In response to the recent remark by former Rivers State Governor, and currently Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, who questioned, “Who has Fubara made?” during a ceremony where he was honored by the Ijaw community, it is essential to set the record straight on what true leadership entails. This question, though seemingly casual, reflects a much deeper issue in the mindset of Nigerian politicians, a fundamental misunderstanding of the true role of governance.

Governance is not, and should never be, about empowering or “making” individuals based on personal ties, political favors, or loyalty. It is not a tool for creating allies or strengthening one’s network of political benefactors. True governance transcends personal ambitions or friendships; it is about creating an environment where every citizen, regardless of connection to those in power, can thrive. A good leader works to uplift their entire constituency, ensuring that the benefits of governance reach everyone, not just a select few who are privileged to be in their inner circle.

There is a dangerous narrative circulating within Nigeria’s political discourse that must be corrected. We often hear that certain politicians have “made” certain individuals, be it a governor, senator, or influential business figure. This notion is often repeated when discussing about some politicians, with some praising their political prowess by stating that they have “made” numerous leaders and politicians who have risen to prominence. But governance is not supposed to be a king-making affair. It should never be about the elevation of a few at the expense of the many.

The reality is that true leadership is measured not by how many individuals one has “made,” but by how well the leader has uplifted the collective well-being of the masses. Governance, at its very essence, is about creating opportunities for everyone, ensuring equitable access to resources, and fostering an environment where the average citizen can achieve their full potential without needing to rely on political patronage.

This culture of “making people” is rooted in the erroneous belief that governance is about personal favors, not about service to the populace. The idea that a leader’s success should be judged by how many individuals they have “empowered” or “made” is fundamentally flawed. It perpetuates a system where political officeholders are seen as gatekeepers to opportunity, rather than stewards of the public good.

When Nyesom Wike posed the question, “Who has Fubara made?” it was as if to suggest that Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s leadership should be evaluated by how many individuals he has personally elevated. But this is a dangerous and short-sighted way of viewing leadership. The purpose of governance is not to create a select group of privileged individuals who rise because of their proximity to power; it is to create a system in which every citizen has the opportunity to rise based on their own merit and effort.

Governor Fubara’s success should not be measured by how many political godsons he has made or how many of his friends have found themselves in positions of power. His success, and indeed the success of any leader, should be measured by the overall development and well-being of Rivers State, by the number of jobs created, the quality of education improved, the infrastructure built, and the lives of ordinary people transformed.

The idea of “making” individuals only serves to perpetuate the cycle of patronage politics that has hindered Nigeria’s development for decades. This system places personal loyalty and political allegiance above merit, competence, and the collective good. It also fosters an environment where access to opportunity is limited to those with the right connections, leaving the vast majority of Nigerians on the outside looking in.

We often hear that a certain politician has “made” this person or that person, and while this may be seen as a mark of political influence, it is not the essence of true leadership. Political leaders, like every other leaders in Nigeria, should not be measured by how many individuals they have “made” or by how many allies they have elevated to positions of power. Rather, they should be measured by how effectively their administrations uplift the masses, create equal opportunities, and improve the overall living conditions of Nigerians.

True leadership requires vision, sacrifice, and a deep commitment to public service. It is about creating systems that empower everyone, not just those who are part of one’s political or social circle. In an ideal democracy, every citizen should be able to succeed based on their talent, hard work, and dedication, not on their personal connections or political patronage.

Leaders should focus on creating policies that benefit the general population, policies that improve healthcare, education, infrastructure, and employment opportunities. They should work to create an environment where every citizen, regardless of their background or affiliations, has a fair chance to succeed. This is the true measure of leadership.

A great leader honors the people by ensuring that the resources of the state or country are managed equitably and responsibly. When politicians focus solely on empowering their friends, they dishonor the broader population. Governance should not be about honoring personal relationships; it should be about honoring the mandate given to them by the electorate. The resources and opportunities provided by the government must be made available to everyone, not reserved for a privileged few.

