Tag: Bola Tinubu

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Tinubu congratulates Super Eagles on AFCON bronze medal triumph

President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Nigeria’s senior national football team, the Super Eagles, on their bronze medal victory at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), describing the feat as a proud moment for the nation.

In a statement on Saturday, the President praised the team for their resilience and mental strength, noting that they showed remarkable character by bouncing back from the disappointment of their semi-final loss to host nation Morocco earlier in the week.

The Super Eagles secured third place after overpowering Egypt, a seven-time AFCON champion, defeating the North African giants in a penalty shootout after regulation time, during which Nigeria dominated large spells of the encounter.

President Tinubu commended the players and technical crew for refusing to allow the setback of the semi-final defeat define their campaign, stressing that their response reflected the fighting spirit for which Nigerians are known.

According to the President, the bronze medal is a fitting reward for a team that displayed discipline, unity and determination throughout the tournament.

“Despite their impressive run in the competition, the Super Eagles lost the semi-final match to Morocco on penalties last Wednesday, and our people’s hopes of lifting the trophy were dashed,” Tinubu said.

“However, our players remained undaunted. Exhibiting the resilience of the Nigerian spirit, they regrouped, refocused and ensured that their efforts did not end in disappointment.

“We are proud of them as they receive their well-deserved bronze medals on Sunday in Rabat. Their performance has once again demonstrated the determination, persistence and can-do spirit that define us as a people.”

The President added that the team’s ability to rise above adversity sends a strong message to Nigerians at home and in the diaspora about the power of perseverance and national unity.

“Thank you, our gallant Super Eagles. Thank you, our national team players. This bronze medal surely feels good like gold,” Tinubu said.

The President also urged the players to see the achievement as a foundation for greater success in future international competitions, assuring them of the nation’s continued support as they prepare for upcoming continental and global challenges.

Nigeria’s third-place finish at AFCON 2025 further reinforces the Super Eagles’ status as one of Africa’s most consistent footballing nations and offers renewed optimism for fans ahead of future tournaments. (Guardian)

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Tinubu, Mark, Sanwo-Olu, Ododo, Idris mourn Mohammed, Newswatch co-founder

President Bola Tinubu, yesterday, joined prominent Nigerians to extend heartfelt condolences to the family of veteran journalist and co-founder of Newswatch Magazine, Alhaji Yakubu Mohammed, who died on Monday night.

Other Nigerians who also mourned the deceased included former Senate President, David Mark; Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; his Kogi State counterpart, Usman Ododo; the Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris; and the Nigerian Guild of Editors.

Mohammed, alongside late Dele Giwa, Dan Agbese, and Ray Ekpu, founded Newswatch Magazine in 1984, inspiring the era of fearless investigative journalism in Nigeria during the military era.

Mohammed served as pro-chancellor and chancellor of the Governing Council of Ahmadu Bello University. He was also Associate Editor of New Nigerian Newspapers (1976-1980), Deputy Editor and Editor of National Concord (1980-1984) before the founding of Newswatch.

The president, in a statement by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, commiserated with the government and people of Kogi State, the Nigerian Union of Journalists, the Nigerian Guild of Editors, the Commonwealth Journalists’ Association, and other media institutions, public and private, where the late Mohammed had provided leadership.

Tinubu affirmed that Mohammed’s career in journalism, spanning over 50 years, was devoted to nation-building, with the journalist placing his life on the line to tell the truth to power.

He noted the dedication of Mohammed, whom he called a personal friend, and his colleagues in sustaining the visionary legacy of Newswatch Magazine after the assassination of Dele Giwa in 1986, further confirming their resolve and courage in pushing the boundaries of investigative journalism in Nigeria.

Tinubu believed that Mohammed’s publication of his memoirs, “Beyond Expectations,” in November 2025, provided an opportunity for soul-searching and deep reflection on leadership in Nigeria and the role of journalists.

He prayed that the Almighty God would receive the soul of the departed, and grant him Jannatul Firdaus. (ThisDay)

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Armed Forces Remembrance Day: Tinubu reaffirms commitment to welfare, dignity of personnel

President Bola Tinubu has paid tribute to fallen soldiers and serving members of the Nigerian Armed Forces, praising their courage and commitment to the unity and security of the country, saying that their sacrifices will never be forgotten.

