Opening the record…
Opening the record…
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This Easter Sunday evening, I had the distinct honour of chairing the cocktail reception held in celebration of the Sunhak Peace Prize awarded to former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR. It was not merely an… Full textThis Easter Sunday evening, I had the distinct honour of chairing the cocktail reception held in celebration of the Sunhak Peace Prize awarded to former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR. It was not merely an event. It was a moment of deep reflection and recognition of a statesman whose sacrifice, and singular act in 2015 reshaped the course of Nigeria’s democratic journey. When President @GEJonathan conceded defeat after the 2015 general elections, standing on humanistic principles that 'his ambition is not worth the blood of any Nigerian’ he made a choice that few in power are willing to make. He chose peace over power, unity over personal ambition, and the future of Nigeria over the allure of office. That singular decision not only calmed a nation on edge but became a reference point for democratic maturity across Africa. It was a courageous, selfless act that restored faith in the ballot and inspired hope across the continent. Since leaving office, His Excellency has continued to build on that legacy—engaging in election observation, conflict mediation, and democratic advocacy across Africa and beyond. He has shown, time and again, that true leadership is not defined by how long one remains in office but by the positive impact one makes in and out of office. His post-presidency has been a model of statesmanship, service, and quiet diplomacy. If our current leaders could emulate even a fraction of President Jonathan’s humility and commitment to nationhood, Nigeria would be on a firmer path toward democratic consolidation, inclusive governance, and national development. Sadly, what we see today are leaders whose words proclaim democracy, but whose actions undermine its very essence through electoral malpractice, suppression of dissent, and prioritization of personal ambition over national interest. Democracy is not just about elections. It is about accountability, justice, and service to the people. We can not continue to preach democracy while silencing critics, undermining institutions, and treating the people’s will with contempt. President Goodluck Jonathan stands tall today because he matched his democratic rhetoric with action. He has become a symbol of democratic resilience and peaceful leadership. That is the kind of leadership Nigeria needs. That is the kind of legacy we must aspire to build—a leadership that prioritizes the people embraces peace, and upholds the sanctity of our democracy. As we celebrate him today, may we also challenge ourselves, especially those of us in public service, to walk the path of integrity, sacrifice, and service to the nation. Nigeria will rise when we begin to put the people first. A new Nigeria is POssible! -PO | 20 Apr 2025 | 266 | 35 | |
Let’s Use Easter to Pray for Compassionate Leaders – Obi
The Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 election, Mr. Peter Obi, has called on Nigerian Christians to use the Easter period to pray for… Full textLet’s Use Easter to Pray for Compassionate Leaders – Obi The Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 election, Mr. Peter Obi, has called on Nigerian Christians to use the Easter period to pray for compassionate leaders—those who can truly share in the people’s pain. In his Easter message on Saturday, Obi stated that compassionate leaders are those who always consider the impact of their actions and inactions on the people. “At Easter, Christians celebrate the ultimate sacrifice Jesus Christ made for humanity. Therefore, there is no better time to pray for tender-hearted and caring leaders for our country than during Easter, when we remember Jesus as a remarkable and compassionate leader.” Obi observed that what is currently evident in Nigeria—marked by widespread insecurity and numerous challenges—is a clear abdication of responsibility by insensitive and indifferent leaders. He emphasised that Nigeria deserves better leadership—leaders who can harness the country’s abundant natural and human resources for the benefit of all. Finally, Obi encouraged fellow Nigerians and members of the Obidient family across the globe not to despair in the face of adversity, affirming that our Redeemer lives and is active—assuring us that a New Nigeria is possible. | 20 Apr 2025 | 261 | 28 | |
