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News, Politics

Jigawa Youth Agenda Debunks Allegations Against Defence Minister Badaru Abubakar, Says They’re Baseless

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Youths under the umbrella of the Jigawa Youth Agenda have come out strongly in defence of Honourable Minister of Defence, Muhammad Badaru Abubakar, dismissing allegations made by “a mysterious group” claiming to represent APC youth in Jigawa State as unfounded and mischievous.

They noted that after conducting thorough investigations, “the Youth Agenda discovered that this group is not officially registered with the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Jigawa”, and appears to have been hastily formed to spread misinformation and disrupt party unity.

“We reaffirm our unwavering support for Minister Badaru Abubakar, acknowledging his exceptional contributions to the APC and Nigeria,” said Al-Amin Aliu, a Public Analyst noted on behalf of the Jigawa Youth Agenda.

The group stated that “His leadership and commitment are indisputable, from his transformative tenure as Governor of Jigawa State to his current role as Minister of Defence.”

The Jigawa Youth Agenda highlighted Minister Badaru Abubakar’s key achievements, including strengthening national security by enhancing Nigeria’s military capabilities, forging strategic partnerships with global defence organizations, promoting youth empowerment through initiatives focused on education, employment, and entrepreneurship in Jigawa State, and advancing APC unity by fostering collaboration across the state and nationally.

The Youth Agenda viewed the allegations as an attempt to create division within the united APC family and urged party members and the public to disregard these unfounded claims.

“Minister Badaru Abubakar’s legacy remains a source of pride for Jigawa State and Nigeria,” Aliu emphasized.

“His dedication to national development, APC principles, and the Tinubu administration demonstrates his integrity and effectiveness”, the group added.

The youths maintained that the Defence Minister has consistently demonstrated his commitment to the welfare of the people of Jigawa State, as seen in his recent visit to commiserate with the state government over the flood that ravaged the state, where he made a personal donation of N20 million naira to support relief efforts. “This gesture reinforces the strong bond between the Honourable Minister and the people of Jigawa State.”

The Jigawa Youth Agenda then urged Nigerians to recognize Minister Badaru Abubakar’s achievements and support his efforts to build a stronger and more secure nation.

“Together, let us reject misinformation and uphold APC unity and progress at state and national levels,” Aliu concluded as the Youth Agenda reaffirmed its full confidence in Minister Badaru Abubakar’s ability to lead and contribute positively to Nigeria’s development.

Law and Order, News

Group Condemns Baseless Lies Against Minister Badaru

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A group under the auspices of Tinubu Arewa Media 2023, led by Comrade Abdulhamid Bala, has issued resounding condemnation of the baseless allegations circulating against the Minister of Defence, Muhammadu Badaru, by persons it described as certain meddlesome individuals.

The group, which has been in the forefront of the campaign for the victory of President Bola Tinubu, described the media attack on the Minister as unfounded and totally unacceptable.

“These shameless falsehoods, accusing Minister Badaru of an imaginary shadow romance with PDP figures, are nothing but lies from the pit of hell, concocted by those desperate to destabilize the APC and disrupt the unity we have worked hard to build”, the group said in a terse media release on Tuesday.

Comrade Bala denounced the allegations against the Minister as a deliberate, malicious campaign of calumny.

“These detractors are attempting to weaken our party’s stronghold by tarnishing the image of a man who has devoted himself to the APC and to our nation’s progress,” Bala stated.

He explained that “The claims linking Minister Badaru to an opposition plot are the height of absurdity and betrayal, grounded in fiction rather than fact. Those fueling these rumors are simply enemies of progress with no respect for truth or integrity.”

The group insisted that Minister Badaru’s unshakable dedication to the APC, both as a former governor and now as Minister of Defence, is indisputable. It noted that Badaru’s leadership has consistently embodied the values of the APC, advancing the interests of Jigawa State and Nigeria as a whole.

The group further stated that Badaru’s allegiance to the party and unwavering support for President Tinubu’s administration cannot be questioned, as his record of service speaks volumes.

The group called on all APC loyalists and President Tinubu to disregard these pathetic, unfounded rumors intended to distract from the party’s goals.

