Voice of Nigeria Broadcasting Service

NAWOJ Lagos Celebrates NUJ’s first female Deputy National President

Nigeria

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January 20, 2026

NAWOJ Lagos Celebrates NUJ’s first female Deputy National President

The Executives and some members of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Lagos Chapter, have paid homage to the Deputy National President of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Dr. Abimbola Abosede Oyetunde, at her Broadcasting House office in Ikoyi, Lagos.

The first female Deputy National President of the NUJ was recently appointed Bureau Chief for FRCN Network and Deputy Director of News at the Directorate Headquarters Annex in Ikoyi, Lagos, in recognition of her trailblazing achievements and commitment to the welfare of women in media.

Extolling Dr. Oyetunde’s pivotal role in protecting the rights of journalists in Nigeria, particularly those of women journalists, and her impactful years of service at the FRCN, the Chairperson of NAWOJ Lagos, Mrs Jumoke Johnson, said: “We thank her for being a torchbearer for women journalists in the Union and for being an example of what is possible.”

Johnson added that NAWOJ Lagos is proud to have Dr. Oyetunde residing in the chapter and hoped to continue to benefit from her support and mentorship. She also recalled that Dr. Oyetunde served as General Manager of Bronze FM, Benin City, for almost a decade.

Using the opportunity, Johnson briefed the NUJ Deputy National President on the activities and plans of NAWOJ for the new year, aimed at realising the Association’s mission and vision.

Responding, Dr. Oyetunde expressed appreciation to Nawojians for the honour and offered advice on additional channels and initiatives to strengthen the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, Lagos Chapter. She concluded by thanking the delegation and praying for the success of the Association in the new year.

Borno Government Reaffirms Support For MNJTF Peace Operations

Nigeria

Iyabode Jane Aluko

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January 20, 2026

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Borno Government Reaffirms Support For MNJTF Peace Operations

The Borno State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) in executing its mandate to restore peace and security across the Lake Chad region.

Governor Babagana Zulum gave the assurance while hosting the Force Commander of the MNJTF, Major General Saidu Tanko Audu, during a familiarisation visit to the state following his assumption of command on 13 November 2025.

According to a statement by the Acting Chief Military Public Information Officer of the MNJTF, Lieutenant Colonel Iweha Ikedichi, the Governor congratulated Major General Audu on his appointment and commended security agencies for their sustained support, which he said underpins the relative peace and development currently being experienced in Borno State.

Governor Zulum recalled previous logistical and operational support provided by the Borno State Government to security agencies, including contributions to the success of Operation Lake Sanity 1 and 2, the MNJTF’s flagship counter-terrorism operations.

He described the MNJTF Force Commander as a proactive and principled senior officer, expressing confidence that his leadership would further strengthen the effectiveness of the multinational force.

The Governor urged the MNJTF to intensify operations in the islands and tumbuns of the Lake Chad Basin, describing the areas as ungoverned spaces often exploited by terrorists as temporary sanctuaries during military pressure.

Also Read: Nigerian Government Deploys 7,000 Forest Guards to Tackle Banditry

He specifically called for enhanced deployments on the Nigerian side of the Lake Chad islands to deny terrorists freedom of movement and safe havens from which they launch attacks on civilian communities.

Governor Zulum assured the Force Commander of the state government’s continued support for MNJTF operations, despite competing demands on limited state resources.

Earlier, the Force Commander of the MNJTF, Major General Saidu Tanko Audu, said the visit was aimed at engaging the Borno State Government as a key stakeholder within the Lake Chad Basin Commission Governors Forum.

He appreciated the consistent support previously extended by the Borno State Government to MNJTF operations and appealed for sustained collaboration.

Major General Audu disclosed that he has developed strategies to confront Boko Haram terrorists and other non-state armed groups by taking the fight directly to their enclaves.

He assured the state government that MNJTF operations would align with its grand strategic direction to achieve lasting peace and security in the Lake Chad region, adding that the end of Boko Haram’s insurgency was increasingly within sight.

