The Nation Newspaper

Category: Northern Report

  • The Jemgbagh decision: Why Alia’s track record, strategic vision assure an overwhelming second-term mandate

    The Jemgbagh decision: Why Alia’s track record, strategic vision assure an overwhelming second-term mandate

    By Alu Vershima

    The political landscape in Benue State is being redefined by performance, not mere promises. It is evident that the overwhelming support for Governor Reverend Father Hyacinth Iormem Alia’s second term is not born of sentiment, but of strategic, enlightened self-interest anchored on three undeniable realities: Developmental Projects, Strategic Political Succession, and Empowering Appointments.

    Gboko people in particular, and the Jemgbagh political bloc in general, are not a people who are naive or myopic; rather, the Gboko people are a highly enlightened people, both politically and otherwise. As such, we cannot be deceived. His Excellency Governor Alia has accomplished what no one else has ever done in Benue State in such a short period, and the Jemgbagh people are well aware of this fact.

    They cannot be misled. Come the 2027 general elections, the Jemgbagh people will turn out in their usual large numbers and vote massively for Governor Alia so that he will continue the transformative work he has been doing ever since assuming office as the Executive Governor of Benue State.

    One of the primary reasons why Gboko and the entire Jemgbagh area will throw their support behind Governor Alia is the tangible evidence of development in our homeland.

    When the Governor commenced the construction of a flagship project like the underpass, he understood that Gboko is the focal town of the Tiv people, where the paramount leader, the Tor Tiv, resides. The Governor recognized that it was only right to honour this place held in high esteem by the rest of the Tiv nation; hence, the construction of the underpass in Gboko, which has been advancing alongside the one in Makurdi.

    Aside from the underpass, the Governor has successfully replicated the success of the BIPC Bakery in Makurdi—a facility that has been a source of succour to the Benue populace, who now enjoy quality bread at an affordable price. The Governor chose Gboko again for the establishment of the BIPC Bakery in order to serve the people here. True to his word, the bakery has been built, commissioned in Gboko, and its products are now being enjoyed by the populace of this wonderful town.

    READ ALSO: Abba Kyari denies ownership of property linked to him

    Furthermore, the Governor has undertaken a massive construction drive of roads and streets in Gboko, a number of which have already been completed. For instance, the former Clinic Road, which used to be extremely dusty during the dry season and severely muddy during the rainy season, has been completely taken care of by the Governor. The road has since been asphalted with a nylon tar and is now being enjoyed by the Gboko people. There is also another road in Adekaa, the Ikese Street, which has been tarred, and more recently, the Governor installed street lights on Ikese Street.

    It is important to note that Gboko is the capital of the Jemgbagh people, which comprises the local government areas of Buruku and Tarka. Whatever development is executed in Gboko is always of great importance to the rest of the people in the three local governments. For example, both Buruku and Tarka currently rely on Gboko for essential banking services, and thus, whatever the Governor has done in Gboko is still to the immense benefit of the rest of the Jemgbagh people.

    The history of Benue politics reveals that political cycles, though often chaotic, tend to follow a pattern of regional succession. Even when the former Governor of Benue State, Samuel Ortom, performed abysmally poor—to the extent that his administration owed substantial civil service salaries that Governor Alia now pays before the 25th of every month—the Benue people voted him back to complete his second tenure.

    I recall vividly when Governor Ortom was campaigning for his second tenure and visited the Gboko Local Government Secretariat; the civil servants would not allow him to speak because of the huge salary arrears he owed. It was another prominent leader, Gabriel Suswam, who pleaded with the civil servants to forgive and vote for his second term so that the political rotation would be uniform. He argued that since others always complete their second tenures, Ortom should not be made an exception.

    Judging from that precedent, the Jemgbagh people are keenly aware of the importance of the second-term convention. We are hopeful of producing the next Governor after Governor Alia’s second tenure, and we will not compromise our position to be next in line. Therefore, we will vote massively for the Governor in order to pave the way for a Governor of Jemgbagh extraction after his two terms are complete.

    Another critically important factor that will guarantee the massive vote of the Jemgbagh people for the Governor’s second tenure is the fact that he has given substantial and visible appointments to our sons and daughters from the Jemgbagh extraction.

    Governor Alia has ensured that Jemgbagh is recognized at the highest levels of his administration:

    A very juicy appointment like the BIRS Chairman is currently being handled by a Jemgbagh son.

    Governor Alia appointed a Jemgbagh son as the youngest Commissioner in the cabinet.

    The Principal Special Assistant to the Governor on Protocol is from Jemgbagh.

    There is a serving Commissioner from Gboko Local Government (Yandev), a privilege that had never occurred before this administration.

    The Executive Secretary of BIPC is also from Gboko Local Government, amongst so many other significant appointments.

