The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has directed a comprehensive investigation into reports of a fresh COVID-19 case in Cross River State.
Akpabio issued the directive at the close of Thursday’s plenary, mandating the Senate Committee on Health to urgently examine the situation.
The committee, chaired by Senator Ipalibo Banigo, is expected to investigate the reported case and present its findings at the next legislative sitting.
The move follows reports of an isolated COVID-19 case in Cross River State, raising concerns over surveillance, testing and response capacity.
Health authorities are said to be monitoring the situation closely, amid calls for heightened vigilance and adherence to public health guidelines.
Lawmakers said the probe would assess the public health response, the preparedness of health institutions and measures needed to contain any potential spread. (TVCNews)
President Bola Tinubu has approved a minor cabinet reshuffle in the Federal Executive Council, which led to the exit of the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Wale Edun and the Minister of Housing and Urban Development Ministry, Ahmed Dangiwa.
According to a statement from the Special Adviser, Media and Publicity to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Yomi Odunuga, on Tuesday, the memo signed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, indicated that two cabinet members, Mr. Wale Edun and Architect Ahmed Dangiwa are to leave the cabinet while their replacements have been named.
Edun, until the latest development, was the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister for the Economy. He has been directed to hand over to Mr Taiwo Oyedele, who is now to take over as Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy. Oyedele was formerly a Minister of State in the ministry.
Also, Mr Muttaqha Rabe Darma (PhD) has been named as the ministerial nominee and minister designate for the Housing and Urban Development Ministry.
The memo stated that “all handing over and taking over processes should be completed on or before the close of business on Thursday, 23rd April, 2026.”
Explaining the President’s decision, Akume said: “These changes are aimed at strengthening cohesion, synergy in governance as well as achieving more impactful delivery on the economy to Nigerians, through the Renewed Hope Agenda.”
He said the President, in approving the cabinet reshuffle, has fully exercised his powers as conferred on him by Sections 147 and 148 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (1999, as amended).
The President thanked the outgoing ministers for their services to the nation while wishing them the best in all their future endeavours.
The President, Akume, noted, equally assured all cabinet members that “the process of reinvigoration shall be continuous.” (TVCNews)
President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday commissioned the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS) headquarters in Abuja, declaring that no serious nation could attain lasting prosperity with a weak and fragmented revenue system.
Speaking at the official event, Tinubu said the commissioning went beyond the physical unveiling of the building, marking a pivotal step in the administration’s fiscal reforms aimed at restoring public trust and building an economy rooted in discipline and equity.
“No serious nation can achieve lasting prosperity on a weak and fragmented revenue system. No government can demand trust from its citizens when taxation is opaque, inefficient or unjust,” Tinubu declared.
He said his administration had taken bold steps to overhaul the tax system, simplifying processes, eliminating distortions, and fostering a transparent, investment-friendly environment.
“That is why this administration took the bold decision to embark on far-reaching tax and fiscal reforms, reforms designed to simplify our system, eliminate distortions and create a fair, transparent and investment-friendly environment,” the president said.
Tinubu said the early outcomes of these reforms were already evident, including improved fiscal stability and stronger investor confidence.
“Our direction is clear: a revenue system that rewards enterprise, supports growth and ensures that every contribution to the national purse is matched by feasible value for people. The early results are encouraging, fantastic,” he said, thanking NRS Executive Chairman Zacch Adedeji for his role.
He described the new headquarters as a symbol of professionalism and accountability. “The building is more than concrete and steel; it is a symbol of a new standard of professionalism, transparency, efficiency and service. It reflects our result that institutions must rise to meet the demand of reforms and the expectations of the Nigerian people,” Tinubu said.
The president urged the NRS to prioritise trust-building and fairness.
“We must thank Nigerian people for enduring and persevering, for their resilience to date and to the Nigerian Revenue Service, you must embody this new ethos. It must not only collect revenue, it must build trust, it must ensure fairness,” he said.
Tinubu reaffirmed his inaugural pledge as a covenant with Nigerians. “On my inauguration day, I made a solemn pledge that we would move Nigeria from the dimness of uncertainty into the clear light of renewed hope. I committed that, that we will confront structural weaknesses, restore fairness and build an economy anchored on discipline, equity and opportunity. Today, I stand before you to reaffirm that these words were not rhetoric. They were a covenant with the Nigerian people,” he said.
