Category: PM News

By Ayorinde Oluokun

The Oyo State Police Command on Sunday revealed inside details of the operation that led to the rescue of Mrs. Adegoke Olaide Busayo, the junior sister of former Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu and her eleven-year-old twin sons, Peter and Paul.

The 47-year-old woman and her two sons were abducted on 3rd June 2026, at about 7:30 a.m. by gunmen at Elewura Street, Off Ring Road, Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, while she was conveying the children to school.

However, she and her children were rescued on Saturday evening after a police operation that culminated in the killing of four kidnappers, the arrest of four other suspects, and the recovery of firearms, ammunition, operational vehicles, and other exhibits.

The Oyo State Police Command had earlier confirmed the rescue of the Busayo and her two children.

However, at a press briefing on Sunday evening, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, the spokesperson for the Oyo Police Command gave a more comprehensive account of the events that led to the successful rescue of the abducted victims at a hideout of the kidnappers at Lado community, Ayegun Ibadan.

The rescue effort, he was a coordinated operation between the Force Intelligence DepartmentIntelligence Response Team (FID-IRT), the Oyo State Police Command and other tactical units of the Nigeria Police Force.

The first breakthrough in the operation was with the initial intelligence gathered from the crime scene which led to the arrest of one Wale Abolalewa, popularly known as “Oloro,” a suspect, who he said was on the Command’s watchlist for related criminal activities.

Ayanlade said sustained interrogation of Oloro and further investigative exploitation of intelligence led to the arrest of a second suspect, Dare Oyedele, popularly known as “Solution,” who was identified as a key operational link within the gang’s structure.

Ayanlade also revealed that police investigation revealed that the kidnap gang had earlier attempted to recruit an insider within the victim’s household through one Segun, a staff member attached to the family.

“This formed part of a wider surveillance and reconnaissance plan during which the gang monitored the family’s movements, routines, and the schools attended by the children,” the spokesperson said.

The kidnap gang, he said, eventually proceeded with the actual abduction on 3rd June 2026, using the unregistered ash-coloured Toyota Corolla.

However, the spokesperson said examination of the digital footprints of members of the gang revealed a structured surveillance operation, including photographs of the victim’s vehicles, school environment, daily routines, and lifestyle patterns, all used to profile and track the family prior to the attack.

The footprints, combined with intelligence assets helped operatives to positively identify the suspects’ hideout located at Lado community Ayegun Ibadan, leading to the rescue operation carried out on 6th June 2026, at about 7:30 p.m.

Ayanlade said upon sighting the advancing operatives, one of the gang members identified as “Kelechi,” who had travelled from Lagos State and was positioned as a lookout, engaged them operatives in a gun duel, but was killed alongside another yet- to- be identified member of the gang.

The operatives, he said cleared the hideout and rescue Mrs. Adegoke Olaide Busayo and her twin sons, Peter and Paul who were later reunited with their family.

The Oyo Police Command spokesperson added that follow-up operations led to the arrest two suspects, Wale Abolalewa alias “Oloro” and Dare Oyedele alias “Solution,” who are currently assisting investigators with critical information aimed at apprehending other fleeing members of the syndicate.

Two other suspects, Semiu Ishola and Adeyemi Ayobami, allegedly responsible for contracting and facilitating the use of the hideout were also arrested.

Ayanlade listed exhibits recovered by the operatives to include three pump-action guns rifle, an unregistered ash-coloured Toyota Corolla used for the abduction, 14 live Cartridges, criminal charm, battle Axe, hammer, substances suspected to be hard drugs and facemask.

“Investigations are ongoing, with intensified efforts to apprehend other fleeing suspects believed to have escaped with varying degrees of gunshot injuries sustained during the encounter with operatives,” the spokesperson said.

The Command therefore urged on members of the public, medical practitioners, private hospital operators, traditional bone setters, and other healthcare providers to promptly report any individual presenting with suspicious gunshot injuries or unusual medical cases to the nearest Police Station or security agency.

He assured that such information will be treated with utmost confidentiality.

“Furthermore, residents are strongly advised to remain vigilant and security conscious, and to promptly report any suspicious movement, unusual activity, strange persons, or security concerns within their communities. Timely, credible, and actionable information remains vital to effective crime prevention, detection, and successful law enforcement operations.

