News

Nigeria to Mark 64th Independence with Modest Celebrations

Published

1 week ago

September 26, 2024

Photo source: Google

The Federal Government of Nigeria has revealed that the country’s 64th Independence Anniversary will be marked in a modest fashion.

This announcement was made by Senator George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), during a press briefing in Abuja on Thursday.

The press conference was held to outline the activities planned for this year’s celebration.

Senator Akume stated that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu approved the decision to scale down the festivities to reflect the current mood of the nation.

The administration is focusing on unity, progress, and the diverse cultural heritage that defines Nigeria.

The low-key celebration is meant to remind citizens of the nation’s strength in unity, its progress despite numerous challenges, and the beauty of its diversity.

Akume emphasized the significant strides made by the Tinubu administration within a short period, highlighting the government’s commitment to a brighter future through the Renewed Hope Agenda.

He acknowledged the economic hardships many Nigerians are facing, which are largely due to unavoidable policy choices such as the removal of fuel subsidies.

However, he assured Nigerians that these tough decisions are aimed at long-term stability and growth.

According to him, the administration is working tirelessly to mitigate the immediate impact of these policies and to create new opportunities in the short, medium, and long term.

One of the key initiatives introduced by the Tinubu administration is the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Initiative, designed to alleviate transportation costs for Nigerians.

The launch of the first phase, which includes thirty hybrid buses powered by CNG, is just the beginning.

Akume disclosed that this initiative will be expanded to cover all geo-political zones, significantly reducing transportation costs and enhancing mobility.

Additionally, the government has commissioned the first retrofitted CNG train for the Abuja-Kaduna route.

This development is expected to cut travel costs by up to 50% when fully operational.

President Tinubu’s administration is also focusing on economic growth through support for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).

By empowering Nigerians to start or expand their businesses, the government aims to strengthen the backbone of the economy.

The SGF also highlighted the repositioning of the National Social Investment Programme to better address the needs of the poor, the vulnerable, and the elderly.

Furthermore, Nigerian workers have seen benefits from a newly approved National Minimum Wage, following a Wage Award to ease their financial burdens.

In terms of education, the Nigerian Students Loan Fund has disbursed N2.5 billion to over 22,120 students in higher institutions across the country.

This initiative provides a much-needed relief for parents and offers greater access to education for students from low-income families.

On the issue of national security, Akume acknowledged the ongoing challenges of insurgency, banditry, and kidnapping.

He praised the efforts of the armed forces and security agencies, whose enhanced capabilities have led to the neutralization of numerous insurgents and bandits, while others have surrendered for rehabilitation.

He assured Nigerians that the government remains committed to restoring peace and security across the nation.

To combat rising food prices and bolster food security, the government has removed tariffs on certain food imports and distributed fertilizers and farm inputs to farmers.

These measures aim to increase food production and make food more affordable for all Nigerians.

Senator Akume took the opportunity to honor the sacrifices and contributions of Nigeria’s founding fathers, who fought for the nation’s independence in 1960.

He urged Nigerians to take pride in the country’s journey towards a stable and unbroken democratic sovereignty, which has lasted 25 years since 1999.

He also commended Nigerians for their resilience and their significant contributions to global development in various fields.

The SGF announced that the Independence Anniversary celebrations would include a Special Juma’at Prayer at the National Mosque in Abuja on Friday, September 27, 2024.

An Inter-Denominational Church Service will follow on Sunday, September 29, 2024, at the National Christian Centre.

The celebrations will culminate with a Presidential Broadcast and an Independence Anniversary Parade at the Presidential Villa on Tuesday, October 1, 2024.

Through these events, the government aims to foster a sense of unity and patriotism among Nigerians as the nation reflects on its achievements and the road ahead.

Despite the scaled-down celebrations, the message of hope, progress, and unity remains strong as Nigeria looks forward to a brighter future.

News

Explosives Strike Rivers APC Office Ahead of Local Elections

Published

9 mins ago

October 5, 2024

Gift Ogieva

Photo source: Google

Suspected arsonists have reportedly attacked the Rivers State secretariat of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Port Harcourt, detonating explosives just hours before the scheduled Local Government elections.

The incident, which occurred early Saturday morning, is believed to have caused significant damage to the property, including the main gate, the security house, and parts of a nearby building.

Eyewitness reports and video footage circulating on social media suggest that dynamites were used in the attack.

The scene showed a chaotic aftermath, with the affected areas bearing signs of the explosion’s impact.

Although there were no immediate reports of casualties, the damage has raised concerns about the rising tension surrounding political activities in the state.

Chief Tony Okocha, the caretaker committee chairman of the APC in Rivers State, has accused supporters of Governor Siminalayi Fubara of being responsible for the attack.

In a statement, Okocha expressed his dismay over the event, claiming that “pro-Fubara civilian soldiers” had launched the attack with the intent of causing further damage.

Okocha recounted how a second attempt to set the building ablaze was narrowly avoided, thanks to the swift response of security personnel stationed at the gate.

“At the wee hours of Saturday, explosives were detonated at our office.

Thankfully, the second attempt to set it on fire was foiled as our security quickly put out the fire,” he said.

Tensions have been mounting between political parties in Rivers State ahead of the Local Government elections, with many concerned about the safety and security of the voting process.

While Governor Fubara’s camp has yet to issue an official statement in response to the accusations, this incident has only further heightened the political climate in the state.

Security forces are currently investigating the attack, and many are calling for calm and peaceful conduct as the elections draw closer.

This act of violence has once again highlighted the need for improved security measures around sensitive political periods, as the safety of citizens and property becomes a growing concern.

News

Pastor Adeboye Calls for Peace Over Tithing Dispute

Published

11 mins ago

October 5, 2024

Gift Ogieva

Photo source: Google

Pastor Enoch Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), has urged Christians to refrain from engaging in disputes with God, particularly on the subject of tithing.

During the October edition of the RCCG Holy Ghost Service, Pastor Adeboye addressed the ongoing debate surrounding tithe payments, calling for an end to the arguments.

In his message to the congregation, Pastor Adeboye passionately appealed to believers, stating, “I’m pleading with everyone around the world, let’s bring this argument about tithing to a close.”

He emphasized that Christians should respect the guidance of their pastors on the matter, whether or not they support the practice of tithing.

The respected clergyman noted that if a pastor instructs their congregation not to pay tithes and instead encourages offerings, Christians should follow that directive and not leave the church in protest.

“If your pastor prefers offerings and not tithes, don’t abandon the church. Give offerings as instructed,” he said.

However, Pastor Adeboye also acknowledged that there are those who feel a deep, personal conviction to tithe. He advised such individuals to seek out churches where tithes are accepted and used for the glory of God.

“If you believe in your heart that you should give God at least 10 percent of your income, find a church where the pastor accepts tithes and will use them for God’s work,” he added.

This way, he explained, believers can avoid conflicts both with their pastors and with God.

The advice from Pastor Adeboye underscores the importance of maintaining harmony within the church and honoring individual convictions without sparking unnecessary disputes.

He encouraged Christians to prioritize their relationship with God and ensure that their actions align with their faith, whether through offerings or tithes, depending on their pastor’s preference.

Ultimately, the message serves as a reminder that the focus should not be on the division of opinion but rather on worshipping and serving God in a way that brings peace and unity within the body of Christ.