All posts by Editor

Media consultant, website development, articles syndication/news distribution, social media marketing
Opinion, Politics

Changing The Narrative From Partisanship To Performance II

Leave a comment

By Prof Chris Mustapha Nwaokobia Jnr

Enugu, Nigeria – When Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah took the oath of office as the 5th democratically elected Governor of Enugu State, he promised to “disrupt the status quo.” Two and half years later, the evidence is visible in Schools, Hospitals, Roads, Pipes, Fiber-optic Cables, Security Cameras, Smart Cities, and Farmlands across the State. Of the plethora of very laudable projects of the Mbah administration, I have elected 30 standout  Projects that define one of the most ambitious State-level development blueprints in contemporary Nigeria.

This feature takes a deep dive into these 30 landmark projects reshaping Enugu.

1. 260 SMART GREEN SCHOOLS.

Ultra-modern, solar-powered schools with digital smart-boards, science labs, e-libraries, robotics/AI studios, and climate-responsive architecture – one in every ward. Over 30 already commissioned.

2. 260 TYPE-2 PRIMARY HEALTHCARE CENTRES (PHCs).

Fully equipped, solar-powered PHCs with Doctor/Nurse quarters for 24-hour service. Tens already completed and in use.

3. 900KM OF ROADS.

A massive road revolution spanning rural access roads, township roads, and strategic inter-LGA corridors.

4. 95 COMPLETED URBAN ROADS.

Enugu metropolis has undergone sweeping road upgrades, easing traffic and enhancing livability.

5. 143 NEW URBAN ROADS FLAGGED OFF.

Expansion of the urban master plan with fresh construction across Enugu East, West, and North.

6. 21 GATEWAY ROADS.

Strategic roads linking Enugu to neighboring States and trade routes.

7. ENUGU SMART SECURITY GRID.

A fully digital Command And Control Centre with integrated CCTV feeds, 24/7 monitoring, and AI-enhanced surveillance.

8. 150 SECURITY VEHICLES WITH BODY CAMERAS.

Rapid-response vehicles equipped with facial and license plate recognition systems.

9. MASSIVE CCTV SURVEILLANCE NETWORK.

Thousands of high-definition cameras now cover major towns, crime hotspots, and borders.

10. FIVE ULTRA-MODERN TRANSPORT TERMINALS.

Holy Ghost T1 & T2, Gariki, Abakpa, and Nsukka terminals — fashioned after international bus hubs.

11. 200 CNG MASS TRANSIT BUSES.

Eco-friendly Buses introduced to reduce carbon footprint and improve mobility.

12. 2,000 CITY TAXIS.

Regulated taxi fleet rollout to modernize urban transport and boost safety.

13. 80 MODERN BUS SHELTERS.

Standardized stations with lighting, seating, and digital timetables.

14. 70 MILLION LITRES PER DAY WATER BOOST (9TH MILE SCHEME).

The once-dry taps of Enugu now flow daily due to the revived 9th Mile facility.

15. ANOTHER 50 MILLION LITRES (OJI RIVER WATER SCHEME).

A second water revival project powering parts of Enugu West and adjoining communities.

16. NEW ENUGU SMART CITY — 10,000 HECTARES.

Africa’s emerging smart metropolis: monorail, piped gas, lakes, high-speed internet, green boulevards, and dual carriageways.

17. INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE CENTRE (ICC).

A world-class, multifunction convention complex positioning Enugu as a continental conferencing hub.

18. 5-STAR ICC HOTEL PROJECT (350 ROOMS).

Premium hospitality facility adjacent to the ICC for business tourism.

19. HOTEL PRESIDENTIAL REVAMP.

Restoration of Enugu’s iconic hotel to international luxury standards.

20. ENUGU SMART FARM ESTATES (260 WARD-BASED FARMS).

Integrated agricultural hubs for youth agribusiness, processing, and mechanized farming.

21. LAND-BANKING: 300,000 HECTARES FOR AGRICULTURE.

One of Africa’s largest structured State land-banks for agro-investors.

22. REVIVAL OF UNITED PALM PRODUCTS LTD.

A ₦100bn partnership to reactivate Enugu’s Palm Oil industrial belt.

23. POWER SECTOR LIBERALISATION (ELECTRICITY LAW).

Creation of the Enugu Electricity Regulatory Commission — a first among States.

24. DIGITIZED GOVERNMENT SERVICES.

E-governance, digital land transactions, and automated business platforms for professional excellence.

25. ENUGU MEGA DATA & CONTROL CENTRES.

Statewide data integration to monitor traffic, security, utilities, and urban systems.

26. SPORTS INFRASTRUCTURE: RANGERS & STADIUM RENEWAL.

Partnerships revitalizing Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium and supporting Enugu Rangers’ resurgence.

27. YOUTH TECH PROGRAMMES (“COAL TO CODE”).

Global-standard tech training initiatives in data analytics, cybersecurity, software engineering, and robotics.