Nigerian politicians must break away from the mindset that governance is about patronage and personal favors. The country cannot progress if its leaders continue to operate as if their primary responsibility is to enrich their friends and allies. True governance is about service, and service means uplifting the entire population, particularly the most vulnerable and disadvantaged.

If Nigeria is to realize its full potential, its leaders must embrace a new mindset, one that focuses on the collective upliftment of all citizens, rather than the personal empowerment of a few. Governance must be about building systems that work for everyone, not about “making” individuals. It is time for our politicians to understand that their legacy will not be measured by how many people they have placed in positions of power, but by how well they have served the people.

A great leader builds institutions that will outlast them, creating opportunities for future generations. They work to improve the lives of the masses, not just a select few. They focus on creating a fair and just society where every citizen has the chance to thrive.

Governance is not about making friends; it is about making a difference in the lives of the people. Leaders who understand this will leave a lasting legacy that benefits all Nigerians, not just those within their inner circle. It is time we held our leaders accountable to this higher standard.

Nigeria is in the grip of a severe economic crisis, with high inflation, volatile exchange rates, and a steep rise in the cost of living. The inflation rate, which soared to over 30% in the second quarter of 2024, has put immense strain on household budgets, making it increasingly difficult for many Nigerians to afford basic necessities such as food, healthcare, and housing. The situation has been worsened by the depreciation of the naira, which plummeted to historic lows against the US dollar, trading at over ₦1600 to $1 in recent days. This economic turmoil, coupled with persistently high unemployment rates of over 33%, is fostering a growing sense of economic despair across the nation. 

This environment of uncertainty has shaken the confidence of the average Nigerian, even those renowned for their resilience. A recent survey conducted in Abuja, Lagos, Kano, and Port Harcourt showed that 70% of respondents expressed pessimism about the country’s future, fearing that things will unlikely improve soon. These sentiments have been reflected in public movements such as the #EndBadGovernance protest, which erupted a few months ago and brought the frustrations of millions of Nigerians to the forefront. Although it started as a protest against bad governance, the movement quickly morphed into a more extensive critique of poor governance, economic hardship, and the perceived disconnect between Nigerian leaders and the everyday struggles of citizens.

Amid this widespread disillusionment, the mere mention of a possible cabinet reshuffle or change has sparked a flicker of hope. While a cabinet change might seem like a small gesture, it often brings a sense of cautious optimism that new leadership might steer the country in a better direction. The presidency’s recent indication of a potential reorganisation of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) has garnered significant national attention. The question is whether this reshuffle will end an ineffective and underperforming cabinet or if it could signal the beginning of genuine efforts to address Nigeria’s pressing crises. The scepticism is rooted in past experiences where cabinet changes have failed to bring tangible improvements. For example 2019, after President Muhammadu Buhari’s second-term victory, a similar cabinet overhaul raised hopes of economic reform, but little changed. Key sectors such as power, infrastructure, and healthcare continued to struggle, leading to widespread public disillusionment.

A personal experience offers a fitting analogy. A close friend of mine was diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer. Faced with this alarming news, we didn’t simply choose any available doctor—we searched for a specialist with proven expertise in treating prostate cancer. We knew that his survival depended on finding the right medical expert. Nigeria’s economy is similarly dire; it is “cancerous” and desperately needs leaders with the necessary skills, knowledge, and commitment to enact meaningful change. Anything less would jeopardise the nation’s collective survival.

For many Nigerians, a cabinet reshuffle holds the potential for two distinct outcomes. On one hand, it could signal the end of an ineffective Executive Council that has failed to tackle the country’s challenges, much like the underperforming cabinets of the past. On the other hand, it could herald the beginning of a new era, where the government finally prioritises reforms, implements policies to alleviate economic hardship, and rebuilds trust between the government and the people. While public expectations are high, there is also a lingering sense of scepticism. However, the potential for positive change is a beacon of hope in these uncertain times. 

