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Senate Moves to Modernize Public Investment, Repeals 65-Year-Old MOFI Law

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The Senate on Tuesday took a bold step to modernize Nigeria’s public investment framework by passing for second reading a bill to repeal the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI) Act of 1959 and re-enact it as the Ministry of Finance Incorporated Act 2025.

Sponsored by Senator Mohammed Sani (APC–Niger), the bill seeks to transform MOFI from a passive custodian of government assets into a strategic, transparent, and professionally managed investment institution, capable of driving national wealth creation and economic diversification.

“The MOFI Act of 1959 is no longer fit for purpose. It suffers from an outdated mandate, weak governance, limited investment authority, and poor transparency. This bill will empower MOFI to actively manage assets, invest in domestic and global markets, and leverage innovative financial instruments,” Sani told lawmakers during plenary.

Under the new framework, MOFI will have the authority to enter public-private partnerships, issue bonds, utilize securitization, and manage special purpose vehicles, while ensuring all investments comply with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards.

Sani explained that the bill draws inspiration from global models such as Singapore’s Temasek Holdings and Norway’s Sovereign Wealth Fund, renowned for transparency, ethical governance, and robust parliamentary oversight.

“The reforms will help Nigeria transition from volatile, resource-dependent revenues to a diversified, asset-powered economy,” Sani said. “This is a landmark legislation that strengthens governance, enhances accountability, and maximizes national assets for sustainable wealth creation.”

Other senators praised the initiative as long overdue. Sen. Abdullahi Yahaya (APC–Kebbi) suggested merging the MOFI Act with the Sovereign Wealth Fund Act to create a single operational law overseeing federal investments, while Sen. Adetukunbo Abiru (APC–Lagos) called for a comprehensive database of all government assets.

Sen. Abdul Ningi (PDP–Bauchi) described the bill as a historic step, noting that no modifications had been made to the 66-year-old law until now.

Following the second reading, Senate President Godswill Akpabio referred the bill to the Senate Committee on Finance for further legislative input, with a report expected back to plenary in four weeks.

The passage of this bill signals the Federal Legislature’s resolve to modernize Nigeria’s public investment architecture, align it with international best practices, and unlock the full potential of government assets.

Senate Mourns Kebbi School VP, General; Urges FG to Recruit 100,000 Troops to Combat Insecurity

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The Nigerian Senate on Wednesday mourned the death of Mr. Hassan Makuku, Vice Principal of Government Girls Comprehensive Senior School, Maga, Kebbi State, who was killed by bandits during a deadly attack that also saw 25 students abducted.

The lawmaking chamber’s grief came shortly after the killing of Brigadier General Musa in an ambush by militants of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), underscoring the persistent security challenges facing the nation.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio called on President Bola Tinubu to immediately recruit at least 100,000 additional military personnel to strengthen Nigeria’s stretched security apparatus.

“We sympathize with the families and the children affected, but it must be clear that our security services are overstretched,” Akpabio said. “These criminals target soft spots and vulnerable communities. Even developed nations face crime daily; our duty is to minimize it and protect citizens.”

Adopting a resolution on a motion of urgent national importance raised by Senator Abdullahi Yahaya (Kebbi North), the Senate condemned the attack, describing it as part of a troubling pattern of assaults on schools that jeopardize education and instill fear, particularly among girls.

Senator Yahaya highlighted that the perpetrators invaded the school in Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area on Sunday night, killing the Vice Principal before abducting 25 students. He recalled a similar abduction in 2022, noting it took four years to rescue the victims. “This terrorism targeting students must stop,” he warned.

The lawmakers also expressed concern over whether funds allocated for securing learning environments, including the Safe School Initiative, have been effectively utilized. The Senate has established an ad hoc committee, including the Finance Committee, to investigate the funding, spending, and impact of the initiative.

Senator Akpabio linked the recent attacks to past incidents such as the Chibok schoolgirls abduction, stressing that Nigeria’s security situation is under intense international scrutiny.

A minute of silence was observed in honour of Mr. Makuku, who reportedly died shielding his students from the gunmen.

