The Nation Newspaper

Tag: Abbas Tajudeen

  • Speaker Abbas applaud APC’s victory in bye-election

    Speaker Abbas applaud APC’s victory in bye-election

    Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, said on Sunday that the outcome of Saturday’s bye-elections was a reflection of the unwavering support the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) enjoys from the electorate across the country. 

    The Speaker congratulated the party on the victory in Zaria Kewaye State Constituency, Basawa State Constituency, and Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency. 

    The APC won 12 of the 17 elective offices contested across the country on Saturday, leading APGA with two seats, while the PDP and NNPP won one seat each. 

    The party won one of the two senatorial seats in Edo, Four of the five House of Representatives seats in Edo, Ogun, Kaduna and jigawa as well as state Assembly seats in Kogi, Kano, Kaduna, Niger, Adamawa and Taraba states. 

    In a congratulatory signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Musa Abdullahi Krishi, the Speaker specifically felicitated the APC candidate for Zaria Kewaye, Hon. Isah Haruna Mohammed (Ihamo), describing him as the right man for the job.

    Read Also: Mutfwang launches Nigeria Learning Passport to boost digital learning in Plateau

    He also described the victory of the candidates for Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency, Hon. Fidelix Joseph Bagudu, and that of Basawa State Constituency, Hon. Sani Dahiru, as well-deserved.

    The Speaker also congratulated all APC candidates who emerged victorious during the by-elections in other states while thanking the people for believing in the APC, saying the ruling party and its administration would not let them down.

    He said, “I am delighted to congratulate our party and its candidates on this massive victory. It has only reaffirmed the popularity of the APC, not just in Kaduna State but in Nigeria as a whole.

    “I felicitate Governor Uba Sani, CON, the APC family at both the federal and state levels, and our teeming supporters for this victory.

    “This victory is indeed reassuring as the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, administration works assiduously to reposition the country and improve the living conditions of the citizens.

    “This win is an indication that APC remains the choice of the majority of Nigeria and is the party to beat now and in all future elections,” the Speaker said.

    After the closing of the ballot on Saturday, Speaker Abbas embarked on thank-you visits to the seven electoral wards that constitute the Zaria Kewaye State Constituency, where he was received by mammoth crowds at the various polling units.

    He used the opportunity to observe the atmosphere and see for himself how the by-election was conducted. He visited the polling units at Angwan Dankali, Kufena Ward; Kamfanin Saye in Dutsen Abba Ward; Gangaren Kwadi, Tudun Wada Ward; Unguwar Kaya, Gyallesu Ward; Bako Zuntu Street, Tukur-Tukur Ward; Bizara, Wuchichiri Ward; Wuchichiri Polling Unit, Wuchichiri Ward, and Mangu in Dambo Ward.

    The by-election went on peacefully. Speaker Abbas Tajudeen was impressed by the conduct of the people and the electoral officials.

  • Speaker Abbas chairs presidential panel on Bauchi APC reconciliation

    Speaker Abbas chairs presidential panel on Bauchi APC reconciliation

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, to lead efforts in resolving the protracted crisis within the Bauchi State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    Abbas will head a reconciliation committee comprising Yobe State Governor Mai Mala Buni; former House Speaker Yakubu Dogara; Senior Special Assistant to the President on National Assembly Matters (Senate), Senator Abdullahi Abubakar Gumel; Senior Special Assistant to the President (Political), Alhaji Ibrahim Masari; and Alhaji Usman Abubakar Gotomo. The Speaker’s Chief of Staff, Prof. Jake Dan-Azumi, will serve as the committee’s secretary.

    The presidential panel, tasked with addressing internal party wrangling ahead of the APC congresses, has already held its inaugural meeting to map out strategies.

    Speaking at the meeting, Abbas noted that the Bauchi APC stalemate, which dates back to the 2015 primaries, warranted the President’s intervention. He said the committee members were chosen for their integrity, track record, and fairness, urging them to deliver results within the one-month mandate.

