President Tinubu and Ndigbo

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s one-day state visit to Imo State on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, was warmly received by the people of Imo State and the Southeast region. The visit provided an opportunity for open dialogue with Igbo leaders of thought at the 6,000-capacity Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu International Conference Center, which the President commissioned after inaugurating projects executed by Governor Hope Uzodinma’s administration in Imo State. Among these projects were the Assumpta Cathedral Twin Flyover and the Owerri-Mbaise-Umuahia Interststate road.

The master of ceremony, comedian, and Eze-elect, Chief Okey Bakassi, set the tone of the event while welcoming the President to Imo State. ‘Ndigbo are the cement that holds the Nigerian nation together through their industrial and economic activities all over the country,’ he said. He continued with a common joke that any town one visits and does not find an Igbo person is considered uninhabitable.

The joke was met with thunderous applause from the guests in the hall. Such jokes serve as important reminders, especially in today’s climate where it appears Ndigbo are under threat. Recently, their businesses and assets have come under attack, as seen in the demolitions at Trade Fair Market in Lagos, shops at Mandilas on Lagos Island, and ongoing demolitions of estates in parts of Lekki and other areas in Lagos.

When he took the podium to welcome the President and guests, and to speak about his book: A Decade of Impactful Progressive Governance in Nigeria, host Governor Senator Hope Uzodinma acknowledged that ‘reforms are hard, painful, and sometimes misunderstood. They are also necessary and the only path to long-term prosperity.’

He praised President Tinubu for his visionary and determined leadership, stating, ‘None of the achievements and developments in his book happened in a vacuum. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has led with clarity, making brave decisions that others might avoid, and allowing states to flourish. The reforms he has championed are not easy, but they are already producing results that Nigerians can feel. For this, I extend my deepest gratitude-on behalf of myself and millions who now see hope where there was only despair.’ He added that Ndi Imo have resolved to support President Tinubu for a second term in 2027 because of the ‘transformative impact of his government on the lives of Imo people.’

In his remarks, President Tinubu expressed his love for Ndigbo and reaffirmed that his administration is committed to fostering shared prosperity and social justice. ‘The Nigerian economy has turned the corner,’ he said.

Continuing, he said that the projects inaugurated by him and constructed by the government of Governor Hope Uzodinma are more than brick and mortar. ‘They are symbols of progress, resilience, and a shared commitment to unity. They represent our Renewed Hope Agenda in action, which is about connecting communities, shared prosperity, opening new frontiers of opportunity, and showing that no part of Nigeria will be left behind’.

President Tinubu said that the last decade was a time of change, and the coming decade will be one of renewal and stability. ‘Together, Nigeria will win’, he remarked.

He said that there is no religious persecution in Nigeria. ‘Our churches, mosques, and the Nigerian people of all walks of life, will keep standing side by side, not as rivals but as pillars of the unity that binds us. Outsiders must never define us; we will stand together, protect every citizen, and prove that our diversity is not our weakness, it is our greatest strength’.

Concluding, President Tinubu reeled out the achievements of his two-year administration; ‘With steady reforms, our economy is turning the corner: growth at 4.23% in Q2, inflation at its lowest in three years, external reserves at $42bn, and exports surging. These are not abstract numbers. they show Nigerians are producing, competing, and building a nation of pride and purpose’. ‘Nke anyi ga-eme, ga-adi mma. What we do together will endure in goodness’, he thundered.

Many expect that President Tinubu and his government will address some concerns raised by attendees, including perceptions of neglect of the Southeast in political appointments and infrastructural development. The unsettled Mazi Nnamdi Kanu issue continues to trouble Ndigbo, and the ongoing demolitions of property owned by Ndigbo in Lagos demand urgent presidential intervention.

President Tinubu understands the pain of being denied equal opportunities and social justice. He fought against military oppression during the NADECO days, which led to his exile. As Lagos State Governor, he faced federal persecution when President Olusegun Obasanjo withheld federal funds meant for Lagos. Even before the 2023 elections, he battled internal party forces trying to block his emergence as the APC candidate.