“These smear campaigns are orchestrated by agents of division and deceit,” Bala continued, “They may try to stir up trouble, but they will find no footing within the APC. Minister Badaru remains an honorable figure of loyalty, courage, and competence.”

The group declared that it stands firmly with Minister Badaru and condemns “the reckless tactics of those attempting to undermine his
legacy and loyalty.

“We remain united against these disgraceful, fabricated attacks, which only highlight the desperation of those who fear the strength and resilience of the APC in Jigawa State and beyond.

“
LlNo level of slander will distract us from supporting our leaders and pursuing our mission for a stronger, united Nigeria”, they emphasized.

The group, further disclosed that it is well aware of the politician behind this smear campaign against Minister Badaru.

“This same politician, notorious for his intolerance, previously resorted to similar tactics in dealings with a Mining business partner.

“We therefore issue our final warning: if this individual dares to target Minister Badaru with such deceitful antics again, the group will not hesitate to expose his full identity to the public, through the media”, it threatened.

Business, News

EDA To Host Pan Africa/USA Business Summit in Minnesota December 5 -7

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A Non-Profit Organization with focus on promoting equity and economic inclusion, Equitable Development Action (EDA) in partnership with Tibro Global Company Ltd, has concluded plans to hold Pan Africa/USA Business Summit in Minnesota with the aim of powering Pan Atlantic Economic Transformation through Trade and Investment.

In a press statement released in Abuja on Thursday by the duo of Nnadi Udoka, EDA’s Country’s Representative in Nigeria and Oluwapemi Aderogba, Managing Director of Tibro Global Company Ltd, while inviting Africans to participate in the summit noted that EDA acts as a catalyst for global economic advancement and promotes Economic Empowerment through facilitating partnerships and fostering trade relations.

The statement noted that the summit would empower businesses in both continents (Africa and United States) to thrive and contribute to economic growth.

Continuing, it assured the event would provide veritable platform for showcasing innovative ideas and entrepreneurial ventures, fostering creativity and driving innovation in both regions.

It informed that through initiatives focusing on sustainability and corporate social responsibility, the meeting would encourage businesses to adopt practices that benefit society and the environment.

The massage stated that by facilitating dialogue and cooperation between governments and businesses, the conference would contribute to strengthen diplomatic relations between African nations and the United States.

It stressed that the discussions would focus on Leveraging Clean Energy Technologies to Drive Economic Growth in Africa, The Role of AI and IoT in Energy Optimization, Smart Farming and Agritech Solutions, Mineral Exploration, Extraction and Processing.

Others include: Digital Transformation in the Creative Economy, The Rise of Africa’s Creative Tech Startups, How Technology is Influencing Industry in Africa, Public-Private Partnership – Working Together to Achieve Health for all, Enhancing Bilateral Trade and Investment Flows.

It however, revealed that participants would be opportune to connect with a diverse group of visionary leaders, entrepreneurs, government officials, and industry experts from Africa and the US, thereby expanding their professional network and fostering valuable connections.

It maintained that participants would dig deep into specific industry sectors with expert-led panel sessions, gaining valuable insights and strategies tailored to the participant’s area of interest or expertise.

The statement pointed out the possibility of participants gaining access to cutting-edge insights, trends, and best practices in international trade, investment, and entrepreneurship, empowering them to stay ahead of the curve in today’s rapidly evolving business landscape.

it noted the conferees would explore partnership opportunities and forge strategic alliances with businesses and organizations from diverse sectors, unlocking new avenues for collaboration and growth.

According to the statement, “The summit will discover untapped market and investment opportunities in Africa and the US, positioning your business for expansion and success in new geographical regions.

“Explore the exhibition hall featuring innovative products, services and investment opportunities, showcasing the latest trends and development in the African and US markets” the statement read in part.

It spoke of sponsorship opportunities which will provide wide array of benefits, including brand recognition, complimentary conference registration and private meeting facilitation. This is why the summit should be must-attend for captains of industry, Entrepreneurs, Urban Professionals, people from the academia, investors, senior business managers and government officials.

Breaking News

Youth Assembly of Nigeria’s New Speaker Praises Matawalle’s Leadership and Loyalty

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The Nigeria’s Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Muhammed Bello Matawalle, has received praise from Comrade Famuyibo Oluwasegun, the newly elected National Speaker of the Youth Assembly of Nigeria (YAN).

