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Tinubu Canvasses New Orientation, Urges Nigerians to Lift, Believe, Put Country First

Tinubu Canvasses New Orientation, Urges Nigerians to Lift, Believe, Put Country First

•Inaugurates newly renovated national art theatre named after Prof. Wole Soyinka 

Deji Elumoye, Sunday Aborisade in Abuja, Nume Ekeghe in Lagos and Amby Uneze in Owerri 

President Bola Tinubu, yesterday, advocated a new orientation by Nigerians, urging them to always lift the country, believe in her and put her first at all times in all they do.

He, therefore, enjoined the Nigerian people to embrace optimism and collective responsibility in shaping the country’s future, urging them to discard cynicism and rediscover the values of confidence, resilience, and unity that defined the nation’s founding generation.

Speaking at the inauguration of the newly renovated Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and Creative Arts, formerly the National Arts Theatre, as part of activities marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary celebration in Lagos, Tinubu cautioned against constant negative narratives about Nigeria, insisting that the country’s destiny rested in the hands of its people.

“Stop talking about Nigeria in a negative tone, it might not be about education. There are educated derelicts around the world. What matters is belief in ourselves. We are a nation of brave people, confident and dedicated. Let us build it together. Let’s rechristen it.

“If you had a bad dream, forget it. This country will succeed. And it is with you, myself, and many others that we will enjoy the glory and reap the fruits. Please, lift Nigeria. Believe in Nigeria. Put Nigeria first.”

Tinubu, who described the evening as “wonderful and inspiring,” announced that he would personally contribute to an endowment fund to sustain the Centre and directed the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), working alongside the Bankers’ Committee, to design the initiative.

According to him, the fund should not only guarantee long-term maintenance but also generate jobs and support cultural entrepreneurship.

“It’s now left with Cardoso and others to put together an endowment fund, and I’m going to be a contributor. It is not a bad thing for us to use this opportunity to create jobs, ensure accessibility, and drive national commitment. The worst is over. We will turn the corner. The economy has recovered, and I am confident prosperity will come,” he said.

On his part, the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Mr. Olayemi Cardoso, disclosed that the Bankers’ Committee  in ensuring that the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and Creative renovation was a success committed about N68 billion to the theatre’s transformation.

He explained that the initiative was not merely corporate social responsibility but a strategic investment in Nigeria’s creative economy, with long-term benefits for tourism, youth employment, and global competitiveness.

Cardoso praised the unity of purpose that enabled the delivery of the project despite hurdles such as structural challenges, contractual delays, and the disruptions of the global pandemic.

He said: “In 2020, the federal government approved a landmark public–private collaboration: the transfer of the Theatre and its estate into a special partnership with the Central Bank, on behalf of the Bankers’ Committee. What began as an ambitious vision to reimagine an aging monument as a world-class creative hub has today become a stunning reality.

“The journey was not without challenges. Structural complexities, contractual issues, and even the global pandemic extended the timeline far beyond 2 expectations. Yet our resolve never wavered. This was a project especially close to the president’s heart, and it was his vision that transformed it from a restoration into a symbol of national renewal.

“By renaming the National Arts Theatre as the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and Creative Arts in July 2024, His Excellency charted a bold course to place creativity at the heart of Nigeria’s renaissance.

“With his directive that this Centre must be ready for this historic Independence Day, he underscored culture’s role not only in preserving our heritage but also in projecting Nigeria’s influence on the global stage. Today, the results stand as a testament to that foresight and to the power of purposeful leadership.

“The Wole Soyinka Centre is more than a renovation; it is a rebirth. Its iconic silhouette has been preserved while delivering world-class performance halls, cinema spaces, exhibition galleries, an African literature library, rehearsal rooms, media and medical facilities, and fully modernised infrastructure.

“Allow me to emphasise that none of this would have been possible without extraordinary partnerships. The Central Bank of Nigeria, the Bankers’ Committee, the Lagos State Government, and the Ministry of Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy came together with a shared purpose to deliver this national project.

“With the Bankers’ Committee alone committing approximately N68 billion, not as corporate social responsibility but as a deliberate investment in Nigeria’s cultural future. This project stands as proof that when the public and private sectors unite behind a shared national purpose, there is no limit to what Nigeria can achieve.”

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, said: “Until a few years ago, when the Federal Government of Nigeria, the Central Bank of Nigeria, the Bankers Committee, and, humbly, the Lagos State Government all came together to embark on a massive restoration program.

“Lagos State is proud to have been a key stakeholder and a partner in this project, and we have demonstrated this in every concrete way. First, we ensured that the Blue Line Metro had a dedicated stop here at the complex.

“Then the restoration began. We contributed a sizable portion of additional land to enable the development of a world-class creative hub around this theatre. What this means is that today’s commissioning is only the beginning.

