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The Abia State government has debunked the news that the state has sold out slots of the ongoing recruitment of health workers in the state.

Rumours making rounds in the state were that some officials of the government had sold out slots of the recruitment to allies and other cronies outside the state.

This is coming on the heels of the statement by the governor of the state, Dr. Alex Otti, during a media chat last week, that even foreigners are interested in working as health personnel in the state.

The chairman, Abia State Civil Service Commission, Pst Eno Jerry Eze, in a statement described the information as fake, adding that the state as part of its moves to promote transparency, adopted the use of a computer-based Test for applications, adding that interviews were meticulously designed to eliminate biased by ensuring that the best and most qualified candidates were selected for available positions.

The Abia State Civil Service Commission chairman, while assuring the commitment of the commission to openness and transparency in the recruitment of the health workers encouraged anyone with verifiable information about potential infractions or attempts to misrepresent the Commission to report it immediately.

Eno said ‘The Abia State Civil Service Commission is compelled to address a recent publication alleging the sale of slots in the ongoing healthcare workers recruitment process. We wish to assure Abians that these allegations are baseless and unfounded.

‘The Commission has implemented a robust recruitment process that integrates technology and global HR standards, ensuring transparency, fairness, and meritocracy at every stage.

‘The application, Computer-Based Test (CBT) and interview processes have been meticulously designed to eliminate biases and ensure that only the best and most qualified candidates are selected for the available positions.

‘This process has received continuous praise from candidates and stakeholders, who acknowledge that it sets a new precedent in the public sector for its integrity.

‘We want to assure Abians that, just as with the Computer-Based Tests, the final results of the recruitment process, along with candidates’ documentation status, will be publicly published on the official recruitment portal.

‘This commitment to openness leaves absolutely no room for manipulation or alteration.

‘The Abia State Civil Service Commission is resolute in maintaining the highest standards of integrity and transparency throughout this process.

‘We urge all stakeholders to remain confident in our ability to deliver a fair and merit-based recruitment exercise.

‘We strongly encourage anyone with verifiable information about potential infractions or attempts to misrepresent the Commission to report it immediately through this link: https shorturi at EonF3.

‘We assure all stakeholders that these reports will be thoroughly investigated, and decisive, appropriate actions will be taken against any confirmed breaches.

‘The Abia State Civil Service Commission remains dedicated to ensuring that the recruitment process is conducted with the utmost integrity to build a highly competent and professional healthcare workforce for the state.’

Governor Otti, represented by the Commissioner for Health, Professor Enoch Ogbonnaya Uche, regretted that many women have lost their lives due to uncontrolled complications at the traditional birth attendants, saying that, his administration is intentional about the lives of the people, especially the mother and child, hence his government embarked on the retrofitting of 200 PHCs across all the wards in the state.

He reiterated his resolve to take decisive action against operators of such traditional birth attendants to safeguard the lives of expectant mothers.

He urged community leaders to take ownership of the facility.

The governor disclosed that the state government would also build staff quarters for health workers and encouraged residents to make full use of the centre.

He later conducted a tour of the facility with the State Director of Orientation Agency, Mrs. Ure Abazie, and the traditional ruler of Ohiya, Eze Abel Uhuegbu.

He informed that the centre is equipped with modern facilities including an automatic external defibrillator, radiant warmer, vital signs monitor for pregnant women, ultrasound, parameter machine, weighing scale, general laboratory, and auto analyser among others.

Also speaking, the Mayor of Umuahia South LGA, Engineer Chinedu Enwereuzo, expressed gratitude to Governor Alex Otti for embarking on life-touching projects, describing the projects as a true sign of love for the people.

He urged the Ohiya traditional ruler to ensure the protection of the equipment and called on the community to reciprocate the governor’s gesture at the appropriate time.

He also commended the state for giving health proper attention and encouraged Abians to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards to strengthen their civic responsibility.

Speaking with journalists, the Director General of the Abia State Orientation Agency, Ure Abazie, lauded Governor Otti and the Ministry of Health for prioritising the well-being of Abians.

Adeyinka Akinwande’s desire for activism may have started from school, but it was fully showcased during the June 12 struggle. The singer and dramatist consider himself a hero of June 12, among many other artists, while speaking on President Bola Tinubu’s recent honours for heroes of June 12.

He said: ‘I totally agree with the honour. But many other people who fought are not honoured. Many of them are gone, many still living. The honour should not be only those in politics or people who are loyal to a party. Gbenga Adewusi got his place of business destroyed because of June 12. His office at Idumota was set Ablaze. I was among those who worked with him during the production of ‘Babanginda Must Go’.

‘Late Fuji exponent, Chief Sikiru Ayinde Barrister should also be honoured, dead, or alive. He was fearless. Dr Orlando Owoh was fearless. I was working with Dr. Sikiru during the June 12 struggle as one of the production crews at that period. The songs he made were straight and direct. During one of the studio sessions, his set drummer, Mufu Lanihun, was beginning to roll drums and play the kick drum in a dancing style. Barrister warned him to stop. He said it did not align with the mood of Nigeria at that time. We were working on ‘Prophecy.’ I asked him if he wasn’t troubled after State Security invited him but later let him go. After that, he made another and another. He didn’t stop. We know many people who were two-faced at the time. Orlando Owoh sang, ‘Na democracy we want’ during the deadly Abacha reign. Such people should be honoured for their contributions to the well-being of the country and to entertainment in general.

‘Barrister was already a sick man, Orlando himself was sick. Even then, they did not compromise. They worked day and night to produce those songs. I was there when Alhaji Sikiru burst into tears during a studio session because he was having a lot of pain. His feet were swollen, his voice was unstable. Orlando just survived a partial stroke, he was lean and coughing. He often cleared his throat, even then he didn’t stop producing protest songs against the wicked men in uniform.’

‘For example, Paul McCartney is a Knight. Anthony Joshua is an MBE. If Victor Osimhen and other footballers and athletes could be honoured, why not look into the entertainment industry and give kudos to them too. The same Babangida who turned Nigeria upside down at the time is being highly praised as a national treasure now. We didn’t fight for Abiola, we fought for Nigeria, our right because in all honesty, Abiola was not clean.’

‘After we produced ‘Babangida must go,’ the late ewi (poem) exponent Adewusi also did ‘Ologini tajode’, produced by Julie king and Julius Olagoroye. Adewusi mentioned the names of those who worked on the poem. Then we heard that the State Security was looking for us, I also worked in the production of the protest poems released by Kunle Ologundudu. Those were risky periods for anyone to be involved in activities against those wicked guys in power. We raised our voices; put our talents together to cry out against injustices and oppression. The state security was looking for us, and we were informed that they visited Afrodisia studios where the ewi was recorded and made enquiries. Gbenga Adewusi fled. Some people said he was in Benin Republic. Those of us who were too young, we were just living under the grace of God just like most Nigerians were. Later, Gbenga Adewusi appeared with some kind of long beard that covered almost his entire face because he was disguising.’

‘I know many musicians who were visiting Aso Rock to perform every weekend or those who were lobbying for contracts. Felix Lebarty converted to Islam, and he changed his name. Generally, people in the entertainment industry are not honoured in our country. Another example is Laolu Akins. Alade Aromire who made the first indigenous home video drama,’Aje’niyami’

‘For Abiola, we exercise our rights. We were denied our rights and we protested. Many were killed. In fact, those who died in their homes were many due to stray bullets. June 12 should be a reminder to the many souls that were lost; innocent souls, students who were killed during protests at school. Now the country has forgotten about them. A young girl was killed inside her home by a stray bullet.’

