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Ex-Presidents Gowon, Obasanjo Join First Lady at 2025 Christmas Carols

Lateefat Ibrahim
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Ex-Presidents Gowon, Obasanjo Join First Lady at 2025 Christmas Carols

Former Nigerian Presidents, General Yakubu Gowon and Olusegun Obasanjo, have joined Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, to mark the 2025 Service of Nine Lessons and Carols at the Conference Centre of the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

The third annual event themed ‘Emmanuel: God With Us‘ and hosted by the First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu had a 100 man mass choir of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) dishing out renditions of harmonious carols that blended reverence and festivity.

The order of service began on a majestic note with the opening Hymn: Once in Royal David’s City, setting a tone of royal humility.

This flowed into the Bidding Prayer, invoking divine presence, followed by the jubilant Carol: Ding Dong! Merrily on High, its bells-like melody lifting spirits.

Former Head of State and elder statesman, General Yakubu Gowon read the First Lesson from Genesis 3:8-12, recounting humanity’s early encounter with divine accountability.

The choir responded with the triumphant Hark! The Herald-Angels Sing, proclaiming the angels’ announcement of Christ’s birth.

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo —making his first appearance at a state function in the Villa since President Bola Tinubu’s inauguration—read the Second Lesson from Genesis 22:15-18, emphasising God’s covenant of blessing through obedience.

The assembly sang Brightest and Best of the Sons of the Morning, a carol celebrating the star of Bethlehem.

The procession of readings continued with profound national representation. Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, read the Third Lesson from Isaiah 9:6-7, prophesying the Prince of Peace, after which the choir sang The First Noel the Angel Did Say.

Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, followed with the Fourth Lesson from Isaiah 11:1-4, evoking the righteous reign of the Messiah, paired with the serene Still the Night, Holy the Night!.

Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, read the Fifth Lesson from Luke 1:26-31, narrating the angel Gabriel’s visit to Mary. This was enriched by dual carols: O Come, O Come Emmanuel and Joy to the World; The Lord is Come, stirring anticipation of salvation.

President of the Court of Appeal, Hon Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, read the Sixth Lesson from Luke 2:4-7, detailing the humble birth in Bethlehem, as the choir intoned ‘While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks by Night’.

The Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (rtd), conveyed the Seventh Lesson from Luke 2:10-14, the ‘Angels’ joyous proclamation to the shepherds, followed by the tender Cradled in a Manger, Meanly.

Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun presented the Eighth Lesson from Matthew 2:9-12, on the wise men’s guided journey and worship, with the choir’s vibrant ‘Christians, Awake, Salute the Happy Morn’. urging awakening to the Savior’s light.

The host of the evening, First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, read the Ninth Lesson from John 1:1-14, affirming the ‘Word made flesh dwelling among us’. The congregation rose for the resounding Hymn: ‘O Come, All Ye Faithful’.

The service reached its spiritual zenith with the Prelate of the Methodist Church His Eminence Oliver Aba’s Exhortation, where he unpacked “Emmanuel” as God’s unwavering presence amid Nigeria’s storms—from inflation to insecurity.

He implored faith-fueled unity and selfless deeds as the nation’s pathway to renewal.

He emphasised Christ’s intimacy. “Jesus did not come to be far away from us. He came to be present. He came to be closer and involved in our everyday affair.

Prelate Aba assured the gathering that God’s presence endures through uncontrollable circumstances.

Echoing John 3:16, Aba framed the season as God’s selfless love. He called for meditation on Christ’s peace:

“As we rise from this place and go back home, what will you meditate on? Meditate that we are celebrating this evening… The peace that Jesus brought into this world, the love that he has portrayed.

He added that the love that God has demonstrated among men is enough example for all to follow.

 

 

 

Lateefah Ibrahim

Former President Jonathan Mourns Bayelsa Deputy Governor

Dominica Ijeoma Nwabufo
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Former President Jonathan Mourns Bayelsa Deputy Governor

Nigeria’s former President, Goodluck Jonathan has expressed shock over the death of the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo.

