President Bola Ahmed Tinubu

By Uzair Adam

President Bola Tinubu is set to leave Abuja on Wednesday, October 2, for the United Kingdom (UK), where he will begin a two-week working vacation, which forms part of his annual leave.

According to a statement from Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, the vacation will also serve as a retreat for the President to reflect on his administration’s ongoing economic reforms.

The statement added that President Tinubu will return to Nigeria at the conclusion of the two-week leave.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini 

President Bola Tinubu says he inherited a country with damaged security from his predecessor, former President Muhammadu Buhari. 

In his Independence Day speech, Mr. Tinubu said he took over the leadership of Africa’s most populous country at a “critical juncture.” 

“My administration took over the leadership of our country 16 months ago at a critical juncture. The economy faced many headwinds, and our physical security was highly impaired,” Mr. Tinubu said. 

The president also said Nigeria was imbalanced when he assumed office on May 29, 2023.

However, his government decided to pursue reforms in both Nigeria’s economy and its security. 

“We found ourselves at a dizzying crossroads, where we must choose between two paths: reform for progress and prosperity or carry on business-as-usual and collapse. We decided to reform our political economy and defence architecture.” 

In the sixteen months since Mr. Tinubu took office, bandits and Boko Haram terrorists have continued their nefarious activities in the northern part of Nigeria, kidnapping for ransom and killing. 

Spiking food prices caused by economic inflation have forced Nigerians to hit the streets in protest as the unprecedented cost-of-living crisis takes a dreadful trajectory under Tinubu’s watch.

By Uzair Adam

President Bola Tinubu has assured Nigerians that his administration is taking steps to address the high cost of living, which is a growing concern both locally and globally.

During his Independence Day address on Tuesday, he acknowledged that food prices and overall living expenses are at the forefront of national worries.

“The central concern of our people today is the high cost of living, especially food costs,” Tinubu said.

He explained that his government is implementing several measures aimed at alleviating the situation.

Tinubu praised the governors of Kebbi, Niger, Jigawa, Kwara, Nasarawa, and the Southwest for their participation in his administration’s agricultural production program and encouraged other states to follow suit by investing in mechanized farming.

He also highlighted the recent approval by the Federal Executive Council to establish a local assembly plant for 2,000 John Deere tractors and other farm equipment, which is expected to be completed in six months.

In addition to addressing agricultural production, the President spoke on the ongoing energy transition program and plans to expand the use of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) for mass transit, with government support available for states and the FCT to acquire CNG buses.

While working to stabilize the economy, Tinubu noted the importance of national unity and social harmony, reiterating his commitment to fostering peace and cohesion in the country.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will make a nationwide broadcast tomorrow Tuesday, October 1, 2024 at 7 a.m.

The broadcast is part of activities to commemorate the 64th Independence Anniversary of the nation.

Television, radio stations and other electronic media outlets are enjoined to hook up to the network services of the Nigerian Television Authority and the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria for the broadcast.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Justice Kudirat Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun took the oath of office as the 23rd Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) on Monday, with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu reaffirming his administration’s commitment to upholding the judiciary’s independence and sanctity.

Justice Kekere-Ekun, the second female CJN in Nigeria’s history, was sworn in following her confirmation by the Senate.

The ceremony occurred at the Council Chamber of the State House, Abuja.

Four former chief justices of the Federation, including the first female Justice, Aloma Mukhtar, the President of the Court of Appeal, and other heads of the judiciary divisions, witnessed it.

President Tinubu underscored the pivotal role of the judiciary in safeguarding Nigeria’s constitutional democracy.

”The judiciary is an important pillar constituting the tripod that holds our constitutional democracy. Indeed, the Nigerian judiciary, at various times in history, has proven to be the moderating force ensuring everyone remains in check.

”Your role as the last hope of the common man serves to sustain our people’s confidence in democracy, knowing well that there is an important arbiter that can always give them redress if they are wronged.

”For this function, it is important that our judiciary remains truly independent. It is my administration’s total commitment to preserve the sanctity of the judiciary.

”While we may have reasons to interface as complementing components of the same government, under my watch, the government will also be mindful of the clear line demarcating the two of us.

”We will never interfere or abuse the relationship between us as separate organs of government in our democracy. This is important for sustaining our constitutional democracy, ” the President said.

President Tinubu reiterated his government’s dedication to improving judicial officers’ welfare and working conditions, noting recent decisions to enhance their effectiveness in administering justice.

He urged Justice Kekere-Ekun to continue upholding the principles of ethical leadership, fearlessness, and honesty that have defined her career.

”The Nigerian judiciary needs a leader with these qualities at this time, and I have no doubt that you will set the pace for others to follow,” he said.

The President lauded Justice Kekere-Ekun’s rise as a testament to hard work and an inspiration to women, particularly young girls, in a male-dominated profession.

”This day has also cemented the judiciary as a self-evolving and progressive institution. I specifically congratulate the Nigerian women. Any girl child can dream big and have her dreams come true. It is worth celebrating, ” he said.

President Tinubu also acknowledged the presence of Justice Kekere-Ekun’s 89-year-old mother, Mama Wilfred Layiwola Ogundimu (Nee Savage), and other family members led by Akin Kekere-Ekun, Justice Kekere-Ekun’s husband.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Tinubu extends his heartfelt condolence to Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom state on the shocking passing of his beloved wife, Pastor Patience Umo Eno.

