₦airaland Forum

The Bridge Podcast Launch Amidst Honest Bunch Controversy

As conversations around media integrity and unfiltered dialogue heat up, a new platform, TheBridge Podcast has entered the scene.

The Bridge Podcast, a thought-provoking and hard-hitting discussion forum, officially launched today, Friday, promising to tackle societal issues, governance, leadership, and economy with a fresh and bold perspective.

The launch comes at a time when the Honest Bunch Podcast has been at the center of controversy, with debates on media responsibility, free speech, and sensationalism dominating public discourse.

While The Bridge Podcast does not position itself as a response to any particular controversy, its timing has sparked interest, with many anticipating how it will approach pressing national and global issues.

The Bridge Podcast made announcement of its arrival on its official handles across all social media platforms, noting that it aims to “connect the disconnect” by fostering open and meaningful conversations that transcend bias and misinformation.

The show is expected to feature expert opinions, guest interviews, and deep dives into the realities shaping societies today.

The podcast is set to be available across multiple streaming platforms, with its first episode scheduled for release on Friday, [15, March, 2025].

Observers and media enthusiasts are already weighing in, eager to see if The Bridge Podcast will live up to its promise of bold, unfiltered discourse—or if it, too, will find itself caught in the storm of controversy.

WATCH Full Clip of its first episode.

Media, Betrayal and Redemption: The Journey of Just Event Online CEO, Abdulrasaq Aiyelabegan



https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fCAyqujNtBc?si=-44KPCfsbw3tofrd

#TheBridgePodcast #ConnectTheDisconnect #TruthUnfiltered

*PeacePro: US Congress Aiding Boko Haram Propaganda by Sanctioning Nigeria Over Misleading Claims of Christian Persecution*

The Foundation for Peace Professionals (PeacePro) has accused the United States Congress of aiding Boko Haram propaganda through its decision to impose sanctions on Nigeria over alleged Christian persecution.

PeacePro, in a statement by its Executive Director, Abdulrazaq Hamzat described the move by US Congress as reckless and misleading, warning that it could embolden terrorist groups like Boko Haram by reinforcing their false narrative that the Nigerian government is waging a war on Christians.

In a strongly worded statement, Abdulrazaq Hamzat argued that Boko Haram and other terrorist organizations has long exploited religious tensions to justify their attacks and recruit followers.

By framing Nigeria’s security challenges as a religious conflict, PeacePro said the US Congress is effectively lending credibility to Boko Haram’s divisive messaging.

“The US Congress’s decision to impose sanctions on Nigeria over misleading claims of Christian persecution plays directly into Boko Haram’s propaganda strategy,” PeacePro stated, noting that this false narrative fuels recruitment and deepens divisions within Nigerian society. The US Congress’s actions are now reinforcing this dangerous lie.”

PeacePro highlighted that over 216,506 people were killed in the United States through homicide and gun violence between 2020 and 2022, more than 400% higher than the 55,910 deaths reported in Nigeria between October 2019 and September 2023.

Despite this alarming figure, the US Congress has chosen to impose sanctions on Nigeria while ignoring its own domestic crisis of violence and mass shootings.

“This double standard exposes the political nature of the US Congress’s decision,” PeacePro said.

“If the goal is to address human rights violations and violence, the US Congress should first confront the epidemic of gun violence within its own borders.”

“The Nigerian government is fighting a complex battle against terrorism and organized crime,” PeacePro asserted. “External interference rooted in false religious narratives only undermines Nigeria’s efforts and strengthens the hand of terrorist groups.”

PeacePro called on the Nigerian government to reject the sanctions and engage with international partners based on mutual respect and a balanced understanding of Nigeria’s security landscape.

The organization also urged Nigerian religious and political leaders to resist divisive narratives and maintain national unity in the face of external pressure.

Oix

Nigeria’s youngest lawmaker unveils "Unexplained Wealth, Religious Regulation” bills in Kwara Assembly

Nigeria’s youngest lawmaker, Hon. Rukayat Shittu, representing Owode/Onire constituency, Asa local government of Kwara state has unveiled two bills designed to combat corruption and regulate religious exploitation in the state.

In a statement by the lawmaker, she said that the proposed Unexplained Wealth Bill, 2025 and Religious Preaching and Religious Entrepreneurship Regulation Bill, 2025 have dominated public discourse, with many hailing the move as courageous and overdue, while others warn of potential controversy.

"The Unexplained Wealth Bill, 2025 seeks to empower authorities to investigate and prosecute individuals who accumulate suspicious wealth beyond their known legitimate income. The bill is seen as a direct attempt to tackle illicit enrichment and deter corruption in both public and private sectors.