The former President described the late Ewhrudjakpo as a devoted public servant, a true patriot and a loyal steward of Bayelsa and Nigeria.

In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Ikechukwu Eze, Jonathan noted that throughout the late deputy governor’s years in public service, he served the people of Bayelsa with unwavering passion and earned widespread admiration.

The former President recalled Ewhrudjakpo’s hard work, commitment, and lifelong pursuit of knowledge, highlighting the distinction he brought to every office he held.

“From his service as commissioner, to the Senate, and later as deputy governor, Ewhrudjakpo was known for his depth, insightful grasp of governance, eloquence, and warm sense of humour,”Jonathan said.

He further described his passing as a profound loss to the government and people of Bayelsa, as well as to his family and all who worked closely with him.

“Senator Ewhrudjakpo will be remembered for his forthrightness, dedication to duty, and steadfast commitment to the development of Bayelsa,” he said.

The former President extended his heartfelt condolences to the Ewhrudjakpo family and the Government of Bayelsa, urging them to find solace in the impactful life of service he lived in devotion to his people.

He prayed for the peaceful repose of the late deputy governor’s soul.

 

NAN

US, Ukraine to Hold Ceasefire Talks in Berlin

Omowumi Samuel
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US, Ukraine to Hold Ceasefire Talks in Berlin

U.S. and Ukrainian delegations are set to hold talks on a ceasefire in Ukraine, before a summit with European leaders and President Volodymyr Zelenskiy in Berlin on Monday.

A U.S. official said President Donald Trump’s envoy Steve Witkoff and son-in-law Jared Kushner were travelling to Germany for talks involving Ukrainians and Europeans.

The White House had said on Thursday Trump would send an official to talks only if he felt there was enough progress to be made.

On Monday, German Chancellor, Friedrich Merz, is hosting Zelenskiy and European leaders for a summit in Berlin, the latest in a series of public shows of support for the Ukrainian leader from allies across Europe as Kyiv faces pressure from Washington to sign up to a peace plan that initially backed Moscow’s main demands.

READ ALSO: Ukraine Prepares New Peace Plan, Rejects Land Concessions 

Britain, France and Germany have been working in the last few weeks to refine the U.S. proposals, which, in a draft disclosed last month, called for Kyiv to cede more territory, abandon its ambition to join NATO and accept limits on its armed forces.

Merz said in a speech on Saturday that Europe had to brace for a fundamental shift in its relations with the U.S. while facing a growing threat from Russia.

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, after a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, said “peace is not far away” and that he hoped to discuss a peace plan with Trump.

Russia attacked two Ukrainian ports on Friday, damaging three Turkish-owned vessels including a ship carrying food supplies, Ukrainian officials and one ship-owner said, days after Moscow threatened to cut Ukraine off from the sea.

 

 

 

Reuters/Wumi

Yobe State Emerges Best in Nigeria’s PHC Awards

Kamila Bello
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Yobe State Emerges Best in Nigeria’s PHC Awards

Yobe State has emerged as the overall best performing state in Nigeria’s 3rd edition of the Primary Health Care (PHC) Leadership Challenge Awards.

It received $700,000 in recognition of its leadership in quality of care, community engagement, PHC coordination, and commodity availability.

The ceremony was held under the auspices of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) and development partners.

Speaking on behalf of the winning States at the PHC Challenge Fund event, Governor of Abia State, Alex Oti expressed appreciation to international partners, including the World Bank, UNDP, UNICEF, and other development organisations.

He said the achievements being celebrated would not have been possible without their sustained support.

Consistency and Purpose

Governor Oti reflected on the importance of consistency and purpose in public service, observing that meaningful progress is often driven by challenges that inspire excellence.

He noted that the introduction of healthy competition among states has significantly raised standards, encouraged innovation, accountability, and improved performance across the health sector.

