The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Aiyedatiwa honours Akeredolu on 2nd anniversary of passing

    Aiyedatiwa honours Akeredolu on 2nd anniversary of passing

    Gov. Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has paid tribute to the late former governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, describing him as a visionary leader whose legacy continues to inspire good governance.

    The governor made the statement available to newsmen on Saturday in Akure to mark the second anniversary of Akeredolu’s passing.

    Aiyedatiwa said the late governor was a foremost advocate of state policing and played a key role in mobilising South-West governors to establish the South-West Security Network, code-named Amotekun Corps, to strengthen regional security.

    He noted that Akeredolu’s initiatives redefined Nigeria’s subnational security architecture and laid the foundation for ongoing national conversations on decentralised and intelligence-led policing.

    The governor recalled their long political association, adding that Akeredolu consistently emphasised leadership, mentorship, succession planning, and institutional stability throughout his tenure.

    Aiyedatiwa said the late governor demonstrated a strong commitment to grooming future leaders and believed in orderly, constitutional succession.

    He added that Akeredolu’s trust and mentorship had a profound influence on his public service journey and shaped his leadership values.

    The governor affirmed that the Ondo State Government and people would continue to honour Akeredolu’s memory by upholding his ideals of justice, equity, and unity.

    “As government and people of Ondo State, we remember and honour Arakunrin Akeredolu on the second anniversary of his passing. We celebrate his passion for development, advocacy for justice, equity, and unity,” he said.

    He further pledged the state’s continued support for the foundation established by the Akeredolu family to immortalise the late leader, praying that his soul may rest in perfect peace.

    Aiyedatiwa urged residents to draw inspiration from Akeredolu’s courage, service, and principled leadership, which continued to guide governance in Ondo State.

    (NAN)

  • Why Southwest Muslims back Tinubu— Siyanbade

    Why Southwest Muslims back Tinubu— Siyanbade

    Alhaji Murisiku Abidemi Siyanbade chaired the committee that organised the 2025 General Assembly of the Muslim Ummah of South West Nigeria (MUSWEN) recently in Gbongan, Osun State. In this interview, he reflects on the event and comments on some pressing national issues.

    How would you describe the recent MUSWEN General Assembly? Did it meet your expectations?

    Alhamdulillah, it was a very successful programme. Most of our invited guests were in attendance, and the highlight was the presidential presence of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, ably represented by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Alhaji Isiaka Gboyega Oyetola. He delivered the President’s message, appealing for Nigerians’ support for ongoing efforts to revamp the economy and steer the country toward the promised land. We deeply appreciate Mr President, and we use this opportunity to reaffirm that, as our brother from Yorubaland, he enjoys the unwavering support of MUSWEN, the umbrella body of all Muslim leaders and faithful across the South West states of Ekiti, Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, Osun and Oyo.

    Mr President will recall that even during his campaign, on Sunday, December 11, 2022, we hosted him at a town hall meeting at the Jogor Centre in Ibadan, where South West Muslim leaders expressed their support for his presidential bid. After his victory, we issued several statements thanking Almighty Allah for his emergence as President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. He also received us in audience in October 2023. Though we have been unable to meet again due to his tight schedule, we still look forward to another engagement with him soon.

    We see his genuine efforts to restore buoyancy to the economy and industrialise Nigeria. The current security challenges, in our view, are temporary. We stand by him in the difficult policy decisions necessary to steer the country out of its current difficulties. By the grace of Allah, he will succeed, and Nigeria will enjoy peace, bi idhnillah ta’ala. We were particularly pleased to learn of the joint security initiative between Nigeria and the United States. Insha Allah, it will yield positive results and help accelerate peace and development. We pray for the President and reassure him that he can always count on the support of South West Muslim leaders.

    I must also express gratitude to his representative, Minister Oyetola. We urge him to convey our appeal to Mr President for support in raising N2 billion for MUSWEN’s economic empowerment projects, scholarships, and training in emerging fields such as artificial intelligence and robotics. These initiatives will uplift our people across the six South West states, significantly reducing poverty. We rely on him to deliver this message to our amiable President.

