Ideas leave a trail.

I got into Abuja late on Monday to participate in the funeral Mass of a distinguished and patriotic Nigerian who was a Senate President in the Second Republic, Senator Joseph Wayas. I extended my sincere condolences to the family of the respected elder statesman. He served the nation at a crucial time when Nigeria's legislative efforts were truly dedicated to the people and focused on our country's growth. His legacy as a defender of democracy will continue to guide and inspire generations to come. May he rest in peace, and may his family find comfort in this time of grief. -PO

Congratulations to Ugo Ugochukwu on Your 2024 FIA World Cup Victory. It gives me immense pleasure to extend my warmest congratulations to the teenage sensation Ugo Ugochukwu Orlandi for his extraordinary win at the 71st Macau Grand Prix. This historic achievement, as the first American driver in over four decades to capture this coveted title, is a moment of pride and celebration. Ugo’s outstanding victory stands as a testament to his immense talent, hard work, and consistent dedication—qualities that our youth today can demonstrate when given the right support and guidance. With a Nigerian mother, the esteemed supermodel Oluchi Onweagba Orlandi, and an Italian father, the former fashion designer Luca Orlandi, Ugo embodies a rich and diverse heritage. His success serves as an inspiration to young Nigerians everywhere, illustrating the boundless potential that can be realized when passion is paired with opportunity. I must also commend McLaren for their foresight in recognizing Ugo’s potential and for their ongoing commitment to developing young talent. Their support underscores the critical role of nurturing ambition and investing in the future. Ugo, beyond making history—you have inspired millions. I look forward to witnessing your continued rise as you push the boundaries of what’s possible in motorsport. Congratulations once more, Ugo! -PO

As part of my commitment to encouraging the youths of our nation, yesterday, at the invitation of the Faithspiration Initiative, I had an interesting interactive session with youths in Onitsha, Anambra State. I leveraged the ample opportunity to remind them of the virtues of hard work, discipline, and integrity, which are all critical recipes for success. I also reminded them that no one is born with success, but we all strive to achieve success. Sharing my verifiable past with them, I reminded them that I too, like some of them, was born in Onitsha. I had my primary and secondary education in Onitsha, and would have done my tertiary education in Onitsha, if there was any University in Onitsha then. Success in life is not a function of one's background but of hard work and an unwavering determination to succeed by doing the right things. In the end, 25 of the youths received financial support of N300,000 each, to help them in their different productive ventures, while two more will be empowered every month, starting from January. I thank the organizers of the event for such a great initiative. A New Nigeria remains POssible. -PO

Today, together with other political leaders, captains of industries, and Nigerians from all walks of life, I was in Nnewi to pay my last respects to my dear younger brother, Sen Ifeanyi Ubah. His death remains a rude shock to me and to many whose lives he touched positively. Beyond his political service to the people, Sen Ubah contributed to a better society through his not-for-profit organization, which cared for the less privileged by investing in their education, health, and poverty alleviation. His death should remind us, first as humans, more importantly as political leaders, that we only have a limited time here on earth to serve the people under our care and leave lasting legacies for generations to come. Once again, I condole with the entire Ubah family, his colleagues at the Senate, the good people of Anambra South Senatorial District who he represented, and indeed, all of us, over his death. May God, who called him home at this time, grant him eternal rest and grant his family and all of us the fortitude to bear his sad, irreplaceable loss. May God protect and bless his family always. -PO

Today, I joined the formators, management, and seminarians of Bigard Memorial Seminary, Enugu, to celebrate the 100th anniversary of this remarkable institution. Established in 1924, Bigard Seminary has a rich history of shaping generations of men who have made significant contributions to the Church and society. Since its inception, Bigard Seminary has produced four cardinals: His Eminence, the late Ignatius Cardinal Ekandem; His Eminence, Francis Cardinal Arinze; His Eminence, Christian Cardinal Tumi from Cameroon; and His Eminence, Peter Cardinal Okpaleke. The seminary has also trained over 35 archbishops and bishops, including the Chief Celebrant of today’s Mass and Secretary of the Dicastery for Evangelization, His Grace Fortunatus Nwachukwu; the Archbishop of Onitsha and Metropolitan of the Onitsha Ecclesiastical Province, His Grace Valerian Maduka Okeke; and the President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), His Grace Lucius Ugorji, among others serving God and humanity across the globe. Beyond these, it has formed countless priests whose contributions are too numerous to mention. I rejoice with the entire Bigard family on this impactful journey of 100 years in raising men of learning and character. I wish them continued success as they strive to build a more productive and just nation. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

