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FG Commissions Renewed Hope Mothers And Child Hospital In Akwa Ibom

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FG Commissions Renewed Hope Mothers And Child Hospital In Akwa Ibom

In a landmark event that underscores Nigeria’s renewed commitment to quality healthcare delivery and sustainable development, the 100-Bed Renewed Hope Mother and Child Specialist Hospital was officially commissioned in Oko-Ita, Ibiono Ibom Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.

The state-of-the-art medical facility, initiated, constructed and equipped under the Renewed Hope agenda of President Bola Tinubu by the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals (OSSAP-SDGs), marks another giant stride in the country’s quest to drastically reduce maternal and child mortality and expand access to equitable, high-quality health services at the grassroots.

The Hospital, which will provide comprehensive maternal, neonatal, and paediatric care to residents of the area and neighbouring communities, was commissioned by the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Sen. Akon Eyakenyi.

Inaugurating the hospital on Wednesday, Eno, who was represented by his deputy, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, commended President Tinubu for providing the resources for the construction and equipping of the facility, noting that the hospital would significantly complement his administration’s efforts in delivering affordable and quality healthcare services across the state.

“Our President understands that health is wealth. The commissioning of this hospital speaks to the President’s commitment to addressing the healthcare needs of the people, especially those in rural areas, as well as his resolve to implement Sustainable Development Goal-3 on good health and well-being,” Governor Eno said.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals, Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, OFR, described the project as more than just a healthcare facility. “We are not merely unveiling a health facility. We are reaffirming our collective commitment to delivering quality healthcare to the most vulnerable segments of our society; our mothers and children,” she declared.

The commissioning aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises social inclusion and equitable development as key pillars for achieving the SDGs. Princess Orelope-Adefulire commended the President’s unwavering support and leadership, noting that “his administration has demonstrated a clear understanding that inclusive development begins with prioritising the health and well-being of our people, especially at the grassroots.”

Reflecting on Nigeria’s most recent 2024 SDGs Progress Report, the Presidential Adviser acknowledged the “Triple C” crises: Climate, Conflict, and COVID-19, which have disrupted global health systems, displaced populations, and diverted development funding and noted that despite global and national challenges, the commissioning of the hospital signifies hope and strategic progress. “Together, these crises have strained health systems, disrupted service delivery, displaced vulnerable populations and diverted resources away from essential development priorities,” she noted.

The fully equipped facility includes: Operating Theatres, Recovery Rooms, Private and General Wards, Consultation Rooms, Laboratory and Scanning Room, Ultra-Scan Machine and Vacuum Extractor Delivery Set, Emergency Cart with full complements, among others. The hospital is designed to deliver respectful, safe, and dignified maternal and child healthcare services, particularly to underserved communities. It also supports Nigeria’s efforts to meet SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and other interlinked goals.

Princess Orelope-Adefulire called on all stakeholders, including the Akwa Ibom State Government, traditional rulers, health professionals, and community leaders, to take ownership of the facility and ensure it operates sustainably. She commended Governor Pastor Umo Eno for providing the enabling environment that allowed the project to thrive, and urged continuous collaboration to ensure the facility lives up to its purpose.

With the commissioning of the hospital, the OSSAP-SDGs has once again demonstrated its commitment to bridging the gap between policy and impact. The event serves as a strong reminder of what is possible when federal and state governments, development partners, and communities work together with a shared purpose.

Threat To Senator Datti Baba-Ahmed Now Apparent As He Vows To Continue Speaking Against Dictatorship

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Threat To Senator Datti Baba-Ahmed Now Apparent As He Vows To Continue Speaking Against Dictatorship

Senator Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, the 2023 Labour Party (LP) vice presidential candidate, has raised alarm over what he described as a growing threat to his safety, vowing that no amount of intimidation will silence his voice against dictatorship and bad governance in Nigeria.

Speaking during a recent television interview, Senator Datti-Baba-Ahmed responded to concerns about his safety, declaring that he remains undeterred in his mission to defend Nigeria’s democracy. He insisted that only God determines the fate of individuals and stressed his commitment to the country’s future.

“Now, I am human. I have a certain number of days to live, and only God knows when and how. But what I also know is that this is my country, and bad people are spoiling my country and the future of my children and their children. Any threat now to Nigeria is as good as any threat to me,” he stated.

The outspoken politician urged Nigerians to shake off fear and reclaim their country from what he described as criminal elements holding the nation hostage.

“Other Nigerians should stop being afraid. What can they do to you that they haven’t done already?” he asked.

Senator Datti Baba-Ahmed alleged several coordinated attempts to silence him, including impersonation on social media, physical attacks, and even elaborate plans to entrap and arrest him.

