VP SHETTIMA AT 26TH DEMOCRACY DAY LECTURE:

History Has Returned The Baton Of Democratic Struggle To Abiola’s Most Trusted Lieutenant

** Says President Tinubu has kept the covenant of building a Nigeria that works for the people

By: Our Reporter

The Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, has said history chose to return the baton in the struggle for the soul of democracy to one of the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola’s most trusted lieutenants, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, decades after the June 12 debacle.

He noted that while hope was one thing that they could not take or extinguish from the final account of Abiola’s life, it is the faith in the promise of Abiola’s vision that has renewed the nation’s hope in what he termed the great theatre of providence.

Senator Shettima, who represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, made the observation on Thursday during the Public Lecture Commemorating Nigeria’s 26th Democracy Anniversary held at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, and described the late MKO Abiola as a patriot who surrendered all he had for the soul of Nigeria, and whose sacrifice became the compass of the nation’s democracy.

According to him, rather than dying in vain, the late Chief Abiola’s dream became a collective covenant and unbroken resolve for Nigerians “to stand for what is right, to defend the sanctity of choice, and to honour the blood that watered the roots of” the nation’s democracy.

The Vice President said, “It is this faith in the promise of Abiola’s vision that has renewed the hope of this nation. And in the great theatre of providence, history has returned the baton to one of Abiola’s most trusted lieutenants in the struggle for the soul of democracy in Nigeria: His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.

“The ticket once denied Nigerians—the Abiola-Kingibe ticket—has found resonance and vindication in a second coming that mirrors it in composition and conviction, in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a man who has kept the democratic flame alive through seasons of fire and storm. I am honoured to share in the weight of this history and the depth of this memory.”

VP Shettima further observed that while Nigeria currently stands on the shoulders of unsung heroes and unheard voices, who sacrificed their comfort, freedom, and even their lives for the nation’s democracy, Nigerians – including him – will ever remain grateful to be “stewards of a government that listens to all.”

“And there is no doubt that President Tinubu has kept that covenant, extending a hand across political divides, ethnic frontiers, and generational gaps to build a Nigeria that works for everyone,” he added.

Maintaining that the life and times of the late MKO Abiola is “a reminder that the burden of democracy is not to be carried by one man alone,” the Vice President urged Nigerians to rise collectively and build a fortress around the nation’s democracy, describing it as “an impenetrable edifice that no force of anarchy can breach, not even in imagination.”

Canvassing unflinching support for President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, Senator Shettima said, “Each of us here owes a sacred duty to support the President’s quest not just to renew hope, but to institutionalise governance, to deepen the roots of democracy, and to build a nation immune to the threats of regression.”

Earlier, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, acknowledged the heroes of Nigeria’s struggle for democratic governance, applauding their legacies, continuous contributions for the sustenance of democratic structures and transformation of the nation’s economy.

He urged stakeholders to rededicate themselves to the ideals of democratic rule by supporting the Tinubu administration in its task of guiding Nigeria on the path of prosperity, progress, peace and security.

In his keynote address, Prof. Samuel Egwu, who pointed out that the hallmark of democratic governance anywhere in the world is commitment, however said for the dividends of democracy to fully manifest across all levels of governance in Nigeria, all citizens and leaders must show commitment in words and action.

He added that building on the gains of 26 years of democracy in Nigeria is a herculean task that requires political office holders to put the interest of all citizens and society above personal goals and aspirations.

On his part, the longest serving diplomat and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps in Nigeria, the Cameroonian High Commissioner to Nigeria, HE Salaheddine Abbas Ibrahim, commended Nigeria’s unity regardless of the challenges.
The Cameroonian envoy urged leaders and all citizens not to relent in preserving democracy in the country.

In his remarks, Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum and Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, noted that the recognition and celebration of June 12 as Nigeria’s Democracy Day was not accidental, even as he said the choice was made by the collective will, effort and sacrifice of a people.

He urged active participation of all stakeholders, including citizens, young and old across the country, stressing that democracy does not depend on ceremonies and niceties alone.

Uzodimma drew attention to President Tinubu’s trajectory, legacies and current efforts, saying they are all examples of the courage and determination required to nurture a vibrant democracy.

The highpoint of the event was the unveiling of three books titled, “Tinubunomics”, “Leading With Courage”, and “Turning Challenges into Opportunities”, all examining the gains of the Tinubu administration.

VP SHETTIMA AT 26TH DEMOCRACY DAY LECTURE:

Exclusive: UMTH to name heart center after late Professor Jibril Aminu

By: Our Reporter

The University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH) has announced the naming of its new Heart Centre after the late Professor Jibril Aminu, a distinguished figure in cardiology and academia. This decision honors Prof. Aminu’s remarkable contributions to medical science and education in Nigeria. 

The CMD, Professor Ahmed Ahidjo, made the announcement while handing a letter of condolences to the family of the late professor in his residence at the Villa in Abuja. 

Professor Ahidjo said the gesture was not only an expression of sympathy but also a recognition of the profound legacies left by the esteemed Professor of Cardiology. 