“This bill is about fairness and accountability”, Hon. Shittu said. “We cannot allow corruption to thrive unchecked. Those who cannot explain their wealth should be held accountable”.

Also, the statement said that the Religious Preaching and Religious Entrepreneurship Regulation Bill, 2025 seeks to regulate religious activities and financial transactions within religious organizations, adding that it aims to prevent exploitation, incitement and manipulation under the guise of faith.

“Religion is sacred, but it cannot be used as a shield for unethical practices”, Hon. Shittu stated. “This bill will protect people from exploitation while preserving the freedom to worship”.

The statement also said that the bills have attracted attention from citizens, civil society groups, and political analysts, adding that they have triggered mixed reactions, with supporters commending Hon. Shittu’s bravery in tackling long standing issues, while critics argue the proposed regulations could face resistance from powerful interests.

“These bills reflect our collective responsibility to build a more just and accountable society”, Shittu emphasized. “It’s time to face these issues head-on”.

As the Kwara State House of Assembly prepares for debates on the bills, political observers believe the outcome could set a new precedent for governance, transparency and religious accountability in Nigeria.



https://medium.com/@biolababes/nigerias-youngest-lawmaker-unveils-unexplained-wealth-religious-regulation-bills-in-kwara-house-af5a0decf8a1

Energy Expert Seeks Improved, Accurate, Energy Accounting System in Nigeria

A multidimensional energy expert and policy analyst, Mr. Abdulrazaq Hamzat at the weekend called for improved and transparent energy accounting system in order to ensure planning and investment derivation of the energy sector in the country.

Hamzat who spoke with newsmen in Ilorin on the sidelines of the recent announcement by the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) regarding a new peak generation of 5,713.60MW as misleading and incomplete tasked the agency to seek more collaboration with other agencies like National Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), and Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading Company (NBET) in order to achieve standard electricity accounting system in the country.


He argued that, the recent comment on the electricity generation distorts Nigeria’s true electricity landscape because over 12000MW electricity excluded from national accounting.

Hamzat said that, “there is need for a holistic and transparent reporting system that captures the full spectrum of electricity generation beyond grid generation”.

Hamzat, who is also the Executive Director of the Foundation for Peace Professionals (PeacePro), stated that, “Nigeria’s electricity generation should not be assessed solely based on grid transmission data.

“A proper energy accounting framework must incorporate grid-based generation, captive power, embedded generation, and independent power producer (IPP) contributions. Otherwise, we are not getting the full picture”.

https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2025/03/14/energy-expert-seeks-improved-accurate-energy-accounting-system-in-nigeria/

PeacePro Calls for Ukraine-Russia Confederation to Secure Lasting Peace and Independence

As global dynamics shift and U.S. military aid to Ukraine dwindles, the Foundation for Peace Professionals (PeacePro) has urged Ukraine to propose a strategic confederation with Russia as a long-term solution to the ongoing war.

The call comes amid growing concerns that Ukraine risks becoming geopolitically isolated if it does not redefine its post-war relationship with Russia.

PeacePro argues that a structured diplomatic framework, one that ensures Ukraine’s sovereignty while addressing Russia’s security concerns could prevent future conflicts and establish Ukraine as a truly independent nation, rather than a perpetual battleground for superpower competition.

With America recalibrating its foreign policy priorities and engaging in diplomatic normalization with Russia, Ukraine faces a crucial moment to secure its long term future through negotiation rather than prolonged warfare.

Abdulrazaq Hamzat, Executive Director of PeacePro, stated that military confrontations alone cannot guarantee lasting peace and that Ukraine must take the initiative in shaping its own security and economic future.

“Wars do not end with battlefield victories alone. Sustainable peace is built on diplomatic foresight. Ukraine must act now to prevent becoming permanently weakened or dependent on external powers for survival,” said Hamzat.

PeacePro’s proposal suggests that a Ukraine-Russia Confederation could offer a diplomatic compromise that prevents future aggression while ensuring Ukraine’s autonomy in global affairs.

Under PeacePro’s vision, the Ukraine-Russia Confederation would be based on the following principles:

Full Ukrainian Sovereignty: Ukraine remains an independent state within a structured post-war framework.

Neutrality and Non-Aligned Status: Ukraine adopts a non-aligned foreign policy, ensuring it is neither a Western military outpost nor a Russian satellite.

Mutual Security Guarantees: A binding non-aggression pact that prevents future territorial disputes or military escalations.

