News Agency of Nigeria
How Africa can fast-track industrial revolution – Tinubu
General News

How Africa can fast-track industrial revolution – Tinubu

By Muhyideen Jimoh

President Bola Tinubu says Africa’s industrial revolution can only be fast-tracked by creating a smart value-chain for the region’s abundant natural resources.

The President stated this in his remarks at the inaugural West Africa Economic Summit (WAES) on Saturday in Abuja.

“Let us recognise that Africa was left behind in previous industrial revolutions.

“We cannot afford to miss the next one. Our rare minerals power tomorrow’s green technologies—yet it is not enough to be resource-rich.

“We must become value-chain smart and invest in local processing and regional manufacturing.

‘The era of ‘pit to port’ must end. We must turn our mineral wealth into domestic economic value—jobs, technology, and manufacturing.” he said.

The President also underscored the need to harness the continent’s youthful population and abundant natural resources for peconomic transformation.

He described the region’s vibrant, youthful population as its greatest asset.

“Our region’s greatest asset is its youthful population.

“However, this demographic promise can quickly become a liability if not matched by investments in education, digital infrastructure, innovation, and productive enterprise,” he said.

The president emphasised the need for regional cooperation, citing Nigeria’s investments in skills development, digital connectivity, and youth empowerment.

“No one country can do this alone. Our prosperity depends on regional supply chains, energy networks, and data frameworks.

“We must design them together – or they will collapse separately,” he said.

Tinubu called for urgent efforts to dismantle trade barriers across the sub-region in line with global best practices.

He expressed concern that, with intra-regional trade still below 10 per cent, West Africa must “coordinate or collapse” in the race for global economic relevance.

On infrastructure and investment, he urged West Africa to move beyond the export of raw materials and prioritise value-added industries:

The Nigerian leader, who is the Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, underscored the role of the private sector in driving transformation.

“The fundamental transformation will not come solely from government, but from unleashing our people’s entrepreneurial spirit.

Governments must provide the right environment—law, order, and market-friendly policies—while the private sector drives growth, ” he said.

He charged the summit participants – hoeads of state, policymakers, business leaders, and development partners – to build an investable and resilient West Africa by leading with vision and responsibility.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the summit was attended by ECOWAS leaders, the private sector, development partners, and policy experts. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi

Tinubu champions stronger ECOWAS economic Integration at WAES
General News

Tinubu champions stronger ECOWAS economic Integration at WAES

By Muhyideen Jimoh

President Bola Tinubu has underscored the need to fast-track economic integration, unity and peace within the West African sub-region.

The President stated this in his opening address at the inaugural West Africa Economic Summit (WAES) on Saturday in Abuja.

An initiative of President Tinubu in his capacity as Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, WAES is the first of its kind and it is convened to deepen regional economic integration.

Tinubu said that the summit offers a historic opportunity to chart a collective course for sustainable economic integration, improved trade flows, and cross-border investments within the region.

“Today is not about celebrating how far we’ve come but forging a new path that leaves behind fragmentation and missed opportunities and moves us toward deeper integration, collective action, and shared prosperity.

“West Africa is one of the last great frontiers of economic growth. Yet opportunity alone does not guarantee transformation.

“Opportunity is not destiny. We must earn it through vision, integration, policy coherence, collaboration, and capital alignment.

“Intra-regional trade remains under 10%—a challenge we can no longer afford to ignore,” Tinubu said.

The President stressed the need for ECOWAS member states to work more together, rather than relying on foreign partners.

“Rather than competing in isolation or relying on external partners, we must strengthen our regional value chains, invest in infrastructure, and coordinate our policies.

“Our region’s greatest asset is its youthful population. However, this demographic promise can quickly become a liability if not matched by investments in education, digital infrastructure, innovation, and productive enterprise,” he added.

Tinubu emphasised the need for local processing of the region’s richly endowed minerals and regional manufacturing.

“Our rare minerals power tomorrow’s green technologies—yet it is not enough to be resource-rich.

“We must become value-chain smart and invest in local processing and regional manufacturing.

“The era of pit to port must end. We must turn our mineral wealth into domestic economic value—jobs, technology, and manufacturing,” he said.

