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THE POSITION OF APC INITIATIVE FOR GOOD GOVERNANCE APC-IGG AND APC-IGG PROFESSORS WING ON PLANNED NATION WIDE PROTEST

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THE POSITION OF APC INITIATIVE FOR GOOD GOVERNANCE APC-IGG AND APC-IGG PROFESSORS WING ON PLANNED NATION WIDE PROTEST

It is important to remember that, much like Rome, economic recovery cannot happen overnight, but it requires a solid foundation. Nigerians will agree that President Tinubu inherited an economy on the brink of collapse, characterized by a high level of indebtedness, with over 90% of revenue mortgaged to both foreign and domestic loans. Despite these challenges, the government, under the banner of Renewed Hope, has implemented measures to reshape the country’s economy since May 2023. These measures are particularly aimed at providing a brighter future for Nigerian youth.

One notable measure is the intervention and capitalization of MSMEs, including a N200 billion fund for various business segments across the country. Specifically, N50 billion in grants have been disbursed to over one million nano businesses, equitably distributed across all local government areas. Additionally, N150 billion in single-digit interest rate loans have been provided to hundreds of thousands of MSMEs nationwide. This initiative emphasises the significant role of state and local government authorities in grassroots development.

Furthermore, N75 billion in loans of up to N1 million each has been distributed, along with another N75 billion allocated to large-scale manufacturers employing up to 1,000 Nigerians per industry. These loans, offered at a single-digit interest rate with a five-year moratorium, are crucial for business intervention and development.The administration’s efforts extend to alleviating the short-term impact of fuel subsidy removal. To mitigate this, the government has invested N100 billion between July 2023 and March 2024 to acquire 3,000 units of 20-seater CNG-fueled buses. These buses will be allocated to major transportation companies based on travel intensity per capita, with participating companies accessing credit at 9% per annum with a 60-month repayment period. This responsibility also falls on state and local governments to ensure citizens benefit directly.

Moreover, the government inaugurated the Presidential Economic Coordination Council (PECC), involving a N2 trillion package with allocations for health and social welfare (N350 billion), agriculture and food security (N500 billion), the energy and power sector (N500 billion), and general business support (N650 billion).

To support indigent youths in tertiary institutions, President Tinubu signed the Access to Higher Education Act, 2023, on June 12, enabling students to access interest-free loans for their education.

Considering these efforts, it is essential to recognize that protests against the President might harm the economy. Instead, youths should focus on holding some of the state governors and local government chairmen accountable for economic failures, as most government policies are implemented through their channels.

The current administration, led by President Tinubu, has provided sufficient funds to state governors to meet their constituents’ demands. While the economy struggles, positive efforts by states can reduce the central government’s burden. Notably, the President has:

  • Allocated N30 billion to each state to address food scarcity and hardship.
  • Provided trailers of rice to each senator for their constituencies.
  • Introduced a monthly stipend of N35,000 for federal workers.
  • Distributed N430 billion among state governors.

The issue of local government autonomy is crucial to reducing neglect and poor economic management by state governors. While the new minimum wage of N70,000 is a step in the right direction, many states have yet to pay the previous N30,000 minimum wage, and youth protests on this matter have been sparse.

It is disappointing to see some of the state governors, who claim to be industrialists fail to manage state investments effectively, leading to over-reliance on FAAC and possibly subsequent bankruptcy. The President has laid a solid foundation for agricultural and electricity sector investments, yet few states have taken advantage of these opportunities. The pressure should not be solely on the President; state and local governments also play a crucial role.

In just one year, President Tinubu has made significant strides. State governors must be held accountable to support his efforts. If they do, Nigeria will undoubtedly improve.

Therefore, Nigerian youths should reconsider the path of agitation. Demand transparency and accountability from influencers and leaders. Opt for dialogue rather than protests. Nigeria’s renewed hope agenda promises a better future for all.
We however, also commend the laudable efforts of various state actors , the like of the Secretary to the government of the Federation, His Excellency Sen Dr George Akume of the skills and acumen he exhibited in mediation, negotiation and reconciliation with various labour leaders, which contributed tremendously, to the good and sustainable working relationship with the labour, as they disassociated with the protest.
That is the advantage of having experienced people in the government. Is like putting the square peg in a square hole.

Thank you.

Amb Musa Muhammed Tsoken National President, APC Initiative For Good Governance APC-IGG

THE POSITION OF APC INITIATIVE FOR GOOD GOVERNANCE APC-IGG AND APC-IGG PROFESSORS WING ON PLANNED NATION WIDE PROTEST

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Troops Intercept Suspected Terrorist Logistics Supplier, Seize PMS in Borno

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Troops Intercept Suspected Terrorist Logistics Supplier, Seize PMS in Borno

By: Zagazola Makama

Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have arrested a suspected ISWAP/JAS logistics supplier and intercepted a large quantity of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) concealed in a tricycle in Borno State.