He concluded by commissioning the building, saying, “We are facing reform, we have chosen discipline, we have chosen progress, we have chosen development, prosperity and inclusiveness, and we will stay this course, steadfast and focused, until promise of Nigeria is matched by the performance of its institutions and the prosperity of its people. To the glory of God Almighty and to the benefit of Nigerians at home and abroad, I hereby declare this building and the God blessed public of Nigeria and the tax collector,” Tinubu said.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio, in his goodwill message, described the event as a testament to divine favour and visionary governance.
He celebrated the transformation of Nigeria’s revenue system under Tinubu in Lagos, from monthly collections of N4 billion to over N69 billion, attributing it to the president’s foresight.
“This is wonderful in the sight of God and this is wonderful in the sight of man. And of course, they say, whatever is done on earth, is also done in heaven. I’m very sure that this is the case. It’s also being celebrated in heaven,” Akpabio began.
He recalled his endorsement during the primaries, emphasising Tinubu’s unique vision.
“Your Excellency the President, when we were coming into office, during the primaries and the convention, I made a statement that We’re going to elect a candidate who has good sight and vision. And that sight and that vision enabled him to take the revenue service in legal sense from N4 billion a month in Lagos. So what we are having today is over N69 billion. And of course, I said can we do the same for Nigeria? If elected. Thank God, Nigerians believed me and elected you,” Akpabio said.
The Senate President highlighted state-level progress and Tinubu’s commitment to true federalism.
“Today, Mr President, you have sent me to commission many projects in states of the Federation. And one of those that we first commissioned was the lithium factory in Nasarawa State… Consistently you’ve shown that you do not only believe in democracy, but you believe in true federalism. That every money that goes into the Federation account, has a shine in our constitution,” he stated.
Akpabio celebrated NRS gains amid global oil disruptions and commended Tinubu’s personnel choices.
“Nigeria today even with the closure of the Hormuz Strait… we have not had 2, 3, 4, 5 kilometers of fuel line… You have a knack for picking good people… Dr Zacch, congratulations.”
Akpabio envisioned the NRS as a symbol of self-reliance. “Imagine this edifice, rising in the heart of our nation’s capital… No nation can endure if it depends only on what is given to it… The National Assembly must continue to stand firmly behind this president… Let us not say that you came to open a door that will work only through your administration, but you have opened a chapter that will bring total responsibility.”
Akpabio urged fiscal prudence on inherited debts.
“I get worried when I read that you have made numerous debts, including ways and means of worth N33 trillion… In the future of Nigeria, we cannot ignore others’ past mistakes.”
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, in his goodwill message, said the NRS headquarters symbolised Nigeria’s commitment to institutional discipline.
“Institutions reveal themselves not only through laws or leadership but also through the systems they sustain over time. This building invites a different kind of reflection. It is not simply about scale or design. It is about whether Nigeria now possesses the institutional discipline to convert authority into consistent outcomes,” Abbas said.
He praised the Tinubu administration’s fiscal reforms for their courage and clarity.
“The fiscal reform programme initiated under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu required not only technical clarity but political courage. It required a willingness to confront structural weaknesses that had accumulated over time and to make decisions whose benefits would not be immediate but whose necessity was clear,” the Speaker said.
Abbas highlighted the challenges of the old system and the impact of the 2025 Tax Reform Acts. (Sun)
President Bola Tinubu has signed the 2026 Appropriation Bill into law, authorising an aggregate expenditure of ₦68.32 trillion for the current fiscal year.
He also signed a separate bill extending the implementation period of the 2025 budget from March 31 to June 30, 2026.
The budget allocates ₦4.799 trillion for statutory transfers and ₦15.8 trillion for debt service.
It further sets aside ₦15.4 trillion for recurrent expenditure and ₦32.2 trillion for capital expenditure through the Development Fund.
The presidency made the disclosure in a statement signed by Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga on Friday.
The statement read, “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has assented to the 2026 Appropriation Bill, which provides for an aggregate expenditure of ₦68.32 trillion. He has also signed the bill extending the implementation period for the 2025 budget from March 31, 2026, to June 30, 2026.
“The N68.32 trillion budget for this year earmarks N4.799 trillion for statutory transfers and N15.8 trillion for debt service. It allocates N15.4 trillion to recurrent expenditure and N32.2 trillion to the Development Fund for Capital Expenditure.
“With capital expenditure accounting for about 50 per cent, the 2026 budget underscores the administration’s continued commitment to economic stability, national security, infrastructure development, and inclusive growth.
