2025 - Page 121 of 260 - SocietyGazette.com

Permanent secretaries are backbone of govt — Edun 6th July 2025

The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, has described permanent secretaries as the “backbone” of any government.

According to him, they play critical roles in the smooth running of the government.

Edun spoke on Saturday at a retirement dinner held in Abuja in honour of the former Permanent Secretary, General Services Office, Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Nnamdi Mbaeri.

He said, “Anybody that wants to succeed in government must not joke with the perm sec; otherwise, he is going to have the kind of experience that you are not having.

“You must be in sync with your permanent secretary. Their knowledge is so deep, their understanding so profound, and their experience so widespread that, on almost any topic, if you talk to them, they can help you. They are the backbone of government.”

Reflecting on his relationship with the retired permanent secretary, Edun said he worked closely with Mbaeri even before he assumed his current ministerial role.

He recalled their collaboration on the Presidential Transition Committee ahead of the 2023 general elections.

“I met him even before I came into government—first as Special Adviser on Monetary Policy and later in my current position.

“He was kind, diligent, helpful, understanding, and very knowledgeable. At every turn, he was ever ready to impart that knowledge.”

The minister praised Mbaeri for an outstanding public service career, describing his exit from service as “splendid and worthy of emulation.

“You started well, you did well, and you are exiting the service in a splendid manner that is worthy of emulation and which I’m sure others will aspire to,” he added.

Speaking, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, represented by Permanent Secretary, Ecological Fund Office, Aishetu Ndayako, praised Mbaeri for his exceptional service to the federal civil service, describing his tenure as impactful and worthy of emulation.

He said, “Today, we gather not only to bid farewell to a man who has contributed immensely to the federal civil service, but also to celebrate a life that has reached a significant and honourable milestone.

“A well-lived life is not measured solely by the number of years, but by the impact one has made.”

The SGF described Mbaeri’s support to the Office of the Secretary to the Government as “tremendous,” highlighting his “quiet yet firm leadership” and commitment to public service values.

“In your years of service, especially since I assumed office, I observed in you an uncommon commitment to duty.

“Your tenure established a legacy that will live on,” the SGF said.

Nigeria working to remove bottlenecks in agriculture – Tinubu

President Bola Tinubu on Saturday assured his Brazilian counterpart, Luiz Inacio Lula Da Silva, that he is working to remove all bottlenecks hindering Nigeria’s agric sector boom, especially bureaucracy, which he said contributes to delays in realising the sector’s potential.

He said this will enable food sovereignty and export for the country in areas such as livestock production.

Tinubu said this in a bilateral meeting held at the Copacabana Forte with the Brazilian president and some members of both countries’ cabinets.

The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, revealed this in a statement he signed Saturday night titled ‘We’re Removing All Bottlenecks To Improve Food And Agric Production In Nigeria, Says President Tinubu To Brazilian Leader.’

“The President informed the Brazilian leader and delegation that Nigeria was already undergoing reforms to reposition the economy for global competitiveness, particularly in agriculture, where it already has a competitive advantage.

“Tinubu stated that all technicalities in agreements between the two countries will be streamlined and fast-tracked in trade, aviation, energy transition, food and agricultural development, mining, and natural resources exploration”, the statement partly read.

He added that Brazil’s research and development services had been exemplary for most countries, with the country rated as one of the highest producers of food and agricultural products.

“On livestock farming, Tinubu highlighted the efforts of his administration to boost investments in poultry, cattle rearing, and fisheries, adding that the blue economy also holds potential for long-term partnerships between Nigeria and Brazil. He argued that Nigeria was ready for a strong partnership and immediate action to stimulate food production.

“The President said the subnationals have a pivotal role in food and animal production in Nigeria by complementing the federal government’s efforts to use agriculture as a significant source of employment and resource mobilisation. Lula assured that all agreements with Nigeria would be regularised, and the MOUs would be updated and signed without delay during President Tinubu’s next visit.

“He noted that the lingering bureaucracy between the two countries must be removed to achieve quick results, adding that Brazil’s research and development institutions will collaborate with Nigeria to enhance livestock farming. The Minister of Agriculture, Senator Abubakar Kyari, revealed that Tinubu had consistently insisted on food security for Nigeria, and the mandate would be actualised through local and global partnerships. He added that Nigeria already had a competitive advantage in fertiliser production that could easily be enhanced, “he said.

The Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Maiha, highlighted three areas of partnership with Brazil, including health and disease management, sanitary services, and research into genetic materials and new breeds.

The governors of Benue State, Hyacinth Alia; Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun; Niger State, Mohammed Umar Bago; Delta State, Sheriff Oborevwori; and Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, attended the bilateral meeting.

The Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun, said that the sub-nationals would support the federal government’s framework to revamp the agricultural sector.

Abiodun noted that both leaders’ decision to include a business forum during President Tinubu’s state visit to the country will inject fresh ideas and resources, enabling quick results in turning around Nigeria’s agricultural sector.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, and the Director General of the National Intelligence Agency, Mohammed Mohammed, also participated in the bilateral meeting.

Police warn against cult activities in Ogun on July 7

The Ogun State Police Command says it is set to clamp down on any form of cult-related activity across the state on the “777” cult anniversary.

The “777” date observed on the seventh day of the seventh month is reportedly celebrated by some cult groups and has been associated with violent clashes in the state in the past.

In a public advisory issued on Sunday, the command spokesperson, Omolola Odutola, disclosed that it had picked up intelligence indicating that members of secret cult groups were planning to mark the annual celebration on July 7.

Odutola said, ”The Command has reinforced security operations across all Divisions and Area Commands to ensure peace and public safety.”

She warned that any unlawful gathering, procession, or anniversary celebration linked to cultism would be disrupted, and those involved dealt with decisively.

“Any attempt to stage unlawful gatherings, processions, or anniversary events linked to cultism will be met with swift and decisive police action,” Odutola said.

The command also cautioned youths against loitering or forming clusters in public places during the period, saying such conduct could draw law enforcement attention.

“Young people are strongly urged to avoid loitering or forming clusters in public places,” the advisory warned.

Parents and guardians were advised to keep close watch on their wards and educate them on the dangers of cultism.

Odutola further warned that anyone found in possession of firearms during the anniversary period would be arrested and prosecuted.

She also urged residents to remain alert and report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station.

Soludo engages Anambra diaspora on accountability, inclusive governance 6th July 2025

Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, is engaging with Anambra indigenes in the United States and North America as part of his tour on accountability and inclusive governance and his administration’s progress report to professionals and business leaders and other citizens of the state living in those countries.

In a statement released on Saturday, Soludo’s Press Secretary, Christian Aburime, said the US/North America meeting is a continuation of the governor’s noble tradition, which demonstrates that he sees governance as a continuous contract with the people, not just a seasonal obligation tied to election cycles.

Aburime said the Diaspora meeting is a strategic engagement that reinforces Soludo’s belief in participatory governance, adding that Anambra’s global citizens deserve to be carried along in the state’s progress, and this meeting ensures they remain stakeholders, not just spectators from afar.

He said that as the 2025 Anambra State governorship election draws closer, while opposition candidates are deep in campaign mode, Soludo is taking a different approach, one that demonstrates his commitment to good governance over routine politics.

This, he said, demonstrates how statesmen and visionary leaders are separated from politicians, adding that visionary leaders are mindful of leaving an enduring positive impact while politicians are desperate to just win the next election.

The statement read in part, “On Sunday, July 6, the governor will engage with the Anambra Diaspora community in the US and North America at a town hall meeting in Maryland. This is not an election campaign stop; it is another chapter in his administration’s untiring dedication to accountability and inclusive governance that has been the trend in the past three years.

“Soludo’s decision to embark on this Diaspora engagement at a time when others would be focusing solely on the upcoming election speaks volumes about his leadership philosophy.

“Unlike typical politicians who flood the airwaves with their usual empty promises as elections approach, Soludo is choosing to let his record speak for itself. His administration has held similar town hall meetings this year: first in Lagos, then Abuja, and later in the UK/Europe, where he presented his achievements, addressed concerns, and outlined his vision for the future of Anambra State.

“This upcoming US/North America meeting is a continuation of that noble tradition. It demonstrates that Prof. Soludo sees governance as a continuous contract with the people, not just a seasonal obligation tied to election cycles. While his opponents are busy making grand declarations or criticising his government, Governor Soludo is busy reporting back to the people, proving that his administration values transparency and performance over political theatrics.”

According to Aburime, since the assuming office, Soludo has pursued an ambitious “Solution agenda” anchored on economic transformation, security, infrastructure, and human capital development.

