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Tinubu at 73: Nigerian President Marks Birthday with Prayer, Renewed Hope for Nation

30th March, 2025 at 18:26
By Our Reporter

On March 29, 2025, Nigeria's President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, celebrated his 73rd birthday, marking the occasion with a blend of spiritual reflection and a renewed commitment to the nation's progress. Bo

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On March 29, 2025, Nigeria's President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, celebrated his 73rd birthday, marking the occasion with a blend of spiritual reflection and a renewed commitment to the nation's progress. Born on March 29, 1952, Tinubu has been a prominent figure in Nigerian politics for decades, rising from his early career as an accountant and senator to becoming the 16th President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in 2023. His birthday this year coincided with the holy month of Ramadan, adding a layer of significance to the celebrations.

Rather than opting for lavish festivities, President Tinubu chose a more subdued and meaningful observance by joining Muslim faithful at the National Mosque in Abuja on Friday, March 28, for a special prayer session. This event was not only a personal milestone but also an opportunity to seek divine guidance for Nigeria during a challenging period marked by economic reforms and security concerns. Accompanied by Vice President Kashim Shettima, senior government officials, and leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Tinubu used the occasion to pray for the country's stability, peace, and prosperity. He expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah for his life and the privilege of leading Nigeria, emphasizing his dedication to hard work and prayer as key pillars of his leadership.
In a statement released by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu urged Nigerians to join him in spirit by offering prayers for unity and healing, reinforcing a collective commitment to the nation's future. He reflected on his administration’s efforts, now approaching its second anniversary, to advance economic recovery, strengthen national security, and consolidate democratic gains. "My heart is filled with Renewed Hope for Nigeria," he said, echoing the theme of his presidency while acknowledging the support and goodwill of Nigerians.
The birthday drew warm messages from across the country. Former President Muhammadu Buhari, in a phone call, praised Tinubu’s political legacy and their long-standing collaboration, expressing pride in his leadership. First Lady Oluremi Tinubu hailed her husband as her "Knight in Shining Armor," celebrating his courage and resilience. Prominent figures like General Ibrahim Babangida and Senate President Godswill Akpabio also lauded his dedication to democracy and problem-solving leadership, with Babangida calling him the "Asiwaju of the Universe."
Tinubu’s 73rd birthday was more than a personal celebration; it was a moment of national reflection. Amidst ongoing challenges, his call for unity and prayer underscored his vision of a Nigeria where every citizen thrives, blending his personal milestone with a broader hope for the country’s future.

Nigerian House Advances Bill to Bar Aspirants Over 60 and Undergraduates from Presidential, Gubernatorial Races

28th March, 2025 at 04:51
By Our Reporter

 

On Thursday, March 27, 2025, the Nigerian House of Representatives passed a controversial bill for its second reading, aiming to impose significant restrictions on eligibility for presidential and gu

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On Thursday, March 27, 2025, the Nigerian House of Representatives passed a controversial bill for its second reading, aiming to impose significant restrictions on eligibility for presidential and gubernatorial candidates. Sponsored by Rep. Ikeagwuonu Ugochinyere, the proposed legislation seeks to amend the 1999 Constitution to bar individuals over the age of 60 and undergraduates from contesting the offices of President and Governor.
The bill specifically targets Sections 131 and 177 of the Constitution, which outline eligibility criteria for presidential and gubernatorial positions, respectively. Under the proposed amendments, candidates must not exceed 60 years of age at the time of contesting and must possess at least a first degree or its equivalent, effectively disqualifying those still pursuing undergraduate studies. Proponents of the bill argue that it will promote younger, more educated leadership to address Nigeria’s evolving challenges, injecting fresh perspectives into the country’s political landscape.
The debate in the House was heated, with supporters claiming that age and education are critical factors in ensuring effective governance in a fast-changing world. Rep. Ugochinyere emphasized the need for "vibrant and academically equipped leaders" to tackle issues like economic reform and technological advancement. However, opponents criticized the bill as discriminatory, arguing that it unfairly excludes experienced leaders and undermines democratic choice. Some lawmakers pointed out that age does not necessarily correlate with competence, citing past leaders who excelled beyond 60, while others questioned the relevance of barring undergraduates in a nation where access to education remains uneven.
Public reaction has been mixed. Social media posts reflect a divide, with some Nigerians praising the move as a step toward generational change, while others decry it as an elitist measure that could alienate capable candidates. The bill’s progression to a second reading indicates growing legislative momentum, but it still faces significant hurdles, including a third reading, Senate approval, and assent from President Bola Tinubu before it can become law.
As of today, March 28, 2025, the bill has sparked a broader national conversation about leadership qualifications, ageism, and educational barriers in Nigerian politics, with its final outcome remaining uncertain.