Post-War Economic Reconstruction: A structured economic relationship with Russia to rebuild Ukraine’s war-torn infrastructure while maintaining independent economic partnerships with the West.

Balanced Geopolitical Engagement: Ukraine maintains diplomatic and economic ties with both Russia and Western allies without external interference.

PeacePro warns that, as Western support wanes and military aid declines, Ukraine must shift toward a diplomatic strategy that ensures lasting stability.

Without a structured peace agreement, the war could either drag on indefinitely or end in a fragile truce that leaves Ukraine vulnerable to future conflicts.

“The U.S. is shifting its focus. If Ukraine fails to define its own post-war relationship with Russia, it risks either prolonged instability or a future dictated by external powers. This is the moment for bold diplomacy,” Hamzat added.

PeacePro is urging global diplomatic players, including the United Nations, the European Union, and key world leaders to facilitate high-level negotiations based on this confederation model. The goal is to ensure a settlement that prevents Ukraine from becoming permanently entangled in geopolitical struggles.

“Wars always end at the negotiating table. The real question is whether Ukraine ends this war on its own terms or remains trapped in endless cycles of instability.

A structured diplomatic solution can secure Ukraine’s future as a strong, independent nation,” Hamzat concluded.

The proposal is expected to spark debate among policymakers, security experts, and international analysts. While some may see it as a pragmatic solution to an unwinnable war, others may question Russia’s willingness to accept such an arrangement. However, as global dynamics shift, the urgency for innovative peace solutions grows stronger.

The Foundation for Peace Professionals (PeacePro) is an independent, non-governmental organization dedicated to peacebuilding, conflict resolution, and sustainable diplomacy across the globe.

betbaron:
Seyi Tinubu (the next Governor of Lagos state) will sure compensate Hamzat for all these works

??

uzhiyeka:
Am a farmer and I must say what the fg are doing will not last. We the local farmer are spending too high on purchase of seed, cost of labour, chemicals. The fg should look into these.....

This is the reality

Hamzat tackles TCN on energy accounting

…Urges NERC, NBET, others to collaborate for transparent energy valuation

By Demola Akinyemi, Ilorin

An energy expert and policy analyst, Abdulrazaq Hamzat, has called for improved energy accounting in Nigeria, emphasizing the need for a holistic and transparent reporting system that captures the full spectrum of electricity generation beyond grid generation.

Hamzat, who is also the Executive Director of the Foundation for Peace Professionals (PeacePro), in a press statement made available to journalists in Ilorin on Tuesday faulted the recent announcement by the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) regarding a new peak generation of 5,713.60MW as misleading and incomplete, arguing that it distorts Nigeria’s true electricity landscape.

“Nigeria’s electricity generation should not be assessed solely based on grid transmission data,” Hamzat stated, stressing that “a proper energy accounting framework must incorporate grid-based generation, captive power, embedded generation, and independent power producer (IPP) contributions. Otherwise, we are not getting the full picture.”

Hamzat noted that over 12,000MW electricity excluded from national accounting.

According to him, while TCN celebrates a new peak generation for 2025, the statement fails to acknowledge the significant role of captive power generation, which supplies over 12,000 MW to industries, businesses, and residential areas outside the national grid.

“Nigeria’s true power capacity is far greater than what TCN reports. The failure to account for captive power means we are underestimating our real generation capacity, which affects planning, investment decisions, and policymaking, adding that accurate and transparent energy accounting is essential for realistic planning for Nigeria’s energy future,”he added

Hamzat also call for a coordinated energy accounting among regulatory agencies.

According to him, relevant government agencies, including Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), National Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), and Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading Company (NBET) should collaborate to account for investments in captive power and embedded generation when valuing the overall power sector.

Specifically, he proposed a unified national energy database to capture all forms of power generation in Nigeria.

He also called on the agencies to account for private sector investments in captive power and embedded generation in national reporting.

He concluded by calling for an end to misleading record breaking announcements.

“Nigeria’s energy future depends on accurate data, strategic planning, and a commitment to systemic reforms,” Hamzat said, noting that, while Nigeria continues to make efforts toward improving its electricity supply, celebrating marginal grid peak increments without addressing core issues like underutilized capacity, transmission failures, and unaccounted energy sources is counterproductive.