    Our keynote speaker, the governor of Nasarawa State, Alhaji Abdullahi Audu Sule, also deserves commendation. He travelled all the way from Nasarawa to deliver a thought-provoking address on ‘Nigeria’s Economy: Any Hope for the Masses?’ His message was inspiring and renewed our collective optimism. As a friend of the President and a loyal party man, he reaffirmed his commitment to President Tinubu’s vision for Nigeria and supported our initiative with a generous donation. We deeply appreciate him.

    We owe special appreciation to His Eminence, Alhaji Dr Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, the Sultan of Sokoto, Amirul-Muminin and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA). He fixed the date for the General Assembly last year, remained committed to it, and honoured us with his full presence. He has already fixed next year’s edition for Ibadan. His Eminence is a father to us all, a bridge-builder across the Niger, a promoter of unity among Muslims and Nigerians in general, and a beacon of peace. May Allah grant him continued sound health and a long, fruitful reign.

    Our host, Dr Abdur-Rauf ’Wale Babalakin, deserves immense gratitude. He supported us financially and provided the magnificent hall, arguably the largest in Nigeria, which we partitioned to accommodate our less-than-1,000 delegates. He also made available a 44-room facility for delegates who stayed overnight, complete with dinner and breakfast, and sponsored lunch for 1,000 people during the programme. Everything he did was of exceptional quality. We are proud to have him as chairman of our Board of Trustees.

    We also appreciate our father, the Asiwaju Musulumi of Yorubaland, Alhaji Dr Khamis Tunde Badmus, who hosted us warmly before the event, provided generous financial support, and offered his blessings. Although he could not attend due to a brief illness, he sent his goodwill. May Allah grant him enduring good health. Our father, the Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Alhaji Dawud Makanjuola Akinola, also sent a strong delegation led by the President of the Muslim Association of Nigeria, Prof. Dhikrullah Yagboyaju. We are grateful.

    We extend our gratitude to our host governor, Senator Nurudeen Ademola Adeleke. Before the event, he received us warmly, provided accommodation in Osogbo, and arranged shuttle buses. Though he could not attend due to a tight schedule, he delegated three commissioners, a gesture the keynote speaker noted as rare. We appreciate him and pray for God’s guidance as he continues his work in Osun State. We also thank Governor Mohammed Umar Bago of Niger State, who sent three representatives and has consistently shown remarkable generosity.

    Our pioneer Executive Secretary, Prof. Dawud Noibi, attended the event at the age of 93 and stayed throughout. His dedication is inspiring. The Iya Adinni of Yorubaland, Mama Sekinat Adekola, also honoured us with her presence despite her age. We are grateful.

    On behalf of the organising committee, I thank the MUSWEN President and Deputy President-General (South), NSCIA, Alhaji Rasaki Oladejo, whose support made our work easier. His trust and freedom granted to the committee contributed significantly to what many have described as the most successful MUSWEN General Assembly to date. He is wonderfully uncommon. During the planning stage, he led all our courtesy visits and accompanied us to every nook and cranny we needed to go, often cancelling his prior engagements. At 80 years old, he provided total support and a positively enabling environment that made the occasion a huge success. We deeply appreciate President Oladejo. We thank Deputy President I, Alhaji Rafiu Adisa Ebiti; Deputy President II, Alhaji Thabit Wale Sonaike; and the immediate past Executive Secretary, Prof. Muslih Tayo Yahya.

    We also appreciate the members of our Board of Trustees, including Professor Yusuf Olaolu Ali, the Kuliyan Geri of Ilorin Emirate. Their presence added colour to the event. Our royal fathers, the Timi of Ede, Oba Munirudeen Lawal Laminisa I; the Olowu of Owu Kingdom, Oba Prof. Saka Adelola Matemilola; and Honourable Justice Moshood Adeigbe representing the Ataoja of Osogbo, honoured us richly. Delegates from across Ekiti, Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, Osun and Oyo states were also fully present.

    It was truly an occasion for gratitude. We thank Almighty Allah for the resounding success of the programme.

    How close did MUSWEN come to realising its N2 billion target at the General Assembly?

    We received a significant number of pledges. I have also conveyed a message through the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy to the President, and we are still expecting the contributions of Mr President and the Minister. Once these pledges are redeemed, we should be able to meet our target.

    Our bank details remain available on various social media platforms for those who still wish to contribute. We are hopeful that our invited dignitaries will respond positively, because our aim is to support indigent youths in the South West. We want our impact to be felt so that government can recognise our efforts and open access to opportunities, locally and internationally, that will benefit our people. We also expect increased patronage at next year’s programme in Ibadan, insha Allah.

