Year: 2026

  • Eid-El-Kabir: Aolalubarika Pupo Pupo Felicitates Ogbomoso North, Prays for Oyo and Nigeria

    Eid-El-Kabir: Aolalubarika Pupo Pupo Felicitates Ogbomoso North, Prays for Oyo and Nigeria

    The Aspirant for the Oyo State House of Assembly, Ogbomoso North Constituency under the platform of the , Hon. , has extended warm felicitations to Muslim faithful and the entire people of Ogbomoso North Constituency on the occasion of this year’s Eid-El-Kabir celebration, urging residents to uphold the virtues of sacrifice, unity, love, and peaceful coexistence as exemplified by Prophet Ibrahim.

    In a goodwill message made available to newsmen on Wednesday, the grassroots politician popularly known as Aolalubarika Pupo Pupo described Eid-El-Kabir as a sacred season that reminds humanity of total obedience to God, selflessness, compassion, and unwavering faith in the face of challenges.

    Hon. Sakariya Mohammed Taofiq, who is widely regarded by supporters and political stakeholders as a vibrant grassroots mobilizer and experienced public administrator, called on residents of Ogbomoso North to use the festive period to strengthen bonds of unity, support one another, and continue praying for the peace, stability, and progress of the constituency, Oyo State, and Nigeria at large.

    According to him, “I heartily felicitate all Muslim Ummah and the good people of Ogbomoso North Constituency on the joyous occasion of Eid-El-Kabir. May this sacred celebration bring abundant peace, joy, divine blessings, and prosperity to every home. This season should further remind us of the importance of sacrifice, humility, love for humanity, and unwavering faith in Almighty Allah.”

    The House of Assembly hopeful also appreciated leaders and faithful members of the for their steadfast support, loyalty, and commitment towards the growth of the party and democratic development within the constituency and Oyo State as a whole.

    “I sincerely appreciate the leadership and members of our great party, SDP, across Ogbomoso North and Oyo State for their continuous sacrifices, unity, and dedication. Together, we shall continue to build a stronger, people-oriented, and progressive political movement that truly represents the hopes and aspirations of the masses,” he stated.

    Furthermore, Hon. Sakariya Mohammed Taofiq sympathised with the parents, families, and the entire community affected by the recent kidnapping incident involving students of Community High School, Ahoro Esiele, Ikoyi-Ile in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State. He described the incident as painful, disturbing, and unfortunate, while calling for intensified efforts towards ensuring the safety of lives and property across the state. The Oyo State House of Assembly aspirant prayed fervently for the divine protection, safety, and quick release of the abducted children, expressing hope that they would return safely to their families unharmed. He also urged security agencies and relevant authorities to remain proactive and committed in addressing security challenges confronting various communities.

    Hon. Sakariya further offered prayers for divine guidance upon the leadership of Oyo State and Nigeria, expressing optimism that the nation would overcome its socio-economic and political challenges through collective responsibility, good governance, and sincere commitment to the welfare of the people.

    He prayed that Almighty Allah would continue to bless Oyo State with peace, development, and visionary leadership while granting Nigeria lasting unity, economic stability, security, and national progress.

    Political observers in Ogbomoso North have continued to describe Aolalubarika Pupo Pupo as one of the emerging grassroots voices whose administrative competence, legislative exposure, and longstanding connection with the people position him as a strong contender ahead of the 2027 Oyo State House of Assembly election.

    The growing acceptance of Hon. Sakariya Mohammed Taofiq among youths, community stakeholders, and party faithful has continued to generate conversations across the constituency, with many supporters expressing confidence in his capacity to deliver responsive representation, people-centered legislation, youth empowerment, and sustainable development if elected into office.

  • Chief Imam 81 Division urges Nigerians to be brothers’ keeper, sacrifice for common good

    Chief Imam 81 Division urges Nigerians to be brothers’ keeper, sacrifice for common good

    Chief Imam 81 Division urges Nigerians to be brothers’ keeper, sacrifice for common good

    The Chief Imam 81 Division of Nigerian Army, Lt.-Col. Husein Eleje, has urged Nigerians to be their brothers’ keeper and imbibe the virtue of sacrificing for the common good of all.

