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The Anti-Corruption and Research-Based Data Initiative, on Monday, urged President Bola Tinubu to address longstanding imbalances in Nigeria’s federal policies, including the quota system, federal character principles, and derivation formulas.
The group called for a comprehensive review of these policies to ensure equity, fairness, and justice for all regions of the country.
In a statement issued by its Chairman, Board of Trustees, Ifeanyi Ozigbo, ARDI highlighted persistent inequalities in these policies, claiming they have hindered national progress and created an uneven playing field between the North and South.
“The Anti-Corruption and Research-Based Data Initiative is requesting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to review some of the existing inequitable policies, such as the quota system, federal character principles, and the non-derivation sharing formula currently practised in the federation, to ensure equity, fairness, and justice for all components of the country,” the statement read.
“These policies have created significant imbalances between the North and the South, favouring inefficiency, encouraging laziness among governors, and discouraging hard work.”
ARDI also urged the president to consider the concerns of the North regarding the proposed tax reform bills, advising extensive consultations to capture diverse perspectives.
The group expressed the North’s apprehension about potential revenue reductions from the Federation Account under the proposed VAT sharing formula, which it said appeared to favour metropolitan cities and resource-rich regions.
ARDI further acknowledged grievances in the South regarding policies like the quota system and federal character principles, which it argued often prioritise less qualified individuals from one region over more qualified individuals from another. Civil service promotions were cited as a key example of these inequalities.
On derivation, ARDI criticised the current formula, stating that oil-producing states bear disproportionate environmental burdens yet receive only 13 percent of derivation funds. The group proposed increasing the percentage to at least 60 percent, arguing that this would address environmental devastation while promoting fairness in revenue sharing.
The statement also stressed that every state possesses natural resources, and a fair derivation formula would encourage innovation and resource utilisation across the country.
“We believe this is an opportunity to correct these imbalances,” ARDI stated. “The fears of the North should be considered, as well as the concerns of the South, because what is good for the goose is also good for the gander.
“The tax reform bill may not be perfect, but it can promote healthy competition among the federating units if implemented equitably. Mr President should consult widely to address the fears of the North and also take steps to address the South’s concerns regarding the quota system, federal character, and derivation formulas. We need a federation that is fair to all regions,” the group concluded.
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.Kicks against handing over King’s College to old students
IBRAHIM QUADRI
A former Deputy National chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Chief Olabode George has asked President Bola Tinubu to emulate Borno State Governor, Prof Babagana Zulum by reducing the price of fuel to N300 to alleviate Nigerians’ sufferings.
In a statement signed by the elder statesman and made available to newsmen, Atona Oodua of Yorubaland berated alleged request by some Lagos elders requesting the President to hand over King’s College to old students for proper management.
He argued that instead of concentrating on advice that would address infrastructural decay in the State, the elders chose to labour their energies on taking over the school which he noted is unacceptable.
Speaking on the hardship, he stated, “At this stage, it is not enough to be talking of reforming the economy. The question is: reform at what cost and in whose interest?
“When the president came in May 2023, he met a litre of fuel at less than N200 per litre. Today, it is more than N900 per litre and some people are jubilating that a litre has dropped from N1,200 to N950. What sort of logic is that?
“Now that the government is happy that Port Harcourt and Warri refineries have commenced operations, this is the time for Nigerians to be happy too. Nigerians will see the positive effect of this when they start buying a litre of fuel for about N300. And nobody should tell me it is not possible. I am an engineer. I know it is possible if the political will is there.
“I think this is the time for the President to emulate Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State who has announced plans to subsidise fuel at N600 per litre to thousands of farmers in communities hit by Boko Haram insurgents in the North-East state.
“The excuse before was that the cost of importing fuel into the country was huge. Today, Dangote Refinery, Port Harcourt and Warri are all working. We have crude oil in abundance and fuel is locally produced. So, why should Nigerians still be buying fuel at more than N300 per litre?”
The PDP chieftain recalled, “Last week, some notable elders from Lagos State visited President Bola Tinubu during his year-end celebrations in the state.