The Federal Government condemned the attack, with Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris assuring that security and intelligence agencies have been directed to locate and safely rescue the abducted students and bring the perpetrators to justice.

President Tinubu has reiterated that protecting every Nigerian, especially schoolchildren, is a solemn responsibility of the State, and that no effort will be spared to secure the release of the abducted girls.

Nigeria Slaps $110m Fine on BATN, Reports Major Tobacco Control Gains at WHO COP11

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Nigeria Slaps $110m Fine on BATN, Reports Major Tobacco Control Gains at WHO COP11

Nigeria has imposed a landmark $110 million fine on British American Tobacco Nigeria (BATN), marking one of the largest global enforcement actions against a tobacco company under national tobacco control laws.

Announcing the penalty on Monday at the 11th Session of the Conference of Parties (COP11) to the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) in Geneva, Honourable Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, said the action demonstrates that the tobacco industry must be held accountable for its practices.

“This represents one of the most significant applications of Article 19 globally and sends a strong message that the tobacco industry must bear responsibility for its actions,” Dr. Salako declared.

The Minister also highlighted fresh national data from the recently completed Global Adult Tobacco Survey (GATS) 2025, showing a marked decline in daily tobacco use among adults compared to the first survey conducted in 2012.

“The percentage of current smokers who reported thoughts of quitting due to health warnings increased from 26.7% in 2012 to 43.3% in 2025,” he revealed, underscoring the effectiveness of graphic health warnings in changing behaviour. The survey also showed a significant reduction in exposure to second-hand smoke in homes and public spaces.

Dr. Salako announced that the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) has issued new regulations banning tobacco advertising, promotion, and sponsorship (TAPS) across Nigeria’s entertainment and creative industries, including films, TV, music videos, and digital media a major milestone for Nollywood, the world’s second-largest film industry by volume.

“This is a bold step to give practical effect to Article 13 of the WHO FCTC and prevent the normalization of tobacco use,” he said.

To accelerate implementation of the National Tobacco Control Act (2015) and Regulation (2019), Nigeria has rolled out several strategic initiatives, including the National Tobacco Control Strategic Plan of Action (2024–2028), the National Tobacco Control Communication Strategy (2024–2028), and the National Tobacco Control Enforcement Plan (2024–2028).

Under Article 19 of the WHO FCTC, Nigeria has also advanced legal and financial accountability for tobacco industry misconduct, setting a strong precedent for global enforcement.

Speaking on the COP11 theme, “Healthy planet, healthy future: uniting for a tobacco-free generation,” Dr. Salako hailed the 20th anniversary of the WHO FCTC as an opportunity for countries to recommit to tackling tobacco-related diseases and environmental harm.

While acknowledging ongoing challenges including weak subnational enforcement, emerging tobacco and nicotine products, and persistent industry interference he reaffirmed Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to full implementation of the WHO FCTC.

“Nigeria remains firmly committed to protecting our people from the harmful effects of tobacco. We will continue to welcome technical and financial support and global collaboration,” he said.

Delegates from across the globe are participating in COP11 in Geneva, deliberating strategies to safeguard future generations from the devastating impacts of tobacco.

VP Shettima: Nigeria’s Future Depends on Local Production, Innovation

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Vice President Kashim Shettima has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to boosting local manufacturing and production as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s economic growth and global competitiveness.

Speaking on Tuesday at the Made in Naija Trade Exhibition organized by the House of Representatives Committee on Commerce, Shettima, represented by his Special Adviser on Special Duties, Dr. Aliyu Modibbo Umar, said the nation’s economic identity and global standing will be defined by what it produces.

“Nigeria’s future rests on the ingenuity, enterprise, and creativity of its people,” he said. “There is nothing that signals national pride more than the craftsmanship, ideas, and innovations of our citizens. They do more than reflect capability they fuel the economy and give life to aspirations yet to be realized.”

Describing the exhibition as more than a showcase of products, Shettima said it is “a statement of intent” reflecting the government’s dedication to turning Nigerian brands into globally recognized names.

