Flowerbud News

Year: 2026

  • SCAN urges adequate structures ahead National Single Window rollout

    The President of SCAN, Mr Moses Ebosele,
    SCAN urges adequate structures ahead National Single Window rollout
    Lagos, March 17, 2026, In preparation to the rollout of the National Single Window (NSW) on March 27, 2026, the Shipping Correspondents Association of Nigeria (SCAN) has called on the Federal Government and other relevant stakeholders to ensure that all necessary structures were put  in place for Nigerians to fully benefit from the initiative.
     The President of SCAN, Mr Moses Ebosele, said this in a statement made available to our correspondent in Lagos on Tuesday.
    According to him, the National Single Window represents a major step toward modernising Nigeria’s trade processes, improving transparency and enhancing operational efficiency at the nation’s ports, its implementation should be carefully structured to avoid disruptions.
    Ebosele said the initiative had potential to simplify documentation processes, reduce cargo clearance time, and strengthen coordination among government agencies involved in international trade.
    The SCAN president said that the success of the NSC transformative platform depends  on adequate preparation, strong institutional coordination and proper integration of stakeholders.
    “The introduction of the National Single Window is a welcome development and a major reform capable of improving Nigeria’s trade competitiveness.
    “The NSW  secretariat should also ensures that all operational, technical and institutional frameworks are properly established before the official rollout.
    “All the port users, freight forwarders, shipping companies, terminal operators and regulatory agencies should be adequately prepared and properly integrated into the system to prevent confusion, delays or disruptions in cargo clearance processes once the platform goes live,” he said.
    Ebosele pleaded with  the National Single Window Secretariat to intensify engagement with industry stakeholders  assuring adequate testing, training and system integration are completed ahead of the launch date.
    He noted that a reform of this magnitude requires robust infrastructure, seamless inter-agency connectivity and adequate sensitisation of stakeholders.
     Ebosele said the rollout without ensuring full operational of the established components  could create avoidable challenges for port users and stakeholders.
    He emphasised that the maritime industry remained a critical pillar of Nigeria’s economy, adding that any reform affecting port operations should be implemented in a manner that guarantees efficiency, stability and ease of doing business.
    He therefore urged the Federal Government and key agencies within the maritime and trade ecosystem to work closely with the NSW Secretariat to ensure a smooth, transparent and successful implementation of the initiative.
    Ebosele called on the Federal Government to deploy more personnel, especially industry stakeholders to the NSW secretariat as part of measures in ensuring a smooth take-off of the platform on March 27.
    The scan president urged the government to roll out broader and more robust stakeholder engagement, saying that the current level of consultation remains insufficient for a strategic project of such national importance.
    Ebosele reasserted SCAN’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote transparency, trade facilitation and sustainable growth within Nigeria’s maritime sector and the broader economy.
  • Igbo-Etiti Council Chairman felicitates Gov. Mbah @ 54, hails impactful leadership

    Igbo-Etiti Council Chairman felicitates Gov. Mbah @ 54, hails impactful leadership

    Igbo-Etiti Council Chairman felicitates Gov. Mbah @ 54, hails impactful leadership

     

    The Chairman, Igbo-Etiti Local Government Area, Dr. Eric Odo, has felicitated Gov. Peter Mbah on his 54th birthday anniversary, while he hailed the governor’s impactful leadership.

     

    Odo said this in a congratulatory birthday message he personally signed and issued to newsmen on Tuesday in Enugu.

     

    According to him, I extend my warmest and heartfelt congratulations to the Executive Governor of Enugu State, Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, as he marks the joyous occasion of his 54th birthday.

     

     

    “Your Excellency, your visionary, purposeful, impactful and result-driven leadership continues to illuminate the path of progress for our dear state.

     

    “In a remarkably short period, your administration has ignited a new era of bold infrastructural renewal and economic transformation, thus redefining the development trajectory of Enugu State.

     

    “With uncommon determination, you have set Enugu firmly on the path of economic expansion, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to elevating the state’s Gross Domestic Product from $4.4 billion to an ambitious $30 billion.

