News Agency of Nigeria
China donates m to support Nigeria’s flood victims
Foreign

China donates $1m to support Nigeria’s flood victims

By Sarafina Christopher/ Nana Musa

 

China has donated one million dollars to Nigeria in support of people affected by the recent devastating floods across the country.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the support was provided at a ceremony for the signing of exchange of notes with the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning to formalise the cash assistance grant in Abuja on Wednesday.

 

Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria Yu Dunhai, expressed China’s solidarity with Nigeria “during this difficult time”, noting that both countries have recently faced natural disasters.

 

“We would like to express our deep condolences for the people who lost their lives and also express our support.

 

“Actually, almost at the same time, China is also suffering from floods. In times of difficulty, China and Nigeria always stand together,” he said.

 

He stressed that the assistance testifies to China’s confidence in Nigeria’s resilience, saying: “We are very confident that under the strong leadership of the Federal Government, and with the quality and efforts of all the people, Nigeria will overcome this difficulty and rebuild their homes in the near future.”

 

Yu further highlighted the broader direction of China-Nigeria relations, describing the ties as grounded in mutual respect and equality.

 

He acknowledged the robust progress recorded between the two countries in the areas of trade, investment, multilateral cooperation, and people-to-people exchange.

 

“As ambassador, I am happy that our comprehensive strategic partnership has been developing on a fast track.

 

“Just two months ago, President Xi Jinping announced zero-tariff treatment on 400 per cent of tariff lines for African countries with diplomatic ties to China, including Nigeria.

 

“This will boost Nigeria’s exports to China, create more jobs, and support economic development,” he said.

 

The Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Sen. Atiku Bagudu, stated that the assistance was particularly timely as it is targeted at communities in states most affected by recent floods.

 

He said that the intervention would go a long way towards complementing government’s ongoing efforts at providing relief materials and rebuilding the livelihoods of people in severely impacted areas.

 

“I wish to emphasise that the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, in collaboration with relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), will coordinate the effective implementation of this project.

 

“A transparent framework, leveraging past experiences and unified templates, will guide the process to ensure that the assistance reaches the intended beneficiaries in the most efficient and impactful manner.

 

“Furthermore, the government fully welcomes the joint monitoring and evaluation mechanism agreed with the Embassy of China.

 

“This will ensure transparency and accountability, promote learning, and strengthen our partnership in humanitarian and development cooperation,” Bagudu said.

 

The minister said the humanitarian support was not only a demonstration of China’s goodwill, but also a testimony of the growing cooperation between the two nations in areas such as trade, infrastructure, technology, agriculture, and now, disaster relief.

 

“It is our firm belief that today’s signing ceremony will open new windows of collaboration that will deepen our strategic partnership for the mutual benefit of our people.

 

” I assure you that the government remains committed to working closely with the embassy of China to guarantee the successful implementation of this project.

 

“We look forward to further consolidating our friendship through initiatives that promote prosperity, resilience, and sustainable development.

 

“On behalf of the government and people of Nigeria, I wish to convey our profound appreciation to the Government of China for this act of friendship and solidarity.

 

“This gesture is a reflection of the long-standing bilateral relations between our two dear countries, built on mutual respect, cooperation, and a shared vision for sustainable development.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

(Edited by Emmanuel Yashim)*

Water ministry seeks civil service support on sanitation
Environment

Water ministry seeks civil service support on sanitation

By Tosin Kolade

The Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation has appealed to the Head of the Civil Service to formally integrate support for the Clean Nigeria Campaign into the operations of all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).

The Minister, Prof. Joseph Utsev, tendered the appeal during a courtesy visit to the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Dr Didi Walson-Jack, in Abuja on Tuesday.

He congratulated Walson-Jack on her elevation and praised her contributions to the Clean Nigeria Campaign, including her recognition as a Clean Nigeria Champion in 2023.

Utsev said the Clean Nigeria Campaign, launched in 2019, aims to end open defecation by 2030 and achieve SDG 6.2 on equitable sanitation and hygiene.

“As of today, 148 local government areas have been declared Open Defecation Free (ODF), with Jigawa achieving full ODF status.

