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Tinubu Calls for Stronger African Military Cooperation at Africa Military Games

By
Nnenna Nwankwo
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called for greater collaboration among African militaries to address the continent’s shared security challenges. Speaking at the opening ceremony of the second edition of the Africa Military Games (AMGA) on Wednesday at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, emphasized the importance of unity in overcoming threats to Africa’s stability.

“No single nation can address its security challenges in isolation,” Tinubu said. “Our collective safety and the well-being of our people demand that we stand together as one united Africa. Today’s event is not just about extraordinary athletes; it is a powerful reminder of the cooperation that binds our military institutions across this continent.”

Reviving a Legacy of Military Cooperation

The Africa Military Games, themed “Enhancing Military Cooperation in Africa through Sports,” revives an initiative launched over 20 years ago in Nairobi, Kenya. The event aims to strengthen ties across African nations by fostering camaraderie, discipline, and resilience among military personnel.

Tinubu praised the leadership of Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and the President of the Organisation of Military Sports in Africa (OSMA), Brigadier General Maikano Abdullahi, for their efforts in bringing the games back to life. He noted that the event symbolizes Africa’s collective potential.

“This historic platform not only promotes fitness and discipline but also reaffirms what we can achieve when we come together—not just as neighbors but as guardians of our shared continent,” Tinubu said.

Celebrating African Unity and Talent

General Christopher Musa described the Games as a testament to the unity and diversity of Africa’s armed forces. “These Games remind us of the power of cooperation and friendship,” Musa said, urging the 1,625 athletes and officials from 20 African nations to compete with fairness and sportsmanship.

Brigadier General Abdullahi highlighted the Games as a realization of OSMA’s founding vision. He expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for hosting the event, which he said showcases the rich cultural and athletic heritage of African militaries. “This is more than a competition; it is a platform to reignite the bonds that unite us as brothers and sisters in arms,” Abdullahi remarked.

A Grand Opening Ceremony

The opening ceremony featured a vibrant display of African unity through calisthenics, the hoisting of OSMA and AMGA flags, torch lighting, and oath-taking by athletes. Nigerian music icons, including Timi Dakolo, Yemi Alade, Olamide, and D’banj, electrified the audience with performances, while a dazzling fireworks display concluded the evening.

The Games Ahead

Scheduled from November 18 to 30, the Africa Military Games will feature 20 sports events, with participants from across the continent. The competition underscores the critical role of military collaboration in promoting regional stability and safeguarding the future of a united and prosperous Africa. Athletes are encouraged to embody the spirit of unity, resilience, and fairness throughout the games.

This edition of the Africa Military Games not only celebrates athletic excellence but also strengthens the bonds of military cooperation, serving as a powerful reminder of what Africa can achieve through unity.

State Police: NEC Issues One-Week Deadline to Kwara, Adamawa, Kebbi, FCT

By
Saladin Babagana
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The National Economic Council (NEC) has issued a one-week ultimatum to Kwara, Adamawa, Kebbi States, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to submit their reports on the establishment of state police. The failure of these states and the FCT to comply may delay the implementation of the long-anticipated policy aimed at addressing insecurity across Nigeria.

Background

The NEC, as part of its efforts to combat the escalating insecurity in the country, had resolved to gather comprehensive reports from all 36 states and the FCT on the framework for establishing state police. The decision aligns with the recommendation made by state governors and supported by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who, on February 15, 2024, endorsed state police as a viable solution to Nigeria’s security challenges.

States were tasked with submitting their individual recommendations and proposals to guide NEC’s deliberations and inform the next steps in actualizing state police.

NEC’s Warning

In its latest meeting, NEC reiterated that any state or territory that fails to meet the submission deadline would have to abide by decisions made without its input. This serves as a final reminder to Kwara, Adamawa, Kebbi, and the FCT to comply before the one-week deadline elapses.