     

    “This noble vision reflects an enduring belief in the limitless potential of our homeland,” he said.

     

     

    The chairman appreciated the governor for the remarkable confidence his administration had inspired among both local and international investors; thus, positioning Enugu State as a flourishing hub for enterprise, innovation, and sustainable development.

     

    “As you celebrate this significant milestone, it is my earnest prayer that the Almighty God will continue to bless you with greater wisdom, robust health, and renewed strength to sustain your noble service to the good people of Enugu State.

     

    “May the years ahead bring even greater accomplishments and enduring legacy. Once again, happy birthday, Your Excellency,” he added.

     

  • Adeleke, Ede and the Myth of “Edenisation”

    Adeleke, Ede and the Myth of “Edenisation”

    By Abiodun Kolobo
    The recent article by Abiodun Komolafe titled “Adeleke, Ede and the Limits of Edenisation” attempts to paint the administration of Ademola Adeleke as one driven by parochial interests and hometown favoritism. While criticism is an essential component of democratic discourse, such criticism must be anchored in fairness, balance, and verifiable facts. Unfortunately, the argument presented in that piece leans more toward political rhetoric than objective analysis.
    At the heart of the article is the claim that Governor Adeleke is excessively concentrating development in his hometown of Ede. Yet, a careful look at developments across Osun State under the current administration tells a far more balanced story. Roads, schools, health facilities, and social programmes are being implemented across multiple senatorial districts, from Ilesa to Iwo and from Osogbo to Ife. These projects demonstrate a commitment to statewide development rather than a narrow hometown agenda.
    The controversy surrounding the proposed relocation of the cargo airport from Ido-Osun has also been framed in a misleading way. Infrastructure decisions of such magnitude are often driven by technical, logistical, and economic considerations. To reduce the debate to a simplistic narrative of hometown favoritism ignores the complex realities of infrastructure planning and economic development. Airports, particularly cargo airports, must be positioned based on long-term economic viability, connectivity, and expansion potential.
    Furthermore, the suggestion that the governor has filled government positions exclusively with individuals from Ede is both exaggerated and unfair. Like every administration, appointments reflect a combination of competence, trust, political collaboration, and regional representation. It is not unusual in Nigerian politics for leaders to appoint trusted allies, but such appointments do not automatically translate into systemic exclusion of others. Indeed, many key positions within the Osun government are held by individuals from different parts of the state.
    The attempt to contrast Governor Adeleke with historic leaders such as Obafemi Awolowo is also somewhat misplaced. Awolowo remains an iconic figure in Nigerian political history, but governance contexts differ significantly across generations. The challenges facing today’s state governments—economic pressures, federal fiscal constraints, urban expansion, and infrastructure deficits—require pragmatic solutions rather than symbolic comparisons with the past.
    Moreover, it is important to recognize that development in a leader’s hometown is not inherently illegitimate. Across the world, communities often benefit from leaders who emerge from them, not because of favoritism but because such communities historically lacked adequate infrastructure before their rise to prominence. What matters is whether such development occurs at the expense of other communities. In the case of Osun State, evidence does not support the claim of systematic neglect elsewhere.
    The larger question should therefore not be where a road is constructed or where a project is sited, but whether the people of Osun are experiencing improved governance, economic opportunity, and social welfare. On that score, the Adeleke administration has initiated programmes in education, health, and infrastructure that reach far beyond Ede.
    Political commentary must rise above local rivalries and partisan framing. Osun State’s development requires unity of purpose, constructive criticism, and honest engagement with facts. Reducing governance to accusations of “Edenisation” risks distracting from the real work of building a prosperous and inclusive state.
    Ultimately, the true measure of leadership will not lie in rhetorical battles in newspaper columns but in the tangible improvements felt by the people across Osun’s towns and villages. On that front, the administration of Governor Ademola Adeleke deserves to be assessed with fairness, not conjecture.