He says, “When you know what you are doing and you keep doing it, someone will notice,” he said, adding that the Challenge Fund has helped states distinguish themselves through measurable results.”

Health Financing

Emphasising the importance of health financing, the Governor urged leaders to view spending on health not as a cost, but as a critical investment in human survival and national development.

He assured partners that States would continue to raise the bar in health outcomes and expressed gratitude on behalf of federal and states leaders.

Nigeria’s, Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Ali Pate, expressed deep gratitude for what he described as “years of dividends, achievements, and unwavering partnership” that have strengthened Nigeria’s health sector.

Reflecting on progress made over the past three years under the current administration, Pate noted that a critical sector-wide compact signed in 2002 outside the United States has grown into a cornerstone of Nigeria’s long-term health investment strategy.

“We have built a very strong sector. After 20 years of trading and collaboration, we are now seeing a total of 26% in earnings. These achievements reflect your leadership, the commitment of your teams, and the collective effort to improve the health and well-being of all Nigerians,” Pate said.

He emphasised that health must be understood as a serious and sustained investment, not an afterthought.

According to him, “A healthy person has a thousand wishes, but a sick person has only one to get well,” saying that health remains a universal aspiration and a foundation for national development and unity.

He argued that Nigeria cannot expect quality healthcare at minimal cost, urging all levels of government, civil society, and the private sector to join hands to deliver better outcomes.

On-going Initiatives

The Minister also highlighted ongoing initiatives set by the ECWC and partner agencies, including projects in biotechnology, food security, e-commerce, governance, and international services.

“These are tangible pillars that will support our journey toward a healthier population,” he said.

Dr. Pate acknowledged persistent challenges in affordability and access, particularly regarding the cost of drugs, medical treatment, and health insurance for children.

He noted that, “Although government intervention has helped reduce costs, it cannot succeed alone sustained investment is essential.”

National Investment

He announced a ₦3.6 billion national investment aimed at strengthening health systems and improving service delivery.

On resource allocation, Pate emphasised transparency saying, “We have seen improved revenue visibility not without gaps, but enough to show that a transparent system can extend services to more people.”

Looking ahead, Dr. Pate expressed optimism about Nigeria’s health trajectory for the next five years.

He called on the National Assembly to support increased allocations, targeting at least ₦3.5 million per state to improve university-based health initiatives.

He highlighted the role of university partnerships especially with the University of Java, which he described as crucial to expanding Nigeria’s skilled health workforce and reducing reliance on external assistance.

He also announced that Nigeria is set to receive its first world-class African-based accreditation for long-lasting health innovations, a milestone he said would position the country as a leader on the continent.

Pate commended international and local partners for fostering what he called a “perfect partnership” that will create jobs, expand industries, and bring sustainable growth to the Nigerian health sector.

“It is not just an investment, it is a foundation for generations,” he stressed.

Earlier, the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and governor of Kwara State, AbdulRazaq AbdulRahman representated by the Nasarawa State governor, Abdullahi Sule reaffirmed the collective commitment of State governments to strengthening Primary Health Care (PHC).

He described  the PHC Leadership Challenge Awards as a growing national tradition that reflects measurable progress and accountable leadership.

He commended the Federal Government’s strong support for subnational health reforms, noting that the event has become an integral part of Nigeria’s annual observance of Universal Health Coverage Day.

Increased Investments

Highlighting key achievements over the past three years, the NGF Chairman stated that States governments have significantly increased investments in health, with combined State health budgets rising from ₦831 billion in 2022 to ₦2.36 trillion in 2025, with 30 percent consistently allocated to Primary Health Care.

He commended the States recognised for outstanding performance and urging continued collaboration with development partners to advance Universal Health Coverage nationwide.

The Gates Foundation deputy Director for Health, Dr. Nkata Chuku, said Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to revitalize primary health care (PHC) received strong endorsement from the Gates Foundation at the Nigeria PHC Challenge Fund event.

