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Concerned Christian Youth Forum Condemns Attacks on Christianity, Applauds Government Security Measures

Maryam Aminu

The Concerned Christian Youth Forum, under the leadership of its convener Adama Paul James, has raised serious concerns over what it describes as “unwarranted attacks on Christianity and its leaders” in Nigeria.

Speaking at a peaceful rally in Abuja, the Forum called on the government, media, and citizens to recognize and address the growing wave of defamation and hate speech targeted at the Christian faith.

Mr. James lamented what he referred to as “a persistent campaign of misinformation and slander” against Christian leaders, pointing to a worrying trend across both social and traditional media platforms.

“These are not isolated incidents,” he stated, “but a coordinated effort to marginalize our faith and destabilize national unity.”

The Forum alleged that the attacks are part of a larger, well-funded campaign aimed at inciting religious conflict, naming Omoyele Sowore and unnamed collaborators as central figures in this effort.

It called for urgent government action to protect religious freedom and uphold democratic values.

Despite the concerns raised, the Forum also took the opportunity to commend the Federal Government for the recent establishment of the Forest Guard initiative an effort aimed at combating growing insecurity, particularly in rural areas.

“The Forest Guard is a timely and welcome development,” James said.

“We believe it will enhance security and provide a buffer against those who terrorize our communities from hiding places in the forests.”

While praising the initiative, the Forum urged the government to ensure the guards are adequately trained, equipped, and supported to effectively carry out their duties.

It also acknowledged the dedication of Nigeria’s security agencies, encouraging them to intensify their efforts to end violence and restore peace across the nation.

The Concerned Christian Youth Forum reiterated its commitment to unity, peace, and collaboration, urging all Nigerians regardless of religious background to stand together against hatred and division.

“We will not stand idly by while our faith and leaders are under siege, but we will remain steadfast in our resolve to promote peace, tolerance, and national cohesion.” He concluded

Dr. Raymond Edoh appointment would be an added value, Group says urging Tinubu to appoint him

Dr. Emmanuel Daudu

A highly reputable national Civil Society group, National Civil Society forum of Professionals, NCSFP, has drown the attention of the federal government on the need to inculcate a worthy son of the president of the federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR into any leadership position in this administration.

The call, which was made on Friday during a press conference held in Abuja, stressed on the personality of Dr. Raymond Edoh and his role in the 2023 presidential election.

According to the President of the organization, Alh. Danjuma Harouna, while addressing the press, described Dr. Raymond Edoh is a loyal and worthy political son of President Bola Tinubu, who contributed immensely to the victory of his father as the president of the federal Republic of Nigeria in 2023.
“One of these days, during our visit to Dr. Raymond Edoh, while listening to him, I and the delegation of the organization that went for the courtesy visit realized that he is not different from president Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in his optimism about Nigeria, his leadership charisma, passion to lead, wealth of knowledge and experience, and the most of them are his tactical brilliance in ideas on how insecurity can be curbed, poverty can be inhibted, and development can be achieved stresslessly including the windows to the fundings of the projects and programs.

“We further noticed how highly coordinated and determined he is about this nation in line with this administration’s agenda and despite he hasn’t been considered with any appointment, he assured us of Tinubu’s return in 2027 as according to him, he will throw his full political weight behind his father. No doubt, he is an influential young leader who has served and still serves in several capacities across political forums, youth movements and organizations, and international organisations.

“Dr. Raymond Edoh has continued to be a crusader of hope for greater Nigeria and Africa at large. He believes in empowering people and encouraging the younger ones to grow and become useful to their sundry societies through capacity building programs, empowerment of all kinds, financial donations in millions of Naira, mental sensitization, lectures on basic moral orientation, national patrotism and security, to mention but a few.

“He also went further by telling us that he will continue to support his father, Bola Ahmed Tinubu come what may because he believes in him.

“However, he had earlier disclosed to us during his welcome address that he hopes to serve in this administration if given the opportunity, and what he plans to achieve for Nigerians is mind-blowing.”

Also speaking, the vice president, Hajia Juwairat Aliyu, also stressed that Dr. Raymond Edoh is a disciplined young Nigeria full of humility and popularly known for his diligence to duty and integrity. “One of the best things that this administration would do amongst many others is to give Dr. Raymond Edoh an appointment in this administration. His prowess and doggedness is amazing, and I think President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR should see him worthy of an appointment to help in the achievement of New Hope Agenda, “she said

Speaking further, Aliyu lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his resolve in making Nigeria’s economy better through the complete payment of the Nigeria IMF loan that has lingered for years.

