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Former IGP MD Abubakar Preaches Christmas Message

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Former IGP MD Abubakar Preaches Christmas Message

Former IGP MD Abubakar Preaches Christmas Message

By: Our Reporter

The National President of the Alumni Association of the National Institute, (AANI) and former Inspector General of Police, Mr. MD Abubakar joins Christians in Nigeria and the world over to appreciate God Almighty for his mercies in sparing our lives to celebrate the 2021 Christmas and the forthcoming New Year 2022.

His message reads: “Christmas is a period when our Christian brothers and sisters celebrate and reflect on the birth, messages and sacrifices of Jesus Christ to save humanity. 

“It is the ultimate observance of the most incredible act of love for humanity, as stated in the Holy Bible. I, therefore, wish all our Christian faithful, merry and hitch free Christmas celebrations. However, while celebrating, there is a need for all to reflect on the essence of Christmas by reflecting on the teachings and virtues of Jesus Christ by showing love to one another. 

“Indeed, the year 2021 have been very challenging given the lingering COVID-19 pandemic and the advent of its Delta and Omicron variants, as well as myriads of other security and socio-economic challenges. I commend the resilience of Nigerians in the face of all these challenges and our individual and collective efforts in making our country better in the face of these daunting challenges. Nonetheless, I enjoin us to be continuously conscious of the COVID-19 pandemic and take proactive measures and adhere to the COVID-19 protocols to contain its spread among our society. 

Also Read: ISWAP Commander, Abu Maryam killed in Borno

“AANI which is composed of well trained and highly experienced Nigerians and elder statesmen and women, is deeply concerned about the increasing security and socio-economic challenges in the country and efforts at tackling them. Therefore, we wish to acknowledge these efforts and commend the Federal and State Governments and the resilience of all our security agencies in tackling the daunting security and other socio-economic challenges in Nigeria.  Nonetheless, we call on the government to do more as most of these challenges are deeply rooted and require more concerted, comprehensive, participatory, and proactive measures. 

“The Federal Government must come up with a comprehensive strategy and aggressive advocacy to stabilize the polity and promote a proactive agenda for the development of the country. We must all rededicate ourselves to the Nigerian project and provide durable solutions to the prevailing situations in the country. We must focus on a qualitative and functional education system for our teeming population and enhance agriculture and agro-allied processing as our area of comparative advantage. 

“This would increase employment, reduce poverty and crimes, and promote overall growth and development in Nigeria. This requires a comprehensive programme of action that is objective, participatory and implemented on a continuous basis in an integrated and strategic manner. We wish to also call on all Nigerians to be more hopeful and continue to support the efforts of the government and the security forces to enable us to have a peaceful and secured Nigeria. 

“In the face of these challenges, our noble Association has remained focussed, vibrant, and proactive in the search for solutions towards a better society. We have a critical role to play in promoting a proper understanding of the issues, by engaging effectively with all stakeholders to advance an actionable agenda towards a lasting solution to the current security and socio-economic challenges in Nigeria. 

“In this connection, AANI is poised to convene a national dialogue involving all stakeholders, on Nigeria’s national unity and development. This is borne out of the observed divisive  tendencies observed among the components of the Nigerian society, unguarded utterances that tend to polarise the nation by noted groups and individuals. This has led to the frightening state of affairs in the country and thus needs to be addressed. The dialogue is expected to provide a platform for frank and objective discussion on thorny and contentious issues of national unity with a view to establishing a common ground for national rebirth. We hope at the end of it, we shall be able to proffer practicable recommendations and innovative implementation strategies to strengthen our national unity and peaceful coexistence in Nigeria. We, therefore, call on all Nigerians to support us and take an active part in this venture which comes up in the first quarter of 2022. 

“We condemn the wanton destruction of lives and property and threats and intimidation of bonafide citizens in any parts of the country by terrorists, bandits, kidnappers, and other criminal elements in the society. Additionally, the voice of AANI will continue to be loud in continuous appeal to the Federal government to guarantee the lives, safety, and the property of law-abiding citizens across the country.  We shall also continue to preach peace and harmony among all Nigerians and the creation of opportunities for everyone to realise their potentials. We must also emphasise that the solution to violence and criminality is to arrest and prosecute the perpetrators and address the root causes of these issues.

“As we approach the 2023 general elections, we wish to call on the political class to uphold global best practices and focus on the security, welfare, and economic prosperity of Nigerians over and above their personal ambitions and pecuniary interests. Let there be politicking devoid of thuggery and violence.  Consequently, we will continue to promote national development through dialogue and advice. We would also advise and make inputs on national policies and recommendations and realistic implementation strategies for the well-being of Nigerians and other residents of this country. 

“I would like to, on behalf of the National Executive Committee and the entire members of AANI, wish all Nigerians compliments of the season and a prosperous new year. May each of you and your loved ones celebrate the yuletide period in peace and good health, amen. God bless you all and the Federal Republic of Nigeria. AANI, Towards a Better Society!”