He also called for a shift from mere announcements to real progress, emphasizing that Nigeria’s energy future depends on accurate data, strategic planning, and a commitment to systemic reforms.

https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.vanguardngr.com/2025/03/hamzat-tackles-tcn-on-energy-accounting/amp/

MULTI-DIMENTIONAL ENERGY EXPERT, ABDULRAZAQ HAMZAT TACKLES TCN ON DISTORTION, INCOMPLETE AND MISLEADING ENERGY ACCOUNTING

Urges NERC, NBET, others to collaborate for transparent energy valuation

A Multidimensional energy expert and policy analyst, Abdulrazaq Hamzat, has called for improved energy accounting in Nigeria, emphasizing the need for a holistic and transparent reporting system that captures the full spectrum of electricity generation beyond grid generation.

Hamzat, who is also the Executive Director of the Foundation for Peace Professionals (PeacePro), faulted the recent announcement by the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) regarding a new peak generation of 5,713.60MW as misleading and incomplete, arguing that it distorts Nigeria’s true electricity landscape.

“Nigeria’s electricity generation should not be assessed solely based on grid transmission data,” Hamzat stated. “A proper energy accounting framework must incorporate grid-based generation, captive power, embedded generation, and independent power producer (IPP) contributions. Otherwise, we are not getting the full picture.”

Hamzat noted that over 12000MW electricity excluded from national accounting.

According to him, while TCN celebrates a new peak generation for 2025, the statement fails to acknowledge, the significant role of captive power generation, which supplies over 12,000 MW to industries, businesses, and residential areas outside the national grid.

“Nigeria’s true power capacity is far greater than what TCN reports. The failure to account for captive power means we are underestimating our real generation capacity, which affects planning, investment decisions, and policymaking, adding that accurate and transparent energy accounting is essential for realistic planning for Nigeria’s energy future.

Hamzat also call for a coordinated energy accounting among regulatory agencies.

According to him, relevant government agencies, including Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), National Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), and Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading Company (NBET) should collaborate to account for investments in captive power and embedded generation when valuing the overall power sector.

Specifically, he proposed a unified national energy database to capture all forms of power generation in Nigeria. He also call on the agencies to account for private sector investments in captive power and embedded generation in national reporting.

He concluded by calling for end to misleading record breaking announcements.

“Nigeria’s energy future depends on accurate data, strategic planning, and a commitment to systemic reforms,” Hamzat said, noting that, while Nigeria continues to make efforts toward improving its electricity supply, celebrating marginal grid peak increments without addressing core issues like underutilized capacity, transmission failures, and unaccounted energy sources is counterproductive.

He called for a shift from mere announcements to real progress, emphasizing that Nigeria’s energy future depends on accurate data, strategic planning, and a commitment to systemic reforms.

https://newsbreaknaija.com/multi-dimensional-energy-expert-abdulrazaq-hamzat-tackles-tcn-on-distortion-incomplete-misleading-energy-accounting/

fitinwell:
Funny how imported 50kg Bag of rice is cheaper ... Than the local bags of rice...

Even foreign fruits and vegetables are cheaper than local ones...

All these are not ordinary explain... There are supernatural consequences Nigerians are paying for...


So many abnormalities here and der...

We can only plead for mercy.. from the supernatural beings

Only small holders farmers are in Nigeria.

Foreign countries are into industry based farming.

FG’s agricultural imports policy ‘suicidal’ — Group

The Foundation for Peace Professionals (PeacePro) has criticized the Federal Government’s continued importation of subsidized foreign agricultural commodities, warning that the policy is crippling Nigeria’s agro-industry, discouraging investment, and pushing the country toward food insecurity.

In a statement by the executive director of the group, Mallam Abdulrazaq Hamzat, he condemned the government’s approach, describing it as suicidal.


While the government celebrates the decline in food prices, the group argued that the trend is artificial and dangerous, driven by cheap foreign imports subsidized by other nations, a move it said undermined Nigerian farmers and threatens national economic stability.

“It is shocking that while other nations subsidize their agricultural industries to create jobs and sustain food production, Nigeria is doing the opposite, importing cheap food to destroy its own agriculture. This is a suicidal economic policy that must stop immediately”, he said

“The real victory is achieving food sufficiency through strong local production, not artificially low prices from foreign imports. If this policy continues, Nigerian agriculture will be permanently crippled, and the country will become entirely dependent on foreign nations for survival”.

https://tribuneonlineng.com/fgs-agricultural-imports-policy-suicidal-group/

You don't seems to understand anything said in the article

PATH TO AFRICA'S SUPREMACY
By Abdulrazaq Hamzat

When I traveled to Cuba, I saw faces that looked like mine, Black people whose ancestors had been forcefully taken from Africa centuries ago.

They spoke a different language, bore different names, and lived in a foreign land, yet they were a mirror of the past, a past where ambition reshaped destinies.

