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[PRESS RELEASE] Governor Soludo Mourns The Death Of Former Super Eagles Captain, Christian Chukwu
Admin![[PRESS RELEASE] Governor Soludo Mourns The Death Of Former Super Eagles Captain, Christian Chukwu](/media/k2/items/cache/5a6d56a809a4f77e64cc1546a32ad85c_L.jpg)
The Governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, has mourned the passing of Mr. Christian Chukwu, a distinguished football icon and a true patriot, who died on Saturday 12, April 2025.
In his condolence message, Governor Soludo stated that Mr. Christian Chukwu’s name is etched in the annals of Nigerian football history and his contributions to the development of the sport in our nation are immeasurable, leading the national team in winning the Nations Cup (AFCON) in 1980
The Governor noted that as a player, he was a colossus, a formidable defender and a leader of men, captaining the legendary Enugu Rangers International Football Club and the national team, the Green Eagles now Super Eagles, with unrelenting dedication and exemplary skill.
His leadership on the field earned him the nickname "Chairman," inspiring generations of footballers and igniting a passion for the beautiful game across the country.
The Governor also recalled that Mr. Chukwu’s tenure as coach of the Super Eagles further solidified his legacy, as he guided the team with his characteristic wisdom and tactical acumen. His commitment to nurturing talent and fostering a spirit of unity within the team left an indelible mark on the Nigerian football landscape
Therefore, Governor Soludo consoles the family of Mr. Christian Chukwu, the Nigerian football fraternity, and all who mourn his passing, praying that his soul rest in perfect peace.
Signed,
Christian Aburime
Press Secretary to the Governor
![[STATEHOUSE PRESS RELEASE] What President Tinubu Discussed With US President Trump's Advisor](/media/k2/items/cache/21f57475158469014de71a2922ce42db_L.jpg)
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu received a State Department representative from President Donald J. Trump's administration, Mr. Massad Boulos, Senior Advisor for Africa, on Thursday in Paris.
The meeting focused on developing a strategic economic and security partnership between Nigeria, Africa, and the United States anchored on mutual respect, prosperity, and regional stability.
The US State Department rep conveyed President Trump's strong interest in deepening direct engagement with Nigeria as a cornerstone of US relations with Africa. The US wanted to work closely with President Tinubu to expand American investment in Nigeria and Africa, support energy and infrastructure development, and align trade and job creation efforts.
Both sides discussed actionable support and shared their perspectives on regional peace, particularly in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and across the Sahel.
President Trump's advisor recognised Nigeria's regional and continental leadership and supported President Tinubu's interventions to stabilise key African regions.
President Tinubu reiterated Nigeria's readiness to build productive alliances with the United States, centred on transparency, opportunity, mutual respect and outcomes that strengthen Africa's place in the global economy.
Bayo Onanuga
Special Adviser to the President,
(Information & Strategy)
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board ,JAMB, has released the results of the 2025 Mock UTME, conducted on Thursday, April 10, 2025.
To this end, the board said candidates can check their results by sending “MOCKRESULT” to either 55019 or 66019 using the phone number (SIM) registered for the examination.
In a release on Sunday, through its spokesman,Fabian Benjamin, JAMB explained that, “This optional mock examination was designed to test the Board’s annual innovations and provide candidates with an opportunity to experience the Computer-Based Test (CBT) environment.”
A total of 200,115 candidates initially expressed interest in participating; however, two candidates later withdrew, resulting in 200,113 registered candidates.
Of those registered, 73,844 candidates were absent on the day of the examination, and 88 candidates failed the biometric verification screening.
Consequently, 126,181 candidates successfully sat for the examination, and results for 115,735 of these candidates are now available for viewing. Additionally, 10,446 results are still being processed and will be released soon.
“The Board acknowledges the delays experienced by some candidates during the examination and regrets any inconvenience caused. These challenges are anticipated due to the new features implemented to enhance the overall conduct of the main UTME. JAMB appreciates the support of candidates and parents in facilitating a smoother process.