Today, I had the honour of visiting the families of two legendary footballers - Christian Chukwu in Enugu and Christian Isiadinso in Enugu-Ukwu - who recently passed on. Their immense contributions to Nigerian football,… Full textToday, I had the honour of visiting the families of two legendary footballers - Christian Chukwu in Enugu and Christian Isiadinso in Enugu-Ukwu - who recently passed on. Their immense contributions to Nigerian football, particularly through their roles in the revered Old Rangers team, left an indelible mark on our nation’s history and collective memory. Besides playing for the national team, Chukwu also coached the Super Eagles for many years and won laurels both as a player and as a coach. These men were not just sportsmen; they were national icons and patriots whose exploits on the field brought joy, hope, and pride to millions of Nigerians. Their legacy lives on in the hearts of many. I also visited another legend, a very close associate of Chukwu, Emmanuel Okala, to personally commiserate with him and other surviving members of the team—men whose dedication, discipline, and passion for the game made them timeless role models. Regrettably, it is painfully evident that our country has not shown these icons the kindness and recognition they truly deserve. During my tenure as Governor, I began the payment of monthly stipends to members of the Old Rangers. I worked closely with many of them, both in the office and afterwards. More recently, I took personal responsibility for the burial expenses of two of them. Sadly—and tellingly—not a single representative from the Federal Government was present on either occasion. As I said during the visit, we must not wait until our heroes are gone before we celebrate them. Let us honour them while they are still with us and continue to preserve their memories when they depart. May the souls of Christian Chukwu and Christian Isiadinso rest in peace, and may their families find strength and comfort during this time of grief. -PO | 19 Apr 2025 | 293 | 43 | |
Today, I had the opportunity to meet with Quadri Yusuf Alabi, the young boy whose story moved us all. After enduring unjust and illegal incarceration, he is finally free, and I am very grateful to the lawyers led by… Full textToday, I had the opportunity to meet with Quadri Yusuf Alabi, the young boy whose story moved us all. After enduring unjust and illegal incarceration, he is finally free, and I am very grateful to the lawyers led by @InibeheEffiong, who fought for his release and also @DeleFarotimi and Ms Hassana Nurudeen,, whose constant intervention was instrumental in securing justice for the young lad. I listened to Quadri today, and one thing stood out clearly: his unwavering desire for education. Despite all he has been through, his only dream is to return to school and complete his education and I will make sure he gets it. His determination is not just inspiring; it is a call to action, and I am committed to ensuring that he gets the education he desires and deserves. In addition, we must not stop at his release. Those responsible for his illegal incarceration must be held accountable. As we strive to build a Nigeria where fairness and integrity prevail, we cannot afford to allow such acts of criminality to go unpunished. I once again thank the lawyers and everyone who stood and remained unrelenting for justice. Together, we will build a Nigeria where education, freedom, rule of law, equity and justice, care and protection of the less privileged in our midst will stand as the foundation of our democracy. A new Nigeria is Possible. -PO | 18 Apr 2025 | 1,421 | 368 | |
Today, my brother and Governor, Alex Otti @alexottiofr, and I, along with other faithful, joined the Catholic community in ABA, Abia state in celebrating the 2025 Chrism Mass, which was officiated by the Catholic Bishop… Full textToday, my brother and Governor, Alex Otti @alexottiofr, and I, along with other faithful, joined the Catholic community in ABA, Abia state in celebrating the 2025 Chrism Mass, which was officiated by the Catholic Bishop of Aba Diocese, Most Rev. Augustine Ndubueze Echema, at Christ The King Cathedral (CKC). I would like to express my gratitude to the Bishop, who noted in his closing statement that compassion is more important than money and thanked the Governor for being compassionate to them during their time of need. I thanked the Governor for his kind remarks about my prudence and the management of the state's resources and for his assertion of the importance of good leadership. I always maintained that a competent leader with capacity, credibility, character, compassion, and commitment to do good can start building a new Nigeria that everybody will be proud of. A New Nigeria is Possible. -PO | 17 Apr 2025 | 198 | 32 | |