    What can members expect from MUSWEN after the General Assembly?

    One of our immediate plans is to relocate our secretariat from Iwo Road to GRA, Agodi. We have a parcel of land in GRA, Agodi, measuring over 5,000 square metres, and we intend to build our secretariat there. We hope to begin the project as soon as possible. The current building at Iwo Road will then be put to commercial use to generate rental income.

    You commended the President for his efforts in addressing the security situation in the country, but recent incidents, especially kidnappings, suggest that challenges remain. What advice would MUSWEN offer the President?

    The Yoruba say, “The witch cried yesterday and the child died today. Who does not know the link between the two?” That proverb captures the gravity of what we face. We must bridge the gap between Christian and Muslim leaders—leaders, not ordinary Christians and Muslims—because they are the ones whose actions have triggered many of the issues we are witnessing.

    Secondly, Asiwaju Tinubu is highly popular beyond the South West. He is well accepted in the North, and many people believe there is light at the end of the tunnel. Those losing politically from this reality are inciting the public and creating problems. Some even use their international connections to paint an unnecessarily bleak picture of Nigeria.

    Security had significantly improved, but shortly after the Trump “gun-ablazing” comment, we suddenly saw incidents that had not happened for months—abductions in Kebbi and Niger States occurring within days of each other. Some politicians and religious figures are behind these developments. Still, I am confident that our President is diplomatic and endowed with wisdom. I believe God is guiding him.

    Despite national challenges, the South West has remained relatively peaceful and harmonious in terms of religious relations. What should be done to sustain this?

    That stability largely remains, except for some unfortunate instances where people in government misuse their power to oppress others, especially Muslims. Today in the six South West states, all the governors, Biodun Oyebanji (Ekiti), Lucky Aiyedatiwa (Ondo), Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), Seyi Makinde (Oyo), and Ademola Adeleke (Osun), are Christians, even though Adeleke joins Muslims at prayer ceremonially. Muslims in the region remain calm and tolerant. Even where we face challenges, such as the hijab issue for schoolgirls, we handle them peacefully. We may still have our grievances, but they will not lead to crisis, insha Allah.

    Are Muslims in the South West upset that all the governors in the region are Christians?

    If we were disturbed, then we would not be true Muslims. Nothing happens by accident. Allah, the Creator of all worlds, seen and unseen, controls all affairs. He tells us in the Qur’an that He alone grants power to whom He wills. We cannot dictate to God whom He should choose. This understanding made it easy for us to invite all six governors to our General Assembly. They are not Muslims, but we know Allah makes no mistakes. If He has given them power, we hope they will not oppress us. If they do, we turn to God and also engage them to demand our rights. So, we are not disturbed, and we will not allow politics to sway us.

    Would you prefer to see a different scenario, one where Muslims emerge as governors?

    Of course, we are happiest when Muslims are governors. But we have had Muslim governors who denied us our rights, just as we have had Christian governors who upheld them. This is why I say God makes no mistakes. While we desire Muslim leadership, we submit ultimately to Allah’s will.

    What is MUSWEN doing to encourage Muslims to perform their civic duties, such as voting, and to take a meaningful interest in governance?

    MUSWEN has several standing committees, including the Political and Good Governance Committee led by Prof. Rashid Aderinoye. The committee sensitises our people to obtain their PVCs promptly and discourages them from accepting money from politicians before voting. Instead, they are urged to vote according to their conscience. The committee also provides political education.

    So yes, we are active in this area, but always within the bounds of civility and without engaging in partisan politics.

  • “No Gree…” Here for Good

    “No Gree…” Here for Good

    By Tunde Akanni

    “Like play…”, as they say, Dangote emerges the Man of the Year 2025!  A consumerist perspective, you may say. 

    But who could have imagined that the 2024 Gen Zs’ “no greefor anybody” slogan would get a lease of life from the least likely quarter? Dangote volunteered. He tore through the muscles of powerful oil sectors’ big men. Only one was in sight but big ones fell! And even a third. Dangote no gree for anybody.   He has come to reaffirm his conquest of the sector. May the conquest signal better future for citizens.

