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Nigeria, China Deepen Ties Through Cultural Festival

Peace Piak Kanu
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Nigeria, China Deepen Ties Through Cultural Festival

Nigeria and China have strengthened their diplomatic ties through the 2025 Culture and Tourism Festival in Abuja, where both nations showcased music, dance, fashion, and art as symbols of unity, friendship, and economic cooperation.

The People’s Republic of China underscored cultural heritage as a vital bridge connecting nations, tribes, and tongues towards enhanced development.

Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Yu Dunhai, represented by his deputy, Zhou Hongyou, said the two nations share deep historical roots and highlighted their growing cultural exchanges.

“China and Nigeria are both ancient civilisations with profound historical and cultural heritage. From the Great Wall to the Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove, from Mount Tai to Zuma Rock, our world-class cultural and natural landmarks have become vital bridges connecting our peoples and deepening our friendship,” Zhou said.

He noted that cultural and tourism exchanges between the two countries are expanding rapidly, with more Nigerians visiting China and more Chinese visiting Nigeria.

“China’s cultural diversity has shaped its rich history, with over 5,000 years of history and 56 ethnic groups. As President Xi Jinping said, exchanges and mutual learning make civilisations richer and more colorful. That is exactly what today’s festival is all about,” he added.

While expressing admiration for Nigerian culture, Zhou praised the performances, saying they highlighted the creativity and inclusiveness of both countries’ heritage.

For his part, Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, represented by Ambassador Bolaji Akinremi, stressed that cultural exchange remains a unifying force.

“The Nigeria-China Culture and Tourism Festival offers a unique opportunity to appreciate one another’s values, traditions, and creativity. Our histories, languages, and heritage may differ, but cultural exchange binds people together, fosters mutual respect, and enriches our societies.

He added that “Nigeria’s cultural landscape, from the Argungu International Fishing Festival to the Ofala Festival, stands among Africa’s richest, just as China’s millennia-old traditions continue to inspire the world.”

The festival, organised by the China Cultural Centre in Nigeria in collaboration with the African Fashion Festival Vogue and the Chinese Tourism Promoters Initiative, featured music, dance, art exhibitions, fashion, and culinary displays.

Diplomats from Cuba, Tunisia, Malaysia, Vietnam, the United States, Japan, and South Korea also attended the event, further underscoring its global significance.

PIAK

President Tinubu Mourns APC Chairman’s Mother, Hails Virtues

Peace Piak Kanu
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President Tinubu Mourns APC Chairman’s Mother, Hails Virtues

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has mourned the passing of Mama Lydia Yilwatda, mother of the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, describing her as a woman of virtue dedicated to faith, service, and community.

In a statement issued by the Presidential Spokesperson, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu extended heartfelt condolences to Ganduje, urging him to accept his mother’s passing as the will of Almighty God and be consoled by the life of purpose she lived.

The President prayed for the repose of Mama Yilwatda’s soul and asked God to grant Ganduje, the entire family, and all who mourn her the strength to bear the loss.

Mama Yilwatda died on Sunday morning at the University of Jos Teaching Hospital at the age of 83.

Her legacy of discipline, compassion and service is reflected in the life of her son, who today plays a central role in Nigeria’s political leadership.

PIAK

Ogun By-Election: Governor Abiodun Hails APC Victory

Confidence Okwuchi
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Ogun By-Election: Governor Abiodun Hails APC Victory

The Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun has described the victory of All Progressives Congress (APC) in the Saturday’s by-election in Remo Federal Constituency as a new chapter in the democratic journey of Ogun State.

While congratulating the representative -elect, Princess Adesola Ayoola Elegbeji, on her well-deserved victory, the Governor urged her to carry this sacred mandate with humility and diligence.

Governor Abiodun who was addressing newsmen at his residence in Iperu, Ikenne Local Government area of the State, said the celebration of the victory encompasses the reflection on the journey that heralded the victory.

He explained that the victory did not come by chance but a product of dedication, commitment , teamwork, and absolute trust in God.

He said his team from the onset resolved that the election would not be an ordinary contest but an opportunity to showcase the strength of APC, the resilience of the people, and the clarity of shared vision.

