The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • PDP: We are reaching out, not begging governors to stay – Ememobong

    PDP: We are reaching out, not begging governors to stay – Ememobong

    The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has clarified that it is not begging any of its governors or members to remain in the party but is engaging stakeholders in a bid to rebuild and strengthen the party.

    National publicity secretary, Comrade Ini Ememobong, made the remarks in an interview on Channels Television, stating that the Tanimu Turaki-led leadership is reaching out to all party stakeholders, including governors, to foster unity and cohesion.

    Ememobong said while Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, who defected to the Accord Party, was a “victim of circumstance,” Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, played a role in the events that led to his defection.

    He emphasized that the party’s outreach is meant to engage every member without coercion.

    He explained, “We are not begging anybody, but we are reaching out. The Turaki-led administration and the Governors’ Forum are engaging stakeholders. There is a fine line between what is illegal and what is immoral, but our aim is to rebuild, not to force anyone.”

    On Governor Adeleke’s defection, Ememobong described it as circumstantial, noting that strong action by the party leadership could have prevented it. “Adeleke became a victim of circumstances arising from vicarious liabilities, which he cannot completely extricate himself from,” he said.

    Regarding Rivers State Governor Wike, Ememobong said the crisis originated from internal disputes and prior agreements, stressing that the party had supported him throughout.

    “Our frustration arises when blame is shifted instead of acknowledging where the crisis started. We have sympathies, but conscious amnesia about responsibility is unacceptable,” he added.

    On claims that PDP governors failed to support legal efforts during Rivers’ state of emergency, Ememobong refuted the allegation, explaining that the party acted appropriately but could only intervene effectively with the consent of the governor involved.

    He reiterated that PDP governors had always been proactive, but the cooperation of the principal actors was necessary for effective intervention, adding that the party continues to engage members and stakeholders in a spirit of dialogue and unity.

  • Regular walking will reduce healthcare costs, says Don

    Regular walking will reduce healthcare costs, says Don

    A senior lecturer at the Department of Actuarial Science and Insurance, University of Lagos, Prof. Tajudeen Yusuf, has called on the federal government to legislate mandatory walking for Nigerians, noting that it could significantly reduce the nation’s healthcare expenditure.

    He made the call during the 2025 Walk for Life, Peace and Unity, an annual health awareness event organised by the Human Concern Foundation International (HCFI), aimed at promoting physical and mental well-being, unity, and peaceful coexistence.

    Prof. Yusuf described walking as a simple, yet powerful habit that boosts physical health, reduces economic strain, and contributes to national well-being.

    “If the Nigerian government can legislate mandatory walking for citizens, I assure you it will drastically cut down our budget on curative medicine. Prevention is better than a cure. Walking helps prevent all kinds of illnesses,” Prof. Yusuf said.

    According to him, “Walking helps prevent avoidable diseases and cuts down on healthcare spending. Personally, walking is my lifestyle. I can’t remember the last time I visited a hospital or even used paracetamol.”

    The Don also highlighted the spiritual value of walking and regular exercise, explaining that it is embedded in Islamic acts of worship.

    The Convener and Executive Director of HCFI, Prof. Ibrahim Oreagba, called for harmony and national cohesion in Nigeria.

    “At this point in time in our country, we need peace and unity. We’ve come a long way as a nation, and we believe we all have a lot to benefit from one another when we work together in a peaceful environment,” he said.

    Prof. Oreagba noted that beyond the symbolic call for unity, the walk also aimed to raise public awareness about the health benefits of walking, which many people still overlook.

    “We use this event to sensitise the public on the significance of walking as a form of exercise. Walking for at least 30 minutes daily helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, and stroke. It also supports mental wellness and can even reduce cancer risk,” he added.

    The Muslim Congress Secretary General, Alhaji Taiwo Adesina, urged Nigerians to adopt walking as a consistent lifestyle practice.

    He said regular walking requires intentionality, especially for those who own vehicles and are accustomed to minimal physical activity.

    Alhaji Adesina noted that walking naturally boosts endorphin levels, promoting a sense of well-being that some seek through unhealthy means like substance abuse.

    He added that trekking also supports physical and even sensual strength, referencing its alignment with exercises like Kegels.

    Executive Secretary, Muslim Public Affairs Centre (MPAC) Nigeria, Kazeem Akindunbi, extolled HCFI for organising the walk, describing it as a meaningful exercise that benefits every participant in powerful ways.

    Akindunbi said the walk was a timely push for many to restore their energy and reconnect with others.

    He said walking is one of the simplest habits with enormous health benefits, including reducing the risk of hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, stroke, obesity, and depression.