    Read Also: Gani Adams urges southwest governors to harness tourism for economic growth

    The meeting resolved to embark on a fact-finding mission and engage relevant stakeholders to identify lasting solutions to the crisis.

    Some of the stakeholders present at the meeting included two former governors of Bauchi State, Mohammed Abdullahi Abubakar, SAN, and Alhaji Isa Yuguda; Sen. Surat Dada; Sen. Salisu Matori; Minister of Health Mohammed Ali Pate; Abdulmalik Mahmood; Sen. Abubakar Maikafi; Hon. Tijjani Mohammed Ali; Hon. Yahaya M. Miya; Hon. Ibrahim B. Hassan; Sanusi Hamisu Ileli; Miro Lallop; Barr. Habib B. Aliyu, and Hon. Abdullahi Shehu Abdulkadir.

    Others were Hon. Ibrahim Zailani; Hon. Yusuf C. Nuhu; Hon. Adamu Hamza; Hon. Shehu Aliyu; Hon. Zakariya Salifu; Hon. Hashim Yakubu; Hon. Abdullahi Dabo; Hon. Baffa Buachu; Hon. Garba L. Gololo; Hon. Yakubu Shehu Abdullahi; Hon. Bala Rabilu; Alhaji Bako Abdullahi; Hon. Aminu T. Gadau; Hon. Kabiru Yauka Aliyu; and Hon. Tanko J. Loko.

    The committee is expected to submit its report in the coming weeks for further presidential intervention.

  • Ogbeh served Nigeria diligently, Speaker Abbas mourns ex-minister

    Ogbeh served Nigeria diligently, Speaker Abbas mourns ex-minister

    Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen said on Sunday that former national chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Audu Ogbeh served the Nigerian nation diligently for many years.

    He described as shocking the news of the demise of the former chairman of the pan northern socio-politucal organisation, the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF).

    Speaker Abbas described Chief Ogbeh as an elder statesman who spent most of his life in diligence service to Nigeria and the people.

    In a condolence message signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Musa Abdullahi Krishi, the Speaker said not many Nigerians were privileged to serve the country like Chief Ogbeh.

    Read Also: 2027: Minister assures Tinubu, APC of massive votes in A’Ibom

    While recalling how Ogbeh had been a public servant since the late 70s, the Speaker stressed that the late elder statesman occupied various offices in the executive and legislative arms of the government at the state and federal levels in his lifetime.

    In the Second Republic, Chief Ogbeh was the deputy speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly in 1979 and was also the Federal Minister of Communications (1982–1983) and later Minister of Steel Development until a coup ended the Republic in December 1983.

    In the Third Republic, Chief Ogbeh was a member of the National Constitutional Conference Commission (1993) and the National Reconciliation Committee (1995).

    In the Fourth Republic, Chief Ogbeh served as a founding member of the Peoples Democratic Party and was the national chairman of the PDP between 2001 and 2005.

    Chief Ogbeh was appointed Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development (2015–2019) by the late former president, Muhammadu Buhari, before his election as chairman of the ACF between 2020 and 2023.

    Speaker Abbas commiserated the Ogbeh family, the people, and the government of Benue State, while extending his condolences to Chief Ogbeh’s colleagues in the parliament and the Federal Executive Councils of the various administrations under which he served.

    The Speaker prayed to God to grant Chief Ogbeh eternal rest.

  • D’Tigress’  victory: I am emboldened to fight for gender equality, says Speaker Abbas

    D’Tigress’  victory: I am emboldened to fight for gender equality, says Speaker Abbas

    Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, has  said the victory of the Nigeria female National Basketball Team, D’Tigress has emboldened him to continue to fight for gender inclusion and equality in political participation.

    The Speaker commended the team for beating Mali at the final of the 2025 FIBA Women’s Afrobasket, winning the trophy for a record fifth successive time  and seventh overall.

    D’Tigress were crowned champions of the basketball tournament on Sunday at the Palais des Sports de Treichville in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.

