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Democracy not a Steady State, Requires Dedication and Determination, US Cautions Nigerians Against Losing Hope
Democracy not a Steady State, Requires Dedication and Determination, US Cautions Nigerians Against Losing Hope
By: Michael Mike
The United States has advised Nigerians against losing hope in democracy, insisting that it is not a steady state, but a continuous process that requires focus, dedication, and determination.
Speaking at the commemorations the 247th Independence Day of the United States of America, the Chargé d’Affaires of the United States’ Mission in Nigeria, David Greene noted that Nigeria’s recent elections showcased the contradictions inherent in democracy.
He said: “As large, diverse democracies, the United States of America and the Federal Republic of Nigeria share many of these principles: in the content of our constitutions, in the forms of our institutions, in citizens’ relationships to their governments, and in our daily lives. Our struggles for independence – while centuries and continents apart – shared the common vision of nations governed by their citizens, for the welfare of those citizens.
“We can acknowledge that achieving that vision has been a bumpy road, for both our nations. We have had to work hard to preserve democratic principles and values, sometimes in the face of strong headwinds, or even storms. Yet we persevere.
“Nigeria’s recent elections showcased the contradictions inherent in democracy, at once highlighting this nation’s commitment to the democratic system even as many voters were frustrated by the process. We in the United States know as well as any, that democracy is not a steady state, but a continuous process that requires focus, dedication, and determination.”
He added that: “So even as the United States works to ensure our own nation remains true to the ideals of its founding, we seek to partner with friends and allies in strengthening their democratic institutions as well. In recognition of this important, common task, President Biden hosted, on the margins of December’s African Leaders Summit, a session focused on elections – attended by former President Buhari – to highlight this critical moment when democracy needs to be renewed and defended globally.
“Beyond the history and abstract principles, I want to speak to our shared commitment to the practical work of any democracy – helping citizens live prosperous, secure, and healthy lives. As President Biden has said, “Elected leaders owe it to their people to show that democracy can deliver for their needs.” And the United States is Nigeria’s partner in making it possible to deliver.”
The envoy stated that: “Prosperity demands a stable economy in which businesses can succeed and in which citizens can aspire to leave their children better off. So the United States partners with Nigerian entrepreneurs in agriculture, health, information technology, and renewable energy – to name just a few sectors – to help expand small and medium-sized businesses. We know that the success of a business is dependent on reliable energy infrastructure; so the United States has helped bring electricity to over three million homes and businesses – so far, with the number to grow in the future.”
He however admitted that “economic opportunity by itself is not enough; citizens need security. In this area, too, the United States and Nigeria are working together closely. Through robust military-to-military ties, police training, and judicial cooperation, by way of examples, the United States is partnering with Nigeria to bolster its security capabilities, to combat terrorism, violent crime, and corruption.”
Greene said: “In short, across every sector you can think of, the great federal republics of the United States and Nigeria have long been working together to improve the lives of both of our peoples. And we look forward to partnering with President Tinubu’s Administration to ensure that the Nigerian people’s vision for their country is realized – by strengthening Nigerian institutions and helping, in the words of the Nigerian National anthem, “build a nation where peace and justice shall reign.””
He recalled that President Biden said, on the occasion of President Tinubu’s inauguration, “As Africa’s largest democracy and economy, Nigeria’s success is the world’s success.” Stressing that: “I, and my whole team here and in Lagos, look forward to working with all of you towards that success.”
Gracing the event that held on Thursday night were prominent people from all sectors including those in government and diplomatic corps, among them are the Senate President Godswill Akpabio and the Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu.
Democracy not a Steady State, Requires Dedication and Determination, US Cautions Nigerians Against Losing Hope
NMA: Zulum congratulates newly elected President, Prof Bala
By: Our Reporter
Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, extended his warm congratulations to Professor Bala Muhammad Audu on his victory in the recent Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) election held during its annual delegates conference in Calabar on Saturday.
Zulum, in a statement released by his Senior Special Assistant on New Media, Abdurrahman Ahmed Bundi, on Sunday, tasked Professor Bala to be dedicated and steadfast in transforming the medical profession.
He said, “As you prepare to take on the immense responsibilities that come with the highest office in the Nigerian Medical Association, I urge you to remember the core values that have guided your journey thus far: honesty, humility and a steadfast dedication to your duties.
“The challenges ahead are great, but with your wisdom and vision, I am confident that you will steer the affairs of the medical association towards attaining enhanced medical education and improving access to healthcare.”
“I implore you to prioritise technology and innovation to modernise healthcare delivery and promote evidence-based healthcare service delivery across the country,” Zulum said.
Prof. Bala’s emergence was announced on Saturday by the Nigerian Medical Association via its social media page, X, formerly known as Twitter.
Eight national officers emerged, including 1st Vice President – Benjamin Olowojebutu, 2nd Vice President- Usha Anenga and Ben Egbo as Secretary General.
Prof. Bala Audu, an indigene of Borno, is a highly accomplished Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist with extensive experience and a strong academic background. His career spans several prestigious institutions in Nigeria, where he has held various leadership positions.
