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Category: Metro News

  • BOBA Calls for Revival of Discipline, Integrity in Leadership at Murtala Muhammed Book Launch

    BOBA Calls for Revival of Discipline, Integrity in Leadership at Murtala Muhammed Book Launch

    The Barewa Old Boys Association (BOBA) has renewed calls for the revival of Nigeria’s founding values of discipline, integrity, and courage in leadership, drawing inspiration from the enduring legacy of former Head of State, Murtala Muhammed.

    The call was made at the launch of the book Murtala Muhammed: Unveiling the Ancestral Roots of a Nigerian General, where the President of BOBA was represented by Sarkin Shanun Kano, HRH Shehu Mohammad, FCA, FCCA, who described the occasion as “both an institutional privilege and a national obligation to celebrate a life of patriotic service.”

    Speaking on behalf of the Association, the BOBA President noted that, fifty years after his death, Murtala Muhammed’s name still resonates with urgency, courage, and deep patriotism.

    “Fifty years after his passing, Murtala’s name still carries the electricity of urgency, courage, and patriotism. Before he commanded troops, he commanded respect among his peers. Before he led the nation, he learned to lead himself,” he said.

    The Association traced the foundation of the late General’s leadership to his formative years at Barewa College, where he was admitted in 1952.

    The college’s strict discipline and leadership-oriented culture were described as crucial in shaping his character, instilling values of responsibility, courage, and excellence that later defined his national service.

    According to the BOBA President, three enduring lessons stand out from Murtala Muhammed’s life: that leadership begins early, discipline is the architecture of greatness, and courage is a moral decision before it becomes a public act.

    He reminded Nigerians that Murtala Muhammed’s famous declarations: “Nigeria will not tolerate indiscipline” and “Africa has come of age,” were reflections of convictions formed long before he assumed national power.

    “The story of Murtala Muhammed is not only a military story; it is an educational story. It proves that institutions matter and that the character we build in youth determines the destiny we reach in adulthood,” he added.

    In the press release authored by Stephen Ogboli, BOBA reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening schools and mentoring young Nigerians in values-based leadership, describing such efforts as “the truest memorial to the Murtala Muhammed legacy.”

    The Association further urged public officials and institutions to restore discipline, integrity, and urgency in national service, noting that Murtala Muhammed’s brief tenure in office remains a benchmark for courageous, people-centred governance.

    The solemn event attracted scholars, government officials, military representatives, and members of the Barewa community, and concluded with prayers for the late leader, asking Allah to grant General Murtala Ramat Muhammed eternal rest in Jannatul Firdaus.

  • MTN Foundation Trains Over 2,000 Young Nigerians in Digital, Business Skills

    MTN Foundation Trains Over 2,000 Young Nigerians in Digital, Business Skills

    he MTN Foundation has trained more than 2,000 young Nigerians in digital and business skills under its Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Skills and Training Programme.

    Speaking on the initiative in a statement, the Executive Director of the MTN Foundation, Mrs Odunayo Sanya, said the programme was designed to equip young entrepreneurs with practical digital skills tailored to their business needs.

    She said small businesses remained the backbone of the Nigerian economy and that supporting young entrepreneurs with simple, affordable digital tools could significantly improve productivity and drive long-term growth.

    According to Sanya, the training, now in its seventh cohort, focuses on helping Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) adopt digital tools to enhance productivity and sustainability. She noted that SMEs account for over 90 per cent of businesses in Nigeria and employ a large proportion of the workforce, according to data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).

    The foundation said the programme followed a call for applications in September 2025, which attracted more than 5,000 entries from Nigerians aged between 18 and 35 years.

    Sanya explained that successful applicants are currently participating in a five-week virtual training programme scheduled to end in February 2026. The training began with a general onboarding session across four business tracks and is focused on practical digital growth for small businesses.

    Participants were drawn from sectors including food services, fashion, retail, logistics, beauty and printing, she said, adding that the training emphasises the use of affordable digital tools suitable for small and early-stage enterprises.

    The programme also promotes gradual digital transformation, encouraging participants to digitise basic operations before scaling up over time.

    The sessions are facilitated by a Business Analyst and Digital Transformation Expert, Mr Babajide Jolaolu-Kehinde, who highlighted the benefits of automating repetitive tasks to save time, reduce errors and improve efficiency.

    He introduced participants to tools such as WhatsApp and WhatsApp Business for customer engagement, as well as MTN’s MoMo API for digital payments. Through case studies, he demonstrated how digital tools could help small businesses expand their customer base and increase sales.

