Tinubu Archives | Page 2 of 4

SWAN congratulates Shehu Dikko, hails Tinubu for returning to National Sports Commission

Prince Odutola2 months ago2 months ago04 mins

The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has hailed the emergence of astute administrator, Mallam Shehu Dikko, as the Chairman of the newly reinstated National Sports Commission (NSC). In a congratulatory letter to the NSC helmsman dated October 23, 2024, signed by the Secretary-General Amb. Ikenna Okonkwo, SWAN President, Mr. Isaiah Benjamin, described Mallam Dikko as an experienced and hardworking sports doyen who has proven himself over the years. Part of the letter reads, “SWAN as a professional body celebrates your emergence as the Chairman of the National Sports Commission. Your appointment is a strong indication that the Sports sector will soon experience huge relief from the current burden of ineffectiveness and inefficiencies. “As a known Sports personality, you are not a stranger in the system, both within Nigeria, Africa and beyond. Having undertaken previous responsibilities and delivered outstandingly, your new position as the number one man on the saddle presents new opportunity for you to once again prove your mettle as a team player. “As sporting media, we are quite optimistic in your ability to turn things around as we assure you of our support as always. Being a friend of the media, we believe our partnership will continue to be strengthened as you creatively evolve a progressive and sustainable grassroots development strategy for Nigeria’s Sports.” Meanwhile, the SWAN President has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his apt initiative in reinstating the NSC years after it was jettisoned by his predecessor. The number one sports writer in a statement on Thursday in Abuja said the action of the President is a clear demonstration of his determination to revolutionise Nigeria’s sporting architecture. “This single approach to Nigeria’s Sports Development back with immediate action shows that our President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu is headed towards the right direction in returning the lost glory of Nigeria among the comity of Nations as far as Sports sector is concerned. “Sports as second most viable economic growth option globally after ICT requires intense funding and attention as it gives teeming youth the opportunity to be engaged, empowered as well as thrive in their chosen area of endeavours,” he said.

Tinubu appoints Shehu Dikko as NSC boss

Prince Odutola2 months ago2 months ago02 mins

President Bola Tinubu has appointed Shehu Dikko as the Chairman of the National Sports Commission. This appointment comes after the president scraped the Ministry of Sports Development and had its functions transferred to the National Sports Commission in order to develop a vibrant sports economy. The Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Enoh, was redeployed as the Minister of State for Trade and Investment. Dikko, the Kaduna State-born football administrator, was the Chairman of the League Management Company responsible for the management of the Nigerian Professional Football League. He previously served as a consultant for the Nigerian House of Representatives on Sports committee. Dikko contested for the President of the Nigeria Football Federation in 2022, but later stepped down for Ibrahim Gusau who emerged victorious. Also scrapped was the Ministry of Niger Delta which was replaced with Ministry of Regional Development to oversee the activities of all the Regional Development Commissions. Tinubu also merged the Federal Ministry of Tourism and the Federal Ministry of Arts and Culture to become Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy.

Breaking: Tinubu scraps Niger Delta, Sports Ministries

Prince Odutola2 months ago2 months ago01 mins

President Tinubu and Federal Executive Council have scrapped Niger Delta Ministry and the Ministry of sports development. According to the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, there will now be a ministry of regional development to oversee all the regional development commissions, such as Niger Delta Development Commission, North West Development Commission, South West Development Commission, North East Development Commission. The National Sports Commission will take over the role of the Ministry of Sports. The FEC also approved the merger of the Ministry of Tourism with the Ministry of Culture and Creative Economy. The decisions were taken today at the meeting of Federal Executive Council in Abuja.