The current Federal Executive Council can be broadly divided into three groups. The first group consisted of ministers who were appointed out of political indebtedness. These individuals were chosen not for their competence but because the President owed political favours. As a result, their loyalty lies with the President, and they feel little obligation to serve the nation or its people. The second group consists of those who gained their positions through nepotism or the famed “Nigerian connection”. These individuals bring little value to governance and often lack the expertise needed to address the complexities of Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges. For instance, critics have pointed to appointing ministers without relevant experience in the ministries they oversee, leading to poor policy decisions and a lack of direction. The third group, unfortunately, the smallest, is composed of competent technocrats and politicians who have the capacity to deliver meaningful results. However, their influence is often overshadowed by the ineffectiveness of the other groups.

A cabinet dominated by individuals focused on short-term political gains rather than the public good has far-reaching implications for governance. Ministers prioritising personal or partisan agendas are unlikely to prioritise the nation’s needs. Some argue that even the most capable ministers would struggle to make a difference in the current political, social, and economic environment. The primary function of policymaking has been sidelined, and this dysfunction has only fueled public discontent. The quality of the Federal Executive Council has significantly contributed to the country’s broader dissatisfaction.

Many Nigerian commentators have expressed frustration with the government’s inefficiency, attributing it mainly to the substandard quality of the cabinet. This inefficiency has also contributed to the normalisation of corruption in various sectors. Significant reforms in critical sectors have been noticeably absent, leading to widespread doubt as to whether the average Nigerian feels any positive impact from the actions of the Federal Executive Council. The government’s credibility is increasingly being questioned, and many wonder whether any real progress can be made under the current leadership.

As the country eagerly anticipates the formation of a new Federal Executive Council, there are clear expectations. Nigerians are not just hoping for a change in personnel, but for a fundamental shift in governance priorities. The nation urgently needs ministers who are dedicated to solving its pressing problems, not advancing personal interests. The new cabinet must be transparent and accountable, addressing the concerns of a public that has grown weary of opaque leadership. Furthermore, competence must take precedence over party loyalty when selecting ministers. The country cannot afford appointments based on political allegiance; it needs individuals with the technical expertise to implement effective policies and follow through on their promises.

Effective governance requires competent ministers, a clear vision and roadmap from the President, and accountability mechanisms to guarantee policies are efficiently executed. Our President must clearly define his mission: what kind of government does he want to run? Restorative, transformative or visionary? The President’s vision and mission would provide the guardrail of how his ministers would be chosen and how they operate. The SGF and Chief of Staff will use that to set targets and milestones. The President’s mission is required to define the roles of ministers and their mode of operation.

Economic growth and job creation must become central priorities. In 2024, youth unemployment was estimated at over 42%, leaving millions of young Nigerians without meaningful opportunities. This unemployment crisis, combined with a lack of public services, continues to drive young Nigerians toward dangerous migration routes in search of better lives abroad. There is little meaningful discussion on these crucial issues, as the focus remains on personal or political agendas. The country’s progress depends on a renewed focus on sustainable development, economic expansion, and the creation of employment opportunities for its people.

In these challenging times, Nigeria needs ministers who are competent and deeply committed to the nation’s well-being. Patriotism, focus, and dependability will be essential for steering the country through its current crises. The period of trial and error is over. The President and Vice President must now prioritise selecting the best candidates from across the country to form a cabinet capable of delivering results. Governance must shift away from serving a privileged few to addressing the needs of all Nigerians.

Nigeria stands at a pivotal moment where the choices made in the coming weeks could define its path for years. The potential reshuffle of the Federal Executive Council offers both an opportunity and a test for the current administration. On the one hand, it could catalyse significant reforms prioritising economic recovery, job creation, and transparent governance. On the other hand, it could fall into the familiar pattern of superficial changes that fail to address the root causes of the nation’s challenges. What is clear is that Nigerians are no longer willing to accept governance that serves the interests of a select few at the expense of the broader population. They demand competence, accountability, and a renewed commitment to solving the economic, social, and political crises that have plagued the nation for too long.

