News Agency of Nigeria
Soludo backs Tinubu’s bold economic reforms

Soludo backs Tinubu’s bold economic reforms

294 total views today

By Muhyideen Jimoh

Gov. Charles Soludo of Anambra has reaffirmed strong support for President Bola Tinubu’s bold economic reforms aimed at stabilising and reviving Nigeria’s economy.

Soludo spoke to State House correspondents after meeting Tinubu on Tuesday at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

The former Central Bank governor stressed the urgency of structural reforms to accelerate national development.

He said his support for Tinubu transcends party lines because the reforms aim to return Nigeria to a sustainable growth path.

Soludo said, “The President is in high spirits, hale and hearty. It was a pleasure meeting him; indeed, it was quite a pleasant meeting.

“President Tinubu is my friend; we have been friends for 22 years, so you don’t deny your friend.

“I support him and commend his bold steps, especially in the economy and structural reforms. I have said severally we’re taking the right steps.”

Soludo also discussed his administration’s strategy to curb insecurity in Anambra.

“We are approaching insecurity comprehensively, using both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches.

“The kinetic involves guns and the usual. The non-kinetic focuses on youths, empowerment, and job creation,” he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports the meeting follows Tinubu’s May visit to Anambra, where he inaugurated key infrastructure projects.

The visit is seen as politically strategic ahead of the Nov. 8 governorship election, where Soludo seeks re-election under the All Progressives Grand Alliance.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

Tinubu appoints Rinsola Abiola CLTC DG, Ja’oji SSA

Tinubu appoints Rinsola Abiola CLTC DG, Ja’oji SSA

261 total views today

‎By Muhyideen Jimoh

‎President Bola Tinubu has appointed Ms. Rinsola Abiola as Director-General of the Citizenship and Leadership Training Centre (CLTC).

‎Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, announced the appointment in a statement on Monday in Abuja.

‎Abiola, a strategic communications and government relations expert, was appointed as Senior Special Assistant to the President on Citizenship and Leadership, in November 2023.

‎The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Rinsola is the daughter of the late MKO Abiola, the winner of the 1993 June 12 presidential election.

‎Onanuga also confirmed the appointment of Nasir Ja’oji as Senior Special Assistant on Citizenship and Leadership.

‎Ja’oji previously served as Special Adviser on Mobilisation to the Kano State Governor and a member of the Coordinated Arewa Youth Groups’ Governing Council.

‎He is known for his strong advocacy for youth and women’s empowerment and community development. (NAN)(www.nannnews.ng)

Edited by Tayo Ikujuni

TMSG lauds Tinubu’s fresh initiatives for grassroots development

TMSG lauds Tinubu’s fresh initiatives for grassroots development

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‎By Muhyideen Jimoh

The Tinubu Media Support Group (TMSG), a think-tank, has commended the Federal Government’s newly introduced ward-based economic stimulus programme as a transformative step for grassroots development.

‎In a statement released Saturday in Abuja, TMSG Chairman Emeka Nwankpa and Secretary Dapo Okubanjo described the initiative as bold and innovative.

‎They said the Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme (RHWDP) allows direct grassroots engagement without undermining intergovernmental responsibilities.

‎”Coming at a time that many Nigerians are concerned that improved federal allocations to states and local governments are not having the desired impact at the grassroots.”

‎”It is a thing of joy that the federal government is thinking out of the box in order to ensure that all parts of the country are carried along.”

‎”This, for us, is the simplest way of explaining what the federal government is set to do with the Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme (RHWDP) which is targeted at ensuring direct engagement with the country’s 8,809 administrative wards across all 36 states.”

‎TMSG expressed confidence that the programme would boost economic activity at the grassroots and promote inclusive development.

‎”Judging from what President Tinubu said at his engagement with state governors on the issue, the federal government is keen on stimulating economic activities at the grassroots through a ward-based development strategy.”‎

‎The group highlighted the plan to support at least 1,000 people in smaller wards and 2,000 in larger ones, under a three-tier government collaboration.

‎”We note that the government plan will involve supporting economic activities for a minimum of 1,000 economically active individuals in smaller wards and 2,000 for larger ones under a collaborative arrangement between federal, state, and local governments.”

‎‎”We see it as a creative effort to generate employment, reduce poverty, enhance food security, and even enhance social protection in all the wards through a minimum of 8.8 million people.”