She, however, charged President Tinubu to focus on the development of youths and find ways to incorporate them into leadership positions

Press Release: CCYF set for a protest

The Concerned Christian Youth Forum (CCYF) has announced plans for a peaceful protest
in response to the rapidly escalating attacks against the Christian faith and Christian Leaders, which are being funded by Omoyele Sowore and his collaborators

This protest is being organized in response to the growing disregard shown to our religion and the unacceptable actions taken against our religious leaders by Sowore and his associates.

This distressing situation has been exacerbated by the fact that Christianity and Christian Leaders are being deliberately targeted, Our beliefs and traditions disrespected, and Our faith undermined by Omoyele Sowere and His collaborators that are receiving financial support for the sole purpose of sparking religious conflict.

We are also using this protest to call the attention of the Government to the alarming rise in killings and bloodshed across the country with a demand for the Government to do everything possible to end this senseless killings.

The Concerned Christian Youth Forum (CCYF) is calling on all Christian Youths within the FCT to join us in this peaceful protest on May 21st Wednesday 2025, at 10 AM and ending by 2pm, Venue is the Unity Fountain opposite Transcorp Hilton in Maitama.

The protest will be accessible to all Christian Youth, with free buses decorated with our banners providing transportation from various locations across the city and all the six area councils of the FCT.

James Paul Adama.
Convener, Concerned Christian Youth Forum.
Abuja Nigeria.

FG Launches ‘YO! Health’ Campaign to Boost Youth Well-being Nationwide

Maryam Aminu

In a bold step to improve the health and well-being of young Nigerians, the Federal Government has unveiled YO! Health, a new national health awareness campaign targeting youth across the country.

The initiative was officially launched by the Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, at a high-level event held at the Transcorp Hilton in Abuja. YO! Health seeks to promote healthy lifestyles and empower young people with the information and tools needed to take control of their physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

Speaking at the launch, Olawande said the campaign is rooted in the government’s commitment to youth development and health equity. “Good health is a prerequisite for young people to thrive and contribute meaningfully to society,” the Minister said. “YO! Health is designed to bridge the gap in access to essential health services while advancing awareness, education, and preventive care.”

The initiative focuses on six strategic pillars: Mental Health; Alcohol, Drug and Substance Abuse; Communicable Diseases; Health Insurance (especially for youth in the informal sector); Non-Communicable Diseases; and Sexual & Reproductive Health.

According to the Minister, these focus areas were selected based on data and insights from young Nigerians themselves, reflecting real challenges and lived experiences. The campaign also revolves around four key objectives: Raising Awareness, Empowering Youth, Advocacy and Policy Influence, and Co-Design and Implementation.

YO! Health is a collaborative effort led by the Ministry of Youth Development in partnership with the Federal Ministries of Health and Women Affairs, civil society organizations, international partners, and private sector stakeholders.

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Olubunmi Olusanya, lauded the initiative as a holistic approach to youth health. He described it as a “structured framework to address critical aspects of youth health and well-being,” adding that the program reflects the government’s dedication to building a healthier, more empowered generation.

The initiative has received strong backing from the Renewed Hope administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whose support was acknowledged by Olawande during the launch event.

YO! Health is expected to roll out nationwide in the coming months with community-based activations, health outreach programs, and digital engagement strategies tailored to young Nigerians.

Nigeria Reaffirms Commitment to Global Peace at UN Peacekeeping Ministerial 2025

Dr. Emmanuel Daudu

Nigeria has restated its firm commitment to global peace and security during the 2025 United Nations Peacekeeping Ministerial Conference, currently underway at the UN Headquarters in New York.

Speaking on the second day of the High-Level Pledging Session, the Honourable Minister of Defence, H.E. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, reaffirmed Nigeria’s dedication to supporting international peacekeeping operations and maintaining global stability.

In his remarks, Badaru highlighted Nigeria’s ongoing contributions to UN missions, including the rotation of the Base Protection Force with the United Nations Interim Security Force in Abyei (UNISFA) and the deployment of a Formed Police Unit to the United Nations Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS).

He further emphasized Nigeria’s leading role in sub-regional peace efforts through the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the African Union (AU), referencing the country’s longstanding contributions to peacekeeping operations in Sierra Leone, Liberia, and more recently, The Gambia and Guinea Bissau.

Underscoring Nigeria’s enduring partnership with the UN, the Minister announced five new pledges under the Peacekeeping Capability Readiness System, signaling Nigeria’s increased readiness to support future peace operations.

