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Defence Minister Reaffirms Support For Families Of Fallen Soldiers

Emmanuel Daudu

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to the welfare of families of military personnel who die in active service, as the Minister of Defence, Christopher Gwabin Musa, hosted the brother of late Brigadier General Oseni Omoh Braimah in Abuja.

The late senior officer, described as a gallant Infantry Commander, was killed in action at Benisheikh on April 9, 2026, while serving as Commander of the 29 Task Force Brigade in the ongoing counter-insurgency operations in the North-East.

Receiving Mr. Hassan Braimah at the Ministry of Defence, the Minister conveyed the condolences of the Ministry and the Armed Forces of Nigeria to the bereaved family, assuring them that the sacrifices of fallen soldiers would never be forgotten.

According to the Minister, the Federal Government remains committed to providing continuous care, support and direct access to families of officers and soldiers who paid the supreme price in defence of the nation.

“The Armed Forces will never abandon the families of those who lay down their lives for this country. We remain committed to providing assistance, care and direct access to the Ministry whenever needed,” Musa stated.
During the meeting, Hassan Braimah reflected on the life and service of his late brother, describing him as a devoted and courageous officer who served Nigeria with honour and dedication.

He also pledged the family’s support for the loved ones left behind, while expressing pride in the legacy of sacrifice and patriotism associated with the late Brigadier General.

Brigadier General Braimah was buried with full military honours at the Maimalari Cantonment Cemetery in Maiduguri on April 15, alongside seven other military personnel who also died in service.

The visit, according to the Ministry, highlighted the nation’s appreciation for the sacrifices of its military personnel and the government’s determination to preserve their legacy through sustained support for their families.

FG Partners Climate Beyond Borders Caravan To Mobilise African Youths For Climate Action

Maryam Aminu

The Federal Government has strengthened its push for youth-driven environmental sustainability by partnering the Climate Beyond Borders Caravan, a pan-African initiative aimed at mobilising young Africans for climate advocacy and sustainable development across the continent.

The partnership was unveiled by the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Dr. Maryam Ismaila Keshinro, during a meeting with a delegation of the Caravan in Abuja on behalf of the Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande.

Dr. Keshinro described climate change as one of the most pressing challenges confronting Africa, warning that its impact continues to threaten livelihoods, food security, public health, migration, peace, and economic stability across the continent.

She stressed that despite being among the most vulnerable to climate-related challenges, young people remain critical drivers of innovation and sustainable solutions capable of transforming communities and protecting the environment.

According to her, the collaboration aligns with the Ministry’s commitment to empowering Nigerian youths with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities needed to champion climate action at community, national, and international levels.

The Permanent Secretary further described the Climate Beyond Borders Caravan as more than a cross-country advocacy campaign, noting that it represents a movement for African unity, environmental responsibility, and youth-led development.

“Through advocacy, community engagement, policy dialogue, and cross-border partnerships, the initiative will nurture a new generation of environmentally conscious African leaders,” she said.

She reaffirmed the Federal Government’s support for programmes promoting green innovation, renewable energy awareness, environmental education, climate entrepreneurship, and sustainable development initiatives among young people.

Speaking earlier, the leader of the delegation, Ms. Olufunke Kumuyi, said the Caravan is focused on mobilising African youths towards climate advocacy, environmental responsibility, and sustainable development.

FG, FAO Move To Tackle Youth Unemployment Through Agriculture Partnership

Maryam Aminu

The Federal Government and the Food and Agriculture Organization have intensified efforts to address youth unemployment and boost food production by strengthening collaboration aimed at expanding young Nigerians’ participation in agriculture.

Speaking during a meeting with an FAO delegation in Abuja, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Dr. Maryam Keshinro, said the partnership would help unlock the vast potential of Nigerian youths and position agriculture as a major driver of economic growth and national development.

Keshinro, who spoke on behalf of the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, noted that Nigeria’s youthful population, estimated at about 70 per cent, remains one of the country’s greatest assets if properly harnessed through targeted investments, skills acquisition and innovation-driven programmes.

She lamented that despite Nigeria’s vast arable land and growing demand for food production, many young people remain underutilised in productive sectors, particularly agriculture.

According to her, the country continues to face a major gap between labour market demands and the skills possessed by many youths, especially in technical and practical areas required for modern agriculture.

“There is a clear imbalance between skill supply and labour demand, particularly in agriculture. This underscores the need for stronger collaboration, capacity building and practical interventions to equip our youths with relevant, market-driven skills,” she stated.

The Permanent Secretary commended the FAO for its longstanding support to Nigeria’s agricultural development agenda, stressing that the organisation’s global expertise would further strengthen efforts to empower youths and create sustainable livelihoods.

