Author: The Nation

  • President Bola Tinubu’s state visit to Turkey: The quick wins

    President Bola Tinubu’s state visit to Turkey: The quick wins

    President Bola Tinubu on Monday arrived in Ankara, the state capital of Türkiye, to commence a historic state visit. On Tuesday, before a grand reception at the Presidential Palace, T.C. Cumhurbaşkanlığı Külliyesi, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan paid a visit to the President at his suite.

    President Tinubu arrived at the Presidential Palace, where a resplendent ceremony was held to welcome him. After inspecting the guard of honour, the President and his host, President Erdogan, went into a private meeting for bilateral talks.

    President Tinubu’s visit holds immense significance, and happening at a time, the nation is gaining global attention for very good reasons. Nigeria has regained its natural place in the league of nations. 

    Nigeria is Türkiye’s largest trading partner in sub-Saharan Africa, with over 50 Turkish companies operating in the country and with investments totalling over $400 million. Nigeria’s exports to Türkiye were $504.67 million during 2024, according to the United Nations COMTRADE database on international trade.

    The visit is not a jaunt or a leisure run, but a historically, economically, diplomatically, and security-wise consequential visit.

    Some of the quick wins, viz-a-viz the memoranda of understanding, signed, include:

    1. Agreement on defence cooperation. Türkiye is a Middle-Eastern power with advanced defence capabilities and some success in combating terrorism. Nigeria, as a strategic partner, is strengthening its relations with Türkiye in this regard.

    2. Joint declaration establishing the economy and trade joint committee.

    3. Agreement in the field of Halal quality assurance.

    4. Cooperation in the field of higher education.

    5. Cooperation in the field of media and communication. 

    6. Cooperation in the field of diaspora policy.

    7. Cooperation in the field of education.

    8. Cooperation between the Republic of Türkiye, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Diplomacy Academy, and the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Affairs Academy.

    9. Cooperation between the Republic of Türkiye, Ministry of Family and Social Services and Federal Republic of Nigeria, Ministry of Women Affairs.

    Speaking after the signing ceremony, President Tinubu emphasised the urgency of collaboration among global partners in tackling today’s existential problems for tomorrow’s security, peace, and progress.

    “How do we build an inclusive economy together? How do we reform and get vulnerable people involved in the economy? How do we ensure peace in the world?” Nigeria’s President said.

    “We discussed efforts against terrorism. We discussed how to defeat agents of destabilisation.”

    President Tinubu’s state visit to Türkiye earns our nation another dividend in trade, defence, and diplomacy.

    – Fredrick Nwabufo is Senior Special Assistant to the President on Public Engagement

  • LAMATA launches ‘Soro Soke’ campaign against sexual harassment on public transport

    LAMATA launches ‘Soro Soke’ campaign against sexual harassment on public transport

    The Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) has launched the “Soro Soke” (Speak Up) campaign to tackle sexual harassment across public transport systems in the state.

    The campaign was unveiled at a stakeholders’ engagement held at LAMATA headquarters, as part of efforts to improve commuter safety and promote a gender-inclusive transport system in Lagos.

    The engagement focused on addressing sexual harassment within informal transport spaces under EMPOWER Project 3, funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and managed by the International Initiative for Impact Evaluation (3ie).

    Speaking at the event, Commissioner for Transportation, Oluwaseun Osiyemi, commended LAMATA for sustaining the EMPOWER programme for over five years. He stressed the need to break the culture of silence surrounding sexual harassment, urging victims and witnesses to speak up and report incidents.

    “This campaign is about creating safe spaces for all commuters, especially women. Reporting harassment is key to ending it,” he said.

    Read Also: NDDC vows to complete reclamation, road projects in Rivers

    Managing Director of LAMATA, Engr. Abimbola Akinajo, reaffirmed the authority’s commitment to sustaining the anti-sexual harassment initiative, noting that LAMATA would continue to collaborate with relevant agencies to ensure safer transport environments.

    According to her, the campaign reinforces its resolve to make public transport in Lagos safer, more inclusive and responsive, ensuring the protection and dignity of all commuters.