    Nigeria has now made history as the first country on the continent to win the women’s Afrobasket championships five consecutive times, while the team remained unbeaten in the tournament for a decade.

    An elated Abbas commended the female basketball team for making Nigeria proud, saying the victory marks another joyful moment for Nigerians home and abroad, especially as the women national football team, the Super Falcons, recently won the 10th  WAFCON.

    He said the D’Tigress have further proven that women have the capability and the courage to cause positive changes to Nigeria, stressing  that the feat  has now more emboldened him to continue with his campaign for gender equality, especially women’s inclusion in politics and governance.

    Abbas said he expects to see more women breaking barriers and records individually and collectively in other areas of human endeavour.

    On his part, Benjamin Kalu, commend the team’s remarkable display of resilience, determination, and teamwork, describing them as an inspiration to the girl child.

    Read Also: NFF  names Mary Akinsola  Super Falcons’ Media Officer

    The Deputy Speaker also commended the Coach, Rena Wakama and the crew for their outstanding leadership and strategic execution, adding that their superb performance throughout the competition has made Nigeria proud.

    ‎The Deputy Speaker said:  “History Made Again by our Women! Big Congratulations to our incredible D’Tigress on winning the FIBA Women’s AfroBasket title and becoming the first country in Africa to win this title  fifth  time consecutively.

    “With this resounding victory over Mali, these women have made us all proud as a nation. What a moment for Nigeria, and what a legacy. Another reminder that our women are ready to take our nation to greater heights.

    “Kudos to Coach Rena Wakama and the entire team for flying our flag high and qualifying us directly for the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup in Berlin. We are confident that you will come home with the trophy.”

  • Investors to tackle housing deficit

    Investors to tackle housing deficit

    In a strategic move to find innovative solutions to Nigeria’s housing and infrastructure challenges, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Speaker of the House of Representatives, welcomed a delegation from Equity Circle to Abuja for a forward-looking dialogue on the nation’s housing future.

    The meeting brought renewed optimism for addressing the persistent housing deficit through fresh ideas and collaboration.

    The Equity Circle delegation, led by Chief Executive Officer, John Igbinosa and accompanied by Director of Marketing Fabian George and Director Adewale Da Silva, was joined by Tamar Forteta, Special Assistant to the Delta State Governor, and Hon. Nnamdi Ezechi, House of Representatives member for Ndokwa East/Ndokwa West/Ukwuani. Together, the group presented bold and visionary proposals.

    Read Also: Jonah Isawa Elaigwu, Political Science Scholarship and Discourse on Federalism in Nigeria

    During the engagement, Speaker Abbas praised the group’s proactive and visionary proposals, describing their efforts as both timely and impactful.

    “Voices like Equity Circle inspire us to rethink how we approach Nigeria’s housing needs. This kind of collaboration between government and innovative minds is essential to bridge the housing gap and improve the lives of millions of Nigerians”, Abbas said

  • Reps to provide legislative backing to critical economic sectors – Abbas

    Reps to provide legislative backing to critical economic sectors – Abbas

    Speaker of the House of Representatives Abbas Tajudeen said the 10th National Assembly will provide legislative backing for sectors that are crucial to the sustainability and advancement of the national economy.

    Represented by the Chairman of the House Committee on Public Petitions, Bitrus La’ori, at a public hearing on the amendment to the Nigeria Safety and Investigation Bureau establishment bill, the Speaker said sectors like aviation, along with land and maritime transport, form the backbone of any thriving modern society.

    Abbas said the public hearing was fundamental to the collective efforts in updating the legal framework that governs safety investigations across Nigeria’s transportation sectors and reflects the openness of the legislative process and underscores the vital role that public input plays in shaping the laws that serve the people.

    He said the House stands fully prepared to provide the necessary legislative backing to sectors that are crucial to the sustainability and advancement of our national economy, adding that aviation, along with land and maritime transport, forms the backbone of any thriving modern society.