“The mock examination serves as a trial version of the UTME, allowing the Board to test new innovations while helping candidates familiarize themselves with the CBT environment. Over the years, this initiative has successfully achieved its objectives, addressing noted lapses and equipping candidates with valuable experience for the main examination, “the board said.
It called on all candidates to “continue making the necessary sacrifices to ensure a better examination experience that effectively serves their interests.”
[Vanguard]
![[PRESS RELEASE] NSC Mourns 'Chairman' Christian Chukwu](/media/k2/items/cache/40c4dd9bf38925b99aca8b61ad521c2e_M.jpg)
The National Sports Commission Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko, on behalf of the Commission and the entire sporting fraternity, has bemoaned the death of the national team's most iconic captain Christian 'Chairman' Chukwu. Mallam Dikko spoke minutes after receiving the shocking news from Chukwu's team mate Dr. Segun Odegbami.
His words, "This news came to me as a big shock. Chairman is no more. On behalf of the Commission and the entire sporting fraternity and indeed the Federal Government of Nigeria, I extend my condolences to his family and indeed the whole of Nigeria. Frankly, a big iroko tree has fallen. We are the Chairmen leading the sector but Christian Chukwu is the original Chairman on the pitch. He was so commanding and charismatic, decisive and assuring on the pitch that the Late Ernest Okonkwo called him chairman and till today that name Chairman is even more popular than his original name.
"Chairman Chukwu is synonymous with Nigerian football. He lifted our first major trophy in that 1980 AFCON. Growing up, that day stands out. Many of us draw our passion for Nigerian football from that tournament. Chairman was the main catalyst of that feat, motivating and leading the team from the foundation to success ."
He continued, "Whether as a player, coach or administrator, Chairman stamped his feet in the annals of Nigerian football and I had a very good working relationship with him for decades and we have been in constant touch. I just had a meeting with Dr. Segun Odegbami earlier this week. This is happening at a time when we need the experience and drive of the likes of Chairman to push through our vision at the Commission. This is a very gloomy day in Nigerian football.
"One thing that stands out is Chairman's passion for Nigerian football and his humility and peaceful nature all his life. Even in his latter days, he was a regular commentator on the state of Nigerian football. He is always one of the legends I look forward to reading his views on developments in the game. We will do everything within our means to immortalise him and make sure that his dream for Nigerian football is sustained."
NSC Director-General Hon. Bukola Olopade lent his voice to NSC Chairman's condolences.
He said, "This is really a sad day for Nigerian football. We all grew up loving this game because of people like Chairman Chukwu. I pray God gives his family and in fact every Nigerian football faithful the fortitude to bear this colossal loss."
Chukwu earned his place in Nigerian football folklore as captain of the victorious Africa Cup of Nations team in 1980. He was the national team captain between 1974 and 1980.
In a meritorious football career spanning about four decades, Chukwu was the Super Eagles Chief Coach from 2003-2005 leading them to bronze at 2004 AFCON. He was also the head coach of the Kenyan national team in 1998 and handled clubs like Iwuanyanwu Nationale (Heartland FC) and Rangers International.
Notably, Chukwu was the assistant coach to Sebastian Brodericks when the Baby Eagles became the first African team to win a FIFA-organized tournament at the U-16 World Cup in 1985.
As an administrator, he was the General Manager/CEO of Rangers International FC.
Signed
Kehinde Ajayi (Mrs)
Director (Information and PR)
NSC
Press Statement By The Nigerian Catholic Diocesan Priests Association (NCDPA), Makurdi Diocese On The Safety Of Most Rev. Wilfred Chikpa Anagbe, CMF
Admin
The Nigerian Catholic Diocesan Priests Association (NCDPA), Makurdi Diocese, wishes to express grave concern over the growing rumours surrounding the safety of Most Rev. Wilfred Chikpa Anagbe, CMF, Catholic Bishop of Makurdi Diocese, and his priest, Revd Fr Remigius Ihyula, following the Bishop's courageous and truthful statements on the persistent killings, violence, and displacement of innocent citizens in Benue State and across Nigeria .
