ALSCON boosts lab services at General Hospital with 5KVA solar equipment

The Aluminum Smelter Company of Nigeria (ALSCON) has installed a 5KVA solar power equipment at the laboratory unit of the General Hospital, Ikot Abasi local government area of Akwa Ibom state.

The Director of Government and Public Relations Directorate, Mr. Aleksandr Ashkinazi, presented the solar equipment to the hospital on Friday on behalf of the Managing Director of ALSCON, Mr Dmitriy Zaviyalov.

He was accompanied by top management staff of the company.

The donation of the solar system is among series of life-touching interventions undertaken by the company as part of the company’s community social responsibility (CSR) to it’s host communities of Ikot Abasi and it’s environs.

Ashkinazi explained that the gesture was to enable the hospital laboratory have 24 hours power supply to enable it provide critical services to patients.

The Superintendent of the hospital, Dr. King Udoh, said that the intervention has to a great extent solved the epileptic power situation which drastically stalled laboratory operations.

Udoh said that before the company’s gesture, the hospital laboratory couldn’t carry out important analysis and investigations as many of it’s machines could not be powered.

According to him: ‘The hospital laboratory has really heaved a big sigh of relief with the installation of the 5KVA solar power equipment. Without light, we couldn’t carry out some investigations.

‘With the donation of this 5kva solar power by ALSCON the laboratory now has light to operate 24 hours a day without fear of power outage. We can now power our machines for optimal performance.

‘I have always known ALSCON when it comes to providing power to it’s host communities even before I was posted here. With this intervention I am sure that if they fully resume operations the host communities, Akwa Ibom state and the entire country will stand to gain.

‘If ALSCON can do this now that it is not operational it means they will do more when they commence operations.

‘I want to use this opportunity to urge the federal government to accelerate the process and remove all impediments hindering the restart of ALSCON’.

Senator Ekong Sampson (Akwa South Eket) hailed the CSR interventions of ALSCON.

Sampson made the remark when the management of the company led by its Managing Director, Mr. Zaviyalov, felicitated with him on his 2025 birthday at his residence in Uyo.

Zaviyalov who was represented by the Director of Government and Public Relations Directorate, Mr. Aleksandr Ashkinazi informed the Senator of several CSR interventions in communities by ALSCON including the recently 5KVA solar system donated to ease operations in Ikot Abasi General Hospital Laboratory with 24 hours power supply.

The delighted Senator Ekong Sampson commended ALSCON for all the people centered CRS to our people. The Senator stated further that ALSCON is his project.

He said ‘ALSCON is my project and it is the Federal Government policy and resolve to commence operation as soon as possible.

Sampson said he has presented the issue of the revamping of ALSCON in many legislative platforms including meeting several stakeholders such as the Attorney General of the Federation.

Pro-Chinda Reps set for showdown, vows to resist plot to remove minority leader

Some members of the Minority caucus in the House of Representatives under the auspices of Active Minority are set for a show down with their colleagues over plot to remove the Minority Leader, Kingsley Chindan (PDP, Rivers).

About 89 members of the minority caucus have thrown their weight behind Chinda warning that they would resist any attempt to remove him ahead of the planned meeting of the caucus schedules for Monday evening in Abuja.

Notice for the meeting was jointly signed on Sunday, October 5, by Hon. Agbedi Frederick, leader of PDP Caucus, Hon. Afam Victor Ogene, leader, LP Caucus, Hon. Muktar Umar-Zakar, NNPP Caucus and Hon. Peter Uzokwe, leader, YPP.

However, three other parties who are members of the caucus, the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA), Social Democratic Party (SDP) and the Africa Democratic Congress (ADC) are not part of the signatory of those calling for the emergency meeting.

It was titled, ‘Notice of emergency meeting of the minority caucus of the House of Representatives’, and addressed to ‘All Minority Members of the House of Representatives’

The notice read, ‘You are hereby invited to an emergency meeting to discuss recent developments in the minority leadership, particularly to review the lawsuit instituted by Minority Leader, Hon. Kingsley Chinda, against all members of minority parties in the 10th House of Representatives’.

The meeting is scheduled for The Envoy Hotel in Abuja, but as at last night, the venue of the meeting was said to have been changed to Conference Room 028 in the House of Representatives New Building at 8pm.

Chinda had filed a suit at the Federal High Court, Abuja and secured an injunction stopping the Speaker of the House, the Clerk and leadership of National Assembly Grimm accepting any letter purported to have emanated from the minority parties removing him as minority leader.

