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Senate to Tinubu: approve N200m compensation for family of toddler killed in NDLEA’s raid
- Red Chamber okays WAEC Official’s dismissal over ‘malpractice’
The Senate has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to approve N200 million compensation for the family of a toddler, Onosereba Omhonria, who was killed during a botched drug raid by operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Delta State.

This resolution was reached yesterday following the consideration and adoption of a report by the Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct and Public Petitions, which investigated the July 13, 2023, incident.

In a similar vein, the Senate also approved the dismissal of Ms. Sandra Nimi Harry, a former senior staff of the West African Examinations Council (WAEC), who was found guilty of participating in a high-level examination malpractice scheme.

Employed since July 1992, Harry was sacked in July 2023 following a WAEC investigation that linked her to the fraudulent swapping of answer scripts for absentee candidates in Port Harcourt.

She was accused of assisting a colleague, Mr. Raymond Obi, in the scheme, allegedly under the instruction of another staff member, Joseph Pepple.

The toddler’s incident, which occurred at Abacha Junction, a known drug hotspot in Okpanam, Asaba, Oshimili North Local Government Area, saw a stray bullet hit the two-year-old Onosereba and left his younger brother, Eromonsele, critically injured in the eye.

Presenting the report, Committee Chairman, Senator Neda Imasuen (APC – Edo South), described the case as “deeply tragic.”

He said Eromonsele’s eye injury remains severe, with doctors still uncertain about the possibility of restoring his sight.

While the NDLEA has provided N25 million to the family as interim support, the committee found that the agency lacks the resources to fund the advanced medical care the boy requires abroad.

“The agency is overstretched and simply does not have the capacity to provide the level of assistance needed,” Imasuen stated.

Read Also: NDLEA arrests notorious drug kingpin over drug shipment

Senate passed a resolution urging President Tinubu to authorize an additional N200 million as compensation to the Omhonria family, noting the psychological and physical trauma the incident has caused.

The chamber also mandated the NDLEA to continue funding Eromonsele’s medical treatment, including arrangements for specialized care overseas.

The Senate observed a minute of silence in memory of the late toddler and expressed solidarity with the grieving family.

A recommendation to urge the Attorney General of the Federation to prosecute the NDLEA officer involved was withdrawn after it was confirmed that the officer is already undergoing trial.
July 11, 2025
Tinubu, Southeast and Kalu’s ‘Renewed Hope’ partners

By Mike Ukoha

Like whirlwind, the gospel of Renewed Hope Partners (RHP) is spreading across the length and breath of the southeast. It is gradually becoming a rallying point for a better Nigeria, with a clear vision and a mandate. This is a wonderful platform created by the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, CFR, to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, in his transformational leadership and tends to rally support for Mr. President’s second term in office. I am not surprised at the spate in which stakeholders in the southeast have been receiving this good news of hope and being partners since its unveiling late April, 2025. In fact, the clamour by many individuals to be part of this noble vision is something that melts the heart. Interestingly, the movement of renewed hope partners is also gradually spreading across to other regions of the country. Love him or loathe him, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains a visionary politician who has the knack for excellence in governance. His positive political advancement and democratic vision have brought about mind-blowing economic reforms in our dear country.

Just like Nostradamus, the French seer, President Tinubu seems to have seen the future from the outset and what democracy portends for Nigeria. He is really working on the talk and delivering on his mandate. Therefore, he deserves whatever support one might want to offer.

As a region, it is time for people of the southeast to lay back and think, in comparison between previous administrations and the present led government of President Tinubu in order to ascertain which one has so far touched their lives. For instance, in Tinubu’s administration, a Minister of Works from Igbo extraction was appointed. This is the first time in the history of Nigeria an Igbo man is being appointed in such a strategic position.

This administration, also, considered the importance of regional balance in the appointment of Service Chiefs and again, some one from the Igbo extraction was appointed as Chief of Naval Staff, with numerous other appointments of well meaning people from the region into various federal positions on the boards, departments and agencies of government.

Above all, at the National Assembly level, the Deputy Speaker’s position was graciously zoned to the southeast. This is with regards to equity and fairness as exemplified by President Bola Tinubu.

Furthermore, since the end of the civil war in Nigeria, this is the first time in history the federal government saw the need to truly make the 3R’s vision of reconciliation, reconstruction and rehabilitation a reality.

The Managing Director of the South East Development Commission (SEDC), Mr. Mark Okoye corroborated this point during his briefing to mark the Commission’s 100 days in office. He had explained that “since the end of the Civil war in 1970, no Nigerian President Military or Civilian had granted the South East’s long standing request for a development commission which is focused on reconstruction and rehabilitation except President Tinubu who broke the 54 years jinx”.

READ ALSO; Russia offers to increase scholarships for Nigerian students

Indeed, the establishment of the South East Development Commission (SEDC), which Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, sponsored, championed, and lobbied under this administration, is the testament of President Bola Tinubu’s efforts towards addressing the challenges of the southeast region. There is a need for the Commission to go a step further by ensuring that the vision and plan for a $200 billion regional economy is achieved through collaboration with the state governments and private sectors.