Bishop Anagbe, known for his unwavering commitment to justice, peace, and the sanctity of human life, has consistently used his prophetic voice to speak out against the atrocities perpetrated against defenseless communities, especially in the Middle Belt region. His pastoral concern for the suffering and displaced, particularly the victims of violent herdsmen attacks and militia invasions, is not only a moral obligation but a clear response to the Gospel imperative of defending human dignity.
His firm stance, rooted in truth and the Gospel of justice and peace, has awakened many to the urgent need for accountability and action.
It is therefore deeply troubling to hear rumours suggesting that the Nigerian government may be planning to arrest or intimidate Bishop Anagbe upon his return to the country. If true, such actions would represent a dangerous affront to freedom of speech, religious liberty, and the fundamental right of a pastor to speak in defense of his flock.
We, the Catholic priests of Makurdi Diocese, stand solidly with our Bishop. We affirm that Bishop Anagbe has spoken the truth, a truth which many suffer in silence. Our people are being killed and driven from their ancestral homes on a daily basis, with their livelihood destroyed and eaten by cows. Homes and churches are burned down. Where is the lie in what we have suffered since 2001, and since becoming Bishop in 2014, the prelate has continued to advocate for justice in defence of his suffering people.
We have intruders, the Fulani killers and bandits who don't mean well for us, and we want them out of our land. This is not about any personality or personalities, it is about freedom and safety of our people. To target the Bishop for persecution would be to attack the truth itself and to deny the ongoing killings and sufferings of thousands of displaced persons whose lives have been upended by violence.
On March 28, 2025, Fr. Remigius Ihyula received a message from an embassy in Abuja, Nigeria. The message transmitted to Fr Ihyula warned that there "might be" an arrest warrant for Anagbe upon his return to Nigeria.
We therefore:
1. Strongly condemn any attempt to harass, silence, or harm Bishop Anagbe or any other religious leader who dares to speak truth to power.
2. Demand the immediate assurance of safety and freedom for Bishop Wilfred Anagbe , both now and upon his return to Nigeria.
3. Call on the Nigerian government and security agencies to respect his right as a citizen, a cleric, and a moral leader to speak on issues affecting his people without fear of arrest or harassment.
4. Appeal to the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), all religious leaders, civil society organizations, and the international community to be vigilant and proactive in ensuring that no harm comes to our Bishop and Revd Fr. Ihyula.
5. Remind the authorities that silencing voices of conscience only deepens the wounds of injustice and emboldens perpetrators of violence.
The voice of the shepherd must not be silenced.
The cry of the oppressed must not be ignored.
Truth is not a crime and so, must never be criminalized.
Advocacy for peace and justice should never be met with repression.
We remain united in prayer, solidarity, and unwavering support for our Bishop and for all victims of injustice across our land.
We stand with Bishop Wilfred Anagbe cmf.
We stand for truth.
We stand for justice.
We stand for the people of Benue State and all persecuted communities in Nigeria.
Signed:
Rev. Fr. Joseph Terfa BEBA,
Chairman, NCDPA – Makurdi Diocese
On behalf of the Priests of Makurdi Diocese
[PRESS STATEMENT] Governor Soludo Congratulates Mr. Obinna Iyiegbu (Obi Cubana) On His Birthday
Admin![[PRESS STATEMENT] Governor Soludo Congratulates Mr. Obinna Iyiegbu (Obi Cubana) On His Birthday](/media/k2/items/cache/0e157c0e159418bd630a587b3e6d6bde_M.jpg)
The Governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, has expressed hearty congratulations to Mr. Obinna Iyiegbu, popularly known as Obi Cubana, on the occasion of his birthday today, April 12, 2025.