Stop misusing DSS, proxies to silence us, SERAP tells Tinubu govt

Prince Odutola2 months ago2 months ago011 mins

Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged President Bola Tinubu and his government “to stop the ‘weaponization’ of the country’s security agencies to target Nigerians simply for the peaceful exercise of their human rights, and to direct the Department of State Services (DSS) to immediately withdraw the baseless defamation lawsuit by their proxies against our organization and management staff.” Two named DSS officials last week filed a defamation lawsuit against SERAP, following allegations by the organization regarding the recent invasion of its Abuja office by some officials of the security agency. In the open letter dated 19 October 2024 and signed by SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organisation said: “We are seriously concerned that your government seems to be weaponizing the DSS and misusing defamation laws as a tool of repression and to target those who defend human rights.” SERAP said, “Rather than addressing the allegations of widespread corruption in the oil sector and the worsening economic situation in the country, and reducing the cost of governance, your government is targeting those who campaign for actions in these areas.” The letter, read in part: “We would be grateful if the recommended measures are immediately taken following the receipt and/or publication of this letter. “If the lawsuit is not immediately withdrawn, we will be prepared to defend our organization and management staff in court, and to join your government and DSS in the lawsuit. This may include calling witnesses to ensure justice, end impunity for rights abuses, and achieve legitimate public interests in this matter. “We have since 2004 pursued several public interest cases against the governments of former presidents Olusegun Obasanjo, Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, Goodluck Jonathan and Muhammadu Buhari. This is the first time any government will weaponize the country’s security agencies to intimidate and target our organization. “The defamation lawsuit is brought by two named DSS officials but their names are unknown to our organization. The lawsuit by these officials is apparently instigated and sponsored by the DSS under your watch. “It is critical for human rights defenders, activists, journalists and other citizens to be able to organize and freely exercise their human rights without the threat of baseless lawsuits by your government or its security agencies and/or their proxies. “Weaponizing the security agencies to intimidate, harass and silence human rights defenders, activists, journalists and other civil society actors will weaken representative democracy, deepen impunity and undermine the rule of law. “Rather misusing the security agencies to crackdown on human rights defenders, activists, journalists and other civil society actors, your government ought to take steps to thoroughly, independently, impartially, transparently and effectively investigate the allegations raised by SERAP. “We are disappointed that your government has so far failed to respond to our recommendations calling on you to direct the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) to immediately reverse the apparently illegal and unconstitutional increase in the pump price of petrol across its retail outlets. “Your government has also failed to probe the allegations of corruption and mismanagement in the NNPC, including the spending of the reported $300 million ‘bailout funds’ collected from the Federal Government in August 2024, and the $6 billion debt it owes suppliers, despite allegedly failing to remit oil revenues to the treasury and to prosecute suspected perpetrators. “Your government also continues to refuse to obey several court judgments obtained by SERAP, including those which ordered the Federal Government to disclose the details of the agreement with X, formerly Twitter, to assess whether the agreement complies with the exercise of Nigerians’ human rights online and to account for payments of N729 billion to 24.3 million poor Nigerians for six months. “SERAP had on 9 September 2024 also called on you and your government to direct the DSS to end the intimidation and harassment of our organization and our staff members. “Our call followed the invasion of our Abuja office by some officials of the DSS. SERAP was subsequently served with a defamation lawsuit with number CV/4547/24. “The country under your government has witnessed an escalating crackdown on human rights, particularly the rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and media freedom, as well as socio-economic rights. “The judicial harassment of those who peacefully defend human rights is entirely inconsistent and incompatible with the letter and spirit of the Nigerian Constitution 1999 [as amended] and the country’s international human rights obligations. “Under your government, human rights defenders, activists, journalists and other civil society actors such as the leadership of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) continue to face harassment, intimidation, and arbitrary detention simply for carrying out their legitimate work. “The judicial harassment of SERAP by your government and its agencies shows hostility towards civil society actors defending the rights of other citizens, criticizing human rights violations, and challenging a culture of impunity for perpetrators. “SERAP therefore urges your government to end the intimidation, harassment and threats against our organization and management staff and other human rights defenders, activists as well as journalists and other civil society actors, including intimidation, through baseless legal processes. “SERAP strives to ensure that our human rights and anticorruption work meet the highest standards of analytical rigor devoid of politics. Our work is driven solely by the fundamental principles of justice, impartiality, solidarity and universality of human rights. SERAP believes that no government is beyond scrutiny and accountability. “SERAP’s non-partisan work in the field of human rights and anticorruption has been widely recognized nationally and internationally. Our organization received the Wole Soyinka Anti-Corruption Defender Award in 2014, and was nominated for the UN Civil Society Award and Ford Foundation’s Jubilee Transparency Award. SERAP was also nominated for the 2024 Columbia Global Freedom of Expression Prizes. “Our organization’s calls on your government regarding the persistent increases in fuel prices and allegations of corruption in the NNPC are based on the constitutional and international responsibilities of your government to Nigerians who are victims of corruption, and your constitutional oath of office. “SERAP believes that it is through action like this that any…

