Many talented youths came out in their numbers at the weekend to participate in the first phase auditioning of the Niger Delta Talent Hunt (NIDETH) organised by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

The first auditioning covering Ondo, Edo and Delta states, which was held in Benin City, Edo, attracted people from different walks of life, who observed with keen interests the performances of various talents on display.

NIDETH Lead Consultant and Brand Ambassador, Harry Song, described the first live audition as a huge success and commended Benin City for its hospitality.

The popular songwriter and instrumentalist said the turnout was massive adding that many singers and comedians used the opportunity to display their talents.

He said with the first phase completed, NIDETH had opened its portal for the second phase of live audition covering Imo, Rivers and Bayelsa states is on Saturday, August 13.

The Special Adviser on Youths to the Interim Administrator/CEO of the NDDC, Udengs Eradiri, expressed satisfaction at the end of the first phase.

He said it was a proof that the Niger Delta region was blessed with many talented and creative youths.

He said his boss and Interim Administrator/CEO of NDDC, Dr. Efiong Akwa, is interested in identifying the talents and giving them platforms to showcase and develop to their talents.

"At the grand finale, the world will appreciate process and position that the NDDC has taken to restore hope of the young people of Niger Delta", he said.

One of the participants, Godswil Imonisan from Delta State commended Dr. Akwa, Harry Song, Eradiri and other organisers for answering their prayers of a platform to showcase their talents.

He said they were always traveling to Lagos to seek platforms but were happy that the NDDC had created similar opportunities for them in the region through NIDETH.

"This is something worthy of appreciation. I pray that every talented Niger Deltan will take advantage of the NIDETH platform to display their creative abilities", he said.

NDDC had promised that the winner of NIDETH would go home with a brand new car, a performance trip to Dubai with Harry Song, a one year recording/Intership deal and other consolation prizes for the finalist.
END

Governor Simon Lalong of Plateau State must seek forgiveness from God for accepting to work for the Tinubu presidential campaign organisation, the Coalition of Concerned Northern Christians in the All Progressives Congress has said.

In a statement on Sunday signed by its leader, Rev. Jonathan Mark Gyang, the group said Lalong has sinned against the Holy Ghost.

Gyang said for assuming the role of Campaign Director of the APC presidential team, the governor has blasphemed in conscious and hardened opposition to the truth.

He said “Conscious and hardened resistance to the truth leads man away from humility and repentance, and without repentance there can be no forgiveness”.

Quoting Luke 12:8–10, he said “And I tell you, everyone who acknowledges me before others, the Son of Man also will acknowledge before the angels of God; but whoever denies me before others will be denied before the angels of God. And everyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven; but whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven."

According to Gyang, the APC’s Muslim-Muslim ticket is satanic, wicked and blasphemous.

He said Christian leaders across the country denounced the party’s presidential candidates because it comes with God’s wrath.

“The wages of sin is death. Galatians 6 vs 7 said, ‘Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows’. Lalong and his cronies will receive God's wrath for turning their backs against believers. The end will be disastrous,” he added.

“It is on this note that we want to advise Governor Lalong to avoid eternal punishment by seeking for forgiveness. As a body, we have interceded and God has revealed to us that he will show him mercy if he turns away from his evil ways. Our God is merciful. His anger lasts only a moment, but his favour persists for a lifetime.

“ We are also using this opportunity to urge fellow believers not to be wary. Persecution and troubling times are ahead over our strong disapproval of the APC's devilish agenda. However, we will prevail. The Church of God will match on and the gates of hell can not prevail against it”.

By Mohammed Adamu

Nigeria is in the throes of corruption. It is the singular evil that has amplified every other thing that ails the nation. Almost all crimes in the land can be attributed to the impact of corruption on the individual and collective psyche – when apprehended, the modern-day Nigerian bandit, terrorist, armed robber, ritualist and even petty criminals now wear this defiance on their faces as if to remind us, the hapless spectator of them being paraded by law enforcement, that their crimes pale in significance compared to some people that are in the position of leadership.
This resort to extreme measures as a result of the perceived irredeemable corruption of the ruling class has worsened over time as Nigerians began to realise that those in public offices are beginning to make it their family affairs, whereby a public office holder corners the commonwealth to perpetrate his offspring and wards in public offices. It is a dubious way of creating modern monarchies and fiefdoms in a country that prides itself as a republic.
But if we fret over greedy politicians, it perhaps means we have not met the poster couple for the disaster that is unfolding in the land. Corruption has married sleaze and their destination is the Presidential Villa, where the abominable product of this coitus is desirous of one day presiding over the affairs of Nigeria. Their plan is already unfolding.
Sadiya Umar Farouq is the Minister, of the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development (FMHADMSD). For clarity, that ministry superintends seven (7) agencies, viz the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), North East Development Commission, (NEDC), National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced People (NCFRMI), Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), National Agency for Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) and the recently created, National Commission for People with Disability (NCPWD).
These are agencies with billions of naira allocated to them annually in the national budget. Before Farouq took the helms of affairs as ministers, many of these agencies were pacesetters in that Nigerians in those days could relate to what they do and how they are relevant in the daily lives of citizens, especially when the unpleasant need arose to rely on the interventions offered by these entities. But since the ministry was created and Farouq was drafted to oversee it and by implication, these agencies, they have all tumbled in reckoning and are now shadows of themselves.
The surprise is that these agencies are even now receiving larger allocations than before they came under Farouq’s purview. The huge funds allocated to them now miraculously fall into the black hole that is Farouq’s pockets. Nigerians might have become quiet about it because nothing was done to Farouq despite the outrage they expressed in 2020 when this woman performed the miracle of feeding school children in two states and the Federal Capital Territory with N500 million at a time that schools were closed because of the COVID-19 lockdown. Much as Nigerians were outraged by this brazen theft of scarce national resources, the abracadabra school feeding was pale in significance against accounts of how contracts for buying COVID-19 relief materials were inflated, and awarded to cronies who allegedly made financial returns to the minister, it was also alleged that relief materials were hoarded, re-sold or diverted for political patronage.
Maybe the land would have been able to abide this corrupt evil had the perpetrator not unsurprisingly loved up with a former Chief of Air Staff, retired Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar. Before their marriage and after their marriage, when the husband was still the Air Chief, the duo were well known for depriving the Nigerian Air Force of operational aircraft simply to ferry his then fiancé and later wife. For context, this is not a Divisional Police Officer relinquishing a patrol van to his girlfriend to go shopping, it the then Air Chief depriving troops of fighting capabilities against terrorists while diverting a logistic aircraft to fly Farouq around in style.
Diverting one aircraft for conjugal jaunting is a small matter for a man who allegedly pocketed as much of the funds meant for running the Air Force as possible. Little wonder air support for our gallant troops was virtually absent during his stay at the helm of affairs in that crucial institution. One of the few instances he made of show of providing air support ended in the Rann massacre, in which scores of Nigerians were killed by friendly fire from the Sadique Abubakar-led Air Force at that time. So, he cannot keep his hands out the tills and he cannot carry out his assigned duties diligently yet he aspires to the highest offices in the land.
That these two, one serving and one former public office holders, are now married is their kettle of fish. What is of concern is that the duo has now set sight on the governorship seat of Bauchi state as a prelude to Sadique Abubakar running for the office of President, Federal Republic of Nigeria when the zoning of that position next swings north. This forbodes evil for Nigeria because this couple will not only appropriate the country to themselves but they would also be murderously dictatorial from the much we have seen of them.
It is instructive that the funds looted from the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development are now surfacing in Bauchi state, where Sadiya Farouq, reportedly doles out bales of naira and foreign currencies to those from whom she is seeking political favours. A beneficiary recounted an incidence, just before the All Progressive Congress (APC) governorship, how each person that passed through the couple’s home on this particular day went away with at least one million naira.
The money that should have been spent on air assets for combatting terrorism similarly showed up during the APC governorship primary in Bauchi, which Sadique Abubakar bought and is now the APC candidate. The manner he spent money to buy the ticket has distorted the political landscape of the state just as it is altering the security landscape of the state for the worse. The portion of the funds that went to terrorist cells that Sadique Abubakar allegedly used to suppress opposition to his emergence is now flooding the state with small and light weapons that analysts have predicted would help Boko Haram/Islamic State West African Province to resurge. A development that is not surprising since other analysts, with the benefit of hindsight, are now saying Sadique Abubakar must have anticipated hence a possible deliberate compromising of the counter-terrorism war on his part – did he withhold air support from the war on terrorists so that they are available for him to use as foot soldiers for achieving his governorship ambition? He is the only one that can answer that.
One thing is certain, the Sadique Abubakar and Sadiya Farouq combo is a toxic component that has no place in the Nigerian political space given their antecedents. They steal whatever is kept in their care without remorse and they have not shown any inkling of planning to quit the dirty habit. Even if they lied that the perfidy under their watch in their various official positions was the work of their subordinates or staff, that would have proven that they are incapable of being efficient supervisors and are in no capacity to manage the affairs of Bauchi state as governor and first lady talk less of being the president of Nigeria.
There are therefore urgent tasks for stakeholders in Bauchi state. The APC chapter in the state must retrace its steps to correct the error of allocating or selling the governorship ticket to the former Chief of Air Staff. It is a decision they would rue should he go ahead to win at the General Elections – all their state’s resources would be personalized by this hardened character who would then proceed to deploy them for pursuing his presidential ambition, a position he hopes to occupy with his partner in crime by his side as the first lady.
Where the APC fails to correct its errors, the matter would then be in the hands of the Bauchi electorates, who must see a vote against Sadique Abubakar as a vote cast for saving their dear state from the claws of a carrion eater, a vulture. In undertaking this assignment, the voters in Bauchi state must see themselves as saving Nigeria from a calamitous disaster in the future. The country cannot afford to have a tag team that is this dubious to be further rewarded with higher offices. This means that this problem is no longer a Bauchi state affair alone. They must realize that they owe the rest of us a responsibility to not export this disaster to the national level and the way to do that is to stop him now at the state level.
And to this Nigeria’s version of “Bonnie and Clyde” a word of advice. They should take time off from pillaging the public treasury at any level of government. They should go on a permanent honeymoon to perpetually celebrate their marriage of convenience as a criminal duo with the much they have taken from the country. That is until such a time that Nigerians will demand a refund and restitution from them. For now, Nigeria does not need the vultures that they are in the national space.


Adamu wrote this piece from ATBU Bauchi.

.....call Plateau Governor a traitor


Hundreds of Northern Christians today converged on Abuja to protest against the nomination of Plateau State Governor  Simon Lalong as the Director-General of the All Progressives Congress,  APC Presidential Campaigns.


They also described lalong as a traitor who should not be trusted with political offices anymore. 


Led by Okwa Daniel, the Christians said they received the news of Governor Simon Lalong's speculated acceptance to work as the Director-General of the Tinubu Presidential Campaign Organisation with every sense of betrayal, utter dismay and grave sadness. 


They said the reports that other notable Christian leaders from the North have also acceded to join the All Progressives Congress cataclysmic presidential campaign team stings the body of Christ.


He said, " The Northern Christians Forum of Nigeria, a group of revivalists, have serially stood up for the nation, particularly the northern zone. We have become known for holding prayers, crusades and revival meetings for the survival of the country at these trying times. Hence, any devilish moves to create division are repelled by any means possible.


"It was on this note we rejected the APC's Muslim-Muslim ticket of darkness. Like our parent body, the Christian Association of Nigeria, we believe Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Kassim Shettima do not mean well to the country. They are on a mission to steal, kill and destroy as stated in John 10:10. The combination is insensitive, wicked and satanic from the pit of hell. 