Today, I honored the invitation to attend the First International Conference of Peaceland University, Enugu, with the theme - 'Digitalisation in Education, Staying Ahead of The Curve.' It was for me, as usual, an opportunity to interact with the students and encourage them on their educational journey. I was particularly thrilled to learn that the University was founded and funded by a Swiss woman - Mama Pia, who during her visit to Enugu, Nigeria, saw the need to contribute to Nigeria's development by pulling people out of poverty through investment in education. This led her to donate all of her life earnings to that cause. Her story corroborates my ever-consistent position on the critical role of education in national development and why governments should prioritize investment in education for national development. In my comments on the theme, I explained that in today's fast-paced world, where changes in technology are happening so fast, we need to ensure that our education system is continually adapted to these growing changes in the digital space for learning to remain productive. To stay ahead of the curve, we must embrace innovative technologies and strategies in our education system. Many global institutions of learning are getting digitalized to enable them to offer more flexible learning opportunities to students. For example, the biggest university in the world today, by student enrollment is Indira Gandhi National Open University, India. It boasts about 7 million students. But the remarkable thing about it is that it delivers distance learning to millions of students through digital technology. Digitalization in education will, no doubt, offer increased access to education, by breaking physical barriers and ensuring greater access to education. It is also cost-effective, in that it will reduce the overwhelming cost of physical infrastructure associated with educational investments. If we invest aggressively in education, we will raise responsible citizens of society who will contribute productively to our national development. A New more enlightened Nigeria through increased and improved education remains POssible! -PO

As the world marks International Men's Day today, I like to sincerely celebrate all Nigerian men for their unwavering strength in these difficult times and their continuous selfless contributions to the growth and development of our nation. Being a Nigerian man myself and witnessing the biting hardship in the country, I clearly understand the painful struggles our men go through to fend for their families and the many obstacles they face in trying to actualize their dreams in a country that seems to offer little hope for their future due to leadership failure. In our nation, battling severe levels of hunger, which has also today become one of the most stressful and one of the most terrorized nations in the world, the average Nigerian man must bear the burden of providing for his family and keeping his family safe. He is constantly faced with poor healthcare, thus affecting his overall quality of life. The National Bureau of Statistics reports that the average life expectancy for Nigerian men, sadly, stands at 55.1 years as against the global average of 70 years, signifying a high level of stress our men face in their daily struggle for survival as men. On this special day, I am sending a message of hope to all our Nigerian men. I say to you, "Endure and persevere. Do not lose hope; hold on strong. We are all in this struggle together, and together, we shall build the New Nigeria that we all desire and deserve. A New Nigeria remains POssible." Happy International Men's Day. -PO

I followed with keen attention, the journey of our Nigerian beauty queen, Chidimma Adetshina, and her rise to stardom. I can only describe her journey as a demonstration of resilience, perseverance, and dedication. Through her struggles and the very challenging times, she held on to faith, hope, and her determination to rise to the top. And today, she has emerged victorious. She may not have received the 2024 Miss Universe crown, but competing against over 120 contestants from around the world and securing the first runner-up position in the competition and first position in Africa is a giant stride of which we are proud. I sincerely congratulate her for believing in herself and our nation. And to all those who contributed to her success today, your hard work has indeed paid off. In these very challenging times in our nation, she stands as a symbol of hope, especially to our youths facing different kinds of challenges, in their journey to greatness - Never give up, no matter how hard the journey, success lies ahead. As I have always said, we will remain committed to building a better Nigeria for our very talented youths, no matter the obstacles that stand in our way, because undoubtedly - The New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

