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The leader of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Primate Elijah Ayodele, has warned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu about the movement of some opposition governors to the ruling party soon.

In a statement signed by his media aide, Osho Oluwatosin, Primate Ayodele warned Tinubu to be careful of some of these opposition governors who may join APC because not all of them will support him, as some will act as his enemies even within his party.

The cleric mentioned governors of Taraba, Zamfara, Enugu and Kano, explaining that while some have good intentions for him, some of them, including those that have already decamped, don’t have his best interest at heart.

‘About four opposition governors will decamp to the APC, including Taraba, Kano, Zamfara, and Enugu, but not all of them will work for the president. They have an agreement to seal Mr President’s second ambition and work fantastically for him, but not all of them will stick to the agreement.’

The prophet made it known that some of them are decamping to have the blessings of the president for their ambition.

‘Some will only move to receive the blessings of Mr President, so the issue of who becomes who will be a very serious matter.’

Primate Ayodele warned President Tinubu to personally review some of the decampees properly to identify those who are enemies. He also stated that some in the APC are not praying for the victory of the president.

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former governorship candidate in Kebbi State, Mallam Salihu Isa Nataro, has urged Nigerians to consider a potential presidential ticket pairing Africa’s richest man, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, with Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, as a pathway to restoring economic stability and driving industrial growth ahead of the 2027 elections.

Speaking in Abuja on Sunday, Nataro said a Dangote-Otti ticket would provide the kind of economic leadership needed to tackle unemployment, reduce poverty, and promote nationwide industrialisation.

According to him, both men have demonstrated competence in enterprise management and governance, which could help rebuild public confidence and offer sustainable solutions to Nigeria’s current economic challenges.

‘If Dangote can step down as chairman of all his conglomerates, as he has already done with two companies, Nigerians will gladly support him to contest alongside Otti. Together, they can industrialise Nigeria within a short period,’ Nataro said.

The APC stalwart, who is also a public sector reform advocate, criticised state governments for neglecting key development sectors such as vocational training, agriculture, and youth capacity building – areas he described as essential for job creation and social stability.

He said the growing unemployment and hunger among youths were fueling drug abuse and crime, adding that aggressive economic reforms were the only way to address rising frustration in the country.

‘Economic stimuli that industrialise the country will help reduce drug addiction among youths who are roaming the streets in search of what to steal,’ he said.

Nataro commended Governor Otti for what he called transparent and reform-focused governance in Abia State, describing his approach as aligned with global standards.

‘Governor Otti stands out among the current crop of state governors because of the way he handles critical aspects of development in his state,’ he said. ‘His decision to seek low-interest credit facilities from the United Arab Emirates shows foresight and accountability.’

He also expressed confidence that an Otti presidency would strengthen Nigeria’s anti-corruption institutions, including the ICPC, EFCC, and Code of Conduct Bureau, ensuring that those indicted for graft are not returned to government.

While acknowledging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ongoing efforts to stabilise the economy, Nataro said the scale of Nigeria’s challenges and what he termed ‘a lack of enthusiasm’ among some presidential appointees had slowed down progress.

He praised Dangote for his contributions to Africa’s industrial growth and urged political leaders to encourage him to seek higher office, describing him as ‘a tested technocrat capable of driving inclusive growth.’

Nataro also commented on the government’s revenue drive, supporting fair tax reforms but criticising what he described as ‘forceful revenue collection’ in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

‘Generating revenue should not be by force but with caution so as not to jeopardise the ease of doing business,’ he said. ‘People who have built wealth like Dangote and Otti would never embark on punitive measures that discourage investment.’

The APC chieftain reiterated his call for prudent governance, reduced public spending, and responsible borrowing. He also urged the federal government to cleanse its cabinet of ‘liars, looters, and deceivers’ to rebuild public trust.

‘Nigeria needs leaders with proven competence and compassion, not career politicians,’ Nataro said. ‘A Dangote-Otti ticket, if it ever happens, will represent a new dawn for Nigeria’s economy.’

The Lagos State Safety Commission (LSC) has sealed off several chemical factories and shops in the Ojota area of the state for violating safety and environmental regulations.

The Commission disclosed this in a statement made available to newsmen, noting that the enforcement exercise, carried out over the weekend and led by its Director-General, Mr. Lanre Mojola, followed contraventions of the Lagos State Safety Commission Law of 2011.

Mojola said the affected facilities were shut after operators failed to comply with agreed safety measures despite repeated warnings and the expiration of a grace period.

According to him, officials of the Commission had earlier inspected the factories and held a series of meetings with executives of the chemical dealers, during which a letter of undertaking was signed on May 9, 2025.