Former IGP MD Abubakar Preaches Christmas Message

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VP SHETTIMA AT FIDAU PRAYER FOR BUHARI

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VP SHETTIMA AT FIDAU PRAYER FOR BUHARI:

Late ex-President Pursued Justice With Sincerity

** Says Tinubu-led FG will continue to protect dignity of the Buhari family, Katsina people

By: Our Reporter

The Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, has said the late former President Muhammadu Buhari pursued justice with the utmost sincerity.

And in death, according to Senator Shettima, the late Buhari has also proved to the world that he was, indeed, one of the greatest sons of Africa.

The Vice President stated this on Thursday during the 3rd day prayers (Fidau) offered for the repose of the soul of the former Nigerian leader, at his residence in Daura, Katsina State.

“Ibn Khaldun reminds us that the goal of civilisation is the attainment of justice. Justice is the bone that holds human society together. It was justice, as he understood it, that President Muhammadu Buhari pursued – often misunderstood, but always with sincerity.

“When you are in power, your friends know you; when you are out of power, you know your friends. In death, President Muhammadu Buhari has proved to the world that he is, indeed, the greatest son of Africa. May Allah grant his soul eternal rest and reward him with Aljannah. May Allah forgive his shortcomings,” he prayed.

On behalf of his boss, President Bola Tinubu, VP Shettima expressed gratitude to Governor Dikko Radda of Katsina State for the reception and kind gesture accorded to the Federal Government delegation throughout their stay in the state.

“We have been together with the governor right from London to Nigeria. He gave a warm reception and all the necessary support,” he said, adding that President Tinubu is personally pained by the loss of his friend, brother and political soulmate.

The VP assured that the Federal Government, under the leadership of President Tinubu, “will continue to protect the image and dignity of Buhari’s family and the entire people of Katsina State.”

He revealed that he will proceed to Abuja with the family of the late former President to attend a Special Valedictory Federal Executive Council (FEC) in honour of the deceased.

Earlier, the governor of Katsina State, Malam Dikko Radda, said the deceased rendered selfless service to the nation, maintaining that nobody can dispute the fact that he was an honest and just person.

He thanked President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima for honouring the remains of late President Buhari, saying, “We, the people of Katsina State, don’t have a word to thank the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“We appreciate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who has shown compassion, respect for the people of Katsina State and the nation entirely. Tinubu has allowed 25 members of his cabinet, under the leadership of Vice President Shettima, to be in Katsina State. The 25 Ministers supported us at this trying moment, and we also thank the President for declaring a public holiday on the day Buhari was laid to rest,” Governor Radda added.

Also, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, said the late Buhari has an important place in the national history of Nigeria, appealing to all Nigerians to continue to pray for the repose of the soul of the former President, as reminded by Islamic clerics.

“We want to thank all of you on behalf of the 25 ministers, as directed by Mr President, for finding time to offer prayers for our President and also participate in this national assignment. Indeed, former President Buhari belongs to Daura, Katsina, Nigeria, and the world,” the minister said.

Earlier, the prayer session was opened by the former Minister of Communication and Digital Economy, Prof. Ali Pantami, who emphasised the need for constant prayers for all the departed souls, including late President Buhari.

Pantami further observed that prayer for the departed soul should not be restricted to a number of days.

Similarly, the Minister of State Agriculture, Senator Aliyu Abudullahi, on behalf of the members of the Federal Executive Council (FEC), prayed Almighty Allah to cover the grave of Buhari with mercy and admit him into Aljannah.

Islamic scholars who offered prayer include Prof. Ibrahim Makari of the Abuja National Mosque; Sheikh Yahaya Jingir, Bishop of Katsina; Mamman Musa; Khalifa Mohammad Nasir; and Malam Hassan Daura, among others.

Other dignitaries present at the prayer session are former Vice President Namadi Sambo; Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State; former Secretary to Government of the Federation, Ambassador Babagana Kingibe; former Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN); Ambassador Adamu Daura; former Katsina State Governor, Aminu Masari; former Zamfara State Governor, Senator Abdulaziz Yar’adu, and former National Security Adviser, Babagana Monguno.

Others are former Director-General, National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Ahmed Rufai; Business Mogul, Mohammed Indimi; Buhari’s nephew, Mamman Daura, former FCT Minister, Muhammad Bello, the Emirs of Katsina, Daura and Bade; the Sultan of Maradi from the Niger Republic, and thousands of sympathisers from various walks of life.

VP SHETTIMA AT FIDAU PRAYER FOR BUHARI

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Vice President Shettima Joins President Tinubu, African Leaders for Burial of Former President Buhari in Daura

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Vice President Shettima Joins President Tinubu, African Leaders for Burial of Former President Buhari in Daura

By: Our Reporter

Vice President Kashim Shettima on Tuesday joined President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other African leaders in Daura, Katsina State, for the burial of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away on Sunday, 13 July 2025, in a London hospital.