Oluwasegun commended Matawalle’s courage in combating bandits and terrorists in North West of the country and his loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

During his acceptance speech at the national election in Abuja, Oluwasegun described Matawalle as a youth role model.

Nigeria's Minister of State for Defence Dr Bello Muhammed Matawalle
Dr Bello Muhammed Matawalle

He credited Matawalle’s leadership, direction, and support for his election victory, stating, “My mentor, His Excellency Dr. Matawalle extended an unalloyed hand… instrumental to making my victory a reality”.

The YAN Speaker-elect thanked the YAN Board of Trustees, Convention Planning Committee, and delegates for electing him to lead the 4th Assembly of Nigerian Youths.

Acting BoT Chairman, Hon. Gt. C Samuel, advised the new leaders to be good ambassadors of Nigerian youths and Nigeria.

The election marked a significant milestone for the Youth Assembly of Nigeria, with Comrade Famuyibo Oluwasegun pledging to uphold the organization’s values.

Dr. Matawalle’s commitment to national security and loyalty to President Tinubu has earned him recognition among Nigeria’s youth.

This development underscores Matawalle’s positive impact on the country’s youth population and his dedication to national development.

News, Politics

Keyamo: Tinubu Made Right Choice of Keyamo as Aviation Minister – Says Group

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The Arewa Youth Leaders League (AYLL) has applauded President Bola Tinubu’s choice of Festus Keyamo as Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development.

In a statement signed by Usman Attah, the group said this strategic decision has yielded remarkable results, positioning Nigeria for greatness in the aviation sector.

Attah said Keyamo’s exceptional leadership has transformed the ministry, showcasing his commitment to excellence, transparency and accountability.

He noted that his vision for a safer, more efficient, and globally compliant aviation industry has earned him widespread acclaim.

“Keyamo’s tenure has been marked by remarkable achievements,” he said.

“Notably, Nigeria’s global aviation compliance score has significantly improved, following the signing of the Irrevocable De-registration and Export Request Authorization (IDERA).

“This milestone, coupled with the Cape Town Convention Practice Direction, has propelled Nigeria’s rating from 49% to 70.5% in just a month.

“This impressive feat removes Nigeria from the AWG’s watch list of non-compliant countries, categorizing it as ‘high’ and unlocking avenues for aircraft financing and dry-leasing.

“Nigerian airline operators will now enjoy greater access to global aircraft leasing markets.

“Keyamo’s efforts have also enhanced safety standards, improved infrastructure development, and fostered collaboration with international partners.

“His dedication to addressing long-standing challenges has instilled confidence in stakeholders.

“The minister’s latest achievements demonstrate his ability to drive positive change.

“The signing of IDERA and the Cape Town Convention Practice Direction exemplify his strategic approach to reforming Nigeria’s aviation sector.”

The Arewa Youth Leaders League, therefore, urged Keyamo to sustain this momentum, tackling persistent challenges such as flight delays and cancellations.

“Addressing these issues will further boost public trust and reinforce his commitment to transforming Nigeria’s aviation landscape,” Attah further said.

“As Keyamo continues to excel, we call on all stakeholders to support his vision for a world-class aviation sector. Collective backing will enable him to overcome remaining hurdles and solidify Nigeria’s position as a leader in African aviation.

“The Arewa Youth Leaders League commends Minister Keyamo’s tireless efforts and pledges its unwavering support for his transformative agenda. We look forward to witnessing continued progress under his leadership.”

Breaking News

Abia Labour Party Crises – Is Rt. Hon. Ben Kalu Among The Prophets?

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By Sunday Chigozie
Eziama Afara

… three weeks after his statement in a viral video, there is fire on the mountain.

There was a video interview wherein the Deputy Speaker of the Federal House of Representatives, Rt. Hon Benjamin Kalu made some political predictions and urged the Governor of Abia State Dr Alex Otti to cross over to APC for his reelection, considering the realities ahead in 2027. It was a friendly and harmless advice, which didn’t in anyway suggested directly or indirectly that the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon Benjamin Kalu is harbouring any intension of contesting Abia Governorship against Governor Alex Otti.

