The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • PenCom trains agents to recover N32.27b from defaulting employers

    PenCom trains agents to recover N32.27b from defaulting employers

    The National Pension Commission (PenCom) has accredited pension recovery agents to serve as the cornerstone of Nigeria’s social contract with workers.

    They are to recover N32.27 billion, comprising N15.87 billion in principal contributions and N16.40 billion in penalties from defaulting employers between June 2012 and September 2025.

    In a statement by the commission’s management, the Director General, Ms. Omolola Oloworaran, announced the development at a workshop in Lagos.

    She said the commission had ushered in a new era of zero tolerance for pension defaulters.

    The PenCom boss reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to enforcing strict compliance across the pension industry.

    Oloworaran, who was represented by the Commissioner in charge of Inspectorate PenCom, Samuel Chigozie Uwandu, spoke during an intensive training workshop for accredited recovery agents in Lagos.

    She noted that the training marked a renewed nationwide compliance push to recover outstanding pension contributions and penalties from employers who persistently violate the Pension Reform Act (PRA) 2014, which mandates remittance of pension contributions within seven working days of salary payment.

    READ ALSO; Getting it right

    She said: “The workshop outlined new strategic initiatives that will strengthen enforcement efforts, deepen inter-agency collaboration, and empower recovery agents to tackle non-remittance of pension contributions with greater precision and authority with PenCom is currently engaging Recovery Agents to audit defaulting employers, calculate outstanding pension liabilities, issue demand notices, and facilitate recovery of unremitted pension contributions.

    “Recovery Agents work has been instrumental in enforcing compliance since the start of the recovery exercise in 2012, in addition PenCom recorded significant compliance gains in the third quarter of 2025 alone, recovering N2.06 billion (N775 million principal and N1.27 billion penalties) from 49 defaulting employers, reflecting a sustained surge in enforcement activities.

    “Despite the successes of the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS), persistent defaults by employers threaten the fundamental purpose of the system. Every unremitted Naira represents a broken promise to a Nigerian worker as this Commission has moved from promoting voluntary compliance to mandating enforced compliance. The era of impunity is over.”

    Oloworaran explained that the appointment of recovery agents followed a competitive, transparent selection process, reflecting PenCom’s confidence in their capacity, professionalism, and integrity, reminding participants that they are the operational arm of PenCom’s enforcement and are critical to PenCom’s strategy to safeguard workers’ retirement savings.

    The DG outlined several bold initiatives forming PenCom’s expanded enforcement architecture, including forming stronger partnerships with key regulatory bodies such as the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and other relevant agencies. Under these partnerships, employers’ compliance with the PRA 2014 will influence their standing with these bodies, noting that defaulting employers will face consequences beyond PenCom, as non-compliance may affect business operations, access to government services, and regulatory privileges.

  • Lagos launches Nigeria’s first tele-veterinary call centre

    Lagos launches Nigeria’s first tele-veterinary call centre

    Lagos State Government, through the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems, has launched TELE-VET, Nigeria’s first tele-veterinary call centre, marking a groundbreaking milestone set to transform access to expert animal health care using mobile technology.

    Speaking at the event held at Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems, Animal Hospital, Oko-Oba, Agege, Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Ms. Abisola Olusanya, described TELE-VET as a transformative initiative that strengthens animal health systems, improves food safety and accelerates agricultural innovation across the state and beyond.

    She said technology continued to redefine global food systems, and Lagos, under the leadership of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, remained committed to deploying digital solutions that enhanced efficiency, empowered farmers and safeguarded public health.

    The commissioner said TELE-VET addressed long-standing challenges faced by farmers and pet owners, especially limited access to timely and professional veterinary care.

    Ms. Olusanya highlighted that TELE-VET built on the existing mobile platforms, M-Agric and M-Health, available on MTN and Glo networks, which provided daily expert tips, mentorship and animal-care guidance.

    READ ALSO; The miracle of Nnamdi Kanu

    By dialing *20791#, users can subscribe for N100/day, N300/week, or N500/month, gaining instant access to a variety of services, while all active subscribers can access the Call Centre free of charge.

    She said the Call Centre would deliver emergency support, first-aid guidance, disease-prevention information and livestock and pet care assistance, noting that the platform helped farmers reduce costs, save time and access expert care without travelling long distances.

