The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, is scheduled to chair the public presentation of a Book, titled: Nigeria Media Renaissance: GOCOP Perspective on Online Publishing,” published by Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP).
The public presentation, scheduled for June 17, 2025 at the Continental Hotel, Abuja, would be attended by eminent personalities from all walks of life, including government officials, captains of industry, media practitioners and other professionals, representatives of international organisations, directors of non-governmental organisations. President of GOCOP, Maureen Chigbo, in a statement, said that the minister has over three decades of experience in broadcasting, newspapering, public relations and advertising. The statement gave a brief rundown of Alhaji Idris, who was sworn in as Minister of Information and National Orientation on August 21, 2023, following his appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. His academic background includes degrees in English Studies from Uthman Danfodio University, Sokoto, and Bayero University, Kano. As an entrepreneur, he established notable media outlets such as Blueprint, WE FM Radio station and Rapid Television in Abuja. He is a prominent figure in professional associations such as National Institute of Public Relations, African Public Relations Association, Public Relations Consultants Association of Nigeria and Newspaper Proprietors Association of Nigeria. As the founder of Bifocal Communications, a leading public relations and communications consultancy, Alhaji Idris has served both local and transnational corporations. Beyond his professional endeavours, Idris is committed to social responsibility through the Mohammed Idris Malagi (MIM) Foundation, which has positively impacted many lives. As a reward for his contributions to the development of his immediate environment and beyond, The Etsu Nupe conferred “Kaakaki Nupe” on him. GOCOP president said that the proceeds of the book would be used to fund the N2.3 billion GOCOP MEDIA CENTRE, a multi-purpose resource centre comprising a secretariat, a 21st Century library and event halls, among others. She said that the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP) was established to promote professionalism in online publishing, ensuring its members uphold the fundamental principles of journalism. Comprising seasoned editors and senior journalists with distinguished career in print and electronic media, GOCOP’s membership has traversed the online publishing, recognizing its pivotal role in shaping the future of journalism globally. “With 120 corporate publishers as members, GOCOP continues to uphold the highest standards of online journalism.”
Over 1.5 million Muslims from different parts of the world are today, June 5 (9th Zulhijjah) converging on Arafat plain, a wide expanse of Holy land in Saudi Arabia, for the purpose of glorifying Allah. The distance between Makkah where the pilgrims left yesterday to Mina and subsequently to Arafat today is about six kilometers. And the distance between Arafat and Mina where the pilgrims will return tomorrow, Friday, June 6, via Muzdalifa, to stone devil, is about 15 kilometers. All the guests of Allah, as they are called: rich and poor, black and white, tall and short, young and old, strong and weak wear only one form of dress: white cotton material tied around the waists and another white sling across the shoulders. They are currently chorusing only one glorification song thus: Labbayka Allahumma Labbayk, Labbayka laa shareeka laka labbayk, Innal-hamda, wan-ni‘mata, laka wal-mulk, Laa shareeka lak, meaning in English: “Here I am, O Allah, here I am. Here I am, You have no partner, here I am. Verily, all praise, grace and sovereignty belong to You. You have no partner.” Being present at Arafat is a call for submission, devotion and readiness to serve Allah. It affirms monotheism and spiritual tone for the pilgrimage as well as reflecting the unity of all pilgrims and indeed, humanity. The scenario is so serene and moving in spiritual mode that one is carried away in it’s purity. The humming of the song in unison has the connotation of nearness to the Creator, as it is believed that Arafat Day is a day Allah descends to the lowest heaven, boasting to His angels about His servants standing on Arafat seeking His mercy. According to Sahih Muslim: “There is no day on which Allah frees more people from the fire than the Day of Arafah.” The