    Judging from the points above, one can clearly see that Gboko and Jemgbagh in general will not compromise their position on the second tenure of Governor Alia. They will vote him massively because of his transformative administration, the immediate benefits being enjoyed by the people, and, most importantly, because of his role in strategically making way for a Governor of Jemgbagh extraction after his second tenure in office.

    The future of Jemgbagh is inextricably linked to the success of Governor Alia’s complete mandate. The choice is clear: Performance now, Succession later.

  • The search for lasting peace in Benue through innovative community-based peace structures

    The search for lasting peace in Benue through innovative community-based peace structures

    By Bridget Tikyaa

    Thursday, October 30th 2025 will remain a key date in the annals of Benue State history as it marks the day both the Federal and state governments, as well as all stakeholders took steps towards engraving a peace process that will bring together all communities to foster peace and social cohesion across the state.

    It was the day Benue State Government under the leadership of Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia and the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement, Dr Abiodun Essiet, and the International Communities Organisation hosted a workshop on establishing Community-Based Peace Structures across all the 23 local government areas of the state. It was not just a government event, but also an initiative that included community and religious leaders, traditional rulers, security officials, and representatives of civil society organisations within the state.

    Benue State has no doubt suffered from long years of conflicts ranging from violent clashes between herders and farmers, resulting in loss of lives and property, banditry and kidnapping, which have disrupted economic activities and daily life, communal conflicts often fueled by ethnic and land disputes, and the resultant displacements and humanitarian crisis that have strained local resources.

    Given these challenges, peacebuilding initiatives in any form will certainly lead to dialogue and reconciliation, build trust and understanding between communities, security agencies, and government institutions, and address the underlying causes of conflicts, such as land disputes and resource competition. When peace is restored, it will be easier to provide support to victims and work towards their rehabilitation and reintegration.

    Invariably, peacebuilding initiatives will create a more stable and secure environment, conducive to economic development and social progress.

    READ ALSO: No religious persecution in Nigeria, Tuggar insists

    Governor Alia said through his Deputy, Dr. Sam Ode, that the peacebuilding initiative was a commendable effort of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, wholly supported by the Benue State government, which should be sustained.

    Alia believes that traditional institutions are key drivers of peaceful coexistence and must be cultivated at all times by relevant stakeholders, including local government chairmen, whom he said, must maintain constant communication with the traditional institutions and communities to foster social cohesion.

    It is pertinent to state that Governor Alia has in the last two and half years maintained the momentum in strengthening peace-building initiatives in Benue State by working with security agencies to tackle insecurity and deploying drones for intelligence gathering.

    The government has also established a 10,000-man state security outfit equipped with motorcycles and Hilux vans to complement federal security agencies, convened a four-day security summit in partnership with the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) to discuss security challenges and find solutions, provided support for displaced persons and donating N5 million to each family of security operatives who lost their lives in the fight against banditry.

    The government has also been engaging local stakeholders to promote peace and reconciliation, and working with the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue to address longstanding grievances and promote sustainable peace initiatives. Similarly, the Alia administration has been emphasising the importance of inclusive dialogue and community engagement to foster trust and mitigate tensions among diverse ethnic and religious groups. It has also been encouraging residents to be vigilant, work hand-in-hand with security forces, and set aside their differences to achieve peace and stability in the state.

    These initiatives of Governor Alia are what the peace enhancement workshop has highlighted, and which the government commended both the SSA to the President, and Mrs. Josephine Habba, Director-General of the Benue State Peace and Reconciliation Commission.

    For the SSA, Dr. Abiodun Essiet, unity is essential for Nigeria’s peace and prosperity, explaining that the workshop is a vital step towards strengthening community collaboration, understanding, and peace through inclusive participation.

    The initiative aims to support security agencies and strengthen the Benue State Commission for Peace and Reconciliation by expanding community peace committees. These are structures designed to improve intelligence gathering, early warning systems, and community dialogue.

    On her part, the Secretary to the State Government, Deaconess Selumun Deborah Aber, represented by James Azande, SSA to the Governor on Media, Cabinet Office, expressed support for the programme, maintaining that peacebuilding is a collective effort requiring cooperation from all stakeholders, and praised President Tinubu’s initiatives through the SSA’s office to address insecurity in the North-Central region.

    Commitments were made and agendas set by local council leaders, traditional rulers, and other stakeholders, including the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breaders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN).

    Comrade Vitalis Neji, Chairman of Kwande Local Government Council and the state ALGON Chairman, reaffirmed the commitment of the local councils to serving with integrity, and working collectively to ensure peace and stability across Benue State. This much was also highlighted by the representative of the traditional institution, His Royal Highness Chief Orkaa Kave, the Ter Ukum, who voiced concerns about ongoing insecurity in the state despite previous peace efforts and urged stakeholders to remain committed and true to their promises.