    She said TELE-VET would also enhance surveillance and early detection of zoonotic diseases, aligning with the One World, One Health framework that integrated human, animal and environmental health.

    The commissioner says TELE-VET sets the stage for future innovations, including livestock and pet health insurance, e-commerce for veterinary products, improved mobility for safe animal transport, and enhanced financing opportunities for farmers, positioning Lagos as a national leader in technology-driven agricultural transformation.

    The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems, Mr. Emmanuel Audu, hailed the initiative as a groundbreaking intervention that would improve service delivery within the state’s veterinary ecosystem.

    He says TELE-VET responds to the evolving needs of farmers and pet owners who require swift and professional support to enhance productivity and ensure animal well-being.

    Audu noted that the ministry had invested extensively in strengthening the infrastructure, technical systems, and human resources needed to operate a world-class veterinary call centre.

    He said the service was a strategic investment in Lagos State’s food security architecture, enabling efficient livestock health management and timely response to potential disease outbreaks.

    The permanent secretary said the Call Centre would minimise animal losses, improve farm management practices, and provide timely advisory services to farmers, aligning with the ministry’s mandate to promote sustainable agricultural practices across all 57 LGAs and LCDAs.

    He praised the collaboration among veterinary professionals, ICT partners, and technical teams that made the initiative possible.

    Audu reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to continuously upgrading the TELE-VET platform to accommodate innovations that improved efficiency and expanded service offerings.

    He encouraged residents to adopt the platform fully, noting that its success depended on widespread participation.

    The Director of Veterinary Services, Dr. Rasheed Macaulay, said the launch of TELE-VET marked a new era in veterinary care delivery in Lagos State. He said the platform provided a practical solution to challenges such as limited manpower, delayed emergency response, and difficulties reaching farmers in remote areas by connecting residents directly to certified experts.

    Macaulay added that TELE-VET would  strengthen disease surveillance and reporting across the state, aiding early detection of animal diseases and preventing zoonotic infections.

    With real-time consultations, improved documentation, and faster escalation processes, the platform will support frontline veterinarians and promote safer, healthier food systems for all Lagos residents.

  • Fanfare at conferment of Yeye Asiwaju Gbogbo Ile Oodu’a on First Lady

    Fanfare at conferment of Yeye Asiwaju Gbogbo Ile Oodu’a on First Lady

    The number of dignitaries reflected the essence of the occasion.

    Gaily dressed Nigerians, mostly in traditional white attire, yesterday accompanied the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, to the palace of the Ooni of Ife in Osun State.

    There, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, conferment on her the chieftaincy title of Yeye Asiwaju Gbogbo Ile Oodu’a. 

    The colourful ceremony drew dignitaries from across the country and from the diplomatic corps.

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, and the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, also graced the occasion.

    Shortly after the ceremony, Mrs. Tinubu expressed optimism that the ongoing reforms and economic rebound of the government would make Nigeria a lending nation rather than a borrower by next year.

    The ceremony coincided with the 10th coronation anniversary of Oba Ogunwusi on the throne of his forebears.

    Mrs. Tinubu stresses that the ongoing reforms would soon reposition Nigeria as a financial pillar in Africa.

    The First Lady expressed the confidence that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration would show critics and leaders around the world how best to govern.

    READ ALSO; The miracle of Nnamdi Kanu

    She said: “Nigeria’s joy has come. Those wondering how we want to do it, we will show them how things are being done.

    “By 2026, Nigeria will be in prosperity; other countries will come and borrow money from us. It is important to say it here at the source of the Yoruba cradle that during this present administration, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, they will wonder how he was able to achieve such a milestone.”

    She congratulated the Ooni and prayed for him to have a peaceful reign with lots of developmental strides.

    “Today is a not a day of long speeches. I want to thank the people of Ile-Ife. I also thank the Ooni of Ile-Ife for bestowing such an honour on me.”

    Oba Ogunwusi rededicated himself to the service of humanity and societal development, especially among the nation’s youths.

    He described the First Lady as a blessing to Nigeria.

    The Ooni said Mrs. Tinubu was conferred with the title because she has contributed to the welfare of women and the girl-child.

    He urged her to do more.

    “The First Lady has been a mother since I ascended the throne. She has been very nice to everyone, especially women and the girl-child. She is indeed a mother.