“To any curious mind, such a visit would have presented an opportunity for the elders to discuss issues of utmost concern about Lagos which is in its worst dilapidated state of decadence, socially and economically.
“I strongly believe it was also an opportunity for the elders to tell the President the true situation of things in the country. But to the chagrin of many of us, particularly Lagosians, whose expectations were high, nothing about the visit has been heard on what transpired between the elders and their host.
“It is a well-known fact that these elders are prominent Lagosians, from Lagos Island, the foremost commercial centre in Nigeria.
“The president also paid a visit to the Palace of the Oba of Lagos at Iga Iduganran, while most municipal roads in the axis are in their worst state of disrepair.
“I expected the elders to have made the issue of rehabilitation or overhauling of decayed infrastructural facilities in the state their utmost priority during their visit to the president.
“For instance, all the adjourning roads to the Oba of Lagos Palace are in their worst state of disrepair. Of particular attention is the ancient commercial area of Jankara Market and its adjourning communities of Idumagbo, Reclamation Roads and others, which have been abandoned for over 20 years, making life a living hell for the people.
They should have advocated for programmes aimed at lifting these individuals out of poverty through skills acquisition, in order to curtail the nefarious activities associated with social vices that have become prevalent across the state.
“The state has descended into one of the worst health risk areas, where hygiene is severely lacking in human existence.
“Economically, life in Lagos is at the worst human existential state, where poverty stares over 90 per cent of the population in their faces. The points I raised should have been the topic for discussion with the president, not just a mere courtesy visit.
“Instead of discussing these urgent state and national issues, I was told some of these elders, who are old students of the prestigious King’s College in Lagos, told the President they wanted to take over the school. They even made the President an Honorary member of their Old Students’ Association, somebody who did not attend the school. All Nigerians know the story and history behind King’s College, a Federal Government school.
He therefore queried, “How do these elders even think the government will hand over the school to them to run as a private enterprise? How do they intend to run the school? What is the blueprint? What are their education plans? Will old students of Queen’s College also ask for a similar favour from the president? What of old students of AIONIAN Schools? Will they make the same request? Is this distraction what we need now?
“What I believe they should do is to ask the Federal Ministry of Education and the management of the school where they can intervene to continue to project the image of the school and help the students,” George pointed.
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The Federal High Court in Abuja has granted bail to Olamide Thomas, a Nigerian woman accused of insulting Seyi Tinubu, the son of President Bola Tinubu, and top police officials in a viral Facebook post.
Justice Emeka Nwite ruled that Thomas be released on a N10 million bail, with one surety in like sum.
Delivering the judgment, Justice Nwite stated that the prosecution failed to provide concrete evidence that Thomas might abscond if granted bail.
“I have carefully examined the affidavit evidence of both the defendant and the complainant,” he said, emphasizing that granting bail was in the interest of justice as long as the accused would not interfere with the trial.
The court also stipulated conditions for the surety, including a three-year tax clearance certificate, an affidavit of means, and residence within the court’s jurisdiction.
Both Thomas and the surety must deposit two recent passport photographs with the court registrar, and the surety’s address will be verified.
Thomas, a human rights activist, was arraigned on December 20 on a three-count charge of harassment and death threats against Seyi Tinubu, Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun, and Police Public Relations Officer Muyiwa Adejobi. She pleaded not guilty and was remanded at the Suleja Correctional Centre pending her bail hearing.
The case has been adjourned to February 18, 2025, for trial.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will depart Abuja on Monday, January 6, for Accra, the capital of the Republic of Ghana, to attend the inauguration of President-elect John Dramani Mahama on January 7.
Mahama, who served as the 12th president of Ghana between 2011 and 2017, was reelected in December 2024. He will succeed President Nana Akuffo-Addo( 2017-2025).
President Tinubu’s trip to Accra is at the invitation of the president-elect, who had visited the Nigerian leader earlier in December.
Mahama and President Tinubu have a longstanding personal relationship, just like Nigeria and Ghana maintain a longstanding bilateral relationship.
President Tinubu, as Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, will join other African leaders at the ceremony.
Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Mrs Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu and other senior government officials will accompany President Tinubu on the trip.
