Tour Operators Withdraw from 2025 Hajj, Allege Mismanagement and Favoritism by NAHCON

Maryam Aminu

Three licensed Hajj tour operators Travel Express Ltd, An-Noor Air Services and Tours Ltd, and Positive Trends Travel and Tours Ltd have announced their withdrawal from participation in the 2025 Hajj exercise, citing alleged irregularities, mismanagement, and unethical practices by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON).

In a detailed statement released by the signatories Usman A. Ambursa, Haruna Isma’il, and Ikrimah Muhammad the operators accused NAHCON of engaging in “Machiavellian” tactics, sidelining private tour operators, and promoting vested interests at the expense of Nigerian pilgrims.

“Our decision to withdraw was driven by our commitment to a clean, transparent, and pilgrim-focused Hajj operation,” the statement read. “Unfortunately, NAHCON’s current approach appears to prioritize personal and political interests over service delivery and accountability.”

The conflict reportedly began after the 2024 Hajj, during which the operators claim to have secured a favorable agreement with long-standing Saudi service provider, Ithra’a Al Joud. The company had allegedly provided exceptional services to Nigerian pilgrims under the supervision of the Association of Hajj and Umrah Operators of Nigeria (AHUON).

Encouraged by Ithra’a’s transparency, refund compliance, and competitive pricing, the three tour operators submitted a contract proposal to NAHCON for the 2025 Hajj. The contract was signed by the NAHCON Chairman in January but was later undermined, according to the operators.

“Just two days after the contract was signed, the Chairman asked us to remove the Tent A VIP service segment, citing that NAHCON had already allocated it to another service provider, Rawaf Mina,” the group claimed.

The operators insist that NAHCON’s direct involvement in marketing premium services to VIPs and state governments traditionally the purview of private tour companies represents a breach of role and unfair competition.

They further allege that NAHCON pressured other tour operators to switch to Rawaf Mina by delaying procurement approvals for Ithra’a and blocking access to essential platforms, such as the visa processing portal

“Despite Ithra’a offering a more favorable package reducing its Tent D+ economy price to 3,490 Saudi Riyals NAHCON refused to formally release this offer to the public,” the operators said. “Instead, they used their influence to discredit Ithra’a and intimidate tour operators.”

As a result, only one lead company reportedly stood by Ithra’a, but was subsequently denied access to camp bookings and an independent IBAN account allegedly in retaliation.

The three signatories say they too were denied the opportunity to select a lead company for this year’s Hajj because of their insistence on transparency and choice.

The tour operators say their withdrawal is not an act of protest but a stand for reform.

“Our goal remains simple: to ensure a Hajj operation that puts the pilgrim first, free from exploitation, and committed to service quality,” they said.

They promised to release a follow-up statement to expose the financial breakdown of Hajj packages and the alleged misuse of pilgrims’ funds to “finance the jamboree of NAHCON officials and cronies.”

Tour Operators Withdraw From 2025 HAJJ: Accuse NAHCON Of Opaque Pravtices, Call For Reforms

Maryam Aminu

Three leading Hajj tour operators have formally announced their withdrawal from participating in the 2025 Hajj operations, citing systemic corruption, lack of transparency, and disregard for the rights of Nigerian pilgrims by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON).

In a strongly worded joint statement released by Positive Trends Travel and Tours Ltd (Kaduna), Travel Express Ltd (Abuja), and An-Noor Air Services and Tours Ltd (Kano), the companies accused NAHCON of monopolizing service contracts, denying licensed operators the right to negotiate on behalf of their clients, and fostering an environment where pilgrim welfare is consistently compromised.

The CEOs, all veterans of the Hajj and Umrah industry with over 90 years of combined experience, said their decision was made in protest against entrenched self-interest within the Commission. “We have devoted our lives to the service of pilgrims, and this action is not one of abandonment but of protest,” said Ikramah Muhammad, CEO of Positive Trends and Deputy President (Hajj Affairs) of the Association for Hajj and Umrah Operators of Nigeria (AHUON).

According to the statement, previous efforts to reform the service delivery system including requests for tour operators to independently select and negotiate with Hajj service providers were ignored or met with hostility.