    Mrs. Theresa Dewua, Pastor Earnest Atogi, and Ibrahim Galma, representing the National Council for Women Societies, All Farmers Association of Nigeria, and MACBAN respectively, expressed strong support for the initiative, and called for unity and collaboration among all stakeholders to restore peace and stability throughout the state.

    The workshop has no doubt underscores both the federal and state governments’ commitment to building a peaceful society through inclusive, sustained community engagement backed by all relevant stakeholders including civil society groups, local communities and traditional institutions.

    • Bridget Tikyaa is Principal Special Assistant to the Governor on Media, Publicity and Communications Strategy

  • Bauchi flags off N19b specialist hospital rehabilitation

    Bauchi flags off N19b specialist hospital rehabilitation

    The Bauchi State Government has commenced the comprehensive rehabilitation and upgrade of the State Specialist Hospital, Bauchi, at a cost of over N19 billion.

    Speaking during the groundbreaking ceremony at the hospital yesterday, Governor Bala Mohammed reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to providing modern healthcare facilities and improving citizens’ well-being.

    He described access to quality healthcare as a key priority of his government.

    The governor also revealed that efforts were ongoing to address challenges facing the Bill & Melinda Gates School of Health Technology, Ningi, noting that the institution’s expansion from a monotechnic to a polytechnic had created management issues that must be resolved.

    “We have a lot of challenges in that school, and we are working very hard. The way it’s being run is unacceptable, but we are doing our best to ensure it meets national standards,” he said.

    Mohammed further announced plans to establish a state-owned drugs and food manufacturing company to produce essential medicines locally for health service delivery.

    Read Also: Bauchi gov elevates elder brother, Duguri, to first-class emir

    He also disclosed that the state, in collaboration with the Federal Government and other partners, will soon launch a State Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance Scheme to provide 48-hour emergency care to residents.

    The governor appreciated the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammed Ali Pate, for his support, describing him as a dependable partner in strengthening the health sector.

    He highlighted other ongoing initiatives, including free rural emergency transport services, maternal ambulance schemes, and free maternal healthcare covering pregnancy through six weeks after childbirth.

    “We have also been providing other free services like immunisation, family planning, and HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and leprosy treatment,” he added.

    In his remarks, Commissioner for Health, Dr. Sani Muhammad Dambam, commended the governor’s leadership, noting significant progress in health indices, including a reduction in maternal mortality from over 1,000 to 382 deaths per 100,000 women and an increase in immunisation coverage from 31% to 51%.

  • Reverse Itsekiri monarch’s title to Olu of Itsekiri, current title misleading – Gbenekama

    Reverse Itsekiri monarch’s title to Olu of Itsekiri, current title misleading – Gbenekama

    Chief Godspower Gbenekama, is one of the highest ranking traditional rulers in Gbaramatu kingdom. In this interview with Shola O’Neil, he vowed that the Ijaws would continue to maintain the peace, but refuse to rule his kinsmen stopping oil flow over delay in implementing new ward structures in Warri LGAs.

    On INEC’s Ward Delineation Process

    The Itsekiris fully agreed to the INEC delineation process and even nominated three representatives to work with the commission on July 11, 2024. Each ethnic group—Urhobo, Itsekiri, and Ijaw—took INEC officials to their respective areas for verification. INEC then returned to its headquarters to conclude the exercise.

    All three groups participated till the end. In fact, we wrapped up the process on April 4 this year. That’s why I’m surprised that the Itsekiris are now attempting to shift the goalpost midway.

    On Attempts to Link Delineation to Land Ownership

    The Itsekiris are trying to turn a straightforward electoral issue into a land ownership battle. But delineation has nothing to do with land. You vote where you live. If an Ijaw man lives in Effurun, he registers and votes there, it doesn’t make the land his.

    As for claims about land ownership and court victories, those are mere fabrications. The same government process that recognized the Olu of Warri also acknowledges that the kings of Gbaramatu, Ogbe-Ijoh, and Egbema are independent and not under the Olu’s authority.

    Years ago, we in Gbaramatu boycotted politics for eight years out of anger. In that time, the Itsekiris used politics to their advantage, even creating electoral wards in villages that barely existed. But times have changed. Our population has grown massively, and population is political power. The average Ijaw family is large—many of our men have several wives and numerous children. Meanwhile, most Itsekiri men are monogamous, so their population growth is slower. That’s the reality they don’t want to admit.

    On Rising Tension Over the Delineation

    Tension is rising simply because the outcome does not favour the Itsekiris. In the past, they manipulated the system and created wards in non-existent communities. This time, the process was transparent, and it exposed the truth. Now they’re resorting to provocation.