The President also called for the massive partnership of the private sector to drive economic integration.

“The fundamental transformation will not come solely from government but from unleashing our people’s entrepreneurial spirit.

“Governments must provide the right environment—law, order, and market-friendly policies—while the private sector drives growth,” he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the summit was attended by ECOWAS leaders, the private sector, development partners, and policy experts.

It is expected to yield concrete outcomes and deliverables to boost West Africa’s integration agenda as a critical foundation for sustainable peace, security, and prosperity in the region.

Coordinated by the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the WAES 2025 is one of the signature initiatives under President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope foreign policy and economic diplomacy drive.

The summit, precedes the 67th Ordinary Summit of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), scheduled for the State House, Abuja, on Sunday.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yakubu Uba

June 12: Tinubu honours former Kaduna military Gov. Dangiwa with CFR
General News

June 12: Tinubu honours former Kaduna military Gov. Dangiwa with CFR

By Muhyideen Jimoh

President Bola Tinubu has conferred the national honour of Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR) on Col. Abubakar Dangiwa (retired).

 

This is confirmed in a statement on Thursday by the President’s spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga.

Dangiwa is a former military Governor of Kaduna State and a respected advocate for democracy in Nigeria’s political development, particularly during the transition from military to civilian rule.

 

Tinubu announced the honour during the inauguration of a 300-bed hospital and vocational training institute in Kaduna, as part of his one-day working visit to the state.

 

Speaking at the event, Tinubu acknowledged an oversight made during his June 12 Democracy Day address to the National Assembly and the nation.

 

He used the occasion to publicly correct the omission, stating his intention to recognise Dangiwa’s significant role in Nigeria’s democratic journey.

 

“Some individuals were left out in my June 12 address. Colonel Dangiwa was one of them. Let me now honour him with the CFR award,” Tinubu said.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Dangiwa earned national recognition as a ‘soldier of democracy’ during a critical period in Nigeria’s history.

 

However, his name was notably missing from the list of national honourees read out during the Democracy Day celebration at the National Assembly complex.

 

The President extended a public apology for the omission, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to acknowledging patriotic service, especially by unsung democratic champions.

 

Dangiwa governed Kaduna State from August 1985 to June 1988, during the military regime of Gen. Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida.

 

During his tenure, he was known for his courage, discipline and progressive stance, which earned him admiration both within and outside military circles.

 

After retiring from the Nigerian Army in 1993, he transitioned into public commentary and social advocacy, emerging as a prominent critic of authoritarian governance.

 

Dangiwa later founded the Movement for Unity and Progress (MUP), a political platform that campaigned for national unity, justice and inclusive democratic governance.

 

His contributions to Nigeria’s political evolution have been widely documented and appreciated by civil society and pro-democracy advocates across the country.

 

The conferment of the CFR award is seen as a long-overdue recognition of his efforts and a reaffirmation of his place in Nigeria’s democratic history. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

Tinubu arrives Kaduna, heads to Rigachikun to inaugurate projects
General News

Tinubu arrives Kaduna, heads to Rigachikun to inaugurate projects

By Hussaina Yakubu

President Bola Tinubu on Thursday arrived in Kaduna as part of his one-day working visit to inaugurate a myriad of developmental projects in the state.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Boeing 737 jet conveying the President touched down at the Nigerian Air Force Base, Kaduna, at 01:27 pm.

The president was received by Gov. Uba Sani, top government officials, traditional rulers, and other dignitaries.

Shortly after his arrival, Tinubu proceeded to Rigachikun in Igabi Local Government Area, where he is expected to inaugurate several infrastructural projects, including road networks, healthcare centres, and educational facilities.

The projects are part of broader initiatives by the Kaduna State Government to enhance rural development and improve access to essential services.

Security has been stepped up across Kaduna metropolis, with temporary traffic diversions on Kawo Bridge and Independence Way from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Thursday.

