Category: General News

  • Court orders I-G to release singer “Speed Darlington “ within 48 hours

    Court orders I-G to release singer “Speed Darlington “ within 48 hours

     

     

    A Federal High Court in Abuja, on Monday, ordered the Inspector-General (I-G) of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to release the detained Singer, Darlington Achakpo, popularly known as Speed Darlington, within 48 hours.

    Justice Musa Liman made the order in a ruling on an ex-parte motion moved by Achakpo’s counsel, David Ihuoma.

    Justice Liman ordered the I-G to charge Speed Darlington to court or release him on bail unconditionally within 48 hours.
    The judge adjourned the matter until Jan. 6 for the hearing of the substantive case .

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Speed Darlington, 39, was allegedly arrested by the police over allegations of “defamation and cyberstalking” of Burna Boy but was released on bail on 8 Oct.

    A lawyer and human right activist, Deji Adeyanju alleged that Speed Darlington was apprehended in Lagos State following a petition by the ace award-winning artiste, Damini Ogulu, aka Burna Boy, and was moved to Abuja where he had been in detention.

    The singer, also known as Akpi, was arrested on 4 Oct. following the release of a contentious video in which he allegedly mocked Burna Boy’s association with American rapper, Diddy, who had faced legal issues with the FBI over charges of sexual exploitation.

    He was said to have been rearrested by the police on Nov. 27 and had since been on detention.

    Meanwhile, in the ex-parte motion marked: FHC/ABJ/CS/1832/2024 dated and filed on Dec. 13 by his team of lawyers led by Deji Adeyanju, the I-G was the sole respondent.

    The singer sought “an order directing the release of the applicant from the detention facility of the Force Intelligence Bureau at the Force Headquarters or any other facility where he is being kept by the respondent, pending the determination of the substantive originating motion on notice.

    Alternatively, he sought “an order admitting him to bail on liberal terms pending the determination of the substantive originating motion on notice.
    In the affidavit deposed to by Esther Eyisi, a Secretary in the law firm of Deji Adeyanju & Partners, alleged that Speed Darlington had been unlawfully detained since Nov. 27 by the officers of the I-G.

    She said on Dec. 6, the singer filed an originating motion to enforce his fundamental human rights.
    She said Darlington had been in detention at the Force Investigation Bureau (FIB) Force Headquarters, since Nov. 27, but had been recently transferred to the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), Guzape.
    Eyisi said he was previously arrested by the respondent for alleged cyber defamation and granted administrative bail.
    “The respondent rearrested the applicant on November 27, 2024, on the purportedly ground of arraigning him in court.
    “Rather than arraign the applicant in court, the respondent has kept him in detention since November 27, 2024,” she said.
    She said the singer had been battling with severe high blood pressure and had been undergoing medical emergency that requires him to frequently have access to medical intervention.
    “Most recently, while in detention, the applicant’s blood pressure spiked beyond a manageable condition,” she added.
    The secretary said despite repeated demands for medical intervention, he had been deprived of medical attention and proper diagnosis by the officers of the respondent.
    According to her, if the respondent does not get the proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment, his health will continue to deteriorate.

    She alleged that the I-G had resolved to detain Speed Darlington at his pleasure without arraignment.

    “The applicant desires his temporary freedom pending the hearing and determination of the substantive origination motion on notice,” he said.
    Eyisi said the singer is willing and ready to stand trial whenever the I-G is ready to arraign him.

  • Gov. Adeleke Orders Contractor to Resume work on N24bn Oshogbo-Iwo-Ibafam Road Project

    Gov. Adeleke Orders Contractor to Resume work on N24bn Oshogbo-Iwo-Ibafam Road Project

     

    Flowerbudnews

    Governor Ademola Adeleke has directed the contractor handling the ₦24 billion Osogbo-Iwo-Ibadan road project to return to the site and expedite its completion.

    The project, initially launched in October 2022 under the leadership of former Governor Adegboyega Oyetola and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, was originally scheduled for completion in 2024.

    During the 2024 Iwo Day Celebration, Adeleke assured residents that the contractor would resume work in January 2025. He emphasized that all obstacles delaying the project have been cleared, and a fast-tracked implementation plan has been put in place.

    Additionally, Adeleke unveiled plans to further develop Iwo town by dualizing the Adeeke-Odoori road, a significant route within the township, and installing solar-powered streetlights to improve public safety and convenience.

    His administration’s commitment to advancing infrastructure was reaffirmed during the event.

