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Eid-ul-Fitr: Minister Calls for Protection of Women, Children

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The Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, has extended a message of compassion, inclusion and renewed commitment on Eid-ul-Fitr to Nigerians.

Marking the celebration, the Minister said her thoughts are with “the women, children, families, and the most vulnerable members of our society  for whom this Ministry exists.”

She noted that the holy month had reinforced key values, stating, “Ramadan has reminded us of the virtue of sacrifice and the power of compassion.”

The Minister urged citizens to sustain these virtues beyond the festive period, adding, “As we rejoice today, let us carry that spirit forward — ensuring that no mother goes unsupported, no child goes unprotected, and no vulnerable person is left behind.”

Addressing Nigerian families directly, she said, “To every Nigerian family celebrating today, and to those for whom this season brings hardship — you are seen, you are valued, and you are not forgotten.”

Reaffirming the Ministry’s mandate, she stated, “The challenges you face are not invisible to us. This Ministry will continue to stand as a voice for the voiceless, a shield for the vulnerable, and a source of hope for those who need it most.”

The Minister also offered prayers for the nation, saying, “May Allah SWT bless our nation, strengthen our families, and grant us the wisdom to build a society where every woman thrives, every child flourishes, and every home knows peace.”

 

 

Senate President Felicitates With Muslims At Eid-ul-Fitr

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As Muslims across the world celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr on Friday, the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has extended his warmest congratulations to the faithful in Nigeria, calling for compassion, forgiveness, and unity.

Senator Akpabio, in a congratulatory message signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Eseme Eyiboh, congratulated Muslims for the successful completion of the spiritual exercise of fasting, urging them to continue with the philanthropic practice of almsgiving and love for one another.

His words: “This joyous celebration reminds us of the profound values of compassion, forgiveness, and unity that Eid-ul-Fitr embodies. As you conclude this important exercise of fasting and spiritual reflection, be reminded of the importance of empathy, kindness, and generosity towards others, particularly the less privileged.

“May the spirit of Eid inspire us to cultivate compassion, promote understanding, and work towards a more just and harmonious Nigeria.

“On behalf of my family, constituents, the Senate, and indeed the 10th National Assembly, I sincerely wish President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and all Muslims a happy and blessed Eid celebration, and pray for peace, progress, and prosperity in Nigeria and globally”.

 

Eid-ul-Fitr: ACCI Calls For Unity, Resilience

The Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) has called for unity, resilience and sustained policy support for businesses, as the Muslim faithful mark the end of Ramadan and celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr. 

In a goodwill message, the President of ACCI, Dr Emeka Obegolu, extended felicitations to the business community in the Federal Capital Territory and its environs, congratulating Muslims on the successful completion of the fasting period.

He noted that the values demonstrated during Ramadan remain critical for business sustainability and economic growth.

The ACCI President commended the resilience and commitment of entrepreneurs despite prevailing economic challenges, urging them to remain focused and forward-looking.

“As we celebrate Sallah, let us renew our commitment to peace, progress, and prosperity. Together, with the right support and a shared vision, we can build a more vibrant and resilient economy,” he stated.

Dr Obegolu also emphasised the importance of collaboration and ethical business practices, noting that collective effort is essential for overcoming economic headwinds and unlocking new opportunities.

While acknowledging government efforts, he called for stronger support measures to improve the operating environment for businesses, including enhanced access to finance, infrastructure development and policies that promote ease of doing business.

The ACCI President further wished members of the Chamber and the wider business community a peaceful and prosperous Sallah celebration, reaffirming the Chamber’s commitment to advancing enterprise development and national growth.

 

 

Eid-ul-Fitr: Senate’s Deputy President Calls for Prayer

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The Deputy President of the Nigerian Senate, Senator Jibrin Barau, has rejoiced with Muslims in the country on the successful completion of the Ramadan Fast, urging all to sustain prayers for global peace.

The Sultanate Council has declared Friday, March 20, 2026, as the first day of Shawwal 1447AH, marking the end of the Ramadan Fast.