As I sat in an airport waiting for my next flight, I reflected on the journey of those who had come before me, centuries ago in the most dehumanizing manner. It had taken me almost two days, moving from one modern transportation hub to another, flying at hundreds of miles per hour in an age of technology and innovation. Yet centuries ago, men without airplanes, without modern logistics, and without the consent of their victims crossed entire oceans, built industries, and altered the fate of civilizations.

What kind of ambition drives people to imagine such a venture, to act on it, and to succeed?

Then it hit me, the world is not ruled by morality, justice, or fairness. It is ruled by ambition.

The ambition of man will build his capacity, shape his influence, create him wealth and guarantee his freedom and security.

Ambition is the driving force of power, of freedom, and of superiority. Only those who possess it can excel.

The transatlantic slave trade was not merely an act of inhumanity; it was a demonstration of an extraordinary level of ambition.

The ability to imagine and build ships that could endure months at sea.

The ability to design logistical networks to transport human beings across continents.

The ability to create an economic system where human lives were turned into commodities.

The ability to establish political structures that legalized, justified, and sustained this exploitation.

This ambition was not limited to the transatlantic slave trade. It extended into colonization, empire-building, and global economic dominance.

Europe and America did not become powerful by accident; it was the product of relentless, strategic, and highly organized ambition.

If they had such ambition centuries ago and executed it with great precision, attaining mastery and competence, what do you think their ambition would be today?

Why Africa Cannot Compete Without Ambition

Many Africans speak of seeking freedom, but what can freedom do for us in a world ruled by ambition?

Before slavery, Africa was free. But that freedom did not prevent us from being overrun by people with superior ambition.

Our ancestors, who built the world's first civilizations, understood the role of great ambition and their civilization is still under scrutiny centuries later. Even till this day, the world is still wondering what drove the construction of the world's first civilization. However, the succeeding generations have been misguided into believing that the quest for freedom is sufficient. Freedom, in itself, is not an ambition, it is merely the absence of chains.

Someone who seeks only freedom cannot compete with someone whose ambition is to conquer. And even if freedom is attained, without ambition, the ambition of a conqueror will always swallow that freedom, sooner or later.

This is the condition of Africa today. We fought for freedom, won independence, yet still struggle to assert dominance in a world built on ambition.

What do we desire today? Freedom? Justice? Equality?

These are noble goals, but they are not enough.

Freedom is not power; it is merely the absence of chains.

Justice does not make nations great; dominance does.

Equality does not change history; superiority does.

There must be an ambition beyond survival.

Africa cannot compete in a world of ambition with a mindset of survival alone. If our highest aspiration is merely to be free from oppression, then we are only reacting to the ambitions of others rather than shaping our own destiny.

Our ambition must be greater than that of our former enslavers, former colonizers, and current global competitors. We must develop an ambition that seeks:

1. Technological Supremacy – To invent, design, and produce machines, infrastructure, and digital systems that power the world.

2. Economic Control – To own and dictate industries, set global prices, and determine trade policies.


3. Political Power – To create governance models that serve our people and influence global decision-making.


4. Cultural and Intellectual Influence – To become the reference point for thought leadership, research, and ideological movements.

This is not a new idea, it is the same ambition that drove great civilization, European colonial expansion, American global dominance, and China’s rise as an economic superpower.

The past centuries were shaped by ambition, the ambition of those who crossed oceans to dominate. If Africa is to shape the future, it must develop an ambition greater than those of its past and present competitors.

Freedom is not an ambition, it is a prerequisite. The real ambition must be to rule, to lead, and to shape history on our own terms.

If we do not develop such ambition, we will always be at the mercy of those who do.

*Abdulrazaq Hamzat is an Executive Director at Foundation for Peace Professionals (PeacePro) and can be reached at discus4now@gmail.com*

https://thenews-chronicle.com/path-to-africas-supremacy/

obidark:
how is allowin strangers solve your problems gonna benefit you sef....

they have to transport hugh amount of logistics from far away....
and you think they will do it for free....??

go ask ukraine how far today....

Only fools look for free things and he and his generation suffers the consequences

Similarly, Xavier from Timor-Leste noted, It’s a beautiful representation of Nigerian culture.”

As the conference concluded, Hamzat’s presence continued to inspire discussions on cultural exchange, diplomacy, and international solidarity, reinforcing the importance of African voices in global peace efforts.

The José Martí Ring of Honor serves as a testament to his commitment to global peacebuilding, further solidifying his role as a key advocate for justice and human dignity worldwide.