‎They acknowledged that while 8.8 million may seem small in a country of over 200 million, it is a significant starting point.

‎‎”While it may look like eight million is a small number in a country with a population of over 200 million.”

‎‎”We chose to see it as a strategy that will ensure direct federal presence that will have an indirect effect in addressing local needs.”

‎‎TMSG noted that the programme would be funded through increased revenue to the Federation Account and complementary state and federal initiatives.

‎‎”We are aware that the programme is to be funded with increased revenues accruing to the Federation Account, as well as other programmes that the federal government and states are undertaking.”

‎”Although a National Steering Committee comprising representatives of all six geopolitical zones is expected to oversee the implementation,”

‎”We are convinced that by the time the Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme takes off, it will go a long way to drilling down development to Nigerians at the lowest levels of government.”‎

‎The TMSG maintains that the ward-based development programme will go a long way to empowering local communities and creating jobs directly and indirectly within local economies. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Nigeria has lost a patriot in Audu Ogbeh — Tinubu

Nigeria has lost a patriot in Audu Ogbeh — Tinubu

318 total views today

By Muhyideen Jimoh

President Bola Tinubu has expressed heartfelt condolences on the passing of Chief Audu Ogbeh, a former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), describing him as a great patriot.

‎‎Ogbeh, 78, died peacefully on Saturday, according to a statement from his family.

‎In a condolence message by his spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu sympathised with the government and people of Benue State.

‎‎The president also extended his condolences to Ogbeh’s family, friends, and political associates.

‎Ogbeh, served Nigeria in several administrations, including as Minister of Communications in the Second Republic and later as Minister of Agriculture under President Muhammadu Buhari.

‎Tinubu praised Ogbeh’s deep intellect and his ability to craft solutions to complex national issues.

‎He noted that Ogbeh began his political career in the 1970s as a legislator and was a founding member of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

‎“Chief Audu Ogbeh was a patriot whose wisdom, dedication, and pursuit of progress left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s political landscape.”

‎”He was always ready with facts and figures to support his propositions. The nation will sorely miss his insightful perspectives and wealth of experience,” Tinubu said.

‎The president prayed that the Almighty God will receive the departed’s soul, and comfort his family. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Presidency defends economic policies, urges fact-based criticism

Presidency defends economic policies, urges fact-based criticism

351 total views today

By Muhyideen Jimoh

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to economic stability and food security through strategic policies led by President Bola Tinubu.

The government assured citizens that these initiatives are already producing results, with a clear focus on improving ordinary Nigerians’ welfare.

Mr Sunday Dare, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communications, stated this in a release titled: ‘Critique Requires Fact-Driven Narrative’.

He described the Daily Trust editorial as exaggerated and unbalanced in its portrayal of Nigeria’s food security and economic condition.

Dare acknowledged economic hardship but cautioned against sweeping generalisations that misrepresent the national situation.

“A recent Daily Trust editorial paints Nigeria as overwhelmed by hunger, hardship, and helplessness—an exaggerated and unbalanced picture.

“The Tinubu administration welcomes media criticism, but it must be based on facts—not distortion or selective pessimism.

“No one in the administration denies that citizens face challenges, but we must distinguish honest concern from pessimism and blanket generalisations,” Dare said.

He argued that the government’s policies are designed to ensure future stability and prosperity for Nigerians.

Dare warned that alarmist narratives and selective reporting undermine public understanding and national progress.

He referenced the editorial’s claim that 33 million Nigerians, including 16 million children, would face hunger in 2025.

“This figure, widely cited, has been wrongly interpreted.

“It was not a UNICEF-specific report but a Cadre Harmonisé analysis co-produced by Nigerian authorities, FAO, WFP, and UNICEF.

“It projects a worst-case hunger scenario for June–August 2025, assuming no mitigation by government or partners,” he said.

Dare highlighted proactive measures already taken to avoid such outcomes and secure food supply.

He listed key interventions: 42,000 metric tons of grain released from reserves; 117,000 more under procurement; and activation of the Food Security Council.

He added that emergency nutrition support was scaled up in Borno, Yobe, Adamawa, Katsina, Sokoto, and Bauchi states.

“President Tinubu is not indifferent to the people’s suffering. He is making deliberate, effective efforts to reset the economy,” he said.