I have, over the years, remained firm in my belief in the limitless potential of the Nigerian youths, who, when given the right leadership support, will continue to blaze on the global stage. Just today, I read the inspiring reports of 2 Nigerian children currently making waves within and outside Nigeria, and in my usual tradition of celebrating and encouraging young exceptional personalities, I must not fail to share their stories. First is Eniola Shokunbi, a 12-year-old Nigerian girl in Connecticut, USA, who designed an air filter to reduce the spread of airborne diseases in schools and has received an approved funding of $11.5 million from the Connecticut State Bond Commission for the design. Next is David Akiogbe, a 15-year-old Nigerian boy, who made an impressive top score of 1580 on his Scholastic Assessment Test, SAT, as also confirmed by MIT, and is set to leverage the academic success to excel on the global stage. The inspiring stories of these young Nigerians represent the potential of millions of Nigerian children whose talents remain untapped, many of whom are among the over 20 million out-of-school children roaming the streets, all because of our uncaring attitude as leaders. We must now focus on investing in their future through education. I have repeatedly stated that my continual support for education across the country stems from my unwavering belief that with the right investments in our youths, they will be able to explore their talents, develop their skills, and contribute productively to the development of our nation while excelling on the global stage. I congratulate young Eniola Shokunbi and David Akiogbe for achieving the global recognition that has brought honor to the nation and now serves as an inspiration to other youths. With such future stars in the horizon, I am very confident that a New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

Yesterday, I honored an invitation to deliver a keynote/Interactive address at Wharton School, Pennsylvania USA, the African Business Forum. This forum, with over three decades of engagement with Africa, provides for both introspective and retrospective discussions on the continent’s future. As the oldest business school in America, Wharton has played a pivotal role in fostering these dialogues. This year, I had the privilege of participating and engaging with over 500 students from across Africa, especially Nigeria, to discuss the future of the continent and the contributions young Africans can make towards building a better, more prosperous Africa. I continue to emphasize to young Africans that our continent is brimming with potentials. Unfortunately, this potential has often been unrealized due to cumulative leadership failures. However, today's generation has both the opportunity and the responsibility to rewrite that narrative and drive the transformation Africa so urgently needs. During the session, I shared my journey from the world of trading and corporate life into public service, which have been with obstacles, but with persistence, and perseverance I have been able to overcome most. I emphasized that, having studied at some of the world's top institutions, I firmly believe our fulfillment comes when we use our knowledge to build a better society for all and engage directly or indirectly with our communities. It is only through this grassroots commitment that true progress can be achieved. I remain convinced that a new Nigeria and indeed a new Africa is possible. -PO

Yesterday, I was privileged to be a guest speaker at Yale University, a distinguished institution renowned for its long history of fostering global engagement and leadership. I expressed gratitude to Yale’s leadership, the Yale Africa Initiative, the Council on African Studies, and the Christie and Chinua Achebe Foundation for the opportunity to discuss democracy in Africa. In my contribution, I highlighted that Africa's electorate disillusionment stems from a failure of leadership, largely due to the unfulfilled expectations of democratic governance. I also emphasized that flawed elections, violations of term limits, and unresolved conflicts are significant obstacles to democratic progress. Internal divisions, including ethnic and religious differences, weaken institutions and widen the trust gap between the public and political leadership. On the topic of new political movements, I acknowledged their critical role in addressing exclusion and the necessity for more inclusive politics. Africa’s transition from single-party to multi-party systems demonstrates that building democracy is challenging but achievable. I stressed that genuine reform demands political will and a steadfast commitment to the rule of law. Finally, despite the challenges, I expressed hope for Africa’s democratic future, urging the people, especially the youth, to commit to change, advocate for stronger governance, and demand electoral integrity. -PO

