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  • Tinubu vows deeper faith-leader engagements to curb conflict, promote peaceful coexistence

    Tinubu vows deeper faith-leader engagements to curb conflict, promote peaceful coexistence

    …reaffirms commitment to religious freedom, security, and national unity

    …urges Nigerians to embrace shared values, patience on the roads during holidays

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has assured Nigerians that his administration will build on sustained engagements with leaders of the country’s major faiths to prevent conflict and promote peaceful coexistence, as part of broader efforts to strengthen national unity and stability.

    In his 2025 Christmas goodwill message, the President said dialogue with Christian and Muslim leaders had remained central to his government’s response to religious intolerance and insecurity, noting that such engagements would be expanded to reinforce harmony across the country.

    “Throughout the year, I have had the privilege of engaging with prominent leaders from the two major faiths in the country, particularly amid concerns about religious intolerance and insecurity,” Tinubu said, adding that the administration would “build on these conversations to strengthen collaboration between government and religious institutions, prevent conflict and promote peaceful coexistence.”

    The President described Christmas as a solemn season that transcends celebrations and festivities, urging Nigerians to reflect on the deeper significance of the birth of Jesus Christ and his enduring message of peace, grace, and goodwill to humanity. 

    He prayed that “the love of Christ and his message of grace, hope, peace, and goodwill to humanity abide with us all.”

    Extending goodwill to Christians in Nigeria and across the world, Tinubu wished them a Merry Christmas and thanked God for the opportunity to serve as the nation’s leader. He also offered prayers for peace in the country, especially among people of different religious beliefs.

    Reaffirming his constitutional responsibility, the President said his administration remains committed to entrenching religious freedom and protecting Nigerians of all faiths from violence and discrimination. 

    “As your President, I remain committed to doing everything within my power to enshrine religious freedom in Nigeria and to protect all people of different faiths from violence,” he said.

    Tinubu recalled that since assuming office in 2023, his government has consistently reassured Nigerians of its resolve to safeguard the nation’s security, unity, and stability. 

    According to him, that pledge “remains steadfast under God and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

    He stressed that every Nigerian, regardless of ethnicity or belief, has the right to live, worship, and pursue legitimate aspirations in safety and dignity, warning that no citizen should be made to suffer for professing or practising his or her faith. 

    He noted that love for God and love for humanity are shared values at the heart of all major religions and must continue to bind Nigerians together as one indivisible people.

    The President also acknowledged the contributions of Christians to national development, noting that the teachings of Christ have inspired many to serve society selflessly. 

    He said the Gospel message has motivated countless Nigerians to care for the vulnerable and less privileged, while promoting peace, harmony, and tolerance within their communities.

    Tinubu commended individuals and groups who continue to bring hope and faith in the midst of hardship, saying the Christmas season serves as a reminder that, despite daunting challenges, God remains with the nation.

    On the security front, the President reiterated that peace and stability remain critical priorities for his administration, describing them as prerequisites for sustainable development and national progress.

    With increased travel expected during the festive period, Tinubu urged Nigerians to exercise patience and discipline on the roads as they reunite with family and loved ones. He wished all travellers safe journeys and safe returns to their destinations.

    Expressing optimism about the country’s future, the President said that with confidence in divine providence and collective national strength, Nigeria would continue on the path of renewal. 

    He pledged that his administration would remain focused on building a greater and more united country that future generations would be proud of.

  • Ex-lawmaker Daramola hails Tinubu’s Military welfare initiatives, appreciates soldiers in Ekiti

    Ex-lawmaker Daramola hails Tinubu’s Military welfare initiatives, appreciates soldiers in Ekiti

    A former member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Bimbo Daramola, has commended President Bola Tinubu for his administration’s renewed focus on the welfare of military personnel and veterans across Nigeria.

    Daramola made the remarks on Wednesday while hosting soldiers in Ekiti State through his Citizens Appreciation Foundation during a Christmas-season outreach. 