“The restoration of the theatre complex in itself is only the first part of a much larger vision that we see. Indeed, this amazing story of revival, of possibility of artistic and creative excellence, is still fitting here in the commune.

“I cannot conclude without paying special tribute to the man, the icon, after whom this centre has now been renamed by His Excellency, Mr. President, the person we call Eni Ogun, himself Professor Oluwole Akinwande Soyinka GCON, CON, Africa’s first Nobel laureate in literature.”

Soyinka, in his remarks, expressed gratitude for the honour of having the national edifice renamed after him, describing it as a gesture that should inspire the revival of Nigeria’s creative economy.

The playwright, while lamenting the long neglect of Africa’s theatre pioneers, commended the visionaries who transformed the once-dilapidated structure into a world-class facility.

With humour, he recalled how poor design in the past “nearly electrocuted actors” on stage.

Soyinka extended appreciation to Tinubu, the Lagos State Government, and the Bankers’ Committee, stressing that the rejuvenated theatre must continue to serve as a platform for African creativity, cultural unity, and global artistic exchange.

“I  hope it is that with the recreation of this institution, we won’t go all the way to Abu Dhabi to watch African theatre,”he said.

Meanwhile, in Owerri, yesterday, Tinubu said the reason critics of his administration have continued to turn the facts on their head was because they did not know any better.

The president, who hit hard on those peddling allegations of religious genocide in the country, said in Nigeria, no faith was under siege and no community has been excluded, adding that, “We must never allow outsiders to tell us who we are or sow division among us.”

Tinubu, who insisted that in spite of misgivings, Nigeria remained united, also inaugurated some legacy projects constructed by the Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodinma.

“Our critics can say whatever they want because they don’t know any better; their arithmetic has always been wrong. We understand financial engineering and progressive methodology much better than they do. That’s why we are here,” he said.

Linking today’s momentum to the political turn Nigeria took a decade ago, he said, “10 years ago, our great party, the APC, came into office on the promise of change. That change is being witnessed here today.”

He credited the late President Muhammadu Buhari with beginning “the work of stabilisation,” noting that, “Yes, many years passed, mistakes were made, but the direction of our country shifted for the better ever since we came to power.”

Further dismissing the allegations of religious genocide, he said they were unfounded and misleading, as citizens focused more on harmony and shared prosperity, assuring the people that the ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’ of the federal government would continue to deliver on its promises to the Nigerian citizenry. 

The president noted that Nigerians, after 65 years of Independence, had grown to appreciate religious and cultural differences and explore the advantages of diversity in terms of educational, economic, and other productive gains.

Tinubu told the crowd at the Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu Convention Centre that, “Let me also say this clearly, Nigeria is a proud, sovereign nation built on the faith and resilience of its people.

“Here, no faith is under siege, no community is excluded. Our churches, mosques, and traditional shrines stand side by side – not as rivals, but as symbols of the unity that binds us.

“We must never allow outsiders to tell us who we are or sow division among us. We are Nigerians, and we will stand together. Nigeria will not accept lectures from those who seek to profit from our divisions. No one loves this country more than Nigerians themselves, and no one will define us except us.

“Our duty is to stand guard over our unity, protect every citizen, and continue to prove to the world that our diversity is not our weakness, but our strength and when Nigeria stands united, no falsehood can prosper against her. So help us God,’’ he added.

The president who reiterated that Nigeria has “turned the corner” added that “the worst is over,” urging citizens to “stay the course” as his administration’s reforms take firmer hold.

Tinubu said the Renewed Hope Agenda was translating into tangible recovery.

“I stand before you confident, yet humble enough to say that Nigeria is no longer where it was 10 years ago… Today, I can confidently tell you that the worst is over. Stay the course. Believe in us because we believe in you. We trust the future”, he said.

He said the country was steadily regaining economic credibility, citing a rise in external reserves and improving macroeconomic indicators.

“Today our external reserves stand at $42.03 billion, the highest since 2019. This is the proof that Nigeria is regaining its strength and credibility in the global economy,” he added.

He added that in the second quarter of 2025, the economy grew by 4.23 per cent, while inflation eased to 20.12 per cent in August, “the lowest in more than three years,” which he described as “relief… slowly, but surely reaching out to our people. You may not feel it yet, be patient.”

Tinubu reported that Nigeria’s trade surplus rose by more than 44 per cent in the last quarter, while manufactured exports surged by 173 percent.

“These numbers speak of a Nigeria that’s producing, exporting and competing more than ever before,” he said, adding that the naira has steadied as foreign-exchange reforms and new investment flows “restore confidence in our economy.”

While insisting that the upward climb “has been steep,” Tinubu maintained that the trajectory is now durable.

“We will continue to work slowly up, but steadily now with our hands on the plow, no looking back. We are going to get to the top of the mountain,” he said, framing the event as both a celebration and a record of stewardship.

The President highlighted improvements in healthcare capacity, saying Nigerians “can say confidently” that there are well-equipped hospitals able to treat critical illnesses such as cancer.

