***As Nigeria marks its 64th Independence Anniversary, we celebrate our resilience, unity, and the sacrifices made to safeguard our sovereignty….
On this historic occasion, the Honourable Minister of Defence, H.E Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, CON, mni congratulates the President and Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR and also extends his heartfelt congratulations to the Armed Forces and all Nigerians. Reflecting on the nation’s journey, he stated: “Our Armed Forces have played a pivotal role in preserving the integrity and security of this great nation. Their unwavering dedication remains a beacon of hope for Nigeria’s future.”
As we celebrate this milestone, the Minister emphasized the importance of unity and collective effort, adding, “Our strength lies in our unity. Let us continue to work together in the pursuit of peace, security, and prosperity for all Nigerians.”
“As we mark our 64th independence, I commend President Tinubu for his unwavering support to the Nigerian Military and the military’s dedication to serving the nation,” Badaru stated. “Together, we can achieve the change we desire.”
Fellow Nigerians, as I address you today, I am deeply aware of the struggles many of you face in these challenging times. Our administration knows that many of you struggle with rising living costs and the search for meaningful employment. I want to assure you that your voices are heard. As your President, I assure you that we are committed to finding sustainable solutions to alleviate the suffering of our citizens. Once again, I plead for your patience as the reforms we are implementing show positive signs, and we are beginning to see light at the end of the tunnel. Exactly 64 years ago, our founding fathers chose democracy as a form of government and launched the dream of a great country that would lead the rest of Africa out of poverty, ignorance, and underdevelopment, a beacon of hope to the rest of Africa and the world. Over six decades later, we can look back, and Nigerians worldwide can see how well we have succeeded in realising the lofty dreams of our founding fathers. The world is witnessing and benefiting from the can-do spirit of the Nigerian people, our massive intellectual capacity, and our enterprise and industry in all vocations, from arts to science, technology to infrastructure. The dreams that our founding fathers envisaged are still a work in progress. Every day, we put our hands on the plough, determined to do a better job of it. While it is tempting to focus on what has been left undone and where we have stumbled as a nation, we must never lose sight of how far we have come in forging and holding our country together. Since independence, our nation has survived many crises and upheavals that led to the dissolution and disintegration of many other nations worldwide. Six years after independence, our country descended into a political crisis that led to a bitter and avoidable civil war. Since returning from the brink of that darkest moment, we have learned to embrace our diversity and manage our differences better as we continue to work towards engendering a more perfect union. Despite the many challenges that buffeted our country, we remain a strong, united, and viable sovereign nation. Dear compatriots, our independence anniversary gives us another chance to reflect on how far we have gone in our journey to nation-building and to renew our commitment to building a better nation that will serve present and future generations of Nigerians. While we celebrate the progress we have made as a people in the last sixty-four years, we must also recognise some of our missed opportunities and mistakes of the past. If we are to become one of the greatest nations on earth, as God has destined us to be, our mistakes must not be allowed to follow us into the future. My administration took over the leadership of our country 16 months ago at a critical juncture. The economy faced many headwinds, and our physical security was highly impaired. We found ourselves at a dizzying crossroads, where we must choose between two paths: reform for progress and prosperity or carry on business-as-usual and collapse. We decided to reform our political economy and defence architecture. On the security front, I am happy to announce to you, my compatriots, that our administration is winning the war on terror and banditry. Our target is to eliminate all the threats of Boko Haram, banditry, kidnapping for ransom, and the scourge of all forms of violent extremism. Within one year, our government has eliminated Boko Haram and bandit commanders faster than ever. As of the last count, over 300 Boko Haram and bandit commanders have been eliminated by our gallant troops in the Northeast, Northwest, and some other parts of the country. We have restored peace to hundreds of communities in the North, and thousands of our people have been able to return home. It is an unfinished business, which our security agencies are committed to ending as quickly as possible. As soon as we can restore peace to many communities in the troubled parts of the North, our farmers can return to their farms. We expect to see a leap in food production and a