white garments worn by over 1.5 million Muslims from all over the world symbolize the equality of all humans before God. The scene at Arafat, with pilgrims standing and praying, mirrors the Day of Judgment (the day of Resurrection). It draws the attention of Muslims to the reality of life after death, the judgment of Allah and make them to reflect on their deeds and seek forgiveness. Indeed, Arafat Day reflects a rich theological and metaphorical reflection that connects Islamic eschatology (doctrine of the afterlife) with the physical and spiritual experience of standing on the plain of Arafat. The Scene of Arafat is seen much as a preview of Resurrection (Yawum al-Qiyamah). The symbolism of Pilgrims gathering on the Plain of Arafat, all dressed in simple white garments (ihram), devoid of markers of wealth, status or nationality powerfully echoes Islamic descriptions of the day of Resurrection, when all of humanity will be resurrected in similar simplicity for judgment. The white garments symbolize death shrouds, reminding pilgrims of the equality of all humans before God. And just as humanity will be gathered together on the Day of Judgment, so too do millions gather on Arafat. Pilgrims engage in intense prayer, introspection and repentance, mimicking the soul’s yearning for mercy and salvation in the Hereafter. Resurrection in Islam is not just physical but also spiritual and Arafat Day symbolizes a spiritual resurrection. It is said in Hadith that “Hajj is Arafah,” highlighting the day’s central role in a pilgrim’s transformation. Sins are forgiven for those who sincerely repent, akin to a soul being granted a new beginning, echoing the purity of the resurrected soul returning to God. The experience often marks a turning point in a believer’s life, much like the final resurrection marks a turning point in the soul’s eternal journey. Just as God will judge with mercy on the Last Day, He opens the gates of forgiveness wide on Arafat. While the Day of Resurrection is a cosmic, eternal event, Arafat is a temporal, earthly moment. Yet it allows believers to prepare for that day through deep repentance. In mimicking resurrection, Arafat Day becomes a rehearsal for the Hereafter—a day when believers momentarily step out of worldly distractions and face their Lord in humility and sincerity. It is a time of death to the ego, rebirth of the spirit and anticipation of the ultimate meeting with God, serving as a vivid reminder of life’s transience and the soul’s eternal journey. Arafat Day is therefore, one of the most spiritually significant days in the Islamic calendar. It holds profound historical and religious importance for Muslims around the world, particularly those performing pilgrimage. It should be understood that on the 9th day of Dhul-Hijjah, in the year 10 AH (632 CE), Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) delivered his Farewell Sermon on the Plain of Arafat. The Prophet’s sermon emphasized universal human rights, equality, justice and the core tenets of Islam. It was a momentous occasion marking the near completion of the Prophet’s mission. During Arafat Day, the following verse was revealed: “This day I have perfected for you your religion and completed My favor upon you and have approved for you Islam as your religion.” Qur’an Surah Al-Ma’idah, 5:3). This was a divine declaration of the completion of Islam as a way of life. The standing at Mount Arafat (Wuquf) is the most essential pillar of Hajj. The Prophet was reported by Abu Dawood, RA, to have said: “Hajj is Arafah,” confirming the fact that any Muslim who does not appear or stand at Arafat has not really performed hajj and cannot be called Alhaji (guest of Allah). Arafat is so significant and important that those who are not in the Holy land to perform Hajj, are strongly encouraged to observe fasting on that (Arafat) day. The Prophet was reported by Sahih Buhari, to have said: “It (fasting on Arafat Day) expiates the sins of the fasting Muslim for the previous year and the sins for the next year.” Arafat Day has been tagged as a unique opportunity for Muslims to engage in spiritual renewal and purification. Tirmizi reported the Prophet as having said: “The best supplication is the supplication on the day of Arafah,” for, it is a time when prayers and supplications are readily accepted, and sincere repentance brings immense reward. Arafat Day is a time to acknowledge the blessings of faith and the guidance of Allah, and to renew one’s commitment to live righteously.
