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A man identified as David Fasasi Azeez has fled his home in the Ushafa community of Bwari Area Council, FCT, after allegedly beating and injuring his wife, Mrs. Charity Olotu Fasasi.

The assault reportedly occurred after she allegedly aborted a pregnancy.

According to a neighbour of the victim, Mrs. Grace Benjamin, the incident happened on Friday night at the couple’s residence.

Mrs. Benjamin, who spoke to our reporter on Monday, said the man beat his wife-a mother of four-after discovering she had taken drugs to terminate the pregnancy.

The neighbour explained that a misunderstanding arose because the husband had asked his wife to keep the pregnancy.

‘You know the woman is my close neighbour, and before she aborted the pregnancy, the husband had even before now supported her, but along [the] line, the man later changed his mind and asked her not to abort the pregnancy,’ she said.

Mrs. Benjamin added that, ‘Until on Friday night when I started hearing screaming from the house and i rushed over to discover that the man was beating his wife with blood all over her face.’

According to her, the beating reportedly led to bleeding from the wife’s mouth.

”Upon hearing about the incident, the woman’s parents rushed her to a health centre in the community,” she added,

According to Mrs. Benjamin, the husband, a furniture maker in Ushafa, fled the house after receiving information that the police were coming to arrest him.

Abuja Metro gathered that the couple had been arguing about the pregnancy for over two weeks. The man is reportedly yet to return home since Friday night, and the police are said to be tracking him.

When contacted, the spokesperson of the FCT police command, SP Adeh Josephine, said the incident has not been reported at the command.

‘You know anything that has to do with domestic violence, they hardly report it to the police, but let me find out from the DPO, and I will get back to you later,’ she stated.

The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) has suspended its strike over a rift between the union and the Dangote Refinery.

The union, however, cautioned the management of Dangote Refinery against reneging on the agreement they both signed during a marathon meeting that was held at the Office of the National Security Adviser.

President of PENGASSAN, Festus Osifo, announced the strike suspension at a press briefing on Wednesday in Abuja.

Daily Trust reports that both PENGASSAN and Dangote Refinery have been at loggerheads following the unionisation of some employees working with the refinery.

The company had sacked over 800 of its employees, a development the union frowned at.

While the company premised its decision on alleged sabotage, the union maintained that Dangote Refinery flouted Labour laws, International Labour Organizations (ILO) conventions and the Nigerian constitution.

Specifically, the development triggered a rapid response from PENGASSAN, whose members shut down export terminals, blocked vessel loading, and locked offices across oil and gas facilities.

After marathon negotiations involving the federal government, labour leaders, and security agencies, a communique was signed on Wednesday where Dangote Group agreed to re-fix sacked employees.

The Ministry of Labour and Employment, in a statement on the outcome of the reconciliation meetings, said the parties agreed that the disengaged workers will be absorbed by other subsidiaries in Dangote Group without loss of pay.

The statement said, ‘The Minister of Labour informed the meeting that unionisation is a right of workers in accordance with the laws of Nigeria and that this right should be respected.

‘After examining the procedure used in the disengagement of workers, the meeting agreed that the management of Dangote Group shall immediately start the process of taking the disengaged staff to other companies within the Dangote Group, with no loss of pay.

‘No worker will be victimised arising from their role in the impasse between Dangote and PENGASSAN.’

Osifo, at the press briefing, dismissed claims that the union’s action was motivated by dues or levies.

The labour leader explained that by the fundamental principle of defending workers’ rights, the association had no choice but to act after the mass sack, saying they’ve not violated any law of the land.

He said, ‘About two weeks ago, over 800 Nigerians voluntarily subscribed to join PENGASSAN. Within days of notifying management, all of them were dismissed with a single letter.

‘When these people were hired, they were given individual letters, but when it came to termination, one single letter was used to throw all of them out. We found that unacceptable.

Continuing, he said, ‘We laugh when people say we went on strike because of dues. The total salary of those 800 members put together is less than what just 20 of our members earn in some international oil firms.

‘This was never about money. It was about their freedom of association, their right to join a union, and their right to fight for better conditions of service. That is why they came to us.’