28. SANITATION MODERNIZATION (ESWAMA UPGRADE).

New waste trucks, smart bins, recycling hubs, and cleaner urban corridors.

29. JUSTICE SYSTEM DIGITALIZATION.

Automated case management, digital Courts, ADR units, and enhanced legal frameworks.

30. PUBLIC–PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS & FDI ATTRACTION.

Dozens of domestic and international investors now engage across real estate, water, energy, hospitality, agriculture, and smart infrastructure.

THE BIG PICTURE: What These 30 Projects Mean for Enugu.

1. Economic Transformation.

Mbah’s $30 billion GDP target is anchored on infrastructure that attracts investment, reduces business costs, and drives productivity.

2. Inclusive Development.

The ward-based approach ensures no community is left behind – each ward gets a smart school, PHC, and farm estate.

3. Security and Stability.

The new surveillance grid establishes Enugu as one of the most secure States in Nigeria.

4. Youth Empowerment.

Tech training, sports infrastructure, and agricultural estates create new job pipelines for the young population.

5. International Positioning.

The ICC and 5-star hotel project prime Enugu as the “Convention Capital” of West Africa.

VOICES FROM THE STATE.

“We are witnessing a new Enugu in our lifetime,” says Uchenna Eze, an Enugu businessman.

“The water alone is a miracle,” adds Ngozi Kelechi, a resident of Abakpa.

“The smart schools look like campuses abroad,” says Chiemerie, a student in Oji River.

Across communities, the reaction is similar: visible progress.

A LEGACY IN MOTION.

With these 30 verifiable projects, Governor Peter Mbah is not only keeping campaign promises – he is redefining what State governance can look like in Nigeria.
The transformation is sweeping, structured, and measurable. If sustained, Enugu may emerge as the nation’s model for modern infrastructure, digital governance, and inclusive development.

The MAD (Making A Difference) resolve of the Mbah Administration to TRANSFORM Enugu State and make it the envy of all through the most audacious governmental programmatic at the State-level since 1999 is testament to Governor Peter Mbah’s unalterable commitment to good leadership, to the well-being of Ndi’Enugu, and to the welfare of the Coal City State. And the sustenance of this resolve lends credence to the mantra of his government NDI’ENUGU FUTURE IS HERE.

Prof Chris Mustapha Nwaokobia Jnr. is the Convener, COUNTRYFIRST MOVEMENT, a good governance advocacy group.

Breaking News

Full Text of the Communiqué Of the National Political Summit on Credible Elections and Political Stability of Nigeria

Leave a comment

COMMUNIQUÉ OF THE NATIONAL POLITICAL SUMMIT ON CREDIBLE ELECTIONS AND POLITICAL STABILITY OF NIGERIA, HELD ON TUESDAY, 11TH NOVEMBER, 2025 AT THE CONFERENCE HALL, NICON LUXURY HOTEL, TAFAWA BALEWA WAY, FCT ABUJA

Preamble

The National Political Summit, 2025 was convened by the National Consultative Front (NCFront) in conjunction with the Labour & Civil Society Front (LCSF), under the theme: “Critical & Mandatory Constitutional Amendments for Credible Elections in 2027.” The Summit attracted over 600 participants and delegates representing a broad spectrum of stakeholders from government, the private sector, civil society, academia, political parties, the diaspora, and other interest groups.

Goodwill messages and keynote interventions were received from former President Goodluck Jonathan; former Vice President Prof. Yemi Osinbajo; Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf; former Governor Rotimi Amaechi; former presidential candidate Mr. Peter Obi; Summit LOC Chairman Prof. Pat Utomi; former Minister and Keynote Speaker Dr. Oby Ezekwesili; NLC President Comrade Joe Ajaero; former presidential candidate Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim; Lead Speaker Prince Adewole Adebayo, Esq; former NIDO Chairperson Mrs. Patience Ndidi Key; Senator Shehu Sani; Senator Ikechukwu Obiora; Lead Speaker Prof. Okey Okechukwu, mni; IPAC Chairman Alhaji Mamman Yusuf Dantalle; Dr. Bilikisu Magoro; High Chief Peter Ameh; Veteran Olawale Okunniyi (Secretary, LOC), among others.

Summit Objective

The Pan-Nigerian Summit on Political Reforms 2025 was conceived as a platform for diverse political stakeholders of Nigeria to examine and reach consensus on essential constitutional amendments needed to perfect Nigeria’s electoral framework ahead of the 2027 general elections. It also sought to launch a formidable, citizens-led national movement as an inclusive platform for political stakeholders—including government institutions, the private sector, and citizens—to engage and proffer enduring panacea to Nigeria’s electoral crises and threats to national security.

To this end, Summit Keynote discussions squarely focused the implications of the recent warning of United States President, Donald Trump, concerning Nigeria’s unabated insecurity, and the urgent need for a credible electoral framework as Nigeria approaches the 2027 elections.

