I join millions of Nigerians and well-wishers across the world in celebrating my boss, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,GCFR, on the occasion of his 74th birthday.

The President’s journey reflects how visionary leadership-anchored on courage, resilience, and sacrifice,can drive lasting progress and inspire a nation toward greatness.

His remarkable  political trajectory, defined by strategic foresight and unwavering determination, continues to motivate a new generation of leaders, while his dedication to nation-building remains exemplary.

Politics

Mr. President’s sustained investments in the Nigerian economy and human capital development have catalysed meaningful progress, strengthened institutions, and further positioned the All Progressives Congress as a credible and inclusive platform for Nigerians both at home and in the diaspora.

Notably, under your leadership, the ruling party successfully delivered a rancour-free and all-inclusive National Convention, culminating in the emergence of a new leadership for our great party.

This significant achievement, coming on the eve of your birthday, underscores a moment that feels both historic and divinely orchestrated.

As you celebrate this special milestone, Your Excellency, I join your family, friends, and countless admirers in thanking God for your impactful life.

Your leadership, vision, and steadfast commitment to a better Nigeria remain a source of hope and inspiration to us all.

I pray for your continued good health, renewed strength, and divine wisdom.I remain confident that your leadership will continue to steer Nigeria toward greater prosperity, unity, and progress.

Congratulations, Mr. President, on this joyous occasion.

 

 

 

By Dianabasi Effiong

Political leaders in Cross River State have resolved to mobilise no fewer than 1.5 million votes for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 general elections.

The resolution was reached at a high-level stakeholders’ meeting of the All Progressives Congress (APC), convened by Gov. Bassey Otu at the Calabar International Convention Centre.

In attendance were the immediate past APC National Women Leader and Honourable Minister, Dr. Betta Edu; members of the National Assembly from the state; the Speaker of the State House of Assembly; party executives; youth and women groups; and other critical stakeholders.

Addressing the gathering, Governor Otu appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to support the reclamation of Cross River’s oil wells and restore its full littoral status.

He urged the Federal Government to rely on verified reservoir coordinates and existing technical reports to validate the state’s claim to oil-producing status.

The governor also requested the restoration and increase of federal appointments for indigenes of the state to enable them to benefit more directly from the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda and strengthen grassroots mobilisation ahead of the 2027 general elections.

He reaffirmed Cross River’s alignment with the President’s policies, citing ongoing federal collaborations that have boosted infrastructure development, including the Calabar-Lagos Coastal Highway.

Otu described the enlarged meeting as an opportunity to appreciate APC faithful for their unity and support, and to prepare the party to move into the field and secure victory in the forthcoming elections.

The governor specifically commended Hon. Betta Edu for her “steadfastness, comportment, and loyalty” to the party, the state, and the nation.

“We are happy you are back at the forefront as usual and in the state,” he said.

Speaking on the sidelines, Dr Betta Edu called for intensified grassroots mobilisation, inclusive engagement, and sustained voter education ahead of 2027.

She urged the people of Cross River state to keep faith with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, expressing confidence that the dividends of the Renewed Hope Agenda would be felt by all, including residents of the state.

She also backed the governor’s call for presidential intervention to restore Cross River’s economic standing within the federation, its littoral status, and its oil-producing status, following the discovery of over 100 oil wells in the state’s estuary.

According to her, the next election cycle will require serious, concerted, and coordinated efforts across wards and local government areas to consolidate previous gains.

“We must not leave anyone behind or leave anything to chance, to prevent past unwanted occurrences,” she said.

“My task is to ensure that we mobilise to deliver maximum votes to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and my governor, His Excellency Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, come 2027,” she said.

Senators and members of the House of Representatives from the state also pledged to strengthen mobilisation across their constituencies, as the three senators representing Cross River State spoke on behalf of their respective zones.

The stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to delivering what they described as a decisive electoral mandate in 2027 in support of President Tinubu and Governor Otu’s second-term bid.

 

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About Flowerbudnews
Established by Hon.  Biola Lawal, a former Acting Managing Director of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), FLOWERBUDNEWS is a consortium of active veteran journalists, experienced Multimedia broadcast experts and image makers.

We are drawn from both public and private  sectors of Nigeria’s media Industry with a common  determination to enhance the practice of responsible journalism..

Lawal, on his part, is also a former Honourable Commissioner for Information,Youth, Sports and Culture of Osun state, his home state.

Biola Lawal had also successfully served two tenures as Press Secretary to the ECOMOG Force Commander in Liberia during the Liberian and Sierra Leone Civil wars. He was an outstanding NAN Defence and War Correspondent for many years.