The tour operators explained that their grievances date back to the tenure of former NAHCON Chairman Barr. Zikrullahi Kunle Hassan, who had agreed in principle to reforms following the poor 2023 Hajj experience. However, subsequent administrations, including the current board led by Prof. Abdullahi Saleh Usman, have allegedly reversed any progress made, pushing for full central control over service negotiations.

“The current NAHCON board has taken a Machiavellian approach bent on silencing dissenting voices and weakening AHUON,” said Haruna Isma’il, Vice President (Kano zone), who co-signed the release.

The operators outlined several issues plaguing Hajj operations in Nigeria:

Lack of transparency in cost breakdowns for services such as accommodation, transportation, and catering in Saudi Arabia.

Conflict of interest, with NAHCON allegedly profiting from unaccounted negotiations while passing inflated or deflated costs to pilgrims.

Systematic exclusion of tour operators from key decisions, despite being the direct service providers to thousands of pilgrims.

They also claimed that service providers offer inducements to NAHCON officials including cash, hotel stays, and gifts in a bid to win contracts, further compromising the integrity of the system.

Citing the administration’s commitment to free-market reforms, the operators called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene and restructure NAHCON’s role.

“We urge the government to separate regulation from operation. NAHCON should serve as a watchdog, not a service vendor,” said Ambursa A. Usman, Vice President (Abuja zone) of AHUON.

They described the current system as a failed project, warning that continued suppression of industry stakeholders will only perpetuate hardship for Nigerian pilgrims.

The operators announced that this was the first in a three-part series aimed at exposing the financial and operational flaws within NAHCON. Future statements, they said, will provide detailed financial analyses of Hajj costs and expose the “recklessness” behind inflated charges borne by pilgrims.

“As businessmen of integrity, we are ready to stake our reputations to demand justice for pilgrims and reform for the industry,” the statement concluded.

CONYSSA Celebrates Young Philanthropist, Mrs. Titilope Oguntade Oladele, for Her Impactful Humanitarian Contributions

Maryam Aminu

The Coalition of Nigerian Youth on Security and Safety Affairs (CONYSSA) has commended the outstanding contributions of Mrs. Titilope Victoria Oguntade Oladele, an American-based philanthropist, for her unwavering commitment to uplifting communities and inspiring young women through her selfless humanitarian work.

Despite her young age, Mrs. Oladele has emerged as a beacon of hope for individuals, groups, and communities especially in the Ibarapa region of Oyo State, where she hails from.

Her organization, TOOL Community Development Initiative, is a non-governmental body committed to community development, education, empowerment, and humanitarian services.

The Director General of CONYSSA, Amb. Ade Mario Emmanuel, praised Mrs. Titilope for choosing a decent and impactful lifestyle, urging young girls to emulate her values.

“If every young woman builds a skill and commits to personal development, we will significantly reduce the rate at which girls fall into harmful lifestyles such as transactional relationships or ‘runs’, which continue to claim innocent lives,” Amb. Emmanuel stated.

He emphasized that hard work, self-worth, and service to others remain the pillars of a meaningful life, and Mrs. Oladele exemplifies these qualities.

Short Profile:

Mrs. Titilope Victoria Oguntade Oladele is a compassionate humanitarian and President of TOOL Community Development Initiative. Her commitment to service is deeply rooted in her desire to bridge the gap for underserved communities in education, healthcare, and empowerment.

She holds multiple academic degrees, including:

Associate of Science in Allied Health, Kingsborough College, NYC

Associate of Science in Nursing, AMG College of Nursing, New York

Bachelor of Arts in Biology, Brooklyn College, NYC

Master of Arts in Community Health, Brooklyn College, NYC

Her efforts have earned her several notable recognitions including:

Humanitarian Award of the Year, 2024 Pacesetter Entertainment & Recognition Awards

Most Outstanding Humanitarian & Entrepreneur Guru, 2024 Ogo Yoruba Awards

Special Recognition Award, Eruwa Youth Awards by Neyochin Events & Oyo State Ministry of Youth & Sports

Mrs. Oladele continues to inspire a new generation of women to lead lives of purpose, dignity, and service.