“The allocations reflect a strategic balance between statutory obligations, debt servicing, recurrent expenditure, and capital investments critical to driving productivity and improving the quality of life for Nigerians,” it added.
The 2026 Appropriation Act took effect on April 1, with the Federal Government commencing full implementation in line with what the presidency describes as the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Tinubu also assented to the Appropriation (Repeal and Enactment) (Amendment) Bill, 2026, which extends the capital component of the 2025 Appropriation Act by three months to June 30.
The presidency said the extension would ensure the full utilisation of appropriated funds, particularly for critical infrastructure projects at advanced stages of implementation.
“The extension will ensure the full and effective utilisation of appropriated funds, particularly for critical infrastructure and development projects that are at advanced stages of implementation across the country.
“It will enable Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to consolidate ongoing works, enhance project completion rates, and maximise value for public expenditure,” the statement read.
Tinubu directed MDAs to ensure disciplined, transparent, and efficient utilisation of allocated resources, with strong emphasis on value for money and timely project delivery.
He commended the leadership and members of the National Assembly for what the presidency described as their “diligence, cooperation, and patriotism in expeditiously considering and passing the budget.”
“The President reaffirmed the importance of sustained collaboration between the Executive and Legislative arms of government in advancing national development objectives,” the statement noted.
Tinubu also assured Nigerians of his administration’s resolve to deepen fiscal reforms and boost revenue generation.
“He further assured Nigerians of his administration’s resolve to deepen fiscal reforms, enhance revenue generation, and prioritise investments that will stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and strengthen social protection mechanisms,” the statement read.
The budget, titled “The Budget of Consolidation, Renewed Resilience and Shared Prosperity,” was originally presented to a joint session of the National Assembly on December 19, 2025, at a proposed sum of ₦58.47 trillion.
It passed second reading in the House of Representatives on January 29, 2026, before going through further legislative scrutiny and emerging at ₦68.32 trillion at the point of assent.
During the second reading debate in January, House Leader Julius Ihonvbere had urged lawmakers to support the proposal, pointing to a projected 3.98 per cent economic growth rate for 2026, a projected drop in inflation to 14.45 per cent, improved revenues, and foreign direct investment growth.
He also cited a stabilisation of the naira at around ₦1,400 to the dollar and a rise in Nigeria’s external reserves to a seven-year high of approximately $47 billion.
When Tinubu presented the bill to lawmakers in December, he described it as a defining moment in Nigeria’s reform journey, acknowledging the pressures the process had placed on households and businesses while insisting the sacrifices were necessary.
“The path of reform is seldom smooth, but it is the surest route to lasting stability and shared prosperity,” he told the joint session. (Punch)
The family of late Moshood Kashimawo Abiola (MKO) Abiola has congratulated Senator Solomon Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, on his emergence as the flagbearer of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ogun State for the 2027 governorship election.
The family also commended the Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, and other leaders of the party for their roles in ensuring a peaceful and united consensus process that led to the emergence of the candidate.
Speaking on behalf of the family, the Head of the MKO Abiola family and first son of the late Alhaja Kudirat Abiola, Olamilekan Abiola, described Yayi’s emergence as well-deserved, noting that it reflects his leadership capacity, political experience, and commitment to public service.
According to him “We sincerely congratulate Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola Yayi on his emergence as the APC flagbearer in Ogun State. This milestone is well-deserved and a clear reflection of his dedication, experience, and service to the people.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Abiola Family Youth Wing, Saheed Abiola, described the development as a positive step for the state, saying that Yayi’s emergence reflects the trust reposed in him by party stakeholders.
“We congratulate Senator Yayi on this important milestone. His emergence shows the confidence the party and its leaders have in his ability to lead and deliver,” he said.
He added that the family remains optimistic that the development would further strengthen democracy and promote inclusive governance in Ogun State. (Guardian)
The All Progressives Congress (APC) Ogun State, Monday, adopted the senator representing Ogun West, Solomon Adeola, popularly called Yayi, as its governorship candidate for the 2027 election.
The decision to field the lawmaker as the party’s governorship flag bearer was announced at the state strategic caucus meeting presided over by the state chairman of the party, Chief Yemi Sanusi and held at the party secretariat, Abeokuta.
The meeting had in attendance Gov Dapo Abiodun, former governors; Chief Olusegun Osoba, Sen Ibikunle Amosun as well as Otunba Gbenga Daniel.