Kano State Moves to Fast-Track Gaya Polytechnic Take-Off

Nigeria

Lateefat Ibrahim

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January 20, 2026

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Kano State Moves to Fast-Track Gaya Polytechnic Take-Off

The Chairman of the Implementation Committee for the establishment and takeover of Gaya Polytechnic and immediate past Vice-Chancellor of a Nigerian university, Professor Mukhtar Atiku Kurawa has provided an update on the progress and vision behind the proposed institution in Gaya Local Government Area of Kano State.

According to Professor Mukhtar Atiku Kurawa, significant milestones have been achieved since December 3, when the Executive Governor of Kano State formally flagged off construction at the permanent site during a project commissioning visit to Gaya.

The governor not only laid the foundation but also directed contractors to give the polytechnic top priority, demonstrating strong political will behind the project.

One of the major developments, he explained, is the expansion and relocation of the permanent site.

While the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) requires a minimum of 50 hectares for a public polytechnic, the governor approved the acquisition of a much larger landmass almost four times the minimum requirement.

The site has also been moved about 100 metres away from the main road for safety reasons, stretching roughly two kilometres along the road and one kilometre inward.

This expansion, however, necessitated a complete revision of the physical master plan, a mandatory requirement for NBTE accreditation.

As a result, consultants must redesign the master plan after fresh surveys are completed by the Surveyor General.

Compensation processes for affected farmers have already begun through the Ministry of Lands and Housing, a step Professor Kurawa said was essential to ensure community support and smooth implementation.

Despite these adjustments causing delays, the committee has continued to work “around the clock.”

Engagements with NBTE officials have been encouraging, with the Board expressing satisfaction over Kano State’s decision to establish an additional polytechnic, noting that the state currently has only one, compared to states like Ogun with multiple institutions.

To fast-track academic activities, the government has also approved a temporary take-off site.

Renovation work is ongoing to prepare facilities that will allow the polytechnic to begin operations before the permanent campus is completed.

Initial programmes proposed include Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Business Administration, and Accountancy courses that are less capital-intensive but meet NBTE requirements for a balanced academic structure.

Professor Kurawa disclosed that academic and staffing master plans have already been drafted, including arrangements for redeploying existing government staff and recruiting new personnel in line with NBTE guidelines.

Discussions have also been held with the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) to ensure that admissions follow the Central Admission Processing System, preventing future complications for students.

On the likely take-off date, he said admissions may begin around the middle of 2026, using results from the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination, provided accreditation and facility preparations are completed as planned.

Looking ahead, Professor Kurawa described Gaya Polytechnic as a future-focused institution built on digital infrastructure and renewable energy. Plans include solar-powered facilities, smart classrooms, online portals for admissions and results, and collaboration with the Kano State Information Technology Development Agency (KASIDA).

The polytechnic will also incorporate skills certification programmes for artisans and craftsmen under the National Skills Qualification Framework.

“Our vision is to produce job creators, not job seekers,” he said, explaining that the institution is designed to serve not only Gaya and neighboring local governments, but Kano State, Nigeria, and even international students.

He urged the public to remain patient, assuring that the delays are a result of deliberate efforts to build a standard, sustainable, and globally competitive polytechnic that will serve generations to come.

Lateefah Ibrahim

No Going Back On Greenland – President Trump

World

Jide Ibitoye

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January 20, 2026

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No Going Back On Greenland – President Trump

U.S. President Donald Trump said on Tuesday there was “no going back” on his goal to control Greenland, refusing to rule out taking the Arctic island by force and rounding on allies as European leaders struggled to respond.

Trump’s ambition – spelled out in social media posts and mock-up AI image jis – to wrest sovereignty over Greenland from fellow NATO member Denmark has threatened to blow apart the alliance that has underpinned Western security for decades.

It has also threatened to reignite a trade war with Europe that rattled markets and companies for months last year, though Trump’s Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent pushed back against what he called “hysteria” over Greenland.

“As I expressed to everyone, very plainly, Greenland is imperative for National and World Security. There can be no going back — On that, everyone agrees!” Trump said after speaking to NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.