    Also speaking, Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA), Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, highlighted the importance of inter-agency collaboration in addressing sexual and gender-based violence within public spaces.

  • Oyo APC urges patience over e-registration hitches, assures swift resolution

    Oyo APC urges patience over e-registration hitches, assures swift resolution

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State has appealed to its members and supporters experiencing difficulties with the ongoing electronic registration exercise to remain patient, assuring that the technical challenges are being addressed by the appropriate authorities.

    Reports from the state’s 33 local government areas indicate that a significant number of party faithful—both existing and prospective members—are yet to have their personal data captured due to system-related issues affecting the registration process.

    The situation has triggered calls within the party for an extension of the registration deadline.

    However, in a statement, the state Publicity Secretary, Olawale Sadare, said the mandatory requirement of the National Identification Number (NIN) and Permanent Voter Card (PVC) for registration was designed to ensure the integrity of the party’s membership database.

    According to him, the policy is aimed at building an accurate and reliable membership register to support strategic planning and align the party’s processes with global best practices.

    He said, “We are not unaware of some glitches in the electronic registration exercise particularly as they concern the inability of many willing party faithful and supporters to have their personal data captured as well as lack of National Identification Number (NIN) by some individuals who are willing to register as APC members. 

    “The leadership of the APC is working round the clock to resolve some of these issues before the registration deadline this Saturday.

    Read Also: Mutfwang’s defection reaffirms APC as truly national party, says Shettima

    “We have also received requests for extension of the registration deadline from many quarters across the state and we have communicated this to the National Secretariat of our great Party while we are hoping to get a favorable response as soon as possible.

    “Nonetheless, stakeholders are being charged to increase their efforts and ensure that nothing is left to chances. The E-regisration is a serious exercise and Oyo state chapter of the Party cannot afford to lag behind.

    “As a matter of fact, old members and leaders who fail to register in the ongoing exercise would cease to be reckoned with in the scheme of things as we warm up for the congresses and party primaries in the build up to the next general elections. 

    “We are on top of the situation even as we encourage party faithful and supporters to reach out to the State Secretariat at Oke-Ado to report any challenges in their locality for prompt actions.”

  • Goronyo leads mobilisation drive, rallies APC stakeholders to boost e-registration in Sokoto

    Goronyo leads mobilisation drive, rallies APC stakeholders to boost e-registration in Sokoto

    Stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Goronyo Local Government Area of Sokoto State have resolved to step up mobilisation to ensure the success of the ongoing electronic registration of party members across the state.

    The resolution was reached at a recent stakeholders’ meeting convened by the Minister of State for Works, Bello Goronyo.

    Addressing party leaders and members, Goronyo described the e-registration exercise as central to strengthening the party’s structure at the grassroots.

    He said possession of a valid APC membership card confers official membership and eligibility to participate in party activities, including voting and contesting for positions.

    Read Also: Yusuf’s defection will catapult Kano’s development – France APC

    In a statement issued on Wednesday by his Special Adviser on Media, Abdullahi Mohammed, the Minister urged ward and local government leaders to take responsibility for driving the exercise by encouraging members to register.

    The Minister emphasized that the initiative became imperative considering that the process was necessary for consolidating the party ahead of future political activities.

    The meeting drew party elders and stakeholders, including Alhaji Hussaini Umar Gorau, Alhaji Adamu Joda, Chairman of the APC Elders Forum, Alhaji Faruku Ahmad Rimawa, Alhaji Ummaru Shehu Goronyo, Alhaji Aminu Faruku S. Rima, the APC Chairman in Goronyo Local Government, Alhaji Sa’idu Kumaji, and the Chairman of Goronyo Local Government Council, Engineer Zubairu Yari Goronyo, among others.

    APC chairmen and secretaries from the eleven wards of the local government, councillors and other stakeholders were also in attendance.

    Discussions identified challenges affecting the exercise, particularly the lack of National Identification Numbers (NIN) among some members while the stakeholders agreed on measures to address the gaps and improve participation.

    According to Joda, in his remarks, the Minister provided financial support for logistics and pledged to facilitate NIN enrolment for affected members, adding that party elders would also contribute to the effort.