“Somebody impersonated me on social media and insulted others. They attacked and did about the worst things they can do… They tried to lure me somewhere, plant dollars, and arrest me… It didn’t happen because ten minutes to time, I got wind and exited,” he revealed.

He also claimed evidence of attempts to sabotage his travel equipment and referred to violent incidents, including assassinations of political aspirants in Borno State and an alleged strangulation in Lagos, without directly naming those responsible.

In his remarks, Senator Datti Baba-Ahmed painted a bleak picture of the state of democracy in Nigeria under the current administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, accusing the government of running an authoritarian regime masked as democracy.

“We are supposed to practice a clean, modern constitutional democracy in Nigeria. In so doing, we have a small and minute number of people that break the system and make it suit themselves… Whatever Tinubu wants to happen in our Nigeria today, only God can stop it,” he asserted.

Reiterating the power of the people in a democratic system, he said: “The courts are final, the people are the ultimate.”

Nigeria Police Cautions Against Lobbying For Special Promotion

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Nigeria Police Cautions Against Lobbying For Special Promotion

….Warns Public Against Misleading Online Reports

The Nigeria Police Force has issued a stern warning to its officers and the general public over the growing trend of lobbying for special promotions, cautioning that such acts undermine the integrity of the Force’s structured promotion process.

According to a press release signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, this follows the recent accelerated promotions of a number of officers recognised for exceptional performance, bravery, and professional conduct. In a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the police clarified that the recent exercise was not arbitrary but part of a deliberate, merit-based reward system implemented under the current leadership of the Force.

“The officers promoted in the recent exercise were selected based on verifiable standards and due process, having demonstrated extraordinary commitment to duty and professionalism,” the statement noted. “This does not represent a blanket or indiscriminate special promotion initiative.”

The Force also expressed concern over misleading narratives being pushed by certain online platforms, falsely suggesting that arbitrary promotions were being handed out. DCP Adejobi dismissed these reports as false, unfounded, and an attempt to discredit the credibility of the Nigeria Police Force.

“The public is hereby urged to disregard such baseless reports. The NPF remains committed to transparency, accountability, and meritocracy in all its personnel decisions,” the statement emphasised.

In addition, officers have been strongly warned against engaging in lobbying or unofficial efforts to secure promotion. According to the Force, any such conduct will be met with stringent disciplinary action in line with existing laws and internal regulations.

Reaffirming its commitment to a promotion system built on integrity, merit, and honourable service, the Nigeria Police urged its personnel to continue to uphold discipline and professionalism in the discharge of their duties.

NIMC Issues Public Advisory On NIN Self-Service Portal Access And Unlinking Guidelines

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NIMC Issues Public Advisory On NIN Self-Service Portal Access And Unlinking Guidelines

The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has issued a public advisory outlining important guidelines for accessing and managing the Self-Service Modification Portal for National Identification Number (NIN) records.

In a statement signed by the Head of the Corporate Communications Unit, Mr. Kayode Adegoke, the Commission cautioned applicants to adhere strictly to the prescribed usage instructions to avoid access issues and potential delays in data modification processes.

According to the advisory:

Single Browser and Device Access: Each self-service account is strictly tied to the browser and device used during initial registration. Access is only permitted from that original environment.

Modification Restrictions: Users attempting to log in from a different device or browser than the one used during registration may face access issues and failed modification attempts.

Cache Clearing Warning: Clearing the browser cache will reset access credentials tied to the browser, potentially locking users out of their accounts. Once locked, an official unlinking request must be initiated to restore access.

Unlock Attempt Limits: Users are allowed a maximum of five (5) unlock requests. Exceeding this limit means no further unlock attempts will be processed, reinforcing the need for caution and compliance.

“These protocols are part of broader efforts by the Commission to safeguard the identity and personal data of all Nigerians using the self-service modification portal,” the statement emphasized.

NIMC has urged all users to follow these guidelines diligently to ensure uninterrupted service and prevent avoidable complications. The Commission also reassured the public of its commitment to enhancing security and efficiency in data management systems.

For additional support or inquiries, members of the public are encouraged to reach out via the official customer support email: nimccustomercare@nimc.gov.ng

There Is No Deepening Rot In The Nigeria Police Force; Deji Adeyanju’s Alarmism Undermines Reformative Progress

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There Is No Deepening Rot In The Nigeria Police Force; Deji Adeyanju’s Alarmism Undermines Reformative Progress

By Kelvin Adegbenga

It has become all too common for self-styled activists to amplify narratives that are far removed from the reality of institutional progress. The latest of such is Deji Adeyanju’s recent attempt to cast aspersions on the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), claiming there is a “deepening rot” within the institution.

