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June 11, 2025
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Tinubu to Address Nation on June 12, Cancels Democracy Day Parade

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

The Inter-Ministerial Committee has disclosed that President Bola Tinubu will make a nationwide broadcast to Nigerians on June 12 at 7 a.m. as part of activities to mark Democracy Day.
This position on the 26th Democracy Day celebration was conveyed Wednesday in a statement signed by Abdulhakeem Adeoye of the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF) on behalf of the Director, Information & Public Relations.
He added that there would be no Democracy Day Parade to commemorate the occasion.
The President, according to the statement, will also attend the National Assembly Joint Session at 12 noon.
Also, a Public Lecture on Democracy Day Celebration will hold at the State House Conference Centre, Abuja at 4p.m. with the theme: “Consolidating on the Gains of Nigeria’s Democracy: Necessity of Enduring Reforms”.

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June 11, 2025
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Trade Tensions: World Bank Slashes Global Growth Forecast to 2.3%, Says 2025 Will Mark Weakest Growth Since 2008

•Retains Nigeria’s growth projection at 3.6%

•Downgrades growth forecasts for 70% of economies

Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja

The World Bank has declared that trade tensions which have been triggered by the United Sates President, Donald Trump, and policy uncertainty were expected to drive global growth down in 2025 to its slowest pace since 2008, outside of outright global recessions. According to the World Bank’s latest Global Economic Prospects report, the turmoil has resulted in growth forecasts being downgraded in nearly 70 per cent of all economies—across all regions and income groups.

In the report, the bank lopped 0.4 percentage points off its forecast for global growth this year. It now expects the world economy to expand just 2.3 per cent in 2025, down from 2.8 per cent in 2024.

The expected slowdown to 2.3 per cent is nearly half a percentage point lower than the rate that had been expected at the start of the year.

However, the bank retained its April 2025 growth projection for the Nigerian economy at 3.6 per cent in 2025, 3.7 per cent in 2026 and 3.8 per cent in 2027.

The outlook for the Sub-Saharan Africa economy which is also affected by global spillovers is projected to strengthen to 3.7 per cent in 2025 and average 4.2 per cent in 2026- due

to heightened uncertainty and potential adverse trade policy changes

Although the report does not envisage a global recession, nevertheless, if forecasts for the next two years materialise, average global growth in the first seven years of the 2020s will be the slowest of any decade since the 1960s.

Commenting, the World Bank Group’s Chief Economist and Senior Vice President for Development Economics, said Indermit Gill said, “Outside of Asia, the developing world is becoming a development-free zone.

“It has been advertising itself for more than a decade. Growth in developing economies has ratcheted down for three decades—from 6 per cent annually in the 2000s to 5 per cent in the 2010s—to less than 4 per cent in the 2020s. That tracks the trajectory of growth in global trade, which has fallen from an average of 5 per cent in the 2000s to about 4.5 percent in the 2010s—to less than 3 percent in the 2020s. Investment growth has also slowed, but debt has climbed to record levels.”

Growth is expected to slow in nearly 60 percent of all developing economies this year, averaging 3.8 per cent in 2025 before edging up to an average of 3.9 per cent over 2026 and 2027.

That is more than a percentage point lower than the average of the 2010s. Low-income countries are expected to grow 5.3 per cent this year—a downgrade of 0.4 percentage point from the forecast at the start of 2025. Tariff increases and tight labor markets are also exerting upward pressure on global inflation, which, at a projected average of 2.9 per cent in 2025, remains above pre-pandemic levels.

Slowing growth will impede developing economies in their efforts to spur job creation, reduce extreme poverty, and close per capita income gaps with advanced economies.

Per capita income growth in developing economies is projected to be 2.9 percent in 2025—1.1 percentage points below the average between 2000 and 2019.

The report argued that in the face of rising trade barriers, developing economies should seek to liberalize more broadly by pursuing strategic trade and investment partnerships with other economies and diversifying trade—including through regional agreements.

Given limited government resources and rising development needs, it urged policymakers to focus on mobilising domestic revenues, prioritising fiscal spending for the most vulnerable households, and strengthening fiscal frameworks.

To accelerate economic growth, it called on countries to improve business climates and promote productive employment by equipping workers with the necessary skills and creating the conditions for labor markets to efficiently match workers and firms. Global collaboration will be crucial in supporting the most vulnerable developing economies, including through multilateral interventions, concessional financing, and, for countries embroiled in active conflicts, emergency relief and support, the report added.

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June 8, 2025
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The World Gathers for Ojude Oba as Glo Celebrates 20 Years of Powering Tradition

Ejiofor Alike

Today, Ijebu Ode in Ogun State will be in focus as international tourists, cultural enthusiasts, visitors, and sons and daughters of Ijebuland gather to celebrate Ojude Oba festival, the magnificent showcase of Yoruba heritage, marked by regal splendor, deep cultural pride, and enduring spirit of unity.
Ojude Oba, meaning “the king’s court,” is more than a festival; it is a living mosaic of ancestry, spirituality, and kinship. Each year, the Ijebu people—dressed in dazzling traditional attire—honour the Awujale, their revered monarch.

This year marks the 20th milestone of Globacom’s sponsorship of the iconic celebration, which has transformed into a cultural covenant—a vibrant alliance between corporate vision and ancestral pride.

For the past two decades, Globacom has played a pivotal role in elevating this local tradition to international prominence. It has not merely sponsored Ojude Oba but has championed its global renaissance. In an age of cultural dilution, the company has chosen to amplify tradition—bringing the story of Ijebu to the world. The anticipated designation of Ojude Oba as an official African Heritage Event by UNESCO underscores its cultural significance, a recognition made possible through persistent advocacy and support from Glo.

Because of the foresight of the Chairman of Globacom, Dr. Mike Adenuga, Jr., Ojude Oba has been transformed from a regional celebration into an international attraction. Today, scholars, tourists, and admirers from across the globe converge on Ijebu Ode, drawn by a spectacle that unites pageantry with purpose. For the Ijebus, Glo has become more than a network; it is a symbol of identity, pride, and homecoming.

Globacom’s contributions extend beyond ceremonial. Through media campaigns, immersive storytelling, and cutting-edge technology, the company has cast Ojude Oba onto the global stage, enabling Nigerians in the diaspora and the wider world to experience its grandeur. This digital amplification bridges generations and geographies, turning a local festivity into a form of soft diplomacy and cultural preservation.

Glo has also used the festival as a platform for grassroots empowerment. From establishing fully-equipped POS kiosks to donating tricycles, grinding machines, and generators, the company has helped many Ijebu residents embark on entrepreneurial paths. This year, Glo introduces a consumer promo featuring Suzuki Celerio cars, tricycles, and other essential tools. One of the vehicles will go to a community-nominated hero, reinforcing the festival’s spirit of collective upliftment.