    Abiodun Kolobo
    Ile Apena
    Ede

  • Dr Odumegwu felicitates Gov. Mbah @ 54, assures working assiduously for his re-election

    Dr Odumegwu felicitates Gov. Mbah @ 54, assures working assiduously for his re-election

    Dr Odumegwu felicitates Gov. Mbah @ 54, assures working assiduously for his re-election

    A Frontline Politician and Elder Statesman, Dr Ejikeme Odumegwu, has felicitated Gov. Peter Mbah of Enugu State on his 54th birthday anniversary, while assuring him of his commitment to work assiduously for his re-election.

    Odumegwu, who holds the title of Owelle of Nsukka, gave the congratulatory message to Mbah in a statement issued to newsmen in his Enugu office on Tuesday.

    He said that notwithstanding political differences, Gov. Mbah had set the pace in leadership and people-focussed governance among fellow Governors.

     

    Odumegwu described Mbah as an impactful leader with a vision for tomorrow’s infrastructure, noting that his administration’s infrastructure development, programmes and policies have made Enugu State to stand out.

    According to him, Mbah has placed technology-driven security measures in Enugu State, which has enhanced night life and business activities in the state.

    “We are living witnesses to your giant strides in statewide roads construction and re-construction, educational upgrade, health, tech-innovation, youths empowerment and skills upscale programmes, environmental management and upgrading, upgrade on transport facilities and lots more.

     

    “On behalf of myself and family, we wish you a wonderful and fulfilling 54 years birthday and pray that the good Lord grant you many more beautiful years ahead in good health.

    “You have made us proud as Enugu State people, we are with you throughout this campaign period to the fulfillment of your re-election as we earnestly work and pray.

    “I will voluntarily place the highest billboard in the most strategic location in Enugu in favour of your re-election campaign and continue to herald your exceptional qualities and achievements among my teeming supporters and followers as well as in public fora.

    “May the Almighty always illuminate your path; as indeed it is a new dawn for us in Enugu State. Happy birthday Your Excellency,” he said.

  • President Tinubu felicitates Gov. Mbah at 54

    President Tinubu felicitates Gov. Mbah at 54

    President Tinubu felicitates Gov. Mbah at 54

    President Bola Tinubu has felicitated Dr Peter Mbah, Enugu State Governor, on his 54th birthday on March 17, 2026.

    This is contained in a statement issued by Mr Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President (Information & Strategy) on Tuesday.

    Tinubu celebrated the lawyer and philanthropist, highlighting the tremendous progress recorded in Enugu State under his leadership over the past two years.

     

    He particularly lauds Mbah’s bold commitment to the ideals of progressive governance and constitutional democracy, as exemplified in his administration’s transformational projects and programmes.

    It would be recalled that Mbah was a private-sector player who had achieved success in the oil and gas sector before he was elected governor of Enugu State in 2023.

    President Tinubu remarks: “During my official visit to Enugu in 2025, I witnessed firsthand what good and competent leadership, as demonstrated by Mbah, can accomplish when anchored on vision and service to the people.

    “Dr Mbah’s inclusive governance and partnership with other Southeast governors is repositioning the region for economic and political transformation.”

    Tinubu wishes the Enugu State Governor good health and renewed strength as he continues his good work in the state.

  • UK rolling out the drums for President Tinubu, sign of Nigeria’s growing international profile-TMSG

    UK rolling out the drums for President Tinubu, sign of Nigeria’s growing international profile-TMSG

     

     

    By  Danladi Ahmed

    Ahead of President Bola Tinubu’s imminent state visit to the United Kingdom this week, the Tinubu Media Support Group (TMSG) has lauded the elaborate plans to receive the Nigerian leader, describing it as unique, and unprecedented in many ways.

    In a statement signed by its Chairman Emeka Nwankpa and Secretary Dapo Okubanjo, it said it significantly reflected Nigeria’s new global top rating in the comity of nations on the watch of President Tinubu.

    The statement read in part, “After 37 years that the last Nigerian leader was hosted by a British sovereign, President Bola Tinubu is about to receive a reception reflective and worthy of the country’s prime status in the international community.

