Former Nigerian Minister Of Interior Dies

Senator Alh. Dr. Bello Maitama Yusuf, a prominent figure in Nigerian politics and business, and a former minister for internal affairs and commerce, has passed away at the age of 78. Senator Yusuf, who represented the Jigawa South West constituency as a Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, had a long and distinguished political career.  He was first elected in April 1999 and subsequently re-elected in April 2003, earning the trust and support of his constituents over the years. During his tenure as a minister, Senator Yusuf made significant contributions to the nation. As the minister for internal affairs in 1979 and the minister for commerce in 1982, he played a crucial role in safeguarding Nigeria’s economic interests.  Notably, his efforts as the minister for commerce helped curb the influx of imported goods into Nigeria, which was greatly impacting the country’s foreign reserves. In his home state of Jigawa, Senator Yusuf was recognized and honoured with the title of “Sardaunan Dutse” in acknowledgment of his outstanding service and contributions to the state. Furthermore, he was a recipient of the prestigious national honour, the Grand Commander of the Niger (GCON), reflecting the high regard in which he was held by the nation.

Tinubu felicitates with VP Shettima on his 57th birthday

President Bola Tinubu has warmly congratulated Vice President Kashim Shettima on his 57th birthday on Saturday, hailing him as an exemplary political leader. In a statement released by Mr. Ajuri Ngelale, the Presidential spokesman, Tinubu expressed his well-wishes for the former Borno Governor and praised his remarkable qualities. Tinubu commended Shettima for consistently displaying wisdom, character, compassion, and bold leadership throughout his distinguished career in both the private and public sectors. He recognized Shettima’s enduring loyalty to the nation and his unwavering commitment to societal improvement. The President highlighted Shettima’s impressive journey, which began as a lecturer at the University of Maiduguri before transitioning into the banking industry. Subsequently, Shettima served Borno State as a Commissioner in five different ministries, showcasing his dedication to public service. Tinubu acknowledged Shettima’s extraordinary courage in overseeing Borno State for eight years, a period marred by a deadly insurgency in the North East. “Despite formidable challenges, Shettima demonstrated remarkable intellect and innovative problem-solving skills,” Tinubu said, adding that he played a pivotal role in nurturing future leaders and fostering institutions for the sustainable development of Borno State and its residents. ‘’This remarkable public servant defied all odds in the region with a ferociously intellectual mind and an innovative doggedness to solve dynamic problems with dynamic solutions. ‘’He built high quality leaders and institutions for the sustainably developing future of Borno State and its people,’’ the President said.

2023 UNGA: Tinubu to address global leaders Sept 19

President Bola Tinubu will address the 78th Session of the high-level General Debate of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) at the UN headquarters in New York on Tuesday, September 19. Tinubu, in his first outing to the Assembly, will be addressing world leaders in the evening of that day. The Nigerian President would be the fifth African leader to speak on day one of the gathering, according to the speakers list from the Office of the General Assembly President, According to the list, Tinubu will be the 14th speaker out of 20 leaders slated to speak on the first day. The South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, the 10th speaker, will be the first African leader to speak in the morning session of the Assembly. In the Afternoon session, five African leaders are expected to address the gathering. The Nigerian president would deliver his statement around 6pm (11pm Nigerian time) to the world leaders during the afternoon session. The President of Algeria, Abdelmadjid Tebboune will be the first African leader to speak at the afternoon session, followed by the Moroccan leader, Aziz Akhannouch and Mozambique President, Filipe Nyusi. The President of Senegal, Macky Sall will be the firth African speaker to address the gathering and the last leader on the first day. The President of Brazil, Luiz da Sliva would be the first world leader to present his address to the 78th session as it is tradition, followed by the U.S. President, Joe Biden, the traditional second speaker, being the host country. The 78th session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA 78) will open on Tuesday, Sept 5. with the inauguration of a new President, Dennis Francis of Trinidad and Tobago, who will take on the mantle for the next 12 months The high-level General Debate will be held from   September 19 and to September 29. The Theme of the General Assembly including the general debate will be rebuilding trust and reigniting global solidarity Accelerating action on the 2030 Agenda and its sustainable development goals towards peace, prosperity, progress and sustainability for all.