He highlighted that Nigeria’s wealth lies not only in oil, fertile land, or minerals but in its human capital the ability of citizens to transform resources into value. “Our fortune lies in ambition that turns potential into prosperity,” he added.

The Vice President urged Nigerians to support local products, noting that consumption of Nigerian-made goods creates jobs, strengthens the naira, reduces import dependence, and nurtures a sustainable middle class. “It is not sufficient to make; we must also buy Nigerian,” he stressed.

Shettima further outlined government initiatives, including infrastructure development, financing reforms, special economic zones, and compliance with international standards, aimed at positioning Nigerian products as globally competitive.

“Choosing Nigerian products is a declaration of confidence in our talent and a commitment to shaping our global identity, not letting others define it for us,” he said.

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, lauded the exhibition as a timely effort to promote industrial growth and economic self-reliance under the Nigeria First Policy and the AfCFTA framework. “Reducing import dependence is not just economic it is a national duty. Every choice of Nigerian-made goods strengthens our economy and affirms our national identity,” he said.

Hon. Ahmed Munir, Chairman of the House Committee on Commerce, emphasized the economic impact of prioritizing local manufacturing. He projected that local content initiatives could generate over five million jobs by 2030 and save Nigeria up to $20 billion annually in foreign exchange, contributing an estimated five percent to GDP within five years.

“Our vision is global. Nigerian products must compete not only in Lagos or Abuja but in London, Beijing, and New York. Step by step, brick by Nigerian-made brick, we are building a strong economic base that will sustain growth, attract investment, and ensure long-term prosperity for our nation,” Munir concluded.

Reps Vow Digital Tracking of Every Export Barrel to End Oil Revenue Leakages

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The House of Representatives’ Ad hoc Committee on Pre-Shipment Inspection Failures and Non-Remittance of Crude Oil Proceeds has vowed to end impunity and plug revenue leakages in Nigeria’s oil and non-oil export sectors by introducing digital tracking for every exported barrel.

The commitment was made by the committee’s Chairman, Rep. Seyi Sowunmi, at the opening of a capacity-building workshop for committee members in Abuja on Tuesday.

Sowunmi stressed that Nigeria loses billions of naira annually due to gaps in pre-shipment inspections and poor enforcement of export regulations. “These losses are not just numbers they represent hospitals, schools, roads, and other critical infrastructure that could have been delivered to citizens,” he said.

The committee, he explained, was established in response to mounting evidence of systemic exploitation in crude and non-oil export chains. “Our mission is national reform, not a witch-hunt,” Sowunmi emphasized.

He outlined a plan to scrutinize the entire export value chain, from crude oil flows to financial repatriation, using a transparent, data-driven system. “For the first time, we are bringing digital tracking and accountability to every barrel exported. Every dollar must be accounted for,” he said.

The ongoing workshop, Sowunmi added, aims to equip lawmakers with technical skills to analyze export data, maritime operations, and financial intelligence. Specialists in trade compliance, forensic auditing, and international oil transactions are leading the sessions.

“This initiative is an investment in competence, credibility, and national integrity. We welcome public scrutiny because democracy thrives when citizens are informed and engaged,” he stated.

Speaking at the workshop, Rep. Peter Aniekwe warned that efforts to enforce transparency would face resistance from vested interests. “Pushback is expected, but we must remain steadfast. Nigeria’s future depends on these revenues, and ultimately, Nigerians will benefit from our work,” he said.

The committee’s call for full digitalization and strengthened legislative oversight signals a bold step toward curbing corruption, ensuring natural resource revenues reach the Nigerian people, and ending the long era of unaccounted exports.

Radda Condemns Kebbi School Massacre, Calls for Rescue of 25 Abducted Students

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Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has strongly condemned the deadly bandit attack on Government Girls Comprehensive Senior Secondary School, Maga, in Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State, which claimed the life of the school’s Vice Principal, Malam Hassan Yakubu Makuku, and led to the abduction of 25 students.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed, on Tuesday, Governor Radda described the attack as “the height of criminality” and “an unconscionable assault on education, peace, and our collective future.”

