Ideas leave a trail.

Yesterday, I continued my nationwide visits and support to critical areas of development: health, education, and poverty alleviation. I had the opportunity of visiting one of the IHM Health System vital healthcare facility providing essential services to people in the remote rural community of Mmiata, Anambra East local Government of Anambra State. The IHM Health System is managed by the Immaculate Heart Sisters. With the support of a kind-hearted Nigerian, Prof. Ozuah, I donated N75 million to their Specialist Hospital in Nkpor last year. To further support the remarkable work they are doing especially in rural areas like Mmiata-Anam, where their facility which I handed to them while serving as Governor has now been greatly improved, expanded . It is the only hospital that serves this area of the state. Prof Ozuah and I donated additional 25M for their selfless efforts to humanity. For anyone who has followed my journey in public service, I have consistently maintained that investing in critical areas such as health, education, and poverty alleviation through support for small businesses and humanitarian gestures remains the most effective path to national growth and development. I remain committed to replicating similar support for key institutions across the nation. I sincerely thank the proprietor, management, and staff of this facility whose dedication enables the hospital to grow and improve its healthcare delivery services to poor communities. Through these critical investments, we continue to strengthen the foundations of our society, building a healthy and productive nation . A New Nigeria is POssible if we work towards it. -PO

Today marks a significant milestone in our nation’s history as we join the global community in celebrating the International Day of Education. It is a particularly joyous day for me, given my very firm belief in the transformative power of education in driving development and innovation. It's still in that mood that I join other lovers of education, particularly in the Eastern region of Nigeria, in ushering in the Dennis Memorial Grammar School (DMGS), Onitsha, which celebrates its 100th anniversary tomorrow. This great citadel of learning will use the centenary celebration to showcase its remarkable contributions to education in Nigeria. These two events remind us of the critical importance of education in unlocking our nation’s potential. As part of celebrating these intertwined milestones, I visited schools in Anambra State, both in urban areas and in the hinterlands. At DMGS, while rejoicing with them on their centenary celebration, I highlighted some of the school’s distinguished alumni who have achieved renown in various fields, encouraging the students to follow in their footsteps. I mentioned Prof. Kenneth Dike, the first Black Vice-Chancellor in Africa; Emmanuel Ifeajuna, the first African to win a gold medal at the Commonwealth Games; Bishop Jonathan Onyemelukwe; Prof. James Ezeilo, former Vice Chancellor of Nsukka; Prof. Ilochi Okafor, former VC of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka; Dr. Tim Menakaya, Nigeria s former Minister of Health; and Chief Simon Okeke, former Chairman of the Police Service Commission, among many others. These accomplished individuals exemplify the transformative power of education. Emphasizing their remarkable achievements, I urged the students to take their education seriously, reminding them that with dedication and hard work, th, ey t, oo could achieve greatness like these notable figures. I also visited Nmiata-Anam, a community close to my heart. During my gubernatorial campaign, I traveled to the town by boat because there were no accessible roads. I promised the community that I would construct a bridge and a road in the area. Today, I am proud to say that this promise has been fulfilled, connecting the town to the rest of the state. Further to the celebration of World Education Day, I also visited Community Primary School, Nmiata-Anam, and Our Lady of Lourdes Secondary School, Nmiata-Anam. At both schools, after interacting with the pupils and students, I reminded them of the importance of education. I also pledged to support the schools in the best way I can. Education remains a powerful tool for training a skilled workforce, driving innovation, and fostering sustainable development. Countries like India, China, Morocco, and Egypt have shown the profound connection between education and national progress, significantly improving their global standing through strategic investments in education. However, Nigeria continues to face significant challenges in its education sector, including poor funding, a shortage of qualified teachers, outdated curricula, corruption, and insecurity. It is the government's responsibility to address these issues and ensure every Nigerian child receives at least a basic education. By making education a priority, we can build a productive population that will drive our natiotowardds progress. As we celebrate these milestones, let us commit to building a nation where every child has access to quality learning. A New Nigeria is possible if we invest in education and unlock our nation’s full potential. -PO