While Chinda alleged that the only reason advanced by those plotting his removal was his closeness to FCT Minister, Nyelsom Wike, some minority lawmakers are accusing Chinda of not providing leadership and working behind closed doors for the ruling APC.

The Nation gathered last night that the Active Minority group, led by a PDP member from one of the Northern states has been holding series of meeting in Abuja ahead of the resumption of plenary on Tuesday, October 7th.

A member of the Active Minority, who is privy to the meetings and spoke on condition of anonymity said they were prepared to counter the moves by certain interests in the PDP and the ADC bent on replacing Chinda because of his affiliation to the minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike.

‘We have stumbled on a plot by certain leaders in the PDP and ADC to replace the minority leader of the House of Representatives, Hon. Kingsley Chinda. His only sin is the allegations that he is close to the FCT minister, Chief Wike.

‘But I can assure you, we are ready for those sponsored to come to the floor and execute this insidious plan. Our group, the Active Minority is prepared to resist this because Hon. Chinda has discharged his responsibilities as an opposition leader very well.

‘As I speak with you, the Active Minority has a membership strength of 89 members and more members are identifying with us. Mind you, the entire opposition lawmakers are about 140 and we have an overwhelming majority to counter any undemocratic move’.

When asked about the list of the Active Minority, the lawmaker said ‘We are keeping our identities under wraps until the House resumes. We don’t want to let the cat out of the bag now. Our strategy is also within us until we meet at the battle field’.

SpeKing on why they choose to support the minority leader, the lawmaker said ‘Hon. Chinda’s unwavering commitment to upholding democratic principles and advocating for the rights of the Nigerian people has set him apart as a beacon of hope in times of uncertainty.

‘Chinda has since 2023 vehemently stood against the defection of opposition lawmakers to APC. One of Chinda’s notable contributions lies in his staunch opposition to members of the opposition defecting to the ruling party, citing violations of constitutional provisions and electoral laws.

‘He has always been a strong voice drawing the attention of the leadership to at least obey the law and do what is right.

‘In the face of adversity and resistance, Chinda has stood firm in his convictions, fearlessly challenging the status quo and holding the government accountable for its actions. His vocal stance on critical issues has resonated with many, inspiring a sense of unity and solidarity among those who seek a more just and equitable society.

‘By setting a precedent of integrity and adherence to legal frameworks, he encourages others to follow suit in promoting a fair and transparent governance system. So, why would you suddenly decide to remove such an effective leader from his position because of a flimsy excuse that he’s close to Wike. Why don’t you go and face Wike and leave Chinda alone?

‘Again, Chinda’s relentless pursuit of transparency and accountability underscores the importance of strengthening democratic institutions to foster a resilient system of governance in Nigeria.

‘His dedication to uplifting the voices of the often overlooked in decision-making processes showcases a deep-rooted commitment to inclusivity and representation.

‘Most importantly, Chinda has demonstrated exceptional leadership by spearheading the sponsorship of various bills and motions that address pressing issues facing the nation. So, we cannot allow such an excellent material to be thrown under the bus. All we are saying is Chinda must stay’.

IBB builds hospital for grandfather’s community in Kano

Former Military President, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, has remembered his ancestral root in Kumurya village, Bunkure local government area of Kano State, where his grandfather was born.

Babangida’s grandfather, Malam Ibrahim, was born and raised in Kumurya village under Rano emirate before he relocated to Wushishi, Niger State, as a trader.

Upon leaving office as Military Head of State in 1993, Babangida realised he did not bequeath an impressionistic tangible legacy for the Kumurya community.

He however, vowed he must build a project for them before he departs the planet earth.

The last time the issue tugged his heart, Babangida invited Sheikh Ibrahim Khalil -the Chairman, Kano State Council of Ulama, to Minna in August, where he enquired from the Sheikh the kind of project that would serve the people of his origin.

Khalil told IBB that his grandpa’s people now have schools and mosques, so an hospital would be ideal, to stop or reduce to barest minimum maternal and child mortalities and other preventable deaths in the area. Babangida approved.

The village was agog on Sunday as the hospital foundation was laid. Gidan Jefau -the family house of IBB’s late grandfather, also came alive.

At the land where the hospital foundation was laid, General Babangida, represented by General Halliru Akilu, explained that the gesture was fulfilled after 27 years.

IBB said he was proud of his roots in Kumurya, Kano, which had been legendary even before colonialism.

