Chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has cautioned the PDP against making the mistake of 2023. At a media chat, Wike said that the party cannot afford to zone its 2027 presidential ticket to the north where the former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar is likely to continue to pursue his Presidential ambition. Wike stressed that PDP needs to come out openly and declare that its presidential candidate would come out from the south. Wike, who is serving as a minister in the government of All Progressives Congress (APC) warned that if his party, PDP plays the same game it played in 2023, “it will backfire. “This smartness won’t help us. Let’s come out now and let everybody know where we are heading. We can’t send the presidency to the north. I told them. Selfishness can kill a system. “For example, if Mr president (Bola Tinubu) runs and wins in 2027, by 2031 APC will send their presidential ticket to the north. “PDP will do what then? We will come back then and say since APC is sending it to the north, let’s give the north our presidential ticket: What kind of smartness is that?” In May 2024, Atiku had said that he would continue to vie for the number one office in the land as long as he is alive and healthy. Justifying the number of times he had contested without making headway, Atiku said that even the former President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln contested seven times before his eventual victory.
Over eight thousand Nigerian muslims have already been flown to Saudi Arabia for this year’s pilgrimage. The flight operation began on Thursday, May 8 from Owerri, the Imo State capital. The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), which is overseeing the conduct of the entire Hajj operations, in a statement today, May 12, confirmed that there has been what it called “remarkable progress” in the ongoing airlift of Nigerian pilgrims for the 2025 Hajj. The statement, by the spokesperson of the Commission, Hajiya Fatima Sanda Usara said that within three days of commencement, the Commission has successfully airlifted 19 percent of the total intending pilgrims. She said that this is an improvement from the 9 percent airlifted within the same period in 2024. According to Fatima Hajiya Sanda Usara, Air Peace has concluded the airlift of Kogi State pilgrims, transporting 559 out of the 564 scheduled. “Similarly, Max Air has completed the airlift of Oyo State pilgrims with a total of 1,083 pilgrims successfully conveyed to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Imo and Abia States have also completed their operations, with the exception of a few “no-show” pilgrims during the inaugural flight. “These will be accommodated in the mop-up flights later in the exercise. “For Nasarawa State with 944 pilgrims, UMZA Air is concluding its operations currently with the final flight already on the ground, preparing for takeoff. “Going forward, UMZA Air is scheduled to begin the airlift of Kaduna State pilgrims on 14th May and will operate back-to-back flights. “FlyNas will commence the airlift of Sokoto pilgrims by 13th May and, barring any changes, will begin operations for Abuja pilgrims on 16th May. Air Peace is slated to begin the transportation of Borno pilgrims on 18th May.” She quoted the NAHCON Chairman, Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman of commending the performance of the airlines, the State Pilgrims’ Boards and other stakeholders for their cooperation that facilitated the smooth and timely movement of pilgrims.
Group President of the Dangote Industries Limited (DIL), Aliko Dangote, has announced that he is commiting the sum of N15 billion to make his own university, Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology, Wudil (ADUSTECH), Kano State a world class. Dangote, who is also the Chairman of the Aliko Dangote Foundation (ADF), in his speech at the 5th convocation ceremony of the institution, said that the University is being repositioned to lead in the race for the production of cutting edge research and highly skilled manpower that meets the requirements of market demands, industries and real problem solvers in the Nigerian society. “It is in this vein that I wish to use this opportunity to announce the launch of the 5-year Development plan which I envision for this institution. “Over the next 5 years, we will commit the sum of N15 billion to the following projects: the design and construction of additional student hostels; the design and construction of a world class Engineering Lab; the design and construction of a world class multipurpose computer lab -open to all students of the institution which will also be equipped with 24-hour internet access to support academic research and the installation of a mini-solar plant to support access to power on campus. “We also undertake to design and construct a befitting Senate building that will house the administration of this institution. Finally, we will also reserve post-NYSC employment slots for the best performing graduates in Engineering and other related courses that form part of our areas of interest at the Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemical Plant and Dangote Cement Plants.”