Despite the total rejection President Tinubu suffered in the southeast during the last election, he never used it as a yardstick against the region but merely saw it as a price one has to pay for a leadership role. He has ever since remained focused towards ensuring that the region is repositioned for good.

In addition, it is left for the people the southeast to key into the renewed hope vision of Mr. President by joining the Renewed Hope Partners and also embracing the developmental strides, which are gradually sweeping through the region under this administration for the betterment of all.

As the Renewed Hope Partners has been recently launched in Abia State, it is gradually gaining momentum; and in no distance future it will be launched in States such as Imo, Enugu, Ebonyi, Anambra and across to other regions of the country. The vision is to see it being spread across the eastern states with strong based support. It has now become highly imperative for the region to join and become members of the Renewed Hope Partners and also help in promoting it in their states, at ward and unit levels and by doing so, the political dividends of the region will be much more.

Lastly, one good way of showing gratitude to President Tinubu on his numerous efforts for the people of Southeast is to key into his vision by joining forces with our dear brother, the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, CFR, in his Renewed Hope Partners and support President Bola Tinubu’s administration, bearing in mind that we have never had it so good in the past. As a people, partnering with Mr. President in his agenda through the Renewed Hope Partners will enable him to roll out more programs for the region as expected. It is said that one good turn deserves another, therefore our support to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will never be in vain; even a furtherance to his second term agenda should never be a second thought at all for the people of Southeast. It should be a vision in which we must all ensure there’s huge support for it, and this is even as the region expects more from the federal government led administration.

As the Deputy Speaker is championing the cause and expanding the frontiers of the party and also winning the once doubting hearts back through the Renewed Hope Partners, we must join him in this political movement with courage for a paradigm shift in the Southeast.

• Ukoha is a former Minority Whip Abia State House of Assembly.

July 11, 2025
Tinubu brought Buhari’s victory in 2015, says Onoh

Former campaign spokesman of President Bola Tinubu in the Southeast, Dr. Josef Onoh, has knocked Boss Mustapha, the former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SFG), Boss Mustapha over his assertion that Tinubu’s Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) did not make significant input in Muhammad Buhari’s emergency as President in 2015.

Mustapha, at the launch of a book written by former presidential media aide, Garba Shehu, in Abuja, disparaged the contributions of the opposition parties that merged to form the All Progressives Congress (APC), remarking they brought only three million votes to add to Buhari’s 12 million votes.

Mustapha’s comment did not go well with supporters of President Tinubu who have taken to social media platforms to express their displeasure and described the former SGF as a political neophyte.

Reacting to the former SGF, Onoh, described Mustapha as an expert in chewing bitter kola but a novice in political strategy.

He said the former SGF had limited knowledge of President Tinubu’s influence, reminding him that Asiwaju’s role in the formation of the APC which wrestled power from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) cannot be wished away.

“Prior to this, Buhari’s political vehicles, such as the ANPP and CPC, lacked the national structure and southern alliances needed to challenge the PDP’s dominance. President Tinubu, as the leader of the then ACN, a party with a strong base in the South-West, spearheaded the merger of several opposition parties, including the CPC (Buhari’s party), ACN, a faction of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), and a segment of the PDP known as the “New PDP.” This merger created a formidable opposition platform capable of rivaling the PDP’s national reach at that period,” said Onoh.

Continuing, Onoh reminded Mustapha how Buhari, in spite of his core 12 million northern votes couldn’t win elections in 2003, 2007, and 2011 because of the absence of a national spread as provided by the constitution.

Read Also: ADC: Coalition of Atiku, Obi can’t unseat Tinubu in 2027 – Support group

He emphasised that it was Tinubu’s strategic vision and political acumen that saw the APC’s formation to fruition, thus providing Buhari a broader electoral platform that enabled him leverage his voter base while gaining access to the southwest, where Tinubu had unparalleled influence.

“The Southwest, with its significant population and economic importance, particularly in Lagos, was a crucial battleground. President Tinubu’s ability to deliver votes from this region was a game-changer, as it addressed the critical shortfall in Buhari’s previous campaigns.

“In the 2015 presidential election, Buhari, running as the APC candidate, secured 15.4 million votes, defeating the then incumbent PDP candidate, former president Goodluck Jonathan, who polled 12.8 million votes.

“While Buhari’s core 12 million votes from the northern regions as touted by Boss Mustapha remained a cornerstone of his support, the additional 3.4 million votes that secured his victory were largely attributable to president Tinubu’s influence in the Southwest and other regions.

“President Tinubu’s role extended beyond vote delivery. He played a key part in the APC’s primary elections, ensuring Buhari emerged as the party’s candidate despite competition from other heavyweights like Atiku Abubakar and Rabiu Kwankwaso. If Boss Mustapha doubts my submissions, I challenge him or any member of the coalition to go and verify, then face me for national debate with facts.