“We are investing in the welfare of our people… Right now, this economy will work for you, not for the smugglers, not for the corrupt.”

He thanked Nigerian citizens for their “resilience,” “endurance,” and “perseverance,” promising: “You will see prosperity, you will have it.”

Calling for patriotism as Nigeria marks 65 years of independence, Tinubu urged citizens to stop “talking ill” of the country.

“It’s 65 years of Independence — it is not a joke. We are proud of our forefathers… that Nigerians should be one, that it must be an inclusive government, that we must take care of the elderly, we must take care of the vulnerable, we must educate our children, build welfare that will take care of our healthcare system, (and) invest in agriculture mechanisation and irrigation,” he said.

With adequate food production, the president said, Nigeria would not only feed itself but “export to other countries.”He, however, contrasted Nigeria’s present with “the old way” that “brought our nation close to collapse.”

A “break with that past,” he said, “was not an option, it was the only way forward. We broke the jinx.”

He urged Nigerians to “look forward,” not back, and to measure progress by steady, real-world gains: “That growth is with purpose, not just on paper; it is real growth.”

He defended the nation’s intellectual and cultural confidence amid international scrutiny.

“We learn English, but we teach English too,” he said, invoking a broader point about Nigeria’s capacity, cohesion, and ambition.

“The last decade was a time of change; the coming decade will be an era of renewal and stability, and in that future, together, Nigeria will win. We will win with you,” Tinubu submitted.

Commending Uzodinma for combining governance with authorship, Tinubu said, “Good job, good thinking, highly progressive, a man of great vision. Weldone.”

By documenting “the milestones and struggles of the 10 years that we’ve gone through,” he said, the governor had given Nigeria “a gift,” adding: “No nation can afford to forget its own journey, and no leaders should escape the duty of stewardship.”

Reiterating his faith in Nigeria’s federal structure, Tinubu said the country was seeing practical dividends of reform.

“By true federalism, there is no state governor of the Federal Republic of Nigeria that is struggling to pay salaries,” he asserted, adding that new infrastructure “may outlive some of us.”

He stressed the need for education and social mobility: “Today, your children are in school. No child should go to bed hungry or be excluded from being able to pass and be admitted for higher education.”

The visit witnessed the launch of a book authored by Uzodinma, titled: “A Decade of Impactful Progressive Governance in Nigeria”, chronicling the All Progressives Congress (APC) governance journey over the past decade.

The President inaugurated the Owerri-Mbaise-Umahia road, the Assumpta Twin flyover, and the Emmanuel Iwuayanwu Convention Centre.

APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, two former APC Chairmen, Adams Oshiomhole and Umar Ganduje, governors of APC States, and the Governor of Abia State, Alex Otti, attended the commissioning of the projects and the book launch.

The Senate President, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Deputy Speaker, Deputy Senate President, former Senate Presidents, Senator Pius Anyim Pius, and Senator Ahmad Lawan, were also at the event.

Others included the founding Chairman of the APC, Chief Bisi Akande, and former Governor of Ogun State, Segun Osoba, as well as traditional and religious leaders, members of the diplomatic corps, student unions, and market associations.

Speaking, also, the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, told the president that more governors from opposition parties were on the verge of defecting to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), citing the performance and reforms of Tinubu as the driving force behind the impending defections.

The Senate President, according to a statement by his Media Aide, Jackson Udom, told Tinubu to brace up for an influx of new governors into the ruling party.

 “Mr. President, with what you have done in the last two years, get ready to receive more governors from the opposition parties. As I speak, there are several governors in Nigeria today who are ready to be received by you,” he said.

He further noted that Nigerians across various sectors were already beginning to appreciate the outcomes of Tinubu’s policy reforms.

He said, “The students, farmers, and businessmen are all speaking on the reforms you have brought into governance, which are now yielding results for the overall benefit of the people.

 “If we say it, they will accuse us of rubber-stamping your achievements, but the beneficiaries themselves are acknowledging what you have done.”

Akpabio commended Uzodimma for documenting the party’s decade-long journey in power, stressing  that history must be told by those who shaped it.

 “I thank Governor Uzodimma for deciding to put history in writing in his ten years of impactful leadership of the APC administration in Nigeria. If you don’t tell your story, others will tell it for you,” he said.

The Senate President also praised the quality of infrastructure executed in Imo State under Uzodimma, describing them as evidence of progressive leadership.

 “As Governor of Akwa Ibom 18 years ago, I was already a progressive, based on the projects I executed. The works I have seen here are of high quality, and the people of Imo State must be very excited,” he said.

He congratulated Uzodimma and the APC national leadership for what he described as a decade of remarkable achievements, adding that the party had firmly established itself as a vehicle of development and progress.