Governor Abiodun noted that the election has turned out to be a true testament to the popularity of his administration and APC across the country as well as a validation of the success of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s revolutionary 24 months in office.

While eulogising the sterling qualities of Princess Elegbeji, the Governor described her as a round peg in a round hole, noting that the representative -elect embodies competence, vision, and dedication.

He, therefore , assured the people of the constituency of quality representation with dignity and commitment at the Green Chamber, saying she would carry the voices of Ikenne, Sagamu, and Remo North to the national stage.

“While we were all saddened by the shocking demise of the late Rt. Hon. Adewunmi Oriyomi Onanuga, whose absence we still sorely feel, the massive turnout of our people to overwhelmingly vote for our party and our candidate, Princess Dr.Adesola Ayoola Elegbeji, has brought indelible solace and restoration to us all ,particularly against the background of the deceit and attempted theft of the 2023 Gov elections in this constituency .

“The victory is indeed a testament of our unprecedented achievements in all sectors of our state, we have been very deliberate and intentional in our quest to improve the lives of our people and to transform our towns and cities through aggressive and massive infrastructural development across the state.

“I have consistently stated that this administration will remain unstoppable in its pursuit of rapid development and human capital advancement, ensuring that no part of our dear state is developed at the expense of another.

“The people of Remo Federal Constituency have spoken loudly and this is a referendum on our exceptional strides in governance through their votes in this election—despite desperate attempts by agents of darkness to intimidate, harass, and compromise them with unholy inducements . I sincerely thank you, our people for your resilience and for standing firm and saying enough is enough.

“Interestingly, this is a dual celebration for us in Ogun State. Just on Friday , the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) granted approval for our Gateway International Airport to commence commercial flight operations. Without doubt, this is a monumental achievement that will leave a lasting imprint on the history of our state. I heartily congratulate us all on this remarkable feat.

“I must also commend the professionalism and patriotism of the umpire, Independent Electoral Commission ,INEC for conducting a free, fair, and credible poll. I salute the gallantry and neutrality of our all our security agencies Army Police SSS NSCDC for being on top of their game ensuring a peaceful and rancour-free exercise. To the electorate, I extend deep appreciation for displaying political maturity and a high sense of civic responsibility, which translated into the massive turnout and peaceful conduct we witnessed. I also thank the media for their balanced and effective reportage of the entire process,” GovernorAbiodun said.

The representative -elect, Princess Elegbeji in her remarks thanked the Governor and all the leaders of the party in the axis and the state at large for their supports and encouragement, as she reiterated her resolve to provide inclusive representation.

She however, canvassed for more inclusion of women in elective positions during the general elections of 2027.

Princess Elegbeji, the APC candidate, was at the weekend declared the winner of the Sagamu/Ikenne/Remo/North Federal Constituency by-election after polling 41,237 votes against her closest rival,  Mr. Abolarinwa Oluwole of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), which recorded 14,324 votes.

She also secured the victory across the three local government areas of the State.

The by-election became vacant following the death of the lawmaker representing the constituency, Adewunmi Onanuga, the then Deputy Chief Whip of the Federal House of Representatives who died on January 15, 2025, after brief illness.

 

Confidence Okwuchi

COAS Approves Redeployment in Nigerian Army

Peace Piak Kanu
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COAS Approves Redeployment in Nigerian Army

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has approved the posting and redeployment of senior officers to key command, instructional, and staff positions across the Nigerian Army.

According to a statement by the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Apolonia Anele, the reshuffle affects some Principal Staff Officers at the Army Headquarters, two General Officers Commanding (GOCs), Corps Commanders, Commandants of training institutions, and Brigade Commanders, among others.

At the Army Headquarters, Major General AA Adeyinka was appointed Chief of Logistics (Army), Major General AA Adekeye became Chief of Personnel Management (Army), while Major General TB Ugiagbe was named Chief of Standard and Evaluation. Also, Major General AA Idris was appointed Chief of Military Intelligence, and Major General MO Erebulu became Provost Marshal (Army).