Implications

The creation of state police is seen as a critical step in decentralizing Nigeria’s security architecture, granting states the autonomy to manage localized security issues. However, the delay caused by non-compliance from some states and the FCT could hinder progress, delaying deliberations and subsequent implementation of the policy.

NEC emphasized the importance of collective input to ensure that the framework for state police is inclusive, effective, and tailored to the specific needs of each state and region.

Conclusion

As the deadline approaches, all eyes are on Kwara, Adamawa, Kebbi, and the FCT to comply and ensure that the critical process of establishing state police remains on track. The move toward decentralizing law enforcement is considered a significant reform in Nigeria’s efforts to address its multifaceted security challenges.

House of Representatives Rejects Single Six-Year Term for President, Governors, Local Government Chairmen

By
Olajumoke Sanusi
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The House of Representatives has rejected a proposed constitutional amendment seeking to establish a single six-year term for the President, State Governors, and Local Government Chairmen. The bill, which underwent its second reading on Thursday, November 21, 2024, failed to gain the necessary support as lawmakers voted overwhelmingly against it.

Highlights of the Proposed Bill

The bill aimed to amend key sections of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), including Sections 76, 116, 132, and 136, with the following major provisions:

  1. Single Six-Year Term:
    The bill proposed a single six-year term for the President, State Governors, and Local Government Chairmen to promote inclusive governance and reduce the costs associated with the current four-year election cycle.
  2. Rotation of Presidency:
    The amendment to Section 132 sought to rotate the office of the President between Nigeria’s North and South every six years. It further proposed intra-regional rotation among the three geopolitical zones within each region.
  3. Simultaneous Elections:
    Sections 76 and 116 were to be amended to mandate simultaneous elections for the President, Governors, National Assembly, State Houses of Assembly, and Local Government Councils on the same day, as determined by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in consultation with the National Assembly.
  4. Mid-Term Accountability:
    A new section, 188, required Governors to present a mid-term stewardship report to the State House of Assembly after three years. Legislators would then assess the report and, if dissatisfied, could initiate impeachment proceedings.
  5. Provisions for Succession:
    Amendments to Section 136 provided that if a President-elect or Governor-elect dies or is unable to be sworn in, their running mate would assume office and appoint a deputy, subject to legislative approval.

House Members’ Reactions

During the debate, proponents of the bill highlighted its potential to ensure stability, reduce the high costs of frequent elections, and address Nigeria’s governance challenges through rotational leadership. They argued that a single six-year term could eliminate distractions caused by re-election campaigns and focus leaders on governance.

However, the majority of lawmakers strongly opposed the bill, citing concerns about:

Democratic Principles: Many argued that the proposed single term would deprive citizens of the opportunity to hold leaders accountable through re-election.

Regional Tensions: The mandatory rotation of the presidency between North and South, and further among geopolitical zones, was seen as potentially divisive and overly prescriptive.

Implementation Challenges: The requirement for simultaneous elections and mid-term performance evaluations was criticized as cumbersome and unrealistic.

The Speaker of the House, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, presided over the plenary session and, after putting the bill to a voice vote, declared that the “nays” had it.

Conclusion

The rejection of the bill underscores the challenges of achieving constitutional amendments in Nigeria, particularly on issues that directly impact political structures and power dynamics. As the debate over electoral and governance reforms continues, it remains to be seen whether similar proposals will be revisited or modified to gain broader acceptance in the future.

PDP Chairmanship Dispute Deepens as Ologbondiyan Insists on North-Central Leadership

By
Roland Edet
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The internal crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) over its national chairmanship persists, with former party spokesperson Kola Ologbondiyan warning that any resolution outside the North-Central zone would be ineffective and detrimental to the party’s future.

The controversy began following the removal of Senator Iyorchia Ayu as National Chairman in March 2023. Since then, Ambassador Umar Damagum, the Deputy National Chairman (North), has been serving in an acting capacity. However, Damagum’s prolonged tenure as acting chairman has sparked significant disputes, with court cases filed to prevent efforts to remove him.