Tinubu delivered the keynote speech in his Armed Forces Remembrance and Celebration Day message on his official X handle on Thursday.

Tinubu described the day as a moment “Nigeria pauses to honour its heroes.”

Tinubu wrote, “We remember the brave men and women of the Nigerian Armed Forces who sacrificed everything for our country. Their names might not always be remembered, but their courage sustains our freedom and peace.”

Tinubu further stated that “a nation that forgets its fallen heroes loses its direction; Nigeria, however, remembers.”

President Tinubu offered his heartfelt condolences to the families and dependents of fallen heroes, vowing that their sacrifices would never be forgotten..

He said, “I also speak today to the families of our fallen heroes- widows, children, and loved ones. Your loss is profound, and no words can replace the sacrifices of your loved ones. They served Nigeria with honour, and our people will never forget their sacrifices.

“Today, we celebrate our serving personnel. From the frontlines to support positions, on land, sea, and air, you carry the heavy responsibility of protecting our people and sovereignty with discipline, courage, and professionalism, often far from home.”

The President added, “As President and Commander in Chief, I reaffirm my commitment to the welfare and dignity of our Armed Forces. A secure Nigeria stands behind those who defend it. We will continue to support them in action.”

“May our fallen heroes rest in peace. May God strengthen our Armed Forces. May God bless Nigeria,” the President concluded.

TVC News previously reported that President Bola Tinubu on Thursday led senior government officials in Abuja to honour Nigeria’s fallen and serving military personnel at the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD) ceremony.

Observed annually on January 15, AFCRD commemorates the sacrifices of military personnel in both internal security operations and foreign missions.

The 2026 ceremony began with the parade commander presenting the parade state, followed by an inspection of the Guard of Honour by Vice President Kashim Shettima, who represented the President, accompanied by the Commander, Guards Brigade, Brigadier General Adebisi Onasanya. (TVC)

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Rivers deputy governor, SSG officially join APC

The Rivers State Deputy Governor, Dr. Ngozi Odu, and the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Benibo Anabraba, have officially joined the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Dr. Odu completed her registration as an APC member at Ward 8, Unit 11, Akabuka town, in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area (ONELGA) of the state.

Her defection comes shortly after Governor Siminalayi Fubara formally joined the ruling party.
Similarly, Dr. Anabraba registered his membership on Monday, January 5, 2026, at Ward 1, Unit 1, Bob-Manuel’s Compound, Abonnema, in Akuku Toru Local Government Area.

Speaking after his registration, the SSG said the exercise formally affirmed his membership of the APC and would enable him to participate fully in the party’s activities. He noted that the move would also strengthen his support for Governor Fubara’s “Rivers First” agenda and the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu.

He expressed optimism that enhanced synergy between the Rivers State Government and the Federal Government would yield greater dividends for the people of the state.

Earlier, in a letter titled “Resignation from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP),” Dr. Anabraba described his decision to leave the PDP as personal. He appreciated the opportunities and political leverage he gained while in the party and wished it well in its future endeavours.

Meanwhile, Dr. Odu has appealed to her supporters to rally behind President Tinubu and Governor Fubara, stressing the need to strengthen the APC’s grassroots presence ahead of future elections.

A few days ago, Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has charged newly appointed Special Advisers to brace up, as their appointments are aimed at strengthening teamwork within government and ensuring that the machinery of governance continues to function smoothly and efficiently.

He urged the appointees to remain committed to his administration’s vision to deliver effective, people-centred governance in the state.

The governor gave the charge on Friday, January 2, 2025, at the Executive Council Chambers, Government House, Port Harcourt, after administering the oath of office to the five advisers.

Those sworn in are Barr. Eloka Tasie-Amadi, Prof. Peter Medee, Emmanuel Frank Fubara, Victor Ekaro and Dr. Darlington Orji.

The governor said, “What we are doing this afternoon is to bring in some persons on board to ensure that the wheels of governance continue to roll smoothly in our state.”

He explained that the advisers were carefully selected because they were familiar with his administration’s philosophy and direction, having previously worked with him in various capacities.

“These are not new faces. They have been with us and have worked with us. They understand the philosophy of this administration, and it will not be difficult for them to align and ensure that our goals are achieved,” he stated.

The governor stressed that effective governance could only be achieved through collective effort, discipline and shared responsibility, warning the appointees against complacency.

