News
As Tinubu, Sani Herald New Era Of Socio-economic Transformation In 1 Year
As Nigeria continues on its path of growth and development, the Renewed Hope Government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been instrumental in driving socio-economic transformation across the nation, just like Governor Uba Sani is doing in Kaduna State. President Tinubu to the entire nation and Governor Sani to Kaduna, a state considered as headquarters of Northern Nigeria are two vivid examples of the feat achieved through the Renewed Hope Agenda within one year in office.
Since assuming office, President Tinubu has demonstrated unwavering dedication to improving the lives of Nigerians, and his efforts are yielding tangible results. One of the most significant achievements of the Tinubu administration is the revitalization of Nigeria’s infrastructure.
The president’s focus on upgrading transportation networks, energy supply, and digital connectivity has been a game-changer for the country. The Lagos-Calabar coastal super highway project, which will connect the southern states and boost economic activity, is a prime example of this infrastructure push. Additionally, there is the ongoing expansion of the Lagos-Ibadan expressway.
Another area where President Tinubu’s administration has made significant strides is in the energy sector. In consonance with his Renewed Hope Agenda, President Tinubu tinkered with NELMCO Board with expectation that the new structure and composition will yield expeditious and measurable progress in the management of the power sector’s post-privatization liabilities to create conditions for the sustainable attainment of world-class standards of operational efficiency across all sub-components of the Nigeria Electricity Supply Industry (NESI).
Furthermore, the government’s commitment to renewable energy sources, such as solar and hydroelectric power, is not only reducing carbon emissions but also creating new opportunities for economic growth.
In the realm of education, President Tinubu’s administration has introduced several initiatives aimed at improving access and quality. The recently launched “Education Renaissance” program seeks to revamp the nation’s educational infrastructure, provide training for teachers, and promote digital literacy. This endeavor is critical in preparing Nigeria’s youth for the challenges of the 21st century and ensuring they are equipped to compete in an increasingly globalised world.
Healthcare is another sector that has received significant attention from the Tinubu administration. The president’s commitment to universal health coverage is evident in the expansion of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) and the establishment of new medical facilities across the country.
His initiatives for the North-West region are a breath of fresh air, offering a comprehensive approach to addressing the region’s challenges. The Pulaku Initiative, Human Capital Development, Agriculture, Education, Poverty Alleviation, and Infrastructural Development programme demonstrate a clear understanding of the region’s needs and a commitment to sustainable progress.
The Pulaku Initiative’s non-kinetic approach to counter insurgency and banditry is a welcome shift in strategy, acknowledging that military action alone cannot solve the region’s security woes. By investing N50 billion in this initiative, President Tinubu shows a dedication to finding lasting solutions. Little wonder, the North-West is now enjoying all round peace. A little under one year, insurgency has disappeared.
Human Capital Development, Agriculture, Education, and Poverty Alleviation initiatives will enhance living conditions, promote economic growth, and address root causes of insecurity. These programmes will empower citizens, especially youth, to become active contributors to their communities’ development.
Infrastructural Development will catalyze growth, connecting communities and facilitating economic exchange. Modern residences, roads, schools, and essential facilities will transform the region’s landscape, fostering a sense of hope and progress.
President Tinubu’s initiatives demonstrate a commitment to inclusive growth, recognizing the North-West region’s potential and value. These programmes will revitalize the region, creating a beacon of hope for generations to come.
Against the foregoing backdrop, it baffles me why some people find it convenient to accuse the president of marginalising the North. For instance, Tinubu has supported heavily, the Governor Uba Sani’s transformative leadership in Kaduna State.
Kaduna, as the melting point and capital city of Kaduna State and the former political capital of Northern Nigeria, has long been a hub of activity and growth. However, in recent years, the city had faced numerous challenges, including security concerns and infrastructure deficits. But under the leadership of Governor Uba Sani, the state has undergone a remarkable transformation, marking a significant turning point in its history.