    “I install you the Yeye Asiwaju of Oodu’a land on behalf of all traditional rulers, including the kings of Itsekiri land and in the presence of the Sultan. We did it for the President five years ago, but today, thank God, he released the First Lady for the rites.”

    Ex-President Obasanjo congratulated Oba Ogunwusi for transforming the throne and elevating the Yoruba culture.

    Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke said the title fitted Mrs. Tinubu perfectly.

    “We, as a government, have in you a partner in exporting the Yoruba culture and traditions to the world and we are committed to uplifting infrastructure in the ancient city to attract more tourists to Ile-Ife,” he added.

    Other governors at the event included Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), as well as former Ogun State Governor Ibikunle Amosun.

    Other dignitaries include Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele; the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriation, Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, and Senators Francis Fadahunsi and Olubiyi Fadeyi.

    The wife of the Vice President, Hajiya Nana Shettima, led the wives of governors, female ministers, wives of governors, House of Representatives members and wives of other high-ranking military officials to the event.

    Prominent traditional rulers at the event included the Olu of Warri, HM Ogiame Atuwatse III; the Orangun of Oke-Ila, Oba Adedokun Abolarin; the Salu of Edunabon, Oba Kehinde Oladepo; the Orangun of Ila, Oba Wahab Oyedotun; the Elegushi of Ikate-Elegushi Kingdom, Oba Saheed Ademola Elegushi; the Oloro of Oro Kingdom, Oba Joel Olaniyi Oyatoye; alongside many other royal fathers from across Yorubaland and Nigeria.

    Others at the event included the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa; former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dimeji Bankole; the Deputy Governor of Osun State, Prince Kola Adewusi; former First Lady, Patience Jonathan; the wife of the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mrs. Kafayat Oyetola; the wife of the Minister of Defence, Mrs. Lilian Oghogho Musa; the wife of the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hajiya Fatima Tajudeen Abbas; the wife of the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dr. Ezinne Chinyere Kalu; the wife of the Chief of Staff to the President, Mrs. Salamatu Gbajabiamila; the wife of the Osun State governor, Mrs. Titilayo Adeleke; the Yeyelaje of Oodu’a, Mrs. Toyin Kolade; and the wife of former Oyo State governor, Mrs. Florence Ajimobi.

  • Tinubu urges varsities to seek sustainable funding

    Tinubu urges varsities to seek sustainable funding

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has advised federal universities to find sustainable funding options to tackle pressing infrastructure challenges.

    Addressing the 37th convocation ceremony of the Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO), the President said his administration, within two years, had recorded bold and remarkable achievements across federal universities.

    President Tinubu, who was represented by the Vice Chancellor of David Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences, Uburu, Eboyin State, Prof. Jesse Uneke, highlighted the reforms his administration had undertaken since its inception.

    These include the Energising Education Programme (EEP), which has delivered solar energy solutions to federal universities.

    “It may interest you that the EEP Phase 3 project in FUTO has been fully completed and commissioned, ensuring uninterrupted 24-hour electricity supply,” he said.

    The President announced key interventions his administration has taken,  including the release of N50 billion for unpaid allowances, N150 billion for a NEED Assessment Fund (in three N50 billion tranches in 2025), a Tertiary Institution Staff Support Fund offering interest-free loans up to N10 million, and streamlined NELFund guidelines for transparency.

    READ ALSO; The miracle of Nnamdi Kanu

    Acknowledging funding limitations, President Tinubu urged federal universities to leverage endowment funds and public-private partnerships (PPP) for the development of infrastructure, like hostels and staff quarters, referencing the government’s PPP project guidelines.

    He said: “Despite these interventions, the demands of our universities continue to grow, and it is evident that the government alone cannot meet them adequately.

    Therefore, the universities are encouraged to pursue sustainable funding options such as endowment funds, and public-private partnerships to tackle pressing infrastructure challenges, including hostel accommodation and staff quarters.

    “I urge FUTO to forge strategic collaborations with the private sector, addressing needs without imposing unnecessary pressure on students and parents,” he said.

    The President advised the university to deepen industry engagement, boost research, and apply innovations to communities.

    He said: “Technology must serve humanity, and FUTO must be the bridge between knowledge and national prosperity.”