Akinwande is also mentoring youths in the area of talent development.

‘I have always been working with the youths to develop their talents in religious and non-religious areas. I did ‘A Day of Unity’ in the United Kingdom, bringing the different tribes together for dinner. I organised a prayer service with the Church of England to pray for Nigeria and its people. I arranged for the youths to sing and pray for Nigeria. It is titled, ‘Nigeria by Adeyinka Akinwande and the Youth Fellowship. Now I am preparing to work with some Muslim Youths to encourage them to record a song.’

A major human foible is the tendency to pursue symbolism at the expense of substance. It is not a particularly Nigerian flaw. But the desperation that has characterised our politics, especially amongst the opposition, often makes it seem so.

An example is the criticism of President Bola Tinubu’s inability to personally attend the recently concluded 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 80).

Meetings are memorable, not just for the faces present, but also for the things said. Those who take unnecessary umbrage should look for something else to do with their time.

The point should not be about the President’s presence or absence at the UNGA annual global event; it should be about the content, the quality of the country’s national statement, and the President’s message at that extraordinary gathering of world leaders.

Held under the theme, ‘Global Partnerships, Local Prosperity,’ this year’s session of the United Nations provided a platform for Nigeria’s leaders to promote reforms, woo investors, and assert Africa’s place in global decision-making, international finance, and trade.

Vice President Kashim Shettima led the Federal Government delegation to the talks. As he did last year at the behest of President Tinubu, the vice president was in his best elements as he delivered Nigeria’s national statement on Wednesday, September 24, on that global platform.

In that national statement, President Tinubu restated his advocacy over which he had been vocal and consistent: reform of the world body to include a permanent seat for Africa, particularly Nigeria, at the UN Security Council; nuclear disarmament; equitable access to global trade and finance; debt forgiveness; and climate justice, among others.

President Tinubu is passionate about these issues and never misses any opportunity to highlight them. The President has utilised every forum, including the 78th UNGA, which he attended a few months after his inauguration in 2023, and the Conference of the Parties (COP28) in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, in 2024, to advocate for these demands strongly. He restated them in the message delivered by Vice President Shettima in 2024 at the 79th session of UNGA and in his message to a meeting of the Non-Aligned Movement in 2024 in Kampala, Uganda, among others.

President Tinubu must underscore these issues repeatedly in a bid to promote global peace, stability, and economic growth. The continental imbalance in representation at the UN, the imbalance in international trade among the regions, the Israeli genocide in Gaza, wars and threats of war in some parts of the world, among other agonising global issues, deserve to be stated, restated, and frontally tackled.

Delivering Nigeria’s national statement, Vice President Shettima said, ‘We are here to strengthen the prospect for peace, development, and human rights. Madam President, I would like to make four points today to outline how we can achieve this. First, Nigeria must have a permanent seat at the UN Security Council. This should take place as part of a wider process of institutional reform. Second, we need urgent action to promote sovereign debt relief and access to trade and financing. Third, the countries that host minerals must benefit from those minerals. And fourth, the digital divide must close. As our Presidential Secretary-General has said, AI must stand for Africa Included.’

Expatiating on this, he said the United Nations would recover its relevance only when it reflects the world as it is, not as it was. ‘Nigeria’s journey tells this story with clarity. When the UN was founded, we were a colony of 20 million people, absent from the tables where decisions about our fate were taken. Today, we are a sovereign nation of 236 million people, projected to be the third most populous country in the world, with one of the youngest and most dynamic populations on Earth, a stabilising force in regional security, and a consistent partner in global peace-making.’

The Vice President followed up his presentation with a meeting with the UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, where he further reiterated the demands.

Given the UN Secretary-General’s temperament and positive posture towards reforms, Nigeria’s demands must have struck a resonant chord. Elected Secretary-General in October 2016, succeeding Ban Ki-moon, Guterres reformed the UN and addressed multiple global refugee crises.

On the sidelines of the 80th UN session, Vice President Shettima addressed a Global Champions Roundtable on Housing, led bilateral talks with investors on agriculture, solid minerals, and technology, and engaged with Nigerians living in the United States.

Two other important side events, among others, took place on the sidelines of UNGA 80 leaders’ talks. One was put together by the Minister of Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, to showcase investment opportunities in Nigeria and demonstrate that the country is ready for business.

The other, the 2nd Africa Minerals Strategy Group (AMSG) High-Level Roundtable on Critical Minerals Development in Africa, which Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake, chaired, stood out this year.

The vice president attended both events and delivered important statements on behalf of President Tinubu.

At the first event, the consensus was that Nigeria has become one of the best places to invest, given its reform momentum and investment profile-namely, a large consumer market of over 200 million people, an over $280 billion economy, the largest in West Africa, and a 4.23% GDP growth rate that is still accelerating, among other things.

President Tinubu, in a message delivered by VP Shettima, canvassed a total re-drawing of the global financial architecture for Africa’s mineral resources, saying it was time for its nations to begin not only financing their mineral sector but also asserting their influence and power in the global supply chains of African products.

According to the President, this has become necessary if the sovereignty of African nations is to be protected. He recommended collective action by development allies and partners to bring Africa’s mineral economy to reality for the benefit of the continent and its people.

It was just as imperative for Alake, Solid Minerals’ minister and AMSG’s chair. He called for cohesion among African nations, saying that with a determined focus and a reinvigorated sense of partnership and transparency in the minerals sector, Africa will harness the benefits of a sustained, deepened, and well-harmonised mineral sector in all ramifications. ‘These resources are indispensable for global sustainable development and remain catalysts for Africa’s rapid industrialisation,’ he said.

Indeed, from the intermittent applause that greeted the delivery of Nigeria’s national statement on the floor of the UN General Assembly and the overwhelmingly favourable response to the country’s presentations and positions on issues canvassed at the side events held on the margins of the conference, there was little doubt that Nigeria’s messages resonated well at UNGA 80. That is indeed what matters, not whether President Tinubu physically attended.

-Rahman is Senior Special Assistant to President Tinubu on Media and Special Duties.

Kwara State governor Abdulraman AbdulRazaq and opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state are at each other’s throat over the current security challenges in the state.

While the governor traced current insecurity in parts of the state to bloody 2018 Offa robbery, the PDP said equating Offa robbery to the current situation amounted to executive cluelessness, asking AbdulRazaq to face his responsibility as the governor.

ý The PDP in the state had last Monday accused AbdulRazaq of failing to confront the escalating banditry crisis in the state.

The comment came on the heels of last Sunday’s deadly attack in Oke-Ode, Ifelodun Local Government Area, which left several residents and vigilante members dead.

The opposition party, in a statement signed by its Publicity Secretary, Olusegun Olusola Adewara, described the massacre as ‘a despicable and senseless act’ that had thrown the state into mourning, blaming the governor for what it called ‘monumental leadership failure.’

‘The gruesome videos of the casualties circulating online make it look like Kwara is now at war. Under AbdulRahman’s watch, terror is reigning, kidnappers are taking over rural villages, and nowhere is safe again.’

ýReacting to the remark at the weekend, Special Adviser to Governor AbdulRazaq on Media, Bashir Adigun, said: ‘The attention of Kwara State Government has been drawn to yet another uncouth, unintelligent, and desperate statement by the tattered opposition party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), attempting to ‘trivialise the blood-soaked tragedy of the 2018 Offa robbery while trying to whitewash the dark legacy of 16 years of PDP misrule in Kwara.

‘Offa robbery was not just ‘a single bank robbery,’ as they arrogantly described it.