On Monday, April 14th, I had the privilege of visiting OLA College of Nursing Science, Jos — a remarkable institution deeply committed to shaping the future of healthcare in our nation. There, I met passionate young… Full textOn Monday, April 14th, I had the privilege of visiting OLA College of Nursing Science, Jos — a remarkable institution deeply committed to shaping the future of healthcare in our nation. There, I met passionate young Nigerians, determined to become the lifesavers and healthcare professionals our country urgently needs. In recognition of their efforts and to support the school’s ongoing development projects, I made a donation of N10 million. We must continue to invest in education and healthcare, as these remain the most critical indicators for improving our nation’s Human Development Index (HDI). Although I couldn’t proceed with my planned trip to Benue State, I took the opportunity, on my way back, to stop by a private health institution doing commendable work — Paradise College of Health and Technology in Uke, Nasarawa State. The college is not only training health professionals but also serves as a shelter for orphans — a testament to the power of purposeful private initiatives. I spent time speaking with both the students and the orphans, listening to their stories and their dreams, and encouraging them to continue working hard. I reminded them that education is not just a ladder for personal growth, but a national tool for lifting people out of poverty. In my usual way of supporting causes that impact lives — especially those often forgotten — I gave my modest support of N2.5 million to the school and the orphans and assured them of my continued support. We cannot build a prosperous nation without investing in its people. The path to development lies in improving healthcare, expanding access to quality education, and pulling as many Nigerians as possible out of poverty. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO | 17 Apr 2025 | 402 | 87 | |
I would like to sincerely thank the Northern Traditional Rulers for their courageous and timely emergency declaration of the security situation in the region. I cannot agree less with them that Enough is Enough… Full textI would like to sincerely thank the Northern Traditional Rulers for their courageous and timely emergency declaration of the security situation in the region. I cannot agree less with them that Enough is Enough regarding the persistent killings and insecurity plaguing our nation. Their collective voice, as reported, underscores the urgent need for decisive action to protect lives and restore peace in our communities. I urge governments at all levels to work closely with these royal fathers who are closest to the people at the grassroots. Their commitment to addressing these challenges and offering counsel to regional governors reflects true leadership and a deep concern for the well-being of their communities. The stance of the Northern Traditional Rulers serves as a clarion call to all stakeholders. We must unite, irrespective of political affiliations, to implement lasting solutions that address the root causes of our nation's challenges. Let us work together to build a Nigeria where every citizen feels safe, valued, and empowered. A new Nigeria is POssible. -PO | 16 Apr 2025 | 355 | 29 | |
I am deeply saddened and troubled by the tragic news of yet another senseless killing in Bassa, Plateau State, where over 50 innocent Nigerians have lost their lives. This heartbreaking incident comes barely a day after… Full textI am deeply saddened and troubled by the tragic news of yet another senseless killing in Bassa, Plateau State, where over 50 innocent Nigerians have lost their lives. This heartbreaking incident comes barely a day after I visited Plateau—a land of courageous and resilient people who, for years, have continued to cry out for justice, peace, and protection. To return from such a visit only to be confronted with another round of bloodshed is both painful and unacceptable. No nation can thrive when its citizens are slaughtered in their homes and communities without consequence. What is happening in Plateau State is no longer isolated violence. As rightly pointed out by Governor Muftwang, this has become a deliberate, systematic pattern of coordinated attacks. It is imperative that the federal government urgently rises to its constitutional responsibility to protect lives and property across Nigeria. This is not the time for promises and press statements. It is time for concrete, strategic action. The people of Plateau need more than sympathy, they need security. The federal government must immediately deploy reinforced security operations and actionable intelligence to dismantle the criminal networks behind these atrocities. We cannot continue to mourn our fellow citizens daily while those responsible walk free. There must be justice—and it must be swift, transparent, and total. The perpetrators must be identified, apprehended, and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. Nigerians deserve to live in peace, with dignity and without fear, in every corner of this country. My heart goes out to the bereaved families, and I pray that the souls of the departed rest in peace. May God grant the people of Plateau strength in this time of profound grief. –PO | 16 Apr 2025 | 706 | 110 | |
Mr. President, Domestic problems Beacons.