“Katsina state is also close, with 33 out of 34 LGAs already certified,” he said.

The minister stressed that civil servants are strategically positioned to influence public behaviour and policy implementation and can play a leading role in advancing sanitation and hygiene practices across workplaces.

“We are appealing to the Head of Service to support the campaign by issuing administrative circulars mandating the provision, maintenance, and use of adequate toilet facilities in all MDAs,” he said.

He also proposed the inclusion of sanitation and hygiene indicators in MDA performance assessments and recommended the introduction of a Clean Nigeria Campaign Week across the civil service to foster behavioural change.

Utsev emphasised that solving Nigeria’s sanitation challenges goes beyond infrastructure.

“We must change mindsets and promote consistent, safe, and dignified use of sanitation facilities.

“This is crucial to reducing waterborne diseases and improving public health outcomes,” he added.

He reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to working closely with the Head of Civil Service to mobilise the federal workforce in support of the campaign.

“We believe that with strong institutional backing, we can achieve a Nigeria where no citizen is left behind in access to safe sanitation. Together, we can protect the health, dignity, and future of our people,” he said.

Responding, Walson-Jack, emphasised the importance of collaboration and partnerships in achieving the campaign’s goals.

She reaffirmed her office’s support for the Clean Nigeria Campaign and praised the ministry’s progress.

“I want to commend the Honourable Minister and the Permanent Secretary on the progress made so far.

“From your report, since I left the ministry less than two years ago, 47 additional LGAs have been declared open defecation-free.

“While this is commendable, we must not lose sight of the larger goal. We need to roll up our sleeves and work even harder,” she said.

She described herself as a proud member of the “Water Family” and pledged her continued personal and institutional commitment to the campaign.

“I am pleased that this next phase of advocacy and sensitisation is beginning in this office. You can be rest assured that my office and I will provide every support possible,” she added.

Walson-Jack acknowledged the campaign’s major challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, limited funding, cultural resistance, and lack of awareness in rural areas.

However, she expressed optimism that such obstacles could be addressed through strong institutional collaboration.

“Collaboration and partnership remain the most critical tools to achieving the 2030 target. I believe the Honourable Minister has already taken the right steps in that direction,” she said.

She also disclosed that her office had developed a Policy Protocol on the Use of Federal Secretariat Buildings, which includes sanitation standards and guidelines to ensure inclusive toilet access, especially for persons with disabilities.

“The policy is currently awaiting necessary concurrences before submission to the Federal Executive Council. Once approved, it will guarantee clean, functional, and accessible toilets in government facilities,” she said.

She added that the Office of the Head of Service had recently commissioned a remodelled foyer and reception area with retrofitted toilets to serve persons with disabilities.

“Our vision is to treat our facilities, especially our toilets, with the same level of dignity and importance as if they were new. We must lead by example,” she concluded.

Walson-Jack urged all MDAs to embrace the Clean Nigeria Campaign and commit to creating a cleaner, healthier, and open defecation-free Nigeria. (NAN)

Edited by Emmanuel Yashim

Zimbabwe strengthens support for disability rights, inclusive education
Foreign

Zimbabwe strengthens support for disability rights, inclusive education

The Zimbabwean government is calling on employers across sectors to prioritise the recruitment of people with disabilities, as part of its broader commitment to promoting equal opportunities and fostering social inclusion.

A report by ZBC News, a TV BRICS partner, quoted Mr Edgar Moyo, the country’s Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister, as saying that Zimbabwe needs to bridge the employment gap urgently for people with disabilities.

“All ministries have received a directive to give preference to people with disabilities in recruitment.

“If anyone from the disabled community is being excluded due to their condition, we encourage them to report it. We have inspectors at national, provincial, and district levels to address such cases,” he said.

In addition to employment, the government has pledged to improve access to quality education for children with disabilities.

Moyo highlighted ongoing efforts under the Basic Education Assistance Module (BEAM), noting that school selection committees at community levels are expected to prioritise children with special needs.

