₦airaland Forum

helinues:
Their resolutions about issue have been horrible.

Ipob is a reference case

You need to reason better

helinues:
This peace pro is trespassing

Trespassing, how?

*PeacePro Calls on U.S. Government to Cancel All Sanctions Against Cuba, Russia, Iran, and Others*

_Says embargo on countries portrays US as global bully, not police_

As President Donald J. Trump prepares to begin his second term in office, PeacePro, a peacebuilding think tank officially known as the Foundation for Peace Professionals, has called for a bold shift in U.S. foreign policy by urging the administration to cancel all unilateral sanctions and embargoes on countries including Cuba, Iran, North Korea, and Russia.

PeacePro notes that U.S sanctions and embargo to sovereign nations contribute to global instability and human suffering, adding that such unilateral conduct by the United States portrays the US as a global bully rather than a global police.

In a statement by PeacePro’s Executive Director, Abdulrazaq Hamzat, the group denounced the use of sanctions as a form of collective punishment that disproportionately affects innocent civilians without delivering meaningful diplomatic outcomes.

“Sanctions are not instruments of peace. They violate international norms and impose devastating hardships on ordinary people, depriving them of food, medicine, and other essentials,” Hamzat said.

Hamzat cited Cuba’s decades-long economic embargo, which has stifled growth and restricted access to medical technologies, as a clear example of the humanitarian cost of U.S. sanctions.

Similarly, he pointed to Iran, where sanctions have deepened public health crises and hindered life-saving medical supplies.

According to PeacePro, such policies not only exacerbate human suffering but also destabilize global markets and fuel geopolitical tensions.

“These sanctions do more harm than good,” Hamzat continued. “They isolate entire populations and entrench authoritarian regimes rather than promoting democratic reforms.”

PeacePro outlined an alternative foreign policy framework emphasizing dialogue, multilateral diplomacy, and respect for national sovereignty.

Hamzat urged the Trump administration to lift all unilateral sanctions and work through international institutions such as the United Nations to resolve global disputes.

“Ending unilateral sanctions would restore U.S. credibility, align its actions with democratic values, and set a precedent for a more just and peaceful international order”

“Sanctions should never be used as weapons of mass deprivation. They contradict the principles of proportionality and morality enshrined in international law,” Hamzat declared.

“The Trump administration must seize this moment to lead with integrity, respect, and a renewed commitment to peace through justice.”

ENDS

IPOB should surrender and Nnamdi Kanu will be released

Surrender to FG now, PeacePro tells IPOB

The Foundation for Peace Professionals (PeacePro) has called on the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) to lay down their arms and surrender to the federal government of Nigeria.

The group recalled the historic Biafra surrender to the federal government on January 13, 1970, which marked the end of the Nigerian civil war, urging IPOB to let the repeat of such happen now.

PeacePro, in a statement on Monday by its executive director, Abdulrazaq Hamzat, while commemorating the 53rd anniversary of the Biafra surrender to federal government, emphasised the importance of respecting the peace agreement that prioritised reconciliation and national unity.

Hamzat said as a human rights ambassador, IPOB’s armed struggle and violent approach contradict the peaceful resolution embraced by Biafran leaders five decades ago.

PeacePro reminded IPOB that the declaration of “No Victor, No Vanquished” by the federal government laid the foundation for rebuilding and reintegration, urging the group to choose dialogue over conflict.

“The continued pursuit of violence by IPOB dishonours the memory of those who chose peace to stop further bloodshed in the South-east during the Biafra war,” PeacePro stated.

PeacePro also criticised calls for the unconditional release of IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu, without a commitment to peace, describing it as a misguided approach that cannot achieve lasting stability or development,” PeacePro noted.

https://blueprint.ng/surrender-to-fg-now-peacepro-tells-ipob/

Curious345:
don't act like you don't know . Google is your friend

Stop spreading fake news.

Gbenga Hashim owns Mogboro.

No igbo man own any ipp in Ogun

helinues:
Have they been bearing arms before?

Yes, esn is ipob, IPOB is esn

It's better for all

saintjimos:
If they like , they better obey

Curious345:
an Igbo man owns that magboro power plant

Which igbo man?