A combined personnel of the Nigerian Police, NSCDC, and the military are also on ground to ensure a smooth and safe visit. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Muhyideen Jimoh/Bashir Rabe

MACBAN lauds Tinubu’s peace efforts in Benue
General News

MACBAN lauds Tinubu’s peace efforts in Benue

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

Tinubu pledges commitment to sustainable infrastructure
General News

Tinubu pledges commitment to sustainable infrastructure

By Salif Atojoko

President Bola Tinubu on Monday inaugurated the Greater Abuja Water Supply Network, Loops 1, 2, 5, and 6, pledging his administration’s commitment to sustainable infrastructure that directly improve citizens’ lives.

He described the water network as a transformative effort to guarantee safe, sustainable, and sufficient water for homes, institutions, and communities across the capital city.

“Water is life. It is not a luxury. It is a basic human right and a foundation for public health, urban development, and economic growth,” the President said.

He lauded the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) led by Nyesom Wike and all project stakeholders for their dedication to the project.

The president emphasised that the Renewed Hope Agenda focused on delivering tangible, people-centred projects that impacted the daily lives of Nigerians.

“This water infrastructure is not only a technical milestone, but a moral one, because it is about equity.

” It ensures that no part of Abuja is left behind in our national development agenda.

“When we speak of the Renewed Hope Agenda, we mean tangible, people-focused projects that improve the daily lives of ordinary Nigerians.

” Water to drink, to clean, to grow, to build; that is a real project. It’s a treasure that we always take for granted.

“We are not here today merely to lay the pipes.

” We are laying the groundwork for healthier families, stronger communities, and a more productive city,” he stated.

Tinubu thanked the international development partners, especially the Chinese government and CGC Nigeria Ltd., for their collaboration on the project.

“We are showing the world that partnership built on mutual respect and shared prosperity can deliver real impact,” he said.

The president urged residents to safeguard the infrastructure.

” As we commission this vital project, I urge all residents and stakeholders to protect this investment.

‘ Use the water wisely and work with the government to ensure sustainability,” he added.

Wike, on his part , thanked the president for his continued support and practical interest in developing the capital city.

“Mr President, on behalf of the residents and administration of the FCT, we sincerely appreciate and thank you for taking the time to be with us again.

” Today marks the fourth day of the commissioning programme, ” Wike said.

He recounted the president’s early inquiries into Abuja’s infrastructure after assuming office.

“I recall that when you came on board, you invited me and asked me one or two questions.

“One is, ‘Why is the mass transit train not working?’

” You said, ‘I want to ride on that train.’

“Secondly, you asked, ‘What is happening to the Abuja water supply?’

” You made it clear: ‘It’s not only rail infrastructure.

” We want the train to work and the water to be supplied to the city,” he said.

Wike explained that the project was initially awarded in 2017 for 470 million dollars under a tripartite financing arrangement involving the Chinese Government (85 per cent), Federal Government and FCT Administration (15 per cent).

He also highlighted ongoing efforts to extend water infrastructure to underserved communities.

“Last year when you (Mr President) visited China—luckily for us, I was part of the delegation.

” The FCT also signed an agreement with CGC to provide water to rural areas.

“We are almost done with procurement to give water to Bwari, Kuje, Karu, and other communities.

” So we are not only providing water to the city but also to the satellite towns,” said Wike.

He assured the president that future rural water projects would be delivered swiftly.

“It will not take years like this one.

” We believe that by next year, during your third anniversary, we’ll commission those satellite town projects where you provide water,” the minister stated.

He also praised the National Assembly for their support.

“Every day, we’ll make sure that people will see-those who want to see and those who don’t want to see.

” It’s not your fault—because they decided not to see,” he said.

Richard Dauda, Acting Executive Secretary of Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), said the new loops were designed to serve 50 districts across Phases Two, Three, and Four, including the FCT’s northern and southern development corridors.

“Of the planned 10 loops, Loops 3 and 4 are already operational, supplying water from four completed storage tanks.

“The Greater Abuja Water Supply Project involves the construction of additional pipeline networks—Loops 1, 2, 5, and 6, according to the city’s master plan,” he said.

He explained that the project included installing secondary trunk lines to ensure effective distribution to end users.

According to Dauda, 425 kilometres of ductile iron pipes, ranging from 200mm to 1500mm in diameter, are being laid, comprising 256 kilometres of main trunk lines and 169 kilometres of distribution lines.