The retired NAN Acting Boss holds the honour of being the only journalist that served two terms on the ECOMOG international assignment due to his high professionalism and decency.

He is a Co-Author of the book; ECOMOG, A BOLD ATTEMPT AT REGIONAL PEACEKEEPING! Edited Mrs Magaret Voght.  The book remains the most. factual, detailed and authentic book on the ECOWAS sponsored ECOMOG Military operation.

 

– Says the Military Remains Nigeria’s Pillar of Strength, Unity and Security

 

 

 

By Biola Lawal

Abuja (FLOWERBUDNEWS):  Dr. Betta Edu, Nigeria’s erstwhile Honourable Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, has commended the bravery and dedication of the Nigerian military, noting the armed forces remained the nation’s pillar of strength.

Reflecting on the achievements of the Nigerian military in a recent times. Betta Edu noted that the forces had  remained resolute, standing as guardians of Nigeria’s collective identity with courage, discipline, and patriotism.

”The Armed Forces continue to play a decisive role in defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity, securing land, air, and maritime borders against forces that threaten national sovereignty,” the erstwhile Honourable Minister stated.

Betta Edu said that through sustained operations and strategic vigilance, the armed forces had ensured that Nigeria remained whole and indivisible, strengthening public confidence in the authority of the state.

”)n the fight against insurgency, the military has recorded significant gains, dismantling terrorist enclaves, reclaiming territories, and restoring civil governance in affected areas,” Dr. Betta Edu reflected.

She noted that ”these efforts have weakened insurgent networks and allowed displaced citizens to return home and rebuild their lives.”

In a statement she personally signed to celebrate Nigerian armed forces during this year’s armed forces remembrance day, Dr. Betta Edu wrote:

I celebrate the Nigerian Armed Forces for their steadfast service to the unity, peace, and stability of our dear nation.

As we commemorate this year’s Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day, we honour the fallen heroes and acknowledge the sacrifices of officers and personnel who have paid the ultimate price in service to Nigeria.

Their bravery and commitment reflect an unshakable loyalty to the nation.

I salute our heroes in uniform and reaffirm the need for continued national support as they sustain the fight for peace, unity, and security.

Happy Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day. May the Labour of our Heroes past never be in vain. One Nigeria; non-negotiable! (Flowerbudnews)

 

 

–  Meeting, very strategic, coming in the heat of the controversy around Christian persecution and Genocide in Nigeria and the newly formed collaboration between the USA and Nigeria Government, around security and protection of Christians in Nigeria

Dr Betta Edu, on Sunday, hosted the 111th Mayor of New York City; Eric Adams, at her residence in Abuja, on his first international visit post mayoralty.

The meeting, which was very strategic in the heat of the controversy around Christian persecution and Genocide in Nigeria and the newly formed collaboration between the USA and Nigeria Government, around security and protection of Christians in Nigeria

Strategic focus discussions held around the Nigerian context and security situation as perceived by ordinary citizens; humanitarian situation in Nigeria, the gaps brought about by the cut of humanitarian assistance from the US Government and other bilateral/ multilateral organizations; the Health sector and the Nigerian Journey to Achieving universal health coverage especially nailing “out-of-pocket”health expenditure as one of the major drivers of poverty in the country.

The duo also held discussions around the economy and the need for Eric Adams to use his global platform to attract investors to Nigeria as the economy is stable and ready to support mutually beneficial investments. She appealed to him to be an advocate for Nigeria, mobilize the large Nigerian community in New York to defend the country positively, and tell the Nigerian story from our perspective. While seeking ways to return to their root and contribute to the speedy growth and development in Nigeria!

Adams, a former police officer and two-term President of the New York City Council, served as the 111th Mayor of New York City from January 1, 2022, to December 31, 2025, and is on his first international visit post mayoralty.

The meeting came amid rising US concerns over insecurity, emerging gaps in the health and humanitarian sector in Nigeria following the cut of Aids to several countries Nigeria included, alongside renewed efforts by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s governments to deepen cooperation on security and the protection of vulnerable communities across Nigeria.

According to Edu, the discussions highlighted Nigeria’s security situation from the citizens’ perspective, addressed humanitarian challenges, and the gaps resulting from dwindling support from the US and other international partners.

The health sector also featured prominently, with emphasis on Nigeria’s push towards Universal Health Coverage, particularly the impact of out-of-pocket healthcare spending, identified as a major contributor to poverty index in the country.

On the economy, Edu said Nigeria’s economy was stabilising and open to mutually beneficial investments, urging Adams to leverage his international influence and extensive network to attract investors to the country.