I believe President Tinubu should take decisive steps to address these concerns, which would help calm nerves and reassure Ndigbo of his commitment as the father of the nation. He has shown love for the Igbo nation in the past. For example, during the Igu-Aro festival in Enugwu-Ukwu, under the reign of Igwe Osita Agwuna, President Tinubu, then Lagos State Governor, was among the guests at Obu Ofor Nri.

He explained to journalists that he chose to honour the invitation from Ndi Enugwu-Ukwu over attending his cousin’s wedding because of his deep respect for Igbo culture and his longstanding relationship with Ndigbo. He facilitated the appointment of Ndigbo into his cabinet and in his successor Babatunde Fashola’s cabinet.

Ndigbo would like President Tinubu to fully accept Ndigbo as long-term partners in Nigeria’s development, recognizing their role as vital contributors to the nation’s growth.

Dr. Uche Nworah is a public affairs analyst and wrote in from Abuja.

Lagos honours Jumia with top consumer-friendly business Award

Jumia, Africa’s leading e-commerce platform, has been recognised by the Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA) for its dedication to consumer rights and service excellence.

The company received the Consumer-Friendly Business Award at the maiden edition of the Consumer Service Week Awards 2025, held on Tuesday, September 30, at Adeyemi Bero Hall, Alausa, Ikeja.

The event, themed ‘Fairness, Transparency, and Trust: Strengthening Consumer Confidence in the Marketplace,’ celebrated organisations that promote ethical business practices and safeguard consumer confidence.

Jumia was honoured for its seamless shopping experience, transparent return and refund policies, and responsive customer support.

Marilyn Oruwari, COO of Jumia Nigeria, described the recognition as a validation of the company’s customer-first approach:

‘Everything begins with the customer, from building digital tools that make shopping safer to resolving issues swiftly and fairly. This award reflects our team’s passion for innovation and integrity.’

LASCOPA said the award was designed to encourage consumer-friendly practices while spotlighting companies that uphold fairness, trust, and accountability.

Over the years, Jumia has strengthened consumer protection through educational campaigns, efficient dispute resolution, and after-sales support-efforts that not only safeguard shoppers but also advance Nigeria’s digital economy.

Oruwari added that Jumia remains committed to leveraging technology and transparency to make everyday life easier for Nigerians.

Our core mandate is to protect the interests of Northerners -ACF

Celebrating 25th of its existence, the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has expressed readiness to remain resolute in the protection, projection and promotion of northern interests and values at all times.

The chairman, Board of Trustees (BoT), Alhaji Dalhatu Wazirin Dutse, stated this when he led other members of the ACF on a courtesy visit to Governor Nasir Idris, at the Government House, Birnin-Kebbi.

Dalhatu Dutse told the governor that the Forum was established in 2000, which will be celebrated between October 20 and 22 in Kaduna.

‘Primarily, the ACF was created to champion Northern interests in economic and social sectors, even politics, but we remain non partisan. We have a keen interest in politics, especially issues affecting the north.

‘The ACF has made tremendous progress in the fulfilment of its mandate. It has recorded successes in safeguarding the wellbeing of Northern Nigeria,’ he said.

Responding, Governor Idris, said that Kebbi will do everything possible to support ACF in whatever way necessary, adding that whenever they need assistance he should be contacted.

‘Most Northern governors are my good friends, we will synergise among ourselves to forge ahead with the development of the region,’ he assured.

Tinubu’s role in nation building applauded

The National Coordinator of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (PBAT) Door-To-Door Movement, Sunday Asuku, has praised President Tinubu for his efforts in promoting national unity and inspiring renewed hope in Nigeria’s future.

Speaking during a peace walk in Lagos organised to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day, Asuku emphasized the importance of sacrifice, vision, and leadership in shaping the nation’s path forward.

‘Sixty-five years ago, our founding fathers sowed the seeds of freedom. Today, their legacy lives in us,’ he said. ‘Nigeria is more than just a country – it is the heartbeat of Africa. Our strength lies in our diversity, our unity, and the resilience of our people.’

Asuku commended President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, describing it as a critical driver of national transformation and optimism for a better Nigeria. He also recognized the efforts of governors and local leaders across the country for pushing development at the grassroots level.

The PBAT Door-To-Door Movement, he said, is committed to taking the message of good governance, unity, and progress to every household, every street, and every community.