The country’s commitment to inclusion was formalised through the launch of the National Disability Policy in 2021, aligning Zimbabwe with international standards under the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. (TV BRICS/NAN)

Edited by Emmanuel Yashim

Support women in giving children best start in life- NGO
Health

Support women in giving children best start in life- NGO

By Nana Musa

Abuja, Aug. 5, 2025(NAN) The three-tiers of government have been urged to support women in ensuring that children are given the best start in life through adequate breast feeding.

 

Ms Mabel Ade, Executive Director, Adinya Arise Foundation (AAF), disclosed this in an interview with  the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday in Abuja.

 

Ade spoke on the background of the celebration of the World Breastfeeding Week (WBW).

 

NAN reports that the WBW is an annual celebration which is held every year from Aug. 1 to Aug. 7 in more than 120 countries.

 

‘’This World Breastfeeding Week, let us rise in solidarity with mothers in Borno, Benue, and beyond, ensuring they are nourished, supported, and empowered to give their children the best start in life.

 

‘’Breastfeeding Week is more than a symbolic occasion, it is a powerful reminder of the foundational role that breastfeeding plays in shaping the health, development, and resilience of our children and their mothers.

 

‘’For Nigeria, where multiple humanitarian and socioeconomic crises converge, the act of breastfeeding has become both a survival strategy and a national development priority.

 

‘’Mothers who breastfeed exclusively for the first six months and continue alongside complementary feeding offer their children a solid head starts in life.

 

‘’Breastfeeding not only reduces the risk of childhood illness and malnutrition but also empowers the mother by naturally aiding birth spacing and allowing her body to heal,’’ she said.

 

Ade decried the UNICEF data that only 29 per cent of Nigerian infants are exclusively breastfed, adding the country holds the record of housing the highest number of malnourished children in the world.

 

She said this has led to a deeper crisis of widespread malnutrition of mothers, particularly among pregnant and lactating women in internally displaced persons (IDP) camps.

 

‘’In Benue State, the population of IDPs has drastically increased in recent months due to intensified attacks on rural farming communities.

 

‘’Camps are overcrowded with pregnant women, nursing mothers, and children under five, many of whom lack access to basic food supplies, health services, or safe shelter.

 

‘’These conditions are replicated in Borno State, where persistent conflict has displaced millions and left maternal health services overstretched or non-existent.’’

 

She added that mothers, who are malnourished, with HIV/AIDS, and living in IDP camps and remote villages should be empowered to breastfeed their children adequately.

 

‘’Poor nutrition in early childhood is linked to irreversible cognitive delays, poor academic performance, reduced economic productivity, and increased health care burdens.

 

‘’For mothers, the consequences include weakened immunity, higher maternal mortality, and socio-economic vulnerability.

 

‘’The failure to protect and promote breastfeeding, especially in emergency contexts like those in Borno and Benue states, erodes our collective investment in future generations.’’

 

She, however, said that the situation was still far from discouraging for Nigeria and Nigerians.

 

She called for priority attention to exclusive breastfeeding and complementary feeding in national and subnational nutrition and emergency response plans.

 

‘’Invest in food and micronutrient supplementation for pregnant and lactating mothers, especially in IDP camps and rural communities.

 

‘’Scale up implementation of the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative and enforce breastfeeding-friendly workplace policies.

 

‘’Extend paid maternity leave to six months and support community-based breastfeeding counselling. Integrate Infant and Young Child Feeding in Emergencies (IYCF-E) into humanitarian responses in Benue, Borno, and other affected states.’’

 

Ade called for the designing of HIV-sensitive infant feeding programmes to support mothers living with HIV in line with WHO and national guidelines.

 

She urged the three-tiers of government to develop a targeted outreach for rural women, displaced persons, adolescent mothers, and those with disabilities who face unique breastfeeding challenges.

 

‘’In a country where maternal and child survival remains a struggle, supporting breastfeeding is one of the most cost-effective strategies to build a healthier, more prosperous Nigeria,’’ Ade said.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Wike promises new Senate Building for UNIPORT
Education

Wike promises new Senate Building for UNIPORT

By Philip Yatai

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Nyesom Wike, says he had mobilised support from his network of friends to help fund the construction of a befitting Senate Building for the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT).

Wike disclosed this in Port Harcourt on Saturday during the university’s 35th Combined Convocation and 50th Anniversary celebration.