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The Northern Elders’ Forum (NEF) has accused President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration of displaying a troubling disregard for patriotic voices against the tax reforms agenda of the administration.
The NEF urged the government to halt the proposed Tax Reform Bills before the National Assembly, citing concerns of unfairness and potential economic impact.
A statement issued by the forum’s chairman, A.M. Al-Amin Daggash, recommended that the federal government should suspend the implementation of the reforms to allow for broader consultations with stakeholders. It emphasized the need for a careful and inclusive approach to address concerns and redesign the implementation strategy.
“The rush to implement these tax reforms is unnecessary. Dialogue, quality contributions, and critical inputs from Nigerians should be prioritized before any decisions are made,” Daggash said.
The forum expressed opposition to the proposed increase in Value Added Tax (VAT), warning that it could erode purchasing power, fuel inflation, and increase interest rates.
Daggash noted that such measures should be postponed until the government demonstrates tangible economic recovery.
He also criticized the proposed VAT revenue-sharing formula, describing it as unjust to states where VAT is generated. According to him, VAT should be allocated based on consumption, ensuring fairness to contributing states.
Daggash further accused the Tinubu administration of disregarding dissenting opinions and using coercive tactics to push its policies. “The government has displayed a troubling disregard for patriotic voices and an inclination to suppress opposition,” he said.
While supporting reforms that align with global best practices, the NEF stated that the Tax Reform Bills fail to meet the standard of transparency and inclusivity required for effective policy-making.
The forum called on the federal government to revisit the reforms, ensuring that they reflect the interests and contributions of all Nigerians.
President Bola Tinubu has initiated efforts to secure the backing of northern elites and political leaders for the passage of several contentious tax reform bills.
The proposed legislation, introduced to the National Assembly in October 2024, includes the Nigeria Tax Bill 2024, the Nigeria Tax Administration Bill, the Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Bill, and the Joint Revenue Board (Establishment) Bill.
Sources within the Presidency revealed that Tinubu has been engaging in private consultations and utilizing “back channels” to address concerns raised by key stakeholders.
A senior official, speaking anonymously to Punch, said, “The President has been reaching out to northern elites, both individually and as groups, even before the holidays, to discuss the proposed bills.”
Another insider disclosed that Tinubu is leveraging multiple avenues to address opposition to the reforms. “He is employing various strategies and channels to resolve the contentious aspects of the bills and gain support,” the source said.
Despite these efforts, northern governors remain firmly opposed to the legislation, calling for its withdrawal to allow for further consultations. They argue that the proposed reforms could disproportionately impact northern regions and stifle economic growth.
The bills aim to overhaul Nigeria’s tax administration and revenue collection systems, a move the federal government claims is essential to boosting revenue generation and reducing the nation’s dependency on oil. However, critics warn that the reforms could lead to higher taxes and increased financial strain on citizens.
The debate around these bills underscores the challenges of balancing fiscal reforms with the concerns of affected stakeholders.
Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State welcomes President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the Southeast and commends him for his profound leadership style as he visits Enugu State to commission developmental projects completed by Governor Peter Mbah.
This is in line with Soludo’s usual display of regional cooperation and political decorum which underscores his commitment to fostering productive federal and state relations while promoting the collective interest of the Southeast region.
In a release by Soludo’s Chief Press Secretary. Christian Aburime, the governor said the visit signposts President Tinubu’s attention to the development of the Southeast region.
Governor Soludo also congratulated Governor Mba of Enugu State on his developmental strides, stating that they are similar to the infrastructural and transformational advancements taking place in Anambra State.
In light of this, political pundits posit that the projects commissioning in neighbouring Enugu State and Governor Soludo’s stance in embracing federal presence and supporting projects by fellow Southeast governors will boost Southeast regional cooperation in enhancing effective relations at the federal level for growth purposes.
President Bola Tinubu says people may insult him but he knows what it takes to govern and build the country.
The president made this statement in Enugu on Saturday during a meeting with stakeholders from the south-east geopolitical zone.
DAILY POST reports that the president was in Enugu to commission projects initiated by the state governor, Peter Mbah.