Senator Barau, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ismail Mudashir, prayed to Allah SWT to accept the supplications, prayers, and good deeds of the Ummah during the blessed Month.

He urged the Muslim Ummah to sustain the lessons of the Holy Month and to always reflect them in their daily activities, as enjoined by Prophet Muhammad (SAW).

He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his relentless efforts to stabilise Nigeria’s economy through ongoing reforms and policy interventions.

He also noted that President Tinubu has been up and doing in the fight against insurgency and banditry in the country, stressing that ” we must all continue to accord him all the support needed to achieve this.”

He expressed optimism that President Tinubu’s directive for security chiefs to relocate to Maiduguri, following Monday’s terrorist attacks, would help flush out the criminal elements.

The Deputy Senate President also said that the 2026 budget, currently under scrutiny at the National Assembly, will, upon passage and implementation, go a long way in addressing the country’s infrastructure gaps and other challenges.

While wishing Muslims a joyous and peaceful celebration, Senator Barau appealed to them to spread love and help the needy during and after the festive period.

“Glory be to Allah SWT for the successful completion of this year’s Ramadan, 1447AH. I wish to rejoice with fellow Muslims across the country. This is a period of joy and happiness, as well as a time to show appreciation to Almighty Allah. Let’s spread love and help people in need during and after the festive period,” he said.

Meanwhile, Senator Barau has disbursed N157m to his constituents as part of his Sallah gesture across the 13 LGAs of the Kano North Senatorial District.

The distribution, which commenced on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, was aimed at supporting constituents, particularly the less privileged, in celebrating the upcoming Eid-ul-Fitr with ease and dignity.

Over 60,000 bags have been distributed in Kano North and other parts of Kano State by the Deputy President of the Senate for Ramadan and Sallah.

Eid-ul-Fitr: President Tinubu Arrives in Lagos

Nigeria’s President, Bola Tinubu, arrived in Lagos early on Friday after a two-day historic visit to the United Kingdom.

The President will join other Muslim faithful later in the day to mark the celebration of Eid-ul-Fitr.

READ ALSO: Nigerian President Felicitates Muslims on Eid -ul-Fitr

The President and his wife, the First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, landed at the Presidential Wing of the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos, at 1.15 am.

He was received at the tarmac by the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Femi Hamzat, Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, the wife of the Governor, Dr. Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, and APC stalwarts.

READ ALSO: President Tinubu Departs UK After Two-Day State Visit

Revealing part of President Tinubu’s Eid-ul-Fitr programme in Lagos, a statement issued by the Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, stated that the President will pray at the Eid prayer ground of the Dodan Barracks on Friday morning.

In his Sallah message, President Tinubu enjoined Nigerian Muslims to rededicate themselves to the noble teachings of the holy month, which emphasises piety, empathy, and unity among humanity.

READ ALSO: President Tinubu Strengthens Nigeria–UK Ties

“We have a lot to draw from the noble lessons of Ramadan, especially at a time like this. We must continue to abide by the virtues of piety, selflessness, perseverance, kindness and compassion beyond this period,” he said.

Before his departure from London, President Tinubu met with United Kingdom Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer at Downing Street, where the two countries agreed on a deal to refurbish two major ports in Lagos, worth £746m.

READ ALSO: President Tinubu Affirms Nigeria-UK Vision For Growth, Security

The President described his state visit to the United Kingdom, the first by a Nigerian leader in 37 years, as “very thrilling and significant” in strengthening bilateral relations between the two nations.

“We can not forget the institutional development we have enjoyed over the years,” the Nigerian leader said at Downing Street ahead of bilateral talks.

He noted that discussions covered trade, the economy, climate change, terrorism, and wider global challenges.

President Tinubu and his wife were hosted by His Majesty, King Charles III, to a State Banquet at Windsor Castle, where he said that Nigeria and the United Kingdom shared more than just history.

“Our two nations share a vision of progress and resilience. Today, we continue that journey, committed to building a future rooted in partnership, mutual respect, and common values.’’

King Charles III and Queen Camilla earlier received the President and the First Lady at the Quadrangle at Windsor Castle. President Tinubu reviewed the guard of honour and was treated to a 42-gun salute by the King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery.