“My charge is simple because you already know what we have come to do. This is not for pleasure; it is work,” he said, adding that expectations were high. (Guardian)

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Tinubu appoints first female DG of Nigerian Law School

President Bola Tinubu has appointed Olugbemisola Odusote as the new Director-General (DG) of the Nigerian Law School (NLS).

The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday.

He said the appointment, which takes effect from January 10, 2026, is for a four-year term.

“As Director-General, Odusote will be responsible for the institution’s overall academic leadership, administrative management, and strategic direction across all campuses,” the statement reads.

“She will also serve as the primary liaison between the school, the Council of Legal Education, the Body of Benchers, and the Nigerian Bar Association.”

According to the statement, Odusote, 57, will succeed Isa Chiroma, the current DG, whose tenure expires on January 9, 2026, after eight years of service.

The appointee is currently the deputy director-general and head of the Lagos campus of the Nigerian Law School. She will become the first woman to lead the institution since its establishment in 1962.

Odusote obtained her bachelor’s degree in law from Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) and was called to the bar in 1988.

She holds a master’s from the same university, specialising in company and commercial law, and a doctorate degree in law from the University of Surrey, United Kingdom (UK), with research focus on public law and administration of justice.

Odusote joined the Nigerian Law School as a lecturer in 2001 and has risen through the ranks, serving as head of academic department, director of academics, and head of campus. (Channels)

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Armed gangs kill 30, kidnap many in Niger

Armed gangs killed more than 30 people and kidnapped others in a raid in Nigeria in the same state where hundreds of schoolchildren were abducted late last year, police said Sunday.

The gangs swept into Kasuwan Daji village, in the Kabe district of the western Niger State on Saturday and set a market ablaze, before looting shops for food, they said.

“Over 30 victims lost their lives during the attack, some persons were also kidnapped,” Wasiu Abiodun, Niger state police spokesman said.

President Bola Tinubu’s office said the attackers may have been “terrorists” fleeing from parts of northwestern Nigeria following Christmas Day airstrikes by the United States that targeted militants linked to the Islamic State group.

The attackers “will be caught and brought to justice”, along with any who helped them, Tinubu vowed in a statement relayed by his media adviser Bayo Onanuga.

Images viewed by AFP showed some of those killed in the raid had their hands tied behind their backs.

Gangs, known in Nigeria as “bandits”, frequently carry out mass kidnappings for ransom and loot villages in parts of Nigeria.

Niger state has been one of the hardest hit in recent months.

In November, armed gangs seized more than 250 students and staff from a Catholic school in the state.

Authorities announced their release in two batches weeks later, without saying whether a ransom was paid.

The latest attack took place less than 20 kilometres (12 miles) from Papiri village where the students and teachers were snatched from their school.

The local church for the area put the death toll from Saturday’s raid at more than 40, higher than the figure given by police.

“Reports indicate the bandits operated for hours with no security presence,” the Catholic Church in Kontagora said on its Facebook page. (Guardian)

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Tinubu speaks with Anthony Joshua after Ogun accident

President Bola Tinubu has commiserated with Nigerian-British heavyweight boxing champion, Anthony Joshua, over a tragic road accident in Ogun State in which the boxer was injured and lost two of his associates.

According to a statement issued on Monday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President personally reached out to Joshua via a telephone call to express his condolences and offer prayers following the incident.

“I spoke with AJ on the phone to personally convey my condolences over the death of his two associates. I wished him well and prayed for him. He assured me that he is receiving the best care in the hospital”, the statement quoted the President to have said.

The President also extended his concern to Joshua’s family, noting that he contacted the boxer’s mother to offer prayers and support. Tinubu added, “I also spoke with AJ’s mother and prayed for her. She was very appreciative of my call.”

Providing further assurance on the Federal Government’s concern, the President disclosed that he also spoke with Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, who was present at the hospital where Joshua was receiving treatment.

Tinubu said, “Additionally, I spoke to Governor Dapo Abiodun, who was in the hospital with them. The Governor assured me that he will do everything possible to ensure AJ receives the best possible attention.”

PUNCH Online reports that Tinubu, who is currently abroad, had earlier taken to his official X account to express deep sympathy to the boxer and his family over the accident, which occurred along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway.