    President Tinubu hailed the parents and guardians for investing in their children’s education and equipping them “with the requisite skills to become not only useful to themselves but also impactful contributors to Nigeria and the global community”.

    The President congratulated recipients of honorary degrees, urging them to be “ambassadors of this institution” and serve Nigeria with greater impact.

    FUTO’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Nnenna Oti, highlighted her administration’s efforts to enhance staff welfare, including the promotion of 203 professors, 594 non-academic staff members, 1,690 senior non-teaching staff members, and 232 junior non-teaching staff members.

    Praising President Tinubu for his support, she stressed that FUTO students were among the first to benefit from the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFund).

    Also, the Pro-Chancellor, Senator Jack Tilley-Gyado, and the Chancellor of the 13th Governing Council, Alhaji Muhammadu Aliyu Mustafa, outlined the challenges facing the university, such as a lack of staff quarters, a deteriorating road network, and ongoing encroachment and annexation of FUTO land by land grabbers and speculators.

    Highlights of the ceremony included the conferment of honorary degrees on Alhaji Aliko Dangote and Mrs. Ngozi Ekeoma (D.MT Honoris Causa) alongside the award of postgraduate degrees to 542 candidates.

  • Umahi orders accelerated work on Akwa Ibom axis of Lagos-Calabar coastal highway

    Umahi orders accelerated work on Akwa Ibom axis of Lagos-Calabar coastal highway

    • PDP chieftain Showunmi lauds Fed Govt’s vision for the project

    Works Minister Dave Umahi has ordered accelerated work on the Akwa Ibom section of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway.

    Umahi gave the directive at the weekend when the Senate Committee on Works and political stakeholders inspected the project.

    The minister said there was an urgent need to ensure that the Akwa Ibom section of the highway meets the level of progress other parts have made.

    He described the highway as a non-negotiable “catalyst for the industrial revolution of the country”.

    Umahi told the contractor handling the project, Hitech, to begin roadside landscaping, plant trees, and install solar-powered lights for security and aesthetics, besides the 24-hour work schedule on the project.

    The minister noted that the challenging Section 3, spanning Akwa Ibom and Cross River states, had been strategically realigned from 65 kilometres to 72 kilometres to bypass a “terrible” 19-kilometre swamp. He assured Nigerians that the move would ensure cost control and guarantee durability.

    “This highway will be an economic catalyst. I commend Hitech highly for their partnership, working day and night without immediate payment. They aim to deliver in 24 months, not 36 months. We are also preparing other sections. I direct Hitech to commence 24-hour work here, start landscaping with trees, and install solar lights for security.

    READ ALSO; Getting it right

    “The government is working to resolve payment for all contractors. We are committed to taking courageous decisions to build a lasting road, not minding critics. We invite constructive criticism from those who come to see for themselves. We are building a legacy for the next generation, regardless of political affiliation,” he said.

    Commenting on the funding for the project, Umahi confirmed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had approved the payment of outstanding certificates for the coastal highway and other projects, following the transition of funding from the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited to the Ministry of Finance.

    The payments, according to the minister, are pending verification.

    Briefing the minister on the progress of work on the project, the Federal Controller of Works in Akwa Ibom State, Okoduwa Vincent, explained that construction activities had been accelerated on the 41-kilometre stretch.

    According to him, the team is currently engaged in intensive earthwork after completing three major culverts – a twin culvert and a triple culvert.

    Vincent said over 30 kilometres of the corridor had been cleared.

    The Controller of Works reassured the minister that the project team remained highly committed to delivering the road within the approved 36-month timeline.

    “By the grace of God, this work will be completed as planned,” he stated

    Also, the Managing Director of Hitech Construction Company Limited, Dany Abboud, stated that, based on the directive of the minister, the company had to divert a particularly challenging 19-kilometre swampy section.

    He said: “This realignment increased the total length to 71.4 kilometres — 41 kilometres in Akwa Ibom and the remainder in Cross River – while minimising bridge costs and maximising effective routing. We are currently at kilometre nine.

    “The work is ongoing, with about seven to eight kilometres of swampy area left to clear. After that, the entire 71.4-kilometre route will be cleared. We face challenges, like the climate and intense rainfall, but we remain committed to completing this project ahead of the allotted 36 months.”