    Eleje made the call on Wednesday in a brief sermon during the Eid Prayers held at the 81 Division Garrison Parade Ground, Obalende, Lagos.

    He said that the current moment called for all to be their brothers keepers as well as need to sacrifices ones personnel interest for joy and comfort of many others.

     

    According to him, in applying this love and solidarity, one should do everything necessary to see that no harm touches or reach a fellow brother and sister.

    Eleje, who is also an acting Deputy Director, 81 Division Islamic Affairs, also alluded to the Holy Qu’ran where the Hoy Book called on the faithful to continue doing acts of righteousness and love.

    He noted that the Holy Book also forbids one being involved in evil and harm to one’s neighbours no matter who is concerned.

     

    “If I am aware of any danger eminent to occur and likely to harm my neighbours or others, I should stand against such act or leak the information to the targeted person in order to safe him or her.

    “And in our Muslim tradition, it is stated that he is not a sincere believer, he who does not stop harming others.

    “So to be godly, we must do onto others what we want them to do onto us in terms love and good neighbourliness; thus, preventing vices in the society,” he said.

     

    The Chief Imam urged Muslim faithful to show love and extend the provisions of Almighty Allah and His kindness to others this Sallah period and beyond.

    “As we celebrate, eat and drink together, it implants unity in our environments and strengthens the bond of brotherhood that exist among all the Almighty has created.

    “We are created to support one another in difficult times and rejoice together during happy times.

     

    “The needy and the poor should find relief in the generosity of the rich towards them during this season,” he said.

    The Chief Imam also prayed for the protection and success of Nigerian Army troops in various theatre of operations and prayed for peace and security to return in all states of the country.

    Eleje prayed for the Almighty’s grace, wisdom and protection for the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division Nigerian Army, Maj.-Gen. Adebayo Babalola; while commending him on non-discriminatory leadership in his command.

    He prayed for sound health and wisdom for the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu; the Chief of Defense Staff (CDS), Gen. Olufemi Oluyede and the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Tinubu.

  • NTAC DG Appreciates Pres.Tinubu’s Support as a batch of 11 TAC Volunteers Return from Uganda

    NTAC DG Appreciates Pres.Tinubu’s Support as a batch of 11 TAC Volunteers Return from Uganda

     

    By Biola Lawal
    Abuja (FLOWERBUDNEWS): The Director General of the Nigerian Technical Aid Corps (NTAC), Rt. Hon. Yusuf Buba Yakub has appreciated Pres. Bola Ahmed Tinubu,
    says he, the President, has made TAC function optimally since he assumed power.

    Rt.-Hon.. Buba Yakub gave the commendation on Monday in Abuja when he formally received eleven 11 volunteers returning from the Republic of Uganda after a successful completion of their two-year Technical Assistance assignments in various institutions in that country.

    The NTAC DG, who also congratulated President Tinubu on his win in the APC Presidential primary election conducted over the weekend across the country. noted that NTAC operations has continued to reaffirm Nigeria’s Technical Diplomacy and Capacity Building Success_

    The reception, during which a debriefing and support session was held, was part of the CORPS’ commitment to the welfare, monitoring and reintegration of returning volunteers under the Technical Aid Corps Scheme, a statement by Ojo Olubunmi, Head, NTAC Information and Public Relations, disclosed.

    Rt.-Hon. Buba Yakub warmly welcomed the volunteers back to Nigeria and commended them for their patriotism, dedication, professionalism, and outstanding representation of the country while serving in Uganda.

    He disclosed that many of the volunteers distinguished themselves through impactful service delivery, academic excellence, and professional contributions, earning awards, commendations, and recognition from both the Government of Uganda and their host institutions.

    _“As you return to your various institutions in Nigeria, I am confident that the exposure and experience gained during the assignment will positively distinguish you among your peers and further enhance your contributions to national development,”_ the Director-General stated.

    He further noted that the achievements recorded by the volunteers reflect the growing strength and relevance of the Technical Aid Corps Scheme as one of Nigeria’s foremost instruments of soft power diplomacy and South-South Cooperation.

    The Director-General also appreciated the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the NTAC management and staff, particularly the Department of Programmes, for their continued support, effective coordination, monitoring, and successful management of volunteers throughout the duration of the assignment.