    He noted that the welfare initiatives of the current administration have given fresh hope to active servicemen and women and significantly boosted morale within the armed forces.

    Stressing the importance of improved conditions of service, the former lawmaker said soldiers who are adequately supported are better motivated to perform their constitutional duties with discipline, professionalism, and integrity. 

    He highlighted welfare packages such as timely remuneration, decent living conditions, healthcare, and support for families as critical to sustaining military morale and loyalty to the nation.

    Daramola also lauded the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, other service chiefs, and the Minister of Defence, Major General Christopher Musa (rtd.), for prioritising the welfare of troops. He observed that enhanced welfare has directly contributed to improved security, safety, and stability for millions of Nigerians.

    Explaining his outreach, Daramola said it was aimed at honouring soldiers who risk their lives daily to protect the nation, often remaining on duty during holidays while others celebrate with their families. 

    “These men and women are true patriots who put duty above personal comfort. Our outreach is to show that Nigerians recognize and deeply appreciate their sacrifices,” he said.

    He urged citizens to acknowledge and support military personnel while they are still in active service rather than waiting until they become veterans. 

    Daramola pledged to continue his non-political advocacy to promote public recognition of the sacrifices of security personnel, noting that such appreciation strengthens military–civil relations and inspires greater patriotism.

  • Yuletide: Tinubu’s reforms yield early economic gains — Senator Adeola

    Yuletide: Tinubu’s reforms yield early economic gains — Senator Adeola

    Chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriations, Senator Solomon Adeola (APC, Ogun West), has said early gains from the economic reforms of the Tinubu administration are beginning to manifest, pointing to improvements in key economic indicators.

    In a Christmas message released on Wednesday and signed by his media aide, Kayode Odunaro, in Abuja, Adeola noted that the naira had shown signs of strengthening, while the prices of petrol and some basic food items had moderated.

    He added that inflation had eased from earlier highs, with recent data indicating a decline in both headline inflation and food inflation rates.

    The senator called on Nigerians to use the Christmas period as an opportunity to pray for sustained economic recovery and national prosperity.

    While acknowledging that many citizens continue to face socio-economic challenges arising from both domestic and global factors, Adeola expressed optimism about the country’s future.

    He urged Nigerians to remain hopeful and steadfast, expressing confidence that through faith and collective effort, the nation would experience renewed economic growth, improved security, and a poverty reduction.

    Adeola also encouraged citizens to use the Christmas season to reaffirm their faith and offer prayers for a more peaceful and prosperous Nigeria.

    He called on Christians and other Nigerians to reflect on the significance of the birth of Jesus Christ and seek divine guidance for the country as reforms under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda continue to unfold.

    Describing Christmas as a celebration of hope and salvation, the senator said the birth of Christ assures humanity of a better future, adding that the season should transcend festivities and be marked by sober reflection and prayers for national progress.

  • Ondo APC chief predicts victory for Tinubu

    Ondo APC chief predicts victory for Tinubu

    Over 1,000 members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo East Local Government.

    The defectors, led by Charles Adeduro, a former council chairman under the late Governor Olusegun Agagu, formally joined the APC during a reception.

    Welcoming the new members, Ondo State APC Chairman, Ade Adetimehin, expressed delight at Adeduro’s calibre and followership, describing him as a committed and principled leader, who will add significant value to the party.

    Adetimehin highlighted President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s achievements, including major road infrastructure projects, economic stabilisation efforts and other developmental initiatives.

    Adeduro affirmed his commitment to the APC.

    He said: ‘‘I have come to add value to the party and work tirelessly to ensure President Tinubu wins convincingly in my local government, aiming for a 100 per cent margin.’’

    He paid tribute to Otunba Agboola Kelly for his recent defection to the APC.

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    Otunba Agboola Kelly, a prominent party leader in Ondo State, declared that Adeduro’s arrival signals the end of meaningful opposition in the Ondo East and West Federal Constituency.

    “The former LG boss has served in various political positions and is a highly respected voice in the area,” Kelly noted.