Therefore, one wonders why Governor Alex Otti would take such a simple political invitation from a supposedly close friend to another level of animosity. Otti threw caution to the winds by spending Abia resources on social media e-rats to continuously attack the image of the Deputy Speaker; if he wasn’t behind it why hasn’t he made a public statement asking his brothers/friends/supporters, particularly Professor Chidi Odinkalu to desist from his unwarranted attacks on the person of distinguished Deputy Speaker?

. Is Gov Alex Otti really this callous as has been severally accused by his close allies and associates?

It is therefore unfathomable the extent Governor Alex Otti took the mere political advise from Rt. Hon Benjamin Kalu when similar invitation was made to the immediate past Governor of Abia State, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu during his own time in office. Like the perfect and peaceful gentleman that he is; Dr. Ikpeazu laughed over the invite and simply and jokingly asked Rt. Hon Benjamin Kalu to come over to his own party, the PDP. There was no drama, no bad-blood, rather they both laughed over it and still enjoyed robust relationship till date.

Again, same invitation was extended to former Governor T.A Orji, by the Deputy Speaker, Ochendo as he is fondly called simply replied by saying “…my family has joined APC, I have retired from active politics“; and the rest was history as both leaders laughed over it. Why has Governor Otti decided to make a mountain out of a harmless political invite, which other Governors before him didn’t consider as anything serious but has surprisingly triggered a very high level of bitterness in a Governor who pretends to be more Christian than others and follows renowned Pastors around to create a false impression on people.

However, it is pertinent to point out again and clearly too that in the said viral video, Rt. Hon Benjamin Kalu never said he was running for the office of governor against Governor Otti, but only merely invited him to crossover to APC to run for his reelection because, Rt. Hon Ben Kalu foresaw that the structure Governor Otti was standing on was not sustainable.

Surreptitiously, Governor Alex Otti hired tik-tokers all over the world and a certain pay-to-twit minion of a Law Professor to malign and make mockery of a simple invitation, instead of brush it aside jokingly like other Governors. Thousands and millions of Abia taxpayers money was spent on Lagos state and Abuja based journalists, skit makers, social media influencers to launch series of attacks on his supposed friend and brother, Rt. Hon Benjamin Kalu. Who does that to another, he calls friend for no just reason.?

The question begging for answer is why a Governor who is struggling to pay Seventy thousand minimum wage and didn’t pay wage award as at when other Governors were paying; could afford to be wasting billions of Naira on National Newspapers, TV stations, bloggers in Lagos and Abuja just to destroy someone he once called a friend?

Expectedly, the Deputy Speaker has remained calm without going to war on the media with a man he called friend, notwithstanding the provocative attacks on his integrity, howbeit his statement in the said viral video seems like a prophecy which is unfolding daily in Abia Labour Party. The structure Governor Otti is standing on now is shaking in line with Ben Kalu’s prediction, only the wise can read the handwriting on the wall. Governor Otti’s woes are compounded by the sack of many Abia workers, inability to show Abians where he built the N6.5billion recreational facilities, lack of transparency and accountability, the government’s penchant for propanganda, deception and lies.

Rt. Hon Benjamin Kalu’s prophecy has come true in the sense that, If Abia Labour Party cannot deliver a simple Local Government elections peacefully without Governor Otti running around to secure platforms from Zenith Labour Party (ZLP) to Young People’s Party (YPP) for his nominated candidates to contest under, is it the INEC controlled Gubernatorial election that won’t give Otti even bigger stress?. Recall that the authentic Labour Party leadership just recently concluded to withdraw the automatic reelection ticket hitherto reserved for Otti.
Prophecies of those close to God usually come to pass, is Rt. Hon Benjamin Kalu also among the prophets? It is even appearing to be so.