The union leader also highlighted the broader danger of the accusations levelled against the sacked workers.

He said, ‘Once such allegations are made public, these workers may never get another job again.’

He further noted that PENGASSAN is sceptical about the company’s promises to reinstate the workers but said it decided to suspend the strike out of respect for the government and the mediation process.

‘Let it be clear, this suspension is in good faith, not because we fully trust the process. The moment we see any breach, we will return to the trenches without notice,’ he added.

Violence erupted at Ilugun High School, Elega, in Abeokuta, Ogun State, following students’ protests over the alleged collection of illegal fees by teachers, resulting in the death of one person and the destruction of school property.

Daily Trust learned that trouble began last Friday when the school’s management invited operatives of the Amotekun Corps to disperse students who were protesting the unauthorized fees.

Witnesses told our correspondent that upon the arrival of the local security operatives, students ran in different directions to avoid being caught.

In the process, some reportedly jumped into a river near the school, leading to the death of one individual, according to the witnesses.

Miffed by the development, aggrieved students on Monday returned to school and reportedly went berserk.

They allegedly beat a teacher and vandalized school property.

A viral video surfaced on Monday showing groups of students vandalizing school property in broad daylight.

The clip captured students throwing stones at classroom windows until the glass shattered.

In some instances, they pulled out entire aluminum window slides from their frames, leaving the classrooms badly damaged.

Government confirms incident, suspends principals

The state government on Tuesday confirmed the incident, but said only one person died.

The Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Abayomi Arigbabu, confirmed that teachers of the school engaged in the collection of illegal fees, which led to the protest.

Addressing the media, Arigbabu announced the indefinite suspension of the school’s principals: Mrs. Olukoga Adeyemi Alaba (Junior) and Mrs. Ladipo Olabisi Temitope (Senior).

He stated that the suspension was necessary following the principals’ roles in the incident.

‘In addition, we also discovered that the Principal of Ilugun High School (Junior) had been involved in the collection of illegal fees. In light of these findings, the government has decided to place both the Junior and Senior Principals of Ilugun High School on suspension while we conduct a thorough investigation into the immediate and remote causes of this unfortunate incident,’ he said.

Regarding the casualty, Arigbabu said the young man who lost his life could not be confirmed as a student of the school.

He explained: ‘However, our preliminary investigations have revealed a very disturbing twist. The young man who lost his life could not be confirmed as a bona fide student of the school.

‘He was identified by three different names – Babalola Ayornide, Salako Jimoh, and Afolabi Babalola. Yet, none of these names appear in our official state education database, the OGSERA platform, which authenticates all school enrollments. This points to the likelihood of an illegal enrollment.’

The battle for control of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ahead of its November 15-16 national convention in Ibadan, Oyo State, has deepened, with a fresh rift emerging in the National Working Committee (NWC).

Daily Trust gathered that the committee has again split between PDP governors and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, who has openly vowed to support the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027.

While acting National Chairman Umar Damagum is aligned with most governors, National Secretary Samuel Anyanwu is leading the Wike camp within the NWC. Sources said Wike’s loyalists have boycotted recent NWC meetings called by Damagum, as tensions over the convention escalate.

A party insider said Wike, having pledged to work for President Bola Tinubu and frustrate the convention, has continued to issue conditions. ‘If they meet those conditions, he will come up with new ones. The governors have decided to move on and are daring him to do his worst,’ the source said.

The crisis worsened on September 30 when PDP spokesman Debo Ologunagba announced the dissolution of the Akwa Ibom State executive committee and the appointment of a caretaker committee.

He added that the caretaker committee will run the chapter for three months or until a new executive is elected. Members include Igwat Umoren as chairman, Harrison Ekpo as deputy chairman, and Borono Bassey as secretary, among others.

But in a counter-letter dated October 1, Anyanwu dismissed the move as invalid, insisting no formal NWC meeting approved the dissolution. He described the statement as ‘null and void and of no effect,’ stressing that the Akwa Ibom executive ‘stands undissolved.’

