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Candidate of the Young Progressive Party (YPP), ahead of the November 8, 2925 gubernatorial election in Anambra, Sir Paul Chukwuma, has declared the urgent need for a fresh vision in the state.

Chukwuma stated that Anambra deserves leadership that surpasses the current administration under Governor Charles Soludo.

He argued that the people of Anambra are ready for transformative governance that addresses their aspirations and challenges more effectively.

Speaking alongside his running mate, Uzuegbuna Okagbue, during the party’s rally in Umueri, Anambra East Council Area on Tuesday, the YPP candidate highlighted that the party has been actively engaging with all segments of Anambra society. These interactions have revealed a widespread desire among the electorate for meaningful change and progressive leadership committed to the state’s development.

‘So far, I can confidently say that Ndi Anambra want something new, and that is what we are bringing. Ndi Anambra want a government with a human face, one that respects the people it governs,’ he said.

The YPP candidate pledged that, if elected, his administration would bring clarity to governance, entrench accountability, and prioritise the interests of the people in government programmes and projects.

He assured that security would be restored within three months of assuming office, using the same security vote currently available to the Soludo administration, which he accused of failing to deploy effectively.

‘This shall reenergise investors’ confidence in our state. Just as we are campaigning day and night, we shall also work day and night for Ndi Anambra,’ Chukwuma added.

Reiterating his resolve, he declared, ‘I am Paul Chukwuma, and I join Ndi Anambra to echo that Anambra deserves better. Vote YPP.’

Anambra State Governor, Charles Soludo and Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, have expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future as the country marks 65 years of independence.

At an event held at Alex Ekwueme Square, Awka, Soludo described Nigeria’s independence as ‘a symbol of hope, freedom, and the possibility of the black race,’ calling for reflection and unity.

He urged citizens to invest in the nation’s future, highlighting insecurity and economic strains as pressing issues while commending recent federal reforms.

The event served as both a celebration and a call for unity, emphasising the triumphs and trials that have shaped the nation’s journey since 1960.

In his address, Governor Soludo described Nigeria’s emergence as ‘a symbol of hope, freedom, and the possibility of the black race,’ urging citizens to see the day as one of ‘sober reflection.’

He highlighted the indomitable spirit of Nigerians in overcoming challenges, stating, ‘With vision, hard work, and faith, no obstacle is insurmountable.’

The Governor pointed out the pressing issues facing the nation, particularly insecurity and economic strains. However, he stressed the importance of sustaining Nigeria’s investment in its people, asserting, ‘Our greatest resource is our people. Invest in people, invest in the future.’ He particularly praised President Bola Tinubu for implementing necessary reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidy stabilisation, the exchange rate, among others, which he characterised as ‘necessary medicine for an economy long distorted and pampered over.’

Governor Soludo acknowledged recent positive developments, noting that Nigeria’s GDP has reached 4.28 per cent, its highest in three years. He emphasised that with good governance laid at the foundation, the nation is poised for ‘accelerated growth and transformation.’

The Governor encouraged the citizens of Anambra and Nigeria at large to stand firm in the face of adversity, stating, ‘Ndi Anambra and Nigerians should stand firm as a bright future awaits them.’

The Governor called for a collective effort, urging individuals to play their roles in nation-building through patriotism: paying taxes, supporting reforms, and holding leaders accountable.

Concluding, Governor Soludo urged citizens to ‘look back with hope, not with despair,’ reinforcing his belief that, despite present challenges, Nigeria is on the rise.

Also in her Independence Day message, the governor’s wife, Mrs Nonye Soludo, called on citizens to remain law-abiding, be proud Nigerians and give up what they have to for the betterment of the country.

The Anambra first lady, who is also the founder of the ‘Healthy Living With Nonye Soludo’, appealed in a statement she issued on Wednesday, as part of the activities for the anniversary.

She stressed that Anambra is committed to building a state where citizens can live and work without fear and where opportunities for potential and growth thrive under a secure environment.

She noted that the journey to nationhood demands a collective vision and ambition, adding that Nigeria is a great and blessed country.

On his part, Nwifuru expressed joy in the execution of the people’s charter of Needs agenda and renewed resolve in the state.

Nwifuru stated this during the celebration of Nigeria’s 65 years and Ebonyi State’s 29 years of creation in his office, Centenary City, Abakaliki, on Wednesday.