As Plato once noted, “What is honoured in a country will be cultivated there.” Globacom has honored Ijebuland’s spirit and, in doing so, cultivated its soul. The parade of Regberegbes (age grades), Baloguns (warriors), and elegantly adorned horsemen is more than a spectacle—it is a proud affirmation of cultural continuity, made sustainable through corporate stewardship.

To sponsor a festival is one thing; to nurture its essence and future is another. Through infrastructure, community engagement, and cultural reverence, Globacom has redefined what corporate responsibility can mean. It has not simply joined a celebration—it has helped it flourish.

As Kwame Nkrumah observed, “Culture is the seed of development and the flower of our identity.” Globacom has watered that seed year after year, cultivating pride, cohesion, and economic vitality. The surge in visitors and commerce during Ojude Oba is no coincidence—it is the fruit of vision planted deep in the soil of tradition.

In these 20 years, Glo has woven technology into the tapestry of tradition, uniting innovation with identity. Its green emblem now stands for more than connectivity—it signifies community, heritage, and hope.

On this diamond anniversary of partnership, one is reminded of Goethe’s wisdom: “A man should hear a little music, read a little poetry, and see a fine picture every day…” Ojude Oba is all three—music, poetry, and portrait—and through Globacom’s enduring support, it remains a masterpiece the world can witness.
As the regal processions – the Regberegbes and the Baloguns – pass before the Awujale today, their rhythms will echo gratitude—not just to history and ancestors, but to a visionary company that understood from the beginning that to invest in culture is to invest in eternity.

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June 8, 2025
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Permutations on 2027 Heat up Race for Gov AbdulRasaq’s Seat as NGF Chairman

Olawale Olaleye

The race for the chairmanship of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) has assumed an interesting dimension as the battle is now being hinged on a power rotation arrangement rooted in the 2027 presidential election permutations, THISDAY has learnt.

THISDAY gathered that the Governor of Imo State and Chairman of Progressive Governors’ Forum, Senator Hope Uzodimma; the Governor of Ogun State and Chairman of the Southern Governors’ Forum, Dapo Abiodun; and the Governor of Ekiti State, Biodun Oyebanji; are the top contenders in the race as the southern governors are said to be clamouring for the position to shift to the zone to boost President Bola Tinubu’s re-election chances.

The governors had during the May 2013 re-election battle of former governor of Rivers State, Hon. Rotimi Amaechi, as the chairman of NGF, which badly divided members, passed a resolution on a two-year term for its chairman, which stipulated that the re-election of its chairman would no longer be automatic.
This decision followed the unpretentious interest of the presidency under the then President Goodluck Jonathan, who was bent on having an NGF chairman that would be loyal to it since the period of four years was a long time to have an “opposition personality” in that office.

At the time, Amaechi’s feud with Jonathan had begun to aggravate the battle for the 2015 elections, which ultimately saw Jonathan out of office, defeated by former President Muhammadu Buhari.

It was the account of Amaechi’s confrontation with Jonathan that prompted the former president to dread seeing Amaechi return as NGF chairman because he feared he could use the forum’s office to mobilise against him.

However, Amaechi, with the backing of more governors, including those elected on the platform of the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), won the election with 19 votes to defeat the Jonathan-backed then-Governor Jonah Jang of Plateau State, who polled 16 votes.
But with Jonathan’s loyalists insisting that they won with their 16 votes, the NGF was polarised and the PDP Governors’ Forum was created as a breakaway faction.

It was on this ground that a resolution for a two-year non-automatic term was passed and successive chairmen of NGF had since followed and respected the resolution, ensuring that they spent only two years in office, albeit re-electable.

However, with the politics of the 2027 election showing different tendencies, the clamour to have a southern governor head the NGF has gained momentum as part of the efforts to support President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid.

However, there is a growing speculation that the current NGF Chairman and Governor of Kwara State, Alhaji Abdulrahman AbdulRasaq, whose two-year tenure ends this June, is unwilling to schedule a meeting this month for an alleged fear of members requesting an election.
AbdulRasaq will be two years in office this June and will have completed one term as NGF chairman.

However multiple sources close to the NGF claimed he is not likely to call for an election this month because he wants to serve for four years as opposed to two years.

However, THISDAY gathered that some of the southern governors, who have been canvassing support for an NGF chairman from the same region as the president, insisted on having an election or a consensus candidate from the south to succeed the current chairman when the group meets next week.
In the meantime, some of the governors being positioned for the office of the NGF include the Governor of Lagos, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; the Governor of Imo State and chairman of Progressive Governors’ Forum, Senator Uzodimma; Governor of Ogun State and Chairman of the Southern Governors’ Forum, Abiodun; the Governor of Ekiti State, Oyebanji; and the Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa.

Though a majority of the governors from the south were said to have initially conceded the position to the governor of Lagos State, his now frosty relationship with the president is believed to have truncated this plan.

Tinubu’s cold relationship with the governor of his home state, Sanwo-Olu, became public knowledge when the president ignored the governor at a recent public function by refusing to shake hands with him.

THISDAY gathered that it is against this backdrop that Sanwo-Olu may no longer be in contention.

But the other governors are said to be mobilising support already, preparatory to the next meeting of the NGF this June, where another chairman is expected to emerge from the south.

Uzodimma, a second-term governor and unrepentant backer of Tinubu, has been everywhere in the last few months canvassing the president’s re-electio

n.
He first mooted the idea of Tinubu’s endorsement at the meeting of the progressive governors before it was sealed at the party’s summit soon after.
Abiodun is another second-term governor, considered a perfect fit for the job. His choice is believed to be instructive given the proximity of Ogun State to Lagos and could also enhance mobilisation.

Governor Oyebanji is one of the most favoured for the job, given his calmness and leadership disposition.
He is likely to emerge as the first governor of Ekiti State to win his re-election back-to-back as a result of his performance and ability to manage both man and material resources effectively.

On his part, Aiyedatiwa, the current governor of Ondo State, is being touted by some interest in the party because of his capacity for mobilisation and the fact that even though a first-term governor, he appears to be popular among his colleague governors for constantly playing sincere neutrality

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June 7, 2025
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Recapitalisation: Banks in Race to Scale CBN’s Hurdle

*Apex bank upbeat

Nume Ekeghe

With exactly 296 days to the March 31, 2026, deadline set by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) for commercial banks to raise their capital, operators in the industry are entering a critical phase of what has been described as the most consequential regulatory shakeup in over a decade.

The ambitious exercise has set the financial sector on edge, triggering a flurry of boardroom strategy sessions that have seen some financial institutions completely raise the required amount for their banks, engage in business combination talks, and share sales in the capital market.

As the countdown intensifies, banks face a stark choice: bulk up or risk being pushed to the margins of a fast-evolving financial landscape.