She added that sustained partnerships with development organisations are critical to bridging the skills gap, expanding opportunities for young Nigerians and increasing youth participation in agriculture and agribusiness.

Earlier, Programme Officer at FAO Nigeria, Mr. Tofiq Braimah, said the initiative was designed to position youths as active contributors to national development through agriculture.

Braimah described young people as the backbone of every nation, noting that increased investment in youth participation in agriculture would enhance food security, create jobs and support sustainable economic growth.

She added that collaboration with the ministry would deepen ongoing efforts to provide Nigerian youths with the skills, resources and opportunities needed to thrive in agriculture and related enterprises.

WorldSDGsOrganization Calls on Tinubu to Appoint A.A. Zaura Following APC Kano Central Flag Bearership Crisis

The World Sustainable Development Goals Organization, an international organization that operates within the UN member nations with its scope covering the entire SDGs has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to consider the renowned philanthropist, business mogul, and humanitarian, Ambassador Abdussalam Abdulkarim Zaura (A.A. Zaura), for a federal appointment following what the organization described as the unfortunate deprivation of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Kano Central Senatorial District flag bearership.

In a statement issued by the organization, today 16th May, 2026, signed by it’s Head of Administration, Dr. Emmanuel Daudu, it praised A.A. Zaura for his outstanding humanitarian contributions, community development initiatives, youth empowerment programs, and sustainable economic support across Kano State, Nigeria, and Africa at large.

According to the organization, A.A. Zaura has consistently demonstrated uncommon dedication to humanity and grassroots development, earning admiration from different sectors of society due to his unwavering commitment to uplifting the less privileged.

The statement highlighted several of his humanitarian achievements, including the distribution of over 200 vehicles to support individuals and communities, the donation of more than 1,000 motorcycles aimed at empowering youths and improving livelihoods, and the installation and provision of over 150 electricity transformers across communities to improve power supply and stimulate economic activities.

The organization further noted that A.A. Zaura has organized vocational and skills acquisition training programs across Kano State and the federation as a whole, creating opportunities for self-reliance among youths and women. It added that his women empowerment initiatives have significantly contributed to poverty alleviation, economic inclusion, and sustainable community development.

The organization also disclosed that following a report from its Political and Peace Desk, crises reportedly erupted in parts of Kano Central Senatorial District after A.A. Zaura was denied the APC flag bearership, leading to unrest and unfortunate loss of lives.

According to the statement, the Political and Peace Desk of the organization expressed serious concern over the development, stressing that democracy cannot thrive in the absence of peace.

The organization explained that the absence of peace directly threatens the realization of Sustainable Development Goal 16, which focuses on Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions. It further stated that continued instability and violence also threaten human existence and societal harmony, thereby affecting Goal 15, Life on Land.

It noted that these goals are represented within the organization through dedicated agencies headed by Directors and Deputy Directors who continuously monitor developments relating to peace, justice, human sustainability, and societal stability across communities.

“In view of these concerns, the organization believes it has become necessary to call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to urgently intervene by considering A.A. Zaura for a federal appointment as a strategic step toward calming tensions and restoring confidence among the people of Kano Central Senatorial District,” the statement read.

Despite the political circumstances surrounding the APC Kano Central Senatorial District flag bearership, the organization commended A.A. Zaura for remaining loyal and committed to the unity and progress of the party.

It further acknowledged his continued support for the second-term bid of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as well as his unwavering backing of the incumbent Governor of Kano State, describing his actions as a demonstration of political maturity, loyalty, and dedication to democratic governance and national development.

The organization maintained that appointing A.A. Zaura into a strategic federal position would not only recognize his immense contributions to national development but would also encourage humanitarian service, youth empowerment, and grassroots development in Nigeria.

The statement concluded by advising the Federal Government to carefully consider the loyalty, sacrifices, and unwavering commitment of A.A. Zaura to the APC, the administration, and the Nigerian people, adding that his dedication deserves appreciation beyond measure.

It added that granting him a federal appointment would serve as a well-deserved recognition of his contributions to society and the nation at large while also promoting peace and stability in Kano Central Senatorial District.

FRC Adopts 2026 Reform Roadmap, Eyes Key Oversight Role In Nigeria’s New Tax Regime

By Maryam Aminu

The Fiscal Responsibility Commission (FRC) has adopted a comprehensive Output Calendar Roadmap for 2026, signaling a fresh push to strengthen fiscal discipline, transparency, and oversight as Nigeria prepares to implement a new tax regime.