“President Tinubu’s continued support was crucial in maintaining the APC’s dominance in the Southwest, even amidst internal party challenges. In 2018, several prominent APC members, including Atiku, then Senate President Bukola Saraki, and 16 other senators, defected to the PDP, threatening the party’s cohesion.

“President Tinubu’s steadfast loyalty and organizational efforts ensured that the Southwest remained a reliable APC stronghold. Today I am amused to see the same characters swimming like fishes in the same pond in unity hoping to drown the fisherman but like the fate that awaits most fishes in the sea, when the fisherman comes fishing they will all end up in his net grasping for breath once they are outside water.

“May I remind Boss Mustapha that President Tinubu’s political network, including governors, local leaders, and grassroots organizations, played a critical role in voter mobilization and campaign coordination. His ability to maintain party unity in the Southwest despite defections was instrumental in securing the votes needed to meet the 25% threshold in two-thirds of Nigeria’s states, a requirement Atiku struggled to fulfill due to his weaker southern support.

“Also, beyond electoral votes, President Tinubu’s contributions included strategic planning, campaign financing, and national outreach. As a seasoned politician and political godfather in the Southwest, President Tinubu provided substantial financial resources to the APC’s campaigns in both 2015 and 2019. I dare anyone to prove me wrong, President Tinubu is alive, and if anyone is in doubt of what I’ve said, can verify from him.

“The 2015 election, described as the most expensive in African history, required significant funding for logistics, media, and voter outreach, much of which was facilitated by President Tinubu’s network. His influence also extended to negotiations with other political actors, such as the “New PDP” defectors, who bolstered the APC’s national presence.

“President Tinubu’s strategic foresight was evident in his ability to navigate Nigeria’s complex ethnic and religious dynamics.

By aligning his then ACN with Buhari’s then CPC and other parties, he created a coalition that bridged the North-South divide, a critical factor in defeating the PDP’s entrenched power. His decision to support Osinbajo as Buhari’s running mate in 2015 addressed concerns about regional and religious balance, making the APC ticket more palatable to southern voters.

“Tinubu’s leadership in forming the APC, delivering the Southwest’s votes, ensuring party unity, and providing financial and strategic support transformed Buhari’s regional popularity into a national mandate…

“Clearly, Boss Mustapha ought to know that being an expert in chewing bitter kola doesn’t make him an expert political strategist like President Tinubu,” he concluded.

July 10, 2025
Tinubu hails Niger Delta youths, women for supporting Renewed Hope Agenda

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has applauded the people of the Niger Delta region, particularly the youths and women, for demonstrating solidarity with his administration and supporting the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

The President’s message was conveyed by the Managing Director of the NDDC, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, during the Youth and Women Conference in Owerri, Imo State, as part of activities marking the 25th anniversary of the NDDC.

Ogbuku told the stakeholders that President Tinubu had mandated him to extend his gratitude to the youths and women of the Niger Delta for their support and cooperation.

He noted that last year, when youths across the country were preparing for protests against the administration of Tinubu, sponsored by some politicians, the Niger Delta youths and women stood solidly behind the President.

The NDDC boss recalled that the commission organised a youth forum attended by the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu and other stakeholders.

He said: “In that gathering, the people of the Niger Delta took their fate in their hands and resolved that they were not going to be part of the protest. So, while some other parts of Nigeria were boiling, the Niger Delta was very peaceful.

“I want to let you know that part of his gratitude is what he has delegated the NDDC to do. That is why he has not taken his eyes off the Niger Delta Development Commission, as the only way he can reach out to you is through the Commission’s activities.”

Ogbuku said that the NDDC had achieved significant progress in its 25 years and acknowledged the roles of the youths and women.

Read Also: ADC: Coalition of Atiku, Obi can’t unseat Tinubu in 2027 – Support group

He said: “We felt the youth and women must be recognised through a programme specifically meant for them. Hence, today, this programme is taking place where youths and women from different parts of the Niger Delta are together for us to also update you on what we have done so far, our programmes and plans for the youths and women as we turn a new leaf to start a new journey after 25 years.

“We felt that there is no way we could start this new journey without coming to you, without consulting you, without hearing from you, to begin a new chapter in the history of the NDDC. That is why this programme is essential to us, and that is why it is significant to this government, so that we can also be guided appropriately based on your thoughts, your vision, and on what the NDDC can do for you.”

Ogbuku noted that the current Board and Management of the NDDC introduced the Youth Internship Scheme, explaining that the commission had digitalised its youth programmes to make them more accessible to young people, regardless of their social status.

He said: “As long as you are listed in our database, we will contact you based on your areas of competence and strength. We developed a process for integrating data into our operations to ensure that as many people as possible benefit from our youth programmes.”

The NDDC boss said President Tinubu’s development agenda had charged the commission to complete all legacy projects, warning that no project should be abandoned.

“We are pleased that he appointed a Minister who is an engineer, who is supporting us technically and administratively,” Ogbuku said.

