President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his commitment to transforming Nigeria’s agricultural sector by encouraging young Nigerians to embrace mechanized farming. On Monday, during the official unveiling of the Renewed Hope Agricultural Mechanisation Programme held in Abuja, Tinubu stated that his administration is determined to make farming appealing—or as he put it, “more sexy”—to the youth demographic. While addressing stakeholders at the launch, the President emphasized that the programme is a step toward achieving his vision of positioning Nigeria as a global leader in agriculture. “We have over 2,000 state-of-the-art tractors, 50 industrial-grade land preparation bulldozers, 12 fully equipped mobile workshops, and more than 9,000 specialized agricultural implements,” he noted. According to him, this investment in machinery is designed to simplify the farming process, provide jobs, and empower agricultural service providers nationwide. The President stressed that this modernization would make agriculture a viable and attractive option for Nigerian youths, who have often overlooked farming due to its traditionally labor-intensive nature. “There’s no need to rely on outdated 18th-century methods when we’re in the 21st century. These new tools will revolutionize how farming is done in Nigeria,” he added. President Tinubu further disclosed that the federal government is partnering with international organizations to train young Nigerians in the use of modern agricultural equipment. These collaborations, he said, aim to equip the youth with vital technical skills that will lead to financial empowerment and long-term independence.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has flagged off a major agricultural transformation initiative with the nationwide launch of 2,000 tractors under the Renewed Hope Agricultural Mechanisation Programme. The unveiling, which took place on Monday, marks a significant step toward the realization of large-scale mechanised farming in Nigeria. The event was held at the National Agricultural Seeds Council facility located in Sheda, along the Abuja–Lokoja Expressway, with dignitaries and stakeholders from across the agricultural value chain in attendance. A Bold Move Toward Food Security and Rural Development Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to revolutionising the agriculture sector, President Tinubu highlighted the programme as a critical pillar in the ongoing push to achieve national food security and rural empowerment. “This commissioning marks a pivotal moment in our journey toward food security,” Tinubu declared. “It’s a bold step toward equipping farmers with modern tools and empowering our rural communities.” He emphasised that mechanised farming is key to transforming agriculture from subsistence to commercial scale, ultimately leading to food surplus in Nigeria and improving the standard of living across rural areas. Delivering on Promises of Agricultural Reforms President Tinubu recalled that his government had earlier raised concerns over Nigeria’s looming food crisis and had since been working to develop innovative and immediate solutions. “We made a vow when we assumed office, and we are fulfilling it,” he stated. “Two years ago, I raised the alarm about our food security challenges. This mechanisation initiative is a concrete answer to that call.” Nigeria’s Agricultural Vision Goes Global Looking beyond local sufficiency, Tinubu revealed the administration’s broader ambition—to position Nigeria as a global player in agricultural exports. He expressed confidence that the country has the potential to provide high-quality produce to international markets while ensuring every Nigerian has access to affordable, nutritious food. He added, “This is more than just about self-reliance. We’re building a future where Nigerian farmers thrive both locally and globally. We are just getting started.” The Renewed Hope Agricultural Mechanisation Programme is expected to significantly increase crop yields, reduce manual labour for farmers, and open up opportunities for agro-industrial investments.
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In a bold demonstration, renowned social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly referred to as VeryDarkMan (VDM), led a protest directly in front of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike’s private residence in Abuja. This peaceful protest was triggered by Wike’s recent declaration to suspend 10% of the statutory allocation meant for area councils. The decision reportedly stems from the councils’ inability to implement the new minimum wage structure for primary school teachers, which has already resulted in a persistent strike across several local schools. On Monday, VDM took his activism further by organizing a makeshift classroom outside Wike’s gate. He gathered a group of school children in their uniforms and held an open-air learning session, where he introduced them to the English alphabet in a dramatized form. In a symbolic act of protest, he called out:“S for Suegbe, T for Tinubu, W for Wike,”— and the children repeated after him in unison. VDM firmly stated that the gate of Minister Wike’s residence would now function as the new classroom space for these children, symbolizing the breakdown in the education system caused by the ongoing strike.