Governor Sani’s tireless efforts to deepen peace, safety, and security have yielded remarkable results, making Kaduna a haven of tranquility and progress. The once-notorious Kaduna-Abuja expressway, a hotbed of banditry and kidnapping, is now safe for travelers, thanks to the governor’s unwavering commitment to security. The resumption of the Abuja-Kaduna rail service, halted due to a heinous attack, is another testament to Governor Sani’s success in securing the state.
Agriculture, a vital sector in Kaduna State, has also seen significant growth under Governor Sani’s leadership. Farmers have begun returning to their abandoned farms, revitalizing the sector. The governor’s collaboration with President Ahmed Bola Tinubu, the National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, and the armed forces led to the triumphant rescue of 137 abducted school children, bringing hope to families and communities.
The distribution of palliatives worth over N11.4 billion to Kaduna State citizens and residents has also provided the much-needed support to those in need. Infrastructure development has received a significant boost under Governor Sani’s leadership.
The groundbreaking for the construction of a 327-kilometer road linking College Road to Mashigi, stretching down to Eastern Bypass of Millennium City, will benefit Igabi, Kaduna North, and Chikun Local Government Areas. This project, among many others, showcases the governor’s dedication to transforming Kaduna State into a beacon of hope and prosperity.
Governor Sani’s achievements extend beyond model security , intelligence equipment, overhauling security architectecture and infrastructure. His administration has made significant strides in education, with the construction of 2,326 new classrooms, renovation of 707 additional classrooms, and distribution of over 34,000 pieces of furniture for pupils and teachers. The implementation of reduced tuition fees in all state-run higher education institutions has also made education more accessible to all.
Furthermore, Governor Sani has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Hebei Province of the People’s Republic of China, promoting exchanges and cooperation in various fields, including economy, trade, solid minerals, science and technology, energy, transportation, agriculture, and infrastructure. This bilateral cooperation will undoubtedly promote common prosperity and development.
On the political front, Governor Uba Sani, in his infinite wisdom, was able to see the need to strengthen the governing All Progressives Congress (APC). He brought former Governor of the state, Mukhtar Ramalan, and Senator Suleiman Othman Hunkuyi back to APC. He has rallied round associates to visit former Governor Ahmed Makarfi in the bid to unify the political structure of the Kaduna mafias in support of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Governor Sani has also worked closely with former Vice President Namadi Sambo despite the fact that the latter is a member of the main opposition party. The former VP has always advised the governor on ways to unite Kaduna for peace and development. Heading to such counseling, the governor has made significant breakthrough through organizing economic and security conferences, as well as other high-powered meetings of bigwigs. This has led to peace and rapid development of the North.
In conclusion, President Tinubu and Governor Uba Sani’s achievements have ushered in a new era of peace and progress in Nigeria and Kaduna State. Their dedication to security, infrastructure development, education, and humanitarian efforts has transformed the country and the state into a symbol of hope and prosperity. As the state continues to flourish under his leadership, it is clear that Governor Sani’s legacy will be one of lasting impact and positive change.
Finally, let me use this opportunity to condole Governor Sani on the passing of our brother, Pharmacist Mukhtar Ismail, who was called to the great beyond last Friday after preparing to leave the county for the 2024 Hajj. May his gentle soul rest in Jannatul-Firdaus.
Catholic cardinals have elected Robert Prevost, the first Pope from the United States of America, who has taken the new name Pope Leo XIV after the conclave decided in just four rounds of voting on Thursday.
Italian Cardinal Giuseppe Versaldi said it took cardinals only four rounds of voting to pick a new pope and that white smoke coming out of the Sistine Chapel chimney after a day’s voting is “a clear sign of the unity of the Church. ”
The Pontiff, picked even faster than his predecessor, Francis, appeared on the Vatican balcony amid enthusiastic cheers from thousands of faithful who packed St. Peter’s Basilica on Thursday to witness the historic event.
“May peace be with all of you,” he said from the Vatican balcony after paying tribute to his predecessor, Pope Francis, who gave his life to the service of humanity. He stressed that he wants to deliver his blessing to the people as Pope Francis did in his last appearance in St Peter’s Square.