He commiserated with Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, the government and people of Kebbi State, and the families of the victims over the tragic incident, stressing that such acts of violence are a threat to national development and social stability.

“The targeting of a school is not only an attack on innocent children but an assault on the future of our nation,” Governor Radda said. “We mourn the loss of the Vice Principal, whose life was dedicated to nurturing young minds. His sacrifice must not be in vain.”

The Katsina State Governor called on security agencies to immediately intensify rescue operations to ensure the safe return of the abducted students and to bring the perpetrators to justice. He also urged parents, community leaders, and local authorities to collaborate with security operatives to provide intelligence that could aid the swift resolution of the crisis.

“This is a moment for collective action. Communities, governments, and security forces must unite to end this reign of terror,” he said. “We cannot allow our children’s education and wellbeing to be held hostage by criminals. Those responsible for this heinous act must face the full weight of the law.”

Governor Radda also prayed for the safe return of the abducted students and for divine protection over all Nigerian children, emphasizing the need for vigilance and solidarity in the fight against banditry and insecurity.

The attack in Kebbi is part of a worrying trend of violent assaults on schools across northern Nigeria and the Middle Belt, where bandits and armed groups have increasingly targeted students and teachers, leading to kidnappings, loss of lives, and mass disruption of education. Authorities have warned that these attacks not only threaten national security but also undermine efforts to achieve universal education in affected areas.

Security analysts and civil society organizations have repeatedly called for stronger collaboration between federal and state security agencies, enhanced intelligence gathering, and community engagement to prevent further attacks on schools.

Governor Radda’s statement underscores the urgency of protecting educational institutions and ensuring that perpetrators of such attacks are swiftly apprehended and held accountable.

He concluded: “Our prayers are with the students, teachers, and families affected by this tragedy. We appeal to the Federal Government, security agencies, and all stakeholders to act decisively to bring an end to these atrocities. The safety of our children is non-negotiable.”

Eno Reads Riot Act: ‘Disloyal Appointees Will Be Fired’ as He Swears In New Head of Service

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…Clears ₦75.2bn Gratuity Backlog, Warns Against Internal Sabotage

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, on Tuesday swore in Mrs. Elsie Anietie Peters as the seventh Head of the Civil Service, issuing a stern warning to political appointees and senior officials that his administration will no longer tolerate acts of disloyalty.

Speaking at the ceremony held in the Banquet Hall of Government House, Uyo, the Governor described Mrs. Peters— the fourth woman to hold the position— as a seasoned technocrat whose appointment reflects merit, competence, and the administration’s drive for a more disciplined civil service.

But Governor Eno used the event to caution appointees against undermining the administration from within, stressing that those who cannot align with government policies should resign rather than “rock the boat.”

“Everybody will not agree with us, and that is understood,” he said.
“But what we will not tolerate is for people in government to work against the government. Every action has a consequence. If you cannot stand with us, quietly leave. We will not tolerate sabotage.”

The warning follows recent sackings of two aides over alleged acts of disloyalty to the administration and its emerging political structure.

Citing biblical references from 1 Corinthians 4:2, Matthew 6:24 and Amos 3:3, Eno said loyalty remains the irreducible standard for public service, adding that peace should never be mistaken for weakness.

“There are people who eat at the king’s table yet work against the king. That era is over,” the Governor declared.
“Meekness is not weakness. I was elected by the people of Akwa Ibom, and I will defend their mandate until my last day in office.”

On workers’ welfare, Governor Eno announced that his administration has cleared ₦75.2 billion of the ₦110 billion gratuity arrears inherited from 2012 to May 2023. He revealed that ₦1.3 billion was paid this month alone, with arrears up to March 2021 fully settled.

He said only outstanding payments for 2022 and 2023 remain before the government begins clearing liabilities accumulated under his tenure.

Eno thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for financial support that has enabled the state to meet its obligations and accelerate key development projects.

He also praised the immediate past Head of Service, Elder Effiong Essien, for aligning the civil service with the ARISE Agenda and advancing a leaner, digital-driven public service structure.