To drive home the message, Trump posted an AI image of himself in Greenland, holding a U.S. flag. Another showed him speaking to leaders next to a map showing Canada and Greenland as part of the United States.

Separately, he leaked messages including from French President Emmanuel Macron, who questioned what Trump was “doing on Greenland”. Trump, who has vowed to impose tariffs on countries that stood in his way, had earlier threatened to hammer French wines and champagnes with a 200% tariff.

MACRON WANTS ‘RESPECT’ NOT ‘BULLIES’
After Trump’s broadsides, European leaders took to the stage at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, attempting to project the continent’s strength, though it was not immediately clear how the European Union will eventually respond.

Macron said the EU should not bend to “the law of the strongest”.
“We do believe that we need more growth, we need more stability in this world, but we do prefer respect to bullies,” Macron told the meeting in Davos, which Trump is due to attend later this week.

Some spoke of the importance of reducing European dependence for security on the United States. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described a “seismic change” that made it necessary to build a “new form of European independence”.

The EU has threatened to hit back against the U.S. with trade measures. One option is a package of tariffs on 93 billion euros ($109 billion) of U.S. imports that could automatically kick in on February 6 after a six-month suspension.

Reuters.

House Urges Journalists to Simplify Digital Legislation

Politics

Iyabode Jane Aluko

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January 20, 2026

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House Urges Journalists to Simplify Digital Legislation

The House Committee on Media and Public Affairs has urged Nigerian journalists to simplify complex digital governance and legislative issues into clear, citizen-friendly reports that promote public understanding and trust.

The call was made at a joint retreat for the House of Representatives Press Corps and Media Aides, organised in collaboration with Paradigm Initiative, to strengthen accurate, ethical, and insightful reporting on digital- and technology-related legislation.

The House reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the digital rights of Nigerians through fair and well-considered digital legislation. It also restated its dedication to accurate and innovative public communication as a means of strengthening institutional trust and improving service delivery across the country.

While declaring the workshop open, the House Spokesperson and Chairman of the House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Mr Akin Rotimi, stressed that democracy works best when citizens are properly informed.

He noted that access to clear and reliable information is essential for meaningful public engagement and accountability.

“Our vision is clear: to position the 10th Assembly as The People’s House, a Parliament that is trusted, responsive, and results-driven. Our mission is equally clear: to deliver timely, factual, and innovative public communication that strengthens institutional credibility and supports effective service delivery.

“This retreat reflects a deliberate commitment by the House Committee on Media and Public Affairs to invest in professionalism, ethics, competence, and institutional coherence in legislative communication.

“It reflects a broader reform journey guiding the work of the House Committee on Media and Public Affairs. Democracy functions best when citizens are well informed, when institutions communicate responsibly, and when the media ecosystem upholds professionalism and public interest.

“As the volume of digital-related legislation before the National Assembly continues to grow, the responsibility to report such matters with insight, balance, and technical understanding also grows.

“This gathering is timely and strategic. The legislative environment now operates within complex questions of digital governance, data protection, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, online safety, and digital rights.

“The responsibility to interpret these issues accurately and present them clearly to the Nigerian people rests on two key groups represented here today: the accredited Press Corps covering the National Assembly and the media teams that support members and House leadership,” Mr Rotimi said.

He added that the retreat reflects a deliberate commitment by the House Committee on Media and Public Affairs to invest in professionalism, ethics, competence, and institutional coherence in legislative communication.

On his part, the Chairman of the House Press Corps, Comrade Gboyega Onadiran, commended the organisers for recognising the importance of training journalists.

Also Read: Minister Urges Media to Support Government’s Security Efforts

He stressed that journalism has moved beyond headlines, noting that the media holds the key to public understanding of legislative issues.

“The media now work in a digital ecosystem shaped by data, algorithms, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and online rights. How we understand these issues and how we explain them to the Nigerian public matters deeply.

“As members of the Press Corps, our duty is not just to report what happens in the House, but to make the work of Parliament understandable, credible, and relevant to citizens. This, we have been doing patriotically and ethically,” Mr Onadiran said.