He urged Ebonyi residents to recommit themselves to the task of building a stronger, fairer and more prosperous Ebonyi anchored on the People’s Charter of Needs Agenda.

Nwifuru also commended the past leaders of the State for their dogged efforts to move the state forward. He, however, noted that the government under his leadership have taken proactive steps to ensure the labours of the founding fathers were not in vain.

‘Ndi Ebonyi, as Nigeria marks 65 years of independence and Ebonyi State celebrates 29 years since her birth today, our hearts are full of gratitude, pride, a sense of responsibility for the execution of the People’s Charter of Needs Agenda and renewed resolve.

‘On this double anniversary, October 1, 2025, we remember the sacrifices of our forebears, celebrate our unity, and recommit ourselves to the task of building a stronger, fairer and more prosperous Ebonyi anchored on the People’s Charter of Needs Agenda. We are already in the first phase of our third political year, given that we came into power in May 2023.

‘Let me pay glowing tribute to our founding fathers who sacrificed their comfort to champion the cause of the creation of Ebonyi State and to give us the ample opportunity of having our destiny in our hands. Democratically elected governor of our dear State, His Excellency Sen Sam Ominyi Egwu, took bold steps to lay a solid foundation for the development of Ebonyi State through quality education and affordable health Care. To Chief Martin Elechi, we appreciate your resilience and commitment to advancing our State. Your bridges of Unity and human capital development is part of the reasons we are celebrating today. To my boss, the immediate past Governor of our State and current minister for works Sen. David Umahi, history will remain kind to you for the monumental achievements the State recorded under your watch.

‘I am proud to announce to you that we have taken intentional steps to implement our campaign manifesto. We are fighting illiteracy and ignorance by demerging the education ministry. We created a new ministry charged solely with tertiary education administration and the education ministry for primary and secondary schools. From the very beginning of this administration, we made a solemn promise that education would be the compass by which we steer our State. We believed then, and we believe now, that investing in the minds of our children is the surest path to lasting development.’

Nwifuru also noted that his government have expanded opportunities for higher learning through a bold scholarship programme that has sent hundreds of Ebonyi sons and daughters to pursue advanced degrees both at home and abroad.

He, however, said the commissioning of his projects will commence from May 2026 till May 2027.

‘Last week, I embarked on a statewide project inspection tour to know the progress of work in the 22 classroom block for our 39 model secondary school and 12 classrooms block for our primary schools. The projects are under way and progressing impressively.

‘In the 2024/2025 cycle alone, the State sponsored hundreds of scholars for local and international postgraduate studies – a major step in building technical capacity and global exposure for our youth. I am glad to inform you that a significant portion of that programme saw our first beneficiaries travel to the United Kingdom and other partner countries to undertake Master’s and PhD programmes, an investment designed to bring back not only qualifications but world-class skills and networks to serve our state.

‘We also prioritised the revitalisation and funding of our tertiary institutions by increasing the statutory subvention and clearing accumulated obligations to our university. We stabilised academic operations and protected the academic calendar, ensuring our young men and women can learn without interruption.

‘This is why no industrial actions by any of the trade unions in the Tertiary institutions of Ebonyi State University and Ebonyi State College of Education. However, we know access to education is not only about universities. We prepared our youths for the jobs of today and tomorrow through targeted vocational and skills-training initiatives. Under this programme, beneficiaries of vocational training received direct start-up grants to translate skills into sustainable livelihoods – an approach that links training with immediate economic empowerment. As one tangible result, grants were disbursed to recent vocational graduates to help them start small businesses and workshops.

‘Recognising the need to align our educational system with the economy of the future, we have laid the groundwork for specialised academic institutions focused on cutting-edge sectors. This is why we established the University of ICT at Oferekpe Agbaja to promote ICT and digital literacy and also the University of Aviation and Aeronautical Engineering, strategic choices that will position Ebonyi as a hub for technology and specialised engineering education in the South-East and beyond. May I inform you that courses have been allocated to our ICT University and processes of admission have also commenced.

‘These initiatives are designed to create graduates who are industry-ready and globally competitive. Beyond institutions and scholarships, we have worked to make education affordable and dignified.

President Bola Tinubu says he is relieved, urging Nigerians to be understanding amid the difficult times as the nation marks its 65th independence anniversary.

He says the joy stems from the conviction that the country had seen its worst times and it’s now on the path of recovery, achieving milestones, especially in the last two years.