    Speaking on behalf of the returning volunteers, the team lead, Prof. Yusuf Ali Zoaka, expressed appreciation to the Director-General, NTAC management, the Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the Federal Government for providing a conducive and well-coordinated environment throughout their deployment in Uganda.

    Prof. Zoaka highlighted the significant achievements recorded during the assignment, particularly in the area of academic and professional capacity building.

    According to him, the volunteers supervised several Master’s and PhD candidates, supported newly established doctoral programmes, participated in academic development initiatives, and contributed immensely to the growth of their host institutions.

    Prof. Zoaka further disclosed that some Ugandan institutions have already expressed interest in continued collaboration with the Nigerian scholars through future academic and professional engagements, owing to the remarkable impact made during the deployment.

    The returning volunteers also appreciated the Federal Government for sustaining the Technical Aid Corps Scheme, which continued to strengthen Nigeria’s bilateral relations, promote Technical Cooperation, and project the country’s goodwill across Africa, the Caribbean, and the Pacific (ACP) countries.

    The reception and debriefing session, which was also attended by members of the management team and staff of the Corps.
    underscored NTAC’s unwavering commitment to the welfare, professional development, and successful reintegration of its volunteers after overseas assignments.

    Established as a flagship foreign policy initiative of the Federal Government, the Nigerian Technical Aid Corps Scheme remains a critical medium for promoting South-South Cooperation, international partnership, capacity building, and the export of Nigeria’s Technical expertise and Human Capital, to developing countries across the globe.

    NTAC is an agency under the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs. (FLOWERBUDNEWS)

  • FG, NIHORT Empower Plantain Farmers with New HORTIPLAN, HORTIBAN  Varieties. ‎

    FG, NIHORT Empower Plantain Farmers with New HORTIPLAN, HORTIBAN Varieties. ‎

    Trainees with suckers of the newly released HORTIPLAN and HORTIBAN plantain/banana

     

    FG, NIHORT Empower Plantain Farmers with New HORTIPLAN, HORTIBAN Varieties.



    ‎By Oluwaseyi Oduneye-Ogunwomoju

    ‎The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, in collaboration with the National Horticultural Research Institute (NIHORT), has trained 67 farmers on rapid multiplication and orchard management of the newly released HORTIPLAN and HORTIBAN plantain and banana varieties in Ile-Ife, Osun State.

    ‎The beneficiaries, drawn from the Agric Mate Farewell to Poverty Association of Nigeria, participated in the training held at Akogun Olusidodo Hall, Ondo Road, Ile-Ife.

    ‎HORTIPLAN and HORTIBAN are newly developed, registered and released plantain and banana varieties by NIHORT.


    The varieties are high-yielding, possess high suckering ability, are tolerant to nematodes and weevils, and have long shelf life.

    ‎The improved varieties are also suitable for boiling, frying, roasting and flour production, while adapting well to diverse agro-ecological zones across the country.

    ‎The training brought together stakeholders in the plantain and banana value chain, including men, women and youths from Ile-Ife and surrounding communities.

    ‎A team of NIHORT scientists and technologists guided participants through both theoretical and practical sessions on rapid multiplication techniques, orchard management, pest and disease control, economics of production, record keeping and marketing strategies.

    ‎Speaking at the event, the Executive Director of NIHORT, Prof. Muhammad Lawal Attanda, represented by the Head of the Farming Systems and Extension Department, Dr. Iyabo Adeoye, said the initiative would strengthen the Federal Government’s agricultural development drive and improve food security.

    ‎She noted that the training would enhance plantain and banana production, reduce post-harvest losses and improve the incomes of farming households.

    ‎According to her, plantain remains a major food security crop and a reliable source of income for smallholder farmers because it is easier to cultivate and maintain than many other cash crops that require huge financial investments.

    ‎She described plantain farming as a low-capital but highly profitable agribusiness, adding that most Nigerian soils are suitable for its cultivation.

    ‎Adeoye further stated that plantain and banana serve as raw materials for several processed products, including confectionery flour, infant meals, plantain chips and banana chips.