Mrs. Titilope Victoria Oguntade Oladele, an American-based philanthropist

Retired AIG Tunde Ogunshakin Honoured with Doctorate Degree by Tansian University

Maryam Aminu

In a moment of academic and national recognition, Retired Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Tunde Johnson Ogunshakin has been awarded an honorary doctorate degree by Tansian University, Anambra State. The conferment took place during the university’s convocation ceremony, celebrating Ogunshakin’s distinguished career in public service, law enforcement, and community development.

Ogunshakin, widely regarded as an exemplary figure in Nigeria’s security architecture, was honoured for his decades-long contributions to national security, anti-corruption efforts, and global policing initiatives. His outstanding leadership and unwavering dedication to service were highlighted as reasons for the university’s decision to bestow the prestigious award.

Tansian University, a faith-based institution founded in 2007 by Rev. Msgr. Prof. John Bosco Akam, is named after the Nigerian martyr Blessed Iwene Tansi. The university continues to champion academic excellence, moral integrity, and community service across its diverse faculties.

A veteran of the Nigeria Police Force with 32 years of meritorious service, Ogunshakin’s career was marked by groundbreaking investigations, policy reforms, and international collaborations. From spearheading high-profile financial crime investigations to representing Nigeria at INTERPOL and the United Nations, his legacy is vast and impactful.

Retired Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Tunde Johnson Ogunshakin

A scholar and legal luminary, Ogunshakin holds a Master’s Degree in International Commercial Law from the University of Salford, UK, alongside degrees in Law, Political Science, and History from renowned Nigerian institutions. Called to the Bar in 2017, his post-retirement years have been spent running a private law practice in Abuja.

Ogunshakin’s police career is replete with accomplishments: leading operations at INTERPOL Lagos, heading the Force Special Fraud Unit, and serving as Commissioner of Police in Rivers State before his elevation to AIG.

Internationally, he played key roles in UN peacekeeping in Bosnia and participated in high-level conferences across Europe, Asia, and North America.

His contributions have not only shaped Nigeria’s anti-fraud and anti-corruption landscape but also protected the country’s global image. Notably, he successfully defended Nigeria’s reputation at the INTERPOL General Assembly in France, preventing the mislabeling of “Advance Fee Fraud” as a uniquely Nigerian phenomenon.

A prolific speaker and writer, Ogunshakin has presented research papers at top global institutions, including Jesus College, Cambridge. His lectures and policy contributions continue to influence law enforcement strategies and public sector reform in Nigeria.

The honorary doctorate from Tansian University adds yet another feather to the cap of a man whose life has been dedicated to justice, integrity, and the betterment of society.

Dr. Bartholomew Chukwuma Idoko Receives Honorary Doctorate for Outstanding Leadership in Business and Philanthropy

Mustapha Abdulhafeez

Education is the key to unlocking the future, and for Dr. Bartholomew Chukwuma Idoko, it has been the foundation of his remarkable journey to business success and social impact. The CEO of Benid Industries Limited was awarded an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Business Administration and Management by Prowess Universitellawarc, Delaware, USA, in recognition of his outstanding leadership, entrepreneurship, and contributions to community development.

The honor was officially presented during the 11th Leadership Summit, Induction & Doctorate Award Ceremony, held at the University of Lagos on April 5, 2025. The event, which brought together prominent thought leaders, business executives, and policy makers, centered around the theme, “Industrial Relations: A Veritable Strategy for Enhancing Organizational Performance.”

Dr. Idoko, an influential Nigerian entrepreneur and philanthropist, has transformed Benid Industries Limited from a family-owned trading business into a major player in the wine and spirits manufacturing industry. Under his leadership, the company has expanded into multiple subsidiaries and employed hundreds, further cementing his legacy as a visionary in both business and philanthropy.

Born in Umuoslemeje Igbelle, Enugu-Ezike in Enugu State, Dr. Idoko’s life story is one of resilience and determination. Beyond his business achievements, he is also a devoted philanthropist, having initiated several projects aimed at uplifting Nigerian communities, including Kakaraka Football Club, educational scholarships, and water projects that have touched the lives of many.

