Author: The Nation

  • Stephen Achema uplifts families with 6,000 bags of rice

    Stephen Achema uplifts families with 6,000 bags of rice

    Christmas 2025 was marked by a landmark act of generosity as Engr. Dr. Stephen Achema Akpa, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Zoe New Dawn Nigeria Limited and Rehoboth City Estate, distributed more than 6,000 bags of rice to families across Kogi State and Abuja. 

    The initiative, which reached staff, non-staff beneficiaries, and communities in Kogi East, was structured to ensure inclusivity. One thousand 25kg bags of rice were given to staff, another 1,000 to non-staff beneficiaries, while 4,000 bags were shared among households in Kogi East. Beneficiaries described the gesture as a timely intervention that brought relief during the festive season. 

    Dr. Akpa’s philanthropy has been consistent and transformative. Through the Enemona Foundation, he has empowered individuals with direct financial support—N250,000 each to 25 beneficiaries in October and November 2025, and ₦6 million disbursed to another 25 in December.

    His ₦5 million Facebook giveaway further expanded his reach, ensuring 1,000 online beneficiaries received ₦5,000 each. 

    Beyond humanitarian efforts, Dr. Akpa is a strong advocate for Igala culture, sponsoring cultural events that preserve heritage and foster unity.

    His entrepreneurial achievements are equally notable, with real estate projects in prime Abuja districts such as Jahi, Kukwaba, Life Camp, Lugbe, and Gwarinpa, all distinguished by modern infrastructure and sustainable designs. 

    Community leaders have commended his Christmas outreach as a model of selfless leadership. By combining grassroots distribution with digital empowerment, Dr. Akpa continues to set a new benchmark for philanthropy, leaving a legacy of compassion, cultural pride, and transformation across Kogi and Abuja.

  • Banker extols Ondo APC chieftain Eleduma on birthday

    Banker extols Ondo APC chieftain Eleduma on birthday

    A seasoned banker, Ms. Omotola Yusuf, has congratulated Chief Olugbenga Eleduma, the Chief Executive Officer of Gatplus Dynamic Resources Ltd, and a prominent chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State, on his birthday.

    In glowing tributes, Ms. Yusuf praised Chief Eleduma as a visionary leader, astute businessman, and dedicated community builder whose impact continues to resonate across Ondo State and beyond.

    “Happy, glorious birthday to an extraordinary leader, mentor, and trailblazer, Chief Gbenga Eleduma,” the message stated.

    “Your unwavering commitment to excellence in business, philanthropy, empowerment, and progressive development has touched countless lives and elevated everyone around you.

    She underscored Eleduma’s remarkable achievements in business and politics, noting his role in fostering economic growth through Gatplus Dynamic Resources Ltd and his steadfast contributions to the politics of his State.

    “You are a beacon of integrity, hard work, and philanthropy. Your passion for youth empowerment, community development, and good tolerance inspires us all.”

    On this special day, I pray that the Almighty God blesses you with renewed strength, divine wisdom, robust health, and many more years of fruitful service to humanity.

  • BREAKING: FG declares Dec 25, 26, Jan 1 public holidays

    BREAKING: FG declares Dec 25, 26, Jan 1 public holidays

     The Federal Government on Monday, declared Dec. 25; Dec. 26 and Jan. 1, 2026, as public holidays to mark the Christmas, Boxing Day and New Year celebrations.

    The Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, gave the announcement in a statement by Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior, Dr Magdalene Ajani, in Abuja.

    Tunji-Ojo extended warm seasons greetings to Christians in Nigeria and across the world, as well as to Nigerians generally.

    He urged christians to reflect on the virtues of love, peace, humility and sacrifices exemplified by the birth of Jesus Christ, describing the values as essential for national unity, tolerance and harmony.

    The minister also enjoined all Nigerians to use the festive season to pray for the peace, security and continued progress of the country, while supporting government efforts at national development and cohesion.