The project also includes 1,670 appurtenances, such as valves and air release systems.

“Upon completion, the project would significantly improve access to potable water for residents of Abuja,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Mufutau Ojo

Tinubu pays tribute to Abdulsalami Abubakar on 83rd birthday
General News

Tinubu pays tribute to Abdulsalami Abubakar on 83rd birthday

By Salif Atojoko

President Bola Tinubu on Sunday paid tribute to Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar (Rtd.) on his 83rd birthday.

In the tribute personally written by Tinubu, he saluted Abubakar for his service to Nigeria, both in uniform and in retirement.

He commended his commitment to peace, stability, and good governance across the African continent.

“Gen. Abubakar’s legacy, particularly his role in leading Nigeria through a peaceful transition to democratic rule in 1999, remains a watershed moment in the nation’s history.

“His selfless act of handing over power paved the way for Nigeria’s Fourth Republic and strengthened the principle of constitutional democracy.

“As Chairman of the National Peace Committee, General Abubakar has continued to play a significant role in promoting dialogue, defusing tension, and ensuring credible electoral processes in Nigeria,” the President wrote.

He said Abubakar’s voice of moderation, reason, and statesmanship was deeply valued at a time where unity and leadership were more critical than ever.

Tinubu described Abubakar as a patriot of uncommon integrity whose service inspired generations of Nigerians in public life.

“As he marks another year of life, Nigeria honours his sacrifices, wisdom, and unyielding devotion to the peace and unity of our great nation.

“I wish the former Head of State continued strength, good health, and divine grace in the years ahead,” Tinubu said.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Muhyideen Jimoh

From Sidelines to Centre Stage: Assessing Tinubu’s sports economy vision
Features

From Sidelines to Centre Stage: Assessing Tinubu’s sports economy vision

By Muhyideen Jimoh

As President Bola Tinubu marks his second year in office, his administration has embarked on transformative reforms aimed at revitalising the  Nigeria’s sports sector.

Tinubu, long hailed as a master strategist in the political arena, unveiled a sporting vision that seeks to turn passion into profit and athletes into assets.

Central to this vision is the re-establishment of the National Sports Commission (NSC), a strategic move designed to fast-track the development of a robust sports economy.

In October 2024, the President, in his usual bold innovative style, dissolved the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development and transferred its functions to the newly revived NSC.

Malam Shehu Dikko and Bukola Olopade, both astute sports administrators with enviable track records, were subsequently appointed as Chairman and Director-General of the commission, respectively, with a mandate to steer the sporting ship to a podium finish.

Dikko, upon assuming duty at the NSC, emphasised the need for a holistic approach to sports development, moving beyond mere medal pursuits to fostering grassroots participation, talent identification, and infrastructural growth.

“We must change our mindset from the fixation of just competitions and winning medals and focus on our domestic sports development.

“When we set the foundation right, the results and the winning of medals will naturally come in a sustainable manner,” Dikko said.

Similarly, Olopade stressed the importance of professionalism and effective leadership in sports administration to get the country back on track.

“Sports cannot be run like other government activities because of its dynamic nature.

“Making the NSC oversee the administration of sports is a significant achievement,” he added.

President Tinubu as a mark of his commitment to increase investment in sports and make the sector a significant contributor to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) has set down a marker.

In a clear departure from the past, the 2025 federal budget allocated over ₦94 billion to the sports sector, marking a 227% increase from the previous year.

These funds are earmarked for the rehabilitation of key facilities, including the National Stadium in Lagos, Ahmadu Bello Stadium in Kaduna, and Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja, with plans to transform them into world-class sports cities through public-private partnerships.

The Chairman House Committee on Sports, Hon. Kabiru Amadu while commenting on the budget, commended the Tinubu-led administration for increasing the budget from N29 billion to over N94 billion.

“The President of Federal Republic of Nigeria has tripled the budget of the sports from N29,082,369,979:00 in 2024 to N94,947,006,325:00 in 2025.

“The leap in the expenditure framework represent 227 per cent  increment. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is hereby commended for the giant strides in the budgetary allocations to the sports sector.

“It is our hope and belief that, the increment in budgetary allocation would mark a turning point in the development, administration and management of sports activities in Nigeria,” Amadu said.