    Adeleke also pledged that the road project would be completed and commissioned before the end of his tenure.

    Represented by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, the governor noted that the project’s contractor, whom he referred to as a “son of the community,” would be responsible for its execution. The assurance signals the state’s dedication to upgrading infrastructure and fostering continued development within Osun State.

  • Alleged terrorism: Suspects linked to notorious bandit leader, Bello Turji, pleaded not guilty

    Alleged terrorism: Suspects linked to notorious bandit leader, Bello Turji, pleaded not guilty

     

    Flowerbudnews

    Four suspects linked to the notorious terrorist kingpin, Bello Turji, on Monday, pleaded not guilty to the charge preferred against them by the Federal Government bordering on alleged terrorism.

    The suspects; Musa Muhammad Kamarawa; Abubakar Hashimu, a.k.a. Doctor; Samuel Chinedu and Lucky Chukwuma, denied their involvement in the act before Justice Emeka Nwite of a Federal High Court in Abuja, when the 11 counts were read to them.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) had earlier reported that though eight defendants were listed on the face of the charge, three of them, including Bello Turji, were at large.

    However, shortly after the court registrar called the case, only four defendants were in court.

    Justice Nwite then asked about the whereabouts of Bashir Abdullahi, who is the 3rd defendant.

    David Kaswe, who appeared for the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), told the court that Abdullahi was also at large.

    Kaswe, who acknowledged the mistake, apologised to the court.

    The lawyer, therefore, sought the leave of the court to enter “at large” for Abdullahi and the judge granted the oral application.

    NAN reports that the FG, through the office of the AGF, had filed the 11-count charge marked: FHC/ABJ/CR/633/2024 against the eight defendants, four of who are at large.

    In the charge dated and filed on Dec. 16 by M.B. Abubakar, Director, Department of Public Prosecutions of the Federation, Musa Muhammad Kamarawa; Abubakar Hashimu, a.k.a. Doctor; Samuel Chinedu and Lucky Chukwuma were sued as 1st, 2nd, 4th and 5th defendants.

    While Bashir Abdullahi, Bello Turji, Aminu Muhammad and Sani Lawal, who are all at large, are sued as 3rd, 6th, 7th and 8th defendants respectively.

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    Details later

  • Troops neutralise 13 IPOB members, nab 3 kidnappers, recover firearms in S/East

    Troops neutralise 13 IPOB members, nab 3 kidnappers, recover firearms in S/East

     

    By Flowerbudnews

    Troops of Joint Task Force South-East, code-named “Operation UDO KA” have neutralised 13 armed members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and nabbed three kidnappers in teh South-East.

    The Spokesman of Operation UDO KA, Lt.-Col. Jonah Unuakhalu, said in a statement on Monday in Enugu that the feat was in furtherance of its clearance operations to make the South-East safe and peaceful throughout the yuletide.

     

    Unuakhalu said that the Force Commander of Operation UDO KA, Maj.-Gen. Hassan Dada, had called on all well-meaning citizens to continue supporting the Joint Task Force.

     

    He said that citizens of the South-East can do this by providing timely, reliable and credible information in order to make the South-East peaceful throughout the yuletide period and beyond.

    He said, “Remember, security is everybody’s business. It is not in the hands of security agencies alone.

     

    “When you see something, say something by calling the JTF Operation UDO KA’s toll free line -193 and press Option 2 – to speak directly to Headquarters Operation UDO KA.”

     

    On operational details, Unuakhalu said that troops of Sector 1 of Operation UDO KA on Dec. 21, conducted an ambush operation along Amouka-Umouka Road in 9th Mile, Udi Local Government Area of Enugu State to deny kidnappers freedom of action.

    According to him, during the operation, troops came in contact with the kidnappers and in the ensuing firefight, the troops neutralised one while others escaped with gunshot wounds.

     

    “Items recovered at the scene were: one AK-47 rifle, two magazines and 17 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition; two cell-phones; one power-bank; three ATM cards; one wristwatch, bunch of keys and the sum of N8,900,” he said.

     

    The spokesman said that equally, on Dec. 16, troops of Sector 5 conducted a clearance operation within Mbosi and Isseke general area in Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra.

     

    He said that during the operation, troops came in contact with the irredentist neutralising three members of the group while others fled into the surrounding bushes.

    He said, “Items recovered included: one AK-47 rifle, two loaded AK-47 magazine and three Dane guns while a house belonging to one of the irredentist commander and a shrine use for their fortification were destroyed.