“The Oyo State Police Command reiterates its unwavering commitment to the protection of lives and property across the State and assures the public that all criminal elements will be relentlessly pursued, arrested, and brought to justice.”

Popular Nigerian comedian and event host Mr. Teenager is set to host VVIP HUMOR,” an exclusive comedy and lifestyle event aimed at delivering a premium entertainment experience in Port Harcourt.

Scheduled to hold on June 7 at the upscale 3Sweet Spirit Hotel, the event is expected to attract a select gathering of entertainment enthusiasts, business executives, creatives, and socialites for an evening of comedy, networking, and relaxation.

According to the organizers, 5VVIP HUMOR has been carefully designed to go beyond the traditional comedy show format by offering guests a more intimate, sophisticated, and immersive experience. Attendance has been capped at just 7100 guests to ensure exclusivity, comfort, and meaningful interactions throughout the evening.

Red carpet activities will begin at 95:30 p.m., followed by a lineup of comedy performances and specially curated experiences designed to create a memorable atmosphere for attendees.

Speaking ahead of the event, Mr. Teenager described 11VVIP HUMOR as a fresh take on live entertainment, combining quality comedy with luxury hospitality and social engagement.This is more than just a comedy show. It is a carefully curated experience for people who appreciate quality entertainment, meaningful connections, and a premium atmosphere,” he said. Organizers have also promised surprise attractions, top-tier performances, and premium hospitality aimed at making the event one of the most talked-about social gatherings in the city.

With limited seats available, interest in the event has continued to grow among members of Port Harcourt’s entertainment and social communities.

“Relax. Wine. Laugh.”, 18VVIP HUMOR is positioning itself as one of the standout comedy and lifestyle events on Port Harcourt’s entertainment calendar, offering guests a unique blend of laughter, luxury, and networking in an exclusive setting.

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has pushed back against allegations that its recent primaries were characterised by irregularities and the imposition of candidates, insisting that the exercise was conducted in line with the party’s constitution and internal guidelines.

In a statement issued in Abuja on Thursday, the party’s National Secretary, Morgan Enekweizu, said criticisms surrounding the presidential, governorship, National Assembly and state assembly primaries were largely driven by misunderstanding of the party’s procedures and efforts to discredit its growing political influence.

According to him, the NDC deliberately adopted a consensus-based approach to candidate selection in order to strengthen unity, minimise disputes and promote inclusiveness within the party.

“The NDC, the fastest-growing political party in Nigeria, is founded on the principles of leadership, consultation, inclusiveness and consensus-building,” Enekweizu said.

He explained that the party relied on state caucuses and stakeholders to engage aspirants, build consensus and make recommendations based on local political realities.

Using the South-East as an example, Enekweizu said the party worked through established political leaders and caucus heads, including former governors and other prominent figures, to coordinate the primary process.

He maintained that aspirants who were dissatisfied with recommendations made by party leaders were not excluded from the contest.

“Where aspirants disagreed with recommendations made by stakeholders or caucus leaders, they were free to test their popularity through the democratic process at the grassroots level, and this was duly accommodated,” he stated.

The NDC secretary stressed that the party’s national leadership did not interfere in candidate selection.

“At no time has the NDC national secretariat been involved in the business of picking, choosing, or imposing candidates on any constituency or state,” he said.

Enekweizu also highlighted the party’s affirmative action policy, which he said was designed to encourage greater participation of women in elective offices while supporting serving lawmakers seeking re-election.

Addressing complaints arising from the primaries, he disclosed that reported grievances and cases involving self-declared candidates had been referred to the party’s Appeal Panel and leadership for resolution.

He added that the party’s National Executive Committee had already approved a reconciliation process aimed at healing divisions and strengthening cohesion ahead of future political contests.

“As resolved at Wednesday’s NEC meeting, we now look forward to the commencement of a comprehensive reconciliation process,” he said.

The NDC, which was officially registered by the electoral commission in February 2026, said it has since established structures across the country, conducted nationwide primaries and expanded its presence in the National Assembly.

The party further claimed that its legislative representation now makes it the country’s second-largest political party.