Commendable Police Action I commend the Nigeria Police for their swift and effective response in rescuing Mrs. Folashade Odumusu, the wife of retired AIG Hakeem Odumusu, who was kidnapped just a few days ago. The operation, conducted within a week, highlights their capacity to act decisively when motivated. What stands out is the precision with which the rescue mission was executed. It not only led to the safe release of the victim, unharmed, but also resulted in the neutralisation of some kidnappers, the recovery of weapons, and the retrieval of the ransom. Such a professional outcome deserves high praise. The Ogun State Police Command expressed gratitude for the technical support and cooperation received from the Force Headquarters and the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun. The IGP, who displayed exceptional interest in the case, commended the Ogun Command for dismantling the criminal network behind the abduction. This success story underscores a critical point: with proper leadership, motivation, and adequate support from the top echelon of security agencies, the fight against crime can yield impressive results. As the country continues to grapple with rising cases of kidnapping and related crimes, this incident offers hope. It proves that these issues can be tackled effectively if security personnel are well-resourced, supported, and committed to their responsibilities. While celebrating this laudable achievement, I urge the Nigeria Police to extend the same level of urgency and professionalism to cases involving everyday Nigerians - those whose plights are often underreported or ignored. Many innocent citizens remain victims of abduction, languishing in captivity without rescue efforts reaching them. This successful operation is a testament to the possibilities that lie within our security architecture when it is properly managed and prioritised. It demonstrates that, even in the face of challenges, a new Nigeria is truly POssible. -PO

Today, emotion took the greater part of me as I left Lagos this morning and headed to the site of the tragic petrol tanker explosion, the gravesite, and also the Sarkin Dikko place along the Dikko-Maje Road in Suleja, Niger State, where over 100 lives were lost, more than 50 injured, and many properties destroyed. At the explosion site and the graveyard where 80 victims were buried, I felt the sorrow of a preventable tragedy. I also met with some of the injured victims at the Hospital to offer support and encouragement. These recurring disasters call for urgent safety measures: repairing roads, more enlightenment of tanker vehicle operators, investing in healthcare, and lifting people out of poverty to prevent such heartbreaking losses. I also met with Sarkin Dikko and his council to extend my condolences and solidarity with the people of the Dikko community in Niger State. Human lives are invaluable, and governance must prioritize their protection through proactive policies. Together, we can ensure such tragedies become a thing of the past. -PO

Congratulations to President Donald J. Trump. On behalf of my family and the Obidients Movement, I extend my warmest congratulations to President Donald J. Trump @realDonaldTrump on his inauguration as the 47th President of the United States of America. Your victory is a testament to the resilience of democracy and the enduring will of the American people. It is my hope that your presidency will be marked by policies that foster global stability, economic growth, and strengthened international partnerships, particularly between the United States and Africa. As you assume this great responsibility, I urge you to champion the values of unity, equity, and justice, which are the bedrock of sustainable progress. The world watches with anticipation, and we are optimistic that your leadership will usher in a new era of cooperation and mutual respect among nations. Congratulations once again, Mr. President, and best wishes for a successful term. -PO

Guided by my unwavering belief in education as a critical contributor to national development and its transformative power, over the weekend, I had the pleasure of visiting Paul University, Awka, where I presented a cheque of ₦30 million to support the institution’s continued growth and development. This marks my third visit to the University, having previously donated ₦10 million during each of my earlier visits, which brings my total support to the university to ₦50 million. I also assured the institution of my continued support in the future especially in the new School of Nursing Sciences. During my visit, the proprietor and his dedicated team kindly took me on a tour of the ongoing projects at the university. I was deeply inspired by the remarkable progress being achieved, particularly with the introduction of their new Nursing Programme. Their steadfast dedication to advancing education and equipping students with productive skills and opportunities is truly commendable. Supporting education remains a priority for me, and I am steadfast in my commitment to initiatives that empower our youth and strengthen the foundation of our society. By investing in education, we unlock the immense potential of our people to become productive members of society and, thus, pave the way for sustainable and inclusive progress. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