 

 

 

NUJ FCT Chair Joins NIPR, Pledges Ethical Leadership

The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, Grace Ike, has been formally inducted into the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), marking a significant milestone in her career in media and communication.

Speaking at the induction ceremony, Ike described the moment as both a personal achievement and a professional expansion of her long-standing commitment to strategic communication.

This moment marks not just a personal milestone, but a bridge between my roots in journalism and my forward march into the dynamic world of public relations,” she said.

With over two decades of experience in journalism and media advocacy, Ike has played a prominent role in advancing press freedom and championing the welfare of journalists. As NUJ FCT Council Chairman, she has led initiatives aimed at strengthening ethical standards and protecting the rights of media practitioners.

Reflecting on her journey, she emphasised the critical role of communication in nation-building.

These experiences have taught me that communication is the lifeblood of society, building trust, shaping narratives, and driving change,” she stated.

Ike noted that her induction into the NIPR reinforces her commitment to ethical and impactful communication across both journalism and public relations. She pledged to bring journalistic discipline and integrity into public relations practice, particularly at a time when misinformation and digital disruption pose significant challenges.

As I join the NIPR, I bring this journalistic rigour to public relations: a commitment to ethical storytelling, strategic engagement, and amplifying voices, especially those of women in leadership and media,” she added.

She stressed that public relations goes beyond image management to include reputation building, perception shaping, crisis management, and fostering meaningful relationships.

In an era of misinformation, PR professionals must lead with integrity, fostering dialogue that unites rather than divides,” Ike said.

Reaffirming her commitment to professional excellence, she pledged to uphold the institute’s charter, mentor emerging practitioners, and contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s communication landscape.

Together, let us redefine public relations as a force for good — transparent, inclusive, and transformative,” she said.

Ike also underscored the responsibility of communication professionals in safeguarding national image and credibility.

As custodians of national integrity, we must do all we can to protect and project Nigeria’s image positively,” she noted.

Other notable inductees at the event included former President of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Evelyn Onyilo; Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker, Leke Bayewu; and Ikenna Egwuatu, among others.

The induction ceremony attracted communication professionals, media stakeholders, and industry leaders, highlighting the growing synergy between journalism and public relations in advancing national development.

Nigerian President Felicitates Muslims on Eid -ul-Fitr

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended warm congratulations to Muslim faithful in Nigeria and across the World on the occasion of Eid ul-Fitr, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan.

In a goodwill message issued on Thursday by the Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu called on Muslims to renew their commitment to the nation and humanity.

He urged them to uphold the enduring values of piety, empathy, unity, and compassion cultivated during the fasting period.

The President emphasised the need for Nigerians to ‘sustain virtues such as selflessness, perseverance, kindness, and compassion beyond the holy month.’

We have a lot to draw from the noble lessons of Ramadan, especially at a time like this. We must continue to abide by the virtues of piety, selflessness, perseverance, kindness and compassion beyond this period,” he said.

President Tinubu further encouraged Muslims to extend acts of charity and goodwill to the less privileged, regardless of religious affiliation, as a demonstration of unity and shared humanity.

He also urged religious leaders to use the occasion of Eid-el-Fitr to offer prayers for lasting peace, stability, and prosperity in the country.

President Tinubu Departs UK After Two-Day State Visit

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has departed London after a two-day State Visit to the United Kingdom, underscoring Nigeria’s commitment to deepening diplomatic and economic relations with the UK.

During the visit, President Tinubu received full state honours at Windsor Castle and attended a state banquet hosted by King Charles III, highlighting the high-level engagements aimed at fostering cooperation in trade, investment, and other areas of mutual interest.

Both leaders reaffirmed the longstanding relationship between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, describing it as ‘a partnership of equals anchored on mutual benefit, shared prosperity, and strategic cooperation.’

In his remarks, the Nigerian Leader, President Tinubu emphasised that “the strength of Nigeria–UK relations lies not only in shared history and institutions, but in the people who continue to sustain and enrich both nations.”