    Responding on behalf of the National Assembly’s Joint Committee on Works, the Chairman of the committee, Senator Barinada Mpigi, pledged the lawmakers’ continued financial backing.

    “We are here at the heart of the Niger Delta to see this project. People kept asking if it was alive. Today, we see it is. We thank Hitech for their work. Seeing the investments here, buried in the ground, justifies the funding approvals. The National Assembly will continue to support and monitor this project. We commend the minister and will continue our oversight to ensure success,” he said

    A Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain and National Leader of the Alternative Movement, who was part of the delegation, Segun Showunmi, expressed optimism at the economic potential the road will unlock.

    “Your Excellency, thank you. Having seen the Lagos side, I was impressed. I wanted to see the Calabar end as well, to counter any tribal or political narratives. Now, seeing this road in Akwa Ibom, I can imagine the tourism and economic potential it will unlock, similar to how Dubai was built.

    “All we can say is thank you for the audacity of vision. Engineer Dave Umahi is a dedicated professional. We must build consensus around national development, regardless of who is in power. What matters is the vision and the execution.”

  • APC postpones Caucus, NEC meetings

    APC postpones Caucus, NEC meetings

    The National Working Committee (NWC) of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has announced the postponement of the party’s National Caucus and National Executive Committee (NEC) meetings.

    The meetings were earlier fixed for December 15 and 16.

    The APC National Secretary, Senator Ajibola Basiru, yesterday announced on the party’s X page the new dates for the two crucial meetings.

    According to him, the National Caucus meeting will be held on Thursday, December 18 at 6 p.m. prompt, while the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting will take place on Friday, December 19 at l3 p.m. prompt.

    READ ALSO; Getting it right

    The two meetings, Basiru said, are convened in accordance with Articles 12.5 and 12.3 of the party’s constitution.

    Both meetings will be held at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

    Though no reason was given for the shift in the dates for the two meetings, a credible source in the party’s NWC said the postponement might not be unconnected with the tight schedule of the National Leader of the party, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

  • Nigeria will triumph over challenges, says First Lady

    Nigeria will triumph over challenges, says First Lady

    • NTA, FRCN, VON hold service of Nine Lessons in Abuja

    The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has said that despite its challenges, Nigeria will soon triumph.

    She urged Nigerians not to enter the coming year with fear but confidence.

    Mrs. Tinubu spoke at the Service of Nine Lessons and Carols 2025 with the theme: “Jesus, Our Strength” jointly organised by the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), and the Voice of Nigeria (VON) at the National Christian Centre in Abuja.

    The First Lady described this year’s theme as timely and prophetic.

    She noted that it was a declaration that Jesus is indeed the strength of Nigeria.

     Mrs. Tinubu said: “Your consistency strengthens Nigeria’s faith, culture, creativity, and spiritual humility. May this Christmas season of 2025 usher us into a year of renewed strength in 2026. May our confidence in God’s plan for Nigeria be revived. God is in the storm with us, and He has given us the power of Christ to overcome every individual and collective challenge. The victory of our faith is the victory of our nation.

    “May our homes be filled with joy, our communities with peace, and our hands with strength that only Jesus gives. As the theme declares — Jesus, Our Strength — may we never forget that the joy of the Lord is our strength. Let us not enter the coming year with fear, but with confident assurance that God crowns the year with goodness and leads us in glory. Nigeria may be tested, but Nigeria will triumph.

    READ ALSO; The miracle of Nnamdi Kanu

    “Tonight, we gather not merely to sing songs, though praise is central to our worship, but to reflect deeply on the message behind the melodies, the drumbeats, the dances, the cultural rhythms, and the heavenly-sounding carols that connect us to the nativity.

    “We have heard songs from across Nigeria: refreshing, reviving, and truly representative of both the spirit of Christmas and the essence of Abuja as a symbol of Nigerian unity. Nigeria was created by God, and Nigerians were created to carry a generational legacy of His will through seasons such as this.

    “We are here to declare renewed hope — because even when a tree is cut down, at the scent of water, it will bud again. As Reverend William Okoye reminded us, Nigeria will rise again. Truly, we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us. When we see the Red Sea before us, we must lift our eyes to Jesus, who walks upon the waters and brings us through. We must embrace the fear of God, and cast away the fear of circumstances. This season reminds us of a holy night, but more importantly, of a holy legacy.”