    The foundation added that participants would continue to have access to learning materials and recorded sessions throughout the duration of the programme.

  • Akwa Ibom Assembly Denies Outrageous Bill to Jail Women Over Married Men!

    Akwa Ibom Assembly Denies Outrageous Bill to Jail Women Over Married Men!

    A viral social media post claiming that the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly is planning to pass a law jailing women for sexual relationships with married men has been categorically dismissed as false and misleading.

    The post, reportedly shared by Facebook user Obiavel Albert Abigo, alleged that Deputy Governor Sen. Akon Eyakenyi was sponsoring the bill, which supposedly would punish women with 10 years in prison and impose a ₦2 million fine on men.

    But the House has hit back hard. In a strongly-worded statement on Monday, Jerry Otu, Chairman of the House Committee on Information, described the report as a “fabrication with no legislative basis”.

    He emphasized that the Assembly has never received, discussed, or considered any such bill, and that the Deputy Governor has no involvement whatsoever.

    “This is a malicious attempt to tarnish the image of both the Deputy Governor and the House of Assembly,” Otu said. “We urge the public to disregard this fake news and any commentaries circulating alongside it.”

    Otu further reassured citizens that the House remains firmly committed to its constitutional role of lawmaking, and warned that such mischievous reports will not undermine its integrity or distract from its legislative duties.

    This incident highlights the growing problem of viral misinformation, particularly on social media, where outrageous claims can spread faster than facts.

    The Akwa Ibom Assembly’s prompt rebuttal is a reminder to always verify news before sharing, especially when it concerns sensitive issues that can damage reputations.

  • State House Perm Sec Warns Staff Against Infighting, Honours Retiring Directors

    State House Perm Sec Warns Staff Against Infighting, Honours Retiring Directors

    The Permanent Secretary of the State House, Mr Temitope Fashedemi, has cautioned staff against bickering and acrimony, warning that such behaviour undermines productivity and professionalism in the public service.

    Fashedemi gave the warning at a ceremony held in Abuja to mark the retirement of two top management staff of the State House, Mr Sule Tegina, Director of Finance and Accounts, and Mr Ali Sufiyan, Director of Planning, Research and Statistics.

    According to a statement issued on Wednesday by the Director of Information and Public Relations, State House, Mr Abiodun Oladunjoye, the two officers retired after attaining the mandatory retirement age of 60, in line with the Public Service Rules.

    The Permanent Secretary stressed that adherence to ethical conduct, diligence and professionalism remained critical to career progression and institutional efficiency.

    “Hard work, good conduct and professionalism always bring rewards at the end of the day,” Fashedemi said.

    He commended the retirees for their dedication, competence and integrity, noting that their contributions had significantly strengthened operations at the State House.

    “They are seasoned administrators whose commitment enhanced efficiency and professionalism in the system,” he said.

    Fashedemi urged the retirees to remain active and continue contributing to society and the public service in advisory capacities.

    “I enjoyed working with you. Keep your brains active. Do not retire to the village. Stay around and continue to add value,” he added.

    The Permanent Secretary also reaffirmed his commitment to staff welfare, describing it as a priority of his administration.

    “Sometimes rewards come unannounced, but to whom much is given, much is expected,” he said.

    In his remarks, Tegina expressed gratitude to the State House management and staff for the opportunity to serve, noting that he had enjoyed a harmonious work environment throughout his career.

    “I have worked in different places, and I have been fortunate not to work in a toxic environment,” he said.

    Similarly, Sufiyan thanked the Permanent Secretary and staff of his department for their support during his years of service.

    The event featured the presentation of gifts, as colleagues, family members and well-wishers celebrated the retirees and offered prayers for good health and a fulfilling retirement.

  • TETFund Mourns Veteran Journalist Chief Dan Agbese

    TETFund Mourns Veteran Journalist Chief Dan Agbese

    The Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Chief Dan Agbese, OFR, co-founder of Newswatch magazine and one of Nigeria’s most celebrated journalists.

    In a tribute signed by its Executive Secretary, Arc. Sonny S.T. Echono, the Fund described Chief Agbese as “a legendary journalist and a pillar of Nigeria’s media landscape whose impact will be felt for generations.”

    “His writing was a masterful blend of satire, humour, and incisive commentary that captivated readers and inspired a generation of journalists,” Echono said. “Chief Agbese’s contributions to journalism in Nigeria are immeasurable.”

    Echono noted that Agbese’s leadership at Newswatch helped shape the direction of investigative journalism in Nigeria, adding that his unique style — which “effortlessly combined wit and wisdom” — earned him respect across the media industry.

