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Policy Continuity Key to Nigeria’s Progress, Says SGF Akume at Renewed Hope Grassroots Launch

Toyin Adebayo
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Policy Continuity Key to Nigeria’s Progress, Says SGF Akume at Renewed Hope Grassroots Launch

Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has reaffirmed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda is anchored on policy continuity and governance stability as the bedrock for sustainable national development.

Speaking at the inauguration and maiden lecture of the Renewed Hope Grassroots Movement (RHGM) in Abuja, Akume—represented by Mr. Nadunga Gagare, Permanent Secretary, Political and Economic Affairs—warned that Nigeria’s development setbacks often stem from abandoning policies and projects with each change of leadership.

“The chosen theme, ‘Continuity in Governance and Government Policies: Panacea to Sustainable Development in Nigeria,’ is not only timely but also fundamental to the success of any nation,” Akume said. “Sustainable development thrives on consistency. A road started by one administration should be completed by the next.”

He explained that Tinubu’s administration is determined to strengthen national institutions, implement reforms that endure beyond individuals, and entrench systems that deliver lasting impact.

Akume also charged the grassroots movement to deepen citizen engagement, stressing that the heartbeat of democracy lies at the community level. “Without the active involvement of people at the base of society, no government’s brilliant policy can succeed,” he added.

In his welcome remarks, National Leader of RHGM, Ambassador Isaac Chigozie Udeh, said President Tinubu had already secured the political confidence of Nigerians ahead of 2027, urging citizens to remain patient. “What we are going through is

Nigeria @65: SDP’s Ferrari Urges Leaders to Put Security, Unity and Good Governance First

Toyin Adebayo
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Nigeria @65: SDP’s Ferrari Urges Leaders to Put Security, Unity and Good Governance First

As Nigeria celebrates 65 years of independence, the Social Democratic Party (SDP) has called on leaders at all levels to place security, peace, and good governance at the forefront of national development.

Hon. Femi Olaniyi Ferrari, SDP’s Chairman of Chairmen, in a statement personally signed and released in Abuja on Tuesday, paid glowing tribute to Nigeria’s founding fathers whose sacrifices, he said, remain a beacon of hope for future generations.

Ferrari stressed that insecurity continues to ravage communities nationwide and urged urgent action to guarantee the safety and welfare of ordinary Nigerians.

“Our challenges must be tackled through democratic means, emphasizing good governance, transparency, and accountability,” he said. “By harnessing our collective potential, we can make meaningful investments in education, healthcare, and infrastructure.”

He also underscored the importance of unity in diversity, calling for a Nigeria where every citizen enjoys equal access to justice, fairness, and opportunities.

“Happy 65th Independence Anniversary to Nigeria! May we persist in our efforts to build a nation that exemplifies freedom, justice, and prosperity for all,” Ferrari declared.

He concluded with a rallying note: “Long live SDP! Long live Nigeria!”

Nigeria @ 65: Adebayo Warns — Without Peace, Our Future Is in Jeopardy

Toyin Adebayo
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Nigeria @ 65: Adebayo Warns — Without Peace, Our Future Is in Jeopardy

Former presidential candidate and legal luminary, Adewole Adebayo, has cautioned that Nigeria’s quest for renewal will remain elusive unless peace and security are placed at the core of governance.

In a statement commemorating Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary, Adebayo recalled the words of the country’s first Prime Minister, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, stressing that courage, justice, and accountability remain the pillars for achieving the founding vision of a united and prosperous nation.

“For Nigeria to take its next great step forward, any government of the future must place security at the very heart of its agenda. Without peace, nothing else can flourish,” he declared.

He lamented rising insecurity, pointing to United Nations data showing over 2.3 million internally displaced persons in Nigeria by the end of 2024, alongside thousands of violent incidents that have devastated communities.

According to him, peace is the key to unlocking critical infrastructure Nigeria desperately needs from roads and railways to power grids, hospitals, and digital networks. He urged the adoption of a unified national security strategy that integrates the military, police, and intelligence services under a coordinated doctrine, strengthened with modern surveillance tools such as drones and satellites.

