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PRESIDENT TINUBU DELIVERS NEW YEAR MESSAGE, OUTLINES ECONOMIC 6 REFORMS FOR 2025

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has delivered his New Year message to Nigerians, expressing optimism for a brighter future and outlining his administration’s economic prospects and reforms for 2025. “As we enter 2025, I wish everyone a happy and prosperous New Year. May you be rich in joy, success, and good health,” President Tinubu said. According to the President, economic indicators point to a positive and encouraging outlook for the nation, with gradually decreasing fuel prices, foreign trade surpluses in three consecutive quarters, and a strengthened Naira against the US dollar. The stock market’s record growth has also generated trillions of naira in wealth, reflecting renewed confidence in the economy. However, President Tinubu acknowledged that the cost of food and essential drugs remains a significant concern for many Nigerian households. To address this, his administration is committed to intensifying efforts to lower these costs by boosting food production and promoting local manufacturing of essential drugs and other medical supplies. The President also announced plans to establish the National Credit Guarantee Company to expand risk-sharing instruments for financial institutions and enterprises. This initiative aims to strengthen the confidence of the financial system, expand credit access, and support under-served groups such as women and youth. In addition, President Tinubu emphasized the importance of citizenship and national identity, announcing plans to unveil the National Values Charter, and launch a national orientation campaign to foster patriotism and love for the country. The President concluded his message by urging Nigerians to continue believing in themselves and their country and to work together to achieve a brighter future. “Together, let us stay the course of nation-building. The New Year will bring us closer to the bright future we all desire and the Nigeria of our dreams,” he said.

PRESIDENT TINUBU COMMENDS NNPCL OVER RE-OPENING OF WARRI REFINERY

President Bola Tinubu has expressed his profound joy at the re-opening of the Warri Refining and Petrochemical Company by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, describing it as another remarkable achievement in 2024 that has strengthened Nigerians’ hope in his administration. This development comes weeks after NNPC Limited restarted the 60,000 Barrels per day at the Port Harcourt Refinery in November, as stated in a press statement signed by Special Adviser to the President (Information & Strategy), Bayo Onanuga. According to President Tinubu, the re-opening of the Warri Refinery is a significant milestone in his administration’s determination to ramp up local refining capacity and make Nigeria a hub for downstream industrial activities in Africa. He praised the Mele Kyari-led management of the NNPCL for working hard to restore Nigeria’s glory and pride as a major oil-producing country. “The restart of Warri Refinery today brings joy and gladness to me and Nigerians. This will further strengthen the hope and confidence of Nigerians for a greater and better future that we promised,” President Tinubu said. The Warri Refinery, which has been inactive for several years, is now operating at 60% capacity, producing 125,000 barrels per day. President Tinubu noted that this achievement is a testament to his administration’s comprehensive plan to ensure energy efficiency and security. Bayo Onanuga stated that President Tinubu congratulated Mele Kyari and his team at NNPCL for their hard work in restoring Nigeria’s national pride and making Nigeria a hub for crude oil refining in Africa. President Tinubu also urged NNPCL to accelerate repair work on Kaduna Refinery and the 150,000 barrels per day second refinery in Port Harcourt to consolidate Nigeria’s position as a global energy provider. The reopened Warri Refinery Petrochemical Company will focus on producing and storing critical products, including Straight Run Kerosene, Automotive Gas Oil, and heavy and light Naphtha.

