The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Shakara Festival: Brymo, Johnny Drille to lead four day festival

    Shakara Festival: Brymo, Johnny Drille to lead four day festival

    Organisers of the Shakara Festival, have announced Brymo and Johnny Drille as two of the leading headliners of the four day event scheduled to kick off on Thursday, December 18, 2025 till Sunday, December 21, 2025 at the Nautica Beach Resort, Elegushi, Lekki, Lagos.

    In a recent chat with the organisers, it was revealed that Shakara Festival is poised to be Nigeria’s premier cultural and music experience billed to take place annually as one of the activities of the widely acclaimed Detty December in Lagos, Nigeria.

    During the chat with The Nation, the organisers also confirmed an electrifying “Shakara After Dark” takeover, which is in collaboration with DJ Obi’s Obi House party. The renowned nightlife brand, Obi’s House, will take over the late-night stage on December 20th, promising the ultimate rave experience. Obi’s House will bring its A-team of heavy-hitting DJs, including DJ Shawn, and Bonamax, to keep the party pulsating after the main stage concludes.

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    The festival’s musical curation showcases a powerful blend of established legends, Alté icons, and the fastest-rising stars in Afrobeats, Alternative, and Highlife music, guaranteeing a diverse and unforgettable sonic journey.

    Other artists billed for the event include BlaqBonez, Show Dem Camp, J’Dess, Mich Straw, Mavo, Llona, Tar1q, and Morravey, The Cavemen, Oshamo and Keys The Prince.

    The festival will climax on Sunday, December 21, with Shakara Gospel Day, an entire day dedicated to high-energy praise and worship featuring some of the biggest names in Nigerian Gospel music.

    The day will feature performances by Gbenga Akinfenwa, SMJ, Yinka Alaseyori, Bidemi Olaoba, Sinach, Kingdom, Magpsalms, Ada Ehi, and Gerald Bishung, offering a perfect, uplifting conclusion to the four-day cultural celebration.

    Shakara Festival is a comprehensive cultural experience built around four key zones: Shakara Junction, an ultimate marketplace for culture and commerce; Shakara Series, featuring deep-dive conversations and panels on the music industry and creative economy; Shakara Games Village, a dedicated space for competitive and casual gaming; and Shakara After Dark, the premier late-night party experience.

  • Olómú Festival gains strong backing

    Olómú Festival gains strong backing

    Coordinator of the Olómú Festival, Olori Ololade Oshin, has announced that traditional rulers, community leaders, and local institutions have endorsed the Olómú Festival scheduled to hold in Ito Omu, confirming its maiden 2026 edition as a major eco-cultural celebration.

    The Olómú Festival is positioned to strengthen environmental awareness, cultural preservation, and sustainable development across the Epe Division of Lagos State.

    Olori Oshin, who also doubles as the Iyalaje of Ito-Omu Kingdom, explained that the organisers intend to use the festival as a cornerstone for broader community growth. She revealed that Ito Omu plans to build a tourist village on its vast land, an initiative designed to elevate the festival’s profile and attract both local and foreign visitors.

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    She added that the community intends to expand agricultural cultivation to improve its contribution to food supply in Nigeria, while also advancing its fishing sector and harnessing the economic potential of its rich palm resources.

    She stressed that achieving these ambitions will require committed support from both government institutions and private sector partners.

    The coordinator noted that Ito Omu’s cultural heritage, natural wetlands, forested landscapes, and interconnected creek networks provide a compelling foundation for the festival.

    She stated that the Lagos State Government, the Lagos State Waterways Authority, Epe Local Government, and the region’s revered monarchs have already offered strong backing.

    His Royal Majesty Oba Kamorudeen Animashaun, Oloja of Epe; Oba Taiwo Yusuff Gbadamosi, Onitoomu of Ito Omu and Oba Nurudeen Ebudola Alugbin, Oniladaba of Ladaba, all described the festival as an important driver of cultural revival and sustainable tourism.

    A lively boat regatta added colour to the announcement, giving attendees a vibrant preview of the festival’s cultural energy and community spirit.

  • Ope Banwo raises concerns over verdict on Taye Arimoro and Peggy Ovire rift, proffers solution

    Ope Banwo raises concerns over verdict on Taye Arimoro and Peggy Ovire rift, proffers solution

    Popular movie producer and public commentator, Dr, Ope Banwo has expressed concerns about the joint verdict in the conflict between Taye Arimoro and Peggy Ovire on the set of ‘Pieces of Love.’