In 2023, Dr. Idoko was recognized with the ICON of Security Ambassador Award by the Coalition of Nigeria Youths on Security and Safety Affairs (CONYSSA), further highlighting his impact on national security and youth empowerment.

This honorary doctorate is a powerful testament to Dr. Idoko’s unyielding dedication to industrial growth, education, and humanitarian efforts, and underscores the important role of education in shaping impactful leaders.

About CONYSSA:
The Coalition of Nigeria Youths on Security and Safety Affairs (CONYSSA) is a civil society organization focused on promoting national security awareness, fostering youth development, and honoring exceptional leadership across Nigeria.

Experts Say Executive Order Alone Not Enough to Secure Nigeria’s Telecom Infrastructure

Maryam Aminu

Despite the Federal Government’s Executive Order on the Designation and Protection of Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII), telecom industry stakeholders have sounded the alarm that more than policy declarations are needed to secure Nigeria’s telecommunications investments.

At the 7th edition of the Policy Implementation Assisted Forum (PIAFo) held in Lagos on Thursday, leading voices in the sector stressed that internal inefficiencies, lack of standardisation, and community resistance remain major barriers to the security and sustainability of telecom infrastructure.

Speaking at the summit, Engr. Gbenga Adebayo, Chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), said while the CNII Executive Order is a step in the right direction, poor infrastructure maintenance, unauthorized installations, and strained community relations continue to expose telecom assets to vandalism and theft.

Adebayo cited repeated cases of manhole cover and pole theft due to substandard installation practices. “When properly installed, these components are difficult to remove, but negligence has left them unsecured and vulnerable,” he said. He also recounted how unresolved damages caused by contractors have led to community resistance, delaying critical infrastructure projects.

He warned that infrastructure deployed without government approval often goes undocumented, making it susceptible to accidental destruction during roadworks. “Collaboration with relevant authorities is key. Unregistered infrastructure invites trouble,” Adebayo cautioned.

Echoing similar sentiments, Tony Emoekpere, President of the Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON), underscored the moral and environmental dimensions of infrastructure challenges in the country.

He recounted a case where switching from diesel to gas generators only led to a new wave of oil theft. “It’s not just about technology; it’s also about values and ethics,” he said, calling for national standardisation in infrastructure deployment.

Emoekpere pointed out that while Nigeria has robust local content policies, actual implementation continues to fall short. “The time for endless policy talk is over. We need follow-through, enforcement, and measurable actions,” he stated.

On his part, Wale Owoeye, CEO of Cedarview Communications Limited, shed light on the devastating impact of cable vandalism. He said telecom operators like Airtel experience cable cuts as frequently as every six minutes due to widespread assumptions that black cables contain valuable copper.

“Cable theft is an epidemic,” he said. To counter it, Owoeye proposed a three-pronged approach: reorientation through community engagement in local languages, strict enforcement with real legal consequences, and preventive measures rather than reactive solutions.

In a show of commitment, he pledged N500,000 quarterly toward an advocacy fund aimed at protecting telecom infrastructure, and urged other operators to join the cause. “This is a seed. With collective action, we can grow it into a nationwide movement,” he said.

The event, hosted by Omobayo Azeez, Convener of the PIAFo summit, brought together stakeholders from both public and private sectors, including infrastructure operators, regulatory agencies, and community leaders.

Collectively, speakers at the summit agreed that protecting Nigeria’s telecom infrastructure requires a holistic approach one that combines policy implementation with strong community relations, ethical practices, industry coordination, and proactive protection measures.

Gbenga Adebayo, Chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON),
Wale Owoeye
Tony Emoekpere

Top Anti-Corruption Chiefs Unite to Tackle Financial Mismanagement in Nigeria’s Local Governments

Maryam Aminu

In a bold move to strengthen accountability and transparency at the grassroots level, the heads of Nigeria’s foremost anti-corruption and fiscal responsibility agencies have come together to chart a new course for curbing corruption in local government finances.

