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Trailblazer of Transformation: Dr. Kehinde Fafiyebi to Be Honored at Youth Summit for Tackling Social Vices Through Innovation and Impact

Maryam Aminu

Renowned entrepreneur, tech innovator, and youth development advocate, Amb. Engr. Dr. Kehinde Fafiyebi, is set to receive a distinguished honor at the upcoming Youth Multi-Stakeholders Summit on Social Vices, hosted by the Coalition of Nigerian Youths on Security and Safety Affairs (CONYSSA).

Taking place in Abuja on May 8th, 2025, the summit is themed “Uniting the Nigerian Youth Against Cultism, Internet Fraud, Money Laundering, Drug Abuse, Child Trafficking, and Economic Sabotage.” It promises to be a landmark gathering of youth leaders, changemakers, and nation builders.

Dr. Fafiyebi visionary founder of FAFKAY INTEGRATED SERVICES COMPANY (FISC) and FAFKAY TRAVELS has carved out a legacy of excellence across borders, with operations spanning Nigeria, Dubai, the UK, and Canada. His enterprises are redefining standards in travel, technology, and community-centered services, delivering world-class solutions with integrity and innovation.

With a dynamic background in civil engineering, web development, and IT, Dr. Fafiyebi honed his skills in Dubai, working with elite firms including a premier real estate agency and the Ministry of Transportation. Armed with global experience, he returned to Africa to bridge service gaps through FAFKAY TRAVELS, offering transparent and efficient relocation and travel services to Nigerians seeking brighter opportunities.

A celebrated business leader, Dr. Fafiyebi was named Entrepreneur of the Year at the Nigeria Journalist Awards and received the Pera Award in Oyo State in 2023. His contributions earned him recognition as a Youth Ambassador by the ECOWAS Youth Council Presidency affirming his enduring influence on the next generation.

An academic powerhouse, he holds degrees in Civil Engineering and Computer Science, along with postgraduate qualifications in Information and Communication Technology. His technical prowess spans digital marketing, IT consulting, web development, and business analysis making him a force in both entrepreneurship and education.

Beyond business, Dr. Fafiyebi is committed to societal upliftment. Through scholarships, mentorship programs, and grassroots empowerment initiatives particularly in Oyo State he is actively combating social vices by offering young people viable alternatives through skills, education, and enterprise.

At the upcoming CONYSSA summit, Dr. Fafiyebi will be celebrated for his remarkable contributions to human capacity building, educational sponsorship, and social intervention. His journey stands as a beacon for entrepreneurs, young professionals, and leaders across Africa proof that one visionary can ignite transformation far beyond the boardroom.

A Royal Spectacle in Bali: The Prime Minister of Birland State Shines at Global Cultural Events

In a dazzling convergence of royalty, culture, and global unity, the Prime Minister of the State of Birland, Her Majesty Queen Eden, illuminated two historic events in Bali, Indonesia, on April 26-27, 2025. As the revered Queen of Ohanaeze Kingdom Worldwide, Embo Kingdom D’Afrique & Diaspora, Sacro Trono de los Amerindios y Afrodesciendentes (SATROAMAD), Ovuorie Kingdom in Nigeria, Naladuta of Kutai Mulawarman Kingdom in Indonesia, and the Birland Monarchy, she embodied humanitarian leadership and regal grace. Joined by the Honorable Minister of Birland Tourism, His Excellency Prince Mingma Dorjee Sherpa from Nepal, and the world-famous Indian astrologer Dr. Atlanta Kaashhyap, Queen Eden’s presence sparked a social media frenzy, with posts on X hailing the events as a “royal festival” of Southeast Asian and global dignitaries.

April 26, 2025: A Royal Honor at the ARMA Museum & Resort

The first event unfolded at the breathtaking ARMA Museum & Resort in Ubud, Bali, during the Foundation Awarding and Thanksgiving Ceremony hosted by HRM Ida Anak Agung Ngurah Ungrasena Singaraja of the Kerajaan Buleleng Bali Royal Kingdom and the Pandji Singaraja Foundation. The evening was a vibrant mosaic of culture, with royal dignitaries from China and Thailand mingling amid spellbinding performances by cultural dancers and artists from Indonesia’s myriad islands.