Under the new framework, the CBN mandates banks with international licences to beef up their capital base to a minimum of N500 billion, from N50 billion, previously; national banks to have a minimum of N200 billion, from the N25 billion it used to be, and regional banks to maintain minimum capital base of N50 billion, from N10 billion.

While some institutions have already met the threshold, others are advancing to the second phase of capital raising, with a few still weighing their options.
For instance, among the Tier 1 banks, Zenith Bank Plc successfully raised N290 billion through a combined rights issue and public offer, which was oversubscribed by 160 percent. This brings its total qualifying capital to N614.65 billion—comfortably above the N500 billion benchmark. Similarly, Access Bank also completed its N351 billion rights issue, offering 17.77 billion shares at N19.75 each. With this, Access Bank has met the CBN requirement, pushing its capital to N594.90 billion.

Also, Guaranty Trust Bank launched a dual-track capital programme valued at N400.5 billion, and has already raised N209.41 billion through its public offer. As of now, GTB is entering its second phase of capital raising.

The United Bank for Africa (UBA) recently concluded a rights issue that was oversubscribed by N251 billion, which pushed UBA’s capital to N355.2 billion, leaving it with a N144.8 billion gap which the bank is optimistic would be closed before the end of the year.

For Providus Bank, an innovative and tech-driven financial institution, which recently acquired Unity Bank, the bank is making serious progress with its business combination deal. It is presently awaiting necessary regulatory approvals for it to launch the second phase of its recapitalisation exercise.

Fidelity Bank is also making significant progress. The bank has already raised N127 billion and has received regulatory approval for a N231.97 billion private placement. This followed a N40.98 billion rights issue and a 100.78 percent subscribed public offer of N188.38 billion. As it stands, Fidelity’s capital is at N305.56 billion, and it’s projected to hit the N500 billion mark after the next phase of its recapitalisation programme.

In the same vein, Stanbic IBTC Holdings and Sterling Financial Holdings Company are steadily moving forward. Stanbic completed a N148.7 billion private placement and awaits the outcome of its public offer. The bank’s capital currently stands at N109.26 billion but it’s expected to rise to N257.96 billion. Sterling raised N67.5 billion in a rights issue, which was 103 percent subscribed, and anticipates reaching a post-recapitalisation capital of N262.26 billion.

FCMB is addressing a capital shortfall of N374.71 billion. So far, it has raised N147.5 billion through a private placement and completed a N110.90 billion rights issue, bringing its capital to N266.23 billion. A source at the bank told THISDAY that the financial institution is upbeat in meeting the required capital base before the deadline.

Wema Bank, which holds a national banking license, recently closed a N150 billion rights issue. An additional N50 billion private placement has been approved by shareholders, which could push Wema’s capital to around N267 billion.

FirstBank’s parent company, FBN Holdings, has raised N187.6 billion from a 25 percent oversubscribed rights issue and is now preparing a N350 billion private placement. With its current capital at N251.34 billion, a successful placement would raise its total to N601.82 billion.

Among the smaller players, Premium Trust Bank has raised N177 billion, successfully covering a N174 billion capital gap, and it’s now awaiting regulatory confirmation. Jaiz Bank, a non-interest financial institution has also taken steps to beef up its capital just like its peers.

Deputy Governor, Financial System Stability, CBN, Philip Ikeazor, recently explained that some banks have completed and met the requirements, while others are doing theirs in two phases.

“So they (the banks) have been to the market once and are coming back again. We have about one year to go, and as we progress, maybe there could be a few marriages as some people tend to leave it towards the tail end.

“So far so good, the big banks are among those that have met and have their plans clear that they will meet the deadline. This is a very robust plan that allows you to step down your licence category if you think you will have a problem. So, you don’t have to be a national bank if you cannot afford N200 billion; you can afford to be a regional bank. So, one of them has indicated that they intend to be a regional bank because the plan accommodates everybody,” he added.

Commenting on the exercise, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Development Bank of Nigeria, Dr. Tony Okpanachi, advised commercial banks to ensure that with increased capitalisation, stronger balance sheets, they channel their funds to ventures and sectors that not only offer commercial returns but also support developmental goals, especially micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

Also, the Head of Financial Institutions Ratings at Agusto & Co., Ayokunle Olubunmi, noted that the recapitalisation drive has reflected strong shareholder support, as most of the over N2.5 trillion raised in the past 14 months have come from rights issues. He said the exercise has added a buffer to the financial system, putting banks in a stronger position to withstand macroeconomic shocks and better support economic growth.
Olubunmi also highlighted the importance of the initiative in Nigeria’s broader vision to become a $1 trillion economy.

“Banks will be critical if Nigeria is to attain its GDP targets. With stronger capital bases, they are better placed to scale and drive inclusive economic development,” he said.

Team Lead for Capital Markets at PAC Capital Limited, Ejovi Okiekpakpo, echoed similar views, describing the recapitalisation programme as timely and necessary.

According to him, “The recapitalisation exercise will give banks the balance sheet strength to support developmental financing, absorb shocks, and underwrite bigger transactions.”

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June 7, 2025
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Despite Pushback, Governor Eno Finally Defects to APC

Chuks Okocha in Abuja and Okon Bassey in Uyo

After weeks of speculations and mounting political pressure, Governor Umo Eno yesterday officially defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC), from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), marking a dramatic shift in the political landscape of Akwa Ibom State.

Despite strong pushback from within his party and loyalists, Eno’s move signalled a bold realignment ahead of the 2027 elections.

The development further worsened the woes of the PDP. He is the second PDP governor to defect in the past three months. The first was Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevweri, who joined the ruling party with his entire cabinet and former Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa.

“I have decided to progressively move to the APC,” Eno said while addressing party leaders and his supporters in Uyo.

“Our government has always been an inclusive government, which will never change,” he added.

The governor at the event wore a cap with the trademark APC (Jagaban) inscription and that of the ARISE Agenda of the PDP, which gave the impression he was only joining another vehicle to reach his preferred destination in 2027.

The governor said the decision followed “three months of wide consultation” with critical stakeholders across the State.

“Today, fellow Akwaibomites, we are gathered here to witness change while equally affirming the constancy of our collective values and defining ethos as a State.
He added: “For some time now, the political space, particularly in this State and the nation in general, has been awash with the news of my likely movement from the PDP, the platform that had provided the levers and ladder of my political ascendancy to the position of Governor of this State.

“The discussions have elicited various layers of analysis in the process. Today, I am here to answer some of those nagging questions. Like the Dalai Lama had said, we should always be open to change but not let go of our shared values.

“Earlier this morning, I submitted my formal Letter of Resignation from the PDP to my Ward Chairman, same copy was sent to both the State Chairman as well as the National Chairman. I have therefore, decided to Progressively move to the APC.”

Eno, expressed gratitude to the PDP for their support during his tenure, stating that it was time for him to make a progressive move.

The Governor said he decided to join the APC due to his admiration for President Bola Tinubu and the need for Akwa Ibom State to align with the federal government to reap continuous benefits.