Others at the meeting included Sen Iyabo Obasanjo, Gboyega Nasiru Isiaka representing Imeko/Yewa North federal constituency and also a governorship aspirant, Senator Solomon Adeola and other serving and past members of both the state and National Assembly among others.
Abiodun reportedly announced Adeola as the party consensus governorship candidate and urged other governorship aspirants to rally round the senator and allow the party interest to supercede any other interest.
The announcement of the senator as the party’s governorship consensus candidate drew wild jubilation among party members as they began shouting Yayi ni jo, Yayi ni jare
In his acceptance speech, Adeola thanked the party members for giving him the opportunity to be the ruling party’s candidate pledging not to let the party down
He said, “Now is all the sacrifices that my brothers have put together to ensure this day come to pass I believe in oneness and the unity of our dear states and Ogun West by extension I know the vision for this state I know how passionate and how central this state is to the federal republic of Nigeria
” As far as maintaining our status aside being the most fastest growing economy in Nigeria all effort that have been put in place to ensure that we reposition this state and takes our pride of place in the community of states in this country is well recognized
“Your excellency my dear leaders that are here I want to assure sir I will not let you down I promise to keep the flag flying I promise to retain and maintain the unity peace and progress that has taken place in Ogun state for the last three years and beyond I can assure you I will not derail
“I will not derail the ship I’m about to take over I will make sure that it does not derail and by the special grace of God I will do my best, my utmost best to keep every member of our great party together to keep all the state together and to ensure that irrespective of our political alignment, we are one big irrevisable family
“Going forward from today your excellency and all the leaders of the party I want to assure you that a new Ogun state is born and everything that need to be done to keep us together, to keep us as one in the indivisible entity so that we can take Ogun state to the promise land and to the next level we all desire”
While welcoming the party leaders to the meeting, the party chairman, Yemi Sanusi said that the meeting was called to preserve the unity of the party both before, during and after the primaries.
He underscored the need for the party to have rancour primaries hence the need for the strategic caucus meeting to carry everyone along and ensure that the party is not divided ahead of the 2027 election. (ThisDay)
President Bola Tinubu has reassured Nigerians that the country will ultimately overcome banditry and terrorism despite current challenges.
He made the remarks while delivering a speech at the commissioning of the state-owned Gateway International Airport and Ogun State’s aircrafts in Iperu, Ikenne Local Government Area.
The president emphasised that Nigeria is on a path of development and greatness, driven by ongoing reforms in critical sectors of the economy, which have restored investor confidence.
“We will win over banditry and terrorism. I gave you the assurance that we will invest more in our people. Thank God for our youths, they are committed, brilliant and working hard. Nigeria, our country, is resolved to be great and is on the path to greatness once again,” Tinubu said.
The President added, “I sincerely appreciate the opportunity we have today to celebrate the remarkable vision of a governor and his predecessors. Today, we commission the economic nerve centre of our corridor.”
“In less than seven years, you, Dapo Abiodun, have demonstrated commitment, vision, and patriotism to grow Nigeria. We celebrate your contribution to national development. I have no regrets for whatever we have done with you.
“As your President, I am pleased to see that the increase in federal allocations is being effectively and judiciously used to build our country. I congratulate the people of this great state for supporting a government that is delivering measurable progress, and I thank you for your continued faith in our nation.”
Highlighting the people-centered nature of his administration’s investments, Tinubu said, “The Lord is liberating Nigeria from past mismanagement. We are back as a nation, well respected and highly recognized.”
He noted that the Gateway Airport is connected to investments in gas and energy and praised Governor Abiodun’s broader development projects, saying they reflect a commitment to progress that must “touch every level.”
Tinubu also commended Abiodun’s agricultural initiatives and the rollout of 1,000 electric bikes, describing them as “a smart response to modern transportation needs.”
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who also attended the ceremony, thanked Tinubu for making the effort to participate and called the event a significant milestone in Ogun State’s history.
He commended Governor Abiodun for building the airport, noting that it is a landmark project.
“I’ve landed here from Abuja, and it took me 45 minutes to reach my home — at least 25 minutes shorter than if I had landed in Lagos. I want to thank our governor for doing us proud. I am happy to witness this historic occasion,” Obasanjo said.
He also recalled being part of the “conspiracy” to create Ogun State 50 years ago and noted that the level of development achieved under Abiodun is beyond what anyone could have imagined.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio lauded Tinubu for reforms that have, in his view, relieved states of salary arrears and other financial burdens. He also commended Governor Abiodun for constructing the Gateway Airport and for the judicious use of increased federal allocations.