The stakes are too high for mere half-measures or political gamesmanship. Now is the time for decisive action guided by vision and responsibility. The incoming cabinet must be composed of individuals who are skilled and deeply invested in the country’s well-being. Their actions will either restore faith in the government or further erode it. Ultimately, the success of this moment hinges on whether Nigeria’s leadership can rise to the occasion, recognise the situation’s urgency, and implement policies that will bring real and lasting change. For the nation’s future, the time for meaningful leadership is now.

A Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday once again stopped the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from providing the voters’ register to the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) for the upcoming local government elections scheduled for October 5, 2024.

In addition, the court prohibited the Inspector General of Police and the Department of State Services (DSS) from offering security for the poll.

Justice Peter Lifu delivered the ruling following a lawsuit filed by the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The APC’s legal team, led by Senior Advocates of Nigeria Joseph Daudu, Sebastine Hon, and Ogwu James Onoja, argued the case.

Justice Lifu ruled that the RSIEC acted prematurely in setting the October 5 election date, stating that it did so without adhering to the necessary legal requirements.

Specifically, the court found that the Rivers State electoral body had failed to comply with provisions of the local government election law, particularly the requirement to publish a 90-day notice prior to the election.

Additionally, Justice Lifu emphasized that the updating and revision of the voters’ register must be completed before a legally valid election date could be set.

As a result, the court ordered INEC not to provide the certified voters’ register to RSIEC until all legal stipulations were met.

RSIEC was similarly instructed not to accept or use any voters’ register from INEC for the October 5 local government elections.

[NaijaNews]

There is tension at the Edo State Government House in Benin City over alleged plans by Philip Shaibu to resume in his office as Deputy Governor.

DAILY POST reports that security has been beefed up within the premises of Government House located at Dennis Osadabey Avenue, Benin City.

It was gathered that the security beef up is aimed at stopping Shaibu from resuming office.

As part of security measures, the state government has banned vehicles including those of Government House staff from entering Osadebe Avenue.

During a visit to the area on Monday, DAILY POST observed that visitors and civil servants parked their vehicles by the roadside and walked long distances to their offices.

Men of the Nigeria Police and the state-owned Police Constabulary mounted a roadblock at the entrance gate.

DAILY POST recalls that on July 17, a Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice J. K. Omotosho, reinstated Shaibu as the Edo State Deputy Governor.

The court had also last week, rejected a motion filed by the Edo State Government and the House of Assembly for a stay of execution of the reinstatement order.

The State House of Assembly had on March 18, 2024, impeached Shaibu as the deputy governor of the state, and in his stead, Governor Godwin Obaseki appointed and swore-in Engineer Godwins Marvellous Omobayo as the deputy governor.

Speaking to DAILY POST on Monday, some civil servants who spoke on condition of anonymity described the security beef up at the Government House as surprising.

“We were surprised to see heavy security in and around the Government House on resumption at the office.

“Election has ended and we expected to see a very more peaceful state,” they said.

The Edo State Government had on Sunday, in a statement, alleged that Shaibu had perfected plans to invade the Government House on Monday, September 30, to enforce his purported reinstatement despite the fact that a stay of execution appeal has been filed challenging Justice J. K. Omotosho’s ruling.

The statement by Mr Crusoe Osagie, the Special Adviser to the Edo State Government on Media Projects, called on the Inspector General of Police and all well-meaning Nigerians to prevail on Shaibu to refrain from his alleged plot.

Osagie opined that the plot was a clear recipe for chaos, given the fact that a policeman was killed the last time Shaibu attempted such action.

“We want to draw the attention of the Inspector General of Police to the intelligence we have gathered regarding a planned move by Shaibu to forcefully enter the Edo State Government House to purportedly enforce the ruling of Justice J. K. Omotosho.

“The stay of execution is still pending at the court of appeal and we appeal to the Inspector General of Police to ensure that the state does not descend to anarchy because of the ambition of one man.