downward spiral in food costs. I promise you, we shall not falter on this. Our government has been responding to the recent natural disasters, particularly the flooding in parts of the country. After Vice President Kashim Shettima visited Maiduguri, I also visited to assure our people that this federal government will always stand with our people in their times of trouble. At the last meeting of the Federal Executive Council, we approved a Disaster Relief Fund to mobilise private and public sector funds to help us respond faster to emergencies. Our government has also ordered integrity tests of all our dams in the country to avert future disasters. The economy is undergoing the necessary reforms and retooling to serve us better and more sustainably. If we do not correct the fiscal misalignments that led to the current economic downturn, our country will face an uncertain future and the peril of unimaginable consequences. Thanks to the reforms, our country attracted foreign direct investments worth more than $30 billion in the last year. Fellow compatriots, our administration is committed to free enterprise, free entry, and free exit in investments while maintaining the sanctity and efficacy of our regulatory processes. This principle guides the divestment transactions in our upstream petroleum sector, where we are committed to changing the fortune positively. As such, the ExxonMobil Seplat divestment will receive ministerial approval in a matter of days, having been concluded by the regulator, NUPRC, in line with the Petroleum Industry Act, PIA. This was done in the same manner as other qualified divestments approved in the sector. The move will create vibrancy and increase oil and gas production, positively impacting our economy. The more disciplined approach adopted by the Central Bank to monetary policy management has ensured stability and predictability in our foreign exchange market. We inherited a reserve of over $33 billion 16 months ago. Since then, we have paid back the inherited forex backlog of $7 billion. We have cleared the ways and means debt of over N30 trillion. We have reduced the debt service ratio from 97 per cent to 68 per cent. Despite all these, we have managed to keep our foreign reserve at $37 billion. We continue to meet all our obligations and pay our bills. We are moving ahead with our fiscal policy reforms. To stimulate our productive capacity and create more jobs and prosperity, the Federal Executive Council approved the Economic Stabilisation Bills, which will now be transmitted to the National Assembly. These transformative bills will make our business environment more friendly, stimulate investment and reduce the tax burden on businesses and workers once they are passed into law. As part of our efforts to re-engineer our political economy, we are resolute in our determination to implement the Supreme Court judgment on the financial autonomy of local governments. The central concern of our people today is the high cost of living, especially food costs. This concern is shared by many around the globe as prices and the cost of living continue to rise worldwide. My fellow Nigerians, be assured that we are implementing many measures to reduce the cost of living here at home. I commend the Governors particularly, in Kebbi, Niger, Jigawa, Kwara, Nasarawa, and the Southwest Governors that have embraced our agricultural production programme. I urge other states to join the Federal Government in investing in mechanised farming. We are playing our part by supplying fertilizer and making tractors and other farm equipment available. Last week, the Federal Executive Council approved establishing a local assembly plant for 2000 John Deere tractors, combine harvesters, disc riders, bottom ploughs and other farm equipment. The plant has a completion time of six months. Our energy transition programme is on course. We are expanding the adoption of the Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas for mass transit with private sector players. The Federal Government is ready to assist the thirty-six States and FCT in acquiring CNG buses for cheaper public transportation. Fellow Nigerians, while we are working to stabilise the economy and secure the country, we also seek to foster national unity and build social harmony and cohesion. Our economy can only thrive when there is peace. As we work to overcome the challenges of the day, we remain mindful of the next generation as we seek to galvanize their creative energy towards a better future. We lead today with the future we wish to bequeath to our children in focus, recognizing that we cannot design a future that belongs to them without making them its architects. Considering this, I am pleased to announce the gathering of a National Youth Conference. This conference will be a platform to address the diverse challenges and opportunities confronting our young people, who constitute more than 60 per cent of our population. It will provoke meaningful dialogue and empower our young people to participate actively in nation-building. By ensuring that their voices are heard in shaping the policies that impact their lives, we are creating a pathway for a brighter tomorrow. The 30-day Confab