I am compelled at this time in our lives as a nation to call on our retreating President's attention to the security challenges at home, which entails that he immediately… Full textMr. President, Domestic problems Beacons. I am compelled at this time in our lives as a nation to call on our retreating President's attention to the security challenges at home, which entails that he immediately suspend his ongoing retreat in a foreign land and come home to address the overwhelming security situation across the country. This urgent call has become necessary following the rising incidents of crimes and criminalities all over Nigeria with an apparent absence of governance. In the 2 weeks you have been away, over 150 Nigerians have lost their lives to insecurity across Nigeria, especially in Plateau and Zamfara states. The repeated pipeline explosions in the Niger Delta, further reflect a nation in distress. In the North East, Borno state leaders are bemoaning the return of insurgency with troops and civilians being killed randomly. In the South East, the story is the same: killings and abduction. Amid all these, the CEO of the troubling company called Nigeria is retreating far away land in France from the Company's headquarters. The primary duty of any government is securing the lives and property of its citizens and one wonders the type of retreat going on in another country where peace has been secured by their leaders while blood continues to flow in our country The fight for a better Nigeria is not about individuals; it is about ensuring that every citizen can see, feel, and benefit from the policies and decisions of those in power. I, therefore like to urge Mr President to quickly suspend whatever he is doing in France and rush home to take responsibility by addressing these disturbing issues That is the new Nigeria that the nation seeks. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO | 16 Apr 2025 | 1,679 | 495 | |
Ordinarily, I would not have commented on this issue, as I have endured far worse situations in my political life since I declared for the presidency, and it continues to worsen as I strive to do things in a civilised… Full textOrdinarily, I would not have commented on this issue, as I have endured far worse situations in my political life since I declared for the presidency, and it continues to worsen as I strive to do things in a civilised and organized manner. The unfolding events demand that I have to start speaking out now. On what transpired today during my planned visit to Benue State, I am not entirely sure that the state Governor, my dear younger brother, a Reverend Father I deeply respect, is aware of this situation. Having exhausted every possible means to reach him, I am compelled to use this available platform to ensure my message is conveyed. On Thursday, the 10th of April, I had planned to visit Plateau and Benue State, respectively. Plateau on Sunday, the 13th of April 2025, and Benue on Monday, the 14th of April 2025. My trip included paying courtesy calls to the governors as well as visiting the IDP camps and schools of nursing in both states to give my support. As is my practice, I reached out to the Plateau State government to inform them of my visit, which included spending the day with the victims at the IDP camp in Bokkos, a visit I wholeheartedly embraced to extend my support, care, and compassion to fellow Nigerians in need. And in his utmost hospitality, the Plateau State Governor graciously permitted. In a similar vein, I tried repeatedly to contact the Benue State Governor directly without success. I then successfully contacted his ADC who told me that the governor was in a very important meeting and would call me before midnight on the same day. Unfortunately, I didn’t get that call until Sunday evening when he sent me a message stating he had not been able to reach his principal since the day I called. I was disturbed by how an ADC would not have been able to reach his principal for 3 days. However, because my visit to the governor was just for courtesy and respect, I decided to proceed with my trip to Makurdi. Earlier today at 7am, I left Jos, and on reaching Akwanga at about 10am, my security team stopped and stated they received a press statement, purportedly from the Benue State Government, that appeared designed to stop my trip. Curiously while I was still talking with my security team on the issue, the Governors ADC sent the statement directly to me. The letter refers exactly to my itinerary which I had earlier conveyed to the ADC directly and to the security operatives in Benue through my own security. I am forced to remind them, and all concerned, that the purpose of this journey is to support good causes in areas of critical development: health and