Gen. Akilu said: ‘The former Head of State invited Sheikh Ibrahim Khalil to Minna in August this year and after a discussion, the Sheikh told him that Kumurya lacks a health facility.

‘Babangida, being very generous, therefore supported the idea of building a hospital which he dedicates to his parents and his late wife, Maryam.’

Akilu said he would not give further details of why it took this long before Babangida remembered his roots, noting that the village head was aware of previous attempts to build an Islamiyya school and a mosque for the community.

Akilu further said, even as Head of State, IBB lived and worked with illustrious sons of Rano emirate who are known for their patriotism and dedication to duty.

He listed Generals Murtala Muhammed, Sani Abacha and Babangida as former Heads of State from Kano, adding that General Abdulsalami Abubakar is also traced to Kano, even though many may not know.

The Emir of Rano, Muhammad Isa Umar, said the day was special for the emirate where parents of the former head of state hailed from.

He revealed how Kumurya town is so important to the emirate, disclosing that during the war against Ningi emirate, the late emir of Rano, Alhaji Umaru, was camped there to protect the emirate against invaders.

‘The former head of states (IBB) is very proud of Kumurya and when I was district head of Bunkure, I personally knew of his plans to bring development to the village. This hospital, when completed, will certainly cater for women and children and the general people of Kumurya,’ the emir said.

Village head of Kumurya said, in addition to the hospital, Babangida is rebuilding the mud house known as Gidan Jefau belonging to his uncles, expressing gratitude for the gesture.

Gen. Babangida (Rtd), has revealed that ‘Ibrahim’ in his combination of names is his grandfather’s. And that while joining the military, he was being mistaken for a Yoruba, so he added Babangida in the end to prove his northern ancestry.

He narrated that his great grandfather had migrated from Sokoto to Kumurya in Kano where he gave birth to his grandfather, Ibrahim, who moved to Kontagora before settling in Wushishi, Niger State, where his father, Badamasi, was born.

Badamasi then moved from Wushishi to Minna in 1941 where he gave birth to IBB in August that year.

BBNaija Finale: Imisi, Dede battle for N80m grand prize

The Big Brother Naija Season 10 finale reached a thrilling climax on Sunday as seven housemates were evicted during the live show, leaving Imisi and Dede as the last two contestants battling for the N80 million grand prize.

The night was packed with tension and excitement, beginning with the eviction of Kaybobo, Isabella, Mensan, and Jason Jae, followed by Sultana, Kola, and Koyin.

In a dramatic twist, Big Brother revealed that the prize fund had fluctuated throughout the season, with deductions made for each use of the red telephone.

Interestingly, Kaybobo’s immunity had been purchased using the housemates’ collective funds.

However, the contestants managed to restore the grand prize to N80 million before the season’s close.

As the show wrapped up, anticipation soared among fans awaiting the announcement of the ultimate winner.

Imisi’s humour and relatability have made her a crowd favorite, while Dede’s daring personality has kept audiences divided and deeply engaged.

Why Tinubu returned Port Regulatory Agency Bill, by Shippers Council

The Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Shippers Council (NSC), Dr. Pius Akutah, has disclosed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu withheld assent to the Nigerian Port Economic Regulatory Agency (NPERA) Bill due to concerns about its mandate section and the proposed one percent Freight Stabilisation Fee.

Speaking with reporters on the sidelines of the visit of the Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Arsenio Dominguez, over the weekend in Lagos, Akutah explained that the issues raised have since been addressed and the revised Bill is currently before the National Assembly for review before being resubmitted to the President.

‘The NPERA Bill was returned by Mr. President to the Office of the Attorney General and Minister of Justice for advisory due to issues raised over the mandate section of the Bill, the one percent Freight Stabilisation Fee, and the new role of the Shippers Council as the Port Economic Regulator,’ he said.

Akutah added that the Shippers Council has since met with the Attorney General of the Federation, and all contentious areas have been clarified to ensure the Bill’s smooth passage and eventual assent.

‘Those issues created a little bit of confusion, but that has been resolved because the Gazette of the Presidential Order of 2015 and the regulations of 2015 have all been handed over to the Minister of Justice.

‘So, they have now looked at it again to see that the Council mandate has changed by the order of the president appointing the Shipper’s Council as the Port Economic Regulator.

‘So, those aspects that needed to be corrected have been corrected, and the bill has gone back to the National Assembly on its way back to Mr. President for assent.

‘There was a little bit hitch, but we have overcome that hitch. So, it is now on track heading back to Mr. President. But the National Assembly still has to look at it because of those corrections that were made.