Dr. Chuku recalled the origins of the reform journey, which began in 2019 when twelve Nigerian Governors convened in Seattle and endorsed the Seattle Declaration.

That commitment, he noted, has since translated into tangible reforms aimed at prioritising, financing, and strengthening PHC systems across the country.

Drawing on national surveys, high-frequency monitoring, and administrative data, Dr. Chuku noted that Nigeria’s 2025 performance landscape shows steady progress.

Also speaking at the event, UNICEF Country Representative, Ms. Wafaa Saeed, emphasised that primary health care was the foundation upon which Nigeria’s journey toward Universal Health Coverage and the Sustainable Development Goals must be built.

She noted that for millions of Nigerians, primary health care centres are not just the first point of care but the only access to essential health services.

Ms Saeed commended the Federal Government’s bold reforms under the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative launched in 2023.

She described the moment as pivotal, with renewed focus, clarity of direction, and ambition aligned to deliver measurable health outcomes.

Collaboration

Ms. Saeed reaffirmed UNICEF’s commitment to supporting Nigeria through close collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health, the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, and partners under the Sector-Wide Approach.

The Executive Director of NPHCD, Dr. Muyi Aina, highlighted strong advances driven under the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative (NHSRII) and the Sector-Wide Approach (SWAp).

Dr. Aina stated that 2,127 PHCs fully revitalised, with work ongoing in 1,671 more.

He said ₦52.5 billion has been disbursed to 8,309 PHCs through the reformed Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF 2.0).

“72,887 frontline health workers trained, with an ongoing target to train 120,000. A 22.5% rise in antenatal care attendance (ANC) in Q3 2025.

“7.4 million children reached under the Identify, Enumerate, Vaccinate (IEV) immunization strategy.”

Digital Dashboard

He disclosed that a live PHC Digital Functionality Dashboard has been launched nationwide.

Dr. Aina urged State governments to take ownership of PHC financing as donor support for the Challenge ends in 2026.

The event closed with renewed calls for States to increase PHC allocations to at least ₦3.5 trillion nationally by 2026, reduce dependency on external aid, and ensure that every Nigerian has access to quality primary healthcare through a system they trust.

IFC Renews Call for Action Against Gender-Based Violence

Iyabode Jane Aluko
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IFC Renews Call for Action Against Gender-Based Violence

The International Finance Corporation (IFC) of the World Bank Group has renewed its call for urgent, collective action to end gender-based violence (GBV) in Nigeria, describing safety as a prerequisite for economic growth and national development.

Speaking at the National Dialogue themed “United for Safety: A National Dialogue on Ending Gender-Based Violence in Nigeria,” recently organised by the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development in collaboration with the World Bank, the IFC Regional Director for Central Africa and Nigeria, Dahlia Khalifa, said the moment “could not be more timely or more urgent.”

Khalifa stated that “safety is a shared responsibility, and it’s a prerequisite for development.” She noted that violence “physical, emotional, digital or financial” continues to limit the choices and potential of women and girls.

“Globally, one in three women experience physical or sexual violence. That’s not just a statistic, it’s a reality that shapes access to education, jobs and participation in public life,” she said.

Highlighting the economic implications as severe, she explained that “the economy cost billions of dollars every year up to 3 per cent of GDP in some countries.” She added that in Nigeria, GBV “suppresses half of the country’s potential,” distorting labour markets, increasing health costs and reducing productivity.

Also Read: Nigerian Women to Rise Against Gender-Based Violence 

Khalifa cited IFC’s Respectful Workplace study, which estimates that violence and harassment cost Nigerian businesses billions of naira annually, leading to absenteeism, high turnover and lost productivity.

“These are not just numbers; they represent lost dreams, lost productivity and lost opportunities for all of us,” she said.