In the statement, the President wrote, “I sympathise with you and your family as you bear the emotional weight of this unfortunate incident.

As a sportsman, you have always shown courage, discipline, and unwavering love for our country. These are qualities that have made you a source of national pride.”

He further called for unity and mutual support during moments of grief, stating, “In moments like this, we must encourage one another as brothers and sisters with a shared destiny.”

Tinubu also offered prayers for Joshua’s recovery and for the repose of the souls of the deceased associates. He said, “I pray for strength, wisdom, and grace for you during this painful period. May God grant you a speedy recovery and repose to the souls of the departed.” (Punch)

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Chukwuma calls on President Tinubu to force entire NFF Board to resign

Not satisfied with inability of the Super Eagles to qualify for next year’s FIFA World Cup after similarly missing out of the last edition in Qatar in 2022, a former Vice President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Chief Gabriel Chukwuma, asked for the resignation of the entire board of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) led by Ibrahim Gusau.

Although the NFF has petition FIFA to disqualify DR Congo who defeated Super Eagles in shootouts of the final match of the African Playoffs in Morocco last month for fielding nine players that Nigeria consider  ineligible”, Chukwuma stressed that seeking to get into the Intercontinental playoffs through the boardroom was beneath the three-time continental champions.

“The NFF board should resign because if they had gotten their acts together earlier, the Super Eagles would have qualified  with ease without depending on play-offs or boardroom points now.”

The former proprietor of Gabros FC of Nnewi who is one of the highest stakeholders in Nigerian football, having managed a football club for 22 years from amateur to professional rank, said that apart from not qualifying for the 2026 World Cup, the current board rendered all male national teams powerless.

“The board has through cluelessness reduced our male teams to minnows of African football, beaten easily by unpopular or unknown names in football,” he noted with sadness.

Chukwuma recalled: “Since last year, I have been telling them to contact  me  so that I can assist in contributing money and  can  possibly  engage some of my friends to assist, if money was their problem. 

“Now, they have failed, there is nothing they can do. They should stop deceiving President Bola Tinubu that there is still hope for Super Eagles to Reach the World Cup to be hosted by USA, Canada and Mexico. 

“Just because our president is a listening president, they go to him and deceive him. They forget that Nigerians like football. They hardly eat or sleep when Nigerian teams are playing as they are always ready to watch them. 

“The federal government gave NFF tax payers’ money, including my money and they swallowed it. Nigeria have the crop of best legs  in the whole world. But the problem is that those who manage our football dont know what to do, they are only interested in doing players’ agent. 

He decried the situation where everyone in football administration will wants his or her players to be in the teams to play  matches. 

“Football is either you get results or you get rich. As long as you want to enrich yourself you cannot get results. I said this many months ago that Nigeria cannot qualify for the World Cup. Not that I was wishing the country bad luck but just to challenge those managing our football to qualify for the World Cup.”

Chukwuma reiterated, ” Let me say it again, all NFF board members should resign from their positions to allow young managers take over the management of football in the country and prepare for the 2030 World Cup. 

“It is shameful that some countries that are not up to Lagos qualified easily.  And now, I am hearing  that these same people who have dragged our football into the abyss are preparing to return for another term. 

“It is an insult to the whole nation. If President Tinubu allows them to go for anothet term, we have accepted defeat and should say goodbye to ever qualifying for the World Cup. And if they are not resigning, I am ready to go to court to force them out, for capable people to take over. “ (ThisDay)

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Tinubu joins Lagos Eyo parade as festival honours four legends

President Bola Tinubu, on Saturday, joined thousands of Lagos residents and cultural enthusiasts at the grand finale of the 2025 Eyo Festival in Lagos, marking the return of the iconic cultural parade after an eight-year hiatus.

According to a statement issued by the Special Advider to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the colourful event, held at Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos, featured the President dressed in the traditional white robe, damask sash and distinctive hat associated with Eyo masqueraders.

The President also carried the customary opambata staff during the procession after it was presented to him in his Lagos residence on December 21.

The statement noted that this year’s festival honoured four eminent Lagos figures—former military administrator of Lagos State, Brigadier-General Mobolaji Johnson; former Governors Lateef Kayode Jakande and Sir Michael Otedola; and the late Alhaja Abibat Mogaji, former Iyaloja-General and mother of President Tinubu, breaking from the traditional practice of recognising one or three honourees.