Observations and Suggestions

Panelists, delegates, and stakeholders at the summit made several critical observations and far-reaching suggestions with significant potential to enhance national stability and improve the country’s electoral integrity as follows:

  1. Security and Sovereignty:
    The Summit noted that government’s laxity and insensitivity in protecting citizens’ lives have emboldened banditry and terrorism, inadvertently prompting external interventions—such as the one by the United States—since sovereignty is not absolute in international relations.
  2. Political Party Reform:
    Stakeholders emphasized the urgent need for comprehensive political party reforms, alongside efforts to reform INEC, noting that political parties serve as the primary training grounds for political leaders and public officials.
  3. Tackling Election Rigging:
    The Summit called for all stakeholders to intensify efforts to eliminate election rigging—along with its associated practices of inducement, fraud, and manipulation—which continue to undermine Nigeria’s electoral integrity and government legitimacy in Nigeria.

Recommendations

The Summit adopted the following key recommendations:

a. Financial Autonomy for INEC:
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) should be equipped and empowered to enjoy full financial autonomy by receiving its allocation directly from the Federation Account, in full and on schedule, without interference from any arm of government.

b. Open Budget Framework:
INEC should operate an open budget system and work closely with the organized civil society to enhance transparency and accountability in its operations.

c. Prosecution Powers:
INEC should be constitutionally empowered to prosecute electoral offenders independently, rather than relying solely on the Police or the Attorney-General of the Federation.

d. Early, Diaspora, and Electronic Voting:
Early voting, diaspora voting, electronic voting, and real-time electronic transmission of results should be made legally mandatory to reduce or eradicate manipulation and circumvention of election results.

e. Structural & Governance Reforms of INEC:
INEC’s recruitment processes should be insulated from the Executive. The appointment of INEC national and state leadership should be handled by broad mix of established stakeholders and not the Executive.

f. Ending Judicial Determination of Elections:
Strong reforms should be pursued to eliminate the current aberration, where electoral outcomes are effectively determined in courts rather than at polling units.

g. Special Seats for Women and Vulnerable Groups in Government:
The National Assembly should be compelled to provide for special seats for women and other vulnerable groups in the constitution to be elected and participate in governance.

h. Burden of Proof:
The constitution should be amended to remove the burden of proof from candidates and political parties in election petitions, placing it appropriately on INEC.

Conclusion

In conclusion, keynote speakers, panelists, and stakeholders reached a general consensus on the urgent need to pursue comprehensive reforms of Nigeria’s flawed electoral laws ahead of the 2027 elections. The Summit further agreed on the necessity to unbundle INEC to improve electoral administration, and to create constitutionally guaranteed special seats for women and other vulnerable groups.

The Summit also advised that Nigeria should engage the United States diplomatically on the basis of mutual respect and openness

Finally, the Summit formally launched the Movement for Credible Elections (MCE)—a new citizens’ mass movement ahead of the 2027 elections—with an Interim Steering Leadership constituted to mobilize Nigerians to end election rigging and manipulation in Nigeria once and for all.

Members of the Steering Council of the Movement for Credible Elections (MCE) are listed as follows:

  1. Prof. Pat Utomi – Chairman
  2. Comrade Ayuba Wabba – Co-Chair
  3. Hon. Dr. Usman Bugaje – Deputy Chairman (North)
  4. Amb. Nkoyo Toyo – Deputy Chairman (South)
  5. Barr. Femi Falana, SAN – Legal Counsel
  6. Senator Shehu Sani – Member
  7. Dr. Bilikisu Magoro – Member
  8. Comrade Ene Obi – Member
  9. High Chief Peter Ameh – Member
  10. Comrade Alex Adum – Member
  11. Lady Ankio Briggs – Member
  12. Comrade Promise Adewusi, mni – Director of Administration
  13. Comrade Chris Uyot – Director of Mobilization
  14. Mallam Hamisu San Turaki – Director of Mobilization
  15. Deacon Chris Iyovwaye – Director of Finance
  16. Prince Chris Azor – Director of Mobilization
  17. Comrade Mark Adebayo – Director of Mobilization
  18. Prof. Chris Mustapha Nwaokobia, Jnr. – Director of Communications
  19. Peter Randy Akah – Director of Publicity
  20. Comrade James Ezema – Media Coordinator
  21. Comrade Kamal Yusuf Ahmed – Youth Coordinator
  22. Comrade Hauwa Mustapha – Deputy Head of Secretariat
  23. Veteran Olawale Okunniyi – Head of Secretariat

Signed:
Comrade James Ezema,
Media Coordinator,
Steering Council,
Movement for Credible Elections (MCE).
+234 8035823617

Business, News

AI Age: Obaigbena Charts African Response with Lekeelekee Platform to Challenge Global Content Dominance

Leave a comment

Nduka Obaigbena, founding Chairman and Editor-in-Chief of THISDAY Media Group and ARISE News Channel, on Thursday delivered a rousing address at the 21st All Nigeria Editors Conference in Abuja, calling on Nigerian editors to defend democracy, embrace artificial intelligence, and reclaim Africa’s place in global media distribution.