    Yeah, unlike POTUS Trump, Nigeria’s Aliko Dangote, ran an unusual race and breasted the tape. By all means, Trump, strangely, sought the Nobel Peace Prize this year, 2025 but it all ended in praise. For the judges, as you know, who reaffirmed their consistency by giving it to the deserving, a Venezuelan, Maria Corina Machado. May Venezuela survive the raging oil-induced envy.

    Aliko Dangote, serial winner on all choice business fronts, renowned for his relentlessly expansionist business drive was about being stopped from clinching my nomination by some feeble appointee like that, Farouk Ahmed. Comparatively feeble, yes. Engineer Ahmed, long sworn against the welfare of the multitude was up to some vicious machination he planned to inflict on Nigerians again, this Yuletide season. But God had a better plan for Nigerians. Far, from Ahmed’s. Indeed, superior. Until recently, he was the Chief Executive Officer, CEO, of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, NMDPRA.

    To the extreme delight of many Nigerians, Dangote announced a slashed price for fuel by as much as almost #200. Ahmed and company wanted a different, constraining deal for Nigerians and even started cooking some sentiments.  There was no stopping daring Dangote. He had tolerated Ahmed and company enough.

    In the heat of the moment, Dangote alerted Nigerians to the fact that Engineer Ahmed as the head of NMDPRA preferred the regime of continued imporation of fuel which impliedly wouldmean prolonged era of high price of fuel at possibly #1000 per litre very soon. Meanwhile, Dangote is here with the offer of #739 pump-head price deriving from #699 gantry price from which #300 accrues to the government on every litre. 

    Without mincing words, Dangote said the otherwise unprintable, alleging Engineer Ahmed’s overindulgence in messy corruption but Dangote would not play ball to sustain and would rather spill all beans. After what looked like the initial threats by Dangote,and Ahmed did not seem to be ruffled, Dangote got his lawyer, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, SAN, to file a formal complaint against the stubborn perpetrator of the anti-people officialdom. It finally became public knowledge that this character had been living beyond his means at the expense of what he could hardly defend. The onus is now on the Independent Corrupt Practice Commission, ICPC, to do all verification for the world to know the villain further

    Few months back, Ahmed and company had played a fast one on the entire nation claiming the Port Harcourt refinery long abandoned and declared a ne’er do well by the legendary Obasanjo, was back in good shape. Nah!

    They conjured it all and made it look real, televising all the falsehoods for the world to lap up. Only for them to recoil after giving so much life to sheer deceit. But who knows how much would have been gulped by the show of shame mounted by Engineer Ahmed and fellow swindlers of taxpayers’ sweats?

    Even now that Ahmed has been compelled to hand in his resignation letter, his taciturnity has continued.  But a certain Engineer Kailani that Dangote never mentioned plunged into the dark alley of Ahmed’s fight.  According to him, on Trust TV, he knew how Dangote made his money from Port Harcourt but that some of them just chose to keep quiet. 

    Really? Again, Dangote no gree for anybody! He slammed anultimatum of seven days on the self appointed advocate of Ahmed to do full throttle disclosure of all he knew about how Dangote made his money in Port Harcourt failing which he ran the risk of a #100 billion suit. But guy was a mere mouth-maker. He hurried back to Trust TV to swallow his words. He went on to apologise and in his characteristic sweeping sobbing muttered that his north had ways with Allah knows what.

    The good thing for now however is that Dangote has crashed the pump-head price of fuel from over #900 or so to #739 in Lagos,at least at MRS stations.This writer bought from Palmgrovestation Monday December 22, 2025. The price crasher went further to enjoin members of the public to report stations declining to dispense at the stated price.

    This Dangote’s new found love for activism came on the heel of the recent inspiring action of an activist, or better still, a renewed hope compliant government commission, in Lagos. Thesaid commission, Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, FCCPC, defying possible blackmail, in the spirit of no gree for anybody descended on the Ikeja Electricity Distribution Company, IKEDC, on account of  protracted infractions including deprivation of certain subscribers of services for as long as one year and some months. After serial warnings which IKEDC deliberately ignored, it took a powerful team of FCCPC led by its Surveillance team to seal up the premises of the erring Ikeja zonal office of IKEDC.  