Beyond statistics, Khalifa highlighted ongoing interventions, noting that IFC is working with partners through its “Empower Finance Initiative” to help financial institutions redesign products to prevent financial abuse. She added that through the “Respectful Workplaces Programme”, IFC has partnered with over 100 businesses to tackle harassment, bullying and domestic violence. “Because safety at work is non-negotiable,” she emphasised.

Khalifa aligned the dialogue with the World Bank Group Gender Strategy, noting that over the past decade, operations to prevent and address GBV have increased tenfold, with 90 projects across more than 60 countries currently supporting survivors and strengthening protection systems.

She concluded by urging sustained commitment, calling for action across government, the private sector and civil society to unlock Nigeria’s full economic and development potential beyond the campaign.

“Safety benefits everyone. When women and girls live free from violence, societies are stronger, economies are more productive and opportunities expand for all,” she said.

Scale-Up GBV Interventions

In a formal announcement, Adaorie Udechukwu, IFC Gender and Economic Inclusion Programme Lead for West and Central Africa, outlined IFC’s Scale-Up GBV Interventions (SURGE) project.

According to Udechukwu, SURGE “is designed to strengthen Nigeria’s private sector to prevent and respond to gender-based violence and harassment in workplaces, supply chains and communities, while also addressing financial abuse through financial institutions.”

She explained that the two-year initiative “will work with companies, industry associations, regulators and trainers to embed survivor-centred approaches that improve wellbeing, trust, retention and productivity.”

Udechukwu noted that SURGE will work with 50 or more companies, industry associations, regulators and trainers, leveraging programmes such as Respect@Work, Empower Finance and the development of a National GBV Toolkit to guide employers in prevention and response.

“The project aims to translate policy commitments into practical actions that businesses can implement,” she said.

Grace Ike Champions Journalists’ Housing Initiative

Ademola Adepoju
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Grace Ike Champions Journalists’ Housing Initiative

The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, Comrade Grace Ike, has renewed calls for deliberate and sustainable housing solutions for media professionals, urging government and industry stakeholders to prioritise journalists as critical nation builders and guardians of public accountability.

Comrade Ike made the appeal while delivering a goodwill message at the Africa Housing Awards 2025, the housing industry’s end-of-year dinner and awards ceremony, organised by the Housing Advocates Network in collaboration with Housing TV Show.

Addressing an audience that included the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, the Minister of Finance, the Namibian Minister of Housing, the Managing Director of the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN) and other key industry leaders, the NUJ FCT Chairman commended the organisers for sustaining advocacy around affordable housing across Africa.

“I congratulate the organisers of this prestigious gathering of visionaries committed to sheltering Nigeria’s future,” Ike said. “This platform continues to amplify critical conversations on housing, particularly affordable housing, which remains a pressing national challenge.”

She paid tribute to the host and Chief Executive Officer of Housing TV Show, Barrister Festus Adebayo, describing him as an indefatigable housing advocate whose consistent support for journalism has helped amplify public-interest conversations.

Through platforms such as Housing TV Show, the concerns of journalists and ordinary Nigerians on housing have gained visibility,” she said, adding that the NUJ FCT Council values the partnership.

Comrade Ike also welcomed the Namibian delegation, noting that their presence underscored the importance of cross-border collaboration in developing innovative and inclusive housing solutions across the continent.

Focusing on journalists’ welfare, the NUJ FCT Chairman appealed to the Federal Government and housing finance institutions to design tailored homeownership schemes for media professionals.

“Journalists shape public discourse, promote peace and strengthen accountability.Yet many who serve the nation tirelessly lack stable homes. We urge institutions such as the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria to recognise journalists as partners in progress deserving of dignified housing,”she said

She disclosed that the NUJ FCT Council is repositioning its programmes to deepen engagement in housing advocacy and media empowerment, signalling readiness for stronger collaboration with government agencies and the private sector.

A major highlight of her address was a renewed call on the Minister of Housing and Urban Development to fulfil the long-standing commitment to establish a Journalists’ Village in the FCT.