    He said these sectors not only facilitate commerce and communication, but also embody our national image and readiness to engage in regional and global partnerships, saying, “The Bill under consideration today seeks to enhance the powers and operational reach of the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau. The objective is to strengthen the Bureau’s capacity to address safety-related issues in a more holistic manner beyond aviation and to include land and marine sectors as well.

    Speaker Abbas described the hearing as a deliberate legislative step to modernize the Bureau’s functions in line with Nigeria’s evolving transport architecture and safety obligations as it represents a strategic opportunity for all stakeholders, government institutions, industry professionals, operators, safety investigators, and members of the public to contribute their views on how to improve the legal instrument establishing the Bureau.

    According to him, the goal is to produce a law that not only meets current demands but is also flexible enough to accommodate emerging safety challenges in the years ahead. It is important that the input from this forum is clear, constructive, and relevant, because it will ultimately shape how the House proceeds with legislative action on the Bill.

    He said the proposed amendment to the NSIB Act is not just a conventional legislative exercise. It is a national response to the reality that safety systems must be proactive, not reactive.

    He said, “Incidents in transportation, whether minor or tragic, should always trigger institutional learning and policy advancement. This is why the Bureau must be equipped with a broader mandate and stronger tools to carry out its role effectively. The ability to investigate incidents across multiple modes of transport will ensure greater coherence in safety management and better coordination in emergency response.

    “Beyond improving institutional effectiveness, the Bill also seeks to bring Nigeria’s safety investigation procedures closer to international best practices. As air, road, and marine travel continue to rise in volume and complexity, we must be confident that our investigative frameworks are not lagging behind global standards.

    “A safe transport system is a sign of a responsible state. It reassures citizens, boosts investor confidence, and upholds our obligations under various international aviation and maritime agreements”.

    Chairman of the House Committee on Special Duties, Fred Agbedi, said the public hearing was more than a legislative obligation, but a vital opportunity for dialogue, partnership, and progress and the promise of strengthening the NSIB’s capacity to investigate, prevent, and respond more effectively to incidents across Aviation, Land transportation, Marine Sector and beyond.

    He said, “We are here today because we care about the safety of Nigerians – in the air, on land, at sea, and across our entire transport infrastructure. We are also here because we believe in inclusive governance and the value of public input in shaping laws that affect us all.

    “Your voices – as experts, industry operators, civil society actors, and concerned citizens are crucial. The success of this process depends on your frank contributions and informed perspectives”.

    Sponsor of the bill, Isiaq Abiodun Akinlade, said the effectiveness of the NSIB has been hindered by its current placement under the Ministry of Aviation, adding that “limitation undermines the bureau’s ability to fulfill its mandate due to institutional bottlenecks, lack of independence, and fragmented inter-agency coordination across Nigeria’s transport regulatory ecosystem”.

    Read Also: Abbas, Deputy applaud Super Falcons’ well-deserved WAFCON victory

    He explained that “globally, leading accident investigation bodies, such as the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) in the United States, operate as autonomous agencies, directly reporting to the highest level of government. This structure ensures independence, credibility, and efficiency in accident investigation processes”.

    He listed the challenges facing the agency as currently placed to include lack of independence which he said raises concerns about impartiality and operational autonomy, which are critical for conducting credible investigations, conflict of mandates with several agencies such as FRSC, NCAA, NIMASA, NIWA, and NRC, operate under different ministries and attempt to perform accident investigation roles alongside their regulatory functions. This overlap leads to inefficiencies and conflicts with the NSIB’s mandate.

    He said further that the agency is also suffering from limited access to decision-making required to swiftly resolve interagency conflict and implement safety recommendations, adding that international bodies prefer independent investigative agencies.

  • Abbas, Deputy applaud Super Falcons’ well-deserved WAFCON victory

    Abbas, Deputy applaud Super Falcons’ well-deserved WAFCON victory

    Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen and his Deputy, Benjamin Kalu has congratulated  the Super Falcons for winning the Women’s African Cup of Nations for a record 10 times, describing the victory as well-deserved.

    Abbas thanked and commended the Nigerian team for defeating their Moroccan opponents at the finals on Saturday night before their home crowd, saying they have further cemented their position as champions of Africa.