He pointed out that the governor’s administration has made a significant impact in areas such as security, massive road construction and urban renewal projects, education, overhauling the public school system, economic growth, empowering youths, among others.

“These achievements are tangible results that directly impact the lives of Anambra citizens. By engaging the Diaspora, Soludo recognises their critical role in the state’s development. In fact, many Ndi Anambra in the US and Canada are key investors, professionals, and philanthropists whose contributions can further accelerate the state’s growth.

“This town hall is an opportunity to align their expertise and resources with the state’s developmental goals. Moreover, it sends a powerful message that Governor Soludo is not a leader who governs in isolation. He listens, he reports, and he collaborates.

“While opposition candidates scramble for attention with their usual empty promises, Governor Soludo’s confidence in his performance allows him to focus on governance. He understands that true leadership is not about loud campaigns but about measurable impact.

“As he meets with Ndi Anambra in Maryland with his scorecard, the message will be ringing loud and clear: performance will always outweigh propaganda. It is also a reaffirmation that accountability should never take a back seat, even in an election season. In the end, that is what will matter most to the people of Anambra State,” the statement added.

Gone Too Soon: Jota, other top footballer lost to tragedies

Thursday, July 3rd, would be regarded as a black day for the football world following the tragic death of Portugal and Liverpool forward, Diogo Jota, who passed away just two weeks after he married his childhood girlfriend, Rute.

The prolific 28-year-old attacker was on his way to Liverpool for pre-season training when his car was involved in a ghastly accident alongside his younger brother Andre, in Spain, killing both footballers.

According to Spain’s Guardia Civil, Jota’s Lamborghini left the road due to a tyre blowout while overtaking another car in the Zamora Province of Spain, a small town of just a hundred people, leaving the community in a state of shock.

https://punchng.com/gone-too-soon-jota-other-top-footballer-lost-to-tragedies/?utm_source=punch&utm_medium=punch_backlinkhttps://metropunch.com/gone-too-soon-jota-other-top-footballer-lost-to-tragedies/

Army arrests soldier over phone repairer’s death in Adamawa

The Nigerian Army has confirmed the arrest of one of its personnel, Lance Corporal Ahmed Aminu, in connection with the death of a phone repairer, Alkasim Ibrahim, in Mayo Belwa Local Government Area of Adamawa State.

The incident, which occurred on Friday has triggered widespread public concern and demands for accountability.

A statement issued on Saturday by the Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations of the 23 Armour Brigade, Yola, Lieutenant Adebayo Adewumi, noted that the soldier has been taken into custody and a thorough investigation is ongoing in the case.

“The Nigerian Army acknowledges the reported incident with deep concern and wishes to inform the public that the said soldier has since been taken into custody.

“A thorough investigation has been initiated to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the unfortunate incident,” the statement read.

The Brigade spokesman said that the Nigerian Army’s commitment to professionalism, discipline, and the rule of law cannot be compromised.

He pointed out that any form of misconduct among its personnel cannot be tolerated.

He further assured the public that the outcome of the investigation would be made public to ensure transparency, accountability, and justice.

The Army also urged citizens to remain calm and avoid spreading speculation or engaging in acts that could disrupt public order, pledging to uphold its core values of integrity and national service.

Meanwhile, the killing has sparked outrage among residents and human rights groups, who are calling for a fair and impartial investigation into the circumstances leading to his death.

Ex-Army chief proposes mandatory military training for Nigerians

A former Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Azubuike Ihejirika (retd.), has called for the introduction of mandatory military training for all Nigerians, beginning with the National Youth Service Corps.

This, he said, is a way of promoting national unity, discipline, and resilience in the face of growing security and social challenges.

Ihejirika made the call on Friday night at the 50th anniversary of the Nigerian Defence Academy Regular Course 18 Alumni Association in Abuja.

He reflected on his early days in military service and the camaraderie built over the years with fellow officers.

The former Army chief said the discipline and patriotism instilled in them during training were instrumental in shaping their careers and national contributions.

“Given the current situation of things in our country, I believe it’s time we start thinking about mandatory military training for our citizens.

“We can start with the National Youth Service. This will help us build a generation of Nigerians who understand sacrifice, responsibility, and patriotism,” he said.

Ihejirika praised the government’s decision to restore the old national anthem, saying it reinforces the spirit of unity.