Eno, also assured the people of Akwa Ibom State that he would continue to work tirelessly for their benefit, regardless of party affiliation.
But notably, the immediate past Governor of the State, Udom Emmanuel; former National Legal Adviser of the PDP, Emmanuel Enoidem, among others, shunned the ceremony.

Three commissioners, mostly former Governor Emmanuel’s nominees, which included Prof. Eno Ibanga (Works and Fire Service); Iniobong Ememobong (Special Duties and Ibom Deep Seaport) and Mr. Emem Almond Bob (Finance), tendered their resignation from the cabinet.

It was gathered that other former Governor Emmanuel’s allies who refused to defect included some House of Assembly lawmakers, but the Speaker, Udeme Otong and majority of the members joined the train of the defectors.

A local government chairman loyal to former Governor Emmanuel, Gideon Uwah of Etim Ekpo LGA, also refused to follow Eno to the APC
“I have tendered my resignation to the governor in compliance with his directive that his appointees who are unwilling to join him on the political journey to the APC should resign,” one of the cabinet members, Ememobong wrote in his resignation letter.

The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, who was represented by his wife, Ekaette Unoma; the Chairman of the Progressives Governors’ Forum (PGF), Dr. Hope Uzodima; the State APC Chairman, Obong Stephen Ntukekpo; Governor Bassey Otu, of Cross River state, and others urged Governor Eno not to worry about those not willing to move with him.

The Imo State Governor, who received Eno, into the APC, lauded his smart move, assuring him that all rights and privileges of the national party would be accorded him.

Speaking for the Senate President Ekaette Unoma, assured Eno, not to be mindful of those he could not persuade into the APC, saying the Governor has President Bola Tinubu, and her husband, as his major pillars.

Ntukekpo, also assured that with Eno’s defection, his second-term victory was unshakable.

Some other APC Governors who attended the event included Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta), Francis Nwifuru (Ebonyi) and Bassey Otu (Cross River), among others.

President Tinubu, his Vice, Kashim Shettima, Senate President and other party leaders, elders and stakeholders, are expected to officially admit the governor and other defectors into the APC fold in an elaborate ceremony billed for the Godswill Akpabio International stadium later this month.

Meanwhile, a viral video earlier yesterday showed that during a town hall meeting in Ikot Abasi, when Eno announced his intention to defect to the APC, the crowd responded negatively.

However, the Governor stressed that he had conducted extensive consultations and was convinced that “it is time to move” to align the state with the ruling party at the federal level.

In response to the Governor’s call, a thunderous “No!” erupted from the audience, overshadowing the handful of “Yes” voices, creating a tense atmosphere in the crowded venue at the Ikot Abasi Local Government Grounds.

Reacting to the development, the Conference of PDP professionals said the defection of Akwa Ibom State Governor meant that he has ruined his political rating and reputation among Nigerians.

In a statement by the chairman of the PDP Professionals, signed by the chairman, Obinna Nwachukeu, the group said, ”It is very unfortunate that Governor Eno who assumed office with the reputation of a man of God and lover of the people is now shoveled among the ranks of arrogant, ungodly, thoughtless and depraved political actors; abusers of women and notorious lawbreakers whose only desire is to accumulate power and loot the resources meant for the wellbeing of the ordinary people.”

According Nwachukwu, ”By this decision to politically self-destruct, Governor Eno is standing alone in the journey to political oblivion as he can no longer command the solidarity of the people of Akwa Ibom state which remains in the PDP. ”

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June 7, 2025
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Tinubu Urges Support, Prayers for Brave Soldiers Defending Nigeria

* Calls for unity, sacrifice as Muslims celebrate Eid-el-Kabir

*Governors preach peace*Army, NAF chiefs boost troops’ morale

Our Correspondents

President Bola Tinubu yesterday called for more prayers for the military and security agencies currently making sacrifices to keep the nation safe, particularly those confronting terrorists and bandits.

The President, who observed the Eid-al-Adha prayers at the Eid Ground in Dodan Barracks, Lagos, told newsmen that the security agencies and vulnerable citizens should top the prayer list.

Also, as Muslims around the world marked the 2025 Eid-el-Kabir celebration yesterday, prominent political leaders and State Governors extended warm greetings to the Muslim Ummah, calling for reflection, unity, and fervent prayers in the nation.

Likewise, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, and the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, extended their heartfelt felicitations to the officers, soldiers, airmen, airwomen, and families of the Nigerian military, applauding their steadfast commitment, gallantry, and selfless service to the nation.

Oluyede, also hosted an Eid-el-Kabir luncheon for frontline troops of Operation Fansan Yamma Sokoto, in appreciation of their sacrifices and dedication to national security.

According to President Tinubu: “We should remember to pray and give to those who are very vulnerable in the spirit of the season, which is sacrifice. We must unite, remain our brothers’ keeper, and give to our neighbours. We should show love to everyone.

“We must also pray hard for our troops to keep us safe. They are making sacrifices in the challenges that we face from terrorism and banditry today. We must pray for them specifically, remember their sacrifices, and continue to behave well as citizens”.

Earlier at the prayer ground, Chief Imam of Lagos State, Suleiman Oluwatoyin Abu-Nola, urged the Muslim faithful to remember and reflect on Abraham’s sacrificial life.

“The whole essence of today is sacrifice. We must learn to make sacrifices for our family, nation, and community. We must render our service to Allah, not men,” he said.

The Chief Imam called on worshipers to live in peace and consider the needs of their neighbours, the poor and vulnerable.

“If we are to see the Nigeria of our dreams, we must be ready to make sacrifices. We must unite as Nigerians to make progress. We must rise above tribal sentiments. Whether you are Igbo, Yoruba, or Hausa, we must live above ethnic sentiments,” he said.

Apart from President Tinubu, the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar; his Marine and Blue Economy counterpart, Adegboyega Oyetola; Minister of State, Defence, Bello Muhammed Matawalle; Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Femi Hamzat; and the former governor of Lagos State, Babatunde Fashola, were at the prayer ground.

Also at the Eid ground were the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu; Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon Mudashiru Obasa; President of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote; Chairman of the BUA Group, Abdul Samad Rabiu; Group Chief Executive of Oando, Wale Tinubu; and President Tinubu’s friend and longtime ally, Prof. Shaffideen Amuwo.

Meanwhile, Oluyede and Abubakar, extended their heartfelt felicitations to the officers, soldiers, airmen, airwomen, and families of the Nigerian military, applauding their steadfast commitment, gallantry, and selfless service to the nation.

A statement by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Apollonia Anele, stated that the COAS hailed the Nigerian Army’s resilience in the face of security challenges, describing the troops as a beacon of courage and sacrifice whose efforts continue to inspire national pride and unity.