    ‎She stressed that sustained capacity building and stakeholder engagement on innovations such as HORTIPLAN1, HORTIPLAN2, HORTIBAN1 and HORTIBAN2 are essential for increasing production, value addition and marketing within the plantain and banana value chain.

    ‎She urged participants to maximise the knowledge and skills acquired during the training.

    ‎The Chairman of the Agric Mate Farewell to Poverty Association, Chief Isaac Omidiora, and the Secretary, Mr. Abdul Haleem Sulyman, commended the Federal Government and NIHORT for the initiative, noting that it would significantly boost plantain and banana productivity in Osun State.

    ‎They also praised NIHORT for developing improved horticultural crop varieties aimed at enhancing food security in Nigeria.

    ‎Participants expressed appreciation to the Federal Government, the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, and NIHORT, saying the training would improve their production, management and marketing capacities.

    ‎Certificates of participation, training manuals and suckers of the newly released varieties were distributed to participants at the end of the programme.

    ‎The initiative forms part of NIHORT’s public engagement efforts in support of the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope agenda on food security and employment generation.

  • Breaking:  Court dismisses eligibility suit against Jonathan, awards N21m fine against lawyer

    Breaking: Court dismisses eligibility suit against Jonathan, awards N21m fine against lawyer

     

    The Federal High Court in Abuja on Tuesday dismissed a suit filed by a lawyer, Johnmary Jideobi, seeking to stop former President Goodluck Jonathan from contesting in the 2027 presidential election.

    Justice Peter Lifu, in a judgment, also awarded a N20 million fine against Jideobi and in favour of the ex-president.

    He equally awarded a 1 million fine against the plaintiff and in favour of the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF).

    Justice Lifu held that Jideobi lacked the legal right to have instituted the suit having not suffered any loss from his perceived Jonathan’s intention to vie for the next year poll.

    The judge, who said that a Federal High Court in Yenagoa and an Appeal Court had already held that Jonathan was eligible to run, said he was bound by the decision of the appellate court.

    The judge then described the lawyer’s suit as “an abuse of court process.”

    Justice Lifu also dismissed the Jideobi’s motion seeking the judge’s withdrawal from the case for being frivolous.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Jideobi had sued Jonatha, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and AGF as 1st to 3rf defendants respectively.

    Details later

  • FCT projects proof of Tinubu’s “good governance” – Wike

    FCT projects proof of Tinubu’s “good governance” – Wike

     

    By Philip Yatai

    Abuja:   The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has described ongoing infrastructure projects across the FCT as a clear “demonstration of President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to good governance”.

    Wike made the remarks on Monday, after inspecting some ongoing projects across the capital city, expressing satisfaction with the pace and quality of delivery by contractors.

    He explained that the rapid completion of critical infrastructure and revival of long-abandoned projects reflected Tinubu’s responsiveness to residents’ demand for good governance and urban development.

    Citing the Airport Road to Kuje Expressway project, Wike said anyone who saw the road would appreciate the scale and quality of work being delivered by the contractor.

    “That is what is called good governance. Tinubu is simply showcasing good governance to the people,” he said, hailing the administration’s infrastructure drive.

    He commended the contractor handling the project, describing the execution as a “fantastic job” and noting adherence to acceptable engineering and construction standards.

    Wike also lauded the completed first phase of the Kuje to Gwagwalada Road saying, “the quality of work had significantly improved the landscape of the area.

    “I am so happy with the quality of the project. You can see how infrastructure has changed the entire landscape of the Kuje area,” he added.

    The minister, who also inspected the access road to Renewed Hope City in Karsana, said the project was about 98 per cent completed.

    At the Old Keffi Road from Kado Fish Market to Dei Dei, Wike said the contractor was close to finishing asphalt laying and streetlight installation works.

    Speaking on the City Gate remodeling project, the minister said the structure now had a new look and commended First Lady Oluremi Tinubu for initiating the project.

    “I’m sure anybody who passes here at night will see a different city. They will know they are coming to a city, the capital of Nigeria.

    “I think today is one of my happiest days. All the projects we inspected, obviously, are ready for inauguration,” he added.

    Reacting to Mr Kingsley Chinda emerging as the APC candidate for the Rivers governorship race in 2027, Wike said the lawmaker was qualified and politically capable.