The projects commissioned include 30 smart green schools, 60 completed type 2 primary health centres, and the 19-kilometre Airport-New Haven–Bisalla and Okpara Square roads.
At the meeting, the president told the south-east stakeholders that the removal of petrol subsidy was necessary to build the nation and protect the interests of future generations.
Tinubu said he understands the difficult nature of his work before contesting the 2023 elections.
“You are all members of one big, huge family called Nigeria but living in different rooms in the same house.
“This house, we must build it. Build it to satisfy our immediate need, which is not going to be enough yet but for tomorrow too. That is why the removal of the first subsidy was necessary.
“You cannot spend the future of generations yet unborn in advance. Don’t bankrupt the nation before they are born.
“I know people will fight, grumble, and abuse me, and everything, but I asked for the job. I know what it takes. I believe in myself, and I believe I can gather a very good team and build a nation.
“It is our country. We have to work really hard for it to build a nation that we can be proud of. Change the narrative—negative comment about Nigeria.
“I’m not taking that (negative comment). I’m very proud of Nigeria. You all should be proud of Nigeria,” he said.
. Assures Eastern Rail Line Will Be Completed, And Anambra Basin ‘ll Receive Devt. Support
President Bola Tinubu has extolled Gov Peter Mbah of Enugu State for his leadership and commitment to development, describing him as a “focused and result-oriented leader”.
Tinubu made the commendation during his first official visit to Enugu on Saturday where he inaugurated several projects.
He said that Mbah was doing a fantastic job and he was glad that Enugu was making great strides.
“I salute Peter Mbah for his commitment to development. You’ve built a solid team, and I’ve reviewed a number of things with you in Abuja.
“You’ve impressed me with the technological advancements in the state and the support you’ve garnered from the private sector. I know your background, he said.
Tinubu called for unity across political divides, urging leaders to focus on the nation’s progress.
“The election is over, and we have to move the nation forward. You’ve shown an unshakable commitment to human development. I don’t care which party you belong to; you’re my friend.
“You’re doing well and staying focused. Together, we must build this house called Nigeria, not just for today, but for tomorrow too,” he said.
The president also addressed his administration’s controversial removal of fuel subsidies, stating that it was important for the nation’s future.
“That’s why the removal of the fuel subsidy was necessary. We can’t spend the future of generations yet unborn in advance. Let’s not bankrupt the nation before they’re even born,” he said.
The president commended Mbah’s focus on security and investment in safety measures, particularly the establishment of the Distress Response Squad.
“I’m proud of Nigeria, and Mbah is proud of Nigeria. He’s doing everything possible to provide security and attract investors locally and internationally.
“There’s no better investment than securing lives. I saw those cars for the Distress Response Squad, it’s the right move,” he noted.
He encouraged the people of Enugu to support Mbah in his development efforts.
“Please continue to work with your son, brother, and friend, Peter Mbah. He’s truly committed to driving Enugu forward and being a positive symbol for the southeast,” he advised.
The president earlier inaugurated some projects physically and virtually built by Gov Mbah including 30 Smart Green Schools, International Conference Center, 19 kilometer urban roads and 150 Distress Response vehicles. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
However, President Bola Tinubu has made a firm commitment that his administration will complete the Eastern Rail line connecting Port Harcourt to Maiduguri.
President Tinubu gave the assurance during an interactive session with South East leaders during his official visit to Enugu State on Saturday.
The President also pledged that his administration would support the development of the Anambra Basin as a significant energy reserve.
The basin is estimated to hold up to 1 billion barrels of oil and 30 billion cubic feet of gas.
During the meeting, the President was attentive to the requests made by former Minister of Power Professor Chinedu Nebo and Enugu State indigene Chris Ugoh and responded with a commitment to address their concerns.
While applauding the Tinubu administration for completing the Port Harcourt to Aba section of the Eastern rail line, Nebo appealed to the President to prioritise the completion of the remaining portions of the rail link.
He emphasised the rail link’s potential to boost Nigeria’s non-oil exports and economic growth.
Ugoh noted that the Anambra Basin has the potential to support power generation and industrial feedstocks.