Addressing more than 500 editors, policymakers, and diplomats at the State House Conference Centre, Obaigbena unveiled plans to launch a new homegrown digital platform, Lekeelekee, in January 2026. The platform, he said, is designed to “dilute the chokehold of the United States and China” over the global flow of information and entertainment content.

“We must engage for the greater good of Nigeria,” Obaigbena declared, reflecting on the 30th anniversary of the execution of journalist Ken Saro-Wiwa under military rule. “Thirty years after, we sit in this same complex under a democratic government. That is why democracy matters.”

In a sweeping speech that wove together history, economics, and media innovation, Obaigbena linked Nigeria’s authoritarian past to its current democratic progress. He invoked the legacies of three historic media figures — Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo, and Bola Tinubu — to illustrate the transformative power of journalism in shaping national leadership.

Obaigbena commended President Tinubu, who hosted the conference and is himself a former media proprietor, for maintaining an open channel with the press. “We are at the crossroads of reforms that have been hard fought,” he said. “We must protect our economic stability with everything we have, because if we lose it, we lose the sacrifices of the last two years.”

He warned that external shocks — including sanctions or geopolitical disruptions — could “destabilise the economy” and undermine recent fiscal gains. Instead, he urged editors and national leaders to “build a coalition of the willing” to confront insecurity, poverty, and the rise of misinformation through cooperation and shared purpose.

Turning to technology, Obaigbena stressed that artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming the global media landscape. He cautioned that Africa risks becoming “a passive spectator” in a world where “one or two countries control global content distribution.”

“We are entering an AI-dominated information age,” he noted. “Google’s algorithms are changing, search models are shifting, and the monetisation of content is being rewritten. If we do not act, we will again be consumers, not creators, in the new media economy.”

He described Lekeelekee as a strategic intervention — a multimedia hub that would empower African creators, editors, and broadcasters to distribute and monetise their work independently of Western and Chinese digital gatekeepers. “We have a responsibility to build our own technology and algorithms,” he said, “to determine how our content is earned and shared.”

This year’s conference, themed “Democratic Governance and National Cohesion: The Role of Editors”, drew an impressive array of national leaders and media stakeholders.

President Bola Tinubu was joined by the governors of Plateau, Zamfara, Nasarawa, and Kano States, as well as ministers, diplomats, and media veterans including Chief Segun Osoba, Chief Onyema Ugochukwu, and Femi Adesina.

Opinion, Politics

Taking Governance Beyond Partisanship To Performance And Service Delivery I

Leave a comment

By Prof Chris Mustapha Nwaokobia Jnr

Since his inauguration on May 29, 2023, as Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti has made remarkable strides across Infrastructure, Healthcare, Education, Security and Economic Reform. With a technocratic background and a vision for sustainable transformation, his tenure is already being described as “unprecedented” by Traditional Rulers, Political Operators, Civil Society Advocates, Stakeholders and Critics alike.

A Vision Rooted in Reform and Delivery.

Governance under Dr. Otti is characterised by professionalism, data‑driven decision‐making and transparency. Former Banker turned Governor, he has brought Private‐sector discipline to the public square.
He states his covenant clearly… “to serve all Abians, not a few people.”

From the outset, he declared emergencies in key sectors—Roads, Health, Sanitation and Security – signalling a break from business as usual.

Infrastructure And Connectivity: Roads, Power and Urban Renewal

One of the hallmarks of the Otti administration is the scale and quality of infrastructure. Over 140 roads have been constructed or rehabilitated across Abia State, including Rural ring roads that connect previously isolated communities.

The expansion of the Ossah Road in Umuahia into a six‑lane boulevard (now Aguiyi Ironsi Boulevard) and major works in Aba attest to the ambition of this exceptional Leader.

Power reforms: Understanding that commerce depends on reliable electricity, Dr. Otti’s administration has targeted improved power supply and addressed infrastructure bottlenecks.

These efforts show a shift from fragmented works to strategic infrastructure with economic and social impact. “Our benchmark now is not just the Kilometres built but the economic and social impact they deliver,” the Governor once observed.

Healthcare And Human Capital Development: Investing in People.

Dr. Otti’s government has placed clear emphasis on Health and Education as foundations for long‑term growth.

Health: The State has launched “Project Ekwueme” to upgrade primary Health Care Centres across the 184 wards of the State, and refurbish tertiary facilities including the State Teaching Hospital.

Education and Recruitment.

Thousands of Teaching Staff have been brought on board, and very profound school infrastructure improvements are ongoing.

Welfare: Pension and very long neglected Salary arrears have been systematically cleared, restoring dignity to workers and retirees.

By investing in such fundamentals, the administration is laying the basis for a more resilient and inclusive society.