In his goodwill message, Governor Soludo proudly lauded Mr. Iyiegbu, a distinguished son of Anambra State, as a dynamic personality who has consistently embodied the ingenuity, resilience, and entrepreneurial excellence for which Ndi Anambra are renowned.
As an ebullient entrepreneur, his ventures have not only created opportunities for countless Nigerians but have also placed Anambra on the national map of commerce and innovation. His philanthropic endeavours, particularly in youth empowerment and community development, also reflect a deep commitment to uplifting lives and fostering societal progress.
The Governor further stated that beyond his business acumen, Obi Cubana’s role as a cultural ambassador and socialite has celebrated the richness of Igbo heritage, strengthening our collective pride and unity.
On this occasion of his birthday, Governor Soludo wishes Mr. Iyiegbu enduring success and prayed that his new age be filled with greater achievements and the fulfilment of his noble aspirations.
Signed:
Christian Aburime
Press Secretary to the Governor
The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Abdullahi Ganduje, on Friday, led members of the party’s National Working Committee to visit former President Muhammadu Buhari at his residence in Kaduna State.
The visit took place hours after the 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Atiku Abubakar, led the opposition delegation on a Sallah homage to the former president.
The delegation includied former Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir el-Rufai; former governor of Sokoto, Aminu Tambuwal, former governor of Imo State, Achike Udenwa; former governor of Benue, Gabriel Suswam; former governor of Adamawa, Jibrilla Bindow; former Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, and former Minister of Communications, Isa Pantami.
Speaking with reporters after the meeting, El-Rufai said the visit to the former president was not political and asked “adversaries” not to lose sleep.
The former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory added that the visit was for “unity and brotherhood”.
While the outcome of the APC NWC’s visit remains unknown, there have been growing concerns about the possible departure of the Congress for Progressive Change faction from the APC following the defection of some party members to the Social Democratic Party.
The CPC was one of the four political parties that merged in 2013 to create the APC, with Buhari being a member of the CPC faction.
Despite the speculations, Buhari has affirmed that he would never abandon the APC.
See the photos below:
The Federal Government has disclosed plans to construct 100 housing units in each of the 774 local government areas of the country, amounting to a total of 77,400 units.
Naija News reports that the construction is expected to be completed within one year from the launch date.
The Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, made this known while receiving a delegation from Creative Sphere Limited at the Ministry’s headquarters, in Mabushi, on Wednesday.
The Minister said the project aligned with President Bola Tinubu‘s commitment to ensuring that every Nigerian has access to decent housing.
Dangiwa explained that the programme would be funded through the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Development Fund (RHIDF).
“Each estate will be equipped with auxiliary facilities such as recreational areas, a primary school, a police outpost, a clinic, and a shopping mall,” he said.
Regarding the allocation of the houses, the Minister explained that 80% of the houses would be sold to Nigerians living in the local government areas who earn a living wage, adding that interested individuals would be required to contribute one-third of their monthly income.
“Anyone earning as low as N30,000 per month will be able to purchase a house, as they will only need to pay N10,000 monthly, which is one-third of their earnings. Similarly, someone earning N90,000 will pay N30,000,” he explained.
He further revealed that the remaining 20% of the housing units would be allocated free of charge to citizens with low or no income, such as widows, orphans, and others identified as vulnerable in society.
Women in Rivers State on Friday staged a protest against the declaration of a state of emergency in the state.
The irate women described the emergency rule as a politically motivated move aimed at undermining democracy.
The women, led by Nancy Chidi Nwankwo, opposed the emergency rule, arguing that the situation in the state did not pose any genuine threat to national security.
The women are demanding the immediate restoration of all democratic institutions in Rivers State, including the reinstatement of the elected governor, Siminalayi Fubara.
The protesters condemned what they described as an unconstitutional imposition of military rule disguised as a state of emergency, calling it unjustified and unacceptable.
The group also appealed to respected Nigerians, including former presidents and diplomats, to intervene and urge President Bola Tinubu to reverse what they termed a grave injustice.