    He  hailed the Minister of Interior,  Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, for his consistent support to the party, calling him a “jolly good fellow” who always responds promptly to requests for assistance and a worthy son of whom the party is proud.

    The event underscores the APC’s increasing dominance in Ondo State ahead of future elections

  • AFCON 2023: Dikko lauds Tinubu for redeeming rewards to Super Eagles

    AFCON 2023: Dikko lauds Tinubu for redeeming rewards to Super Eagles

    National Sports Commission(NSC) Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, has applauded the  government of  President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for delivering on its promise to reward  the Super Eagles for winning  silver at the  delayed 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Cote d’Ivoire.

    On Monday , President Tinubu fulfilled the promises of Houses, plots of land and national honours after Dikko led a Federal Government delegation to the Super Eagles camp in Fes, Morroco to  present the title documents for the houses, certificates of national honour and confirmation of the plots of land in Abuja to the elated and grateful players and team officials from the class of 2024 comprising 45 persons.

    The Federal Government delegation consisted of  a  representative from the Presidency, Mrs Nathan-Mash, Comptroller General of Customs Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, Chairman of Senate Committee on Sports Senator Abdul Ahmed Ningi, Chairman of House Committee on Sports Hon. Kabiru Amadu, Malam Saleh Ahmadu and Nigerian Embassy Officials in Morocco among others.

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     Dikko reiterated the President’s commitment towards athletes’ welfare and a reward scheme aimed at motivating athletes to higher levels of excellence and explained that after all due processes are completed the rewards are now being delivered to the team as approved by the President.

    He said: “What we have done here today is a demonstration of the shared prosperity disposition of Mr. President. The era of unfulfilled promises to the athletes is gone. As I am talking to you, the houses and National Honours Mr. President promised to the D’Tigress and Super Falcons are ready for collection and payment of the  Naira Equivalent of $100,000 USD  promised to each of the players  is being processed by the Minister of Finance and Accountant-General of the Federation for payment direct to the players’ accounts.”

    He  also thanked the Honourable Minister of Housing and Urban Development Architect Ahmed Dangiwa, the Minister of  Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs, Zephaniah Jisalo, the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike and the Minister of Finance and coordinating Minister of Economy, Mr. Wale Edun for collaborating closely with the NSC in delivering the presidential awards as approved and directed by President   Tinubu.

    He added: “To whom much is given, much is expected. We want the Super Eagles and indeed, every Nigerian athlete to know that they have a President who cares and won’t allow their labour to be in vain in clear alignment to the Renewed Hope Agenda and Shared Prosperity Vision of the President. They should not relent in their efforts to bring honour to the nation as they should be rest assured the President would always be in the corner while the NSC would continue to work to ensure it provides the enablers for their success to the glory of Nigeria.”

  • Group lauds Tinubu for successful rescue of Niger school children

    Group lauds Tinubu for successful rescue of Niger school children

    The Faleke Ambassadors for Asiwaju 2027, a vibrant grassroots movement dedicated to advancing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, has showered encomiums on the President and Nigeria’s gallant security forces for the triumphant rescue of all abducted students and teachers from St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary School in Papiri, Niger State.

    In a statemet issued in Abuja, the group hailed the release of the final batch of 130 students on Sunday as a resounding triumph that vividly illustrates President Tinubu’s steadfast resolve to safeguard the lives of every Nigerian, especially the most vulnerable.

    The Faleke Ambassadors for Asiwaju praised the President’s decisive deployment of security assets and the seamless coordination that ensured the children’s safe arrival in Minna, 

    The statement signed by its National Coordinator, Comrade Dauda Jerry said: “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has once again proven that under his leadership, no Nigerian child will be abandoned in the hands of criminals. 

    “This victory is Renewed Hope made manifest—lives saved, families restored, and hope reignited.

    “This historic rescue stands as undeniable proof of the strength and efficiency of Mr. President’s security framework, sending a powerful message that Nigeria is progressively safer and more secure under his administration.”