*PeacePro Calls on IPOB to Lay Down Arms and Surrender, Cites Historic Biafra Surrender*

The Foundation for Peace Professionals (PeacePro) has called on the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) to lay down their arms and surrender, referencing the historic Biafra surrender to the Federal Government on January 13, 1970, which marked the end of the Nigerian Civil War.

PeacePro, in a statement by the Executive Director, Abdulrazaq Hamzat, commemorating the 53rd anniversary of the Biafra surrender to FG, emphasized the importance of respecting the peace agreement that prioritized reconciliation and national unity.

According to Hamzat, a human rights ambassador, IPOB’s armed struggle and violent approach contradict the peaceful resolution embraced by Biafran leaders five decades ago.

PeacePro reminded IPOB that the declaration of “No Victor, No Vanquished” by the Federal Government laid the foundation for rebuilding and reintegration, urging the group to choose dialogue over conflict.

“The continued pursuit of violence by IPOB dishonors the memory of those who chose peace to stop further bloodshed in south east during the Biafra war,” PeacePro stated.

PeacePro also criticized calls for the unconditional release of IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu without a commitment to peace, describing it as a misguided approach that cannot achieve lasting stability or development.

“True peace and progress require acknowledgment of mistakes and a change in approach. IPOB’s violent activities have resulted in the loss of hundreds of lives and devastated the economy of the Southeast,” PeacePro noted.

The organization called on IPOB to recognize that sustainable peace is built on non-violent advocacy and peaceful negotiation, aligning with democratic principles and respect for human life.

Hamzat noted that, despite the factionalization of IPOB and attempt by various factions to denounce the other, both factions cannot be exonerated from the crisis in South East, especially with the activities of the unknown gun men and both factions must unite to take responsibility and work with FG to end insecurity in the region.

PeacePro therefore urged the Federal Government to remain committed to inclusive dialogue, justice, and equity, ensuring that grievances are addressed within the framework of national unity.

As the country reflects on the lessons of the civil war, PeacePro reaffirmed its resolve to promote peace, demilitarization, and reconciliation across Nigeria, highlighting that dialogue, not conflict, is the path to a prosperous and united nation.

https://theinformant247.com/peacepro-calls-on-ipob-to-lay-down-arms-and-surrender-cites-historic-biafra-surrender/

*Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim Says ₦200 Billion Mogboro Power Plant to Deliver 24-Hour Electricity by April 2025*

ABEOKUTA — Frontline politician and prominent businessman, Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, has announced a landmark investment of ₦200 billion in Ogun State’s energy sector through the Mogboro Power Project, a transformative initiative aimed at providing uninterrupted 24-hour electricity and boosting economic development.

The former presidential candidate made this declaration during his keynote address at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) Alumni Convention over the weekend, where he outlined the project’s far-reaching impact on power supply, industrial growth, and job creation.

“Reliable energy is essential to industrial growth and economic prosperity,” he said. “The Mogboro Power Plant will provide continuous electricity, reduce production costs, and create a more competitive environment for businesses, ultimately transforming Ogun State into an industrial powerhouse.”

Olawepo-Hashim, a strong advocate of sustainable development and energy reforms, emphasized the critical role of public-private partnerships in addressing Nigeria’s infrastructure deficit. He pointed out that strategic private-sector investments, particularly in energy, can complement government initiatives to foster sustainable growth and create new economic opportunities.

The announcement has been met with widespread optimism. Business owners in Ogun State believe the power plant will significantly lower reliance on expensive diesel generators, reduce overhead costs, and improve profitability.

Industry analysts have also praised the move, describing it as a game-changer for the Nigerian energy sector. They argue that the Mogboro Power Project could set a precedent for scalable, privately-funded electricity solutions, offering a pathway to resolve the nation’s longstanding energy crisis.

As April 2025 draws closer, expectations are high for the successful commissioning of the power plant. Stakeholders will be monitoring its progress closely, hoping it will usher in a new era of energy sufficiency and industrial competitiveness not only for Ogun State but for the entire country.