North-Central Leadership: A Critical Demand

Speaking during an engagement with North-Central youths in Abuja, Ologbondiyan asserted that respecting the PDP’s zoning arrangement, as enshrined in Section 47(6) of the party’s Constitution (2017 Amendment), is crucial for resolving the leadership crisis.

“Anything outside of this demand will end up an exercise in futility,” he said, emphasizing that the North-Central region’s claim to the chairmanship remains the only viable pathway to restoring order within the PDP.

Respect for Party Constitution

Ologbondiyan stressed the importance of adhering to the party’s constitution and respecting the decisions of the National Executive Committee (NEC). He criticized the repeated postponements of NEC meetings, which, according to him, undermine the party’s constitutional order.

“The NEC, at its 98th meeting, resolved to address the demand of the North-Central during its 99th meeting scheduled for August. Unfortunately, this meeting has been postponed multiple times to the detriment of the party and Nigerians,” he lamented. He further called on party leaders to ensure that the upcoming NEC meeting on November 28 holds as planned.

A Call for Damagum’s Reversion

Ologbondiyan urged Ambassador Damagum to revert to his elected role as Deputy National Chairman (North) to restore constitutional order and prevent further harm to the party. He accused Damagum and his backers of “hurting Nigerians” by prolonging the crisis and called for immediate action to resolve the dispute.

“It is trite wisdom that as long as Damagum is being encouraged to continue to sit on the position of North-Central, the concept of fixing the PDP will be mere lip service that can cause the party more harm,” he stated.

Broader Implications for PDP and Nigeria

Highlighting the importance of resolving the leadership impasse, Ologbondiyan argued that a stable PDP is essential for addressing national challenges. He criticized those attempting to centralize control of the party, emphasizing that the PDP was established as the “Peoples Democratic Party,” owned by Nigerians and not by any individual or faction.

“The leaders must look at the bigger picture and address the truth wherever it is required. Those attempting to kill or render the PDP comatose must understand that the party is not a one-man organization,” he said.

Conclusion

As the PDP’s leadership crisis continues, Ologbondiyan’s remarks underscore the urgent need for constitutional adherence, respect for zoning arrangements, and transparent leadership. Whether the November 28 NEC meeting will provide a resolution remains to be seen, but the party’s unity and ability to function effectively in Nigeria’s political landscape hang in the balance.

Atiku Criticizes Tinubu Over N1.7 Trillion Loan Proposal

By
Roland Edet
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Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has expressed deep concern over the recent proposal by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to borrow an additional N1.7 trillion, describing it as a “bone-crushing” move that places undue pressure on Nigerians and the economy.

In a statement on Thursday, Atiku criticized the government’s borrowing practices, particularly the lack of transparency and prudence in negotiating and utilizing loans. He raised alarm over a recent report by the World Bank, which positions Nigeria as the third most indebted country to the International Development Association (IDA).

A Troubling Pattern

Atiku highlighted the stark implications of Nigeria’s increasing debt burden. “This report is coming just when the government has already sent a proposal to the National Assembly, signaling an intention to borrow an additional N1.7 trillion to cover a shortfall in the 2024 budget through Eurobonds,” he stated.

He expressed concern over the proposal’s exchange rate benchmark of ₦800 per $1, which contrasts sharply with the current Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) rate of over ₦1,600 per $1, suggesting potential hidden risks to the economy.

Questions About Revenue and Borrowing

Atiku also questioned the rationale for borrowing despite Tinubu’s claims of record-breaking revenue collection by the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and Nigeria Customs Service.

“If Tinubu could boast that FIRS and Customs under his watch have collected all-time high revenues to finance the budget, why then are they still borrowing? It means there’s something Tinubu’s administration is not telling Nigerians,” he said.

He accused the government of driving Nigeria deeper into debt while implementing “trial-and-error policies” that exacerbate economic hardship.