    “It strengthens the body, calms the mind, and creates space for reflection, helping build healthier and more balanced individuals ready to contribute positively to society,” he noted.

  • Senate insists on proven track record as benchmark for envoy clearance

    Senate insists on proven track record as benchmark for envoy clearance

    …As Tinubu forwards 2026–2028 MTEF to Senate

    The Senate on Thursday said only ambassadorial nominees with verifiable professional accomplishments and credible public records will scale its ongoing screening exercise.

    This is even as President Tinubu has submitted the 2026–2028 Medium Term Expenditure Framework and Fiscal Strategy Paper (MTEF/FSP) to the Senate, marking the formal commencement of the 2026 budget process.

    Senate spokesperson, Adeyemi Adaramodu, told reporters at the National Assembly that the red chamber would prioritise competence and proven capacity over paper qualifications.

    According to him, the Senate will rely on “footprints” that nominees have left in their careers, public service, or other spheres of life to determine their suitability for diplomatic postings.

    “We will rely on the information we have on the nominees to clear them. Even if someone has not held certain positions before, we must see that the person is coming from a background that shows capacity,” he said.

    “Whether as students, in corporate life, or in public service, the public must be able to assess what you stand for and what you can offer. Certificates are only an addendum; they are not the core qualification.”

    Adaramodu also dismissed insinuations of a rift between the Senate and the presidency over the recent withdrawal of police orderlies attached to some VIPs, including lawmakers.

    He explained that the concern raised on the Senate floor was not opposition to the policy but a demand for fairness in its implementation.

    “We don’t have a problem with the decision. What was raised on the floor yesterday was simply that it must apply to everyone equally,” Adaramodu said.

    “That was why the Senate President asked the Police Affairs Committee to look into it and ensure fairness.”

    He added that President Bola Tinubu had already provided an alternative security channel for those genuinely in need, noting that lawmakers fully support the directive as long as it is applied systemically and without discrimination.

    Meanwhile, President Tinubu has submitted the 2026–2028 Medium Term Expenditure Framework and Fiscal Strategy Paper (MTEF/FSP) to the Senate, marking the formal commencement of the 2026 budget process.

    In a letter read by Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin during plenary, Tinubu said the document outlines the macroeconomic assumptions, revenue outlook and spending priorities that will guide the drafting of the 2026 Appropriation Bill.

    He noted that the fiscal framework had been approved by the Federal Executive Council on December 3, 2025.

    Key parameters approved by the council last week include a crude oil benchmark price of $64.85 per barrel and an exchange rate of ₦1,512/$1 for the 2026 budget cycle.

    Jibrin referred the MTEF/FSP to the Senate Committee on Finance, chaired by Senator Sani Musa, with a mandate to submit its report by December 17.

    The Senate later adjourned plenary to allow committees to continue scrutinising the fiscal document while also proceeding with the screening of ambassadorial nominees.

    Tinubu had earlier sent the same documents to the House of Representatives, where they were read by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu.

    The MTEF/FSP, as required by the Fiscal Responsibility Act, forms the foundation of Nigeria’s annual budgets and must be approved by the National Assembly before the 2026 Appropriation Bill is presented.

  • Aregbesola’s ally, Adeoti, set to join APC

    Aregbesola’s ally, Adeoti, set to join APC

    An ally of Rauf Aregbesola, the former Secretary to the State Government of Osun State, Moshood Adeoti, is reportedly considering joining the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    The Nation recalled that Adeoti formally withdrew his allegiance to former governor Rauf Aregbesola and exited the African Democratic Congress (ADC) amid growing rumours that the party plans to hand its 2026 governorship ticket to former Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Najeem Salam.

    Adeoti was the governorship candidate of the African Democratic Party (ADP) in 2018, polling 49,745 votes after dumping the All Progressives Congress (APC) at the twilight of the administration of Aregbesola.

    He later returned to the APC in 2020 at the height of political tensions between Aregbesola and his successor, Adegboyega Oyetola, but in the 2022 gubernatorial election, Adeoti emerged as Aregbesola’s preferred aspirant, and since he had been with him till recent times in ADC.

    The Nation gathered on Thursday that Adeoti may join the APC following his exit from Aregbesola’s camp, as top leaders within the party have been wooing him to their party.

    A source close to him said, “Leaders of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and by extension associates of Governor Ademola Adeleke have been romancing our leader (Adeoti), but I can confirm that he prefers APC because they are giving him close marking.”

    Efforts to reach Adeoti were abortive as he did not answer his calls and failed to respond to text messages sent to his phone at the time of filing this report.

    Meanwhile, the Secretary of APC in Osun State, Kamoru Alao, confirmed that “the party leadership is still talking with Adeoti. We are on course.”