    IKEDC has the notoriety of being insensitive to customers’complaints but interestingly has always been stopped by FCCPC whose slogan of Demand and Insist is echoed by “no gree for anybody”. Early this year, your’s sincerely had the existing electricity meter for my apartment  within government quarters in Ikeja GRA disconnected by operatives of IKEDC, even when they were not ready to replace immediately.  

    The simplistic argument from IKEDC operatives was that it was an old meter even as it was also a prepaid meter which FCCPC had argued was upgradeable by merely installing some software on that particular version. The Federal Government’s directive was that if they chose to remove any such meter, they must replace for subscribers in Band A at no cost. But IKEDC had always stated that free meter would take eternity and therefore advising subscribers to pay for meters so they could have a replacement. 

    Almost everyone in my vicinity had been successfully cajoled and made to pay for their meters, but heeding the slogan of FCCPC, I demanded for my entitlement and insisted too by notifying FCCPC. Promptly, FCCPC intervened and advised IKEDC to ensure they supply my meter without delay.  FCCPC added further that in the event that it would take a while to  getme a meter, they must not slap any outrageous bill on me,insisting specifically, that subsequent bills for me must be relative to my billing history. My meter was installed within one month! Within the said month, my bill was based on the average cost of my consumption over time. Just imagine life without FCCPC

    Today’s Nigeria with prevalent multidimensional reforms, at the centre, clearly inspires citizens’ activist posturing as demonstrated by Dangote, no matter what the trajectory of the “no gree for anybody” campaign is. 

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is even in the forefront of all these, afterall.  He leaves no one in doubt about his deep conviction for the good governance need for the fiscal autonomy of local governments in line with the verdict of the Supreme Court. The height of it all was his recent public declaration of the likelihood of executing the statutory provision for the executive order  to compel compliance for State Governments.  This was actually in addition to repeated calls earlier by the President to citizens to call out the governors and other relevant elected officials to work with the substantially increased revenue. 

    Follow who know road like Dangote. Demand for your rights and Insist, shikena.

    Professor Tunde Akanni, Pioneer Fellow of the Responsible Governance Prrogramme of the Michigan State University and LASU based Development Communications Expert, is currently on sabbatical tenure at the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, FCCPC.

  • Vera Idiareh Pushes Predictive Safety Model from Factory Floors to Local Markets

    Vera Idiareh Pushes Predictive Safety Model from Factory Floors to Local Markets

    A new shift is taking place in how safety is managed in high-riskworkplaces across Nigeria. Instead of waiting for incidents to happen and reacting afterwards, many organisations are beginning to adopt a predictive approach that focuses on detecting early warning signs. At the centre of this quiet change is safety professional, Vera Oghenefejiro Idiareh, whose work now cuts across both industrial plants and community spaces.

    Idiareh has spent years working in food and beverage factories, flour mills and pharmaceutical environments where a single error can lead to injury, product loss or shutdown. Her Predictive Safety Intelligence Framework has been described by colleagues as one of the practical tools transforming daily operations. The method encourages workers to identify small faults, unsafe patterns or recurring behaviours that can lead to bigger incidents if not addressed.

    Her results became more visible during her time at ChivitaHollandia where she oversaw the safety of more than 1,000 workers across 45 production lines. Within one financial year, the company recorded zero lost time injuries and a 75 percent reduction in total recordable injury rates. These outcomes were achieved through a shift in mindset that emphasised early detection of faults, near misses and risky behaviours that could escalate if ignored.

    Beyond formal workplaces, Idiareh has taken her safety model into informal communities where accidents are common but hardly ever documented. One of her recent community interventions focused on Adatan Market in Abeokuta, where traders regularly deal with open flames, storage challenges and electrical connections without structured training. Working through a formal understanding with market leadership, she coordinated a training programme that simplified industrial safety concepts into practical steps that ordinary traders could apply. Post training assessments showed a 55 percent improvement in safety knowledge among participants.

    Idiareh’s approach is supported by a strong technical foundation. She is eligible for the United States BCSP Certified Safety Professional certification, is a candidate for the NEBOSH Level 6 Diploma, holds ISO 45001 Lead Auditor status and has a degree in Technical Education. These qualifications, combined with her field experience, enable her to interpret global safety standards in a way that aligns with local realities.