He added: ‘We believe the true strength of a nation is not only found in its leaders but in the will of its people to build, to endure, and to triumph. Today, we renew our faith in Nigeria – praying for peace, security, economic prosperity, and enduring unity.’

The event, which included youth groups and supporters, marked a symbolic reaffirmation of the collective will to build a Nigeria that stands tall among the nations of the world.

Court orders suspension of Police tinted glass permit enforcement

The Federal High Court in Warri, Delta State, has ordered the Nigeria Police Force and the Inspector-General of Police to suspend the enforcement of tinted glass permits for vehicle owners.

The court issued the interim order on Friday, directing the police and the IGP to maintain the status quo and respect judicial processes pending further proceedings in Suit No. FHC/WR/CS/103/2025. The suit was filed by lawyer John Aikpokpo-Martins challenging the legality of the tinted glass permit enforcement.

Senior Advocate Kunle Edun, SAN, who led the petitioner’s legal team, described the court’s directive as a major step in upholding the rule of law while the substantive issues are determined.

The tinted glass permit policy had reignited public debate after the Nigeria Police Force resumed issuing permits nationwide in April through the Police Specialised Services Automation Project. The scheme was previously suspended in 2022.

Motorists had raised concerns over harassment and possible extortion at checkpoints, arguing that demanding permits even for factory-fitted tinted windows was unfair. The IGP, Kayode Egbetokun, had initially set an August 12 deadline for compliance, later extended to October 2.

The Police defended the policy, citing the Motor Vehicles (Prohibition of Tinted Glass) Act of 1991 and national security concerns. Rights groups, however, called it unconstitutional and exploitative.

Prior to the court ruling, the Delta State Police had announced it would begin full enforcement of the tinted glass regulations from Thursday, October 2, 2025, promising operations would be conducted professionally, with respect for constitutional rights, and zero tolerance for abuse.

The Command also reminded drivers to carry valid vehicle documents, including driver’s license, insurance, and proof of ownership, and urged cooperation with officers during lawful stop-and-search procedures.

Leke Ariyo on Why Mentorship is the Missing Engine of Tech Innovation

In today’s fast-changing digital economy, the world needs not only software and cloud engineers but also mentors who can grow resilient teams and communities. Leke Ariyo, a Senior Site Reliability and Cloud Infrastructure Engineer with several years of experience, has worked across high-growth startups and enterprise systems. Beyond building fault-tolerant platforms, he has mentored over 100 aspiring engineers. Tribune sat down with him to explore why mentorship, as much as technology, will shape the future of digital talent globally.

Leke, when did you first realise mentorship would be central to your career?

Early on, I benefited from guidance that went beyond just process or tools, but mentors who showed me how to think about systems and leadership. When I became more established, I saw gaps in access, especially for underrepresented groups. That’s when I began giving back through bootcamps, BCS, Codementor, Utiva, and guiding over 100 learners worldwide.

The tech industry can be relentless. How does mentorship make it more sustainable?

Technology shifts constantly. Kubernetes today, something else tomorrow. What doesn’t change is people. Mentorship makes the journey less isolating. It builds resilience by giving engineers role models and problem-solving frameworks. In my teams, mentorship has directly improved retention and productivity, because people feel supported, not left behind. Also, it is hard for people to start up in tech because of factors like imposter syndrome, but good mentors keep you going.

What does your mentorship look like in practice?

It’s layered. I run structured sessions, from fundamentals of cloud engineering to advanced DevOps practices. I also mentor one-to-one, focusing on confidence, communication, and career mapping. A proud example was coaching a mentee from a non-technical background into landing their first SRE role. He now mentor others, and that ripple effect is the true impact.

Beyond mentoring, how do you contribute thought leadership in tech?

I have led system design initiatives, from cloud migrations to observability rollouts, that others now use as playbooks. I publish guides, speak at community events, been a judge at events and share insights on building platforms that meet SLOs, not just SLAs. For me, thought leadership is about making complex engineering ideas usable for others, both within the industry and beyond it.

What advice would you give to a young engineer in 2025?

Don’t chase tools, chase problems. A resilient career comes from understanding why things break, not just how to fix them. And remember, your growth accelerates when you help others grow. Mentorship is not just for mentees. It helps mentors solidify what they already know.

You talk a lot about resilience. What does resilience mean for engineers today?