Tinubu celebrates Ooni of Ife’s 50th birthday

Prince Odutola2 months ago2 months ago03 mins

President Bola Tinubu proudly joins Nigerians, the people and chiefs of Ile-Ife, and the global Yoruba community in commemorating the 50th birthday of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, the Ojaja II. The President notes Ooni’s extraordinary leadership and maturity since ascending the throne at 41, emphasising his significant role in preserving the rich traditions of the Yoruba people in the ancient city known as The Source. President Tinubu acknowledges Oba Ogunwusi’s deep sense of duty, wisdom, and knowledge as he fulfils his responsibilities as both the traditional ruler of Ile-Ife, Osun State, and the revered spiritual leader of the Yoruba people. The President also recognises Ooni’s critical contributions as Co-Chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria, where he serves as a unifying figure, a steadfast supporter of government policies, and a passionate advocate for religious tolerance, peace, and the unification of our nation. President Tinubu commends Oba Ogunwusi’s tireless advocacy for women and youth empowerment through education and entrepreneurship, underscoring his admirable philanthropy and unwavering commitment to uplifting those in need throughout Nigeria and beyond. With heartfelt optimism and support, the President pays tribute to the Ooni for exemplifying the traditional Yoruba values of humility, peace, and generosity while also honouring the dignity and integrity of his exalted throne. As the esteemed Yoruba monarch celebrates this significant milestone, President Tinubu offers his sincere prayers for the continued success and prosperity of His Imperial Majesty’s reign, which will undoubtedly benefit the people of Ife and the nation at large.

Gusau praises Tinubu, commends ValueJet crew for diligence

Prince Odutola2 months ago2 months ago05 mins

The President of Nigeria Football Federation, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau on Tuesday expressed the deep appreciation of the NFF and the Nigeria Football family for the warm words of encouragement from the President and Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR following the Super Eagles’ return from a better-forgotten Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match adventure in Libya. On Monday, Mr. President put out a statement warmly welcoming the team back to home, and asking for prompt justice from the Confederation of African Football following the inhumane treatment of the Nigerian contingent. Mr. President also commended the proactive coordination between the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Federal Ministry of Sports Development in addressing the unfortunate episode and ensuring the safe return of the players. “We hereby express our deep and sincerest appreciation to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his warm and kind words of encouragement. These words have gone a long way to reassure the players of the firm support of the Government and people of Nigeria for what they do and the efforts and sacrifice they make in representing this great country. “The commitment and love for the team by the Government and the entire nation was aptly demonstrated by the physical presence of the Honourable Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh at the airport to welcome the team back to Nigeria. “Mr. President as the father of the nation, has once again demonstrated his concern and keen interest in the beautiful game of football that unites our peoples from all walks of life and across all known mental, physical, spiritual, political and economic boundaries, and which fosters national unity and friendship among peoples and nations of the universe.” Gusau, who led the delegation to Libya, also commended the captain and crew of the ValueJet aircraft that flew the delegation to and from that country, saying that their patience, diligence, good manners, warmth and endurance made the trip less arduous for the contingent. “The captain (Mr. Abdul-Latif) and crew were awesome. I must commend, in particular, the captain. He did his job professionally and with a touch of excellence, and even intervened at a point to talk to the airport operatives to allow the NFF leadership to go outside the airport to find a way to hire vehicles for the team. As a fellow North African (Tunisian) who had worked in Libya previously, they were ready to offer him hotel accommodation but not any other member of the crew or any Nigerian, as all the hotels in the city disclosed that they had strict orders not to welcome any Nigerian nationality. He refused their offer and rather opted to sleep in the aircraft with the rest of the crew. “The captain and crew showed great maturity and kindness. We will never forget them.”