For field commands, Major General ASM Wase is now GOC 1 Division and Commander Sector 1 Joint Task Force North West Operation FANSAN YAMMA, while Major General CR Nnebeife takes over as GOC 2 Division/Sector 3 of the same operation.

Training institutions also received new heads, including Major General MO Ihanuwaze at the Nigerian Army Finance School, Major General KO Osemwegie at the Army Signal School, Major General AJ Aliyu at the Ordnance School, and Major General AC Adetoba at the Nigerian Army College of Logistics and Management.

Other appointments include Brigadier General M Jimoh to 1 Brigade, Brigadier General NE Okoloagu to 2 Brigade, and Brigadier General AA Bello to 6 Division Garrison/Sector 3 JTF South South Operation DELTA SAFE.

Lieutenant General Oluyede urged the newly appointed officers to redouble efforts in the fight against terrorism, insurgency, and other threats to national security, while reiterating his commitment to prioritising troop welfare.

PIAK

ICRC Unveils New PPP Guidelines to Improve Infrastructure Delivery

Peace Piak Kanu
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ICRC Unveils New PPP Guidelines to Improve Infrastructure Delivery

The Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC) has released a new set of guidelines to govern the development and implementation of Public-Private Partnership (PPP) projects across Nigeria.

The framework, issued under the ICRC Act 2005 and in line with a presidential directive, was unveiled during a high-level stakeholders’ engagement with ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) involved in PPPs. The guidelines are designed to overhaul Nigeria’s infrastructure delivery processes by streamlining approvals, ensuring compliance, and attracting private sector financing.

Director General of the ICRC, Dr. Jobson Oseodion Ewalefoh, who presented the document, said the reforms align with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision to liberalise the economy and mobilise private investment for infrastructure development.

“These rules establish a definitive framework for the conception, development, and execution of PPP projects in Nigeria. They decentralise project approvals to empower MDAs for faster delivery while safeguarding the ICRC’s role as regulator of PPPs in Nigeria,” Ewalefoh said.

He explained that under the new framework, ministries can approve PPP projects valued under N20 billion, while agencies and parastatals have approval authority for projects under N10 billion. The guidelines also provide clear steps for preparing Outline Business Cases, Full Business Cases, and financial models, while standardising procurement processes and PPP agreements.

“Every PPP project — regardless of sector, scale, or origin — must strictly comply with these provisions. Every project shall be subjected to our due diligence and compliance requirements,” the DG added.

Ewalefoh reiterated that the ICRC remains a regulator and facilitator, not an operator or grantor of projects, stressing that the Commission will continue to coordinate negotiations between MDAs and private proponents to ensure agreements are fair, balanced, and implementable.

He noted that the Presidency’s decision to delegate greater approval powers to MDAs comes with heightened accountability and zero tolerance for non-compliance.

The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to working with MDAs, private investors, financiers, and development partners to position Nigeria as Africa’s leading destination for bankable and transformative PPP projects.

Participants at the engagement expressed strong support for the reforms and pledged readiness to begin immediate implementation of the new framework.

PIAK

UNICEF, NEMA Adopt Response Procedure in Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara

Peace Piak Kanu
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0
UNICEF, NEMA Adopt Response Procedure in Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), and other stakeholders have stressed the urgent need to strengthen humanitarian coordination in Sokoto, Kebbi, and Zamfara states.

UNICEF’s Chief of Field Office, Mr. Michael Juma, made this known at a validation workshop jointly organised by the humanitarian affairs ministries of the three states with UNICEF’s support in Sokoto.

The Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) validation meeting was aimed at streamlining disaster response systems for faster and more efficient interventions.

Juma said the exercise marked a major step towards effective coordination of humanitarian services in the North-West.

“It begins with emergency trigger and notification, clearly identifying lead agencies, activation triggers and alert mechanisms. Search and Rescue arrangements follow, covering search and rescue team mobilisation, evacuation protocols and public communication,” Juma explained.

He described the SOP as a practical guide that sets clear procedures for humanitarian actors from the first trigger of an emergency to the deactivation stage, stressing that stronger partnerships among agencies are vital.