Today, I join the world in celebrating the birthday of a remarkable Nigerian Media Influencer, Tunde Ednut. Tunde has earned his place as one of Nigeria's most admired and hardworking internet celebrities, captivating audiences with his creativity, humor, and consistency. His impact on digital entertainment and his ability to connect with people across borders is truly remarkable, making him a force in the industry. On this special day, I wish Tunde Ednut good health of mind and body, continued success, and many more productive years ahead, as he continues to contribute to the development of our nation. Happy birthday, Tunde Ednut! -PO

On behalf of my family, I sincerely sympathise with the popular Fuji maestro, Alhaji Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, known as K1 De Ultimate (KWAM1), who recently suffered a double bereavement. The reported deaths of his ex-wife, Alhaja Hafsat Ajoke Anifowoshe, and his mother, Alhaja Halima Shadiya Anifowoshe, within a few days, are indeed tragic. I commiserate with him and his entire family during this challenging period of mourning. May Almighty Allah grant them the fortitude to bear this irreplaceable loss, forgive the sins of the departed, and grant them eternal rest. -PO

The tragic petrol tanker explosion that occurred along Dikko-Maje Road in the Suleja Local Government Area of Niger State yesterday is truly heartbreaking. Reports indicate that over 70 lives were lost, while more than 50 people were injured in the incident. These accidents, which have sadly become increasingly recurrent in recent times, highlight the urgent need for the implementation of stricter safety measures to address the dangers of tanker explosions and similar incidents, which often result in colossal disasters. I sincerely commiserate with the families who lost their loved ones in the tragedy. I also extend my condolences to the Government and people of Niger State over this devastating incident. May God grant them, and all of us, the fortitude to bear this loss, eternal rest to the departed, and a swift recovery to the injured. -PO

I am delighted by the reports of the listing of 6 Nigerians among the 400 scientists and engineers honored by the outgoing US President Joe Biden with the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE), the highest recognition bestowed by the US government for outstanding contributions to science and engineering. The six Nigerians were Azeez Butali, a Gilbert Lilly-endowed professor at the University of Iowa’s College of Dentistry; Ijeoma Opara, an associate professor of public health at Yale School of Public Health; Oluwatomi Akindele, a postdoctoral researcher at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory; Eno Ebong, an associate professor of chemical engineering at Northeastern University; Oluwasanmi Koyejo, an assistant professor of computer science at Stanford University; Abidemi Ajiboye, the executive vice chair of the biomedical engineering department at Case Western Reserve University. I congratulate them for these merit-based awards that bear testament to their hard work and visible contributions to science, engineering, and technology. Their achievements should remind us of the critical need of investing in education, in the nation, as I have always maintained, for our national development. Nigeria is endowed with millions of diversely talented youths whose greatness can only be nurtured by investment in education. Once again, I congratulate these great men and women for making our nation proud, as we look forward to their contribution to our national development. A New Nigeria is possible. -PO

Yesterday, I visited the Anglican Diocese of Nnewi and was deeply impressed by the remarkable efforts of Bishop Ndubisi Obi. At ADON College of Health Technology, I witnessed significant growth and had the pleasure of interacting with the students. I was also pleased to present a cheque of ₦10 million to support ongoing projects at the institution. We later visited the Diocesan Rehabilitation Centre, which provides support for individuals recovering from drug abuse. Following their rehabilitation, they are allowed to learn skills that can help them reintegrate into society, should they choose to do so. What I saw at the Centre was truly moving—over 40 individuals undergoing rehabilitation, striving for a second chance at life. I pledged my support for this impactful initiative. This is a cause that deserves the backing of everyone, and I urge the authorities to intensify efforts to combat hard drugs and decisively address those involved in the trade. Together with the Bishop, I also visited the school for children with special needs. Your Lordship’s unwavering dedication to human development is both inspiring and commendable. I pledge my continued support for such noble and transformative efforts. -PO