    In a letter addressed to Dr. Queen Ebigieson, President, Association of Movie Producers (AMP) and members of the executive council with the title: Re: Formal Concerns About The Joint Guild Verdict In The Taye Arimoro Vs Peggy Ovire Matter – And Proposals For Urgent Producer-Led Reforms, Banwo highlights seven key areas of concern.

    Dr Banwo highlighted the perception of one-sided punishment, lack of condemnation of unlawful restraint, missed opportunities to reinforce producer responsibility, contradiction between ‘not culpable’ and required apologies/undertakings, negative signal to actors, crew and estates about working with producers, exposure of structural gaps – no shared, enforced on-set conduct and safety code and reputational and legal risk for AMP and its members.

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    However, Banwo, who is also a legal practitioner, business consultant and founder, Aixflix360 and Nollywood Fanatics, proposed seven reforms for AMP to champion and these include:

    On-Set Conduct and Safety Code: Develop and publish a clear code of conduct for producers, production managers, and security personnel.

    Unlawful Detention: Explicitly outlaw unlawful detention by production teams and impose sanctions for violations.

    Mandatory Training: Introduce compulsory training for producers and production managers on law, ethics, and conflict management.

    Independent Review Panel: Establish an independent review panel for serious incidents involving AMP members.

    Balanced Sanctions: Impose balanced sanctions for all parties involved in on-set violence.

    Standard Contracts: Champion standardized contracts with clear clauses on working hours, overtime, and welfare minimums.

    Confidential Reporting System: Establish a safe and anonymous reporting system for violence, intimidation, or unsafe practices.

    “I reiterate that I write as a committed, relatively new member who loves this industry and has invested heavily in it. My only desire is to see AMP grow in respect, credibility and moral authority, so that when we speak, the entire ecosystem knows that we stand on the side of fairness, safety and best practice,” he said.

    In all, Banwo requests that AMP leadership review their role in the joint verdict, consider a more balanced reconsideration of sanctions, and champion the proposed reforms to enhance professionalism and safety in Nollywood.

  • TY Danjuma celebrates 88th Birthday, expands business

    TY Danjuma celebrates 88th Birthday, expands business

    Lieutenant General Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma (RTD) GCON, a prominent figure in Nigerian politics, recently celebrated his 88th birthday by expanding his business empire. Known affectionately as TY Danjuma, he has become a household name due to his influential role in the political landscape of Nigeria. His impressive career includes serving as the former Chief of Army Staff, Minister of Defence, and a key member of the Supreme Military Council during Nigeria’s military regime. This background has established him as one of the few kingmakers in the country, with a legacy that continues to shape political discourse.

    General Danjuma’s political influence is rooted not only in his high-ranking military background but also in the strong network of loyalists he cultivated during his service. His reputation for mentorship has kept many in his orbit, allowing him to remain a respected figure within political and military circles. To this day, sitting presidents often consult him on critical security matters, highlighting the enduring respect he commands.

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    In addition to his political prowess, Danjuma has made significant strides in the business world, diversifying his interests and establishing a vast network of enterprises. His role as an employer has created many job opportunities, further solidifying his influence in the community.

    In honor of his 88th birthday, Danjuma inaugurated the TY Logistics Park FZE, a state-of-the-art Grade-A contract logistics facility located in the rapidly developing Lekki Free Zone in Lagos. Spanning an impressive 29,000 square meters and providing 45,000 pallet positions, this new venture is poised to revolutionize the logistics value chain in Nigeria. By enhancing systemic supply chain efficiency, the facility promises to set new standards for logistics operations in the region.

    To celebrate this milestone, on December 9, Danjuma hosted a lavish soirée at his opulent mansion in Lagos, where he and his wife, Senator Daisy Danjuma, welcomed friends, family, and associates. The event was a luxurious affair, filled with gourmet meals and live music, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Guests enjoyed a remarkable evening in the exquisite setting of the Danjuma residence, savoring the finest hospitality while celebrating the accomplishments and contributions of a remarkable man in both politics and business.