Dangote, who was reappointed the Chancellor of the University, said that the funding for such an institution placed a significant burden on the government, which is why, through the Aliko Dangote Foundation, it is able to offset the University’s electricity bill to ease the strain on their finances. “Additionally, to support the infrastructural drive of the University, we built two blocks of Male and Female Hostels with 500 bed spaces each. “We also ensured the availability of electricity in a specialized University like ours for continuous teaching, learning and research, via the connection of the University to a 33KVA line, and provided a 2.5 MVA transformer and six (6) step-down transformers. This, I believe, has gone a long way in solving the energy needs of the University.” Dangote congratulated the vision of those who dreamt of the institution 25 years ago. “An institution that began with a student population of 88, today has a population of more than 21,877 students and this combined convocation has a total of about 18,000 graduates. This is indeed,ba milestone.” In his address, Governor Abba Kabiru Yusuf of Kano State commended Dangote for contributing financially and morally towards the development of the University, adding: “all of us will continue to remember you as a visionary and African illustrious industrialist.” The University’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Musa Tukur Yakasa said that 18,000 students were being celebrated during the convocation ceremony, having graduated from the university in the last ten years to date. A business mogul, Chief Arthur Eze, founder of Max Air and billionaire Alhaji Dahiru Barau Mangal, Senior Advocate Ahmad Adeniyi Raji, and oil magnate and founder of Amasco Oil, Al-Mustapha Ado bagged honorary doctorate degrees. The Vice Chancellor said that the University has recorded significant strides in its academic journey to greater heights, including program accreditation and a mathematical digital model designed by a university product, Mahmoud Mubarak, for measuring deforestation density.
The Commissioner for Information in Yobe State, Alhaji Abdullahi Bego, has lectured public information managers in the government of Governor Mai Mala Buni on how to effectively manage information on the Impactful governance of the governor. The Commissioner, who commended the governor for prioritizing capacity-building initiatives, stressed that such initiatives would go a long way to enhance service delivery in the state. Delivering a paper titled: “Public Information Management in a Democracy: Experience Sharing,” at a three-day capacity-building workshop for Focal Persons held in Kano, Abdulrahi Bego lauded the Governor for his commitment to fostering impactful governance. The Commissioner emphasized the pivotal role of information managers, tagged “Focal Persons,” saying that as public information managers within their respective sectors or agencies, their responsibilities extend beyond their immediate assignments. He reminded them that they serve as conduits for managing information processes and ensuring transparency to build trust between their agencies and the public. Drawing from his extensive experience as a government spokesperson for over a decade; serving under Governors Mamman B. Ali, Ibrahim Gaidam and Mai Mala Buni, Abdullahi Bego shared practical insights into the challenges and best practices of public information management. “Focal Persons, by the nature of their roles, are custodians of public information. Regardless of the sector or agency they are assigned to, their ability to effectively manage information flow, especially in the digital era, can significantly influence public trust and service outcomes.” He cautioned Focal Persons on the responsible use of social media, urging them to exercise discretion and professionalism in their engagements. According to the Commissioner, their actions in the digital space should align with the values of transparency, accountability, and service excellence that Governor Buni’s administration embodies. Abdullahi Bego expressed optimism that the knowledge gained from the workshop and the support provided by the state government would empower the Focal Persons to deliver tangible benefits to the people of Yobe State. Governor Mai Mala Buni, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Baba Malam Wali, had declared both the opening and closing ceremonies of the workshop. The Governor reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to providing the necessary support and resources for effective governance and sustainable development across the state. The workshop, themed: “Towards Qualitative and Impactful Service Delivery for Sustainable Development,” was a platform for participants to acquire essential skills and resources, with each Focal Person receiving laptops and other training materials. The program concluded with a comprehensive framework for implementing and monitoring service delivery tailored to the needs of Yobe State.
The Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodinma has described his state as a home of shared values of faith and unity. According to him “Imo has long stood as a place of religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence.” Governor Uzodinma, who spoke today, May 9, at the flag off of the airlift of intending Muslim pilgrims, first ever, from the state airport to Saudi Arabia for this year’s Hajj, said that the maiden flight showcases “our identity as a state that embraces diversity.” He said that it is a thing of pride for the people of the state to witness the beginning of the airlift of 315 pilgrims from Imo, Abia and Bayelsa States. “This marks the first international flight from Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport, and the official commencement of this year’s Hajj operations nationwide.” He said that very soon, Christian pilgrims too would depart for the Holy Land from the same airport. Uzodinma stressed that the development showed “our shared values of faith and unity. “This flag-off also opens a new economic window for our state. With improved infrastructure and rising investor confidence, Imo is becoming a viable destination for business, logistics, and tourism. “We are in discussions with commercial airlines to include Imo in their international flight networks. “Opening Imo to the world marks a major step in our economic agenda. Other pillars of that vision are advancing with equal focus. “The dredging of Oguta Lake to the Atlantic is underway. We are expanding energy access and leveraging our gas reserve, the largest in the country. “Gradually and deliberately, we are laying the foundations for inclusive and sustainable growth.”
Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Professor Saleh Usman has advised intending pilgrims from Nigeria to the Holy to make sure they drink a lot of water while performing the Hajj to avoid the effects of extreme heat. The chairman who spoke today, May 9, in Owerri, capital of Imo state, at official flag-off of the inaugural flight for Hajj 2025, said that due to expected hot weather, they should drink a lot of water and juice to remain healthy. He reminded them that pilgrimage is one of the most important journeys of their lives “as Duyuful Rahman- Guests of Allah The Merciful. “Represent Nigeria well. Obey your officials. Follow the rules of the Kingdom and those of your country. Keep yourself away from harm whether natural or man-made by obeying guidelines.” Professor Usman Saleh said that the Commission had made adequate arrangement for the welfare and wellbeing of the Nigerian Pilgrims in the Holy land. He called on them to, above all, keep their intentions pure “and your hearts open for Allah’s guidance.” NAHCON boss described the event as the first ever Hajj inaugural flight to take off from the Eastern part of the country.
“Governor Uzodimma’s readiness to host this inaugural flight that will convey 315 pilgrims from Abia, Bayelsa and Imo is exceptional and heartwarming. It shows the level of religious harmony the Governor is promoting in Nigeria.” “Today marks the beginning of a blessed journey for thousands of Nigerian Muslims. It is not just a journey to the holy land of Makkah, but a spiritual journey that carries deep meaning in the lives of the pilgrims. “We have made adequate arrangements for reception of our pilgrims in Madinah and Jeddah Airports. Our target is to complete the entire airlift operation within two weeks, In Shaa Allah. “Since assuming office just eight months ago as Chairman of NAHCON, our team has worked day and night to make Hajj more affordable and more comfortable for Nigerian pilgrims. By the mercy of Allah and with support from government and stakeholders, we succeeded in stabilising the cost of Hajj significantly— this is no small achievement, especially in the face of rising global inflation and currency challenges. “We are proud to say that for the first time in the history of Nigerian Hajj operations, we secured Tent A Plus for our VIP pilgrims—a scarce accommodation facility near the Jamarat area in Mina. This upgrade is a major milestone that reflects our commitment to improving pilgrims’ welfare and dignity. “In our spirit of brotherhood and cooperation, NAHCON provided crucial financial assistance to Tour Operators that allowed them to secure their camp bookings in time. We also made a special sacrifice by allowing Private Tour Operators to use the remaining slots in Masha’ir from the 52,000 reservations we made under the State Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards. Through this arrangement, the Tour Operators that have exhausted their allocation have continued to successfully register additional pilgrims. “Esteemed listeners, knowing the tough weather conditions expected this year in Saudi Arabia, we went further to engage more officials and staff for offshore duties compared to the previous year. This was done to ensure better care for our pilgrims and out of deep concern for the wellbeing of our staff. This will enable a shift-based working system so no staff and other officials would be overworked or risk being affected by heatstroke or health complications due to long time exposure to the extreme heat. “As we move forward, we continue to seek the blessings of Almighty Allah and the support of all stakeholders to deliver a smooth and successful Hajj operation.
“At this point, I wish to express deep appreciation to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and the Vice President, His Excellency Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON, for their endless support and fatherly guidance to the Hajj Commission. Their devotion to the welfare of Nigerian pilgrims led to their timely intervention in the issue of BTA in form of credit card for the 2025 Hajj pilgrims. Their leadership continues to inspire us to serve our pilgrims with dedication aiming for excellence. The inaugural flight was flagged off by Vice President, Kashim Shettima, and in attendance were the Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodinma, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs, Senator Abubakar Sani Bello; the Chairman of the House Committee on Hajj Affairs, Honourable Jafaru Muhammad Alli, the Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the National Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar; NAHCON Commissioners and Board Members as well as Chairman for Forum of States Pilgrims Welfare Boards/Agencies/Coordinator.
“There is no competition between us; we are not here to compete with NNPC Ltd. NNPC is part and parcel of our business and we are also part of NNPC. This is an era of co-operation between the two organizations.” These were the words of the President and Chief Executive Officer of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote when he formally visited the new Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Ltd., Bashir Bayo Ojulari, at the NNPC Towers yesterday, May 8. Dangote, who led top management staff of the Group on the courtesy visit, stressed the need for the NNPCL and Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals (DPRP) to deepen collaboration aimed at ensuring Nigeria’s energy security and advancing shared prosperity for Nigerians. While congratulating the Group CEO and the Senior Management team of the NNPCL on their “well-deserved appointments,” Dangote acknowledged the enormity of the responsibility ahead. He noted that the Group CEO shoulders what he described as “a monumental task,” and expressed confidence that, with the capable hands at his disposal in NNPCL, the task is surmountable. Responding, the Group CEO, Bashir Bayo Ojulari assured Dangote of a mutually beneficial partnership anchored on healthy competition and productive collaboration. Ojulari highlighted the exceptional caliber of talent he met in NNPC Ltd., describing the workforce as a dedicated, highly skilled and hardworking professionals who are consistently keen on delivering value for Nigeria. He expressed the readiness of the NNPCL to build a legacy of national prosperity through innovation and shared purpose. Ojulari added that NNPCL will sustain its collaboration with the Dangote Group especially where there is commercial advantage for Nigeria. Both executives expressed their commitment to standing as the relationship managers for their respective organisations through sustained productive collaboration and healthy competition, thereby envisioning limitless opportunities for both organizations.