    Mrs. Tinubu, who was represented by the Mandate Secretary of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Women Affairs Secretariat, Adedayo Benjamin-Laniyi, added: “The scripture declares in Psalm 65:11–13 that God crowns the year with goodness; the pastures overflow, and the valleys shout for joy. Nigeria, we will shout for joy. We will sing. And our fields will flourish again. These words are not mere echoes — they are prophetic declarations aligned with the heartbeat of Christmas.

    “God crowns the year not by human hands, but by divine covering. We have listened tonight to powerful presentations: the choir, the children on saxophone, the instrumentalists, and the custodians of our cultural and spiritual heritage. They stand on our shoulders, and we must ensure those shoulders are firm. Like Israel, Nigeria has journeyed through seasons — challenges, transitions, humbling moments. Yet here we stand, global yet grounded, and embracing divine help once again. A new Nigeria is like a new Jerusalem that will not pass away.

    “Nigeria’s values will rise again. Our fields will flourish again. Our unity will strengthen again. The question remains: Do we have room in our hearts for the Savior? The birth of Jesus remains the world’s greatest announcement: That light is stronger than darkness…”

  • Ribadu in talks with U.S. fact-finding Congressional delegation

    Ribadu in talks with U.S. fact-finding Congressional delegation

    • NSA pushes stronger counter-terror partnership

    • Uzodimma: Nigeria will win war against terrorism

    Support for Nigeria’s anti-terror war by world leaders is building up.

    Yesterday, French President Emmanuel Macron conveyed his solidarity to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the country intensified the search for effective collaborative solution to insurgency.

    In Abuja, the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, held talks with United States Congressional Delegation, as a follow-up to high-level security talks held in Washington last month.

    Ribadu has also been picked to lead the Nigerian delegation that will meet with U.S. officials during a meeting to be held in Washington D.C.

    The meeting was with Congressmen, Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart, Rep. Normal Toress, Rep. Scott Franklin, and Rep. Juan Ciscomani. It was also attended by U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills. The meeting was part of the fact-finding efforts by the U.S. lawmakers to determine the veracity of their claim that there is genocide against Christians in the country.

    U.S. Rep. Riley visits Benue

    U.S. Congressman Riley, who has been in the forefront of anti-Nigeria agitation over an alleged genocide against Christians in the country has met with some government officials and visited Benue State to meet with some clerics in his bid to have first-hand information about the situation.

    Benue is one of the states in Northcentral where killings have taken place.

    The last major attack was in Yelwata, where suspected militia attacked the village.

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu visited the state because of the magnitude of the killings which the Tiv traditional ruler, Prof James Ayatse described as motivated by land grabbing.

    Riley, in a tweet yesterday, said: “I came to Nigeria in the name of the Lord and on behalf of the American people.

    “Just ending a very productive Congressional visit to Nigeria! We had rounds of meetings with the Nigerian government and people on the ground, including stops in Benue State. More details to come. Happy Sunday. God is Great!

    The governors, under the aegis of the Progressive Governors’ Forum, led by Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, vowed at the weekend to cooperate with the Federal Government in its onslaught against banditry and other forms of violence.

    READ ALSO; The miracle of Nnamdi Kanu

    Uzodimma, who led the governors to a security meeting in Lagos at the weekend, declared that Nigeria will win the war.

    Nigeria needs world support, says Macron

    Macron, who spoke with President Tinubu on telephone, urged Nigeria’s foreign partners to scale up engagement and support for the fight against terrorism and related security threats.

    The French leader said “no one can remain a spectator” in the face of rising violent extremism in West Africa.

    In a post on his verified X handle, @Emmanuel Macron, the French president said he had spoken with President Tinubu to convey France’s solidarity “in the face of the various security challenges, particularly the terrorist threat in the North.”

    Macron said France would, at the request of Nigerian government, strengthen its security partnership with the authorities and increase humanitarian support to communities affected by violence.

    “At his request, we will strengthen our partnership with the authorities and our support for the affected populations. We call on all our partners to step up their engagement. No one can remain a spectator,” Macron added, in what appears to be a direct appeal to Western allies and regional partners to collaborate more robustly with Nigeria as it battles terrorism, banditry and other criminal incursions.