The high-level strategy meeting, held under the auspices of the Accountability & Corruption Prevention Program for Local Governments in Nigeria (ACPPLG), brought together the Chairmen of the Fiscal Responsibility Commission (FRC), the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB), and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

The program, organized by the ICPC, served as a critical platform to address the growing concerns of financial mismanagement across Nigeria’s local government system.

FRC Chairman, Victor Muruako, Esq., emphasized the urgent need for stronger financial oversight mechanisms and strict compliance with fiscal responsibility laws.

He noted that local governments, being the closest to the people, must uphold the highest standards of financial discipline to drive sustainable development.

On his part, Dr. Abdulahi Usman Bello, Chairman of the CCB, stressed the importance of ethical conduct among public officials.

He reaffirmed the Bureau’s dedication to enforcing transparency and upholding integrity, stating that rooting out corruption at the local level was essential for broader national reform.

Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, SAN, Chairman of the ICPC, underscored the strategic role of the ACPPLG initiative in improving governance outcomes.

The program is designed to uncover systemic loopholes, develop policy frameworks, and promote collaboration among stakeholders committed to fighting corruption in public finance.

The forum featured intensive discussions among anti-corruption experts, public finance managers, and key government officials. Participants explored practical strategies to plug leakages, enforce accountability, and improve service delivery at the local government level.

As Nigeria continues its long-standing battle against corruption, the synergy among institutions like the FRC, CCB, and ICPC signals a renewed commitment to fiscal integrity and ethical governance. Stakeholders expressed optimism that the outcomes of the ACPPLG initiative would pave the way for meaningful reforms and foster a culture of transparency across all tiers of government.

CIPMN Raises Alarm Over Fraudulent Activities Tarnishing Its Reputation

Emmanuel Daudu

The Chartered Institute of Project Managers of Nigeria (CIPMN) has issued a strong warning against a group of individuals allegedly involved in fraudulent activities that threaten the integrity of the institute.

In a statement released by Dr. Mrs. Victoria Okoronkwo, Founder, Chairman of the Governing Council, and Pioneer President of CIPMN, the institute has called for urgent action to expose and hold accountable those responsible for illegal practices.

According to Dr. Okoronkwo, the former Registrar of CIPMN, Henry Ifeanyi Mbadiwe, alongside his associates Jamilu Isa Yankwashi, Hajara Yusuf, and Chief Emmanuel Olabode Afolayan has been engaged in fraudulent activities including issuing fake certificates, conducting unauthorized training and inductions, and attempting to undermine the institute’s credibility.

The controversy dates back to 2019 when Dr. Okoronkwo invited Mbadiwe from the UK to serve as CIPMN’s pioneer Registrar. However, what began as a promising tenure turned into a crisis when Mbadiwe allegedly exploited his position for personal gain. A legal battle ensued, culminating in a judgment from an FCT High Court (SUIT NO: CV/125/19) on December 15, 2020, which led to Mbadiwe’s dismissal. This ruling was enforced by the CIPMN Council through an official letter (Ref No: CIPMN/TOA.HIM.06.21) dated June 18, 2021. Despite this, Mbadiwe reportedly continued operating unlawfully, deceiving the public with counterfeit certifications and training programs.

The alleged fraudulent activities extended beyond the issuance of fake credentials.

Dr. Okoronkwo highlighted a failed attempt by Mbadiwe and his business associate, Bashir Adewale, to seize control of the CIPMN website. A fraudulent letter, referenced CIPMN/ADM/GXC/036/VOL.1/029, was reportedly issued by Mbadiwe, falsely accusing CIPMN of impersonation. Furthermore, the fraudulent use of the domain cipmn.gov.ng has continued, despite CIPMN not being a government agency under the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investments (FMITI).

Additionally, Dr. Okoronkwo revealed that Mbadiwe and his associates attempted to repeal the legitimate CIPMN Establishment Act No. 3 of 2018 (Gazetted No. 15 Vol. 105) and replace it with an alternative bill (H.B. 1476) to legitimize their unlawful operations.

Their financial
misconduct reportedly includes fraudulent funding requests made to the Federal Government under false pretenses, with figures reaching billions of naira.