  • Jama’at-ul-Islamiyya okays Tinubu’s tax policy

    Jama’at-ul-Islamiyya okays Tinubu’s tax policy

    The President of Jama’at-ul-Islamiyya of Nigeria, Alhaji Hashim Oyekan, has described the federal government’s proposed tax reforms as a welcome development.

    He made this known during a seminar organised by the organization in Magodo, Lagos.

    Alhaji Oyekan, an engineer, stressed that Nigeria must move away from its sole reliance on volatile oil revenues.

    He said, “There is no fear about the new tax law, but there are rumours spread by people that all our accounts will be frozen, and our children will not enjoy it. That is why we decided to enlighten our people. To me, the proposed tax policy is a welcome development in the sense that governance is collective; it is not just for one sector, it is for everyone in the society.”

    Alhaji Oyekan argued that citizens must contribute financially to society to reasonably expect the government to provide essential services, security, and infrastructure.

    He highlighted the policy’s progressive nature, noting that low-income earners are often exempted, ensuring the burden is spread equitably.

    “If it is spread, the burden will not be too much on one group,” he affirmed.

    He also pointed out investment incentives, such as relief on start-up capital and pension arrangements, designed to encourage business registration and compliance.

     An Associate Professor of Law at the University of Ilorin, Dr. Dauda Ariyoosu, asserted that the payment of tax is as old as the government and is recognised in both Islam and Christianity.

    “In Islam, Zakat is compulsory on certain amounts of income while in Christendom, the tithe is also compulsory,” he said.

    He reminded the audience of the Islamic injunction to obey Allah, His messenger, and those in authority, which, he clarified, refers to the government.

    He cited developed countries where tax collection serves as the primary revenue source, advising Nigerians to embrace the reforms for the numerous ensuing benefits.

    He, however, cautioned against witch-hunting by tax authorities and urged government parastatals to intensify efforts to educate the public on the mechanics of tax payment.

    A past President of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN), Prince Rasak Kunle Qadri, reinforced the moral and divine obligation to pay taxes, warning that tax evasion is unacceptable and will inevitably be met with sanctions.

    He maintained that taxation remains the most sustainable way for a government to fund its operations and fulfil its mandate.

    “We should not see tax as a punishment because it’s something that you do for you to be able to ask questions. If you are a member of a community and you don’t pay a subscription fee, you cannot talk. But once you start paying a subscription, you can ask questions,” he said.

    He criticised what he called the Nigerian populace’s tendency to be too lazy and too dumb to actively monitor and question government spending, even after paying their dues.

    He appealed to the press to become a stronger voice for the unenlightened, consistently demanding proof of service delivery, be it schools, hospitals, or roads, from the government.

  • Tinubu: $1tn Economy depends on productivity, innovation, globally competitive workforce

    Tinubu: $1tn Economy depends on productivity, innovation, globally competitive workforce

    …As fed govt showcases nationwide impact of 3MTT digital-skills programme

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday declared that Nigeria’s ambition to build a $1 trillion economy hinges squarely on boosting productivity, deepening innovation, and developing a workforce equipped with skills that meet global standards.

    Speaking at the 3MTT Nigeria National Impact Summit held at the State House Conference Centre, Abuja, the President said the path to national prosperity lies not in chance but in deliberate investment in human capital.

    Tinubu, who was represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, noted that in a world reshaped by rapid technological change, the nations that lead are those that strategically develop the skills of their young people.

    Nigeria, he stressed, must therefore continue to treat human capital as its most valuable resource under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

    He maintained that digital skills now power growth across key sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, finance, manufacturing, education, and public service, making programmes like the Three Million Technical Talent (3MTT) initiative essential to the administration’s economic transformation blueprint.

    According to him, “A strong digital workforce creates jobs, expands enterprise, and positions Nigeria to participate competitively in the global marketplace. More importantly, it shifts our role in the world from passive consumers of technology to active creators and exporters of talent.”

    The President hailed the 3MTT programme as proof of what focus and disciplined execution can achieve.

    From more than 1.8 million applications drawn from every local government area to new startups and job opportunities emerging nationwide, he said the initiative has moved from concept to measurable impact across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

    “Opportunity is no longer limited to major cities,” he added, noting that the programme is restoring confidence among young Nigerians that they can compete and thrive in the global digital economy.

    Tinubu commended the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy for stewarding the programme and acknowledged key private-sector and development partners, including IHS Towers, MTN Nigeria, Airtel Nigeria, Google, Microsoft, Huawei, Moniepoint, the United Nations Development Programme, and the European Union, for giving the initiative depth and credibility.

