Category: Nigerian Tribune

A former member of the House of Representatives and chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Hon. Abiodun Awoleye, has declared that Oyo Governor, Seyi Makinde, has the political strength and leadership qualities to lead the PDP in reclaiming the presidency from President Bola Tinubu in 2027.

Speaking with journalists at his Bashorun residence in Ibadan during Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary celebration, Awoleye described Makinde as a ‘humble politician, dependable grassroots mobiliser, and administrator with uncommon capacity.’

‘Governor Makinde has shown rare political will and administrative strength. I strongly believe he has what it takes to reposition our great party and ensure we take back power at the national level,’ Awoleye said.

The PDP chieftain added that Makinde’s success in uniting the Oyo State chapter of the party and running an inclusive government was proof of his ability to restructure the PDP at the national level.

His remarks echoed Makinde’s own declaration at the recent PDP State Congress in Ibadan, where the governor assured party members that the ‘era of violent, parallel congresses was over,’ stressing that the model of peace and internal democracy established in Oyo would be replicated nationally.

Awoleye further praised Makinde’s governance record, particularly his consistency in paying salaries, pensions, and gratuities, describing it as a stabilising force amid Nigeria’s economic hardship.

‘Even the late Alaafin of Oyo once remarked that he was amazed at how Governor Makinde has managed governance seamlessly without owing workers a single month,’ he recalled.

He attributed prompt and uninterrupted payments of workers’ salaries, gratuity, and pensions by Makinde as a catalyst for the socio-economic stability and steady economic growth in the state, calling the governor a genius whose approach to governance amid nationwide economic challenges should be understudied for national rebirth.

He described Makinde as a man with a deep sense of creative mind for problem-solving and expressed his admiration for his crisis management skills, calling on party faithful to continue to remember the governor in their personal day-to-day prayers.

In another development, the various speakers at Awoleye’s birthday celebration noted that the former lawmaker’s confidence in Makinde’s ability to restructure the party aligns with the governor’s promise of a more cohesive, disciplined, and forward-looking PDP capable of leading Nigeria back to economic recovery and national stability.

The Ibadan North PDP Chairman, Ademiyiwa Mustapha, who led both the local government and ward executives to the celebration, described Awoleye as a peaceful person with an impressive political pedigree.

He urged members of the party to remain steadfast, maintain genuine intentions towards one another, and work together in unity for the overall progress of the PDP.

In his final remarks, Hon. Awoleye revealed that he shares the same birthday with Alhaja Mutiat Ladoja, former First Lady of the state, while his own wife shares the same birthday with the new Olubadan of Ibadan, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja Arusa I.

He described this coincidence as a source of personal joy and connection to Ibadan’s royal and political heritage.

Also speaking, a party elder, Pastor Gbenro, described the occasion as a ‘tripartite celebration’ since it coincided with Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary.

He recalled Awoleye’s role as the caretaker chairman who helped install the PDP in Ogun State, describing it as ‘a pride for Ibadan North.’

Hon. Awoleye remains one of the most grounded politicians with vast experience in politics and governance.

‘He is humble, accessible, and a blessing to this generation,’ Gbenro said, offering prayers for the celebrant and his family.

Other speakers at the event praised Awoleye’s political journey and character. A fellow party chieftain described him as ‘a straightforward person and dependable grassroots mobilizer that many young politicians look up to as a role model.’

The PDP Youth Leader in Ibadan North noted that he had never regretted looking up to Awoleye, calling him ‘a foremost politician with exceptional humility.’

Party members, however, expressed optimism about the PDP’s future both in Ibadan North, Oyo State, and Nigeria come 2027.

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has reaffirmed its commitment to national cohesion and supporting government efforts to build a better country.

This was contained in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja by Aminu Kabir of the NAHCON Information and Publication Division.

Kabir said the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Commission, Prof. Abdullahi Usman, gave the assurance in his Independence Day message to the government and people of Nigeria.

Usman described the day as a reminder of the sacrifices of Nigeria’s founding fathers who fought for freedom, dignity, and unity. He noted that 65 years after independence, the country continues to show resilience and the collective will to overcome challenges while holding on to the hope of a more prosperous future.