will unite young people nationwide to collaboratively develop solutions to issues such as education, employment, innovation, security, and social justice. The modalities of this Confab and selection of delegates will be designed in close consultation with our young people through their representatives. Through this confab, it will be our job as leaders to ensure that their aspirations are at the heart of the conference’s deliberations. The government will thoroughly consider and implement the recommendations and outcomes from this forum as we remain resolute in our mission to build a more inclusive, prosperous, and united Nigeria. Our government is implementing several other youth-centric programmes to give our young people an advantage in the rapidly changing world. We are implementing, amongst others, the 3 million Technical Talents programme (3MTT) of the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, aimed at building Nigeria’s technical talent backbone. We have also enthusiastically implemented the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), which provides cheap loans to our students to pursue their tertiary educational dreams. In addition, later this month, we shall launch The Renewed Hope Labour Employment and Empowerment Programme (LEEP). It is conceived as a comprehensive suite of interventions at job creation by the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment that is aimed at facilitating the creation of 2.5 million jobs, directly and indirectly, on an annual incremental basis whilst simultaneously ensuring the welfare and safety of workers across the country. As is the tradition, the government will soon announce all the beneficiaries of our national honours for 2024. The Senate President and the Chief Justice of the Federation have been conferred with the honour of the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON). The deputy Senate President and Speaker of the House of Representatives have the honour of Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR), while the deputy speaker of the House has been awarded Commander of the Order of Niger (CON) . Fellow Nigerians, better days are ahead of us. The challenges of the moment must always make us believe in ourselves. We are Nigerians—resilient and tenacious. We always prevail and rise above our circumstances. I urge you to believe in our nation’s promise. The road ahead may be challenging, but we will forge a path toward a brighter future with your support. Together, we will cultivate a Nigeria that reflects the aspirations of all its citizens, a nation that resonates with pride, dignity, and shared success. As agents of change, we can shape our destiny and build a brighter future by ourselves, for ourselves and for future generations. Please join our administration in this journey towards a brighter future. Let us work together to build a greater Nigeria where every citizen can access opportunities and every child can grow up with hope and promise. May God continue to bless our nation and keep members of our armed forces safe. Happy Independence anniversary, my fellow Nigerians!
As Nigeria celebrates its 64th Independence Anniversary, the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, H.E. Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, MON, congratulates President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, the Armed Forces and the entire nation on this significant milestone.
The Minister expressed pride in the nation’s progress and the enduring spirit of its people. “Nigeria’s journey has been one of resilience and strength. As we commemorate our independence, we must renew our commitment to safeguarding the unity, peace, and security of our nation,” he said.
Dr. Matawalle also paid tribute to the Armed Forces, stating, “Our military remains the cornerstone of our national sovereignty. Their dedication and sacrifices ensure that Nigeria continues to stand strong as a free and secured nation.”
In addition, Matawalle called for national solidarity, saying, “Let us unite as one people, with a shared vision for a peaceful and prosperous future for all Nigerians.
Matawalle notes that the milestone we are celebrating today call for more unity and commitment and reflection on the Renewed Hope Agenda of the present government, acknowledging Nigerians’ resilience and strength in the face of challenges. “Nigerians have demonstrated unyielding spirit and capacity, and we must build on this,” he said.
He commends President Tinubu’s efforts in supporting the Military through training and capacity building to combat insurgency, banditry, and other criminalities. He urges the Military to redouble their efforts, working closely with other agencies to eradicate insecurity.
“As we celebrate our 64th independence, we recognize the progress made and challenges overcome. Nigeria remains one indivisible country, and we thank God for that,” Matawalle stated. “I wish Mr. President, the Military, and all Nigerians a wonderful anniversary celebration.”
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike has approved the confirmation of eight Acting Directors of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) as substantive Directors.