Tinubu did the assessment in an Independence Day speech he delivered on October 1, noting specifically that henceforth, Nigerians should celebrate and savour the better times, a marked departure from when in 2023, he inherited a ‘near-collapsed economy caused by decades of fiscal policy distortions and misalignment that had impaired real growth.’

A substantial portion of his 10-page independence address was devoted to the milestones his administration recorded and why the people must not lose hope now that the good days are returning.

Sounding elated, Tinubu noted, ‘I am pleased to report that we have finally turned the corner. The worst is over, I say. Yesterday’s pains are giving way to relief. I salute your endurance, support, and understanding. I will continue to work for you and justify the confidence you reposed in me to steer the ship of our nation to a safe harbour.’

Talking about the economy, where he said much of the turnaround was achieved, the president reported, ‘Under our leadership, our economy is recovering fast, and the reforms we started over two years ago are delivering tangible results.

‘The second quarter 2025 Gross Domestic Product grew by 4.23%-Nigeria’s fastest pace in four years-and outpaced the 3.4 percent projected by the International Monetary Fund. Inflation declined to 20.12% in August 2025, the lowest level in three years. The administration is working diligently to boost agricultural production and ensure food security, reducing food costs.

‘In the last two years of our administration, we have achieved 12 remarkable economic milestones as a result of the implementation of our sound fiscal and monetary policies:

‘We have attained a record-breaking increase in non-oil revenue, achieving the 2025 target by August with over N20 trillion. In September 2025 alone, we raised N3.65 trillion, 411% higher than the amount raised in May 2023.’

He spoke of the scores recorded in debt-to-revenue performance and the foreign reserves standing.

Tinubu explained, ‘We have restored Fiscal Health: Our debt service-to-revenue ratio has been significantly reduced from 97% to below 50%. We have paid down the infamous ‘Ways and Means’ advances that threatened our economic stability and triggered inflation. Following the removal of the corrupt petroleum subsidy, we have freed up trillions of Naira for targeted investment in the real economy and social programmes for the most vulnerable, as well as all tiers of government.

‘We have a stronger foreign Reserve position than three years ago. Our external reserves increased to $42.03 billion this September-the highest since 2019.’

On the tax-to-GDP performance, and exports, the President also said his administration deserved a pat on the back.

According to him, ‘Our tax-to-GDP ratio has risen to 13.5 per cent from less than 10 per cent. The ratio is expected to increase further when the new tax law takes effect in January. The tax law is not about increasing the burden on existing taxpayers but about expanding the base to build the Nigeria we deserve and providing tax relief to low-income earners.

‘We are now a Net Exporter: Nigeria has recorded a trade surplus for five consecutive quarters. We are now selling more to the world than we are buying, a fundamental shift that strengthens our currency and creates jobs at home.

‘Nigeria’s trade surplus increased by 44.3% in Q2 2025 to N7.46 trillion ($4.74 billion), the largest in about three years. Goods manufactured in Nigeria and exported jumped by 173%. Non-oil exports, as a component of our export trade, now represent 48 per cent, compared to oil exports, which account for 52 per cent. This signals that we are diversifying our economy and foreign exchange sources outside oil and gas.’

On crude oil production, he gave the update thus, ‘Oil production rebounded to 1.68 million barrels per day from barely one million in May 2023. The increase occurred due to improved security, new investments, and better stakeholder management in the Niger Delta. Furthermore, the country has made notable advancements by refining PMS domestically for the first time in four decades. It has also established itself as the continent’s leading exporter of aviation fuel.’

Other areas worthy of celebrating, according to Tinubu, are the state of the Naira, the success of the Social Investment Programme and the expansion of infrastructure, including roads and rail lines.

He went on, ‘The Naira has stabilised from the turbulence and volatility witnessed in 2023 and 2024. The gap between the official rate and the unofficial market has reduced substantially, following FX reforms and fresh capital and remittance inflows. The multiple exchange rates, which fostered corruption and arbitrage, are now part of history. Additionally, our currency rate against the dollar is no longer determined by fluctuations in crude oil prices.

‘Under the social investment programme to support poor households and vulnerable Nigerians, N330 billion has been disbursed to eight million households, many of whom have received either one or two out of the three tranches of the N25,000 each.