He disclosed that the affected operators had agreed to implement a range of safety measures, including conducting a comprehensive safety audit of the market; organising workshops on hazard identification and risk evaluation; providing serviced and accessible fire extinguishers in all shops; and maintaining an up-to-date inventory of chemicals, including expiry dates.

Others, he said, included ensuring full compliance with the use of personal protective equipment (PPE); installing clear safety signage, chemical labels, and Safety Data Sheets (SDS); and developing a disaster management and business continuity plan.

‘Despite the expiration of the ultimatum, the chemical dealers failed to act on the agreements reached with the Commission. This left the Commission with no option but to seal the facilities in order to safeguard lives and property,’ the LSC boss said.

The Director of Agricultural Biotechnology at the National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NBRDA), Dr. Rose Gidado, has called on Nigerian farmers to embrace biotechnology as a safe and effective means of increasing food production and enhancing national food security.

Speaking at a Sensitization Workshop on Biotechnology and Biosafety/Farmers Field Day held in Jagwada, Keffi, Nasarawa State, Dr. Gidado emphasized that biotechnology crops like BT Cowpea have proven their effectiveness and safety in both yield performance and environmental impact.

According to her, the workshop aimed to engage farmers who are yet to gain access to BT Cowpea seeds and to showcase the impressive results achieved by those already cultivating the variety.

‘We came here to interact with farmers who have not yet had access to BT Cowpea seeds and to showcase what is already on the ground. Our farmer here, Emmanuel, has been cultivating this variety since 2023 and has become an outgrower for a seed company. He’s doing excellently well,’ she said.

Dr. Gidado noted that the BT Cowpea variety, approved by the National Variety Release Committee in 2019, continues to perform effectively in the field, providing proof that the technology remains efficacious and resilient.

She explained that the genetically modified (GM) variety, developed to resist the destructive Maruca pod borer, has significantly reduced farmers’ dependence on chemical pesticides.

‘The technology is working. This variety matures early, is climate-smart, and reduces pesticide use to a minimum. That means fewer harmful residues in the grains,’ she said, adding that one of the farmers even exports his BT Cowpea to the United Kingdom, where it has passed all quality checks without rejection.

Dr. Gidado, who has been a leading voice for agricultural biotechnology in Nigeria, urged farmers not to be misled by misinformation or fearmongering about genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

‘Nigerian farmers, please don’t run away from this technology. Don’t listen to rumor mongers. GMOs are very safe. People claim GMOs destroy the environment, but look at this farm, it’s full of life. You can see weeds, groundnuts, sorghum, insects, even ants. Everything is thriving,’ she assured.

She described BT Cowpea as a ‘testimony of success’ for Nigerian science and innovation, noting that the NBRDA, in collaboration with the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF), has been part of the communication and outreach component of the project from inception.

‘We are proud to be part of this success story. We are contributing to Nigeria’s food security and giving farmers access to quality, climate-resilient seeds,’ she added.

One of the host farmers, Mr. Ogenomor Emmanuel, shared his remarkable experience cultivating BT Cowpea on his 7.7-hectare farm in Jagwada. He began with five hectares in 2023 and has since expanded due to the crop’s performance.

‘The crop is doing exceptionally well. For conventional cowpea, you apply pesticides seven to eight times, but for BT Cowpea, just once every 15 days is enough,’ he said.

Emmanuel noted that while the traditional cowpea yields only three to four bags per hectare, his BT Cowpea produces between 21 to 22 bags per hectare, marking a dramatic increase in productivity.

‘If you do the mathematics, you’ll understand how much difference that makes. The BT Cowpea has changed my finances completely,’ he explained.

He also highlighted a unique advantage of the improved variety – faster cooking time.

‘When cooked, it takes about 35 to 40 minutes to get done, unlike the local variety that takes up to three hours,’ he said.

Since October 2024, Emmanuel has been exporting BT Cowpea to buyers in the UK and the US, earning double what he would normally make in local markets. He attributed the high demand to the grain’s purity and cleanliness, even during the rainy season when most beans are prone to spoilage.

‘Some farmers said it’s impossible to have clean beans during the rainy season, but with proper farming techniques, it is possible. The BT Cowpea can even be planted two to three times yearly – that’s how resilient it is,’ Emmanuel said.

In his first year, he harvested 7.6 tons from five hectares, describing the experience as life-changing.

Another participant, Master Balat Ishaya, a farmer from Kaduna State, described the workshop as an eye-opener that could revolutionize agricultural productivity across Nigeria if scaled up.

‘This workshop is an eye opener. If such programs reach more villagers, it will replace the primitive way of farming. It will enhance productivity, and more productivity means development,’ he said.

Balat added that agricultural biotechnology should be promoted nationwide to help Nigeria achieve food sufficiency and economic growth.