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A brewing dispute has emerged in Osun State involving the Commissioner for Youth Affairs, Moshood Olagunju, and the Coalition of Concerned Nigerian Citizens (CCNC), Osun chapter, over alleged irregularities in the nomination process for the National Youth Conference (Confab) committee. The CCNC, in a statement issued by its Chairman, Akinkunmi Musa Abdulsalam, accused Olagunju of partiality, secrecy, and poor management in selecting delegates for the Confab committee. The group alleged that youth organizations active in past civil engagements, particularly those that influenced the Federal Government’s decision to hold the Confab, were sidelined. According to the CCNC, the Commissioner omitted their nominated male representative without explanation and instead favored individuals loyal to his camp. Abdulsalam claimed, “The entire selection was conducted without consultation, transparency, or fairness. Comrades who were instrumental in the advocacy leading to this national conversation were systematically excluded. The move seems like an attempt to politicize the process for personal interests.” He further alleged that instead of recognizing contributors to the advocacy, the Commissioner imposed unfamiliar faces who played no role in the public sensitization efforts. The group also raised alarms over what they described as a suspicious alliance between the Commissioner and a Personal Assistant to the State Coordinator of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), who they alleged has been illegally holding office for eight years. Calling this partnership unhealthy, the CCNC stated it was being used to manipulate internal operations of the Osun State Ministry of Youth Affairs, turning the agency into a stronghold for loyalists while excluding deserving youth stakeholders. CCNC emphasized that the issue was not just about gender but about rewriting history and erasing the contributions of those who initiated the Confab conversation. They urged Governor Ademola Adeleke to intervene immediately, warning that the unresolved situation might ignite widespread dissatisfaction among young people in the state. “The Governor must take decisive steps. The youth are growing agitated, and the risk of escalation is real. Any representative who didn’t contribute to the cause lacks the moral ground to speak for Osun youths nationally,” the CCNC warned. They also demanded transparency in the selection process and full inclusion in planning and representation phases going forward. In his response, Commissioner Olagunju defended the selection process, explaining that the Ministry acted on instructions from the Federal Ministry of Youth and Sports in Abuja. He stated that the federal directive required equal gender representation (50/50), which necessitated alterations to initial nominations across states, including Osun. “I was mandated to submit eight names, with one slot automatically assigned. These are not beneficiaries but committee members for the Confab,” he clarified. Olagunju added that during a virtual meeting with his counterparts from 36 states, he challenged the sudden shift to a 70/30 gender ratio, but was informed it was a ministerial directive. He noted that female nominees were subsequently submitted by the Osun branches of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) and the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS). The Commissioner revealed that the CCNC was invited to submit a female nominee but refused, insisting on keeping their original male candidate. He described this refusal as indicative of ulterior motives. “To encourage compliance, I sent them Ekiti State’s list for reference. But they rejected it, accused me of manipulation, and even threatened protests. They said they had no female members, and I suggested they nominate anyone—even a girlfriend—to meet the directive,” he revealed. Olagunju asserted that Osun’s involvement in the Confab would not be derailed by a single group’s defiance. “If the CCNC remains rigid, we’ll pick another group,” he added. He also accused the CCNC of attempting to blackmail him and confirmed that he had informed security agencies after receiving threats of protests scheduled for Monday. The Commissioner stressed that the selection process was fair and federal-compliant, dismissing allegations of bias. “Anyone in doubt should contact the Federal Youth Minister to verify the directive,” he concluded.