“The promise of a Journalists’ Village ignited hope across newsrooms,” Ike said. “We make a renewed appeal that this commitment should be translated into action.”

She expressed optimism that with the support of the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria, the project could be realised by 2026, providing journalists with stable homes and the peace of mind to focus on ethical reporting and national development.

Concluding her remarks, Comrade Ike called for collective action to translate commitments into tangible outcomes.

“Our pens build nations,” she said. “By working together, we can turn promises into structures and advance progress through inclusive housing.”

Borno Records Hitch-Free LG Polls

Dominica Ijeoma Nwabufo
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Borno Records Hitch-Free LG Polls

The Borno State Independent Electoral Commission (BOSIEC) has successfully conducted Local Government elections across the state, with reports indicating a peaceful, orderly and hitch-free exercise.

Turnout was particularly impressive in Mafa Local Government Area, where voters trooped out in large numbers from the early hours of the day. They queued patiently at polling units to cast their votes without disruption.

Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum arrived early to cast his at his polling unit in his hometown of Mafa Local Government Area. The governor completed the process without delay.

While speaking to journalists shortly after casting his ballot, Governor Zulum expressed satisfaction with the conduct of the election, describing the process as free and transparent.

He commended the Borno State Independent Electoral Commission for what he termed “a credible exercise” and praised residents for their impressive turnout.

“This is a free and hitch-free process, and I appreciate the massive turnout of our people,” the governor said. “This is my hometown, and you can see the huge number of people that have come out to vote. This is the home of the APC, and this is just a local government election.”

Governor Zulum further expressed confidence in the ruling party’s future electoral prospects, stating that the All Progressives Congress (APC) remains firmly rooted in Borno State.

“By the grace of God, come 2027, APC will win the state and also win in the Federal level ” he added.

President Tinubu to Transform Institute into Global Digital Hub

Lateefat Ibrahim
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President Tinubu to Transform Institute into Global Digital Hub

The Nigerian government has reaffirmed its resolve to remodel the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) into a globally recognised centre of excellence that is digitally driven and  financially stable by 2030.

Vice President Kashim Shettima who stated this, said apart from serving as the most strategic platform for developing thinkers, reformers, and innovators in Nigeria, the institute’s Senior Executive Course represents a deliberate investment in the nation’s future leadership.

He said that successive courses would serve  as a meeting point for ideas that define policy, guide reform, and influence the course of national development.

VP Shettima stated these on Saturday when he represented President Tinubu at the Graduation Ceremony of Senior Executive Course 47 of NIPSS in Kuru, Plateau State.

“His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has been unequivocal in his commitment to supporting NIPSS in its transformation agenda, particularly its ambition to become a digitally driven, financially stable, and globally recognised centre of excellence by 2030. 

“We recognise the Institute’s critical role in shaping national policy and in building the leadership capacity required to navigate an increasingly complex world,” he said.

The Vice President noted that the support the Tinubu administration is giving to transform the institute exceeds funding, infrastructure and conducive research environment.

He said, “Our support must therefore go beyond funding, infrastructure, and a conducive research environment. It must ensure that NIPSS produces implementation ready policy papers and that its outputs are fully integrated into national decision making and execution frameworks.”

Vice President Shettima applauded the theme of the Senior Executive Course 47, “Blue Economy and Sustainable Development in Nigeria,” saying it is a reflection of the urgency with remarkable clarity, and “captures the reality that development, security, environmental stewardship, and social inclusion are inseparable.”

He however observed that the strength of the academic work does not depend only on its academic depth, “but in its insistence that policy must be practical, implementable, and firmly grounded in Nigeria’s realities.”

Commending the graduands, the VP said “We are grateful for your sustained and rigorous enquiries into the affairs of the maritime domain, enquiries that continue to provide the nation with insights it depends upon.