I have just received the sad news of the passing of Justice Emmanuel Ogwuegbu, a former Supreme Court Justice whose legacy of truth, justice, and fairness is celebrated nationwide. Justice Ogwuegbu's long records in the Judiciary, 11 years of which were in the Supreme Court, say a lot about his professional prowess. Remarkably on display during his tenure was an unwavering commitment to justice, steadfast dedication to truth, and defense of the rule of law. Justice Ogwuegbu's legacy is especially significant in a time when the judiciary, like our politics, faces unprecedented challenges, with justice often appearing transactional rather than the refuge of the common man. He was a beacon of integrity, ensuring fairness for all, irrespective of status. As we mourn his passing, we take comfort in the enduring mark he left on our judiciary. His dedication to justice, fairness, and truth will remain a guiding light. I respectfully encourage those in the judiciary today to uphold the same standards of honor and integrity. On behalf of my family and the Obidient family, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the Ogwuegbu family and the entire legal community. May God grant them, and all of us, the strength to bear this loss, and may He grant Justice Ogwuegbu eternal peace. May God continue to protect and bless his family always. -PO

Yesterday, Wednesday, 13th of November 2024, I, alongside other esteemed Nigerians, attended the launch of "The Noble Academic and Patriot: A Biography of Emeritus Professor Akinjide Osuntokun OON (The Baaptian of Oyo Kingdom)" at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, Victoria Island, Lagos. The event brought together a distinguished assembly, including Chief Emeka Anyaoku, former Commonwealth Secretary-General; Pastor Tunde Bakare, the Serving Overseer of The Citadel Global Community Church; and Dr. John Kayode Fayemi, former Governor of Ekiti State, among many other notable figures. In my remarks, I emphasized the significance of celebrating a professor and academic today. Although I did not have the privilege of knowing Professor Akinjide Osuntokun personally, the glowing testimonials from the various speakers, including his students, underscored the profound impact of his work. I wholeheartedly join in acknowledging his legacy, recognizing that education, which is at the core of Professor Osuntokun's contributions, is precisely what our society needs. This is what we should celebrate, not the glorification of thuggery and mediocrity as we have it today. May his dedication continue to inspire Nigerians to strive for excellence, uphold integrity, and pursue unity, rejecting the forces that promote mediocrity and violence. A new Nigeria is POssible! -PO

Yesterday, I visited St. John of God Secondary School in Awka as part of their 60th-anniversary celebration. After encouraging the students to take their education seriously, especially skills acquisition as a foundation for future success, I presented a cheque of 15 million Naira to the school on behalf of Mrs. Bridget Egodi Egbujiobi (formerly Bridget Egodi Akaigwe, Class of 1979). During a recent visit to the United States, I was warmly hosted by Dr. Leo and Mrs. Bridget Egbujiobi. In our discussions, Mrs. Egbujiobi expressed her pride as an alumna of St. John of God Secondary School, Awka. I mentioned the upcoming anniversary event and the school’s need for support, and, recognising the impact this contribution could have, she generously decided to make this donation, which I presented today. Following this, I visited the new Regina Caeli School of Nursing in Awka, where I contributed 10 million Naira in support. My commitment remains steadfast: to support critical areas of development in education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation. A new Nigeria is POssible! -PO

Notwithstanding the myriads of challenges plaguing our electoral system and the unsettling criticisms shadowing recent elections at all levels, I remain steadfast in my commitment to democracy in Nigeria. It is this conviction that propelled me to travel by road to Ondo State yesterday to campaign alongside our Labour Party Governorship Candidate, Hon. Sola Ebiseni—a candidate I believe possesses the competence and capacity to govern the State effectively. In my interactions with him and through his role as the Afenifere Secretary, I have come to see him as someone who believes in a Nigeria rooted in fairness, equity, and justice. I urge the people to vote against transactional politics, which has thrown up the worst in us as our leaders and has led to widespread misgovernance. Despite the current challenges, I remain hopeful that committed, capable leadership can and will turn things around. A new Nigeria is POssible! –PO