health education, education and caring for our people in need, and this is what I have done in my private life for years before getting into politics and even while in politics I have continued to do so. Everyone knew then how I had to get permission from the then President, President Goodluck Jonathan, that I needed to visit Haiti during the earthquake. I intended to visit a school being built by the bishop in Gboko, a Nursing school and an IDP camp, actions that reflect my genuine care for the welfare of our fellow citizens, and my continuous show of love, care and compassion to citizens who have been displaced. May God help us as we rebuild our nation and aim to achieve a new Nigeria where we do not politicize everything but allow citizens to exist, and we all should live for the common good for less privileged Nigerians and those in need. A new Nigeria is POssible. -PO | 14 Apr 2025 | 3,680 | 850 | |
Yesterday, I travelled from Abuja to Jos, Plateau State, to condole with and show solidarity with Governor Caleb Mutfwang and the people of Plateau State over the recent senseless killings in the Bokkos area of the… Full textYesterday, I travelled from Abuja to Jos, Plateau State, to condole with and show solidarity with Governor Caleb Mutfwang and the people of Plateau State over the recent senseless killings in the Bokkos area of the State. From the state capital, I traveled to Bokkos and spent time with the victims, the displaced children and others. What has happened in these communities is very saddening and utterly unacceptable. Nigerians should not be killed or forced to flee their homes when we are not at war. Every life is precious, and no Nigerian, regardless of where they live should have to live in fear or uncertainty. My deepest condolences go to the families and communities who have suffered tragic losses. No words can truly capture the pain and devastation that such senseless violence brings. My heart is with the people of Bokkos, the displaced children, women, and entire communities, during this difficult time. Earlier, the Obidient Movement had built a borehole to provide clean water for the IDP camp and the community, and we continued the support yesterday with the sum of 7.5 million naira to help in providing facilities for the displaced children, provide continuous education and on going needs of those affected. Now, more than ever, leadership and compassion are essential. I stand in solidarity with Plateau State and remain committed to supporting all efforts toward peace, justice, and healing. May the souls of the departed rest in perfect peace, and may the people find strength, comfort, and unity as they rebuild their lives. A new Nigeria is POssible! -PO | 14 Apr 2025 | 727 | 116 | |
Yesterday, As a guest speaker via Zoom at the top Rice University’s inaugural African Development Conference, themed "The Governance Revolution"- an event being held for the first time in the university’s 100-year… Full textYesterday, As a guest speaker via Zoom at the top Rice University’s inaugural African Development Conference, themed "The Governance Revolution"- an event being held for the first time in the university’s 100-year history. I had the privilege of sharing my thoughts on the critical role of governance in Africa’s development. I emphasized that everything begins with competent leadership—one that possesses the capacity and compassion to serve and is committed to the ideals of good governance within a measurable development paradigm. We must invest in education to prepare the skilled workforce required for productivity, security of life and property and adherence to the rule of law must be upheld. The rule of law must be sacrosanct. We must fight corruption to its barest minimum and implement policies that support Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME). We must invest in education to prepare the skilled workforce required for productivity. Security of life and property and adherence to the rule of law must be upheld. Wet must fight corruption to its barest minimum and ensure that those who engage in corruption are punished. We must engage MSME which remains the backbone for economic and job creation. Comparable nations with large populations, like Indonesia and the Philippines, have demonstrated that with the right governance structures, such demographic strength can become an economic asset. We must do the same in Africa. I sincerely thank the RAADE (Rice University Association for African Development) Board for organizing this important event focused on African development. The conference is both inspiring and commendable and reflects the power of youth in our society to shape the future of our continent. A new Nigeria and Africa are POssible! -PO | 13 Apr 2025 | 173 | 24 | |