The resolution was reached at the end of the Commission’s three-day 2026 Management Retreat held at Zuma Rock Resort along the Abuja-Kaduna Road, where management officials approved strategies aimed at repositioning the agency for improved institutional performance and accountability.

Speaking at the close of the retreat, the Acting Chairman of the Fiscal Responsibility Commission, Barrister Charles Chukwuemeka Abana, described the gathering as a defining moment for the Commission and a major milestone in its reform drive.

Abana said the retreat provided an opportunity for reflection, collaboration, and strategic planning to enable the Commission effectively discharge its mandate under the Fiscal Responsibility Act, 2007.

He disclosed that the Commission would play a critical oversight and accountability role in the implementation of Nigeria’s emerging tax reforms, stressing the need for stronger institutional capacity to meet the challenges ahead.

“In view of this enormous oversight function by the Commission, we have to develop capacity and prepare ourselves for the daunting challenges ahead. This is part of why we are here,” he said.

The Acting Chairman explained that the newly approved Strategic Plan would enhance monitoring and enforcement mechanisms, deepen stakeholder engagement, strengthen inter-agency collaboration, and deploy technology to improve operational efficiency.

According to him, the reform agenda is designed to make the Commission more proactive, innovative, and results-driven in promoting prudent management of public resources.

He described the retreat theme, “Strengthening Institutional Performance through the Implementation of the Commission’s New Strategic Plan,” as a reflection of the Commission’s determination to reposition itself for greater national impact.

“The Strategic Plan is not simply a policy document; it is a roadmap for institutional transformation, a framework for measurable progress, and a guide for achieving sustainable results in the discharge of our responsibilities,” Abana stated.

The FRC boss also unveiled the Commission’s new Vision and Mission statements aimed at driving its renewed institutional direction.
The Vision, according to him, is “To be Nigeria’s leading fiscal authority ensuring transparent, accountable, and sustainable fiscal governance for national development,” while the Mission is “To promote fiscal integrity through evidential oversight in revenue, expenditure and debt management decisions for efficient service delivery.”

He noted that sessions during the retreat focused on improving compliance monitoring, staff productivity, innovation, and institutional coordination, while presentations exposed participants to modern tools in process improvement, digital transformation, and emerging Artificial Intelligence applications within the fiscal ecosystem.

Abana commended the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption Programme (RoLAC), International IDEA, and BudgIT for supporting the retreat, describing their partnership as instrumental to its success.

The retreat ended with a call on staff to embrace professionalism, teamwork, integrity, and innovation in implementing the Commission’s new strategic direction.

The statement was signed by Bede Ogueri Anyanwu, Head of the Strategic Communications Directorate of the Fiscal Responsibility Commission.

RMAFC Hails Retiring Director, Says Nigeria Yet To Benefit Fully From His Expertise

Maryam Aminu

The Chairman of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission, Dr. Mohammed Bello Shehu, has described the outgoing Director of Fiscal Efficiency, Dr. Tanimu Adamu Aliyu, as one of the finest and most accomplished directors ever produced by the Commission, declaring that Nigeria may still call on him for higher national assignments after retirement.

Speaking during a send-forth ceremony held in honour of the retiring director at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja on Thursday, Dr. Shehu praised Dr. Aliyu’s discipline, intellectual depth and commitment to public service, saying his contributions left an enduring mark on the Commission.

“Dr. Tanimu Adamu Aliyu is one of the best directors we have ever had in this Commission. He is highly knowledgeable, disciplined and deeply committed to excellence. Nigeria is proud of his service to the nation, and the Commission is proud of his remarkable contributions,” the RMAFC chairman stated.

Dr. Shehu noted that the retiring director earned widespread respect within the Commission through his strict adherence to standards and refusal to tolerate mediocrity.
“He may not have been liked by everyone because he is very strict and straightforward, but that is precisely what made him outstanding. He had zero tolerance for mediocrity and always insisted on doing things the right way,” he added.

The chairman also commended Dr. Aliyu for pursuing academic and professional advancement while in active service, noting that he attained several qualifications, including a doctorate degree, during his career at the Commission.

He urged members of staff to emulate the retiring director’s commitment to self-development and professionalism.

Dr. Tanimu Aliyu Adamu, Outgoing Director Fiscal Efficiency, during the send-forth event organized in honour of the Director at RMAFC HQ, Abuja.n

Describing Dr. Aliyu as a versatile and intellectually grounded administrator, Dr. Shehu said the retiring official possessed rare insight into economics, politics and international affairs, qualities he said could still earn him greater responsibilities in national service.

“I will not be surprised if he returns to this Commission as a Federal Commissioner or even as Chairman. He has the competence, the experience and the leadership qualities to serve Nigeria at the highest levels,” he said.