Dare said the administration aims to correct a past of consumption without productivity and policies that favoured the powerful.

The Presidency also called for unity and a national conversation grounded in facts.

“Let’s speak the truth. Yes, Nigerians are tightening belts — but Nigeria is healing,” Dare said.

He pointed to signs of recovery: a stabilising naira, social protection expansion, food system investments, and tuition aid for students.

According to him, the Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme will target all 8,809 political wards with tailored support for businesses, infrastructure, and food security.

This is part of President Tinubu’s broader goal to build a $1 trillion economy by 2030.

“The government does not demand silence during hardship. It calls for fairness and shared commitment to rebuilding Nigeria,” Dare said.

He urged Nigerians to continue supporting efforts to create a resilient, inclusive, and prosperous economy. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

Tinubu appoints new NERC chairman, two commissioners

Tinubu appoints new NERC chairman, two commissioners

281 total views today

By Muhyideen Jimoh

‎President Bola Tinubu has nominated Mr Abdullahi Garba Ramat as Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC).

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

‎Ramat, 39, is an electrical engineer with a PhD in Strategic Management and vast administrative experience.

‎President Tinubu also approved the nomination of two new commissioners to the NERC board.

‎Mr Abubakar Yusuf was named Commissioner for Consumer Affairs, while Dr Fouad Animashun was appointed Commissioner for Finance and Management Services.

According to the statement, all nominations are subject to Senate confirmation.

However, to avoid a leadership vacuum in the critical regulatory agency, the President directed that Ramat assume office in acting capacity pending his screening by the Senate, as stipulated by the law.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Ramat served as Chairman of Ungogo Local Government Area, Kano State, from 2021 to 2024. He is a multidisciplinary STEM professional and strategic governance expert.

‎He holds a PhD in Strategic Management from Lincoln University, a Master’s in Electronics and Telecommunications Engineering from India, and a B.Eng in Electrical Engineering from Bayero University, Kano.

‎He thus bring a unique blend of engineering expertise, public sector innovation, and digital transformation insight to the Commission.

The President urged the new appointees to use their knowledge and experience to discharge their functions and work assiduously to advance the administration’s power sector vision.

These appointments are part of the Tinubu administration’s bold push to overhaul Nigeria’s energy sector and fast-track universal electricity access.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Joseph Edeh

‎Doyin Abiola was a media trailblazer, soldier of democracy – Tinubu

‎Doyin Abiola was a media trailblazer, soldier of democracy – Tinubu

300 total views today

By Muhyideen Jimoh

President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Dr Doyinsola Abiola, describing in her as a media icon and a soldier of democracy.

‎‎Dr Abiola, 82, wife of the late Chief MKO Abiola, died early on Wednesday.

‎The president, in a tribute to the late media executive, hailed her groundbreaking role in media and her fight for democratic ideals.”‎

‎“I received with deep sadness the news early on Wednesday of the passing of Dr. Doyinsola Hamidat Abiola, a trailblazing journalist, editor, and former managing director of the defunct Concord Group of newspapers and wife of the late Bashorun MKO Abiola.”

‎“Doyin Abiola, 82, was an Amazon and an icon in Nigerian journalism.”

‎“She stayed in the journalism course since starting as a reporter with the defunct Daily Sketch after graduating from the University of Ibadan in 1969, majoring in English and Drama,” Tinubu said.

‎The president highlighted her remarkable career and the gender barriers she broke in the male-dominated media industry.

‎‎“She broke the gender barrier, becoming the first woman to edit a national newspaper and the first Managing Director of a daily newspaper.”

‎”Her immense contributions to journalism and gender equity laid a foundation for generations of women. Her impact on our democracy was even more profound.”

‎In 1980, Dr Abiola became the pioneer editor of National Concord, owned by her husband, MKO Abiola.

‎She later rose to become Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief of all Concord titles, including founding Weekend Concord.

‎The paper set new benchmarks by centering people at the heart of its reporting.

‎‎“I had a good relationship with the late Doyin, which stemmed from my close relationship with the late MKO Abiola.”

‎Tinubu also recalled her active role in the political battles following the annulment of the June 12, 1993 election, won by her husband.

‎“She played a prominent role in MKO’s election, mobilising and providing direction for the media under her control.”