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Dr. Paul Enenche, the Senior Pastor of Dunamis International Gospel Centre, has provided clarity on why he turned down a ₦30 million donation offered by Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, during a recent crusade hosted in the state. During his Sunday sermon at the Dunamis headquarters in Abuja, Pastor Enenche explained that his refusal was grounded in a long-standing personal principle: not to accept government funding or financial support of any kind within his ministry. He made it clear that the rejection was not a direct affront to Governor Idris. Instead, it reflects a firm and consistent position he has maintained for over twenty years. “Some people may be surprised because they don’t know who we are. But for those who do, this is no surprise. This is how we have lived and what we have always stood for,” Pastor Enenche emphasized. To further reinforce his point, the preacher cited several previous situations where he also declined financial rewards, even during national religious engagements. One of the notable instances he mentioned occurred in 2014, when the Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board invited him to Jerusalem alongside former President Goodluck Jonathan and other state governors. He revealed that he personally covered all his expenses and refused to accept any honorarium. “When we returned, the board chairman presented an offering, calling it an honorarium. I turned it down,” he recalled. Pastor Enenche went on to say that even when ex-President Jonathan attended his church multiple times during his tenure, no financial contribution or exchange ever took place. Concerning the massive church headquarters project, he proudly stated: “There is not a single naira of government money in this building.” He also mentioned similar experiences, including an encounter with former Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom, and another with a childhood friend who later became a federal minister. In both cases, he refused their monetary or material gifts, including an offer of a vehicle. According to him, the motive behind such decisions is rooted in a sincere desire to maintain his prophetic integrity and freedom to speak truth to power without being compromised. “I don’t want to touch a single dime of government money,” he insisted, stating that accepting any form of financial support from public officials could hinder his ability to preach without bias.
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The Rivers State Police Command has accused key officials of Ahoada East Local Government Area of orchestrating an attack on the council’s sole administrator, Goodluck Iheamnacho, on Friday. According to a statement released on Sunday by the spokesperson of the command, Grace Iringe-Koko, the Chief Security Officer (CSO) of the LGA, Hector Ekakita, along with the council’s Chief of Staff (COS), allegedly led about 30 individuals in storming the local government secretariat and physically attacking the administrator. The statement revealed that during the incident, the mob reportedly assaulted Iheamnacho, forcefully took his mobile phones, coerced him into signing a resignation letter, and made away with several sensitive items. These included both official and personal documents from his office. The police confirmed that Iheamnacho is currently undergoing medical treatment as a result of the injuries sustained during the assault. His condition has been reported as stable. Condemning the attack, the command assured the public that a thorough investigation had commenced and that necessary enforcement procedures were already in motion. Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga A. Adepoju, also visited the scene of the incident alongside heads of other security agencies in the state. He instructed Hector Ekakita, the COS, and every individual identified in connection with the attack to present themselves at the State Police Headquarters for interrogation. The CP cautioned that any failure to comply with this directive would lead to grave repercussions. He reaffirmed the command’s resolve to ensure justice is served and reiterated its commitment to upholding peace and order across Rivers State. Commissioner Adepoju also called on residents to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies, stressing the importance of public collaboration in preserving law and order. The controversy took root on Friday after a resignation letter attributed to Iheamnacho went viral on social media platforms. However, the administrator refuted the letter, stating categorically that it was fabricated and did not originate from him. Iheanacho explained that the alleged attackers were youths from the local government area who stormed the secretariat. While some of them justified their actions with allegations of financial misappropriation, others reportedly claimed that the sole administrator was unwilling to share LGA funds with certain individuals who purportedly played a role in his appointment. Currently, all local government areas in Rivers State are being run by administrators appointed by the state government under the supervision of retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, who acts as the Sole Administrator. This interim arrangement was implemented following the declaration of emergency governance in the state. Reports suggest that many of these LGA administrators are perceived as loyal supporters of the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, further fueling political tensions within the state.