PRESIDENT TINUBU MOURNS PASSING OF FORMER US PRESIDENT JIMMY CARTER

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended his deepest condolences to the government and people of the United States of America on the passing of former President Jimmy Carter, who died at the age of 100. In a statement signed by Special Adviser to the President (Information & Strategy), Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu described President Carter as a beacon of service to humanity, demonstrating to leaders worldwide the profound impact of dedication beyond the highest office.According to Onanuga, President Tinubu praised President Carter’s commitment to peace, democracy, and the eradication of tropical diseases, saying “President Carter showed us all how to remain relevant and impactful after leaving the esteemed position of President of the United States.” President Tinubu also fondly recalled President Carter’s relationship with Nigeria, describing him as a trustworthy and compassionate friend. Bayo Onanuga stated that President Tinubu lauded Carter’s significant contributions through The Carter Center, particularly his efforts in eradicating Guinea worm disease and river blindness in Nigeria. President Tinubu also reminisced about President Carter’s historic visit to Nigeria in March 1978, which marked a pivotal moment in U.S. foreign policy. As Bayo Onanuga noted, President Tinubu expressed hope that President Carter’s legacy of decency, character, and humanity will continue to inspire Americans and leaders worldwide to embrace the true essence of leadership.

CHIEF EDWIN CLARK SLAMS NEPOTISM IN NIGERIA’S POLITICAL SYSTEM

Chief Edwin Clark, a prominent Ijaw leader and elder statesman, has strongly condemned the growing trend of nepotism in Nigeria’s political system. Clark criticized former President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration for favoring certain ethnic groups in key appointments, a practice he argued has continued under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. “For eight years, Buhari filled positions with people from his ethnic group, regardless of their qualifications. Sadly, under Tinubu, this pattern has not changed,” Clark stated. “Nigeria belongs to all of us, and no group should dominate others.” Clark emphasized that nepotism erodes trust in government institutions, deepens divisions, and destabilizes the country politically and economically. He stressed that prioritizing competence, fairness, and accountability is essential for building a united and prosperous Nigeria. Clark warned that tribalism and favoritism threaten Nigeria’s democratic foundations and urged citizens to demand reforms that promote inclusivity and reflect the nation’s diversity. “Leaders must prioritize the common good over sectional interests,” he emphasized. Clark also called on religious leaders to use their platforms to preach unity, peace, and tolerance, highlighting the role of faith-based organizations in fostering moral values and discouraging divisive politics. “Our churches and mosques must promote love and unity. Nigeria will only progress when we come together as one people,” he urged. Clark’s remarks have sparked renewed debate about governance and fairness in Nigeria, with many citizens seeing his comments as a wake-up call to address systemic inequalities and prioritize national integration. The Christmas service where Clark made his remarks also featured a sermon by Pastor Ben Idume, who reflected on the significance of Christ’s birth as a symbol of hope and redemption for humanity. Pastor Idume challenged Nigerians to embrace Christ’s teachings and allow His light to transform their lives and communities. “Let us live by example and commit ourselves to promoting unity and progress,” he said. As Nigeria faces mounting challenges, Chief Edwin Clark’s call for inclusive governance and Pastor Idume’s message of hope have resonated with many, reigniting discussions on the nation’s path toward equity, peace, and sustainable development.

BISHOP KUKAH CAUTIONS AGAINST SECULARISM AND MORAL DECAY IN 2024 CHRISTMAS MESSAGE

In his 2024 Christmas message, Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Matthew Kukah, has sounded a warning against the growing influence of secularism and the erosion of moral values in modern society. Bishop Kukah expressed concern over the commercialization of Christmas, stating that it is overshadowing the holiday’s spiritual essence of peace, joy, and reconciliation. “Christmas is increasingly being seen as another holiday or at best, one of the greatest opportunities for smart business returns. We have refused to accept the warning of Jesus that we cannot serve two masters,” Bishop Kukah said, referencing Matthew 6:2. Bishop Kukah warned that materialism and moral decay, symbolized by the seven deadly sins, are leading the world astray and fueling instability. He pointed to the ongoing violence in Gaza and other war-torn regions as evidence of humanity’s departure from God’s path. “Today, the baby Jesus lies not in the innocence of swaddling clothes in Bethlehem but in the pool of blood that has now engulfed Gaza and its surrounding communities,” Bishop Kukah lamented. According to Bishop Kukah, the world’s moral compass has been lost, leading to escalating violence that threatens the message of hope that Christmas represents. While urging Christians to be the light of the world, Bishop Kukah emphasized the need for self-examination and accountability rather than blaming institutions for societal corruption. “We cannot continue to blame the Constitution, the Judiciary, the Police, or other public servants for the corruption in our society,” he said. Instead, Bishop Kukah encouraged Christians to remain true to their baptismal promises, reminding them that divine laws written in their hearts should guide their actions. Bishop Kukah criticized efforts to strip Christmas of its Christian meaning, warning that such trends could weaken the spiritual foundation of society. “The forces of secularism are determined to empty Christmas of its core essence, which is the good news of joy and light to the world,” he said. Despite the challenges facing the world, Bishop Kukah called on Christians to use the Christmas season for reflection, repentance, and the renewal of their faith. “Christmas offers Christians a time for deep personal reflections on the values and virtues of the Christian witness,” he concluded.