‘It was a national tragedy that claimed dozens of innocent lives, including mothers, fathers, students, children, and uniformed law enforcement officers, whose blood was spilled by criminals that had undeniable links with their political godfather.

ý’Kwarans have not forgotten that the RX Toyota mini-SUV used by the robbers bore the personalised plate number with Saraki’s name, and that the said vehicle was later hidden in a government ministry to evade justice.

ý’The PDP’s attempt to separate their bloody legacy from today’s security challenges is laughable.

‘This is the same party under which Kwara was turned into a theatre of fear, sorrow, cultism, and gangsterism-when so-called ‘Good Boys’ and political thugs unleashed terror on Ilorin residents and rural communities.’

For 16 years, he said, Kwara was a fiefdom under the Pharaoh-like grip of Saraki, until the people rose in a revolution in 2019 to reclaim their freedom.

ý’Governor AbdulRazaq has never shied away from acknowledging the nationwide challenge of banditry and insecurity. But Kwarans are wise enough to know that those who laid the foundation of bloodletting, impunity, and armed thuggery in this state cannot turn around today to pontificate about security.

ý’The PDP should cover its face in shame instead of attacking a Governor who, within six years, has rebuilt schools, upgraded hospitals, opened up rural roads, empowered women and youths, and given Kwarans a new lease of freedom and dignity.’

ýReacting, the Abubakar Bukola Saraki Media Office took a swipe at the Kwara Sate governor.

The head of the media team, Yusuph Olaniyonu, in a statement signed by him, said: ‘Our attention had been drawn to the video clip of the statement made by Kwara State Governor, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq during his belated visit to Oke Ode where bandits recently killed 21 innocent persons in another episode in the series of violent attacks that have become daily occurrences across the Kwara South and North Senatorial Districts.

‘In a reckless manner that put on display his usual clueless and weird way of responding to issues, Abdulrazaq equated the frequent attack by bandits ravaging two of the three senatorial districts in the state with the Offa robbery incident and made false, defamatory, and irresponsible insinuations about former Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki concerning the sad event that happened seven years ago.

‘Our view is that it is either insensitivity or a lack of capacity to appreciate and process issues that will make a governor equate the widespread killing, kidnapping, and maiming of people across two of the three senatorial districts with a robbery incident.

‘The state of insecurity has forced residents of over 50 communities in the two senatorial districts to abandon their homesteads and relocate to Ilorin or leave the state entirely.’

Continuing, he said: ‘If Dr. Saraki called the attention of the state governor and the entire government to the widespread violence against the people and called for action from federal agencies, it amounted to dereliction of duty, lack of valid appreciation of the plight of the people, and total disregard for the safety of the constituents for the governor to resort to throwing tantrums and blackmail over an unrelated incident that has nothing to do with the former Senate President.

‘This Office believes Dr. Saraki has achieved his objective if his statement has led to national attention being paid to the killings in Kwara State.

‘Also, Dr. Saraki’s speech had eventually compelled the governor to pay a visit to Oke Ode, one of the many towns that have witnessed killings, kidnappings, and maiming of innocent people.

‘The handling of the security situation has proven Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq to be an incompetent, insensitive, irresponsible, clueless, and unresponsive governor.

‘Using the words of the governor, ‘it is laughable’ that a state governor whose state experienced the killing of 21 people in just one community with many others being killed in other communities waited for five days before visiting the affected town while he had the time to junket to another state outside his zone to rejoice with another governor in faraway Imo State who was commissioning projects for the benefit of his people.’

Olaniyonu said ‘now that he has been compelled to visit Oke Ode to assess the situation on the ground, we would like to know when he will visit other local government areas in the state like Edu, Patigi, Isin, Irepodun, Oke Ero, and other towns in Ifelodun that have been witnessing incessant attacks by the bandits.

‘Again, using Abdulrazaq’s words, ‘it is also laughable’ that after six and a half years as governor, one could count on the fingertips how many times the Kwara State Governor called a security council meeting in the state.

‘Dr. Saraki’s advice is that the governor needs to expand the membership of the Security Council to include all first and second class traditional rulers so as to engage them in fighting the menace.

‘If he fails to tackle the crisis squarely, it will define his eight years in office and this will be a horrible legacy to bequeath to his successor.’

Olaniyonu further said the governor made ‘reckless insinuations against Dr. Saraki because the former Senate President called him out on his failure to do his job.

‘We wonder what he would do to the Governors of the Southwest states who were reported in yesterday’s edition of the Punch Newspaper to have ‘Tighten Borders Amid Banditry Surge in Kwara’.

‘We also expect Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq to descend on the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade who has expressed concern over the recent killings in Oke Ode.

‘Dr. Saraki is not interested in bandying words with the Kwara State Governor. His call is meant to get the governor to show more empathy for the plight of the people and live up to his responsibility as the state’s chief security officer.

‘It is obvious that never in the history of Kwara State has the State of Harmony witnessed this level of insecurity which is also being fueled by the insensitivity of the government of the day.

‘Like Dr. Saraki stated in his speech in Ilorin on September 27, 2025, we challenge anybody who has a contrary claim that there was any time in the past that Kwara State had been this unsafe and confronted by the threat to lives and property at this level to come up with the evidence.’

Speaking on the Offa robbery case which the governor brought up in the video under reference, Olaniyonu said: ‘The Abubakar Bukola Saraki Media Office would like to put on record for the benefit of the members of the public that Dr. Saraki has nothing to do with the Offa robbery incident.

‘This is a fact known to the powers that be then. It was also confirmed by the legal machinery of the federal government despite their hostility to the person and office that Dr. Saraki occupied at the time.

‘In two separate reports dated 22nd June, 2018, and 23rd August, 2018 respectively, the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) of the Federation, in the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation, Mohammed U. E. stated that there was no evidence directly or indirectly linking Dr. Saraki to the Offa robbery.

‘We know that the Kwara State Governor will not only find it difficult to comprehend the contents of such reports, but he will also not believe the fact that one of the planks of the campaign of calumny which propelled him to the Governor’s Office has since collapsed like a pack of cards.’

In the video clip under reference, Olaniyonu said, ‘Abdulrazaq gave himself out on his dubious move that we have known all the while.

‘We knew that he had induced some family members of victims of the Offa robbery to file a civil case in court against the state government, himself as governor, and join Dr. Saraki as a party as a way of further embarrassing the former Senate President.

‘The fact is not lost on us that the lawyer defending the aide of the governor, Michael Yinka Fafoluyi, in a libel case filed by Dr. Saraki is also the same lawyer who has been briefed to handle the case filed on behalf of the so-called selected families of Offa robbery victims.

‘We also called the attention of members of the public to the press conference by some members of the Offa community under the platform of ‘Offa Koya, Offa Kowosi’ where they distanced the community from the dirty politics of using an unfortunate robbery incident as a tool of blackmail and smear campaign.’

He emphasised that some members of the families of the victims of the Offa robbery represented by Alhaji Abdul Oseni Aditu Eniolohunopa, Hajia Mulikat Jimoh, and Mrs. Danjuma Comfort on August 17, 2025, spoke on a radio Programme at the TNT Radio Station, Offa, where they publicly dissociated themselves from the malicious case in court and warned politicians to ‘stop seeking to score cheap political points at the expense of their grief’.

‘We would like the governor to know that if this slanderous and ridiculous statement he made at Oke Ode is his way of diverting attention from his failure to live up to his responsibility as the chief security officer of our dear state, then he has failed.’

The Abubakar Bukola Saraki Media Office advised Abdulrazaq to stop politicising the unfortunate plight of the victims of the Offa robbery and their families.

‘His devious scheme and dirty politics have delayed getting justice and closure for the victims, their families, and the Offa community,’ he said.