‘When you have enough food to feed your people, it shows that the nation is growing,’ he said.

The NBRDA Sensitization Workshop forms part of ongoing national efforts to promote the safe adoption of biotechnology and biosafety practices, aimed at transforming agriculture through innovation, improving farmers’ livelihoods, and strengthening Nigeria’s food system.

The Niger State Government has entered into a multi-billion-dollar agreement with the Republic of Benin for the large-scale production of cotton, maize, and soybean.

In what is being described as a groundbreaking move to transform West Africa’s agricultural landscape, the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed in Cotonou, with Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago representing Niger State, while Jean Patrick Yekpe, CEO of Sonama AG Mech Ltd., signed on behalf of the Beninese government.

The initiative, titled the ‘Cotton Common Platform Project,’ aims to boost cotton production to 450,000 tonnes in the Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State by 2030. Benin Republic will provide technical expertise, drawing from its successful agricultural model to ensure high-yield cultivation.

In addition to cotton, the project will cover the production of maize and soybeans across an estimated 550,000 hectares of land, with a phased rollout beginning at 20,000 hectares and expanding to 450,000 hectares over the next five years.

Governor Bago described the agreement as ‘remarkable and unprecedented,’ expressing gratitude to the Beninese government for its collaboration and commending President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for empowering sub-national governments to engage directly with international investors.

He emphasized that the project is expected to create over one million jobs, promote mechanized farming, and establish a sustainable agricultural ecosystem through crop rotation and irrigation.

The partnership will also include the establishment of 55 technical centres to train agronomists, mechanics, and drivers. Benin Republic will leverage Niger State’s vast land resources to initiate joint agricultural research and enhance market systems.

Farmers are expected to benefit from subsidized quality seeds and fertilizers, soil conservation techniques, and modern irrigation schemes.

Jean Patrick Yekpe stated that the project’s objective is to unlock Niger State’s agricultural potential and strengthen trade between both countries.

Chairman of Niger Foods, Mr. Sammy Adigun, described the initiative as a nationally significant project that will reduce food importation and generate an estimated $739 million annually. He added that plans are underway to identify suitable locations for crop production and engage with host communities.

Meanwhile, Governor Bago was warmly received in Cotonou by Benin’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Olushegun Adjadi Bakari, and Minister of Agriculture, Gaston Dossouhoui, marking a new chapter in regional cooperation and agricultural development.

Kwara State Government has said it is no longer permissible to charge or collect Parents and Teachers’ Association (PTA) levies across public primary schools in the state.

The Kwara government, therefore, approved annual school grants for the schools to replace the PTA levies and serve as their running costs.

The Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Professor Shehu Raheem Adaramaja, disclosed in Ilorin, the state capital.

Professor Adaramaja was speaking at the bid opening for the 2024 (3rd and 4th quarters) UBEC/SUBEB intervention projects.

‘The Governor has approved the stoppage of the payment of PTA in all public primary schools in the state. From primary 1 to 6, no more payment of PTA in Kwara State,’ he said, announcing the immediate flag off of disbursement of grants for at least 1,717 public schools.

Adaramaja further announced the approval of the procurement of English and Maths textbooks by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, which he said, will be distributed free of charge to the pupils of primary 1 to 6 across the state.

Speaking on the bid opening, the Chairman said the intervention would cover critical projects, including the construction of a block of two classrooms with an office, construction of VIP toilets, remodeling and renovation of classrooms, drilling of solar powered borehole with tank stand, rehabilitation of digital literacy across the state, procurement of foundation literacy teaching and learning materials for primary one, fabrication and distribution of 2 seater pupils/students’ furniture, and safe schools initiative in some selected local governments, among others.

Commending the government for investing in school infrastructure, human capital development, and the welfare of teachers, Adaramaja disclosed that the Governor has equally approved the payment of 2025 counterpart funds for the UBEC/SUBEB intervention projects.

He then urged contractors, who will eventually get the jobs, to execute them in line with the specifications, warning that shoddy jobs will not be condoned.

Professor Adaramaja hailed the Executive Secretary of UBEC, Hajiya Aisha Garba, and other key stakeholders for contributing to the success of the programme.

Responding on behalf of the bidders, Alhaji Maroof Ahmed, who is the Secretary for the Indigenous Contractors Association, thanked the government for giving their members an opportunity to showcase their talents.

He pledged that their members will deliver quality services and will not let the government and the people of the state down.

Governor Umo Eno and key stakeholders across Akwa Ibom State have commended the Chairman of Itu Local Government Area, Hon. Ubong Wilson Nkutt, for what they described as a transformative, transparent, and accountable first year in office.