‘Coal mining recovered dramatically from a 22% decline in Q1 to 57.5% growth in Q2, becoming one of Nigeria’s fastest-growing sectors. The solid mineral sector is now pivotal in our economy, encouraging value-added production of minerals extracted from our soil.

‘The administration is expanding transport infrastructure across the country, covering rail, roads, airports, and seaports. Rail and water transport grew by over 40% and 27%, respectively. The 284-kilometre Kano-Kastina-Maradi Standard Gauge rail project and the Kaduna-Kano rail line are nearing completion.

‘Work is progressing well on the legacy Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and Sokoto-Badagry Highway. The Federal Executive Council recently approved $3 billion to complete the Eastern Rail Project.

‘The world is taking notice of our efforts. Sovereign credit rating agencies have upgraded their outlook for Nigeria, recognising our improved economic fundamentals. Our stock market is experiencing an unprecedented boom, rising from an all-share index of 55,000 points in May 2003 to 142,000 points as of September 26, 2025. At its last MPC meeting, the Central Bank slashed interest rates for the first time in five years, expressing confidence in our country’s macroeconomic stability.’

Tinubu didn’t forget to touch on insecurity, a major concern of the country in recent decades, with some analysts insisting that the situation has continued to worsen.

But Tinubu, disagreeing with the position, argued that security agencies had taken the fight to the doorsteps of insurgents, kidnappers, and bandits under his watch.

‘We are working diligently to enhance national security, ensuring our economy experiences improved growth and performance. The officers and men of our armed forces and other security agencies are working tirelessly and making significant sacrifices to keep us safe. They are winning the war against terrorism, banditry and other violent crimes. We see their victories in their blood and sweat to stamp out Boko Haram Terror in North-East, IPOB/ESN terror in South East and banditry and kidnapping. We must continue to celebrate their gallantry and salute their courage on behalf of a grateful nation.

‘Peace has returned to hundreds of our liberated communities in North-West and North-East, and thousands of our people have returned safely to their homes,’ he concluded.

Through the instrumentality of Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), Tinubu said the country’s youth could now hope to get the education they would need without financial uncertainty.

‘You are the future and the greatest assets of this blessed country. You must continue to dream big, innovate, and conquer more territories in your various fields of science, technology, sports, and the art and creative sector. Our administration, through policies and funding, will continue to give you wings to fly sky-high. We created NELFUND to support students with loans for their educational pursuits.

‘Approximately 510,000 students across 36 states and the FCT have benefited from this initiative, covering 228 higher institutions. As of September 10, the total loan disbursed was N99.5 billion, while the upkeep allowance stood at N44.7 billion,’ he disclosed.

Other initiatives the president said had yielded fruits included Credicorp, which granted 153,000 Nigerians N30 billion affordable loans for vehicles, solar energy, home upgrades and digital devices; and YouthCred, a consumer credit for resettlement, accessible to NYSC members.

Tinubu, while admitting that some of the reforms he introduced, especially the removal of fuel subsidies, must have come at huge pains to Nigerians, said the alternative would have been to allow the country to rot to a point it could no longer be salvaged.

To many, who hold the view that Nigeria at 65 remains a sleeping giant with little to celebrate, Tinubu advised them to embark on a journey back in time and do the comparison.

He observed, ‘Although, it is much easier for those whose vocation is to focus solely on what ought to be, we must recognise and celebrate our significant progress. Nigerians today have access to better education and healthcare than in 1960. At Independence, Nigeria had 120 secondary schools with a student population of about 130,000.

‘Available data indicate that, as of 2024, there were more than 23,000 secondary schools in our country. At Independence, we had only the University of Ibadan and Yaba College of Technology as the two tertiary institutions in Nigeria. By the end of last year, there were 274 universities, 183 Polytechnics, and 236 Colleges of Education in Nigeria, comprising Federal, State, and private institutions.

‘We have experienced a significant surge in growth across every sector of our national life since Independence-in healthcare, infrastructure, financial services, manufacturing, telecommunications, information technology, aviation and defence, among others. Our country has experienced both the good and the bad times in its 65 years of nationhood, as is normal for every nation and its people. We fought a bitter and avoidable civil war, experienced military dictatorships, and lived through major political crises.

‘In all these, we weathered every storm and overcame every challenge with courage, grit, and uncommon determination.’

The Oyo State House of Assembly has called on the Executive Arm of Government to take deliberate and urgent steps to expand computer knowledge among students in public schools across the state.