"In a multi-religious and multi-ethnic country, any attempt by one religion to dominate the political structure will only widen the gap of mistrust and destroy the delicate sense of tolerance cultivated over the years. The Muslim-Muslim ticket is not only ill-timed but also a total disregard for the diversity of the country which undermines the efforts of well-meaning Nigerians over the years to bridge the religious differences and promote ethnic harmonious co-existence. And we expected every Believer to resist this.


"¹However, it has come to our notice that Governor Lalong and some other so-called Christian leaders have accepted to dine with the devil. They have sold their conscience, dignity and faith. Any Child of God who accepts to be a tool in the hands of the enemies to fight God's people is an enemy of the Lord. They are traitors and must be treated as one.


"The wages of sin is death. Galatians 6 vs 7 said, "Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows". Lalong and his cronies will receive God's wrath for turning their backs against believers. The end will be disastrous as their families will not be spared.


"Recall that the Holy Book said according to Acts 1:18, Judas bought a field with his silver reward and fell “headlong” in it, and “all his bowels gushed out,” implying that he threw himself down to die. This was after he betrayed Jesus. There are always heavy consequences for betrayal.


"Romans 1 vs 18 said, “For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth". The Lord is jealous and avenging God; the Lord is wrathful; the Lord takes vengeance on his adversaries and keeps wrath for his enemies.


"The Lord is slow to anger and great in power, and the Lord will by no means clear the guilty. His way is in whirlwind and storm, and the clouds are the dust of his feet. He rebukes the sea and makes it dry; he dries up all the rivers; Bashan and Carmel wither; the bloom of Lebanon withers. The mountains quake before him; the hills melt; the earth heaves before him, the world and all who dwell in it. Who can stand before his indignation? Who can endure the heat of his anger? His wrath is poured out like fire, and the rocks are broken into pieces by him" he said


The group warned  Governor Lalong and other northern Christians to avoid this impending calamity. we are advising them not to test God's wrath. As a body, we have interceded and God has revealed to us that he will show them mercy if they turn away from their evil ways. Our God is merciful. His anger lasts only a moment, but his favour persists for a lifetime.


"The Northern Christians Forum of  Nigeria is using this opportunity to urge fellow believers not to be wary. Persecution and troubling times are ahead over our strong disapproval of the APC's devilish agenda. However, we will prevail. The Church of God will match on and the gates of hell can not prevail against it" he said

Northern Christians  in the country have urged Governor Simon Lalong of Plateau State to immediately reject his nomination as the Director General of the All Progressive Congress,APC Presidential Campaign Council


The Christians led by  Apostle Michael Atululwu who spoke at a press conference in Abuja said  his acceptance of the position is like planning to dine with evil ones


The group said it  received the news of Governor Simon Lalong's speculated acceptance to work as the Director-General of the Tinubu Presidential Campaign Organisation with every sense of betrayal, utter dismay and grave sadness. 


"The reports that other notable Christian leaders from the north have also acceded to join the All Progressives Congress cataclysmic presidential campaign team stings the body of Christ.


"The Concerned Christians Forum of Northern Nigeria, a group of revivalists, have serially stood up for the nation, particularly the northern zone. We have become known for holding prayers, crusades and revival meetings for the survival of the country at these trying times.    Hence, any devilish moves to create division are repelled by any means possible.


"It was on this note we rejected the APC's Muslim-Muslim ticket of darkness. Like our parent body, the Christian Association of Nigeria, we believe Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Kassim Shettima do not mean well to the country. They are on a mission to steal, kill and destroy as stated in John 10:10. The combination is insensitive, wicked and satanic from the pit of hell. 


"In a multi-religious and multi-ethnic country, any attempt by one religion to dominate the political structure will only widen the gap of mistrust and destroy the delicate sense of tolerance cultivated over the years. The Muslim-Muslim ticket is not only ill-timed but also a total disregard for the diversity of the country which undermines the efforts of well-meaning Nigerians over the years to bridge the religious differences and promote ethnic harmonious co-existence. And we expected every Believer to resist this.


"However, it has come to our notice that Governor Lalong and some other so-called Christian leaders have accepted to dine with the devil. They have sold their conscience, dignity and faith. Any Child of God who accepts to be a tool in the hands of the enemies to fight God's people is an enemy of the Lord. They are traitors and must be treated as one.


"The wages of sin is death. Galatians 6 vs 7 said, "Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows". Lalong and his cronies will receive God's wrath for turning their backs against believers. The end will be disastrous as their families will not be spared.


"Recall that the Holy Book said according to Acts 1:18, Judas bought a field with his silver reward and fell “headlong” in it, and “all his bowels gushed out,” implying that he threw himself down to die. This was after he betrayed Jesus. There are always heavy consequences for betrayal.


"Romans 1 vs 18 said, “For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth". The Lord is jealous and avenging God; the Lord is wrathful; the Lord takes vengeance on his adversaries and keeps wrath for his enemies.


"The Lord is slow to anger and great in power, and the Lord will by no means clear the guilty. His way is in whirlwind and storm, and the clouds are the dust of his feet. He rebukes the sea and makes it dry; he dries up all the rivers; Bashan and Carmel wither; the bloom of Lebanon withers. The mountains quake before him; the hills melt; the earth heaves before him, the world and all who dwell in it. Who can stand before his indignation? Who can endure the heat of his anger? His wrath is poured out like fire, and the rocks are broken into pieces by him" he said


The group however warned  Governor Lalong and other northern Christians to avoid this impending calamity.


" We are advising them not to test God's wrath. As a body, we have interceded and God has revealed to us that he will show them mercy if they turn away from their evil ways. Our God is merciful. His anger lasts only a moment, but his favour persists for a lifetime.


"The Concerned Christians Forum of Northern Nigeria is using this opportunity to urge fellow believers not to be wary. Persecution and troubling times are ahead over our strong disapproval of the APC's devilish agenda. However, we will prevail. The Church of God will match on and the gates of hell can not prevail against it" he said

By Gbenga Osoba


I call myself a Lagosian. I love Lagos with all of me. Everything about me revolves around Lagos. The opportunities are endless. And I would dare say Lagos is addictive. I believe I am not alone on this boat of emotional upheaval about Lagos.

This also brings me to the addiction of university graduates to the National Youth Service Scheme (NYSC). The feeling is euphoric when graduates adorn the NYSC khaki. Parents are elated and filled with so much joy. And the corp members themselves feel a sense of accomplishment.
Take it or leave it, the NYSC has been a great blessing to the country because it has brought about a sense of unity and cultural orientation amongst the various ethnicity in Nigeria. We have had instances of people who have never been outside of their states for the duration of their lives. The first trip out was a result of the NYSC programme, and the memories linger a lifetime.

For me, I would forever cherish my NYSC experience in Anambra state. There I made friends across religions and ethnicity. And some of my experiences in Awka remains indelible in my life. After my service year, I have had reasons to visit Akwa again and again for business and leisure. That is the beauty of the NYSC.
Do I talk about those that experienced business breakthrough as a result of their participation in the NYSC? Do I mention those that found their missing ribs during the NYSC programme? Do I say those who discovered their guardian angels during their service year or those whose fortunes changed forever because they were posted to particular states in the country due to the NYSC programme?
The NYSC is indeed an enduring legacy that ought to be upheld by successive governments for its benefits are innumerable. This much can be corroborated by those who initially thought outside their domains; there would be no life. This is mainly about those in Lagos and some of the South-West states. They felt that life in the Northern and eastern parts of the country was a life of torture and deprivation. But the good thing is that it is on record that these categories of people find it amazing that there could be life outside Lagos or Ogun, Osun or Ekiti.

I know of scores of people who, after leaving for the NYSC programme, elect to stay behind and start-up life. The case of a childhood friend Rotimi comes in handy. Rotimi and I had been childhood friends. During our NYSC programme, he was posted to Adamawa state. I recall the depressed looks that he wore upon realizing he was posted to Adamawa state. Where is Adamawa state, he asked me? What part of the country is that he also asked? It was like the world had ended, and I am sure he cursed the NYSC scheme.

Today, Rotimi can be referred to as a Mallam as he stayed behind, got a Job in Yola and is happily married to a beautiful Numan lady, with whom they have three lovely kids. If anyone told Rotimi that Yola was where his destiny was, he would curse. If anyone ever told Rotimi that a Numan princess would be the mother of his kids, he would also curse. But such is life and the power of the NYSC.
Aside from the national integration purpose of the NYSC, it has served to bridge the critical gap amongst the various ethnic and religious affiliations in Nigeria. The NYSC is the bridge that links the South to the West, the North to the East and many more. And with these enduring attributes, I wonder what those advocating for the scrapping of the scheme have at the back of their minds.

Maybe mischief or ignorance, but whatever is the case, it is misplaced and must be discarded for lacking in merit and commonsense. Unless they want to feign ignorance to the nation-building impact, the NYSC has brought about in the country. Maybe they are not aware of that, but for the NYSC programme, lots of destinies would have been lost, and lots of people would probably still be wandering in search of direction in life.

They must also realize that participation in the NYSC scheme has also brought about religious and ethnic tolerance. It has erased some of the prejudices that were expressed towards certain tribes in the country. And if this is the case, isn’t the NYSC scheme worth celebrating? In this era of ethnic and religious tension across the country, the most potent tool to address the issues at hand is enhancing the NYSC programme.
The positives outweigh the negatives, and it would be foolhardy for us to jettison such an enduring legacy that has stood the test of time. There are no two ways about how enduring the NYSC scheme has been in the country's annals. And as such, we must do all within our reach to preserve the legacies of the NYSC.
I am glad that I was a part of the NYSC scheme and, likewise, millions of others. And the relevant stakeholders owe Nigeria and Nigerians a national duty to ensure the sustainability of this enduring legacy. The NYSC experience is enriching, memorable, and worth the while for millions of Nigerians. This piece is in celebration of an enduring legacy.

Osoba is a human resource manager writing from Bauchi.

As part of activities aimed at boosting the campaign efforts of the Presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his running mate, Senator Kashim Shettima, over 5000 Support Groups have resolved to merge into an organization named Tinubu/Shettima Independent Campaign Group (TSICG). The groups resolved to set up coordinating committees in the various geo-political zones to facilitate the merger. The committees are to review membership of all Support Groups for strategic purposes.


The TSICG’s main target is grassroots mobilization and coordination with structures aimed at strengthening the campaign support base from the States through Local Governments, Wards and Polling units.


Recall that thousands of support groups came together at the International Conference Center, Abuja on January 11, 2022 to endorse Asiwaju Tinubu’s Presidential bid which eventually succeeded at the Primaries. Now the same support groups and many more are coming together again under the Chairmanship of APC Chieftain, Senator Abu Ibrahim to work for Tinubu/Shettima’s victory in the 2023 Presidential election.


Launching arrangements billed to take place within the next few days are being fine-tuned.



Signed

Rt. Hon. James Faleke
2nd August 2022

Northern Christians vow to command God's wrath on Lalong, other Christians working for Tinubu

Some Christians from the north have kicked against the reported appointment of Governor Simon Lalong of Plateau State, ex-Edo State Governor, Adams Oshiomhole and Minister of State Labour, Festus Keyamo into the presidential campaign team of the All Progressives Congress.

Lalong, Oshiomhole, Keyamo and other renowned Christians are alleged to be top of Bola Tinubu’s campaign team.

But the Northern Christian Revivalist Movement (NCRM) has threatened to command the wrath of God on Governor Lalong and others for “betraying the body of Christ”.

In a statement signed by its President, Amos Abah, the NCRM said Lalong is an enemy of believers who appears to have sold his birthright for bread and pottage of lentils.

According to Abah, the choice of a Muslim as Tinubu’s running mate already means a declaration of war against Christians and God has promised to punish any believer who associates with the “infidels”.