PRESIDENT TINUBU MOURNS FORMER INDIAN PRIME MINISTER MANMOHAN SINGH

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended his heartfelt condolences to the government and people of India on the passing of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, who died at the age of 92. This was made known in a statement signed by the Special Advisator to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga. According to Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu praised Dr. Singh’s dedication to strengthening the Nigeria-India relationship, noting that his diplomatic efforts remain a significant milestone in the history of bilateral relations between the two nations. President Tinubu also recalled the establishment of the Strategic Partnership between Nigeria and India under Singh’s tenure, which has continued to flourish, driving economic prosperity for both countries, as stated by Bayo Onanuga. Bayo Onanuga also quoted President Tinubu as lauding Prime Minister Singh’s efforts to forge improved cooperation in defense trade, culture, education, health, science, and technology. Furthermore, President Tinubu expressed gratitude to the people of India for celebrating the life and accomplishments of Dr. Singh, a selfless leader and distinguished economist, as mentioned by Bayo Onanuga. In conclusion, Bayo Onanuga emphasized President Tinubu’s prayer that the departed Prime Minister’s dedication to service will inspire the people of India. Dr. Singh’s legacy will undoubtedly continue to shape the relationship between Nigeria and India.

NIGER’S MILITARY LEADER ACCUSES NIGERIA OF COLLUSION WITH FRANCE TO DESTABILIZE NIGER REPUBLIC

A diplomatic row has erupted between Nigeria and Niger Republic after General Abdourahamane Tchiani, Niger’s military leader, made explosive allegations against the Nigerian government. In an interview with Radio-Télévision du Niger, Tchiani claimed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is secretly collaborating with France to destabilize Niger Republic. Tchiani alleged that France had promised financial support to Tinubu in exchange for allowing French military operations in Borno State. He challenged President Tinubu to disclose the amount of money he received from France, warning that “there will be a day of reckoning” if he fails to do so. The Nigerien military leader also criticized the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) as a puppet of French interests, claiming that leaders from member countries seek funding from France for electoral support. Nigeria’s Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, swiftly dismissed Tchiani’s allegations as “baseless and unfounded.” Idris emphasized that Nigeria has never engaged in any alliance with France to sponsor terrorism or undermine Niger, and assured that Nigeria remains committed to maintaining peaceful relations with Niger and combating terrorism in the region. The allegations come amid existing tensions between the two countries, with Nigerien authorities previously accusing Nigeria of aiding terrorist groups in the region. Nigeria has denied these claims, reiterating its commitment to regional stability and cooperation. General Tchiani also alleged that French military personnel are present in various locations in Niger and accused France of arming Boko Haram fighters in the Lake Chad region. He claimed that these actions are part of a broader conspiracy against Niger. The League of Northern Democrats in Nigeria has called for an investigation by the National Assembly to address the claims and restore public trust. They emphasized the need for transparency, especially given the historical context of terrorism in Northern Nigeria. As tensions rise between Nigeria and Niger, both sides are urging a focus on dialogue rather than accusations. The situation remains delicate, with far-reaching implications for regional stability and cooperation.