According to him, “Your unwavering commitment, selfless devotion, and unflinching resilience in defence of our fatherland are deeply appreciated.”
Eid-El-Kabir, he noted, symbolises the essence of sacrifice, a virtue that mirrors the daily lives of soldiers across theatres of operation.
He urged troops to remain resolute and draw renewed strength from the spiritual significance of the season.

Reflecting on the Nigerian Army’s collective achievements over the past year, the COAS acknowledged the gradual restoration of peace in many parts of the country, attributing the gains to the unmatched bravery, loyalty, and professionalism of the troops.

“Many of our gallant warriors bear the marks of battle; some carry visible scars, others live with the memories, and some have paid the ultimate price in service to our great nation. We honour their legacies and stand with their families during this festive period. Their heroism remains etched in our national memory,” he stressed.

Oluyede, also hosted an Eid-el-Kabir luncheon for frontline troops of Operation Fansan Yamma Sokoto, in appreciation of their sacrifices and dedication to national security.

The event aimed to provide troops with a sense of home during the festive season, while fostering camaraderie and esprit de corps.
Lt.-Gen. Oluyede commended the troops for their significant role in combating terror networks and maintaining national unity, peace, and security. He urged them to remain resolute in their mission to defeat adversaries.

The COAS represented by Commander Nigeria Army Cyber Warfare, Major General Adeleke Ayannuga, Oluyode reaffirmed his commitment to enhancing welfare initiatives to boost troop morale and assured the troops of his support
He charged them operational progress to tamed the activities of insurgency.

The COAS conveyed President Bola Tinubu’s commendation and Nigerians’ appreciation for the troops’ efforts in defending the country.

Also, the CAS, Abubakar, in a Sallah message he personally signed, wrote: “As we celebrate this blessed occasion of Eid-el-Kabir, I extend my warmest greetings to all Muslim faithfuls across the Nigerian Air Force and the nation at large. May this season of sacrifice, reflection, and gratitude bring peace to our hearts, unity to our ranks, and renewed strength in our service to the nation.”

Shettima Calls for National Unity

Vice President Kashim Shettima called on Nigerians to embrace national unity, collective sacrifice, and continued support for President Bola Tinubu’s administration in order to achieve lasting peace and prosperity in the country.

He urged Nigerians to look beyond their differences and work together for national progress.

The Vice President, who made the plea yesterday, during the Eid al-Adha prayers at the National Eid Ground along Airport Road, Abuja, described Eid al-Adha as a solemn occasion rooted in the legacy of Prophet Abraham’s obedience and sacrifice—values he said were essential to building a strong and united Nigeria.
According to him: “This is a period of sober reflection, a season of reaching out to the indigent among us, of building bridges of brotherhood and sisterhood. Life is a marathon, and as individuals, we can run faster, but we can wear out easily. But as a family, as a collective, as a nation, we can gain greater traction and reach our desired destination.”

Kwara Governor Tasks Muslim Faithful on Peace, Unity

Kwara State Governor, Alhaji AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, yesterday called on the Muslim faithful to continue to promote peaceful coexistence, support sustainable development efforts, and reject anything that undermines the growth and unity of the country.
Also, the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Yakubu Danladi-Salihu, enjoined the Muslim faithful to glorify Allah’s names, seek for His blessings and protection and show love to their neighbours.
A statement issued in Ilorin by Governor AbdulRazaq and signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Rafiu Ajakaye to mark the celebration of Eid Kabir, the governor also urged them to remain steadfast in their faith in God and in the shared commitment to the Nigerian project.

Governor Soludo Felicitates Muslim Faithful

The Governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, congratulated the Muslim community in Anambra State and across Nigeria on the celebration of this year’s Eid Kabir (Eid al-Adha).

Expressing his goodwill, Governor Soludo in a statement by his Press Secretary, Mr. Christian Aburime, recognised the profound significance of this holy festival for Muslims, which commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s devout faith and obedience to Allah’s command.

The Governor said: “The celebration reminds us of the virtues of sacrifice, devotion, and submission to divine will that transcend religious boundaries and speak to our common humanity.

“I acknowledge the valuable contributions of our Muslim brothers and sisters to the socio-economic development of Anambra State, noting that the peaceful co-existence of people of different faiths in our state remains a source of pride and a tribute to our shared values of tolerance, respect, and unity.”

Oborevwori Seeks Prayers for the Nation

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, yesterday, extended warm felicitations to Muslims in Delta State and across the country as they celebrate Eid-el-Kabir.

He urged the Islamic faithful to emulate the virtues of Prophet Mohammed by embracing the spirit of sacrifice, which the Holy Prophet exemplified.

In a Sallah message issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, in Asaba, the Governor described Eid-el-Kabir as a season of love, peace, unity, and sacrifice.

Gov. Yahaya, Emir of Gombe, UN Envoy, Others Observe Eid Prayers in Gombe

Gombe State Governor, Alhaji Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya joined thousands of Muslim faithful, including the Emir of Gombe, Alhaji Abubakar Shehu Abubakar III, United Nations Assistant Secretary General and Resident Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohammed Fall, as well as other dignitaries to observe the Eid-el-Kabir prayers at the Central Eid Ground in Gombe yesterday.

The two raka’at congregational prayer, which marked the beginning of the Eid festivities, was led by the Deputy Chief Imam of Gombe Central Mosque, Ustaz Aliyu Hammari.

The Governor participated in the prayers alongside key government functionaries, traditional leaders, and special guests.

This year’s Eid celebration was marked by a heightened sense of safety and crowd control.

Ododo Urges Muslims to Reflect on Virtues Obedience, Sacrifice

Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo, yesterday, described celebration of Eid el Kabir as a time to reflect on the virtues of obedience, sacrifice, unity, and submission to the will of Allah.

“On this sacred occasion of Eid el-Kabir, I extend warm greetings to all Muslim faithful in Kogi State, across Nigeria, and around the world. This is a time to reflect on the virtues of obedience, sacrifice, unity, and submission to the will of Allah, as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim (AS).

“This year’s celebration comes at a crucial time for our state and nation, as we continue on the path toward lasting peace, security, and economic progress,” he said in a broadcast message.

Adeleke, Oyetola, Basiru Urge Prayers, Sacrifice

Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Adegboyega Oyetola, and APC governorship aspirant Dr. Ajibola Basiru, extended warm greetings to the Muslim Ummah, calling for reflection, unity, and fervent prayers for the state and the nation.

Governor Adeleke praised the enduring faith and resilience of Osun people, assuring them that the sacrifices they’ve made will be rewarded through continued delivery of good governance.

In a related development, the former Governor of Osun State and current Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, in his Eid message, emphasised the need for unity, sacrifice, and service.

Also in a similar vein, the National Secretary of the APC and leading governorship aspirant in Osun State, Dr. Ajibola Basiru, also extended warm Eid greetings, thanking Allah for the gift of life and opportunity to witness another celebration.