Resilience is not just uptime on a dashboard. It is the ability to adapt, to keep learning, and to recover from failure without fear. For engineers, resilience comes from supportive teams and mentors who remind you that mistakes are lessons, not career-ending moments.

Can mentorship help close diversity gaps in technology?

Yes. Many people from underrepresented backgrounds never make it past the first hurdle, not because of lack of ability, but because of lack of guidance. When they see someone who has walked a similar path, it changes what they believe is possible. I have seen mentees gain confidence just by realising they are not alone in their challenges.

What role does mentorship play in leadership?

I believe leaders are remembered less for the systems they built and more for the people they raised. Mentorship trains you to listen, to coach, and to put others ahead of yourself. Those are the same skills that make great leaders.

How do you balance technical work with mentoring others?

I see them as connected. Teaching someone why a system failed sharpens my own understanding. Writing down processes for mentees often becomes documentation for the wider team. Mentorship and technical growth reinforce each other when you make them part of the same cycle.

What has been your most rewarding moment as a mentor?

It was seeing a former mentee stand on stage at a GDG event, sharing her journey and insights with others. I did not need any credit. Just knowing she had the confidence to do that was enough. That is when I knew the cycle was working.

If you could change one thing about how mentorship is viewed in the global tech community, what would it be?

I would want mentorship to be seen as core infrastructure, not a side project. Companies invest millions into tools and platforms, but far less into mentorship structures. Yet it is mentorship that builds the human resilience needed to handle the next wave of innovation.

Closing

For Leke Ariyo, innovation isn’t just measured in code or uptime, but in the people who grow stronger through mentorship. In a world obsessed with the next big technology, he argues that the quiet work of guidance may prove to be the global tech community’s strongest competitive edge.

2Baba reacts to reports of arrest in London

Nigerian musician Innocent Idibia, also known as 2Baba, has reacted to viral reports and claims of him being arrested in London.

The rumor was initially circulated by a controversial blogger who claimed that 2Baba had an altercation with his wife Natasha.

The blogger also claimed that 2Baba’s absence from his UK tour on Thursday was because he was detained on the grounds of domestic violence.

The singer, however, responded to the speculations, revealing that he had a medical emergency to attend to. 2Baba also thanked his fans who came out for the show with the promise of a regroup.

‘First of all, I want to say everyone that came out, I appreciate you. We had a medical emergency, it was tough. To the organizers and everyone that came out, we go regroup and make something beautiful happen. And please, if una no sabi something, make una no talk abeg. This allegedly, I don tire,’ he stated.

Ohanaeze calls for unconditional release of IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu

The Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, has called for the unconditional release of the incarcerated leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.

The call was made during the 2025 Igbo Day celebration held on Monday at the Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka, the Anambra State capital. The event was attended by Igbo-speaking people from Abia, Anambra, Benue, Delta, Edo, Ebonyi, Enugu, Imo and Rivers states.

Traditional rulers from the listed states also used the occasion to confer on Governor Chukwuma Soludo the title of Oku nyeru Ife (the light that rekindles light in Igboland).

The National President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Senator Azuta Mbata, represented by the Deputy President-General, Prince Okey Nwadinobi, explained that the release of Kanu was necessary, as no court of competent jurisdiction had found him guilty of any offence.

Mbata expressed confidence that freeing Kanu would bring lasting peace and stability to the region and urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to consider it a pact for the Independence Day celebration.

Speaking on the Igbo Day celebration, Mbata said it was designed to remember the Igbo who lost their lives during the civil war, as well as those who died in violent incidents across the country. He noted that the Igbo had already forgiven those who contributed to the killings but would not want such atrocities repeated.

He said:

‘We have also forgiven those who killed our people and ask them to forgive us too. We do not want a repeat of such killings in Nigeria or elsewhere. 29 September is set aside to remember our brothers and sisters brutally murdered on 29 September, 1966, and those killed across the country before and after the war.

‘We remain proud of our heroes past and look forward to new heroes. We are compelled to do the right thing at all times to one another. We call on everyone to be united. We do not want a desolate Igboland; we want to build Igboland as a destination for all.

‘We will stand up for each other to build a strong nation, a viable economy, and a united and progressive Igboland. We are not asking for special treatment but for equal rights, access and opportunities to live and make Nigeria proud.’