Consequently, these purveyors of political attacks on Rt Hon Benjamin Kalu took their media warfare against an important bill sponsored by the Deputy Speaker seeking to establish a UNIVERSITY OF NIGERIAN LANGUAGES at ABA, as can be seen in the National Assembly journal of 2nd October, 2024 and published by the clerk of National Assembly. There was nowhere in the said journal that “TINUBU UNIVERSITY” was ever mentioned. If not for mischief and wickedness why would these people fighting the Deputy Speaker mock a bill that will eventually upgrade the existing but moribund Nigerian Institute Of Nigerian Languages in Aba to a full university, and ultimately expose the decaying institution to better funding through accessing Tetfund and other federal government policies. Moreover, it will be at no cost on Federal government.

Apart from the many direct benefits to the host community like employment, infrastructural development etc that upgrading the institution to a full university will attract; Nigerian languages are daily eroded by lack of interest of the younger generation, teachers of these languages are diminishing by the day, parents are forgetting to speak it at home and in the process one of the core element of our identity ( language) fades away before our eyes in preference to the language of our colonial masters. We all should be worried as the representatives are worried.

Finally, it is high time, we all supported the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon Benjamin Kalu to continue putting Igboland on the map.

Chief Sunday Chigozie
Eziama Afara wrote this piece.

News, Politics

Group Hails Governor Bala Mohammed’s Commitment to Bauchi State Amid Opposition

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Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, has been facing intense criticism from certain quarters, but strong supporters, led by Dr. Abubakar Suleiman Akko, the Chairman of the Democracy Watch Initiative, Gombe State Chapter, has come out in his defence, giving reasons why the Governor has been single out for attacks.

Dr. Akko expressed dismay at the “unpalatable reports” in the media, describing them as “sponsored hatchet jobs aimed at rubbishing the achievements of the Bauchi State Governor.”

He identified two main reasons for the attacks: Governor Mohammed’s principled stand against federal policies, such as increasing petrol prices, and his efforts to unite opposition parties.

“His principled stand against policies like increasing the price of petrol and associated oil resources in the last year and a half has put him in direct conflict with certain forces in the political space,” Dr. Akko noted.

The group observed that Governor Mohammed’s commitment to development has transformed Bauchi State.

“Bauchi State has been left behind in the provision of basic infrastructure across the state… But after Senator Bala Mohammed’s ascension to the office of Bauchi State Governor, it is clear that he has transformed the state, especially in the areas of urban and rural development, upgrading educational institutions and health care centres, and also providing farming inputs.”

Dr. Akko emphasized that Governor Mohammed’s achievements speak for themselves. “The facts on the ground speak for themselves… anyone who really wants to know the truth about the state of things in Bauchi can do so by simply visiting the state.”

He also highlighted the importance of a vibrant opposition in a democratic system. “Nigeria needs a vibrant opposition; because every democratic system thrives when the opposition parties play their part – a vital role that holds governments accountable for their actions.”

Dr. Akko urged Governor Mohammed to remain focused and not be distracted by the criticism. “My opinion is to tell the Bauchi State Governor not to get discouraged, not to relent in taking these laudable steps, and to continue down the path of selfless service to his people and to the people of Nigeria as a whole.”

In conclusion, Dr. Akko reiterated his support for Governor Mohammed, praising his dedication to the people of Bauchi State and Nigeria. “Senator Mohammed is being hounded for trying to bring the Nigerian political opposition parties together… Certain elements of the Nigerian government do not seem to want this to happen, hence the attacks on the governor of Bauchi State.”

As Governor Mohammed continues to face criticism, Dr. Akko’s words of encouragement serve as a reminder of the importance of staying committed to principled leadership and service to the people.

Breaking News, News, Sports

Nigeria Football Lovers Coalition Slams Proposed Tenure Extension for NFF General Secretary

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The Coalition of Nigeria Football Lovers has vehemently condemned the proposed tenure extension of Dr. Mohammed Sanusi as General Secretary of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). According to the Coalition’s National Secretary, Adegboyega Olaitan, “This move is unacceptable, considering Sanusi’s 10-year tenure has been marred by significant decline and underachievement in Nigeria’s football.”

Olaitan emphasized that despite Nigeria’s abundance of talented footballers, Sanusi’s leadership has failed to yield tangible success. “Football plays a critical role in harmonizing Nigerians, transcending ethnic, religious, and geographical divides. It is imperative that the NFF leadership prioritizes the development of the sport, rather than perpetuating mediocrity,” he stated.