He appealed to the Federal Government to develop this resource to benefit the southeast and other regions of the country, including the Middle Belt and the North.
Onyemauche Nnamani, the National Commissioner representing the South East in the Police Service Commission, urged the Federal Government to implement modern security strategies in the region, akin to the statewide CCTV system and patrol cars with surveillance cameras in Enugu State.
Nnamani called on the federal government to de-emphasise the mounting of checkpoints and roadblocks in the region, saying, “It is inefficient and exposes our security personnel to attacks by non-state actors.”
Responding to the request for the rail line, President Tinubu reassured the audience, saying, “It is a work in progress. I inherited some of these critical problems and am committed to solving them.”
“On the support of the gas infrastructure. Sure, gas is an alternative to petrol. There is no wasting of time than to invest more in it. We will do it together, and I am lucky I have good governors. ”
Acknowledging the presence of various dignitaries, including governors, traditional rulers, captains of industry and serving and former presiding officers of the National Officer from the South East, President Tinubu praised former Senate President Ken Nnamani for saving Nigeria’s democracy from those who wanted to derail it with the Third Term project.
Earlier at the meeting, President Tinubu praised Governor Peter Mbah for his development model and philosophy after inaugurating several projects executed by the state government.
He pledged that the federal government would continue to support Enugu and other states in their development efforts.
Among the projects inaugurated by the President are the GTC Smart Green School, New Haven/Bisalla Road, the International Conference Center, the Command-and-Control Center, and 150 patrol vehicles equipped with surveillance cameras.
The President also performed the virtual commissioning of other notable projects from the Enugu State Government House.
At the inauguration of the Command-and-Control Center, the President said investment in security will bring rapid development.
“This is a profound demonstration of what we can do together. It reassures me that more revenue going to the sub-nationals and local government is not a waste. It is for development.
“We have committed leaders like Peter Mbah taking Enugu on the path of 21st-century development, taking Enugu to greater heights, and building our tomorrow today.
“I cannot forget the sight of those children I just met at the Smart Green School.
“I have seen the gadgets and vehicles with 21st-century technology. Yes, you are indeed working for today, tomorrow and the future.
“My good friend Peter, we can go places together to build Nigeria and build the future.
“It is audacious to have this home filled with technology, and they are ready for use. To promote investment, I know you are a private sector person, and we must encourage more private sector people to come into politics.
“When you are sure of security and development and give value for money, investors will be your friend,” he said.
President Tinubu further lauded the governor, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP, for demonstrating an irrevocable commitment to human development.
“I don’t care which party you come from; you are my friend. Alex Otti of Abia State is also doing very well. It is not about the differences in languages and place of birth.
“No one of us has control of the mother tongue. God created us, and you can find yourself in Enugu, Onitsha or Lagos. We are all members of one huge family called Nigeria, but we live in different rooms in the same house.
“We must build this house to satisfy our immediate and future needs,” he said.
At the interactive session, Governor Mbah described President Tinubu as a true federalist.
He commended the Tinubu administration for establishing the South East Development Commission and liberalising the electricity sector through the Electricity Act (Amendment).
He congratulated the President on being named ThisDay Man of the Year and acknowledged his efforts to revitalise Nigeria’s growth and economic resilience.
“Your Excellency, your credential as a true federalist stands out brightly, and the legacies thereof will long earn you resounding accolades.
“In signing the Electricity Act (Amendment) Bill, you liberalised electricity generation, transmission, and distribution. That singular act will consistently rank as an enduring legacy.
“It is noteworthy that Enugu State was the first sub-national to which the NERC ceded regulatory oversight of the local electricity market. That reflects how swiftly we are pursuing our goals,” he said.
According to the governor, the South East Development Commission will address infrastructure and ecological challenges in the region while complementing the many development strides unfolding across the state.
Governor Mbah reiterated his vision to grow Enugu’s economy from $4.4 billion to $30 billion within 4 years, aiming to position the state among Nigeria’s top three states in terms of GDP.
He said this grand dream can be achieved when security is guaranteed, quality education thrives, and citizens can access affordable healthcare.