On his part, Governor Chukwuma Soludo, who was bestowed with the chieftaincy title of Oku nyeru Ife, appealed to President Tinubu to make the release of Kanu a top priority, saying it would speed up engagements for a better and more prosperous Nigeria.

He said:

‘We have seen the devastating effects of war, and it is crucial we prioritise peace and collaboration. I urge Ohanaeze Ndigbo to lead the charge in reviving and promoting our value system through moral transformation. I also reiterate my earlier call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Asiwaju of Nigeria, for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.’

While commending Ohanaeze for the honour, Soludo urged the body to regard the Igbo Day celebration as a time for sober reflection on the past and what the future holds.

‘Our future lies in having a prosperous homeland. We cannot be confined to one small geopolitical zone as the Igbo. We are very industrious people. The Igbo need Nigeria, and Nigeria needs the Igbo. The Igbo need Africa, and Africa needs the Igbo. The Igbo need the world, and the world needs the Igbo.

‘Therefore, we must hold on to the spirit of oneness and tolerance we were once known for. We are major stakeholders in the Nigerian project and must be eager to stand out and support the building of a liveable and prosperous homeland. We must not leave anyone behind.

‘The debate for Igbo liberation must not be about leaving Nigeria. The Igbo are not known for killing themselves or their guests. We need social and moral rebirth. We must stop celebrating wealth acquired through questionable means.’

Also speaking, the Anambra State President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Mazi Chukwuma Okpalaezekwu, commended Governor Soludo for always standing for the truth. He noted that the governor’s leadership style and developmental strides were the reason he was honoured on the occasion.

According to Okpalaezekwu, although Anambra State had long been described as ‘Home for All’ and ‘Light of the Nation’, it became a reality during Soludo’s tenure.

‘We have finally become the light of the nation under Governor Soludo. Through his leadership, Anambra State has witnessed significant progress in infrastructure, security, education and other sectors,’ he said.

Lagos trader Okonkwo Chikwado docked over alleged sex with teenage boy

A 28-year of Lagos trader, Okonkwo Chikwado, 28, has been arraigned before Ikeja Chief Magistrate’s Court for allegedly having unnatural sex with a teenage boy.

Chikwado who resides at 2, Asake St., Ishashi area, Lagos State, is standing trial for sexual assault.

The prosecutor, ASP Adegoke Ademigbuji told the court that the offence was allegedly committed on July 14, at the defendant’s residence.

Ademigbuji said that Chikwado called the victim, a 15-year-old boy, to his room on the pretext of sending him on an errand.

The prosecutor said that the defendant shut the door on the boy and allegedly sexually molested him, having anal sexual intercourse with him.

The offence according to the prosecutor contravened section 261 of th Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015. (NAN)

The Chief Magistrate, Mr L. A Owolabi, who did not take the defendant’s plea, ordered his remand in Kirikiri Correctional Centre pending legal advice from the Director of Public Prosecution.

Owolabi subsequently adjourned the matter until Oct. 22 for mention.

Police arrest officer, UNIPORT student over cult-related violence

The Rivers State Police Command has arrested a police officer and a University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) student over suspected cult-related violence, seizing firearms and other weapons during a signing-out ceremony for final-year students.

According to a statement on Friday by the command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, the suspects – Police Corporal Onwukwe Godswill, attached to Elimgbu Division, and Ifeanyi Israel, a 200-Level Biomedical Technology student – were allegedly preparing for a clash with rival cultists on campus on September 26.

The police said the suspects were taken into custody and searched, with weapons including pistols, ammunition, and axes recovered.

‘A subsequent search of the house of the suspected cult leader, Cpl Onwukwe, by operatives, resulted in the recovery of one locally made pistol and two machetes,’ Iringe-Koko added.

Both suspects and the recovered items remain in police custody as investigations continue to determine the full extent of their involvement and identify possible accomplices.

Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, reaffirmed the force’s commitment to maintaining peace in the state, warning that ‘there will be no hiding place for criminals’ and urging the public to report suspicious activities.

The arrest comes a week after the command detained a security guard, Godday, over the alleged abduction and defilement of a 14-year-old girl in the Mothercat area of Trans-Amadi, Port Harcourt.