*Trump's move on Canada, Greenland and Gulf of Mexico could make the US unchallengeable as a global hegemon*

United States incoming President, Donald Trump has declared his intention to annex Canada, the second biggest country in the world in landmass after Russia, bigger than the US.

Trump also wants to annex Greenland, the 12th largest autonomous territory, aswell as Gulf of Mexico, another huge territory bigger than Nigeria, the giant of Africa.

This annexation, if successful, would be monumental.

Canada is over 3.9million sq mi, second only to Russia, which has 6.6m sq mi.

US itself is the 4th largest territory in the world with 3.5 sq mi. Greenland is 836,330 sq MI and Gulf of Mexico is around 600,000 sq mi.

Should US successfully annex Canada, that would make US the largest territory in the world with over 7.5million sq mi, surpassing Russia.

If Greenland is also added to US, the size would exceed 8million sq mi and if Gulf of Mexico is also added, US total size would be around 9 million sq mi.

US as a country would be bigger than all of the continents except Asia and Africa, which has 17million and 11million sq mi respectively.

This expansion would have significant economic, political and environmental consequences.

The US would gain control over Canada's vast natural resources, including oil, gas and timber.

Greenland's strategic location would provide the US with a crucial foothold in the Arctic, allowing for greater influence over global shipping lanes and access to natural resources.

In Canada, The U.S. would gain vast reserves of oil, natural gas, timber, and minerals. The Alberta oil sands, among the largest oil reserves in the world, would significantly boost American energy production.

Greenland holds rare earth minerals critical for modern technologies, enhancing U.S. dominance in strategic resources.

Gulf of Mexico is Known for extensive offshore oil and gas reserves, annexation would solidify U.S. control over key energy resources and maritime industries.

_Abdulrazaq Hamzat writes from Abuja, Nigeria_

Headies, Billboard, and Grammy: The Battle for Afrobeats’ Soul in 2025

It’s 2025, and Afrobeats reigns as a global cultural force, sweeping across continents with its infectious rhythms, rich storytelling, and fusion of traditional African sounds with modern pop influences.

From Lagos to Los Angeles, its beats command playlists, concert stages, and festival lineups. Yet, while the world dances to its groove, a pressing question looms: who owns Afrobeats, and whose validation really matters?

Three giants, the Headies, Billboard, and the Grammys stand at the center of a tug of war for influence over Afrobeats. Each offers a different form of recognition. The Headies celebrates its cultural roots, Billboard quantifies its market success, and the Grammys claim to bestow global prestige. But at what cost does this international embrace come, and where should the guardians of Afrobeats place their loyalty?

The Headies: The Heart of African Validation

Born in Lagos in 2006, The Headies has been the beating heart of Afrobeats recognition. It understands the genre’s roots in the vibrant streets of Nigeria, where hustling artists mix traditional Yoruba percussion with hip-hop swagger to create music that speaks to the soul of a continent. For nearly two decades, it has celebrated the ingenuity of artists who shaped the sound before the world took notice.

The Headies elevates local heroes by highlighting their artistic depth, their connection to homegrown struggles, and their innovations in sound.

Albums like Wizkid’s Superstar and Burna Boy’s Outside first claimed the spotlight here before Western platforms came knocking.

Despite its influence, The Headies faces a tough battle in 2025. Young artists chasing international stardom sometimes measure success by how far they rise on Billboard charts or whether they can add a Grammy to their trophy case.

Billboard: The Numbers Game

Billboard, the keeper of commercial success, introduced the U.S. Afrobeats Songs Chart in 2022, quantifying the genre’s rise with streaming statistics, sales figures, and radio spins. It’s the data-driven pulse of Afrobeats’ market power, transforming a genre born of passion into a business enterprise.

Billboard validates artists by ranking them, making it easy to declare that a hit song is a success because of its chart position.

Songs like Rema’s Calm Down and CKay’s Love Nwantiti owe their global ubiquity to Billboard’s stamp of visibility.

Many wonder if these numbers are not manufactured to favor one artist over the other, thereby becoming a tool to control afrobeats.

The chase for numbers risks turning Afrobeats into a product shaped by algorithms rather than artistic expression, with artists feeling pressured to streamline their sound for mass appeal or become a tool in the hand of foreign agents.