    We even heard about an Itsekiri man in the British Army arrested for gun-running. Reports suggest the weapons were meant to be used against the Gbaramatu people because of this delineation. But let me be clear—there will be no war in Warri. Even if they provoke us, we will not fight. When they attacked Akpata community, we restrained our people. We are determined to maintain peace.

    On Why Itsekiris Oppose the New Wards

    They oppose it because the truth has been exposed. Visit the riverine Itsekiri communities and you’ll find them deserted. Most of their people live in Ugbuwangue and nearby areas in Warri city. Meanwhile, Ijaw communities, especially in Gbaramatu, are booming. Young men are building houses and returning home every weekend because of the Maritime University. Even the smallest Ijaw villages now have modern buildings and vibrant life.

    On Why Gbaramatu Is at the Center of the Debate

    It’s about Gbaramatu because the Itsekiris still insist we are their customary tenants. They fear our growing voting power. They want us to remain second-class citizens – people who can vote but can never be voted for, but times have changed.

    On the Origins of the Warri Crisis

    The Warri crisis began when the local government headquarters, originally meant for Ogbe-Ijoh, was moved to Ogidigben after intense lobbying by the Itsekiris. That decision, made when the entire council was Ijaw, sparked the first major conflict.

    At the time, all councillors and both chairmanship candidates were Ijaw. Yet, through political manipulation, the Itsekiris hijacked the headquarters. The pattern continues today.

    They also claim that Ogbe-Ijoh people have no presence in Warri metropolis, but that’s false. Ogbe-Ijoh people were among the earliest settlers; they signed treaties with Europeans and gave them land. The Sacred Heart Cathedral and Ogbe-Ijoh Market sit on Ogbe-Ijoh land.

    On Land Ownership and Colonial handover to Itsekiri

    During the colonial era, Dore Numa, an Itsekiri warrant chief, served as the middleman between the British and local communities. Through him, Warri land was appropriated under a trust system that allowed the Itsekiris to claim ownership of vast territories. But historically, the Ogbe-Ijoh was the first settlers.

    However, on land ownership is just a distraction in the current matter. INEC’s work is about population and representation, not land. The commission rightly awarded three wards to the Ogbe-Ijoh Ijaws based on verified population data in Warri metropolis. In Warri Southwest the Ijaws got wards based on their voting strength while the Itsekiri got five. This is the true reflection of the reality on ground.

    On Implementing the New Wards

    If government delays implementing the delineation, it will appear biased. INEC has already completed the process as ordered by the Supreme Court. Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) is ongoing, so under which wards are new voters registering? The old or the new? The confusion must end.

    On Avoiding Another Crisis

    The Itsekiris started the first Warri crisis, and they’re once again trying to provoke conflict. Their argument that the Ijaws have many LGAs is baseless. The Warri LGAs – North, South, and Southwest – are not purely Itsekiri. They are multi-ethnic, home to Gbaramatu, Ogbe-Ijoh, Diebiri, Isaba, and Egbema communities.

    We’ve always advocated for dialogue. We proposed a rotational formula for political offices, but they rejected it. The fairest solution is to divide Warri into three federal constituencies, North, South, and southwest, so that each area can elect its own representative.

    On the Olu of Warri Title

    The same Awolowo-led Western Region government that changed the title from “Olu of Itsekiri” to “Olu of Warri” in 1957 also stated that the Olu’s authority does not extend over Gbaramatu, Ogbe-Ijoh, Isaba, or Egbema kingdoms. Restoring the original title “Olu of Itsekiri” – would ease tensions. The current title gives a false sense of overlordship and fuels resentment among neighbouring tribes.

    On the ‘Customary Tenant’ Tag

    Calling the Ijaw people “customary tenants” is deeply insulting. The Ijaw historically resisted slavery—we helped free slaves, we never owned them. So labeling us “tenants” is an attempt to degrade us.

    If they truly believe we are tenants, let them come and enforce it. We know the land is ours. We want peace, but we will not accept slavery in any form.

    On INEC’s Role and the Path Forward

    The delineation process was fair and scientific, based on population data and land occupation. INEC used modern instruments and followed due process. The Itsekiris participated fully and only began protesting after seeing the results.

    Politics is about negotiation, not intimidation. When the Itsekiris had the upper hand, they refused dialogue. Now that the tables have turned, they must accept the new reality. INEC should implement its findings without delay – the sky won’t fall. The longer they delay, the greater the tension.

    On the Risk of Renewed Unrest

    As leaders, we’ve tried to keep our people calm, but frustration is growing. If INEC or the government continues to delay, we may lose control. Some youths and women are already threatening to shut down oil operations in the area.

