Category: News

Nigeria’s Vision for a Fair and Just Future at G20 Summit

Vice President Kashim Shettima represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Third Session of the 2025 Group of 20 (G20) Leaders’ Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa. The summit, themed “A Fair and Just Future for All: Critical Minerals, Decent Work, Artificial Intelligence,” brought together world leaders to discuss global economic and social challenges.

In his address, Vice President Shettima emphasized Nigeria’s stance on promoting value addition at the source, local beneficiation, and ensuring that host communities benefit from their natural resources. He stressed that the goal extends beyond economic metrics to building a world that values human dignity and justice.

To achieve this, Nigeria calls for increased collaboration among G20 leaders on technology transfer, capacity building, and investments that prioritize people over profit, paving the way for a more equitable future.

Breaking News: Nnamdi Kanu Sentenced to Life Imprisonment

In a landmark ruling, the court has sentenced Nnamdi Kanu to life imprisonment for his crimes, which were deemed severe enough to warrant a death sentence. However, considering the global stance against capital punishment, the court opted for life imprisonment instead.

Key Highlights of the Ruling:

• Protective Custody: Kanu is to be held in protective custody in a location to be determined by the authorities, ensuring his safety throughout his imprisonment.
• Restrictions on Digital Device Usage: As part of the court’s ruling, Kanu is prohibited from being near any digital devices without close supervision, a measure aimed at preventing further unlawful activities.
• Forfeiture of Assets: The court has ordered the forfeiture of Kanu’s transmitter to the federal government, a move seen as part of the efforts to dismantle the infrastructure used for his actions.
• Court’s Remarks: Justice Omotoso, in delivering the sentence, expressed that while justice required a severe penalty, the decision to impose life imprisonment was made with consideration of global human rights standards. The judge noted Kanu’s lack of remorse and irresponsible behavior throughout the trial proceedings.

This ruling marks a significant moment in the legal proceedings against Nnamdi Kanu, bringing a conclusion to a highly watched case that has garnered widespread attention both locally and internationally.

Nigeria’s Rising Debt Profile: A Heavy Burden on Ordinary Citizens

During an interview on Trust TV, public affairs analyst Dr. Ibrahim Saleh raised concerns about the country’s rising debt profile and its effect on ordinary citizens. He pointed out that if the country’s total debt is divided among its approximately 230 million people, each person would be indebted to about ₦660,000. This is a staggering figure, especially considering the economic struggles many Nigerians face daily.

The concern isn’t just about the debt itself, but how it’s being managed and utilized. Many are questioning the transparency and accountability of the government’s borrowing and spending habits. With a significant portion of national revenue going towards debt servicing, essential sectors like healthcare, education, and security are underfunded.

Experts argue that Nigeria’s debt situation is unsustainable and could lead to deeper poverty, weakened governance, and national instability if not addressed. The government needs to prioritize prudent financial management, invest in productive sectors, and implement structural reforms to ensure the country’s economic survival.

A Word of Advice to Governor Abdulrasaq

Governor, it’s not about who gets the credit, it’s about the people of Kwara State. Your leadership style is being watched, and it’s crucial to recognize the value of teamwork and transparency.

Engage with your appointees, listen to their counsel, and involve the people in decision-making. The projects you undertake should be for the greater good, not just personal gain.

Remember, governance is a collective responsibility, not a one-man show. Open up, be more inclusive, and prioritize the people’s needs. The legacy you build will be measured by the positive impact you create, not just your tenure.

To the people of Kwara, keep speaking up, stay informed, and hold your leaders accountable.

Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrasaq Running Kwara Like a Sole Administrator

Kwara State’s governance has raised eyebrows, with concerns about the concentration of power and lack of transparency. Since assuming office, Governor Abdulrasaq has been running the state seemingly on his own, with limited input from his appointees and stakeholders.

Executive meetings are scarce, and Special Advisers (SAs), Personal Assistors (PAs), and Commissioners often struggle to get direct access to the governor, except during political outings. This has led to concerns that the governor is prioritizing projects that serve his personal interests over those that benefit the people.

Critics argue that Governor Abdulrasaq’s leadership style is opaque, with decisions made without adequate consultation or consideration for their impact on the people. The lack of transparency has fueled speculation about the governor’s priorities and whether they align with the needs of Kwara State residents.

The situation has sparked debate about the effectiveness of the current governance structure in Kwara State, with some questioning whether the governor’s approach is conducive to sustainable development and progress.