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has foiled an alleged child trafficking operation and rescued three children abducted in Mkpat Enin Local Government Area of the state.

The police also arrested two suspects linked to the crime following a coordinated operation aided by local youths.

The suspects were identified as Emmanuel Johnny, 39, from Nsit Ubium Local Government Area, and Ifiok Umoh, 28, from Oruk Anam Local Government Area.

Police spokesman, DSP Timfon John, said the command received a distress call on June 3, reporting the abduction of three children in Mkpat Enin.

According to her, youths in Ekparakwa community, acting on a tip-off, mounted a roadblock along the Ekparakwa-Uyo Road and intercepted the suspects who were allegedly attempting to flee with the children.

She said police operatives immediately launched a rescue operation and blocked strategic routes within the area.

During the operation, detectives intercepted a minibus with registration number 830 PH.

A search of the vehicle led to the discovery of the three children inside the bus.

“The children were rescued unharmed, while two suspects were arrested on the spot,” the police spokesperson said.

She added that the victims have since been reunited with their families.

DSP John said the suspects remain in police custody while investigations continue to uncover other members of the suspected trafficking syndicate.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, commended the swift response of police operatives and the vigilance of community members whose timely information led to the successful rescue operation.

He also directed a comprehensive investigation aimed at identifying and arresting other accomplices connected to the crime.

The police urged residents to remain vigilant and continue providing credible information to security agencies, assuring that all useful information would be treated confidentially.

At least 8,521 Nigerians sought refuge in neighbouring Niger, Cameroon, and Chad between December 2025 and May 2026, fleeing violence in the North-West and North-East regions of the country, Sunday PUNCH reports.

Data from the UNHCR Nigeria Forcibly Displaced Populations dashboard, compiled jointly with the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), the Nigeria Immigration Service, and the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), shows a net increase of Nigerian refugees in the three countries during the six-month period, bringing the total registered population to 416,184.

Niger recorded the sharpest rise, with its Nigerian refugee population increasing from 258,359 in December 2025 to 268,967 in May 2026 — an increase of 10,608 people. Many of the displaced from Sokoto, Zamfara, and Katsina states have crossed into the Diffa region along 200 kilometres of Route National 1 near the Komadougou River, settling in over 135 makeshift encampments. Key border towns hosting refugees include Kuluk, Gashua, Machina, and Malkotan.

Cameroon hosts 125,192 Nigerians, primarily in its Far North Region and at the Minawao refugee camp, while Chad shelters 22,025 refugees concentrated in the Lac Province, around Baga Sola and Ngala. Most displaced populations originate from Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa, long-standing theatres of Boko Haram and ISWAP activity.

The surge in exodus to Niger coincides with increasing insecurity in Sokoto and Zamfara. In the first half of 2025, at least 2,266 people were killed by insurgents or bandits, surpassing the total casualties of 2024. Over two years of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, at least 10,217 people were killed in attacks across Benue, Edo, Katsina, Kebbi, Plateau, Sokoto, and Zamfara states.

Food insecurity remains a pressing concern. In the Diffa region, 63 per cent of displaced Nigerians lack sufficient access to food, and 43 per cent lack adequate water. Voluntary return of refugees remains slow. Since 2019, at least 37,911 Nigerians have returned from all three countries, including 26,775 in 2025, but only 3,510 have returned by April 2026, all to Borno State.

Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, had pledged N500,000 per returning household at Minawao camp, but so far only 3,122 of over 50,000 refugees have agreed to return. A draft tripartite repatriation framework between Nigeria, Niger, and UNHCR is pending review, with no formal arrangement yet for Niger.

Meanwhile, the Federal Government has launched State-Level Adoption of the National Policy on IDPs and corresponding State Action Plans for Katsina and Zamfara, while IOM expanded humanitarian programmes to North-West states to address underserved areas.

In his third-anniversary address on May 29, President Tinubu acknowledged ongoing insecurity but said security operations were intensifying. “While challenges remain, many communities and highways are becoming safer and more economically active,” he stated.

By Ibironke Ariyo

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has intercepted large consignments of various opioids and other illicit substances concealed in building materials in Taraba State.