Ogbuku acknowledged the support of members of the National Assembly, noting that the lawmakers were fully backing the NDDC to ensure that it achieved its mandate of developing the Niger Delta region.

July 10, 2025
Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda attracts over $500m FDI to steel sector in 20 months – Minister

The Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has attracted over $500 million in foreign direct investment (FDI) into Nigeria’s steel sector within the last 20 months.

Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Abubakar Audu, revealed this on Thursday while addressing journalists ahead of the inaugural National Steel Summit 2025, themed “Rebuilding and Consolidating Nigeria’s Steel Industry: Collaborative Action for Sustainable Growth and Global Competitiveness”, slated for July 16–17 in Abuja.

Audu said the agenda has restored investor confidence, citing the $400 million investment by Stellar Steel Company Limited (a subsidiary of the Innergalaxy Group) for the development of a steel facility dedicated to the production of hot rolled coils and plates.

He also mentioned the recent commissioning of a $100 million, 50,000-tonne galvanising plant by Orbit Fabrication/Galvanising Works Limited, a member of the African Industries Group.

The Minister noted that his ministry was tasked with building a robust and self-reliant steel industry by harnessing Nigeria’s vast raw material deposits to reduce reliance on steel imports, which currently cost the country over $4 billion annually.

Read Also: Osun youth group urges Tinubu, APC to reject Adeleke’s defection bid

“We are also mandated to establish a strong regulatory framework that ensures sustainable production of steel and non-ferrous metals for both domestic and international markets,” he added.

“We are to set and monitor quality standards for local and foreign Steel products to eradicate structural failures in different construction projects in Nigeria and generate massive employment for our teeming youths and promote technology transfer for Nigeria’s economic development.”

On the upcoming Summit, which will be declared open by the President, the Minister said the two Summit will assemble key stakeholders to appraise the current status of the industry, explore investment opportunities, identify policy and infrastructural needs and adopt a consensus way forward for the revival and sustainable development of the Nigeria’s Steel sector.

He further said that the technical sessions and panel discussions of the summit will x-ray critical areas of the industry from diverse perspectives.

Extending invitation to all stakeholders in the sector, the Minister assured participants of a robust exchange of ideas, business networking and deal closures as well as mutual partnership to move the agenda from just rhetoric to critical, collaborative, and progressive actions.

July 10, 2025
Minister calls for unified communication strategy to amplify Tinubu’s agenda

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has called on Information Commissioners in All Progressives Congress (APC) states to harmonise their communication strategies to effectively highlight the achievements of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration and their respective state governments.

Speaking at the opening session of the Progressive Governors Forum’s (PGF) Quarterly Meeting with Information Commissioners on Thursday in Minna, Niger State, Idris stressed the need for coordinated messaging at both federal and state levels to successfully deliver the Renewed Hope Agenda to Nigerians.

He described the Renewed Hope Agenda as a practical blueprint for national transformation, anchored on real and measurable opportunities for prosperity across all sectors of the economy.

The Minister also underscored the all-encompassing nature of the administration’s development efforts, urging communicators to clearly articulate these strides to the public.

“The Renewed Hope Agenda goes beyond macroeconomic reforms.

“It is about creating concrete opportunities for prosperity across sectors – for individuals, for families, and for communities.”

He explained that from massive infrastructure investments to youth empowerment programmes and reforms in agriculture, energy, education, and innovation, the Tinubu administration is delivering a broad-based plan for inclusive growth and national renewal.

Highlighting the government’s reform efforts, the Minister referenced the removal of the fuel subsidy as a pivotal policy shift.

“One of the boldest and most consequential decisions of this administration, which is the removal of the fuel subsidy, was a painful but necessary reform. Beyond saving the economy from fiscal collapse, this decision has significantly blocked areas of leakage and waste in our economy,” he said.

Idris added that the gains from such bold decisions are now funding transformative infrastructure projects like the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Superhighway, Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway, Kaduna-Kano Standard Gauge Railway, and the Abuja-Kaduna-Kano Expressway.

Additionally, he said, there is a steady investment in the provision of social services in the country and a marked increase in monthly allocations to state governments, which is enabling them to embark on projects that are already having transformative impacts across sectors at the state and local government levels.

He further disclosed that over 900,000 small businesses have already benefited from the Presidential Conditional Grant and Loan Scheme, while over 350,000 students are currently benefitting from the Students’ Loan Scheme, ensuring no young Nigerian is left behind due to financial constraints.

Idris stated that the federal government has so far committed approximately ₦70 billion to the Students Loan Scheme, with over 600,000 applications submitted by students seeking to benefit from the initiative.

The Minister said the creation of Regional Development Commissions by the President across the country, is aimed at driving integrated, context-specific development in Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.

He said the Ajaokuta-Kaduna Kano (AKK) Gas Pipeline Project is progressing steadily in order to deliver power to jumpstart industrial revolution across the corridor.