An energy commodity trader and exchange operator JEX Market has been issued licenses to establish and operate a Gas Clearing House and Settlement Authorisation Platform In Nigeria, first of its kind in Africa. The licenses came as part of the most strategic collaborations between government agencies, the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) in conjunction with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Information reaching us at Greenbarge Reporters online newspaper said that the licenses would make JEX Market to be a commodity exchange platform where natural gas and its derivatives would be traded in Nigeria. The issuance of the licences is said to be one of the game-changing outcomes of the Petroleum Industry Act, 2021 and product of the strategic leadership acumen of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Observers said that the move is a testimony to the commitment and capacity of the company. The granting of licenses was said to have followed a rigorous and extensive due process, leading to the issuance of a Gas Trading Licence and Gas Clearing House and Settlement Authorisation by the NMDPRA and an Approval for Registration as Licenced Commodity Exchange by the SEC. It is learnt that the platform would soon become operational as first of its kind on the African continent, and would place Nigeria in its rightful place as the hub for energy transactions in the region. The platform is expected to allow for more efficient, transparent and swift trading of natural gas commodities in Nigeria and the African region, and accelerate the growth of the Nigerian energy sector towards a mature market. It is gathered that as the market matures, it would encourage more investment into the sector, create more employment opportunities and wealth creation, increase government revenue and allow easier auditing of transactions by relevant agencies and parties. It is further gathered that the licences are coming at an opportune time marking the two years of the progressive leadership of President Tinubu and as Nigeria approaches the half-mark of the Decade of Gas journey. An insider said: “it is appropriate to opine that the establishment of the exchange platform is indeed a testimony to the success of the policy decisions of the current administration and a clear indication that the Decade of Gas programme is well on track to achieve its objectives by the year 2030. “It is also quite instructive to note the regulatory synergy that led to the attainment of this feat between the NMDPRA and the SEC. “Indeed, it marks a very good example of the values that the nation stands to gain when agencies work together. “The establishment of the platform is a step further in the renaissance of the Nigerian energy landscape being championed by domestic entrepreneurs who are increasingly executing bold initiatives under the conducive environment being provided by regulatory agencies. “It is expected that this achievement would provide further impetus to other strategic undertakings by players in the energy sector to wean Nigeria from energy poverty, consolidate the country as the energy hub of the continent, spur industrialisation, and deepen the hope for a sustainable and competitive future for the country.”
Two female and 14 male governorship candidates of different political parties are set to commence campaign for the governorship election in Anambra State, starting from next week Wednesday, June 11. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), in a final list of candidates released to newsmen today, June 4, said that sixteen out of the 19 registered parties have been cleared to participate in the election. In a statement by the National Commissioner and Chairman, Information & Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun, the Commission said that the African Action Congress (AAC) and the National Rescue Movement (NRM) are fielding female candidates while six parties are fielding female running mates. “They are Accord (A), All Progressives Congress (APC), Action Peoples Party (APP), Boot Party (BP), Labour Party (LP) and Zenith Labour Party (ZLP).” He said that none of the parties has nominated a person with disability as a candidate. “In terms of age, the candidates range between 36 and 71 years.” The Commission said that the full list of the candidates by party, age, gender and academic qualifications has been uploaded to its website and social media platforms for public information. It made it clear that with the final list, there would be no further withdrawal or replacement of candidates, adding that it can only be allowed in the event of death of a candidate or running mate before Election Day, as provided by Section 34(1) of the Electoral Act. The statement said that in line with the provision of Section 94 (1) of the Electoral Act 2022, Political Parties are now at liberty to start their electioneering campaigns in public from Wednesday 11th June 2025 to end at midnight on Thursday 6th November 2025. “As enshrined in Sections 92 and 93 of the Electoral Act 2022, the Commission wishes to remind Political Parties, candidates and their supporters that it is unlawful to use abusive language, carry out physical attacks on opponents during rallies, processions and meetings or destroy their campaign materials. “Similarly, all parties and candidates must be given unimpeded access to public facilities for media campaign, outdoor advertising as well as public rallies and meetings. “For the avoidance of doubt, Section 95 (2) of the Electoral Act 2022 prohibits the use of incumbency to the advantage or disadvantage of any party or candidate. “The Anambra State Governorship election will hold on Saturday 8th November 2025.”
“I take joy when I step on the toes of big men. Those who say that nothing will happen, I take joy in saying that something will happen. “All you want me to do is to take decisions against the poor people, but you the rich man, nothing will happen. Something will happen and that’s why we are getting results. If you don’t do the right thing, too bad. I don’t care. “The only person I owe an explanation to is Mr. President.” These were the words of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyeson Wike when he fielded questions from select media men on the two year achievements in the FCT, of the government of President Bola Tinubu. The Minister stressed that what made the government of Tinubu different from others is that it has the courage to “annoy people” and “step on toes” in the pursuit of good governance. “People had said that FCT was not working and now FCT is working. I’m doing things that they refused to do. I have found out that most of them didn’t have the courage to annoy people, to step on toes.” Wike insisted that his decisions are driven solely by a commitment to good governance and national progress, rather than any regional or religious affiliations. “I’m not doing it because I’m from a certain place or I belong to a certain religion. I’m doing it because I have to support the government; I have to make a difference.” He stressed that he is committed to collecting outstanding ground rents, some of which is over 30 years, aimed to combat impunity and ensure the availability of funds for infrastructure development. He dismissed claims of insufficient notice, stating that the condition for ground rent payment is clearly outlined in title grants. He challenged those complaining about the enforcement to acknowledge and pay up their ground rent arrears, emphasizing that without revenue, essential infrastructure cannot be provided.