    While applauding the progress so far, the President said Nigeria must stay committed to the larger vision of transforming digital and technical skills nationwide.

    This, he emphasised, will require continued collaboration among government, industry, and development partners.

    “To the young Nigerians gathered here, and to the millions you represent across every community in our nation, we believe in your capacity and your future. Through initiatives like 3MTT, we are building genuine platforms for progress, not ceremonial commitments,” he said.

    Tinubu reaffirmed that the Nigeria of the future must be powered by skilled hands and driven by innovative minds ready to work, create, and lead, adding that the government is determined to lay a strong foundation for a digital workforce that will propel the country’s next chapter of growth and shared prosperity.

    The Minister of Communications, Innovations, and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, in his remarks, said about 135,000 Nigerians have been trained within the past two years, with some of them having opportunities to secure well-paid jobs in tech companies, while others have had opportunities to travel to China, the UK, and other countries for further studies.

    Dr Tijani, who praised President Bola Tinubu for his commitment to the 3MTT programme and other digital technology innovation initiatives, said that within the first month of the launch of the 3MTT programme, over 1.8 million Nigerian youths signed up for the programme.

    According to Dr Tijani, the Commitment of the present administration to digital infrastructures development remains unparalleled, as President Tinubu approved the deployment of 4,000 telecom infrastructures to rural areas to ensure that 23 million Nigerians in unconnected areas are connected to the Internet.

    The Minister, who said by 2030 about 170 million jobs would be available for Nigerians who have tech skills, noted that the digital economy sector would remain vibrant and Nigeria would be in a position to fill vacancies in the sector with the approach adopted by the present administration to bring the youth on board the digital economy sector.

    Dr Tijani, who highlighted the various supports and funding received by the government from the private sector and international institutions such as Google, Microsoft, IHS, Huawei, MTN, UNDP, African Development Bank, among others, emphasised that the 3MTT programme is open to all Nigerian youths irrespective of status and class.

    The Minister further said under the programme, the Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, made available about 1.5 billion naira worth of laptops and other gadgets to beneficiaries, noting that the beneficiaries of the programme secured 15,000 direct jobs from different tech companies after their training.

    Dr Tijani, who called for increased private sector participation in the 3MTT programme, said the initiative now has community managers in the 36 states of the Federation and one in the FCT, while over 600 facility agents are working across the 774 local government councils of the country. 

  • Ikeja Metro Lions Club gets new president

    Ikeja Metro Lions Club gets new president

    The Ikeja Metro Lions Club, under Lions Clubs International District 404B2 Nigeria, has inaugurated its 24th president, Lion Johnson Adetola Olaitan, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the organisation’s humanitarian mission across Lagos communities.

    The investiture ceremony, held at the NECA House Building in Alausa, Ikeja, drew a distinguished audience including senior Lions leaders, diplomats, royal fathers, and development advocates. Attendees commended the club’s long-standing role in strengthening social support systems and delivering impactful service projects.

    In her inaugural address, Lion Olaitan pledged to lead with “transparency, purpose, and renewed commitment to service,” outlining plans to prioritise health outreach, educational support, community safety, and youth development in the 2025–2026 Lions year.

    She emphasised the need to expand the club’s reach into underserved areas and build partnerships capable of driving measurable social change.

    District Governor, Lion Oluwakemi Eribake, described the new service year as a “renewal of purpose,” urging members to pursue the organisation’s global membership growth targets and adhere to financial discipline while aligning local projects with the Lions’ Mission 1.5 agenda.

    Also speaking at the event, International Director for Constitutional Area 8 (Africa), Lion Princess Adetola Tychus, commended the club for its consistency and visibility, noting that its community-focused model continues to serve as a benchmark for other clubs within and beyond the district.

    Guest speaker, Mr. Andrew Enofe, a Canada-based real estate developer and CEO of Golden Gate Investment Incorporated, delivered a keynote address on Building Strong Communities.

    He urged stakeholders to support the club’s ₦50 million fundraising drive for a proposed community centre, stressing that community development “should not be left to the government alone.”

    The ceremony also featured the induction of new members and the formal presentation of the 2025–2026 executive officers.

    In her closing charge, District Governor Eribake reminded attendees that the essence of service lies in its transformative power.

    “True service uplifts not only the community but also those who dedicate their time and resources to it,” she said.

    With renewed leadership and a bold vision for impact, the Ikeja Metro Lions Club appears poised to deepen its humanitarian footprint and further strengthen the fabric of community life across Lagos.