She also appealed to him to be an advocate for peace, unity, and development in Nigeria. She appealed that the US collaboration with Nigeria should be holistic. Beyond security, the US should find ways of supporting health, humanitarian, education, and other relevant sectors for a more durable holistic solution to insecurity. She encouraged him to use his platform and network to mobilise the Nigerian diaspora in New York to defend Nigeria’s image positively, tell the country’s story from our perspective, and contribute to national development back home.

“I feel honoured to receive him, and Nigeria will greatly benefit from this strategic visit. We strongly believe he will use his global platform and network in the United States of America and beyond to advocate for Nigeria and mobilise support for the Nigerian people,” Edu said.

In his remarks, Adams highlighted the contributions of Nigerians to New York City, describing the city as home to one of the largest Nigerian diasporas communities in the world.

He urged Nigerians in the United States to remain connected to their roots and contribute to Nigeria’s development, saying, “You are Nigerian-American, not American-Nigerian.”

Adams also pledged to use his global profile and networks to attract investment opportunities to Nigeria, attract grants and development funding for some sectors discussed, while mobilising Nigerians in New York to support development back home which will help to reduce insecurity, and poverty, while supporting improved healthcare delivery and increased school enrolment.

showcasing Nigerian hospitality, Dr Betta gave the Mayor several locally made Sourvenier, including beautiful Adire fabric materials.

 

 

 

By Rasheed Olanrewaju Zubair ANIPR,fMBI

“Men do not shape destiny; destiny produces the man for the hour.”- Fidel Castro

At 39, energetic, academically fortified, enterprising, and imbued with youthful zeal, Dr. Betta Edu stands as one of the brightest examples of destiny shaping leadership.

Her trajectory through medicine, governance, humanitarian work, and politics has consistently reflected excellence, maturity, and compassion, proving that she was indeed produced by destiny for Nigeria, her generation, the globe and humanity.

It is impossible to recount Dr. Edu’s enchanting public service journey without mentioning her deep love for the vulnerable, the poor, and the downtrodden. She is a beacon of hope for the masses, adored for her empathy, and admired for her capacity to deliver.

Millions of Nigerian youths are inspired daily by her inner strength, innovative mind, and undaunted commitment to the Nigerian project!

A Young Woman of Distinction
Moments of reflection such as birthdays often call for brevity, but how does one summarize the achievements of a woman whose record already outpaces her age?

At 39, Dr. Edu embodies feminine strength, candour, and grace. Her soul of kindness shines through in every role she has occupied;as a youth mentor, medical doctor, administrator, party leader, and Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Those who witnessed her early energy and competence were unsurprised when President Bola Ahmed Tinubu appointed her Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation in 2023.

She rose above the fray, delivering on the enormous mandate of providing succour to the poor and victims of humanitarian crises under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Till today, she remains a passionate voice for the vulnerable and a staunch supporter of the Tinubu administration. For her “Renewed hope is possible; it’s only a gold going through the furnace; the benefits will soon be evident to all; trust the process”

Blessed with intellect, strength, and an unyielding spirit of patriotism, Dr. Edu embodies the perfect blend of brilliance and resilience. A devoted Nigerian patriot, she holds a steadfast faith in the nation’s promise and the administration’s resolve to restore Nigeria’s greatness.

Despite her personality, she is humble, approachable, soft-spoken, detribalized, and unassuming. These qualities have earned her admiration from colleagues, subordinates, and citizens alike.

From her days as Special Adviser, Director General and Commissioner for Health in Cross River State, to serving as APC National Woman Leader, and then as Minister, she has consistently shown the “Midas touch” , leaving an indelible mark on every position, with passion visible to the blind.

Her results in humanitarian work remain benchmarks of purposeful, result-oriented leadership.
A different breed of leader measured against her age, Dr. Edu’s achievements are extraordinary.

She perfectly embodies the Yoruba saying, “Oyato patapata laarin awon elegbe re,” which means “she stands out remarkably among her peers.” Every chapter of her journey affirms this, painting the picture of a woman marked by distinction ,one whose path radiates grace, excellence, and extraordinary impact.

John Quincy Adams’ timeless words capture her essence: “If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more, and become more, you are a leader.” By this measure, Dr. Edu is not just a leader; she is an inspiration to a generation.

Her leadership has extended beyond Nigeria’s borders. She is an ambassador of the United States (State of Arkansas). At the 2023 Hague meeting of the Rabat Process on Migration, Youth, and Development, Dr. Edu skillfully presented Nigeria’s position, winning accolades from diplomats and stakeholders.

Similarly, at the United Nations General Assembly in New York, she secured high-level engagements that advanced Nigeria’s humanitarian and poverty eradication agenda.