    The federal lawmaker representing Ikeja Federal Constituency, Hon. James Abiodun Faleke, National Leader and Grand Patron of the group was specially celebrated by members who described him as the “unquestionable architect of loyalty and progress.”

    “As devoted disciples and followers of our revered leader, Hon. James Abiodun Faleke we celebrate his unparalleled commitment to President Tinubu’s vision. 

    “His visionary guidance, loyalty, and tireless advocacy have inspired thousands across the nation to stand firmly with the President,” the statement declared.

    The Forum expressed deep appreciation for Hon. Faleke’s immense contributions to the success of the Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly in championing economic development, infrastructure renewal, and youth empowerment initiatives that have brought meaningful progress to the nation. 

    “Under Hon. Faleke’s mentorship and strategic leadership, our Network has become a formidable force for good. His selfless service, political sagacity, and dedication to national unity continue to inspire us as we march forward toward 2027,” the statement added. 

     “We call on all Nigerians to continue supporting President Tinubu’s administration. His successes in security and economic reforms are clear for all to see.”

    The Faleke Ambassadors for Asiwaju reaffirmed its total and unconditional endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in 2027, pointing to his outstanding achievements in security, economic revitalization, infrastructure transformation, and inclusive governance as compelling reasons for all Nigerians to rally behind him.

    “With President Tinubu at the helm and leaders like Hon. James Abiodun Faleke guiding our steps, the entire nation is assured of a brighter, more prosperous future.”

  • We have capacity to return Tinubu in 2027, says Fubara

    We have capacity to return Tinubu in 2027, says Fubara

    Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has boasted that his administration possesses the capacity to ensure the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027.

    Fubara, who spoke on Monday during the inauguration of the Permanent Secretaries’ Quarters in Elimgbu, Port Harcourt, assured members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Working Committee present at the event that his decision to work for Tinubu’s re-election was intact.

    He said the decision was borne out of the desire to reciprocate the protection they received from the President, adding that the re-election of Tinubu would be a thank-you gesture by his administration.

    The governor said, “We have made a decision. Our decision is for the good of Rivers State. We decided to say thank you for the protection that we received from Mr. President. We decide to prove a point that we have what it takes to return Mr President come 2027.”

    Speaking about the project, Fubara said it was one of the ways of restoring the dignity of permanent secretaries and discouraging factors that promote fraud in the civil service.

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    He said those who possessed the basic needs of life had no reason to engage in fraud, noting that most persons indulge in sharp practices out of insecurity.

    “If you have the basic needs of life, do you need to get involved in anything criminal? The only reason why people get involved in things like that is because of insecurity.

    “Insecurity is not only banditry overriding villages or cases of robbers invading your homes, but when you are in your corner, you are not sure of what happens to you in the next hour or the next day.

    “It is more complicated when you are a family man. In that case, people are forced to do the unthinkable, which results in a lot of crimes in one way or another that diminish governance.”

    He recalled that in the past, newly appointed permanent secretaries were given brand new vehicles and assigned official quarters with their basic needs catered for by the government.

    “So, we on our part believe that because we have passed through that road that the best thing that we need to do to encourage the civil servants to stop cutting corners, improve productivity and save not just Rivers State but Nigeria is to encourage them with one important thing that we know will go a long way in saving our situation which is this housing”, he said.

    He promised that other cadres of the service would also enjoy similar provisions, expressing happiness that the project had become one of the lasting legacies of his administration.

    “I am happy to be associated with it and everyone who is working with us. To show the significance of this project, it is the day that we are commissioning this project that the National Working Committee chose to visit us,” he said.

    While advising the beneficiaries of the project on maintenance, the governor said: “Government at times, not that they tend to be wicked, or not to be caring, but one of the things that discourages them, it is not mine, you know, most of you civil servants are very wicked.

    “This well-built house, as soon as you pack in, you don’t mind damaging parts of the wall. Please treat this as your own and personal property. Knowing that the government spent money on it for your own betterment, protect it, and let it be a legacy that we all should be proud of.