This followed the adoption of a motion sponsored by the Minority Leader, Hon. W.A. Salami, during plenary.

The motion noted that computer literacy has become a fundamental requirement in modern education, enhancing interactive learning and better academic outcomes.

However, many public school students, especially in underserved areas like Oke-Ogun, Ibarapa, and parts of Oyo still lack access to digital education, putting them at a disadvantage in computer-based tests (CBT) such as the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) conducted by JAMB.

Despite being academically sound, a significant number of students have failed to secure university admission due to poor CBT performance, often caused by unfamiliarity with basic computer operations.

In response, the House urged the government to intensify efforts to improve digital education in public schools, including establishing computer rooms, equipping them with necessary accessories, and integrating computer training from the primary school level.

It also called for collaboration with JAMB to set up CBT centres in all 14 federal constituencies of the state and encouraged partnerships with education-focused philanthropists, NGOs, and foreign donors.

The Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin stressed the urgency of bridging the digital divide, noting that in today’s world, digital literacy is no longer optional.

He emphasized that students must be equipped with the skills required to compete and succeed in a technology-driven society.

The Speaker added that it was inclusive for the State Government to prioritise inclusive computer education as a tool for academic success and long-term development.

President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday restated his administration’s focus on supporting Nigerian youths and driving economic reforms as the country marked its 65th Independence Anniversary.

In a national broadcast from the Presidential Villa, Abuja, Tinubu described young Nigerians as the nation’s ‘greatest assets,’ encouraging them to dream big and pursue opportunities in science, technology, sports, arts, and the creative sector.

He outlined initiatives already in place to back education, entrepreneurship, and youth development.

According to him, the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has so far provided N99.5 billion in student loans and N44.7 billion in upkeep allowances to about 510,000 students in 228 higher institutions.

‘Our administration, through policies and funding, will continue to give you wings to fly sky-high.

‘We created NELFUND to support students with loans for their educational pursuits. Approximately 510,000 students across 36 states and the FCT have benefited from this initiative, covering 228 higher institutions,’ he said.

Tinubu also noted that the Credicorp scheme had disbursed N30 billion in loans to 153,000 Nigerians for vehicles, solar power, home improvements, and digital devices. Additionally, the YouthCred programme, launched in June, has begun providing credit to National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members to assist with their resettlement.

He said the Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) programme, developed with the Bank of Industry, African Development Bank, French Development Agency, and Islamic Development Bank, was close to full rollout to boost the technology and creative industries further.

Speaking on the economy, the President acknowledged that current reforms had created difficulties, with inflation and high living costs affecting many citizens.

‘The alternative of allowing our country to descend into economic chaos or bankruptcy was not an option. Sacrifices made were laying a new foundation cast in concrete, not on quicksand,’ he said.

He stressed that progress should be measured not just by figures but also by improvements in food security, education, electricity, and safer communities.

Tinubu called on state and local governments to support federal efforts by driving productivity and innovation.

‘Let us be a nation of producers, not just consumers. Let us farm our land and build factories to process our produce. Let us patronise ‘Made-in-Nigeria’ goods. I say Nigeria first,’ he declared.

The President assured Nigerians that a more prosperous and self-reliant country was achievable and urged citizens to work together in the nation-building process.

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has recorded a remarkable milestone in institutional transparency, ranking 3rd out of over 500 Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) assessed in the 2025 Transparency and Integrity Index released by the Centre for Fiscal Transparency and Public Integrity (CeFTPI).

According to the report released on Tuesday, ICPC achieved an impressive 78.13% score, placing it among the top three most transparent and accountable government institutions in Nigeria.

This performance represents a historic leap for ICPC, which ranked 19th in the 2024 Index with a score of just 24%.

The dramatic rise of over 50 percentage points highlights the Commission’s strengthened internal systems, proactive information disclosure, and commitment to openness in line with global standards of accountability.

The Transparency and Integrity Index measures institutional compliance across five key variables: Fiscal Transparency, Open Procurement, Human Resource and Inclusion, Control of Corruption, and Citizens’ Engagement.

ICPC’s strong showing across these areas demonstrates the Commission’s resolve to lead by example in Nigeria’s anti-corruption drive.

Observers note that this leap sends a powerful message about institutional reforms, accountability, and the Commission’s renewed commitment to building public trust.