He further directed the state executive to continue in office in line with the PDP constitution. When contacted, Anyanwu confirmed he authored the letter but offered no further details.

As the convention draws nearer, leaders and stakeholders remain divided. Wike has continued to issue conditions for a hitch-free exercise, but many governors are no longer willing to concede.

Earlier in the week, Ologunagba admitted that some members were working with the APC to sabotage the PDP but vowed they would soon face sanctions. He insisted preparations for the convention were already concluded, declaring that ‘enough is enough.’

The FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, says construction of Arterial Road S1 from Ring Road II to FCT Fire Service Station in Kaura District, will significantly improve emergency response time.

Wike stated this during the inauguration of the project in Abuja on Tuesday.

The minister said ‘We have always talked about fire incidents and the response is not usually timely.

‘It’s not only the fact that maybe they may be lacking some basic amenities, but also they don’t have a good network of roads that will enable them to move quickly to resolve fire incidents.

‘By the time this road is constructed with a three-span bridge, of course anywhere there is any fire incident and they are called upon, they will respond immediately,

‘Again, this is also to contribute to the efficiency in their job delivery.” he said (NAN).

Wike said that the road would be slightly above two kilometres but a very important road that would open up the Kaura District.

Nigeria’s youth football teams are preparing for contrasting but equally crucial battles on the world stage, with the Flying Eagles eyeing redemption at the ongoing FIFA U20 World Cup in Chile, while the Flamingos head to Morocco brimming with confidence for the 2025 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup.

The Flying Eagles, seven-time African champions and two-time FIFA U20 World Cup runners-up, will be looking to bounce back strongly against Saudi Arabia after a frustrating 2-1 loss to Norway in their opening group match on Monday.

Despite dominating possession and creating numerous chances, Nigeria were denied by poor finishing and refereeing decisions, with two penalty appeals turned down. Head Coach Aliyu Zubair insists the setback has been put behind them.

‘Our focus has shifted to Saudi Arabia. The boys know what is at stake, and we are determined to get the result that will keep us on track,’ Zubair said ahead of Matchday 2.

With all key players available, Zubair is expected to stick with his preferred 4-3-3 formation, sharpening the attack to convert dominance into goals. However, Israel Ayuma, Daniel Daga, and Charles Agada, who have already been booked, will need to tread carefully to avoid suspensions ahead of the decisive clash with Colombia on Sunday.

Victory over Saudi Arabia would put the Eagles in a strong position to qualify for the Round of 16, keeping alive hopes of matching or surpassing their historic runs to the final in 1989 and 2005.

While the Flying Eagles look to recover in Chile, the Flamingos, Nigeria’s U17 women’s team, are flying high as they wrap up preparations for the World Cup in Morocco. The girls have been in blistering form in camp, winning all eight friendly matches, scoring 26 goals without conceding once.

Last week, they brushed aside Abuja All-Stars 3-0, with Praise Agba, Olamide Olanrewaju, and Zainab Raji all on target. Earlier, they battled the elements in a rain-hit clash with Josiah Academy, securing a 2-0 victory courtesy of a Chisom Nwachukwu brace. Other emphatic wins included a 5-0 triumph over Nazareth Angels, with Queen Joseph netting twice, and another 5-0 rout of Horvel Prime, where Joseph bagged a rapid hat-trick.

Drawn in Group D alongside Canada, France, and Samoa, the Flamingos will depart Nigeria on October 8 for the tournament, which runs from October 17 to November 8, 2025. Their impressive build-up has sparked optimism that they can improve on past achievements and challenge for the ultimate prize.

Governors have called on Nigerians to continue to uphold unity, peaceful coexistence, and resilience as the country marks its 65th Independence Anniversary.

In his Independence Day address on Wednesday, Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, called on Nigerians to strengthen unity. He said unity remains the foundation of peace and prosperity, urging Nigerians across divides of faith, ethnicity, and background to work hand-in-hand in building the country envisioned by its founding fathers.

‘Their legacy was not forged in ease, but in unity, faith, and an unwavering belief in the greatness of Nigeria. It is this same legacy that should inspire us to continue building a nation where peace, justice, and opportunity prevail,’ he noted.