National Chairman of the APC, Prof. Nentawa Yilwatda, described  Uzodimma as a formidable force in the party’s political trajectory. Yilwatda, who chaired the event of the book launch said the book provides an important account of APC’s growth, tracing its journey and progress.

He commended Uzodimma’s leadership qualities, describing him as a stabilising force in Nigeria’s political landscape. Yilwatda also lauded Tinubu’s policies, which he characterised as bold and transformative.

Speaking to the book, Uzodimma said: “For me, the moment feels like the birth of something meaningful. After all the long hours and intense work, this book is now no longer mine alone; it belongs to the APC family, and indeed to the Nigerian people.

“I was partly inspired to write this book out of curiosity. I know that the All Progressives Congress entered government in 2015 with enormous expectations on its shoulders. We inherited a fragile economy, deep security challenges, and a weary citizenry.

“Over the next decade, we faced storms, some of them global, some of them homegrown. Yet, at every turn, Nigerians looked up to us for answers. So my curiosity was to find out if we provided the answers after 10 years.

“This is my fourth book, and certainly the most demanding. I approached it not necessarily as a political figure but as a citizen with a responsibility to document this pivotal decade in our national history. I felt duty-bound to tell the story, as it is, not sugar-coated.”

He acknowledged the President, whom he described as the father of the nation, whose pragmatic ideas and decisive leadership inspired many of the chapters in the book.

“When I first mentioned the idea of this book, the response was unanimous: ‘Yes, it’s time.’ And I agreed because not only did we need to document what we’ve done, but many, even within our party, don’t realise the full extent of what has been achieved,” he added.

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•Inaugurates newly renovated national art theatre named after Prof. Wole Soyinka  Deji Elumoye, Sunday Aborisade in Abuja, Nume Ekeghe in Lagos and Amby Uneze in Owerri  President Bola Tinubu, yesterday,

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FCT Police: How Arise News Anchor, Maduagwu, Died

FCT Police: How Arise News Anchor, Maduagwu, Died

Emma Okonji in Lagos and Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

Commissioner of Police for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, Ajao Adewale, yesterday, shed more light on the death of ARISE News Anchor, Miss Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, and tried to correct some mistaken accounts about her demise.

Adewale said contrary to some misinformation doing the rounds, Maduagwu jumped from a three-storey building during a robbery attack at her residence in Abuja on Monday morning and died in the process.

The police commissioner said Maduagwu became afraid during the robbery attack and decided to jump out of her three-storey building for safety, but lost her life in the process.

Describing the robbery incident as a cruel and senseless act that had no place in a sane society, the commission of police assured Nigerians that the command remained fully committed to ensuring that justice was served.

According to him, “The FCT Police Command, once again, commiserate with the family of Somtochukwu and the entire Nigerians that are recently touched with this ugly incident. 

“Regarding the circumstances surrounding the incident, to set the record straight, some armed robbers, specifically, gained access into Unique Apartments, where Somtochukwu lived, a three-storey building of 18-flat apartment around Katampe in Abuja.

“Two guards were on duty. These are private guards, and one of them, who had the courage to challenge them, sustained a gunshot.

“Somtochukwu actually occupied an apartment on the topmost floor of the building, and out of the fear, she jumped down from that third floor.

“It is sad, so unfortunate. But when the policemen moved to the scene, what they could see was the unconscious body of Somtochukwu on the floor.

“They picked her there and then and took her to Maitama General Hospital, where the doctors on duty tried as much as possible to see whether they could resuscitate her using the CPR, but unfortunately they couldn’t make it. That’s the story.”

Adewale said the police had set up a specific investigation team headed by Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of investigation, to look into and unravel the whole situation with a view to tracking down the culprits.

He stated, “The lead we are getting, we’re already working on it. No stone will be left unturned to ensure that the perpetrators are tracked and brought to justice, and the results of the investigation will be made known to Nigeria.”

Adewale disclosed that the FCT police command had in the past arrested and neutralised bandits in Abuja and recovered weapons and ammunition from them.

Meanwhile, Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, condoled with the Maduagwu family and Arise News Channel over the death of the news anchor.

Fubara, in his condolences, expressed shock and sadness over the “heart-breaking demise of the 29-year old brilliant lawyer and exceptional personality in Nigeria’s bustling media industry, Ms Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu”.

The governor said, “Somtochukwu, one of the shining stars that our dear state bequeathed to Nigeria and the world, was not just a distinguished journalist; she was an embodiment of kindness, humility, brilliance, resilience, and hope of a brighter future for Nigerian youths.

“Her voice on ARISE News Television was an inspiration to millions, her passion for Justice reflected in her legal mind; and her humility and persistence while probing for the truth, a latent pointer to her professionalism.”

In the statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi, Fubara stated, “Losing Sommie at this time is an unwholesome tragedy to her family, our dear Rivers State, and indeed, our country.

“I regret the circumstances of this unfortunate incident, knowing that the vacuum created by her death cannot be filled. We, however, take solace in the fact that the federal government has ordered the appropriate security agencies to ensure that justice is served in this case.”