Speaking on behalf of the Federal Commissioners, Hon. Ozo Obodougo Obumneme, Federal Commissioner representing Enugu State and Chairman of the Customs Monitoring Committee, described Dr. Aliyu as a disciplined and principled public servant whose legacy would remain a reference point in the Commission.

“Dr. Tanimu Adamu Aliyu distinguished himself through hard work, integrity and an unwavering commitment to the ideals of public service,” he said.

Other Federal Commissioners present at the event included Hon. Abdulazeez Idris King of Kogi State, Hon. Muhammed Kabeer Usman of Gombe State, Kabir Muhammad Mashi of Katsina State and Hon. Nduka Henry Awuregu of Ebonyi State.
Management and staff of the Commission also paid glowing tributes to the retiring director, describing him as a consummate professional, mentor and exemplary public servant.

Responding, Dr. Aliyu expressed gratitude to the leadership and staff of the Commission for the honour accorded him, describing his years at the RMAFC as one of the greatest privileges of his professional life.

“I am deeply humbled by this recognition. Serving the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission has been one of the greatest privileges of my professional life,” he said.

He pledged continued support for the Commission and national development even in retirement.

FG Eyes Guinness World Record With 300-Participant Reading Relay To Drive Maternal Health Awareness

By Maryam Aminu

The Federal Government is backing an ambitious nationwide reading campaign expected to draw more than 300 Nigerians in a bid to break the Guinness World Record for the “Most People in an Online Video Reading Relay” while pushing awareness on maternal and family health.

The initiative, tagged My Family Companion National Reading Relay, is being spearheaded by Otubo Victor in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, the Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria and Red Media Africa.

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Wednesday, the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, represented by Emmanuel Essein, described the project as a national movement aimed at promoting literacy, youth engagement and advocacy for maternal, child and family health.

He disclosed that the event, scheduled for May 15 to mark the International Day of Families, seeks to surpass the current Guinness World Record of 130 participants by mobilising readers from across Nigeria’s 36 states and the diaspora.

According to the minister, the initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s broader push to strengthen family values and social development following President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s declaration of 2026 as the Year of Families and Social Development.

“The National Reading Relay is not merely an attempt to set a Guinness World Record; it is a national movement that harnesses the power of reading, storytelling and youth participation to advance awareness of maternal, child and family health,” he said.

Olawande added that beyond chasing a global record, the programme is designed to amplify the voices of young Nigerians and nurture a new generation of advocates for maternal, newborn and child healthcare.

In his remarks, Victor, author of My Family Companion and Executive Director of Stand Consults, raised concerns over Nigeria’s high maternal mortality rate, noting that postpartum haemorrhage remains one of the leading causes of maternal deaths after childbirth.

He attributed many of the deaths to misinformation, delays in accessing healthcare and poor preventive health practices, stressing the need for sustained awareness and counselling programmes for women and communities.

Victor explained that the initiative would also promote education on maternal health, vaccination, preventive care and herd immunity as part of efforts to reduce avoidable deaths.

Also speaking, Comrade Chukwuma Ugwoke, representing the Director of Mental Health and Psychosocial Affairs, Emmanuel Essein, described the campaign as a platform that connects government policy with grassroots action.

“This is not just about reading a book, but about amplifying a message and transforming awareness into action,” he said.

FRC Unveils Reform Agenda, Positions Itself as Watchdog for Nigeria’s Emerging Tax Regime

Maryam Aminu

Amid growing public demand for transparency in the management of Nigeria’s finances, the Fiscal Responsibility Commission (FRC) has unveiled a bold new strategic plan aimed at repositioning the agency as a stronger oversight institution for fiscal governance and accountability.

The Acting Chairman of the Commission, Charles Chukwuemeka Abana, made this known while declaring open the Commission’s 2026 Management Retreat at Zuma Rock Resort, Niger State, describing the gathering as a defining moment in the history of the agency.

The four-day retreat, holding from May 11 to 14, 2026, is themed “Strengthening Institutional Performance through the Implementation of the Commission’s New Strategic Plan.”
Abana said the Commission was entering a new era of fiscal oversight at a time Nigerians and development partners were demanding greater prudence, accountability and transparency in the management of public resources.

“This Strategic Plan is not simply a policy document; it is a roadmap for institutional transformation, a framework for measurable progress, and a guide for achieving sustainable results in the discharge of our responsibilities,” he stated.

He explained that the new plan would strengthen monitoring and enforcement mechanisms, improve stakeholder engagement, deepen inter-agency collaboration, leverage technology for operational efficiency and enhance institutional capacity across all levels of the Commission.