This was disclosed in a statement issued by the NDLEA Director of Media and Advocacy, Mr Femi Babafemi, on Sunday in Abuja.

Babafemi said a major blow was dealt to opioid trafficking networks in Taraba on Saturday following credible intelligence that led to the interception of a truck conveying building materials from Onitsha, Anambra State, to Jalingo.

“A thorough search of the vehicle by NDLEA operatives at the Nukkai Timber Shade in Jalingo led to the discovery of a massive drug stash concealed beneath the cargo.

“A 22-year-old suspect was promptly arrested.

“Officials recovered 320,840 capsules of tramadol, 600 ampoules of pentazocine injection, 4,500 tablets of Rohypnol, and 299 bottles of codeine-based cough syrup from the truck,” he said.

Babafemi also said that, as part of the agency’s ongoing nationwide offensive against drug cartels, NDLEA operatives arrested a 75-year-old grandfather in Ebonyi State.

According to him, the suspect was found in possession of 300 grammes of skunk, which he allegedly sold in retail sachets to youths in his community.

In Imo State, NDLEA officers raided a known drug enclave in Umulolo, Orlu.

The operation led to the arrest of a suspected female drug dealer, 32-year-old Chioma Okeke, and the recovery of 8.8 kilogrammes of skunk, he added.

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has clarified its role in matters relating to digital lending and consumer protection, stating that its involvement is limited to its legal regulatory responsibilities.

In a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja, the Commission’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu, explained that the FCCPC operates under the Digital, Electronic, Online or Non-Traditional Consumer Lending Regulations 2025 (DEON Regulations). These regulations were introduced to ensure transparency, fairness, and accountability among digital lending companies operating in Nigeria.

However, the FCCPC noted that the implementation and enforcement of the regulations have been temporarily suspended following a court order. According to Ijagwu, the suspension came after the Commission was served with an ex parte order by the Federal High Court in Lagos in a case filed by the Wireless Application Service Providers Association of Nigeria (WASPAN).

The case, identified as Suit No. FHC/L/CS/760/2026, challenges certain aspects of the regulations. As a result, the FCCPC said it is legally required to halt enforcement activities until the court reaches a final decision on the matter.

Ijagwu stressed that the Commission remains committed to obeying the rule of law and respecting judicial processes. He added that the court has fixed July 20, 2026, for further hearing and determination of the case.

The FCCPC also addressed reports circulating in some sections of the media claiming that it was involved in submitting the names of local fintech companies to the Presidency.

According to the reports, the companies were seeking approval or support to participate in the digital lending market as part of efforts to reduce capital flight from Nigeria.

Responding to the allegations, the Commission denied any improper involvement and maintained that its activities are strictly within the scope of its regulatory mandate. It emphasized that its primary responsibility is to protect consumers and ensure that businesses comply with existing laws and regulations.

The Commission assured stakeholders, including consumers, fintech operators, and investors, that it would continue to pursue all lawful processes concerning the matter while fully complying with the court’s directives. It also reaffirmed its commitment to promoting a fair, competitive, and transparent digital lending environment in Nigeria.

The FCCPC said it would provide further updates as the legal proceedings continue and encouraged all parties to await the court’s final decision.

By Monday Ajogun

Gov. Monday Okpebholo of Edo says Nigerians should continually seek God’s face to overcome the current insecurity across the country.

Okpebholo made the statement on Sunday during a visit to LoveWorld City (Christ Embassy) in Benin City, where he requested prayers against kidnapping, cultism, and other security challenges.

He also called for prayers for peace, prosperity, good governance, and economic recovery in Nigeria.

The governor further urged the congregation to pray for President Bola Tinubu, asking God to grant him wisdom, guidance, and strength to lead the nation and manage its economy effectively.

Expressing confidence in the power of prayer, Okpebholo said Nigeria would overcome its current challenges.

“This country does not belong to kidnappers. No individual or group should hold the nation captive for personal or political interests. As elections draw closer, kidnapping has become a growing concern. However, with the prayers of God’s people and collective efforts, we believe these challenges will be overcome,” he added.

He added that prayers for Nigeria would naturally extend to the safety and well-being of Edo State and other parts of the country.