In tune with my unwavering belief that health and education are veritable ways of pulling people out of poverty and that these sectors are critical to development in a New Nigeria, yesterday, I paid a visit to the Peter University, Achina, Anambra State, where I gave them my financial support of N50 million. Thereafter, I visited the College of Nursing Sciences in Adazi Nnukwu, where I made an additional donation of N10 million. These visits and support gestures are in line with our unwavering commitment to building a productive nation, through encouragement and support in the critical sectors of health, education and poverty eradication. I have constantly maintained that no nation develops without a healthy and educated workforce. With Nigeria having a predominantly youthful population, we must continue to prioritize the future of our youths by investing in these critical areas. By so doing, we will build a nation of healthy and educated citizens who are productively contributing to the growth and development of the nation. I extend my gratitude to the Proprietors, Management, Staff, and Students of both Peter University and the College of Nursing Sciences for their contributions to our health and education sectors. I remain confident that a New and Productive Nigeria is Possible. -PO

Today, I was in Abuja to honour the invitation of my dear brother, Sen Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, on his Investiture as the 3rd Chancellor and Chairman, Board of Trustees, Baze University, Abuja. I sincerely commend my brother, Datti, on this recognition of his immeasurable and visible contributions to our national development through his investments in the critical sectors of education and healthcare. Aside from Baze University, Abuja, which he founded, he has also established Baba-Ahmed University, Kano, helping to grow our educational system and fostering learning among the youths. Baze University, Abuja, also held its 11th Convocation Ceremony and Award of Degrees and Higher Degrees. I congratulate the entire University Community on this most significant occasion while wishing the new graduates success as they head out to contribute to building a productive nation. We will all continue to work towards a New and Productive Nigeria, which is possible. -PO

Today, I was honored to join other Nigerians in Uburu, Ohaozara LGA, Ebonyi State, to pay last respect to a good Nigerian, the first civilian Governor of Abia State, and former Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr Ogbonnaya Onu. Dr Onu was an exceptional being who demonstrated selfless leadership in such a way that stood him out among his peers. The funeral ceremony was, indeed, a testament to his positive impacts in the lives of people. It was also a moment of honor to him for his life of selfless service and deep dedication to the nation. Dr. Onu not only stood for justice but showed unwavering commitment to peace, good governance, fairness, and equity in the nation. In demonstrating his commitment to building a productive nation, he pursued many initiatives to boost local production for national development. His death remains a great loss to the country and has left a big vacuum in our nation. I pray God to console his family and all of us who mourn him and grant us the fortitude to bear his sad, irreplaceable loss and grant him eternal rest. May God protect and bless his family always. -PO

In line with my commitment to investing in critical areas that drive development, health education, and poverty reduction, I visited the University on the Niger (UNINIGER), Umunya, yesterday, at their take-off campus in Iyi-Enu, and donated N50 million. I also visited the School of Nursing at Iyienu Mission Hospital, Ogidi, where I made an additional donation of N10 million. I have consistently emphasised that the financial support we give to health, education, and poverty reduction initiatives is not expenditure, but an investment in crucial areas that will propel our development. Our health and education sectors continue to suffer from severe neglect and lack of government attention, with dire consequences manifesting in various ways. The health sector, for example, is not only burdened by funding gaps, infrastructure deficits, and non-transparent execution of health projects, but also suffers from a significant shortage of healthcare professionals across the country. We currently face a shortage of doctors and nurses, falling far below WHO’s recommendations. The solution to this urgent shortage lies in investing more aggressively in the training of healthcare professionals nationwide. I am, therefore, deeply convinced that our sacrificial investments today will form the foundation of tomorrow’s development strides. I thank the Proprietor, Management, Staff, and Students of both the University and the School of Nursing for their contributions to our health and education sectors. I remain confident that a New Nigeria is Possible. -PO

My heart goes out to the government and people of Imo State over the wave of tragic events that occurred in the State recently. First was a reported improvised explosive device (IED) explosion at Orlu International Market, which claimed precious lives and injured many others. The State was still reeling from the shock of the explosion when a fatal accident occurred around Njaba area of the State, claiming no fewer than 20 casualties . I am sincerely saddened by these tragic occurrences which has left families in grief. I strongly urge the State government to deeply investigate and ensure that the circumstances surrounding the explosion is unraveled, to prevent future recurrence. I sincerely condole with all the affected families, the State government and people of Imo over these painful incidents. May God give them, and all of us, the fortitude to bear the losses and the strength to support one another in these challenging times. May God grant eternal rest to the dead and grant quick recovery to the injured. -PO