The Coalition highlighted Sanusi’s tenure has been characterized by discriminatory staffing practices, contractual employment of unqualified individuals, and lack of transparency and accountability. Olaitan noted, “Sanusi’s leadership has failed to translate Nigeria’s potential into success, instead, Nigeria’s football has suffered.”

The Coalition demands immediate termination of Sanusi’s tenure, an investigation into NFF’s administrative practices, and implementation of merit-based recruitment and management. Olaitan urged, “It’s time for a new era of leadership, focused on revitalizing Nigeria’s football and harnessing its potential for national unity and pride.”

“The Federal Government, Sports Ministry, and NFF stakeholders should reject this proposed tenure extension,” Olaitan emphasized. “We need a leadership that will prioritize the development of football, not perpetuate mediocrity.”

In conclusion, Olaitan reiterated, “We demand a new era of leadership that will revitalize Nigeria’s football and harness its potential for national unity and pride.” The Coalition’s stance echoes the sentiments of many Nigerian football fans, calling for change and accountability in the NFF leadership.

News, Politics

Why FG Must Integrate AU’s 2063 Agenda – Deputy Speaker

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The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Okezie Kalu has harped on the need for the Federal Government of Nigeria to intentionally integrate the African Union Agenda 2063 into the nation’s development strategy.

Kalu who led the Nigeria’s delegation to the recently concluded Conference of Speakers of African Parliament to Midrand, South Africa championed this cause as part of the communique issued to mark the end of the conference.

The Bende Federal Constituency of Abia State representative who stood in for the Speaker of the Nigerian House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, stated by integrating the 2063 Agenda, Nigeria will set a model for other African countries to emulate.

The AU Agenda 2063 is an ambitious framework aimed at transforming Africa into a global powerhouse of the future. It envisions an integrated, prosperous, and peaceful continent, driven by its citizens and representing a dynamic force in the global arena.

The agenda comprises seven aspirations, each focused on key areas such as economic growth, social inclusion, sustainable development, and good governance.Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Okezie Kalu

In the words of the Deputy Speaker, Nigeria’s development aspiration has a nexus with the continent’s growth initiatives, even as he outlined that the President Bola Tinubu-led government is already implementing the goals of the AU Agenda 2063 across the broad themes of economic diversification, youth empowerment, economic diversification and good governance.

“As Africa’s most populous nation and largest economy, Nigeria holds a unique position on the continent. Although it has in the past faced multifaceted challenges, including economic volatility, infrastructural deficits, and social inequalities, the Nigeria’s future is bright given the focus of the current administration of President Tinubu,” Mr Kalu said.

The Deputy Speaker highlighted Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to diversify its economy away from oil dependency through investments in agriculture, technology, and renewable energy, stressing that “By embarking on economic diversification, Nigeria aims to foster sustainable economic growth that reflects the aspirations of Agenda 2063.”

He emphasized the importance of infrastructure as a cornerstone for economic development and touted the efforts of Nigeria in actively pursuing regional connectivity projects, such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which aligns with Agenda 2063’s goal of an integrated Africa.

On the continent’s demography prospect, Kalu highlighted Also the initiatives by the Federal Government aimed at empowering Nigeria’s youth through education and job creation. This as he stated aligns with the Agenda’s focus on a people-driven development strategy that engages the continent’s largest demographic group.

He also called for a comprehensive review of existing policies by African States to support the continent’s development agenda.

In acknowledging that a critical component of the AU Agenda is infrastructure development, the Deputy Speaker advocated for “An increased investment in critical infrastructure, including transportation, energy, and digital connectivity. Such investments will not only enhance Africa’s competitiveness but also facilitate intra-African trade and economic integration.”

He also highlighted the importance of regional integration as outlined in Agenda 2063 and urged his colleagues to establish frameworks that strengthen partnerships amongst African nations, fostering trade and economic collaboration that can enhance regional stability and growth.

Emphasizing further the importance of technology and innovation, Kalu added that “To remain competitive in a rapidly changing global landscape, Africa must prioritize technological advancement and innovation,” even as he called attention to policies that support research and development.