Adebayo also decried Nigeria’s infrastructure and energy gaps, noting that while the country generates less than 5,000MW of power, South Africa produces 40,000MW despite having a smaller population. He warned that corruption and illicit financial flows drain nearly $18 billion annually from the economy, describing it as “treason against our future.”

On poverty, he cited National Bureau of Statistics’ data showing that 133 million Nigerians about 63% of the population lack basic needs, with one in three living below the global poverty line of $2.15 per day and 31 million facing acute food insecurity.

Still, he struck a hopeful note, describing Nigeria’s youth as the nation’s “master strategy for greatness.” With over 70% of citizens under 30, he called for massive investment in education, vocational training, digital skills, and youth enterprise.

“Nigeria has never shied away from its challenges,” he reminded. “The urgent task before us now is to build a nation where no one is left behind, and no community is consigned to despair.”

For Adebayo, Independence Day must be seen as a moment of “solemn renewal,” where Nigerians recommit to peace, justice, and good governance as the foundation for national progress.

Independence Day: Wike Urges FCT Residents to Uphold Unity, Support Tinubu’s Agenda

Toyin Adebayo
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Independence Day: Wike Urges FCT Residents to Uphold Unity, Support Tinubu’s Agenda

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has urged residents of the Territory to remain united and committed to the ideals of Nigeria’s founding fathers as the nation marks its 65th Independence anniversary.

In his message on Tuesday, Wike described the FCT as the symbol of Nigeria’s unity and nationhood, calling on residents to embody the spirit of brotherhood and peace.

“All hands must be on deck to ensure that the labour of the nation’s founding fathers is not in vain. The Federal Capital Territory remains Nigeria’s symbol of unity and nationhood, hence, we must continue to embody the faith that we are greater together,” the Minister said.

Wike commended residents for supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, highlighting achievements in road construction, school and hospital upgrades, farmer support, and youth and women empowerment through Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

He added that the FCT has remained one of the most peaceful parts of the country, attributing this to the security framework of the Administration and residents’ commitment to peaceful coexistence.Ahead of the February 2026 area council elections, Wike urged residents to conduct campaigns peacefully and vote for visionary leaders capable of driving development.

He assured that the Administration will continue to partner with security agencies to safeguard lives and property.“Amidst the challenges we face as a nation, the future is brighter.

We have a President who is intentional about prioritising the well-being of citizens and has brought unprecedented development to the FCT,” he said, praying for God’s blessings on the nation.

Nigeria at 65: CAN Demands Progress That Reaches Every Household

Toyin Adebayo
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Nigeria at 65: CAN Demands Progress That Reaches Every Household

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has urged leaders to ensure that the benefits of governance and reforms translate into real improvements in the daily lives of citizens, warning that “true progress must touch every home.”

In a statement marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary, CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, congratulated Nigerians on the milestone but stressed that rising costs of living, food insecurity, unemployment, and inflation continue to weigh heavily on families.

“True progress must be measured not only by statistics but by the food on every table, the security of every community, and the opportunities available to every child,” Okoh said.

The CAN leader acknowledged progress made since independence in education, healthcare, infrastructure, agriculture, and telecommunications, but said nation-building remains an unfinished task.

On insecurity, he lamented the devastation caused by terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and communal conflicts, urging stronger collaboration among security agencies, communities, and faith groups to restore peace.

Okoh also described young Nigerians as the nation’s greatest asset but expressed concern over the brain drain, stressing that massive investment in education, innovation, and youth empowerment is needed to keep the country’s brightest minds at home.

“As a faith community, we believe the challenges we face can be overcome with collective sacrifice, patriotism, and trust in God,” he said, calling on citizens to rise above ethnic, religious, and political divides.

He concluded by urging Nigerians to recommit to justice, equity, and good governance, declaring that with God’s help, “the dawn of a new Nigeria is possible.”

Cardoso Launches CBN Governor’s Lecture Series, Sets Agenda for Next-Gen Leadership

Roland Edet
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Cardoso Launches CBN Governor’s Lecture Series, Sets Agenda for Next-Gen Leadership

The Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Olayemi Cardoso, will on Friday, October 3, 2025, deliver the maiden edition of the CBN Governor’s Lecture Series at the Lagos Business School, with a thought-provoking discourse on “Next Generation Leadership in Monetary Policy & Nation Building.”