    She also brings financial discipline to her work. At KarbakVentures, she managed an environmental health and safety budget of 280 million naira and achieved 22 percent cost savings through strategic risk prioritisation and improved resource allocation. This, she says, is proof that strong safety performance and cost efficiency can support each other rather than exist in conflict.

    Speaking about her approach, Idiareh said the goal is to help people understand that safety is not restricted to factories or industrial plants. “Predictive safety works anywhere people work or trade,” she said. “The same method that prevents equipment failure or falls in a factory can help prevent fires in markets or accidents in homes. It is about cultivating the habit of noticing danger early.”

    As Nigeria continues to deal with rising operational risks in both formal and informal economies, her model offers a workable path toward reducing preventable injuries and economic losses. Through her work with organisations and communities, Vera Idiareh is helping establish a culture that values foresight over reaction, showing that many of the accidents regarded as unavoidable can in fact be prevented long before they occur.

  • Women cheat more than men – Toke Makinwa

    Women cheat more than men – Toke Makinwa

    Media personality Toke Makinwa has claimed that women are more likely to cheat than men, arguing that they are simply more discreet about it.

    Speaking on a recent episode of her podcast, Toke Moments, Makinwa said women have a greater propensity to cheat because of the relative ease with which they can do so.

    She contrasted this with men, whom she described as often committing substantial resources, time and effort when engaging in infidelity.

    She said, “Cheating is not a dealbreaker for me but it comes with a caveat. When I say it some people think that I am encouraging cheating. No. As I grow older, I realised that it is not just men who can cheat. Why are we making these men feel so special as if it is only them?

    “Do you know how easy it is for a woman to cheat? It is even easier for us. But men will spend money, efforts and time to cheat.

    “But we, we are the ones receiving. It is easier for women to cheat. You know, we have work boyfriend. A woman not cheating is not because she cannot cheat, it is probably because she has one thing you lack, restraint.

    “Women cheat more, but they know how to hide it.”

  • Tinubu assures Nigerians of security gains, backs state policing

    Tinubu assures Nigerians of security gains, backs state policing

    President Bola Tinubu has assured Nigerians that the ongoing recalibration of the nation’s security architecture would soon yield results capable of restoring public confidence.

    The President gave the assurance on Friday during a meeting with a delegation of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), led by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, at his Lagos residence.

    This is contained in a statement issued by Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga.

    Tinubu said his administration remained committed to security sector reforms, including the establishment of state and community policing to address emerging threats across the country.

    “The mood of the nation is peaceful, although our ungoverned spaces are so large. The challenge is real, but we will surmount it,” the president said.

    He called on religious leaders to support government efforts through cooperation, vigilance and prayers, noting that some security measures required time to mature.

    “We are very religious. We are prayer warriors. We need your focus, vigilance and cooperation,”

    The president said state and community police would become a reality once the National Assembly completed the required legislative processes.

    “Community and State Police will be a reality once the National Assembly completes the required legislative inputs,” he said.

    Tinubu explained that delays in acquiring military hardware were affecting public perception, noting that such equipment was expensive and not readily available.

    “Military hardware is difficult to replace. It is expensive and not available off the shelf,”

    He disclosed that Nigeria had ordered four attack helicopters from the United States, while also engaging Turkey for additional support.

    “Our orders for four attack helicopters from the United States of America will take some time to arrive. We have approached Turkey for assistance,”

    The president said the government remained resolute despite the guerrilla tactics of bandits and insurgents, stressing that restoring peace remained a top priority.

    On the recent abduction and release of school children in Niger and Kebbi States, Tinubu urged vigilance, saying the safety of the victims was paramount.

    “The rhetoric on how the children were released or what happened to the kidnappers is secondary; the end justifies the means,” he said.

    Responding, CAN President, Okoh, assured Tinubu of the Christian community’s support for his administration.

    “You are our President. The Church has no choice but to support you and your administration,” Okoh said.

    He commended the administration’s efforts at improving security, noting that the 2025 Christmas season was notably peaceful.

    “This Christmas happened to be the first in many years that we were not woken up by midnight calls reporting attacks on churches,” he said.

    Okoh also praised Tinubu’s engagement with religious bodies, saying it had strengthened trust between the government and the Church.

    “Your commitment has closed the gap between the government and the Church. This has never happened before,” he said.

    The CAN President appealed for sustained engagement through CAN’s structures at the 774 local government areas and requested the release of funds to the Christian Pilgrims’ Board.