Quoting from Romans 1 vs 18, he said “For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth”.

He added, “The Lord is a jealous and avenging God; the Lord is avenging and wrathful; the Lord takes vengeance on his adversaries and keeps wrath for his enemies.

“The Lord is slow to anger and great in power, and the Lord will by no means clear the guilty. His way is in whirlwind and storm, and the clouds are the dust of his feet.

“He rebukes the sea and makes it dry; he dries up all the rivers; Bashan and Carmel wither; the bloom of Lebanon withers. The mountains quake before him; the hills melt; the earth heaves before him, the world and all who dwell in it.

“Who can stand before his indignation? Who can endure the heat of his anger? His wrath is poured out like fire, and the rocks are broken into pieces by him,” Abah said about Nahum 1 vs 2-6.

The Northern Christians, however,advised Lalong and others that it is still early to avert God’s wrath.

He said they must publicly denounce the APC presidential candidate to save themselves and their families from impending calamity.

Failure to do so, Abah revealed that it will be a fight between darkness and light, adding the latter will always prevail.

NDDC to reward winners of talent hunt with car, Dubai trips, internship deals, others

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has lined up a brand new car, performance trip to Dubai, internship deals and other prizes for prospective winners of its newly inaugurated talent hunt.

The logo and procedures to participate in the Niger Delta Talent Hunt (NIDETH), aimed at discovering creative Niger Delta youths were unveiled in Port Harcourt on Monday by the Interim Administrator, NDDC, Dr. Efiong Akwa, and Lead Consultant, Harry Song.

Harry Song, a popular songwriter, instrumentalist and producer said the hunt was designed to discover talented Niger Delta youths in the areas of music, comedy and dance.

Harry Song said: "The live auditions will take place in Benin, Edo State on August 6; Yenegoa, Bayelsa State, on August 13 and in Uyo, Akwa-Ibom State on August 20 while the grand finale will take place in Port Harcourt on September 1st.

"Interested participants should visit WWW.NIDETH.COM and register with their one-minute video to participate in the live auditioning.

"The winner of the Niger Delta Talent Hunt stands a chance to win a brand new car, a performance trip to Dubai with Harry Song, an internship deal and other consolation prizes. Other participants will also stand the chance to win a wide varieties of consolation prizes".

In his remarks, the Special Adviser on Youths to NDDC Interim Administrator, Udengs Eradiri, said the commission was excited about the programme.

Describing it as a rare opportunity, Eradiri urged youths across the nine states of the region to take advantage of it to pitch their tents in the creative industry.

He said the NDDC under Akwa had been repositioned to roll out empowerment programmes and create opportunities for youths in the region.

"We are not in short supply of talents in the Niger Delta. The youths are just looking for opportunities to showcase to showcase their talents and the NDDC under Dr. Effiong Akwa, is determine to create these opportunities. There is no doubt that this Niger Delta Talent Hunt will produce superstars in the creative industry".
END.

The Presidential Candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Dumebi Kachikwu, has appointed a Broadcast Professional. Mr. Adeniyi Taiwo Kunnu, as the Spokesman of his 2023 Campaign Organization.

Kunnu who holds both Bachelors and Master of Arts Degrees in Literature-in-English from Lagos Sate University, Ojo, and the University of Lagos, Akoka, Lagos, is currently a PhD student of Literature-in-English at the University of Abuja.

He brings to the job a rich experience as a versatile communicator following long years of practice in the broadcast industry and lecturing in the academia.

He has undergone several corporate professional development courses including Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Training (February 2016), BBC SCEEP Media Action Training (June 2014), Certificate in Project Management (July 2013), Certificate in Basic Presentation (September 2010) and Certificate in Employability Skills (July 2008), among others.

He has held professional positions in both public and private sector including Lecturer, Department of English and Literature, Lagos State University, LASU, Ojo (2022), Researcher, Analyst, Training and Development Officer at Lagos Talks 91.3 FM, Ikoyi, Lagos (2021 till date), Head of Operations at IKD 106.1 FM, Ikorodu, Lagos (2020 - 2021), Head, News and Programmes, Roots TV, Abuja (July –September 2019) and Senior News and Current Affairs; Programmes Producer & Presenter, Nigeria Info, 99.3, Victoria Island, Lagos (August 2018 - June 2019).

Other positions held by Kunnu are News and Programmes Presenter cum Producer and Senior Management Executive at Inspiration 92.3FM, Lagos (April 2017 - July 2018), Lecturer, Lagos State University, Epe Campus, Epe, Pre-Degree Studies, (October 2016 – 2019) and Head of Programmes (Consultancy), Planet Radio, 100.5, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State (January 2016 – February 2016),

He has also worked as News and Programmes Presenter/Producer, Radio Nigeria (Metro 97.7 and Radio One, 103.5 F.M), Ikoyi, Lagos (May 2006 – Sept 2017) and Lecturer, General Studies Department, Nasarawa State Polytechnic, Lafia, Nasarawa State (November 2012 – December 2013).

Kunnu is a member of many professional bodies including the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Radio, Television and Theatre Arts Workers Union and Association of Voice Over Artists of Nigeria (AVOA).

Adeniyi Taiwo Kunnu has attended successive International Conferences at the University of Texas at Austin, United States of America in 2021 and 2022.

His papers at the African Annual Conference include

"Un-intelligence of Globalization" (2021) and
"Africa's Subtle and Emblazoned Spiritual Subversion" (2022)

Kunnu"s paper for the Toyin Falola Inernational Conference on Africa (Tofac 2022) entitled "Unbundling Nigeria's Religio-Politico Nexus" was also acknowledged.

Adeniyi Taiwo Kunnu was a lead speaker at the Annual Youth Leadership Conference organized by Superior Performance Global Network

He is a recipient of the following awards: Certificate of Commendation (Radio Nigeria) - 2012, Commendation Award (Radio Nigeria) - 2015 and Analyst of the Year in Nigeria - 2021.

......Says the National assembly is complicit in the failure of this government

I was very amused to hear some Senators and Members from the lower house call for the President to be impeached. This is a self-serving call. The same people who have refused to do their jobs in the last three years have just woken up to realize that the President should be impeached.

What exactly has happened today that is different from what has been happening since President Buhari was sworn in seven years ago for the first term and three years ago for the second term? Are the attacks today any different? Are the deaths less or more meaningful?

Is there any life worth more than the other? Are they reacting now because Abuja is threatened? The national assembly is complicit in the failure of this government so they should ask their leadership to resign before calling on President Buhari to resign.

The checks and balances enshrined in our constitution never envisaged that Nigerians would be saddled with a spineless and self-serving legislature. Yes, Buhari has failed and should resign or be impeached but he failed because the legislature failed in its duties.

The entire leadership of the National Assembly should also resign or be impeached. This is the double-edged sword called the doctrine of collective responsibility.

By: Dumebi Kachikwu

I know you are probably as worried as I am about the state of our nation. Earlier today, our Government shut down the unity schools in the Federal Capital as they are unable to ensure their security in the face of terrorist threats.

A few weeks ago, the Kuje prison was attacked and scores of terrorists freed. We also saw a video making the rounds yesterday showing the beating of the Kaduna bound passengers who were captured several months ago. We can no longer deny the fact that our government has failed on all fronts but what’s interesting is that most of us are in denial about the seriousness or severity of our situation.

We can no longer bury our heads in the sand and pretend that all is well with our country. We can no longer live in fear of our government and be afraid to tell them their failings. This is what got us here in the first place. Fear. Our parliament was too scared to impeach our President. We were also too scared to call for the resignation of our entire government.

Why should we live in fear of those who we pay to serve us? Those who swore an oath to protect our lives and properties but now preside over our funerals. How much more can we take as a people before we die to our fears and collectively call on this government to resign?

At the current exchange rate, lifesaving drugs will soon be out of the reach of the masses and critical spares unavailable to our industries. The inflation we talk about now will be much worse as food becomes more expensive and scarce. Airfares have gone through the roof while our roads remain unsafe. Many now live on charity. This is heart-breaking.

We have seen nations whose people looked the other way as a few ran their nation aground suffer similar fates. We don’t need our nation to completely collapse before we defend our nation.

If you really believe this government can safely handover a united and peaceful Nigeria in 2023 then you need not worry but if like me, you are worried that our nation is on the brink of disaster and that this government no longer has anything to offer then join me in calling for the immediate resignation of the entire APC government.

We no longer have the luxury of time for them to continue to fumble and womble their way from one disaster to another. You might not have your voice tomorrow but you have it now; use it. President Buhari you and your entire government should resign in the interest of the Nigerian people. Thank you.

Dumebi Kachikwu is the ADC 2023 Presidential Candidate

The Niger Delta Development Commission, (NDDC) has launched a novel Niger Delta Talent Hunt (NIDETH) to harness creativity among youths in the entertainment industry and address unemployment in the region.



The Interim Administrator, NDDC, Dr. Efiong Akwa, who spoke on Wednesday during the inauguration of the programme at the NDDC headquarters in Port Harcourt said it was designed to tackle the challenges and lack of opportunities facing youths in the region.

Dr. Akwa commended President Muhammadu Buhari and the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Mr. Umana Okon Umana, for supporting activities aimed at harnessing the creative potential of youths in the Niger Delta.

He said: "The entertainment industry is growing bigger everyday. The Nollywood industry occupies a major platform amongst other entertainment industries in the world. When you talk of entertainment the next thing you hear is Nollywood industry in Nigeria. Niger Delta is blessed.

"Let me use this opportunity to tell the world that youths of the Niger Delta are the best you can find around the world. They are calm, confident, they seek to excel in whatever endeavour they find themselves.

"In the field of soccer the youths of Rivers State and Akwa-Ibom are taking the lead; wrestling, Delta and Edo are tops; swimming Bayelsa and Rivers are unbeatable.

"Our focus in this programme is to identify the talented youths, build them up and expose them to the world. We want to use this as an opportunity to provide a platform to expose the hidden talents in the region. If you build the youth, you build the nation.”



Dr. Akwa's Special Adviser on Youths, Engr. Udengs Eradiri, described the Niger Delta youths as enterprising, observing that artistes from the region had challenges of getting support and platforms to express themselves.

He said: “The creative industry is one area that we can engage a lot of idle young people. We will continue to play our role in supporting institutions to create the platform to push our young people to the international community. We must keep the creative sector alive in the Niger Delta to develop young talents and to showcase them to the world.

"We expect that after this process, we will be able to identify unique talents that would be able to showcased to the world. If you look at the entertainment industry you have employment opportunities that are waiting for us.

"The Niger Delta youths need to be a part of these opportunities. We need to create engagements so that young people, who have a lot of energy can channel it towards talent development. The work of the NDDC is that of an interventionist agency. It is part of our job to create opportunities for young people to express themselves.

"The sky is our starting point. We expect that after this talent hunt which is geared towards entertainment, we will be looking at sports".


In his remarks, the NDDC Director, Youths and Sports, Mr. Offiong Ephraim, said that NIDETH was a flagship programme of the NDDC Youths and Sports Directorate aimed at exposing the inherent talents in the Niger Delta region.



He said the talent hunt programme would kick off from the first phase which is Ondo, Edo and Delta State and followed by the other phases with the grand finale taking place in Port Harcourt, Rivers State noting that it would cover the nine states of the Niger Delta Region.



One of the leading artistes in the region and consultant for the programme, Mr. Okiri Harrison, also known as Harry Song, said that the new NDDC youth programme was a dream come true for those in the creative sector.

He said that 80 per cent of the entertainment industry was rooted in the Niger Delta.