“Once that is done, it will deliver power from Ajaokuta to Kaduna and Kano. It means that all the industries along that corridor will now be revamped,” he said.

Idris described the Tinubu Administration as a youth-friendly government, noting its inclusion of a significant number of young people in the Federal Executive Council as Ministers, as well as in leadership positions across various government agencies and parastatals.

Read Also: Tinubu congratulates Okpebholo on Supreme Court victory

He said the administration is expending ₦75 billion through the Bank of Industry on supporting Medium, Small and Micro Enterprises across all sectors in order to create jobs and build the capacity of the youth.

“These are not just abstract numbers or policy points. They are opportunities—real, measurable opportunities for every Nigerian.”

Calling on Commissioners for Information to rise to the challenge, Idris said:“It is therefore our duty, as information managers, to ensure that the citizens of this country, across all the states of the Federation, not only know about these reforms and programmes but also understand how to access and benefit from them.”

He urged state Commissioners to return to their states with renewed energy, leveraging on platforms like the National Orientation Agency, to engage local stakeholders, and building campaigns that translate federal reforms into local results.

He added, “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is keeping faith with Nigerians. You now must translate that faith into hope and action at the grassroots.”

He also stressed, “This forum is not just timely, it is essential. Our communication must be strategic, unified, and deeply rooted in the realities of our communities. “President Tinubu’s administration is not about slogans. It is about a deliberate, transformative agenda built on solid reforms and people-centered development.”

He called on state commissioners to become “chief storytellers” of the APC’s developmental strides, urging them to communicate in ways that resonate with ordinary Nigerians.

“Every commissioner here must understand and amplify these initiatives, our citizens must feel, see, and believe in the changes we are making,” he said.

The Minister also praised the Progressive Governors Forum for its vision, and commended Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, for hosting the meeting.

Niger state Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, while welcoming the commissioners and delegates to Minna emphasized the importance of the meeting calling on APC states to tell the stories of President Tinubu’s reforms with a united voice and avoid contradicting messages that confuse citizens.

“The need for a common communication front cannot be overemphasized. The Federal Government is doing a lot, and states are also making significant efforts. But if we fail to communicate these achievements properly, the narrative is lost, and citizens remain disconnected.”

The governor, who has championed transformative agricultural reforms in Niger State, challenged information commissioners to embrace innovation and digital tools in disseminating information.

“We must move from analog to digital communication. Social media, community radio, and visual storytelling should be part of our daily strategy. The people are ready to listen; we just need to speak their language,” he added.

Bago praised the Renewed Hope Agenda for focusing on sectors such as infrastructure, energy, youth empowerment, and agriculture. He highlighted Niger State’s alignment with federal reforms, particularly in areas.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Director-General of the PGF, Folorunso Aluko, said the meeting aims to strengthen media coordination between the federal and state governments. He announced the proposed FG–PGF Media Policy and Strategy Synergy—a framework that will introduce a joint media coordination platform, unified communication calendar, and rapid response mechanisms to manage emerging narratives.

Aluko emphasized that the meeting marks a shift “from campaigns to coherence, from response to proactive citizen engagement.”

He urged commissioners to work together to build a more effective, transparent, and citizen-friendly communications structure across APC-governed states.

Niger State’s Commissioner for Information, Hon. Binta Mamman emphasized the critical role of commissioners in ensuring that government policies are well understood expressing optimism that the gathering would lead to practical outcomes that bridge communication gaps between state and federal levels.

“We are the bridge between government and the governed. If we fail to tell our stories effectively, misinformation and apathy take over. But if we succeed, we carry the people along,” she said.

The two-day conference, themed Strategic Communication and Policy Alignment, is expected to produce a national thematic schedule on value reorientation and introduce new digital tools for public engagement.

Participants include information commissioners from across APC states, government officials, media professionals, and party stakeholders.

July 10, 2025
HOSTCOM Youths Council applauds Tinubu over award of oil block to Delta industrialist

The Host Communities Producing Oil, Gas and Pipeline Impacted States Youth Council of Nigeria and its Board of Trustees have expressed deep gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over the award of an oil block to High Chief Henry Ojogho, founder of Broron Oil & Gas Group and a distinguished son of the Niger Delta.

A statement by Comrade Emmanuel Fiawei Pathfinder, the National President of HOSTCOM Youths Council, expressed appreciation for the transparency and integrity demonstrated in the 2024 Oil Mining Licence (OML) bid process, which led to the award of the oil block to Chief Ojogho.

Pathfinder hailed Ojogho as a distinguished son of the Niger Delta, known for his contributions as a technocrat, industrialist, and philanthropist.

He said his leadership at Broron Oil and Gas Group is highlighted, particularly regarding the employment of an indigenous workforce and initiatives that support local capacity building.

He underscored the necessity for local content development in the oil and gas sector, aligning with the Nigerian Content Act of 2010 and advocated for reforms that empower indigenous operators in the industry.