    The federal government should act quickly. People like Tompolo have been instrumental in maintaining peace, but even he will not stand by if his people are continually oppressed. We’ve made our case before the DSS, AIG Zone 5, and the ONSA. We will not destroy facilities, but we can stop oil flow. The agitation is real, and patience is wearing thin. Implementing the delineation report is the only way to restore trust and avoid another crisis in Warri.

  • FCT hosts mix of art competition

    FCT hosts mix of art competition

    An entertainment outfit, The Grill Hype, hosted a refreshing mix of art, competition, and camaraderie.

    The event, tagged ‘The Grill Warfare II,’ brought together some of the best and brightest creatives in Abuja for an unforgettable day of music, games, and creative expression.

    One of the major highlights was the city’s first-ever Compliment Rap Battle, where participants competed not with disses but with verses of praise and positivity, a dynamic twist on rap culture that celebrated creativity without conflict.

    Emerging as the inaugural champion was Buez, The Boy Wonder, whose witty wordplay and commanding presence earned him the title and solidified his place in Abuja’s cultural history.

    Beyond the lyrical display, the event featured the much-anticipated Creative Paintball Tournament, which united designers, DJs, stylists, OAPs, artists, and entertainers across industries for an afternoon of friendly competition and community spirit.

    Read Also: Six innovative business ideas you can start with less than N100,000

    The vibrant atmosphere blended music, food, and shared laughter, celebrating The Grill Hype’s vision of connection through creativity.

    The organisers extended their appreciation to all partners and sponsors who made the event possible, including Heads and Toes (Headline Sponsor), Elytron, Strange Village Studios, Daren Fob, Rhia Bello, Abujagist, Mob Urban Radio, NBHOAF, Ghost the Cinematographer, The Buj Pipeline, Vibe Nation Records, Afroselecta BBK, Hybrid Trips, Danny Drey, and Bandobaby Q, whose support helped transform this vision into a timeless moment.

  • Kano hits 90% immunisation coverage, as Gates Foundation intervenes

    Kano hits 90% immunisation coverage, as Gates Foundation intervenes

    Only in Nasarawa local government council alone, no fewer than 426,813 children, out of this year’s 476,115 target population for the Integrated Immunisation campaign, have been immunised.

    The Nation conducted a post-immunisation investigation in Kano and can authoritatively report that this year’s immunisation coverage and accessibility in Kano has beaten the records of all previous exercises.

    Kano has an inconsistent history with vaccination, where resistance was high in the past due to several factors. But with the help of development partners like the Gates Foundation, the state has overcome its vaccine diffidence, hitting 90 percent immunisation record this year.

    The Nation was in several local government areas of the state. In Nasarawa local government area, the Primary Health Care Centre Coordinator, Abbah Ahmad, said the 2025 coverage is 90 percent.

    Read Also: Kano partners Fed Govt to boost education through school feeding initiative

    He said the national immunisation programme in Kano targeted 476,115 children, including those in the zero dose categories.  And while some of the kids could be easily accessed in the metropolitan areas, majority of them were accessed in hidden remote areas using volunteers.

    “We achieved a lot. We have done Measles Rubella in 10 days, now we are doing mop-up. We have immunised 426,813 children which is 90 percent coverage,” he said.

    The Local Immunisation Officer, Aliyu Musa, who is responsible for the coordination of the immunisation team and creation of data to track defaulters, said they ensured no one was left behind.

    “What we are doing now is mop up by our team of sweepers who will go house to house and bring out children yet to receive the vaccines.  And our strategy is having different units including health educators, the advocacy team, sweepers and the vaccinating team etc,” Musa said.

    The national flag-off of the campaign by the president’s wife, Oluremi Tinubu, targeted vaccinating 106 million children in the country to scale the uptake of Routine Immunisation (RI), which currently stands at 60 percent.

  • Business leader Odina hails ex-CDS Musa’s patriotic service, reforms in Armed Forces

    Business leader Odina hails ex-CDS Musa’s patriotic service, reforms in Armed Forces

    The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Green Lunar Nigeria Limited, Olaniyi Odina, has praised the immediate past Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa (rtd.), describing him as a patriotic officer whose tenure strengthened professionalism, discipline, and strategic reforms within the Nigerian Armed Forces.

    In a tribute, Odina said he took great pride in General Musa’s achievements, noting that his leadership left a profound and lasting impact on national security and defence operations.

    Reflecting on his long-standing personal relationship with the retired military chief, Odina stated, “I have known General Christopher Musa since I was a young boy, and it gives me a great sense of pride to see how far he has come. He has served Nigeria with uncommon dedication, courage, and humility. Watching him rise to the pinnacle of military leadership as Chief of Defence Staff was a moment of deep joy for me and for every patriotic Nigerian.”

    He commended the former CDS for his unwavering commitment to national unity and domestic security, especially his role in leading Operation Hadin Kai, the military’s counterterrorism mission in the North-East.