The announcement was made on Thursday, 26th September 2024, by the Executive Secretary of the FCDA, Engr. Shehu Hadi Ahmad, FNSE, FNIOB, following the official communication from the FCT Head of Civil Service, Dr. U.S. Atang.
The newly confirmed Directors and their respective roles are: Engr. Jatto Abdulkareem, FNSE, FNIM – Director, Engineering Infrastructure Rehabilitation; Tpl. Nasiru Suleiman – Director, Resettlement & Compensation; Engr. Richard Yunana Dauda, FNSE – Director, Engineering Services; Surv. Charity M. Olla – Director, Surveying & Mapping; Yakubu Abubakar, Esq. – Director, Legal Services; Engr. Abdulrahim Muhammad Zulqarnain – Director, Engineering Design & Evaluation; Arc. Hassan Haruna Musa – Director, Public Building; and Maryam Ada Ameh – Director, Internal Audit
The FCDA Management has expressed gratitude to the FCT Minister for the approvals, noting that this move will boost the morale and productivity of the newly confirmed Directors.
The action aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, which emphasizes enhancing governance and service delivery.
In a strategic move to enhance the administrative framework of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Minister Barr. Nyesom Wike has appointed Dr. Udo Samuel Atang as the Senior Special Assistant on Administration. The appointment, announced through a statement by Mr. Anthony Ogunleye, Director of Press for the Minister’s Office, underscores the importance of experienced leadership in driving reforms and ensuring the smooth operation of government activities.
Dr. Atang, a native of Eket Local Government Area in Akwa Ibom State, boasts a career spanning over 35 years in public service. A seasoned administrator, he holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in History from the University of Calabar and began his journey in the then Ministry of the Federal Capital Territory in 1989. Rising steadily through various senior administrative and strategic roles, he became the pioneer Head of Service of the FCT Administration in March 2024.
Though he reached the retirement age of 60 earlier this year, his tenure was extended by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, recognizing his invaluable contributions to governance and reform efforts. Dr. Atang’s leadership has been pivotal in fostering efficiency within the FCT Administration, and his expertise in governance and administration made him the natural choice for this critical new role.
As Senior Special Assistant on Administration, Dr. Atang will play a crucial role in assisting the FCT Minister in overseeing key administrative functions and ensuring seamless coordination across the FCT Administration. His deep knowledge of government operations and his strategic insights will be vital in shaping policies that promote accountability, transparency, and effective governance in Nigeria’s capital.
A fellow of the Institute of Corporate Administration of Nigeria, Dr. Atang’s appointment aligns with Minister Wike’s mission to bring reforms and improved efficiency to the FCT. His immediate assumption of duty underscores Wike’s dedication to reinforcing the administrative capacity of the FCT and delivering results that will benefit the residents of Abuja and beyond.
With Dr. Atang’s vast experience and proven track record, many expect that this appointment will significantly contribute to the transformation of the FCT’s governance and administration, setting a higher standard for service delivery in the nation’s capital.
In a stern display of accountability, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike, has issued a sharp rebuke to China Geo-Engineering Corporation (CGC), the contractor responsible for the construction of the left-hand service carriageway of OSEX from Ring Road 1 (RRI) to Wasa Junction. Wike, during a site inspection in Abuja, expressed deep dissatisfaction over the sluggish pace of work on the critical 15km stretch, despite the contractor receiving over 80% of the contract payment.
“Very bad, I am not encouraged,” Wike stated, his frustration palpable. “Yesterday, my attention was drawn when I went to inspect the Apo-Karshi road, which took us through Wassa. I passed through this area and tried to find out where CGC is working—one of the respected companies as far as I’m concerned. But regarding this road, I am not happy.”
Wike revealed that despite the significant payment made to the contractor, progress on the project had barely reached 50%, far below expectations. He wasted no time in demanding accountability, summoning both the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) and CGC to an emergency meeting. His directive was clear: the project must be completed by May 2025, with no further delays tolerated.