‘You can’t correct a bill that has been passed without the National Assembly looking at it. The corrections are not so many, just a few of them regarding the mandate and then regarding the 1 percent freight fee.

‘The Bill is still with the National Assembly. You know that they have been on recess. They were supposed to resume last week, but I think they moved it forward.

‘As soon as the National Assembly resumes sitting, they will look at this quickly and then do all the corrections and send it back.’

Shedding more light on the corrections done on the NPERA Bill, Akutah explained that, ‘On mandate, the issue was whether the Council has the mandate to become the Port Economic Regulator. That mandate was given to the Council under the Presidential Order of 2015. This fact was not very well known to the Ministry of Justice at the time when the Bill came back to them.

‘Also, the regulations of 2015, which have copiously given the nitty-gritty of what the Port Economic Regulator will do, were also not known at the time when the Bill got to the Ministry. So, the Ministry of Justice called us and we provided all those details to them.

‘Then the provision regarding the 1 percent freight stabilisation fee. The provision appeared to be saying that the freight fee was going to be the funding of the agency, whereas it is the revenue to be generated by the agency. So, those corrections have been made,’ he said.

Mr Eazi declares intention to run for presidency in African country

Afrobeats singer and entrepreneur, Oluwatosin Ajibade, popularly known as Mr Eazi, has announced his intention to contest for the presidency in an African country.

The music star made the disclosure in a video, revealing that he had been reflecting on stepping into public service and now believes the time is right to share his ambition.

Mr Eazi, in a lighthearted tone, said his decision was driven by a desire to serve, not for financial gain.

He said, ‘I have been thinking about it. I think it’s time to share it with you guys. Some of you might be from some countries, specifically in Africa, and you are looking for a president; a president who is not looking for money and power but forward-thinking, young, active and can move your country better. So, I’m officially putting myself forward for the presidency.’

Ekiti 2026: APC guber aspirant Ojo, Oyebanji trade blame over alleged attacks in Ekiti

All Progressives Congress (APC), Kayode Ojo, and Governor Biodun Oyebanji clashed on Sunday over alleged attacks, intimidation, and harassment of supporters ahead of the governorship primary.

Ojo accused agents of the state government of masterminding politically motivated violence, unlawful arrests, and persecution of his supporters across various communities in the state.

Speaking at a press conference in Ado-Ekiti, Ojo, through the Head of the Kayode Ojo Team, Olukayode Oluyemo, alleged that several of his supporters had been unlawfully arrested, detained, and assaulted in a bid to weaken his growing political base.

According to him, incidents of attacks had been recorded in Igede-Ekiti, Otun-Ekiti, Ikere-Ekiti, and Emure-Ekiti.

He further claimed that intelligence reports indicated plans by political thugs allegedly loyal to the governor to disrupt his ward-to-ward campaign tour scheduled to begin on Thursday.

Ojo also cited a viral video in which threats were allegedly issued against him and his loyalists.

‘We have credible intelligence that some political thugs, believed to be loyal to Governor Oyebanji, are threatening to disrupt our campaign activities,’ Oluyemo said. ‘We urge security agencies to prevent any breakdown of law and order. Peaceful competition is the bedrock of democracy and must be protected.’

He further decried the alleged vandalisation of his campaign offices and properties belonging to his supporters, describing the incidents as ‘a direct assault on democratic rights and a violation of both the Nigerian and APC constitutions.’

Ojo demanded the immediate release of all detained supporters, an independent investigation into the alleged attacks, and sanctions against any public officials found guilty of abuse of power.

He warned that using state institutions to suppress political opponents could endanger peace and stability in the state.

However, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Information, Yinka Olatunbosun, dismissed the allegations as baseless and mischievous, accusing Ojo of seeking cheap publicity to cover up his political unpopularity.

‘No popular aspirant or loyal APC member will accuse the government of blocking their movement or attacking their supporters. It’s not only untrue but a figment of imagination – a lie from the pit of hell,’ Olatunbosun said.

He added that Ojo was merely attempting to drag the governor’s name into controversy to justify an anticipated poor performance in the forthcoming APC governorship primary. ‘Politics requires mutual respect, collaboration, and camaraderie – not frivolous claims or media drama,’ he stated.

SEC sets 2027 deadline for full transition to market valuation of fixed income assets

The director-general of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Dr. Emomotimi Agama, has said that Nigeria’s transition to market valuation of assets in the fixed income segment of the capital market is a critical step towards fair value reporting, transparency, and restoring investor confidence.