    Odina added that under General Musa’s leadership, the Armed Forces made notable progress in combating insurgency and banditry while strengthening collaboration among the services.

    “General Musa led with intellect and integrity. His calm approach to difficult national security challenges reflected maturity and strategic depth. He prioritized the welfare of troops, strengthened civil-military relations, and ensured that Nigeria’s defence posture remained resilient in the face of global and internal threats,” he said.

    Odina further described him as “a fine officer and a gentleman whose service will continue to inspire generations of young Nigerians.”

    He called on the Federal Government to continue tapping into General Musa’s wealth of experience in security strategy and national defence planning.

    “Retirement does not end the call to serve one’s country. May God bless him for his sacrifices to our fatherland and grant him long life, good health, and peace in this new chapter of his life,” Odina concluded.

  • CRVN applauds Tinubu for approving 15% import duty on petrol, diesel

    CRVN applauds Tinubu for approving 15% import duty on petrol, diesel

    …says it will strengthen local refining and protect jobs

    The Conference of Registered Voters in Nigeria (CRVN) has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving a 15 percent import duty on petrol and diesel, describing the policy as bold, strategic, and critical to transforming Nigeria’s petroleum sector and protecting local investments.

    In a statement issued on Saturday, the group’s National President, Dr. Ebikeme Edesiri, hailed President Tinubu for showing courage and foresight in strengthening Nigeria’s refiningj capacity and advancing the country toward energy self-sufficiency.

    Dr. Edesiri noted that the decision underscores the administration’s commitment to building a resilient economy that prioritises local production, safeguards jobs, and boosts investor confidence.

    “President Tinubu has once again shown that he is a reform-minded leader who understands what it takes to build a stable economy. This import duty is not punitive—it is protective. It shields our local refineries from unfair competition, supports Nigerian workers, and secures the future of our oil and gas industry,” the statement reads.

    According to the CRVN, the policy will encourage investment, create jobs, and reduce Nigeria’s reliance on imported fuel. The group added that the new import tax is expected to promote healthy competition, strengthen the naira, and boost government revenue for national development.

    “This policy is a win-win for government, industry, and the people. By curbing the influx of cheap imported fuel, we will be protecting the huge investments made in domestic refining. It is a practical step toward energy independence and national pride,” the statement added. 

    Edesiri noted that the measure aligns with the President’s broader reform agenda, which includes removing fuel subsidies, unifying the exchange rate, and expanding non-oil revenue sources to strengthen the economy.

    “Each of these reforms reflects a consistent and visionary economic direction. President Tinubu is not playing politics with policy. He is making tough but necessary decisions that will set Nigeria on the path of sustainable growth,” Edesiri said. 

    The CRVN urged the federal government to ensure that revenue generated from the import duty is transparently managed and invested in improving critical infrastructure, especially roads, power, and healthcare.

    The group also called on Nigerians to support the reforms, noting that the benefits of the current policies would soon become evident through improved local capacity, job creation, and economic stability.

    “We must be patient and support these policies. No country achieves self-sufficiency overnight. What we are witnessing is a deliberate rebuilding of our economy from within. It requires the cooperation of every Nigerian,” the group admonished.

    Edesiri commended the President’s vision for aligning Nigeria’s petroleum policy with international standards that prioritise domestic value addition over import dependence.

    “This 15 percent petroleum import duty is an act of national renewal. It will protect Nigerian refineries, stimulate growth, and secure jobs. We stand solidly behind the President and urge him to sustain these noble reforms that bring development closer to the common man.”

    The group reaffirmed its confidence in President Tinubu’s leadership, describing him as “a man of courage, conviction, and vision” who is steering the country toward genuine economic independence.

  • Oluwatosin Adeola Ajayi: A legacy of compassion, service

    Oluwatosin Adeola Ajayi: A legacy of compassion, service

    By Jacob Edi

    While scouring the streets of Facebook days, ago, I stumbled on a post by Hon Ifunanya Nwanegwo, who happens to be the Chairman, Mbaitoli LGA, Imo state. In the post, she was appreciating the Director General of the Department of State Services (DSS) , Mr Oluwatosin Adeola Ajayi, for empowering ten people in the LGA to help them boost their small businesses. 

    What struck me the most wasn’t the post, but the comments that ensued. It was laden with emotion-laced testimonies of how the  DSS boss has always been benevolent. Expectedly, my initial reaction was that this must have been a political move. However, it struck me that the name didn’t sound Igbo. In fact, he is Ijebu from Ogun state. And from my little knowledge of the Yoruba, I know that they are considered the most thrifty, if not the stingiest, of the Yoruba race.