“Maybe my friend and your governor, Charles Soludo, should find me a plot of land for my retirement home after service.” President Bola Tinubu dropped this hint at a reception to end his first State visit to Anambra State yesterday, May 8. The President said that many of his friends are from Anambra state, “and I have seen many of them today. “Going forward, we are not just friends: I am now a bona fide son of the soil—one of you, your own son!” Tinubu noted that Anambra state has huge potential and that with Governors Soludo in charge, “we can all work together to fast-track the vision.” He commended the Government of Anambra State for its proactive efforts in improving security. He gave assurance that the Federal Government would continue to partner with the State and the Southeast to secure the people and their future. “I have noted the state’s various challenges and your request for assistance and partnership. We will continue to partner with your state to deliver shared prosperity to Ndi Anambra and all Nigerians.” President Tinubu contended that the nation’s state is growing stronger by the day under the Renewed Hope Agenda. “We met near-insolvent public finance, a decades-old monster of unsustainable multiple subsidies, a chaotic and debilitating forex regime, etc. “Like we tamed the Atlantic in Lagos, many of these monsters have been tackled: petroleum and forex subsidies have been tamed; macroeconomic stability has returned within predictable bounds; tax reforms are on the way, etc. These reforms are difficult, yes, but inevitable. Everyone had long recognised their imperatives. “Courage and our collective action were required to confront them to lay a strong foundation for a more stable, prosperous and inclusive economy. “Already, we are seeing renewed investor confidence, expanding opportunities, and targeted support for small businesses, especially in the tech and manufacturing sectors where Anambra is already excelling. “Agriculture is receiving massive attention, and the results are beginning to show.”
The Chairman of the Federal Capital Territory Civil Service Commission, Emeka Ezeh, has formally apologized to the civil servants in the services of the FCT Administration for withholding their April salaries. About 230 civil servants, including those in senior and managerial cadres were affected and tagged: ABSCONDMENT. According to Ezeh, the salaries were withheld due to a human error encountered during an effort to sanitise the payroll system. Ezeh spoke to the workers who staged a peaceful protest at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja. The protest was done by members of the FCTA Joint Union Action Committee, led by its president, Rifkatu Lortyer. The chairman said that the measures were part of efforts to identify and eliminate ghost workers, but inadvertently led to the exclusion of legitimate personnel. “We were trying to clean up the payroll and in the process, some genuine staff were mistakenly affected. I sincerely apologise for the inconvenience. The affected salaries will be released between now and Friday.” On the delayed promotions, the chairman assured staff that the commission is in the final stages of concluding the process and that the deserving promotions would soon be implemented. The protesters had earlier demanded immediate explanations and resolution of the crisis caused by the sudden stoppage of their salaries. Brandishing placards, they said: “we are not ghosts. We work every day. Why should our salaries be stopped without warning?” They demanded the release of overdue promotions, saying that staff had been denied advancement for over two years despite meeting eligibility requirements.
The new pope has been revealed as Robert Prevost of the US, the first American pontiff in history. He will be known as Pope Leo XIV. This comes after white smoke billowed above the Sistine Chapel, the signal that cardinals had selected a new pontiff on the second day of the conclave. The new pope, 69, from Chicago, Illinois, is a leader with global experience. He spent much of his career as a missionary in South America and served as bishop in Peru. He most recently led a powerful Vatican office for bishop appointments. He will soon step onto the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica as the new leader of the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics. There were 133 voting cardinals, who had all been sequestered inside the Vatican during the conclave. Any one of them needed two-thirds of the vote to become the next pope. Take a look at how the voting process works.
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The Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodinma has described his state as a home of shared values of faith and unity.
“At this point, I wish to express deep appreciation to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and the Vice President, His Excellency Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON, for their endless support and fatherly guidance to the Hajj Commission. Their devotion to the welfare of Nigerian pilgrims led to their timely intervention in the issue of BTA in form of credit card for the 2025 Hajj pilgrims. Their leadership continues to inspire us to serve our pilgrims with dedication aiming for excellence.