“Your latest research makes it clear that securing Nigeria’s waterways, coastlines, and inland communities goes far beyond safety alone. It speaks to livelihoods, food security, environmental protection, and national cohesion. When young people have productive work, when communities trust the state, and when institutions coordinate effectively, insecurity loses its oxygen,” he said.

Assuring that the Tinubu administration takes evidence based policymaking very seriously, the Vice President said he had already directed relevant ministries, departments, and agencies to give the report and recommendations of the graduands the close attention they deserve, both for immediate application and for long term strategic planning.

He thanked the Director General of NIPSS, Professor Ayo Omotayo, the management and staff of NIPSS, for what he described as their dedication, professionalism, and unflicnhing commitment, which he said has continued “to uphold NIPSS as the nation’s foremost centre for strategic thought and leadership development.”

He also hailed Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang and people of the state for continuing to support NIPSS by sustaining the peaceful environment that has enabled the Institute to function as a true national asset.

Earlier, Governor Mutfwang applauded the Nigerian government’s support to the institute, particularly in facilitating the hitch-free completion of its academic programmes as well as the execution of its other strategic projects and mandate.

Underscoring the importance of academic programmes at the institution, Governor Mutfwang noted that Nigeria stands to benefit immensely from the research output of the institution, particularly in broadening governance perspective and making valuable recommendations in addressing security across the country.

Chairman of the NIPSS Board, Ken Nnamani, said the pathways to addressing some of the nation’s challenges can be found in the research reports of research institutions across the country, urging authorities at the national and subnational levels to adopt products of the institute.

While charging members of the SEC 47 to be worthy ambassadors of the institution, Senator Nnamani expressed confidence in the commitment of the Tinubu administration to continue to support research endeavours at NIPSS, and implement key research findings of academic institutions across the country, including NIPSS.

In his welcome address, the Director General of NIPSS, Professor Ayo Omotayo, said the Vice President’s presence at the SEC 47 graduation ceremony underscores government’s recognition of the institute as the premier research institute for the advancement of Nigeria’s policy and governance framework.

Institute’s Achievements

Reeling out some of the institute’s achievements anchored on its 5-year strategic plan, Professor Omotayo said NIPSS has completed key institutional research endeavours in collaboration with international partners in key areas, including crisis anticipation and adaptive governance.

The DG said with the achievements, NIPSS has established itself as the premier institute for policy research aimed at rebuilding public trust and addressing emerging societal challenges.

Highpoint of the occasion was the formal presentation of certificates to the graduands by the Vice President and their induction into the Alumni Association of the National Institute (AANI).

Earlier on arrival at the institute, the Vice President inaugurated 4 units of 2-bedroom apartment built and donated to the institute by the SEC 47 participants.

Meanwhile, Senator Shettima has held an interaction with strawberry farmers in Plateau State, in furtherance to efforts by the Federal Government to support the production of fruits in the state.

He said the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains committed to transforming all segments of Nigeria’s agricultural value chain.

 

 

NITDA Launches Digital Literacy Awareness Campaign

Lateefat Ibrahim
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NITDA Launches Digital Literacy Awareness Campaign

The  National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has unveiled the Digital Literacy for All (DL4ALL) National Awareness Campaign in Kano and Bauchi States.

The initiative is expected to advance key elements of NITDA’s Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP 2.0), particularly the pillars on fostering digital literacy and cultivating talents, promoting inclusive access to digital infrastructure and services, building strategic partnerships and strengthening digital trust.

In Kano, the campaign commenced at the Zoo Road takeoff point, through Tarauni market, and ended at Farm Center GSM market which attracted significant public interest.

The Bauchi rally began at Pali Suite in the New GRA, proceeded to Government House Street, the Emir’s Palace, Wunti Market, Muda Lawal Market, GSM Village, Central Market, and concluded at Kano Road.

Participants carried banners, engaged vendors and shoppers, and demonstrated how mobile applications can improve daily life and business operations.