With this development, ICPC has set a new benchmark for transparency among Nigeria’s public institutions, further cementing its role as the nation’s foremost anti-corruption agency.

In his remarks, the Director-General of the Bureau of Public Service Reforms (BPSR), Dr. Dasuki Ibrahim Arabi, described the Transparency and Integrity Index (TII) as a vital instrument for entrenching accountability and good governance in Nigeria’s public institutions.

He noted that the assessment has, over the years, provided a benchmark for reforms that strengthen governance and improve service delivery.

According to him, the 2025 edition of the Index, jointly conducted with the Centre for Fiscal Transparency and Public Integrity (CeFTPI), is aligned with the National Strategy for Public Service Reforms (NSPSR 2021-2025), the Freedom of Information Act, and Nigeria’s commitments under the Open Government Partnership.

Dr. Arabi emphasized that the Index is more than numbers or rankings, but about building a culture of openness and responsibility that fosters public trust, as contained in a statement signed by Demola Bakare, Director, Public Enlightenment and Education/Spokesperson for the Commission.

ýTHE political sagacity and ideology of Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State is coming under a new kind of scrutiny with the public presentation of the book ‘Omituntun Political Ideology of Governor Seyi Makinde: A Principle and Practice for Good Governance and Socio-Economic Development’ taking place soon, in Ibadan.

ýýThe book, written by a scholar and public servant, Babatunde Osumah, is an independent assessment of the new political culture brought with the Omituntun political philosophy of Governor Makinde. It is also a manual on how the younger generation of Nigerian politicians can learn from and be prepared for the vagaries of political high office from the Omitutun Philosophy, which is anchored on moral and delivery-driven politics.

ýýSnippets show that the book is for education and for the sustenance of the highly impactful Omituntun Philosophy. In showing how, snippets from it say the book ‘shows how new orientation can be rendered from the attitude of Governor SeyiMakinde to the upcoming young politicians so that they will be well-prepared before occupying political offices.’

ýýSpeaking on why the project was undertaken, Osumah said: ‘The purpose of the book launch is to honour and celebrate the excellent performance and quintessential leadership of Engr. Seyi Makinde in this 21st century political dispensation in Nigeria.

ýý’Dignitaries invited for the book launch are members of Oyo State Executive Council, Oyo State House of Assembly members; Oyo State Chief judge, Oyo State Local Government Chairmen, veteran media personalities, political pundits in Nigeria, distinguished personalities in their chosen careers and representative of the Nigeria Youth.’

ýýThe Special Guest of Honour for the occasion billed for Thursday October 23, 2025 is Governor Makinde himself.

The Archbishop, Metropolitan and Primate of All Nigeria, Most Reverend Dr Henry Ndukuba, has called for a renewed spirit of patriotism, volunteerism, and sacrifice among Nigeria’s leaders and citizens, stressing that the nation’s progress depends on values-driven leadership and strong institutions.

Speaking at the sidelines of the World Mission Congress held at St. Matthias House, Gudu, Abuja, Archbishop Ndukuba reflected on Nigeria’s journey since independence, noting that while the country has remained resilient through numerous challenges, there is a need for a paradigm shift in governance and national orientation.

‘At 65, I think that as we look back at what we have passed through as a nation, we have every reason to give thanks to God. But compared with other developing nations like Brazil and India, Nigeria must strive harder to measure up. We have all it takes, the scientists, the engineers, the resources, but corruption and nepotism continue to hold us back,’ he said.

The Anglican Primate observed that the unity and selflessness displayed by Nigeria’s founding fathers at independence have been replaced over the years by what he described as a sense of entitlement among some in leadership. He urged political leaders to put service above personal gain and work toward building a just and prosperous society.

On security, Archbishop Ndukuba commended the present administration for showing the political will to confront banditry and insurgency, while acknowledging the efforts of the military and other security agencies.

He, however, called for more support and resources for security personnel, stressing the need to identify and hold accountable those who finance and sponsor violence.

‘Without security, there will be no development, whether economic or social. We must also strengthen our judiciary and other institutions to deliver on their mandate,’ the Anglican Primate added.

Addressing Nigeria’s diversity, he noted that with over 250 ethnic groups, the country requires strong unifying forces. He cautioned against the misuse of religion and ethnicity for political advantage, warning that such practices fuel division and instability.

‘The ordinary Nigerians are not the problem. The real challenge lies with the elites who must rise above divisive politics and unite to build the nation,’ he said.