The governor, who said the nation’s greatest strength has always been its collective resolve to overcome adversity, described Nigeria at 65 as a story of hope, endurance, and togetherness, despite decades of political, social, and economic challenges.

Highlighting Kaduna’s contributions to national development, the governor outlined achievements in infrastructure, agriculture, education, healthcare, and peacebuilding, describing them as proof of what collective determination can deliver.

On infrastructure, he disclosed that 85 urban and rural road projects, spanning 785 kilometres, had been launched, with nearly half completed. According to him, the roads are easing trade, reducing travel time, and improving access to markets for farmers and entrepreneurs.

Governor Sani said education reforms had returned over 10,728 children to school under the Reaching Out-of-School Children Project, while 535 schools previously shut due to insecurity had been reopened. In agriculture, he said over 500,000 hectares of abandoned farmland had been reclaimed, and major markets in Birnin Gwari and Giwa had been reopened, boosting rural commerce and food security. In health, 255 Primary Health Care Centres had been upgraded across the state.

He emphasised that peace remains the bedrock of Kaduna’s progress, pointing to his administration’s investments in community policing, reconciliation, and dialogue.

Similarly, Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, on Wednesday described unity and peaceful coexistence as the bedrock of development and prosperity. In a goodwill message to mark the 29th anniversary of Gombe State alongside Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day, the governor noted that while challenges remain, Gombe has recorded remarkable achievements across critical sectors under his administration.

Reflecting on the state’s journey since its creation in 1996, Governor Yahaya paid glowing tribute to past leaders who laid the foundation for its growth. He pointed out milestones in education, healthcare, security, infrastructure, agriculture, industrialization, environmental sustainability, public service reforms, ease of doing business, youth and women empowerment, and regional water projects.

According to him, Gombe has in recent years bolstered healthcare and education, expanded infrastructure with the completion of rural and township roads, addressed long-standing environmental issues, and opened new economic frontiers through agro-livestock, agribusiness, and industrialization.

Governor Yahaya disclosed that his administration has constructed over 900 kilometers of roads across all local government areas, most of them adorned with solar streetlights, expanded healthcare facilities, and improved access to education through the construction of new classrooms and recruitment of teachers. He also revealed that over the past six years, his administration has disbursed over N25 billion in gratuities to state and local government retirees across the 11 LGAs, successfully clearing liabilities left by previous administrations, with some dating back to 2012.

Looking ahead, Governor Yahaya pledged to intensify efforts in empowering youth, supporting farmers, and improving the quality of life for families across the state. He urged citizens to remain patient and united amid ongoing economic reforms, assuring that these measures would ultimately yield a stronger, more resilient, and prosperous future.

Governor Yahaya, who is also the Chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum (NSGF), encouraged the people of Gombe and Nigerians at large to celebrate with gratitude for the progress made while renewing their commitment to building a future anchored on unity, prosperity, and opportunity for all.

Peacebuilding, recovery efforts succeeding – Zulum

Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, who congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other Nigerians on the 65th Independence Day Celebration, acknowledged the challenges the country has faced over the past 65 years but emphasised that Nigeria has consistently emerged stronger. The governor called for continued unity, mutual understanding, and peaceful coexistence amongst its citizens.

He commended President Tinubu for his leadership and continued support to the armed forces and other security agencies involved in counter-insurgency operations in the North East, particularly in Borno State. Zulum, in a statement he personally signed, also expressed commitment to providing peace and development to Borno.

He said, ‘Our administration’s peacebuilding and recovery efforts are greatly succeeding. The integrated policies, designed to address the root causes of insurgency, build community resilience, and promote reconciliation, have been fruitful.’

Peace is foundation of progress – Bauchi Gov

Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed also urged Nigerians to remain united and committed to the ideals of peace, democracy, and nation-building during the 65th Independence Anniversary. He implored them to continue to live harmoniously with one another and help make the State and country great.