Allegations of Mismanagement

The former Vice President pointed to findings by BudgIT, a budget transparency organization, which described the 2024 budget as riddled with “pork-barrel” projects. He alleged that the government’s borrowing appetite is driven by corruption rather than infrastructure or developmental needs.

Atiku lamented the reversal of gains made during the administration of President Olusegun Obasanjo, which had freed Nigeria from foreign debt burdens. “It is agonizing to see that a few years after President Obasanjo took our country out of foreign indebtedness, we are today back at the top spot in the same conundrum,” he stated.

A Call for Prudence

Atiku called for greater caution in Nigeria’s borrowing practices and urged the government to prioritize transparency and economic stability. “It is time that we apply more caution and arithmetic to this loan frenzy,” he concluded.

National Assembly’s Role Under Scrutiny

The former Vice President also criticized the National Assembly, describing it as complicit in enabling what he termed as reckless borrowing. He urged lawmakers to scrutinize the government’s loan proposals and protect Nigerians from further economic hardship.

Atiku’s remarks come amidst growing public debate over Nigeria’s rising debt profile, with analysts warning of its potential long-term consequences on economic growth and development.

Nigeria Loses $28 Billion Annually to Grid Failures, Prof. Ogaji

By
Uche Kingsley
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Professor Stephen Ogaji, a renowned expert in the electricity industry, has revealed that Nigeria incurs an annual economic loss of $28 billion due to frequent power outages caused by grid collapses and disturbances. Prof. Ogaji shared these insights at the 2024 Association of Power Generation Companies (APGC) Media Engagement and Training held in Abuja.

A Legacy of Grid Failures

Citing data from the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), Prof. Ogaji disclosed that between 2013 and 2020, the national grid failed 84 times and partially collapsed 43 times. The World Bank’s 2019 data further highlighted that Nigeria experienced electricity outages for 191 days out of 365 that year.

“The economic cost of power shortages in the country is estimated at $28 billion annually, equivalent to 2% of the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP),” Ogaji stated. He emphasized that the losses are not limited to the utilities but extend across the economy, impacting businesses, industries, and households.

Energy Losses and Financial Strain

Prof. Ogaji highlighted inefficiencies resulting from grid collapses and operational shutdowns, particularly at critical facilities like the Odukpani National Integrated Power Project (NIPP). He noted that frequent shutdowns, startup delays, and turbine malfunctions significantly increase energy and financial losses.

“Frequent startups and shutdowns result in inefficient gas utilization, reducing the energy generated to gas consumption ratio and decreasing thermal efficiency,” he explained. He further noted that gas vented during shutdowns and unutilized thermal energy add to the wastage.

Moreover, the Take-or-Pay (ToP) gas supply agreements impose heavy financial burdens on power generation companies (GenCos) when gas goes unused. Without a reliable Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) as a backup, the mounting costs threaten the sustainability of power generation businesses.

Damage to Infrastructure

The ongoing outages have also led to thermal fatigue, damaging critical turbine components such as combustion liners, flow sleeves, crossfire tubes, fuel nozzles, and gas turbine first-stage buckets. Repairs for these components require millions of dollars, further exacerbating the economic toll.

Prof. Ogaji stressed that failure to address these challenges could result in reduced plant availability and spiraling generation costs, which already contribute to 59% of the average end-user electricity costs in Nigeria.

Recommendations for Stabilizing the Grid

To mitigate these persistent challenges, Prof. Ogaji proposed a series of reforms:

  1. Ancillary Services Procurement: The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) should approve the procurement of ancillary services to provide secondary controls like spinning reserves.
  2. Completion of SCADA Projects: The system operator must urgently complete the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) project to enhance oversight of the power grid.
  3. Implementation of Generation Dispatch Tool (GDT): The system operator should adopt and enforce the previously proposed GDT.
  4. Enforcement of Grid Code Provisions: Strict adherence to all grid code provisions is necessary for smoother operations.

