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COVID-19: We’ll Overcome These Challenges Through Joint Efforts -Buhari
President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed the belief that Nigeria would bounce back from current trying period through collective efforts and prayers of the faithful.
Buhari expressed this, yesterday, in a message congratulating the new Primate of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Archbishop Henry Ndukuba.
The President, in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, also welcomed the fifth Primate of the Church to Abuja, assuring him of his support.
The President also prayed for God’s guidance for the retired Primate of the church, Archbishop Nicholas Okoh, wishing him success in his future endeavours.
“President Muhammadu Buhari heartily congratulates Archbishop Henry Ndukuba on his presentation as the fifth Primate of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion).
“The President also felicitates with all members of the Anglican Church across Nigeria on the joyous occasion that ushered in a new spiritual leader of the church, who has vowed to uphold the tenets of the Christian faith as espoused in the teachings of Jesus Christ.
“President Buhari prays for God’s grace, wisdom and guidance for the new leader as he leads Anglicans in Nigeria at a time of contending myriad of challenges for the church, the nation and the world.
“The President appreciates the contributions and solidarity of the church in encouraging the faithful to adhere to government and public health authorities-led efforts to limit the transmission of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Underscoring the important relations between the church and the state, and the roles of faith-based organizations in nation-building, Buhari is confident that as a nation that believes in the efficacy of prayer and the power of faith in God, Nigeria will bounce back from this trying period through collective actions.
“The President also takes this opportunity to wish the retired Primate, Archbishop Nicholas Okoh every success in his future mission.
“President Buhari welcomes the new Primate to Abuja and assures him of good wishes and support as he begins a new phase of ministry”, the statement said.
Meanwhile, the former lawmaker representing Kaduna Central Senatorial District in the National Assembly, Senator Shehu Sani, has said that Coronavirus should unite the people of Nigeria, since it’s a collective challenge.
In a statement he personally signed and made available to newsmen, in Abuja, yesterday, he said, the reality of Coronavirus has shown the level of rot in Nigeria’s healthcare as a result of years of neglect by the elite and political leaders.
The former lawmaker did distribute items to some religious organisations and the Nigerian Correctional Service in Kaduna.
He wrote: “Coronavirus is a challenge to the wisdom, resilience and spirit of Humanity.
“Coronavirus should inspire us to stand together and fight together.
“Nigerian elite and political leaders have neglected and destroyed the public health care system over the years and we are now in the days of reckoning.
“Coronavirus will not bring an end to the World but will surely return it to its beginning and basics where love, brotherhood and compassion was its spirit.
“Mythical Islamic and Christian religious leaders preaching against medical advice represent a serious threat to combating the spread of the virus in Nigeria.
“If Coronavirus were to be a poor man’s disease, many could have perished and be buried in an unmarked grave.
“If Coronavirus had came during electioneering times, Political leaders could have distributed free and customized sanitizers, masks and ventilators.
“Nigerian political leaders should seek forgiveness from God and from their poor people.
“The World has forgotten God until Coronavirus came.
“Coronavirus in the villa is not just a medical issue but a national security problem.
“It’s callous and inhuman to tell people to stay at home without providing for them any form of palliative, relief or support to take care of their families.
“Don’t just tell people to wash their hands and wear masks with empty stomach.”
The 2025 annual general meeting (AGM) and conference of the Rivers/Bayelsa states chapter of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has come to a close with a strong call for both states to drive the blue economy.
The communique just issued after the AGM pointed to what it called emerging prospects in fish processing, seaweed cultivation, ship repair, and marine technology.
The communique which also mentioned human capital gaps that must be filled through technical and vocational training that are aligned with modern industrial needs, said the blue economy represents a viable pathway for Nigeria’s industrialisation.
It said MAN and Arican Marine Environment Sustainability Initiative (AFMESI) have the capacity to unlock Nigeria’s blue economy sustainably and inclusively, but said the region required dedicated infrastructure upgrades, including roads, waterways, and power.
The communique was signed by Vincent Okuku (Chairman of Rivers/Bayelsa States Branch); Michael Nosa Agana (Branch Vice Chairman/Chairman AGM planning Committee); and Chibuzor Eze (Executive Secretary, Rivers/Bayelsa States Branch).
The resolutions said the future of the Niger Delta economy lies in diversification rather than dependence on extractive industries. “Technology and innovation, value addition and local processing, strategic infrastructure, and a skilled workforce are essential pillars for the future of manufacturing in the region.
“Governments in the region must intensify support for manufacturing activities. Various forms of collaboration across sectors should be actively encouraged.”
It specifically advised Bayelsa and Rivers States to fully develop and harness the blue economy as strategic gateways for sustainable growth; and called for cross-border partnerships with neighbouring states to enhance trade, security, and environmental management.”
The Rivers/Bayelsa States branch of MAN held its first (41st) AGM outside Port Harcourt for the first time, hosted by Bayelsa State Government at the Chief D.S.P. Alamieyeseigha Memorial Banquet Hall, with the theme: ‘Trade, Technology, and the Future of Manufacturing in the Niger Delta.’
In his welcome address, the chairman of the branch, Okuku, commended the Bayelsa State Government under the leadership of Gov Douye Diri for its efforts in industrial development, investment promotion, and strong partnership with the private sector.
He also acknowledged the Rivers State Government for its commitment to rehabilitating industrial clusters, improving access roads, and delivering key infrastructure.
He, however, expressed concern over persistent challenges such as high energy costs, unreliable electricity supply, weak transport systems, rising logistics expenses, multiple taxes and levies, inconsistent regulatory frameworks, and pressure from host communities, which continue to hinder manufacturing growth in both states.
The President of MAN, Francis Meshioye, noted that the Niger Delta, with its abundant resources and strategic location, holds vast potential for industrial expansion. He called for policy frameworks that promote local manufacturing, enhance trade, and attract investments to the region.
Goodwill messages were delivered by the Minister of the Federal Ministry of Regional Development, Abubakar Momoh, represented by Wasa Festus, Director of Community Development and Education. Another goodwill message was also presented by the Bayelsa State Commissioner for Trade, Industry and Investment, Ebieri Jones.
In his remarks, Gov Diri praised MAN for its contributions to Nigeria’s manufacturing sector, noting its resilience, innovation, and strategic role in national development. He stated that the conference theme aligns with his administration’s mantra of “Assured Prosperity.”
Gov Diri offered 24-hour service to manufacturers wishing to relocate to the state, and highlighted the State’s ongoing transformation through deliberate investment in infrastructure, security, and human capital aimed at positioning Bayelsa State as a hub for industrial growth, particularly in the blue economy, agriculture, and manufacturing.
He further noted that hosting the 41st AGM fulfilled a long-desired aspiration of the State following the successful 2024 MAN event in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. He officially declared the exhibition open.
The Nigerian Education Loan Fund has alerted the public to a fraudulent message circulating online, claiming that the NELFUND Student Loan Registration Portal is open.
The message directs applicants to a third-party link (http://gvly.xyz/Nelfund-Student-Loan, which NELFUND confirms is unauthorised and fraudulent.
In a post obtained from its X handle, yesterday, NELFUND urged students and the general public not to click on the link or provide any personal information, emphasising that the official loan registration portal is only accessible through the Fund’s verified channels.
The agency reminded applicants to exercise caution online and to report any suspicious links or communications claiming to be from NELFUND.
“Applicants are encouraged to always verify official announcements via NELFUND’s official website and social media channels,” NELFUND said.
This advisory comes as part of NELFUND’s ongoing efforts to safeguard students and ensure the integrity of the student loan application process.
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