Economy And The Requisite Enabling Environment Necessary For Business To Thrive.

The Otti administration recognises that Abia’s strength lies in entrepreneurship, industry (especially around Aba), and a favourable business climate. And like a man with an unrivaled clarity of purpose, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti has in less than 2 years and 6 months lifted Aba from the morass to reclaim its pride as the centre of commerce and industry in the South East.

Understanding that Governments must at all times work for the good of the greater number, Dr Otti has followed through with the Reform of revenue collection and taxation to ease burdens on traders while enhancing State income.

Industrial and Innovation Park Initiatives (e.g the Abia Industrial And Innovation Park) as part of economic diversification.

International Partnerships And Donors Engagement: The state has unlocked multi‑lateral support and made Abia more “investment‑ready”.

These efforts speak to a shift from passive dependency to proactive economic fervency.

Governance, Security And Institutional Reform.

A functioning State requires more than projects, it requires strong institutions and a safe environment. To this end the ‘Operation Crush’ Security outfit and multi‑agency collaboration has improved the security profile of Abia State.

Transparency and due process have become key features of the Alex Otti administration, as payments are cleared in 72 hours in some Agencies, and merit‑based recruitment has become the benchmark in the Civil Service. Such institutional reforms matter because they enable sustainability, not just short‑term wins.

Recognition And Early External Validation.

Stakeholders see what is happening in Abia. Traditional Rulers are unanimous in the description of Dr. Otti’s mid‑term performance as “profound and unprecedented”.

Donor Agencies have returned and expanded operations in the State on account of the dogged commitment of Dr Otti’s administration to make Abia State the envy of the States.

I shall in the sequel to this effort furnish my readers with incontrovertible data and details regarding the massive transformation of Abia State under the able superintendence of Dr. Alex Otti.

*Prof Chris Mustapha Nwaokobia Jnr is the Convener COUNTRYFIRST MOVEMENT,a Good Governance Advocacy Group.

Law and Order, News

GHL Accuses AMCON of Attempting Illegal Receivership Despite Court Injunction

Leave a comment

General Hydrocarbons Limited (GHL) has raised alarm over what it describes as an unlawful and contemptuous attempt by the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) to appoint a Receiver over the company in defiance of a valid court order.

In a strongly-worded statement on Wednesday, the company stated that Justice Lewis Allagoa of the Federal High Court, Lagos had on 23 September 2025 — in Suit No: FHC/L/CS/1903/2025 — issued an interim injunction expressly restraining AMCON, its Managing Director, the Attorney General of the Federation, First Bank of Nigeria (FBN), and their agents from taking any steps to enforce any rights over GHL or its assets pending the determination of the substantive motion.

GHL noted that the order was again reinforced in open court on 22 October 2025, in the presence of AMCON’s representatives.

The court injunction, as quoted in the GHL statement, specifically restrains AMCON and all persons acting on its behalf from:
“…taking any steps or continuing with any steps whatsoever to enforce any rights against the Applicant (GHL) or its assets, including but not limited to freezing the accounts of the Applicants, its Directors or Shareholders, the appointment of a Receiver/Receiver Manager, Asset Manager, Recovery Agent, etc…”

The order further blocks any such enforcement actions arising from transactions or agreements relating to AMCON’s purchase of First Bank’s non-performing loan against GHL.

According to the company, the attempt to override the court directive amounts to a calculated abuse of judicial processes, and an alleged scheme by institutions and parties acting in collusion to wrongfully take over GHL’s assets.

“We expect institutions and Government agencies to obey Court Orders and govern Nigeria based on the rule of law, and not lend themselves to be used as willing tools in the hands of private companies to oppress and intimidate innocent citizens, corporate or individual,” GHL said.

The energy firm further asserted that it is not indebted to AMCON, FBN, or any financial institution in Nigeria in any form — either directly or indirectly — and therefore described the attempts to appoint a Receiver as “corrupt, fraudulent, and driven by ulterior motives.”

GHL disclosed that the dispute around its crude oil entitlements has now reached the Supreme Court in Suit No: SC/CV/929/2025. It added that it has also filed to set aside what it termed an inconsistent arbitration award at the Federal High Court in Suit No: FHC/L/CS/2241/2025.

The company confirmed that all relevant parties — including AMCON and its legal proxies — are expected to return to Justice Allagoa’s court on 11 November 2025, where GHL intends to formally report the alleged material non-disclosure, abuse of court processes, and disregard for the subsisting orders of the Federal High Court.

While insisting it will “vehemently resist” any illegal takeover attempt, the company appealed for calm among partners, investors, and the general public.

“As a law-abiding citizen, we urge all our stakeholders to remain calm as we are certain that justice will be served according to the law,” the statement added.

News

Staff Welfare A Top Priority – Ambassador Aduda

Leave a comment

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Ambassador Gabriel Tanimu Aduda, has reiterated his unwavering commitment to the welfare of staff as a cornerstone of the Ministry’s administrative agenda.