“The last time Shaibu attempted to do this, it led to the death of a police officer. We believe that is one death too many and it is only wise for us to prevent a repeat of such,” he stated.

Reacting to the statement, Shaibu denied the allegation, saying the reality was yet to dawn on Obaseki that he and his followers have been rejected by Edo people.

Shaibu, who reacted through his media aide, Mr Ebomhiana Musa, noted that unlike Obaseki, he (Shaibu) is a peace-loving man who firmly believes in the rule of law and would not want to shed innocent blood for whatever reason.

“We want to put it clearly here that, unlike Governor Godwin Obaseki, Philip Shaibu is a peace-loving, who firmly believes in the rule of law and would not want to shed innocent blood for whatever reason.

“In the eyes of the law and in the eyes of the good people of Edo State and Nigerians, Philip Shaibu is the de jure and de facto Deputy Governor of Edo State.”

He called on the public to ignore the allegation, describing it as fake news spread by Obaseki’s spokesperson.

[DailyPost]

The Federal Capital Territory Police Command said it has commenced deployment of personnel and equipment ahead of the Independence celebration slated for October 1.

The command, which is without a Commissioner of Police, however, was silent over its preparation for the protest scheduled for the same day.

In a statement on Monday, the Police command spokesperson, Josephine Adeh, said the deployment included Explosive Ordnance Disposal personnel, anti-riot equipment, and visibility policing, among others.

She added that this was to ensure FCT residents have a peaceful Independence Day celebration.

She said,” The FCT Police Command, in anticipation of the upcoming October 1st Independence Day celebration, has strategically deployed adequate personnel and equipment throughout the FCT.

“These proactive deployments aim to ensure that residents of the FCT enjoy a hitch-free Independence Day celebration. The deployment will include Explosive Ordnance Disposal personnel, anti-riot equipment, and visibility policing, among others.”

She also said there would be traffic diversion in areas likely to witness large crowds, especially Eagles Square.

Adeh said, “Traffic diversions will be implemented in areas expected to experience large crowds, including Central Area and Eagle Square.

“While celebrating Independence Day, residents of the FCT are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious movements or activities to the FCT Police emergency lines: 08032003913, 08028940883, 08061581938, 07057337653, PCB: 09022222352, CRU: 08107314192.”

[Punch]

Events of monumental proportions are happening in the world. The assassination of Hezbollah leader, Hassan Nasarallah, may signal the commencement of all-out war in the Middle East.

Those who love conquest would celebrate his elimination. Those who seek peace would recognise that his death drives humanity closer to an avoidable war.

Since we all agree that we now live in a global village, we should be concerned about such events in the world. But Nigerians are not prepared for such a fall-out.

Surely we have Nigerians living in Lebanon who would need protection. But we have no ambassador there who can protect out interest or keep us well informed. We also have no ambassador in Israel who can advance our interest.

Definitely, this is a proxy war in which the United States and its allies like France and Britain are providing Israel with logistics and timely intelligence which has always given it an advantage in armed conflicts with its neigbours. But we do not have ambassadors in any of those countries who can advance our views and interests. Nor do we have in Iran which is providing logistics and support for Hezbollah.

In fact, we have no ambassador anywhere in the world except in the United Nations system and Niger Republic.

Tragically, our best diplomats are at home, rotting away behind bare office desks, waiting to be posted. After one year of waiting, some of them may never make it to the pinnacle of their career as retirement may catch up with them.

Yes, the Tinubu administration has a Four-D foreign policy of Development, Demography, Democracy and Diaspora, but without ambassadors in a competitive world to make our case in various countries? We are concerned about Diaspora, but leave our citizens in all countries like sheep without shepherd. Then we stroll to the UN General Assembly podium to say we want to be a Permanent Member of the Security Council. Who will take us serious?