    The stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to party unity and grassroots mobilisation in Goronyo Local Government Area.

  • Firm links service quality, location to Asaba hospitality growth

    Firm links service quality, location to Asaba hospitality growth

    The Chief Executive Officer of Ventura Hotel & Suites, Asaba, Prince Ebube Obi, has said quality service delivery and strategic location are key factors influencing the growth of the hospitality sector in Delta State’s capital.

    Obi said this while speaking on the operations of the hotel, noting that increased domestic travel and commercial activities have raised demand for accommodation close to transport infrastructure, particularly the Asaba International Airport.

    According to him, Ventura Hotel & Suites was established to provide accommodation for business and leisure travellers seeking proximity to the airport and ease of movement within the city. The hotel is located off Vanguard Avenue, directly opposite the Asaba International Airport.

    Obi said the facility offers standard lodging services, including en-suite rooms, internet access, steady power supply and workspaces, which he described as necessary for travellers managing short visits and tight schedules.

    Read Also: Cleric leads prayer at unveiling of Cubana Millennium City in Asaba

    He added that private investment in hospitality plays a role in supporting Asaba’s development as a commercial and administrative centre, noting that improved accommodation options help attract visitors and business activities.

    Obi said the management is focused on maintaining service standards and operational efficiency in response to changing travel patterns and expectations.

    Reservations and enquiries can be made via phone or WhatsApp on 0906 635 5984, or by email at reservation@venturasuites.com.

    With its blend of comfort, elegance and convenience, Ventura Hotel & Suites Asaba continues to set new standards in premium hospitality in the state.

  • IShowSpeed gets Ghanaian passport after completion of Africa Tour

    IShowSpeed gets Ghanaian passport after completion of Africa Tour

    Ghana’s Foreign Minister, Sam Okudzeto Ablakwa, has announced that the country has granted citizenship to US YouTuber IShowSpeed, also known as Darren Jason Watkins Jr., following his month-long tour of Africa.

    The 21-year-old influencer, who has 50 million YouTube subscribers, was recognised for his “irrefutable ties” to Ghana.

    “@wode_maya following our discussions and subsequent confirmation of the irrefutable ties of IShowSpeed to Ghana, I am pleased to inform you and our compatriots that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has approved the issuance of a Ghanaian Passport to IShowSpeed. Keep making our great nation Ghana, and our beloved African continent proud.

    “Ghana celebrates you both — you remain our worthy ambassadors, and we are ever so delighted to have granted you a diplomatic passport last year. For God, Country & Continent”, the statement reads.

    Read Also: Cubana Chief Priest defends Peller’s hustle amid iShowSpeed snub

    IShowSpeed’s tour, which began December 29, took him to 20 countries, showcased Africa’s diverse culture, tourism, and technology, challenging stereotypes and showcasing a different side of the continent.

    The move is seen as part of Ghana’s “Beyond the Return” initiative, encouraging members of the African diaspora to formalise their ties with the nation.

    The announcement has sparked mixed reactions, with some Ghanaians welcoming the move as a boost to the country’s global image, while others question the value of granting citizenship to foreign celebrities.

  • 32 journalists gain AI, digital newsroom skills at NLNG workshop

    32 journalists gain AI, digital newsroom skills at NLNG workshop

    No fewer than 32 journalists from various media organisations have benefitted from a three-day capacity-building workshop organised by Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG) in Abuja.

    The training forms part of the company’s renewed efforts to strengthen professionalism and build capacity within Nigeria’s media space.

    Held under the #NLNGChangeYourStory initiative, exposed participants to emerging trends in artificial intelligence and digital communication, with a focus on their growing influence on newsroom operations.

    Through hands-on sessions and expert-led discussions, the journalists were equipped with practical skills to enhance real-time reporting, expand audience reach and deepen engagement across digital platforms.

    Speaking at the event, the General Manager, External Relations and Sustainable Development at NLNG, Mrs Sophia Horsfall, said capacity development remains a core pillar of the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility agenda.

    Read Also: NLNG trains journalists on digital media

    She noted that the #NLNGChangeYourStory initiative is designed to empower journalists with relevant skills and confidence to deliver professional content in a fast-paced, technology-driven media environment.