He emphasised that the line “Though tribe and tongue may differ, in brotherhood we stand” perfectly captures the essence of national service and shared identity.

He also expressed concern over how the national anthem is now reduced to mere fanfare at official events.

“It should be a daily reminder of our oath of allegiance. It must return to schools, communities, and national ceremonies,” he said.

Drawing from his own life experience, Ihejirika recounted his humble beginnings from his village in Abia and how military discipline transformed him.

He credited the support of colleagues and mentors for his successful career, which culminated in his appointment as Nigeria’s 22nd Chief of Army Staff.

Beyond his advocacy, the retired general also commended the current leadership of the Nigerian Armed Forces, describing them as highly experienced and well-trained.

“Many of the officers leading today served in Liberia, Sierra Leone, and other conflict zones.

They have earned their stars through real battle experience and are doing remarkably well,” he added.

He urged Nigerian leaders at all levels to prioritise peace and stability, reminding them that no office or position is sustainable in the absence of national unity.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the dinner had in attendance the Minister of State for Defence, Chief of Defence Staff and representatives of service chiefs amongst other dignitaries.

NAN

Investors eager to fund Lagos-Calabar highway, others – Umahi

The Federal Government has said a number of financial institutions have shown eagerness to participate in the execution of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project, the Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway and similar landmark road projects.

The Minister of Works, Sen. Dave Umahi, made the disclosure while addressing journalists after inspecting the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and some bridges in Lagos.

“I have had meetings with a lot of financial institutions, and they are very eager to participate.

“We are doing everything to complete Section 1 by December and have it approved, and that will open a floodgate for other financial aids.

“One thing that I must commend the President for and, of course, beat my chest and say glory be to God, is that the international funders came and they saw the quantum of the job we are doing.

“That, for me, is a pass mark,” Umahi said.

He said that the recently-inaugurated 30km portion of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway would not be opened to motorists until completion of an additional 17.47km portion of the Section One, Phase One, of the road project.

“We completed 20km at the beginning, and then we completed 10km,” Umahi said.

He noted that the contractor, Hi-Tech Construction company, was working hard to complete the 17.47km.

Umahi said, “This is what we are working to join, and when we have joined it, if you are travelling from Ahmadu Bello Way to the Lekki Free Zone, then you can use the coastal highway.”

The minister said that the road would be tolled to ensure constant maintenance.

“Whether these roads are tolled or not, they need constant maintenance,” he added.

BRICS nations to denounce Trump tariffs

BRICS leaders meeting in Rio de Janeiro from Sunday are expected to decry Donald Trump’s hardline trade policies, but are struggling to bridge divides over crises roiling the Middle East.

Emerging nations representing about half the world’s population and 40 per cent of global economic output are set to unite over what they see as unfair US import tariffs, according to sources familiar with summit negotiations.

Since coming to office in January, Trump has threatened allies and rivals alike with a slew of punitive tariffs.

His latest salvo comes in the form of letters due to be sent starting Friday informing trading partners of new tariff rates expected next week on July 9.

Diplomats from 11 emerging nations, including Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, have been busy drafting a statement condemning the economic uncertainty.

Any final summit declaration is not expected to mention the United States or its president by name. But it is expected to be a clear political shot directed at Washington.

“We’re anticipating a summit with a cautious tone: it will be difficult to mention the United States by name in the final declaration,” Marta Fernandez, director of the BRICS Policy Center at Rio’s Pontifical Catholic University said.

This is particularly the case for China, which has only recently negotiated with the US to lower steep tit-for-tat levies.

“This doesn’t seem to be the right time to provoke further friction” between the world’s two leading economies, Fernandez said.

– Xi no show –

Conceived two decades ago as a forum for fast-growing economies, the BRICS have come to be seen as a Chinese-driven counterbalance to Western power.

But the summit’s political punch will be depleted by the absence of China’s Xi Jinping, who is skipping the annual meeting for the first time in his 12 years as president.

“I expect there will be speculation about the reasons for Xi’s absence,” said Ryan Hass, a former China director at the US National Security Council who is now with the Brookings Institution think tank.

“The simplest explanation may hold the most explanatory power. Xi recently hosted Lula in Beijing,” said Hass.

The Chinese leader will not be the only notable absentee. War crime-indicted Russian President Vladimir Putin is also opting to stay away, but will participate via video link, according to the Kremlin.