The Grammys: Prestige Wrapped in Western Approval

The Grammys, long criticized for its blind spots, made headlines by introducing the Best African Music Performance category in 2023. It’s a move that acknowledges Afrobeats’ growing dominance, but also raises questions about who gets to define excellence in African music.

While winning a Grammy can elevate an artist’s global standing, it can also warp creative priorities. The desire to please Grammy voters—who historically misunderstand non-Western genres—can drive artists away from their cultural core.

The Grammy triumph of an artist like Burna Boy for Twice as Tall was a moment of pride, but it also reignited debates about whether Western validation should be the ultimate goal.

In 2025, these three platforms shape Afrobeats in profoundly different ways. The Headies speaks to homegrown authenticity, Billboard tracks commercial clout, and the Grammys offers global recognition. But the stakes are high, if Afrobeats bends too far toward international markets, it risks losing its African essence.

Should Afrobeats artists make music that resonates with local realities or tailor their sound to fit Western tastes?

A Grammy win may be celebrated, but it often carries the implication that only Western approval legitimizes success.

Billboard-driven hits generate revenue streams that disproportionately benefit international corporations, while African-based platforms like The Headies keep the financial rewards closer to home.

The future of Afrobeats depends on striking a balance between global expansion and cultural integrity. Artists, fans, and industry leaders must challenge the idea that Grammy recognition is the pinnacle of achievement. Instead, success should be defined by staying true to the stories and sounds that made the world fall in love with Afrobeats in the first place.

African-based awards must evolve and innovate, positioning themselves as the ultimate arbiters of artistic excellence.

Platforms like The Headies should champion the idea that Afrobeats doesn’t need foreign validation. Its roots, growth, and power lie in the continent’s rich musical heritage and ingenuity.

As Afrobeats continues to ripple across the globe, its soul hangs in the balance. The Headies, Billboard, and the Grammys each wield power over how its legacy will be shaped. True ownership lies not in numbers or Western trophies but in controlling the narrative, celebrating authentic artistry, and ensuring economic empowerment remains within African hands.

The next chapter of Afrobeats’ story depends on its creators and fans reclaiming its destiny—from Lagos to the world, but always with its heart at home.

Abdulrazaq Hamzat writes from Abuja

#afrobeats #GRAMMYs #headies #billboard #nigeria #lagos #losangeles #usa #2025goals #wizkid #burnaboy #ckay #rema

*From Adversaries to Allies, the story of Gbenga Hashim and President Ibrahim Babangida*

Politics often weaves tales of unexpected alliances, and the story of Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim and former military Head of State, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (GCFR), is a compelling example of reconciliation and the transformative power of time.

Olawepo-Hashim, a respected politician, businessman, and former presidential candidate, recently led a delegation to pay a New Year’s visit to Babangida at his Minna residence.

The visit symbolized a remarkable evolution in their relationship, one that once saw Olawepo-Hashim imprisoned during Babangida’s regime.

In the late 1980s, as a fiery student leader and activist, Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim was a vocal critic of Babangida’s administration, which led to his arrest and detention during the height of Nigeria's pro-democracy struggles.

Despite these past tensions, both men have moved beyond their contentious history to forge a friendship rooted in mutual respect.

Reflecting on the visit, Olawepo-Hashim described Babangida as “still very alert and relevant in the affairs of Nigeria.”

He lauded the former leader’s enduring impact on the country and highlighted how time and shared commitment to national progress had reshaped their dynamic.

The reconciliation between Olawepo-Hashim and Babangida illustrates the possibilities of political maturity and the capacity for personal growth in national discourse. It also serves as a testament to Olawepo-Hashim’s broader philosophy of unity and collaboration, themes central to his #BetterTogetherWithGOH movement.

The relationship between Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim and former military Head of State Ibrahim Babangida (GCFR) draws striking parallels to the reconciliatory approaches of global icons Nelson Mandela and Mahatma Gandhi, both of whom famously transformed personal suffering into platforms for unity and peace.

Like Mandela, who endured 27 years of imprisonment under South Africa’s apartheid regime only to emerge as a champion of reconciliation, Olawepo-Hashim’s political imprisonment during Babangida’s regime could have bred bitterness. Instead, it became the foundation for a renewed relationship rooted in shared patriotism and forward-thinking leadership.