PeacePro boss Hamzat receives José Martí Ring of Honor in Cuba

Executive Director of Foundation for Peace Professionals (PeacePro), Abdulrazaq Hamzat, has been honored with the José Martí Ring of Honor at the Sixth International Conference for the Balance of the World in Havana, Cuba.

The distinguished honor was conferred on Hamzat at the just concluded International conference on global balance, held in Havana, Cuba.

Hamzat received the ring of honor at the conclusion of a “Coalición Internacional de la Humanidad”, recognising his exceptional contributions to global peace, human dignity, and advocacy for the demilitarisation of Africa.

The award was presented to Hamzat by Martina Puc, Ecocivilizacion from Eslovenia.

The award, named after Cuba’s national hero José Martí, symbolises freedom, justice, and resistance against oppression, values that align with Hamzat’s lifelong commitment to peacebuilding and governance reforms.

Expressing his gratitude, Hamzat emphasized the collective nature of peace advocacy, dedicating the recognition to all those striving for a more just and equitable world.

“This ring is more than a personal honor; it represents our shared struggle for peace, justice, and human dignity. The legacy of José Martí reminds us that true freedom is a collective responsibility, and I am humbled to receive this recognition in his name,” he stated.

The José Martí Ring of Honor is a rare and prestigious tribute awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to human rights, self-determination, and social justice.

Through PeacePro’s advocacy for the demilitarization of Africa, Hamzat has emerged as a leading voice in international peacebuilding.

The Sixth International Conference for the Balance of the World serves as a global platform for intellectuals, political leaders, and human rights advocates to discuss strategies for peace, sustainable development, and international cooperation, all inspired by the principles of José Martí.

Beyond his advocacy, Hamzat made a notable cultural impact at the conference, captivating delegates with his traditional Nigerian attire.

His striking display of African heritage became a major talking point, with participants from Canada, Colombia, India, Argentina, Mexico, Slovakia, Ecuador, and Timor-Leste eager to take photos and learn more about Nigerian culture.

more about Nigerian culture.


“It was unexpected, but I am delighted to share a piece of Nigeria with the world,” Hamzat said, reflecting on the warm reception.

Delegates praised the cultural significance of his outfit, with Dr. Pedro Pablo, a Cuban delegate, stating, “It’s a beautiful way to showcase Nigerian tradition.”

Lucila, a delegate from Argentina, remarked: “His outfit is amazing.”

https://thenationonlineng.net/peacepro-boss-hamzat-receives-jose-marti-ring-of-honor-in-cuba/

The Foundation for Peace Professionals (PeacePro) weekend opposed the United States’ plan to conduct airstrikes against terrorists’ targets across Africa, saying that foreign military interventions have historically escalated conflicts rather than resolve them.

The group also urged the United States to shift its Africa policy towards economic partnership, conflict prevention, and intelligence-sharing, instead of launching military operations.

The group’s position came against the backdrop of a statement by Gen. James Hecker, Commander of U.S. Air Forces, Europe and Africa (USAFE-AFAFRICA), who announced during a digital press conference at the 2025 African Air Chiefs’ Symposium (AACS) in Lusaka, Zambia, that the U.S. military would continue targeting terrorist groups like ISIS in Africa.

Gen. Hecker said such airstrikes are necessary to eliminate high-value terrorist threats that endanger both African nations and the United States.

However, PeacePro strongly disagrees, arguing that Africa’s security challenges must be solved by Africans, not foreign powers.

Reacting to the announcement, PeacePro’s executive director, Abdulrazaq Hamzat, rejected any form of foreign military intervention on African soil.

The organisation, known for championing the demilitarisation of Africa, stated that foreign airstrikes have a history of causing civilian casualties, destabilisation, and increased terrorist recruitment rather than eliminating threats.

“While we acknowledge the security challenges facing Africa, we firmly oppose the militarisation of our continent by foreign powers. The U.S. military’s interventions in Libya, Somalia, the Sahel, and other regions have shown that airstrikes and external military actions often escalate conflicts, lead to civilian casualties, and create long-term instability. Africa’s security challenges must be addressed through African-led solutions, not foreign bombings,” Hamzat stated.

https://blueprint.ng/peacepro-urges-au-ecowas-to-reject-us-planned-military-airstrikes-in-africa/

Robita's declaration of Ramadan and matter arising
By Abdulrazaq Hamzat

The attack and counter attack on Robita's declaration of Ramadan's date is unnecessary.

For many years now, the Mudiru of Markaz had often announced Ramadan's date ahead and he has never missed it, proving that his projection is not baseless, but knowledge driven.