    Beyond journalism, Chief Agbese was celebrated as a teacher and mentor who trained and influenced many young journalists. Echono described him as “a dedicated professional whose passion for journalism was contagious.”

    “Through his writing, Chief Agbese informed, educated, and entertained millions of Nigerians, leaving an indelible mark on the country’s media landscape,” the statement read. “The man from Agila was not only a brilliant journalist but also a proud ambassador of his community.”

    Executive Secretary, TertFund, Arc Sonny Echono

    The TETFund boss added that Chief Agbese’s life exemplified integrity, courage, and dedication to truth and national progress.

    “His passing leaves a void that will be difficult to fill, but his ideals and legacy will continue to inspire generations of journalists and Nigerians,” Echono said.

    Echono prayed that God would grant the family and associates of the late media icon the strength to bear the loss and that his soul would rest in peace.

    Nigerian Anchor reports that Chief Dan Agbese, who co-founded Newswatch magazine alongside Dele Giwa and Ray Ekpu, was widely regarded as one of the foremost figures who shaped modern Nigerian journalism through fearless reporting and insightful commentary.

  • Tinubu Hails Jonathan as Guardian of Democracy

    Tinubu Hails Jonathan as Guardian of Democracy

    President Bola Tinubu has described former President Goodluck Jonathan as a guardian of democracy whose influence extends far beyond his time in office.

    Tinubu, represented by Vice-President Kashim Shettima, gave the commendation on Thursday at a dinner marking the 10th anniversary of the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation (GJF) in Abuja.

    He said Jonathan remains a powerful example of life after public service, noting that he safeguarded Nigeria’s democracy at a critical moment in history.

    Tinubu observed that Jonathan’s decision to establish the foundation demonstrated that service to humanity continues even after leaving high office.

    “There are not enough words to convey the country’s gratitude. Dr Jonathan has upheld national values since leaving office,” he said.

    The President contrasted leaders who use their post-office influence destructively with those who dedicate themselves to the public good.

    According to him, while some pursue narrow interests that can harm the society that once supported them, others choose the nobler path of serving humanity.

    Tinubu noted that democracy in West Africa and across the world has faced severe threats in the past decade, weakened by “adventurists and extremists who treat institutions as inconveniences and elections as mere formalities.”

    He commended Jonathan for proving that “no ambition should override the sovereignty of the state,” urging Nigerians to promote national unity and respect for democratic processes.

    “Democracy depends on respecting the choices of others. Mandates can always be renewed, but peace must be preserved,” he added.

    Tinubu described the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation as a model for leadership beyond office, emphasizing that governments succeed only with citizens’ cooperation and citizens progress under responsive leadership.

    “Nigeria’s democracy endures because of individuals like Jonathan who place the nation above personal ambition,” he said.

    He congratulated Jonathan and his team, expressing hope that the foundation would continue to guide Africa toward peace and prosperity.

    In his response, Jonathan thanked Vice-President Shettima, former President Ernest Koroma of Sierra Leone, and other dignitaries for honouring the event.

    He said the foundation’s mission was inspired by his experiences and challenges while leading Nigeria.

    According to him, the GJF has continued to focus on diplomacy, good governance, election management, and strengthening democratic institutions.

    Jonathan also sympathised with victims of recent abductions and attacks across the country, urging political leaders to act responsibly in addressing the security and welfare challenges facing Nigerians.

    Guest speaker, Dr Mohammed Ibn Chambas, underscored the importance of functional democracy, stressing that Africa’s future depends on strong institutions, youth empowerment, a free press, and an independent judiciary.

    He praised Jonathan’s leadership, describing him as “a believer in genuine democracy who values the sanctity of human life.”

  • Aliyu: Azikiwe’s Political Compromises Preserved Nigeria’s Unity

    Aliyu: Azikiwe’s Political Compromises Preserved Nigeria’s Unity

    By Dahiru Ali, Abuja | Monday, November 17, 2025

    Former Niger State Governor, Dr. Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu, has said that Nigeria’s founding father, Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, made critical political compromises that preserved the country’s unity and prevented its early disintegration.

    Dr. Aliyu Babangida

    Aliyu made this remark at the 6th Annual Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe Award Lecture held in Abuja to mark Azikiwe’s 121st posthumous birthday.
    The lecture, themed “The Power of Pan-African Unity: Strengthening Nigeria’s Role in African Integration and Development,” drew scholars, statesmen, and diplomats.