In his goodwill message, the governor described independence as a milestone that ended colonial domination, granting Nigeria self-determination, political freedom, and opportunities for socio-economic and democratic growth. The governor highlighted his administration’s multi-sectoral agenda on infrastructure, security, and empowerment, disclosing plans for the Bauchi State Investment Summit in October to attract investors and unlock economic potentials. Mohammed, who described peace as the foundation of progress, pledged stronger security partnerships.

In his message, Governor Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State called for a renewed commitment towards ending banditry and other forms of criminality hindering the nation’s march to greatness. The governor, in a statement signed by his spokesperson, Abubakar Bawa, described insecurity as one of the major setbacks to Nigeria’s socio-economic and political development. He stressed the need for collective efforts to end the menace.

‘Governments at all levels, traditional rulers, religious leaders, as well as community leaders must work together if we are to end the activities of bandits in our rural areas,’ he said.

Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, while addressing youth groups at the Government House, Birnin Kebbi, on Wednesday, said his administration’s priority is to strengthen youth empowerment and development through education, in recognition of their position in the state’s stability.

He highlighted his efforts by saying, ‘That’s why I lifted the embargo on employment, and employed more than 4,000 workers into the Kebbi civil service.’ He added that his administration had employed 2,000 new teachers, while professionals in the health sector, including medical doctors, nurses, and health technologists numbering 2,148, in addition to more than 500 casual workers, were absorbed as permanent and pensionable appointment.

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, said that genuine collaboration between government and citizens is crucial to achieving the breakthrough Nigerians desire. Speaking at the 65th Independence Day celebration held at Lagos House, Marina, Sanwo-Olu noted that the anniversary theme, ‘Nigeria @ 65: All Hands on Deck for a Greater Nation,’ underscores the need for unity and collective effort.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, during a statewide broadcast to commemorate the 29th anniversary of Ekiti State and the 65th anniversary of Nigeria’s independence, appealed to political parties, political leaders, and their supporters to conduct themselves peacefully ahead of the parties’ primary elections later this year and the main governorship election in June next year.

Relatedly, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the last election, Peter Obi, called on Nigerians not to despair, in spite of the prevailing socio-economic challenges in the country. Addressing journalists on the Independence Anniversary in Abuja on Wednesday, Obi said at independence, the founding fathers fought with confidence, passion, and determination to build a prosperous Nigeria.

He, however, said tragic failures of leadership derailed this vision.

He charged Nigerians to keep hope alive, saying, ‘With the right leadership, we can defeat terrorism, restore security, and guarantee Nigerians safe communities where enterprise and social life can thrive.’ He also called on political leaders to reflect on the crises confronting the nation and recognise this as a moment to transcend personal interests.

Also, a former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, urged Nigerians to rise above divisive politics and narrow interests, stressing that the nation’s survival and progress depend on unity and patriotism.

Dogara, in a statement to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary, described the milestone as ‘a victory of courage over fear, of hope over despair, and of resilience over adversity.’

The former Speaker commended President Tinubu for what he called ‘bold and transformative reforms,’ including the removal of fuel subsidy, efforts to stabilise the Naira, and renewed focus on investment and enterprise. According to him, the policies, though painful in the short term, are laying the foundation for lasting economic recovery.

By Muideen Olaniyi, Baba Martins, Itodo Daniel Sule (Abuja), Haruna Gimba Yaya (Gombe), Mohammed Ibrahim Yaba (Kaduna), Hamisu Kabir Matazu (Maiduguri), Hassan Ibrahim (Bauchi), Abubakar Auwal (Sokoto), Ismail Adebayo (Birnin Kebbi), Raphael Ogbonnaiye (Ado-Ekiti) and Peter Moses (Lagos)

The NNPC Foundation Ltd, the social impact arm of NNPC Limited, has launched a childhood cancer awareness and early detection programme in rural Nigeria with a sensitisation and free eye screening exercise in Etim Ekpo Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.

Managing Director of NNPC Foundation, Mrs. Emmanuella Arukwe, in a statement, said the programme, organised in collaboration with the Akanimo Cancer Foundation, reflects the Foundation’s commitment to healthcare and social development in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles.