  • Nasir Danu bags Man of the Year award

    Nasir Danu bags Man of the Year award

    Alhaji Nasiru Haladu Danu, a highly influential and cosmopolitan businessman, serves as the Chairman and CEO of Casiva Limited. He is a well-established figure in the Nigerian business landscape and the political arena, renowned for his quiet yet strategic demeanor. Despite his reserved nature, Danu possesses a deep compassion for others, consistently demonstrating a commitment to alleviating the suffering of those around him. Through the Nasiru Danu Foundation, he has made significant strides in supporting marginalized communities, offering educational scholarships, providing access to clean drinking water, and facilitating human and capital development programs for women.

    Earlier this year, Danu inaugurated a remarkable ₦150 million project at the Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’ah Wa’iqamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS) Islamic Centre in Abuja. This project included the construction of a well-furnished 11-room building that now serves as the Imam’s residence at the JIBWIS Islamic Centre, located in the Guzape area of Abuja. Notably, Danu prefers to keep his philanthropic activities away from the limelight, believing that true generosity does not require recognition. He often states that philanthropy is a testament to one’s wealth, and he feels no need for accolades.

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    His significant contributions to society have not gone unnoticed. The late former President Muhammadu Buhari honored him with the national award of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR). Additionally, His Highness Muhammad Hamim Nuhu Sanusi CFR, Sarkin Dutse, acknowledged Danu’s impact by elevating his title from Dan Amana Dutse Emirate to Sardauan Dutse. The turbanning ceremony attracted numerous dignitaries from both the business and political spheres, illustrating the deep respect Danu has earned within these circles.

    Danu’s legacy of service and his numerous accomplishments continue to positively influence lives across Nigeria, reinforcing his prominent status. On December 7, at the Top 10 Magazine Man of the Year Excellence Award ceremony held at the Nigerian Army Conference Centre in Asokoro, Abuja, Alhaji Danu was celebrated as the ‘Man of the Year 2025.’ During the award presentation, Mr. Tony Iji, the publisher of Top10 Magazine, remarked, “We recognize your successful journey in the business realm and your unwavering record of service to humanity as a clear demonstration of your exceptional leadership qualities. It is our management’s decision to honor you with this commendation, recognizing you as Top10 Magazine’s Man of the Year for 2025.” This accolade further cements Danu’s status as a leader committed to excellence and positive social impact.

  • Wale Tinubu wax stronger

    Wale Tinubu wax stronger

    Jubril Adewale Tinubu CON, the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of Oando Plc, stands as a distinguished figure in Nigeria’s dynamic and expansive energy sector. His influence extends far beyond his role at Oando; he embodies a unique blend of audacity, strategic foresight, and an unwavering commitment to sustainability and innovation.

    To those familiar with the intricacies of Nigeria’s energy market, Tinubu’s illustrious career is marked not just by his leadership position but also by a remarkable ability to forecast trends and seize opportunities within a challenging landscape. He has garnered widespread respect as a visionary, a leader synonymous with resilience and intelligent risk-taking, whose impact resonates across various sectors and generations.

    Tinubu’s reputation is not merely built on business acumen but also stems from his entrepreneurial flair and innovative spirit, earning him a well-deserved place among an elite circle of business leaders whose legacies are both influential and inspirational. Unlike many who approach Africa’s economic prospects with caution, often clouded by uncertainty, Tinubu maintains a perspective of optimism and possibility, recognizing the immense potential that lies within the continent.

    Under his exemplary stewardship, Oando has evolved from a modest downstream player into one of Africa’s most formidable integrated energy firms. The company has expanded its operations to encompass exploration, production, power generation, and renewable energy, reflecting Tinubu’s holistic view of energy as a multi-faceted industry. At every opportunity, he emphasizes the critical need for Africa to harness its own abundant resources to chart its own course in the global economy.

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    Tinubu’s strategic approach, guided by precision and impactful decision-making, has allowed Oando to adeptly navigate the complexities of global market fluctuations, regulatory challenges, and economic downturns, often with a remarkable level of discretion and composure. This proficiency has not gone unnoticed; since the beginning of 2025, he has received numerous accolades, including the Investor/Transaction of the Year 2024 at the New Telegraph Awards in Lagos. This honor was largely a recognition of Oando’s landmark $783 million acquisition of Agip Oil Company, a significant milestone completed in August 2024, widely regarded as one of the most impactful transactions in Nigeria’s economic landscape that year.