According to a statement signed bt the Principal Superintendent of Press (PSP) on behalf of the Director, Information and Public Relations, Patience Ituke, he spoke at the official commissioning of a newly refurbished staff bus at the Ministry’s headquarters, Ship House, Abuja.

Ambassador Aduda highlighted the significance of staff-centered initiatives in driving institutional efficiency and productivity.Staff Welfare A Top Priority – Ambassador Aduda

“This refurbished bus is not just a means of transport; it is a statement of our commitment to improving the working conditions and overall well-being of our dedicated personnel,” he said.

He added, “We will continue to roll out projects and policies that boost staff morale and enhance the work environment.”

The upgraded vehicle is intended to ease daily commuting challenges and reduce transportation-related stress for staff members.

Ambassador Aduda noted that the transportation initiative will be implemented in phases to ensure broad coverage and impact staff of the ministry.

The event was attended by directors, union leaders, and members of staff, who commended the Permanent Secretary for his visionary leadership and expressed appreciation for his continued efforts to prioritize staff welfare.

Many lauded the move as timely and impactful, pledging their renewed dedication to the Ministry’s service delivery objectives.

News

World Refugee Day 2025: ARRA Calls for Global Solidarity and Concrete Action to Support Refugees

Leave a comment

As the world marks the 2025 World Refugee Day under the theme “Solidarity with Refugees,” the Asylum and Refugee Rights Advocacy Foundation (ARRA)—also known as the Asylum and Refugee Rights Advocates—joins the global community in commemorating the resilience, strength, and dignity of millions of people forcibly displaced from their homes.

This year’s observance is not merely a ceremonial reflection—it is a clarion call to global action. In a world where over 120 million people are currently displaced due to conflict, persecution, violence, and climate-induced crises, ARRA is calling on governments, international agencies, civil society organizations, and host communities to move beyond rhetoric and embrace genuine solidarity through practical support, legal protections, and inclusive policies.

In a statement signed by Dr. Okey James Ezugwu, a legal practitioner and Assistant Comptroller General of Immigration Service (Rtd), and the Founder/Executive Director of ARRA, the organization stressed that:

“Solidarity with refugees must be more than a theme or a slogan. It must translate into tangible actions that safeguard their rights, protect their dignity, and guarantee their access to justice, healthcare, education, employment, and a safe place to call home. The world cannot afford to look away while vulnerable families and individuals suffer in camps, border crossings, and detention facilities.”

Dr. Ezugwu decried the increasing incidences of xenophobia, forced deportations, arbitrary detentions, and policy rollbacks that have worsened the plight of refugees across continents. He noted that despite the commitments made under the 1951 Refugee Convention and its 1967 Protocol, many nations continue to fall short in meeting their obligations.

“We must remind ourselves that refugees are not threats—they are victims of threats. They are not a burden to society but are potential contributors to national growth, if given the chance to rebuild their lives in safety and with dignity,” he said.

ARRA further called for enhanced global cooperation to address the root causes of displacement, and urged states to adopt and implement refugee protection frameworks that uphold international human rights and humanitarian standards.

As part of its commitment to action, the Asylum and Refugee Rights Advocacy Foundation announced its continued readiness to provide pro bono legal support, representation, and advocacy services for asylum seekers and refugees in Nigeria and across Africa. ARRA will also intensify its partnership with other rights-based organizations, policy influencers, and government stakeholders to push for more inclusive migration and refugee policies.

“On this World Refugee Day, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to stand with refugees—not just in words, but in consistent and courageous action. Solidarity is not a passive sentiment; it is a deliberate choice to build a just world where no one is left behind,” Dr. Ezugwu added.

The organization called on individuals, institutions, and policymakers to lend their voices, resources, and platforms to ensure that the fundamental rights of refugees are protected and their hopes for a better future are kept alive.

Law and Order, News

Ambassador Gabriel Aduda Reiterates Commitment To Excellence In Military Healthcare And Training Infrastructure

Leave a comment

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Ambassador Gabriel Tanimu Aduda, has reaffirmed the Ministry’s unwavering commitment to enhancing healthcare delivery and training infrastructure across the Nigerian Armed Forces.

During an official visit to Kaduna, Ambassador Aduda inspected the newly completed 100-bed Medical Interns Accommodation Facility at the 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital (NARH).

The state-of-the-art complex features en-suite rooms, fully equipped common areas, recreational lounges, and an alternative solar power system—designed to provide a comfortable and sustainable living environment for medical interns.

Speaking after the tour, Ambassador Aduda expressed satisfaction with the quality of the facility, noting that dignified accommodation plays a critical role in improving the performance and morale of healthcare professionals within the Armed Forces.

“By investing in quality living conditions, we empower our interns to focus on their responsibilities without distraction, ultimately improving healthcare outcomes for our gallant men and women in uniform,” he stated.