Arukwe, who was represented by Mrs. Eno Okon, stressed the need to close gaps in awareness, access, and treatment for childhood cancer, especially in rural areas, saying, ‘We cannot allow geography or income to hinder a child’s chances of survival. Impact must be inclusive.’

Since its creation in 2023, the NNPC Foundation has executed diverse projects nationwide. In 2024 alone, it provided free cancer screening for 3,441 Nigerians, performed over 6,000 cataract surgeries, glaucoma screenings, cardiovascular operations, and relief support for flood victims.

Founder of Akanimo Cancer Foundation, Dr. Idorenyin Usoh, who lost his 12-year-old son to cancer in 2019, said survival rates for childhood cancers in Nigeria remain at about 20%, compared to 80% in high-income countries.

He stressed the need to reach underserved communities where diagnosis and treatment remain scarce.

At the event, over 1,000 children from Etim Ekpo and neighbouring LGAs received free eye screening, with referrals supported by the Akanimo Foundation.

The Federal Ministry of Health, represented by Dr. Uche Nwokwu, commended the partnership, reiterating the government’s plans to expand access to cancer care through the WHO-backed Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer.

On October 1, 1960, a transformative moment unfolded at the Lagos Race Course as the Union Jack was lowered and Nigeria’s green-white-green flag ascended for the first time. Prime Minister Abubakar Tafawa Balewa heralded this as both the culmination of colonial experience and the dawn of a new national era. Sixty-five years later, Nigeria’s independence anniversary invites both reflection and celebration-an opportunity to acknowledge profound challenges while recognising the resilient spirit worth honouring. Beyond the well-documented struggles with governance and economy lies a tapestry of cultural richness, democratic resilience, and human potential that forms the true foundation for celebration.

The path to independence was paved by the efforts of nationalist figures like Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo, and Ahmadu Bello. Their leadership, alongside constitutional developments through the 1940s and 1950s, gradually transferred governance into Nigerian hands. The celebration of that first Independence Day was meticulously planned, with an allocated budget of £1 million for decorations, festivals, and hospitality. British stage designer Beverley Pick was commissioned to create visual displays drawing on traditional Nigerian art. symbolising the fusion of heritage with forward-looking aspirations.

The inaugural festivities featured everything from the West African Games and military displays to fireworks and water regattas. The energy was palpable-a nation stepping into its destiny with optimism and cultural pride.

Nigeria’s political journey since independence has been marked by both turmoil and triumph. From early regional tensions that culminated in civil war, the nation has gradually strengthened its democratic institutions. The return to civilian rule in 1999 after years of military governance marked a significant turning point. Today, despite challenges, Nigeria maintains a democratic system that, while imperfect, represents the collective will of its people to govern themselves-a fundamental aspect of the independence fought for by earlier generations.

Economically, Nigeria has experienced both boom periods and significant setbacks. As Africa’s largest economy, the country has demonstrated remarkable resilience amid global fluctuations. Recently, President Bola Tinubu pointed to encouraging signs including second-quarter GDP growth of 4.23%-the fastest in four years-and a decline in inflation to 20.12% in August, the lowest in three years. Furthermore, the country has recorded five consecutive quarters of trade surpluses and seen a rebound in oil production to 1.68 million barrels per day. These indicators, while not dismissing ongoing hardships, suggest the potential for economic stabilization and growth.

If there is one consistent reason for celebration throughout Nigeria’s 65-year journey, it is the vibrancy of Nigerian culture and the relentless ingenuity of its people. This cultural strength manifests in multiple domains:

Artistic Expression: From the highlife music that dominated independence celebrations to the contemporary global ascent of Afrobeats, Nigerian creativity continues to captivate international audiences. This artistic legacy represents a powerful form of soft diplomacy and national pride.

Literary and Intellectual Contributions: Nigeria has produced Nobel laureates in literature, groundbreaking thinkers, and influential academics who have shaped discourse across Africa and beyond.

Entrepreneurial Innovation: Despite structural challenges, Nigerian entrepreneurs have built thriving businesses and developed solutions that address both local and global needs, particularly in the technology sector.

