The Borno State Governor in Northeast Nigeria, Babagana Umara Zulum, has paid a condolence visit to the Darajamal community in Bama Local Government Area, where 63 residents, including five soldiers, were killed by insurgents on Friday night.

Temitope Mustapha, Abuja

President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Bishop Mike Okonkwo, founder and presiding bishop of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM), on his 80th birthday.

A statement by the Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, stated that President Tinubu joined Bishop Okonkwo’s family, church members, and Christians to celebrate this milestone.

The President noted that the visionary stewardship of the presiding bishop of TREM has fostered peace and harmony, promoted education, improved healthcare, and inspired economic empowerment across the nation and beyond.

“As a respected leader, mentor, and advocate for the downtrodden, Bishop Okonkwo’s commitment to lifting the underprivileged and upholding harmony and the unity of the country reflects the fundamental values of Nigeria.

Inspire a new generation

“His discipline, dedication, and unwavering faith in God continue to shape our society’s moral and social fabric and inspire a new generation of spiritual leaders.

“May God continue to bless him with good health, strength, and wisdom as he carries the gospel worldwide.

“I pray that Bishop Okonkwo’s exemplary humility and simplicity will inspire the current and future generations to pursue lives of service, leadership, and dedication to humanity.

“Happy 80th birthday, Your Eminence,” President Tinubu added.

Lateefah Ibrahim

Information Minister Mohammed Idris has expressed the government’s condolences to victims’ families and the people of Niger State after a Borgu boat mishap claimed 32 lives.

The information minister, in a statement, stressed that the government’s thoughts and prayers are with all those who have been affected by the tragedy.

“It is with a heavy heart that the Federal Government received the distressing news of the boat mishap in the Borgu area of Niger State, which claimed the lives of about 32 people. This tragedy is particularly painful, coming barely four months after devastating floods wreaked havoc in Mokwa, also in Niger State. We pray for the repose of the souls of the deceased and wish the survivors a speedy recovery,” he said.

According to Idris: “The Federal Government, through the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), will provide the necessary support to the victims’ families and survivors, working closely with the Niger State Government to ensure prompt relief and assistance.”

While commending the Niger State Government, through the State Emergency Management Agency, for its swift rescue operation, which ensured that all passengers of the ill-fated boat were accounted for, the citizens are to always prioritise safety.

“I will use this opportunity to once again remind the people to always prioritise safety when travelling on our inland waterways. In particular, no one should embark on boat journeys without wearing appropriate protective jackets. Safety precautions can make the difference between life and death,” he urged.

The information minister further said that the government has directed the National Orientation Agency (NOA) to mount a massive nationwide sensitisation campaign to raise public awareness on safety measures when using inland waterways.

President Bola Tinubu has hailed elder statesman Owelle Gilbert Chikelu, saying his life and work in the public and private sectors have consistently reflected excellence, integrity, and service to humanity.

Extolling the virtues of Chikelu as he marks his 95th birthday, the president, in a personally written tribute, described Chikelu as a friend of many decades.

President Tinubu especially appreciates his numerous contributions to the nation’s progress.

Numerous blessings

“It is a thing of joy and eternal thanksgiving to God to celebrate the gift of longevity, surrounded by family and loved ones and count numerous blessings of ages past.

Your 95-year journey on this side of eternity has been filled with profound testimonies, impact on humanity, and selfless service to our beloved country.”

He noted that “as a permanent secretary, or ‘super permanent secretary’, as fondly called, you distinguished yourself in the ministries and several departments you served, including Mines and Power, Economic Development and National Planning, Employment and Labour, and Petroleum Resources.

You epitomised the true essence of public service in promoting peace, stability, and development. Many of the initiatives introduced during your stewardship continue to shape and inspire improved service delivery to this day.”

Invaluable lessons

The President highlighted that the public presentation of Chikelu’s biography is a gift to the public and to political office holders, offering invaluable lessons on integrity, accountability and patriotism.

“It is fitting that your 95th birthday coincides with the public presentation of your biography, ‘Owelle: The GPO Chikelu Story,’ written by historian and archivist Nze Ed Keazor.

“I firmly believe that this work, launched today, September 6, in London, is a gift to the public and to political office holders, offering invaluable lessons on integrity, accountability, and patriotism.

“Today, our nation faces enormous challenges.”

President Tinubu concluded by praying earnestly that Owelle Gilbert Chikelu’s story will continue to serve as a beacon for all who aspire to serve with honour, responsibility, and accountability.

“Happy 95th birthday to the Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON), Owelle of Ichida, Owelle of Anaocha, and Knight of St. Paul, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion).

The president said he celebrated him with great admiration, trusting that his story would continue to inspire generations.