    U.S. President Donald Trump has raised the prospect of possible military action in Nigeria over allegations of Christian genocide, which the Federal Government had denied, accusing it of mistreating Christians.

    The Federal Government explained that the allegations misrepresent a complex security situation in which armed groups target both faiths.

    Nigeria has, in recent months, escalated military operations in the North, amid renewed international concern over activities of extremist groups and cross-border criminal networks in the Sahel region.

    Ribadu hosts U.S lawmakers, pushes for stronger security partnership

    Ribadu, who hosted the visiting Congress members in his office, said Nigeria would be pushing for a counter-terrorism partnership with western countries to fight banditry.

    The NSA, who confirmed the meeting in a post on his X handle, said: “This morning, I received a U.S. Congressional delegation on a fact-finding mission to Nigeria, following our earlier engagements in Washington, D.C., on shared security priorities.”

    Besides counter-terrorism cooperation, Ribadu said Nigeria is also ready to deepen cooperation with the U.S. in the areas of regional stability, and Nigeria–US strategic security partnership.

    He added: “Our discussions focused on counter-terrorism cooperation, regional stability, and strengthening Nigeria–U.S. strategic security partnership.

    “I’m optimistic this engagement will deepen trust, collaboration, and shared commitment to peace and security.”

    Uzodimma: Nigeria will win war against terrorism

    Uzodimma, national co-ordinator of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, believes Nigeria will win the war against terrorism.

    He promised that the Renewed Hope Ambassadors will ensure delivery of 1,000 active businesses in each of the 8,809 electoral wards in the country.

    He spoke during the Southwest APC Stakeholders meeting as well as the two-day meeting of the Progressive Governors Forum in Lagos.

    He said the economic reforms introduced by President Tinubu are designed to stimulate growth, expand productivity, and multiply opportunities in all sectors.

    On the recent wave of kidnappings and terrorist attacks, he declared that Nigeria will overcome these challenges.

    The governor said President Tinubu’s security architecture is yielding results through enhanced intelligence gathering, improved inter-agency collaboration, and sustained military operations targeted at criminal hideouts.

    Uzodimma added that despite the challenges, Nigerians should remain confident in the government’s capacity to restore stability

    He said the determination of the Armed Forces and the support of Nigerians have put insurgents and terror networks on the defensive.

    He emphasised that the Renewed Hope Agenda is not just a policy direction, but a comprehensive national revamp aimed at empowering citizens, rebuilding critical institutions, and strengthening the economy from the grassroots upward.

    He said: “God made Tinubu possible. Of late, we have seen the level of insecurity and banditry increase. Who are the people funding these criminalities? Progressive governors are united. Nigeria must win”.

    Uzodimma, who said the policies may appear tough on the onset, added that they are already laying the foundation for a more resilient, self-sustaining national economy.

    He explained that the Renewed Hope Ambassadors initiative is strategically aligned with these reforms, targeting grassroots empowerment by supporting at least 1,000 functional businesses in every ward.

    The governor said the initiative would not only accelerate job creation, but also deepen financial inclusion and strengthen local enterprise development nationwide.

    Uzodimma urged party leaders and stakeholders to remain steadfast, adding that the positive outcomes of the reforms are becoming evident to Nigerians.

    Thanking Nigerians for their support, he said: “We thank you for your resilience in admitting the difficulties from the reforms. A more united and prosperous Nigeria is what we need.”

    On his assignment to coordinate the National Ambassadors Movement of the Renewed Hope Agenda, the governor said the mandate represents a call to service and a strategic responsibility to mobilise citizens at the grassroots for national development.

    He noted that the organisation was created to strengthen civic engagement, deepen political awareness, and ensure that Nigerians at the community level understand, benefit from, and contribute to the government’s reforms.

    Uzodimma said the body would work with communities, youth groups, women, artisans, business owners, and traditional institutions to identify needs, support promising ventures, and channel government interventions more efficiently.

    He added that the ambassadors would also serve as a feedback mechanism, conveying citizens’ concerns, expectations, and suggestions directly to policymakers.

    Uzodimma said this would help the government adjust and refine programmes to better serve Nigerians.

    The governor reaffirmed his commitment to delivering on the assignment, saying the National Renewed Hope Ambassadors would champion unity, progress, and accountability across the country.