Pathfinder said the efforts of the industrialist through the Henry Ojogho Foundation (HOF) to empower the youth in Isoko land, particularly in education and mentorship, are emphasised as crucial initiatives for grassroots development.

He recollected Ojogho’s role in Nigeria’s pro-democracy movement and that his alliance with President Tinubu reinforced their shared commitment to national unity and economic progress.

Read Also: HOSTCOM to Tinubu: disregard allegations against NNPCL’s GCEO Ojulari

The HOSTCOM youths boss acknowledged the economic and security challenges facing Nigeria as inherited issues from previous administrations, rather than problems created by the current leadership under President Tinubu.

He urged Nigerians to support President Tinubu in his governance efforts, noting his past successes in transforming Lagos State and his commitment to carrying out his mandate even amidst difficulties.

He expressed solidarity with President Tinubu and Ojogho and advocated for more robust involvement of local players in the oil and gas sector while addressing the challenges inherited from past governance.

July 10, 2025
Tinubu’s reforms boosting economic recovery

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, Wednesday said that the Nigerian economy is steadily improving.

Idris said the improvement is as a result of the implementation of wide-range reforms under President Tinubu.

The Minister spoke in Abuja while receiving members and newly elected executives of the Nigerian Guild of Editors during a courtesy visit to his office.

He said the administration is making steady progress and successfully flaering the curve despite challenges.

“The economy is not yet what we want it to be but we can see that there is a steady progression. The President has said over and over again that we are turning the corner. I know that many people will say it’s not yet El-dorado. Yes! I also agree but you cannot always say that there is no progress.

“Even all the rating agencies in the world are also giving Nigeria some pass marks. We are seeing some upward ticks in the way our economy is being managed,” he said.

Read Also: Tinubu’s reforms boosting Nigeria’s economic recovery – FG

The Minister noted that landmark reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidy and the unification of the foreign exchange rates, are already having a positive impact on the economy.

Idris further stated that approximately 300,000 students are currently benefiting from the Students Loan Scheme, with the Federal Government covering their tuition fees and providing support for their upkeep on campus.

“Because of this deliberate intentional policy of the government, over 300,000 Nigerians students that hitherto were out of school or could have been out of school, now have the opportunity to be in school because the government is paying for their tuition and upkeep. This is unprecedented,” he stated.

He added that security challenges are also being addressed decisively, with sustained successes recorded in the fight against violent criminals across the country.

Idris, therefore, called on the media to play an active role in encouraging and supporting the Armed Forces in their ongoing efforts to combat crime and safeguard the nation’s territorial integrity.

“I have always said that it is not good for us as media practitioners to place emphasis or premium on these criminals, gangsters and terrorists or bandits or whatever they are, over and above the citizens of this country,” he said.

Idris noted that media coverage should not focus solely on attacks against security forces, but should also highlight the successes and sacrifices of the Armed Forces. He stressed the importance of amplifying these achievements, particularly in the context of condemning the actions of criminal groups and motivating the Armed Forces.

The Minister emphasized that while it is the media’s responsibility to hold the government accountable through constructive criticism, it is equally important for journalists to promote the positive milestones and achievements of the administration.

In response to the Law Reform Report submitted by the Guild, the Minister stated that he would engage with the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, and also set up a committee within his ministry to study the report thoroughly.

Idris stated that the policy thrust of the Tinubu administration is its unwavering commitment to press freedom and freedom of expression, which he described as the cornerstone of the nation’s democracy.

He, however, urged the media to exercise press freedom with a strong sense of responsibility and patriotism, underscoring the need to promote peace, unity, and national stability in the discharge of their duties.

Idris also used the occasion to congratulate the newly elected executives of the Guild, assuring them of his commitment to fostering closer collaboration and bridging the gap between the government and the media.

Earlier in his remarks, the Deputy President of the Nigerian Guild of Editors, Dr. Sebastian Abu, stated that the delegation was at the Minister’s office to formally present the report of the Guild’s Law Reform Committee. He explained that the report highlights several outdated laws within the Nigerian constitution that require review or removal to guarantee a freer and more enabling environment for media practice in the country.

July 10, 2025
‘Tinubu’s reforms building on Buhari’s legacy’
- Ex-SGF finds nexus in two leaders’ programmes
- Gowon leads dignitaries to Shehu’s book presentation
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu got a pat on the back yesterday for sustaining and deepening the gains of the reforms bequeathed to his administration by former President Muhammadu Buhari.

The President described his predecessor as a man whose leadership stood on the pillars of integrity, accountability, prudence and patriotism.

The two leaders got the accolades in Abuja at the public presentation of a book – According to the President: Lessons from a presidential spokesman’s experience” written by Buhari’s former Senior Special Assistant, Media and Publicity, Mallam Garba Shehu.

The presentation was held at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre.

Shehu, a former editor of Triumph and one-time President of the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), served as media aide to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar during President Olusegun Obasanjo’s tenure.

Tinubu was represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume.

Former Head of State Gen. Yakubu Gowon was chairman of the event.