Abuja Woos Asian Investors: “We Offer Stability, Modern Infrastructure,” Says Minister Mahmoud

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…Pushes Stronger Nigeria–Asia Investment Ties at Hong Kong Summit

The FCT Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, has urged Asian investors to take advantage of Abuja’s rapidly expanding business landscape, describing Nigeria’s capital city as one of Africa’s most stable and well-planned investment destinations.

Speaking at the 2025 Nigeria–Hong Kong–China Business Summit held at the Hong Kong International Conference Centre, Mahmoud said Abuja under the leadership of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike offers modern infrastructure, predictable policies, and a pro-investment environment ideal for manufacturing, logistics, technology, and innovation.

She noted that ongoing reforms in the Federal Capital Territory are deliberately targeted at building a business-friendly ecosystem that supports long-term growth for international investors.

Mahmoud applauded the summit organisers for creating a platform that connects policymakers, innovators, and global industry leaders, adding that such engagements help shape future industrial and trade partnerships.

Reflecting on this year’s theme, “Tapping Nigeria’s Potential: Strategies for Becoming a Leading Manufacturing and Industrial Hub of Africa. The Natural Resources Supply Chain,” Mahmoud said Nigeria is transitioning from a resource-export economy to one driven by production, value addition, and exports.

She emphasised that Nigeria’s vast natural resources, youth population, and strategic market position make the country a compelling hub for global investment but noted that stronger international collaboration is needed.

“What is needed now are robust international partnerships to enhance technology transfer, infrastructure growth, and industrial integration along our natural resources supply chain,” she said.

Mahmoud also commended the Nigeria of the Year Awards for spotlighting Nigerians driving excellence in business, governance, and innovation individuals she said reflect the country’s economic promise.

Expressing optimism, she said the summit would inspire transformative partnerships that strengthen Nigeria–Asia relations, boost industrial development, and accelerate sustainable economic growth.

PDP in Turmoil: NEC Sacks Makinde, Bala Mohammed, Bode George, Others in Massive Purge

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…Dissolves Oyo, Bauchi, Ekiti, Lagos, Zamfara Excos Over Anti-Party Offences

The Wike-aligned faction of the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Tuesday executed one of the most sweeping disciplinary purges in the party’s history, expelling Governors Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Bala Mohammed (Bauchi), Dauda Lawal (Zamfara), as well as top party figures Chief Bode George and Senator Adolphus Wabara for alleged anti-party activities.

In a dramatic escalation of internal hostilities, the NEC also dissolved the State Executive Committees of Oyo, Bauchi, Zamfara, Yobe, Lagos, and Ekiti, ordering the immediate constitution of caretaker committees to oversee fresh congresses.

The far-reaching decisions were endorsed during the 103rd NEC meeting held at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja.

Acting National Chairman Alhaji Mohammed Abdulrahman, who tabled the memo seeking the expulsions, accused the affected members of “blatantly disregarding court orders” and “bringing the party into disrepute,” which he said were clear violations of Articles 58(1) and 59(1) of the PDP Constitution.

Reading the communiqué, National Secretary Senator Samuel Anyanwu said NEC acted to restore discipline and safeguard the party’s constitutional foundation.

“NEC expressed deep concern over the actions of some members who violated subsisting court orders by organising and attending a purported and unauthorized convention, triggering factionalisation and mass defections,” the communiqué stated.

It warned that the PDP “draws its legitimacy from strict adherence to its Constitution,” stressing that the era of impunity was over.

NEC also approved the commencement of disciplinary proceedings against several other prominent members including Ben Obi, Kabiru Tanimu Turaki (SAN), Taofiq Arapaja, Mohammed Kadade Suleiman, Udom Emmanuel, Emmanuel Ogidi, Setonji Koshoedo and others.

The committee further directed Chief Ali Odefa to refund all salaries and allowances received after his expulsion in December 2024.