Beyond Borders: Uniting for Medical Excellence
Yesterday, I honoured the invitation of ANAP Doctors in North America and the University of Nigeria Alumni for an event held at Eko Hotel, Lagos, where I served as the… Full textBeyond Borders: Uniting for Medical Excellence Yesterday, I honoured the invitation of ANAP Doctors in North America and the University of Nigeria Alumni for an event held at Eko Hotel, Lagos, where I served as the keynote speaker. The theme was: “Beyond Borders – Uniting for Medical Excellence, Strengthening Our Alumni, and Inspiring the Next Generation.” I began by reminding everyone that the most critical measures of development are not physical infrastructure, such as road construction or buildings, but health, which is measured by the Human Development Index (HDI). This is why we say, “Health is wealth,” along with education and lifting people out of poverty. Countries that have focused on these three pillars have experienced consistent, upward growth. In Nigeria today, the healthcare system is in a very poor state. Over 70% of primary healthcare centres are non-functional, lacking both adequate facilities and manpower. Currently, Nigeria has only about 10% of the doctor-to-population ratio recommended by global standards. In contrast, countries like India, which once faced similar challenges, have made significant improvements. Despite having a population about seven times larger than Nigeria’s, India has achieved approximately 80% of the recommended doctor-to-population ratio and is actively expanding its network of medical colleges. Comparable nations, including several in Africa, have invested heavily in healthcare and education, recognising their critical roles in national development. For example, South Africa, with a population of about 63 million, has allocated a healthcare budget for the 2024/2025 fiscal year that is more than twice Nigeria’s total healthcare budget for the five-year period from 2021 to 2025, despite Nigeria having a population of over 200 million. We have borrowed heavily to support our healthcare system, securing several billions of dollars from multilateral agencies. However, these investments have not resulted in significant improvements. For instance, from the World Bank alone, Nigeria has borrowed over $11 billion between 2023 and now for healthcare and medical education. Our budgeting and borrowed funds should be directed towards the critical needs of healthcare, education, and poverty alleviation. We must urgently realign our planning, budgeting, and expenditures to ensure that borrowed funds are channelled towards areas of critical need—such as healthcare, medical education, and access to quality care that will truly benefit the population and create a lasting, positive impact. My sincere gratitude to the university alumni for organising the effort to raise $1 million for this noble initiative. I commend each of the alumni, professionals, and friends of UNCOMMA for their commitment and generosity in taking this bold step to give back. A new Nigeria is POssible! —PO | 13 Apr 2025 | 232 | 45 | |
I want to warmly congratulate President Goodluck Jonathan @GEJonathan on being honoured with the 2025 Founder’s Sunhak Peace Prize in Seoul, South Korea. This prestigious recognition is a powerful affirmation of your… Full textI want to warmly congratulate President Goodluck Jonathan @GEJonathan on being honoured with the 2025 Founder’s Sunhak Peace Prize in Seoul, South Korea. This prestigious recognition is a powerful affirmation of your tireless commitment to peace and democracy, not just in Nigeria, but across the African continent. Your legacy as a peacemaker continues to inspire hope in a generation yearning for stability, justice, and transformation. I celebrate your courage, your humility, and your determination to pursue peace in the face of adversity. May this global honour fuel even greater efforts toward the peaceful advancement of Africa and remind the world that Nigeria is home to leaders of integrity and impact. Congratulations once again, sir. -PO | 12 Apr 2025 | 205 | 28 | |