In a moment that left the audience in awe , HRM Ida Anak Agung presented Queen Eden with the prestigious Inspiring Woman Award 2025 (Hari Pahlawan Nasional RA Kartini), a

trophy and certificate bestowed by Puri Agung Singaraja, Buleleng, Bali, through the Pandji Singaraja Foundation.The award celebrated Queen Eden as an international figure whose ideals and actions inspire current and future generations, setting a proud example for all. Whispering that the honor was a carefully planned surprise, HRM Ida Anak Agung Ngurah Ungrasena Singaraja amplified the moment’s emotional weight. “It’s a huge honor bestowed upon me in the midst of such esteemed royal families,” Queen Eden declared, her voice resonating with humility and gratitude,amplifying the significance of the award in the heart of Bali’s cultural epicenter. The surprise award, set against the lush backdrop of Ubud, became a trending topic on X, with users celebrating the “royal festival” and Queen Eden’s global influence as a beacon of inspiration.

April 27, 2025: A Global Cultural Exchange in South Kuta

The following day, the Gedung MICE Widyatula Politek Pariwisata in South Kuta hosted a Cultural Exchange event celebrating the bonds between Nepal, Indonesia, and beyond, organized by Gentra Lestari Budaya (GLB) and Forum Masyarakat Indonesia Emas (FORMAS). The event honored Prince Mingma Dorjee Sherpa for his exceptional hospitality during the Nepal-Indonesia Cultural Exchange in Kathmandu in February 2025, where Queen Eden was also a distinguished guest. X posts buzzed with excitement, noting the presence of “kings, queens, princes, and princesses” alongside Birland’s leaders, amplifying the event’s grandeur.

The gathering glittered with luminaries: Dr. Atlanta Kaashhyap, whose astrological prowess has captivated millions; Mr. Yohanes Handojo Budhisedjati, FORMAS Founder & Chairman; the Deputy Governor of Bali; Ambassador M. Wahid Supriyadi, a former diplomat in Russia and the UAE, Agus Santoso of Injourney Aviation services; and Ratu Ratha Dewit Kartika, Chairman of GLB. Sponsors like “Cheers” healthy drinking water, represented by Mr. Haryanto Stiawan Wiyoto, and Mrs. Acharreeya Julasavee, proprietor of My Dream Bali Resort & Spa, added to the event’s prestige.

Cultural performances, heartfelt speeches, and a shared vision of unity electrified the atmosphere. Prince Sherpa’s role as a cultural bridge between nations was lauded, while Queen Eden’s commanding presence inspired awe, cementing her status as a global icon of humanitarian leadership and diplomacy elevated the occasion, her poise and dedication inspiring all in attendance, thus deserving of the award bestowed upon her by Anak Agung Foundation Awarding.

A Legacy That Echoes Worldwide

These twin events in Bali were more than ceremonies—they were a global celebration of culture, royalty, and shared dreams. From the surprise honor in Ubud to the vibrant exchange in South Kuta, Queen Eden and Prince Sherpa wove a narrative of hope and collaboration that resonated far beyond Bali’s shores. X users captured the magic, describing the gatherings as a “royal festival” that united Southeast Asia’s finest. As the world turns its gaze to Birland State and its visionary leaders, these moments will endure as a beacon of what humanity can achieve when bound by purpose and passion.

Published by Lukman Nurudeen, celebrating the unforgettable convergence of royalty, culture, and humanitarian vision in Bali, April 2025.

UNESCO Laureate’s Brother became King of Yoruba Community in Enugu State

UNESCO Laureate’s Brother became King of Yoruba Community in Enugu State as Iwoland scored another limelight in Enugu State as another distinguished Iwo son in the person of Dr. Engr. Isiak A. Salmon who was recently crowned as the Oba of Yoruba United Community in Enugu State after emerging successfully from the community selection process.

The installation of his cabinet members took place on April 26, 2025 and selected Yoruba undergraduates were awarded scholarships to commemorate the installation ceremony by the Oba (Dr.) Isiak A. Salmon.

You will recall that Oba Salmon is a graduate of The Federal Polytechnic Offa, Kwara State before proceeding to serve as a youth Corps member, he was subsequently retained at his place of primary assignment as a Lecturer due to his excellent performance in the service year. Oba Salmon later went on to obtain additional degrees culminating in his attainment of a Ph.D. in Computer Science with specialty in System/Cyber security and Information Technology. He is a registered Engineer with COREN, and a registered Teacher with TRCN. He belongs to different professional bodies including The Nigeria Society of Engineers, Nigeria Computer Society, National Association of Physical Science, Computer Professionals (Registration Council of Nigeria) among others.

Congratulations Kabiyesi .