    “Let me also call on the Rivers State Head of Service, not to leave this facility in the hands of the users alone. If you can, you people should get a facility manager, that is a better way to keep this place. This place is a well-thought-out arrangement to give you comfort and make you bring out your best for Rivers State.”

  • Why Tinubu’s govt prefers combat helicopters to Tucano jets for war against bandits, terrorists, by Akinsiju

    Why Tinubu’s govt prefers combat helicopters to Tucano jets for war against bandits, terrorists, by Akinsiju

    The Independent Media and Policy Initiative (IMPI) has explained why the administration of President Bola Tinubu is more favourably disposed to having combat helicopters deployed for the war against insurgency and banditry than the Super Tucano.

    In a statement signed by its Chairman, Dr Omoniyi Akinsiju, the organisation explained that facts at its disposal showed that the President favoured the combat helicopters because of their easy adaptability to the task of neutralising terrorists without putting the unarmed populace at risk in the theatre of war.

    The statement said, “Compared to the Tucano which is a fixed-wing plane earlier inducted into the NAF fleet, combat helicopters excel in forest warfare by providing rapid, low-level fire support, reconnaissance, and troop transport, overcoming terrain barriers with nap-of-the-earth flying, spotting hidden enemies, and delivering precision strikes with missiles and rockets, making them crucial for close air support (CAS) in dense woodlands where ground access is difficult.

    “Some of the other advantages inherent in combat helicopters include enabling attacks on enemy positions, vehicles, or troops hidden in tree lines, and providing immediate firepower to ground forces. They also use advanced sensors to spot enemy movements, fortifications, and ambushes from above the canopy, providing critical intelligence in the same vein.

    “They can identify and mark targets for other air assets or artillery. In addition, because they can fly low (nap-of-the-earth), they can avoid detection and reach areas inaccessible to fixed-wing aircraft like the Tucano or ground vehicles. Also, excellent agility allows them to navigate tight spaces, even flying between trees and buildings; as such, they can be deployed quickly from forward fuelling points, offering immediate response.

    “In essence, combat helicopters act as “flying cavalry,” providing unmatched tactical flexibility and firepower for operations deep within dense, forested terrain, adapting quickly to the dynamic challenges of woodland combat.”

    The organisation noted that, having considered the variables, it was convinced that the Federal Government’s decision to prioritise combat helicopters was a well-taken one.

    The statement added: “Aggregating the potential impact of the platforms when eventually delivered, we can assert that the new accuracy and precision capabilities that will come with these platforms have the potential to move the needle away from extensive collateral damage that had limited engagements with insurgents and bandits to pinpointed exploits, something which may ultimately recover the confidence of the people in the operational capacity of the military.

    “There is a greater likelihood that operational gains can be sustained when they are not exposed to a population feeling threatened, but rather are there to protect them.

    “For example, the APKWS II laser-guided rockets and programmable fuses add a new level of accuracy to the Nigerian arsenal. In contrast to unguided munitions, they can enable more surgical airstrikes, such as in densely populated areas or where the insurgents purposefully mix with the civilian population.

    “Through the combination of surveillance drones, intelligence squads and ground forces, precision-guided weapons have a remarkable chance of enhancing coordinated attacks, especially in inaccessible areas or deeply forested insurgent hideouts.”

    The organisation said that coordinated assault using combat helicopters and drones may also be useful against the criminal elements.

    “Military-grade drone manufacturing is gradually becoming entrenched in Nigeria, thereby increasing the prospects of coordinating combat helicopters and drones in attack situations.

    “The coordination of combat helicopters and drones, primarily through Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T), offers significant and growing potential in attack scenarios by enhancing situational awareness, reducing human risk, and increasing operational efficiency,” the statement added.