The women reaffirmed their commitment to peaceful resistance, vowing to continue their stand in defense of freedom, justice and self-determination.
[DailyPost]
Former Vice President and 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, on Friday paid a courtesy visit to former President Muhammadu Buhari at his Kaduna residence.
Atiku was accompanied by top political figures including former governors Aminu Tambuwal (Sokoto) and Nasir El-Rufai (Kaduna), former Minister of Communications, Isa Pantami; former governor of Imo State, Achike Udenwa; former governor of Benue State, Senator Gabriel Suswam; and former governor of Adamawa State, Jibrilla Bindow.
A video of the visit was shared on social media by Atiku himself.
Reflecting on the visit, Atiku noted that the former president was in high spirits and entertained the delegation with his trademark sense of humour.
“As the Waziri Adamawa, I was obligated to be in my Adamawa during the Sallah celebrations. I held forth for the Lamido Fombina (Adamawa) in some of the activities of the Sallah celebrations,” Atiku wrote.
“Today, I had the opportunity to pay a post-Sallah visit to His Excellency, Muhammadu Buhari, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 2015-2023. It was a wonderful time with him. As usual, he cracked me up (to the extent that my ribs were hurting) with his peculiar humour.”
[Vanguard]
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![[PRESS RELEASE] Enugu to Host The 2025 NBA Annual General Conference](/media/k2/items/cache/e20a28c601f31c87eafb5253b8c52e53_XS.jpg)
The announcement that Port Harcourt, the Garden City, would host the 2025 Annual General Conference (AGC) of our Association was met with widespread enthusiasm. Indeed, prior to the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State on March 18, 2025, registration figures had soared, reflecting the excitement and eagerness of members to attend. However, the unfortunate turn of events in Rivers State has understandably stalled the momentum and affected advanced preparations for the Conference.
Currently, Rivers State is being governed by a retired military officer, appointed as a Sole Administrator, who operates with a command-style approach that disregards constitutional provisions, court decisions, and pending litigation. His actions have undermined democratic institutions and processes, flouting the rule of law with impunity. Though clad in civilian attire, he governs as though the state is under military rule.
The voices of our members, particularly those calling for a change of venue, grew stronger over time. We convened meetings with the Chairmen of NBA branches in Rivers State and held an emergency session of the National Executive Council (NEC) on the 27th of March, 2025. The overwhelming consensus was that the NBA could not, in good conscience, proceed with the AGC in a state governed unconstitutionally by a Sole Administrator.
The NEC reaffirmed that the state of emergency declared in Rivers State violates Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution. It further noted that the suspension of elected officials and democratic institutions contravenes Sections 11 and 188 of the Constitution. The purported ratification by the National Assembly, executed via voice vote rather than the constitutionally required two-thirds majority amounts to a grave constitutional subversion. Even if the proper procedure had been followed, it would not legitimize an unconstitutional proclamation.
Given these undemocratic developments, Port Harcourt can no longer be considered a justifiable venue for the 2025 AGC. To hold our flagship event in such circumstances would amount to a tacit endorsement of constitutional violations and subversion of the rule of law.
The NBA has taken a principled position in accordance with the law: the appointment of a Sole Administrator in Rivers State is unconstitutional. Consequently, and in alignment with the overwhelming position of NEC and the broader membership, we are compelled to relocate the 2025 AGC to a state where constitutional democracy remains intact.
We are pleased to announce that the 2025 Annual General Conference will now be held in the historic Coal City of Enugu. The city possesses the infrastructure and capacity to host a conference of our scale and significance. We are confident that, with concerted efforts, this change of venue will not compromise our commitment to delivering a successful and impactful Conference.
We call on all members and stakeholders to lend their full support as we embark on this new path. With unity, diligence, and a shared commitment to our values, we will make this transition a resounding success.
May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN
President
Dr. Mobolaji Ojibara
General Secretary.
