The former Governor of Zamfara State and current Minister of State for Defense, Hon. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, has assured Nigerians that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s policies are not against northern interests. He emphasized the administration’s commitment to fostering unity across the country and urged northerners to disregard divisive rhetoric from individuals opposing national cohesion.

Matawalle made these remarks during an address to his supporters in Gusau, the Zamfara State capital, during his six-day visit to the state. He announced plans to visit Zamfara every three months to stay engaged with the people and their concerns.

Speaking on the current economic challenges, the minister reassured Nigerians that relief is on the horizon, as the federal government is making concerted efforts to reposition the country’s economy. “The federal government’s economic policies will yield positive results. There is light at the end of the tunnel,” he stated confidently.

He acknowledged the enormity of the challenges inherited by the Tinubu administration but highlighted ongoing welfare initiatives. He disclosed that the federal government had already sent several trailers of rice to Gusau for distribution to citizens as part of measures to alleviate hardship.

Matawalle called on Nigerians to remain steadfast in their prayers for divine intervention to help overcome the country’s challenges. “The federal government is not happy with the current economic hardships facing Nigerians. We are working tirelessly to address the situation,” he added.

The minister’s remarks serve to bolster public confidence in the administration’s efforts to address economic difficulties while emphasizing unity and collaboration as essential pillars for Nigeria’s progress.

Anthony Emeka Nwosu

 

Dele Momodu, the publisher of Ovation magazine and a prominent media entrepreneur, has penned a candid open letter to President Bola Tinubu, expressing his deep concerns over the state of the nation and offering pointed advice. Despite his opposition status, Momodu underscores his longstanding relationship with the President and emphasizes his commitment to delivering the truth.

Nigeria’s Economic Crisis

Momodu begins by highlighting the dire economic situation, stating, “Nigeria is in big trouble. Our economy has virtually collapsed.” He criticizes the government’s extravagant spending during a period that demands strict frugality, pointing to purchases of presidential jets, construction of lavish monuments, and the distribution of cash as palliatives. According to Momodu, such actions signal a failed and careless administration. He urges President Tinubu to curb excessive spending to free up resources for essential development.

Performance Over Politics

Addressing the President’s apparent desire for a second term, Momodu advises that the best path to re-election lies in tangible performance, not in reckless expenditure. He calls for investments in vocational skills for the youth, local agriculture, and educational institutions. He dismisses the strategy of cash distribution through politicians as “unhealthy and unhelpful,” labeling it the “height of cluelessness.”

Beware of Flattery and Enforce Discipline

Momodu warns President Tinubu to be wary of sycophants in the National Assembly who have turned him into a deity. He specifically mentions Ndume as a trustworthy ally and stresses the importance of listening to genuine advice. Furthermore, Momodu calls for strict enforcement of discipline within the leadership, citing Nyesom Wike’s public disrespect over the Fubara matter as a situation requiring immediate sanction to prevent national chaos.

Momodu concludes by acknowledging that he does not expect President Tinubu to act on his suggestions but hopes his words will resonate during a moment of reflection.

 

 

“We would not entertain anything that deviates from this direction because my key performance indicators (KPIs) are fed into the Minister’s KPIs and the President KPIs come from the electorate that put him into power. The Hon. Minister has said clearly that he is ready to build a robust digital infrastructure and empower three million Nigerians digitally and we have to do our best to support him in this regard,” Maida said.

 

He stated further that, in the Strategic Plan of the Minister, there was a plan to empower three million Nigerians in digital skills and entrepreneurship, adding that this will require the Commission to support Digital Bridge Institute (DBI) as a digital training institution, to be well positioned in driving the government’s agenda on youth empowerment.

 

The EVC also emphasised the importance of effective spectrum management and utilisation in supporting the envisioned digital connectivity agenda, which is critical to service deployment to the generality of Nigerians and businesses in the country.

 

Maida, while appreciating his predecessors and the entire staff of the Commission for the laudable role being played in digital transformation of all sectors by stimulating the deployment of baseline telecom infrastructure, however, called on the staff of the Commission to join his leadership with a sense of purpose as a team towards advancing the actualisation of the President’s Renewed Hope agenda, which, he said, recognises a thriving digital economy in achieving sustainable development and quality of life for all citizens.

 

Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, recently embarked on a state visit to France, aiming to bolster Nigeria’s visibility within the European Union and foster bilateral trade relations. This strategic move holds the potential for creating a significant economic partnership between the two nations.

President Tinubu’s visit included a range of activities focused on advancing Nigeria’s economic interests and forging stronger ties with France. A key highlight of the visit was the State Banquet held in Paris, hosted by President Emmanuel Macron. The banquet provided an ideal setting for President Tinubu to engage with prominent Heads of State and influential dignitaries, ultimately facilitating diplomatic relations and showcasing Nigeria’s commitment to international collaboration.

Reflecting on the visit, President Tinubu expressed his satisfaction, stating, “I had a great time with other Heads of State and important dignitaries at the State Banquet hosted by President Emmanuel Macron in Paris, France, this evening. President Macron and his wife, First Lady Brigitte Macron were both gracious and warm, making the event a very pleasant experience.” The President’s positive remarks highlight the amicable atmosphere and the fruitful interactions among attendees.May be an image of 6 people

Undoubtedly, the state visit serves as a crucial step towards strengthening bilateral trade relations between Nigeria and the European Union. President Tinubu’s active participation in international events, such as the State Banquet, demonstrates Nigeria’s determination to position itself as an attractive investment destination and encourages European businesses to explore mutually beneficial opportunities within Nigeria.

By fostering dialogue on trade and economic cooperation, the visit has set the stage for potential collaborations and partnerships. President Tinubu’s presence alongside global leaders at the State Banquet further emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to nurturing favorable relationships with member states of the European Union.May be an image of 5 people

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s visit to France marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s endeavors to strengthen bilateral trade relations with the European Union. The President’s engagement with international leaders, combined with the warm reception received at the State Banquet, showcases Nigeria’s potential as an investment destination and its dedication to fostering economic cooperation.

As Nigeria moves forward, it is crucial to sustain the momentum generated during this visit. Continued active participation in international events and engagement with key stakeholders will be vital in enhancing Nigeria’s position within the European Union, fostering favorable conditions for bilateral trade, and driving economic growth.

By Anthony Nwosu