    His global influence was further emphasized when Oando emerged as the preferred bidder for the Trinidad refinery, showcasing the company’s expanding footprint in the international arena. Even in the face of challenges, such as a reported dip in revenue, Oando managed to achieve a $145 million profit in the first nine months of its 2025 fiscal year. This accomplishment stands as a strong testament to the disciplined strategies and resilient leadership that Tinubu embodies.

    Looking ahead, Oando’s recent announcement highlights Tinubu’s visionary strategy for the future: the company is diversifying into mining, concentrating on lithium and other minerals essential for the clean-energy transition. Oando has assembled an experienced team of geologists and commenced exploration activities across Nigeria, including a major initiative in Kebbi State. By the end of 2025, Oando plans to complete extensive field evaluations and identify a prime location for pilot lithium production.

    As global demand for rechargeable batteries continues to soar, driven largely by advancements in technology and the burgeoning electric vehicle market, Tinubu is positioning Oando to play a pivotal role in this imminent energy revolution. His admirers often describe him as a man with the clarity to envision the future. He is not only a strategist shaped by foresight but also a leader propelled by an unyielding belief in the potential of Africa.

  • Double honour for Grace Bent

    Double honour for Grace Bent

    Senator Grace Folashade Bent’s impeccable achievements in Nigerian politics are noteworthy, particularly as she was part of those who paved the way for women in leadership positions and politics while serving as a senator representing Adamawa South Senatorial District in the 6th Senate. Recently, this trailblazer and dedicated public servant has reached new heights, being appointed as an ambassador designate. Last weekend, she and her husband, Otunba Jackson Bent, she was honored during the celebration of the Igoke Agba festival, where they were installed as “Yeye Aare Arimuyanga of Oka Akoko” and Aare Amuyangan, respectively, by Oba Dr. Yusuf Adebori Adeleye, the revered king of Oka Akoko, who himself is 79 years old.

    In addition to her role as a socialite and ambassador, Senator Bent is known for her exceptional leadership within the political landscape of Nigeria. She played a pivotal role as the Coordinator of the Stakeholders (Special Duties) Directorate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Council. Her numerous accomplishments are a testament to her unwavering commitment to public service and her vision for Nigeria’s advancement.

    Affectionately referred to as “GOGGO” by her admirers and constituents in Adamawa State, Senator Bent epitomizes the values of unity and progress. She is recognized for her inclusive approach, which transcends tribal boundaries, demonstrating a profound commitment to the welfare of her people during her tenure in the National Assembly.

    Senator Bent made history in 2007 by emerging victorious in a competitive senatorial election, representing Adamawa South, the largest senatorial district in the state.

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    Her election marked a significant milestone, as she became the first female senator in the northeast geopolitical zone of Nigeria. Furthermore, she holds the distinction of being the first female senator from northern Nigeria elected through marital affiliation, given that her husband, Jackson Bent, is a native of Adamawa State. Her academic contributions include a groundbreaking work titled “Inter-Ethnic Marriages in Nigeria: Beacon of National Unity,” where she systematically analyzes the potential of inter-ethnic marriages to foster national unity.

    Senator Bent possesses a clear and inspiring vision for Nigeria’s future, reflecting her hope for a more cohesive and prosperous nation. With her appointment as ambassador, she is poised to cultivate strong and beneficial relationships with her host country, showcasing her courage, dedication, and dynamic leadership. Her unwavering belief in hard work resonates with those around her, encouraging a culture of excellence and integrity.

    Leadership, in her view, transcends mere competence and merit; it also encompasses the ability to make a symbolic impact. In the diplomatic arena, meritocracy prevails, where individual achievements are celebrated. This is evident in President Tinubu’s recognition of Senator Bent’s accomplishments through her nomination as an ambassador, affirming her place as a distinguished leader committed to Nigeria’s progress and the empowerment of its people.

  • Collective effort key to security success, says Defence Minister Musa

    Collective effort key to security success, says Defence Minister Musa

    Defence Minister, General Christopher Musa (retd.), has said Nigeria’s victory over terrorists, bandits, and other criminals is assured when its Armed Forces and the citizens stand united.

    He noted that Nigeria’s security achievements are the results of collective efforts, stressing that no single service or individual can secure the country alone.