    He described the Super Falcons as being spectacular in the final match, which saw a comeback win against the host nation.

    The Speaker said the victory was not only well-deserved but also came as a relief to Nigerians as a football-loving nation. He added that the WAFCON trophy is a symbol of patriotism, hard work, and tenacity.

    While  calling for appreciation of the Super Falcons by the Nigerian Government, he also urged Nigerian athletes to continue to be loyal to their country, adding the country has many talents at the grassroots who are waiting for opportunities.

    He therefore called for the revival of inter-house and inter-school sporting competitions, stressing the need for the government to embark on a ‘catch-them-young’ campaign.

    On his part, the Deputy Speaker said the Falcons displayed unmatched skill, prowess and undeterred spirit, adding that the triumph is not just about a trophy but a symbol of the diligence, resilience, and unstoppable rise of women in sports, governance and other areas of life and endeavours.

    He said that the triumph also marks a significant milestone for Nigerian women’s football, showcasing the team’s dedication to the sport.

    Applauding the team for flying the Nigerian flag high in Morocco, Kalu recalled that the thrilling comeback of a 3-2 goal margin that put the Super Falcons ahead of the host nation and ultimately gave Nigeria the deserved victory was a remarkable display of resilience and determination.

    Read Also: Tinubu, NFF, others lead tributes for Peter Rufai

    He pledged continued parliamentary supply for sports development in Nigeria.

    He said: “Congratulations to our Super Falcons, Champions of Africa, on this resounding victory at the just concluded 2024 Women’s African Cup Of Nations (WAFCON) Final in Rabat, Morocco.

    “Your passion and unmatched skill have once again made us all proud. You played with your heart, and an undeterred spirit that reflects the true strength of Nigerian women.

    “This triumph is more than just a trophy. It’s a symbol of the diligence, resilience, and the unstoppable rise of women not just in sports but every other aspect of our society. It’s a reminder that women are capable of achieving great things with the right support.

    “From every corner of our nation, we salute you, standing in ovation for this laudable achievement. Thank you for flying the Nigerian flag high”.

  • A true partner in democracy

    A true partner in democracy

    • By Abbas Tajudeen

    We gather today in solemn reverence to honour the memory of a man whose life and legacy are deeply woven into the fabric of our republic. In this very chamber where he once presided with purpose and principle, we remember President Muhammadu Buhari — a sentinel of service, a steward of simplicity, and a statesman shaped by sacrifice.

    President Buhari was no ordinary figure in our national journey. He embodied quiet strength, moral clarity and an unshakable sense of duty. At a time when society was seduced by materialism, he chose a life of modest means and meaningful service. He was devoted to family and steadfast in his Islamic faith. His humour and humility softened his disciplined exterior.

    Buhari’s belief in the brevity of life and the certainty of judgment shaped his ascetic lifestyle and guided his public conduct. He lived not for applause or affluence but for principle, for country and for the cause of a better Nigeria.

    To me, he was more than a leader. He was a mentor, a moral compass and a source of guidance. My political journey began in 2011, under the banner of the Congress for Progressive Change, a party built on his credibility and character. A few years after my election, he honoured me by commissioning some of my constituency projects, making me the first Member of the House of Representatives under the CPC to receive such recognition.

    I remember him in the blazing sun of Zaria, standing shoulder to shoulder with the people he so deeply loved. It was a quiet moment that spoke volumes. Years later, in 2023, during a brief meeting in the United Kingdom, he warmly welcomed me following my election as Speaker. His counsel was clear: lead as a servant, never as a master. Those words, simple yet profound, have remained my compass.

    In public office, President Buhari was a true partner in democracy.

    He respected the independence of the legislature and urged his ministers to engage constructively with parliament. He signed into law several landmark bills that opened political space to young people, strengthened our electoral processes and laid the foundation for economic reform. His development vision reached beyond the present and into the future. The roads, railways and bridges he built are lasting gifts to generations yet unborn.