The Minister reaffirmed Nigeria’s resolve to contribute meaningfully to global peace, stating that the country remains committed to fostering regional and international security through cooperation and collective action.

House of Reps Passes CIPSMN Amendment Bill, Paves Way for Professional Procurement Standards

The House of Representatives has garnered significant commendation for passing the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply Management (CIPSMN) Amendment Bill 2024, marking the first amendment to the CIPSMN Act since its inception in 2007.

The Bill was adopted on Thursday, May 8, during a plenary session chaired by Speaker Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, who underscored the rigorous legislative process it underwent. “The Bill has gone through a thorough legislative process, including a robust public hearing. The contributions from stakeholders were overwhelmingly positive, which has enabled the House to better understand the importance of these amendments,” Abbas stated.

Key among the amendments is the proposed change of the Institute’s name to the ‘Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply Chain Management of Nigeria,’ aligning it with global best practices and broader professional mandates.

Presenting the Report of the House Committee on Public Procurement, Committee Chairman Rt. Hon. Uyime emphasized the economic significance of the amendments. “Effective supply and procurement are crucial to economic growth. This amendment underscores the necessity for structured procurement processes that align with international standards,” he noted.

A pivotal clause in the amendment mandates that all civil servants involved in procurement and supply chain functions must undergo professional training and certification provided by the Institute. This measure, according to the Committee’s recommendations, is aimed at fostering professionalism and accountability across public sector procurement.

“We are ensuring that procurement officers across all ministries, departments, and agencies are equipped with the necessary skills and professional certification to effectively manage procurement processes,” Hon. Uyime added.

The amendment further seeks to elevate the Institute’s status, placing it on par with other established professional bodies in Nigeria and granting it statutory recognition to regulate procurement and supply chain management nationwide.

The Bill now awaits concurrence by the Senate before being transmitted to the President for assent.

NIMC Enrolls 120 Million Nigerians, Targets Full Coverage by Year-End

Maryam Aminu

The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has announced a major milestone in its nationwide identity enrollment campaign, revealing that it has successfully captured over 120 million Nigerians into its national database.

Speaking during a press briefing in Abuja on Wednesday, the Director General/CEO of NIMC, Engr. Abisoye Coker-Odusote, reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to enrolling the entire Nigerian population by the end of the year.

“We have enrolled many Nigerians and still counting. We are definitely going to continue to ensure that we enroll more Nigerians before the end of this year,” Coker-Odusote stated.

Group photograph: DG NIMC with Journalists

As part of its ongoing reforms, the Commission disclosed a 40% reduction in extortion and corruption within the enrollment process. Coker-Odusote attributed this progress to improved oversight and the deployment of enhanced technology across enrollment centers.

To accelerate the process, state and local government offices have been equipped with upgraded tools and better-trained personnel.

In a move to make enrollment even more accessible, the NIMC has also launched a self-assist digital platform, enabling users to log in with biometrics, verify their identities, comply with cybersecurity and data protection protocols, and update their records online.

The NIMC boss further emphasized the role of the National Identification Number (NIN) in driving economic empowerment and access to government services.

She noted that access to the government-backed student loan program is now tied to NIN registration, a measure aimed at promoting financial inclusion and supporting higher education.

“The government has provided loan facilities for students or aspiring students who wish to pursue higher education. With NIN, they can now apply for these opportunities with ease,” she said.

DG NIMC also revealed that the Commission has engaged cybersecurity experts to strengthen its systems in line with international best practices, reinforcing its dedication to data protection and secure identity management.

She emphasized the importance of national identity as a foundation for development, inclusion, and access to essential services.

DG NIMC with Staff of the Commission

Nigeria’s Defence Minister Badaru Participates in UN Peacekeeping Ministerial 2025 in Berlin

Dr. Emmanuel Daudu

Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, His Excellency Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, is representing the country at the United Nations Peacekeeping Ministerial 2025, currently underway in Berlin, Germany. The high-level event, held from May 13–14, is themed “The Future of Peacekeeping” and brings together global leaders to address the evolving challenges and strategies in international education peacekeeping.

The ministerial forum features key figures such as United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, Germany’s Defence Minister Boris Pistorius, and Foreign Minister Dr. Joham Wadephul. Their presence underscores the global commitment to enhancing peacekeeping frameworks and fostering collective security.

Minister Badaru was warmly received upon arrival by Gunther Krichbaum, State Minister for Europe at the Federal Foreign Office, and Dr. Nils Schmid, Parliamentary State Minister of Defence. His presence signals Nigeria’s ongoing commitment to international peace and security efforts, as well as the nation’s intent to deepen bilateral ties with Germany.