  • Group hails Tinubu over rescue of abducted girls

    Group hails Tinubu over rescue of abducted girls

    The 313 Network for Asiwaju 2027, a grassroots support group championing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, has commended the President and Nigeria’s security forces for the successful rescue of all abducted students and teachers from St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary School in Papiri, Niger State.

    In a statement at the conclusion of its end-of-year congress held in Lafia, the group described the release of the final batch of 130 students on Sunday as a “monumental victory” that underscores President Tinubu’s commitment to the safety and security of Nigerian citizens, particularly vulnerable children.

    The congress, which featured exhaustive deliberations among members from across the country, highlighted the President’s decisive actions following the November 21 abduction of 303 students and 12 teachers by armed gunmen.

    The statement noted that initial efforts saw about 50 students escape on their own, followed by the rescue of 100 more on December 8 through sustained security operations.

    The final release of the remaining 130 students, as confirmed by Special Adviser to the President on Media and Communication, Sunday Dare, has now accounted for all victims.

    The group praised President Tinubu’s leadership in deploying security agencies and coordinating operations that led to the safe return of the children to Minna, where they were received by Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago and reunited with their families after medical examinations.

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    “The President’s prompt and strategic response to this crisis demonstrates his Renewed Hope vision in action—protecting lives, restoring hope, and ensuring that no Nigerian child is left behind,” the statement signed by Ambassador Toby Prince Udo, its national coordinator added.

    “This achievement attests to the effectiveness of his administration’s security architecture and a clear signal that Nigeria is safer under his leadership.

    “We are deeply grateful to Mr. President for his decisive leadership that brought every single child and teacher home safely. This is Renewed Hope in tangible form.”

    The 313 Network for Asiwaju 2027 also expressed profound gratitude and admiration for its Grand Patron and Financier, Senator Mohammed Sani Musa, representing Niger East Senatorial District and widely celebrated as 313.

    “As the visionary founder, Grand Patron, and Financier of this movement, Senator 313 has tirelessly mobilized millions in support of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda,” the statement declared.

     “His strategic leadership, patriotic zeal, and selfless dedication have transformed the Network into a powerful force for positive change.

    “As his devoted followers and disciples, we salute Senator 313 for his exemplary service, loyalty, and remarkable ability to bridge divides while amplifying the voice of the people,” the group said.

    The Network particularly thanked Senator Musa for his immense support to Mr. President, especially in the area of economic development, where his contributions have helped drive key reforms and initiatives yielding tangible benefits for Nigerians.

    The 313 Network for Asiwaju 2027 reiterated its full endorsement of President Tinubu for a second term in 2027, citing his successes in security, economic reforms, and infrastructure development as reasons to rally nationwide support.

    “With leaders like President Tinubu and Senator 313 at the helm, Nigeria’s future is brighter than ever,” the statement concluded.

  • Tinubu celebrates trailblazing police officer, Cecilia Ugowe at 90

    Tinubu celebrates trailblazing police officer, Cecilia Ugowe at 90

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended warm birthday felicitations to retired Deputy Inspector General of Police, Cecilia Adebisi Ugowe, as she marks her 90th birthday.

    In a statement issued on Monday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President hailed Mrs Ugowe as a trailblazer whose distinguished service to the Nigeria Police Force helped expand opportunities for women and strengthen professionalism at a time when policing was overwhelmingly male-dominated.

    President Tinubu noted that Mrs Ugowe consistently broke barriers throughout her career, setting historic milestones that redefined the role of women in law enforcement. 

    He recalled that in 1968 she became a Deputy Superintendent of Police, a rare achievement for a woman in the force at the time.

    The President further highlighted her pioneering records as the first female Commissioner of Police, the first female Assistant Inspector General of Police, and the first woman to serve as Force Secretary, achievements that underscored her exceptional leadership and commitment to duty.

    “As she marks this significant milestone, I commend her lifetime of service and wish her continued good health, peace, and fulfilment,” President Tinubu said.

    He described Mrs Ugowe’s career as a lasting inspiration to generations of officers, particularly women, and a testament to dedication, resilience and excellence in public service.