In a similar vein, Minister of Works, David Umahi, said he received with a deep sense of sympathy the sad news of Maduagwu’s death.

In a statement personally signed, the former Ebonyi State governor said, “I heartily offer my deepest compassion to her family, associates, sympathisers, and institutions, especially the management of Arise TV, whose emotions have been shattered by the irreparable loss of this amazing personality who made an incredible impact in the media and entertainment industry within the short period of her lifetime. May her wonderful memories comfort you during this heart-breaking time.

“While we pray God to grant eternal repose to this victim of societal criminal social space, we stand full square for her justice, and therefore call for a distinctive trail of those who circumstantially caused this calamity to bring them to justice.”

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Emma Okonji in Lagos and Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt Commissioner of Police for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, Ajao Adewale, yesterday, shed more light on the death of

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US Govt Shuts Down as Congress Fails to Reach New Funding Deal

US Govt Shuts Down as Congress Fails to Reach New Funding Deal

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

Funding for the US government has been cut off after President Donald Trump’s Republican Party failed to agree with opposition Democrats on a way forward on a spending bill. This means that some US government services came to a temporary halt.

Although budget confrontations are common in US politics, this spending fight is especially tense because Trump has spent the last nine months drastically cutting the size of the national government. He has suggested that the present impasse could give him an opportunity to do more of this.

This development happened because the Republicans and Democrats could not come together and pass a bill funding government services into October and beyond. The Republicans control both chambers of Congress, but in the Senate – or upper chamber – they are short of the 60 votes they need to pass a spending bill. Opposition Democrats, therefore, have some leverage.

Both sides have been in a bitter standoff over healthcare spending, and the Democrats have refused to back a Republican bill that they say will make it harder for Americans to afford healthcare.

They are calling for an extension of tax credits – which are set to expire – that make health insurance cheaper for millions of Americans, and for a reversal of cuts to Medicaid that have been made by Trump. Democrats also oppose spending cuts to government health agencies.

A stopgap bill was earlier passed in the House, or lower chamber, but is yet to clear the Senate.

The last time this happened, in 2018, the shutdown was the longest in history at 35 days. Government shutdowns are easy to get into, but not so easy to get out of. In this case, it really depends on when – or if – one of the parties will agree to a compromise.

There are two main ways this could end – either the Republicans negotiate an extension to the healthcare subsidies that the Democrats are demanding, or the shutdown becomes so disruptive that the Democrats back down and agree to fund the government – at least temporarily – to get things up and running again.

So far, the Trump administration has been unwilling to offer any substantive concessions, and believe the Democrats will bear the brunt of the public’s blame because they are the side making demands in exchange for keeping the government open.

Democrats, meanwhile, believe their push for preserving health-insurance subsidies is a popular one, the BBC reported.

What is more, their congressional leaders provoked the ire of left-wing activists for backing down during the last budget bout in March. Many Democrats are itching for a bigger fight this time around – and funding the government is one of the only places where their party has some leverage.

Not all of the government will shut down – those deemed essential workers continue as normal, although without pay for the time being.

Border protection, law enforcement, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, in-hospital medical care and air-traffic control workers are expected to continue to operate as usual.

While social security and Medicare cheques will still be sent out, benefit verification and card issuance may stop. Government employees deemed non-essential are temporarily put on unpaid leave. In the past, these workers have then been paid retrospectively.

That means that services like the food assistance programme and federally-funded pre-school and institutions like the Smithsonian museums will likely be curtailed or closed.

Several agencies, like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) are likely to furlough many workers, affecting ongoing research and experiments already in progress.

National parks and forests remained open during the last shutdown, but with few or no staff. This led to vandalism, littering and looting of historical sites, park advocates said.

There could also be travel delays. Flight systems might “need to slow down, reducing efficiency”, a representative from Airlines for America has warned. Passport agencies have warned that it could take longer than usual to process travel documents.

Mail will still be delivered and post offices will remain open because the US Postal Service does not depend on Congress for funding.

Most American schools are state-funded, however the federal government is responsible for billions of dollars in grants and student loans, which could effectively come to a halt. That said – because the grants are awarded during the summer, they will be largely unaffected during this shutdown, the education secretary has said.

Government shutdowns often start off slow, but the pain steadily builds and has a knock-on effect not only to federal workers, but ordinary Americans. Overall, analysts expect that this shutdown could be bigger than the last one in 2018.

Around 750,000 federal workers – roughly 40 per cent – will be taking unpaid leave each day, according to an estimate from the Congressional Budget Office (CBO). What stands out about this current standoff is the position of Trump’s team.

In the past, long shutdowns were usually seen as politically dangerous, hampering both voters’ everyday lives and the images of lawmakers and the president.