    “We are aware that the British authorities not only announced the closure of major roads ahead of the state visit, they have also slated a number of bilateral engagements that make the state visit historic in many respects.

    “This, for us, is a reflection of the importance of Nigeria in the eye of the world especially at a time the President Bola Tinubu administration has introduced significant economic reforms to stabilise Nigeria’s economy and open it up for big business across various sectors.

    “We note that the President received a similar grand reception in France, and Turkey recently where a number of agreements bordering on trade and investment, economic infrastructure and security cooperation were sealed.

    “In the case of Britiain, aside from meeting with King Charles III at the Windsor Castle, President Tinubu is scheduled to hold bilateral talks with the Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer at 10 Downing Street on a number of issues ranging from ongoing trade relations to current strategic partnerships between the two countries.

    “He is also to hold a private sector-led business summit with Nigerian and British business leaders where President Tinubu will have more opportunities to make his usual ‘sales pitch’ on Nigeria as well as the various incentives his administration has initiated to atract Foreign Direct Investments (FIDs).

    “We dare say that the President will use the platform to present Nigeria’s ongoing reform story and outline the vast investment opportunities across key sectors of the economy including mining and energy that have been reinvigorated with a view to attracting global capital.

    “Particularly, it is necessary to emphasise that Nigeria is Britain’s second largest trading partner in Africa with annual bilateral trade estimated at about £8 billion pounds across energy, finance, education, technology, and retail.

    “We are elated at the sight of miniature Nigerian flags on some major roads in London ahead of the President’s state visit.”

    TMSG expressed conviction that President Tinubu’s visit will go down in the Anglo-Nigerian bilateral history as the most significantly exploratory in the way it would bring quality outcomes that will boost Nigeria’s economic trajectory.

     

  • Palace Dismisses Allegations Against Timi of Ede

    Palace Dismisses Allegations Against Timi of Ede

    The palace of the Timi of Edeland has dismissed allegations circulating on social media accusing the monarch of double standards in his relationship with political leaders in the town, describing the claims as false and a calculated attempt to disrupt the peaceful atmosphere in Ede, Osun State.
    In a statement issued by the Director of Information and Protocol at Aafin Timi Agbale, Dapo Akinyele, the palace said a video released by a faceless woman and circulated on social media platforms alleging that the monarch had abandoned the political ambition of Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, was a fabrication.
    The palace maintained that the Timi of Edeland, Munirudeen Adesola Lawal, has enjoyed cordial relations and tremendous support from the Adeleke dynasty since his ascension to the throne in 2008.
    According to the statement, the late Asiwaju of Edeland, Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke, supported the traditional institution during his lifetime, adding that the relationship had continued with the incumbent governor and other members of the Adeleke family.
    It also noted that the governor’s siblings, including Tajudeen Adedeji Adeleke and the Yeyeluwa of Edeland, Modupe Adeleke Sanni, have remained supportive of the Ede Traditional Council.
    The palace described the allegations as the handiwork of disgruntled elements and agents of fake news determined to create tension within the community.
    While appreciating the support of sons and daughters of Ede for the traditional institution, the palace called on politicians, regardless of party affiliation, to avoid propaganda capable of heating up the polity.
    It urged residents and political actors to embrace unity and work together to sustain peace and development in the ancient town.