Tinubu decries violence in Rivers, orders Police to provide security to local government offices

Prince Odutola3 months ago3 months ago02 mins

President Bola Tinubu has called on Governor Siminalayi Fubara, political leaders and their supporters in Rivers State to exercise restraint and uphold the rule of law. In response to recent tensions following last Saturday’s local government council election, the President expressed deep concern over reports of arson and explosions in the state. He urged all political actors to de-escalate the situation and discourage their supporters from engaging in violence or destructive actions. President Tinubu directed the police to restore and maintain peace, law, and order immediately. While instructing law enforcement agencies to bring the situation under control, he emphasised the need to ensure the security of public institutions. President Tinubu said government facilities built with public funds must be safeguarded from vandalism. He stressed that self-help has no place in a democratic system, especially after 25 years of continuous democracy. According to President Tinubu, the judiciary can settle all political disputes, and the outcome of this election should be no exception.

64 Years After, A Brighter Future Beckons Under President Tinubu

Prince Odutola3 months ago3 months ago06 mins

By Mohammed Idris Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation On this day 64 years ago, a new independent nation crystallized from the dreams and ambitions of a group of men and women driven by the vision of self-rule for the largest black country in the world. They wrote, campaigned, negotiated and agitated, until that vision became reality. And thus, on October 1, 1960, the colonial flag was lowered for the last time, and in its place the triumphant green-white-green emerged, a powerful symbol of black and African pride and energy. Today, we celebrate that moment in our history. Interestingly, we are celebrating it with the same national anthem that ushered us into independence, basking in the truth that even while our tribes and tongues may differ, we stand united; one country, one people, one destiny. We also know that we still have a long journey ahead, as we strive like all other countries towards enduring peace, progress and prosperity. What we should not do on this day is allow our challenges to completely obscure the progress we have made and we are making as a country. Twenty-five years ago, we tentatively embarked on another attempt at democracy, after 15 years of unbroken military rule. I say ‘tentatively’ because naysayers abounded, and many assumed that this latest experiment at democracy would go the short-lived way of the others before it. Until 1999, our longest attempt at democracy was the six years of the first Republic. But through determination and perseverance, our 4th Republic is now a quarter of a century old. We have broken a jinx, and this is undoubtedly worthy of acknowledgement and commemoration. Today indeed marks the 26th celebration of Independence Day after the historic handover of May 29, 1999. We have come a long way, indeed, and things can only get better from here. Amid the many challenges that we face as a nation, sixty-four years after independence, there’s also much that should encourage and inspire us. May 29, 2023 brought us yet another seamless transition of power, that ushered President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his Renewed Hope agenda into office. Since then, the President has left no doubts about his capacity and determination to boldly lay a new socioeconomic foundation for Africa’s most populous nation. On the level of macroeconomic stability, a lot of progress has been made –in stabilizing government revenues, the foreign exchange market, debt management, investment inflows, and more. A new national minimum wage has taken effect, alongside the consequential salary adjustments. The much-awaited local government financial autonomy is finally becoming a reality, thanks to the President’s bold move to seek judicial clarification at the Supreme Court. Investors are seeing and responding positively to the reforms. Just in recent days we’ve seen news of renewals of billion-dollar investment commitments from multinationals like Exxon Mobil and Coca Cola. The work ahead now is to ensure that this translates into gains that can be deeply felt in lives and households across the country. I can boldly say that this is the task that is uppermost in the President’s mind – ensuring that the high-level policies and programs being implemented touch lives in very positive and meaningful ways. Just last week, the Federal Executive Council approved an omnibus Economic Stabilization Bill that will transform the Nigerian economy in many ways, and help fast-track the attainment of President Tinubu’s renewed hope. The approved Bill will now go to the National Assembly for passage, and then presidential assent. Once finalized, the new legislation will facilitate domestic and foreign investment, as well as remittances and other foreign exchange inflows, reduce tax burdens, and promote business and entrepreneurship.