Another alarming incident occurred on January 8, 2024, when Mbadiwe published a list of presumed project managers in Punch Newspaper, despite his prior dismissal. CIPMN swiftly countered this move with a public response in Benchmark News and The Guardian Newspaper on March 1, 2024.

The CIPMN has also condemned the actions of Jamilu Isa Yankwashi, a sitting Vice President, who allegedly attempted to seize control of the institute through unlawful means. On June 13, 2023, Yankwashi reportedly declared himself President before the expiration of his term on June 15, 2023.

Additionally, he has been accused of registering a parallel organization, the Institute of Project, Program, and Project Portfolio Management, with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), in a bid to usurp CIPMN’s authority.

Dr. Okoronkwo reaffirmed CIPMN’s commitment to exposing fraudulent actors and maintaining the credibility of the institute.

She urged stakeholders, regulatory bodies, and the general public to stand with CIPMN in protecting its integrity and ensuring that those responsible for these fraudulent acts are brought to justice.

As the CIPMN continues its fight against fraud, the institute remains steadfast in upholding its Establishment Act and preserving the ethical standards of project management in Nigeria.

Investigations are ongoing, and further legal actions are expected to follow against those implicated in these fraudulent activities.

Nigeria Unveils Locally-Made Attack Drones in Groundbreaking Security Advancement

Emmanuel Daudu

In a historic leap toward self-reliance in defense technology, the Federal Government, through the Chief of Defence Staff, has partnered with Briech UAS Limited to unveil the latest generation of locally manufactured unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). This strategic development is set to revolutionize Nigeria’s national security landscape.

The unveiling ceremony showcased the first set of indigenous attack drones designed to enhance intelligence gathering and combat capabilities.

Speaking at the event, Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa, hailed the milestone as a defining moment in the country’s quest for military self-sufficiency.

General Musa emphasized that these advanced UAVs would serve as force multipliers, significantly improving the operational effectiveness of Nigeria’s military.

“In an era of increasingly complex and asymmetric security threats, these drones will enable our forces to act faster, smarter, and more independently,” he stated. “Relying on foreign procurement limits our ability to respond swiftly. By manufacturing these drones locally, we ensure self-sufficiency and reduce dependency on external suppliers.”

He further noted that global arms procurement is often hindered by bureaucratic and diplomatic challenges, making local production an urgent necessity.

“With the brilliant minds we have, particularly among our youth, we can create cutting-edge technology that competes on a global scale,” he added.

Briech UAS Limited, the firm behind the breakthrough, revealed that the drones—dubbed DAMISA ATTACK UAV, ARGINI UAV, and ARSENIO UAV—boast cutting-edge features such as:

Extended Endurance: Up to 14 hours of operational time for sustained surveillance and intelligence missions.

Superior Telemetry Range & Satellite Communication (SATCOM) Integration: Enabling enhanced coordination and real-time response.

Advanced Strike Capabilities & Counter-Drone Technology: Designed to neutralize threats efficiently.

Briech UAS Chairman, Bright Echefu, highlighted the urgent need for Nigeria to strengthen its defense mechanisms, particularly given recent trends where insurgent groups such as Boko Haram and ISWAP have started deploying commercial drones for reconnaissance and attacks.

“These drones will give our military a technological edge, ensuring that we stay ahead of evolving threats,” Echefu affirmed.

Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State, emphasized the importance of investing in local defense manufacturing.

“We cannot achieve sustainable growth unless we recognize and support our own innovations,” Mutfwang said.

He confirmed that Plateau State had already deployed some of these UAVs in counterinsurgency operations, yielding significant improvements in security.

The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede emphasized that the only way to develop our nation is by supporting homegrown initiatives, just as Briech UAS has demonstrated.

The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with Briech UAS, expressing optimism that this partnership will enhance national security and contribute to economic growth.

With this launch, Nigeria joins a growing list of nations developing indigenous defense technology to safeguard national security. This strategic shift not only strengthens military capabilities but also fosters technological advancement and economic growth through local innovation.

As the country faces evolving security challenges, the deployment of these homegrown UAVs signals a new era of resilience and proactive defense strategy.