A Call for Proactive Action

Prof. Ogaji emphasized the urgency of taking proactive measures to prevent further disruptions to the grid and improve the reliability of gas turbines. “Failure to act will lead to reduced plant availability, higher generation costs, and diminished economic performance,” he warned.

A Path to Stability

As Nigeria grapples with one of the most unstable electricity grids in Africa, implementing these recommendations could provide a roadmap to stability. Beyond ensuring the functionality of thermal gas turbines, these steps could significantly improve power reliability, supporting businesses and households nationwide.

Prof. Ogaji’s remarks serve as a wake-up call for stakeholders across the power sector to address systemic inefficiencies and prioritize sustainable solutions to Nigeria’s electricity challenges.

PDP Chieftain, Ambassador Ojong Agbor, Honored with Doctorate for Leadership , Community Development

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

Ambassador Ojong Agbor, a prominent chieftain of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), has reiterated his dedication to community development and societal transformation after receiving an honorary Doctorate Degree from the American Management University, California.

The award was conferred during the Great Achievers Summit and Award of Excellence 2024, held at the Transcorp Hilton, Abuja. The event, organized by the Great Achievers Initiative for Youth and Community Development (GAIYD) under the leadership of Dr. Hillary Akpua, celebrated individuals making exceptional contributions to leadership and community growth.

Speaking after the recognition, Dr. Agbor described the honorary degree as a challenge to intensify his efforts toward driving societal impact.

“I won’t take this for granted. It’s an opportunity to work harder, touch more lives, and employ as many as possible to expand the good work. We are recognized because of what we are doing and the lives we touch in society. We will push further to be the best in the world,” Dr. Agbor stated.

The PDP chieftain emphasized that the award represents both an acknowledgment of his past contributions and an inspiration to continue promoting meaningful change through leadership and community service.

Themed “Shaping the Future Leadership of Our Society,” this year’s summit highlighted the critical role of visionary leadership in fostering societal transformation. In addition to Dr. Agbor, the event honored several other distinguished leaders, including:

Dr. Joy Victor Osazuwa

Dr. Engr. Okonkwo Ifeanyi Christian

Dr. Chief Patrick Chukwudi Adilo

Dr. Hajiya Hadiza Gana Mohammed

Dr. Mathew Chibueze Ezeouyia

Dr. Yusuf Aminu Adado

Dr. Nnagoziwom Arinze David Chukwueto

Dr. Yusha’u Shehu Umar

The honorees were recognized for their exceptional achievements in leadership, youth empowerment, and community development.

GAIYD, a non-profit organization focused on promoting youth and community development, hosted the summit to inspire current and future leaders to champion progress across diverse sectors of society. The initiative aims to create platforms that encourage individuals to contribute to national and global development.

Dr. Agbor’s recognition at the prestigious event further solidifies his reputation as a trailblazer in leadership and community service. His pledge to “touch more lives” serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative impact of leadership dedicated to the common good.

As he continues to champion initiatives that uplift communities and inspire societal growth, Dr. Agbor’s efforts remain a beacon of impactful leadership for Nigeria and beyond.

Wike Vows Action Against Extortionists in Apo Mechanic Village Relocation Exercise

By
Toyin Adebayo
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The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, has vowed to take strict action against individuals extorting traders under the guise of facilitating land allocation for the relocation of Apo Mechanic Village to Wasa District.

Wike revealed that fraudulent activities, including overcharging and enrolling ineligible traders, have plagued the ongoing relocation process. Speaking through the Coordinator of the Abuja Metropolitan Management Council (AMMC), Chief Felix Obuah, the minister condemned the actions of unscrupulous union leaders who had reportedly charged traders between ₦600,000 and ₦1,000,000 per trader, far beyond the approved ₦300,000 non-refundable fee.

“Over 11,000 people have registered and paid the approved ₦300,000 fee. However, some individuals have taken advantage of the process, demanding exorbitant sums from unsuspecting traders. This will not be tolerated. Anyone found guilty of such acts will be handed over to security agencies,” Wike warned.