I salute you for your great achievement and I wish good health, happiness goodness, Long life and future success

Yours sincerely
The First African UNESCO Laureate Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu

Defence Minister Applauds President Tinubu’s Support for Nigerian Students

Emmanuel Daudu

The Minister of Defence, H.E. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his steadfast support and numerous interventions aimed at improving the lives of Nigerian students.

This was disclosed in a statement signed by Mati Ali, Personal Assistant on Media and Publicity to the Honourable Minister, following the formal inauguration of the 2025 National Executive Members of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), held at the NAF Conference Centre in Abuja.

As the grand patron of NANS, the Minister expressed appreciation for President Tinubu’s consistent efforts in empowering young people, describing his commitment as vital to fostering self-reliance and national development.

He noted that Nigerian students remain deeply grateful for the President’s guidance and contributions toward building a more prosperous and patriotic generation.

The Minister also praised the students’ resilience and active participation during and after the election process, urging them to embrace unity and work collaboratively. He acknowledged that election seasons can be challenging, but emphasized the importance of setting aside differences to support the newly elected leadership in delivering on their promises.

The Minister reiterated his gratitude to President Tinubu and encouraged the students to remain focused on collective progress. “Let us remain united; united we are. Let us stand united, and the mission will be accomplished,” he stated.

RMAFC Chairman Hails Governor Umoh Eno’s gVision on Arise Resort Project in Uyo

Maryam Aminu

The Chairman of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), Dr. Mohammed Bello Shehu, OFR, has lauded Akwa Ibom State Governor, His Excellency Pastor Umo Eno Bassey, PhD, for the visionary transformation of the Arise Resort project in Uyo, describing it as a benchmark for sustainable development and innovative leadership in Nigeria.

This was contained in a statement signed by Maryam Umar Yusuf, Head of the Information and Public Relations Unit of RMAFC, following a working visit by the Commission’s leadership to the resort site on Wednesday, April 30, 2025.

Speaking during the visit, Dr. Shehu who led a delegation of Honourable Commissioners and senior management staff expressed deep admiration for the state’s reclamation of over 70 hectares of severely eroded land, now being transformed into a modern eco-tourism and digital innovation hub.

“We are truly amazed by what we have seen here today,” Dr. Shehu remarked. “This is not just about land reclamation; it’s about transforming adversity into opportunity. It takes intellect, vision, and commitment to lead such a monumental project. Governor Umoh Eno and his team deserve commendation.”

He assured the State Government of the Commission’s support and emphasized that RMAFC would review Akwa Ibom’s request for federal assistance with priority.

Governor Umoh Eno, while receiving the RMAFC team, presented a visual timeline of the site’s evolution.

He stressed that the Arise Resort was not just an infrastructure project but part of the state’s broader economic diversification strategy.

“We’ve invested billions to reclaim this land,” the ẞMGovernor said. “But if we stop here, we risk leaving behind ungoverned spaces. This project is a vital piece in our plan to boost tourism, create jobs, and promote innovation.”

The governor also disclosed that a formal request had been sent to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to commission the project upon its completion.

The visit concluded with a tour of the resort facilities, during which the RMAFC delegation reiterated their support and pledged to advocate for federal backing to ensure the successful completion of the landmark project.

RMAFC Concludes Strategic Retreat in Uyo, Charts Path for Fiscal Reforms

Maryam Aminu

The Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) has concluded a pivotal three-day strategic retreat in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, aimed at strengthening fiscal governance and advancing reforms aligned with Nigeria’s evolving economic landscape.

Held at the Ibom Hotel & Golf Resort from April 28 to 30, the retreat brought together RMAFC commissioners and senior management staff under the theme “Understanding the Role of RMAFC and Other Stakeholders/Agencies in Nation Building.”

According to Maryam Umar Yusuf, Head of the Commission’s Information and Public Relations Unit, the retreat was designed to deepen the understanding of the Commission’s constitutional role and realign its operations with the goals of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

The Chairman of RMAFC, Dr. Muhammed Bello Shehu, noted that the engagement was particularly important for newly inaugurated members and critical to strengthening institutional focus amid changing national and global economic realities.

In a communique presented at the end of the retreat by Hon. Ismail Muhammed Agaka, Federal Commissioner representing Kwara State and Chairman, Public Affairs and Communications Committee, the Commission emphasized the urgent need to review Nigeria’s revenue allocation formula, which has remained unchanged for 16 years, despite constitutional provisions for periodic revision.

Key recommendations from the communique include:

A constitutional amendment to reflect evolving fiscal realities, including the inclusion of Local Government Chairmen and Councilors among beneficiaries of the remuneration package.