Dr. Bala has been a Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at the College of Medical Sciences, University of Maiduguri, since 2009. He also held the position of Professor and Provost at the College of Medical Sciences, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi, Nigeria, from 2017 Health Sciences, Azare.
NMA: Zulum congratulates newly elected President, Prof Bala
Dabiri-Erewa Lauds Duke, Duchess of Sussex for Invictus Games Centre in Nigeria
By: Michael Mike
The Chairman/CEO, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa has commended the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, for their innumerable philanthropic works to society, especially for injured, sick and traumatised soldiers and war veterans.
She gave the commendatio at the welcome banquet held in their honour by the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, in Abuja.
The NiDCOM Chairman/CEO stated that the kind gesture from them will empower the wounded soldiers, who have sacrificed their lives to protect the country.
“The initiative for the proposal to cite the Invictus Centre in Nigeria to support the categories of soldiers mentioned above is not only laudable but also a testament of our commitment as a country to look after those who have suffered in one way or the other in the line of duty to protect our nation”, she said.
The NiDCOM boss added that this visit would also boost Nigeria’s quest and interest to host the Invictus Games 2027 and enhance the proposal to cite the Invictus Centre in Nigeria in support of the wounded, injured and sick war veterans, among others.
In addition, Dabiri-Erewa who learnt that Meghan Markle is 43 percent Nigerian after having her genealogy (DNA) done in 2022, commended the Duchess for being an embodiment of the Nigerian woman and her activities towards women and girl-child empowerment.
She used the opportunity to welcome the Duchess to Nigeria and extended an invitation to attend the Annual Badagry Door of Return Festival in Lagos.
Prince Harry, who is the founder of the Invictus Games Foundation stated that in the 10 years of the Invictus Games, one remarkable moment was to have the Nigerian team win gold and bronze medals at their first outing in the 2023 games held in Düsseldorf, Germany.
He expressed his pleasure at Nigeria joining the Invictus Games and hoped to witness more participation.
Also, the Duke of Sussex is certain that the proposed Invictus Games Centre in Nigeria will bring succour to the injured, sick and traumatised army men and women.
The Duke, who served as a member of the Royal Armed Forces in the UK, assured his commitment in collaborating with the Nigerian Armed Forces, especially with the Centre in Nigeria, which he is enthusiastic about.
He further appreciated the warm hospitality he and his wife had received since their arrival to Nigeria, while calling on everyone to support and respect the Armed Forces, especially the injured soldiers.
The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar was delighted that such a facility will be built in the country adding that this gesture is apt, given the sacrifices the soldiers have made to defend the country.
Also, Major General Uche Agbor representing the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, said that the Nigerian Army will continually cater to the welfare of its soldiers, especially post-war and injured ones.
He thanked the royal couple for choosing Nigeria to build a centre during this historic visit, which he believes will rehabilitate the victims to become the best versions of themselves, irrespective of the present challenge facing them.
In addition, Hajia Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu, wife of the Minister of Budget and Planning, Abubakar Atiku Bagudu said she is pleased at their visit to help the wounded soldiers.
Bagudu who is an advocate for girl-child education, as well as, cancer patients, especially for women, noted that this will go a long way to give hope to the army personnels who were injured in their line of duty.
Furthermore, the Chief of tDefence Staff added that Nigeria was well represented at its first participation at the Invictus Games last year where the
players who despite all odds, excelled greatly, showing that limitation is of the mind, and everyone can be great in whatever field they find themselves.
Some of the major highlights were the gift presentations of African attire by Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, and another by the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA) in conjunction with the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA) to the Duke and Duchess.
The royal couple arrived in Nigeria on Friday, at the invitation of General Christopher Gwabin Musa, following the nation’s maiden appearance at the 2023 Invictus Games, held in Düsseldorf, Germany.
The Invictus Games Foundation “offers a recovery pathway for international wounded, injured and sick servicemen and women (WIS)”. The Foundation “collaborates to provide opportunities for post-traumatic growth: enabling those involved to reclaim their purpose, identity and future, beyond injury”.
Dabiri-Erewa Lauds Duke, Duchess of Sussex for Invictus Games Centre in Nigeria
Zulum condoles Buni over death of Emir of Tikau
By: Our Reporter
Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, has extended his commiseration to the Governor of Yobe State, Mai Mala Buni, following the demise of the Emir of Tikau, Alhaji Mohammed Abubakar Ibn Grema.
Governor Zulum received the shocking news of the death of one of Yobe’s first-class emirs, Alhaji Mohammed Abubakar Ibn Grema, while on an official trip to New York City.
Zulum’s condolence message was released Saturday night by his SSA on New Media, Abdurrahman Ahmed Bundi.
The release quoted the Governor saying, “I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of the Emir of Tikau and I extend my heartfelt condolences to Governor Mai Mala Buni, the people of Tikau Emirate and the entire Yobe State during this difficult time.”
He added, “the loss of a respected figure like the Emir of Tikau is a tragedy. His contributions to the community and his legacy will be remembered and cherished by all who know him. His wisdom, kindness, and leadership have left an indelible mark on the hearts of many.”
The late emir died on Friday after a brief illness in Postiskum town; he died at the age of 70 after spending 25 years on the throne.
Zulum condoles Buni over death of Emir of Tikau
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