The training was organised with support from Paradigm Initiative Nigeria (PIN), with its Executive Director, Mr Gbenga Sesan, taking participants through sessions on Reporting Digital Legislation, the State of Digital Rights in Nigeria, and Mapping Digital Legislation in Nigeria, among others.

He said that Nigeria’s desire to achieve a trillion-dollar economy cannot be attained without digital security. He also noted that the media and youths in Nigeria can make digital communication an emergency issue.

While speaking on mapping digital legislation in Nigeria, Mr Sesan gave an overview of the Nigeria Data Protection Act, AI and Innovation Bills, Digital Rights and Freedoms Bills, National Digital Economy and e-Governance Bill, Cybercrimes Acts amendments, and the Child Online Access Protection Bill.

He explained that child protection laws affect adult access, as they can lead to “overprotection of documents/information in the guise of child protection.”

French President Offers to Host G7 Meeting

World

Jide Ibitoye

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January 20, 2026

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French President Offers to Host G7 Meeting

French President Emmanuel Macron has told U.S. President Donald Trump that he did not understand Washington’s position on Greenland, while offering to host a G7 meeting that would include Russia and other countries, according to screenshots of messages posted online by Trump.

In the messages, Macron suggested that Ukrainians, Danes, Syrians and Russians could be invited to take part on the margins of the G7 meeting scheduled for Thursday. He also invited Trump to have dinner with him in Paris.

A source close to the French president confirmed that the messages shared by Trump were authentic. Any response from Trump was not included in the screenshots posted early Tuesday on his Truth Social account. Requests for comment from the White House and Macron’s office were not immediately answered.

Addressing Trump as his “friend,” Macron said in the messages that he was “totally in line” with the U.S. president on Syria and expressed confidence that they could achieve “great things” on Iran.

Trump’s post came amid rising tensions between Washington and European leaders over Greenland. European Union leaders are scheduled to meet in Brussels on Thursday for an emergency summit following Trump’s threats to impose new tariffs on several European countries over his demand to acquire the territory.

Macron has described the threat of tariffs linked to Greenland as unacceptable.

The Truth Social post appeared hours after Trump said he would impose a 200 per cent tariff on French wines and champagnes, a move he said would pressure Macron to join his Board of Peace initiative aimed at resolving global conflicts.

It was not immediately clear when Macron sent the messages.

Macron is due to attend the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, on Tuesday before returning to Paris later the same day, according to officials at the Elysee Palace. They said there were no plans to extend his stay to Wednesday, when Trump is expected to arrive in Davos.

In December, Macron said Europe may need to resume direct talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin if U.S.-led efforts to broker a peace deal in Ukraine fail. Last week, he also said France now provides about two-thirds of intelligence shared with Ukraine, largely replacing the United States.

Reuters

Abia State: Deputy Speaker Commissions Rehabilitated Electricity Project

Nigeria

Iyabode Jane Aluko

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January 20, 2026

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Abia State: Deputy Speaker Commissions Rehabilitated Electricity Project

The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mr Benjamin Kalu, has commissioned a rehabilitated power line project that has restored electricity to Bende Federal Constituency in Abia State, ending twenty-three years of darkness in the area.

The project, which also reconnected Uzuakoli and Ozuitem to the national grid, is expected to revive small-scale businesses, cottage industries, and factories in the region.

Speaking during the commissioning in Bende, the Deputy Speaker, who represents the Federal Constituency, said the towns and communities had relied on solar electricity and generators since 2002 to power homes and run businesses, expressing his joy at the new development.

Mr. Kalu, however, urged the communities to protect the new electrical installations, warning that no acts of vandalism would be tolerated.

He called on the Presidents-General of autonomous communities, traditional rulers, and youths to form a vigilante group to safeguard the assets, reiterating that vandalism would not be tolerated.

He emphasised that the development will bring economic benefits and improve the overall quality of life in Bende, Uzuakoli, and Ozuitem.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Kalu said:
“We thank God for this worthy development. Darkness has vanished in Bende. In the last 24 years, it’s been either solar or a generator. I have tried in the past to make this happen; unfortunately, it failed, but this one, I insisted, it must work even though it cost us so much.