  • Nwokejiobi hails Uzodimma on 67th birthday, lauds new national role

    Nwokejiobi hails Uzodimma on 67th birthday, lauds new national role

    Prominent political figure, Sir Benneth Nwokejiobi, has congratulated Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, on his 67th birthday, describing him as a visionary leader and dedicated public servant.

    In a statement, Nwokejiobi extended heartfelt felicitations to the governor, noting that the celebration coincides with Uzodimma’s recent appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the All Progressives Congress (APC) Renewed Hope Ambassador and Director-General of Party Outreach, Engagement and Mobilisation.

    “Governor Uzodimma’s leadership continues to inspire many.

    “His new national role is a testament to his political stature and commitment to the progress of our party and nation,” Sir Nwokejiobi stated.

    He praised the governor’s efforts in strengthening the APC, fostering unity, and advancing the developmental goals of the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

    “Through strategic engagement and pragmatic leadership, he has contributed significantly to both Imo State and Nigeria at large,” he added.

    Sir Nwokejiobi also expressed gratitude to God for preserving the governor’s life and prayed for his continued service to the people.

    Uzodimma, widely known as Onwa Oyoko, is also the Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum.

    His birthday has attracted goodwill messages from across the country, underscoring his influence as a key figure in Nigerian politics.

  • Tinubu hails Uzodimma as ‘true progressive’ in birthday tribute

    Tinubu hails Uzodimma as ‘true progressive’ in birthday tribute

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

    In a birthday tribute he personally issued on Wednesday ahead of the governor’s 12 December anniversary, President Tinubu praised Uzodimma as “the true representation of a progressive, both in ideal and action,” noting that his contributions to governance and national cohesion continue to strengthen the Renewed Hope Agenda.

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

    “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 tribute read.

    Tinubu highlighted the Imo State Governor’s leadership style as “expansive and corrective, accommodating and decisive,” adding that Uzodimma’s emergence as 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 his public service record, the President recalled Uzodimma’s tenure in the Senate from 2011, where he represented Imo West, and commended his “quality and impactful representation.”

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

    “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,” Tinubu added.

  • Navy defies rain, holds valedictory parade, pullout for ex-chief Ogalla

    Navy defies rain, holds valedictory parade, pullout for ex-chief Ogalla

    The Nigerian Navy (NN) on Thursday defied the heavy rainfall to bid farewell to the immediate past Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, in Lagos.

    The events, a valedictory parade and pulling out ceremony- held at the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) QUORRA in Apapa, brought together political leaders, serving and retired military chiefs, captains of industries, and well-wishers of Ogalla, who withstood the flash floods and heavy traffic inward Apapa to honour the former CNS whose tenure witnessed a drop in crude oil theft and other maritime illegalities.

    In his farewell speech after reviewing the parade, Ogalla described the rain as a sign of blessing in the coming years for the service, noting that Nigeria was blessed to have a Navy that continuously demonstrates exceptional competence, courage, and commitment in protecting its maritime interests and safeguarding national security, territorial integrity, and sovereignty.

    “These admirable values are the reason the Navy remains a pillar of regional security and a symbol of Nigeria’s presence in the maritime environment, not only within the Nigerian Maritime Area of Interest but in the entire Gulf of Guinea (GoG) and the globe as a whole.

    “On assumption of office, I was acutely aware of the weight of the legacy I was inheriting. I stepped into the shoes of visionary leaders who preceded me, and through their dedication and strategic foresight, I was able to transform the Nigerian Navy into the reputable force we have today,” he said.

    He thanked President Bola Tinubu for appointing and supporting him throughout the period of his service as CNS.

    “It has been the highest honour of my life. While in office, I outlined a vision that emphasised operational effectiveness, strategic innovation, enhanced training, robust partnerships, and improved welfare for our personnel. This vision, which is in line with the Nigerian Navy’s strategic plans, guided our decisions and helped align the Navy with evolving national and regional security realities.

    “Reflecting on our collective efforts, I am elated at how much we have achieved together. We intensified the fight against crude oil theft, piracy, and other forms of maritime illegality, leading to greater security in our maritime domain and the Gulf of Guinea as a whole…

    “We took delivery of new platforms and advanced our local shipbuilding capacities, enhancing our fleet’s capability and sustainability. We invested in training and welfare, understanding that our most critical asset is not just the ships and equipment but the sailor who mans them,” Ogalla added.

    He attributed the successes recorded under his watch to the loyalty, professionalism, and dedication demonstrated by personnel across all cadres, expressing confidence that the service was on a strong and positive trajectory.

    “I am constantly pleased by your resilience, courage, and unwavering commitment to duty. You sailed the ships. You flew the aircraft. You defended our maritime domain. You made our Navy proud. I will cherish the privilege of having been your Chief of Naval Staff.”