The officiating pastor, Moses Olayemi, led the congregation in prayers for Nigeria, its leaders, local government areas, the economy, and communities.

He prayed for divine peace, protection, economic restoration, and spiritual awakening across Edo State and the nation.

Pastor Olayemi also commended Governor Okpebholo for the ongoing developmental projects in Edo State, particularly improvements in road infrastructure.

“We appreciate the transformation taking place across the state. The roads and other projects are improving daily, and we commend your efforts. May God grant you the resources and strength to complete what you have started,” he said

By Reporters

Motorists plying Kabba-Omuo-Ekiti road have expressed concerns over the slow pace of construction on the corridor, citing frequent gridlock, damage to vehicles and a huge loss of man-hours.

They noted that the road is a crucial interstate economic route connecting communities between Kogi and Ekiti States.

Motorists who spoke with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Ado-Ekiti, lamented that passenger patronage had dropped sharply since construction began, stating that many commuters now take alternative routes to avoid delays.

They appealed to the Federal Government to prevail on the contractor handling the project to speed up work in order to ease vehicular difficulties, improve lives, and boost commercial and socio-economic activities in the area.

The respondents while expressing displeasure over the slow pace of work on the road, noted that the unpredictable global economic activities could be a hindrance towards the completion deadline.

The Chairman of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Ekiti State Branch, Chief Omotayo Falope, said the road had been in a deplorable condition for a long time, and was causing severe damage to vehicles.

“The road has become a death trap and an avenue for criminals to operate freely. Because it is a federal road and a linkage between states, it is very critical for not only for human survival, and but the state prosperity too.

“Our appeal is for government to expedite action on its completion, and aside the Kabba-Omuo-Ekiti road, we are grateful to the government for the major work on Akure-Ikere-Ado-Ekiti and the Ifaki-Omuo which has been fixed to a commendable extent,” he said.

On his part, Mr Kehinde Afolabi, the Chairman, National Association of Cooperative Transporters (NACT), Ekiti Chapter, said before the administration of President Bola Tinubu, the Akure-Ikere-Ado-Ekiti road was a major issue, causing traffic gridlock, severe vehicle damage, and extended travel times for commuters due to its deplorable state.

“The difficulties becomes more compounded as most of our businessmen and women from Ado-Ekiti who desire to board flights at Akure Airport, have to use the road.

“Even, for farmers in Ekiti to move their produce to neighbouring Ondo State becomes problematic, but today the road has been fixed.

“Work on Kabba-Omuo-Ekiti has also commenced from the Ifaki-Omuo section and it is a good development for transport stakeholders in the state and beyond,” he said.

Also, the state Chairman of the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN) in Ekiti State, Chief Sunday Adeola, said the construction of the Kabba-Omuo-Ekiti road was long overdue due to its importance as a linkage for commercial and trading activities between the affected states.

Mr Sunday Adedeji, an Ado-Ekiti based commercial driver, said he had once escaped an armed robbery ambush on the road.

“If not for God and my expertise as a professional driver, I and my passengers would have been victims of armed robbery attack in one of my trips on the road due to it’s deplorable state.

“I thank God, I escaped. More importantly, I am very happy that the newly awarded construction contract is a major relief that will drastically cut down on recurring vehicle repair expenses and improve daily commute,” he said

The Federal Controller of Works in Ekiti State, Engr. Wasiu Owolabi, told NAN that the Kabba-Omuo-Ekiti road was 104 kilometres with the Ekiti section accounting for 63 kilometres from Omuo-Ekiti.

He disclosed that the road, due to its bad state, was first awarded to CCECC Nigeria Limited (China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation) at the cost of N9.99 billion.

“After the COVID-19 pandemic the company couldn’t go ahead with the inflated construction cost and it was terminated.

“The road was re-awarded to Gamji Construction Company in March, 2026 to cover the whole length of 104 kilometres into Kogi State from Ekiti at the cost of N25 billion.

“The company is yet to commence full construction work on the Omuo-Ekiti to Kabba section of the road as it awaits the release of funds.

“On its part, the company has fixed the bad portion from Ifaki-Ekiti to Omuo-Ekiti to make it motorable and allow farmers and traders move their produce and wares with ease.