He highlighted the contributions of Nigerians in the diaspora, particularly in critical sectors such as healthcare, underscoring their role in strengthening ties between both countries.

President Tinubu also held high-level talks with United Kingdom Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, at 10 Downing Street, where discussions focused on expanding trade ties, deepening economic cooperation, and addressing global challenges including climate change and terrorism.

The President described the visit, which was the first by a Nigerian leader to the UK in 37 years, as significant and forward-looking.

A major outcome of the visit was the securing of a £746 million financing agreement with UK Export Finance to support the modernisation of key port infrastructure in Lagos, including the Lagos Port Complex and Tin Can Island Port

The project is expected to enhance Nigeria’s trade capacity and boost economic growth.

President Tinubu also used the visit to project Nigeria as a nation of resilience and opportunity, affirming that “ongoing economic reforms are aimed at stabilising the economy, improving citizens’ welfare, and positioning the country for sustainable growth.”

The visit further featured engagements designed to strengthen diplomatic and cultural ties, including the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu’s participation in activities at Lambeth Palace.

The State Visit is widely seen as reinforcing Nigeria’s growing global relevance and its commitment to building strategic partnerships that support development, security, and shared prosperity.

FRSC Intensifies Traffic Management with Operation Safe Kugbo

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The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has launched a targeted enforcement initiative, “Operation Safe Kugbo,” aimed at improving traffic management and reducing road traffic crashes involving articulated vehicles along the busy Kugbo outbound corridor.

The Corps said the operation stems from the proactive intervention of the Corps Marshal, who recently set up a high-level tactical team to assess and tackle the recurring accidents along the AYA–Nyanya–Kugbo axis.

Describing the drive as a strategic response, the FRSC emphasised that the operation reflects the Corps’ commitment to translating critical assessments into decisive, on-ground actions to safeguard motorists and road users.

The initiative, conceived by the Corps Marshal himself and driven at the Sector level by the Sector Commander, CC FN Theman, is in line with the provisions of the National Road Traffic Regulations NRTR, particularly Section 223, as well as the FCT Traffic Regulations.

It also aligns with the Corps’ 2026 Corporate Strategic Goal One, which prioritises safer road environments through proactive and preventive measures.

The operation focuses on restricting the movement of articulated vehicles and heavy-duty trucks during peak traffic hours to mitigate congestion and associated risks.

FRSC reiterated its commitment to deploying data driven and people centered strategies to safeguard lives and property on Nigerian roads.

The Corps urged all road users, particularly operators of heavy duty vehicles, to continue to comply with traffic regulations, as sustained enforcement under Operation Safe Kugbo would remain a critical component of efforts to ensure safer and more efficient movement within the FCT.

Anambra Govenror Seeks Police Collaboration to Strengthen Security

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The Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo, has solicited closer collaboration from the Nigeria Police Force to strengthen security across the state.

He made the appeal during a courtesy visit by the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, to his office, part of activities marking the inauguration of his government’s second term.

Receiving the IGP and his team, Governor Soludo congratulated him and the Deputy Inspector-General on their appointments and reaffirmed his commitment to working with the police for the safety of the Anambra Residents.

He noted that their leadership comes at a critical time when enhanced security collaboration is essential for sustaining peace and economic development in the State.

Sustained Synergy

He further emphasised the importance of continuous synergy between the Nigeria Police Force and the State Government, assuring the Command of his administration’s support in strengthening security architecture and improving public safety across Anambra State.

He particularly, asked for a harmonious traditional leadership tussle in the state, especially in Awka, the state capital.

The state capital has been enmeshed in a decade-long leadership crisis which prompted state government intervention after internal peace mechanisms failed,” he stated.

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu represented by the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of the South East Zone, DIG Kenechukwu Onwuemelie and also an indigene of Awka the State Capital, expressed appreciation for the warm reception.

He reaffirmed commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to deepening strategic partnerships with the State Government and other security stakeholders to ensure the protection of lives and property.

The DIG was accompanied by the state Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu for the visit which underscored commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to strengthening collaboration with the State Government in ensuring sustained peace, security, and public safety across Anambra State and the South East region at large.