The Acting Chairman also unveiled the Commission’s new Vision and Mission statements, which he described as the foundation for a renewed institutional culture driven by professionalism, innovation, integrity and service excellence.

According to him, the Commission’s new Vision is “to be Nigeria’s leading fiscal authority ensuring transparent, accountable, and sustainable fiscal governance for national development,” while its Mission is “to promote fiscal integrity through evidential oversight in revenue, expenditure and debt management decisions for efficient service delivery.”

Abana further disclosed that the Fiscal Responsibility Commission would play a central accountability role in the implementation of Nigeria’s emerging tax reforms and fiscal policies.

“The Fiscal Responsibility Commission will act as a watchdog and policy-support institution in the new tax regime to ensure transparency, accountability, efficient revenue management, and sustainable economic growth in Nigeria,” he said.

He urged management staff and senior officers of the Commission to embrace the strategic plan with discipline and commitment, stressing that its success would depend on collective ownership and effective implementation.

The Acting Chairman also revealed that participants at the retreat would undergo capacity-building sessions on organisational process improvement, process mapping, problem analysis tools and the application of Artificial Intelligence within the fiscal ecosystem.

The retreat received endorsements from development partners and civil society organisations.

Speaking on behalf of the Country Director of the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC II) Programme, Associate Project Officer, Muhammad Sani Kassim, reaffirmed RoLAC’s commitment to supporting the Commission in institutionalising the new Strategic Plan.

Kassim described the Commission as a critical partner in promoting transparency and accountability in Nigeria, adding that RoLAC would continue to provide technical support to strengthen the agency’s reform agenda.

Also speaking on behalf of BudgIT Country Director, Vahyala Kwaga, Mr. Thaddeus Jolayemi commended the Commission for sustaining reform-oriented engagement with civil society and development partners.

BudgIT praised the leadership style of Acting Chairman Charles Abana, describing it as constructive, accessible and forward-looking.

The civic technology organisation stressed that anti-corruption agencies and fiscal institutions must move beyond reactive anti-corruption campaigns to building sustainable systems where transparency, accountability and prudent management of public resources become institutional culture.

The retreat is expected to produce key resolutions and strategic frameworks that will shape the Commission’s operations and priorities in the coming years as it seeks to strengthen fiscal discipline and restore public confidence in governance.

FRC Unveils Reform Agenda, Positions Itself as Watchdog for Nigeria’s Emerging Tax Regime

Maryam Aminu

Abana further disclosed that the Fiscal Responsibility Commission would play a central accountability role in the implementation of Nigeria’s emerging tax reforms and fiscal policies.

The retreat received endorsements from development partners and civil society organisations.

BudgIT praised the leadership style of Acting Chairman Charles Abana, describing it as constructive, accessible and forward-looking.

Chigbolu Leads Sponsorship Drive for Team Nigeria’s 2026 African Archery Championship Campaign

Maryam Aminu

As Nigeria intensifies preparations for the 2026 African Archery Championship in Algeria, the Nigeria Archery Federation has launched an aggressive sponsorship drive by inaugurating a high-powered marketing committee headed by Ambassador Augustine Chigbolu to mobilise corporate and private sector support for Team Nigeria.

The committee, inaugurated ahead of the continental championship scheduled to hold in Oran, Algeria, from July 21 to July 26, 2026, is expected to spearhead fundraising and marketing efforts aimed at ensuring adequate preparation and participation of Nigerian archers at the tournament.

The appointment was conveyed in a letter dated May 8, 2026, signed by the Secretary General of the federation, Philips O. Ayo, who charged members of the committee to remain committed to advancing the development of archery in Nigeria.

Other members of the committee include Olatayo Oladipo, Hauwa Pindar, Abdulbasit Sanni, Abduljalal Mohammed, Chidinma Blessing Chukwu and Emmanuel Oyeleke, who will serve as secretary.

Speaking shortly after the inauguration, Chairman of the committee, Ambassador Augustine Chigbolu, appealed to corporate organisations, private institutions and well-meaning Nigerians to support Team Nigeria’s campaign through sponsorship and strategic partnerships.

According to him, adequate sponsorship would significantly boost the morale, training opportunities and international exposure of Nigerian archers ahead of the championship.

He described the forthcoming championship as a major opportunity for Nigeria to showcase its growing strength and competitiveness in archery on the African continent.

The federation also urged members of the committee to discharge their responsibilities diligently in line with efforts to reposition archery for greater growth and visibility in Nigeria.

“While wishing you all the best in this new assignment, I urge you to remain steadfast in the discharge of your selfless services to humanity and particularly the Archery sport in Nigeria and beyond,” the letter stated.