     

    “The gallant troops had earlier recovered five water gel Improvised Explosive Devices (IED) and two batteries used for detonating the IEDs while on routine patrol along Roads within Ihiala–Orlu, Lilu, Agba Lilu and Orsumoghu general area in Anambra State.”

     

    The spokesman said that similarly, on Dec. 15, troops deployed at Ekeututu Market in Orsu Local Government Area of Imo State came under attack by pockets of the irredentist.

     

    “However, the gallant and vigilant troops repelled the attack with superior fire power forcing the terrorists to withdraw in disarray; while during exploitation one AK-47 rifle was recovered,” he said.

    Unuakhalu noted that on Dec. 14, troops acting on credible and reliable information from members of the public arrested three suspected kidnappers at Itungwa in Obingwa Local Government Area of Abia.

     

    He said that on receiving the information about the movement of the suspected kidnappers, troops quickly mounted a snap checkpoint in order to apprehend the suspects.

     

    “The suspects operating in a stolen tricycle on sighting the troops attempted to make a U- turn but were apprehended.

     

    “Items recovered included: one AK-47 rifle, one G3 rifle, one locally-made single barrel pistol, 10 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, 34 rounds of 5.5mm ammunition, two AK-47 rifle magazine, two G3 rifle magazine and one live cartridge.

     

    “Other items recovered were: one mobile phone, the sum of N6,600 and two Knapsack bags used for concealing the weapons,” he said.

     

    In the same vein, on Dec. 11, he said that troops in continuation of its clearance operation in conjunction with sister services and paramilitary agencies cleared Ezioha general area in Mbaitoli Local Government Area of Imo.

     

    According to him, troops in conjunction with the Nigerian Air Force and other security agencies including the DSS on arrival at Umuaka community came in contact with the IPOB/ESN terrorists group.

     

    He said, “During the firefight troops neutralised nine of the irredentist while others flee into the nearby bushes with gunshot wounds.

     

    “Items recovered were: military and customs uniforms; Biafra currencies, one CCTV camera and charms and four command IEDs were detonated and the phones used in detonating the IEDs were recovered.

     

    “Operation UDO KA will continue to carry out its constitutional roles of safeguarding lives and property in line with global best practice as laid down in the rules of engagement and code of conducts guiding its operations.”

    Troops of Joint Task Force South-East, code-named “Operation UDO KA” have neutralised 13 armed members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and nabbed three kidnappers in teh South-East.

     

    The Spokesman of Operation UDO KA, Lt.-Col. Jonah Unuakhalu, said in a statement on Monday in Enugu that the feat was in furtherance of its clearance operations to make the South-East safe and peaceful throughout the yuletide.

     

    Unuakhalu said that the Force Commander of Operation UDO KA, Maj.-Gen. Hassan Dada, had called on all well-meaning citizens to continue supporting the Joint Task Force.

     

    He said that citizens of the South-East can do this by providing timely, reliable and credible information in order to make the South-East peaceful throughout the yuletide period and beyond.

     

    He said, “Remember, security is everybody’s business. It is not in the hands of security agencies alone.

     

    “When you see something, say something by calling the JTF Operation UDO KA’s toll free line -193 and press Option 2 – to speak directly to Headquarters Operation UDO KA.”

     

    On operational details, Unuakhalu said that troops of Sector 1 of Operation UDO KA on Dec. 21, conducted an ambush operation along Amouka-Umouka Road in 9th Mile, Udi Local Government Area of Enugu State to deny kidnappers freedom of action.

     

    According to him, during the operation, troops came in contact with the kidnappers and in the ensuing firefight, the troops neutralised one while others escaped with gunshot wounds.

     

    “Items recovered at the scene were: one AK-47 rifle, two magazines and 17 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition; two cell-phones; one power-bank; three ATM cards; one wristwatch, bunch of keys and the sum of N8,900,” he said.

     

    The spokesman said that equally, on Dec. 16, troops of Sector 5 conducted a clearance operation within Mbosi and Isseke general area in Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra.

     

    He said that during the operation, troops came in contact with the irredentist neutralising three members of the group while others fled into the surrounding bushes.

     

    He said, “Items recovered included: one AK-47 rifle, two loaded AK-47 magazine and three Dane guns while a house belonging to one of the irredentist commander and a shrine use for their fortification were destroyed.

     

    “The gallant troops had earlier recovered five water gel Improvised Explosive Devices (IED) and two batteries used for detonating the IEDs while on routine patrol along Roads within Ihiala–Orlu, Lilu, Agba Lilu and Orsumoghu general area in Anambra State.”