‘As an institution saddled with the sacred mandate of coordinating the spiritual journey of Nigerian Muslims to the Holy Land, NAHCON remains committed to upholding transparency, accountability, and service excellence in the discharge of its responsibilities. We will continue to align our efforts with national values of unity, peace, and progress,’ he said.

The Chairman also urged Nigerians to pray for peace, stability, and prosperity, and encouraged citizens to embrace patriotism, brotherhood, and sacrifice in their daily lives.

‘On this special occasion, I congratulate every Nigerian and wish our dear country continued progress. Together, we can build the Nigeria of our dreams,’ he added.

Senator Sunday Marshall Katung, who represents the people of Kaduna South Senatorial District, has debunked rumours circulating on social media about his alleged defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

In a statement issued by his media office and signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Communications, Midat Joseph, and made available to newsmen in Kaduna on Thursday, the Senator clarified:

‘We wish to state unequivocally and for the record that, as of today, Senator Sunday Marshall Katung is a committed member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).’

The statement further noted that he was elected on the platform of the PDP and remains dedicated to upholding the mandate given to him by the people of Kaduna South Senatorial District.

While acknowledging that the political landscape is dynamic, the statement stressed that any decision of such magnitude would be communicated officially and transparently by the Senator himself, not through clandestine speculation.

‘The current rumours are needless distractions from the Senator’s primary focus, which is effective representation, legislative excellence, and attracting developmental projects to Kaduna South Senatorial District.’

The statement therefore urged the media, constituents, and the general public to disregard the unfounded speculations.

The Tony Elumelu Foundation has won a prestigious award at the 60th Annual Appeal of Conscience Awards in New York.

The award recognises the Tony Elumelu Foundation’s efforts in empowering a generation of young African entrepreneurs with economic opportunities and the means to shape their own destinies.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Awele Elumelu, Co-Founder of TEF conveyed Mr. Elumelu’s gratitude and heartfelt words, highlighting his commitment to transforming lives across Africa through his philosophy of Africapitalism.

She expressed gratitude for the award, acknowledging its alignment with Tony’s values and the legacy of the Foundation and Rabbi Arthur Schneier.

In a somber moment, she honored the memory of six colleagues who recently lost their lives in a tragic incident, emphasizing the deep sense of loss felt across their community.

Dr. Elumelu spoke passionately about her husband’s commitment to uplifting lives across Africa through the philosophy of Africapitalism, which highlights the powerful role of the private sector in community well-being.

She shared Tony’s journey, marked by determination and a belief in Africa’s vast potential, noting the success of his businesses which employ over 40,000 people globally, including the United Bank for Africa in New York.

Highlighting the impact of the Tony Elumelu Foundation, she revealed that it has invested over $100 million in seed funding for more than 24,000 young African entrepreneurs, providing them with the tools to shape their futures and combat issues such as economic instability and migration.

Dr. Elumelu emphasised the ongoing need for collaboration among those who share similar values and acknowledged the importance of collective efforts in addressing global challenges.

She extended her appreciation to Cardinal Timothy Dolan for his leadership, Rabbi Schneier for his visionary work, and her friend Maurice Levy for the recognition.

Finally, she dedicated the award to the thousands of Africapitalists across the continent, as well as her family, whose unwavering support serves as a source of strength.

Dr. Elumelu however expressing gratitude for the honor and reaffirming their shared commitment to building a prosperous future for Africa and beyond.

AIRTEL Africa Plc has expressed delight over the positive impact its partnership with the United Nations Children Fund (UNICEF) is making in the lives of people, especially school children and teachers across Africa.

Chairman of Airtel Africa Foundation, Dr Segun Ogunsanya, stated this in Lagos at a press briefing to announce the official launch of Airtel Africa Foundation, a social arm of the company.

According to him, the Foundation’s collaboration with UNICEF, governments, local communities among others to transform lives and communities, especially that of the students and teachers across 14 countries where the company operates has been encouraging.