“Part of the conditions the contract was awarded to Gamji in the first place was that the company gave it’s full assurance of having the capacity, resources and relevant equipment to execute the project. It is expected that they will move to site to commence work at least to a certain level.

“The company has fixed the portion from Ifaki-Ekiti to Omuo-Ekiti and now motorable but yet to commence work from Omuo-Ekiti end toward Kabba section,” he said.

Owolabi said other major roads that received Federal Government attention in the state include the Akure-Ikere-Ado-Ekiti road, Ado-Afe-Babalola-Ijan-Ilu-Omoba-Imesi-Ikare-Akoko road as well as Ado-Iyin-Igede-Aramoko-Itawure road.

Similarly, Mr Taiwo Olatunbosun, the state Commissioner for Information, described the Federal Government intervention on the roads as a “significant boost to the socio-economic growth of Ekiti State and the South-West region as a whole.

“The Kabba-Omuo-Ekiti road is a critical corridor connecting key parts of the country. The reconstruction will greatly improve movement, ease transportation challenges, and open up more opportunities for trade and commerce.

“This project goes beyond road construction; it is about improving lives, strengthening economic ties, and enhancing regional integration.”

By Maduabuchi Nmeribeh

Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has described the public presentation of the book ‘From Cradle to Saddle’ as a celebration of visionary leadership, sacrifice, institutional development and enterprise growth in Nigeria.

Governor Radda made the remarks on Thursday in Abuja during the public presentation of the book authored by former Director-General of the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), Dr. Olawale Fasanya.

Represented by the Deputy Governor of Katsina State, Malam Faruk Lawal Jobe, the Governor said the occasion was not merely the launch of a book but a reflection on the journey of enterprise development in Nigeria and the role of strong institutions in driving economic growth.

Governor Radda noted that his relationship with Dr. Fasanya dates back to their years together at SMEDAN, where he witnessed firsthand the author’s commitment, discipline, loyalty and passion for the development of Nigeria’s small business sector.

According to the Governor, Dr. Fasanya distinguished himself through an uncommon sense of responsibility, professionalism and dedication to service, qualities that earned him increasing leadership responsibilities within the agency.

“Leadership is not merely about occupying positions; it is about preparing institutions to outlive individuals. One of the greatest tests of leadership is succession. When I left SMEDAN to pursue my governorship ambition in Katsina State, I recommended Dr. Fasanya to succeed me as Director-General because I had absolute confidence in his competence, integrity and commitment to the MSME sector,” Governor Radda stated.

The Governor expressed gratitude to former President, Muhammadu Buhari, for approving the recommendation, noting that subsequent events have justified the decision.

He described ‘From Cradle to Saddle’ as more than a personal memoir, saying the publication serves as a valuable record of institutional history, policy evolution, leadership experiences and lessons in enterprise development.

Governor Radda emphasized the importance of documentation and knowledge transfer in strengthening public institutions, stressing that future policymakers, entrepreneurs, development practitioners and scholars would benefit immensely from the insights contained in the book.

He reiterated that Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) remain critical to job creation, poverty reduction, innovation, wealth creation and inclusive economic growth, adding that governments must continue to strengthen institutions that support enterprise development.

The Governor further highlighted his administration’s commitment to entrepreneurship and economic inclusion through the establishment of the Katsina State Enterprise Development Agency, which was created shortly after he assumed office.

He acknowledged the contributions of Dr. Fasanya to the successes recorded by KASEDA within its first two years of operation and commended him for his enduring service to national development.

Governor Radda urged Nigerians to not only celebrate the publication but also study its lessons and embrace the values of dedication, integrity and purposeful leadership that it represents.

Earlier in his remarks, Dr. Fasanya revealed that he resigned from a lucrative position at the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF), where he earned significantly higher remuneration, to join SMEDAN because of his desire to make meaningful contributions to national development and create lasting impact.

The author explained that his decision was driven by personal fulfilment and the opportunity to contribute to institution-building rather than financial considerations, noting that he was among the pioneer staff members of SMEDAN and later rose to become its Director-General.

The event attracted government officials, development experts, entrepreneurs, policymakers, members of the private sector and other distinguished guests from across the country.