The event marks the formal launch of a three-year, nationwide knowledge-sharing initiative designed to deepen public understanding of monetary policy, foster innovation, and connect central banking to the everyday realities of Nigerians.

The inaugural lecture also commemorates the second anniversary of Team Cardoso’s leadership at the apex bank a period marked by renewed emphasis on price stability, institutional transparency, and inclusive economic reforms.

According to the CBN, the lecture series forms a core pillar of the Knowledge Acceleration and Thought Leadership Initiative, aimed at bridging academia, policymakers, industry, and citizens in shaping an inclusive financial system that positions Nigeria as a global player.

Reflecting on the theme, Mr. Cardoso has consistently argued that central banking must go beyond numbers to address lived realities.

“Nigeria is at a pivotal moment, where technology, global financial realignments, and the energy of its youthful population are reshaping its economic future. Innovation must be harnessed intentionally and confidently, particularly by institutions like the CBN,” Cardoso said in an earlier engagement.

The lecture is expected to draw senior policymakers, industry leaders, academics, and students, underscoring the CBN’s role in steering stability, driving growth, and nurturing leadership for Nigeria’s future.

Atiku, El-Rufai, Ayu, Others Honour Newly Crowned Olubadan, Oba Ladoja

Uche Kingsley
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Atiku, El-Rufai, Ayu, Others Honour Newly Crowned Olubadan, Oba Ladoja

Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, on Tuesday witnessed a display of high-level political solidarity as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar led a delegation of prominent political figures to pay homage to the newly crowned Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja.

The delegation included former Kaduna State governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, former Cross River State governor, Liyel Imoke, and former Senate President, Iyorcha Ayu, among others. They visited the monarch at his residence in Ibadan to felicitate with him on his ascension to the throne as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.

Atiku, speaking on behalf of the delegation, congratulated Oba Ladoja, describing his coronation as a testament to his long-standing commitment to leadership and service. He noted that Ladoja’s transition from politics to traditional rulership marks a rare blend of political experience and cultural heritage that would further uplift Ibadanland.

“Your Majesty, Ibadan is not only central to Yoruba history but also to Nigeria’s political development. We believe your reign will bring greater peace, unity, and prosperity to your people,” Atiku said.

Oba Ladoja, who served as governor of Oyo State between 2003 and 2007, was officially coronated as Olubadan last Friday in a colourful ceremony attended by dignitaries across the country. His elevation to the throne has been widely celebrated, with many describing it as historic, given his dual legacy as both a political leader and now the custodian of Ibadan’s revered traditional stool.

The visit by Atiku and his entourage is seen by observers as not just a mark of respect for the monarch, but also an indication of Ibadan’s continued relevance in the country’s political and cultural landscape.

The Olubadan stool, considered one of the most respected traditional thrones in Yorubaland, commands influence beyond Ibadan. Analysts say Oba Ladoja’s reign could provide fresh opportunities for bridging traditional institutions with modern governance.

Community leaders and residents expressed joy over the recognition accorded their new monarch, describing it as a sign of unity and renewed hope for Ibadanland.

Oba Ladoja, in his brief remarks, appreciated the delegation for their visit and assured that his reign would be dedicated to promoting peace, justice, and the development of Ibadan and Oyo State at large.

“I have been entrusted with this sacred responsibility, and I will serve with fairness, dignity, and love for my people,” the monarch said.

WiM-Africa Wins Continental Endorsement for $150m Multi-Mineral Beneficiation Roadmap

Toyin Adebayo
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WiM-Africa Wins Continental Endorsement for $150m Multi-Mineral Beneficiation Roadmap

Africa’s mining sector is set for a historic shift as Women in Mining Africa (WiM-Africa) secured continental backing for its five-year Action Plan (2025–2030) a $150 million roadmap dedicated to multi-mineral beneficiation, gender equity, and sustainable transformation.

Validated at a high-level workshop attended by African First Ladies, policymakers, development partners, and private sector leaders, the plan is being hailed as a landmark move to steer Africa away from raw mineral extraction toward value addition and inclusive participation.

