The Federal Government has dismissed the recent call for the resignation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu by the governors of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as a mere distraction. Mohammed Idris, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, stated in response that the call is an attempt to divert attention from the President’s ongoing efforts to provide economic relief to Nigerians.

According to a statement by Rabiu Ibrahim, Special Assistant (Media) to the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Minister Idris emphasized, “It is our considered view that the PDP and its Governors should not be seeking, through the back door of intimidation, what they have consistently failed to achieve by democratic means since 2015.”

The statement further highlighted the administration’s commitment to the economic well-being of the country. It pointed out the financial support extended to all state governments, irrespective of partisan affiliation, and the removal of the petrol subsidy, a key element of the PDP’s previous campaign.

“The President and his administration recognize the unfinished business of revamping our national economy kickstarted by the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari,” the statement noted, citing achievements in infrastructure, social welfare, military and security agencies’ support, and efforts against insurgency and criminal activities.

Highlighting the accomplishments of the All Progressives Congress (APC) administration, the statement mentioned clearing liabilities left by the previous government, major oil sector reforms, and successful management during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In response to the PDP Governors, Minister Idris stated, “This is not the time for distraction. It is time instead for the rolling up of sleeves, to support and complement the hard work of the President and his administration.”

President Tinubu’s resilience and commitment to addressing the challenges facing the nation were reiterated, with a focus on laying a durable foundation for the emerging new Nigeria. The statement emphasized that he will not abdicate his responsibilities and remains dedicated to steering the country toward lasting prosperity and national development.

The Nigeria’s House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to conduct enlightenment campaigns exposing the negative effects of sports betting, especially concerning the participation of young Nigerians. This resolution followed a motion presented during Thursday’s plenary by Hon. Nwogu Kelechi, representing Etche/Omuma Federal Constituency, Rivers State.

Kelechi highlighted the expansive growth of sports betting globally, including various Nigerian platforms, with approximately 60 million Nigerians aged 18 to 40 engaging in such activities. He emphasized the mental health problems, strained relationships, financial difficulties, and legal issues associated with excessive sports betting.

The lawmaker expressed concern over the weak or neglected regulations in the sports betting industry, citing the National Lottery Act of 2005, which is intended to ensure fair operation and the protection of players and the public. The House believes that proper regulation could generate tax revenue for the government and contribute to economic growth.

As part of the adopted motion, the House urged the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation to conduct nationwide campaigns raising public awareness about the negative impacts of youth participation in sports betting. Additionally, the Committee on Inter-Governmental Affairs was mandated to conduct a public hearing on the effects and benefits of sports betting in Nigeria, reporting back within four weeks for further legislative action.

The Federal House of Representatives has urged the administration led by President Bola Tinubu to reduce the cost of this year’s Islamic pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia, officially fixed at N5 million. The motion, titled “Need to review the 2024 Hajj fare payable by intending pilgrims,” was adopted during Thursday’s plenary.

Umar Ajilo, representing Makarfi/Kudan Federal Constituency, Kaduna State, led the debate, emphasizing the importance of pilgrimage in the Islamic religion. He noted that the N5 million fare is exorbitant and unsuitable for middle- and low-income intending pilgrims.

The House expressed concern about the economic reality and urged the Federal Government to reassess the processes and procedures adopted by the National Hajj Commission to arrive at the fare. The aim is to make the fare more affordable for intending pilgrims.

In response, the House mandated the Committee on Muslim Pilgrimage to engage the National Hajj Commission in reviewing and reassessing processes and strategies. The goal is to ensure that the pilgrimage fare becomes more affordable. The committee is expected to report to the House within four weeks.