Even when the date he announced seems to contradict that of the Sultan, we later understood that Mudiru was right.

Being an influential figure in Robita and armed with evidence of his consistent projection of Ramadan without failing for many years, a projection he often do in partnership with the current mufti of Robita, it is only natural to expect what has happened.

The mufti of Ribita himself gave extensive lecture on this subject last year, shedding light on why people must seek knowledge instead of just condemning things without any basis.

So, while people may disagree with this approach, I believe what has happened should encourage more knowledge based engagement rather than the usual attack and counter attack.

Allah will guide us all

Abdulrazaq Hamzat

Gbenga Hashim’s $4trillion Economic Plan Resurfaces online, Sparks Renewed Interest After Six Years

A video of former presidential candidate Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim discussing his ambitious economic plan for Nigeria in 2018 has resurfaced online, sparking widespread admiration for his deep understanding of the country's economic challenges and his strategic vision for national growth.

In the now-trending video, Olawepo-Hashim outlined a bold strategy aimed at expanding and diversifying Nigeria’s economy to achieve a minimum Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of $4 trillion within a decade.

His economic blueprint emphasized reducing Nigeria’s dependence on oil, leveraging the country’s vast agricultural and solid mineral resources, and boosting industrialization.

“The key to Nigeria’s economic transformation is integrating agriculture and mineral resources with manufacturing. We must create an industrial base that contributes at least 40% to GDP, which will in turn generate millions of well-paying jobs,” Olawepo-Hashim stated in the video.

He also highlighted the need to improve Nigeria’s business environment by removing bureaucratic bottlenecks and ensuring policies that attract foreign and domestic investments. His economic plan proposed major infrastructural investments, power sector reforms, and policies that would enhance the ease of doing business.

As the video gains traction across social media platforms, many Nigerians are revisiting his ideas, with some expressing regret that such a comprehensive vision was not implemented at the time.

Commentators have praised his foresight, especially in light of Nigeria’s current economic struggles, including high inflation, unemployment, and a weakening currency.

Beyond his 2018 campaign proposals, Olawepo-Hashim has remained active in economic empowerment initiatives. His foundation, the Gbenga Hashim Foundation, disbursed N100 million in grants to small businesses in Kwara State in 2024, aiming to strengthen grassroots economic development.

His N200billion Mogboro Power plant in Ogun State is also set to supply 24hours electricity to Mogboro, Mowe, Ibafo areas of Ogun State in partnership with Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC).

With renewed interest in his economic plan, some political analysts suggest that his vision could still serve as a model for Nigeria’s economic revival.

Whether policymakers will take cues from his proposals remains to be seen, but the resurfacing of his 2018 economic agenda has reignited discussions on practical pathways to national economic transformation.

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/12JDrzc1zx7/

PeacePro Cautions U.S. Government Against Intruding into South Africa’s Domestic Affairs

The Foundation for Peace Professionals (PeacePro) has strongly condemned recent comments by U.S. President Donald Trump regarding South Africa’s land reform policies, describing them as an unjustified intrusion into the country’s domestic affairs.

President Trump recently criticized South Africa’s Expropriation Act, alleging that it would lead to land confiscation and mistreatment of certain groups.

In a statement issued by its Executive Director, Abdulrazaq Hamzat, PeacePro dismissed these remarks as a misrepresentation of South Africa’s efforts to correct historical injustices.

According to Hamzat, the reality is that 7% of South Africa’s minority population controls over 70% of agricultural land, a long-standing imbalance rooted in the country’s colonial and apartheid history. Addressing land inequality through progressive policies is not just a national priority but a necessary step toward justice, fairness, and economic stability.

"It is deeply troubling that a policy aimed at fostering equity is what the U.S. president describes as ‘very bad things,’" Hamzat stated.

PeacePro emphasized that South Africa, as a sovereign nation, has the right to implement necessary reforms without external interference or coercion.

Furthermore, the organization criticized the U.S.'s historical pattern of supporting injustice and inequality under the guise of economic and political interests. Just as Washington backed the apartheid regime for decades, its current stance on South Africa’s land reform signals a continued disregard for historical injustices suffered by the African people.

PeacePro urged the South African government to remain firm in its commitment to equity and economic justice and called on the international community to reject neocolonial pressures aimed at preserving economic disparity.

Hamzat concluded by stating that just as U.S. national interests matter to Americans, South Africa’s sovereign interests must also be respected. The U.S. must refrain from using economic threats as tools of coercion against African nations striving for justice and development.