The recent terrorist attack and ambush in Borno State, which claimed precious lives and left many missing, is a grim reminder of the persistent security challenges facing our nation. This tragedy highlights the urgent need for the government to intensify efforts to secure the country. The fight against terrorism must be resolute, and we urge those in authority to deploy all available resources to bring the perpetrators of this heinous act to justice. Our security personnel on the frontlines must be adequately equipped, supported, and motivated to tackle these threats effectively. As a nation, we must rise above politics to confront this menace. Insecurity is not just a government challenge; it requires a united front from all stakeholders - community leaders, religious leaders, civil society, and every citizen. To the grieving families, no words can fully convey the depth of our sorrow for your loss. Your pain is shared by all Nigerians, and our thoughts and prayers are with you in this moment of profound grief. Together, we must remain steadfast in our resolve to build a secure and prosperous Nigeria. -PO

I am saddened by the news of the passing of the Deputy Chief Whip of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Adewunmi Oriyomi Onanuga. Her demise is a profound loss, not only to her family and colleagues but to the nation at large, given her remarkable contributions to the Ikenne/Sagamu/Remo North constituency of Ogun State and her service in the legislature. On behalf of myself and the Obidient family, I extend my heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, and colleagues in the National Assembly. May the Almighty God grant her eternal rest and bring solace to her loved ones during this difficult time. -PO

Today, I joined the clergy and faithful of the Nnewi Diocese for the solemn burial of Rev. Fr. Tobias Okonkwo, Msgr. Donatus Ebubechukwu Ike, and Msgr. Prof. Christopher Ejizu in Nnewi. Fr. Tobias Okonkwo’s tragic death remains a painful reminder of the alarming insecurity confronting our nation. Senselessly killed by criminal elements, his loss is a blow not just to his family and the Nnewi Diocese but to all Nigerians committed to a safer and more humane society. Fr. Tobias was the Manager of the College of Nursing Sciences at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Ihiala, an institution I have supported and visited annually. During my interaction with him in October 2024, I was deeply moved by his passion for advancing nursing education and his unwavering commitment to improving the health sector. His dedication to enhancing healthcare delivery was remarkable, and his death is a great loss to humanity. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the Bishop, Most Rev. Dr. Jonas Benson Okoye, and the entire Nnewi Diocese as they mourn these dedicated servants of God. May God grant them, and all of us, the fortitude to bear this irreplaceable loss, and may the departed rest in perfect peace. I also visited the retired Archbishop Godwin Okpala of the Anglican Communion, who was recently freed after enduring three weeks in captivity. I am heartened to see His Grace in high spirits, undeterred by the trauma, and resolute in his belief that, with the right leadership, Nigeria can overcome its challenges and emerge stronger. My encounter with Archbishop Okpala strengthens my call for an intensified, decisive battle against insecurity at all levels of government. With unity, commitment, and shared resolve, we can restore peace, protect lives, and secure a brighter future for our nation. -PO

In keeping with my tradition of supporting critical areas of development, today I visited the College of Nursing Sciences, Amichi, Anambra State, to interact with and encourage their management, staff, and students. I recall, as the then Governor of the State, visiting the Amichi Diocesan Hospital when it was overgrown by weed. While supporting the Proprietor, Rt. Rev. Ephraim Ikeakor, to revive the hospital, we discussed establishing the School of Nursing, Amichi, which has since grown into a College of Nursing. I was delighted to learn that they achieved a 100% pass rate in their Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria exams held last November. I congratulate and appreciate everyone who has contributed to the success the College enjoys today, from the proprietor to the management team, the entire staff, and all the students who are training to become healthcare workers in our nation. I presented them with financial support of ₦10 million to aid in training more nurses. Through our continuous investment in these critical areas of development, we will be able to move our nation forward and build the new Nigeria we all look forward to. -PO