The musician said: “In the entertainment industry, cutting across music, comedy and theatre, the top talents are from the Niger Delta region. The main issue is that most talents remain unharnessed because there is no proper platform to identify and develop them. I am glad because this is where NIDETH comes in".

The All Progressives Congress APC Muslim youths have rejected the choice of Senator Kashim Shettima as the running mate to Chief Bola Tinubu in the forthcoming Presidential Polls 


The youths want him replaced with  a Christian Cleric without any delay.


The youths spoke in Abuja at a news conference.


Les by its Convener, Abdullahi Saleh, the youths said they are seriously against a Muslim-Muslim ticket.


Saleh said while it must be stated that there is a right to make decisions, however, such decisions must not be made to the collective detriment of the sensibilities of the people that make up the country of Nigeria. 


"As concerned stakeholders of the APC in the 19 Northern States in the country, we find it worrisome that such a decision could be taken without recourse to its implication on the electoral chances of the party and the attendant uproar such a decision could bring about in the country. 


"It is also worrisome that of all the country's political parties, only the APC presented a Muslim-Muslim ticket. In our opinion, this is insensitive and a gross display of a lack of respect for our Christian brothers and sisters. 


"This is on the heels that the APC presidential candidate, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is a Muslim from South West Nigeria, and picking another Muslim from the northern part of the country as his running mate is politically and morally indefensible. 


"We hold the firm conviction that such a move can boomerang with unpleasant consequences for the APC at the general elections, hence the need for the party's leadership to make haste to correct this error of judgment" he added.


He said in Northern Nigeria, there are credible candidates with rich credentials and with massive grassroots following that can complement the presidential ticket of the APC in the presidential elections. 


"As such, the 19 APC states Northern Muslims Forum sees the selection of Senator Kashim Shettima as an aberration that should be corrected with immediate effect by the relevant authorities within the party. 


"The implication of non-action in this regard can only be imagined, so much so that the majority of the eligible voters in Northern Nigeria have elected to boycott the APC in protest of the disrespect and disregard to Northern Christians, whose population and relevance in the scheme of things in the region cannot be overemphasized.  


"As a group, we wish to state unequivocally that we reject the choice of Senator Kashim Shettima as the vice presidential candidate of the APC. This decision is hinged on the need to ensure a balance in the presidential ticket of the APC, as it has been since the return of democracy in 1999. The APC must respect the religious diversity of the country. We hold the opinion that emphasis must be placed on ensuring a united house before the elections and not a fragmented house" he added


The youths called on President Muhammadu Buhari and the Presidential candidate of the APC, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to replace the vice presidential candidate of the APC with a Christian cleric as the vice presidential candidate of the party. 


"If the APC is desirous of recording electoral success in the 2023 presidential elections, it must retrace its steps by selecting a Christian cleric as its vice presidential candidate. The party must not be perceived as promoting a religious agenda by fielding a Muslim-Muslim ticket. 


"The 19 APC States Northern Muslim Forum condemns such a move in its totality as it is a recipe for the entrenchment of mutual suspicion between the Muslims and the Christians in the country, which won’t augur well for relative peace and tranquillity. 


"We consequently say no to a Muslim-Muslim ticket by the APC. We call on President Muhammadu Buhari to kindly intervene to save the party from an electoral crisis. We urge Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu to emulate the example of President Muhammadu Buhari in the choice of his running mate in the 2015 and 2019 presidential elections. 


"This stance is hinged on the national interest. Our Christian brothers and sisters deserve a place in the scheme of things, and the APC must not be seen as a religiously insensitive party.  The time to act is now" he said

…Seeks arrest, prosecution of perpetrators


The Presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Mr. Dumebi Kachikwu, on Tuesday, condemned in strong terms, the killing of seven youths allegedly by ‘Ebubeagu Operatives’ in Oru East Local Government Area of Imo State.

Kachikwu in a statement by his campaign office in Abuja, described the incident as barbaric and wicked, even as he called on the police and other security agencies to swiftly arrest and prosecute the perpetrators of the dastardly act.

The youths were said to have been killed while returning from a traditional wedding in Awomama, Oru East L.G.A.

Five other persons are said to be missing following the attack.

“This killing is simply unconscionable and man’s inhumanity to man. How can a security outfit purportedly set up to protect a vulnerable population from harassment and attacks turn their guns on their own kith and kin?”

He called on leaders of the South East, especially the Ohanaeze Ndigbo and all leaders of thought in the South East to work with communities to nip the ugly development in the bud.

“The South East can ill-afford this type of bloodletting especially when innocent youths who are leaders of the future are being sent to their early graves in such cruel and gruesome manner.

“The challenges of survival in the country are becoming Herculean and it is time for law enforcement agencies to ensure that the people are protected from unnecessary attacks and killings of citizens especially innocent youths by unscrupulous elements masquerading as Ebubeagu security operatives,” Kachikwu said.

He called on the authorities of Ebubeagu to call their personnel to order by ensuring that their operatives are properly screened and trained in the art of protecting their communities.

He equally called on them to prevent their ranks from being infiltrated by persons with sinister motives.

END

*We Must Respect Our Christian Brothers Over Vice President, Group Tells APC, Tinubu*

A group of Muslim youths have urged the All Progressives Congress and its presidential candidate, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to respect the Christians in its fold with its Vice Presidential ticket.

The Arewa Youths’ Peace Movement made the call on Monday in a statement signed by its convener, Alhaji Kabiru Kadir.

Tinubu’s choice of former Borno State Governor, Kassim Shettima, as running mate has created a huge crack within the ruling party.

A host of APC leaders and stakeholders have kicked against the same faith ticket with some Christian youths matching to the Aso Villa last week to register their displeasure.

Consequently, the former Lagos State Governor postponed the official unveiling of his running mate.

And the Arewa Youths’ Peace Movement has urged Tinubu to go a step further to correct the anomaly by withdrawing Shettima and announce a Christian cleric as his substantive deputy.

According to Alhaji Kadir, this will improve the party's chances at the next elections, noting that Christians will vote massively for their own.

The group also said they want to ensure a more inclusive, robust and sensitive governance process.

Describing Nigeria as a multi-religious and multi-ethnic country, Kadir said any attempt by one religion to dominate the political structure could only widen the gap of mistrust and destroy the delicate sense of tolerance cultivated over the years.

According to him, the choice of a Muslim-Muslim ticket was not only ill-timed but also a total disregard for the diversity of the country, noting that it has undermined efforts of well-meaning Nigerians over the years to bridge the religious differences and promote ethnic harmonious co-existence.

In his words, “What the choice of Muslim-Muslim ticket means is that we are now in a mono-religion status. If you look at the APC, the president is Muslim, the presidential candidate is a Muslim, his running mate is a Muslim, the party chairman is a Muslim, deputy chairman is a Muslim. Head of the legislature and judiciary are Muslims. So, when you look at all these, you don’t need to be told.

“The APC can’t deny knowledge of the anger of the people. The worst mistake we can make as a party is to assume that everybody in the North is a Muslim. Saying that the choice reflects the country’s reality is like saying that those in other religions in the North are irrelevant.

“As we all know, the country is evenly divided among Muslims and Christians. So any government that is Muslim-Muslim will be illegitimate and will never gain the respect of Christians.

”This will set a very wrong precedent; it is totally insensitive and even if we win, it will prove bad for good governance.

“This is indeed a betrayal of the advocates of unity and peaceful co-existence with our Christian brothers including notable Imams who had forewarned the Party and the candidate from travelling this treacherous route.”

Kadir said a respected Christian with wide connections will help the country heal once the government comes on board.

He noted that even the Muslims are also afraid that a Musilm-Muslim ticket will escalate the insecurity in the north.

“Terrorists will be emboldened to kill more Christians,” Kadir added while urging the party to avoid the inevitable.

The Muslim youth leader, therefore, warned that genocide could take place in the years to come.

“The APC has always come under the suspicion of our Christian brothers as pursuing an Islamization agenda. Hence the various labels of the APC as Islamic Movement, Islamic brotherhood, supporter of APC party, Boko Haram party etc, etc.

“We are afraid that certain ethnic and religious groups could be wiped away should our party retain Shettima. An impending genocide could happen in Nigeria. Let's save our nation by replacing Shettima with a Christian”.

By Emmanuel Abe Kolawole

I stumbled on a piece of news recently on the National Youth Service Corp Trust Fund (NYSCT-F). The news item was an interesting one in the sense that it took the NYSC-TF to the cleaners. These are indeed interesting times that I wondered what country we have here.

The news story alluded that some top army generals are behind the NYSC Trust Fund to serve as a retirement package. I think whoever it was behind the story must have woken up from the wrong side of his bed, and as such, his brain must have worked anti-clockwise.

As a start, is the NYSC-TF a brainchild of the Nigerian Army? Is the NYSC a command under the Nigerian Army? What is the business of the Nigerian Army with youth empowerment? These and many more are asking questions from the sponsors of that news item.

I recall I have stated on numerous occasions that the NYSC-TF remains one of the best policies that has come out in recent times regarding youth development in the country. Its provisions are brilliant and a novel initiative primed to address youth development and empowerment challenges.

I also need to mention that the NYSC-TF is a product of critical thinking by representatives of all state governments and FCT Administration, whose responsibility it is to fund the Scheme, civil society as well as other stakeholders in the country. I also recall that it was thoroughly scrutinized in the public space before the National Assembly passed it. I stand to be corrected; the challenge with the recent diatribe on the relevance of the NYSC-TF is because of its potential to bring about meaningful development in the country through the NYSC scheme.

Don't forget that the NYSC itself had come under massive attack regarding its relevance in the scheme of things in the country. Some said it had lost its significance and should be scrapped. But as usual, they failed woefully as the scrap NYSC agitations could not be sustained.

I dare say that the contributions of the NYSC to nation-building cannot be overemphasized. An example could be seen during the strike action embarked by resident doctors across the country. It is on record that NYSC doctors and nurses stood in the gap and averted what could have been a national disaster.

Another example was evident during the coronavirus pandemic, where corp members were engaged in sensitization and production of PPEs to halt the further spread of the virus. The contributions of the NYSC in the critical educational and agricultural sectors were also noteworthy.

Back to the crux, the NYSC-TF is a masterstroke when one analises the number of youths that pass through the scheme yearly. And suppose there is a ready pool of funds that is availed these numbers to become entrepreneurs and employers of labour. In that case, the multiplier effect can only be imagined.

We must admit that our youthful population is an asset to the country. The role of youths in nation-building is more important than you might think. They are the building blocks of a nation. The youth can bring social reform and improvement to society.

Furthermore, the country requires their participation to achieve the goals and help take the country towards progress. If this remains factual, it behoves on the government to initiate policies and programmes to help the youth of our country achieve their potential. And the NYSC-TF fits this narrative.

With the benefit of hindsight, one could imagine the gains that would have been recorded in the country if this policy had been introduced some years back. Given the right environment, we are talking about young and brilliant minds bustling with innovations that could turn the country's fortunes around. This is what the NYSC-TF aims to achieve, in my considered opinion.

The country must do more to ensure young people have the opportunities and tools necessary to succeed. The NYSC-TF has all it takes for the government to change the narrative. The future is bright, and I urge all young people in Nigeria to see this as that golden opportunity to translate their hopes and aspirations into tangible realities.

Those that are against this initiative ought to have a rethink. They need to come to terms with the reality on the ground. Playing politics with the future of our youths must be discouraged. I expect to read positive news items about the NYSC-TF. I also hope to see advocates of the enormous potential of the fund come out in support of it.

We must get it right regarding youth development in the country as obtained in other countries. Nigeria’s burgeoning youth population provides a huge social, economic and political capital required to drive the nation’s development. This much should occupy our minds daily.