Founder of Nonso Ezeagu Foundation (NEF), organizer of the Annual Charity Cup, Nonso Ezeagu says the annual football tournament is aimed at empowering the youths and the vulnerable.

Ezeagu stresses that the rationale behind the annual tournament was to unite the youths, and to keep them off the streets and out of crime.

‘As we all know, football has the potentials of uniting communities, even when you may have had quarrel with people, but once its football time, all the acrimony would easily be forgotten, and you will see the same people discussing and analyzing football together,’ He averred.

The CEO noted that he was motivated into giving back to the society from what God has blessed him with, adding that it was also a way of saying thank you to the Almighty who has provided all the resources.

Ezeagu expressed that some of his class friends and family have supported in making this year’s edition a reality, saying that he is also grateful to the Mayor of Aguata LGA, who out of his ver busy schedule, carved out time to grace the occasion.

On his part, the Mayor of Aguata Local Government Area, Dr. Chibueze Oforbuike, who declared the tournament open, commended NEF for the huge resources expended in putting smiles on the faces of people, notwithstanding the current economic realities.

The ancient city of Ile-Ife welcomed the world to the grand finale of the 2025 Olojo Festival on Saturday, September 27.

Recognised as one of the most sacred celebrations in Yoruba land, this year’s edition was elevated by the presence of Seaman’s Schnapps – Nigeria’s number one original prayer drink – which proudly served as the official prayer drink used for libation and prayers.

Earlier, His Imperial Majesty, Oonirisa Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi (Ojaja II), received the Seaman’s Schnapps team ahead of his sacred seclusion and expressed gratitude for the brand’s consistent support of the festival and its role in promoting Yoruba heritage.

‘Seaman’s Schnapps has stood with us year after year, showing dedication to this festival and the upliftment of our culture. Such loyalty is worthy of honour, and it strengthens our resolve to preserve these traditions for generations to come. We deeply appreciate this commitment.’

The festival reached its spiritual peak as the Oonirisa emerged from seclusion in a symbolic procession. With chants echoing through the city, Seaman’s Schnapps was poured in prayers and blessings, reinforcing its place in Yoruba spirituality and tradition.

At the Seaman’s experience stands, elegantly branded hostesses welcomed guests, while traditional chanters and ewi performers filled the air with rhythm and reverence. Visitors enjoyed Seaman’s Schnapps, creating a rich fusion of flavour, culture, and celebration.

Mr. Gbemileke Lawal, Marketing Manager, Nigeria Distilleries Limited, said: ‘Olojo Festival is a timeless celebration of Yoruba identity and heritage. Seaman’s Schnapps is proud to serve as the prayer drink at its centre. Our role is to honour tradition and strengthen the link between the past and present.’

Mrs. Nnenna Uche-Onyenacho, Senior Brand Manager, Seaman’s Schnapps, added: ‘Seaman’s Schnapps is more than a drink – it is a cultural icon. Seeing people connect with our brand during this sacred festival reinforces our responsibility to protect heritage while creating significant experiences.’

The 2025 Olojo Festival brought together Yoruba monarchs, dignitaries, cultural enthusiasts, and visitors from around the world. Through every libation, chant, and raised glass, Seaman’s Schnapps reaffirmed its role as the drink of honour, prayer, and blessings – a true bridge between the ancestors and today’s generation.

As Nigeria celebrates 65 years of independence from Great Britain, voices from the nation’s faith community are adding depth to the national reflection. From Archbishop Joseph Ojo’s call for a generational shift in leadership, to Bishop Charles Ighele’s reminder that political freedom without economic and social liberation is incomplete; from Rev. Jimmy Adetoyese-Olagunju’s charge to move ‘beyond prayer’ toward practical nation-building, to Bishop Robertson Akwazi’s echo of President Bola Tinubu’s message of hope and resilience-clerics are urging Nigerians to see independence not just as history, but as a mandate for renewal. Together, their messages highlight a common thread: Nigeria’s future greatness depends on faith, values, visionary leadership, and the active participation of its citizens.

Archbishop Ojo calls for younger leadership to drive nation forward

As Nigeria marks its 65th Independence Anniversary, Archbishop Joseph Ojo, Founder of Calvary Kingdom Church, has called for a generational shift in leadership, urging younger Nigerians to take more strategic roles in steering Africa’s most populous nation toward greater progress.

Speaking in an interview, Ojo reflected on the nation’s journey since October 1, 1960, recalling the excitement that filled the air when Nigerians first gained self-rule from Great Britain. ‘I was 11 years old when we got our independence, and I was so excited because we felt that indigenous people could now lead us after being ruled by foreigners. We were hopeful that things would get better,’ he said.

According to the cleric, Nigeria has made significant strides in population, governance, and development since independence, but the pace of progress is being slowed by the age and capacity of its leaders. ‘At 65, a person cannot do the work of a young person. Old men like us cannot bear the nation’s burdens anymore. Those who have led have tried their best, but they must be courageous enough to allow younger people to participate in leadership,’ he stated.

Archbishop Ojo stressed the importance of giving young Nigerians not only opportunities to serve but also key positions where their creativity and energy can be maximised. ‘Most of the things we do, we get counsel from young brains. When you put younger people in strategic places, development happens faster,’ he noted.

Looking ahead, Ojo expressed optimism that Nigeria’s future remains bright despite its challenges. ‘Over the years, we have not done badly, but things can improve a lot more than this. I am very hopeful that Nigeria will be great again in my lifetime. Our currency might not be at par with the dollar, but the country will be better and favourable for all Nigerians,’ he affirmed.

As the country celebrates 65 years of independence, his message is clear: the next phase of Nigeria’s greatness will depend on empowering its youth with the mantle of leadership.

Nigeria, not yet old enough at 65-Bishop Ighele

When Nigeria gained independence from Great Britain on October 1, 1960, the air was filled with optimism. Flags waved, hopes soared, and citizens believed that the new nation would chart its course toward prosperity and self-reliance. But 65 years later, Bishop Charles Ighele, General Superintendent of Holy Spirit Mission (The Happy Family Nation), argues that the country still struggles with the very essence of independence.

‘Independence for a nation can be proclaimed in a day,’ Ighele reflected. ‘But while it takes a day to declare independence, it takes years and decades to really become independent.’

For him, Nigeria’s story at 65 is one of political freedom without the substance of economic and social liberation. He notes that while Nigerian leaders are bold in speech and action, often without fear of international reprimand, the country remains dependent in critical areas such as food security, education, health care, and infrastructure.

‘At age 65, Nigeria is far from having a semblance of independence in providing food for her huge population,’ he said.

Despite abundant arable land-Nigeria holds one of the largest percentages of cultivable land in Africa-millions still go hungry. ‘People are dying of hunger because the people have not been politically led and socially and educationally parented to benefit from the huge agricultural resources in the country.’

To Ighele, agriculture is not just a means of feeding the population but a pathway to national wealth. ‘There is more money in agriculture than in crude oil,’ he insisted, urging government to embark on what he calls ‘agricultural socialisation’ to reorient citizens toward farming and agribusiness.

Beyond food production, Ighele laments Nigeria’s overreliance on foreign expertise in construction and engineering. ‘A situation where all major construction projects are being executed by foreign-owned companies is simply sending the message that Nigerian education has not provided the engineers and other construction workers who can independently run companies that can embark on massive projects,’ he said. For now, he added, the nation’s best brains often end up employed by these foreign firms rather than leading indigenous enterprises.