    He said Chinda’s legislative experience and political influence made him a strong candidate, noting that the party’s interest in him reflected his growing relevance.

    Wike added that Chinda, the House of Representatives minority leader, had experience working across both executive and legislative arms of government.

    On Gov. Siminalayi Fubara’s withdrawal from the APC gubernatorial primary, Wike said: “I wasn’t surprised because in the first place, he ought not to have collected the form.

    “This is because agreement was reached that his impeachment should be dropped, while he should also not go for a second term,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

  • NSC seeks rail integration to unlock Blue Economy potential


    L-R, the Assistant Director, Head of Designate Complaints Unit, Nigeria Shippers’ Council, Dr Juliana Saka, the Employee Relations Manager, AMP Terminal, Mr Benedict Nwangwu, the Head of Asset Management APM Terminal, Mr Gordon Condie, the Convener of the Ocean Ambassadors Foundation, Mrs Violet Williams the Training Manager APMT, China Anyanwu, and the Execution Manager, Joseph Bankole during
    the Children’s Day Blue Talents Rail-to-Sea programme organized by the Ocean Ambassadors Foundation and APM Terminals on Monday in Apapa, Lagos

     

    NSC seeks rail integration to unlock Blue Economy potential
    Lagos, May 25, 2026 ,  Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) has said efficient rail integration into the port system will unlock trade value, reduce cargo congestion and strengthen the country’s Blue Economy potential.
    Dr Juliana Saka, Assistant Director and Head of the Designate Unit, NSC, said this during the Children’s Day Blue Talents Rail-to-Sea Programme organised by the Ocean Ambassadors Foundation and APM Terminals on Monday in Apapa, Lagos.
    Saka said rail transport remained critical to moving high cargo volumes from seaports to inland markets, reducing pressure on roads, lowering emissions and improving trade efficiency.
    From first right the Convener of the Ocean Ambassadors Foundation, Mrs Violet Williams with some students in Lagos during the Children’s Day Blue Talents Rail-to-Sea programme organized by the Ocean Ambassadors Foundation and APM Terminals on Monday in Apapa, Lagos
    According to her, dedicated rail corridors reduce cargo dwell time, increase port throughput and connect shippers to factories and distribution hubs more efficiently.
    “Rail operators unlock trade value by moving high volumes from ports to inland markets, reducing congestion, emissions and truck bottlenecks.
    “When rail connects to ports, supply chains become faster, cleaner and more reliable. It reduces gate congestion, shortens dwell times, lowers costs and boosts resilience by easing road pressure,” she said.
    Babington Macaulay showcasing Maritime Club
    She noted that although oceans move cargo efficiently, delays often occur at ports because roads, truck parks and terminals struggle to absorb increasing cargo volumes.
    “Nearly 60 per cent of freight moves by road, offering flexibility for short-distance movement but placing huge pressure on major transport corridors.
    “This reliance increases congestion, emissions, costs and delays, becoming a structural challenge in high-growth trade regions,” she said.
    Saka said integrating rail into the Blue Economy would bridge ports to the hinterland, enabling reliable cargo movement with lower emissions and fewer logistics bottlenecks.
    She, however, identified customs delays, multiple checkpoints, overlapping charges and fragmented regulations as major constraints affecting rail cargo operations in Lagos ports.
    The Convener of the Ocean Ambassadors Foundation, Mrs Violet William, Jeremiah Sax and the Assistant Director, Head of Designate Complaints Unit, Nigeria Shippers’ Council, Dr Juliana Saka, the Assistant Director, Head of Designate Complaints Unit, Nigeria Shippers’ Council, Dr Juliana Saka,
    According to her, inconsistent fees and approval delays increase cargo dwell time and weaken the competitiveness of rail transport.
    To unlock the sector’s potential, she called for direct rail connections to Lagos ports, development of inland container depots in Ibadan, Kano and Kaduna, and upgrades of standard gauge rail corridors.
    Saka also advocated harmonisation of customs procedures and charges, expansion of the single-window system and simplification of intermodal tariffs to improve cost predictability.
    She further recommended the establishment of a Rail-Port Integration Authority, increased Public-Private Partnership (PPP) investments and regular stakeholder engagement to address operational challenges.
    On digital transformation, Saka urged the deployment of e-booking and cargo tracking platforms, as well as training for operators in intermodal logistics management.
    She also proposed pilot rail corridors such as Lagos-Ibadan and temporary incentives for rail cargo movement to attract investment into the sector.
    The  students were also exposed to multimodal cargo operations and logistics career opportunities.
    Convener of the Ocean Ambassadors Foundation, Mrs Violet Williams, said the initiative was designed to help students understand cargo movement through rail, trucks and seaports, while encouraging interest in logistics and supply chain careers.
    According to her, the foundation had earlier taken students to the Nigerian Railway Corporation headquarters to educate them on rail cargo movement.
    “Today’s programme exposed students to how cargo is transferred from ports to trucks and rail systems.
    “It is important for students to understand multimodal cargo operations so they can consider careers in logistics and supply chain management,” she said.
    Babington Macaulay showcasing Maritime Club
    Also speaking, the Head of Commercials, APM Terminals, Mr Kayode Daniel, explained the cargo handling process from the port of origin to the destination country.
    “Once the importer gathers the goods for shipment, the shipping company takes responsibility for transporting them to the country.
    “Before arrival, the company raises Form M and issues a Pre-Arrival Assessment Report (PAAR) to enable payment of customs duties and shipping charges,” he said.
    The Head of Asset Management APM Terminal, Mr Gordon Condie, receiving plaque as an appreciation from the Convener of the Ocean Ambassadors Foundation, Mrs Violet Williams,
    during the Children’s Day Blue Talents Rail-to-Sea programme organized by the Ocean Ambassadors Foundation and APM Terminals on Monday in Apapa, Lagos
    Daniel added that cargo movement from China to Nigeria takes approximately 30 days, while demurrage charges begin five days after cargo discharge at the terminal.
    The programme also featured practical sessions on cargo processing, port operations and intermodal transportation systems aimed at broadening students’ understanding of Nigeria’s maritime and logistics value chain.
  • Enugu Govt. tasks stakeholders on aggressive dissemination of free malaria testing, treatment campaign