The enormous benefits are guaranteed to put smiles on the faces of our teeming youthful population, whose burgeoning spirit is ready to take flight given the right atmosphere. We must not miss this opportunity, for posterity will not be kind to us.


Kolawole an activist, former PRO, NANS wrote from Akure.

Like Mind 4A New Nigeria, a group of like-minded Nigerians who have been advocating for the continuous voters' registration exercise in the country, have condemned in strong terms the Independent National Electoral Commission's (INEC) decision to terminate the exercise by July 31.

The group, in a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Benedict Aguele, and made available to newsmen Friday in Abuja, described INEC's decision as anti-democratic and "an attempt to disenfranchise millions of Nigerians".

According to the group, the exercise is being terminated too early before the country can reap its full benefits.

It demanded that INEC reverse its decision and continue with it until November 2022 which will be 90 days before the General Election.

The Presidential Candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Mr. Dumebi Kachikwu, will tomorrow (Friday) unveil his running mate.

Sources close to the Dumebi Kachikwu for President Campaign Organization, disclosed that the event is expected to take place in Abuja by 12noon barring last minute changes.

Efforts to get the name of the proposed Vice Presidential nominee proved abortive as Kachikwu is said to be keeping the information close to his heart pending the formal unveiling.

“It is not a name I can tell you at this time. Our Presidential candidate plans to disclose the name in a grand style tomorrow. So wait till you hear from the horses mouth,” the source said.

Another source however revealed that Kachikwu has selected a dynamic, knowledgeable and experienced personality who shares his passion for impactful leadership and people oriented service after his election as President.

“All I can say is that the proposed running mate to the ADC’s Presidential candidate, is a well-groomed and knowledgeable Nigerian who would rightly complement Kachikwu efforts in working to restore order, provide security, lift Nigerians out of poverty, fix the nation’s comatose infrastructure, curb corruption and painstakingly revive the economy.

“Kachikwu means business and Nigerians, especially the youth, the under-served and neglected segments of the society will begin to understand his vision for a new Nigeria where the government exists solely to work for the security and welfare of the people after the grand unveiling tomorrow,” the source added.

END

Insecurity: ADC presidential candidate, Kachikwu, to give State of Nation Address Tuesday

…As Party summons emergency NEC, BOT meeting

Worried by the spate of killings in the country, especially the recent attack on the Kuje Medium Security Custodial Centre, wherein scores of terrorists were released, the Presidential Candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Dumebi Kachikwu, will on Tuesday, give a State of the Nation Address.

Kachikwu is expected to speak during an emergency National Executive Committee (NEC) and Board of Trustees (BOT) meeting already summoned by the ADC.

Party sources said the meeting which is being called at the instance of Kachikwu, will hold on Tuesday, 12th of July 2022 at 7pm.

The source added that Kachikwu will use the opportunity to speak to Nigerians on burning national issues.

The State of the Nation address, according to the source, is expected to be streamed live on some national broadcast stations and key social media channels.

Mr Kachikwu is known to be vocal on national issues and has severally called on President Buhari to resign over his inability to curb worsening insecurity in the country.

Some professors from the north have backed an All Progressives Congress (APC) joint ticket of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu for president and the Executive Secretary of the Nigeria Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), Rev Yakubu Pam as his running mate.

The scholars, under the aegis of Association of Northern Professors, made this known in a research paper made public at the weekend in Abuja.

Co-signed by Prof. Kakuta Yaki, a Professor of Public Admin. & Politics, and Prof. Ibrahim Shuaibu, a former President of Political Science Association, they said the conclusion was the product of an extensive research work by Professors from diverse backgrounds in politics, history and international relations.

Considering that the country is polarised along ethnic and religious lines, the Professors said it would be counter-productive for the party to still proceed with a Muslim-Muslim ticket.

Among the array of qualified northern Christians considered, the Association of Northern Professors said Rev Pam stands out based on its findings.

“Pam is a most suitable candidate for the APC because of his rich pedigree and numerous contributions to the entrenchment of peace and unity in the Northern region. He commands respect amongst the northern elites and clerics,” the academics said.

“His credentials are intimidating. Rev Yakubu Pam is an unassuming personality, though silent, and has contributed immensely to religious stability in the northern region. His name resonates with peace and unity, even amongst the Northern religious circle, with whom he enjoys tremendous respect.

“His leadership footprints cut across different segments and sectors of the Northern region, hence why his nomination as the vice-presidential candidate of the APC would indeed boost the chances of the party in the 2023 presidential elections. His candidacy addresses the religious and ethnic questions needed to position the APC for electoral success.

“The choice of Rev Yakubu Pam as the vice-presidential candidate of the APC comes with its attendant benefits, as it would give the APC a balanced ticket that would eventually guarantee electoral success at the polls.

“Rev Pam is also a known figure in most parts of Northern Nigeria because of his numerous contributions to peace and development and religious tolerance. His appeal also cuts across all ages due to his broad views on issues”.

According to the professors, Tinubu and Pam will complement each other’s strengths and weaknesses.

“While Tinubu addresses the political component of the ticket, Rev Yakubu Pam addresses the administrative component,” the scholars noted.

“His wealth of experience in administrative matters is noteworthy. His sterling leadership strides at the Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission give an insight into his approach to leadership. This is aside from other positions of authority he has occupied over decades, including the leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria in the 19 Northern states, including the Federal Capital Territory”, they added.

The professors, however, urged the leadership of the APC to rise to the occasion in “ensuring that the Tinubu/Pam ticket in the overarching objective of presenting a formidable force capable of translating the hopes and aspirations of Nigerians into tangible reality”.

2023: College of Bishops,Imams endorse Yakubu Pam as APC  Vice Presidential Candidate 


Ahead of the 2023 Presidential Polls,the College of Bishops and Imams have unanimously endorsed the candidature of Reverend Yakubu Pam as the running mate to Asiwaju Bola Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress,APC in next year polls.


The Clergymen who converged on Abuja on Sallah day  said its resolve to present Rev Yakubu Pam as the most suitable candidate is hinged on his amiable personality and contributions to peace and development in the country. 


The Spokesman of the Group, Abel Adam described Yakubu Pam as a man of few words but of a sound mind, a solid administrator and a man who understands what leadership entails. 


He said there is no iota of doubt with regards to the suitability of Rev Yakubu Pam in complimenting the APC presidential ticket because according to him he comes on board with a rich credential in administration and the Lord's vineyard. 


He said, "As a body of clerics, Rev Yakubu Pam is one of us. Over several decades, he has displayed an unflinching commitment to the unity, progress and growth of the country in several capacities, including Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria in the 19 Northern States and the federal capital territory. 


"He set worthy leadership examples that we have remained proud of, hence the decision to present to the APC this unique individual that commands tremendous respect across the country for his notable contributions to the good of the common man regardless of ethnic or religious affiliations.  


"It remains a statement that Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu needs a running mate that is a bridge-builder and a symbol of unity. These are the attributes of Rev Yakubu Pam that have resonated in all assignments he has undertaken in the cause of service to the country and humanity. 


"We are also convinced that with the credentials of Rev Yakubu Pam, the APC is sure of electoral victory because of the broad appeal he enjoys in most states in Northern Nigeria and other parts of the country. 


"The exigencies of time require that the APC presents candidates with the capacity and strength of character to address the challenges in the country. And this is what the nomination of Rev Yakubu Pam will bring to the table for the APC in the presidential elections. 


"As a body of clerics, we stand under the authority of God in endorsing Rev Yakubu Pam as the vice-presidential candidate of the APC. We also call on all well-meaning Nigerians to join in supporting Rev Yakubu Pam as the vice-presidential candidate of the APC" he said 


Adam also called on the presidential candidate of the APC, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to see in Rev Yakubu Pam a dependable individual that is loyal, devoted and trusted, and one that would assist in remarkable ways in setting the country on the right track towards sustainable growth and development. 


"We thank God for his mercies and love for our dear country. We pray for the successful conduct of the elections, and Nigeria shall defeat its adversaries" he added

FRONTLINE ACTIVIST ADVISES NEWLY APPOINTED MINISTER OF NIGER DELTA AFFAIRS, UMANA OKON UMANA

The appointment of Mr. Umana Okon Umana as the substantive Minister of Niger Delta Affairs is a welcome development in the struggle for a better life for the long suffering people of the Niger Delta region. No doubt at this time the freshly minted Honourable Minister would be inundated with congratulatory messages of all shades. Indeed congratulations are very much in order, as Mr. Umana Umana is a seasoned public servant and development oriented humanitarian, who is well deserving of this appointment.

It is however pertinent, to call the Honourable Minister’s attention to the fact that his appointment, coming so late in the life of the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari, requires that he keeps the celebratory champagne on ice as there is work to be done and little time with which to get it done.

It is no doubt, that Successive administrations have failed the people of the Niger Delta, keeping them perpetually in penury and undignified living conditions.
It is my heartfelt hope that Mr. Umana Umana would put the people of the Niger Delta on the front burner of national conversation, engraving into our national consciousness the fact that oil exploration which funds Nigeria, has cost the Niger delta people their livet and livelihoods as their waters and land keep getting polluted through inhuman practices by the oil companies.

The Niger Delta people have paid with their health and predominant occupation of fishing for Nigerian oil exploration, while they have reaped a polluted environment, poverty and lack of meaningful infrastructure with near total absence of government presence in such a critical area to Nigeria’s existential reality.


It is this sad and unfortunate reality which precipitated the Niger Delta agitation that crystallized into the Militancy of the early 2000s, before the administration of President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua created the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs to warehouse and coordinate the previous interventions created by previous administrations. The Niger Delta Ministry has failed to deliver over the years and it is this state of affairs that Mr. Umana is inheriting and will be expected to improve upon over the next 10months of the current administration.

As I have done over the years, I will continue to call attention to the plight of the people of the Niger Delta demanding for a discernible developmental agenda for the region. The task is enormous and I am by no means suggesting that I expect him to solve them all for good, but no doubt we expect a performance that is a clear departure from the norm in the Ministry. The people of the Niger Delta expect the Honourable Minister to carry out far reaching and sincere reforms of the NDDC and to give greater attention to infrastructural developments.

*APC Women Hold Massive Rally Support for Tinubu, Pam’s Ticket as President, Running Mate*

Thousands of All Progressives Congress women on Monday held a massive rally in Abuja to throw their weight behind Asiwaju Bola and Rev Yakubu Pam as the party’s presidential flagbearers.

The Coalition of APC Women, drawn across the country, said that Tinubu is assured of success at the polls with the Executive Secretary of the Nigeria Christian Pilgrim Commission as running mate.

Speaking on behalf of the women, national converner, Lady Princess Ajibola hailed Tinubu as an “epitome of prosperity and good governance, a great force to reckon with, and the right candidate to continue the sail of the affairs of Nigeria to greater heights”.

She, however, said that in order for the APC candidate to fulfil his mandate, he must pick the strongest possible running mate.

And according to the APC women, Rev Pam tops the pile being a “quintessential leader, a teacher and a peace lover”.

Ajibola added, “He is a man who has never taken his service in God’s vineyard for granted, he has been serving faithfully since 2020 and still is, even till now. Rev Yakubu Pam has proven himself an excellent man, a man of good faith and integrity before his appointment as the executive secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrimage Commission. Service like this requires great personalities.

“We have seen many acclaimed leaders loose their focus after given higher appointment of leadership, and we have seen many attained the positions of this height, and loose faith of their humble beginnings. The Reverend has however retained his humility, keeping in mind God’s role in his life to serve the human race. The commission has been blessed to have been led by Rev Yakubu Pam as he has since then impacted the nation in many ways.