The Permanent Secretary also underscored the importance of reliable infrastructure such as steady power supply and well-equipped communal areas to ensure an efficient, safe, and supportive environment for residents.

In a related development, Ambassador Aduda conducted an assessment visit to the Special Operations Forces Training Ground at the Nigerian Army School of Infantry, Camp Kabala. Accompanied by the Camp Commandant, Major General FS Etim, the Permanent Secretary inspected ongoing training exercises and facilities, commending the high standards of discipline and operational readiness demonstrated by the personnel.

He was joined on the tour by senior officials including Dr. Sunday Attah, Director of Army Affairs at the Ministry of Defence; Brigadier General GS Ogoh, Director of Medical Services at the 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital, and other Ministry representatives.

These visits underscore the Ministry’s broader strategic vision to strengthen operational capacity and enhance the welfare of military personnel through sustained investment in infrastructure and human capital.

News

Hon. Ajiya Congratulates Muslims on Eid al-Adha Celebration, Pushes for National Renewal

Leave a comment

Hon. Stephen Abraham Ajiya, frontline Chairmanship aspirant in the aborted North Central Zonal Congress of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has, in a powerful Eid al-Adha message to Nigerian Muslims, congratulateed them for a peaceful celebration, urging continued prayers for visionary leadership and national renewal.

In his goodwill message, Hon. Ajiya congratulated Muslims across the country, particularly in the North Central region, on the successful celebration of Eid al-Adha, emphasizing the importance of the values it represents.

“On this sacred occasion of Eid al-Adha, I extend my warmest congratulatory message and heartfelt felicitations to all Muslims across Nigeria… May the peace, blessings, and mercy of Almighty Allah be upon you and your loved ones,” he stated.

Reflecting on the spiritual depth of the celebration, Ajiya highlighted the timeless example of Prophet Ibrahim’s obedience and sacrifice, noting its significance for both religious and national reflection.

“Eid al-Adha, the Festival of Sacrifice, is a powerful reminder of the unwavering faith, obedience, and devotion demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim (AS), who was willing to sacrifice his son in submission to Allah’s will,” Ajiya said. “It is a time that calls on all of us—not just Muslims, but all Nigerians—to reflect deeply on the values of sacrifice, humility, and trust in divine guidance, especially in these trying times.”

Calling for a renewal of national hope, Ajiya appealed to Muslims to intensify their prayers for Nigeria’s healing, unity, and emergence of effective leadership.

“I call on all Muslims to continue to pray fervently for our nation—for healing, unity, and visionary leadership that will take us out of the shadows of insecurity, economic hardship, and disillusionment,” he urged. “Our collective prayers and actions are essential to birth a new Nigeria that aligns with our shared dreams of equity, justice, and progress.”

The PDP chieftain emphasized that Nigeria is at a critical juncture where sacrificial and morally grounded leadership is urgently needed.

“Nigeria today stands at a crossroads, and more than ever, we need leaders who embody the values of selflessness, sacrifice, and moral integrity—leaders who will serve with compassion and courage, just as Prophet Ibrahim submitted to the will of the Almighty without hesitation,” Ajiya stressed.

Reaffirming his commitment to the PDP and to transformational leadership in the North Central region, Ajiya expressed confidence in a future shaped by inclusiveness and justice.

“As a loyal member of our great party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and a committed aspirant to the Chairmanship position in the North Central Zone, I reaffirm my dedication to the ideals of justice, inclusiveness, and transformational leadership. Together, we can build a future that reflects the yearnings of our people—a future where no Nigerian is left behind,” he declared.

Concluding his message, Ajiya called on Nigerians to uphold the spirit of sacrifice and unity beyond the festivities.

“I urge us all to reach out to the less privileged, strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, and embrace the spirit of unity, sacrifice, and submission to the will of Allah in all our dealings,” he said.

“May this Eid bring peace to our communities, healing to our nation, and renewed strength to our democracy. Eid Mubarak to you and your families.”

Ajiya’s message resonates as a call for spiritual, ethical, and political renewal at a time when many Nigerians are yearning for hope and change.

News, Politics

Big Thumb Network, IFAPAN, SDMA Launch National Agenda to Combat Hunger and Restore Democracy

Leave a comment

A formidable alliance of civic and pro-democracy organizations has emerged in Nigeria with the unveiling of a sweeping national policy agenda aimed at tackling the country’s deepening food insecurity and growing fears of democratic regression. The U.S.-based Big Thumb Network (BTN), in collaboration with the Indigenous Food and Allied Processors Association Network (IFAPAN) and Save Democracy Mega Alliance (SDMA), formally launched their movement during a major roundtable in Lagos on May 29, 2025.

Held at the Excellence Hotel in Ikeja, the event marked a significant milestone in a campaign that its organizers hope will reshape Nigeria’s political and socio-economic trajectory. The date — the second anniversary of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s assumption of office — was chosen deliberately to underscore the coalition’s dissatisfaction with the current administration’s record and to reclaim the spirit of Nigeria’s now-discontinued Democracy Day.