After concluding his speech, the new Pope started reading a religious passage in Latin, paying homage to the saints and the Madonna. The pope continued with a message of peace and noted, “God loves us all, unconditionally”.
“Humanity needs Christ as a bridge to be reached by God and his love. Help us, and help each other, build bridges.
“Without fear, united hand in hand with God, we are the Disciples of Christ, and the world needs his light.
“Brothers and sisters dearest, this is the first greeting of Christ resurrected. I want to offer a greeting of peace to your families, all of you, wherever you are. May peace be with you,” he said.
Chicago-born Prevost, 69, is seen as a reformer who worked for many years as a missionary in Peru before being made an archbishop there.
The cardinals strongly perceived that the new pope would need to carry forward Pope Francis’s legacy of reaching out to those on the margins and bring along with him a wide spectrum of those within the Church, including those with whom Pope Francis was sometimes at loggerheads.
Observers considered Cardinal Robert Prevost a candidate who could fulfil that role—someone who could be a bridge between different worlds.
The fact that the conclave decided in just four rounds of voting suggests that the cardinals agreed with that assessment.
Robert Prevost will be the 267th occupant of the throne of St Peter. Although he is the first American to fill the role of Pope, he is considered as much a cardinal from Latin America because of the many years he spent as a missionary in Peru before becoming an archbishop there.
Born in Chicago in 1955 to parents of Ecuadorian and French descent, Prevost served as an altar boy and was ordained as a priest in 1982. Although he moved to Peru three years later, he returned regularly to the US to serve as a pastor and a priest in his home city.
He has Peruvian nationality and is fondly remembered as a figure who worked with marginalised communities and helped build bridges. He spent 10 years as a local parish pastor and teacher at a seminary in Trujillo in northwestern Peru.
He is well known to cardinals because of his high-profile role as prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops in Latin America, which has the critical task of selecting and supervising bishops. Francis made him a cardinal less than two years ago.
As Francis appointed 80% of the cardinals who took part in the conclave, it is unsurprising that someone like Prevost was elected, even if he was only recently appointed.
He will be seen as a figure who favoured the continuity of Francis’ reforms in the Catholic Church. Prevost is believed to have shared Francis’ views on migrants, the poor and the environment.
He will be fully aware of the divisions within the Catholic Church, and his Latin American background also represents continuity after a Pope who came from Argentina.
During his time as archbishop in Peru, he did not escape the sexual abuse scandals that have clouded the Church. However, his diocese fervently denied he had been involved in any attempted cover-up.
Before the conclave, Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said that during gatherings of the College of Cardinals in the days before the conclave they emphasised the need for a pope with “a prophetic spirit capable of leading a Church that does not close in on itself but knows how to go out and bring light to a world marked by despair”.
Top 10 Things to Know About the New Pope, Robert Francis Prevost
1. First American Pope
Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, is the first pope from the United States, born in Chicago, Illinois.
2. Elected as the 267th Pope
He was chosen after a swift two-day conclave, becoming the 267th leader of the Roman Catholic Church.
3. Age and New Namel
At 69 years old, he adopted the papal name Leo XIV upon his election.
4. Deep Missionary Experience in Latin America
Prevost spent over a decade in Peru as a bishop and seminary educator, gaining respect for his pastoral leadership and cultural fluency.
5. Leader of the Augustinian Order
He led the Augustinians globally for over ten years, managing an international religious community.
6. Key Vatican Roles
Before becoming pope, he was Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and President of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America—two influential positions in Church governance.
7. Academic and Legal Scholar
He holds degrees in mathematics, theology, and canon law, and has taught canon law in Latin America.
8. Calm, Reform-Oriented Leader
Known for his consensus-building style, Pope Leo XIV is seen as a clear-headed reformer continuing the legacy of Pope Francis.
9. Advocate for Women’s Inclusion
He supports meaningful female participation in Church governance, emphasising their real impact within Vatican bodies.
10. Mission-Driven Papacy
Pope Leo XIV remains committed to missionary work, global outreach, and addressing challenging issues like clerical abuse with humility and resolve.