“His appointment has set many records for high standard of leadership in Nigeria which has led many stakeholders acclaim to this fact severally in conferences and the likes. Rev. Yakubu Pam has shown himself as the great man who constantly contributes to easing the plight of the people. The Reverend is a leader that listens to the people and hears their voices, and then speak out on their behalf on several occasions. He has spoken up about the different killings and inhumane treatment, urging and pushing for a better governance for the people. He has also applauded the different measures of change taken by the government in easing the pain of the people. The people’s plight has always been his plight.

“This is a man that seeks solutions to problem rather than complain. His words are a soothing balm to heart of the oppressed, assuring them of hope and relief. He’s an orator that push for positive actions to be take at the swiftness of time.

“The Coalition of APC women is asking us to go for a man that his influence cut across many sectors in Nigeria, a man who understands what pain is, and a man that is neither consumed with pride nor seek self-gratification. An altruistic man that so much detest bigotry, and nepotism”.

The women, therefore, pledged to mobilize millions of their members across the country to vote the Tinubu/Pam ticket in 2023.

By Moses Oche

This decade's generation has had their diaries filled with details of their vivid share in the first-hand historical experience of insurgency happening in their lifetime. These verbose experiences may well be defined by the success or failure of the anti-terrorism efforts across our country. Since al-Qaeda first emerged in 1988 and subsequently carried out attacks on American soil in 2001, terrorism has maned the stage where its religious-oriented versions spread across the globe as a weapon. Rescuing the world from the mindless savagery that represents the hallmark of terrorism requires sincerity and focus. Every nation has been saddled with the quest of providing capable personnel that is devoid of bigotry, nepotism, and religious -fanatism to help handle the matters of insecurities at the A-Level.

However, It also requires that differences are set aside to deal with what is proving to be a long-term threat to the survival and continuity of the human race. The global menace of terrorism manifests in Nigeria as al-Wilāya al-Islāmiyya Gharb Afrīqiyyah (Islamic State West Africa Province, ISWAP), better known as Boko Haram. Other lesser-known groups nurse the ambition of growing to the level of notoriety attained by Boko Haram if permitted. With a subtle undertone of their religious perplexity in their mode of Operandi, any President that stands for justice would be cautious in choosing a leader that can combat such adversity.

The national awakening to the true evil nature of the many uprising by Boko Haram and banditry in recent years has fortunately been matched by a military committed to defending the country from terrorists. Having been a continuous fight, this development has seen genuine efforts to fight terrorism even amidst intractable problems that tend to make solutions futile, simply on account of the divisiveness that persists even in the face of the threat to the collective wellbeing of the Nation.

President Muhammadu Buhari last year made another ground-breaking decision by appointing Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya, a former General Officer Commanding 1 Division of the Nigerian Army and the then incumbent Theatre Commander of the Counter-Terrorism Counter Insurgency military outfit in the North East, codenamed Operation HADIN KAI as the new Chief of Army Staff, following the death of Lt. Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru, the erstwhile Chief of Army Staff. Lieutenant General Yahaya was brought from the heart and the heat of insurgency from the far northeast part of the country.

However, being a proud holder of several honours and awards, some of which include Forces Service Star, Meritorious Service Star, Distinguished Service Star, Grand Service Star, Passed staff course (Dagger), National Defence College (Chile), Economic Community of West Africa State Monitoring Group Medal, Command Medal, Field Command Medal, General Operations Medal, Silver Jubilee Medal and Golden Jubilee Medal, through courage, selfless sacrifice and exemplary leadership, his actions before the appointment spoke so much volume that was audible to the deaf as an evidential capability, representing a pointer to the right person capable of handling the affairs of security in Nigeria as a nation. Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya has surpassed the mark of a mere hero and has launched himself into the nobility of greatness to be reckoned with worldwide. One wouldn’t wonder far for the answer to the mystery of why an Army under his watch has always remained as safe as Rome under the pope.

Over time, Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya has proven himself qualified with unique skills such as his vast wealth of experience as a war veteran, a peacekeeper, and an administrator with efficiency in maintaining order and stability in conflict-ridden areas around the country. This General respects every religion by showing no discrepancy in his judgements and decision-making. Apart from his gift of looking beyond religious fanaticism, he's loved by all due to his large heart of giving and donations to the soldiers and citizens around without showing any tolerance to worldliness in his dealings.

Faruk is a man that works earnestly to implant his cheerful disposition in the Army. First, as a Human being and secondly, as a soldier, whose shadows should reflect in every Army personnel, so long as he remains the Army Chief. Those who have known Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya from his teenage age loudly attest to his open-minded and compassionate nature. They know the Army Chief as humane and passionate about the afflictions and plight of the less privileged. Anyone can easily touch his soft spot irreversibly when he extends assistance to the needy or come to the rescue of anyone in a consuming dilemma. He is kind to a fault, humble and amiable. He has grown up with these attributes in his chosen profession, the Army, and exhibits it everywhere he has served his country to reach the peak of his career as COAS.

Therefore, in redirecting and refocusing the Nigerian Army along these lines of greatness, Faruk Yahaya sought to smoothen ties of relationship between civilians and soldiers along with his humanism. His preachments to soldiers have always centred on their roles as servants, as against bossy masters to Nigerians. One can convincingly conclude that President Muhammadu Buhari made an impeccable decision on the choice of appointing Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya as the Chief of Army Staff. Everyone would applaud the President’s choice of picking a pious man to the core, one that is revealed as an epitome of truth, honesty, and incorruptible practices without blemish.

His contribution to the Nigerian Army has helped heighten the action of patriotism among officers and soldiers, whereby, anywhere one encounters Nigerian soldiers, either on the battlefield or by the roadside in the Northeast, they exude the passionate, courageous and irrevocable spirit of certainty in finally subjugating the evil tormenting Nigerians. Sometimes, even in video clips from the Northeast theatre of the war, released intermittently on social media, Nigerians sight soldiers jubilantly displaying acts of gallantry when they triumph over Boko Haram insurgents. More penetrating is seeing troops fighting and caring for the old and young, children and women who are most times rescued from the terrorists and even administering first aid treatments to rescued victims. It is representatively symbolic of general excitement and the humane reflection of troops on the frontlines to show rare kindness and love. It inspires and assures the troops’ anticipated continuous victory against Boko Haram at the cost of anything, including sacrificing their lives.
Today, Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya never stopped contributing and committing to the welfare of the Nigerian Army against different bigotry rumours and speculations before his appointment. This has encouraged the soldiers to look forward to that hour with eagerness anxiously; the day they would be feted with garlands as heroes and heroines of counter-terrorism globally. The meekness and affection of troops towards those they fight for can only be found in rare cases and amongst the Nigerian troops confronting the insurgents.

The report states that some citizens have been paid to be social activists to pull down the military institution, all in a bid to discredit them. This is therefore highly uncalled for and should have no place in our country. Little do we know about the effect of the strategies of these detractors because the reality is that the seeming interventions are unnecessary distractions that will reverse recent gains made in the war against insurgency. Each time such paid activists unjustifiably criticise the military, they, therefore, undermine the counter-insurgency efforts. In many instances, the damage goes beyond the now because Nigeria's foreign partners have sometimes referenced the activities of such activists as justifications for withholding military cooperation to Nigeria or blocking crucial arms deals that would contribute to the anti-terror war efforts. Still, the COAS has remained unperturbed and not dismayed by the futile efforts being thrown at him by his detractors. He has always been keeping the wheel of the fight against insurgency moving and not permitting their distractions to move him in his line of duty. The hard-working Army Chief will not give the insurgents much operational laxity in Nigeria, especially in the Northeast, where they prided in false invincible power and strength.

This has remained a pain in their daunting efforts and reaffirmed their continued futility. These rotten eggs in human skins need to be separated and broken off from the good ones because they are significant cancer to the nation as a whole. When not weeded out, they become a menace that will bring ills, misfortune and setbacks to our dear country. It is worthy of note that those who deliberately manipulate facts to sabotage the military should be mindful that only a thin line separates what they see as harmless mischief and commission of crimes.

Looking at Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya’s recent refined and attuned moves to the positive virtues of humanity, one will conclude that the best offer that can help in fostering these great continuous works that have been set in motion is to jointly support his wave of positive changes all around the nation and more importantly in his fight against insurgency and banditry. This calls for support and unity in all arms of security in Nigeria.

For the sake of tranquillity in the Nation, detractors and their agents are advised to stay clear from the Chief of Army Staff so that he can give maximum concentration to his works. He has been tried and has proven himself beyond all doubts, an exceptional leader who is ever ready to provide an optimal discharge of his duty any time the clarion call to action is being heard. He will never compromise for terrorists to take over the country because he holds the country's interests very dear to his heart. Indeed, General Faruk Yahaya is the soldier’s soldier whose actions speaks for themselves to the admiration of all well meaning Nigerians.

Oche is a public affairs analyst based in Abuja.

2023: Only VP of N/Central extraction would make us win, N/East APC stakeholders reply N/West 




As debates concerning the vice presidential candidacy of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) continue to occupy central stage of Nigeria's polity, a coalition of stakeholders from the North East region, has demanded that the party picks the VP candidate from North Central. 


This, according to the stakeholders, would afford the party to win the 2023 presidential elections and positions it as a party known for fairness, equity and justice. 


This was the major resolution of the North East APC Stakeholders Coalition in Abuja on Sunday, at a well attended emergency meeting. 


Stakeholders from the North West had clamoured for the position of vice president, urging the party to nominate one of their own as running mate to Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the presidential flagbearer of the party in the 2023 general elections. 


Addressing newsmen after a successful stakeholders meeting in Abuja Sunday afternoon, Alhaji Abba Aji Suleiman, National Coordinator of North East APC Stakeholders Coalition, faulted the demand of their North Western counterparts, describing it as "not only misplaced, but a gross display of insensitivity to the relevance of other regions in the scheme of things in the party".


The coalition argued that, "the North West Region had been within the corridor of power in the last seven years of the President Muhammadu Buhari administration, and for such demand to be made indeed speak volume of gross insensitivity. 


"It is the considered view of stakeholders in the North East that it would only be fair and just if the vice-presidential slot goes to the North Central, given the numerous contributions of the region to the growth and development of the party. 


"The stakeholders must come to terms with the fact that the North Central region hasn't had a shot at the highest level of governance since the return of democracy in 1999. This time has presented that unique opportunity that must be utilized in the party's best interest. 


"The North-West APC Stakeholders must also realize that the overarching objective of the party is to secure a landslide victory at the polls, and if that is indeed the case, would it make any sense if a region that has been represented adequately in the last ten years, would also demand the vice-presidential slot". 


Speaking further, Alhaji Suleiman stressed that, "unless the stakeholders of our great party in the North West want us to believe that the North Central is not deserving of producing the vice-presidential candidate hence the demand for the vice-presidential slot. 


"The stakeholders of the APC in the North East wish to use this medium to call on the leadership of our great party to ensure justice and fairness by providing that the vice presidential slot is given to the North Central". 


He added that the North Central hasn’t had the opportunity to produce either the president or vice president, "despite the array of credible candidates in the region with excellent profiles and broad appeal across the country", urging the APC to consider the North Central for the position of vice president, as his region had already conceded, for equity sake.

Pam: North-West, North-East APC Stakeholders Concede Vice Presidency to North-Central

All is now set for the All Progressives Congress to announce a substantive presidential running mate from the north-central zone.

This was after 19 northern states APC Youth Groups and Stakeholders, including north-west and north-east, nominated the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission, Rev Yakubu Pam as its preferred number 2 to Asiwaju Bola Tinubu.

The group, which made this known on Thursday at a press conference in Abuja, said it came to the conclusion to zone the ticket to the middle-belt and subsequently settled for Pam after an exhaustive consultation for the purpose of equity, justice and fairness.