    Enugu Govt. tasks stakeholders on aggressive dissemination of free malaria testing, treatment campaign

    Enugu Govt. tasks stakeholders on aggressive dissemination of free malaria testing, treatment campaign

     

    Enugu Govt. tasks stakeholders on aggressive dissemination of free malaria testing, treatment campaign

     

    The Enugu Government State has tasked stakeholders and partners on aggressive dissemination of the state free malaria testing and treatment campaign messages.

     

    The Commissioner for Health, Prof. George Ugwu, gave the task on Monday in Enugu while addressing stakeholders and partners during a meeting of the state Malaria Technical Working Group (TWG).

     

    Ugwu said that the need to totally eliminate malaria had been brought to the front burner even at the state executive council.

     

     

    According to him, this is the level of seriousness the state attach to total malaria elimination.

     

    He said, “I task you to bring out brilliant ideas on how we ensure the state’s total malaria elimination through the ongoing campaign on free malaria testing and treatment.

     

    “The state government want the campaign on free malaria testing and treatment to go viral and be a household slogan and general knowledge of all.

     

    “Everybody living in the state must know and practice entering the nearby Primary Healthcare Centres close to them for free testing and if the person is positive, treatment will commence.”

     

     

    Corroborating, Prof. Eddy Ndibuagu, a Professor of Community Medicine in Enugu State University Teaching Hospital, Parklane, said there was a need to use community-based organisations and faith-based organisations to push the message.

     

    Ndibuagu noted that for the message needed to get down and the people own it and further carry out the advocacy.

     

    Speaking, the Director of Public Health, Dr Uchenna Okenwa, said that eliminating malaria would be very effective through free malaria testing and treatment.

     

    Okenwa noted that there is a need to deal with mosquito larvae within the environment by keeping a clean and healthy environment.

     

     

    The State Coordinator of World Health Organization (WHO), Dr Adaeze Ugwu, commended the stakeholders and partners for providing time and resources to brainstorm and come out with actionable plans to eliminate malaria.

     

    “WHO will continue give its support and ensure all necessary assistance is given,” Ugwu said.