The newly elected chairman of Kogi State branch of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), Yusuf Jimoh Itopa has pledged to bring creativity into, and run an accountable system in the Association. Speaking at the inauguration of the newly elected executive officers in Lokoja, the state capital, Itopa praised his predecessors for setting a standard which he promised to maintain and improve upon. “Our leadership will be transparent. It will be creative and cerebral in its literary activities, honest and just. “Humility, not empty pomposity and pride will be our guiding principle.” Itopa called on members to give him and his team maximum support and cooperation for the task ahead. “My predecessor, Mr. Joel Tope has recorded a number of achievements for ANA. We will consolidate on the gains of his performance. And I thank him and his team for taking ANA this far. “Just an instance, his advocacies to schools and Radio Stations Reading programme and literary activities will be made more vigorous. “We will swell ANA with credible and patriotic literary minds. There is strength in number and many legs of ANA members will kill the grass for us to walk on a thorn-free path.” Itopa acknowledged that there are many established and up coming writers in the state, such as Professors Olu Obafemi, Sunday Ododo, Emmy Idegu, Abdullahi Denja and a host of others, adding that ANA Kogi will identify with them and collaborate with other writers of repute to widen the literary garden of the State the more. He described literature as “a perfect standing mirror through which the society watches itself to know how good or bad its activities are, in order for her to continue propagating it or in order to make amends, for its own sophistication and advancement. “We have our peculiar literature here in Kogi State because of our cultures and cherished traditions.
“And it is manifesting in the writings of our writers from Kogi. Through the platform of ANA, we will project the literature of our people. “And to do this in a digital world, Kogi ANA will encourage its writers to deploy technology to make the propagation of our literature easy and swift.” He said that his team will creatively enlist the understanding, partnership and support of Government for the necessary enablement to carry out its plans as reeled out. He appealed to the state governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo to “embrace us like similar Organizations as the platform that is out to bring out literary writers that will bring honour to Kogi, the whole country and even beyond. “I appeal to Kogi State Government as ably led by Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo to lift up Kogi to bring out the Achebes and the Soyinkas in the literary firmament of Kogi State. “Encouragement from the Government can quicken my prophecy to come to pass. It is possible.”
Itopa is a pioneer member and Editorial Advisor of the Guild of Interfaith Media Practitioners Nigeria. He is also currently Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Kogi State Newspaper – The Graphic, published by State Government.
Information reaching us at Greenbarge Reporters online newspaper in Abuja has indicated that over 73,000 young women in Imo State have tested positive for HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus). Federal Medical Center (FMC) in Owerri, the state capital, confirmed that a significant portion of the number of the infected are those engaged in unregulated commercial sex activities mainly as a result of the rising economic hardship. Healthcare officials said that the rise in infections is not only alarming but indicative of a broader social and economic crisis that continued to push thousands of young women into high-risk lifestyles. A leading epidemiologist at FMC Owerri, who preferred being anonymous, described the situation as “a public health emergency.
“We are seeing a dangerous trend where the economic desperation of young women is leading to increased vulnerability and unprotected sexual activity, resulting in widespread transmission of HIV.” It has been confirmed that a growing number of sex workers in the state operate informally and without proper knowledge of HIV prevention methods, such as condom use and regular health screenings. A 24-year-old university dropout, who requested anonymity, shared her experience: “I started (sex work) because I had no other way to survive. I didn’t think it would come to this. When I was diagnosed (with HIV), I felt like my life was over. But with treatment, I’m learning how to live again.” Meanwhile, concerned civil society organizations and public health advocates are calling on the Imo State Government and federal health agencies to take urgent action. They advised for expanded access to HIV testing and antiretroviral therapy (ART), adding that sexual and reproductive health education should be organized for adolescents and young adults. They also suggested economic empowerment initiatives targeted at vulnerable women and girls. Executive Director of a None Governmental Organization (NGO), who also preferred anonymity, stressed the need for policy reform, adding: “We must shift from moral condemnation to harm reduction. “These young women need support, not shame.” According to UNAIDS, Nigeria has the second-largest HIV epidemic in the world.