     

    The spokesman said that similarly, on Dec. 15, troops deployed at Ekeututu Market in Orsu Local Government Area of Imo State came under attack by pockets of the irredentist.

     

    “However, the gallant and vigilant troops repelled the attack with superior fire power forcing the terrorists to withdraw in disarray; while during exploitation one AK-47 rifle was recovered,” he said.

     

    Unuakhalu noted that on Dec. 14, troops acting on credible and reliable information from members of the public arrested three suspected kidnappers at Itungwa in Obingwa Local Government Area of Abia.

     

    He said that on receiving the information about the movement of the suspected kidnappers, troops quickly mounted a snap checkpoint in order to apprehend the suspects.

     

    “The suspects operating in a stolen tricycle on sighting the troops attempted to make a U- turn but were apprehended.

     

    “Items recovered included: one AK-47 rifle, one G3 rifle, one locally-made single barrel pistol, 10 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, 34 rounds of 5.5mm ammunition, two AK-47 rifle magazine, two G3 rifle magazine and one live cartridge.

     

    “Other items recovered were: one mobile phone, the sum of N6,600 and two Knapsack bags used for concealing the weapons,” he said.

     

    In the same vein, on Dec. 11, he said that troops in continuation of its clearance operation in conjunction with sister services and paramilitary agencies cleared Ezioha general area in Mbaitoli Local Government Area of Imo.

     

    According to him, troops in conjunction with the Nigerian Air Force and other security agencies including the DSS on arrival at Umuaka community came in contact with the IPOB/ESN terrorists group.

     

    He said, “During the firefight troops neutralised nine of the irredentist while others flee into the nearby bushes with gunshot wounds.

     

    “Items recovered were: military and customs uniforms; Biafra currencies, one CCTV camera and charms and four command IEDs were detonated and the phones used in detonating the IEDs were recovered.

     

    “Operation UDO KA will continue to carry out its constitutional roles of safeguarding lives and property in line with global best practice as laid down in the rules of engagement and code of conducts guiding its operations.”

  • Osun 2026:  APC is Jittery, Intimidated by Magnitude of Governor Adeleke’s Achievements – Rasheed

    Osun 2026:  APC is Jittery, Intimidated by Magnitude of Governor Adeleke’s Achievements – Rasheed

     

    By Biola Lawal

    Oshogbo (FLOWERBUDNEWS): Spokesperson to Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State, Mallam Olawale Rasheed has blasted the National Secretary of the All Progressive Congress, (APC), Dr Ajibola Bashiru, noting that APC is jittery over 2026 and already intimidated by the incredible achievements of the Adeleke Administration.

    (Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State)

    Mallam Rasheed noted that Dr. Bashiru is also ”surprised and agitated about the increasing partnership and collaboration between the Adeleke administration and the Federal Government.”

    In a statement to dismiss Dr. Bashiru’s call for investigation of the Chief of Staff to the State Governor, Alhaji Kazeem Akinleye over an alleged statement, Mallam Rasheed  said that the APC National Secretary ”is frustrated about the incredible delivery of projects and services by Governor Ademola Adeleke.”

    (Alh. Kazeem Akinleye, Chief of Staff (CoS) to Governor Adeleke)

    In the statement titled;  SRJ is Raising False Alarm Instead of Commending Governor Adeleke for Upgrading, Governor Adeleke Spokesperson declared:

    The National Secretary of the All Progressive Congress, Dr Ajibola Bashiru is frustrated about the incredible delivery of projects and services by Governor Ademola Adeleke.

    He is equally shocked by the transformation of Osogbo, his home town, hence the leveling of baseless allegations and the twisting of harmless statements by the Chief of Staff to Governor Adeleke, Hon Kazeem Akinleye.

    have

    At no time did the Governor or the Chief of Staff threaten violence as there is no reason to do so in view of the incredible level of support and goodwill the current administration is enjoying in Osun state.

    Governor Adeleke is a man of peace who did not raise a finger when he was electorally robbed in 2018 while the Chief of Staff is a widely known peace loving political strategist who peacefully schemed alongside others for the APC’s defeats in the last elections.

    The APC Secretary is only twisting facts, misinterpreting phrases and putting criminal colouration to a normal call on Osun people to reward good work of Governor Adeleke with a new mandate in 2026 and protect their votes from electoral bandits of any colour.