NIGERIA PARTNERS FINANCE GIANT, BLOOMBERG TO BOOST FOREIGN INVESTMENT

The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced a two-year partnership with Bloomberg, a renowned financial giant, to showcase the country’s economic potential and attract foreign investment. This initiative is being undertaken through the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI). According to a press release signed by Director, Information and Public Relations, at the Federal Ministry of Finance, Mohammed Manga, the partnership aims to leverage Bloomberg’s vast media network to highlight Nigeria’s achievements and opportunities. At a meeting with the Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, Bloomberg’s Global Director, Nicole Keefe, emphasized the company’s commitment to reshaping Nigeria’s narrative and showcasing its economic potential to the global audience. The partnership will spotlight key government projects, such as the Real Estate Investment Fund and gas pipeline initiatives, to promote Nigeria’s progress in critical sectors. Dr. Armstrong Takang, CEO of MOFI, noted that this initiative will further promote Nigeria’s achievements and opportunities, addressing investor hesitations tied to outdated or negative perceptions. As stated by HM Edun, “To attract global investment, we must effectively showcase our economic reforms and achievements.” Director, Information and Public Relations, Mohammed Manga, reiterated the importance of strategic communication in achieving these objectives. With this partnership, Nigeria is poised to redefine its global narrative, unlock new investment opportunities, and solidify its position as a key player in the global economy.

Establishment of Coast Guard in Nigeria, need for critical thinking.

The Philippines Coast Guard is the third largest Arm of their military tasked primarily with enforcing laws in the maritime environment. It also undertakes the protection of her 406,328 hectares of navigable waterways consisting of lakes, marshes and rivers Additionally, the CG was established to protect Philippines waters conducting maritime security operations and protecting lives and property.This is similar to the mandate of NIWA; to ensure development of infrastructural facilities for inland water ways connectivity and economic centres using rivers, ports nodal points for inter nodal exchange. On the other hand NIMASA was established to pursue the development and regulation of shipping matters. From the foregoing, there are 2 agencies already positioned to accomplish the task of the proposed CG through overseeing regulations, commercial and operations in the Nigeria waters. The country have never faulted these agencies in the discharge of their responsibilities. This raises the question now as to the obsession with the Coast Guard? There proponents of the CG should give clarity on how it will enhance security in the 10,000 kilometres navigable route from Niger Republic to Cameroon up to the Atlantic ocean. Additionally, how will the CG reverse merchant ship not docking and bunkering in Nigeria. Equally, how will it facilitate the revitalization of the the Nigerian National Shipping Line. Establishment of uniformed Arm is a constitutional issue with strong implications for the sovereignty. I established a nexus between Nigeria and the Philippines to the extent that the two countries have near equal GDP and populations but different maritime security challenges. Philippines is occupied with the challenges of the South China sea or the Philippines sea thus creating the need for a CG. The breach of the south China sea or the Philippine sea is very consequential to the economies of both countries. Nigeria is not known for such scenarios now or the future. Chapter 6, part 3 and section 217 expressly stated that there shall be an Armed Forces for the nation consisting Army, Navy and the Air Force and any other branch established by the National Assembly.Any other branch envisaged here is a consideration of the National Assembly and the Constitution and most essentially, national affordability. My take is that the 854 kilometres shoreline and the 10, 000 kilometers navigable route are not overwhelming for NIWA and NIMASA. Our consideration should be the constraint of the revenue of more than 51% of GDP borrowing and how the CG will add value to the national prosperity that NIWA and NIMASA will not accomplish. From available research, Nigeria do not have any meaningful threats from the marine environment safe for oil theft that is being holistically addressed by the Nigerian Navy.Consequently, the focus need to be how NIMASA can reduce concessions to foreign shipowners, encourage Nigerians through soft loans to own ships and increase their Cabotage internally and internationally. We have been through this pathway before, remember the National Guard of the Army. That was in the period of a more prosperous economy. For me, Nigeria have more excruciating problems than the establishment of CG.

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