    Aliyu, who chaired the National Planning Committee for the event, noted that the early post-independence years were fraught with ethnic tension and political uncertainty, but Azikiwe’s pragmatic leadership helped stabilize the nation.

    “Zik was a Nigerian even before Nigeria gained its independence. He was at the forefront of the struggle. As a realist, he made necessary compromises to ensure the survival of the nation,” Aliyu said.

    He recalled that before the 1966 coup, Azikiwe entered a political alliance with the NPC, becoming Nigeria’s first ceremonial president. Similarly, during the Second Republic, Azikiwe’s NPP formed an alliance with the NPN, again promoting unity across party and regional divides.

    “Anyone who loves this country must do so regardless of the challenges,” Aliyu said.
    “If we were to choose where to be born, many might not choose Nigeria. But since it was not our choice, we must love the country where our Creator placed us.”

    Aliyu said Azikiwe’s patriotism remains a moral lesson, adding that all faiths teach love of one’s country as a virtue.

    His comments come amid renewed calls for Pan-African revival across the continent.
    Recently, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, speaking at a summit in Accra, Ghana, urged African leaders to revisit the ideals of Azikiwe and Kwame Nkrumah, lamenting that “Africa has lost the spirit of unity that once inspired its liberation movements.”

    Umar-Kogo Calls for Moral Rebirth

    Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Mainasara Umar-Kogo, Chairman of the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT), called for a moral rebirth and a return to Pan-African values.

    He lamented that despite the foundation laid by figures like Azikiwe, Nkrumah, and Nelson Mandela, Africa remains trapped in corruption, disunity, and leadership failures.

    “Let us be honest with ourselves,” Umar-Kogo said. “What kind of house have we built after Zik? A house divided by ethnic strife cannot endure. A house corroded by corruption cannot inspire.”

    He added:

    “A house without justice cannot lead. If Nigeria must be the cornerstone of Africa, its own house must be in order. A divided, corrupt, or lawless Nigeria cannot unify or inspire Africa.”

    Umar-Kogo stressed that Pan-Africanism was not just an economic project but a moral and political mission, calling for leaders who embody integrity, courage, justice, and service.

    In a related development, the African Union (AU) announced plans to honour Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe at its 2026 Summit in Addis Ababa for his “extraordinary contribution to continental unity and liberation struggles.”
    The honour will coincide with the AU’s Year of African Renaissance, aimed at celebrating post-independence visionaries who championed African cooperation and identity.

    Call to Immortalise Zik’s Legacy

    Chief Chineme Onyeke, Director-General of the annual lecture series, said the event was established to ensure that nations not only remember their heroes but sustain the dreams they inspired.

    He disclosed that the organisers plan to establish the Zik Centre for Leadership and African Studies — a research and training institution to nurture ethical and visionary leaders.

    “We appeal to the Federal Government, through the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, to support this vision by allocating land for the project,” Onyeke said.
    “History does not remember us by our titles or speeches, but by the values we uphold and the institutions we build.”

    His remarks align with a recent Federal Ministry of Education announcement that the lives and philosophies of Nigeria’s founding fathers — Azikiwe, Ahmadu Bello, and Obafemi Awolowo — will be included in the revised Civic and History Curriculum for secondary schools.
    According to the ministry, the goal is to “restore historical awareness and civic pride among young Nigerians.”

    Zik’s Widow Urges Preservation of History

    Prof. Uche Azikiwe, widow of the late statesman, commended the organisers for keeping her husband’s ideals alive.

    She called for more efforts to document Nigeria’s political history and the contributions of its founding fathers.

    “Most of our problems stem from the fact that we do not know what happened in the past,” she said.
    “Even as Zik’s wife, I learned new things here today. If we truly knew our history and the foundation of this country, Nigeria would have been something entirely different.”

    Prof. Azikiwe urged the inclusion of accurate historical accounts in schools, saying a nation without a clear memory of its past risks losing direction and identity.

    📰

  • Francisca Maduneme releases two inspirational books

    Francisca Maduneme releases two inspirational books

     Two inspirational books, titled Standout Child and The Ministry of Ruth will be presented to the public at mid day on Saturday October 4,2025 at the Merit House, Maitama, Abuja.

    The books were written by Mrs. Francisca Uloma Maduneme, a public servant and a preacher.

    The two books hold up possibilities for women, in the face of odds that often undermine their attaining their full potentials.

    A statement made available to Nigerian Anchor, Thursday in Abuja explains that the books are inspirational and prescriptive.

    “Defeating poverty, deprivation and cultural barriers to record success remain a daunting challenge for women, more so in such a society as ours,” it was asserted.