The governor outlined the bold steps taken to enhance public safety in the state, including ending the illegal sit-at-home order imposed across the Southeast by a criminal gang and non-state actors.
”We no longer observe sit-at-home in Enugu. Our people go to work every day of the week, and we no longer take orders from non-state actors,” he said.
The governor told the President that some of the Smart Green Schools commissioned during the state visit were part of the modern schools introduced by his administration across 260 wards to equip students with 21st-century skills.
The governor explained that his administration has focused on primary healthcare, upgrading all 260 primary healthcare centres to maintain consistent quality, even in remote areas.
“All these infrastructural developments are mainly possible because of your bold initiatives.
“The courageous pronouncements you made to free up funds for development: the removal of fuel subsidy, the unification of the foreign exchange, and several social interventions that your government continues to provide for the people of this country.
“We are now essentially, with those funds freed, able to fully complete these projects. And it’s not just physical infrastructure; social and digital infrastructure are going on,” Governor Mbah said.
President Bola Tinubu has made a firm commitment that his administration will complete the Eastern Rail line connecting Port Harcourt to Maiduguri.
President Tinubu gave the assurance during an interactive session with South East leaders during his official visit to Enugu State on Saturday.
The President also pledged that his administration would support the development of the Anambra Basin as a significant energy reserve.
The basin is estimated to hold up to 1 billion barrels of oil and 30 billion cubic feet of gas.
During the meeting, the President was attentive to the requests made by former Minister of Power Professor Chinedu Nebo and Enugu State indigene Chris Ugoh and responded with a commitment to address their concerns.
While applauding the Tinubu administration for completing the Port Harcourt to Aba section of the Eastern rail line, Nebo appealed to the President to prioritise the completion of the remaining portions of the rail link.
He emphasised the rail link’s potential to boost Nigeria’s non-oil exports and economic growth.
Ugoh noted that the Anambra Basin has the potential to support power generation and industrial feedstocks.
He appealed to the Federal Government to develop this resource to benefit the southeast and other regions of the country, including the Middle Belt and the North.
Onyemauche Nnamani, the National Commissioner representing the South East in the Police Service Commission, urged the Federal Government to implement modern security strategies in the region, akin to the statewide CCTV system and patrol cars with surveillance cameras in Enugu State.
Nnamani called on the federal government to de-emphasise the mounting of checkpoints and roadblocks in the region, saying, “It is inefficient and exposes our security personnel to attacks by non-state actors.”
Responding to the request for the rail line, President Tinubu reassured the audience, saying, “It is a work in progress. I inherited some of these critical problems and am committed to solving them.”
“On the support of the gas infrastructure. Sure, gas is an alternative to petrol. There is no wasting of time than to invest more in it. We will do it together, and I am lucky I have good governors. ”
Acknowledging the presence of various dignitaries, including governors, traditional rulers, captains of industry and serving and former presiding officers of the National Officer from the South East, President Tinubu praised former Senate President Ken Nnamani for saving Nigeria’s democracy from those who wanted to derail it with the Third Term project.
Earlier at the meeting, President Tinubu praised Governor Peter Mbah for his development model and philosophy after inaugurating several projects executed by the state government.
He pledged that the federal government would continue to support Enugu and other states in their development efforts.
Among the projects inaugurated by the President are the GTC Smart Green School, New Haven/Bisalla Road, the International Conference Center, the Command-and-Control Center, and 150 patrol vehicles equipped with surveillance cameras.
The President also performed the virtual commissioning of other notable projects from the Enugu State Government House.
At the inauguration of the Command-and-Control Center, the President said investment in security will bring rapid development.
“This is a profound demonstration of what we can do together. It reassures me that more revenue going to the sub-nationals and local government is not a waste. It is for development.
“We have committed leaders like Peter Mbah taking Enugu on the path of 21st-century development, taking Enugu to greater heights, and building our tomorrow today.
“I cannot forget the sight of those children I just met at the Smart Green School.
“I have seen the gadgets and vehicles with 21st-century technology. Yes, you are indeed working for today, tomorrow and the future.
“My good friend Peter, we can go places together to build Nigeria and build the future.