Not only is this assertion unfounded, but it also unfairly targets a police force currently undergoing visible reforms under the stewardship of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun.

To be clear, the Nigeria Police Force is not without its challenges; no police institution anywhere in the world is perfect. However, to paint the Force as being in terminal decline at a time when deliberate steps are being taken to rebuild, restructure, and reposition it for modern-day policing is both misleading and demoralising.

IGP Egbetokun has been at the helm of a transformation agenda that prioritises accountability, operational excellence, and citizen-centred policing. His administration has brought a renewed sense of purpose to the force: restructuring tactical teams, streamlining promotions based on merit, and placing integrity and discipline at the heart of policing culture.

Under his leadership, hundreds of officers have undergone reorientation and professional development, while technological innovations and community engagement strategies have been expanded to rebuild trust.

What Mr Adeyanju describes as “rot” could, in truth, be better described as resistance from entrenched interests opposed to reform. Any meaningful transformation will rattle the status quo, and as seen throughout history, those who benefit from institutional decay are often the loudest critics when progress begins to manifest.

Moreover, the public should be wary of blanket criticisms that fail to differentiate between isolated misconduct and systemic regression. Yes, bad eggs still exist, just as in every organisation, but there is a clear and documented effort by the current police leadership to weed them out. Officers have been suspended, tried, and dismissed for unethical behaviour, and internal mechanisms are being strengthened for improved transparency.

Critics like Adeyanju must ask themselves a sincere question: Are they genuinely interested in a better police force, or are they invested in the perpetual delegitimisation of state institutions for political mileage or personal relevance?

The Nigeria Police Force under IGP Egbetokun has not only shown a willingness to reform, but it is actively doing so. The journey is not without hurdles, but it is dishonest to suggest that nothing is being done or that the situation is deteriorating. Nigerians deserve facts, not fearmongering.

It’s time we recognised that transformation doesn’t happen overnight. What we owe the Force, and by extension our nation, is constructive criticism rooted in truth, not inflammatory rhetoric that seeks to undermine genuine efforts at change.

If anything, Deji Adeyanju’s comments should be seen for what they are: a distraction from the commendable gains being made under a police leadership committed to accountability, excellence, and service. The Nigeria Police Force is far from perfect, but under IGP Egbetokun, it is certainly not rotten; it is rising.

 

Kelvin Adegbenga writes from Ikeja, Lagos. kelvinadegbenga@yahoo.com @kelvinadegbenga

Ndigbo Young Professionals Slam Barr. Adewole Adebayo’s Over Comments On Sowore’s Arrest, Defamation Of Female Police Officer

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Ndigbo Young Professionals Slam Barr. Adewole Adebayo’s Over Comments On Sowore’s Arrest, Defamation Of Female Police Officer

The Ndigbo Young Professionals (NYP) has expressed deep disappointment over recent remarks made by the former presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Barrister Adewole Adebayo, concerning the arrest of activist Omoyele Sowore and the controversial commentary surrounding a female police officer involved in the case.

In a strongly worded statement signed by its National Coordinator, Ambassador Chukwuemeka Chinonso, the group condemned what it described as Adebayo’s “reckless alignment” with Sowore’s “antics” and his failure to defend a police officer who was merely performing her constitutional duty.

NYP described Adebayo’s comments as a “grave moral and professional misjudgement,” stating that his public stance, laden with bias and misleading insinuations, falls short of the ethical expectations of a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and a former presidential hopeful.

“It is disheartening that a person of Barrister Adebayo’s stature would tacitly support the public defamation of a female law enforcement officer, all in the name of political loyalty or cheap popularity,” the statement read.

The group emphasised that such attacks were not only unjust but also harmful to the dignity of women serving in Nigeria’s security forces. “This is not just a slight on her person but an affront to every hard-working woman in uniform across Nigeria,” it added.

Reaffirming its support for professionalism and lawful conduct, NYP called on all aggrieved parties, including Sowore, to seek redress through legal channels rather than engaging in “media theatrics or character assassination”.

The statement further urged Barrister Adebayo to publicly denounce the defamation of the officer in question. “His silence on this targeted verbal assault sends a dangerous message and undermines the values of fairness and justice he claims to uphold,” the group warned.

According to NYP, the Nigeria Police Force under the current leadership has maintained a strong stance on accountability and professionalism, noting that while no officer is above the law, none should be subjected to unwarranted public shaming for carrying out their duties.

The group concluded by urging public figures, especially those in the legal and political space, to exercise restraint and responsibility in their public engagements.