The Bishop further highlighted the paradox of poverty that defines everyday life. With about 70 percent of Nigerians living in hardship, many depend on a small fraction of wealthier relatives, governments, or humanitarian groups for survival. ‘A nation where the majority are poor and look to palliatives is far from independence,’ he observed. Without urgent reversal, he warned, Nigeria risks becoming ‘like an old poor man who achieved nothing or a rich evil man who did evil but now about to die regretting how he lived his life.’

Despite these grim realities, Ighele remains hopeful that Nigeria can rewrite its story. He believes the current government has the intellectual capacity to reverse the trend of dependency and lead the nation toward true independence. ‘Having had political independence, all other sections of our national life should be made to become independent,’ he urged.

For Bishop Ighele, Nigeria at 65 is not too old to change, but not yet mature enough to fully grasp the weight of its independence. His message is both a caution and a call: to seize the next decades not as a burden of missed opportunities, but as a chance to finally embody the independence proclaimed in 1960.

Bishop Akwazi calls for unity, national renewal

As Nigeria celebrates her 65th Independence anniversary, the Cross River State Chairman of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria and the Presiding Bishop City Gate International Churches Worldwide, Cross River State, Bishop Robertson Ugar Akwazi has urged Nigerians to embrace President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s message of hope, faith, and action-reminding citizens that with Almighty God on their side, a new, prosperous, and self-reliant Nigeria is possible.

The bishop, reflecting on the President’s Independence Day address, noted that while the journey has been filled with trials, the nation’s resilience is proof that a brighter future lies ahead.

For him, Nigeria’s story at 65 is one of political freedom without the substance of economic and social liberation. He notes that while Nigerian leaders are bold in speech and action, often without fear of international reprimand, the country remains dependent in critical areas such as food security, education, health care, and infrastructure.

‘At age 65, Nigeria is far from having a semblance of independence in providing food for her huge population,’ he said.

Despite abundant arable land-Nigeria holds one of the largest percentages of cultivable land in Africa-millions still go hungry. ‘People are dying of hunger because the people have not been politically led and socially and educationally parented to benefit from the huge agricultural resources in the country.’

To Ighele, agriculture is not just a means of feeding the population but a pathway to national wealth. ‘There is more money in agriculture than in crude oil,’ he insisted, urging government to embark on what he calls ‘agricultural socialisation’ to reorient citizens toward farming and agribusiness.

Beyond food production, Ighele laments Nigeria’s overreliance on foreign expertise in construction and engineering. ‘A situation where all major construction projects are being executed by foreign-owned companies is simply sending the message that Nigerian education has not provided the engineers and other construction workers who can independently run companies that can embark on massive projects,’ he said. For now, he added, the nation’s best brains often end up employed by these foreign firms rather than leading indigenous enterprises.

The Bishop further highlighted the paradox of poverty that defines everyday life. With about 70 percent of Nigerians living in hardship, many depend on a small fraction of wealthier relatives, governments, or humanitarian groups for survival. ‘A nation where the majority are poor and look to palliatives is far from independence,’ he observed. Without urgent reversal, he warned, Nigeria risks becoming ‘like an old poor man who achieved nothing or a rich evil man who did evil but now about to die regretting how he lived his life.’

Despite these grim realities, Ighele remains hopeful that Nigeria can rewrite its story. He believes the current government has the intellectual capacity to reverse the trend of dependency and lead the nation toward true independence. ‘Having had political independence, all other sections of our national life should be made to become independent,’ he urged.

For Bishop Ighele, Nigeria at 65 is not too old to change, but not yet mature enough to fully grasp the weight of its independence. His message is both a caution and a call: to seize the next decades not as a burden of missed opportunities, but as a chance to finally embody the independence proclaimed in 1960.

Bishop Akwazi calls for unity, national renewal

As Nigeria celebrates her 65th Independence anniversary, the Cross River State Chairman of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria and the Presiding Bishop City Gate International Churches Worldwide, Cross River State, Bishop Robertson Ugar Akwazi has urged Nigerians to embrace President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s message of hope, faith, and action-reminding citizens that with Almighty God on their side, a new, prosperous, and self-reliant Nigeria is possible.

The bishop, reflecting on the President’s Independence Day address, noted that while the journey has been filled with trials, the nation’s resilience is proof that a brighter future lies ahead.

In the next few days, Ekiti State governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, will clock three years in office. How would you assess the administration so far?

It has been one transformative step after another in Ekiti State since October 16, 2022. Over the past three years, the state has witnessed a lot of transformational strides in infrastructure, health education, agriculture particularly, and even in governance. If I were to score Governor Biodun Oyebanji, I would give him 90% because when you talk about the social contract with Ekiti people; his manifesto that he declared, which was broken down into programmes and projects at the inception and what he promised to deliver to Ekiti people, he has done well.

Is it in the area of tourism development or infrastructure? The results are visible. Of course not everything has been done, there are still rooms for improvement, but it is clear that he has touched lives and impacted the state significantly.

Some opposition figures claim Oyebanji is intolerant to criticism, despite being widely regarded as a humble and liberal leader. How would you describe his leadership style?

I think such claims do not dignify the person or position of Governor Oyebanji. People should understand that he is a scholar of political science. He understands the nuances of governance, having served in various capacities under past administrations for decades. He has come to understand something many past leaders did not, and some even now do not-that it is better to multiply your friends, regardless of party platforms.

So, he has distinguished between the time of politicking, when you are looking for votes, and the time of governance, when you are governor of all Ekiti. With that, he bent backwards to people like former governors Ayodele Fayose and Segun Oni, who took him to the Supreme Court, and many other people. He has also reached out to people outside politics like Baba Afe Babalola (SAN), Chief Wale Olanipekun (SAN), Femi Falana (SAN0, among others.

Reaching out to a wide spectrum of Ekiti people, whether partisan or not has been his style. Like he said recently, he has tried to make peace with everybody that is available. There is a person known to everybody who didn’t make himself available for peace. It is not that he is intolerant of opposition. He always says: when politics is gone, now is governance.

For me, I see him as a reincarnation of the grand master of politics without bitterness, Alhaji Waziri Ibrahim of the then Great Nigeria People’s Party. I see Oyebanji in that mould of politics without bitterness. It is not about being intolerant of opposition; he wants, as much as possible, to court many people and bring them to a common term. For us in Ekiti, it is a win-win because we have peace. If he had not done that, with the election of June 2026 approaching, the tension would have been high. But today, there is peace everywhere across the three senatorial districts.

Ekiti State reportedly receives significant monthly allocations from the federation account. How has the administration ensured these funds are translated into tangible improvements for Ekiti people?

The impacts are visible in several sectors. On road infrastructure, this government has awarded projects worth N200 billion within three years, covering about 350 kilometers of roads across all local governments. Of these, 126 kilometers have been completed with many set for commissioning during the third year anniversary.

Major roads like Ara-Ikole-Isinbode, Ikere-Igbara Odo, Ikere-Ilawe, Igbara Odo-Ikogosi are among them. Phase one of the ring road, which is a masterpiece, will also be commissioned, along with many other infrastructures. The overhead bridge is ongoing, nearing about 70% completion, and will be completed by February 2026. The Indoor Sports Hall is ongoing, the Revenue House has been completed and will also be commissioned. The Ekiti state House of Assembly is undergoing remodelling as we speak. There was also the construction of a 100-bed hostel at Command Secondary School in Isan.

In educational development, 203 secondary schools and technical colleges have been renovated. These are on the Ekiti Dashboard, which the Office of Transformation and Service Delivery procured and delivered. There are photographs and video clips to verify this. In the health sector, five General Hospitals will be commissioned this October in Efon Alaaye, Okemesi, Ayede, and Ifaki. They are fully equipped with state-of-the-art facilities that can be found anywhere. They can carry out operations in all these General Hospitals.

