INSTANT NEWS

President Tinubu highlighted the necessity of addressing banditry and terrorism to ensure farmers can cultivate and transport food efficiently. He pointed out that poor infrastructure, such as damaged roads, exacerbates the food supply problem, with significant losses occurring during transportation.

Reaffirming his dedication to Nigeria, Tinubu stated, "Good economics at a harsh time is the challenge that we must face. No matter how difficult it is, I will not turn my back on Nigeria." He urged citizens to adopt a more productive mindset and move away from rent-seeking behaviors, emphasizing the need to combat smuggling and other forms of economic sabotage.

Tinubu called for a national campaign to change the value system and mindset towards the country, stressing that everyone must contribute to overcoming current challenges.

He also praised the National Assembly's leadership for their support, which has facilitated key developments in his administration. Tinubu expressed pride in the partnership with the National Assembly, highlighting the importance of inclusivity in governance to alleviate the nation's hardships.

Senate President Akpabio, speaking to journalists after the meeting, lauded President Tinubu's leadership during his first year in office. He assured that the National Assembly would work on improving legislation to enhance the ease of doing business in Nigeria.

Peter Obi, the Labour Party's presidential candidate in the 2023 election, has criticized the Federal Government's plan to acquire new jets for President Bola Tinubu and his deputy, Kashim Shettima. According to a report, the House of Representatives Committee on National Security and Intelligence has asked the government to purchase these new aircraft.

Obi, citing the country's current economic hardships, said this move demonstrates the government's "extreme insensitivity to citizens' struggles." In a series of social media posts, the former Anambra governor noted that the decision is disconnected from the pressing issues of rising insecurity, poverty, hunger, and homelessness plaguing the nation. He described the decision as unacceptable, arguing that the situation demands a more compassionate use of resources, with a focus on improving citizens' welfare.

Obi pointed out that the average age of Nigeria's presidential jets is 12 years, purchased when most Nigerians could afford basic necessities. However, he said that now, as the country faces significant challenges, including a high debt profile, citizens are in even greater need. Obi argued that instead of adding to the government's luxuries, the focus should be on alleviating the suffering of the people and finding solutions to their problems.

The former governor criticized the government's priorities, stating that they are at odds with the needs of society, which is why the country is headed in the wrong direction. He cited examples, such as the government spending $15 million on the Vice President's residence, while the United States, with a much larger economy and higher per capita income, houses its Vice President in a house built over 100 years ago, valued at around $7.5 million. Obi called for an end to this "impunity, insensitivity, and shamelessness" and urged the government to prioritize education, healthcare, and lifting citizens out of poverty.

On Thursday, President Bola Tinubu welcomed President Bassirou Diomaye Faye of Senegal at the Presidential Villa. During their brief meeting, Tinubu emphasized the need for a unified approach in West Africa to effectively tackle regional challenges.

Tinubu stressed the importance of collective action to overcome issues such as terrorism, banditry, human trafficking, and poverty. He highlighted that regional leaders must prioritize their people in governance, as the essence of democracy is lost if the people are not at the forefront.

The president reiterated the sanctity of democratic governance, values, and constitutional order, insisting that these principles must be upheld. He also underscored the importance of respecting critical institutions like the judiciary and adhering to the rule of law to sustain democracy.

“Senegal has demonstrated to the world the strength of constitutional democracy. It’s a pleasure to host you and address the hopes and aspirations of our youth. You exemplify the ideals we strive for,” President Tinubu remarked.

Tinubu reflected on the strong bond between Nigeria and Senegal, noting their long history of cooperation. He highlighted the shared commitment to democracy and the hard work required to sustain it for the benefit of the people.

“I am pleased to see you as a symbol of patience, perseverance, and dedication to democratic values,” Tinubu continued. “We must collaborate to ensure our people remain the focus of our democratic efforts. Your belief in Africa's sovereignty resonates with us all. However, achieving this requires adherence to the rule of law and preventing unconstitutional power seizures.”