“I therefore asked the community to ensure that this asset is well protected to avoid vandalisation.

“I am happy to say that this will revive small-scale businesses in Bende. Cottage industries and factories will also spring up.

“The Presidents-General of all the autonomous communities, the traditional rulers, and the youths of these communities should form a vigilante group to protect the installations and make Bende safer. We will not take it lightly with anyone caught vandalising the assets.”

It will be recalled that, in the penultimate week, the Deputy Speaker also commissioned a 1000KVA solar-powered electricity system he built in Bende headquarters to provide light to the five communities that make up the town.

Paediatricians Urges Action on Nigeria’s Child Health Goals

Health

Ejiofor Ezeifeoma

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January 20, 2026

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Paediatricians Urges Action on Nigeria’s Child Health Goals

The Paediatric Association of Nigeria (PAN) has called for renewed, coordinated action to accelerate progress on child health and wellbeing.

Speaking in Abeokuta, Ogun State, ahead of the Association’s 57th Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference (PANConf Gateway 2026), the President of the association, Dr. Ekanem Ekure said preventable newborn and under-five deaths remain unacceptably high, with more than 800 Nigerian families losing a newborn every day.

The conference, scheduled for January 21–23, 2026, will convene pediatricians, policymakers, development partners, technology innovators, and civil society leaders from across Africa and beyond.

Dr. Ekure noted that Nigerian children continue to die from malaria, pneumonia, diarrhoea, measles, diphtheria and malnutrition — conditions the world already knows how to prevent and treat — while millions remain zero-dose or under-immunised, placing them at lifelong risk.

While acknowledging ongoing efforts by government and development partners, she said gaps in access to quality healthcare, clean water, sanitation, nutrition, education and child protection, particularly in rural and vulnerable communities, are slowing progress towards SDG-3.

According to her, the theme of PANConf Gateway 2026, “Achieving SDG-3 and Child Health Care through Innovative Funding Models and Technology-Driven Solutions,” reflects the need for practical, scalable responses.

She said technology and smarter financing must now be central to solutions, citing digital immunisation tracking, disease surveillance, telemedicine, and data transparency, alongside public-private partnerships, blended finance and outcome-based funding to complement government investment.

“Technology is no longer a luxury; it is central to effective child healthcare delivery,” Dr. Ekure said “Digital tools can strengthen immunisation tracking, disease surveillance, telemedicine, research, data transparency and accountability.

“Government spending on child health must increase, but it must be complemented by innovative financing models tied to measurable child health outcomes.”

The Paediatric Association of Nigeria, the country’s foremost professional body for child health specialists, is dedicated to improving the survival, growth, and development of every Nigerian child.

Its key goals and objectives include: · Advancing high-quality paediatric practice, research and training

· Advocating for strong child-centred health policies and increased investment in child health

· Promoting universal immunisation and equitable access to essential healthcare services

· Strengthening child protection, nutrition, and early childhood development systems Driving innovation and partnerships to accelerate progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals

Through its annual scientific conference, the Association provides a global platform for knowledge exchange, policy dialogue, and collaborative solutions to Nigeria’s child health challenges.

Jigawa Governor Reaffirms Commitment to Human Capital Development

Nigeria

Iyabode Jane Aluko

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January 20, 2026

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Jigawa Governor Reaffirms Commitment to Human Capital Development

The Jigawa State Governor, Umar Namadi, has reiterated that human capital development remains a top priority of his administration.

He noted that meaningful and sustainable development can only be achieved through consistent investment in people, strong values, and institutional competence.

The Governor made this assertion at the closing ceremony of a five-day life skills development training organised by the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation in partnership with the Jigawa State Government, held in Dutse.

According to Governor Namadi, the training reflects his administration’s determination to build a disciplined, skilled, and values-oriented workforce capable of addressing emerging social and economic challenges. He stressed that empowering citizens with relevant skills is key to reducing poverty, expanding economic opportunities, and improving livelihoods.