“Let them go and commit themselves and tell us by May they are going to finish this project. That’s the only way I am going to accept it,” the minister declared firmly.
The Apo-Karshi road project, which is intended to ease traffic congestion and boost economic activities in the surrounding areas, has been plagued by delays, frustrating commuters and residents alike. Wike highlighted the importance of the project, noting that its timely completion would have a transformative impact on traffic flow and business operations in the capital city.
Wike further emphasized that his administration would no longer tolerate underperforming contractors, sending a direct warning to those who failed to deliver on their commitments. “We don’t have any relationship with non-performing contractors. If you don’t perform, we kick you out. There is no sentiment about whether you are an indigenous contractor or foreign contractor—we don’t care.”
The minister made it clear that contractors who fail to meet their obligations will face not only termination but also financial repercussions. “You can’t just collect our money and think we will let you go. No. When we kick you out, we make you pay for it.”
As the FCT Minister continues to push for greater transparency and accountability in project management, Abuja residents are hopeful that his no-nonsense approach will result in the timely delivery of critical infrastructure, beginning with the long-awaited completion of the Apo-Karshi road.
The Honourable Minister of Defence of Nigeria H. E. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar CON,mni addressed the 79th United Nations General Assembly and emphasized Nigeria’s dedication to nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation.
The Minister expressed Nigeria’s appreciation for the UN’s leadership and reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to supporting the Non-Aligned Movement and the African Group and stressed the urgent need for progress in nuclear disarmament, citing the significant threat nuclear weapons pose to international peace and humanity.
Badaru emphasized that nuclear weapons represent a significant threat that cannot be justified amidst pressing socio-economic development needs. He urged Nuclear-Weapon States to fulfill their obligations under the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and take immediate action towards achieving a nuclear-weapon-free world.
He highlighted the catastrophic humanitarian consequences of nuclear weapon use, including severe impacts on health, the environment, and economic resources. He reiterated Nigeria’s support for the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW) and commended nations that have ratified it, encouraging others to follow suit.
Badaru noted Nigeria’s commitment to peaceful nuclear energy applications, praising the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) for its monitoring efforts.
Consequently, he reaffirmed Nigeria’s dedication to the total elimination of nuclear weapons, stating, “While the path to disarmament is challenging, we must remain focused and resolute. Nigeria will continue to play its part in ensuring a safer world for future generation,” he said.
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, has expressed doubt over the completion of the long-awaited Apo-Karshi road project by April 2025, despite contractors’ assurances.
The minister emphasized the project’s importance in alleviating traffic congestion and boosting the economy of the surrounding areas but remains cautiously optimistic about the deadline.
Speaking during an inspection of the road on Thursday in Abuja, Wike acknowledged the delays faced by the contractors, citing procurement challenges as the reason for the setback. “The last time we came, we believed that each of the contractors had moved back to the site. Obviously, we thought that within seven months, they ought to have completed it, but unfortunately, the contractors were unable to move due to some procurement processes. Thank God we’ve passed that stage, and they have now been mobilized to site,” Wike explained.
Despite the renewed commitment from the contractors, the minister remains skeptical about the projected completion date. “I still have my doubts. I won’t lie to you. But they are insisting that by April, they would have completed this project. This project is very dear to us. We know the importance of this road so many people are eager for it to be completed on time to ease traffic and boost economic activity in this area. Let’s give them the benefit of the doubt,” Wike said.
He further assured that if progress continues, additional funds will be released to accelerate the project’s completion. “I believe they will play their part. The funds are there, and if they put more effort, and I see improvement when I come again, I’ll instruct the treasury department to release further funds. But for now, let’s watch them. We are serious about this project,” he added.
Addressing concerns about the possibility of canceling the project due to delays, Wike explained that such a decision would have far-reaching consequences. “So many people don’t understand that canceling a project has a lot of implications financial, legal, and more. We don’t want that. Instead, we’ll continue encouraging the contractors to finish on time because we’re ready from our side. That’s why I’ll keep coming here to ensure the project stays on track,” Wike stated.