Members of the National Assembly, the governor told us, cooperated with him to ensure that the hospitals are well staffed with personnel so that whatever is needed is available. These are the things the government is putting up. While some have already been completed, some are waiting commissioning, and others are ongoing. These are things that people can verify because we always tell them to visit the dashboard.

There are other interventions apart from infrastructure. Take Internally Generated Revenue (IGR): from the onset, Ekiti State was averaging around N650 million as at October 2022 per month. Today, as at June 2025, the IGR per month has risen to N2.3 billion. A lot has also come in because the governor allowed autonomy for the Ekiti Internal Revenue Service starting from when the Chairman was appointed which was rigorous. He assembled his team and was given a free hand.

A lot of reforms were carried out and here we are today. Right now, this government has approved and is implementing eGIS. With that, people can get their Certificates of Occupancy without any problem, people can acquire land, the incidences of land grabbing will be eliminated, and a lot will come in for the state through that. Citizens-professionals like land surveyors, town planners, engineers, and architects-will benefit from all these. These are areas of intervention of the state.

About 250 health workers, nurses, and midwives were recruited, and up to 103 Primary Healthcare Centres all across the state were renovated with modern equipment, water, electricity, and fencing. When you talk about gratuities, it has been massive. In total, the government of Ekiti State has paid pensions up to date from October 2022 to September 2025 to the tune of N25.97 billion, and gratuities of up to N7.6 billion since inception.

This has outpaced all other previous governments in Ekiti State. For example, during the Segun Oni era, people lauded him for paying pensions. That was one of the things used against Oyebanji, with claims he might not pay pensions and gratuities like Oni did. But the record today shows that Governor Oyebanji’s administration has surpassed that achievement.

In agricultural interventions, as we speak, up to 40,000 hectares of land have been cleared for farmers for free, and that is why Ekiti, now in the Southwest, is in the news.

According to the National Bureau of Statistics, Ekiti State has the lowest price index for food stuffs in the South west. About 5,000 youths are currently engaged with the Bring Back Youths in Agriculture program. This has helped the agriculture development pillar of this administration. 160,000 broilers are being raised and produced by the youths in poultry farming across the state.

The government has also established the Ilu Eye Aggregation Hub. They bought tons of maize, rice, garri, and other foodstuffs, preserved and stored them. From there, they now have the Ounje Ekiti Retail Outlet, a new initiative where food prices are sold at lower rates than in the markets. Seedlings, cassava stems, and so on are being subsidized at 50%. Fertilizers are given out to farmers. There is support for rice farmers all across the state.

Ekiti has also encouraged cluster farming. This is ongoing in my own town, and I have visited some farm settlements in the state. Dormitories are being built for them and three will be commissioned this October. Farm settlements, like in the days of Late Obafemi Awolowo, will be commissioned with mattresses and beds in Ikere, Iyemero, and Eporo. It’s amazing to go round these places and see the transformation going on.

This is the first time we are having the State House of Assembly in harmony with the government, passing the necessary laws and supporting the governor. Ekiti has never had it so good in terms of harmony and peace. This is what some people don’t like, which is why they accuse the governor of being intolerant of opposition.

The governor has received overwhelming endorsement from various stakeholders in the state including traditional rulers, market women, traders, union leaders, and some opposition leaders. But critics say the endorsements are transactional. Are they genuine?

They are genuine. When you look across party lines whether among youths or women, who are the greatest voting blocs, or among market men and women, artisans, and even labour unions you see real support. For example, Ekiti currently pays one of the highest minimum wage in Nigeria, second only to Lagos State, which explains labour’s support and endorsement.

Party leaders and elders also do. This is the first time we are seeing harmony and peace in the state like never before. The PDP used to be the main opposition, but today, where is the opposition? Most of the noise is only on social, print, or electronic media. On the streets of Ado-Ekiti or any town, have you seen any posters announcing the candidacy of anybody?

By and large, these endorsements are worthwhile and come out of people’s hearts, not because they were bought. I have read on social media claims that the state government sponsored them. No, some of us who are players tasked ourselves, because I am part of the players. The governor didn’t even get involved. Not just at the state level even at senatorial and local government levels.

Even in Abuja, for the governor to submit his expression of interest forms, some of us went there. Nobody paid for airfare. It was out of love and affection for the governor and the government’s stellar performance. Even the National Working Committee of the party said they had never seen anything like it before, just for a governor to submit his form. It had never happened before for any APC candidate, whether returning to office or contesting anew.

But there are claims that the governor is focusing much of his energy and state resources on his re-election. How does he balance politics with the demands of governance?

Not at all. Governance is very much on course. The governor was involved in the 3rd Anniversary Committee meeting, and we have given him feedback. I am in charge of the 3rd Anniversary Project Sub-Committee and I gave my report. There is still going to be another round of project monitoring and inspection. Others in education and agriculture are doing the same. Governance is not distracted at any level as we speak. It is fully on course.

You see, sometimes I just laugh at how some politicians think. For me, I only recently came into politics. I used to be an analyst, analyzing situations on the national scene. Now I am in Ekiti State and have been living here for the past two years, in my hometown in Ido-Ekiti. The Senator representing Ekiti North, Cyril Fasuyi, had a meeting with us just this Saturday. I was there as one of the party leaders. It was to prepare us for the scheduled primary election. Likewise, every local government is holding meetings.

There are teams going from local government to local government. Virtually everywhere, ward by ward, you are getting 95-97% of people with Oyebanji and the President on the second term endorsements. From the submission of forms to the screening, Governor Oyebanji presented all the names he was to present. For two other candidates, whose names I won’t mention so I won’t be misquoted, either their names were not submitted enough or most of the names were not genuine. Even meeting the required numbers was a problem. All these are in the news and have not been denied.

From the Appeals Committee, the matter was forwarded to the National Working Committee of the party to decide, so as not to lay a bad precedent. I don’t want to preempt the outcome of the NWC, but it is there for everyone to see.

One of the APC aspirants, Engr. Kayode Ojo, has expressed confidence that Governor Oyebanji can be defeated in a free and fair primary. Do you share this view?

No. To suggest the governor is facing stiff opposition is far from the truth. What exists are only pockets of opposition, mostly loud on social media but insignificant on the ground.

Across the 177 wards in Ekiti, the reality is overwhelming support for Governor Oyebanji’s second term bid. The streets, the markets, and the grassroots are solidly with him. They are also with President Bola Tinubu for a second term. That is the reality on the ground in Ekiti State.

Some aspirants claim that names of their loyalists were deliberately omitted from the APC membership register to weaken their chances. What’s your response?

I heard of such claims for the first time and I responded. Even in my constituency, someone was online making noise. You can be very loud online but not carry political weight. This person was causing trouble on social media. I interjected because I knew him-we attended the same primary school. The last time I checked, he was in the SDP. I asked: how come? He said, ‘I am free to belong to any association.’ I kept quiet. That is just a tip of the iceberg.

The truth is some people left the APC when former Governor Segun Oni contested under SDP. Maybe they forgot to return. They are not in the APC register. Some of them tried to come back and asked for identity cards, but party leaders rightly question their membership status. That is exactly what happened. It is not a case of exclusion. It’s simply the consequence of their earlier decisions. Politics has rules, and one cannot eat their cake and still expect to have it.

What are Governor Oyebanji’s chances in both the APC primary and the 2026 general election?