Direct payment of allocations to Local Governments from the Federation Account in line with the July 11, 2024, Supreme Court ruling affirming Local Government financial autonomy.

Amendment of Section 162(2) of the 1999 Constitution to establish a timeline for presidential submission of RMAFC proposals to the National Assembly.

The Commission also proposed the:

Establishment of a National Revenue Dashboard to enable real-time digital tracking of revenue inflows;

Amendment of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) to expand the NNPC Limited board to include state, local government, and Central Bank of Nigeria representatives;

Creation of a distinct Office of the Accountant General of the Federation, separate from that of the Federal Government.

Furthermore, the Commission reaffirmed its constitutional duty to monitor revenue accruals, ensuring all funds due to the Federation Account are accurately and promptly remitted by revenue-generating agencies. It also reiterated that its recommendations on the remuneration of political, public, and judicial office holders remain constitutionally binding on all tiers of government.

“This retreat marks a major step in repositioning the Commission to better respond to Nigeria’s dynamic fiscal landscape,” said Hon. Agaka.

The event was attended by several high-ranking officials, including the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON, represented by Dr. Ibrahim Muhammad Natagwandu; Akwa Ibom State Governor, His Excellency Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, PhD; Chairman of the Nigerian Governors Forum, Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq; and Chairman of the Senate Committee on National Planning and Economic Affairs, Senator Yahaya Abdullahi.

Nigeria Seeks Greater U.S. Support in Fight Against Insecurity – Defence Minister Matawalle

Emmanuel Daudu

Nigeria’s Minister of State for Defence, H.E. Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, has urged the United States to increase its support in intelligence sharing, counterterrorism operations, and military capacity building to help address Nigeria’s growing security challenges.

This call was made during a strategic meeting held in Abuja with Major General Garrick Harmon, Director for Strategy, Engagement, and Programs at the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), who is on his first official visit to Nigeria in his current role. The engagement took place at the Ministry of Defence Headquarters, Ship House.

According to Patience Ituke, speaking on behalf of the Director of Information and Public Relations, the Minister emphasized the importance of strengthening bilateral defence cooperation, noting that Nigeria’s commitment to regional peace and security requires enhanced external support.

“Nigeria is dedicated to promoting regional peace and security; however, we cannot achieve this alone,” Matawalle said. “We require more robust support from the United States, particularly in intelligence sharing and capacity building, to effectively combat terrorism, insurgency, and transnational threats.”

In his response, Major General Harmon thanked the Minister for the warm reception and reaffirmed the United States’ readiness to bolster Nigeria’s security efforts.

He acknowledged that, though his visit was brief, the interactions were impactful and demonstrated the strong and evolving defence partnership between both countries.

Both parties agreed on the urgent need for deeper collaboration in addressing the region’s complex security landscape, reaffirming their commitment to a safer and more stable West Africa.

Nigeria to Deepen Support for UN Humanitarian Work – Defence Minister Badaru

Emmanuel Daudu

Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening humanitarian cooperation with the United Nations, with the Honourable Minister of Defence, H.E. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar CON, mni, pledging enhanced support for ongoing UN operations across the country.

The pledge was disclosed in a statement signed by Pat Ndidi Ituke, on behalf of the Director of Information and Public Relations, following a courtesy visit by the United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mr. Mohamed Malick Fall, to the Minister’s office at Ship House, Abuja.

Describing the engagement as “long overdue,” Minister Badaru emphasized the importance of renewed coordination and collaboration, particularly in areas critical to sustainable development such as health, water and sanitation, education, and livelihoods.

He noted the need to revive long-standing partnerships and build on past successes.

Reflecting on his time as a state governor, Badaru highlighted the benefits of inter-state benchmarking, crediting it for measurable improvements in development indicators, especially in access to water and healthcare services.

In his remarks, Mr. Fall praised the Minister’s leadership and expressed the UN’s commitment to working with both federal and state governments to strengthen humanitarian and development responses across the country.

Discussions during the meeting also covered the potential rollout of new service delivery models, enhanced collaboration between technical teams, and the integration of national security institutions into humanitarian programming for improved implementation.

FG Applauds RMAFC Chairman’s Leadership as Commission Sets Sights on Revenue Formula Review

Maryam Aminu

The Federal Government has commended the Chairman of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), Dr. Mohammed Bello Shehu, OFR, for his strategic leadership and commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s fiscal structure.