Former SGF Boss Mustapha said President Tinubu is not just sustaining, but expanding the reforms laid down by Buhari.

He cited Tinubu’s push on electricity deregulation, civil service performance management and the harmonization of the tax administration as examples of a deepening reform culture.

“President Tinubu’s administration has not only retained the momentum of governance reforms but has introduced bold initiatives that further entrench institutional credibility and fiscal sustainability,” Mustapha said.

Read Also: Tinubu won’t be derailed by political distractions — NSA Ribadu

On the 2015 election, Mustapha believes that former President Buhari already had 12 million existing votes and that the merger of the legacy parties that formed the All Progressives Congress (APC) merely contributed 3 million votes to his victory at the presidential election.

“When you sum up the total votes that gave us victory in 2015, the aggregate of the total votes were 15.4 million votes. So, basically, what we brought to the table, the other parties that were in the merger in addition to Buhari’s 12.2 million votes were 3.2 million votes,” Mustapha said.

Political analyst last night faulted the logic of the argument

Akume, speaking on behalf of the President, noted that under Buhari’s stewardship, “Nigeria witnessed a decisive push to confront insecurity, a serious commitment to infrastructure renewal, a renewed focus on self-reliance and a clear effort to sanitize the public sector.

“From the restoration of fiscal discipline to the diversification of the economy, from the development of critical national infrastructure to the transformation of our rail and road networks, and from the expansion of social investment programmes to the repositioning of the agricultural sector, President Buhari’s era reflected an earnest attempt to reposition Nigeria for future resilience.”

He went on: “It is also worth commending President Buhari’s humility and restraint in the exercise of Presidential power – hallmarks of democratic maturity. In the face of provocation, he remained calm. In moments of uncertainty, he held steady. His was a Presidency of discipline and quiet strength.”

On the book, the President noted: “Mallam Garba Shehu’s account provides a critical behind-the-scenes perspective. The book also serves as a repository of wisdom for public communicators, policymakers, scholars, historians and Nigerians at large. It offers key lessons on leadership communication, governance under pressure and the intersection between power and public perception.”

Maintaining that the nation must never get tired of documenting its journey, the President said: “If we must move forward purposefully, we must learn from the past with honesty. Books like this play a vital role in that learning process. They preserve memory, illuminate truth and sharpen our collective understanding of nationhood.

Gen. Gowon said the author played up the importance of having a strong communication outfit in any administration, stressing that effective communication helps in nation-building by always clarifying on the position of government at all times.

“In my years of service as Head of State, I understood and appreciated the important role that communication plays in governance and nation-building.

“A president’s actions, policies and programmes, no matter how noble or well-conceived, must be clearly communicated to the citizens/public. This is where the role of a hardworking and committed presidential spokesman, like Mallam Garba Shehu is most appreciated.

“I know Gen Buhari to be a staunch believer of the Nigerian project. I know him as a person not inclined to worldly or materialistic overtures. No matter the misconceptions about Gen. Buhari, you can’t take away the fact that he has the firm interest of Nigeria at heart. I also know that he will do everything to keep his integrity intact.

“If the truth must be told, Gen. Buhari is a man of austere lifestyle. I was therefore not surprised when the author (on page 114) of the book narrated an incident that rightly depicted the General Buhari that I know.

“According to Garba Shehu, shortly after being sworn in as President and Commander in Chief, General Buhari was informed of the need to increase the budget for catering services in the Villa.

“He then asked what the existing budget was. When they told him it was N10 million for the State House including the Vice President, Guest houses and banquets in honour of visiting leaders, he screamed and asked that even the N10 million be drastically reduced.”

Vice Chancellor of the Federal University, Kashere, Gombe State, Prof. Umaru Pate, who reviewed the book, described it as a compendium of what happened during the sojourn of the author at the presidential villa, right from when he served under former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and later former President Muhammadu Buhari.

Pate lauded the author for not only recording his experiences but also for putting them down in the most simplified manner that could easily be understood by all category of readers.

Presenting the book to the public, former Chief of Staff to President Buhari, Prof. Ibrahim Gambari, was full of praises to his former principal for finding him worthy to serve the nation in 1984 as the nation’s representative at the United Nations and later Chief of Staff.

Gambari described Buhari as a perfect gentleman and leader who had the sense of duty to always put the country first in whatever he does.

Some of the dignitaries at the event were: former vice presidents, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo and Atiku; one-time SGF Babagana Kingibe; former governors Babatunde Fashola (Lagos); Kayode Fayemi (Ekiti); Nasir El-Rufai (Kaduna) Rauf Aregbesola (Osun); former Service chiefs Gen. Gabriel Olonisakin (Chief of Defence Staff); Gen. Tukur Buratai (Chief of Army Staff) and National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Chairman Gen. Buba Marwa.

Others were former Information Minister Lai Mohammed; former SGF Babachir Lawal; Katsina State Deputy Governor Farouk Lawal; former ministers Solomon Dalung (Sports, Chris Ngige (Labour and Employment) and Ibe Kachikwu (Minister of State for Petroleum).