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Amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, Nigeria’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, has refuted claims circulating on social media alleging that Nigerian nationals have been left stranded in Iran. In a formal statement issued in Abuja on Saturday by the Ministry’s spokesperson, Mr. Kimiebi Ebienfa, Tuggar described the rumors as “deceptive,” “inaccurate,” and “unsubstantiated.” He emphasized that the Nigerian Embassy in Tehran remains operational and fully committed to safeguarding the welfare of all Nigerian residents in the country. Contrary to allegations that the embassy had been closed due to the ongoing Iran-Israel conflict, the Minister clarified that although regular embassy operations have been disrupted due to persistent threats and explosions within Tehran, the diplomatic mission remains functional remotely. Embassy staff continue to provide essential assistance to Nigerian citizens. Ambassador Tuggar also revealed that discussions are underway with the Armenian government regarding potential evacuation routes through Yerevan, should the situation become critical. He advised Nigerians currently residing in Iran to maintain communication with their designated community leaders, stay updated via the Eitaa messaging platform, and utilize the embassy’s emergency contact numbers and official email channels for all inquiries and support. The Minister concluded by assuring that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is actively observing the developments and remains committed to taking proactive steps to protect the interests and lives of Nigerian citizens globally.
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Pakistan has put forth a formal nomination for former U.S. President Donald Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize, recognizing his involvement in de-escalating tensions between India and Pakistan. The South Asian country attributed Trump’s involvement to a significant reduction in conflict earlier in the year when violence surged between the two nuclear-armed neighbors. In an official release issued on Saturday, the Pakistani government praised what it called Trump’s “decisive diplomatic efforts” during the crisis period in May. The conflict, which centered on the disputed Kashmir region, had resulted in multiple casualties and sparked fears of an all-out war. As per Islamabad, Trump’s mediation was key to establishing a ceasefire between India and Pakistan. The agreement, which halted days of heavy artillery fire and airstrikes, officially began on May 8. “In a period of extreme regional instability, President Trump showed remarkable strategic judgment and statesmanship, engaging diplomatically with both Islamabad and New Delhi,” the statement declared. Pakistan emphasized that the ceasefire mediated by the U.S. helped avert a larger conflict, describing Trump’s role as proof of his dedication to peaceful diplomatic solutions. However, the Indian government offered a contrasting version of events. According to New Delhi, the ceasefire came through direct talks between India and Pakistan, minimizing the notion of foreign intervention.
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Israel’s Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, has praised U.S. President Donald Trump for authorizing airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear sites, calling it a historic move. Netanyahu hailed the assault on Iran’s three nuclear locations as a courageous and history-shaping decision by the United States. Trump had earlier revealed that U.S. military forces launched successful airstrikes against three key Iranian nuclear sites — Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan — during the night. Responding to the development, Netanyahu remarked that Trump would be remembered as a leader who confronted one of the most dangerous regimes in the world. In a video shared on his verified X (formerly Twitter) handle, Netanyahu stated:“Congratulations to Trump. Your strong choice to hit Iran’s nuclear infrastructures using U.S. military power is truly a game-changer.” Referring to the Operation Rising Line, Netanyahu continued:“Israel has made significant contributions, but America’s actions tonight against Iran’s nuclear operations are unmatched. “No nation on the globe could achieve this feat. History will acknowledge that President Trump took a firm stand to prevent Iran, the world’s most threatening regime, from acquiring nuclear arms. “His leadership today has paved the way for a historical shift — one that can drive the Middle East toward a more peaceful and prosperous future. “Trump demonstrated tremendous strength in his actions.”
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Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, has strongly denounced the United States’ recent airstrikes targeting Iran’s nuclear infrastructure. In a firm response, Iran cautioned that the military actions would bring “everlasting consequences.” This sharp warning came following an announcement by former US President Donald Trump, who confirmed that the US military had launched successful operations on Iran’s nuclear sites. On Sunday, Abbas Araghchi took to his verified X (formerly Twitter) account, expressing fury over the attacks. He labeled the strikes “outrageous,” asserting Iran’s readiness to protect its sovereignty at all costs. According to the Iranian Foreign Minister, “The events this morning are outrageous and will have everlasting consequences.” He continued, emphasizing that Iran “reserves all options to defend its sovereignty, interests, and people.” LMSINT MEDIA notes that Iran has invested decades into developing its nuclear program, continuously maintaining that the program is strictly for peaceful energy purposes.