As Chairman of ECOWAS, Tinubu invited President Faye to join in persuading other regional leaders to uphold democratic principles. “We will continue to work together, fostering economic growth, development, and governance. It’s our responsibility to assure our people and fulfill our commitments,” Tinubu concluded.

In a recent development, the Ogun State Government has taken decisive action against the proliferation of illegal structures surrounding school premises and marketplaces as part of its Safer School Initiative. This initiative aims to create a secure learning environment by eliminating criminal elements.

Farooq Akintunde, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Environment, emphasized that the government had issued notices to the owners of approximately 200 shanties, illegal structures, and makeshift shops about six months prior, urging compliance. However, these warnings were disregarded.

The government's intervention unfolded as bulldozers descended upon areas such as Kuto, Idi-Aba, Oke Ijeun, and Panseke, dismantling the unauthorized constructions. Among the affected locations were St. John Primary School in Kuto, Nawairudeen Primary and Secondary School in Oje Ijeun, and Government Technical College in Idi-Aba.

Akintunde, leading the taskforce, also oversaw the removal of makeshift shops in the Panseke vicinity, targeting those impeding traffic flow.

Explaining the rationale behind the initiative, Akintunde emphasized the paramount importance of preserving an undistracted learning atmosphere for students. He highlighted the risk posed by these structures, often serving as hideouts for criminals, potentially facilitating criminal activities like kidnapping. This proactive measure aligns with the government's commitment to safeguarding its citizens, particularly vulnerable groups like children.

Furthermore, Akintunde issued a stern warning to school administrators involved in allocating unauthorized spaces to traders, emphasizing that such actions are illegal and subject to legal repercussions. He stressed that educators are entrusted with the task of imparting knowledge, not leasing government property, and cautioned against engaging in unauthorized transactions that could lead to legal entanglements.

The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, recently made a significant announcement regarding the future of electricity subsidies in Nigeria. In a press conference held in Abuja on Wednesday, Adelabu emphasized that the country can no longer sustain the practice of subsidizing electricity.

According to Adelabu, Nigeria must transition to a more sustainable tariff model to address its mounting debt to generating companies (GenCos) and gas suppliers. Currently, the country owes approximately 1.3 trillion naira to GenCos and 1.3 billion dollars to gas companies.

During the press conference, Adelabu revealed that only 450 billion naira was allocated for electricity subsidy in the current year's budget, falling far short of the required funds. The ministry estimates a need for over two trillion naira to maintain subsidy levels.

Furthermore, Adelabu announced a significant policy change, allowing states to independently generate power. This move marks a shift towards decentralization in the power sector.

The minister's statements underscore the urgent need for Nigeria to transition towards a cost-effective tariff system and address its outstanding debts. As the country embarks on this transition, stakeholders will need to closely monitor developments in the power sector to understand the implications for consumers and the broader energy landscape.

Access Holding Plc has officially announced the passing of its Chief Executive Officer, Herbert Wigwe. Sunday Ekwochi, the company secretary, made this disclosure in a statement released on Sunday, revealing that Wigwe, along with his wife and son, tragically lost their lives in a helicopter accident in the United States on Friday, February 9, 2024.

In the statement, the bank expressed profound sadness at the loss, highlighting Wigwe's pivotal role as a driving force with a larger-than-life personality within the organization. The Board of Directors mourned the loss of Dr. Herbert Wigwe, CFR, acknowledging his significant contributions to Access Bank Plc since he joined the organization in 2002.

Abubakar Jimoh, Chairman of Access Holdings, reflected on Wigwe's legacy, praising his intellect, personal qualities, and extensive business experience, which greatly benefited the Access Family. The statement also mentioned the forthcoming appointment of an Acting Group Chief Executive Officer in accordance with the company's policy, expressing confidence in the Access Group's ability to continue building on Dr. Wigwe's legacy of growth and operational excellence.

Herbert Wigwe, his wife, son, and others tragically lost their lives in a helicopter crash in California, United States. Herbert Wigwe, born on August 15, 1966, hailed from Rivers state and passed away at the age of 58.