But this time, the Trump administration appears more than happy to shutter large parts of the US government for an extended period. In fact, officials have threatened to use a shutdown to identify “non-essential” workers who could then be permanently let go. “We’ll be laying off a lot of people,” Trump said on Tuesday.

Also, after previous shutdowns, government operations mostly returned to normal, with staff and spending levels largely going back to what they had been before, once the standoff was resolved.

Over the past nine months, however, the Trump administration has slashed spending and pushed workers out of their jobs, testing the boundaries of presidential power. A shutdown could allow the administration to accelerate its massive reductions.

While both sides are blaming each other for the situation, they did make last-ditch efforts to try to avoid it.

On Monday, Trump met all four congressional leaders – the top Democrats in the House and Senate as well as their Republican counterparts. But there was little progress, and both sides appeared to have dug deeper into their positions.

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Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja Funding for the US government has been cut off after President Donald Trump’s Republican Party failed to agree with opposition Democrats on a way forward on

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Independence: Umahi, Dangiwa Say Tinubu Returning Nigeria to Growth Path

Independence: Umahi, Dangiwa Say Tinubu Returning Nigeria to Growth Path

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The Minister of Works, David Umahi, and his counterpart at the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa, have said that President Bola Tinubu was working to restore Nigeria to the path of growth.

In separate statements in Abuja on Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary, the ministers stressed that the President, since taking over the reins of power, has made the revamping of the nation’s infrastructure a key priority.

While felicitating Tinubu and indeed all Nigerians on the occasion, Umahi stated that the celebration always calls to mind the sacrifice, vision, and aspirations of  Nigeria’s leaders who played a prominent role in shaping the trajectory of the journey towards independence and national development.

The coming on board of the administration of Tinubu , Umahi said, has provided a turning point to the wheels of the developmental progress of the nation, explaining that he has continued to change the developmental trajectory of the nation through his agenda designed to turn challenges into opportunities.

“Today, the benefits are manifest. He has returned our country to the path of glory through massive investment in critical infrastructure across the six geopolitical zones and through other social economic interventions that now stimulate progressive and sustainable economic growth.

“ In the works sector, a lot has been done by Mr. President to address the burden of inherited road infrastructural deficits across Nigeria. The four Renewed Hope legacy projects are a part of measures to expand the frontiers of the economic ecosystems and stimulate the geometric growth of our nation’s GDP. Nigerians are witnesses to the progress he has so far made on road infrastructure development.

“As we celebrate a new dawn in our journey of nationhood, may the spirit of freedom and unity continue to inspire every Nigerian to strive for a brighter future and may the liberties we cherish inspire us to keep the integrity of our nation,” Umahi stated.

Also, the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Dangiwa, said under the leadership of  Tinubu, Nigeria is laying the foundation for a better future, explaining that the Renewed Hope Agenda is more than a policy framework—but a promise of national rebirth, a roadmap to prosperity, and a guarantee that the sacrifices of past generations will not be in vain.

“It is about building a Nigeria where every citizen has the opportunity to thrive, where governance delivers results, and where progress is shared by all. In the housing and urban development sector, we have seen how far we have come and how much more we can achieve.

“In the past, housing delivery was slow, fragmented, and unable to keep pace with the needs of our growing population. Our cities expanded without proper planning, and millions of Nigerians were left without access to decent, affordable homes.

 “Today, under the Renewed Hope Agenda, we are turning the tide. We are implementing bold reforms in land administration, unlocking financing for affordable housing, regenerating our urban centres, and rolling out the Renewed Hope Housing Programme—a transformative plan to deliver tens of thousands of housing units across the nation.

 “These initiatives are not only about building houses, but about building communities, creating jobs, stimulating local economies, and giving Nigerians dignity and security through homeownership,” Dangiwa reaffirmed.

Looking ahead, the minister noted that the future of housing and urban development in Nigeria is bright, with strategic reforms, strong partnerships, and innovative programmes,  setting the stage for inclusive growth and sustainable development.

 “We envision modern, well-planned cities, vibrant communities, and a housing sector that serves as a true driver of national prosperity,” Dangiwa emphasised.

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Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja The Minister of Works, David Umahi, and his counterpart at the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa, have said that President Bola Tinubu was

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PENGASSAN Suspends Strike After FG Brokered Deal with Dangote

PENGASSAN Suspends Strike After FG Brokered Deal with Dangote

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) has suspended its three-day-old industrial action following an agreement brokered by the Federal government.

In the agreement signed by PENGASSAN and the Dangote Refinery Group on Tuesday night, the company agreed to reabsorb the over 800 staff who had been sacked for allegedly joining PENGASSAN.

Addressing a media briefing in Abuja yesterday, PENGASSAN President, Festus Osifo, said the National Executive Council (NEC) of the union met and resolved to suspend the strike as a mark of respect to the sacrifices made by the federal government and other stakeholders to broker peace.