A Publication of Appreciation

Maryam Aminu

The nation pauses, with hearts full of gratitude, to honor the memory of Prof. Humphrey
Nwosu, a titan of democracy and a beacon of integrity, whose final journey was marked
by an outpouring of respect and admiration. We extend our deepest appreciation to all
who stood in solidarity, celebrating his life and legacy.

National Leaders:
We express our profound gratitude to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for
his unwavering commitment to honoring Prof. Nwosu. His presence at the burial funeral,
represented by His Excellency, the Honorable Minister of Works, Dr. David Umahi,
underscored the national significance of Prof. Nwosu’s contributions.

We also
acknowledge the esteemed presence of His Excellency, Prof. Charles Soludo, Governor
of Anambra State, for their support and presence, His Excellency, Dr. Alex Otti, Governor
of Abia State, His Excellency, Dr. Peter Mba, Governor of Enugu State, His Excellency,
Hon. Francis Nwifurui, Governor of Ebonyi State and His Excellency, His Excellency,
Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mufwang, Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency, Peter Obi,
former Governor of Anambra State and His Excellency Rt. Hon Emeka Ihedioha, former
Governor of Imo State and former Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives whose
participation reflected the cross-political and national unity Prof. Humphrey Nwosu
embodied.

Will also not fail to mention our gratitude to His Excellency, Alhaji Atiku
Abubakar GCON, former Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Rt. Hon.
Benjamin Kalu CON, Deputy Speaker of the house, Senator Victor Umeh, representing
Anambra Central and Rt. Hon. Princess Chinwe Nnabuife, representing Orumba
North/South.

The National Burial Committee and The Committee of Friends:

Our deepest gratitude to the dedicated National Burial Committee, under the exemplary
leadership of His Excellency, Rt. Emeka Ihedioha. His vision of national unity,
transcending political and tribal divides, was a testament to Prof. Nwosu’s ideals. We
also recognize the invaluable contributions of former Chairman Federal Road Safety
Commision, Dr. Bukhari Bello MFR, Mni, National Commissioner INEC, Mr. Ken Ukagu,
Chief of Staff to Anambra State Governor, Chief Ernest Ezeajughi, Princess Nikki Onyeri,
Mrs Blessing Obidiegwu, Chief Chidi Nwafor, Chief Fab Uche, Executive Secretary,
National Human Rights Commission, Barr. Tony Ojukwu SAN, OFR, Hon. Ejike
Nwankwo and other members of the national burial committee who worked tirelessly for
the successful burial events of Prof. Humphrey Nwosu.

We also recognize the invaluable contributions of the former Minister of Aviation and
former Corp Marshall Federal Road Safety Commision, Hon. Osita Chidoka who led the
National Committee of Friends that reached out to all willinging Nigerian to join in giving
Professor Humphrey Nwosu a befitting burial.

Independent National Electoral Commission:
Our deepest thanks to the Chairman, Independent National Electoral Commision, Prof
Yakubu Mahmood, the Secretary of the Commission, Rose Oriaran- Anthony, all current
and former National Commissioners, Directors and Staff who came together to honor
Prof. Nwosu on March 24, 2025. Your support during this difficult time to the family of
Prof. Nwosu is immeasurable. We are forever indebted to you.

The Academia:
We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the Acting Vice Chancellor, University of Nigeria
Nsukka, Prof. Oguejifo Ujam, Head of Department of Political Science, Prof. Peter Mbah,
Prof. Pat Utomi, former Minister of Power, Prof. Nebo, former Minister of Power Prof.
Barth Nnaji, Dr Patrick Chukwu, Prof. Sam Duru. Prof. Jasper Uche, Chief Ben Etiaba
and the University of Nigeria, Nsukka for conducting a colloquium in recognition of Prof.
Nwosu’s academic and national contributions.