‎‎“And when the June 12 election, won by her husband, was annulled, she did not stand aside.”

‎‎”Inspite of the military junta shutting down the Concord Group, she also joined the fray, demanding the validation of the election. She was a soldier of democracy in her own right.”

‎Tinubu praised her leadership, resilience, and dedication to truth, freedom, and justice throughout her career.

‎“I commiserate with the Abiola and Aboaba families, her only daughter, Doyinsola, and the government and people of Lagos and Ogun States.”

‎“May her soul rest in peace. May this nation be blessed with more women of Doyin Abiola’s calibre and pedigree.”‎(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Tinubu commiserates with Ghana President over helicopter crash

Tinubu commiserates with Ghana President over helicopter crash

303 total views today

By Muhyideen Jimoh

President Bola Tinubu has extended heartfelt condolences to President John Mahama and people of Ghana over a tragic helicopter crash that claimed the lives of eight Ghanaians, including two ministers.

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

‎The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the crash, which occurred Wednesday in Ghana’s southern Ashanti region, killed all on board, among them Defence Minister Edward Boamah and Environment Minister Ibrahim Muhammed.

‎Tinubu assures President Mahama and all Ghanaian that the thoughts and prayers of the government and people of Nigeria are with them during the time of profound national loss.

‎The President urged the Ghanaian nation and the bereaved families to find comfort in the knowledge that their loved ones died in the line of patriotic service to the country.

‎“He prayed for the peaceful repose of the souls of the departed and strength for those they left behind.” (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi

Tinubu lauds Nigerian students for excelling at global competition

Tinubu lauds Nigerian students for excelling at global competition

216 total views today

‎By Muhyideen Jimoh

‎President Bola Tinubu has congratulated three Nigerian students for emerging world champions at the 2025 TeenEagle Global competition in London, United Kingdom.

‎Nafisa Aminu, Rukayya Fema, and Hadiza Kalli excelled in English communication and debate, bringing global honour to Nigeria.

‎The President’s message celebrating their extraordinary achievements is contained in a statement issued by Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, on Wednesday in Abuja.

‎Seventeen-year-old Nafisa was named overall best in English language skills. Rukayya, 15, topped the debate category, while Hadiza won the outstanding talent award (gold medal).

‎The president commended the exceptional young Nigerians for the feat and affirms that the nation’s future is much brighter with many of its youth as repositories of excellence.


‎‎
‎Tinubu praised the trio for their excellence, calling them “shining examples” of Nigeria’s promising future.

‎He noted their success reflects the potential of Nigeria’s education system to nurture world-class talent.

‎“Education is the cornerstone of national development,” Tinubu said, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to investing heavily in the sector.

‎He cited the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) as a key effort to remove financial barriers for deserving students.

‎The president urged Nafisa, Rukayya, and Hadiza to stay focused in their academic pursuits and wished them continued success.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Tinubu directs free healthcare for retirees, resolution of police pension issues

Tinubu directs free healthcare for retirees, resolution of police pension issues

353 total views today

By Muhyideen Jimoh

‎President Bola Tinubu has directed the immediate rollout of free healthcare for low-income retirees under the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS).

‎‎He also mandated prompt implementation of overdue pension increases and a minimum pension guarantee to protect vulnerable retirees.

The president said these in a statement by his Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, on Wednesday in Abuja, adding that these are critical components of social protection and dignity in retirement.

‎The directive followed a briefing by Ms Omolola Oloworaran, the Director-General of the National Pension Commission (PenCom).

‎‎Tinubu further mandated the PenCom D-G to urgently resolve the longstanding police pension issue, emphasising that members of the police force who serve and protect the nation deserve to retire with dignity and peace of mind.

‎The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that retired police officers recently protested poor pensions and living conditions across the country.

‎They called for the removal of the Nigeria Police Force from the CPS, citing systemic anomalies.

‎Thereafter, Oloworaran briefed the president on efforts to preserve pension fund value amid inflation and economic pressures.

‎‎She outlined plans to enable foreign currency contributions, allowing Nigerians in the diaspora to participate in the pension scheme.

‎She also highlighted upcoming reforms to boost retiree welfare and expand pension coverage nationwide.

‎Tinubu welcomed the initiatives and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusive growth and social protection for ordinary Nigerians.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Hadiza Mohammed-Aliyu

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