    Other members of the delegation included Vice President of CAN, Rev. Dr Stephen Panya Baba; President, Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, Bishop Francis Wale Oke; and representatives of the Catholic, Methodist and African Instituted Churches.

    (NAN)

  • Christmas: Prophet Olu Alo calls for love, compassion, humility

    Christmas: Prophet Olu Alo calls for love, compassion, humility

    Prophet Sam Olu Alo has extended his warm felicitations to Christians worldwide on the occasion of this year’s Christmas celebration. 

    The cleric also greet Nigerians, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governors, Senators, members of House of Representatives, Minister and Adamimogo partners, Adamimogo ministry, Adamimogo online followers both home abroad and Adamimogo Media Support group.

    A statement by the Cleric reflected on the true essence of Christmas, emphasising the significance of Jesus Christ’s sacrifice.

    According to Prophet Alo, Christmas is a time to remember the death of Jesus Christ, who gave his life for the sins of the world. 

    He urged Christians to use this occasion to reconnect with the core teachings of Jesus, focusing on love, compassion, and forgiveness.

    “The death of Jesus Christ is a powerful reminder of God’s love for humanity,” Prophet Alo said. “As we celebrate Christmas, let us strive to embody the values Jesus stood for, spreading kindness and peace.”

    Prophet Alo’s message encouraged Christians to look beyond the festivities and commercial aspects of Christmas, focusing instead on spiritual growth and renewal. He emphasized the importance of applying Jesus’ teachings in daily life.

    He also highlighted the relevance of Jesus’ message in today’s world, urging Christians to be beacons of hope and light.

    Prophet Alo however prayed for peace, joy, and prosperity for Christians and people of all faiths.

    The Cleric also mentioned his tour coming up between January 1 to 8, 2026 to Jordan, Israel, Nebo and Mount Sinai for prayers for Nigerian, Adamimogo church and his online followers.

    Prophet said fasting and prayer program will hold in Jesus City, Adamimogo Camp, Lekki/Epe Express Way Lagos between Dec 28, to 31, 2025.

  • North-West strikes: CDS, COAS task troops on sustained vigilance

    North-West strikes: CDS, COAS task troops on sustained vigilance

    The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, and the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has charged the troops of Joint Task Force Operation FANSAN YAMMA, a military operation against terrorists in the North-West, to maintain heightened vigilance during the festive period, warning that criminal elements often attempt to exploit such periods to undermine security.

    They gave the charge when he, alongside the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, paid an operational visit to the Headquarters of the Joint Task Force to celebrate Christmas with the troops.

    Their directives came amid ongoing joint airstrikes by the Nigerian and United States militaries against terrorists in the North-West.

    According to a statement by the Nigerian Army’s spokesperson, Colonel Apollonia Anele, on Saturday, the visit of the Service Chiefs to the theatre was aimed at boosting morale, appreciating the sacrifices of the troops, and reinforcing strategic directives for ongoing operations across the North-West.

    “Remain alert, proactive and disciplined at all times, strictly adhering to the rules of engagement and respect for human rights. Do not be swayed by false narratives or propaganda,” the CDS cautioned the troops.

    General Oluyede conveyed warm Yuletide greetings and commended the troops for their courage, discipline, and unwavering commitment to duty, especially at a time when many Nigerians were celebrating with their families.

    “While many Nigerians celebrate this season with their loved ones, you remain steadfast at your duty posts. With sweat on your temples and strength in your backs, you are the wall that never breaks and the hope that can never be shattered,” the CDS said.

    He praised the operational gains recorded under Operation FANSAN YAMMA, noting that the efforts of the troops have significantly contributed to restoring public confidence and stabilising the North West geopolitical zone and adjoining states. 

    The CDS urged sustained collaboration with other security agencies, federal and state authorities, as well as continuous engagement with local communities to consolidate peace.

    He reassured the troops that their welfare remains a top priority, stressing his commitment to improving living and working conditions, healthcare delivery, and support for families of personnel.

    On his part, the COAS urged the troops to remain security-conscious and uphold the highest standards of conduct.

    He described the Christmas luncheon they had with the troops as a long-standing tradition aimed at recognising the sacrifices, resilience and professionalism of troops deployed in operational theatres.