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Nigerian Advocate Steals the Show in Cuba with traditional attire as Global Conference kicks off

Abdulrazaq Hamzat, a prominent Nigerian advocate and Executive Director o PeacePro, has stolen the show at the Sixth International Conference for the Balance of the World in Havana, Cuba.

Hamzat's bold fashion statement, donning Nigeria's traditional attire, has attracted the attention of delegates from various countries including Canada, Colombia, India, Argentina, etc.

Hamzat's vibrant outfit, complete with intricate patterns and color, has become a sensation at the conference, with participants flocking to take pictures with him.

"It's a way to showcase Nigeria traditional attire," said Dr Pedro Pablo, a delegate from Cuba, as Hamzat beam with pride.

Hamzat, who shared his shock at the sudden attention on social media stated that, I simply want to appear as a typical Nigerian and somehow, I got more than I bargained for in attention.

"Nonetheless, I'm happy to share a piece of Nigeria with the world." Hamzat said.

Delegates from countries as far afield as Mexico, Colombia, Slovakia, Ecuador, Timo Leste and many others took turn to take selfies with Hamzat, who has become an unlikely celebrity at the conference.

"His outfit is amazing," said Lucila, a delegate from Argentina.

Another delegate from Timor Leste Xavier also noted that "It's a beautiful representation of Nigerian culture."

Hamzat's traditional attire has not only turned heads but has also sparked conversations about cultural diversity and exchange.

The Nigerian advocate has been using the opportunity to share stories about Nigeria's rich cultural heritage and promote cross-cultural understanding.

As the conference continues, Hamzat's traditional outfit is expected to remain a talking point, inspiring others to showcase their own cultural heritage.

https://factualtimesng.com/global-conference-nigerian-advocate-abdulrazaq-hamzat-steals-the-show-in-cuba-with-traditional-attire/

Hamzat faults Minister of Power on captive power, urges expansion for productivity

An Energy policy expert and Executive Director of PeacePro, Abdulrazaq Hamzat, has faulted recent comments by Nigeria’s Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, on the increasing reliance on Captive power generation by industries and academic institutions, but instead called for its expansion to enhance productivity.

Hamzat in a statement made available to Vanguard Correspondent in Ilorin on Sunday noted that“Captive power is a lifeline in our challenging energy landscape.

Recognizing and optimizing its role is pivotal to economic growth and industrial competitiveness.

“Rather than compelling industries to return to an unreliable grid, Hamzat said,” the government should incentivize and regulate the expansion of captive power to enhance industrial productivity,”

Defending the Captive power trend, Hamzat emphasized it’s vital role in sustaining industrial operations amidst chronic grid unreliability and called for policies that encourage rather than discourage its growth.

Hamzat’s remarks follow reports that over 250 manufacturers and institutions have disconnected from the national grid, citing frequent grid failures, high electricity costs, and damaging voltage fluctuations.Collectively, these captive power operators produce an estimated 6,500 megawatts (MW) — significantly exceeding the 4,500–5,000 MW generated by the national grid.”

According to Hamzat, “Without captive power, many industries would have closed down. Grid electricity may be cheaper, but reliability is indispensable for industrial survival. Captive power ensures dependable energy, which is essential for productivity.”

Citing Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) data, Hamzat highlighted that 246 companies across 26 states operate captive power.

Notable examples include the Dangote Group, generating 1,500 MW, and Pure Flour Mills Limited with 546 MW. He also referenced the adoption of renewable energy by firms like BUA, MTN Nigeria, and Lafarge Africa.

While Minister Adelabu expressed concerns about grid revenue losses due to the shift to captive power, Hamzat advocated for a forward-thinking policy shift.

He urged NERC to upgrade captive power licenses to semi-independent power producer (IPP) licenses, allowing operators to sell surplus electricity directly to distribution companies without routing through the grid.

Hamzat also called for accelerated efforts to stabilize the national grid and increase investment in transmission infrastructure while emphasizing that policy frameworks must reflect Nigeria’s current energy realities.

Recall that the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, recently decried the rate at which bulk electricity consumers abandon the national grid to generate their own electricity.

Adelabu emphasised that grid connection as a power source is more reliable than captive power plants currently being used by bulk electricity consumers.

He said, “The majority of bulk electricity users, such as industries, are off the grid due to a lack of trust and confidence in the past. They now have their own captive power plants in their industries, which is more expensive.”

He stated that efforts would be made to encourage the bulk users to return to the national grid.

https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.vanguardngr.com/2025/01/hamzat-faults-minister-of-power-on-captive-power-urges-expansion-for-productivity/amp/