Mustapha on Buhari’s legacies, Tinubu’s drive

Mustapha, who spotlighted Buhari’s enduring imprint on Nigeria’s development trajectory, described his leadership as a legacy rooted in systemic reforms rather than mere headline projects.

Tracing Buhari’s journey from military service to his two-term civilian presidency, Mustapha argued that the former leader’s hallmark was “governing with duty, not drama — driven by principles, not applause.”

He listed Buhari’s major policy pillars, including the Petroleum Industry Act, a record-breaking infrastructure rollout, aggressive retooling of the armed forces and the institutionalisation of social safety nets like the National Social Investment Programme (NSIP).

“His legacy was not about isolated flagship projects, but about putting institutions and systems on a new path of resilience and accountability.”

He lauded Buhari’s pandemic response as evidence of Nigeria’s capacity for coordinated, science-based decision-making in the face of global uncertainty.

He pointed to long-term blueprints such as the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP), Nigeria Agenda 2050, and the Medium-Term National Development Plan (2021–2025) as illustrations of Buhari’s deliberate, future-focused governance style.

“These frameworks have provided a template for reform continuity beyond his administration,” he noted.

He hailed the President for sustaining the reforms initiated by his predecessor.

He listed the evolution of the Central Delivery Coordination Unit into the more robust Central Results Delivery and Coordination Unit, alongside continued implementation of the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan (FCSSIP) as clear markers of systemic rather than personality-driven governance.

He also described the 2024 landmark Supreme Court judgment affirming financial autonomy for local governments as a vindication of Buhari’s earlier Executive Order 10, which sought to enable direct funding to local councils.

On Tinubu’s policies, Mustapha highlighted electricity federalism and harmonised tax reforms as “forward-looking consolidations of Buhari’s governance blueprint.”

“The baton of leadership has passed, but the relay of reform continues. President Tinubu has shown that reform is not a one-off initiative but a national discipline that must evolve with consistency,” Mustapha added.

He urged Nigerians to see governance not as a transient performance but as a collective, generational project requiring sustained commitment.
July 10, 2025
Our roles as first ladies, by Tinubu

Leading transformational initiatives that impact vulnerable citizens, especially women and youths are some of the roles wives play in supporting their executive husbands, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has said.

She spoke on Tuesday while addressing an international gathering of First Ladies from across continents at the 3rd Annual Global First Ladies Alliance Academy in New York, United States (U.S.)

Highlighting the delicate balance and profound responsibility the office demands, Senator Tinubu said: “This position is quite challenging. What you do will either compliment your husband or be a burden to him. So, do what you can and do it right.

A statement by her Senior Special Assistant on Media, Busola Kukoyi, quoted Mrs. Tinubu as telling her counterparts that beyond ceremonial appearances, First Ladies are positioned to deliver “further touches” that complement governance and respond directly to the needs of society’s most underserved.

She said her work through the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) reflects this conviction, as she continues to champion programs focused on empowering women and youth for improved family wellbeing.

“Don’t be afraid to give your little. That little could be a life saver for someone. Be bold to confront your challenges and that is what we are doing and we are beginning to see the impact gradually”, she urged.

The academy, convened by the Global First Ladies Alliance in collaboration with Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health, serves as a leadership development platform designed to sharpen the effectiveness, influence, and longevity of First Ladies’ initiatives.

The gathering focused on topics ranging from mental health, maternal wellbeing, and food security to the rapidly evolving field of Artificial Intelligence (AI).

Attendees included: First ladies Ana Dias Lourenço (Angola); Anna Hakobyan (Armenia); Rossana Briceño (Belize); Lucrecia Peinado (Guatemala); Eliza Reid (Iceland); Monica Chakwera (Malawi); Gueta Chapo (Mozambique); Maricel de Mulino (Panama) and Fatima Maada Bio (Sierra Leone).

Former first ladies, who attended the event, contributed insights from their post-office engagements.

Read Also: Anglican Bishop extolls Tinubu for running citizen-oriented government

Dr. Cora Neumann, Montana State Senator and founder of the Global First Ladies Alliance, underscored the importance of the leadership role First Ladies continue to play long after their spouses’ terms in office.

She said: “Your ideas, challenges and insights have shaped every element of this experience and we welcome and expect you to continue shaping it with us.

“Together you are setting the global standard for what it means to be an effective First Partner—and collectively, you represent the hopes and needs of millions.”

Dr. Neumann urged the first ladies to embrace “leadership through the heart,” noting that their compassion-driven leadership is pivotal in addressing global humanitarian challenges.

Senator Tinubu is expected to deliver a special address during the academy in the coming days, focusing on her transformative interventions in Nigeria, particularly for children, women, and youth under her Renewed Hope framework.

The academy aims to strengthen the leadership capacity of First Ladies, amplify their influence, and foster a collaborative network for sustainable social impact across borders.

July 10, 2025