The commendation was made during the opening ceremony of the 2025 retreat for newly inaugurated Members of the Commission, held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

According to a statement by Maryam Umar Yusuf, mnipr, Head of Information and Public Relations at RMAFC, the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima represented by Ibrahim Natagwandu, Technical Adviser on Public Debt and Revenue Mobilisation described the retreat as timely and aligned with the administration’s vision for fiscal prudence and sustainable development.

“I commend the leadership of the Commission for initiating this engagement,” Natagwandu stated. “The Chairman’s proactive steps toward improving funding and enhancing data-driven decision-making are crucial to achieving effective service delivery.”

Also present at the ceremony, Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno Bassey, praised Dr. Shehu’s visionary leadership and reaffirmed the state’s support for the Commission’s efforts to deepen fiscal federalism and economic collaboration.

In a similar vein, the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and Governor of Kwara State, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq represented by Razaq Fatai, Head of Data and Analytics emphasized the need for a revised revenue allocation formula reflective of present-day economic realities. “A just and balanced formula is vital for the delivery of democratic dividends across all levels of government,” he said.

The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, represented by Barr. Imarha Ogehnenyerowo Ruben, commended RMAFC’s efforts to uphold transparency and fiscal discipline.

He assured the Commission of the Ministry’s support in navigating legal reforms necessary for its effective operation.

Senator Yahaya Abdullahi, Chairman of the Senate Committee on National Planning and Economic Affairs, lauded the Commission for its impact across federal, state, and local governments.

He advocated for stronger legislative backing to further empower RMAFC’s initiatives.

In his address, Dr. Shehu reiterated the Commission’s commitment to reviewing the revenue allocation formula and remuneration packages for political and public office holders.

He urged all tiers of government to diversify revenue sources through sectors like agriculture, tourism, and solid minerals.

“We are custodians of the fiscal soul of the Federation,” he declared. “It is our duty to leave a legacy defined by transparency, diligence, and innovation.”

The retreat concluded with a vote of thanks by the Secretary to the Commission, Engr. Joseph Okechukwu Nwaze, who expressed gratitude to all dignitaries, participants, and stakeholders for their support and contributions to the dialogue on strengthening Nigeria’s fiscal governance.

TI Nigeria, CISLAC Boss Rafsanjani Backs Probe of NNPCL, Urges Comprehensive Oil Sector Audit

Maryam Aminu

The Head of Transparency International (TI) Nigeria and Executive Director of the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, has voiced strong support for a full-scale investigation into the operations of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).

Speaking to Channels Television on the sidelines of the Spring Meetings of the World Bank Group (WBG) and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in Washington, D.C., Rafsanjani emphasized that a thorough audit of the NNPCL is essential for promoting transparency, enhancing accountability, and ensuring that oil revenues are properly managed for the benefit of Nigerians.

“It is a welcome development to have an audit of NNPCL,” Rafsanjani said. “However, we are advocating not just for a financial audit, but also for physical and process audits. Only a comprehensive, multi-layered review can uncover systemic weaknesses and chart a course for genuine reform and revitalization of Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.”

He stressed that an effective audit must go beyond financial records to include verification of physical assets, such as pipelines and oil wells, and a review of internal processes to ensure operational efficiency and transparency in line with global best practices.

Despite reforms introduced under the Petroleum Industry Act and Nigeria’s participation in the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI), Rafsanjani warned that the sector remains marred by inefficiency, mismanagement, and poor professionalism.

“There is no way we can continue like this. If we are serious about liberating the Nigerian economy, the oil and gas sector must be reformed and made truly productive for the people,” he said.

The anti-corruption advocate also called for structural changes at the ministerial level, recommending that the President relinquish the role of Minister of Petroleum Resources to ensure greater independence and oversight of NNPCL operations.

“For NNPCL to function as a genuine commercial entity, free from political interference, the President must relinquish the role of Petroleum Minister,” Rafsanjani said. “This will enable the company to operate independently and be subject to proper oversight from both the Presidency and the National Assembly.”

Rafsanjani acknowledged the strides made under former NNPCL Group Chief Executive Officer Mele Kyari, particularly the historic release of the company’s first audited financial statements in 43 years. The 2018 report revealed losses of N803.9 billion (approximately $2.2 billion) and marked an important step toward greater transparency.

He also recalled a previous audit initiated during the tenure of former Central Bank Governor Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, which exposed major financial discrepancies at the then-NNPC. Unfortunately, Rafsanjani noted, those findings were dismissed by the National Assembly at the time.

Expressing hope for the current push for a full-scale audit, Rafsanjani urged that it be taken seriously and not disregarded, warning that genuine reform of the oil sector is vital for Nigeria’s economic future.