We’ll Work Tirelessly to Ensure Safer Edo, Says Okpebholo

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, yesterday, reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to the safety and security of lives and property across the state.

Speaking during a visit by Muslim faithful to the New Festival Hall, Government House, in celebration of Eid al-Adha, Governor Okpebholo, who was represented by his deputy, Dennis Idahosa, emphasised that the present administration remains focused on building a secure and prosperous Edo.

“Our administration is fully committed to the welfare and well-being of all citizens. Security remains the bedrock of any thriving society, and we are working tirelessly to ensure that lives and property are protected across Edo State,” he stated.

Reach Out to the Needy, Sani Urges Wealthy Individuals

Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, urged wealthy individuals to share their blessings with the needy and less privileged.

Speaking in an interview after offering prayers marking Eid-el-Kabir with other Muslim faithful at the Sultan Bello prayer ground yesterday, in Kaduna, Sani called on Muslims to embrace the spirit of giving exhibited by Prophet Ibrahim during the Eid-el-Kabir celebrations.

He said, “Eid-el-Kabir commemorates the profound act of obedience and unwavering faith demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim, who was prepared to sacrifice his beloved son Ismail in submission to the command of Almighty Allah”.

He added that the true essence of Eid-el-Kabir, was obedience, sacrifice, compassion, and unity.

The governor called on citizens to reflect deeply on the sacred meaning of the festival and strive to inculcate these values in their daily activities.

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DSS Seeks Restraining Order to Stop Utomi from Rallying for Shadow Govt

By Alex Enumah in Abuja

The Department of State Services (DSS) has approached the Federal High Court, Abuja, for an order seeking to restrain the 2007 presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Prof. Pat Utomi, from rallying for a shadow government, which is an issue already before the court. They are not seeking to restrain his fundamental rights to protest on any issue except the Shadow Government which is the subject matter of the court case.

DSS’ Lead counsel, Mr Akinlolu Kehinde, SAN, said the move was predicated on reports that Utomi, who is said to be outside the country, was planning to engage in protests, road shows, media interviews and related activities for a shadow government upon his return to the country on June 6.

Specifically, DSS, in a fresh application filed on Wednesday, is praying for “an order of interlocutory injunction, restraining the defendant/respondent (Utomi), his agents, privies, associates, servants, workers or any person acting through him from staging road shows, rallies, public lectures or any form of public gathering, newspaper publications, television programs, jingles or any other public enlightenment programme (s) aimed at sensitizing, instigating, propagating or in any way promoting the purported “shadow government/shadow cabinet” or its objectives or goals with the view to establishing the said “shadow government” pending the hearing and determination of this substantive suit.”

The applicant informed the court that the proposed rallies, road shows and actions by the defendant “constitute a serious threat to the public order, safety and national unity of the Federal Republic of Nigeria”.

The DSS added that as the agency statutorily empowered to safeguard the internal security of the country and prevent any threats to lawful authority of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and its constituent institutions, it was incumbent on it to forestall any threat to public order, safety and national unity.

It stated that before it filed the substantive suit, marked: FHC/ABJ/CS/937/2025, Utomi had, through public statements, social media and other platforms engaged in statements and actions aimed at undermining the outcome of the case now pending before the court, and which he is aware of.

In an affidavit in support of the application, the applicant submitted that Utomi’s intention “is to stage road shows and rallies that are capable of drawing a large number of Nigerians with intent that will cause huge disruption of peace, breakdown of public order, enable riots and violent protests just as the recent “End SARS” protests in 2020.

“All the planned protests, riots and agitations that will ensue, if the purported actions of the defendant/respondent are not stayed, may lead to mayhem with a potential for anarchy, loss of lives and property.

“The proposed rallies, road shows and actions of the Defendant/Respondent constitutes a serious threat to the public order, safety and national unity of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

The DSS stated that on May 26 during the fourth edition of the Topaz Lecture Series, themed “Shadow Government: A Distraction or Necessity”, hosted by the University of Lagos (UNILAG) Mass Communication Class of 1988 Alumni Association, Utomi made statements, capable of undermining the pending suit.

It added that in the statements, widely publicized by various national newspapers and on social media platforms, Utomi defended the creation of the purported shadow government and further stated that if the suit succeeds in favour of the DSS, himself and his group would adopt a different name.

The DSS added that Utomi “has been served with the originating process in this suit and has entered appearance vide his Counsel Prof. Mike Ozekhome (SAN) since 20 May, 2025.

“The defendant/respondent (Utomi) is aware of the pendency of this action before this Honourable Court as he has been served with the originating process in this suit by courier as ordered by this honourable court.

“Unless this honourable court intervenes by granting this application, the defendant/respondent’s acts may foist a fait accompli on the court.

“It is in the interest of justice, national security, and the rule of law for this honourable court to grant this application,” the DSS said.

Speaking shortly after filing the fresh application, Kehinde explained that the fresh interlocutory injunction against the defendant and his group was pending the determination of the substantive suit.

“This fresh application is premised on the fact that despite the pendency of the substantive action, the service of same on the defendant and the entry of appearance to same by his Counsel, Mike Ozekhome, SAN, the defendant has continued to make inflammatory statements capable of igniting chaos in the country instead of abiding by the hallowed principle that civilized parties before the court are expected to maintain the status quo pending the determination of the substantive matter.

“What our client has submitted to the court is for the interpretation of the Constitution whether any form of government by whatever nomenclature can be formed or allowed outside the Constitution.

“Furthermore, our client is not interested at arresting anybody in respect of this matter having on its own accord submitted itself to the jurisdiction of the honourable court to interpret the Constitution and determine the legality or otherwise of the ‘Shadow government’ or any other nomenclature that it may be so named.

“It must be pointed out that our client under its current leadership is a very civilized organization with absolute confidence in the rule of law and that is why, it or any of its personnel will always approach the court of law whenever it feels that there is any infraction on its statutory duties by anyone or the rights of its personnel. Let the court have the final say.

“Gentlemen, we must all ensure that constitutional democracy and the rule of law have its way in Nigeria,” Kehinde said.

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June 3, 2025
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Wike: I’m An Asset to Tinubu’s Second Term Bid, Blasts Amaechi for Trivialising Hunger

•Says no one has guts to tell him he’s not a PDP member, alleges George is ground rent debtor

•APC accuses Atiku, El-Rufai, Amaechi of desperation to grab power for self-aggrandizement

•Dickson warns Nigerians against opposition conspiracy that won’t change Nigeria

ChuksOkocha, OlawaleAjimotokanandAdedayoAkinwale in Abuja

Minister of the FCT, NyesomWike, has declared himself as an asset and not a liability to President Bola Tinubu, saying he would support the president’s second term bid in 2027.

He, however, boasted that no one in the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), had the guts to tell him he was not a member of the party, just as he accused a former deputy national chairman of the party, Chief Olabode George, of owing ground rent in Abuja.