    Read Also: First Holdco’s gross earnings hit N3.21tr

    His war against corruption was unrelenting. Known to millions as Mai Gaskiya, the honest one, he lived a life free from personal scandal. His simple lifestyle was not symbolic. It was sincere. His integrity set a standard that will long outlive him. Whether as a military officer, a state governor, a federal minister or a democratically elected president, he brought to every office the same disciplined devotion to duty.

    To those who criticised him from afar, I ask: did you truly see him, hear him or know him? Did you witness the passion in his voice when he spoke of Nigeria, or the pride in his eyes when he spoke of our people? For if you did, you would respect and honour him. He was not a man of many words, but his words carried weight. His dreams for Nigeria were vast, his commitment to its progress unshakeable. He embodied the best in us as a people: our relentlessness, resilience, love of God and charity to our neighbours.

    As we mark the end of his earthly journey, we also mark the close of a defining chapter in our nation’s story. But his example endures: integrity as the soul of leadership, simplicity in power, patriotism above self-interest, unity in diversity and resilience in adversity. He gave Nigeria everything he had – from the youthful strength of a young soldier to the wisdom of an elder statesman. He never clung to power. He never sought personal reward. He served, and he stepped aside when his time was up.

    Let us honour his life not only with words but also with a renewed commitment to the values he cherished. Farewell, Baba Buhari. Nigeria salutes your service. And history, in its final judgement, will remember you kindly.

    • Tajudeen is the Speaker of the House of Representatives
  • He was one of the most patriotic Nigerians, say Speaker, deputy

    He was one of the most patriotic Nigerians, say Speaker, deputy

    Speaker, House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen and his Deputy, Benjamin Kalu have described former President Muhammadu Buhari as one of the most patriotic Nigerians, saying his death was a big blow to the nation.

     Abbas said the former Nigerian leader served the country for most of his life.

    In a statement, his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Musa Abdullahi Krishi, Abbas described Buhari as ‘incorruptible’ and lived a life defined by simplicity and a remarkable absence of materialism, virtues that earned him widespread respect and trust across the country.

    He said Buhari was one of the only two Nigerians to have been military head of state and democratically elected president under civilian rule (after Olusegun Obasanjo), describing it as a rare privilege to serve the country.

    He recalled Buhari’s followership, especially in the North, as a politician, which he attributed to the former president’s discipline and uprightness.

    The Speaker recalled how ex-President Buhari’s alliance with his successor, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and others to form the All Progressives Congress (APC) as a formidable force that sacked the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from power in 2015 after 16 years in government.

    Read Also: CDS: Buhari was an exemplary leader, committed to Nigeria’s progress

    He said it is painful that Buhari, who chose to have his deserved rest after eight years as president, has gone to have eternal rest.

    “The news of the demise of former President Muhammadu Buhari was shocking to me. But we cannot question our Creator. All mortals shall taste death. May Allah (SWT) forgive his shortcomings and grant him Jannatul Firdaus.

    “He was a fine officer of the Nigerian Army and politician of repute, who got to the peak of his military and political careers. He was disciplined, patriotic, modest, and upright. He served the nation most of his life in different capacities. Only a few Nigerians have the privilege to have so served their country.”

    “Buhari carved a niche for himself as an incorruptible leader, a man of integrity, and an unflinching commitment to nation-building. His life was also defined by uncommon simplicity,” the Speaker said.

    Abbas commiserated with the Buhari family, Emir of Daura, the people, and the government of his home state, Katsina, and extended the condolences to Kaduna State, where he lived most of his life.

    Kalu recalled former President Buhari’s legacies, highlighting his integrity, loathing for indiscipline, and other notable achievements, including the “rice revolution.”

    The Deputy Speaker also said: “It is with profound sadness that I received the news of the passing of His Excellency, Former President Mohammadu Buhari.

    “This loss is felt not only by the nation but by the entire international community, given the former President’s significant contributions to our collective progress.