    We also note that the APC Secretary is surprised and agitated about the increasing partnership and collaboration between the Adeleke administration and the Federal Government.

    He is really in shock with regular visits and commendations for the state governor from top federal officials who genuinely appreciate good governance delivery in Osun state.

    We call on security agencies to ignore the false alarm raised by the APC National Secretary. Neither Governor Adeleke nor his Chief of Staff is an agent of violence. It is the APC leaders who have been boasting about their plots to steal 2026 elections in Osun state.

    In response, the State government and its functionaries have been advocating for free and fair polls and the need for people to protect their votes.

    Is the APC Secretary afraid of calls on people to protect their votes?

    Instead of maligning top government leaders who are doing so much to develop Osogbo, Dr Bashiru should be thankful to Governor Adeleke for his extensive developmental scorecard in Osogbo and across the state. (FLOWERBUDNEWS)

  • Breaking: FG announces public holidays for Christmas, New Year celebrations

    Breaking: FG announces public holidays for Christmas, New Year celebrations

    The Federal Government has declared Wednesday 25th, Thursday 26th December 2024, and Wednesday 1st January, 2025 as Public Holidays to celebrate Christmas, Boxing Day and New Year respectively.

     

    Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Interior, Dr. Magdalene Ajani in a statement on Monday in Abuja said the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government.

     

    According to her, the minister extended warm greetings to all Nigerians, urging them to use the festive period to reflect on the values of love, peace, and unity that the season signifies.

     

    Dr. Tunji-Ojo emphasized the importance of the season as a time to

    foster harmony and strengthen bonds across families and communities.

     

    The Minister also called on Nigerians to remain committed to the peace, unity and progress of the nation for national development.

     

    “The Christmas season is a good moment for both spiritual reflection and national renewal. As we celebrate the birth of Jesus, the Prince of Peace, let us demonstrate kindness and extend goodwill to one another, irrespective of our differences,” said Dr. Tunji-Ojo.

     

    He assured citizens of the Federal Government’s continued commitment to ensuring peace, security, and prosperity across the nation.

     

    “While wishing Nigerians a merry Christmas and a prosperous 2025, the Minister expressed his confidence in the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu’s Administration ushering in the new year, a better and prosperous economy that will be the envy of the world”, the statement added.

     

     

  • Papal Nuncio Crotty Celebrates First Mass at Abuja Pro-Cathedral

    Papal Nuncio Crotty Celebrates First Mass at Abuja Pro-Cathedral

     

     

    By Paul Ejime

    Archbishop Michael Francis Crotty, the Papal Nuncio to Nigeria and ECOWAS, celebrated his first Mass at Our Lady Queen of Nigeria (OLQN) Pro-Cathedral, in the Abuja Archdiocese on Sunday 22nd December 2024, with 244 candidates receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation.

    The Irish diplomat-cum-prelate used the occasion to explain his dual role as representative of Pope Francis, head of more than one billion Catholics worldwide in Nigeria in a religious and diplomatic capacity. The Pope is also Head of State of the Holy See (The Vatican), a State within the State of Italy.

    In his homily at the Mass, also attended by the Archbishop of Abuja Diocese, Most Rev Ignatius Kaigama and the Pro-Cathedral Administrator, Rev Father Nick Onyema, among other clerics, the Papal Nuncio noted that his responsibility in Nigeria was to maintain good relations and extend the message of Salvation to all Nigerians.

    Dwelling on the theme of the day’s Gospel *Luke 1:38-45,* about Mary’s Visitation of her cousin Elizabeth, the wife of Zachariah and father of John the Baptist, he underscored Mary’s crucial role in Christianity and God’s plan of salvation, as the Blessed Mother of Jesus Christ and the mother of God.

    “I am overjoyed to be with you, especially in this Season of Advent,” the Papal Nuncio said, as he linked Mary’s Visitation with the Annunciation, her encounter with Angel Gabriel who informed her about the miraculous birth of Jesus Christ and Mary’s own Immaculate Conception (being born without the original sin).

    “The Visitation was not just the encounter of two women, but a miracle event,” he said, adding that Elizabeth was the first to “see and connect” with Mary as the mother of Jesus Christ the Saviour, while John the Baptist was the first to “feel” Mary by “leaping for joy” in Elizabeth’s womb on hearing Mary’s voice.

    Angel Gabriel had foretold that Elizabeth, who had been derided as barren, was already three-month pregnant with John the Baptist.
    All the revelations came to pass despite initial doubts by Zachariah, who was made dumb until the naming of his son John, the Baptist, and Mary, who eventually submitted to God’s plan, telling Angel Gabriel: “Behold I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word.”