Jeremy Osezua, convener of Big Thumb Network and a U.S.-based governance advocate, addressed the gathering virtually. He described the state of the nation in stark terms, noting that “the symbolic theme of today’s event captures the essence of our mission.” According to Osezua, “Nigeria is enduring tribulations of hunger, insecurity, and the drift toward one-party tyranny.” He warned that the Tinubu administration, barely two years in office, was already resorting to “Machiavellian repression of opposition parties,” adding, “The people must rise, organize, and change the direction of our country.”

The roundtable was not merely symbolic but was attended by a range of civic and political actors from across Nigeria’s ideological spectrum. These included former state commissioners, civil society activists, religious leaders, opposition politicians, and representatives from various labor and good governance groups.

Among the key speakers were noted writer and apostolic activist Dr. Bolaji Akinyemi, labor rights advocate Barrister Affiong Affiong, former Ogun State commissioner Dr. Kehinde Sogunle, political analyst Dr. Dayo Kayode, and several others who offered grim assessments of the national condition and called for urgent, coordinated action.

Comrade Tony Akeni of the Save Democracy Mega Alliance and Okhaimon Aiyegbeni AA Omonhinmin of IFAPAN, both of whom co-convened the roundtable, signed a communique at the event’s close that critics say reads as both an indictment and a manifesto.

The communique expressed deep concern over what it described as the government’s lack of vision, stating, “Tinubu’s reform is nebulous, headless, heartless, elitist and fiendish.”

The communiqué accused the administration of having no coherent policy framework, which it said has resulted in a pattern of “afterthought actions” rather than deliberate planning. “Its most prominent achievement,” the communique continued, “is the pauperization of Nigerians and the plunging of life expectancy to the lowest ebb ever recorded by concerned rating institutions across Africa and the globe.”

Another thread running through the communiqué was the criticism of what the coalition sees as President Tinubu’s obsession with securing a second term. “Tinubu’s obsession with 2027 re-election politics has overshadowed realistically addressing socioeconomic issues that have turned Nigerians into scavengers in their country,” it read. Citing the administration’s “voodoo economic policy,” the communique painted a bleak picture of an economy in freefall and a populace left adrift.

The roundtable called for the immediate formation of a broad-based coalition of patriotic actors to “rescue Nigeria from the current insensitive and experimental policies of the Tinubu Administration, which have reduced Nigerians from citizens to laboratory rodents.”

Despite what they described as the president’s attempt to weaken opposition forces through mass defections and propaganda campaigns led by his “emilokan ululationists,” the coalition declared its confidence in the people’s ability to reclaim Nigeria through the ballot box in 2027. “Nigerians will decide the outcome of the 2027 general elections, not the spurious algebraic conspiracy between the federal electoral body and the judiciary,” the communique asserted.

Food insecurity dominated much of the discussion. According to the coalition, Nigeria experienced the largest spike in acute food insecurity anywhere in the world in 2024, with 31.8 million Nigerians facing near-famine conditions.

The communiqué blamed this crisis on a combination of factors: armed conflicts, terrorism, rampant corruption, wasteful governance, and systemic economic mismanagement. The coalition also pointed to a particularly harrowing phenomenon — the mass displacement and loss of life resulting from environmental disasters and violent land grabs by armed herdsmen and insurgents.

In what was perhaps the most damning section of the document, the roundtable declared that “the bloodletting by hordes of land-grabbing killer Fulani herdsmen and Islamic terrorists… is a crime against humanity and civilization.” It accused key elements of the military and political elite of enabling these atrocities by providing cover and impunity, stating that such actions constitute a direct affront to both Christian and Muslim moral teachings.

As Nigeria now holds the unenviable status of having the largest population of people living in extreme poverty, the coalition emphasized that the current food crisis is not simply a natural disaster but “a symptom of domestic governance failures.”

The communiqué ended on a somber but urgent note, warning that unless “swift, practical, purposeful and sustainable interventions are undertaken by government at all levels,” Nigeria will plunge into a humanitarian and economic catastrophe.

Despite the grim tone, organizers were adamant that the Lagos summit marked only the beginning of a broader mobilization. Plans are already underway to hold similar policy roundtables in each of the remaining five geopolitical zones. The ultimate aim is to produce a national charter for food security, democratic reform, and citizen empowerment to be presented not only to the Nigerian government but also to international development partners and regional bodies.

In his closing remarks, Omonhinmin stated, “This is not just about 2027. This is about saving our people — from hunger, from dictatorship, and from despair. We will not be silenced.”

With civil society regaining its voice and opposition forces preparing for a long road to 2027, the coalition behind the Big Thumb Network may become a defining player in Nigeria’s evolving political story. The message from Lagos was clear: the people must act — and they must act now.