    “The Christmas season and the New Year presents an opportunity for Nigerians to strengthen the bonds of unity, show compassion to one another, and renew our collective commitment to nation-building,” he said.

    Tunji-Ojo also enjoined citizens to remain law-abiding, security conscious and moderate in their celebrations, while cooperating with security agencies to ensure a peaceful festive period.

    He wished all Nigerians a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

    (NAN)

  • Yobe APC stakeholder drums up support for Tinubu’s re-election

    Yobe APC stakeholder drums up support for Tinubu’s re-election

    A prominent All Progressives Congress (APC) stakeholder in Yobe State, Kashim Musa Tumsah, has urged Yobe residents to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027.

    Tumsah, a governorship aspirant, made the call at a stakeholders’ meeting with supporters from various political parties to discuss Yobe State’s plans after Governor Mai Mala Buni’s two-term tenure ends in 2027.

    According to him, Yobe has come of age, and we need to come together and speak with one voice, such as in our support for continuity of President Tinubu’s administration, which has given Nigerians a voice and set the stage for enhanced dividends of democracy.”

    Tumsah, who has dedicated his life to developing Yobe with more focus on rural communities in the past three decades, has positively in education, clean water supply, provision of electricity, and empowerment.

    He said the decision to run for governor followed calls from across the state for him to venture into politics to continue with what Yobe people call “the good unmatched interventions.”

    The lawyer cum politician has continued to enjoy seasoned politicians’ backing in Yobe as many leaders, elders, women, and youths have overwhelmingly been pushing their support to get him to Government House, Damaturu in 2027.

  • Okumagba congratulates Eyesan on appointment as NUPRC CEO

    Okumagba congratulates Eyesan on appointment as NUPRC CEO

    Prominent Leader of APC in Delta State and former Commissioner for Finance, Olorogun Bernard Okumagba, has congratulated Mrs Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan on her appointment as CEO of Nigeria Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC). 

    In a statement on Monday, Olorogun Okumagba noted that Eyesan has had a distinguished career in the Oil and Gas Industry culminating in her last responsibility as Executive Vice President Upstream in the NNPC which she discharged excellently. 

    Okumagba commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the appointment and praised the determination of Eyesan to bring about positive changes in the Petroleum Upstream sector. Okumagba particularly commended Eyesan’s commitment to “Digitisation and Automation” as amplified at her Senate Screening.

    He stated: “Our country needs to do more in the metering and comprehensive monitoring of oil and gas production across Nigeria’s upstream petroleum operations. We need to do more in deploying advanced technologies that enhance operational efficiency, transparency, and environmental sustainability within the oil and gas sector in alignment with international best practices. 

    Read Also: Senate okays new CEOs for NUPRC, NMDPRA

    “We need to do more in the establishment of a centralised control and data monitoring centre to provide real-time visibility of oil and gas production, flare-gas volumes, emissions data, accurate revenue capturing and operational compliance across oil and gas fields nationwide.”

    Okumagba noted: “President Tinubu has continued to stress the critical need to increase our Country’s Oil and Gas production and has put in place several reform measures which require the steadfast implementation by all stakeholders to achieve the desired targets. We must continue to do what is needed to attract investments and ensure efficiency and vibrancy in oil and gas production activities in order to shore up our Country’s revenues.”

    Okumagba called on all stakeholders to support Eyesan as she embarks on the task of improving our Country’s trajectory in the diligent regulation of the Upstream Sector of our Petroleum Industry.

  • Former Speaker Dogara hails Thomas Etuh at 60

    Former Speaker Dogara hails Thomas Etuh at 60

    Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara, Speaker of the 8th House of Representatives and Chairman of the Board of the National Credit Guarantee Company Limited (NCGC), has joined Nigerians at home and abroad in celebrating the 60th birthday of Mr. Thomas Akoh Etuh, describing him as a visionary leader whose life embodies resilience, enterprise, and service to humanity. 