    “In spite of the odds, possibilities exist for the girl child and women to make good. It takes perseverance, family support, wisdom and God’s hand to make this happen.”

    It was stated that “Francisca Uloma Maduneme deploys her creative mind to explore the themes of perseverance, loyalty, determination and family support as ingredients for career and relationship success for women.”

    While Standout Child anchors its theme on faith, resilience and education as the pathway for young persons to beats life’s odds, The Ministry of Ruth is steeped in Biblical narratives, from which the author drew timeless lessons in wisdom and faithfulness that women of all ages will find useful.

    Through the story of a remarkable relationship of Naomi and Ruth, a mother-in-law and her daughter-in-law, forged in shared loss and affinity, Francisca Maduneme speaks to women, dwelling on all that is possible and indeed, desirable in such a relationship, when wisdom prevails.

    The Ministry of Ruth points the way for women to achieve harmony in their lives and in their relationship with such significant persons around them like their mother-in-law, more so in a culture with extended family ties that often define the success or otherwise of enduring relationship.

  • Police traffic warden gifted N.5m for exceptional service

    A Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), the Ikemefuna Jewish Organisation, has presented a N500,000 award to Insp. Uche Chidiebere, a Police traffic warden in Owerri, for his dedication and professionalism in traffic management.

    Presenting the cash gift on Friday, leader of the NGO, Ikemefuna Mbelu also handed a plaque to Chidiebere, commending his integrity, hard work, and exceptional service to the public while urging other officers to emulate him.

    Media report indicates that Chidiebere is stationed at the Warehouse Junction in Owerri.

    “His professionalism and kindness have earned him the respect and admiration of the public, making him a true hero on the highway.

    “Through his tireless efforts, Insp. Chidiebere has made a significant impact on the daily lives of Owerri residents and commuters alike.

    “His dedication to public service is an inspiration to his colleagues and a shining example of the positive difference one individual can make,” Mbelu said.

    In his remark, the state Commissioner of Police, Mr Aboki Danjuma, commended Chidiebere’s exemplary conduct, describing it as a “reflection of the ideals of the Nigeria Police Force”.

    Danjuma emphasised that personnel must always uphold the core values of hard work, discipline, and public service.

    The Police boss reaffirmed the command’s commitment to professionalism, rewarding excellence, and building strong community partnerships for safety.

    “Officers are encouraged to emulate Insp. Chidiebere’s dedication, while we urge the public to continue supporting security agencies for a safer Imo state,” Danjuma said.

    The state Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Mr Udensi Oji, also applauded the officer’s effort.

    Oji advocated for greater recognition of frontline traffic managers, highlighting their crucial role in ensuring public safety on a daily basis.

    Responding, the elated and joy-filled Chidiebere expressed his gratitude to Danjuma and the Ikemefuna Jewish Organisation for finding him worthy of recognition.

    He pledged to remain committed to serving the public diligently and upholding the values of the Nigeria Police Force.

  • U.S Consul-General hails Olusegun Obasanjo Leadership Institute for leadership legacy

    The Consul-General of the U.S. Embassy in Nigeria, Joellen Gorg, has described the Olusegun Obasanjo Leadership Institute (OOLI) as a beacon of transformational leadership and ethical governance.

    Gorg said that the institute was a great legacy of former President Olusegun Obasanjo.

    This is contained in a statement issued by Prof. Elvis Otobo, the Media Consultant to the institute, on Friday.

    The consul-general made the commendation during a high-level engagement with representatives and stakeholders of the institute.

    She expressed delight at the institute’s mission of nurturing leaders capable of addressing complex global challenges while upholding Africa’s rich heritage and intellectual legacy.

    “OOLI represents a forward-thinking platform that not only champions ethical leadership in Africa but also cultivates dialogue and collaboration across borders.

    “I fully embrace the vision behind its founding and welcome future partnerships to broaden its international reach,” Gorg said.

    According to her, discussions are being made to explore joint initiatives that will expand the institute’s influence and incorporate global best practices.

    In his response, Deputy Chief Executive of OOLI, Prof. Adedeji Daramola, expressed gratitude for the consul-general’s commendation.

    He reaffirmed the institute’s commitment to raising a new generation of servant-leaders grounded in integrity, innovation and resilience.

    “As OOLI continues its rise as a continental force in leadership education, this international acknowledgment sets the tone for deeper engagement and transformative partnerships that reflect Africa’s strategic role in global affairs.

    “The institute’s growing recognition further strengthens its place as a catalyst for change in leadership across the continent,” Daramola said.