Today, our dear nation commemorates Armed Forces Remembrance Day—a solemn occasion dedicated to honoring our fallen military heroes, veterans, and active service members. I join millions of Nigerians in expressing profound gratitude to these gallant individuals who have made the ultimate sacrifice for the peace and security of our beloved nation. I also extend my heartfelt encouragement to our active-duty military personnel stationed on various frontlines, bravely combating the scourge of insecurity across the country. Your sacrifices are deeply appreciated. As we face these challenging times, I urge you to remain steadfast and resolute in your noble mission to secure the future of our nation. Furthermore, I call on the government to prioritize the welfare of our military personnel by ensuring access to quality healthcare for them and their families, as well as education for their children. These essential measures will inspire greater commitment and reinforce their dedication to building a safer and better Nigeria. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

On behalf of my family, and the Obidient movement, I congratulate the Newly Elected President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Senator John Azuta-Mbata; the Deputy President General, Prince Okey Nwadinobi; the Secretary General, Emeka Sibeudu and other newly elected executive members, on their emergence as the leaders of the noble organisation. Their emergence as the leaders of Ohaneze Ndigbo, the umbrella body that unites the Igbo people, underscores the level of confidence and hope the people have in their leadership ability and their commitment to the development of the region and the nation in general. I pray that they will leverage their new offices to continue to work for the peace and unity of our nation and contribute immeasurably to ideas that will drive development, peace, and progress among the people. May God give you all, the wisdom and strength to serve the people. A New Nigeria Remains POssible. -PO

Following my earlier message regarding the alleged collapse of the National Grid, which was based on reports from reputable media platforms, I have since learned that there was no such collapse. Instead, the incident involved the tripping of the Osogbo-Ihovbor and Benin-Omotosho lines, which affected the Lagos axis. I appreciate the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) for their prompt clarification on the matter. I sincerely hope we will prioritize enhancing our infrastructure in the power sector and remain committed to improving power generation to meet the growing needs of over 200 million Nigerians. A New Nigeria remains possible. -PO

National grid collapse is now a recurring decimal. I have just read the reports of the collapse of our national grid, just 11 days into the new year. Most of last year, we faced recurrent national grid collapses. That occurred about 12 times in the year. The untold setback and hardship it brought on households and businesses was immeasurable. Further reports showed that Nigeria has borrowed over $3.23 billion in the last four years to fix its electricity problems, and yet the country cannot produce more than about 4,500 megawatts of power for the people. Instead of making significant progress, our recurrent occurrences of grid collapse have continued to characterize our power sector. One then wonders where all the funds borrowed for the power sector have gone into. The lack of sincere commitment by us, the leaders, to the true development of the nation, followed by the widespread corruption eating through every sector of our national existence, has continued to drive retrogression and backwardness in our nation. This is a new year, and again, I will appeal to the government to make it a fresh start by building on the lessons of yesteryear to now improve every aspect of the nation, including the power sector, without which households and small businesses will continue to struggle under immeasurable economic burdens. A New Nigeria Remains POssible. -PO

The frequent occurrence of crimes, especially kidnapping, in the country today is worrisome and it's causing a lot of apprehension in the land. Today, no one is currently spared from the dangerous wind of many kidnappings and killings blowing through many parts of the nation. Every Nigerian feels the heat of insecurity, which has continued to affect every aspect of our nation, from the agricultural sector, where farmers are often chased out of their farmlands, to the health and educational sectors, where critical workers are often kidnapped or killed. This is exemplified by the constant kidnapping and, sometimes, killing of our farmers, teachers and lecturers in different schools and universities. Just recently, the Manager of College of Nursing Sciences, Ihiala, was killed. Yesterday, 2 Reverend Sisters, one a Principal and other a teacher who work in our different schools in Anambra state were again kidnapped. These are people contributing immensely to our national development through their sacrifices in farms, educational and health facilities in different remote villages. Nothing justifies these kidnaps, killings, as well as those of many Nigerians who suffer the same fate daily. This worrisome situation continues to demand urgent attention from us, the leaders. One wonders if the reported cases of kidnapping and killings are this much, then how many go unreported? Again, I appeal to the government to employ every security arsenal at its disposal to end this menace and ensure the safe rescue of those in captivity. And to the criminals terrorizing our people, I urge them to have a change of heart and desist from their evil ways. We must not burn down our only nation with terror and violence. -PO