To further drive President Tinubu’s vision for a vibrant sports economy in line with international best practices, the NSC inaugurated the Renewed Hope Initiative for Nigeria’s Sports Economy (RHINSE) to serve as the blueprint for this transformation.

Under RHINSE, the NSC aims to position sports as a significant contributor to Nigeria’s GDP, targeting a 3 per cent contribution and the creation of at least three  million jobs across the sports value chain by 2029.

Dikko said that the vision includes the establishment of an Anti-Doping Laboratory to enhance Nigeria’s standing in international sports and generate foreign exchange.

Both Dikko and Olopade have reiterated that the NSC will continue to partner with the private sector to achieve its lofty goals, as government alone cannot do it.

To this end, the NSC initiated partnerships with corporate entities like MTN Nigeria, among others.

These collaborations aim to boost sponsorship opportunities, enhance athlete support, and create a sustainable sports ecosystem.

The leadership of the NSC has articulated a vision for a comprehensive sports development model that prioritises grassroots engagement, talent identification, and infrastructural enhancement.

This approach seeks to build a sustainable sports economy that not only produces champions but also contributes to national development through job creation and economic diversification.

Stakeholders say President Tinubu’s second year in office has heralded a new era for Nigeria’s sports sector.

They, however, stressed that to fully achieve these goals, all hands must be on deck, and the private sector must be fully involved, as Nigeria undoubtedly has abundant talents but has continued to struggle administratively to harness and transform the sector.

Harrison Jalla, Chairman of Professional Footballers Association of Nigeria (PFAN) Task Force, while assessing President Tinubu’s scorecard in the sector, commended him for increased funding for sports.

“On funding, President Tinubu did excellently well, he is arguably the best thing to have happened to Nigerian sports in terms of funding,’’ he said.

The ex-international, however urged the President to immediately constitute a board for the NSC in order to make its operations constitutional.

“To give legal backing to the activities of the National Sports Commission, President Tinubu must, without further delay, inaugurate the National Sports Commission Board in consonance with the National Sports Commission Establishment Act 2023.

“The National Sports Commission remains a defective structure without a functional Board, and all its activities currently lack the force of law,’’ he said.

Legendary former Green Eagles captain and sports administrator, Segun Odegbami at a recent public lecture identified the power of sports as a strong force that can change the world in all ramifications.

He therefore urged the Federal Government to continue to explore the endless possibilities in the power of sports as a social and economic driver.

As President Tinubu enters the second half of his term, stakeholders are of the view that Nigeria’s sports sector finally has a fighting chance to fulfill its potential.

But the journey from ambition to achievement will require political will, private sector participation and institutional discipline. (NANFeatures)

***If used, please credit the writer and the News Agency of Nigeria.

APC chieftain lauds Tinubu’s achievements, hails Interior Minister
General News

APC chieftain lauds Tinubu’s achievements, hails Interior Minister

By Precious Akutammadu

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress in Rivers, Mr Darlington Nwauju, has commended President Bola Tinubu and the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo for the innovations introduced in the ministry.

Nwauju told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Port Harcourt on Wednesday that his commendation was necessitated by the turnaround in the ministry which had become a testimony of how Nigerian youths can contribute to the nation’s development.

“In less than two years, there is verifiable evidence of the impact of reforms he introduced to that Ministry, which many Nigerians can attest to.

“It is not possible that you walk into an ATM pay point, withdraw your own money and start clapping for being paid,” Nwauju said.

According to him, it is right to critically appraise a sector that was asphyxiated before today and confirm that it’s been oxygenated, now serving the public good and justifying tax payers money put into that ministry.

“Talking about taxpayers money, the Ministry of Interior has overshot the targets set for it in the last two budget cycles in terms of revenue generation.

“These are clear indicators that the weeks and months ahead may witness improved performances with the cooperation of the National Assembly committees with oversight powers on that ministry.

“There is no way the return on investment of taxpayers money into that ministry will not yield dividends given the management tact and leadership qualities of the Minister.

“On the balance of probabilities, public office holders can actually be reasonable, responsible and responsive if we identify and protect them.