Catholic cardinals have elected Robert Prevost, the first Pope from the United States of America, who has taken the new name Pope Leo XIV after the conclave decided in just four rounds of voting on Thursday.
Italian Cardinal Giuseppe Versaldi said it took cardinals only four rounds of voting to pick a new pope and that white smoke coming out of the Sistine Chapel chimney after a day’s voting is “a clear sign of the unity of the Church. ”
The Pontiff, picked even faster than his predecessor, Francis, appeared on the Vatican balcony amid enthusiastic cheers from thousands of faithful who packed St. Peter’s Basilica on Thursday to witness the historic event.
“May peace be with all of you,” he said from the Vatican balcony after paying tribute to his predecessor, Pope Francis, who gave his life to the service of humanity. He stressed that he wants to deliver his blessing to the people as Pope Francis did in his last appearance in St Peter’s Square.
After concluding his speech, the new Pope started reading a religious passage in Latin, paying homage to the saints and the Madonna. The pope continued with a message of peace and noted, “God loves us all, unconditionally”.
“Humanity needs Christ as a bridge to be reached by God and his love. Help us, and help each other, build bridges.
“Without fear, united hand in hand with God, we are the Disciples of Christ, and the world needs his light.
“Brothers and sisters dearest, this is the first greeting of Christ resurrected. I want to offer a greeting of peace to your families, all of you, wherever you are. May peace be with you,” he said.
Chicago-born Prevost, 69, is seen as a reformer who worked for many years as a missionary in Peru before being made an archbishop there.
The cardinals strongly perceived that the new pope would need to carry forward Pope Francis’s legacy of reaching out to those on the margins and bring along with him a wide spectrum of those within the Church, including those with whom Pope Francis was sometimes at loggerheads.
Observers considered Cardinal Robert Prevost a candidate who could fulfil that role—someone who could be a bridge between different worlds.
The fact that the conclave decided in just four rounds of voting suggests that the cardinals agreed with that assessment.
Robert Prevost will be the 267th occupant of the throne of St Peter. Although he is the first American to fill the role of Pope, he is considered as much a cardinal from Latin America because of the many years he spent as a missionary in Peru before becoming an archbishop there.
Born in Chicago in 1955 to parents of Ecuadorian and French descent, Prevost served as an altar boy and was ordained as a priest in 1982. Although he moved to Peru three years later, he returned regularly to the US to serve as a pastor and a priest in his home city.
He has Peruvian nationality and is fondly remembered as a figure who worked with marginalised communities and helped build bridges. He spent 10 years as a local parish pastor and teacher at a seminary in Trujillo in northwestern Peru.
He is well known to cardinals because of his high-profile role as prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops in Latin America, which has the critical task of selecting and supervising bishops. Francis made him a cardinal less than two years ago.
As Francis appointed 80% of the cardinals who took part in the conclave, it is unsurprising that someone like Prevost was elected, even if he was only recently appointed.
He will be seen as a figure who favoured the continuity of Francis’ reforms in the Catholic Church. Prevost is believed to have shared Francis’ views on migrants, the poor and the environment.
He will be fully aware of the divisions within the Catholic Church, and his Latin American background also represents continuity after a Pope who came from Argentina.
During his time as archbishop in Peru, he did not escape the sexual abuse scandals that have clouded the Church. However, his diocese fervently denied he had been involved in any attempted cover-up.
Before the conclave, Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said that during gatherings of the College of Cardinals in the days before the conclave they emphasised the need for a pope with “a prophetic spirit capable of leading a Church that does not close in on itself but knows how to go out and bring light to a world marked by despair”.
Top 10 Things to Know About the New Pope, Robert Francis Prevost
1. First American Pope
Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, is the first pope from the United States, born in Chicago, Illinois.
2. Elected as the 267th Pope
He was chosen after a swift two-day conclave, becoming the 267th leader of the Roman Catholic Church.
3. Age and New Namel
At 69 years old, he adopted the papal name Leo XIV upon his election.