    When I enquired if this gesture was because his wife is from Imo State,  I discovered that she isn’t. Therefore, I ruled out politics. This is humanity at play, combined with leadership, purpose and achievement of national security objectives. In that moment. I decided to dig a bit further to attempt the difficult task of unraveling the man, mystery and the motive.

    While researching the background of Mr. Ajayi from colleagues, superiors and subordinates at the DSS, it dawned on me that the man has what I would describe as a ‘special place in his heart’ for the less privileged in the society. For instance, I got to learn that as far back as in 1994, when he was still a budding officer, Ajayi’s hobby was providing financial assistance to orphanages and leper homes in Akure, Ondo State. As he rose in rank and got transferred to other states, he improved on the scope of the support. Now, as the DG of the DSS, I heard, he carries out outreaches at orphanage homes across all states at different times of the year.

    Friends and former colleagues describe Mr. Ajayi as an uncommon humanitarian. “He is led by principles of humanity, not of politics, nor religion nor tribe or any sentiment whatsoever, ” said one of his university classmates. While serving in Bauchi state, offered a now retired deputy director of the Service, Ajayi renovated a mosque at Tafewa-Balewa. He rebuilt the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) which was in near ruins, even as he reportedly renovated the Evangelical Church of West Africa (ECWA) church there. 

    He didn’t stop at providing assistance to churches and mosques. The DSS boss, I learnt, made it a point of duty to host Christian and Muslim leaders yearly as a means of fostering unity while also extending humanitarian assistance to them. He would feed those fasting during Lent and Ramadan, and provide assistance to any who met him for pressing issues.

    As I dug deeper, I was struck by awe as to how a security chief could be so moved by passion for humanity to do all he did and is still doing. 

    In my home state, Kogi, where I served as Special Adviser on Media and Strategy to former Governor Idris Wada,  I couldn’t but notice the impact Mr. Ajayi made in my state when he served as the State Director of Security.  Even though his deployment came after that administration, while other neighbouring states struggled with insecurity, Ajayi, I learnt, largely succeeded in keeping Kogi safe, apparently using his unique style of engaging aristocrats and plebeians alike. 

    Aside occasionally empowering people, the DSS boss, I further learnt, had the habit of visiting hospitals and offsetting bills of indigent patients. He would support widows with empowerment programmes and offer scholarships to their children. From what I gathered, when selecting beneficiaries, Ajayi does not discriminate on the basis of tongue or creed. 

    From Bauchi to Bayelsa, and from Plateau to Rivers, and from Ondo to Kaduna States, I learnt, Ajayi’s benevolent fingerprints in orphanages and several humanitarian gestures are as clear as the day. In a clime where it is not uncommon for public officers, especially security chiefs, to seek to make the best of their postings, Ajayi chose to be different. He always gave back, in very special ways, to the indigents in the states he served. 

    In the course of my investigating this  interesting man, I learnt that security may not just be about brandishing arms and ammunition. I got to learn that the DSS boss believes that humanitarian acts have proven to be a very efficient non-conventional method of maintaining peace and security. One of the driving forces of the DSS boss, noted a retired director of the Service, is in his belief that any intelligence service without human asset will be struggling as, according to the spy chief, human intelligence aka HUMINT is more effective. He reportedly believes that the collection of information from human sources through interpersonal contact is very effective. 

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    I guess he believes that when an idle mind is meaningfully engaged, chances of indulging in criminality become slimmer. In the states he served across all the geo-political zones, Ajayi was able to use this unconventional approach to record successes. It, therefore, came as a little surprise that President Tinubu appointed him to head the DSS, and realize the National Strategic Security Plan.

    Apparently, due to the classified nature of DSS activities, I, understandably, couldn’t lay hands on some information I desired. Thankfully, by virtue of his becoming Director General, some of his activities have become public information which makes it easy to better understand his true nature. I remember that months ago, friends of the DSS boss donated an Islamic school to a community in Kaduna state. He had served in the state and, in 2009, directed the successful rescue of a Canadian lady and official of Rotary International. 

    We cannot overemphasize the importance of security to our daily lives. The earlier we begin to realize that all aspects of the society needs to be fully secured for us to make progress, the better we start appreciating people like Mr Ajayi who leaves no stone unturned in the quest to make Nigeria safer. 

    It goes without saying that a man’s true nature is exposed through his actions. The kind nature of the DSS boss perhaps is the reason he finds it easy to compensate individuals who were wrongly arrested by the Service. Apparently, only a kind, just and true man who expresses empathy towards the plight of others will go through the inconvenience of apologising and compensating suspects arrested or detained in error. 

    At this point some might be wondering, if with the DSS boss, charity is indeed beginning at home? In other words, if DSS personnel are also beneficiaries of Ajayi’s kindness. I cannot claim to have all the details. However, most serving and retired personnel of the DSS I interacted with say they’ve never had it so good. I hear they are better enumerated, personnel issues are prioritized, families of personnel lost in the line of duty are adequately compensated, wives and relatives of inactive personnel are empowered and most importantly, personnel of the agency are hopeful for a better future in the Service.