What is quite painful in this is that it was quite avoidable. We had ambassadors across the world when President Bola Tinubu was sworn in on May 29, 2023. After about four months, he recalled all of them with the perceived intention of replacing them. Now over one year later, he has either been incapable of doing so, or has not had the time. Why such self-inflicted injury by the so-called Giant of Africa?

It is also unlikely that this wound can be well treated this year because currently, the focus of the world is on UNGA, then our 64th Independence Anniversary and, we are approaching Christmas season or end-of-year activities. Again, even if new ambassadors are appointed today, they will need to undergo screening by the Senate, training and a period of acceptance by the receiving countries.

So, effectively, Nigerians are orphaned on the international stage.

We are also dispossessed in the country. Nigerians are a mass of alienated, hungry and angry people in a country so richly endowed with resources, including oil and gas and, unarguably, some of the best brains in the world.

We do not add value to our products like oil, are incapable of repairing existing refineries, yet go about destroying what are called ‘illegal’ refineries. In the last one year, the cost of petrol has gone up at least 400 per cent, yet we have to queue for hours to buy the product. We find ourselves being played like football between the new Dangote Refinery and the Federal Government. Talking about the latter, we live a lie that we have a federal system when what we run is a unitary system. A political system in which no group or nationality is happy or at ease.

Another lie is that we run a democracy when we are incapable of even conducting a state election successfully. We just had an election in Edo State where victory went to the highest bidder with ‘federal might’.

We know that the monthly allowances distributed in the National Assembly are illegal, that the constituency projects cannot stand the most rudimentary scrutiny and that our annual budgets are padded, yet we expect the same body to carry out oversight functions. Can a compromised National Assembly check the Executive or call public officials to order?

What, for me, is the most worrying is the growing insecurity in the land with terrorists, bandits and separatists over- running vast swathes of the country. But rather than concentrate on this serious challenge to life and property and the very existence of the country, the military is bogged down with diversions such as stopping public protests on the state of the country. Worse still, the generals bog themselves down with the conduct of elections. What was the business of the Chief of Defence Staff with the state election in Edo? What threat existed there that the police or Civil Defence could not handle? The misuse of the military for civil matters is a danger to the country’s democratic process.

The state of insecurity has become even more frightening after various accusations were made against the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle. Those making the accusations include the Governor of Zamfara State, Dauda Lawal, who accused his predecessor of keeping bandits in the Government House and receiving ransom on their behalf. Yet, all Matawalle could do was to swear by the Quoran.

Every aspect of our national life is down. The education sector is virtually in comatose and the cries of the Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU, about the sorry state of education in the country does not appear to have receptive ears in government.

As for the people, all they experience are astronomical increases in the prices of goods and services, more taxes and higher tariff for poorer services like electricity.

The country is in a mess and the government must know that people are no longer listening to the trite that things will get worse before they get better. That has been the sing-song of virtually every government since the overthrow of the Shagari administration on December 31, 1983.

Nigerians are a dispossessed people both abroad and at home. We need to review our policies, programmes and governance system. Africans say when a child trips and falls, he looks forward to see if there is anybody coming to help him, but when an elder trips and falls, he looks back to see what tripped him. After 64 years, we should look back to see why we are down. The Tinubu government should reassess its programmes and policies. To do this effectively, he needs to put together intellectually-endowed patriots who do not need his patronage. This advisory body can bridge the yawning gap between the government and the people.

Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois is set to miss a couple of weeks after his club diagnosed him with a hip muscle injury.

Spanish media estimate he will return in mid-October after the impending international break, missing the Champions League visit to Lille on Wednesday and next weekend’s home La Liga match against Villarreal.

“After tests carried out today on our player Thibaut Courtois by the Real Madrid medical services, he has been diagnosed with an abductor injury,” the club said in a statement.

Courtois sustained the injury during Madrid’s derby 1-1 draw at rivals Atletico in La Liga on Sunday, a match in which he was also targeted by home fans of his former club who threw objects including lighters at him.

The Belgian goalkeeper spent most of last season out with a severe knee injury but returned in time to start in Madrid’s Champions League final triumph.