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More than 50 individuals allegedly masquerading as Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) have been apprehended at the Makurdi Ultra Modern International Market, which has temporarily been converted into a shelter for victims of the deadly June 13 attack by suspected armed herders on Yelewata community in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State. This revelation was made public over the weekend by the Benue State Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Aondowase Kunde, during a press briefing with journalists at the IDP camp. Kunde, who took personal charge of verifying the identities of the supposed IDPs, noted that the action was taken in response to a sudden and suspicious surge in the camp’s population. According to him, he led a discreet inspection operation at around 4:00 a.m. on Saturday and found that numerous residents from the host community had infiltrated the camp and were accessing resources meant solely for genuine IDPs. “Only 219 individuals displaced from Yelewata are officially registered in this camp, but the current population here is far beyond that,” Kunde explained. He added that investigations conducted over a two-day period revealed that individuals from nearby communities and even IDPs from the larger Mega Camp were relocating to the Makurdi camp, which he stressed was highly inappropriate. The commissioner also reported instances of criminal behavior, including theft and acts of intimidation. He narrated a specific case involving a young man who, while wearing an official IDP identification tag, allegedly led a group to steal mattresses after threatening some of the traumatized women residing in the shelter. Kunde also revealed that some women had been borrowing children from the host community in order to receive additional food rations during aid distributions. He further condemned the actions of individuals with ulterior motives who were instigating unrest and triggering protests, thereby putting the safety and mental wellbeing of authentic IDPs at risk. “We know there are elements trying to destabilize the camp. Host community residents and intruders are stirring trouble, but we’re taking decisive actions to restore peace and order,” Kunde concluded.
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Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State has strongly denounced the recent suicide bombing executed by Boko Haram/ISWAP insurgents in Konduga Local Government Area. In an official statement released to the press by his media aide, Dauda Iliya, the governor expressed his deep concern over the latest assault targeting innocent civilians. The tragic incident, which unfolded late yesterday around 10 p.m., occurred at a night fish market in Konduga. The attack resulted in the loss of 12 lives, while 18 other individuals sustained injuries. Governor Zulum described the atrocity as a grave violation of humanity. “These savage actions carried out by the insurgents are not only cruel but represent a direct affront to our collective humanity,” he stated. He further emphasized, “This brutal and cowardly attempt to instill fear in the community will not succeed. The spirit of Borno’s people remains unbroken and will never yield to terrorism.” The governor urged citizens across Borno to stay alert and promptly report any unusual behavior or movement to security operatives, noting that collaboration between the community and law enforcement remains essential in curbing insurgency. Governor Zulum also extended heartfelt sympathies to the affected families, asserting that all compassionate citizens in the state share in their grief and loss. He concluded by assuring residents that the state government continues to work hand-in-hand with security agencies to enhance public safety and thwart further attacks.
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Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, took to social media on Saturday to express deep affection and admiration for his wife, Hadiza, describing her as the person who gave his life true purpose. El-Rufai reflected that his journey gained true direction and significance when he married Hadiza nearly four decades ago. In his touching birthday tribute, the Social Democratic Party (SDP) leader praised Hadiza as a remarkable combination of intelligence and elegance. Sharing the heartfelt message via his official Facebook page, El-Rufai reminisced about their university days when he first met Hadiza, noting that she eventually became not just his partner but also his closest confidant. He described her as the ideal wife, a loving mother, and an exceptional grandmother. “Please join me and members of the El-Rufai Family in celebrating my best friend, university classmate, teenage sweetheart, and beloved wife, Hadiza Isma El-Rufai, on her birthday,” he wrote. El-Rufai went on to highlight Hadiza’s intellectual prowess and achievements, calling her a brilliant woman who holds three master’s degrees — in Architecture, Business Administration, and Creative Writing. He also praised her fluency in French and success as a published novelist. “My life began to take shape and meaning when we got married almost 40 years ago,” he added. He described Hadiza as a strong-willed and well-organized woman who diligently manages both their home and family affairs with remarkable discipline. “Happy birthday, Hadiza, and may God continue to bless you eternally,” El-Rufai concluded.