“We have suspended the industrial action. And in good faith, as a demonstration to the government that we respect institutions, as a demonstration to the government that we are extremely patient. But this suspended action will come back if there is a breach of the agreement,” he said.

Osifo, however, said the agreement did not fully address the demands of PENGASSAN as it failed to give specific guarantees that the sacked workers will be returned to their jobs at the refinery and not places outside the jurisdiction of the association.

He said the union accepted the deal but has pointed out the grey areas to the federal government.

Osifo said that though it was the desire of the association to bring worker back to their positions the government otherwise. He said the union accepted the deal as a compromise out of respect for the government and Nigerians.

According to the PENGASSAN President, the federal government should prevail on Dangote Refinery not to renege on the agreement because such a stance would draw the wrath of workers in the oil and gas industry.

He said the Union would not hesitate to resume the strike if Dangote Refinery’s management reneges on the agreement to recall the affected staff.

“We will not give any warning. We will resume the suspended industrial action immediately,” he said.

The PENGASSAN president also responded to what he described as wrong assertions and misconceptions ascribed to the union as a result of the dispute with Dangote Refinery.

He said most Nigerians are ignorant of the real issues that necessitated the strike in the first instance, saying PENGASSAN was not after check-up dues as alleged in some quarters, but to protect young oil and gas workers who voluntarily agreed to be part of the union.

On the allegation of sabotaging the company, Osifo dismissed it, saying that PENGASSAN has members in big multinational oil companies operating in the country and has contributed to their progress and growth.

He also dismissed the insinuation that the association was after the check off dues that it will get from the Dangote, adding that PENGASSAN is only interested in given the workers a platform to push for and safeguard their welfare

The strike by the oil workers persisted for three days, literally shutting down the country’s oil and gas sector following the inability of the parties to reach an agreement.

The federal government intervened, moving the meeting involving stakeholders in the oil and gas industry from the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, where negotiation was stalled to the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) last night, where both sides finally agreed to a truce.

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Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) has suspended its three-day-old industrial action following an agreement brokered by the Federal government. In

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FG to Blacklist Defaulting Contractors in Housing Sector

FG to Blacklist Defaulting Contractors in Housing Sector

•Vows to accelerate pace of work, ensure timely delivery

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The Ministry of Housing and Urban Development has met with  contractors handling its various housing projects across the country, aimed at accelerating the pace of work and ensuring the timely delivery of projects in line with contractual obligations.

According to a statement in Abuja by the Director Information and Public Relations, Badamasi Haiba, the meeting was presided over by the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Shuaib Belgore, alongside directors of the ministry’s project departments.

Addressing the contractors, Belgore stressed the determination of the ministry to enforce strict compliance with contract provisions and procurement regulations.

He warned that the ministry would not hesitate to apply necessary sanctions against defaulting contractors, including the issuance of formal queries, recovery of mobilisation funds, forfeiture of guarantees, blacklisting, termination of contracts, and, where necessary, reporting to the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

“This engagement is not only to emphasise the importance of timely delivery of projects but also to put contractors on notice that the ministry will take all necessary steps to protect government investments and ensure value for money,” Belgore said.

The Permanent Secretary assured all performing contractors of prompt payment once due processes are completed. He also disclosed plans to visit selected project sites to assess progress firsthand and address legitimate concerns raised by contractors.

Belgore reiterated the ministry’s commitment to the Renewed Hope Agenda of providing quality, affordable, and accessible housing for Nigerians and emphasised that timely project delivery remains a non-negotiable priority

Earlier, the Director of Public Buildings, Pemi Temitope, noted that the session was designed to renew contractors’ commitment, strengthen compliance, and accelerate work in line with the national goal of providing decent and affordable housing for Nigerians.

He expressed concern that some contractors, despite receiving mobilisation since 2024, had yet to apply for valuation of works – a standard contractual requirement that ensures proper project monitoring and delivery.

In response, some contractors highlighted challenges such as delayed payments, adverse weather conditions, and site vandalism.

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•Vows to accelerate pace of work, ensure timely delivery Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja The Ministry of Housing and Urban Development has met with  contractors handling its various housing projects across

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Farmers Urge Tinubu to Boost Access to Fertiliser

Farmers Urge Tinubu to Boost Access to Fertiliser

•Declare price of commodity has increased to N60,000 per bag from N5,500 during last intervention

•Say Buhari’s legacy on agricultural transformation should be preserved

James Emejo in Abuja

Farmers under the aegis of the Coalition of Farmers Association of Nigeria (COFAN) and Himma Youth Farmers Association of Nigeria (HYFAN), have appealed to President Bola Tinubu to make fertiliser accessible and affordable to farmers.

They also urged the president to preserve the agricultural transformation legacy of the late former President Muhammadu Buhari, by enhancing farmers’ access to fertilisers, among others.

They urged the president to sustain the importation of fertiliser raw materials until local production capacity is fully reliable to meet national demand.