Similarly, Gandhi’s philosophy of non-violence and forgiveness guided his engagement with colonial rulers, emphasizing dialogue over confrontation.

Today, Olawepo-Hashim's friendship with Babangida reflects a pragmatic embrace of these ideals. The former activist, once imprisoned for opposing military rule, has chosen the path of reconciliation, prioritizing national progress over past grievances. His commitment to unity mirrors Mandela’s emphasis on "truth, reconciliation, and rebuilding a nation on common ground" and Gandhi’s belief that "the weak can never forgive; forgiveness is the attribute of the strong."

The message from this evolving relationship is clear. Nigeria’s future depends on leaders who can rise above personal histories to embrace a collective vision for peace, prosperity, and unity.

Abdulrazaq Hamzat writes from Ilorin

Former President, IBB host Gbenga Hashim in Minna

A Frontline politician, businessman, and former presidential candidate, Gbenga Hashim, continued his goodwill tour as he led a delegation to visit former President Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (GCFR) at his residence in Minna, Niger State, to convey New Year greetings.

The visit came shortly after Hashim and his team paid a condolence visit to the family of Elder Statesman Ahmadi Kurfi in Katsina. Joining the Minna leg of the tour was Hon. Zakari Angulu, alongside the Kebbi State PDP Chairman and three other associates who had accompanied him in Katsina.

During the visit, Hashim expressed his admiration for General Babangida’s enduring influence and intellectual sharpness. "At his age, General Babangida remains alert and significantly relevant in the affairs of Nigeria. His wisdom and experience continue to be a resource for national progress," Hashim stated.

The delegation took the opportunity to discuss national unity and the path forward for a stronger and more prosperous Nigeria, themes that have remained central to Hashim’s political philosophy.

Hashim, known for his commitment to promoting unity and inclusive governance, reflected on Babangida’s pivotal role in Nigeria’s history. He emphasized that building on the foundational efforts of elder statesmen would enhance efforts to create a more stable and economically vibrant country.

The visit underscored Gbenga Hashim's sustained engagement with Nigeria’s political landscape and his dedication to forging alliances that prioritize national development.

Hashim concluded with optimism for a better future, advocating collaboration and visionary leadership. His campaign slogan #BetterTogetherWithGOH, was echoed during the visit, reinforcing his belief in collective efforts for nation-building.

End

https://sahelstandard.com/news/05/former-president-ibb-host-gbenga-hashim-in-minna/

PeacePro Declares 2025 as the "Year of Demilitarization of Africa"

_Says Djibouti, Somalia and Kenya are priority for demilitarization_

The Foundation for Peace Professionals also known as PeacePro has announced that 2025 will be the "Year of Demilitarization of Africa," following the significant momentum gained in 2024 in the campaign to close foreign military bases across the continent.

This declaration comes in line with the ambitious 24-month demilitarization target set in PeacePro's Africa Peace Insight report of 2023, a campaign that has gained considerable traction with several African nations closing or planning to close foreign military bases.

In end of the year message by the Executive Director of PeacePro, Abdulrazaq Hamzat, the group said that in the past year, countries such as Mali, Burkina Faso, Guinea, Ivory Coast, Chad, Niger and Senegal have taken historic steps in asserting their sovereignty by reducing foreign military presence or discussing plans to do so.

According to Hamzat, these developments are significant as they signal a growing movement across the continent, aimed at promoting African-led security solutions and reducing external military interference.

PeacePro also noted that in the context of Africa's growing movement toward demilitarization, the countries of Djibouti, Somalia, and Kenya hold particular significance due to their prominent roles as in hosts of major foreign military bases and as part of PeacePro's advocacy for reducing foreign military influence across the continent, the prioritization of these countries in the demilitarization effort is critical.

Hamzat maintained that, in order to build on the success of 2024, PeacePro has set an ambitious target to achieve at least 80% closure of foreign military bases across the continent by the end of 2025.