Ukrainian goalkeeper Andriy Lunin is poised to fill in for Courtois as he did last season.

Vanguard News

I really feel for Pastor Umo Eno on the death of his wife. A genial, respectful and easy-going gentleman, he must be going through a lot now. Death in the family is the most painful experience on earth, and I have seen it all. But losing a life-long partner, who has been with you through thick and thin, is so agonizing.

How will the governor cope alone? For the next six years plus? His wife was his number one adviser, counsellor and strategist. Now she’s gone. Whom will he confide in? How does he walk into her empty room now and not cry? Her clothing (women have a lot of them); her jewelries; her trinkets; her dresser; her photographs on the wall staring back at you? I feel for Umo Eno.

Well, I understand that the children are grown, but daddy will now play dual roles, filling up for their mom. He will have to call the grandchildren more often, have them over often and crawl on the carpet with them. But grandma is irreplaceable.  

I never met Mrs Umo Eno, but from a distance, I could tell that the couple appeared close and loving. I have also noticed her absence from many public functions, but I had no idea that she was unwell. Yet, the governor was holding up well. His stoicism is notable. I spoke with him earlier in the week, and there was no tinge of emptiness or desolation in his voice. As mirthful as ever, he sounded, and I could not suspect that he was in pain, carrying his cross alone.

My first impression of Mrs Eno was when she came to the husband’s stout defence during the campaigns last year. ‘’My husband is my golden boy’’, she spoke in Ibibio, to the admiration of all, including those on the opposing side; putting paid to what was becoming a nasty personal attack. That video has resurfaced and is now trending. I felt proud of her and took notice of her presence since then. A good wife offers an impregnable rampart around her husband and her home.

Yesterday, Atuekong Don Etiebet issued a statement, commiserating with the governor, noting that the governor had attended his birthday dinner, hosted by the Petroleum Club in Lagos, a day before her death. Atuekong wrote: ‘’I was weeping. I had headache; my BP was up. I was confused of what to say. My wife was screaming…’’. Why? Because Gov. Umo Eno has come to embrace and respect all Akwa Ibom elders, irrespective of political affiliations.

 Atuekong in particular has suffered a lot under the hands of all our past governors. But he is not a man in want. He does not beg to eat. Unknown to many, Etiebet is a very wealthy man with investments in real estates in VI and Ikoyi. Yet, previous governors behaved as if he was looking for what to eat from them, or he was a threat to their position. Atuekong Don Etiebet is the first and only Akwa Ibom man to own a Roll Royce. He was already a multimillionaire in dollars in the 1980s when these people were just starting out in life and were not even near Government House. It was in Government House that some of them saw millions for the first time and screamed! Go and verify. So, why was Atuekong Etiebet treated so shabbily by past governors? Is it insecurity? Envy? Grudges? I will return to this subject in due course. We are mourning now.

It is understandable why Atuekong feels a sense of loss and anguish for the death of the governor’s wife. It’s because Pastor Umo Eno is the only Akwa Ibom governor that has accepted and embraced Atuekong as a true Akwa Ibom elder and leader; not as a political opponent!

I thank Umo Eno for bringing back the culture of love, respect to elders and decency to our polity. There is no more name-calling and incendiary invectives; no more bombastic boasts and talking down on the people and no more political violence in the State. The embers have come down considerably. Whenever I’m in Uyo these days, I feel peace. There was a time I used to hide in my gate house at night as a security measure!

May the Almighty God comfort the governor, his children and grandchildren in this difficult moment. May the governor be strong enough to continue in his good works; and may the soul of our dear First Lady rest in peace!

The Federal Government has handed over 64 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses to representatives of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), and the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS).

When deployed for commuter service, the buses will significantly reduce transportation costs in the country, bringing hope for a more affordable and efficient public transport system.

The handover of the buses took place on Sunday at the State House Conference Centre, Abuja, as part of activities marking Nigeria’s 64th independence anniversary.