I am deeply saddened by the news of the passing to the greater glory of Christian Chukwu, one of Nigeria’s greatest football icons. Fondly known in football parlance as 'Field Marshal' and ‘Chairman’, he was not just a… Full textI am deeply saddened by the news of the passing to the greater glory of Christian Chukwu, one of Nigeria’s greatest football icons. Fondly known in football parlance as 'Field Marshal' and ‘Chairman’, he was not just a remarkable footballer but also an extraordinary leader who captained and coached the national team and his beloved club, Rangers International of Enugu, with distinction. His skill, discipline, and dedication to the beautiful game brought pride to our nation and joy to millions of fans across Africa and beyond. Beyond his playing days, Christian Chukwu continued to serve the game as a coach and mentor, nurturing young talents and contributing immensely to the development of football in Nigeria. His life was marked by resilience and patriotism, and his legacy will remain a shining example of what it means to represent one’s country with honour and integrity. Just a few weeks ago, Rangers suffered another profound loss, with the death of another Captain, Christian Isiadinso, who passed away in March. Christian Chukwu and Christian Isiadinso sacrificed everything for sports and our nation, both embodying the spirit of resilience and patriotism. At this difficult moment, my thoughts and prayers are with their families, the football community, and all Nigerians who mourn their great loss. May God grant them eternal rest in His kingdom, and may their legacies continue to inspire future generations of sportsmen and women in our beloved country. Rest in Peace our True Heroes. -PO | 12 Apr 2025 | 349 | 34 | |
Today, I was a guest speaker at the 28th Nigerian Universities Nursing Students Association (NUNSA) Annual General Assembly, held at the University of Lagos. The theme of the conference, which was centred on "Empowering… Full textToday, I was a guest speaker at the 28th Nigerian Universities Nursing Students Association (NUNSA) Annual General Assembly, held at the University of Lagos. The theme of the conference, which was centred on "Empowering Nurses: A Catalyst for Sustainable Health Care in Africa", is both timely and essential. I took time to highlight the critical shortage of nurses in Nigeria which, I insist, should be addressed by investing in the training of more nurses to satisfy our domestic healthcare needs and have enough to export to the global community. Nigeria only accounts for just about 1% of the global nursing workforce, which is far below what is needed for a country of over 200 million people. This critical shortage has continued to manifest in the poor nurse-to-patient ratio in Nigeria. We currently have about a 1:1,160 nurse-to-patient ratio, far above the WHO's recommended ratio of 1:120. Irrespective of its huge population of about 1.45 billion people, India has achieved a nurse-to-patient ratio of about 1:500 and is continuously improving it by investing in the training of more nurses. Nigeria, according to reports, needs about 1 million nurses to fill in this severe shortage. We currently have about 200,000 registered nurses and still need about 800,000 to fill the shortage. With about 400 schools and colleges of nursing in Nigeria, producing less than 15,000 nurses annually, it will take us over 50 years to end the shortage. This highlights the need for urgent actions that will aid the production of more nurses who are the bedrock of our primary health sector. We also need to invest more in nursing internship programs to enable newly trained nurses to gain hands-on experience to function effectively in the health sector. By so doing, we will raise an army of well-trained nurses who productively contribute to our healthcare sector. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO | 11 Apr 2025 | 328 | 60 | |
Today, I had the honour of attending the inaugural symposium Organized by the Pan Yoruba Organization, the Afenifere to celebrate the exceptional legacy of Chief Ayo Adebanjo. Themed “Afenifere – Identity, Ideas and… Full textToday, I had the honour of attending the inaugural symposium Organized by the Pan Yoruba Organization, the Afenifere to celebrate the exceptional legacy of Chief Ayo Adebanjo. Themed “Afenifere – Identity, Ideas and Ideology,” the event marked the 97th posthumous birthday of Chief Ayo Adebanjo, an exceptional patriot of democracy and leader of Afenifere. This symposium served not only as a gathering of thought leaders but also as a profound reflection on the values that have shaped Afenifere and their pursuit of true federalism, democracy, social justice and good governance. The unwavering commitment of Chief Ayo Adebanjo to justice, equity, and a truly united Nigeria was echoed throughout the discussions. The panel passionately revisited the foundational beliefs of Afenifere, emphasising the importance of identity, cultural integrity, and visionary leadership in addressing the challenges Nigeria is currently facing. Celebrating Chief Adebanjo’s life and legacy with fellow patriots and advocates for a better Nigeria reiterated that the fight for a just, democratic and equitable Nigeria continues. A Nigeria where the rule of law prevails without any breach of our democracy. A new Nigeria is POssible. -PO | 10 Apr 2025 | 242 | 33 | |