According to a statement signed by its convener, Alhaji Abubakar Isah, Secretary Hon Mutazu Kabiru Adamu and the heads of 19 states, the groups said the choice of north central is strategic, a reward for its critical role in the country during elections.

On its reason for backing Pam, the APC youths and stakeholders said the respected Christian cleric is a bridge builder with an extensive network in Northern Nigeria.

The group said he “ is viewed as a trusted ally who hasn’t failed to exhibit sincerity of heart and purpose in his assignment geared towards peaceful coexistence and mutual understanding amongst the various religious and ethnic groupings”.

“We believe such a move it’s not only to reward the north central for its loyalty and cooperation with the rest of the north west but, also the fact that the North Central parades one of the best brains to galvanize the much needed stakeholders’ cooperation in the northern part of the country”, the statement said.

“Consequently the unanimous endorsement of Rev Yakubu Pam is an indication of his level of acceptance in the North West owing to his sterling track record in service and his numerous contributions to peace and tranquility in Northern Nigeria and the country at large.

“Rev Yakubu Pam indeed has garnered administrative experience that spans decades in active service to the country and humanity. This much has been evident in the numerous positions of authority he occupied that includes but not limited to the Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria in the 19 Northern states, to mention but a few.

“The 19 Northern APC Youth Groups and Stakeholders Forum wishes to use this medium to place it on record that the choice of Rev Yakubu Pam as the vice presidential candidate of the APC would indeed bring the needed balance and harmony the party requires to coast to victory at the presidential elections.

“Rev Yakubu Pam is a bridge builder with an extensive network in Northern Nigeria. He is viewed as a trusted ally who hasn’t failed to exhibit sincerity of heart and purpose in his assignment geared towards peaceful coexistence and mutual understanding amongst the various religious and ethnic groupings.

“He also presents a strong credential of loyalty, dedication and patriotism, which in our considered opinion is a functional criteria needed for the Office of the Vice President given the sensitivity of the office.

“We wish to place it on record that Rev Yakubu Pam’s candidature will unite all warring factions in Northern Nigeria, because of the tremendous respect he commands from all and sundry for his numerous contributions to the sustenance of peace and tranquility.

“We have no reservation with regards the ability of Rev Yakubu Pam to be of great asset to the APC during and after the elections because he is reliable and a man of vision and impeccable character, who matches his words with action and one that is never shy to speak power to the truth.

“In the light of the above enumerated facts, we wish to call on all interested parties in the vice presidential slot from North West and North East to shield their ambition and throw their support for Rev Yakubu Pam in the overarching objective of securing electoral victory for the party at the presidential elections”.

The group, therefore, called on the Progressive Governors to in “good conscience support the nomination of Rev Yakubu Pam as the vice presidential candidate of the APC”.

They added that, “This is on the heels that he is from the north central, he is young and energetic; he is a man of repute and character, whose acceptability cuts across religion and ethnicity”.

The 19 Northern APC Youth Groups and Stakeholders, however, urged the leadership of the APC to do all necessary to ensure that Rev Yakubu Pam is nominated as the vice presidential candidate of the party.

By Philip Agbese

After thorough examination, further being excluded from the list of inconsequential matters, and moved to the top relevant section in the nation, The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Trust Fund bill has been a topic on the tongue of many great visionary leaders in this country. It is said that, “In a stronger Youth, lies the strength of a great Nation”. One would wonder how much exploration, and greatness that would emanate from a nation that have taken time to invest in her youths. What great expectations await such magnanimous task, or investment?

It’s no myth that for long have ethnic, political and religious differences been too frequently weaponized by those seeking to obtain or retain political power. Given this history, expecting a program to bring national unity, is a tall order, one that NYSC has proven to fill and also brought to realization its many benefits and importance as a developmental factor in our beloved country. The basic fact that a young graduate who has spent most of his or her life in the south-west graduates and is posted to the North Western part of the country, courtesy of the NYSC to explore and contribute to the community is indeed very important. It launches such an individual to his next stage in life and equips such individual with the necessary experiences needed to excel in his career path. It’s no surprise that Nigeria as a nation is closest to its revolutional-breakthrough in massive progress which would be witness soonest among the youths. This feat has been made possible by great minds who have invested their time, commitment, and resources in ensuring that Nigeria becomes a greater nation than it used to be.

Putting different views on a test of time and candid watch, perpetual evidence over time has fully trashed the misconception of different arguments on the NYSC scheme having outlived its usefulness. However, standing the test of time and season, it is now evident with rigid facts that there is no contesting the fact that the NYSC plays a critical role in fostering the country’s economic and social development. It is because of the impact of the outstanding influence of the NYSC scheme in different sectors across the Nation that has now made it well-convincing that recent efforts to set up the NYSC Trust Fund deserves the full support of all and sundry considering the fact that it will provide the impetus to boost the Skill and Entrepreneurship Development Programme for corps members. While noting great numerous streams of success in various sectors already in record under the leadership of President Muhammadu Buhari, there swiftly came an additional great initiative by the National Assembly, which is considering the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Trust Fund Bill, and ensuring seamless passage of this proposed bill that would give firmness to the clarion call for the creation of the NYSC Trust Fund. This heroic support given by the two Chambers of the National Assembly in passing the NYSC trust fund bill has remained a positive game changer for the Nigerian youths. The unpoliticized moves taken by this visionary leaders in power has further solidify the unity and hope of a greater future for our Nation. These are leaders that have continued to seek for ways to put out the flame of ethnic and religious tensions by proffering solutions to the healthy survival of the youths in this nation.

This bill is meant to power sustainability in all ramification as pertains to everything that needs to help actualize the goals and vision of Nigeria Youth Service Corp. The bill sought to address the Infrastructural deficit in the orientation camps, ensure adequate provision of other operational logistics, as well as address the problem of graduate unemployment in the country.
Furthermore, it is worthy of note that when passed into law, this Trust Fund bill would also have a positive impact on the Nigerian youths and citizens in general.

X-raying the immense benefits of NYSC scheme and the Trust Fund bill to our great nation, these expectant contributions are worthy of note:

*IMPROVEMENT IN GENERAL WELFARE*
With this bill in full implementation, the corps members welfare would become better, there will be better maintenance of existing NYSC facilities, and more orientation camps extension to better accommodate youth corps. This Trust Fund bill runs with the vision of enhancing the improvement of the general welfare of corps members and personnel of the scheme and their preparedness to effectively discharge their statutory duties of promoting national unity, integration, self-reliance and accelerated development of the national economy.

*INCREASE IN LOW STEREOTYPICAL RATIO AND GOOD INTERPERSONAL RELATIONSHIP*
In considering the yearnings on unity in this nation, we cannot be oblivious of the fact that there have always been stereotypes and Prejudices view which one ethnic group may have about another. It takes more experience, and moral influence of the life of other ethnic groups to see the lack Of objectivity in such false assumptions. Knowing well that Stereotypes are characteristics are mentally imposed upon groups of people because of their race, nationality, and sexual orientations, it would take more than just educational enlightenment, but an integration into a cultural wellbeing, and this is the revolution NYSC has provided. These characteristics in different groups involved has strengthened the absurdity of human personification in relation to their judgemental reasoning. However, this action has further strength the arm of nepotism in different sectors occupied by people with this stereotypical traits, forgetting that they are not necessarily representative of all people within that group. This syndrome is partly responsible for monumental disunity of the country. The Trust Fund bill would further help to build good interpersonal relationships, galvanize, and strengthens the bond of unity amongst ethnic groups. The experience of ethnic diversity in all forms has helped to appreciate and learn other people’s cultures. This pleasant encounter often dispels whatever myths they may harbor against any other ethnic groups, therefore helping them to transact, and relate better together.

*DRASTIC LOW RATE OF GRADUATE UNEMPLOYMENT*
In accessing the Trust fund by all corps member, there would be massive reduction in the rate of graduate unemployment, as this bill would help enhance the Gains of the SAED Programme. This Trust funds will surely provide many source of funds for the Nigerians Youth Service Corps in terms of skill acquisition training like Web Development, Cyber security, Graphics Deisgn, Content writing, Digital marketing, Mechanized farming, and many more. Considering Capital; being the greatest challenge of every prospective entrepreneurs with great ideas, it’s obvious that this bill is a prayer-answered solution. Apart from providing adequate facilities for more impactful vocational and entrepreneurship training, it would also be a sustainable source of business financing capital for the corps members. This way, greater feats would be achieved in empowering our graduate youths for self-employment and wealth creation. Curbing unemployment among graduates is one of the aim of the Trust funds. Just as the same manner like Tet fund (Tertiary Education Trust Fund), Police Equipment Trust Fund and Petroleum Technology Development Fund, which help in aiding full operations of tertiary educational institutions.

*REDUCED INSURGENCY AND YOUTH RESTIVENESS.*
Taking a peak look at the statistical age range of those actively into terrorism, Insurgency, Banditry, and all other evil vices, it can be undoubtedly concluded that the Youth dominates in numbers. From previous encounters the Armed forces had in combating Insurgency and Banditry, reports were gotten that the Youth made a great number of those involved in this vices. Confession from most of the repentant Bokoharam and the Niger deltan militants revealed that, most of them laid claim to their inability to secure a good job, little to no grant support for their business ideas, the high unemployment rate, and the lack of capital to start something for themselves that made them ventured into causing mayhem and unrest around the country, due to the short-lived promise made to them. This has made them a menace to the peace and unity of the nation.



Moreover, in the issues of funding and many infrastructural decays, the NYSC Trust Funds will help to harness smooth running and operations of the scheme. It would also serve as seed money for many young graduate entrepreneurs after their service. This will not only benefit the youth alone, but would also help secure a good future for the coming generation, and also prepare a good rest for the older generation. There is no doubt that when the NYSC Trust Fund becomes operational, the number of corps entrepreneurs will increase drastically, and they will in turn help to provide jobs for millions of other youths of the country. This will equally help to reduce the issue of security challenges faced in the country. It is instructive that the majority of the lawmakers are products of the scheme as most of them are graduates of tertiary institutions who have participated in the scheme. From their varying and variegated experience going through the scheme, they will agree that corps members are grossly underutilised and one sure way of unleashing the real potential of the corps members is to empower them to be able to acquire new skills and put to use their training. No wonder their speedy approach in passing the bill. They are keen on rejuvenating the 1973 mandate of the NYSC scheme created by the Yakubu Gowon regime.

To face these herculean challenges, the corps members only need to be empowered. The NYSC Anthem to Nigerian youths to obey the clarion call, to lift the nation high, under any circumstances (sun or in the rain), with dedication and selflessness, and to serve a great Nigeria. But, many great ideas have died without requisite enablers, or a light of hope which is funding, mostly for the NYSC. So, when Nigerians call for a trust fund for the scheme, it is to ensure that a dream should survive its purpose.

It would be a great achievement and landmark in history by President Muhammed Buhari’s administration if the bill is imported, and the act signed in the next few days. Therefore, this need to be duly considered by Mr President.
The joy of a Nation to the world is its impactful Productiveness and growth. The growth of a nation is the growth of its youth. Therefore, Passing the NYSC Trust Fund bill into law, will be a Chronicle that will forever remain in the legacy of history Worldwide, and would be known as, _“The move that changed the sovereignty of every Nigerian youth’s Existence “._


Agbese is the All Progressives Congress Candidate for House of Representatives, Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency writing from Agila.