Emeka Obegolu, SAN
Chair, AGCPC
[STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE] AfDB Reaffirms $2.2 Billion Pledge As VP Shettima Commissions 2nd SAPZ In Cross River
Admin![[STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE] AfDB Reaffirms $2.2 Billion Pledge As VP Shettima Commissions 2nd SAPZ In Cross River](/media/k2/items/cache/6e838780db4d33502a7436f11c483cf4_XS.jpg)
...says agro-industrial processing zones will empower farmers, attract investors, diversify Nigeria's economy
The federal government has commenced construction of the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone (SAPZ) in Calabar, Cross River State, as part of a nationwide drive to transform the agricultural sector and stimulate inclusive economic growth across Nigeria.
This is the second of such a facility initiated within 72 hours after Vice President Kashim Shettima had on Tuesday performed the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of the Kaduna State SAPZ in the Chikun local government area of the state.
Already, the AfDB has reaffirmed its commitment to mobilising an additional $2.2 billion to execute the second phase of the SAPZ project across 28 states in Nigeria.
Speaking on Thursday when he performed the groundbreaking ceremony of SAPZ in Calabar, the Vice President described the project as “a game changer” that aligns with the President Tinubu administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at diversifying the nation's economy, addressing food security, tackling rural unemployment, as well as empowering farmers and the youth population.
“There is no intervention more practical in our dream of a nation where the potential of agriculture is maximised than what’s brought us together today. This isn’t just a project—it’s a bold vision to transform Nigeria’s agricultural value chain,” VP Shettima said.
According to him, the SAPZ initiative, supported with counterpart funding from development partners and the private sector, is designed to address challenges that have long hindered the growth of Nigeria’s agricultural economy, including inadequate processing infrastructure, limited access to markets, and rural unemployment.
“For far too long, our farmers have contended with poor infrastructure, lack of access to finance, and inadequate processing facilities. This zone is designed to confront those challenges head-on by creating an ecosystem where innovation, investment, and collaboration thrive,” he noted.
VP Shettima explained that the Calabar SAPZ will serve as a hub for agro-processing and storage, providing farmers and agripreneurs with critical infrastructure to scale their operations and tap into local and international markets.
“This is where farmers will meet with private investors, where ideas will turn into enterprise, and where our youth will find meaningful opportunities,” he said, disclosing that the Tinubu administration has classified SAPZ as a priority program in Nigeria's quest for food security, with plans to institutionalize it as a government agency that will facilitate agricultural industrialization across all 36 states.
"These zones will generate thousands of jobs. They will create opportunities for young people, empower them with skills and knowledge to engage in meaningful work and help them contribute positively to the economy. Cross Riverians, development has come to your doorstep. For you and for the country, SAPZ is a game changer—one that will enable Nigeria to diversify its economy with a sustainable source.," he stated.
Senator Shettima also expressed gratitude to key international development partners, including the African Development Bank (AfDB), the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), for their support and belief in Nigeria’s vision.
The Vice President commended Cross River State Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, for his collaboration, describing him as "a critical foundation for the success of this intervention and a great ally in development."
Earlier, Cross River State Governor, Senator Otu, said the programme marked a watershed in the ongoing bid by his administration to establish the renewable resource base of the state through the full utilisation of agriculture and its multiple value chain.
Otu pointed out that in Cross River State, the establishment of a cluster of smallholder farmers in cash crops such as rice, cassava, millet, and cocoa across the state is the right step towards the agro-industrial revolution.
He said the paradigm shift from a non-renewable to a renewable resource base also holds the key to the prosperity of many nations, hence the imperative to join the league of sub-nationals in Nigeria that have adopted agriculture as the mainstay of their economy.
"The deliverables of the envisaged projects are food security, diversification of the state economy towards export-oriented trajectory and increase in the State's GDP. When these projects are fully operational there is an expected robust collaboration with reputable agro-based processing institutes, universities and the rest, aimed at accelerating breakthroughs in many agro-industrial production."
Also, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, said the programme would transform the agricultural production and agro-investment landscape in Nigeria under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu.