The Coordinating Minister of the Economy and Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, led the government delegation that included the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Abubakar Bagudu, and the Minister of State for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande.

Edun described the distribution of the buses as fulfilling President Bola Tinubu's promise to provide affordable and efficient transportation to support Nigerians after the removal of fuel subsidies under the Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas (PCNGi).

He emphasised that this initiative aims to alleviate the burden on the poor and vulnerable and support macroeconomic reforms that would position the country on the path to economic stability.

The Minister further explained that the symbolic handover of 64 buses on the eve of Nigeria’s National Day marks the beginning of a broader national rollout, with the plan to distribute over 500 CNG buses and 100 electric vehicles in the first instance.

He added that the CNG initiative aligns with Nigeria's commitment to cleaner energy while leveraging its energy resources for industrialisation.

''Today marks another critical milestone in the policies of President Tinubu. It is a transition to cleaner fuel. It is for Nigerians. The emphasis is on mass transit. The minister said there is an emphasis on intervening on the side of workers so that they have cheaper transport to cope with rising prices.

He also highlighted the CNG initiative’s impact on inflation, saying:

''We've had an initial spike in inflation, now it has peaked, and it is coming down. Mr President and the whole team are determined to ensure that we keep inflation coming down, and this is one of the major ways.''

The Coordinating Minister of the Economy noted that the fuel cost for CNG-powered vehicles is about one-third of the fuel for petrol-powered vehicles.

He said motorists can now pay as low as N15,000 to fill a tank instead of N50,000 or more.

''Today, it is CNG. Tomorrow, it will be helping farmers to cope with the remainder of the wet season planting and then the dry season planting, starting from November, with fertiliser, inputs, seeds, and herbicides.

''This is all to get prices down and get the economy moving again, '' he said.

The Secretary-General and Chief Executive of TUC, Comrade Nuhu Toro; NANS president, Comrade Lucky Emonefe; and the Head of International Desk, NLC, Comrade Uche Ekwe, commended President Tinubu for the gesture. They called for more CNG buses to be made available to the public.

Toro thanked the President for implementing the N70,000 new national minimum wage.

''This move is a significant step in alleviating the economic burden of Nigerian workers.

NANS president Comrade Emonefe praised the government for its commitment to education and student welfare, citing the provision of a student loan scheme for higher education.

"Nigerian students are happy to be celebrating the 64th anniversary of independence. We are not only happy with the CNG buses; we believe that the current President loves the welfare of students and has shown his commitment to this.

The NLC representative noted that the benefits of the CNG buses would become more apparent once more buses are deployed across the country.

''If we get more buses, the effect will translate immediately to Nigerians. If people start entering these buses, they will publicise it in the public and their neighbourhood,'' he said.

Michael Oluwagbemi, Programme Director/Chief Executive of PCNGi, said that since its establishment one year ago, over 125 conversion centres have been established, compared to the initial seven.

He said investment in the sector has exceeded $175 million, with 12 new mother stations commissioned and 75 more under construction.

Technician training is being ramped up, with 40 new technicians trained weekly. Over 34,000 conversion kits have been ordered, with more than half already distributed.

He said vehicle conversions are taking place at 53 centres in eight states.

He said the centres would be expanded to all the 36 states and the FCT.

Bayo Onanuga
Special Adviser to the President
(Information & Strategy)

The Coordinating Minister of the Economy and Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, and the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, test driving one of the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered buses donated to labour unions and the student union body in Nigeria, on Sunday, September 29, 2024. 

Some of the 64 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses donated by the Federal Government to labour unions and the student association in the country. 

Second from L-R: The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris; the Coordinating Minister of the Economy and Minister of Finance, Wale Edun; the Secretary General and Chief Executive of the Trade Union Congress, Comrade Nuhu Toro; the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Abubakar Bagudu; and the President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Comrade Lucky Emonefe, at the handover ceremony of 64 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses to representatives of labour unions and NANS by the Federal