    In his tribute, Dogara commended Mr. Etuh’s remarkable contributions to Nigeria’s private sector, noting that his career stands as one of the most impactful success stories in agriculture, finance, telecommunications, and industrial development.

    He highlighted Etuh’s transformative role in reshaping Nigeria’s fertiliser and agribusiness industry, which empowered millions of farmers, strengthened food security, and revitalised rural economies. 

    Dogara also praised Mr. Etuh’s corporate leadership, particularly his stewardship as Chairman of the Board of 9mobile, where he restored confidence and repositioned the company during critical times. He described Etuh’s ability to stabilise complex institutions as evidence of his depth of experience and steady judgment. 

    Beyond corporate achievements, Dogara lauded Mr. Etuh’s humanitarian legacy through the Jennifer Etuh Foundation, which has delivered interventions in health, education, and community empowerment. He noted that Etuh’s commitment to service reflects his belief that true leadership is measured not by profit but by impact. 

    “At 60, Mr. Etuh stands as a symbol of disciplined enterprise, principled leadership, and patriotic devotion to national progress,” Dogara said. “His life affirms that enduring prosperity is built by men of character who combine vision with responsibility and ambition with conscience.” 

    Dogara concluded his message with prayers for robust health, renewed strength, and greater achievements for Mr. Etuh in the years ahead, affirming that his contributions will continue to resonate for generations.

  • Pantami, Mujaddadi Foundations equip 200 Bauchi youths for digital economy

    Pantami, Mujaddadi Foundations equip 200 Bauchi youths for digital economy

    The Professor Isa Pantami (PIP) Foundation, in partnership with the Mujaddadi Care Foundation, has graduated 200 Bauchi youths after an intensive training on smartphone and laptop repair, artificial intelligence (AI) mentorship, and cybersecurity.

    The well-attended ceremony, which took place on Saturday, December 21, marked the completion of Cohort 3 of the initiative, following the successful execution of the first two cohorts in Gombe State.

    All 200 graduates were equipped with free essential startup tools to ensure an immediate economic impact. The kits will enable them to launch their own entrepreneurial ventures, bypassing the hurdles of startup capital.

    In a virtual address, PIP Foundation founder and ex-Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Professor Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami, urged the beneficiaries to transform the newly acquired knowledge into market-ready services.

    The event theme centered on the global shift toward skill-based employment. In a keynote address titled “Skills Rather Than Just Degrees,” Alhaji Abdulmalik Bilyaminu (Barden Kirare) shared insights from a visit to Microsoft headquarters in the United States.

    “At Microsoft, employees are valued primarily for their skills rather than academic degrees or PhDs,” Bilyaminu noted, reinforcing Pantami’s long-standing philosophy that practical competence is the primary driver of the modern global economy.

    Academic leaders at the event, including Professor Abdulsalam Ya’u Gital (Dean, Faculty of Computing, ATBU), described Professor Pantami as a role model for the next generation of tech leaders.

    Additionally, Professor Aminu Ahmad and Dr. Ibrahim Babangida advised the graduates and other citizens that skills acquisition remains the most sustainable solution to Nigeria’s unemployment challenges.

    In a show of gratitude, the participants presented awards of recognition to both the PIP Foundation and the Mujaddadi Care Foundation for their commitment to human capacity building.

    The ceremony ended with a renewed dedication to building a future driven by innovation and self-reliance, aligning with the vision of the organizations to: empower society through practical knowledge; and uplift the community.

  • Yuletide: Consumers salute Tinubu, Dangote for affordable fuel prices  

    Yuletide: Consumers salute Tinubu, Dangote for affordable fuel prices  

    As Nigerians prepare for the festive season, the Forum of Consumers for National Growth (FCNG) has commended President Bola Tinubu and the Dangote Group for their roles in driving down petrol prices across the country, describing the developments as clear evidence that economic reforms are yielding tangible benefits at grassroots levels.