    Musa spoke yesterday at the investiture ceremony for newly promoted Air Commodores and Air Vice Marshals at the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) headquarters in Abuja.

    He said: “No single individual or service can do this alone. Unity of effort, effective intelligence sharing and joint operations are central to sustaining our momentum.

    “We must think of ourselves as one big family, living in different rooms but under the same roof. What affects one affects all.”

    General Musa underscored the decisive role of air power in shaping operational outcomes, emphasising that overcoming the country’s security challenges require deepened inter-service cooperation.

    “Air operations achieve their full potential only when seamlessly integrated with the Nigerian Army, the Nigerian Navy, and all national security agencies,” he said.

    The minister hailed the service chiefs and troops for their sacrifices.

    He described inter-service cooperation as the backbone of recent operational achievements.

    “Our strategic direction gives us the pathway to finish missions that have lingered,” Musa said.

    “Through timely air intervention, precision engagement, technology, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, we have achieved notable gains in multiple theatres.”

    The minister urged the officers to see every promotion as “an opportunity to make a difference,” adding that the expectations on them remained high because they possess the clarity of vision and judgment needed to strengthen ongoing military operations.

    He said: “Our strategic direction gives us the pathway to finish missions that have lingered.”

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    General Musa assured military officers that the military’s promotion system remained fair and balanced, emphasising that every Nigerian officer was seen as important.

    The minister urged officers to strengthen unity, resilience and commitment to a shared national vision, insisting that “defeat is temporary, but victory is permanent” when the military stands together.

    He encouraged those not promoted to stay committed, assuring them that their time would come.

    The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, urged newly decorated senior officers to uphold the highest standards of integrity, discipline and strategic leadership.

    Aneke described the promotion of the officers to the ranks of AVM and Air Commodore as a strong vote of confidence in their professionalism and capacity to shoulder higher responsibilities.

    According to him, military promotions are earned through dedication, competence and character, noting that each new rank demands higher trust, deeper responsibility and the courage to take tough decisions.

    “Your new rank places you at the strategic level where policy direction meets operational reality.

    “You are now directly responsible for shaping strategy, guiding operations, making critical decisions and ensuring optimal performance across commands, units and personnel under your authority.

    “As you take on these heightened responsibilities, always remember that victory in modern conflict does not rest solely on platforms or weapon systems, but on the quality of leadership at every level—most especially at the senior command tier,” he said.

  • Bayelsa Deputy Governor, Ewhrudjakpo dies at 60

    Bayelsa Deputy Governor, Ewhrudjakpo dies at 60

    •   Death pinned on cardiac arrest
    • Abiodun mourns

    Bayelsa State Deputy Governor Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo has died of cardiac arrest.

    He was 60.

    The Nation gathered that Ewhrudjakpo slumped in his office in the afternoon and was conveyed to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Yenagoa, the state capital.

    A source, an Ijaw leader, who spoke in confidence, told our reporter that a cardiologist at FMC declared him dead on arrival.

    The source said: “He suffered a cardiac arrest in his office at the Government House and was rushed to the FMC. Unfortunately, he was pronounced dead on arrival.”

    The source also said the remains of Ewrujakpor were immediately transported to an undisclosed mortuary in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital.

    It was gathered that the death of the deputy governor, a close political ally of former Bayelsa State Governor Seriake Dickson, and a strong politician in the state, shocked many stakeholders.

    Ewhrudjakpo was first appointed by Dickson as his Commissioner for Works, a position he occupied for eight years and won the admiration of stakeholders because of his knowledge of construction and engineering despite his background as a lawyer.

    Against all odds, Dickson made Ewrujakpor, who hailed from his Sagbama Local Government Area, a deputy governor despite the opposition against his candidacy.

    The kate deputy governor, who was born on September 5, 1965, refused to join his principal, Governor Douye Diri, when he defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC), preferring to remain in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

    His shocking death happened amid speculations that he was on his way out of the PDP for an unnamed political party.

    Also, Ogun State Governor and Chairman of the Southern Governors’ Forum (SGF), Prince Dapo Abiodun, has mourned Ewhrudjakpo’s passing.

    In a statement in Abeokuta, Abiodun said he received news of Ewhrudjakpor’s death with shock.