    Horsfall described journalism as a vital calling that informs and shapes society, urging participants to apply the knowledge gained to increase their impact.

    She also highlighted NLNG’s broader support for the media, including the NLNG Prize for Energy Reporting at the Diamond Awards for Media Excellence (DAME).

    Earlier, the Manager, Corporate Communications and Public Affairs, Mrs Anne-Marie Palmer-Ikuku, said NLNG remains deliberate in its investments aimed at raising professional standards in journalism.

    According to her, the workshop addressed real newsroom challenges such as speed, verification, audience trust and relevance, with the goal of building a resilient media ecosystem capable of producing accurate and impactful journalism that supports national development.

    The workshop was facilitated by digital communication expert Dan Mason and the Journalism Clinic led by media veteran Taiwo Obe, who guided participants on digital storytelling, data visualisation, online fact-checking, audience engagement and effective digital presence management.

    NLNG said the #NLNGChangeYourStory initiative has so far empowered over 180 journalists across its various editions.

  • PINL aligns operations with Fed Govt’s 2.5mbpd crude oil operations

    PINL aligns operations with Fed Govt’s 2.5mbpd crude oil operations

    A private security company, Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited, (PINL), has pledged to align its operations with the Federal Government’s vision of producing 2.5 million barrels of crude oil per day in 2026.

    Its General Manager, Dr Akpos Mezeh, spoke during a meeting with stakeholders from the Trans- Niger- Pipeline (TNP) host communities in Bayelsa State.

    He said the decision was part of the company’s strategic priorities for the year 2026, adding the company also aim to strengthen collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) and other security agencies in achieving the target.

    The company also pledged to mediate in conflicts in all oil producing communities in the area to ensure that the targeted production output is met.

    He said, “As we move into 2026, PINL’s focus will be on aligning with the efforts of the Federal Government towards meeting the 2.5m bpd production target in 2026, sustaining zero infractions along the TNP cogence, strengthening collaboration with NNPCL, ONSA, and security agencies, mediating conflicts in Ogoniland and other oil producing communities with a view to resuming production”.

    Read Also: PINL kicks-off business support scheme for 2000 host community women

    The company also spoke of plans to expand its empowerment programme for women and youths of the host communities as well as deepening community awareness against activities of vandals.

    “Expanding women and youth empowerment programmes, deepening community intelligence and participation, advocating for improved government presence and infrastructural development in the oil and gas communities, upholding transparency, accountability, and consistent engagement,” he added.

    To ensure improved surveillance this year, the PINL official announced plans to conduct capacity-building training for Community-Based Contractors (CBSs) in the first quarter of 2026, focusing on incident reporting, event reporting, guard patrol procedures, surveillance and intelligence gathering.

    While thanking the communities for their efforts in 2025, Mezeh urged them to continue on the part of dialogue in resolving all issues.

    “Distinguished stakeholders, the story of the Trans Niger Pipeline is changing and you are the author of that change.

    What we protect together today determines what Nigeria earns tomorrow. Let us continue to choose dialogue over disruption, cooperation over conflict and shared prosperity over short-term gain,” he admonished.

    Chairman of Bayelsa State Council of Traditional Rulers, Dr. Bubaraye Dakolo urged the Federal Government to consider development of the host communities to foster peace and curb vandalising in the region.

    He particularly noted the need to make petroleum products affordable for host communities to discourage the sale of adulterated products in the areas.

    “Let the NSA’s office hear that if the Federal Government provides petroleum products at affordable cost across the Niger Delta everything about vandalism ends because there will be no person to buy.

    “Educate the youths at levels and when there is no demand for it, supply will end. So educate the youths, engage the youths and make efforts towards providing petroleum products at the communities. How painful it is that you have oil wells, manifolds in your community and you still buy higher than those who don’t have? Why won’t the Federal Government know that that’s the cause of the problem of vandalism in the Niger Delta.

    “So while thanking you and your efforts in engaging us everytime and dialoguing for peace in the Niger Delta, let the Federal Government do the needful,” he urged.