    He said the initiative is not just political mobilisation, but a long-term national development effort aimed at empowering people and strengthening economic stability from the bottom up.

    He announced that the creation of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors at the four levels of zonal, state, local government and wards will ensure that “we have 1,000 active businesses in every ward in Nigeria thus linking President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme (RHEDP) with the Renewed Hope Ambassadors mandate”.

  • President hails Oyakhilome at birthday, lauds global impact of his evangelism

    President hails Oyakhilome at birthday, lauds global impact of his evangelism

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated the founder of Christ Embassy and President of LoveWorld Incorporated, Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, on the celebration of his birthday.

    The President extolled the popular televangelist for his spiritual leadership and charitable works.

    In a message yesterday in Abuja by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu described Pastor Oyakhilome as “an author, televangelist, and charismatic teacher of the Word whose rare gift of insight and charity has impacted lives across nations”.

    Pastor Oyakhilome, who established Christ Embassy, one of Nigeria’s largest Christian ministries, is also author of the globally distributed daily devotional, “Rhapsody of Realities”, used by millions of readers across continents.

    The President noted that the central theme of Pastor Oyakhilome’s ministry remains love, stressing that his message mirrors the example of Jesus Christ by promoting compassion, hope, and spiritual transformation.

    He acknowledged the international reach of the clergyman’s teachings, saying his ministry has significantly shaped Christian evangelism both within and outside Nigeria.

    READ ALSO; Getting it right

    According to the President, Pastor Oyakhilome “has changed the face of ministry in Nigeria and beyond”.

    President Tinubu also commended the pastor’s longstanding philanthropic work, applauding his commitment to standing up for vulnerable individuals and supporting the needy through the church’s humanitarian programmes.

    The President wished Pastor Oyakhilome more strength as he continues what he described as “the Lord’s work,” and prayed for continued grace in his service to God and humanity.

    The message concluded by celebrating the cleric’s contribution to the spiritual growth of millions of Christians at home and abroad.

  • How Nigeria’s assistance foiled military coup in Benin Republic

    How Nigeria’s assistance foiled military coup in Benin Republic

    • Tinubu hails Armed Forces for defending democracy

    Nigeria’s armed forces on Sunday helped foil an attempted military takeover in neighbouring Benin Republic, swiftly responding to urgent requests from Cotonou and restoring constitutional order within hours of the dawn coup attempt.

    According to a State House statement signed by Presidential Spokesman Bayo Onanuga, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ordered immediate military action after receiving two formal requests from the Government of Benin, which reported that coup plotters had seized the National Television station and claimed to have toppled President Patrice Talon.

    The coup, led by Colonel Pascal Tigri, briefly disrupted Benin’s 35-year-old democratic order as the mutinous soldiers announced the suspension of democratic institutions and attempted to establish control from the state broadcaster and a military camp.

    In response to Benin’s Note Verbale requesting emergency assistance, President Tinubu authorised Nigerian Air Force fighter jets to take over Beninoise airspace “to safeguard the constitutional order, protect national institutions and ensure the security of the population.”

    A second request later sought the deployment of ground forces as well as surveillance and rapid-intervention operations under Benin’s command authority.

    READ ALSO; Getting it right

    Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, confirmed that all directives from the Beninoise authorities were executed.

    “Ours is to comply with the order of the Commander-in-Chief of our armed forces, President Tinubu,” he said, noting that Nigerian troops were already operating inside Benin in support roles approved by the host government.

    Loyal forces of the Beninoise government, supported by Nigerian units, regained control of strategic locations and flushed out the insurgent soldiers from the National TV, restoring public communications and constitutional authority.

    In remarks after the operation, President Tinubu praised Nigerian troops for acting decisively and within established regional protocols.

    “Today, the Nigerian armed forces stood gallantly as a defender and protector of constitutional order in the Republic of Benin on the invitation of the government,” he said.

    He emphasised that the intervention was consistent with ECOWAS’ democracy and good governance framework and demonstrated Nigeria’s commitment to regional stability.

    “They have helped stabilise a neighbouring country and have made us proud of their commitment to sustaining our democratic values and ideals since 1999. Nigeria stands firmly with the government and people of the Republic of Benin,” the President stated.