    The humanitarian deeds of the DSS boss are too numerous to mention in a single piece as this. I’m happy to have come to realize that Ajayi is not just the Director General, DSS. He is a man who sees the hollowness in the hearts of the needy and goes overboard to support them and give them hope. 

    It is my sincere prayer that, some day, other leaders across the country will emulate this Good Samaritan who continues to build on a worthy legacy of kindness and service for humanity.

    Edi, Special Adviser to Governor Usman Ododo on Information and Communications,, and former chairman, NUJ (FCT chapter), wrote from Abuja

  • Fed govt, EU to mobilise investment for Nigeria’s healthcare ecosystem

    Fed govt, EU to mobilise investment for Nigeria’s healthcare ecosystem

    The European Union Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, in collaboration with the Presidential Initiative for Unlocking the Healthcare Value Chain (PVAC) have announced plans to organise a health investment forum to mobilise investment for Nigeria’s healthcare ecosystem

    The Nigeria–EU Health Investment Forum, scheduled to hold on 30 October, is in collaboration with the National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development (NIPRD).

    The high-level signature event themed “Made in Nigeria. Made for Health,” will bring together government officials, industry leaders, development partners, and investors.

    The forum aims to boost Nigeria’s manufacturing capacity, strengthen regulatory systems, and mobilise investment across its pharmaceutical and healthcare ecosystem.

    The event, scheduled to take place at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre in Abuja, will advance Nigeria’s health sector industrialisation and deepen strategic dialogue and sustainable partnerships with the EU.

    EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Gautier Mignot, described the initiative as a defining moment for strategic partnership.

    The envoy said: “This forum brings together government, industry, research, and investors to turn ambition into action for health sovereignty and local production. The EU and Team Europe, through the Global Gateway, are investing in people, systems, and innovation. This transformation will strengthen how health products are made, distributed, and accessed across Nigeria and the ECOWAS region.”

    Mignot added that the event would focus on shaping a healthier and more self-reliant future.

    “We look forward to signing new partnerships, driving sustainable investments, and co-creating solutions that will reinforce Nigeria’s health security for decades to come. By aligning our investments with Nigeria’s healthcare reform agenda, we are supporting local producers and innovators who will build a stronger and more resilient health ecosystem across West Africa,” he noted.

    Director-General of NIPRD, Dr Obi Adigwe, said the forum is a unique opportunity to showcase Nigeria’s readiness to lead Africa’s health manufacturing renaissance.

    Adigwe added that the conversations and partnerships emerging from the forum will shape the next decade of Nigeria’s health sector.

    He said: “It will connect policy, innovation, and investment, while highlighting NIPRD’s role in driving evidence-based research that supports local pharmaceutical production.

    “Our goal is to make ‘Made in Nigeria, Made for Health’ a reality that delivers sustainable impact across the country and the continent. We welcome this collaboration with the EU and the Presidential Initiative for Unlocking the Healthcare Value Chain as a pivotal step towards transforming Nigeria’s research outputs into viable industrial solutions.

    “Together, we are building the foundations for equitable access to safe, affordable, and high-quality medicines made in Nigeria for Nigerians and other nationalities.”

    National Coordinator of the Presidential Initiative for Unlocking the Healthcare Value Chain, Dr Abdu Mukhtar said the forum represents a turning point for Nigeria’s health sector transformation.

    “Through this partnership with the EU and NIPRD, we are creating the conditions for large-scale private investment, expanding domestic manufacturing, and unlocking the economic potential of the health sector.

    “The Presidential Initiative is committed to ensuring that the healthcare value chain becomes a driver of growth, innovation, and jobs, while ensuring that Nigerians have access to the products they need for a healthier life,” he said.

    During the forum, key participants will sign finalised contracts under the Team Europe Initiative on Manufacturing and Access to Vaccines, Medicines and Health Technologies in Africa (MAV+), as well as a regional agreement to be implemented by the West Africa Health Organisation (WAHO) under the Team Europe Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) Flagship.

    These agreements aim to harmonise SRHR policies, expand access to underused SRHR products and maternal health services, and strengthen accountability systems across the region.

    In addition, the Presidential Initiative for Unlocking the Healthcare Value Chain (PVAC), Bayer AG, and Chromedix Pharmaceuticals Ltd. are forging a forward-looking partnership to position Nigeria as Africa’s next powerhouse for pharmaceutical innovation, manufacturing, and health sovereignty.

    The event will feature a policy showcase, deal-making sessions, and innovation-led discussions on sustainability, resilience, and equity in health.