The commendations came at the weekend during a media and stakeholders’ briefing where Nkutt presented his one-year stewardship report, highlighting landmark projects and reforms implemented across the council.

Governor Eno, who had earlier commissioned the ultra-modern Itu Council Secretariat within his first 100 days in office, described the edifice as ‘as beautiful as Government House, Uyo,’ noting that it stands as a symbol of visionary and result-driven local governance.

‘What Hon. Nkutt has done in Itu is proof that good governance does not depend on the size of a budget but on sincerity of purpose. This is a model worth emulating by other council chairmen,’ the Governor had said.

He commended the ‘Itu Model’ as a practical demonstration of the state’s ARISE Agenda, blending infrastructure renewal, social welfare, and digital innovation.

Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Housing and Itu political leader, Rt. Hon. Henry Archibong, said Nkutt’s administration had restored public confidence in local governance.

‘Ubong Nkutt has brought a breath of fresh air to Itu. From modern offices to youth empowerment, from peace to digital governance, Itu now stands as a reference point for others,’ Archibong said.

Also, the Deputy Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Kufreabasi Edidem, described the chairman’s approach as a ‘masterclass in focus, transparency, and result-oriented leadership.’

‘Nkutt’s first year has set a benchmark for others to follow. He has redefined what it means to serve with purpose and accountability,’ Edidem added.

Traditional rulers, former council chairmen, and community stakeholders who attended the briefing at Mbak Atai commended the chairman’s achievements in infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture, security, youth empowerment, and sports.

Among Nkutt’s flagship projects is the 30-office Council Secretariat complex, featuring internal road networks, solar-powered lighting, a perimeter fence, and a renovated legislative building – all completed within his first year in office.

In the area of security, Nkutt established a Forward Operating Base (FOB) at Ikot Adakpan Beach, Oku Iboku, to strengthen military operations against riverine insecurity.

The facility, commissioned by Brigadier General N. E. Okoloagu, Commander of 2 Brigade, Nigerian Army, has been credited with enhancing peace and safety in the area.

His administration also prioritised human capacity development, empowering farmers, restoring clean water to health centres, sponsoring medical interventions, supporting students with learning materials, and launching a digital platform that issues QR-coded Certificates of Origin – the first of its kind at the local government level.

Under his leadership, Itu emerged overall champions at the 2025 Akwa Ibom State Sports Festival, winning 106 medals, including 70 gold – the council’s best performance in history.

The Paramount Ruler of Itu, HRH Ntenyin Edet Inyang, captured the general sentiment, saying, ‘He has shown us that local government can work. We have seen the difference – not promises but projects.’

For Governor Umo Eno and stakeholders in Itu, Nkutt’s first year in office stands as clear evidence that with sincerity, focus, and innovation, grassroots governance can thrive and mirror the excellence of state administration.

In a goodwill message to mark the 2025 World Teachers’ Day, themed ‘Recasting Teaching as a Collaborative Profession,’ the Governor stated that the celebration provides an opportunity to reflect on the importance of shared purpose and innovation in transforming education for a better future.

‘The theme of this year’s celebration reminds us that education thrives when teachers, policymakers, parents and communities work together,’ Inuwa Yahaya stated.

He described teachers as not only transmitters of knowledge but partners in shaping the minds, values, and aspirations of young people.

The Governor emphasized that effective teaching requires more than individual effort, but demands collaboration among all stakeholders in the education ecosystem.

‘When teachers’ voices are heard, when their experiences inform our policies and when they are empowered to innovate together, education becomes truly transformative,’ he said.

Inuwa Yahaya reaffirmed that his administration has continued to invest in programmes that reflect this collaborative spirit.

These include capacity-building programmes to enhance skills, improvements in school infrastructure, teacher recruitment to strengthen the workforce, and regular engagement with education stakeholders to ensure participatory decision-making.

According to him, ‘Our administration believes that the classroom is where the future of our state begins. That is why we continue to support teachers with the tools, training and motivation they need to succeed. We understand that when teachers are empowered, learners thrive, and societies progress.’

He noted that Gombe State’s education reforms-from revitalizing schools to providing modern teaching aids-are guided by the principle that education is a shared responsibility; one that must unite government, teachers, parents, and communities.

While commending teachers for their commitment and resilience, the Governor urged continued cooperation among all education partners to sustain the gains achieved in the sector.

‘On this special day, I extend my heartfelt appreciation to the leadership of NUT and all teachers in Gombe State for their patience, passion and commitment. I urge us to continue to work hand in hand to build an education system where synergy, innovation, and excellence define the future of learning. In that way, we can recast teaching into the respected and inspiring profession it is meant to be,’ as contained in a statement by Ismaila Uba Misilli, Director-General (Press Affairs), Government House, Gombe.