“It is audacious to have this home filled with technology, and they are ready for use. To promote investment, I know you are a private sector person, and we must encourage more private sector people to come into politics.
“When you are sure of security and development and give value for money, investors will be your friend,” he said.
President Tinubu further lauded the governor, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP, for demonstrating an irrevocable commitment to human development.
“I don’t care which party you come from; you are my friend. Alex Otti of Abia State is also doing very well. It is not about the differences in languages and place of birth.
“No one of us has control of the mother tongue. God created us, and you can find yourself in Enugu, Onitsha or Lagos. We are all members of one huge family called Nigeria, but we live in different rooms in the same house.
“We must build this house to satisfy our immediate and future needs,” he said.
At the interactive session, Governor Mbah described President Tinubu as a true federalist.
He commended the Tinubu administration for establishing the South East Development Commission and liberalising the electricity sector through the Electricity Act (Amendment).
He congratulated the President on being named ThisDay Man of the Year and acknowledged his efforts to revitalise Nigeria’s growth and economic resilience.
“Your Excellency, your credential as a true federalist stands out brightly, and the legacies thereof will long earn you resounding accolades.
“In signing the Electricity Act (Amendment) Bill, you liberalised electricity generation, transmission, and distribution. That singular act will consistently rank as an enduring legacy.
“It is noteworthy that Enugu State was the first sub-national to which the NERC ceded regulatory oversight of the local electricity market. That reflects how swiftly we are pursuing our goals,” he said.
According to the governor, the South East Development Commission will address infrastructure and ecological challenges in the region while complementing the many development strides unfolding across the state.
Governor Mbah reiterated his vision to grow Enugu’s economy from $4.4 billion to $30 billion within 4 years, aiming to position the state among Nigeria’s top three states in terms of GDP.
He said this grand dream can be achieved when security is guaranteed, quality education thrives, and citizens can access affordable healthcare.
The governor outlined the bold steps taken to enhance public safety in the state, including ending the illegal sit-at-home order imposed across the Southeast by a criminal gang and non-state actors.
”We no longer observe sit-at-home in Enugu. Our people go to work every day of the week, and we no longer take orders from non-state actors,” he said.
The governor told the President that some of the Smart Green Schools commissioned during the state visit were part of the modern schools introduced by his administration across 260 wards to equip students with 21st-century skills.
The governor explained that his administration has focused on primary healthcare, upgrading all 260 primary healthcare centres to maintain consistent quality, even in remote areas.
“All these infrastructural developments are mainly possible because of your bold initiatives.
“The courageous pronouncements you made to free up funds for development: the removal of fuel subsidy, the unification of the foreign exchange, and several social interventions that your government continues to provide for the people of this country.
“We are now essentially, with those funds freed, able to fully complete these projects. And it’s not just physical infrastructure; social and digital infrastructure are going on,” Governor Mbah said.
President Bola Tinubu paid an official visit to the Oba of Lagos, His Majesty, Oba Rilwan Akiolu, at the Iga Idunganran Palace on Friday.
In a statement shared on his X handle on Saturday, Tinubu praised traditional institutions and their leaders, emphasizing their crucial role in shaping society.
He wrote, “Today, I had the honour of visiting His Majesty, Oba Rilwan Akiolu of Lagos, at the historic Iga Idunganran Palace, a site rich in culture and tradition. During our meeting, we had meaningful discussions about the role of traditional institutions in governance and development. We also explored how these institutions can contribute to building a cohesive society that promotes prosperity for all. Thank you, Kabiyesi, for this important and enlightening conversation.”
President Tinubu also reiterated his mission to improve the lives of Nigerians. After Jummat prayers on Lagos Island, he expressed gratitude to supporters who welcomed him warmly.
In a tweet, he stated, “People are at the heart of our mission. Thank you, Lagos Island, for the warm and rapturous welcome this afternoon. Your support strengthens my resolve to create a brighter future for a Nigeria that works for everyone—one we can all proudly call our country. Together, let us work and pray for a better nation.”
In his New Year address, Tinubu promised a better 2025, pledging policies that would enhance food production, promote local manufacturing, and reduce the high cost of living. He emphasized his administration’s goal to bring inflation down from 34.6% to 15%.