In a message sent to organisers, Tinubu described the celebration as “a great rekindling of our culture,” saying the festival underscores the richness of Lagos traditions and the achievements of distinguished Nigerians.

He added that the timing of the festival, coinciding with the festive travel season, highlights the tourism potential of Nigerian cultural heritage.

“The Eyo Festival is a vibrant expression of the rich traditions of Lagos. It celebrates the achievements, outstanding contributions, and exemplary lives of distinguished Nigerians—not only eminent Lagosians,” he said.

The President added that all the honorees deserved the recognition.

He said, “They were leaders and builders whose visionary leadership, influence, and diligence in public service helped nurture Lagos State to both national and international prominence”.

The President also noted the festival’s timing, which coincides with Detty December, a period when Lagos welcomes thousands of Nigerians from the diaspora and foreign visitors.

“It is a reminder that our culture and traditions hold great tourism potential. Indeed, our cultural assets can serve as valuable resources for destination promotion. The glamour of white-robed figures parading our streets in celebration of distinguished Lagosians sends a resounding message about our identity and our country,” he said.

The President encouraged all revellers to celebrate peacefully and ensure the safety of all participants.

In his remark, Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, said the festival represented a “homecoming” for the President and marked a significant moment in the preservation of Yoruba heritage.

“What we’re celebrating here today is the first of its kind. As our son, our father, we are seated with the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to witness a history of the cultural heritage of Lagos. “Mr President, it is not just a coincidence; it is history in your lifetime that is being put in place today. “We honour you, give God the glory for your life, and we are indeed excited that God Almighty can bring you and most of your people to come and celebrate the best of the cultural heritage of Lagos,” he said.

Sanwo-Olu commended the traditional institutions under the Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu, for their exemplary leadership in reviving the festival.

“Today, we gather on this historic ground at the Tafawa Balewa Square, wrapped in the timeless majesty of the Eyo Festival, the sacred Adamu Orisha Play.

“After an eight-year interval, this revered tradition returns to Lagos in full splendour, standing as a powerful affirmation of our identity, our resilience, and unbroken connection to our history.

“The Eyo Festival is far more than a pageantry. It is a living archive of our Yoruba heritage and a symbol of unity, a symbol of purity and the communal strength of Lagos,” he said.

The governor assured his audience that his administration will continue to advance the state’s socio-economic trajectory without abandoning its cultural roots.

He said his administration will maximise the festival’s potential as it projects Lagos onto the global stage. (Punch)

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Imam urges Tinubu to remain focused despite challenges

President Bola Tinubu on Friday joined Muslim faithful for Jumat prayers at the Lekki Central Mosque, where the visiting Imam, Dr. Salahudeen Munirudeen Arriyadhi, urged him to remain resolute and focused on his vision for Nigeria despite mounting challenges and criticisms.

Delivering his sermon before the congregational prayers, Dr. Arriyadhi commended the President for the administration’s ongoing developmental efforts, noting that leadership inevitably attracts divergent opinions and resistance.

He reminded the President that it is impossible to please everyone at the same time, urging him not to be distracted by opposition but to remain guided by purpose and service.

Quoting from the Qur’an, the Imam said Allah is pleased with leaders who listen to the cries of their followers and respond to their needs, but displeased with those who ignore the plight of the people they govern.

“Leadership is a trust,” he said, adding: “We are praying for you. By the grace of Allah, you will succeed.”
In the sermon titled Unity in Diversity and Remembering the Day of Judgement, Dr. Arriyadhi stressed that human differences in colour, tribe, religion, language and nationality are neither accidental nor arbitrary, but divinely ordained.

He explained that diversity is intended to promote understanding, cooperation and mutual respect, rather than division and conflict.

“Diversity is a sign of Allah’s wisdom,” the Imam said. “If Allah had willed that all His creation be the same, He would have created them so. Differences in tribe, language and religion should therefore not be a source of hostility, but a foundation for harmony, unity and learning.”

President Tinubu was accompanied to the mosque by his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, and the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, alongside other senior government officials.

He was received by the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Obafemi Hamzat, as well as members of the mosque’s management committee.

The President had arrived in Lagos on Saturday, December 20, to spend the end-of-year festive season in the nation’s commercial capital. (Guardian)