The minister, who was among four recipients of honorary doctorate degrees, also announced plans to endow a Chair in Family and Child’s Law, in the Faculty of Law, in honour of his wife.

He also pledged to endow another Chair in Leadership and Public Administration in the Department of Political Science in his own honour.

Wike disclosed that the university had recently approached him, as FCT Minister, to request a land in Abuja for the establishment of a Centre for Leadership and Democratic Studies.

“I took up the request with Mr President, who immediately granted approval.

“As I speak to you now, the Certificate of Occupancy for the land is ready for presentation to the university authorities,” he said.

Reflecting on his time at UNIPORT, Wike said that the university had instilled a strong academic foundation in him and had continued to promote values rooted in research, truth, and outspokenness.

He urged fellow alumni and Nigerians to support President Bola Tinubu’s efforts to improve the socio-economic well-being of the country, noting the president’s commitment to education through initiatives like the Nigeria Education Loan Fund.

“In no distant time, no willing child will be denied access to quality education due to economic hardship,” he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the university officially named its new Convocation Arena during the event.

It was inaugurated by the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, retired Vice Adm. Ibok-Ete Ibas.

Wike was conferred with an Honorary Doctor of Science degree in Political Science (D.Sc. Honoris Causa), for his contributions to the university’s development.

Other honorary degree recipients included First Lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, Gov. Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa State, and Aminu Masari, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Tertiary Education Trust Fund. (NAN)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Wike reels out contributions to devt of UNIPORT, state university 
Education

Wike reels out contributions to devt of UNIPORT, state university 

By Philip Yatai

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, has reeled out his contributions to the development of University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT), Rivers State University and the legal profession.

Wike outlined the contributions in Port Harcourt on Saturday, during UNIPORT’s 35th Combined Convocation and 50th Anniversary.

He said that UNIPORT availed him the rich and concrete intellectual foundation upon which his socio-economic and political ascendancy have been fittingly predicated.

He added that he was educated both in character and learning at the university and called on all alumni to give back to the university as a mark of gratitude.

“This also explains why I freely give to this institution whenever I have had the opportunity to do so.

“Throughout my duty tours, I have paid back to this great university sacrificially and to the best of my ability.

“I have done so, not out of convenience but as a deliberate pursuit of commitment to gratitude for a university that gave me so much,” he added.

Wike said that as Minister of State, Education, he established the Faculty of Law for UNIPORT and further built a befitting building for the faculty.

He said that he equally built a separate building for the Faculty of Social Science which had been sharing the same building with the Faculty of Humanities.

Speaking on the convocation arena, Wike said that management of the university approached him while he was the governor of Rivers that: “the institution does not have a befitting convocation arena.”

He added that he built the arena to international standard, adding that similar gesture was extended to the Rivers State University, Port Harcourt where he studied law.

He said that in the same tradition of giving back, he built the Post-Graduate Hostel of the university when he was the Chairman of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area.

“As Minister of State, Education, I raised N500 million through the Tertiary Education Trust Fund, for the development of the university.

“As governor, I completed the construction of infrastructural facilities for Faculties of Environmental and Management Sciences.

“I also completed the Faculty of Law building; built the College of Medical/Mechanical Sciences building, new Senate building, and National Union of Rivers State Students’ building,” he said.

The minister added that he equally built Etche, Emuoha, and Ahoada Campuses, as well as built and furnished facilities of the Basic Clinical and Clinical Sciences building of the university.

Also built were the university’s clinical students’ hostel buildings and Pathology building in the university’s Teaching Hospital.

Wike said that as a lawyer, he equally contributed immensely to the legal profession, first by building the Rivers branch of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA).

“I was also the only governor that contributed to the building of the National Secretariat of the NBA and to this end, Rivers was allotted a floor to name after its citizens.

“In Rivers, I introduced a robust judicial welfare scheme by insisting that every judge must own a house upon retirement.

“The houses were built with modern facilities and fully furnished with accompanying Certificates of Occupancy.

“All judges also had brand new Sport Utility Vehicles to ease their mobility, and enhance their comfort and service delivery,” he said.

He added that he also constructed the Body of Benchers building in Abuja and the body named a hall after Rivers.