He said, “In 2025, our government will intensify efforts to lower living costs by increasing food production and encouraging local manufacturing of essential goods. We aim to provide relief and improve the quality of life for all citizens. Additionally, we will expand access to credit for individuals and critical sectors of the economy to boost national economic output.”
Tinubu concluded with a message of hope, expressing confidence in the collective ability to achieve these goals with diligence and God’s help.
President Bola Tinubu on Saturday hailed Enugu Governor, Barr Peter Mbah’s development strides.
Tinubu, who is on a one-day official visit to the Coal City State, spoke during his stakeholders’ engagement at the Banquet Hall, Governor’s Lodge, Enugu Govt House.
He said the governor “is doing a fantastic job. I am glad that Enugu got a very good job tomorrow, today. I salute Peter Mbah for his commitment to development.
“You have built up a good team and I have reviewed a number of things with you in Abuja. You have encouraged me on the technological advancement of the state. The commitment you have from the private sector. I know your background.”
While waving politics aside, President Tinubu stressed that “the election is over and we have to move the nation forward. You have demonstrated that irrevocable commitment towards human development.
“I don’t care which party you come from. You are my friend. You are doing well and very focused. We must build this house called Nigeria to not just satisfy our immediate need, but our tomorrow too.
“That’s why the removal of the fuel subsidy was necessary. We can not spend the future of generation yet unborn in advance. Don’t bankrupt the nation before they’re born.”
“I am very proud of Nigeria. Mbah is proud of Nigeria. He is doing everything possible to provide security, attracting foreign investors, and other investors locally.
“There’s no better investment than the investment to secure lives. I saw those cars, the Distress Response Squad. It is the way to go.
“Please, continue to cooperate and collaborate with your son, brother and friend here, Mbah, who is really committed to push the development of Enugu State and be a good symbol of south eastern states,” he told the stakeholders.
DAILY POST reported that President Tinubu earlier in the day commissioned multiple projects completed by the Governor Mbah administration.
President Bola Tinubu has arrived at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, as part of his official visit to the state.
According to Punch Online, the President landed aboard a Nigeria Air Force Airbus A330 at approximately 1:22 p.m.
He was warmly received at the airport by prominent figures, including Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah, Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, Abia State Governor Alex Otti, the Deputy Governor of Anambra State, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Benjamin Kalu, former Senate President Anyim Pius Anyim, Minister of Works Dave Umahi, and oil magnate Arthur Eze, among others.
According to a statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, the President’s visit will include the commissioning of several landmark projects completed by the Enugu State Government under Governor Mbah’s administration.
Key projects to be commissioned include:
- The Enugu International Conference Centre, a multi-auditorium and multifunctional facility.
- 30 Smart Green Schools, fully completed and equipped, out of 260 under construction across the state’s 260 wards.
- 60 Type 2 Primary Healthcare Centres, also completed and equipped, out of 260 being developed across the wards.
- 90 completed urban roads in Enugu City.
- A state-of-the-art Command and Control Centre, alongside 150 patrol vehicles fitted with AI-embedded surveillance cameras.
The statement further noted that the President will also inaugurate several completed rural roads during his one-day visit.
This visit underscores the federal government’s commitment to infrastructure development and collaboration with state governments to improve the quality of life for Nigerians.
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike, says he has no regret supporting President Bola Tinubu against the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, in the 2023 elections.
Wike said some of his opponents collected money from Atiku to fight but they all failed.
He spoke at the New Year luncheon he organized at his country home in Obio-Akpor on Friday.
According to Wike: “I have no regret supporting Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu to win election.
“All these ones making noise, they told Atiku, we will fight him. How can people who came out and said Fubara cannot be governor, he cannot talk before the public, today are now the ones saying we are with you in 2027?”
During the build-up to the 2023 presidential election, Wike, then the governor of Rivers State, supported Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress, APC.
Wike refused to support Atiku due to the leadership crisis within the PDP.
The former governor of Rivers State had faulted the decision of the party to allow its presidential candidate and national chairman to emerge from the North.