Combating Fraudulent Practices

The Minister highlighted several challenges encountered during the relocation exercise, particularly the submission of inflated lists by various unions. Initially, 45,000 names were submitted, but the physical enumeration process revealed numerous fraudulent claims. Wike emphasized that the relocation is intended for traders operating along the road corridors and buffer zones of Apo Mechanic Village, not for opportunists attempting to exploit the process.

“The exercise is strictly for the affected traders. We will not allow anyone to take advantage of this opportunity for personal gain,” Wike stated, emphasizing the integrity of the process.

Commitment to Fairness and Transparency

Wike assured traders that the relocation process would remain fair and transparent, with the names of allottees to be published for public scrutiny. He dismissed rumors that allocations had been secretly awarded to government officials and their associates.

“Every trader who meets the criteria will be duly allocated a shop. No allocations have been made to any government official or private interest. We are committed to ensuring that the process is transparent and accountable,” he stressed.

Concluding the Relocation by Year-End

The FCT Minister also expressed confidence that the relocation, which has faced delays for over 25 years, will be concluded by the end of the month. The administration is determined to resolve the issue within its tenure, providing traders with a more conducive environment for their businesses.

Wike emphasized that the relocation is part of the broader effort to address the road expansion project and create a modern, organized market for the traders. The design and site plans for the new location were also discussed during the meeting with traders.

“The government is working in the interest of the people, and we are confident that this initiative will bring lasting relief to those impacted,” Wike concluded, reiterating the commitment of the FCT Administration to a fair and effective relocation process.

With transparency, accountability, and the swift action against extortionists, the FCT Administration hopes to resolve the long-standing challenges faced by traders in the Apo Mechanic Village, ensuring they are provided with a better environment for their businesses.

Hon. Alex Ikwechegh Marks One Year of Transformative Leadership in Aba North/South

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

In just one year, Hon. Alex Mascot Ikwechegh has made a profound impact as the House of Representatives member for Aba North/South federal constituency. His unwavering dedication to the constituency has yielded tremendous positive changes.

On Sunday, November 17, Hon. Ikwechegh marked a significant milestone – the one-year anniversary of his service as the representative of his esteemed constituents. In a post on his Facebook page, Hon. Alex said, “This occasion is a poignant reminder of the trust and confidence you have placed in me to advance the aspirations of our community.”

He reflected on the past year, describing it as “nothing short of extraordinary.” He expressed gratitude for the strides made together, addressing critical challenges, advocating for collective interests, and championing initiatives for sustainable growth and development.

“Over the past year, this journey of leadership has been nothing short of extraordinary. I am deeply gratified by the strides we have made together—addressing critical challenges, advocating for our collective interests, and championing initiatives designed to spur sustainable growth and development. Every step taken has been driven by an unwavering resolve to effect meaningful and lasting change.”

“Although challenges have inevitably arisen, my optimism for our shared future remains steadfast. I am invigorated by the resilience of our people and the boundless potential that resides within our constituency. With renewed vigor, I look forward to continuing this journey of service, fostering collaboration, and driving the progress that our community so richly deserves” Hon Alex said.

Infrastructure Development

Within a year, Hon. Ikwechegh has championed numerous infrastructure projects, including road rehabilitation and expansion, attraction of over 15 electricity transformers to Aba North and South. This has significantly improved power supply, augmenting productivity, commercial activities, and security in the area. Additionally, he has purchased over 1500 solar-powered streetlights, illuminating the streets and further enhancing security at night.

Education and Empowerment

As a testament to his commitment to education, over 200 students have been awarded university scholarships, nurturing future leaders of tomorrow. He has also invested in the educational infrastructure of his constituency, installing solar energy at Abia poly Library, Providing books, chairs and countless materials for learning to Eziama central School, Riverside Primary Schools, and constitution crescent Primary Schools; also donating two coaster buses to aid student free transportation within the constituency.