On behalf of the Federal Government, the President commiserates with the Eno family, the government, and the people of Akwa Ibom state during this grim time.

The President joins them in mourning the painful and profound loss of the state’s First Lady, who has supported Governor Eno’s administration.

The President affirms that Patience Eno, as the wife to a visionary governor and an ordained gospel minister, embodied humility, resilience, and loyalty.

President Tinubu acknowledges that through her ‘Golden Initiative for All,’ she demonstrated her passion for serving the people and residents of Akwa Ibom state with love, honesty, and dedication, leaving a positive impact that will continue to inspire future generations.

He trusts that her selfless service to improve the lives of women, children, and the vulnerable will forever remain an important part of Akwa Ibom’s history, a legacy that will continue to inspire and be appreciated by future generations.

President Tinubu commits the grieving family, friends, and relatives to the comfort of the eternal God, who is the source of life and holds the future of all creation in his hands.

He expresses his trust in their resilience and strength during this challenging time, offering reassurance and support.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Tinubu has called on the Edo State governor-elect, Senator Monday Okpebholo, to prioritise the development of his state while assuring him of the full support of the Federal Government and the Progressive Governors’ Forum (PGF).

President Tinubu advised on Thursday in Abuja at a meeting with the leadership of the All Progressives Congress party, where the Edo governor-elect and the deputy governor-elect, Rep.

Dennis Idahosa, presented their certificates of return.President Tinubu emphasised the importance of good governance and delivering results to the people of Edo State.

‘’Governor-elect, you can now face the task of development. We are here to work with you. You have seen the progressive governors of APC. They are truly progressive. Work with them. Learn the ropes, and I believe you are up to the task,” he said.

Acknowledging the challenges of democracy, particularly in emerging economies like Nigeria, the President added, ”You have earned the victory. Democracy is difficult, particularly in emerging democracies and economies like ours.

”If you hear complaints from places like America, you know how difficult it is to navigate democracy. But it remains the best form of government.

”The President congratulated Senator Okpebholo and his deputy and described them as a ”good symbol of people ordained by God to work together.””

By Uzair Adam

The Committee on Consequential Adjustments in Salaries for Civil Servants met on Friday to discuss the new minimum wage template and concluded that the effective date for implementation would be July 29, 2024.

This decision was outlined in a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) issued after the meeting in Abuja, which was seen by our correspondent.

The Committee, led by the Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Didi Walson-Jack, also recommended that the wage award, which had been discontinued by the government, should be paid up to July 28, 2024.

In explaining the decision, the Committee noted that the government considered the country’s economic situation before finalizing these recommendations.

The MOU stated the need for the National Salaries, Incomes, and Wages Commission (NSIWC) to create appropriate salary templates for other salary structures.

It further stated that the Federal Government should take measures to alleviate the challenges faced by workers due to the recent increase in Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), including considering tax waivers and other incentives.

However, the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) have criticized the decision to backdate the implementation of the new minimum wage. Benson Upah, Head of Information for the NLC, described the move as unfair and unacceptable.

Timmy Etim, the National Vice President of the TUC, expressed disappointment.

He recalled that the Minister of State for Labour, Nkiruka Onyejeocha, had promised workers on May Day that the new minimum wage would take effect from May 1, 2024, and said it was unfair for the government to change that commitment.

“The government should have stayed true to its word. Deviating from May is already questionable, but backdating it to July is particularly unfair given the economic challenges,” Etim stated.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Tinubu has assured Nigerians that his administration is focused on delivering tangible results and making a positive difference in the nation’s infrastructure, food and energy security, education and long-term economic stability.

At a meeting with the Forum of Former Presiding Officers of the National Assembly, led by former Senate President Ken Nnamani, the President emphasised that he is not in office for personal gain but to serve the country.

”I didn’t come to look for money and exploit the situation; I came to work. I asked for the votes, and Nigerians gave them to me,” the President, who was a former senator, told the meeting after a session of banters and handshakes with former parliamentary colleagues.

The meeting was attended by 16 former presiding officers, including former senate presidents, former speakers of the House of Representatives, former deputy senate presidents, and former deputy speakers of the House of Representatives.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on all stakeholders in the upcoming Edo State governorship elections to conduct themselves peacefully and sportingly.

The election is scheduled for Saturday, September 21, 2024. The President implores the governorship candidates, political parties, and supporters to respect the democratic process and the people’s will.

He believes in the voters’ ability to make informed decisions about their future leaders. President Tinubu emphasises that democracy thrives on civility, tolerance, patience, and respect for the rules of the game.

He noted that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has committed to conducting a free and fair election and urges all stakeholders to work together to ensure a successful and peaceful process.

The President commends the governorship candidates and political parties for their campaigns, which have focused on issues that matter most to the people of Edo State, including improving livelihoods, promoting economic growth, and contributing to national development.

He urges all citizens in the state to remain peaceful and respectful throughout the voting process. He encourages them to resolve any disagreements amicably through the constituted authorities.

In addition, President Tinubu expresses unwavering confidence in the professionalism and integrity of security agencies and INEC officials.

He urges them to remain impartial and avoid any actions that could compromise the integrity of the electoral process.