    “It gives me a deep sense of fulfilment to celebrate Christmas with you, our gallant troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, alongside the Chief of Defence Staff. 

    “While we make merry here, similar luncheons are ongoing across other operational theatres in the country,” the COAS said.

    General Shaibu noted that the Christmas season provides an opportunity for reflection, thanksgiving and remembrance of fallen heroes whose ultimate sacrifices continue to make Nigeria safer. 

    He assured the troops that the Nigerian Army would continue to honour its fallen personnel by supporting their families and upholding their legacy.

    The COAS reiterated his Command Philosophy of Transforming the Nigerian Army into a More Professional, Adaptable, Combat-Ready and Resilient Force, with strong emphasis on personnel welfare, rewards for excellence and operational readiness.

    The COAS urged the troops to celebrate responsibly, remain security-conscious and uphold the highest standards of conduct, while conveying the appreciation of the President and the gratitude of well-meaning Nigerians for their selfless service.

    Both Service Chiefs reaffirmed the commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to safeguarding the nation’s peace, unity and democratic stability, while wishing the troops a Merry Christmas and a peaceful and prosperous New Year 2026.

  • Yuletide: Akpabio lifts Eket women with fishing boats

    Yuletide: Akpabio lifts Eket women with fishing boats

    Senate President Godswill Akpabio on Boxing Day presented 10 outboard engine fishing boats to women and cooperative groups of Akwa Ibom South Senatorial District as part of his constituency project. 

    The women and cooperative societies were drawn from the riverine communities of Akwa Ibom State and have fishing as the mainstay of the economy of the area, according to a statement by the Senate President’s media office in Abuja. 

    At the ceremony, the wife of the President of the Senate, Dr (Mrs) Ekaette Unoma Akpabio thanked the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio for remembering the women from the riverine communities of Akwa Ibom State. 

    She said the women were drawn from Eket Senatorial District because her husband is the Senate President for all, irrespective of the Senatorial Districts.

    In his remarks, Akpabio commended the beneficiaries for their support. He said he had always enjoyed the support of women in Akwa Ibom State and therefore felt the need to empower them in their fishing business. 

    He told the women, “I can never forget your love; I can never forget your prayers, I can never forget your support. We are still standing strong because you are still praying. 

    “Let me thank you in advance for the support you will give to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027. Today I’m making you also fishers of men. The nets will be for you to drag as much votes as possible for the All Progressives Congress, APC, in your Senatorial District. 

    “The President is very happy with Akwa Ibom State. Governor Umo Eno has made us proud. He is touching lives and making sure that human capital development is a major focus of his administration. Mine is to urge you to support him,” he said. 

    According to the Executive Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr Victor Antai, who coordinated the presentation, each of the boats have fishing nets, refrigerator and extra tanks for fueling the boats and powering the outboard engines. 

    The big boats have double 75 horsepower engines while the smaller boats have 40 horsepower engines.

    A representative of the beneficiaries, Mma Nkoyo Isong expressed their appreciation to Senator Akpabio and his wife for empowering the women to fish instead of merely giving them fish.

     She said the women will reciprocate the kind gesture by their continued support for the Senate President and his party in the next general elections.

    A few of the boats were brought for the symbolic presentation while Akpabio read out the names of the individual beneficiaries and the Cooperative Societies.

  • Actress Jumoke Odetola gets new home, praises God for ’11th hour miracle’

    Actress Jumoke Odetola gets new home, praises God for ’11th hour miracle’

    Actress Jumoke Odetola has announced the acquisition of a new home in Lekki Pride II, Lagos.

    In a post on her Instagram page, Odetola expressed gratitudes to God, attributing the achievement to divine intervention.

    The actress described the new home as an “11th hour miracle”, thanking a home property for their role in facilitating the purchase.

    Odetola’s post was accompanied by photos of the new property, showcasing her excitement and joy.

    “One of God’s blessings to me this year. Grateful heart. Everything I own, I owe to God Almighty, the giver of blessings that come with no sorrow and peace of mind. Thank you, @zylushomes, for upholding your watchword integrity.

    “A home that comes with all the right documents. A home that comes with peace of mind. Say hello to the latest landlord at Lekki Pride II. God did @zylushomes is the vessel. God of last minute miracle has visited me & this is my 11th hour miracle!”, she wrote.