The chances are very high. For party core and critical stakeholders, we are looking beyond the scheduled primary of October 27 because that is a done deal. We are already looking towards June 2026. Governor Oyebanji will fly the APC flag for a second term, and he will not only win, but win massively, in a record-breaking way.

I did research about Governor Babatunde Fashola in Lagos for my PhD in 2012. Part of the findings was that in that election, he scored over 80%, one of the widest margins in Nigerian history. Based on current realities, Governor Oyebanji has the goodwill, the performance record, and the support base to surpass that record. I see him scoring up to 90% in that election.

The actuality has turned out to be more dire than the auguries. The sixty fifth anniversary of Nigeria has now come and gone. As it has been predicted, the national mood was sombre and subdued. As the day approached, the discerning could feel a thick pall of despondency in the air and an atmosphere of generalized desperation. It was as if the dispensing machines had run out of vending hope and optimism after a run on them. This is the staple fare of pain-killing morphine on which an embattled and embittered populace had depended on in sixty five years of trial and tribulation. But addiction to pain-killers, like the pain-killers themselves, often have their expiry date and time.

Given the general state of perturbation and widespread anxiety in the land, one was not unduly surprised when the announcement came cancelling the Independence Day parade, thus stripping the occasion of its pomp and pageantry. Whenever you have this kind of unusual announcement, the airwaves are rife with rumours and unsettling speculations that something nasty was in the offing. In the event, rather than glad-handing and iron-pumping in Abuja, the president chose to remain in his Lagos residence from where he rallied the nation in an Independence speech of rousing bravery and exceptional tough-mindedness. But if the truth must be told, it was of little avail, for it was at this particular point that the PENGASSAN versus Dangote Refinery faceoff snowballed into a full-blown downing of tools by the oil-sector workers. As long queues resurfaced at the petrol station and as commuters and motorists alike began hunting for the rare stuff like primitive hunter-gatherers, the downbeat mood became even more sullied and unappeasable.

Cashing in on the unfortunate situation, some of the leaders who have led the nation up this ruinous path began calling for drastic reform or revolution. The veteran roadrunner among them, without any sense of momentous irony, insisted that the time had come to smash the moribund system. Why he thinks he himself and his vast retinue will escape the fury of the revolutionary mob in the event of an upheaval remains a source of profound mystery. Even more worrisome is the possibility that the nation is being set up for a catastrophic descent into anarchy as a prelude or dress rehearsal for the voting year of 2027 and all its magical possibilities.

But why the year 2025 in its ember phase and the occasion of its sixty fifth anniversary should cast such an ominous pall of magical possibilities on the nation deserve more scrutiny. It may well be that just as humans suffer anxiety neurosis so do nations. In the modern bureaucratic calendar that we have adopted, the age of sixty five is the ultimate and terminal retirement age, the sharp cut-off point of all elongated shenanigans, extensions, multiple additions and covert adjustments. The retiree must go into compulsory retirement to embrace the dark shadows of old age, senescence or senility as the case may be, if they are not recalled by their maker. This is the age in which the patients worry themselves to death about missed deadlines, missed opportunities, vanished timelines and datelines.

There is a time for everything. You cannot be fretting about interview schedules or frantic about fresh job opportunities when you are already at the departure lounge waiting for the final call. The dominance of oral culture in Africa allows us to take a bitter jig at our colonially imposed modern calendar with its mechanical and mechanistic framework which does not allow or permit creative laxity or imaginative evasions. Due to lack of public records, it is only in Africa that the same person could hold on to multiple birthdates on the ground that he was born several moons ago on a market day with birds singing and goats bleating furiously, or where a centenarian can often pass as a sprightly septuagenarian. But that too must end at some point, like the Egungun Festival which must terminate at some point no matter the associated merriments and festivities. Time is the ultimate leveler which must bring together all the contending classes including children of loafers and the scions of loaf-masters.

History is the master of allegory or allegorized reality. History, in its actual lived experience and confounding perplexities, often simplifies reality for us and resolves its own conundrums as it unfolds and expands thrusting its heady contradictions at us as we struggle to make sense of its awesome imponderables. Only last week in this column, we narrated how this columnist was invited in 1985 by the duo of Dele Giwa and Ray Ekpu to contribute to a publication to commemorate the twenty fifth anniversary of the nation. As it was explained last Sunday, the columnist latched on to the image of a master paradox to explain away the strange combination of magnificent strengths and gargantuan weaknesses which seem to have defined the existence of the nation since amalgamation. For many people the idea of a roiling paradox has since entered the national imagination as a general password for unlocking the Nigerian predicament.

Ten years after this landmark publication, Dele Giwa has been bombed out of existence about a year after on October 19th 1986. But in a strange twist of grueling irony, it was the turn of Kayode Soyinka, Dele Giwa’s golden boy and favourite newshound, to invite this columnist to ruminate on the circumstances of Nigeria on its thirty fifth anniversary commemoration. In the intervening decade, Soyinka, who only miraculously escaped being brutally dispatched like his boss, had transited from being an intrepid reporter to becoming the publisher of the respectable and influential magazine, Africa Today. That October, the nation’s reputation was in tatters having plumbed the depth of disrepute to become a pariah in the comity of nations. General Sani Abacha had bared his steely fangs and the entire nation lay cowering under the hammer of his brutal despotism. The mood of the nation darkened and there was a foul distemper about reminiscent of the goggled tyrant himself. Nobody ever believed that politically speaking, things could turn that foul and nasty.

This time around, this writer fastened on the image of a giant toddler at thirty five trundling about the bare floor unable to get up and go. A toddler at thirty five is a genetic monstrosity; a victim of irreversible retardation and arrested development. It recalls the figure of, Aboliga, the man-child ,Ayi Kwei Armah’s haunting creation in The Beautyful Ones Are Not Yet Born. The one-day wonder grew to manhood and full maturity the same day he was born only to perish that same day. Nothing grows or endures for long in the sultry tropics, certainly not people, nations and institutions, and the equatorial torpor has claimed its own once again.

That was thirty years ago after a presidential election that promised to unite and unify the nation produced a hapless civilian interloper and the most monstrous despot ever seen in the history of the nation. The caustic severity of the framing referent of an earth-hugging adolescent toddler was an accurate reflection of the national trauma as Nigeria cascaded over the cliff to the bottomless pit of self-eradication once again. If any substantial damage has been done to the national fabric, the nation has had the intervening three decades to heal and to repair the damage. First was the heroic struggle against military absolutism which has since entered the universal folklore of the struggle of a people for self-emancipation. The upheaval against military eruption which sent the soldiers back to the barracks can be regarded as the golden moment of Nigeria’s post-independence history.

Unfortunately, and by universal consensus, the post-military civilian restoration has, in the main, been underwhelming in its performance, particularly in the areas of the economy, national cohesion and the scourge of corruption and mismanagement. To be sure, there have been a few bright spots at both the national and subnational levels such as the brilliant demilitarization programme of the Obasanjo regime and the sterling performance at the state levels particularly in Lagos and in emerging stars such as Ekiti, Enugu, Abia and perhaps entrepreneurially driven Akwa Ibo. But all these are too few and far between to make a dent on the fortunes of the nation.

So what is the verdict on Nigeria at sixty five as the nation marked a gloomy anniversary this past week? The answers came in torrents and they could not be gloomier than the mood of the nation itself. This time around and in a startling development which hints at a global revolution in the knowledge industry and a change in demographic reflecting the growing predominance of youth in the power equation, it was Nigerians themselves who supplied the answers. This time around, Nigerians did not need ‘specialists’ to explain away the antics of ‘madmen’; neither do they need their celebrated intellectuals and writers to explain the plight of the nation. They dismissed the nation as akin to a sixty five year old retiree without any further hope of redemption or restitution; a nation with a great future firmly behind it.