In a related development, the All Progressives Congress (APC), has said the trio of former Vice-President AtikuAbubakar, a former governor of Kaduna State, MallamNasir El-Rufai, and a former Minister of Transportation, Hon. RotimiAmaechi were only united in desperation to grab power for self-aggrandizement.

At the same time, a former governor of Bayelsa State, Siraake Dickson, has warned Nigerians to be beware of those that conspired against former Goodluck Jonathan as their conspiracies have yet to change Nigeria and Nigerians.

Speaking during a media chat in Abuja, Wike assured the people that he would lead the campaign of the APC for the election of Tinubu in Rivers State, where the president did not get up to 10 per cent of the votes in the 2023 presidential election.

“You have seen me here. I said, I will support Asiwaju. The way we won other elections that is the way we will win. I am not a liability. I am an asset. Whether you agree or you don’t agree, I am an asset.

“Whether you want to die, you don’t want to die, I am an asset. You may not like me, your likeness has nothing to make me. I am an asset to making sure that Tinubu wins second tenure.

“Are you not aware that I will lead the campaign in Rivers State? Oh, you want me to deny? Are you not aware that he did not get up to 10 per cent there but he will win there. Of course, is that hidden? Because I have said the south must produce the president,” Wike said.

He said the PDP might not survive the current internal acrimony within the party, saying he would ensure that the party did not die.

He attributed the gale of defections hitting the party particularly in Delta and AkwaIbom states to party leadership problem and lack of intelligence gathering.

“You won’t tell me that they didn’t have intelligence that Delta will go. You won’t tell me that they didn’t have intelligence that AkwaIbom will go. Now, leadership what would you do? Send a team to ask but ‘Why are you doing this’?

“No, you’re making a mistake. This is impunity instead you say ‘Let them go’. Look, opposition does not do impunity. Put everybody together. You don’t say, let them go. Let me tell you, they are playing to the gallery. I cannot do that. the more you look, the less you see.”

Wike also blasted his predecessor, RotimiAmaechi, of using his 60th birthday anniversary to lie to Nigerians and insulting the people that hunger has increased among Nigerians under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

“Let us tell ourselves this. He was Speaker 1999 to 2007 and if anybody knows, he was the most pompous speaker, then he was reading law in London as a speaker.

“He became a governor 2007 to 2015 he was still reading law in London. Eight years as speaker, Rivers State Assembly, eight years as governor he never talked about hunger.

“He became a minister from 2015 to 2023, eight years, super Minister of Transport, where you are borrowing money from Afreximbank, he didn’t talk about hunger.

“Two years, you have left office, and in a coalition because he is hungry. You’re only hungry for power. And that shows failure on his part. How do you look at this, how do you insult Nigerians?”

He accused Amaechi of trivialising hunger and poverty by insulting Nigerians in the process.

“You join Atiku, you join El-Rufai because you are hungry. Have you not insulted Nigerians? It’s just that you can’t stay out of power. That’s the hunger.

“You can’t stay out of power. How would a man who served 1999 to 2023 stand before Nigerians, who presided over billions of Naira.

“This was the same man who, on a national television, told Nigeria he doesn’t like money meanwhile dollar was showing him, you are carrying dollar, and you are telling Nigerians you don’t like eh, money.

“What kind of country is this? And we are listening to that, and you said, he is influential? What is influence? You know, we overrate people. He was governor 2015 he couldn’t produce a successor.

“He couldn’t give his candidate, MuhammaduBuhari common 25 per cent. He was a sitting minister in 2019, no president had ever moved with soldiers the way he came with soldiers. He said he produced the governor. He couldn’t produce a candidate.

“Again, his candidate, Buhari, didn’t get 25 per cent and he was the DG of campaign. Again, in 2023, he came, okay, this time around, ‘I’m going to support Atiku in PDP’. Thank God we did not support PDP.

“If I supported PDP and they won, you would have taken the glory but we say okay we will not support PDP. They failed. They didn’t even get 10 per cent. So, what is his influence?” Wike said.

He, however, declared that no one within the PDP has the authority or political capital to question his membership or chase him out of the party.

He dismissed criticisms about his loyalty, saying he remained one of the most consistent and hardworking members of the PDP.

“I am still in the PDP. I have not seen anybody who would have the guts to tell me, ‘You are not a member of the PDP.’ Who is that? What is his contribution to the party more than me?” he said.

Wike also berated PDP stalwart, Chief Bode George, for refusing to pay tax on his property in Abuja, saying George’s name was number 3,092 on the list of persons published in national newspapers, who had defaulted in paying ground rent from one to 10 years.

He berated the former National Chairman of PDP over his remark regarding the sealing of the PDP National Secretariat over inability to pay ground rent.

“I said, look ground rent. On that number 3,092, you know who is going to be there? OlabodeIbiyinka George. His number is 3,092. At that level, a senior citizen.

“I travelled three days and signed 1,5000 C of Os and over 700 consent documents. You come and collect C of O, you take it and go and do business and collect money from the bank. Then you sit, that they have not reminded you, that you suppose to pay money.

“What kind of a citizen is that? You know you are a debtor. You took loans from bank. You say the bank has not reminded me,” Wike said.

The minister said Nigerian property owners abroad paid their taxes because they realise that government would take over their property, but while in Nigeria they believed nothing would happen.

He decried the attitude, noting that such attitude of religion and ethnicity has destroyed the country and kept it where it is today.

APC: Atiku, El-Rufai, Amaechi Desperate to Grab Power for Self-aggrandizement

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has said the trio of former Vice-President AtikuAbubakar, a former governor of Kaduna State, MallamNasir El-Rufai, and a former Minister of Transportation, Hon. RotimiAmaechi were united in desperation to grab power for self-aggrandizement.

National Publicity Secretary of the APC, Felix Morka, in a statement yesterday rejected allegation that the government of President Bola Tinubu was “weaponising” poverty by not eradicating the scourge in two years.

The statement was reportedly made at a public lecture held in Abuja on Saturday to mark the 60th birthday anniversary celebration of Amaechi, a former governor.

“But the celebration quickly dissolved into an occasion for Amaechi, AlhajiAtikuAbubakar, former Vice President, and MallamNasir El-Rufai, former Governor of Kaduna State and former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory —leading displaced rent-seekers — to showcase their frenzied desperation to grab power purely for their self-aggrandizement.

“These three individuals have occupied Nigeria’s highest political offices between 1999 and 2023, either as Vice President, Governors, or Ministers, among other important positions.

“In all 24 years, the trio, individually or collectively, could not and did not eradicate poverty in their states or the country. They did not even attempt to address, let alone tackle the structural challenges and distortions that stifled the economy and worsened poverty over the years.