Speaking at the weekend, Dr. Agama explained that the reform aligns with the International Financial Reporting Standard (IFRS 9) and was shaped through extensive engagement with market participants to ensure a smooth transition.

According to a statement issued by the SEC on Sunday, the Director-General said timelines were carefully structured to reflect both market realities and industry feedback. ‘Timelines have been carefully considered, especially with the concerns being raised by market participants,’ he said.

‘For us at the SEC, it is important that while we try to introduce new rules and regulations, we also listen to the market and say, okay, how do we meet at the junction where we can all agree to move forward?’

He disclosed that the Commission has set October 2, 2025, as the deadline for the submission of implementation plans by capital market operators. These plans, he said, will help the SEC evaluate the preparedness and capacity of each institution ahead of the September 2027 target for full transition to IFRS 9.

‘Requesting implementation plans is not a bureaucratic exercise-it’s to gauge capacity, identify challenges, and meet operators at the point where we can all achieve compliance with one purpose and one goal,’ Agama stated.

The SEC boss explained that while equity funds in Nigeria are already reported at fair value, the reform will align the fixed income funds segment with global practice. ‘Equity funds are already reported at fair value. The aspect of the fund management that was not aligned with international best practice was in the fixed income funds space, and that is what this policy alignment covers,’ he noted.

He said the transition would ensure that Nigeria’s capital market operates in accordance with international standards, enabling investors to accurately assess asset values in real time.

‘Nigeria has come of age, and we must be seen to be doing things according to global standards. IFRS 9 requires market-to-market valuation of assets, and we cannot be left behind among the committee of nations,’ Agama said.

According to him, the reform will make Nigerian assets comparable on the global stage, improving investor assessment and competitiveness. ‘Our goal is to create a market that is internationally competitive,’ he stated. ‘Adopting IFRS 9 enables ease and compatibility among assets from different nations, clearly positioning Nigeria within the global market space.’

Responding to concerns that market valuation could introduce short-term volatility, Dr. Agama assured that the reform is designed to strengthen the system rather than destabilize it. ‘Some have expressed concerns about volatility, but our intention is not to disadvantage Nigerian investors,’ he said.

‘It is to expose them to global standards and transparency. Over time, as the market adjusts, these concerns will ease off and everyone will benefit from a more transparent and credible system.’

Beyond the IFRS 9 transition, Dr. Agama disclosed that the SEC is leading Africa in adopting the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) framework, which focuses on climate and sustainability disclosures. He said Nigeria was among the first countries to embrace the ISSB standards, while tailoring implementation to local realities.

‘We pride ourselves as performers-first among nations to accept and adopt the ISSB standards. But we are not oblivious to our contextual issues. We are taking a gradual approach so that our companies are not unduly burdened,’ he said.

He clarified that the Commission’s broader objective is to introduce standards that attract, not restrict, capital flows. ‘We will not implement standards that will shut companies out of capital. Instead, we are implementing those that will help bring in capital and promote sustainable growth,’ he stated.

Looking ahead, the SEC Director-General expressed optimism about the Nigerian capital market’s performance in the last quarter of the year, citing the government’s macroeconomic reforms and new legislative frameworks such as the Nigerian Investment and Industry Regulatory Act (NIIRA) 2025 and Investment and Securities Act (ISA) 2025 as key catalysts for stability and growth.

‘Markets do not operate in a vacuum; they thrive on stability. With the micro- and macro-economic stability being championed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the market is positioned for significant growth. The NIIRA 2025 is a game changer that provides the framework for sustainable expansion,’ he said.

Dr. Agama gave assurances of the SEC’s commitment to promoting transparency, investor confidence, and adherence to international best practices in financial reporting.

He concluded that the SEC’s ongoing reforms, particularly the IFRS 9 transition and the adoption of sustainability standards, form part of a broader agenda to globalize Nigeria’s capital market and ensure wealth creation through a resilient and transparent financial system.

‘We are on a path of progress and growth. The President’s reform agenda is already taking shape, ensuring that Nigeria’s capital market becomes a global reference point for transparency, regulation, and investor confidence,’ he said.

14 things to know about BBNAIJA Season 10 winner Imisi

Big Brother Naija housemate, Imisioluwa Ayanwale, popularly known as Imisi on Sunday, October 5, won the ’10/10′ edition of the reality TV show.

The 23-year-old winner beat other top nine finalists to emerge the winner on Sunday night.