 

Senate Plenary Highlights from Wednesday, March 26, 2025

26th March, 2025 at 19:50
By Our Reporter
The Nigerian Senate convened on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, addressing several key issues and legislative matters. Below is a summary of the main points from the session:
  • The Senate adopted the rule
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The Nigerian Senate convened on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, addressing several key issues and legislative matters. Below is a summary of the main points from the session:
  • The Senate adopted the rules and proceedings from its previous meeting on Tuesday, March 23, 2025.
  • The presence of students from Great Icon International School, who were observing the proceedings, was formally acknowledged.
  • Senator Na presented two petitions:
    • One addressing the alleged unjust denial of payments to beneficiaries of the Assaraba Pillar Camp under the Presidential Amnesty Program.
    • Another concerning alleged discriminatory and repressive exclusion from promotions within the Corporate Affairs Commission.
  • Senator Abaribe raised a point of order to propose a motion to immortalize Professor Humphrey Nwosu, recognized as the architect of the historic June 12 election.
  • Several bills were presented for consideration, including:
    • National Road Fund Bill 2025
    • Cryptocurrency Regulation Bill 2025
    • Yusuf Maitama Sule Federal University of Education Kano Establishment Bill 2025
    • Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria Act Amendment Bill 2025
    • Federal Institute of Science, Technology, and Innovation, Obusa, Benue State Establishment Bill 2025
  • A debate emerged regarding the timing and procedure for making a personal explanation, with senators offering differing interpretations of the Senate rules.
The session underscored a range of legislative priorities, from infrastructure and education to cryptocurrency regulation, alongside procedural discussions and public petitions.

President Tinubu Signs South-West and South-South Development Commission Bills into Law, Completing Nationwide Coverage

26th March, 2025 at 16:55
By Our Reporter

Abuja, Nigeria – In a landmark move to bolster regional development across Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has signed the South-West Development Commission (SWDC) Bill and the South-South Develop

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Abuja, Nigeria – In a landmark move to bolster regional development across Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has signed the South-West Development Commission (SWDC) Bill and the South-South Development Commission (SSDC) Bill into law. The signing, confirmed on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, by Senate President Godswill Akpabio during a plenary session, marks the completion of dedicated development commissions for all six geo-political zones in the country.

The newly enacted commissions join the previously established North-West Development Commission (NWDC), South-East Development Commission (SEDC), North-Central Development Commission (NCDC), and others, fulfilling a vision of equitable growth nationwide. President Tinubu’s assent to these bills underscores his administration’s commitment to addressing regional disparities and fostering grassroots development.
The SWDC, sponsored by Senator Gbenga Daniel of Ogun East, aims to enhance infrastructure, stimulate economic growth, and improve social welfare across the South-West states. Similarly, the SSDC, championed by Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong of Cross-River South, will focus on tackling ecological challenges, rebuilding infrastructure, and driving industrial progress in the South-South region. Both bills were passed by the Senate in late 2024 and received concurrence from the House of Representatives before being forwarded to the President.
Senate President Akpabio hailed the development, stating, “With this action, all six geo-political zones now have developmental commissions legally in existence. We thank the President for his cooperation and for creating jobs while taking development to the grassroots level.” Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu echoed this sentiment during Wednesday’s plenary, emphasizing that “no mechanism is too much to trickle down the dividends of democracy to the grassroots.”
The Special Adviser to the President on Senate Matters, Senator Basheer Lado, praised Tinubu’s leadership, describing the signings as “a testament to his role as a transformational leader who prioritizes regional empowerment and infrastructural excellence.” Lado added, “These commissions will serve as catalysts for industrial growth, job creation, and social advancement, ensuring every corner of Nigeria benefits from this administration’s progressive vision.”
The establishment of these commissions builds on earlier efforts, with the NWDC and SEDC signed into law in July 2024, followed by the NCDC in February 2025. Each commission is tasked with addressing region-specific challenges—ranging from post-conflict reconstruction in the North-West to ecological restoration in the South-South—while promoting unity and inclusive governance.
As Nigeria moves forward, stakeholders anticipate that the successful implementation of these commissions will accelerate development, create employment opportunities, and strengthen the national fabric. President Tinubu’s administration continues to position itself as one dedicated to fairness, equity, and transformative progress for all Nigerians.