He noted that feedback and testimonials from direct beneficiaries has greatly encouraged the foundation to intensify efforts in transforming lives across the continent, disclosing that the collaboration has already connected more than 1,800 schools, benefitted over one million students, and trained more than 17,000 teachers in digital education across 14 countries.

Highlighting the broader mission of the Foundation for Nigeria and other countries, including Zambia, Malawi, Rwanda, Niger, DRC among others, Ogunsanya disclosed that the plan is now to directly improve the lives of no fewer than 10 million people across Africa by 2030.

According to him, the Foundation is not just donating resources, but building a pipeline of talent and fostering innovation to ensure the global digital revolution leaves no child and youths behind.

He listed four core pillars, Financial Empowerment, Education, Environmental Protection and Digital Inclusion (FEED) as initiative strategies to achieve the aims with education most priority.

Ogunsanya explained that those areas of intervention in the education sector will cover students, teachers and institutions.

According to him, the Foundation’s programmes target school adoption for infrastructure development, provision of ICT laboratories and computers, smart classrooms, free internet connectivity, full undergraduate scholarships in tech and STEM fields, mentorship and internships as well as training programmes for teachers.

He added that the Foundation would also leverage its Employee Volunteer Programme to teach students free of charge and mentor them where necessary.

Ogunsanya underscored the importance of quality education, saying that is the easier means to break circle of poverty and socio-economic inequality that many people entangled with today in Africa.

He explained further that an educated society would be financially literate and empowered to turn challenges to opportunities and in turn invest better in education of the next generation, protect the environment and also sustain good living for all.

Emphasising that though similar interventions would be extended to all the 14 countries where Airtel operates, Ogunsanya pointed out that Nigeria being the largest market for the company, would benefit most from the Foundation intervention activities.

He said the immediate plans for the country is to train no fewer than 26,000 youths, award 100 scholarships, connect 300 schools, and adopt 10 schools for long-term support, including facility renovations and smart classrooms.

Commenting on the company’s support for the Foundation, Airtel Africa’s Chief Executive Officer, Sunil Taldar, also underscored the importance of citizens accessing quality and quantitative education, saying quality education would greatly enhance socio-economic development upon which citizens and the country will thrive.

He said this understanding is the very reason the Airtel Africa Foundation was born as a collective vehicle by the company to catalyse transformation, by systematically investing in the four pillars that underpin a resilient and dynamic society.

‘That is why for us as a company, we will continue to support the Foundation in its drive to transform the lives of our people,’ he pledged.

In his earlier remarks, CEO of Airtel Nigeria, Dinesh Balsingh, also expressed happiness for the birth of the Foundation, and especially that Nigeria would be the most beneficiary of its intervention efforts across the four pillars.

He said the impact of such interventions, especially in the long run would be unquantifiable, commending the leadership of the Foundation for the initiatives.

Oyo Governor, Seyi Makinde, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to attracting more investors into the state, declaring that the recently upgraded Samuel Ladoke Akintola International Airport in Ibadan will be developed into the most welcoming airport in Nigeria.

The governor made this known on Wednesday during the Jagz Hospitality Conference held to commemorate the first anniversary of The Jagz Hotel, a leading hospitality brand in the state.

Speaking at the event, Governor Makinde described the landing of the first wide-bodied aircraft at the Ibadan airport, nearly a week earlier, as a significant achievement that rewrote the airport’s 43-year history.

He noted that the milestone is part of his administration’s broader strategy to make Oyo State more attractive to local and international investors.

‘Last Friday, the first wide-bodied aircraft landed at Ibadan Airport. That airport was commissioned in 1982, 43 years ago and this is the first time such an aircraft has landed there. Yes, it’s late, but better late than never,’ the governor said.

He revealed that following federal approval granted in May 2024, the state had extended the airport’s runway to accommodate larger aircraft, positioning it for increased international traffic.

‘We’ve been able to turn around 43 years of disappointment within a year. But we’re not stopping. We want Ibadan Airport to be more welcoming than any other airport in Nigeria. We want people from all over the world to fly into Ibadan and keep coming back,’ he added.