Earlier in the day, President Tinubu received the remains of the former President at the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua International Airport in Katsina, where he inspected a military guard of honour before the Nigerian Air Force jet conveying the casket arrived at 1:51 p.m.

The casket, draped in the Nigerian flag, was conveyed by a senior military pallbearer team led by Major General Mike Alechenu, and wheeled in a solemn procession to the hymn “God Be With You Till We Meet Again,” flanked by a full military guard of honour.

Vice President Shettima had accompanied the body of the late President from London, alongside the Chief of Staff to the President, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, the late President’s widow, Hajiya Aisha Buhari, and close family members.

Upon arrival in Daura, the remains of President Buhari were received by a large crowd of mourners chanting praises of Allah and offering prayers for his soul. The body was later interred at his private residence in a ceremony attended by a cross-section of dignitaries and ordinary citizens alike.

President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima were joined at the burial by former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, President Umaro Sissoco Embaló of Guinea-Bissau, Prime Minister of Niger Republic Ali Lamine Zeine, and former President of Niger Issoufou Mahamadou. Also in attendance were governors, ministers, service chiefs, former governors, captains of industry, Islamic clerics, and representatives from across the continent, including an envoy of the President of Chad.

Vice President Shettima Joins President Tinubu, African Leaders for Burial of Former President Buhari in Daura

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Accion MfB Launches AccionMonie App to Transform Digital Banking in Nigeria

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Accion MfB Launches AccionMonie App to Transform Digital Banking in Nigeria

By: Michael Michael

Nigeria’s leading microfinance institution, Accion Microfinance Bank (MfB) has launched AccionMonie, a transformative digital financial services platform designed to empower individuals, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and low-income households.

A statement on Tuesday said through AccionMonie, the microfinance bank is expanding digital capabilities for financial
access and empowerment across the spectrum of underserved individuals and businesses. The user-friendly platform offers instant access to essential services, including loans, savings, capital,
and other forms of support.

It started that the launch of AccionMonie is a key part of the bank’s “Always there to lend you a hand” campaign, which reinforces its long-standing commitment to small business growth and the
welfare of low-income households. The campaign positions Accion MFB not just as a financial provider but as a trusted partner in its customers’ journey towards business success and economic empowerment.

In Nigeria, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are one of the key growth drivers of the economy. Estimated at about 37 million, MSMEs currently account for 86 per cent of employment and 48 per cent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

However, despite their strong
potential, the MSMEs continue to be impacted by existential challenges, notably access to capital and finance, infrastructure and an enabling business environment.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Accion MfB, Taiwo Joda, described the launch of
AccionMonie as an important milestone and a testament to the bank’s culture of innovation; one that ensures its products and offerings continue to reflect the evolving needs of its customers.

He said: “At Accion Microfinance Bank, we believe in the potential of every MSME to drive inclusive economic growth. That is why we are committed to empowering them with the financial support they need to grow, innovate, and make a lasting impact in their communities and beyond.”

On his part, the Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) of the bank, Stephen Olalere, stated that AccionMonie and the combination of the bank’s extensive network of over 74 branches in 12 states will address the persistent challenge of limited access to financial services faced by many small businesses in Nigeria. He added that the platform’s user-friendly features will simplify payments and offer much-needed support for both businesses and individuals.

The Chief Digital Officer of the bank,
Paul Ehiagbonare, said this is a bold move towards digital leadership, maturity and excellence. He stated that: “For us, AccionMonie is a reflection of the much needed customer empowerment through digital tools and technologies. We are not only providing access to finance but standing beside our customers as partners, supporting their ambitions when others
may not and doing so timely and more efficiently. Our goal is to be a reliable ally on their journey toward growth, stability, and long-term success.”

He stated that AccionMonie offers a range of customer-focused features designed to promote financial inclusion and empower users. One of its unique offerings is Save2Loan, which allows customers
to save between N50,000 and N250,000 over 90 days and qualify for a loan worth twice their savings. He noted that this feature is expected to encourage a stronger culture of saving while expanding access to credit.

He explained that customers can also fund their AccionMonie accounts directly using any debit card, which is an easy, seamless process that eliminates the need for long queues at banking halls. Another key
feature is the targeted saving option and locked savings, which helps users plan and save for long-term goals such as tuition, rent, or investment while earning competitive interest.

He noted that customers can also earn for referring others, adding that account management features include on demand
bank statement, account upgrade features, secure access, transfer limit management amongst others.

The AccionMonie app is now available for download on the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or directly via this link: https://onelink.to/57z27p.

Accion Microfinance Bank has been in operation for over 16 years and is a pioneer in Nigeria’s microfinance sector, providing innovative financial solutions. The bank’s long history of supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses has greatly contributed to economic growth and
development.

The bank has solid shareholder investments from three major banks – Ecobank, Zenith Bank and Citi Bank – as well as International Finance Corporation, a World Bank member, and Accion Investments, all of which contribute to its strong financial base and allow it to serve an ever-increasing number of customers.

Accion MfB Launches AccionMonie App to Transform Digital Banking in Nigeria

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