Security sources said the suspect was apprehended at about 9:10 a.m. on April 21 by troops of 159 Battalion at a checkpoint within Sector 2 Area of Responsibility.

The suspect was reportedly conveying PMS concealed in 15 sacks, disguised with bags of sachet water in an attempt to evade detection.

Preliminary investigations indicated that the consignment was being transported to Kanama town and neighbouring communities around Dikwa and Bultuwa, areas believed to be within terrorist influence.

Items recovered from the suspect include a mobile phone and the sum of ₦34,950.

The sources said the suspect and recovered exhibits are in military custody for further investigation and necessary action.

They added that the interception forms part of ongoing operations aimed at disrupting terrorist logistics networks and denying them access to critical supplies across the North-East theatre.

Troops Intercept Suspected Terrorist Logistics Supplier, Seize PMS in Borno

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Troops Repel Terrorist Infiltration in Kanama, Neutralise Four Insurgents

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Troops Repel Terrorist Infiltration in Kanama, Neutralise Four Insurgents

By: Zagazola Makama

Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have repelled a Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorist infiltration into Kanama town, neutralising four insurgents during a swift response operation in Borno State.

Security sources said the incident occurred at about 6:00 p.m. on April 22 when troops of 159 Battalion, deployed in Kanama, responded to sounds of gunfire within the town.

On arrival, the troops reportedly discovered that terrorists had infiltrated parts of the community.

The troops immediately made contact and engaged the attackers with disciplined fire, forcing them to retreat in disarray.

Subsequent exploitation of the general area led to the neutralisation of four terrorists.

One member of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) sustained injuries during the encounter and has been evacuated for medical attention.

No military equipment was lost during the operation.

Items recovered from the terrorists include two torchlight mobile phones and the sum of ₦21,000.

Security sources said the general situation across the theatre remains calm but unpredictable, while troops’ morale and fighting efficiency remain high.

Troops Repel Terrorist Infiltration in Kanama, Neutralise Four Insurgents

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UK–Nigeria Trade Mission Deepens Education, Skills Partnership

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UK–Nigeria Trade Mission Deepens Education, Skills Partnership

By: Michael Mike

A high-level United Kingdom trade mission on education and skills has concluded a week-long skills and schools trade mission to Nigeria, laying a solid foundation for expanded collaboration in education and workforce development between both countries.

The mission, which ran from April 19 to 23 in Abuja and Lagos, brought together leading UK private schools, skills providers and education institutions with Nigerian stakeholders, including policymakers, investors and school operators.

Organised by the UK Department for Business and Trade, the engagement is part of the UK’s broader International Education Strategy, which identifies Nigeria as one of five priority markets for global education partnerships. The initiative is being championed by Steve Smith, who is expected to return to Nigeria later this year to sustain momentum.

The mission builds on diplomatic and educational engagements during a recent state visit to the United Kingdom in March, further reinforcing the growing importance of education within UK–Nigeria bilateral relations.

At the heart of discussions was the expansion of in-country delivery of British education, including the establishment of internationally recognised UK schools in Nigeria, as well as the development of industry-aligned skills programmes, particularly in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).

In Abuja, the delegation held high-level talks with Nigeria’s Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, securing strong political backing for deeper institutional cooperation. Both sides explored pathways for partnerships that would strengthen Nigeria’s education system while equipping young people with skills tailored to labour market demands.

The delegation also visited several British curriculum schools and colleges in Abuja and Lagos, gaining first-hand insight into teaching standards and operational models already in place within Nigeria.

Speaking at the conclusion of the mission, British Deputy High Commissioner, Jonny Baxter, highlighted education as a key pillar of bilateral engagement.

“The UK and Nigeria share a deep and longstanding relationship, and opportunities in education are one of its most exciting frontiers,” he said, noting that the mission demonstrated “strong appetite on both sides to deepen collaboration.”

He added that connecting UK institutions with Nigerian partners would help build sustainable, in-country education systems, while positioning Nigeria as a regional hub for high-quality learning.

Also reflecting on the mission, Sarah Chidgey described the initiative as a practical demonstration of the UK’s education strategy in action.

According to her, progress in UK–Nigeria education collaboration has grown steadily since her first visit in 2022, with the current mission reinforcing mutual commitment to expanding access, quality, and innovation in the sector.

The delegation included representatives from prominent UK institutions such as Harrow International School, The King’s School Canterbury, Whitgift School, Bedford School, and Pearson, among others.

The mission concluded with a robust pipeline of follow-up activities, including one-on-one engagements, memorandum of understanding (MoU) discussions, and agreed next steps aimed at translating dialogue into tangible partnerships.

Analysts say the initiative signals a shift toward more structured and commercially viable education cooperation between both countries, with potential benefits spanning student mobility, local capacity building, and skills development aligned to Nigeria’s economic priorities.

With sustained engagement expected in the months ahead, stakeholders believe the mission could mark a turning point in positioning Nigeria as a major destination for international education investment in Africa.

UK–Nigeria Trade Mission Deepens Education, Skills Partnership

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