International Dignitaries and Allies:
The presence of international figures underscored Professor Nwosu’s global impact. We
extend our sincere thanks to:
● The Director-General of the World Trade Organization, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala.
● American Civil Rights leader, Ambassador Andrew Young.
● Renowned world author and activist, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie.
● United States Senator, Angela Alsobrooks.
● Prince Georges County Attorney General, Aisha Braveboy.
● Human rights activist, Ambassador Arikana Chihombori-Quao
● Orlan Johnson Esq. Adjunct Professor President Obama appointed first African
American Chairman of SIPC- Securities Investors Protection Commission
● Rt. United States Army Commander, Charles Eggleston.
● The Mayor of Washington D.C., Murial Bowser
● The Governor of Maryland, Wes Moore.
● The Washington Diplomatic Corps.
Their presence signifies the far-reaching influence of Professor Nwosu’s dedication to
democracy and justice.

National Institutions, Organizations and Notable Persons:

We acknowledge the unwavering support of national institutions and organizations:
● Members of the Nigerian Senate and House of Representative
● Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwide.
● Nigerians in Diaspora Organization (NIDO)
● The Knights of St. Paul Diocese of Awka

● The Knights of St. Christopher Diocese of Aguata
● The Diocese of Aguata Council of Knights
● The United States Alliance for Yoruba Organizations & Clubs.
● Ajalli community
● Umuotti Kindred Family of Ajalli
● Ajalli Welfare Union Washington DC
● Arondizuogu Patriotic Union – NCNA.
● Arondizuogu Progressive Front.
● Association of Nigerian Physicians in the Americas
● Nigerian Association of Pharmacists and Pharmaceutical Scientists in the
Americas.
● Zumunta Association USA.
● Friends of Democracy and Option A4 in the United States and African Union.
● The Coalition for the Immortalization of Humphrey Nwosu
● Barr. Casmir Nwafor, Chairman, Orumba North Local Government Area, Mrs. Uju
Ifejika, Brittania-U Oil & Gas, Dr. Kalu Idika Kalu, Mazi Clement Owunna, Mazi
Chris Okeke, Mazi Chris Arodiogbu, Mazi Zumex
● The Arondizuogu Committee of Friends Aba, The Legacy Group Owerri.
● Patience Ndidi Key, President & CEO, Nigerians in Diaspora, Chamber of
Commerce

The Royal and Spiritual Leaders:
We express our sincere appreciation to the Royal Father of the Day, His Royal
Highness, His Eminence, Eze Eberechukwu Oji, Eze Aro of Arochukwu Kingdom. We
also recognize HRH, Eze Logan Okoroji, Eze Ogo Ujaro, HRH, Eze Amos Ngwu Egbu
Okoro, Eze Ibom Isii and HRM Eze Oliver Ozumba Dike, 10th Monarch of Arondizuogu.
We also acknowledge the spiritual guidance and support of the church led by the
Primate of All Nigerian Anglican Church, Most Rev’d Henry C. Ndukuba, former
ArchBishop Enugu Diocese, Bishop Chukwuma OON, Bishop of Aguata Diocese, Rt.
Rev’d Dr Samuel Ezeofor, Bishop of Ndokwa, Rt Rev’d Festus Nwafili, Most Rev’d
Mathew Hassan Kukah, Bishop of Sokoto and members of the clergy.

The Communities and Associates:
We extend our gratitude to the Ajalli community and all those who visited the Ogbiti
Nwosu Palace. We thank the head of the Nwosu family, Mazi Egbuniwe Nwosu, the
Chairman Umuotti Family, Mazi Ephraim Okereke, the Chairman head of Fifteen
families, Mazi Jenkins Ifionu, Mazi Christian Nwosu, Hon. Ejike Nwankwo and numerous
others for their support. We also acknowledge the entire Aro Kingdom for their show of
solidarity as they joined in the final funeral rites of UGWU ARO Late Prof. Humphrey
Nwobu Nwosu. To all friends and well wishes, we thank you for your kindness throughout
this difficult period.
A Legacy for the Future:

Prof. Nwosu’s legacy will endure through Professor Humphrey N. Nwosu Center for
Democracy. This institute will dedicate itself to fostering sustainable democracy,
nation-building, conflict resolution, and poverty alleviation across the African continent.
In honoring Professor Humphrey Nwosu, we reaffirm our commitment to the principles of
integrity, justice, and democracy that he so passionately championed.
With profound gratitude,

Signed: Engr. Nnaemeka Humphrey Nwosu
For the Nwosu Family