Deji Adeyanju Crossed The Line In Attacks On IGP Egbetokun; Speech Has Limits

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Deji Adeyanju Crossed The Line In Attacks On IGP Egbetokun; Speech Has Limits

By Danjuma Lamido

In a time when democratic discourse and civic engagement are vital for national growth, the right to free speech remains one of the bedrocks of a free society.

Activists and citizens alike must have the freedom to critique public officials. However, that right comes with responsibility and legal boundaries.

In the case of Deji Adeyanju’s recent remarks labelling the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, as “useless and shameless,” there is no doubt that the activist crossed the line, morally, ethically, and legally.

Criticism of public officials is not only allowed, it is necessary. But there is a difference between informed critique and malicious insult. Calling the IGP “useless” and “shameless” isn’t just inflammatory; it serves no constructive purpose in a national dialogue.

These words are not policy criticisms. They are personal attacks, intended to demean rather than enlighten.

There is a standard of decorum expected in public debate, especially when targeting individuals holding public office.

One can question the effectiveness of the police under Egbetokun’s leadership or highlight failures in handling specific incidents. But reducing the country’s top law enforcement officer to a target of crude insult undermines not only the individual but the institution he represents.

While Nigeria’s constitution guarantees freedom of expression under Section 39, this freedom is not absolute. The Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act 2015, the Penal Code, and the Criminal Code all contain provisions against defamation and injurious falsehoods.

Since Adeyanju made these remarks on a public platform, social media, he is already exposed to potential charges under Section 24 of the Cybercrimes Act, which criminalises knowingly sending offensive or menacing messages through communication services.

Moreover, his words could meet the threshold for criminal defamation, depending on the context, reach, and intent behind them.

Let’s be clear: criminalising speech should be a measure of last resort, especially in a democracy. But when speech descends into outright character assassination, the law must be considered.

Adeyanju’s comments also risk undermining public trust in national institutions. The IGP, regardless of political leanings or administrative shortcomings, is the symbol of law enforcement in Nigeria.

Vilifying him with base language damages not just his personal integrity but chips away at public confidence in policing and governance.

There is also a matter of consistency. Adeyanju has been a vocal critic of the abuse of power, but by resorting to name-calling, he mirrors the very behaviour he opposes. Accountability must be pursued with intellect, facts, and civility, not insults.

Deji Adeyanju has every right to challenge the IGP’s performance, policies, or perceived inaction. That’s democracy. But calling him “useless and shameless” is not democratic discourse; it is slander cloaked in activism. We must not confuse vulgarity for courage or defamation for dissent.

Public figures and activists have a duty to elevate the national conversation, not degrade it. If Adeyanju truly believes the IGP has failed in his duty, let him make his case with facts, not invective.

The law, while not a gag tool, is there to protect individuals from reckless and reputation-damaging speech. It may be time for it to remind us all that words, especially when spoken in public, have consequences.

Danjuma Lamido is the Publicity Director of the Integrity Youth Alliance and writes from Adamawa. Email: danjumalamido2011@gmail.com 

SWYA Fires Back At Sowore’s Lawyer Over ‘Illegal IGP’ Claims, Says Allegation Politically Motivated

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SWYA Fires Back At Sowore’s Lawyer Over ‘Illegal IGP’ Claims, Says Allegation Politically Motivated

The South West Youth Alliance (SWYA) has condemned in strong terms the recent statement by Barrister Marshal Abubakar, legal counsel to activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore, describing it as “misleading” and “politically motivated”.

In a press statement signed by its National Publicity Director, Ajanlekoko Olanike, SWYA refuted Abubakar’s claims that the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, was acting illegally and abusing his office in connection with Sowore’s recent arrest and detention.

“We consider these allegations not only baseless and inflammatory but also a deliberate attempt to undermine the credibility of the Nigeria Police Force under the transformational leadership of IGP Egbetokun,” the statement read.

SWYA noted that the appointment of IGP Egbetokun was constitutionally made and duly ratified by the Police Council, warning that any reference to him as an “illegal IGP” is a “reckless falsehood, devoid of merit, and unbefitting of the legal profession.”

The youth group also defended the police action concerning Sowore’s arrest, stating that it followed due legal process.

“No citizen, no matter how popular or controversial, is above the law. The right to social media and online publication must not be used as a shield for impunity, incitement, or conduct that breaches public order or national security,” the group asserted.

The SWYA further criticised Barrister Abubakar for accusing the IGP of abuse of office “without a shred of evidence,” while praising the police leadership for its ongoing reforms, transparency in promotion, and focus on professionalism.