The Deputy Speaker’s intervention at the Conference of Speakers of African Parliament reflects a profound understanding of the interconnectedness of Nigeria’s future with the broader African agenda. Nigeria’s efforts at integrating the AU Agenda 2063 economic blueprint into Nigeria’s developmental strategies will not only enhance its own growth trajectory but also contribute meaningfully to the realization of a prosperous and united Africa. By integrating the African Union Agenda 2063 into its national framework, Nigeria also reinforces its role as a leader on the continent.

“The way forward requires a commitment from all stakeholders including the government, civil society, and the private sector working collaboratively towards achieving Agenda 2063 ambitious goals. As Nigeria embarks on this journey, it stands poised to become a beacon of hope and progress within the African continent, leading by example in the pursuit of sustainable development and shared prosperity.

“As Africa navigates the complexities of the 21st century, Nigeria’s proactive stance in aligning with the Agenda 2063 blueprint will be essential in shaping a prosperous and united Africa. Through collaborative efforts and a shared vision, the continent can achieve the transformative change envisioned for 2063 and beyond,” Mr Kalu added.

Breaking News

Security Wins: Court Throws Out Suit Against FG’s Efforts As Northern Committee Jubilates

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The Northern Committee for Defence of Human Rights (NCDHR) has expressed its unreserved support and appreciation for the recent ruling of the Federal High Court in Abuja, which categorically dismissed the suit seeking to compel the Federal Government to investigate the alleged links between the Minister of State for Defence, Alhaji Bello Matawalle, and the operations of bandits in Zamfara State.

It called on Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State to desist from politicising the security situation and cooperate with the federal government.

The Convener of the group, Tijjani Hashimu, in a statement noted that “this decision is not only a reinforcement of the rule of law but also a significant affirmation of the commendable efforts made by the federal government in the fight against the alarming scourge of insecurity that has plagued Northern Nigeria.”

The group observed that in a time when the security situation in various parts of Nigeria remains a critical concern, “it is heartening to witness the judiciary standing firm against attempts to undermine the progress realized in countering the rampaging threats posed by banditry and related crimes.”

The Northern human rights body maintained that the ruling “aptly recognizes that continued legal challenges, particularly those lacking substantive evidence, may detract from the collective focus required to combat these menacing security issues.

“The court’s dismissal of the suit serves as a clarion call to all stakeholders to rally around the ongoing efforts to restore peace and security to our communities.”

The NCDHR acknowledged that the Federal Government, under the leadership of President Muhammadu Buhari, had taken commendable strides toward addressing the multifaceted challenges of insecurity in Northern Nigeria.

“From strategic military operations targeting kidnapping kingpins to the enhanced collaboration with local vigilante groups, the government’s endeavours have laid a foundational framework for rebuilding the trust of the citizens and ameliorating the fear that has gripped our communities.”

According to them, under the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration, the ongoing successes in the fight against banditry — especially in states such as Zamfara, where the menace has been particularly acute — underscore the importance of a unified approach to solving security challenges.

“The recent successes of our security forces in apprehending notorious criminals and dismantling their networks buttress the necessity for all citizens to support the government’s initiatives aimed at restoring law and order.

“While we wholeheartedly welcome the court’s ruling, we also implore the citizens of Northern Nigeria to remain vigilant and resilient in the face of adversity. It is essential for us to collectively debunk any unfounded allegations that could distract from the real issues at hand.

“There must be a significant emphasis on fostering peace, engaging in constructive dialogue, and promoting the significant role of community participation in security measures.

“We also call upon all relevant stakeholders — traditional rulers, community leaders, and civil society organizations — to foster a united front in confronting insecurity.

“Together, we must forge avenues for dialogue that will aid in intelligence gathering and community resilience against criminal activities. The task of restoring peace in our communities cannot be left solely to the government; it requires a concerted effort that encompasses every facet of society.

“The NCDHR reiterates its unwavering commitment to supporting the federal government in all endeavors to combat insecurity in Northern Nigeria.

“We call on Governor Dauda Lawal to desist politicising the security situation and cooperate with the federal government efforts.

“We also encourage citizens to maintain their faith in the judicial process and our security institutions, and we remain hopeful that through collective efforts, the dream of a peaceful and secure Northern Nigeria is within our grasp”, the group said.