Today, I was privileged to attend the National Executive Council (NEC) Meeting and Stakeholders Interactive Townhall of our great party, the Labour Party, in Abuja, together with my brother and Governor H.E Alex Otti… Full textToday, I was privileged to attend the National Executive Council (NEC) Meeting and Stakeholders Interactive Townhall of our great party, the Labour Party, in Abuja, together with my brother and Governor H.E Alex Otti @alexottiofr, the Deputy Governor of Abia State, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, my running mate, Dr Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, elected members of National and State members and members of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the Trade Union Congress (TUC), and other respected leaders of the party. The meeting was both timely and necessary as we continue to strengthen our internal structures, promote unity, and refocus our efforts on the mission of building a New Nigeria. Together today, we reaffirmed our dedication to the vision and principles that brought millions of Nigerians into this movement — a vision rooted in transparency, integrity, and service to the people. One of the key resolutions made was the appointment of Distinguished Senator Nenadi Usman @SenNenadiUsman as the Acting National Chairperson of the Labour Party. We unanimously passed a vote of confidence in her leadership and believe she is well-positioned to steer the party in this transitional period. Following the NEC meeting, we proceeded to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to formally present the Supreme Court judgment which affirmed the party’s leadership transition and the validity of our NEC proceedings. It was also to formally communicate the appointment of Senator Nenadi Usman as our Acting Chairperson. This move was not only procedural but necessary. The leadership of our party must start on the right path to preserve the integrity of our internal democratic processes. Let me also use this opportunity to reiterate: I remain a proud and committed member of the Labour Party, and my focus is on the people — on the Nigerian youth, on the struggling families, and on the vision of an equitable and productive nation. This is not the time for division or distraction. It is time to build — with courage, with truth, and with love for our country. As always, I urge every Nigerian to stay hopeful and stay engaged. Together, we can and will build a New Nigeria that is POssible. -PO | 9 Apr 2025 | 392 | 69 | |
This morning in Abuja, I met with the new EU Ambassador, Gautier Mignot, @GautierMignot2 , who briefed me on the invaluable work the EU is doing in Nigeria — especially in the North East and North West in critical areas… Full textThis morning in Abuja, I met with the new EU Ambassador, Gautier Mignot, @GautierMignot2 , who briefed me on the invaluable work the EU is doing in Nigeria — especially in the North East and North West in critical areas of development such as education, health, agriculture, and efforts around the Lake Chad Basin. I was particularly elated by their concentration in the North East and North West, which, for me, deserves special attention. I also commend their commitment to critical areas of development that can help in educating, and pulling out of poverty and increase productivity, particularly in agriculture, which will reduce the root causes of the criminality and hardship experienced in these regions. I urge them not to relent in the good work they are doing to help turn Nigeria around. I believe that with all this support—combined with good governance, competent leadership with capacity, and compassion, we can turn Nigeria around. A new Nigeria is POssible. -PO | 9 Apr 2025 | 288 | 55 | |
In London yesterday, I honoured the invitation from Zenith Bank Chairman, Jim Ovia, as he received the prestigious award of Freedom of the City of London.
He joins the ranks of other globally notable political,… Full textIn London yesterday, I honoured the invitation from Zenith Bank Chairman, Jim Ovia, as he received the prestigious award of Freedom of the City of London. He joins the ranks of other globally notable political, Enterpruenal, charitable names and recipients like Nelson Mandela, Princess Diana, Sir Richard Branson – Founder of the Virgin Group, Ruth Leas – CEO of Investec Bank Plc and a few others, who are recognized for their contributions to a better society and humanity. Jim Ovia remains not only a phenomenal entrepreneur from Nigeria but a visionary leader whose outstanding achievements encourage us all to pursue excellence. He has contributed immensely to philanthropy across Nigeria and the world. May God Almighty who sees his goodness and commitment to a better society bless him always. -PO | 9 Apr 2025 | 150 | 25 |