Governor Abiodun, visibly elated by the president’s presence, described it as deeply symbolic. He praised Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda,” saying it has positioned Nigeria as a competitive investment destination and inspired confidence among local and international investors.
He highlighted that when he assumed office, he realized that for Ogun State to maximize its proximity to Lagos, the administration had to close the infrastructure gap.
Over the last seven years, Abiodun said, his government has enhanced trade mobility, expanded infrastructure, and positioned Ogun as one of the fastest-growing economies in Nigeria through deliberate policies that promote economic development.
Abiodun also highlighted accomplishments in transportation, housing, healthcare, energy, agriculture, security, and environmental sustainability.
He noted the construction of over 1,600 kilometers of roads, including the Epe-Ijebu Ode Expressway, Sango-Abeokuta Expressway, Ilishan-Iperu Road, and the Sagamu–Iperu–Ode Remo–Sapade Expressway, now renamed the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Expressway, which serves as a bypass to the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.
The state has also developed the Muhammadu Buhari Estate, offering 100 semi-detached and fully detached housing units, and over 7,000 affordable homes.
In healthcare, Abiodun pointed to 140 completed and equipped primary healthcare centers and the 200-bed Gateway Medical Centre of Excellence, now affiliated with the Abuja Medical Centre of Excellence, which he said reduces the need for medical travel and positions Ogun as a hub for medical tourism. Energy projects, including the 34.1-megawatt Onijanganjangan Independent Power Project, are supporting industrial growth and economic expansion, while mechanized farming initiatives are strengthening food security across the state.
The administration has also deployed 100 pickup vehicles and other infrastructure to support law enforcement, and introduced electric bikes to promote sustainable urban transportation and mitigate the impact of rising fuel prices.
The commissioning ceremony was attended by governors of Zamfara, Bayelsa, Taraba, Ekiti, Ondo, Niger, and Lagos states, as well as the deputy governors of Oyo and Lagos. Former Ogun State governors Senators Gbenga Daniel and Ibikunle Amosun, Chief Olusegun Osoba, Dr. Olatokunbo Awolowo-Dosumu, Ambassador Femi Pedro, Minister of Culture and Creative Economy Hannatu Musawa, CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso, Minister of Aviation Festus Keyamo, chairmen of Dangote and BUA Groups, Femi Otedola, Inspector-General of Police Tunji Disu, CEO of Zenith Bank, and Comptroller-General of Customs Bashir Adeniyi were also in attendance. (Channels)
The Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has felicitated Christians in the state and Nigeria on the occasion of this year’s Easter celebration.
Oyebanji said the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, which was the essence of the Easter celebration, remained the greatest sacrifice for the redemption of mankind, which should be cherished.
The governor, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, made available in Ado Ekiti on Saturday, urged Christians to emulate Christ’s virtues of humility, love, perseverance and compassion.
The governor said, “I wish all the people of Ekiti State and Christians across the country and other parts of the world, happy Easter as we celebrate God’s greatest sacrifice to mankind.
“Events leading to the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ were epochal in the annals of Christianity and humanity. They remind us of his virtues of sacrifice, love, harmony and peaceful coexistence among humanity.
“As Christians, this period offers us an opportunity to rethink our relationships as individuals, as communities and as a nation. The death and resurrection of Jesus Christ typifies love, affection and tolerance.
“I want to urge Christians to emulate the virtues of Jesus Christ by positively impacting the lives of friends, colleagues, associates, neighbours and family members,” the governor said.
Oyebanji also solicited prayers from the people of the state and other Nigerians for a peaceful and successful conduct of the June 20 governorship election in Ekiti.
He admonished governorship aspirants, party leaders, other politicians and their supporters “to conduct themselves in a peaceful and orderly manner before, during and after the election. Ekiti interest supercedes personal and partisan interests”. (Punch)
Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa State has distanced himself from the contest over who succeeds him, stating that the people will determine the next governor in 2027.
Speaking on Saturday at a high-level stakeholders’ meeting at the Government House in Yola, Fintiri dismissed speculation that he was backing any governorship aspirant, stressing that the choice of leadership rests solely with the electorate.
“The power to choose leaders rests with the people; no one will decide for them,” he said.
The governor maintained that he would remain neutral in the unfolding political process, urging aspirants to engage directly with the grassroots and earn their mandate through credible interaction with voters.