Makinde emphasized that sustained investment in infrastructure, such as the airport, is essential for economic expansion, and dismissed the idea that focusing solely on the local market, a concept known as import substitution, would solve Nigeria’s economic challenges.

‘There’s a theory that says if we focus on ourselves, patronize local products, and ignore the global market, we will solve our problems. But that theory is flawed. No country in the world has developed by isolating itself. Nigeria won’t be an exception,’ he stated.

The governor said his administration would continue to provide a supportive environment for businesses operating in the state, citing The Jagz Hotel as a testament to the potential of the private sector when given the right policies and support.

‘I am glad to be here one year after we commissioned this hotel. It is not only still running, but thriving, despite the economic turbulence in the country. That’s not by accident; it’s a result of hard work and teamwork by the management and staff. As a government, we will continue to support you.’

Makinde charged the hotel’s management to aspire beyond local recognition and aim to become one of the top hospitality brands in Africa.

‘Don’t be satisfied with being the best in Ibadan. Aspire to be the best in Nigeria, and even in Africa,’ he urged.

Earlier in his remarks, the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatubosun, praised Governor Makinde’s leadership for expanding the state’s economy through tourism and solid mineral development.

He called on stakeholders in the hospitality and tourism industries to continue collaborating with the government to promote Oyo State as a prime destination for visitors and investors.

‘Under this administration, we’ve seen significant growth in tourism and business. The private sector has an important role to play in sustaining this momentum,’ Olatubosun said.

The event was attended by several dignitaries, including the PDP Deputy National Chairman (South), Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja; former Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Senator Monsurat Sunmonu; Chairman of the Oyo State chapter of the Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON), Hon. Sikiru Sanda; and the Ekefa Olubadan of Ibadanland, High Chief Akinade Fijabi.

The Executive Secretary of the Kogi State Drugs and Medical Supplies Management Agency, Pharm. Ibrahim Salamat Onize, has disclosed that the agency is engaging at least 15 pharmaceutical manufacturers to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for pooled procurement through the Africa Research Center for Excellence in Supply Chain Management (ARC-ESM).

Speaking during the inauguration of the Drugs Sustainable Supply System Steering Committee, the Executive Secretary stressed that the MoU will ensure the sustainable availability of drugs and medical consumables with a 25% price reduction and assured quality for distribution to all state health facilities.

‘Plans are underway to register pharmaceutical distributors with the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) to partner with the state government. This initiative has the potential to increase local economic participation and generate revenue through pre-qualification registrations, tender payments, and BPP registration fees via KGIRS.

‘The agency also plans to equip and operationalise a functional quality control laboratory with government support. Drug testing will attract charges from manufacturers and distributors, boosting state revenue. The quality control unit will focus on ensuring the availability of high-quality drugs and consumables, thereby building trust and potentially increasing demand from government hospitals, pharmacy outlets, and private hospitals, which in turn will drive revenue generation.

‘The agency has conducted capacity assessments and sensitisation workshops with various partners, including the National Product Supply Chain Management Programme (NPSCMP), the Presidential Initiative for Unlocking Healthcare Value Chain (PVAC), Health System Chain Limited (HSCL), Engender Health, and others, to address healthcare needs. The availability of logistics and inventory tools will further enhance service delivery.’

The State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Abdulazeez Adams Adeiza, speaking on behalf of the Executive Governor of the state, urged committee members to uphold integrity and diligence in their roles, emphasising that their appointments represent a significant commitment to serving the people of Kogi State.

Dr. Adeiza noted that the formation of the Sustainable Supply System Steering Committee reflects Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s administration’s dedication to advancing and developing the state’s health sector. He added that the administration has made substantial investments to prioritise health in its governance agenda.

The Commissioner further explained that the Integrated Sustainable Health Supply System (ISHSS) Steering Committee is essential for strengthening the governance structure of the agency.

The committee will be chaired by the Commissioner for Health, with the Director of Pharmaceutical Services from the State Ministry of Health serving as Secretary. It will also include representatives from relevant agencies, boards, ministries, and key stakeholders.

Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, on Thursday embarked on a working visit to Diffa in the Niger Republic as part of renewed efforts to deepen security and economic cooperation across the Lake Chad basin.

The visit came against the backdrop of recent military gains in the fight against Boko Haram and ISWAP insurgents, particularly around border communities where thousands of Nigerian refugees remain in camps in neighbouring countries.

Diffa, which lies about 17 kilometres from Damasak in northern Borno, is currently home to thousands of displaced persons who fled insurgent attacks in their ancestral towns and villages.

Governor Zulum, who led a high-powered delegation, was received by his host, the Governor of Diffa Region, Brigadier General Mahamadou Ibrahim Bagadoma, alongside other senior Nigerien officials. Both leaders held a closed-door meeting that centred on strengthening joint patrols, intelligence sharing, and consolidating the fragile peace in liberated areas.

Speaking during the visit, Zulum explained that his administration was working to take advantage of the improved security atmosphere to return displaced farmers to vast and fertile farmlands around Dutchi in the Lake Chad basin. According to him, restoring farming activities remains key to the region’s recovery and food security.

On the governor’s entourage were a member of the House of Representatives, Engr. Bukar Talba, Speaker of the Borno State House of Assembly, Abdulkarim Lawan, and other senior government officials.

Anambra State Governor, Charles Soludo, has approved the full implementation of the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS) for health workers in the state.

According to the directive announced in a statement signed and made available to Journalists in Awka on Thursday by the State Head of Service, Dame Theodora Okwy Igwegbe, the 100 per cent salary structure takes effect immediately and applies to nurses, nurse anaesthetists, psychiatric nurses, community health technicians, dental therapists, medical laboratory technicians, radiographers, and physiotherapists.

The governor directed all relevant ministries, departments, and agencies, including the Local Government Service Commission, the Office of the Accountant General of the State, and the Accountant General for the local government system, to commence immediate enforcement of the directive.

Authorities have been instructed to circulate the notice widely and ensure full compliance across all affected establishments.

In celebration of this year’s World Cleanup Day, Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited (BASL), managers of the Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal Two (MMA2), mobilised staff to the Hajj Park wing of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport on Friday.

World Cleanup Day, held annually on September 20, mobilizes over 200 governments, citizens, and organizations around the world to tackle the waste problem and create global awareness in their local areas. This year’s theme tagged ‘Tackling fast-growing challenges: textile and fashion waste,’ is focused on dealing with the large volume of textile and fashion waste, which contributes to pollution.

The BASL team, led by Head of Safety, Nafisat Adeniran, engaged in a cleanup exercise, donated trash bins to the park to promote proper waste disposal and environmental hygiene. Adeniran said the initiative highlights the company’s commitment to sustainability and safety beyond the airport’s premises. ‘Our mission extends beyond managing a world-class terminal; we are dedicated to fostering a cleaner and safer environment for the entire community,’ she said. ‘This is a small step, but it reinforces our belief that a collective effort can create a significant positive impact,’ she said.

Also speaking on the initiative, BASL’s Acting Chief Operating Officer stated that the event is a key part of the company’s corporate social responsibility. ‘We believe in giving back to the community,’ he said. ‘The donation of these bins is a symbol of our commitment to not just a clean airport, but a clean city. We are proud to contribute to the global effort of making our planet a healthier place,’ he noted. He added that the event aligns with the company’s broader vision.

He said: ‘At BASL, we are continuously looking for ways to set the standard, whether it’s in aviation services or environmental responsibility. Our participation in World Cleanup Day is a testament to our ongoing commitment to a sustainable future.

BASL’s Head of Corporate Communications, Ajoke Yinka-Olawuyi, said, At BASL, we view sustainability as an interconnected responsibility. Waste management plays a critical role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, including CO2, which is a key focus area for airports globally. By supporting World Cleanup Day, we are not only promoting environmental hygiene but also contributing to broader climate action goals. Every initiative, whether in reducing waste or lowering emissions, reinforces our commitment to building a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable future for aviation and the communities we serve.