VP Shettima Launches ₦1bn Family Business Grant Initiative In Akwa Ibom

** Says governance must deliver grassroots prosperity for all Nigerian households

By: Our Reporter

Vice President Kashim Shettima on Saturday launched a one billion naira family-based business grant initiative in Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency of Akwa Ibom State, describing the programme as a model for translating democratic promises into tangible economic empowerment at the grassroots level.

He said the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is committed to interventions that directly uplift households and stimulate inclusive growth.

Speaking at the launch of the Renewed Hope/ARISE Agenda grant programme, VP Shettima noted that sustainable national development requires empowering citizens to become active participants in economic reconstruction.

“There is greater honour in empowering a man to create than in offering him a fleeting gift. True empowerment endures because it teaches the mind to search for its own doors, its own pathways, and its own opportunities,” the Vice President said.

The initiative, conceived by the member representing Unyime Idem of Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, provides seed capital directly to families to establish or expand small enterprises.

The Vice President said the programme exemplifies President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda priorities, which include economic empowerment, job creation, support for micro, small and medium enterprises, poverty reduction, and expanded social protection.

He stated: “This gathering aligns with the principle that democracy works when the dividends promised by us reach families at the grassroots, uplift our communities, and expand opportunities for all.

“Democracy finds its true essence not in speeches but in interventions that touch the lives of ordinary people in extraordinary ways.”

The Vice President praised the collaboration between federal and state governments, specifically acknowledging Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda, which focuses on agricultural expansion, rural development, SME support, and social inclusion.

“This is what governance should look like: a seamless convergence of federal and state agendas at the exact point where citizens feel the impact.When leadership aligns in purpose, the people inherit progress,” he said.

The Vice President said the family-based approach would strengthen local enterprises, increase household incomes, expand the local economy, empower women and youth, reduce dependency, and enhance productivity and self-reliance.

“When a family is empowered, a community is empowered; when a community is empowered, a nation is strengthened,” he explained.

VP Shettima urged beneficiaries to invest the seed capital wisely, noting its potential to become the foundation for generational progress.

He assured constituents not included in the initial distribution that subsequent batches would accommodate everyone, adding that no one will be left out in the initiative.

The Vice President positioned the Ukanafun/Oruk Anam programme as a template for public office holders nationwide.

“You have demonstrated that politics is most noble when it delivers hope, opportunity, and dignity. So, I extend to you the gratitude of the nation, and I congratulate Rt. Hon. Unyime Idem for recognising the danger of a nation left idle, and for choosing instead to invest in the industrious spirit of his people,” he added.

Earlier, the Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Senator (Dr.) Akon Eyakenyi, thanked the Vice President for always honouring the state’s invitation, saying he is seen in the state “not only as a distinguished leader but as a brother who has been warmly embraced,” by the state Governor, Pastor Umo Eno.

“Your frequent visits to Akwa Ibom State have demonstrated a commitment to our people and our development. I am confident that our governor has graciously extended his hospitality to you, reflecting the strong bonds we share as sons of this great state,” Senator Eyakenyi said.

The Deputy Governor urged the beneficiaries to utilize the funds wisely, invest in their businesses, and ultimately contribute to the local economy.

On his part, the member representing Unyime Idem of Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon Unyime Idem, thanked the Vice President for gracing the launch, noting that the process of distributing the grant was quite transparent and open, with 3,000 families benefiting.

“What it, therefore, means is that the Renewed Hope Agenda of the federal government and the ARISE Agenda of the state were fully captured,” the lawmaker explained, just as he assured that President Tinubu’s second term bid is secured, as the benefiting were ready to vote and return the President come 2027.

VP Shettima Launches ₦1bn Family Business Grant Initiative In Akwa Ibom

Army will remain apolitical, committed to defending democracy – COAS

By: Zagazola Makama

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, says the Nigerian Army will remain apolitical and steadfast in protecting the nation’s democracy in line with its constitutional mandate.

Shaibu stated this on Saturday at the Passing Out Parade of the Executive Commission Course 2/2025 held at the Nigerian Army School of Infantry, Jaji.

He reiterated that the subordination of the military to constituted civil authority remains the foundation for professionalism, urging officers and soldiers to uphold democratic values at all times.

“We must safeguard this constitutional democratic governance that promotes the values and interests of every well-meaning Nigerian, irrespective of tribe or religion,” he said.

“I charge all Nigerian Army personnel to be proud champions of democracy and remain apolitical in discharging their constitutional duties.”

Shaibu assured Nigerians that the Army remains committed to protecting lives and property across the country, adding that troops are working round the clock to secure the territorial integrity of the nation and support other security agencies.

The COAS commended the Commandant of NASI and the training staff for the successful conduct of the course, noting that the achievements recorded in training and operations were made possible by government support.

He expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his leadership and sustained assistance to the Nigerian Army, reaffirming the loyalty of officers and soldiers to the government and the Constitution.

Shaibu also thanked the Kaduna State Governor, Sen. Uba Sani, and the people of the state for their cooperation and support to Army formations and institutions.

He congratulated the passing-out cadets and their families, wishing them successful careers as they prepare to join units and formations across the country.

“The Nigerian Army awaits you all in the field,” he said.

Army will remain apolitical, committed to defending democracy – COAS

COAS charges newly commissioned officers to uphold professionalism, loyalty at POP in Jaji

By: Zagazola Makama

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has charged newly commissioned officers of the Executive Commission Course 2/2025 to uphold professionalism, integrity and loyalty as they begin their careers in the Nigerian Army.

Shaibu gave the charge on Saturday during the Passing Out Parade of the course at the Nigerian Army School of Infantry (NASI), Jaji, Kaduna State.

The COAS described the occasion as a significant milestone and congratulated the cadets for successfully completing the rigorous training that qualifies them for the Presidential Commission.

He urged the new officers to remain focused as they take up responsibilities in various operational theatres across the country.

“Your pips will be unveiled shortly, and you will begin individual and collective journeys filled with opportunities, challenges and important decisions,” he said.

“Amidst these, one thing must remain sacrosanct Nigeria must come first in all decisions and actions throughout this new phase of your careers.”

Shaibu emphasised the need for right character, courage, professionalism and resilience, assuring the cadets that the Nigerian Army Officers’ Corps would always stand with them as comrades and brothers-in-arms.

He advised them to rely on the training received at NASI and their experiences in service, stressing that in moments of doubt, their training should remain their guide.

The COAS reminded the officers that leadership required the ability to inspire confidence and make sound decisions.

“A bad plan is better than no plan at all, so ensure that you always have a plan,” he said.

“Always act with the hope for success and not the fear of failure.”

Shaibu highlighted the Army’s efforts to address welfare concerns related to their type of commission, assuring them of measures to support their professional and personal development.

He urged them to pursue continuous improvement through courses and trainings available in the Army, aligning with his Command Philosophy to transform the force into a more professional, adaptable and combat-ready institution.

COAS charges newly commissioned officers to uphold professionalism, loyalty at POP in Jaji