  • Ede Elders Urge Politicians to Shun Violence, Promote Peace

    The Ede Elders Council has urged politicians in Ede, Osun State, to embrace peace and focus on the development of the ancient town rather than pursue divisive and self-serving political interests.
    President of the council, Sulaimon Ademola Adebayo, made the call in Ede during a parley with political stakeholders following a recent confrontation among different political groups in the town.
    Adebayo said responsible leadership requires sacrifice, tolerance of opposing views and the ability to manage political differences without resorting to violence.
    According to him, the recent tensions were triggered by conflicting interests surrounding the establishment of a project in the community, a development that almost disrupted the peace traditionally enjoyed in the town.
    In a statement issued by the Director of Publicity of the council, Ayodele Adeyemo, the elders reminded the feuding parties that Ede has long been known for unity and peaceful coexistence.
    The statement quoted the elders as reiterating the popular saying, “yara kan soso ni Ede,” which signifies the inseparable bond among the people of the town.
    The elders also frowned at what they described as the misuse of social media to spread discord and tarnish the reputation of individuals, warning that such actions could threaten the unity of the community.
    Adebayo further noted that the immediate concern of residents should be providing assistance to victims of the recent windstorms that destroyed several houses and rendered many residents homeless.
    He appealed to the National Emergency Management Agency and the Osun State Emergency Management Agency to urgently provide relief materials to those affected by the disaster.
    He also called on individuals, government institutions and Ede indigenes at home and in the diaspora to mobilise support and donate essential materials to the victims.
    Meanwhile, leaders of the two political groups involved in the disagreement, Adeyemi Elliott and Lukman Afolabi, commended the elders for their timely intervention.
    They also acknowledged the role played by the Timi of Edeland, Munirudeen Adesola Lawal, in ensuring that peace and tranquility were maintained in the town.
    The two political leaders further pledged to conduct an assessment of properties destroyed by the recent tornado in order to present the plight of affected residents to relevant agencies at both the federal and state levels.

  • Health Ministry, Prof. Ugwu felicitate health-loving Gov. Mbah at 54

    Health Ministry, Prof. Ugwu felicitate health-loving Gov. Mbah at 54

    Health Ministry, Prof. Ugwu felicitate health-loving Gov. Mbah at 54

    The Enugu State Ministry of Health has felicitated health-loving Gov. Peter Mbah on his 54th birthday and his unprecedented infrastructure strides in the health sector in the state.

    The Commissioner for Health, Prof. George Ugwu, made the felicitation in a birthday congratulatory message issued to newsmen on Monday in Enugu.

    Ugwu said that the health sector and indeed the entire residents that benefit from what the sector is doing appreciate God Almighty for the gift of Mbah and his great vision, commitment and monumental investment in health.

    According to him, there is no record anywhere in the country, where the governor is simultaneously building primary, secondary, tertiary and international quaternary hospitals with same speed and zeal.

     

    He said that some of these infrastructure and programme included: simultaneously construction of 260 modern, equipped Type-2 Primary Healthcare Centers across all wards in rural areas in the state, focusing on rural access.

    “Construction and near completion of a 300-bed international (quaternary) top-tier multispecialty health facility in Enugu to serve as a medical tourism hub for Africa, specializing in cardiology, oncology, and minimally invasive surgery.

    “Significant upgrades at Enugu State University Teaching Hospital (ESUTH) and another teaching hospital at the State University of Medical and Applied Sciences (SUMASTH), to serve the people of Enugu North Senatorial Zone to access tertiary medical needs.

    “Revamped all General and Cottage hospitals at the secondary level to serve the people better as well as upgrading facilities, laboratory systems, and creating a patient-centric environment.

    “Approval for the recruitment of 2,200 health professionals to address the shortage in primary healthcare, ensuring improved staff welfare and service delivery,” he said.

     

    Ugwu noted that Mbah’s administration had  implemented digital record systems in most of the health facilities, comprehensive laboratory services, and 24/7 security/perimeter fencing at hospitals and harmonious health professionals relationship to combat brain drain.

    The commissioner noted that massive rehabilitation and remodeling of existing hospitals, and upgrading the state’s Schools of Nursing and Midwifery to standard and lots more.

    He said that through the proactive support of the governor, the ministry had been able to contain and ensure “no single case of Lassa Fever in the state” even when 18 states including neighbouring states have recorded cases.

     

    “On behalf of the Ministry and the health sector, we wish you a wonderful and fulfilling 54 years birthday and prayer that the good Lord grant you many more beautiful years ahead in good health and abundant grace as you have taken care of health of Enugu State people..

    “As a ministry, we are also praying for the fulfillment of your re-election bid, in order for the residents to continue to enjoy and gain from your humanitarian and health-loving nature.

    “May the Almighty always illuminate your path; as indeed it is a new dawn for us in Enugu State. Happy birthday Your Excellency,” he said.