“This is a devastating blow to the nation. It casts a shadow over the National Sports Festival, a celebration of unity, talent and excellence.” These were the words of President Bola Tinubu in a statement today , May 31, by his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga on the death of at least, 19 athletes, journalist and medical personnel who died in a road accident today near Kano on their way from the National Sports Festival in Ogun State. The President said that the sports festival had long served as a platform for discovering and nurturing athletes who bring pride to Nigeria on both national and international stages. He said that he was devastated by the news of the death of such budding athletes in such manner. The President paid tribute to the victims, whose dedication and aspirations in their various vocations embodied the resilient Nigerian spirit. “On behalf of the Federal Government, the President extends heartfelt condolences to the government and people of Kano State, as well as to the families and loved ones of those who died in the accident.” Tinubu called for concrete steps to be taken by relevant bodies to prevent such tragedies in the future and to improve safety standards across the nation’s transportation systems. He prayed for the peaceful repose of the souls of the departed and asked God Almighty to grant strength and comfort to the bereaved families. This came even as President Tinubu expressed deep concern over the severe flooding in Mokwa Local Government Area of Niger State, which led to the loss of lives and the displacement of numerous families. “I extend my heartfelt condolences to the affected families and the good people of Niger State at this difficult time,” the President said on his X handle. Tinubu directed the immediate activation of the National Emergency Response Centre. Search-and-rescue operations are underway, and all relevant federal agencies have been mobilised to support the Niger State Government’s response. Relief materials and temporary shelters are being deployed without delay. “I assure all those impacted that our government stands with you. We will continue to coordinate with the Niger State Government to ensure a swift, coordinated, and compassionate response—one that prioritises lives, restores dignity and accelerates recovery.” President Tinubu also directed security agencies to assist in emergency operations and mandated that NEMA and the National Emergency Response Centre provide continuous coordination and updates. He called on all Nigerians to keep the people of Mokwa in their thoughts and prayers. “In times of adversity, we draw strength from our unity, resilience, and shared humanity.”
No fewer than 20 athletes and officials have died in road accident while returning from the national sports festival, tagged Gateway Games 2024 in Ogun State. The incident occurred today, May 31, in Dakatsalle town, about 50 kilometres from Kano, as the team was approaching the final stretch of their journey home. Those who lost their lives in the crash include athletes, a journalist, medical personnel and sports administrators, according to preliminary reports from emergency responders and eyewitnesses.
Nigeria’s Guild of Interfaith Media Practitioners Nigeria (GIMP) has assured the newly appointed President of Hartford International University for Religion and Peace in the United States of America, Dr. Sherry Turner of its determination to partner with her and the institution for the advancement of interfaith harmony across the world. In a letter dated May 20, 2025 congratulating Dr. Sherry Turner, Chairman of GIMP, Abdulkarim Abdulmalik said that he looked forward to the possibility of collaborating with her institution in advancing shared goals, rooted in peace, justice and interfaith solidarity. He hailed her appointment to lead such a globally esteemed 191 year old institution, saying that it is an affirmation of her exceptional leadership, profound vision and enduring commitment to inter-religious understanding and global peacebuilding. “Hartford International University stands as a beacon of hope and unity in a world often divided by differences, and your leadership marks a promising new chapter in its inspiring journey. “As a national body committed to promoting interfaith harmony and constructive dialogue across Nigeria’s diverse religious landscape, we have followed with admiration the transformative work of Hartford International University. We are confident that under your leadership, the university will continue to empower scholars, faith leaders, and changemakers around the world. “Please accept our warmest congratulations and best wishes for a successful and impactful tenure”.
.. Abdulkarim Abdulkarim Abdulmalik said that GIMP was established to advance peace, tolerance, harmony and acceptance of religious plurality among the various people of the world.
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.. Abdulkarim