“Our government has placed human capital development at the centre of its policies because a knowledgeable and skilled population is the foundation of sustainable growth

“By supporting initiatives such as this, we are unlocking the potential of our people and positioning them to contribute effectively to the progress of Jigawa State.” The Governor stated

Also Read: Deputy Speaker Calls For Investment in Human Capital Development

He explained that youth empowerment through skills acquisition and entrepreneurship has remained a major focus of his administration, with deliberate investments aimed at tackling unemployment and promoting self-reliance.

He cited the interventions of the Jigawa State Youth Empowerment and Employment Agency, which has implemented vocational and entrepreneurial training across key sectors including ICT, agriculture, livestock production, and micro, small, and medium-scale enterprises.

Governor Namadi emphasised that leadership and public service must be guided by integrity, accountability, and a strong sense of responsibility. He urged participants to regard the training as a platform for service and personal transformation rather than merely an academic exercise.

He encouraged beneficiaries to apply the life skills gained such as leadership, critical thinking, effective communication, and adaptability in their professional and community engagements, adding that real development begins when knowledge is put into practice.

The Governor further revealed that more than 400,000 youths and women across the state have benefited from various empowerment and skills development programmes initiated by his administration through strategic partnerships and targeted interventions. He added that capacity building, particularly within the civil service, remains a critical component of effective governance.

Governor Namadi commended the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation for its consistent efforts in promoting leadership development and human capital advancement across Northern Nigeria, describing the foundation as a dependable partner in fostering ethical leadership.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Foundation, Alhaji Babangida Aliyu (Talban Minna), said the training was inspired by the enduring leadership values of the late Sir Ahmadu Bello, whom he described as an icon of integrity and selfless service.

“The programme was designed to remind participants that leadership is a test of character and that accountability is a duty owed to both the people and God,” he added.

Details of the engagement are contained in a press statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Hamisu Mohammed Gumel.

MPB Chairman Hails Recognition of Nigeria’s Military Veterans

Nigeria

Iyabode Jane Aluko

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January 20, 2026

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MPB Chairman Hails Recognition of Nigeria’s Military Veterans

The Chairman of the Military Pensions Board (MPB), Air Vice Marshal Mikail Abdulraheem, has described the recognition of Nigeria’s military veterans as a symbolic tribute to their distinguished service and sacrifices.

He made the remarks while paying a courtesy visit to Master Warrant Officer Michael Etuwe, former orderly to the late Head of State, General Murtala Ramat Muhammed, in Masaka, Nasarawa State.

The visit was intended to honour Master Warrant Officer Etuwe, whose close service to General Muhammed places him among the few living witnesses to a defining period in Nigeria’s national history.

Abdulraheem noted that such engagements reflect the nation’s enduring gratitude to veterans whose dedication contributed significantly to the defence and stability of the country.

Master Warrant Officer Etuwe served as an orderly to General Muhammed during a critical era of Nigeria’s governance and military leadership, providing him with a unique perspective on the operations and personal discipline of one of the country’s most revered leaders.

Recalling a historic moment, Etuwe was on duty and seated in the official vehicle on 13 February 1976, when General Muhammed was assassinated in Lagos. His presence during the incident makes him one of the few surviving witnesses to a defining event in Nigeria’s political and military history.

Also Read: Legion Chair, Military Pension Board Meet On Veterans’ Welfare

The courtesy visit was attended by representatives of various veterans’ associations, alongside members of the Ministerial Committee on Veterans’ Welfare. Stakeholders commended the MPB Chairman for his leadership style and unwavering commitment to veterans’ affairs, describing the engagement as timely and deeply reassuring to the retired military community.

In his remarks, Pa Michael Etuwe expressed profound delight at the visit, describing it as a rare and meaningful honour. He conveyed his heartfelt appreciation to the Chairman of the Military Pensions Board and members of the veterans’ community for the recognition and show of solidarity.

He stressed that the sacrifices of veterans remain an enduring pillar of Nigeria’s peace, unity and national development.

The visit concluded in an atmosphere of reflection and mutual respect, reinforcing the shared responsibility of preserving the legacy, history and wellbeing of those who served the nation with courage, loyalty and selfless dedication.

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