    Also speaking, the Ibenanowei of Bomo Kingdom, Bayelsa State, HRM, Dr. Joshua Igbugburu called on community youths to continue in their resolve to protect the pipelines.

    The monarch also appreciated the company for uniting the communities through their regular engagements.

    “I call on all community leaders and youths to protect the pipelines and oil platforms in our communities at all times.

    “We need to maintain the continued peace in Bayelsa State and Niger Delta to attract more development to our communities.

    “PINL, thank you for your good work in Niger Delta by uniting the people in your area of operation,” he said.

    Comrade Robert Igali, Director-General, Bayelsa State Centre For Youths Development, said for there to be sustained peace along the TNP, youth development should not be overlooked.

    “While we seek peace and zero-tolerance for pipeline vandalism in Bayelsa State, it is important to note that the major actors are these youths who have decided to embrace peace and work with PINL. It is therefore very important that this year, if there will continue to be zero- infractions, they should not be ignored.”

  • Oborevwori swears in six judges, earns against erosion of public trust in judiciary

    Oborevwori swears in six judges, earns against erosion of public trust in judiciary

    Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, on Wednesday warned that the erosion of public confidence in the judiciary poses a grave threat to peace, law and order, stressing that when citizens lose faith in the justice system, they may resort to self-help, a situation capable of plunging society into chaos and anarchy.

    The governor gave the warning in Asaba during the swearing-in of six newly appointed judges for the Delta State High Court and the Customary Court of Appeal, urging members of the Bench to uphold the highest standards of probity, fairness, courage and impartiality in the discharge of their constitutional duties.

    Those sworn in as judges of the Delta State High Court are; Justice Otite Jonah Akpobaro, Justice Jereoma Sam-Oligida, Justice Irene Boeye Ukuli and Justice Otome Benjamin Adamidenyo, while Justice Bridget Onome Ojeikere and Justice Stella Ovuorieroro Okah were sworn in as Justices of the Delta State Customary Court of Appeal.

    Oborevwori said the stability of any democratic society rests heavily on a credible, transparent and independent judiciary, noting that justice must not only be done but must also be seen to be done.

    According to him, only a judiciary that acts without fear or favour can sustain public trust, guarantee justice for all, and preserve social harmony in the state and the nation.

    Speaking further, the governor explained that the appointments were made strictly in line with Sections 271(2) and 281(2) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), which empower state governors to appoint judges on the recommendation of the National Judicial Council (NJC).

    He disclosed that the Delta State Judicial Service Commission nominated candidates for consideration by the NJC, which carefully screened and approved those found suitable for appointment.

    Oborevwori congratulated the newly sworn-in judges, describing their elevation as a vote of confidence in their legal knowledge, integrity, professionalism and discipline.

    “As you begin this new journey as privileged members of the Bench, I expect you to uphold the same spirit of hard work, commitment, excellence and high ethical standards that qualified you for this noble office,” the governor said.

    He cautioned judges to resist all forms of temptation capable of compromising judicial independence, stressing that during adjudication, it is often the judge, rather than the litigants, who is ultimately on trial in the court of public opinion.

    Read Also: Go tough on criminals, Oborevwori charges new Delta CP

    Oborevwori reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the justice delivery system in the state, describing the swearing-in ceremony as another milestone in efforts to build a judiciary that is functional, fast, fair and accessible.

    He noted that appointment of the additional judges would help decongest courts, reduce delays and bring justice closer to the people, particularly those in rural communities.

    He also outlined several reforms and interventions undertaken by his administration to support the judiciary, including the approval for the construction of judges’ quarters across the state, renovation of magistrates’ and customary courts, and the digitisation of the Laws of Delta State, now accessible on the state government’s website.

    The governor further disclosed that virtual court hearing facilities have been installed in High Courts in Asaba and in correctional centres in Warri, Ogwashi-Uku and Sapele, supported by solar installations to ensure uninterrupted proceedings.

    He added that plans were underway to introduce automated court recording systems to improve accuracy and speed in judicial proceedings.

    Highlighting broader justice sector reforms, Oborevwori said the state had introduced the Delta State Criminal Information System, a centralized digital platform for criminal profiling, case management and offender tracking using biometric data, including fingerprints and DNA.