With lively participation from NYSC corps members, creative influencers, entertainers and market communities, the campaign blended awareness with engagement, making digital literacy more accessible and relatable to everyday people

This nationwide outreach continues to drive Nigeria toward achieving 70% digital literacy by 2027 in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and reinforces NITDA’s commitment to building a digitally empowered, innovative and inclusive nation.

 

Lateefah Ibrahim

Nigeria and Benin Republic Deepen Diplomatic Ties

Oyenike Oyeniyi
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Nigeria and Benin Republic Deepen Diplomatic Ties

Nigeria and the Republic of Benin have renewed their longstanding ties and set the stage for deeper bilateral cooperation during a high-level diplomatic engagement between senior officials of both countries.

The meeting, held in Abuja, Nigeria, brought together the Permanent Secretary of Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Dunoma Umar Ahmed, and the Deputy Permanent Secretary of Benin’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Fafinyidé Amour-Marie Ako, alongside senior diplomats and directors from both sides.

Ambassador Ako opened the dialogue by expressing Benin’s profound gratitude to Nigeria for its solidarity following the recent coup d’état in Benin.

He described Nigeria as a reliable neighbor whose leadership continues to shape peace and stability in West Africa.

“Benin is truly fortunate to have Nigeria as a neighbour – a nation whose support and leadership strengthen peace and stability in our region,” he said.

He further outlined Benin’s plans to dispatch a delegation to Nigeria to operationalise a new framework for enhanced cooperation.

Central to this initiative is a proposed diplomatic exchange programme aimed at fostering stronger institutional ties between the foreign services of both countries.

The programme seeks to promote deeper understanding of foreign policy priorities, encourage real-time information-sharing, and build long-term professional networks among diplomats.

Read Also: Senate Approves Presidential Request to Deploy Troops To Republic of Benin

President Tinubu Commends Troops For Foiling Benin Coup

Nigeria Condemns Benin Coup Attempt

Benin also requested Nigeria’s support in developing its nascent diplomatic training centre, with a particular interest in partnering with the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA).

According to Ambassador Ako, collaboration in areas such as bilateral and multilateral diplomacy, economic diplomacy, and negotiation skills would significantly strengthen Benin’s diplomatic capacity.

Similarly, Ambassador Ahmed reaffirmed Nigeria’s steadfast commitment to democracy, regional stability, and the enduring brotherhood shared with Benin.

He emphasised that both countries are bound by history, culture, and shared aspirations.

“Anything that affects Benin affects Nigeria,” he stated, assuring that Nigeria stands ready to deepen cooperation across diplomacy, security, and economic development.

He welcomed the proposed exchange programme and instructed relevant departments to fast-track discussions on The memorandum of Understanding.

Ambassador Ahmed noted that the initiative aligns with Nigeria’s foreign policy focus under the “4Ds” Democracy, Development, Demography, and Diaspora, the central thrust of the present administration.

He added that Nigeria’s on going interstate knowledge-sharing programmes present opportunities that can be extended to strengthen cooperation with Benin.

The Permanent Secretary also encouraged collaboration with key institutions such as the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR), highlighting leadership development, conflict prevention, and capacity-building as critical areas for mutual benefit.

He affirmed that Nigeria possess the expertise and human resources to support Benin in institutional strengthening and sectoral reforms.

Economic Cooperation

On economic cooperation, Ambassador Ahmed underscored the growing importance of intra-African trade amid evolving global economic dynamics.

He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to advancing bilateral trade agreements and pledged to expedite Nigeria’s submission of stakeholders required for the joint MOU process.

Benin additionally requested Nigeria’s support in mobilising its business community for the 2026 Cultural and Business Forum scheduled to hold on 26 January in Abuja and 28 January in Lagos.

The engagement reaffirmed the determination of Nigeria and Benin to strengthen their deep-rooted relationship and to build a more strategic, institutionalised, and mutually beneficial partnership across diplomacy, trade, culture, and security.

 

 

Oyenike Oyeniyi

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