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    He said the incident was particularly painful as the deceased was in his office attending to his duties when the incident happened.

    The Ogun State governor noted that the late deputy governor apparently defied illness to serve the people of Bayelsa State.

    Commiserating with Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri, and the Government and people of Bayelsa State, Governor Abiodun urged them to take solace in the life of service that the deceased lived.

    He said: “I received news of the demise of the deputy governor of Bayelsa State, His Excellency, Mr. Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, with deep sorrow.

    “The incident came as a profound shock to all of us, but we submit to the will of the Almighty God, who has chosen to call him home at this time.

    “I know how painful and devastating that this development is for my brother, His Excellency, Governor Duoye Diri, who has lost a dependable ally. I also deeply commiserate with  the family and friends of the deceased.

    “It is my sincere prayer that the Almighty God will be with them and give them the strength to survive this hour of pain and sorrow.

    “No doubt, Bayelsa State and Nigeria as a whole have lost a gem, but we shall take comfort in the knowledge that he lived a life of service to humanity and made profound change in the lives of people. May his gentle soul rest in sweet repose.”

  • Tinubu salutes Hope Uzodimma at 67

    Tinubu salutes Hope Uzodimma at 67

    • ‘He’s true progressive’
    • Ekwunife at 55: President lauds her service, leadership

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has described Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma as a model progressive leader whose actions and ideals embody the values of unity, innovation, and national renewal.

    The President also congratulated Senator Uche Lilian Ekwunife on today’s celebration of her 55th birthday.

    In a personal birthday tribute ahead of today’s celebration of the governor’s 67th birthday, President Tinubu praised Uzodimma for being “the true representation of a progressive, both in ideal and action”.

    He noted that the governor’s contributions to governance and national cohesion continue to strengthen the current administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

    President Tinubu said Governor Uzodimma has emerged as a “beacon of unity and a force for positive change,” applauding his belief in Nigeria’s potential and his consistent efforts to break down social and political divides.

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    “He talks of unity and acts to strengthen our bond and blur the artificial lines that separate us. He is a patriot through and through,” the President’s tribute said.

    President Tinubu highlighted the Imo State governor’s leadership style as “expansive and corrective, accommodating and decisive,” adding that his election as the chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum (PGF) reflects his broad-mindedness and proven ability to mobilise, inspire loyalty and build consensus within the ruling party.

    Tracing Uzodimma’s public service record, the President recalled the governor’s tenure in the Senate, from 2011, where he represented Imo West, and lauded his “quality and impactful representation”.

    He recalled that since assuming office as governor in 2020, Uzodimma has steered Imo State towards steady progress, with “remarkable footprints” in infrastructure, healthcare, education and security.

    President Tinubu added: “At a personal level, Governor Uzodimma is very affable and has an admirable strength of character. He is a dependable ally. I admire his brilliance and proven problem-solving ability,” President Tinubu said.

    Wishing him a joyful birthday celebration, the President joined the governor’s family, friends, associates and the people of Imo State in celebrating his leadership and service.

    “I wish him many more years of good health and greater service to our country and humanity at large.”

    Also, the President described Senator Ekwunife as a resilient public servant, an accomplished professional and a beacon for women in Nigerian politics.

    In a statement yesterday in Abuja by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President celebrated Ekwunife’s decades-long contributions to governance, community development and national progress.

    He recalled that before venturing into politics, Senator Ekwunife had built a distinguished career in banking, a foundation that shaped her subsequent trajectory in public service.

    She was first elected to the House of Representatives in 2007 to represent the Anaocha/Njikoka/Dunukofia Federal Constituency, a seat she retained in 2011.

    Her rise continued in 2015 when she was elected senator for Anambra Central, and again in 2019, during which she chaired the Senate Committee on Science, Technology and Innovation.

    She most recently served as the All Progressives Congress (APC) deputy governorship candidate in the Anambra State election.

    The President said Senator Ekwunife’s public life reflects “resilience, service, and a strong commitment to development and empowerment,” praising her philanthropic engagements and the impact of her leadership on communities across Anambra and beyond.

    President Tinubu praised her “contributions to governance and development in Nigeria,” noting that her example continues to inspire women seeking to participate meaningfully in politics and public leadership.

    He wished the former lawmaker a joyful 55th birthday and prayed for more success in her future endeavours.