In additional resolutions, NEC ratified Hon. Chidiebere Egwu Goodluck as Acting National Vice Chairman (South East) and ordered deputies in vacant National Working Committee (NWC) positions to assume acting roles. It also formally confirmed Alhaji Mohammed Abdulrahman as Acting National Chairman.

The communiqué added that the PDP legal team would immediately initiate constitutional processes to recover seats of elected officials who defected from the party, in accordance with the 1999 Constitution.

Ahead of the 2027 general elections, NEC also approved a nationwide reconciliation drive, membership revalidation, and structural reforms.

Earlier, Board of Trustees Chairman Senator Mao Ohuabunwa and the Acting National Chairman urged members to remain resolute, expressing optimism that the PDP would emerge stronger after the sweeping sanctions.

NEC assured party faithful that the hard decisions were taken to “stabilise, strengthen, and rebuild” the party.

“With unity, discipline, and renewed purpose, the PDP will restore public confidence ahead of the next electoral cycle,” the communiqué added.

CAN Raises Alarm: ‘Christian Genocide Is Real’ — Archbishop Okoh Demands Urgent Government, Global Action

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***“Silence in the Face of Injustice Is Unbiblical,” Archbishop Declares in Jos

The President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Archbishop Daniel Okoh, has reaffirmed that Christian communities across Northern Nigeria and the Middle Belt are facing what he described as a “Christian genocide,” insisting that the Association will not retreat in demanding justice, accountability, and protection for persecuted believers.

Speaking Tuesday at the opening of the Fourth Quarterly National Executive Council (NEC) Meeting of CAN at Crispan Hotel in Jos, Plateau State, Okoh said the scale of killings, mass displacement, and repeated attacks on Christian communities has reached a crisis point that can no longer be ignored—either by the government or the international community.

“You are not forgotten. You are not abandoned,” Okoh assured Christian communities in Plateau and across Northern Nigeria.

He recalled his delegation’s visit earlier this year to displaced Christians in Bokkos, where he encountered harrowing scenes of murdered families, burnt homes, razed churches, and entire villages wiped out.

“CAN has spoken clearly and courageously on this matter, and we stand unwaveringly by our position that there is Christian genocide in Nigeria,” he said.
“We declare with one united voice: You are not forgotten. You are not abandoned. The Body of Christ stands firmly with you.”

Okoh described the ongoing attacks as an existential threat to Christian communities, stressing that moral duty and Christian doctrine require the Church to speak out.

“Our calling demands that we speak, because silence in the face of injustice is not only irresponsible; it is unbiblical,” he said.

He noted that several international bodies have begun drawing attention to the crisis an intervention he said the Christian community welcomes if it will compel meaningful action.

“Although we are pained that Nigeria is being spotlighted for such grievous reasons, if international attention is what is required to spur decisive governmental action to protect lives and bring lasting peace, then we welcome it,” he stated.

The CAN President urged the Federal Government and security agencies to intensify efforts to end killings, kidnappings, and mass displacement in predominantly Christian communities across the North.

He insisted that Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) must be returned to their homes.

“Their prolonged stay in IDP camps is a painful indictment on our national conscience. If not addressed, this humanitarian crisis may escalate into something far more devastating. God forbid!”

Okoh commended the Plateau State Government for hosting the meeting and for its continued support to the Christian community.

Addressing Governor Caleb Mutfwang, he said:
“We encourage His Excellency to continue in this path of service… so that this blessed land may fully enter into the peace, stability, and prosperity ordained for it. Plateau will rise again.”

The CAN President said the choice of Jos as the venue for the NEC meeting was symbolic, describing the city as one that has “wept bitterly, prayed fervently, and continues to rise with resilient hope.”

He urged Christians nationwide to remain steadfast despite “deep scars” inflicted by years of violence.

“This darkness shall not overcome the light of Christ,” he declared.
“Continue to sow seeds of hope, even in the soil of sorrow. In God’s time, the dawn shall break.”

Okoh prayed for the guidance of the Holy Spirit over the NEC deliberations, expressing hope that the meeting would strengthen fellowship, deepen unity, and advance justice and peace across the country.