    In a statement signed by Dr. Adekunle Olorunfemi, National Coordinator, and Rev. Moses Alkali, Public Relations Officer, the forum highlighted the recent reduction in petrol gantry prices by the Dangote Petroleum Refinery as a game-changer for consumers amid rising holiday travel demands.

    “The bold economic transformation initiated by President Tinubu is taking deep roots,” the statement read.

    “By fostering an enabling environment for local refining and competition, his administration has empowered private sector giants like Dangote to deliver affordable fuel, easing the burden on millions of households and businesses during this Yuletide.”

    The Dangote Petroleum Refinery had announced a significant cut in its gantry price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), lowering it by N129 per litre to ₦699 effective December 12, 2025.

    This marks the refinery’s 20th price adjustment in 2025, reflecting sustained efforts to keep domestic fuel competitive despite global volatility and smuggling pressures.

    To support wider market access, the refinery introduced a 10-day credit facility for marketers and reduced the minimum order quantity for certain buyers, enabling smaller distributors to participate.

    The forum praised the refinery’s production milestones, including a daily output of 70 million litres of refined products—comprising 45 million litres of petrol and 25 million litres of diesel—surpassing Nigeria’s estimated domestic consumption.

    This surge in local supply has reduced reliance on costly imports and bolstered energy security.

    According to the group, the refinery’s diversification of crude sources, including the recent arrival of its second shipment from Ghana’s Sankofa grade, further underscores its strategic shift toward regional and domestic sourcing, reducing dependence on European imports.

    The statement added: “President Tinubu’s reforms, including the removal of subsidies and promotion of local refining, have created the conditions for such innovations.

    “Consumers are now experiencing direct dividends through lower transport costs, stabilized prices, and increased availability during the festive period.

    “This is not just about fuel—it’s about hope and progress. The Dangote Group’s commitment to reasonable pricing, combined with government support, is transforming lives and proving that Nigeria’s economic vision under President Tinubu is delivering inclusive growth.”

    The forum urged Nigerians to embrace these positive changes while calling for continued collaboration between the government and private sector to sustain affordability and drive further industrialization.

  • Knorr celebrates community, culture, kindness through campaign

    Knorr celebrates community, culture, kindness through campaign

    This festive season, Knorr, Nigeria’s leading seasoning brand, is once again taking the spirit of generosity beyond the kitchen and into the heart of communities through its annual “Share the Good” campaign. 

    Rooted in Knorr’s belief that food is a powerful culture connector, the campaign celebrates togetherness, gratitude, and the people who play vital roles in feeding communities across the country.

    As part of a nationwide outreach spanning 30 communities and 21 markets, activities commenced across Enugu, Anambra, Imo, Ibadan, Akure, and Benin, transforming bustling markets and local communities into vibrant spaces of celebration and shared joy. From lively streets to everyday market scenes, ordinary days were turned into unforgettable experiences, spreading happiness and reinforcing the true value of connection and community during the busiest season of the year.

    From Anambra, where activities lit up Ochanja Market, Onitsha Main Market, Odakpu, and Awada, to Enugu’s Ogbete and Ekeonuwa Markets and the Asata community, the energy was unmistakable. The celebration continued in Imo State at Eke Uku/Relief Market, with community visits to Egbu Town and Umu Oronjo, before moving westward to Ibadan, Akure, and Benin City, where festive cheer filled Agbeni, Oja Oba, Shasha, New Benin, and Mission Road markets, and surrounding communities.

    Each stop was a rich cultural experience. Lively cultural troupes entertained shoppers and traders, setting the tone for celebration. People got to enjoy nutritious, tasty jollof meals, while raffle draws rewarded lucky participants with branded items including microwaves, gas cookers, umbrellas, fanny packs, and other instant prizes — keeping excitement high throughout the day.

    The highlight at every market was the jollof cook-off, which quickly became the heart of the celebration. Two market women at each market competed in a live cooking challenge, drawing cheers and playful rivalry from the crowd. Winners received cooking pot sets and Knorr Wingman Boxes, creating memorable moments that reflected the joy, pride, and cultural significance of food in Nigerian communities.