Fortunately, the timeline of a nation’s existence is completely different from the lifespan of a human organism. Unlike human life, the nation is an infinite continuum with an oceanic plenitude of time. Nation’s do not succumb to sudden death or peremptory cardiac seizure. Even where breakup is a definite possibility, the warning signals are almost elastic in their sheer permissiveness. This is why Nigeria still has a lot to play for. It is not over until it is over. But a lot still needs to be done to halt the drift to Golgotha. This is a great country. But like all violently heterogeneous entities it is taking quite some time to come together and the human toll, the collateral damages, have been quite prohibitive. The coming decade will be quite critical in our quest for that elusive and authentic national consensus.

As Nigeria celebrates its 65th anniversary of independence, it stands at a crucial turning point, boldly redefining its identity in the digital age. The nation is determined to harness technology and innovation as key drivers of growth, connectivity, and empowerment for all its citizens. This is a time of renewed hope and unwavering ambition for a prosperous future.

In this era of rapid digital transformation, Nigeria is confidently embracing unprecedented developments across multiple sectors, including finance, education, healthcare, and agriculture. The rise of digital platforms is effectively bridging gaps, fostering entrepreneurship, and creating exceptional opportunities for the youth to excel. This dynamic landscape represents more than just the adoption of technology; it is about strategically harnessing it to unlock the country’s immense potential.

Despite the challenges we’ve faced over the years, there’s a vibrant spirit of resilience and optimism growing among Nigerians. Communities are uniting to tackle social issues, champion change, and promote inclusivity. This revival is driven by our collective dream of a brighter future, filled with hope and abundant opportunities for everyone to thrive. Let’s embrace this journey together!

As Nigeria embarks on this new chapter, the focus on digital innovation and community engagement paves the way for transformative growth, positioning the nation as a beacon of hope and possibility in the 21st century.

From Colonial Shadows to Digital Dawn

Before gaining independence in 1960, Nigeria was a rich tapestry of diverse kingdoms and ethnic groups, including the Hausa-Fulani in the north, the Yoruba in the southwest, and the Igbo in the southeast. Despite British colonial influence, the resilience and creativity of the Nigerian people shone through, paving the way for a united and prosperous future.

The quest for independence in Nigeria culminated in sovereignty in October 1960, sparking hopes for unity. However, the following decades were marked by military coups, economic turmoil due to fluctuating oil prices, and social unrest from ethnic and religious divides.

By 2025, Nigeria has transformed into a vibrant nation, showcasing the resilience of its youthful population. The country boasts a thriving start-up culture, with entrepreneurs making strides in technology, entertainment, and agriculture. This wave of innovation is driven by Nigeria’s embrace of the digital age, as improved mobile technology and internet access create vast opportunities.

As Nigeria confidently charts its path toward progress, it finds itself at a unique crossroads where rich tradition meets vibrant modernity. The nation is deeply rooted in its diverse cultural heritage, which encompasses a multitude of languages, customs, and historical influences. This wealth of diversity not only shapes the identity of its people but also serves as a key asset in navigating the challenges of contemporary society.

Nigeria is committed to leveraging its heritage to create innovative solutions that meet societal needs and promote economic growth. By combining traditional practices with modern technologies, the country aims to honour its past while embracing globalization and technological advancement, striving for a prosperous and inclusive future for all citizens.

Tinubu’s Digital-Era Reforms: A Nation Reimagined

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration has ushered in a wave of reforms that are positioning Nigeria as a beacon of economic resilience and digital transformation. Here’s how:

Economic Diversification and Fiscal Discipline

By August 2025, the country reached an extraordinary milestone in its non-oil revenue generation, accumulating over ?20 trillion. This remarkable achievement was driven primarily by a robust performance in September, during which the country generated ?3.65 trillion in non-oil revenues alone. This figure represents an astounding increase of 411% compared to the revenue figures recorded in May 2023, showcasing a significant turnaround in the nation’s fiscal health.

The significant increase in non-oil revenue has decisively strengthened the country’s financial stability, particularly evident in the substantial improvement of the debt service-to-revenue ratio. Previously a troubling 97%, this key metric has now been reduced to below 50%. Such a drastic decrease demonstrates a clear alleviation of fiscal pressures and empowers the government to effectively direct resources towards developmental initiatives.

The economy has made significant progress, marked by a trade surplus for five consecutive quarters. Non-oil exports now account for 48% of total exports, showcasing successful diversification from oil dependency and increasing competitiveness in global markets.

Infrastructure and Regional Development

The infrastructure sector is experiencing significant advancements, marked by an impressive portfolio of over 440 road projects currently underway and nearly 2,700 kilometres of new superhighways set for completion. A key highlight of this ambitious initiative is the recent inauguration of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway. This strategic route is poised to greatly enhance the tourism industry and trade activities along the coast, effectively improving access and connectivity between vital economic hubs.

Alongside remarkable advancements in transportation, the government has launched six new regional development commissions that are vital in energizing local economic initiatives and providing customized support for diverse communities. With a significant investment of ?4 trillion dedicated to these commissions, there stands a strong commitment to nurturing sustainable local growth and development.

These transformative initiatives demonstrate a strong commitment to enhancing infrastructure, while also paving the way for a bright future rich with new opportunities and an improved quality of life for many.

Digital and Energy Transformation

Recently, significant developments have been made in the energy sector, including the addition of 1,500 MW to the national grid, alongside solar electrification initiatives for 22 federal universities. Additionally, a Rural Electrification Program has been launched with the goal of providing power to 1 million homes. On the financial front, there has been a concerted effort to stabilize the Naira through foreign exchange reforms, which have also facilitated the clearance of $10 billion in foreign exchange liabilities.

Education and Youth Empowerment

The Nigerian government has made significant strides in supporting education and healthcare. The NELFUND student loan initiative, along with the Presidential Loan and Grant Scheme, has positively impacted over 1.2 million Nigerians. In an effort to address the issue of brain drain in the medical field, eight new medical universities have been approved. Furthermore, vocational trainees under the age of 40 are now receiving monthly stipends of ?45,000, promoting skill development and financial assistance for young individuals entering the workforce.

Agriculture and Social Investment

The government has implemented several measures to support the agricultural sector and enhance food security. This includes financial assistance for farmers through the Bank of Agriculture. Additionally, N330 billion has been distributed to assist 8 million vulnerable households. To further strengthen food security and promote exports, agro-processing zones have been established.

National Security and Stability

In recent developments, over 13,500 terrorists have been neutralized, leading to a significant decrease in insurgency and kidnapping activities. This positive trend has contributed to renewed confidence in Nigeria’s global standing, as evidenced by the increase in foreign reserves, which have now reached $42.03 billion.

Nigeria’s Trajectory: From Hope to Sustainability

Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’ represents more than just a catchphrase; it serves as a strategic framework aimed at fostering sustainable development in Nigeria. The initiative focuses on harnessing digital tools, decentralizing growth, and investing in human capital to shape a promising future. It empowers the youth to transform their aspirations into reality, encourages regional development that honours cultural and economic diversity, and prioritizes the establishment of digital infrastructure as a foundational element for governance, education, and commerce.

Reflection: A Nation Reborn

As you celebrate Nigeria’s 65th independence anniversary on October 1st, you’re not merely observing history but actively participating in a transformative moment. This nation has evolved beyond its age to focus on its ambitions, positioning itself as a leader in Africa’s journey towards digital prosperity and sustainable growth. Nigeria is ready to embrace a new era of innovation and development.