National News
Tinubu Reaffirms Commitment to Transformation of Service Delivery to Nigerians

Tinubu Reaffirms Commitment to Transformation of Service Delivery to Nigerians
By: Michael Mike
President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed the commitment of his administration to Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) as a tool to enhancing the transformation of service delivery to all Nigerians, emphasizing the
critical role digital identity plays in the socioeconomic development of nations.
President Tinubu gave the commitment in his remarks during the celebration of the 6th National Identity Day, which was organised by the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC).
The event attracted delegations from the different African countries such as Kenya, South Sudan, Cote d’ Ivoire, Namibia as well as corporate organisations, state government representatives among others.
Represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, the President noted that the theme of this years’ Identity Day “Digital Public Infrastructure: (DPI) – Enabling Access to Services,” underscores the critical role that digital identity plays in the nation’s development.
He noted that: “In today’s digital age, the ability to prove one’s identity is not just a matter of convenience; it is a cornerstone of our socioeconomic progress. DPI is the backbone that enables access to essential services, from healthcare and education to financial inclusion and social welfare. It is through robust DPI that we can ensure every Nigerian, regardless of their background or location has the opportunity to participate fully in our nation’s growth.”
He said hat his administration’s 8-point agenda, which includes food security, ending poverty, economic growth and job creation, access to capital, improving security, enhancing the business environment, upholding the rule of law, and fighting corruption, is intrinsically linked to the success of the nation’s digital identity initiatives.
He stressed that by leveraging DPI, Nigeria can streamline service delivery, reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks, and ensure that government programs reach those who need them most.
The President said: “It goes without saying that a robust, efficient digital identity system has proven vital for the success of Government programmes like providing incentives for farmers, the student loan scheme, the National Youth Talent Export Programme, Renewed Hope City and Estate Housing initiative, the Skill-Up Artisans Programme and others. Verifiable identity is crucial in ensuring the right services and assistance goes to the right people in need of them.
“The “Renewed Hope” initiative is our commitment to fostering sustainable development and improving the living standards of all Nigerians. Digital identity is a key enabler of this vision. It empowers individuals, facilitates economic transactions, and enhances transparency and accountability in governance. With a reliable digital identity system, we can build a more inclusive and prosperous Nigeria.”
Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, in his keynote address, said the nation cannot find a solution to national security without the issues of identity management.
He said the foundation of economic emancipation or even industrialization is premised on identity management.
He said “we must get the identity of the people right to provide basic services for them,” adding that “for you to get the identity right the principle of the EOI (Evidence of Identity) plays a prominent role because Identity is the foundation, identity is the cradle, the beginning of every development.”
He however warned that if the nation fails to pay the necessary attention to identity management it will have challenges such as reputational damage, because the country will be unable to separate the good people from the bad ones and may find it difficult to provide basic policing, basic amenities of life for the people.
He said: “When you manage identity you must also talk about data protection and that is why we have the data protection act, which is fundamental in any democracy in the world. It is the right of the government to have the identity of its citizens to harness their identity and the right of the people for their identity to be protected.”
He said that Nigeria must end the era of individuals with multiple identities, stressing that if the nation fails to curb the problem of the proliferation of identities, it will continue to be at the mercy of the enemies of the state.
The minister emphasized that by law NIMC is the custodian of identity, stressing that the commission should extend its mandate to tax, drivers’ license, bank and even telcos and all issues concerning data because it is the repository of data in the country.
He revealed that the Ministry will work with NIMC to establish the Digital Travel certificate the (DTC) as well as adopt the Centralized Citizen Integrity and Document Authentication System (CCIDAS) to track people wherever they may be in order to curb crime.
In her remarks, the Director General of NIMC, Abisoye Coker-Odusote said the event highlights the importance of identity and its use for inclusion, protection and empowerment adding that data management has led to the enrolment of 110 million Nigerians so far.
She said: “With the federal government investment and palliative programs to cushion the impact of the ongoing hardship on citizens especially on the most vulnerable segments of the society, the focus of this event is around a strong digital infrastructure to support the empowerment initiative”.
She said that DPI is a network built in the public sector that enables the country to safely and effectively deliver opportunities and social services to its citizens and legal residents adding that NIMC is at the forefront of providing National identity to all citizens and legal residents in Nigeria.
“PTI has encouraged innovation to accelerate financial inclusion and transform the lives of the citizens by delivering service in an efficient and cost effective manner,” she said.
Tinubu Reaffirms Commitment to Transformation of Service Delivery to Nigerians
National News
VP SHETTIMA AT FIDAU PRAYER FOR BUHARI

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

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
National News
Accion MfB Launches AccionMonie App to Transform Digital Banking in Nigeria

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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