Through his training programs, over 5,000 individuals have been equipped with valuable skills in various trades like tailoring, driving, tiling, beauticians, auto mechanics, solar panel installation, auto electricians, aluminum profile making and installation, shoe making and leather works, plumbing, etc, enabling them to become self-reliant and economically independent. His entrepreneurial empowerment programs have transformed lives, providing hundreds of women and youth with starter packs, sewing machines, and financial aid to ignite their business journeys.

Hon. Alex has also supported youth empowerment through sports by sponsoring local teams and organizing tournaments, inspiring young athletes to achieve their dreams.

Humanitarian Support

Additionally, he has distributed countless trailer loads of food palliatives, relief materials, and other products to alleviate economic challenges faced by the people. His foundation, the Alex Mascot Foundation, has also distributed free petrol and kerosene to thousands of residents in Aba North and South, a program that has ran for over 10 years, demonstrating his dedication to alleviating the hardships faced by his constituents.

Legislative Achievements

As a lawmaker, Hon. Mascot has been actively involved in sponsoring many bills that promote the welfare of his constituents, with some bills passing the second reading. One of his notable bills is the “Bill for an Act to Establish Federal Technical and Vocational Training Centre, Aba,” which has passed its first reading at the House of Representatives. This bill aims to promote self-reliance and curb unemployment amongst the populace by providing training, certification, and registration of trained artisans.

In conclusion, Hon. Alex Mascot Ikwechegh’s first year in office has been marked by significant achievements, transforming the lives of countless individuals in Aba North/South. His commitment to education, empowerment, humanitarian support, and legislative achievements has earned him recognition as a beacon of hope for the people.

Jigawa Youth Agenda Refutes Baseless Allegations Against Defence Minister Badaru

By
Victor Obabunmi
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0

The Jigawa Youth Agenda has vehemently denied the unfounded allegations made by a mysterious group claiming to represent APC youth in Jigawa State against Honourable Minister of Defence, Muhammad Badaru Abubakar MON Mni. After thorough investigations, it was revealed that this group is not officially registered with the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Jigawa and seems to have been hastily formed to spread misinformation and disrupt party unity.

The Youth Agenda are in solidarity with Minister Badaru Abubakar as they reaffirmed its unwavering support for Minister Badaru Abubakar, acknowledging his exceptional contributions to the APC and Nigeria. His leadership and commitment are indisputable, from his transformative tenure as Governor of Jigawa State to his current role as Minister of Defence.

The them, Minister Badaru has done excellently well and the highlighted his key schievements to include but not limited to the following:

  • Strengthening National Security: Minister Badaru Abubakar has enhanced Nigeria’s military capabilities, ensuring protection of lives and property.
  • Forging Strategic Partnerships: He has fostered vital alliances with global defence organizations to bolster Nigeria’s security and modernize defence infrastructure.
  • Promoting Youth Empowerment: The Minister has launched initiatives focused on education, employment, and entrepreneurship in Jigawa State.
  • Advancing APC Unity: Minister Badaru Abubakar promotes unity within the party, fostering collaboration across Jigawa and nationally.

The so-called APC Youth Group’s allegations are an attempt to create division within the united APC family. The Jigawa Youth Agenda urges APC members and the public to disregard these unfounded claims and focus on strengthening party unity and ideals.

Minister Badaru Abubakar’s legacy remains a source of pride for Jigawa State and Nigeria. His dedication to national development, APC principles, and the Tinubu administration demonstrates his integrity and effectiveness. The Jigawa Youth Agenda urges Nigerians to recognize his achievements and support his efforts to build a stronger, more secure nation.

The Jigawa Youth Agenda reaffirms its full confidence in Minister Badaru Abubakar’s ability to lead and contribute positively to Nigeria’s development. Together, let us reject misinformation and uphold APC unity and progress at state and national levels.

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