He said that with the approval of the Director-General of Law School, he built hostels and a grand auditorium for the Law School in Yenagoa, Bayelsa.

“We also built a new Law School campus in Port-Harcourt that is far better than the headquarters in Abuja.

“Currently, as Minister of the FCT, I am building an annex for the Body of Benchers and almost completed construction of 10 bungalows for the Nigeria Law School in Bwari, FCT, and almost completed a new Court of Appeal, Abuja Division.

“In addition, we are building 10 residential houses for the Judges of Court of Appeal, 10 for the Federal High Court and 20 for the FCT High Court,” the minister said.

He explained that he took time to enumerate his contributions to the two universities and the legal profession not for self-aggrandisement, but to demonstrate the need to give back to society.

“Those who come after us must be encouraged and inspired by our robust examples to keep this tradition of service and development of our alma mater,” he said.

The minister pointed out that the university has produced prominent leaders in all works of life, asking if they have given back to the university.

According to him, the university must demand this answer from all its alumni, since it provided the foundation upon which all of them soared to prominence. (NAN)

Edited by Muhammad Lawal

Tinubu promises continued funding of life-impacting projects in FCT
Metro

Tinubu promises continued funding of life-impacting projects in FCT

By Philip Yatai

President Bola Tinubu has pledged his administration’s continued support to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, to continue delivering life-impacting projects in the territory.

Tinubu made the pledge in Abuja on Tuesday, while inaugurating the newly constructed Collector Road CN-8 (Asuquo Okon Street) and other connected roads in Dakibiyu District.

The road stretches from Arterial Road N-5 (Obafemi Awolowo Way) in Jabi District, to the Arterial Road N-1 (Olushegun Obasanjo Way) in Dakibiyu District.

Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Tinubu said this administration remained steadfast in its support for the FCT Administration.

He commended Wike’s efforts, “whose sense of urgency in the execution of projects is well known to Nigerians”.

Tinubu said: The capital of this nation must reflect the strength and dignity of all who call it home.

“We are determined to ensure that development knows no postcode, that governance does not discriminate, and that the dignity of our citizens is not defined by their geography.

“We will continue to provide the resources, policy backing, and institutional cooperation needed to ensure that projects like this are delivered on time and to the highest standards.

“Our goal is to build a capital that works for everyone.

“So, as we commission this road, let it be a symbol not just of connectivity but of commitment, not just of movement but of momentum”.

The President stressed that there was no louder proof of a government’s seriousness than the modernisation of its cities.

He added: “When a city works, when its roads are paved, when its lights are on, and when its traffic flows smoothly, it tells the world that its government is not just present but purposeful.

“Infrastructure, after all, is not just about concrete and steel. It is the most persuasive advertisement of leadership, of order, and of vision.

“A modern city inspires confidence, attracts investment, and most importantly, restores the dignity of those who call it home.

“That is why today’s occasion is not just about commissioning a road, it is a grand reassurance that cities must work for their people and that a functioning capital is the foundation upon which a functioning nation is built”.

The president said that, for too long, inadequate infrastructure has choked the aspirations of communities in Dakibiyu District.

He added that the newly constructed roads would breathe life into communities long waiting to be seen and long waiting to be served.

According to him, the dividends of the project are immediate and enduring.

“Communities will flourish, congestion will ease, and most critically, livelihoods will thrive.

“Shops will open, markets will thrive, children will return to school faster, emergency services will arrive quicker.

“This is what we mean when we speak of Renewed Hope; not lofty rhetoric, but practical impact; not policy for the sake of politics, but policy translated into progress.

“Every road we build, every bridge we complete, every community we connect is a firm step towards a more inclusive, more equitable Nigeria,” he said

In his remarks, Wike thanked Tinubu-led Federal Executive Council for approving the project which began in October 2024.

He explained that the project became necessary due to the terrible state of the road leading to several government institutions in the area.

“Your Excellency, I thank you for your continued support, and we will continue to solicit for more,” he said.

Similarly, the FCT Minister of State, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, noted that Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda” has continued to bring tangible transformation to the FCT.