On the sidelines of the main event, H.E. Badaru held a bilateral meeting with Mr. Niels Annen, German State Secretary of the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development. Discussions centered on Nigeria’s economic opportunities and potential collaborations within the military-industrial complex.

In a separate meeting with Dr. Morissanda Kouyaté, Guinea’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Minister Badaru also addressed regional security, the imperative of stability in West Africa, and the strategic importance of value addition to natural resources as a means of accelerating national development.

The 2025 UN Peacekeeping Ministerial is seen as a pivotal gathering aimed at reshaping peacekeeping missions and enhancing international cooperation in the face of modern security challenges.

NASENI Backs Tinubu’s “Nigeria First Policy,” Hails Boost for Local Innovation

Maryam Aminu

The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) has expressed strong support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s newly launched “Nigeria First Policy,” describing it as a bold move to accelerate the country’s industrialization and economic self-reliance.

In a statement released on Sunday by Olusegun Ayeoyenikan, NASENI’s Director of Information, NASENI’s Executive Vice Chairman and CEO, Khalil Suleiman Halilu, praised the policy’s focus on promoting indigenous products and services in government procurement processes. He said the initiative would empower local entrepreneurs, manufacturers, and innovators by enhancing their access to government contracts and support.

“With Mr. President’s directive to the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) to revise and enforce guidelines favoring local suppliers, we anticipate a surge in the demand for Nigerian-made products,” Halilu stated. “Government remains the single largest buyer of goods and services. This move is expected to drive growth across critical sectors.”

Halilu described the policy as both “forward-thinking and revolutionary,” noting that NASENI has long championed local manufacturing through its various initiatives. He cited products such as Nigerian-assembled vehicles, energy systems, smart irrigation tools, and electronic devices as examples of the quality achievable within the country.

He also pointed to NASENI’s ongoing Made-in-Nigeria Strategic Focus Group meetings held across several states as part of efforts to understand consumer behavior and promote local content. These sessions bring together regulators, industry players, and civil society to develop strategies for increasing patronage of Nigerian goods.

“We are ready to lead the implementation of the President’s vision,” Halilu added. “But it’s also a challenge to local producers to uphold quality. Policy support is not enough we must deliver products that can rival imports and meet the expectations of Nigerian consumers.”

As part of its nationwide engagement strategy, NASENI has been working with stakeholders in states such as Lagos, Kaduna, Anambra, Delta, Kano, Katsina, and Ogun to strengthen innovation, solve manufacturing challenges, and encourage the adoption of homegrown technologies.

President Tinubu’s directive mandates the BPP to reform procurement procedures to favor local content and maintain a comprehensive registry of qualified Nigerian manufacturers and service providers.

Halilu reaffirmed NASENI’s commitment to the policy’s success, saying, “We have seen what our manufacturers are capable of. With the right support, Nigeria can achieve genuine industrial transformation driven by local ingenuity.”

Youth Minister Urges State Commissioners to Launch Empowerment Initiatives

Maryam Aminu

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to youth development as the Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, called on Youth Commissioners across Nigeria to initiate impactful empowerment programs in their respective states.

Comrade Olawande made the call during a courtesy visit by the Forum of State Youth Commissioners to the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja. The delegation, led by Mr. Gold Adedayo, Commissioner for Youth and Social Development in Ekiti State and Chairman of the Forum, was warmly received by the Minister and senior officials of the Ministry.

In a statement by Omolara Esan, Director of Information & Public Relations, she emphasized that the meeting underscores the Ministry’s drive to deepen state-level collaborations for national youth engagement.

“As someone who has benefitted from homegrown initiatives, I can confidently say that every program I have initiated since my time as Minister of State for Youth has received sponsorship from NGOs and relevant agencies,” Olawande stated.

“What you do to transform the lives of the youth in your state will stand as a testament to your leadership, even after you leave office.”

In response, Mr. Adedayo acknowledged the Minister’s continued support and recalled an earlier engagement in Lagos that led to the formulation of key action points.

He highlighted three major requests from the Forum: the establishment of a dedicated conference room within the Ministry to serve as its Abuja headquarters, facilitation of inter-state collaboration on youth initiatives, and the commencement of regular meetings beginning with a planned session in Bayelsa.

“These are the essential building blocks needed to ensure the success of our youth development programs across the country,” Adedayo affirmed.

Also speaking at the event, the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Mr. Olubunmi Olusanya, assured the Forum of the Ministry’s full backing, noting that collaborative efforts remain central to uplifting young Nigerians and securing their future