4. Deep Missionary Experience in Latin America
Prevost spent over a decade in Peru as a bishop and seminary educator, gaining respect for his pastoral leadership and cultural fluency.
5. Leader of the Augustinian Order
He led the Augustinians globally for over ten years, managing an international religious community.
6. Key Vatican Roles
Before becoming pope, he was Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and President of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America—two influential positions in Church governance.
7. Academic and Legal Scholar
He holds degrees in mathematics, theology, and canon law, and has taught canon law in Latin America.
8. Calm, Reform-Oriented Leader
Known for his consensus-building style, Pope Leo XIV is seen as a clear-headed reformer continuing the legacy of Pope Francis.
9. Advocate for Women’s Inclusion
He supports meaningful female participation in Church governance, emphasising their real impact within Vatican bodies.
10. Mission-Driven Papacy
Pope Leo XIV remains committed to missionary work, global outreach, and addressing challenging issues like clerical abuse with humility and resolve.
By Tambaya Julius, Abuja
As the 2027 general elections approach, respected elder and retired military officer, Brigadier General Simon Katunku Gora, in a press statement today, made a compelling public appeal to the people of ZangoKataf/Jaba Federal Constituency, stressing the importance of adhering to the long-established zoning formula. He called all political actors and constituents to respect Zoning arrangement that has long fostered unity, stability, and inclusiveness in the region.
Speaking on the issue of zoning arrangement, Gen. Gora acknowledged the deep historical significance of the zoning system in ZangoKataf/Jaba federal constituency. According to him, the zoning principle wasn’t a product of political manipulation or favouritism. Rather, it was a mutual agreement among the region’s founding fathers a conscious decision to maintain equity, balance, and fair political representation for every community, regardless of size or influence.
“Our constituency has always stood on a foundation of mutual respect, collaboration and cooperation,” Gen. Gora stated.
He expressed deep concern over what he described as an increasing disregard for the zoning arrangement. Gen. Gora warned that political ambition and selfish interests are beginning to erode the spirit of unity the zoning system was built to protect.
“It is heartbreaking to witness betrayals of this noble system,” Gen. Gora said. “When individuals prioritise their personal gain over collective agreements, they plant seeds of division, instability, and mistrust. We must remember: a house divided against itself cannot stand.”
He urged politicians to resist the temptation of political shortcuts, reminding them that leadership is not simply about acquiring power it’s about sacrifice, responsibility, and service to the people and humanity.
Addressing those eager to contest in the 2027 general election for ZangoKataf/Jaba federal constituency outside the agreed zoning rotation, he advised them to wait for their turn. Gen. Gora was clear and unwavering: “Wait your turn.” He emphasised that respecting the zoning order wouldn’t only strengthens the democratic process but also reinforces the core values of justice and accountability.
“Leadership is more than occupying an office,” he stated. “It is a sacred duty rooted in integrity and humility. Those who seek to lead must first prove themselves capable of self-restraint and honouring agreements.” he said.
He also reminded his audience that breaking the zoning consensus for short-term political gain could have long-lasting consequences on social harmony and development within the constituency. In his stirring address, he appealed to all citizens youths, traditional rulers, political leaders, and community stakeholders to prioritise the future over fleeting ambition. He called on everyone to defend the zoning arrangement as a legacy of equity that must be preserved for coming generations.
“We must not rewrite the rules simply to satisfy today’s interests,” he declared. “Let’s honour the collective sacrifices of our elders and protect the values they instilled through consensus and dialogue.” he stated.
Gen. Gora further emphasised that the zoning system was not just a political tool, but a symbol of unity, and its continuity was essential for maintaining peace, stability, and fairness across all communities in ZangoKataf and Jaba federal constituency.
In his closing remarks Gen. Gora call to action, urging every segment of society to rise above personal agendas and uphold the zoning principle as a unifying framework. He insisted that the zoning system remains the best path forward to ensure equal participation and representation. “To all stakeholders youths, elders, traditional leaders, and political actors let us work together to protect our shared values,” Gen. Gora said. “In doing so, we will secure a stronger, more united ZangoKataf/Jaba for generations to come.”