News
Snub calls for anti-hunger protest, SGF tells Nigerians
By Kayode Sanni-Arewa
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, has urged Nigerians to shun the proposed nationwide protests and instead pursue peace, dialogue, and collaboration in addressing the country’s challenges.
The SGF made this statement during a press conference with journalists and media executives at the Radio House in Abuja on Wednesday.
He acknowledged the right to protest but expressed concerns about the planned protests being hijacked “by bandits, insurgents, and other criminals”.
“We, therefore, appeal to Nigerians of whatever persuasion, belief, demography, gender, and status to shun calls for protests against hunger by prioritising peace and progress. For the avoidance of doubt, the government of President Tinubu recognises the right to peaceful protest, but circumspection and vigilance should be our watchwords,” Akume said.
The SGF outlined several interventions of the President Tinubu-led administration in the 14 months since its inauguration. He mentioned that the country was undergoing refining and recalibration and that economic growth remained a goal of the Federal Government.
“Within a space of fourteen months of purposeful leadership, the administration has recorded tremendous accomplishments that laid the foundation for the immediate, medium, and long-term prosperity of Nigerians, in an inclusive manner.
“Mr. President approved a Wage Award of Thirty-five Thousand Naira for six months to cushion the effect on workers. This award was higher than the minimum wage. Mr. President has just signed into law a new National Minimum Wage Act, which prescribes N70,000.00. This represents more than a 100% increase from the last minimum wage (30,000) and takes retroactive effect from April.”
As part of the efforts of the FG to take development to the grassroots, the government approached the Supreme Court for a decision on the funding of LGAs in Nigeria. The favourable judgement has now set the LGA on the path to its financial and development autonomy.
“For the first time in our nation, the President created a stand-alone Ministry for the Youth that accounts for a large percentage of our population. Under the N35 Billion Nigerian Education Loan Fund, approved beneficiaries have exceeded the 40 thousand mark, of the expected 70 thousand beneficiaries.”
He, therefore, described Nigeria as a work in progress, adding that the country will soon breathe a sigh of relief.
By Kayode Sanni-Arewa
Suspected gunmen abducted a landlord and his daughter in the Ijede area of Ikorodu in Lagos.
In a statement on Sunday, Benjamin Hundeyin, the Lagos police spokesperson, said the kidnappers abducted the victims on Wednesday.
Hundeyin added that on Saturday, the command rescued the kidnapped victims unhurt and handed them over to their family members.
According to the police spokesperson, the command has launched a manhunt for the perpetrators.
“The police received information that some kidnappers invaded Ijede community and kidnapped two persons,” the statement reads.
“Upon receipt of the report, police operatives were mobilised to the scene where it was observed that the kidnappers forcefully gained entrance into the house of a 40-year-old man, killed the security dog and kidnapped him.
“The kidnappers equally forced their way into the nearby house and kidnapped the landlord’s 25-year-old daughter.
“With the collaborative efforts of both the police joint task force and other stakeholders, the kidnapped victims were rescued unhurt and handed over to their family members.
“The area is relatively calm and being closely monitored, and efforts are ongoing to apprehend the wanted suspects.”
By Kayode Sanni-Arewa
President Bola Tinubu has approved the extension of the tenure of the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service, Kemi Nandap, until December 31, 2026.
Nandap, who joined the NIS on October 9, 1989, was appointed as Comptroller-General on March 1, 2024, with an initial tenure set to end on August 31, 2025.
A statement by the president’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on Monday, said Tinubu commended Nandap for her leadership, noting improvements in border management, immigration modernisation, and national security under her watch.
“Under her leadership, the Nigeria Immigration Service has witnessed significant advancements in its core mandate, with notable improvements in border management, modernisation of immigration processes and national security measures.
“President Tinubu commended the Comptroller-General for her exemplary leadership and urged her to continue dedicating herself to the Service’s strategic priorities, which align with his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda,” the statement read.
He also reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the NIS in safeguarding Nigeria’s borders and ensuring safe and legal migration.
Tragedy strikes the entertainment world as American actor and singer, Richard Chamberlain, passes away, leaving an Irreparable void.
According to reports, the renowned actor passed away prior to his 91st birthday, following complications from a stroke.
His passing has sparked an outpouring of condolences from fans and industry colleagues alike, as they mourn the loss of a beloved talent and celebrate his enduring legacy.
Moreover, tributes have flooded social media, with many remembering Chamberlain’s iconic roles in ‘Dr. Kildare,’ ‘Shōgun,’ and ‘The Thorn Birds.
His contributions to the entertainment industry and his lasting impact on audiences worldwide are being widely acknowledged.
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