The groups further advised that the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI) should be allowed to continue managing raw material importation, ensuring efficiency, transparency, and stability in the supply chain.

Addressing journalists at a media briefing in Abuja, COFAN President, Dr. Abubakar Bamai, alongside representatives of HYFAN, further called on the government to adopt a balanced approach that protects farmers in the short term while building stronger local capacity for the future.

The farmers expressed dismay that the price of the commodity had risen by over 990.90 per cent to currently N60,000 from N5,500 during the government’s last intervention in fertiliser.

Nevertheless, the groups commended Tinubu for his bold agricultural reforms and programme aimed at repositioning the country’s food systems, adding that the reforms demonstrated strong commitment to farmer empowerment, youth inclusion, and national food security.

They, however, expressed reservations over the federal government’s undertakings in the ongoing deliberation and restructuring of the Presidential Fertilizer Initiative (PFI).

Bamai said, “We express deep concern about the immediate effects on Nigerian farmers, particularly smallholder and youth farmers. Rising input costs, distribution gaps, and uncertainty in fertiliser supply threaten to undermine the gains made over the past eight years.

“We recall that under former President Muhammadu Buhari, the PFI was a cornerstone of Nigeria’s agricultural transformation agenda, ensuring affordable fertiliser through the importation of raw materials and support for local blending plants.

“Millions of farmers benefited from this intervention, which boosted food production and strengthened food security…In this regard, we respectfully urge President Tinubu not to allow these achievements to be eroded.”

He told THISDAY, “During the last intervention, fertiliser used to cost around N5,500 per bag. Now it has risen to N60,000. That’s a massive difference and a huge burden for our farmers.

“The price hike is affecting everything—mechanisation, monitoring and evaluation, access, production—you name it. Previously, only a few blenders were active nationwide. But now, more blenders have emerged, which is good for youth employment and economic empowerment.

“This is a major opportunity. If more people are involved in input blending, more jobs will be created and the economy will benefit. But people also need to be realistic about timelines—agricultural investment takes time before you see results.

“It’s unfair to expect immediate results just because a large budget was allocated to agriculture. We need proper planning and long-term commitment.

“For instance, if we say we’ll produce all we consume, we must first build the capacity to do so. Fertiliser was very cheap back then, but that’s no longer the case.”

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•Declare price of commodity has increased to N60,000 per bag from N5,500 during last intervention •Say Buhari’s legacy on agricultural transformation should be preserved James Emejo in Abuja Farmers under

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Wale Tinubu Gets Lifetime Achievement Award at Africa Energy Week

Wale Tinubu Gets Lifetime Achievement Award at Africa Energy Week

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The Group Chief Executive of Oando Plc, Wale Tinubu, has been awarded the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award at Africa Energy Week (AEW) 2025, in recognition of his  commitment to building Oando into one of Africa’s foremost integrated energy companies.

The award, one of the most coveted accolades at AEW, a statement from the firm said, is presented annually to industry leaders whose careers have demonstrated extraordinary vision, resilience, and a lasting impact on Africa’s energy landscape.

Past recipients include: Prof. Benedict Okey Oramah, President of Afreximbank, who received the Mohammed Barkindo Lifetime Achievement Award in 2024; Hage Geingob, former President of Namibia; Macky Sall, former President of Senegal, awarded in 2023 and Bruno Jean Richard Itoua, Minister of Hydrocarbons, Republic of Congo, in 2022.

In conferring the award in Cape Town, South Africa, the Africa Energy Chamber cited Wale Tinubu’s “dedication to advancing Africa’s energy security, his bold leadership in navigating Oando through periods of uncertainty and transformation, and his pivotal role in demonstrating the power of indigenous companies in driving industrial growth and energy sovereignty across the continent.”

Throughout his career, Wale Tinubu, according to the statement, has been a steadfast champion of Africa charting its own destiny by harnessing its abundant resources for the benefit of its people.

“A firm believer that anyone can achieve greatness with vision, determination, and the right team around them, he has led Oando from its modest beginnings as a local downstream operator into a multinational integrated energy player with a robust portfolio spanning exploration and production, power, and renewables.

“His leadership has not only positioned Oando as a continental leader but also symbolised African ambition, ingenuity, and resilience,” the statement stressed.

The Lifetime Achievement Award, the company said, is widely regarded as a benchmark of excellence at AEW, reserved for leaders whose contributions have left an indelible mark on Africa’s energy sector.

It recognises individuals whose sustained, more than decade-long careers embody remarkable achievements and enduring contributions to the oil, gas, and energy industries.

“Wale Tinubu’s recognition was a fitting and well-deserved tribute to a leader who has consistently inspired others to believe in the promise of Africa and the power of its people,” the statement noted.

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Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja The Group Chief Executive of Oando Plc, Wale Tinubu, has been awarded the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award at Africa Energy Week (AEW) 2025, in recognition of