The Archbishop urged both leaders and citizens to embrace righteousness and service to humanity, reminding them that a nation can only prosper when its values are rooted in justice, sacrifice, and the common good.

The leader of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Primate Elijah Ayodele, has expressed dissatisfaction with the state of Nigeria’s independence, describing it as another means of bondage.

In a statement signed by his media aide, Osho Oluwatosin, Primate Ayodele stated that the country has not become better and that people who fought for the nation’s independence have not been fully appreciated.

He stated that there are several differences in the country on different grounds, most especially politically, which have not allowed Nigeria to experience what it means to be independent.

‘At 65, we are still not better; those who fought recklessly for our independence have not been fully appreciated. They need to be appreciated by Nigeria getting united, but as it stands, we are not yet fully independent because of our several differences as a nation, especially politically.’

‘Our independence is bondage for us; we are in a serious situation where there is no rest of mind and peace, for how long do we continue to pass through all of these?’

He frowned at people ruling the country the way they want it, which includes not appreciating those who worked tirelessly for where the country is at the moment.

‘It’s unfortunate that the country is being run just the way people want; leaders are not appreciated, and people who have worked tirelessly have not been allowed to gain ground.’

Furthermore, the cleric advised Nigerian leaders to work on five major things for the nation to experience what it means to be independent.

He noted that the nation is sitting on a time bomb due to the issues in the country involving citizens.

‘These are the five things we need to work on as we clock 65: insecurity, increase in production, utilisation of our mineral resources, agriculture, and true federalism. It would be a fantastic independence.

‘A lot of people are praying for separation; they have seen the government as without direction, there is tribal war, and I doubt if we are improving because we are not committed. Nigeria is in a very difficult independence moment, and we are sitting on a time bomb,’ he added.

As part of activities to mark Nigeria’s 65th independence anniversary, the Federal Capital Territory Administration has launched the free distribution of Mother-Baby Kits and the Abuja Breathe Fresh Air Project.

During the official launch at the Asokoro District Hospital in Abuja, FCT Minister of State, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, noted that the two health flagship programmes represent a holistic vision of health: protecting mothers and newborns during childbirth while safeguarding families from the dangers of household air pollution.

Mahmoud also noted that the initiatives symbolise the administration’s resolve to invest in both immediate healthcare needs and long-term environmental sustainability.

The Minister further explained that the Mother-Baby Kits contained essential medical items and consumables that would support safe labour, delivery and neonatal care for women and babies across the FCT.

According to her, ‘No woman should face childbirth without the tools and support she needs, and no child should begin life without adequate care.

‘These kits reflect our deep commitment to maternal and child health and to ensuring that every mother and baby is given the best start possible.’

She, however, described the Abuja Breathe Fresh Air Project as a bold, forward-looking initiative designed to reduce indoor air pollution in vulnerable households.

Mahmoud emphasised that by replacing polluting fuels such as firewood, charcoal and kerosene with smart, efficient Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) cookers, the administration is addressing one of the silent but deadly health risks in homes: respiratory disease caused by smoke inhalation.

The Minister affirmed that these two transformative programmes are part of a broader transformation under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Speaking further, Mahmoud said the administration has strengthened its workforce through improved conditions and training investments, while infrastructure upgrades-from hospital renovations including call rooms to the establishment of a Public Health Emergency Operations Centre-have boosted efficiency and resilience.

She therefore used the occasion of Nigeria’s 65th independence anniversary to call on Nigerians to recommit themselves to building an FCT where every home is healthier, every birth is safer, and every breath is cleaner.

Earlier in her welcome remarks, the Mandate Secretary, FCT Health Services and Environment Secretariat, Dr Adedolapo Fasawe, revealed that every year, Nigeria continues to face unacceptably high rates of maternal and infant mortality.

She lamented that despite progress made, too many women still lose their lives during childbirth, and too many newborns do not live to see their first birthday.

‘One major reason for these preventable deaths is the lack of access to clean, safe and essential supplies during delivery.

‘The Renewed Hope Mother-Baby Kit initiative is designed to bridge that gap. Each kit contains basic but critical items needed to ensure a hygienic and safe delivery both for the mother and the child,’ she noted.

She reiterated the FCT Administration’s commitment, under the leadership of Barr. Nyesom Wike, to invest in strategic health interventions that have a direct impact on the lives of rural people.