    While the first phase of Knorr’s “Share for Good” experience is complete, the journey is far from over. Knorr will continue to surprise lucky traders and communities in Port Harcourt, Delta, Abia, and Lagos, working toward reaching 30 communities and 21 markets nationwide before the festive season ends.

    Speaking on the campaign, Dami Dania, Food Demand Creation Lead at Unilever Nigeria Plc, said, “At Knorr, we believe food is more than nourishment, it’s a force that brings people together, especially during the festive season. For this reason, Share the Good was designed to further reflect that. This is a community-focused initiative that encourages the sharing of nutritious meals, inspires acts of kindness, and promotes healthy eating, particularly during festive periods.

    “Our first phase of the ‘Share the Good’ campaign brought this to life in Enugu, Anambra, Imo, Ibadan, Akure, and Benin, vibrant communities where every smile, every shared meal, and every interaction radiated joy and togetherness. These moments reminded us of the powerful role food plays in nurturing relationships, and creating collective joy. We are excited to continue this journey and reach even more communities across Nigeria in the next phases.”

    As the celebrations continue across the country, Knorr reaffirms a belief it has upheld year after year: food is more than nourishment. It is a bridge between people, a catalyst for joy, and a powerful way to celebrate culture, community, and the true spirit of the festive season.

  • NYCN to honour Akpabio, Abbas, Tunji-Ojo, Uzodimma, others

    NYCN to honour Akpabio, Abbas, Tunji-Ojo, Uzodimma, others

    The National Youth Congress of Nigeria (NYCN) has officially unveiled its 2025 list of honorees, designating eight distinguished Nigerians as the ‘Outstanding Personalities’ of the year.

    Those slected for awards include Senate President, Godswill Akpabio; Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas; Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State.

    Others are Governor Ahmed Ododo of Kogi State; Mohammed Umaru Bago of Niger State; Senator Basheer Lado, and Hon. Judith Ogbara.

    In a statement released ahead of the grand ceremony scheduled for Tuesday, December 23, the NYCN emphasised that the awards were not routine accolades, saying they were the result of a rigorous, independent selection process conducted only once a year, reserved exclusively for leaders who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and measurable impact during the award period.

    Dubbed the ‘2025 Hall of Fame: Icons of Excellence’, NYCN said the awardeed have been selected for their visionary governance, legislative excellence, and people-centered reforms.

    While Akpabio is recognised as an Icon of Parliamentary Excellence and Uncommon Leadership for his stabilising role in the National Assembly; Speaker Abbas is to be honoured as an Icon of Legislative Excellence and Leadership for his transformative legislative agenda.

    Governor Bago is distinguished as the Best Governor in Agriculture and Empowerment for his landmark ‘Green Economy’ initiatives; Governor Ododo is named Best Governor in Security and Youth Emancipation for his proactive safety measures and youth-focused governance.

    Governor Uzodinma is to be awarded Best Governor in National Development for his strategic contributions to national integration; Senator Lado, (Special Adviser to the President on Senate Matters) is named an Icon of Legislative Prudence and Top-notch Service Delivery for his mastery of executive-legislative synergy; Hon. Tunji-Ojo is recognised as the Outstanding Minister of the Year for his revolutionary reforms in internal security and passport processing, and Hon. Ogbara (Chairperson, GEEEEP) is singled out for honour as the Outstanding Female Emancipator of the Year for her tireless advocacy for girls and women development.

    According to the NYCN, the awards serve to celebrate those whose contributions align with Nigeria’s developmental priorities and offer sustainable solutions to national challenges.

    “We do not confer these honours lightly,” said a spokesperson for the Congress, Comrade Babangida Onimisi Isah.

    “By recognising these outstanding personalities of the year, we are setting a benchmark for integrity and performance. Each recipient has delivered tangible results that directly improve the lives of Nigerians, particularly the youth.”