    The Papal Nuncio commended Mary’s obedience and prayed that as the “Queen of Nigeria,” she uses her grace and special position as mother of God and Queen of Heaven to protect and guide the country and its people aright.

    Welcoming the Pope’s representative to the Mass at Pro-Cathedral, Archbishop Kaigama urged him to “feel at home among his brothers and sisters” of the Abuja Archdiocese where he resides.

    The two Archbishops later administered the Confirmation oil to the 244 candidates, who, along with the congregation renewed their Baptismal vows.

    Members of the Parish Council also presented the Papal Nuncio with a framed portrait of himself.

    The Most Rev. Crotty assumed office in Nigeria last October, having served in a similar capacity with concurrent accreditation to Niger and Burkina Faso.

    Nigeria has the second largest Catholic population in Africa after DR Congo

  • Emir of Ilorin urges vigilance, calls for investigation into Custodial Death

     

    The Emir of Ilorin and Chairman of the Kwara State Traditional Rulers Council, Alhaji (Dr.) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari CFR, has appealed to residents of Ilorin and Kwarans at large to prioritize safety and ensure the protection of lives and property within their communities.

    Speaking on Sunday through a statement issued by his spokesman, Mallam Abdulazeez Arowona, the Emir expressed concern over the rising cases of fire outbreaks in Ilorin, which have led to the destruction of properties worth millions of naira.

    “It is unfortunate to see the destruction of property at this critical period of economic trial,” Alhaji Sulu-Gambari lamented. He sympathized with the victims of the incidents and prayed for Allah’s support to help them recover from their losses.

    The Emir also expressed sadness over the death of a young man, Tunji Abdulqodir, who reportedly passed away in police custody on Saturday. Describing the incident as a “rude shock and regrettable,” he said, “It is heartbreaking to see a promising young man die in such an inhumane situation.”

    He extended his condolences to Abdulqodir’s family, friends, and associates, while urging the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding the death.

    The Emir further advised security agencies to maintain professionalism and adhere to global ethical standards in their interactions with the public, emphasizing the need for accountability and fairness in their operations.

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  • Gov Mbah Bags UNN Doctor of Laws Degree, pledges continuous uplift of education

    Gov Mbah Bags UNN Doctor of Laws Degree, pledges continuous uplift of education

     

    By Flowerbudnews
    Nigeria’s premier university, the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) has conferred a Doctor of Laws Degree (Honoris Causa) on Gov. Peter Mbah for his outstanding contributions to the advancement of quality education.

    Mbah bagged the highest degree in Law at the 53rd convocation ceremony of the UNN at Nsukka during the weekend.


    Responding, the governor reaffirmed his commitment to transforming the education sector in order to ensure that the younger generations are able to compete among their contemporaries globally.

    “The recognition is a nod to the values driving the modest achievements we have recorded in the last 18 months. Those values are shaped, particularly, by the conviction that education is the best legacy to bequeath to the emerging generation.


    “Also, this award is an inspiration to double down on our commitment to serve the people and put Enugu State on a growth trajectory that reflects its true potential.

    “It is a point we have demonstrated, no less, in two budget cycles by committing one-third of our entire budget sum to the education sector.

    “We are giving our children an education that will make them truly competitive in a fast evolving global work space,” he added.


    While appreciating the Acting Vice-Chancellor of UNN, Prof. Polycarp Chigbu, the chairman and members of the governing council, the university senate and the management of the institution for the prestigious award, Mbah commended the Vice-Chancellor for leading a team committed to restoring the dignity of man.

    He assured his administration’s continuous support to the university by strengthen its capacity to deliver and attain the goals and dreams of the founders of the institution, which is Restoring the Dignity of Man.


    In his convocation address, the Acting Vice-Chancellor announced that the university graduated 11,143 students, including over 1,000 postgraduates, and would additionally confer two recipients with the title of Emeritus Professor as well as another two recipients with honorary doctorate degrees.

    He recalled the successes of the institution under his leadership to include the recording of the highest ranking in SCOPUS database for scholarly output among Nigerian universities with over 7,025 publications from 5,813 authors.

    Others are advancement of critical infrastructure, strengthening of alumni relations; and innovation in resolving the energy crisis that bedeviled the university before his emergence among others.


    Chigbu enjoined the graduating students to remain good ambassadors of the university as they traversed the world, pursuing their ambitions.