Here are 14 things to know about BBnaija season 10 winner Imisi:

1. Imisi’s full name is Imisioluwa Opeyemi Ayanwale.

2. She was born on January 24, 2002, and is 23 years old.

3. She hails from Oyo State, Nigeria.

4. Her zodiac sign is Aquarius.

5. Imisi is a graduate of the Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH), dispelling rumors that she was a university dropout.

6. She is a fashion designer, actress, and a script writer.

7. She gained popularity for her vivacious and entertaining personality on the show, earning praise from fans.

8. She has a knack for narrating events in the house, a habit that some housemates found irritating but viewers enjoyed.

9. Imisi made it to the Top 9 finalists of the ’10/10′ season before the grand finale.

10. She went viral for her response to Biggie when told to speak English during a presentation, with the phrase ‘Speak English’ trending online.

11. Her house relationships were tumultuous, especially her interactions with Faith, which often turned confrontational.

12. She shared heartbreaking personal stories on the show, including the loss of a child during a past relationship.

13. Known for her bold honesty and assertive nature, Imisi isn’t afraid to speak her mind, a trait some people find irritating.

14. In a post-eviction interview, she stated that she has four distinct personalities, including ‘Opeyemi,’ ‘Ayinke,’ ‘Eniola’ and ‘Imisi’.

’Transport industry experiencing positive changes under Tinubu administration’

A global ride-hailing service, XpressRide, has applauded President Bola Tinubu for his bold leadership and reforms, particularly in the transport and mobility ecosystem.

Executive Director of the organisation, Ismaila Atus, in a statement on Sunday, said the transport industry has begun to experience positive changes under the Tinubu administration.

He cited the expansion of rail infrastructure and rehabilitation of federal highways to renewed policies that encourage private sector participation in mobility and logistics services.

‘At no time in recent years have we seen such deliberate efforts to modernise Nigeria’s transport system. The revival of critical rail corridors, renewed investments in interstate road networks, and policies that support tech-driven mobility solutions like ride-hailing are transforming the way people and goods move across the country,’ Atus said.

He noted that improved transportation networks are already boosting economic activities, connecting rural and urban communities, reducing travel times, and attracting new investments into logistics and passenger mobility services.

‘At the heart of any thriving economy is a reliable transport system. President Tinubu understands this and is making transportation the backbone of national growth,’ he added.

Atus further said Tinubu’s leadership has not only rekindled hope in the anti-corruption fight but has also set Nigeria on a new path of security, economic recovery, agricultural expansion, and social development.

According to him, the President’s policies are already yielding results across several sectors, restoring public confidence in governance and strengthening Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

‘President Tinubu’s leadership has gone beyond tackling corruption. We are witnessing deliberate, structured interventions in virtually every sector, from national security and food security to healthcare, education, and job creation. This is the kind of comprehensive governance Nigeria has long needed,’ Atus said.

He commended the administration’s efforts in strengthening national security through improved funding for the armed forces, enhanced intelligence coordination, and renewed collaboration with regional partners to combat terrorism, banditry, and other threats.

According to him, for the first time in over a decade, communities in the North-East, North-West, and North-Central are beginning to see sustainable peace, with farmers returning to their lands, schools reopening, and displaced persons regaining their lives.

Atus also hailed the government’s focus on agriculture, citing initiatives like the National Agricultural Development Fund, fertiliser subsidy programmes, and the Presidential Food Security Emergency Plan, which he said are stabilising food prices and boosting domestic production.

‘These interventions are laying the foundation for self-sufficiency and food security. The renewed focus on supporting smallholder farmers and commercial agriculture will transform rural economies and create millions of jobs,’ he stated.

He further praised reforms in the health sector, including increased budgetary allocations, the ongoing construction and renovation of primary healthcare centres, and expanded immunisation programmes, saying these efforts are improving healthcare access and outcomes, particularly for women and children in underserved areas.

Atus also commended social intervention policies such as the student loan scheme, youth empowerment initiatives, and the credit guarantee system for small businesses, describing them as weapons against poverty and inequality.

‘These programmes are not just economic tools; they are empowering Nigerians to live with dignity. They address the root causes of corruption and insecurity – unemployment, lack of opportunity, and systemic exclusion,’ he noted.

He called on Nigerians to support the administration’s reform agenda and remain united in the pursuit of a better future for the country.

‘No government can achieve transformation alone. It requires collective effort from civil society to traditional leaders, from the media to the ordinary citizen. Together, we can build the Nigeria of our dreams,’ he added.