“As a renowned cardiologist, he significantly advanced cardiovascular medicine while also serving in various high-profile roles, including Minister of Education and Petroleum and Mineral Resources. His career was marked by dedication to both clinical practice and academic leadership, notably as Vice Chancellor of the University of Maiduguri and Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission.” Professor Ahidjo said. 

NEWSng reports that the commemoration through naming the Heart Centre underscores Prof. Aminu’s enduring legacy in improving healthcare infrastructure and medical training within Nigeria. His work extended beyond national borders, evident in his tenure as a visiting professor at Howard University College of Medicine. The initiative reflects UMTH’s commitment to fostering excellence inspired by pioneers like Prof. Aminu, who bridged medicine, education, and public service. This tribute not only memorializes his life but also inspires future generations in cardiology

Professor Ahmed Ahidjo emphasized that commemorating Professor Aminu’s work is essential for inspiring current and future generations within the hospital community. “The decision to formally honor the late professor reflects an institutional acknowledgment of his foundational role in advancing cardiology services at UMTH, thereby enhancing patient care and medical education standards. Such recognition aligns with broader efforts at UMTH to celebrate excellence and foster a culture that values enduring professional legacies.” He said

The CMD said the formal ceremony for the naming of the Heart Center is slated for July 29, 2025.

The management team were formally received during the condolence visit by Alhaji Murtala Aminu, one of the sons, who expressed happiness for the visit and thank the management for the gesture. “Professor Ahidjo’s leadership during this condolence visit highlights UMTH’s dedication to preserving its history through honoring distinguished members like the late Professor Aminu. This act serves as both a tribute and a motivational framework for ongoing development within Nigeria’s healthcare sector.” He said.

Exclusive: UMTH to name heart center after late Professor Jibril Aminu

US Embassy Holds Valedictory Event for Three Key Staff

By: Michael Mike

The United States Embassy in Nigeria has held a valedictory event for three key members of its Public Diplomacy section, underscoring their contributions to strengthening US-Nigeria relations through cultural and educational outreach.

The US Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills Jr., speaking at the ceremony held on Wednesday evening in Abuja used the occasion which had in attendance media representatives, and friends of the embassy to commend the departing officers; Gilbert Morton, Katarina Ramos, and Victoria Cook, and also reflect on the mission’s broader commitment to public engagement in Nigeria.

He said: “The Nigerian press is among the most well-informed, most caring, most committed press, I think, on this continent.

“It is very important that the US engages with the press about our policies, issues, and our goals for both Nigeria and US.”

The envoy acknowledged the role of outgoing Public Diplomacy Information Officer Gilbert Morton in building media relationships and championing education outreach.

“Gil got me into the arena with so many of the folks here,” he said.

Reflecting on his early days in Nigeria, the Ambassador shared a personal memory from one of his first trips outside Abuja, a visit to Ahmadu Bello University with departing officer Victoria to open an AmeriCorps centre.

“It really was one of the highlights of my time here.

“To see the difference that centre would make, and the excitement it brought to students, was unforgettable. That outreach, beyond Abuja and Lagos, showed the power of what the US mission can do,” the amb. stated.

He also highlighted the work of Katrina and her team on EducationUSA, a programme that continues to inspire and support Nigerian students seeking to study in the US.

“Everywhere I went, I was asked about studying in the US.

“That kind of impact is only possible through the kind of diligent public engagement Katrina and her team carried out,” Mills said.

The ambassador concluded his remarks by praising the entire Public Diplomacy team for their tireless efforts in promoting shared values between the two nations.

“We are a team committed to making sure the values Nigerians and Americans share prevail in the world and shape our children’s futures.

“And the biggest part of that is our public outreach, discussing those values, making them understood, and ensuring they endure,” he added.

The Press Attaché Gilbert Morton shared his gratitude for the support he received during his transition to Nigeria, calling it a rewarding professional experience.

Morton acknowledged the robust Nigerian press and the embassy’s educational outreach, particularly in places like Minna, Niger State, which he described as highlights of his time in the country.

“Coming out here, it was a new adventure, and I really could not have asked for a better team to support me in that transition,” he added.

The Pubic Diplomacy Officer Victoria Cook, who coordinated numerous cultural engagements and American Spaces programmes, expressed appreciation for the opportunity to work across northern Nigeria and with alumni of various US government initiatives.

She reflected on her transition from the private sector in Asia to public diplomacy in Nigeria, calling her experience both transformative and deeply rewarding.

Cook said, “It’s been a real privilege for me. I really knew that I was here to empower you, to just make sure that your good ideas, your creative dreams could continue to flourish.”

Another Public Diplomacy Officer, Katarina Ramos, who managed the youth portfolio within the PD section, spoke about the immense potential she witnessed among young Nigerians.

She shared her enthusiasm for Nigerian culture and the warm hospitality she received throughout her posting. Her remarks underscored the learning and mutual exchange that marked her tenure.

She noted, “You have amazingly talented, industrious individuals here in Nigeria, and it has been a privilege to touch just a few of your lives.”

US Embassy Holds Valedictory Event for Three Key Staff