    “President Buhari’s legacies both as a former Head of State and President at different times will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations. Remarkable was the virtue of integrity which defined his private life and characterized his public conduct. From what we knew about him, he loathed indiscipline as a former Head of Military Government.

    “Leading the country as a democratically elected President, President Buhari will be remembered for his rice revolution among other achievements.

    “As we reflect on his life and achievements, I am reminded of the importance of leadership, service, and dedication to the welfare of our citizens.

    “May we draw strength from his example as we continue to work towards building a better future for all Nigerians.

    Former Secretary General of the pan Northern socio-political organisation, Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), Anthony Sani, described the death of the former President as a huge loss to not only his loved ones, but to the whole country.

    While praying for God to give his family what it takes to endure what cannot be changed, Sani Sani said: “The former president  now enjoys the peace associated with death and the pains of what he has left behind by way of challenges confronting the nation.

    “Former President Buhari may be no more because no one can fill the void he has left behind.But in a way he is very much around,since he needs no tombstone to remind us of his legacy.”

  • Tajudeen, Saraki urge greater private sector investment in healthcare

    Tajudeen, Saraki urge greater private sector investment in healthcare

    The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen and former Senate President Dr. Bukola Saraki have reiterated the need for expanded healthcare service delivery in Nigeria, with increased private sector involvement and investment.

    Both leaders made the call in Abuja on Thursday during the commissioning of Ashmed Specialist Hospital, describing the new facility as a significant addition to the country’s healthcare infrastructure.

    Speaker Tajudeen conveyed the support of the legislature for the facility, saying it aligns with the Federal government’s healthcare delivery initiatives.

    Represented by the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria Control, Amobi Ogah, Tajudeen said, “This effort directly complements the federal government’s drive to expand healthcare access for ordinary Nigerians.”

    While commending Dr. Audu for establishing the facility with critical medical specialties, the Speaker assured the hospital of continued collaboration from the National Assembly to support private-sector efforts that improve the nation’s healthcare delivery.

    Sen. Saraki, a medical doctor by training, praised the scale and quality of the hospital, noting the commitment required to develop such a project.

    He also acknowledged the founder, Dr. Musa Idowu Audu, for his vision and execution, noting, “As a doctor, I understand the effort and resources it takes to deliver a facility of this standard.

    “As a Kwaran, I’m proud that one of our own has delivered such a structure, not in his hometown, but here in the Federal Capital Territory”.

    Saraki also highlighted Dr Audu’s longstanding advocacy for improved healthcare policy and access, stressing that facilities like Ashmed must be part of a broader push toward universal health coverage.

    “Specialist centres like this are urgently needed across the country. I’m glad to see Ashmed working with Health Maintenance Organisations(HMOs) to expand access. For healthcare to be truly effective, it must be affordable to all, rich or poor.”

    He praised the scale of the new hospital, its advanced equipment, and the overall design, calling it “one of the top hospitals in Abuja.”

    Saraki, however, challenged the hospital’s management and staff to focus on sustaining service quality, noting, “Setting up a hospital is one part of the job, the harder part is maintaining high standards.

    Read Also: Nigeria’s Hidden Healthcare Strength: What the U.S. is Learning from Our Community-Based Elder Care Models

    “This hospital has set a strong foundation, and I hope to see it grow even further in the coming years”.

    The Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Shehu Mohammed, also commended Ashmed Specialist Hospital, Abuja, for its commitment to public service and its role in providing immediate care for accident victims.

    Represented at the event, the Corps Marshal praised the hospital’s founder, who also operates Ashway Integrated Health Services, a national Health Maintenance Organization (HMO), for applying the same high standards to both health insurance and hospital operations.

    “When we see the quality of care here, we have no doubt patronising this facility. I encourage everyone to enrol in health insurance, especially through Ashway, which guarantees access to services across Nigeria.”

    The Chief Medical Director (CMD) of the hospital, Dr. James Olanrewaju, said the 100-bed facility is open to all patients, regardless of status or affiliation, emphasising that the hospital was designed to be both accessible and affordable, including for the indigent.