Also speaking, UNICEF Emergency Specialist, Mr. Olayinka Afolabi, said the SOP ensures that once an emergency is confirmed, state emergency operation centres and multi-sectoral coordination platforms are immediately activated.

He added that the process covers rapid needs assessment, operational planning, stock mobilisation, implementation, and service delivery, alongside monitoring and regular situation reports to keep the public informed.

In his remarks, Head of NEMA Sokoto Operations Office, Mr. Aliyu Shehu Kafindangi, represented by Head of Planning Unit, Mr. Tukur Abubakar, commended UNICEF and participants for their contributions.

“The developed draft SOP has reflected ground realities, designed to respond to emergencies like cholera, crises, and floods. This is coming at a time that stakeholders in disaster management described as timely due to the flood already affecting many communities,” Kafindangi said.

He noted that stakeholders had mapped institutional roles, streamlined communication channels, and agreed on operational workflows for different emergency scenarios, which would improve clarity of roles and strengthen interagency cooperation.

Participants at the workshop included officials from the Federal and State Fire Services, State Emergency Management Agencies of Sokoto, Kebbi, and Zamfara, NGOs, the Nigeria Police Force, disaster response units of the Nigerian Army, the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), and the Ministries of Health and Agriculture.

PIAK

Nigeria Congratulates Moses Itauma On Boxing Victory

Mosunmola Ore
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Nigeria Congratulates Moses Itauma On Boxing Victory

The Chairman/CEO Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) Dr. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has extended congratulations to Moses Itauma on his outstanding boxing victory.

In a statement by Gabriel Odu, Media, Public Relations and Protocols unit, NiDCOM, Moses’s success is a testament to his discipline and resilience, qualities that reflect the excellence Nigerians around the world are known for.

READ ALSO: Boxing: Lawrence Okolie Retains WBO Cruiserweight World Title

He added that Moses’ achievement is a source of inspiration not only to the Nigerian community in the diaspora but also to young athletes everywhere aspiring to greatness.

Born in Kežmarok, Slovakia, to a Nigerian father and Slovakian mother, and later moving to England, Moses continues to rise as one of the most exciting prospects in the world of boxing.

Mr. Odu said that the young boxer’s journey is a remarkable story of talent, determination, and heritage. Now proudly British,

He noted that NiDCOM celebrates this milestone with Moses Itauma and looks forward to witnessing his continued growth and success on the global stage.

NAF Trains Officers on Civilian Harm Mitigation in Air Operations

Peace Piak Kanu
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NAF Trains Officers on Civilian Harm Mitigation in Air Operations

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding civilians in conflict zones by completing a five-day Civilian Harm Mitigation (CHM) in Air Operations course for the first batch of specially selected officers.

The training, hosted by the Air Warfare and Doctrine Centre (AWDC) in Abuja, brought together pilots, drone operators, armament specialists, legal officers, public relations experts, and others, underscoring the Service’s multi-disciplinary approach to protecting civilians during air operations.

Directed by the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, and coordinated through the Civil-Military Relations Branch, the programme reflects NAF’s resolve to embed civilian protection as a core pillar of its operational doctrine.

The CHM course, to be delivered in three batches between August 11 and September 5, 2025, in partnership with Conflict, Security and Development Consult Limited, covered International Humanitarian Law (IHL), precision targeting, rules of engagement, positive target identification, the No-Strike List, and the Sensitive Target Approval and Review (STAR) process.

Air Marshal Abubakar described the initiative as an extension of NAF’s Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response Action Plan (CHMR-AP), launched earlier this year.

“From the very beginning of my tenure, I made it clear that protecting civilians is not just a moral duty, it is a professional imperative,” Abubakar said.

He added: “The CHMR-AP was our blueprint to institutionalise this principle, ensuring that every commander, crew, and analyst is trained to apply the highest standards of humanitarian consideration in mission planning and execution.”

The CAS noted that the plan has already produced results, with a marked reduction in collateral damage incidents despite the sustained tempo of air operations.

“We have seen the difference that deliberate planning, real-time intelligence, and strict targeting protocols can make. This training takes those lessons further, giving our officers the tools, judgement, and mindset to protect innocent lives even in the most complex operational environments,” he stated.