“This is not just a document, but a continental commitment to action,” said Dr. Comfort Asokoro-Ogaji, Executive Director of WiM-Africa. “For the first time, women miners, youth leaders, and their allies have a clear roadmap to move from the margins of survival to the center of Africa’s mineral wealth creation and governance.”

The plan includes the establishment of regional multi-mineral beneficiation laboratories, expansion of national WiM chapters, investment-readiness support for women-led enterprises, and ESG programs targeting environmental degradation and gender-based vulnerabilities.

A flagship WiM-Africa Institute for Leadership, Sustainable Mining & Value Addition will also serve as a hub for training, innovation, and youth leadership development.

Declaring the plan validated, Her Excellency Mrs. Mariem Mint Dah, First Lady of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania, described it as a “living document” that will guide women’s empowerment and inclusive mining transformation. She stressed that empowering women in mining is “not optional but a developmental necessity,” citing Mauritania’s progress with women now holding 30% of ministerial positions and rising in geology and engineering.

Aligned with the AU’s Agenda 2063, Africa Mining Vision, AMREC, PARC, AfCFTA, and the AU Gender Equality Strategy, the endorsement positions WiM-Africa at the forefront of continental mining reforms. With commitments now flowing from governments, DFIs, NGOs, and corporate partners, WiM-Africa has urged stakeholders to turn pledges into tangible support, ensuring women and communities directly benefit from Africa’s vast mineral wealth.

Wike Flags Off Kaura Road, Says Infrastructure Key to Nigeria’s Commonwealth Games Bid

Toyin Adebayo
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Wike Flags Off Kaura Road, Says Infrastructure Key to Nigeria’s Commonwealth Games Bid

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has flagged off the construction of the Arterial Road S1 in Kaura District, declaring it a critical step toward strengthening Abuja’s infrastructure as Nigeria bids to host the next Commonwealth Games.

Wike said the road project would not only open up Kaura District but also showcase Abuja’s readiness for international sporting events. “When the committee comes and they see that the basic infrastructure is being provided, that gives us a leeway to be given the hosting right of the Commonwealth Games,” he stated.

The minister added that the road will also enhance emergency response, especially for the nearby Fire Service Station. “By the time this road is constructed, with the three-span bridge, anywhere there is a fire incident, they will respond immediately. This will contribute to their efficiency in job delivery,” Wike explained.

He urged contractors to employ local youths during the construction, while commending security agencies and FCT Area Council chairmen for their support in advancing the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Earlier, FCT Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, said the project would boost accessibility, improve safety, and stimulate socio-economic development across the district, thereby raising property values and quality of life for residents.

Edo Govt Approves N799.8bn Revised Supplementary Budget, Prioritizes Infrastructure

Toyin Adebayo
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Edo Govt Approves N799.8bn Revised Supplementary Budget, Prioritizes Infrastructure

The Edo State Executive Council has approved a revised supplementary budget of N799.820 billion for the 2025 fiscal year, representing an increase of about N125 billion (18%) from the initial N675.220 billion.

The approval came after an emergency council meeting held on Monday, September 29, 2025, presided over by Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo.

Briefing journalists after the meeting, the Commissioner for Finance, Emmanuel Okoebor, said the revised budget reflects the government’s strong commitment to infrastructure, with capital expenditure now accounting for 70 percent of total spending, compared to 67 percent in the original budget.

He explained: “The increment in the budget is about N125 billion, with recurrent expenditure rising by about N12 billion, while capital expenditure grew by N113 billion. This translates to a 25 percent increase in capital expenditure and only about 5 percent in recurrent expenditure. It shows the commitment of Governor Monday Okpebholo to infrastructural development in Edo State.”

Okoebor further noted that recurrent expenditure rose slightly due to the new minimum wage and the recent employment of over 1,000 staff in the state’s Hospital Management Board.

Highlighting ongoing projects, he said the government has already completed about 254 kilometers of roads across the state, with several other construction works in progress.

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Paul Ohombamu, disclosed that the revised budget will be forwarded to the Edo State House of Assembly for legislative consideration and passage.

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