“This is to ensure they are not intimidated out of the public space by those who are used to poor service delivery.

“Youths in Nigeria make up over sixty per cent of the voting demographics and we must not allow those who believe that we must stay perpetually at the backwaters of Nigerian politics, to continue to play on our intelligence,” he said.

Nwauju said that Tunji-Ojo facilitated the release of over 4000 inmates from different correctional facilities, where they were serving prison terms that were avoidable.

“The inmates were released after the ministry mobilised corporate bodies to raise N585 million for the payment of their fines, as part of their Corporate Social Responsibilities, (CSR)

“Over one hundred thousand personnel of the paramilitary services under the Interior Ministry have been promoted so far in two promotion exercises and passport applications and collections are now easy.

“The Minister cleared over two hundred thousand passport backlog; established enhanced e-passport facilities in Europe and inaugurated contactless biometric passports.

“He ensured command and control centre for the NIS, deployment of e-gates at our international airports, remodelled fire service academy and so on.” (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Remi Koleoso/Emmanuel Afonne

Tinubu confers national honour on Bill Gates
General News

Tinubu confers national honour on Bill Gates

By Salif Atojoko

President Bola Tinubu, on Tuesday in Lagos, praised Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft and chairman of the Bill Gates Foundation, for inspiring leaders worldwide by consistently lifting the poor and underprivileged.

The President, who conferred the national honour of the Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR) on Gates, noted the renowned philanthropist’s interventions in maternal health, agriculture and infectious disease research.

Tinubu thanked Gates for providing global leadership that prioritised ameliorating the lives and safety of the poor and underprivileged.

“Today, I would like to share my happiness and respect and acknowledge one of the greatest human beings in the world.

“All I need to say is thank you, Bill Gates, for your indivisible commitment to humanity. It is highly remarkable. It is an inspiration to leaders across the world, including the one standing before you.

“I thank you very much. It is a great thing to honour you as the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he added.

Gates, in his response said he was honoured by the conferment of the CFR by the President.

“I am very happy to receive the honour for myself and the incredible team at the Foundation. From the beginning, the Foundation’s goal was to support improving Nigeria’s health sector.

“Nigeria had some ambitious goals for improving health, and three people here today are great champions of that cause.

“Of course, the President is making health a priority. Pate, we’ve worked together to handle great challenges, including the incredible progress on polio.

“Then, Dangote, I got to know, and we have done great work together. So, in the 25 years in Nigeria, we have achieved a lot. As was mentioned, the child death rate has gone down, and that’s because new vaccines were received to boost our efforts,” Gate said.

He stated that much work was done to increase the coverage and get vaccines to every child.

He added that the effort to eradicate polio was one of the Foundation’s toughest.

“A lot was learnt, and partnerships were built with traditional institutions.”

He said the Foundation had already rolled out HPB vaccines to reduce the 7,000 annual deaths of women from cervical cancer, and that a single dose of the vaccine taken by girls ages 9-14 could give them lifetime protection.

“Nigeria achieved a better result than any other country in getting out the vaccine to young girls,” he noted.

Gates told President Tinubu that he was dedicated to cutting malnutrition and spreading vaccines that could end malaria in Nigeria.

“Some of our goals will seem ambitious; for example, in the next twenty years, we hope to eradicate malaria,” he added.

Gates assured the Nigerian leader of his continued commitment to improving health in Nigeria, aiming to invest his entire wealth in this cause in the next 20 years.

Earlier, Prof. Muhammad Pate, the Minister of Health and Social Development, said Gates’s recognition was well deserved, considering his long-term involvement in Nigeria’s national development.

“Bill Gates’ friend, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, has been working with him to transform lives across the country.

“From that time until now, the Gates Foundation and through other channels have invested more than 2 billion dollars of its capital in various arenas that directly affect our people, whether in health care, agriculture, or the digital economy.

“Importantly, when he came into Northern Nigeria, there were challenges with immunisation, people refusing because of ignorance, and with Mr Gates and Alhaji Aliko, they mobilised the entire traditional ruler’s committee,” he stated.

Pate said the strong support of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation eradicated polio in Nigeria.
(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Muhyideen Jimoh

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