“Rather, they reveled in mindless rent-seeking behaviour, sold national assets to their cronies for mere pittance, engaged in corrupt and wasteful expenditures in their states, and relentlessly sponsored state violence against their own people.

“Take the case of Amaechi, the celebrant, who served for an unbroken total of 24 years – eight years as Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, eight years as Governor of Rivers State, and eight years as Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“That’s about a quarter of a century of freeloading by Amaechi on state resources, with absolutely no record of attempting to combat poverty in his Rivers State or the country,” he said.

Morka stressed that when Amaechi declared, “I am hungry,” he must be understood to mean that “he is hungry and desperate to return to his felt entitled dependency on state resources and patronage.

“That he is hungry barely two years out of office simply underscores the depth of the self-serving motivations of Amaechi and his coalition partners in their quest for power for selfish exploitation, and not for the interest of the people.

“Nigerians see right through their disruptive politicking. Amaechi and his cohorts are losing their grip on the economy. Accustomed to fleecing the economy, they are now compelled by Tinubu’s unprecedented reforms to adapt to a new reality, where hard work, productivity, and innovation are rewarded,” he said.

The ruling party maintained that their criticisms of Tinubu’s reforms were decidedly self-serving, driven by a desperate quest for power to satiate their voracious rent-seeking appetite, which has long stifled and denied progress to the economy.

Morka added that the erstwhile artificially overvalued Naira stifled local production, encouraged import dependency, and exacerbated poverty.

He said, ironically, Atiku and Peter Obi, who had become vociferous, criticisingTinubu’s policies, amassed their wealth from the very import-dependent system they were desperately trying to preserve.

The spokesperson noted: “Atiku, a former Custom Officer, and Obi, a successful importer, reaped enormous benefits from the old system. Their criticisms reek of special interest masqueraded as concern for the people.

“By allowing market forces to determine Naira’s value, the administration is taking necessary bold steps to catalyse economic growth, incentivise investment, boost competitiveness, and alleviate poverty.”

The party insisted that in two years, Tinubu’s administration had demonstrated the political will to tackle structural barriers to the country’s economic growth and development far more than any other president in Nigeria’s modern history.

The ruling party stressed that by his bold economic reforms, Tinubu was systematically building the most potent bulwark against poverty and positioning the economy to deliver sustained and sustainable growth and prosperity for all Nigerians.

His words: “The criticisms variously leveled by Amaechi, Atiku, El-Rufai and Peter Obi mask a shameless attempt to perpetuate and cling to the old rent-seeking economy that enriched them at the expense of the Nigerian people.

“As beneficiaries of the corrupt and inefficient economic system, they are discomforted that Tinubu’s reforms are dismantling the insidious and permissive system that enabled and sustained their reckless plunder and exploitation of the economy.”

Dickson Warns against Opposition Conspiracy That Won’t Change Nigeria

A former governor of Bayelsa State, Seriake Dickson, has warned Nigerians to be beware of those that conspired against former Goodluck Jonathan as their conspiracies have yet to change Nigeria and Nigerians.

He urged Nigerians to shine their eyes on those who described themselves as conspirators because the last conspiratorial theory from them has not changed anything.

Dickson, in a subtle warning, told his political colleagues to be mindful of the choices they make, adding that their past conspiracy and coalition, which removed the Peoples Democratic Party and Goodluck Jonathan from office in 2015, has not favoured Nigerians.

“When I came in here and climbing up here, I’ve seen a lot of you. And as my brother said, there are a number of you who are expert conspirators, who know how to assemble coalitions and then take out governments, as you did to my party in 2015.

“And when you did so, particularly to a clueless government, so-called, now 11 years down the line, we thought that there would have been no weaponisation of poverty and that all the challenges of Nigeria would have been gone.

“And the only advice I can give, not being a professional coalition builder and conspirator as some of you are, is at this time, shine your eyes.”

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Presidency: Tinubu’s Diplomatic Shuttles Have Attracted $50bn FDIs in Two Years

•Says president made 36 foreign trips across Africa, Europe, Asia, Middle East, Americas

DejiElumoyein Abuja

The presidency, yesterday, disclosed that the international trips embarked upon by President Bola Tinubu since he assumed office about two years ago have yielded over $50 billion in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) to Nigeria.

Senior Special Assistant to the President on Foreign Affairs and International Relations, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaye, made this known while giving a mid-term assessment of the President’s foreign policy achievements.

He stated that President Tinubu had embarked on 36 foreign trips since his inauguration on May 29, 2023, visiting countries across Africa, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and the Americas.

These, he said, included Benin Republic, Chad, Ghana, Senegal, Guinea, Equatorial Guinea, Kenya, Ethiopia, South Africa, Tanzania, France, the United Kingdom, Germany, the Netherlands, the Vatican, the United States, Brazil, Qatar, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, India, and China.

The former Ambassador added that several additional visits had been approved for the rest of the year, all aimed at engaging, deepening, and strengthening Nigeria’s bilateral relations with other nations.

According to Enikanolaye, these diplomatic efforts have not only raised Nigeria’s profile globally but have also translated into tangible economic gains while there were investments attracted through these foreign engagements.

These, he said, included commitments from Sunil Bharti, ExxonMobil, TotalEnergies, Indorama, Jindal Steel, Coca-Cola, Apple, Maersk, Arise, Shell, Afreximbank, companies from the Netherlands, and a waste-to-wealth industrial facility in Lagos.

The total value of the commitments, he stressed, amounted to over $50 billion.

The presidential aide said the inflows were a result of the administration’s economic reforms and effective foreign policy, noting that while the financial figures were significant, the skills and technology transfer that come with them were equally important but could not be quantified.

He also spoke about Nigeria’s relationship with China, which he said has been elevated to the level of a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership under President Tinubu’s administration.

This relationship, according to him, included key infrastructure projects, currency swap agreements, and other collaborative efforts.

On climate diplomacy, Enikanolaye noted that Nigeria has remained active in global climate change conversations.

President Tinubu, he said, has consistently raised the country’s environmental concerns, such as rising sea levels, the shrinking of Lake Chad, unpredictable rainfall, flash floods, and threats to food security while also advocating increased access to climate finance through mechanisms being developed internationally.

The ex-envoy also announced that Nigeria has gained 16,300 square kilometers of maritime territory under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, expanding the country’s continental shelf deep into the Atlantic Ocean and described it as a major achievement that offers enormous potential for maritime security and the exploitation of blue economy resources.

Dismissing criticism over the president’s frequent international trips, Enikanolaye said such engagements were pivotal to national development and global positioning.

He emphasised that what remained was for the outcomes of the foreign trips to be fully implemented to positively impact the lives of Nigerians.

“It is, therefore, ludicrous for anyone to criticise the participation of Mr. President at various international engagements, whether statutory or invitational.

“What is needed now is the full implementation of the positive outcomes of these foreign engagements, so their benefits are felt more directly in the lives of the Nigerian people,” he said.