, a son, and a progressive mind with honesty.

 

“It was difficult during the election when you started, thanks to former Governors like Ibrahim Shema, the bridge builder Aminu Masari and Waziri of the universe, Ibrahim Masari.

 

“I want to congratulate the great people of Katsina for making the right choice by electing Radda. We have been collaborating with him for the good of the state and the country,” the President added.

 

President Tinubu challenged the governors to pay more attention to agriculture.

 

“You have introduced a great, progressive movement in Katsina State by just tilling the land and putting the land to use. Farming will be our source of prosperity and growth.

 

“We should remove ourselves from reliance on oil and commit to agriculture. It will bring prosperity. I commend you for the mechanisation programme.

 

“It is a great investment, and I hope others can learn from it. The construction of the 24-km road speaks volumes about the effectiveness of the government. I say thank you,” President Tinubu said.

 

He thanked past governors of the state for purposeful leadership and appreciated the traditional council, Katsina, and Daura Emirates for supporting the country’s unity, peace, and progress.

 

“Thank you for the great honour that you have given me. Your coming to the airport to receive me made me feel so welcome. I am your son, and I am one of you.

 

“You’ve demonstrated commitment and sincerity to the unity and peace of our country.

 

“God will continue honouring and raising you in grace for our country. For me, this is homecoming, and Katsina is home. Home to progress, development and freedom for good,” he added.

 

Radda, on his part, said the Katsina Agricultural Mechanized Centre would serve the 34 local councils in the state, noting that 400 tractors had been purchased with the federal government’s N25 billion intervention.

 

He said 160 km of roads had been constructed, and some rehabilitated within the state over the period, while power, water supply, and healthcare facilities had improved people’s lives.

 

Radda added that the Ministry of Agriculture had supplied the state with 4,000 pumping machines to enhance irrigation farming.

 

He said 448,000 metric tonnes of fertiliser were distributed to farmers last year, and this year, they would receive 400,000 metric tonnes.

 

The governors of Borno, Benue, Kaduna, Kwara, and Jigawa states attended the commissioning.

 

Former Governors Aminu Masari and Ibrahim Shema, as well as ministers of culture, solid minerals, and agriculture, were also present. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Oluwole Sogunle

 

 

Tinubu hails troops as gallant, brave, defenders of nation

Tinubu hails troops as gallant, brave, defenders of nation

242 total views today

 

 

 

By Salif Atojoko

 

President Bola Tinubu on Friday lauded Nigerian soldiers, describing them as brave, gallant officers and defenders of the nation.

 

The president made the remark during his official visit to the frontline troops in Katsina State on Friday.

 

“I stand before you today not just as your President and Commander-in-Chief, but as a fellow patriot, deeply humbled by

 

your courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to the peace, security and sovereignty of our great nation.

 

“You are the shield of Nigeria, the brave sons and daughters who dstand between our people and the forces of terror.

 

“Every inch of ground you hold, every terrorist you neutralise, and everycommunity you secure is a victory for justice, freedom and the future of our children,” said Tinubu.

 

He said the fight troops were waging in Katsina State and across the ccountrywas not just a battle for territory; but a battle for the soul of Nigeria.

 

“Your resilience in the face of danger inspires the entire nation. Your sacrifices do not go unnoticed.

 

“You have left behind your families and the comforts of civilian life to wear the uniform of honour and duty. You face danger not for wealthor recognition, but for the love of our dear country.

 

“That, my brothers and sisters in uniform, is the highest form of patriotism. You are the silent guardians of our democracy, and I salute you,” the president stated.

 

Tinubu added that he was fully aware of the challenges the troops faced.

 

“We are taking bold steps to equip you with advanced equipment, superior intelligence, and robust logistical support not only to defend this nation but to dominate and defeat every adversary.

 

“But it is not just about weapons. Your welfare is my top priority.

 

“We are committed to ensuring your families are safe, your allowances are paid promptly, your healthcare is guaranteed, and your dignity upheld.

 

“Housing programmes, family support systems, insurance coverage, and improved remuneration are being implemented without delay,” continued the president.

 

He said the threats of terrorism, banditry, and insurgency had persisted for too long, and that Nigerians were counting on the government and on the troops to end the menace and reclaim every inch of the country’s territory.

 

Tinubu said, “Let me hear you loudly: Are you ready, are you committed to ending this insecurity once and for all? Let your resolve echo through every valley and forest.

 

“Let the enemies of Nigeria know their time is up,” Tinubu charged the soldiers.”

 

He was emphatic that the war would not be won by weapons alone but by the will to stand, resist, fight and triumph.

 

“As your President, I will match your courage with action, investment and unwavering support.

 

“To those who seek to destabilise our nation, be they domestic collaborators or foreign agents—hear this: Nigeria will not bow.

 

“Not to fear. Not to terror. Not to treachery.

 

“You, the Nigerian military, are the spearhead of this fight. With your valour and discipline, peace shall prevail.

 

“Stand tall. Be proud. Nigeria depends on you, and I am with you—today, ttomorrow and always,” he emphasised.

 

Tinubu urged the troops to stay strong, focused, for God and the country. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

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