According to Merriam-Webster’s dictionary, the word ‘Mental’ means “the total emotional and intellectual response of an individual to external reality.”
Likewise, from the same dictionary, the word ‘Choose’ connotes “the act of picking between two or more possibilities”
On its part the word ‘Dimension’ in this context implies “perspective, scope or form”
Hence the Mental Dimension of Choosing a Political Party Flag-Bearer could be said to mean, the extent to which the Individual/ groups’ thought process affects the decision they make in choosing who becomes their political flag-bearer.
Elections can be said to be democratic only when they constitute a real competition among political parties and/or independent candidates. Voters should have a free and informed choice to mentally analyze and conclude on who among various candidates, will be their political representatives without subjection to direct or indirect coercion through monetary, tribalistic, religious or information manipulation.
There must be respect of the basic human rights and freedom to speak, organise, stand for election, and hold meetings or campaign rallies without intimidation or threat of arrest.
Citizens must be engaged by the government, political parties and other stakeholders such as political activists, social commentators, the media and even educational institutions to improve their understanding of complex political issues. Government must formulate relevant and demand-driven policy options, and work with other stakeholders listed above to channel public opinion into the electoral and governing process. Only where parties and their candidates are legally recognised and free to form, and function can they fulfill these roles.
Key guiding principles of democratic governance such as freedom of organisation, freedom to stand for election, freedom of speech and assembly, fair and peaceful competition, plurality, inclusion in the electoral process, level playing field, transparency and accountability of political finance and internal party democracy must be sacrosanct as they could and ultimately influence the electorates decisions and actions during the electioneering process.
What we have in Nigeria today is a situation where the people are subjected to mental manipulation by a segment of the political class using external factors such as monetary inducement, religion, tribalism and violence, to influence their thought patterns and ultimately what actions they take during elections. Taking them one after the other.
1. MONETARY INDUCEMENT
This is one major factor that political actors utilise to play on the psyche of the party delegates and the general voting populace, thereby impeding the rights of the people to freedom of choice and democratic representation.
The World Bank estimates that an additional one million people were pushed into poverty in Nigeria between June and November 2021, resulting in a total of about eight million people being relinquished to poverty in 2021 and bringing our nation's poverty headcount to about ninety-one million.
It is this widespread poverty that is weaponized and used to deny the masses of choices and opportunities through monetary inducement to voters before and during elections in exchange for the freedom to exercise their franchise. It is a total violation of human dignity. This is the reality of millions of Nigerians caught in a constant struggle to survive to the extent that their reasoning is beclouded and the nation’s future is sacrificed on the altar of instant gratification.
2. RELIGION
Some religious leaders in what seems like a departure from their true calling have allowed corrupt politicians armed with manipulative hate speeches and divisive messages access to their pulpits.
The result? The teeming populace today would rather vote along religious lines, throwing out the time-tested parameters of merit and leadership capability. This is rather dangerous for a nation like ours as the deepening of religious divide is only a forbearer of conflict and disharmony. It also breeds a system where people attain political office solely because of their religious inclination, leaving us with round pegs in square holes in most cases.
Among the grave consequences of this bad leadership choice is the possibility of anarchy due to conflicts arising from struggle for scarce resources, real and perceived injustice or marginalisation which eventually leads to breakdown of law and order due to the absence of proper governance.

3. TRIBALISM
According to Wikipedia, “tribalism is the state of being organised in, or advocating for, a tribe or tribes”
Tribalism is a social phenomenon associated with the identity of members of a competing communal group(s) seeking to protect and advance their interest in a political system. The relevant communal factor may be language, culture, race, religion and/or common history.
In the Nigeria of today, tribalism now dominates national discourse, controls how people think how they talk, and even who/what they oppose or support. In a bid to further manipulate the minds of the people, the political elites promote tribalism entrenching it in the minds of the young and elderly, even from generation to generation. Tribalism even has its base in the constitution hence the assumption that conflicts in Nigeria are motivated by ethnic competition.
The 2015 presidential election lent further credence to this assertion as it showed a pattern of voting that was deeply ethno-religious. Both candidates had majority of the votes cast in their respective regions of origin. This trend which appears to have been sustained until now is one of the early warning signs of political crisis and must be addressed in time before these constant tribal animosities affect the youth’s psyche and create a legacy of hate and suspicion which could be passed on from generation to generation.
4. VIOLENCE
Elections are the hallmarks of democracy as it serves the purpose for peaceful change in government and confers political legitimacy on the government of the day. Unfortunately, the desperate struggle for power often breeds violence between factional groups who represent one ethno-religious and/or regional Interest.
The other three factors have a direct impact on the prevalence of violence during elections in the following ways:
The poor are induced with money to perpetuate violence before, during and after elections taking advantage of their need for instant gratification. Errant Religious leaders acting a script surreptitiously written by politicians induce their followers to commit violent acts against adherents of other faith through inflammatory messages delivered yes you guessed it from the pulpit and finally, traditional leaders are not spared in this game of mental manipulation as they too engage in whipping up tribal sentiments that push their subjects to violent extremes with the underlying aim of giving undue advantage to their preferred candidates before, during and after elections.
The immediate result of violence during elections is the instilling of fear in the hearts of the electorates causing them to either stay away from the polling booths or exercise their franchise under an atmosphere of tension and intimidation with the political actors subliminally dictating to them, for whom they eventually cast their votes.
There are other factors at play in a multi-religious, highly diverse, and populous country like Nigeria, however the aforementioned constitute the most threat to the credibility of our electoral process and by extension pose a danger to our collective future as a nation. Continuous failure of the electoral process to bring up competent candidates will eventually lead to the collapse of democracy and governance if left unchecked.
Having said these, the panacea for mental manipulation as described in the preceding paragraphs are number 1, EDUCATION, number 2, EDUCATION and Number 3 EDUCATION. Meaning therefore that there are no short-cuts.
EDUCATION AS A PANACEA
The role of education in democracy cannot be over-emphasized. Democracy is about politics and politics gives rise to leadership. Education on the other hand refers to the acquisition of knowledge and knowledge is in a literal sense information, skills, understanding and experience acquired to make a living. To harmonize both concepts therefore, education and democracy are two inseparable terms that must work together to breed effective leadership in a democratic setting.
It is a fact that democracy and education have what can be described as an intimate relationship such that in a democracy, education is given primacy, for it is pre-requisite for the survival and success of the former. Similarly, education fosters a democratic temper in the minds of people.
Democracy itself is a system where no one is exploited, where everybody is assured a fair standard of living, where there is equal opportunity for work according to abilities and capacities, where economic organisation is based on collective or co-operative basis and where economic projects are geared for the benefit of the community at large.
From a social perspective it connotes the absence of all distractions based on creed, birth, religion, language or possession of money. Everyone is guaranteed fundamental rights, and equality of opportunities is given for the full development of the citizenry.
Looking at this from a wider perspective, you will find further proof that the two terms are positively correlated. The Greek philosopher, Plato studied politics and government, he believed that the best government has a philosopher in charge. The mind of philosophers according to him are trained to use reason and understand ideas. He maintained that the knowledge they acquired would help them govern their people wisely and create best conditions for the people they rule. It goes without saying therefore that education of the political actors is necessary for democracy and good governance to thrive as a proper understanding of democratic tenets and the purpose of governance amongst them will reduce to the barest minimum the tendency to manipulate the electorate and even voters.
Bernard Shaw once said “Democracy implies election of the corrupt few by the ignorant many. Therefore, education is the major means to enrich the strengths and overcome the weaknesses of the people. It is also a means for the widespread diffusion of democratic values”
Education remains the greatest instrument of social emancipation, through education, democracy establishes, maintains and protects the spirit of equality.
From the foregoing, it is obvious that democracy can function properly in any country only if most citizens are properly educated. Broad-based Democracy and Leadership studies should be fully reflected in the academic curriculum with the full dossier of philosophy, psychology and sociology, imbibing the ideals of democracy in the citizenry from infancy and inculcating in them the spirit of tolerance, the courage of convictions, a passion for social justice and social service. That way they will be equipped with the power of judgement, scientific thinking and discernment of right from wrong.

*Courtesy Like Minds 4A New Nigeria*
*Copyright Like Minds 4A New Nigeria*

...vow to mobilize for APC

Northern Christian and Muslim Cerics have thrown their weight behind the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission  NCPC to serve as running mate to Chief Bola Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress,APC  In the forthcoming Presidential Polls.


The clerics who spoke at a one day roundtable discussion in Abuja said there is  the need for a harmonious and balanced ticket for the APC at the polls.


Bishop Sunday Garuba who spoke on behalf of the Christian clerics at the meeting said the outcome of the APC primaries has brought to the fore the need for the APC to do all within its means to ensure a balanced presidential ticket that would stand the test of time and guarantee electoral victory. 


He said the Nigerian Clerics Consultative Forum convoked the  general assembly to deliberate on the issue of a balanced and harmonious presidential ticket that would guarantee electoral victory for the party. 



Garuba said it was due to the various agitations on the choice of the vice presidential candidate of the APC. 


"This is informed by the need for a balanced ticket with the overarching objective of ensuring that the ethno-religious balance of the country is achieved. 


"The necessity of ethno-religious balance cannot be overemphasized, hence the various agitations within the APC on the need for the party to get it right regarding its vice-presidential candidate. 


"The consultative assembly allowed Christian and Muslim clerics from various parts of the country to lend their objective voice to the vice-presidential candidate of the APC.


"Deliberations on the suitability of a Muslim-Muslim ticket were scrutinized objectively by clerics in attendance" he said


The representative of the Muslim clerics,  Sheikh Surajo Abdullahi said the APC's choice of presidential flag bearer for the presidential elections confirms Allah's revelations regarding the personality that would lead Nigeria on the right track. 


He described Aswaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu as a team player with an unflinching religious and ethnic tolerance, as evident in the fact that his wife is an ordained Pastor of one of the largest Pentecostal churches in Nigeria


He urged the APC presidential candidate to ensure that the choice of his running mate would reflect national balance and harmony.


He added that the choice of Reverend Yakubu Pam who is a a well-respected cleric from Northern Nigeria fits the bill as the Vice Presidential Candidate of the APC for his pedigree at advocating religious and ethnic tolerance in Northern Nigeria. 


"Rev Yakubu Pam is well respected in Northern Nigeria and over decades served as the rallying point for peaceful coexistence between Christians and Muslims in Northern Nigeria 


"Rev Yakubu Pam is a cleric that has garnered administrative experience with an unblemished record in service to humanity. 


"Yakubu Pam is a team player whose nomination would give all a sense of belonging towards attaining electoral success" he added

By: Benedict Aguele


Public relations is an integral part of profitable campaigns and the larger political arena. Public relations enables a campaign to get its core messages across effectively and ensure that it is received by the right people at the right places, at the right time and in the right dosage. In order for citizens to be able to have an opinion and make sound decisions about political candidates, they need to be aware of what is happening in their community, whether it's an area on the local or national scale.

The goal of each candidate is to persuade these voters to entrust their votes in their vision. The use of public relations as part of a political campaign process is more critical than ever before as citizens now have access to more information about what their elected officials are doing, and what they need to do, than in years past.

So it is very important for politicians to understand the importance of public relations as it relates with political campaigns.

The importance of public relations to politics is not simply that it helps politicians win votes. It can also help them win the hearts and minds of voters, and persuade them to take certain actions, such as contributing to the campaign purse and canvassing for votes on behalf of their favourite candidate.

Public relations is a field in which the public's perception of an organization or person can be shaped through various channels such as media, advertising, marketing and promotion.


As the use of PR and digital marketing have become more prominent in political campaigns, the combination of public relations, digital media and campaign strategy has played a larger role than ever. Political campaign handlers need to be aware of the benefits and limitations of each channel and strategy, so they can make an informed decision about which tools to deploy in shaping their campaign's message.

Benedict Aguele is the founder boapr.ng a public relations agency based n Abuja