Representing the Chief of Civil-Military Relations at the closing ceremony, Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet stressed that NAF’s approach goes beyond compliance with international law.

“When communities see that we take extraordinary measures to keep them safe, we build trust. That trust is a force multiplier; it strengthens intelligence sharing and isolates hostile actors. Protecting civilians is not only the right thing to do, it is the smart thing to do,” Gabkwet said.

With the remaining two batches set to complete the course by September, the NAF is signalling that civilian protection will remain central to its operations across all theatres.

PIAK

Nigeria’s Sango Festival Secures UNESCO Cultural Heritage Recognition

Iyabode Jane Aluko
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Nigeria’s Sango Festival Secures UNESCO Cultural Heritage Recognition

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) has formally recognised the Sango Festival as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Hannatu Musawa, Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, presented UNESCO’s certificate of inscription to the Alaafin of Oyo, His Majesty Oba Abimbola Abdulhakeem Owoade.

The presentation was made at the grand finale of the 2025 World Sango Festival held over the weekend in Oyo State.

Musawa noted that the recognition represents a significant milestone in Nigeria’s cultural landscape

According to her, the feat is a demonstration of the ministry’s commitment to safeguarding the country’s rich cultural heritage and promoting it as a tool for international diplomacy and sustainable tourism.

Also Read: 2021 World Sango Festival ends in style

The minister lauded the collaborative efforts between her Ministry and the Oyo community, noting that the recognition aligns with the federal government’s broader goals of cultural promotion, employment generation, wealth creation, and community empowerment.

“I heartily congratulate your Imperial Majesty, the new Sango Chief Priest, the Oyo community, and indeed the entire Yoruba nation on the grand finale of the 2025 World Sango Festival.

“The  Sango Festival has now attained global recognition with its inscription by UNESCO on the Representative list of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

“This is made possible by effective collaboration between the Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy and the Oyo Community.

“This milestone firmly places Sango’s rich heritage on the world stage and underscores its importance as a shared global heritage.

“This achievement is a shining gain of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, through our Ministry’s commitment to safeguarding our rich cultural heritage as a powerful tool for international diplomacy and sustainable tourism.

“The foregoing further strengthens the foundation of our strong cultural identity, geared towards employment generation and wealth creation for sustainable development, empowerment of the host community, and Nigeria,” she said.

In his remarks, Alaafin of Oyo, expressed gratitude to President Tinubu and the ministry for their renewed commitment to expanding Nigeria’s culture and heritage, which has led to the remarkable feat.

The monarch reiterated the Oyo Kingdom’s cooperation with the administration and the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy to further promote Nigeria’s cultural identity on the global stage.

The 2025 Sango Festival, which drew dignitaries from within and outside the country, served as the backdrop for the certificate presentation.

It highlights the festival’s significance as a cultural treasure and a symbol of Nigeria’s rich heritage.

Reintroduction Of Christian Studies: NSCIA Lauds Katsina Governor

Peace Piak Kanu
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Reintroduction Of Christian Studies: NSCIA Lauds Katsina Governor

The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has commended Governor Dikko Umar Radda of Katsina State for reintroducing Christian Religious Studies in schools, while urging Southern Governors to reciprocate by permitting Islamic Religious Studies in their states.

In a statement signed by its Secretary-General, Professor Is-haq Oloyede, the Council said Radda’s policy reflects fairness, inclusivity, and respect for minority rights, adding that these values should guide governance across Nigeria.

NSCIA Press Release

“Governor Radda’s decision is worthy of commendation as it mirrors the eternal precepts of Islam, particularly fairness and inclusivity,” the statement read in part.

The NSCIA, led by the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, criticised cases in the South where it said Muslims face restrictions, citing Rivers State University’s long-running dispute over students’ rights to pray on campus despite favourable court rulings.

“Nigeria’s unity and progress depend on the political class rising above partisanship and injustice by embracing pluralism

“Inclusivity in education and governance is essential for peace, fairness, and national development.” The Council added.

PIAK

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