     

    In a message, Mr Ozioma Nwobodo, State Coordinator of Johns Hopkins University Affiliate (Jhipiego), said that the organisation was committed to provide professional partnership to Enugu State.

     

    Nwobodo noted that Jhipiego would scale down its support especially on message spread and behavioural change of all pregnant women and their families in the state.

     

    The Programme Manager of Malaria Elimination Programme, Dr. Ifeoma Otiji, said that the meeting was meant to take stock of the challenges, gaps and areas covered so far.

     

    Otiji noted that the fight against the menace of malaria and its elimination needed concerted stakeholders planning and action coordination.

     

    She noted that stakeholders must streamline activities and broaden spectrum of approach using the free malaria testing and treatment campaign.

  • Repete and the Politics of Presence: Why Grassroots Leadership Still Matters in Today’s Nigeria

    Repete and the Politics of Presence: Why Grassroots Leadership Still Matters in Today’s Nigeria

    In a political season where many public office seekers are louder on social media than they are in the lives of the people, the growing admiration for Hon. Khalil Mustapha Adegboyega, popularly known as Repete, reveals something deeper about the mood of the people. Nigerians, especially at the grassroots, are gradually shifting attention from empty political noise to leaders whose impact can be seen, felt, and remembered.

    Across communities today, one of the most trending conversations among the people is the increasing demand for accessible leadership. Citizens no longer want politicians who only appear during elections with rehearsed promises and disappear immediately after securing relevance. The people want leaders who stay connected to the streets, understand local realities, and carry the burden of the ordinary man with sincerity. It is within this context that the political identity of Repete continues to gain remarkable attention and acceptance.

    What makes Repete’s growing popularity unique is not merely ambition; it is the perception of consistency, humility, and human connection that surrounds his personality. In an era where political leadership is often associated with pride, distance, and selective accessibility, Repete appears to represent a refreshing contrast — a man whose name continues to echo within youth circles, community discussions, political gatherings, and grassroots engagements because of his visible closeness to the people.

    One striking reality about contemporary politics is that citizens now pay attention to leaders who genuinely identify with their struggles. Economic hardship, unemployment, insecurity, and social frustrations have made the people more conscious of who truly stands with them beyond ceremonial appearances. This explains why many young people and community stakeholders increasingly appreciate leaders who are visible during important moments in the lives of the people — celebrations, challenges, community development efforts, and social engagements alike.

    Repete’s political style appears to align with this new expectation. His growing influence reflects a leadership philosophy built around presence, participation, and people-oriented relationships. Whether among the youths, elders, party faithful, or community stakeholders, his approach continues to project a personality that understands that leadership is not merely about occupying a position but about earning trust through constant human connection.

    Another factor contributing to his rising image is the increasing demand for youthful and energetic political figures who can bridge the widening gap between governance and the people. Nigeria’s political future undoubtedly belongs to leaders who can communicate effectively with the younger generation while maintaining respect among elders and political structures. Repete’s appeal appears to cut across these divides, making him one of the emerging political figures whose name resonates beyond ordinary political conversations.

    Importantly, effective leadership in today’s Nigeria requires more than speeches; it requires emotional intelligence, visibility, loyalty to the people, and the ability to inspire confidence. These qualities are gradually becoming the true political currency of modern democracy. It is therefore unsurprising that many observers continue to describe Repete as a politician whose political identity is steadily being shaped by grassroots admiration and expanding public goodwill.

    Beyond politics itself, his growing acceptance also highlights a broader lesson: people naturally gravitate toward leaders who make them feel seen, respected, and valued. This is perhaps the strongest ingredient behind every enduring political movement. While political titles may come and go, genuine human connection remains permanent in the hearts of the people.

    As conversations about credible representation, inclusive leadership, and grassroots development continue to dominate public discourse, personalities like Repete are likely to remain relevant in the minds of many who believe leadership should be closer to the people than to political luxury.

    In the end, history rarely remembers leaders only for what they promised. It remembers those who stayed connected to the people, carried their hopes with sincerity, and built influence not through fear or propaganda, but through visible impact and genuine relationships. For many political observers and grassroots supporters, Hon. Khalil Mustapha Adegboyega (Repete) appears to be steadily building that kind of legacy.