“Democratic leadership cannot be imposed but must be freely given by the citizens,” he added.
Fintiri also assured members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), particularly governorship aspirants, of a level playing field.
His declaration appears to have reassured party aspirants who had expressed concern about their prospects following his defection to the APC in February, a move that positioned him as the party’s leader in the state.
Prior to his clarification, there had been growing speculation that the governor was keen on influencing the emergence of his successor. (Nation)
President Bola Tinubu in his Easter message yesterday, urged Nigerians, particularly political leaders to embrace restraint, responsibility and civic maturity ahead of the 2027 general elections, while also assuring citizens of his administration’s commitment to building a safer and more secure nation through intensified efforts to tackle terrorism, banditry, and other security threats.
Also yesterday, the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, canvassed for care of the needy and less privileged in society, while Governors and other political leaders charged Nigerians to leverage on the spirit of the season to show love and tolerance for one another.
In his Easter message, addressed to Nigerians at home and abroad, the President acknowledged that, despite the sacrifices of the Armed Forces and other security agencies, challenges to national security have persisted.
Ahead of the 2027 general elections, Tinubu called for political responsibility, restraint, and civic maturity, stressing that the Election Act must guide the conduct of political parties and actors to safeguard democracy, peace, and national stability.
His words: “As the nation gradually approaches another electoral cycle, this season also serves as a call to civic duty and maturity. The Electoral Act must guide the conduct of our political parties and political actors. Let our choices be guided by a shared commitment to peace, continuity, stability, and the long-term good of our country. Democracy flourishes where responsibility, restraint, and informed participation prevail.”
The President expressed optimism that the country is on the path to recovery, citing improving economic indicators as evidence that the right choices are being made.
He, therefore, urged Nigerians to keep faith with the administration’s vision of a safer, stronger and more prosperous nation.
“Fellow Nigerians, you have been very supportive of my administration because you trust our ability to make our nation better. I will continue to serve to retain your trust. I enjoin you to keep the faith and never cease to contribute to the progress and greater future we seek, each in our own way, to the emergence of a democratically stronger, more prosperous, and safer nation,” Tinubu further said.
According to him, the government was making available the necessary resources and strengthening foreign partnerships to enable security agencies to deal decisive blows to terrorists, bandits and other criminal elements.
His words: “Despite the good efforts of the administration and the gallant efforts of our men and women of the Armed Forces who leave behind their families to confront the evil actors in our land, challenges to our security have remained. However, my administration continues to make resources available and forge foreign partnerships to enable us to deal decisive blows to the agents of terror and banditry.”
Tinubu noted that following his condolence visit to Jos, Plateau State, where he commiserated with victims of the recent deadly attack, security chiefs had given strong assurances of progress, while international support was also mobilised to reinforce Nigeria’s response.
He added: “On Thursday, I was in Jos to commiserate with people of Plateau State, share in their grief, and offer reassurances of better days to come. The leaders of the nation’s security institutions have given strong assurances of progress. We have also sought and are receiving assistance from outside our shores.”
He further assured residents of other parts of the country facing one form of insecurity or another that concerted government actions are beginning to produce results, urging citizens to support lawful efforts, remain united, and reject forces that threaten the country’s collective peace and stability.
“I am reassured that the citizens appreciate our efforts. I will continue to remind us of the imperative of unity and oneness. No nation can thrive where fear prevails, and no progress can be sustained without peace.”
The President said no nation can make meaningful progress where fear prevails, assuring communities affected by violence that better days lie ahead.
Tinubu said Easter season symbolises sacrifice, resilience, and the triumph of light over darkness, noting that its message resonates strongly with Nigeria’s present realities as the nation navigates economic stress and security challenges.
Also, wife of the President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, charged Nigerians to remember the needy in society and extend necessary support to them.
In her Easter message, the First Lady in a four-paragraph release titled ‘The Blessed Hope in Christ’s Resurrection,’ stated, inter alia: “Easter is a reminder of the enduring power of love and the selfless sacrifice of Jesus Christ and the hope His resurrection brings to all humanity.
“As we celebrate Easter with our loved ones, friends, neighbours and communities, let us remember those in need and extend compassion and support wherever we can.
“May the spirit of Easter inspire us to uplift the vulnerable, love one another, make sacrifices when necessary and work together to build a peaceful and prosperous nation for all.” (ThisDay)
English