The group cautioned the public and media against being swayed by “politically charged narratives” aimed at dragging the police into controversy, emphasising that “legal disputes should be settled in court, not in the court of public opinion.”

Reaffirming its support for IGP Egbetokun, the statement concluded: “The South West Youth Alliance stands solidly behind IGP Kayode Egbetokun and his reform agenda for a more professional, responsive, and people-oriented police force.”

Peoples’ Gazette In Hot Water As DSS Moves For Legal Action

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Peoples’ Gazette In Hot Water As DSS Moves For Legal Action

The Department of State Services (DSS) has commenced legal proceedings against online media outlet Peoples Gazette over a recent publication that has drawn sharp criticism from security circles and raised concerns about national stability.

Sources within the security community disclosed that the DSS views the publication as not only “grossly misleading” but also “a potential threat to national security.” Although specific details of the publication in question have not been officially disclosed, insiders suggest it contained “incendiary material capable of inciting unrest.”

“This is not just about media freedom; it’s about responsibility,” a senior DSS official who spoke on condition of anonymity said. “There must be consequences for those who stir unrest with reckless content.”

The development marks a rare but significant move by the secret police to take legal action against a media platform, potentially setting the stage for a high-profile courtroom battle that may test the boundaries of press freedom, responsibility, and state security.

The DSS is expected to file its suit in a Federal High Court within days, with legal experts and media watchdogs closely watching the unfolding drama.

Peoples’ Gazette has yet to release an official response as of the time of filing this report.

More details will follow as the story develops.

Otuaro Warns Against Payment Of Money For PAP Scholarship

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Otuaro Warns Against Payment Of Money For PAP Scholarship

The Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, Dr Dennis Otuaro, has expressed concern over complaints that some PAP stakeholders are allegedly collecting money from unsuspecting applicants for the programme’s ongoing scholarship application process for the 2025/2026 academic session.

While warning against the alleged fraudulent act, Otuaro reiterated that the PAP scholarship application process for undergraduate and postgraduate programmes is free, and money exchange for services is not allowed.

He spoke during the opening ceremony of the third batch of the three-day strategic leadership, alternative dispute resolution and mediation training organised by the PAP for its stakeholders in collaboration with the Nigerian Army Resource Centre, Abuja, on Wednesday.

Otuaro said that information at his disposal indicated that some unscrupulous characters were allegedly collecting money from the parents and guardians of potential scholarship beneficiaries with all kinds of assurances.

The Administrator also urged potential beneficiaries to resist payment of any amount of money to anybody for the scholarship.

He urged those qualified to apply through the PAP portal and await the response of the office, assuring them that the process would be fairly carried out.

He described the alleged dishonest act as regrettable and unacceptable, as it taints the integrity of the scholarship application process.

He stressed that the scholarship scheme was designed to increase the Niger Delta youths’ access to higher education and enhance human capital development in the area.

Otuaro restated his resolve to ensure a transparent process in the management of the scholarship and ensure that the purpose of the scheme is not derailed by unscrupulous individuals.

He cautioned those involved in the alleged illicit activity to desist from it, stressing that anybody caught trying to divert the laudable project for extortionist activities would be dealt with.

He assured that the PAP would not allow anyone to compromise the integrity of the scholarship application process.

He said, “I have received reports alleging some stakeholders collect money from applicants, parents and guardians with fake promises concerning the ongoing scholarship application process for the 2025/2026 academic year.

“For the avoidance of doubt, the scholarship application process is free. No one should collect money from anybody; nobody should encourage someone to collect or give money to anybody for the scholarship exercise. It is free.

“The scholarship programme is a deliberate scheme for our people for a better tomorrow; it is not for our today. My leadership is committed to ensuring transparency and accountability even in the management of the scholarship award process.

“Those engaged in the alleged bad act should stop because I will not allow anyone to compromise the integrity of the application process. I urge all stakeholders to help discourage the collection of money for the scholarship.

“We will take drastic steps against anyone attempting to divert the opportunity of the scheme to swindle innocent people.”

Otuaro told the participants that the workshop was aimed at deepening their understanding of issues around the theme and equipping them to perform their leadership role better as PAP’s peace ambassadors around their communities and indeed the Niger Delta.

“You are, in fact, also peace ambassadors of His Excellency, President Bola Tinubu, GCFR. Therefore, you are expected to deploy the knowledge you would gain from this training to strengthen the ongoing peacebuilding process of PAP because the development of the region is in the priority agenda of the President,” he said.

The PAP boss, while declaring the workshop open, urged the participants to take the entire exercise seriously in order to achieve the objectives in the interest of the region’s peace, stability, and development, based on the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

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