In addition to the Apo-Karshi road, Wike revealed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the immediate rehabilitation of the Nyanya-Karu-Orozo road, an 18-kilometer stretch critical to easing movement in the FCT. Wike’s inspection of the road last year led to this approval, noting the dire condition of the road and its importance due to the presence of several government agencies along the route.
“We wrote to Mr. President, and he approved the immediate rehabilitation of that road under emergency measures. It is an 18-kilometer road, and there will be streetlights. The contractor has given us an eight-month timeline for completion. This road is very important, and once it’s completed, alongside the Karshi-Apo road, we’re good to go,” Wike affirmed.
With both projects underway, Wike’s focus on infrastructure aims to ease traffic congestion and drive economic growth in key areas of the FCT.
…Says leadership, excellence, and service are the Core of Nation building
The Vice-President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Kashim Shettima, GCON, represented by the Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Defence, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, mni, has commended the graduating cadets of the 71 Regular Course and Postgraduate Students of the Nigeria Defence Academy (NDA) for their dedication and readiness to serve the nation.
The Vice- President gave the commendation during the 34th Convocation Ceremony of the 71 Regular Course and Postgraduate Students of the Nigeria Defence Academy (NDA) held at NDA , Kaduna State.
In his speech, the Vice President commended the cadets for their perseverance, stating that: “Your commitment and discipline exemplify the qualities that Nigeria needs in these challenging times. As future leaders of our Armed Forces, you stand as symbols of hope, resilience, and courage.”
According to the him, the convocation marked a significant milestone for the 71 Regular Course Cadets and postgraduate students as they step into roles that will shape the future of Nigeria’s defence. He reaffirmed government’s commitment to equipping the military with the necessary tools and knowledge to protect the nation.
On his part, the Honourable Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar who also double as the Chairman of the NDA Governing Council, was represented by the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher G. Musa, OFR, emphasized the importance of continuous training and education in the military. “The NDA remains the cornerstone of Nigeria’s military excellence. We must continue to invest in the development of our Armed Forces to ensure the nation’s security and stability,” he said.
He charged the graduating cadets to uphold the values of integrity, service, and patriotism as they join the ranks of Nigeria’s military elite.
…Says Nigeria is committed to protecting the rights of victims of terrorism
The Honourable Minister of Defence H.E. Mohammed Abubakar Badaru CON, has advocated for victims of terrorism by calling on the international community’s collective responsibility to protect and support victims of terrorism.
This was contained in a statement signed by Henshaw Ogubike Director (Information and Public Relations)
The Minister made the call during the fifth Ministerial meeting of the group of friends of victims of terrorism at the United Nations Headquarters, New York.
Badaru stated that Nigeria is proud to have been involved in the 2023 8th Review of the United Nations Global Counter- Terrorism Strategy (GCTS) which emphasized dignity and respect for victims of terrorism, while recognizing their role in preventing and countering terrorism.
He urged for increased protection and assistance for survivors and their communities, promoting dialogue and tolerance through inclusive, community-led initiatives to foster social cohesion.
The Minister highlighted the role of education in providing employment and income opportunities, affording young people a sense of community, developing critical thinking skills as well as building resilience against recruitment and by extension, preventing terrorism. “We urge greater support of investment in the provision and restoration of qualitative, holistic and innovative educational opportunities for victims of terrorism,” he said.
He re-emphasized Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to protecting the rights of victims of terrorism and supporting their needs as well as condemned the targeting of schools by terrorist groups and the abduction of school children, thereby denying them the much needed education.
While commending the United Nations office of Counter-Terrorism led by Vladimir Voronkov for his pivotal role in promoting international solidarity in support of the victims, he said that the collective responsibility to the affected communities will contribute towards enhanced support for victims of terrorism.