Kyari thanked Vice President Shettima for his leadership and political backing at the highest level in the implementation of the SAPZ in Nigeria, just as he also commended the Governor of Cross River State for his commitment to ensuring that the state is among the front-running states that will commence the construction of their Agro-Industrial Processing Hub.
In his remark, President of AfDB, Dr Akinwumi Adesina, reiterated the bank's pledge to mobilise $2.2 billion to execute the SAPZ project in 28 states across Nigeria.
Adesina observed that Cross River State has a significant role to play in Nigeria's agricultural transformation because of the vast production of cocoa, cassava, rice and banana in the state, saying Obudu Cattle Ranch alone can turn the state into a huge livestock producer.
He also acknowledged that the state is ideal for SAPZ because it has an export processing zone, ports facility, and export handling capabilities, adding that the SAPZ in Calabar can easily be linked to the seaport for the transportation of processed agricultural commodities to the export market in neighbouring countries, including Cameroon and the rest.
"The African Development Bank, as you know, is spearheading this together with our partners, which include the Islamic Development Bank and the International Fund for Agricultural Development, and we have put together $934 million from the African Development Bank, with core financing of $938 million from these partners.
"The first phase of SAPZ in Nigeria will be in eight states of Cross River, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Oyo, Ogun, Kwara, Imo and the Federal Capital Territory. We are delighted with our partnership with the Islamic Development Bank and the International Fund for Agricultural Development.
"We have put together a financing package of $510 million to make this work. We expect, in the second phase of this, to mobilise $2.2 billion to be able to work for 28 states across the federation with several partners," the AfDB President said.
Stanley Nkwocha
Senior Special Assistant to The President on Media & Communications
(Office of The Vice President)
Niger military government has officially made Hausa the country’s new national language, moving away from its colonial past where French played a central role.
The change was announced in a new charter released on March 31, published in a special edition of the government’s official journal.
According to the document, “The national language is Hausa,” and “the working languages are English and French.”
Hausa is already the most commonly spoken language across Niger, especially in the Zinder, Maradi, and Tahoua regions.
Most of the country’s population of about 26 million people understand and speak Hausa. In comparison, only around three million people, just 13 per cent, can speak French.
The new charter also officially lists nine other local languages, including Zarma-Songhay, Fula, Kanuri, Gourmanche, and Arabic, as “the spoken languages of Niger.”
This language switch follows a national meeting held in February.
During that event, the military government received more support and General Abdourahamane Tiani, the junta leader, was given approval to stay in power for five more years.
Since taking over in a coup in July 2023, which removed the country’s civilian president, Mohamed Bazoum, the junta has been cutting off ties with France.
These actions include removing French troops from the country, ending diplomatic relations, and changing the names of roads and buildings that used to carry French names.
Like Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso, which also have military governments and used to be French colonies, are taking similar steps.
They’ve also pulled out of the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie, a group similar to the Commonwealth that supports French-speaking nations.
[Punch]
The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, has approved the appointment of a new chairman and members of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission.
According to the statement, the new RSIEC Chairman, Dr Micheal Ekpai Odey, will work with six members and four professors.
The appointment was announced in a Government Special Announcement issued on Wednesday by Prof. Ibibia Worika, the Secretary to the Rivers State Government.
The statement, which was sent to newsmen, said the appointment takes effect from Monday, 7th of April 2025.
It reads, “The Following have also been appointed as Chairman and members of the Rivers State Electoral Commission:
“Dr Micheal Ekpai Odey, Chairman
Mr Lezaasi Lenee Torbira member
Prof Author Nwafor
Professor Godfrey Woke Mbgudiogha Member
Professor (Dame) Joyce Akaninwor Member
Dr (Mrs) Olive A. Bruce Member
Professor Chidi Halliday Member.
“All appointments take effect from Monday, the 7th of April 2025”.
Recall that Ibas had last week suspended the heads of all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies in the state, including the RSIEC, then headed by Justice Adolphus Enebeli (retd.)