The 2025 independence theme, ‘Nigeria @ 65: All Hands on Deck for a Greater Nation,’ appropriately captures this spirit of collective responsibility and cultural resilience. It acknowledges that nation-building requires the contribution of all sectors-public, private, civil society, and citizens alike.

Modern Independence Day observances reflect both tradition and evolution. Official ceremonies still include flag-raising ceremonies, and presidential addresses, the military parade having been cancelled. What’s particularly noteworthy is how these celebrations extend far beyond Nigeria’s borders.

The ‘Nigerian dream’ remains a contested concept, with many citizens expressing ambivalence about the nation’s direction. Interviews with Nigerians reveal a spectrum of perspectives. For 25-year-old Taiwo Hassan, the dream represents ‘the chance to live in a country where basic necessities don’t feel like a luxury’. Ifeoluwa Olutayo, 35, defines it as ‘living without the crushing weight of kakistocracy and unnecessary bureaucracy’. The bottom line?-the hope that regardless of starting point, one can build a better life. These voices reflect both the challenges facing Nigeria and the fundamental human desires for dignity, security, and opportunity. That these aspirations persist despite difficulties itself represents a form of national resilience worth acknowledging.

As Nigeria marks 65 years of independence, the appropriate celebration isn’t one that ignores very real challenges, but rather one that recognises the foundations upon which a better future can be built.

Despite setbacks, Nigeria maintains a commitment to democratic governance. Nigerian art, music, literature, and fashion continue to gain global recognition. A young, dynamic population represents enormous potential for innovation and growth.

Nigerians abroad maintain strong connections to their homeland, contributing skills, resources, and international perspectives.

Sixty-five years after Princess Alexandra presented Nigeria’s constitutional instruments of freedom, the nation stands at a complex crossroads. The initial optimism of independence has been tempered by decades of failure. Yet, what remains worthy of celebration is not what Nigeria has fully become, but what it persistently strives to be-a nation where, despite everything, the desire for imagination continues to fuel individual ambition and collective effort.

The appropriate celebration at 65 is one that honours the resilience of ordinary Nigerians who, against often daunting odds, continue to build businesses, create art, educate children, and forge communities. It celebrates the cultural vibrancy that makes Nigeria uniquely influential across Africa and the world. Most importantly. it celebrates the potential that still waits to be fully unlocked-the promise that has lingered since that first Independence Day, waiting for the right combination of leadership, policy, and collective action to bring it to fruition.

Sure, I see despair and gloom everywhere I go everyday. but I am not an ambassador of despair and gloom. I would rather entertain the hope I see in the hardwork of Mallam Abubakar, a show shiner who worked seven days a week, 365 days a year and the discipline of Ekene, a security guard studying to retake the JAMB, 20 years after leaving secondary school. Like the good book says, ‘with hardship comes ease’, we have nothing to look forward to but good things.

As Nigerians gather at Tafawa Balewa Square, in New York City, in private homes, and online to mark this anniversary, they celebrate not just a historical event but a living nation-flawed, complex, but enduring. The Nigerian spirit continues to thrive finding rhythm even in struggle and creating harmony out of diversity. That unwavering spirit, perhaps more than any single achievement, is what truly deserves celebration at 65 years of independence.

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) Foundation has launched the North-West phase of its Vulnerable Farmers Training Programme (VFTP) in Kano, in a bid to foster Nigeria’s agricultural empowerment drive and food security.

The flag-off ceremony brought together about 600 farmers from across the geopolitical zone who will receive three-day training on modern agricultural techniques and market access strategies.

According to the Managing Director of the foundation, Mrs. Emmanuella N. Arukwe, the initiative is part of their commitment to national development beyond energy while focusing on practical agricultural interventions that enhance productivity, reduce post-harvest losses, and expand market access.

Represented by the Executive Director, Finance of the foundation, Mrs. Euginia C. Dominion, the MD said, ‘This initiative is not just about training; it’s about transforming rural livelihoods. We are equipping vulnerable farmers, especially women and youth, with the tools to move from subsistence to sustainable income’.