Hass said Putin’s non-attendance and the fact that India’s prime minister will be a guest of honor in Brazil could also be factors in Xi’s absence.

“Xi does not want to appear upstaged by Modi,” who will receive a state lunch, he said.

“I expect Xi’s decision to delegate attendance to Premier Li (Qiang) rests amidst these factors.”

Still, the Xi no-show is a blow to host President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, who wants Brazil to play a bigger role on the world stage.

In the year to November 2025, Brazil will have hosted a G20 summit, a BRICS summit, and COP30 international climate talks, all before heading into fiercely contested presidential elections next year, in which he is expected to run.

– Middle path –

Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian, whose nation is still reeling from a 12-day conflict with Israel is also skipping the meeting.

A source familiar with the negotiations said the BRICS countries were still in disagreement over how to respond to the wars in Gaza and between Iran and Israel.

Iranian negotiators are pushing for a tougher collective stance that goes beyond referencing the need for the creation of a Palestinian state and for disputes to be resolved peacefully.

Artificial intelligence and health will also be on the agenda at the summit.

Original members of the bloc Brazil, Russia, India, and China have been joined by South Africa and, more recently, by Saudi Arabia, Iran, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Ethiopia and Indonesia.

Analysts say that it has given the grouping more potential international punch.

But it has also opened many new fault lines.

Brazil hopes that countries can take a common stand at the summit, including on the most sensitive issues.

“BRICS (countries), throughout their history, have managed to speak with one voice on major international issues, and there’s no reason why that shouldn’t be the case this time on the subject of the Middle East,” Brazil’s Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira told AFP.

AFP

Kwankwaso not contesting on our platform – NNPP

The New Nigeria Peoples Party says its 2023 presidential candidate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, do not have its platform to contest against President Bola Tinubu and or any other presidential candidate at the moment in 2027.

The NNPP National Chairman, Dr Agbo Major, made this known in a statement on Saturday.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that Major was speaking on the backdrop of claims by Buba Galadima that Kwankwaso will stay and run for presidency on the NNPP platform.

Galadima, who claimed that there is no evidence that Kwankwaso is joining the All Progressives Congress as speculated, said they would “strategically stay in the NNPP until the whistle is blown for 2027 politics,” urging Nigerians to support Kwankwaso to take over as president.

Agbo stated that the NNPP platform is closed to Kwankwaso and Galadima, who had long been expelled from its fold for anti party activities.

‘The NNPP had long expelled Kwankwaso and Galadima and so, they no longer speak for us nor can they use our platform for any political contest.

“Our Memorandum of Understanding with the Kwankwasiya Movement, led by Kwankwaso ended shortly after the 2023 presidential election.

“We cannot even allow Kwankwaso for whatever reason to return on the NNPP fold because of the problems and internal wranglings he created for us.

“Kwankwaso led us into unnecessary litigation and even changed our party logo to the Kwankwasiya logo, all in an attempt to hijack the leadership of the party.

“It was the court’s interventions that led to INEC changing back to our Logo that they submitted after a Kangaroo convention in Abuja,” he said .

He said that Kwankwaso must be counting on another free ticket like he got for the 2023 presidential election but it would not happen again.

“Certainly, Kwankwaso can never join any political party where he will not have the chance of leadership.

“Kwankwaso and his group remain expelled and we will not readmit them because they betrayed our trust massively.

“He does not have the pedigree to match President Tinubu in any contest and so his ambition is dead on arrival,” he said.

The NNPP chairman insisted that though it is Kwankwaso’s right as a Nigerian to seek to contest for any office, he should do so without getting the party involved in any of his antagonisms against the President.

He disclosed that the NNPP is being approached by some intending aspirants and shall dwell on that at the appropriate time.

“Whoever will emerge as the NNPP 2027 presidential candidate will do so, following due process and constitutionality.

“We will no longer handover our ticket on a platter of gold, and definitely not to someone who betrayed our trust and is no longer on the party,” Major added.

He urged Nigerians to disregard utterances against the Presidency and APC by Kwankwaso and his group, claiming they are speaking for the NNPP.

“The NNPP as a party believes in constructive criticisms of issues and not against personalities or other political parties. We advise Kwankwaso to float his own party and use it for his own agenda.

“NNPP has moved on and can’t be dragged into unnecessary controversies again,” he added.

NAN