    He explained that the initiative would enhance public safety, accountability and crime prevention, while complementing virtual court hearings conducted directly from correctional centres.

    The governor also announced that, for the first time in the history of the state, a career civil servant, Mr. Omamuzo Erebe, Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Justice, attained the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria in 2025, describing the feat as a reflection of the quality of Delta State’s public service.

    Responding on behalf of the newly sworn-in judges, Justice Bridget Onome Ojeikere, expressed profound gratitude to Governor Oborevwori for his support and respect for judicial independence, pledging that the judges would discharge their duties with integrity and without fear or favour.

    The ceremony was attended by top government officials, members of the legislature, judiciary and other stakeholders.

  • Tinubu’s ambition to build one trillion dollars digital economy not rhetoric, says Minister

    Tinubu’s ambition to build one trillion dollars digital economy not rhetoric, says Minister

    The Minister of Communications, Innovations and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, on Wednesday reaffirmed the commitment of the administration of President Bola Tinubu towards building a one trillion dollars digital economy, saying that the commitment of the government was not a mere rhetoric.

    Dr Tijani said President Tinubu’s administration has remained clear, consistent and deliberate about its vision of achieving shared prosperity for Nigerians, including the ambition to build a trillion dollars economy.

    He said the government has within a short period built strong institutions with regulatory powers to support the commitment, stressing that the Nigerian Data Protection Commission, (NDPC) was one of such institutions with capacity for data protection and building digital trust as key pillars for Nigeria’s digital transformation and economic growth.

    The Minister made the remarks on Wednesday in Abuja while delivering his address at the Global Privacy Day 2026 Press Conference, held at AATC Hotel, Abuja.

    Dr Tijani commended the Nigerian Data Protection Commission (NDPC) for its leadership in driving conversations around data privacy and protection, noting that although the Commission has existed for less than three years, it has emerged as a strong institution within government and society.

    According to Dr Tijani, technology remains central to achieving the goal of a one trillion dollar economy as it enables economic growth, infrastructure development, job creation, and improved public services.

    “Our responsibility at the Ministry is to ensure that digital technology serves as an enabler of shared prosperity, not just prosperity for a few, but for every Nigerian,” he said.

    The minister highlighted several flagship projects under the Ministry, including the Bridge Project, which aims to deploy 90,000 kilometres of fibre optic infrastructure nationwide, and MilCAP, an agro-connectivity initiative targeting the deployment of about 4,000 telecommunications towers in rural areas.

    He also disclosed plans to procure two additional communication satellites for the country through NigComSat, noting that Nigeria is currently the only country in West Africa with a functional communication satellite.

    Read Also: Ogoni leaders urge Tinubu to sustain ongoing dialogue process

    On human capital development, Dr Tijani said Nigeria runs the largest technology talent accelerator in Africa, designed to build a workforce capable of competing and creating value in the global digital economy.

    However, he stressed that increased connectivity comes with increased responsibility, especially in protecting citizens’ data.

    “Data protection and privacy are the foundation of trust. Without trust, our digital economy cannot succeed,” he said.

    In his address, the National Commissioner/CEO of NDPC, Dr. Vincent Olatunji, outlined the achievements of the Commission within the past three years, saying over 5.2 billion naira has been generated through the Commission into government coffers.

    According to him, no fewer than 23,000 jobs have been created within the data privacy ecosystem, while the value of the data protection ecosystem now peaked at about 16.2 billion naira.

    He said the Commission has carried out and concluded investigations 246 data protection and privacy breaches by various institutions, while appropriate sanctions have been meted out to the affected institutions.

    According to the NDPC boss, about 8155 compliance audit returns have been filed by the Commission, while training programmes have been organised for various categories of Compliance Officers across the country.

    Dr Olatunji also said that the NDPC launched the Youth Data Protection Awareness & Training Program in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Youth Development to empower 5,000 Nigerian youths with digital literacy and data privacy skills.

    He added that more collaborations are still ongoing with the governments of Bauchi, Benue, Ondo and Ekiti states for awareness creation and training programmes on data protection and privacy.