This goal will be pursued through an aggressive expansion of our advocacy, focused on engaging African governments, regional organizations, civil society, and international partners in a collective effort to prioritize Africa’s sovereignty in security matters. He said.

"PeacePro is committed to achieving a sovereign, peaceful Africa that is free from foreign military control. As we push forward into 2025, we stand firm in our belief that the path to peace lies in the hands of Africa’s people, guided by homegrown solutions that reflect the continent’s diverse cultures, strengths, and aspirations"

Hamzat therefore call on African leaders, media, civil society organizations, and the global community to join forces in realizing Africa’s vision of peace, sovereignty, and security without foreign military dominance in 2025.

"2024 marks a pivotal moment in the continent’s history, a chance to reshape the security landscape and build a future where African nations stand united in their pursuit of peace and self determination" he said.

https://universalreportersng.com/peacepro-declares-2025-as-the-year-of-demilitarization-of-africa/

A former presidential candidate, and founder of Gbenga Hashim Foundation, Hon. Gbenga Hashim, yesterday, reaffirmed his commitment to grassroots development with the disbursement of over N100 million to boost small businesses across Kwara State.

Hashim disclosed the disbursement on Monday in Ilorin, while distributing N12.5 million to small businesses in the state.

According to him, the disbursement of N12.5 million brings the foundation’s total cash empowerment in 2024 in the state to nearly N100 million.


He said, “Beyond Kwara, the foundation has implemented similar initiatives in states, like Osun, Kogi, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), showcasing its nationwide dedication to fostering economic self-reliance.

“In Kwara State, the 2024 empowerment programme supported 1,000 small business owners across all 16 local government areas, providing critical funding to help them enhance their livelihoods and expand their operations.”

https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2024/12/31/gbenga-hashim-foundation-disburses-n100m-to-empower-small-businesses-in-kwara/

See

Gbenga Hashim Foundation Disburses Additional N12.5 Million to Empower Small Businesses in Kwara

The Gbenga Hashim Foundation has reaffirmed its commitment to grassroots development with the disbursement of an additional N12.5 million to small businesses across Kwara State. This brings the foundation’s total cash empowerment for 2024 in the state to nearly N100 million, significantly impacting entrepreneurs and boosting local economies.

Beyond Kwara, the foundation has implemented similar initiatives in states like Osun, Kogi, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), showcasing its nationwide dedication to fostering economic self-reliance.

In Kwara State, the 2024 empowerment program supported 1,000 small business owners across all 16 local government areas, providing critical funding to help them enhance their livelihoods and expand their operations.

At the disbursement ceremony held at Sity Inn Hotel in Ilorin, the state capital, Gbenga Hashim, represented by Abdulrazaq Hamzat, encouraged beneficiaries to use the grant wisely, emphasizing that proper utilization could qualify them for larger support in the future.

“If you use this small grant well and show us the result of your engagement, you will qualify for another phase which will be bigger,” he stated.

Beneficiaries expressed profound gratitude for the initiative, which many described as a lifeline for struggling businesses. One of the attendees, Mariam Ajao, shared her experience: “I came because I have benefited from the Gbenga Hashim Empowerment. They credited the support to our account since last week, and when I heard this event was coming up, I felt I had to be here even though it is not compulsory.”

Alhaja Aladi, a long-time associate of Gbenga Hashim, commended his integrity and leadership. “Gbenga Hashim is a man of integrity and a leader who carries everyone along. I encourage all attendees to imbibe his values in the course of their business,” she said.

Representing other coordinators, Ilorin East Local Government Coordinator, Kolapo Olaitan, highlighted the unique structure of the program, noting that beneficiaries were credited before the event. “We are here as representatives of larger beneficiaries to commend the foundation for this initiative. Gbenga Hashim Foundation did not ask people to converge here to collect empowerment; everyone had already received their funds,” he explained.

Promoted by prominent politician and former presidential candidate Gbenga Hashim, the foundation continues to champion small business empowerment and economic growth. With its ongoing efforts, the Gbenga Hashim Foundation is setting a benchmark for sustainable grassroots development and nationwide economic transformation.

https://factualtimesng.com/gbenga-hashim-foundation-supports-sme-owners-with-n12-5-million-in-kwara/