Her commitment went far beyond policy advocacy. She personally reached out to volatile and hard-to-access communities, including IDP camps in Borno, Benue, and Niger States, as well as vulnerable settlements in Makoko and Agboyi-Ketu, Lagos. She also visited conflict-affected areas of Zamfara,bringing with her not just relief materials, but hope, compassion, and a reassuring sense of government presence.

“The goal is to lift every citizen, wherever they may be, out of poverty and humanitarian crises. We will work tirelessly to close every gap, ensuring no Nigerian is left behind. Our mission is to strengthen the social safety net and pull millions of our people out of poverty” she said.

Dr. Edu first gained national recognition during her NYSC posting to Government House Clinic, Calabar, where she distinguished herself with diligence. By 2015, she became one of the youngest Special Advisers in Nigeria at the time, later rising to pioneer Director-General of the State Primary Healthcare Development Agency and subsequently Commissioner for Health and Chairman of the Forum of all Commissioners of Health in Nigeria.

Her national prominence grew when she was first selected as the youngest member of the APC National reconciliation committee and then elected APC National Woman Leader in 2022, championing youth and women’s empowerment before her elevation to Minister in 2023.

Dr Edu is a Leadership Havard certified Medical Doctor with an MBBS from the University of Calabar, a Postgraduate Diploma and MSc in Public Health in Developing Countries from the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, and a Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) from Texila American University.

A proud daughter of Cross River State and a global citizen from Nigeria, Dr. Edu has garnered widespread respect and admiration, earning more than 800 national and international merit awards over the years.

From first Class traditional rulers in the North, including the Sultan of Sokoto, the Shehu of Borno, and the Emir of Kano ; to revered monarchs in the South such as the Ooni of Ife, the Alake of Egbaland, the Obi of Onitsha, and the esteemed Obong of Calabar from her home state, Nigeria’s royal institutions have shown unwavering support for her Renewed Hope programmes across the nation.

Among international diplomats, she is widely celebrated for her compassion, vision, and drive. Her approach to diplomacy goes beyond protocol, emphasizing human connection, mutual respect, and sustainable solutions. She has become a trusted voice in global conversations on peacebuilding, international cooperation, and development, often bridging divides where others see only barriers.

At 39, Dr. Betta Edu is not merely marking another year; she is celebrating milestones, Gods grace, and impact. For over a decade, she has given herself selflessly to public service, planted love and affection in the hearts of many, and inspired countless youths.

Her 39th birthday is a reminder that true leadership is not measured by age but by service, vision, and humanity.
Happy birthday to my boss, Dr. Betta Edu. May the joy, hope, and compassion you share with others return to you in abundance.

Rasheed Olanrewaju Zubair, ANIPR, FMBI, is a Media Consultant and Public Affairs Commentator. He writes from Abuja.

 

– Says President Tinubu Represents Resilience and Refreshing Dawn in Nigeria’s History.

 

By Biola Lawal
FLOWERBUDNEWS: The former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Dr. Betta Edu has urged Nigerians to re-dedicate themselves to ideals and goals of democracy by offering unwavering support President Tinubu.

Dr. Edu, who made the call bin a statement to mark the year 2025 Democracy Day, noted that President Tinubu is ushering in, a new vista of renewed hope for all Nigerians with the long term aim of reinventing the country for better.

The former Minister wrote:
This date is historic. It marked a watershed in our march to democratic governance.

I join millions of Nigeria to remember and celebrate today, the day, 32 years ago, we Nigerians boldly and unapologetically stated our preference for democracy by electing the late MKO Abiola as President!

I congratulate Nigerians for doggedly keeping the flame of democracy aglow these 32 years. I particularly salute the resilience, sacrifice, courage and far sightedness of men and women of honour and valour, including our dear President,Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who bore all manners of indignities and discomfort to ensure democracy was midwifed.

Mr President is a resilient soldier of democracy and represents a refreshing dawn in our nation’s history; From his NADECO days to AD,AC, and ACN era, then to his immeasurable contribution to the formation of APC and its subsequent ascension to power, there is no doubt that President Tinubu laboured and sacrificed for democracy and its enthronement in our nation.

As we marked the anniversary of June 12, I call on all Nigerians to at times imbibe the lessons and gains of June 12.

We should not be swayed by those deceit of people who feel there is any alternative to democracy; military rule will only be counterproductive for our nation. Power must remain with the people!

I urge us all, dear compatriots, to re-dedicate ourselves to ideals and goals of democracy offering unwavering support President Tinubu as he ushers in a new vista of renewed hope for all of us with the long term aim of reinventing Nigeria for better.

Congratulations, Nigeria!
Signed
Dr Betta Edu
12/6/2025