Mahmoud described the project as, yet another testament to Tinubu administration’s unwavering commitment to infrastructural development and inclusive urban growth. (NAN)

Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi

World’s longest hairdressing marathon record holder, T-Jos secures Ighalo’s support
General News

World’s longest hairdressing marathon record holder, T-Jos secures Ighalo’s support

By Philip Yatai

Nigerian barber Joshua Aiyenuro, known as T-Jos, who completed the Guinness World Record for the Longest Hairdressing Marathon, has gained Super Eagles star Odion Ighalo’s support for his youth empowerment initiative.

T-Jos accomplished the marathon, which lasted 154 hours from June 10 to June 17, and met with Ighalo in Abuja on Sunday to gain his endorsement.

During the visit, T-Jos unveiled his ambitious plan to establish 1,000 barbing seats in every state of Nigeria, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.

This initiative aims not only to provide barbing services but also to offer skill acquisition opportunities for Nigerian youths.

Describing Ighalo as a major source of inspiration and support, T-Jos shared his journey, growing up as a street kid in Surulere, Lagos, with little hope of success.

He credited several mentors, including the Team Secretary of the Super Eagles, for helping him become the official barber of the National Team, where he eventually met Ighalo.

T-Jos expressed deep gratitude to God and to everyone who supported him throughout his journey.

In response, Ighalo lauded T-Jos for his resilience and determination, pledging his full support for the project.

He noted that T-Jos’ initiative aligned closely with his own philanthropic efforts in Ajegunle, Lagos, where his foundation supported talented young footballers, orphans, and widows.

Ighalo emphasised the importance of giving back to society and promised to assist T-Jos in any way possible to achieve his vision.

With Ighalo’s backing, T-Jos’ initiative is poised to make a significant impact by creating employment and skill-building opportunities for Nigerian youth.

The partnership between these two influential figures is expected to inspire others and drive meaningful change across the country.

As T-Jos embarks on this new chapter, his story stands as a powerful testament to perseverance and the transformative power of support and determination. (NAN)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Wike seeks support for Tinubu-led FG 
Metro

Wike seeks support for Tinubu-led FG 

By Philip Yatai

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Edited by Buhari Bolaji

Buratai urges Nigerians to support FG, counter terrorists, bandits’ propaganda
Defence/Security

Buratai urges Nigerians to support FG, counter terrorists, bandits’ propaganda

By Collins Yakubu-Hammer

The Former Chief of Army Staff, retired Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai has called on Nigerians to support the Federal Government’s policies and counter the propaganda of terrorists and bandits.

Buratai made the call during his remarks at the 2025 Voice of Nigeria (VON) Forum on Tuesday in Abuja.

The forum with the theme, “Renewed Hope Agenda: Citizen Engagement and National Security” was organised by VON with support from the Ministry of Information and National Orientation.

According to him citizens engagement and national security is very fundamental, stressing that such has not been formalised over the years.

He gave a narration on how Sweden coordinated its activities which enhanced citizens’ engagement, that led to a national force and that also gave birth to the Navy Seal we have in the world today.

“Citizens engagement is a force multiplier, be it intelligence or cyber activities that affect our nation’s strategic assets and installations. It is important to engage the citizens, especially vibrant youths who are into cyber security.

“It is good to engage them to dispel negative information and counter damaging propaganda by terrorists and bandits. Engaging them will also help in national security.

“Also, citizens should be engaged to support the policies of the government, to counter the propaganda of bandits and terrorists.

“This is because the terrorists and bandits are also in the media space and the social media space.

“And it is good to bring them down, deal with them responsibly so that they will understand that the whole nation is against banditry and terrorism, ” Buratai said.

He commended the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, describing it as “true renewed hope agenda under renewed hope administration”.

Buratai explained that unlike before, the Tinubu-led administration has brought in policies that have a long term effect that would be felt for the betterment of the country.

“Renewed Hope Agenda is fundamental. It is not like a palliative approach. This is a complete departure. And we hope that as time goes on, the impact will be felt and Nigeria will be much better.

“We need a better environment for economic activities to thrive and for the society to grow. I congratulate the Director-General of the Voice of Nigeria, Malam Jibrin Ndace for organising the forum,” Buratai said. (NAN)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

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