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WTBD: Tinubu donates N1b

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By Laide Akinboade, Abuja

The wife of President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu,on Monday, donated one billion naira (N1 billion), to Tuberculosis, TB, for the treatment and testing of TB patients in Nigeria.Senator Tinubu, donated the money at the commemoration of the 2025 World Tuberculosis Day, WTBD, at a community outreach, organized by stop TB partnership Nigeria, in collaboration with Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare and Renewed Hope Initiative, RHI, in Sauka village, Abuja.

She reiterated her commitment to fighting for TB survivors, especially fight against stigma and discrimination, and ensure that women, children, and marginalized groups have equal access to TB care.
With the theme, ‘Yes! We Can End TB, Commit.Invest.Deliver’.According to the First lady, “I am delighted and honoured to join you all as we commemorate World Tuberculosis Day 2025 – a day set aside to build public awareness about the global epidemic of tuberculosis (TB) and to protect the health and well-being of Nigerians. “Today we are reminded of the devastating impact tuberculosis (TB) has on our communities, yet it is also a day of renewed hope, commitment, and action.”This year’s theme, “Yes! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, and Deliver” with our local slogan “We Fit Do Am,” is a call to action for all of us.”Beyond being a disease; TB is a national emergency that needs to be addressed urgently, because it is preventable and curable”.She continued, “The statistics from the World Health Organization’s 2024 Global TB Report are alarming. In Nigeria, one person dies of TB every seven minutes. This means that, in the short time we will spend at this event, many more lives will be lost, if we do not act swiftly and decisively.”Despite TB being preventable and curable, Nigeria remains one of the top eight countries with the highest burden of TB worldwide. It is unacceptable that so many of our brothers and sisters still suffer from this disease in silence due to stigma, lack of awareness, and the ignorance of not visiting a healthcare facility on time.”As part of the Renewed Hope Agenda, His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR is passionate about the health and well-being of Nigerians as essential pillars of development. Under the leadership of the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, CON – the Ministry is fully committed to eradicating TB, through strategic investments in diagnostics, treatment, and prevention. We are working to bridge the gap in TB detection and care on all fronts in Nigeria. “The government has prioritized expanding TB testing and treatment centers across Nigeria, ensuring that TB treatment remains free and accessible to all, strengthening our community-based healthcare system to reach the most vulnerable populations, and enhancing funding and partnerships to scale up TB control programs.”However, it is important to say that the government cannot do this alone. Ending TB by 2030 is a collective responsibility. We need traditional and religious leaders, legislators, youth, healthcare workers, private sector organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), community based organizations (CBOs) and international partners to join forces in this fight”.”As the Global and National Stop TB Champion, I reaffirm my commitment to addressing the scourge of TB in our nation. I will continue to advocate for increased funding and policy reforms to strengthen TB control efforts, and mobilize resources and partnerships to support TB awareness and treatment programs.”In addition, I will continue to amplify the voices of TB survivors and fight against stigma and discrimination, and ensure that women, children, and marginalized groups have equal access to TB care.”I encourage every Nigerian to join in this fight. TB is curable, and early detection saves lives. Let us work together to remove the stigma surrounding TB, encourage testing, and support those affected.”TB is airborne and since it is contagious, I urge every one of us to get tested, know your TB status, and encourage your loved ones to do the same. If you have a persistent cough for more than two weeks, do not ignore it but rather seek medical help immediately.”At this juncture, I would like to pledge an additional sum of One Billion Naira from the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) towards the fight against Tuberculosis in Nigeria”, she noted. She commended the healthcare workers, volunteers, community and religious leaders, ‘your dedication is the backbone of this fight, I thank you’.MINISTER OF STATE FOR HEALTH, DR. IZIAQ ADEKUNLE SALAKO, Minister of State for Health, Dr. Izaq Adekunle, in his remarks, TB remains a major public health challenge in Nigeria, which ranks first in Africa and sixth globally among high-burden TB countries.”In 2023, an estimated 499,000 Nigerians developed TB, primarily affecting the productive age group (25–44 years), leading to economic hardships. The situation is worsened by stigma, poverty, malnutrition, overcrowded living conditions, and limited access to quality healthcare.”Despite challenges, Nigeria has made significant progress in TB eradication through WHO-recommended strategies. In 2024, the country recorded its highest-ever TB notification of over 400,000 cases, with a 79% detection rate. TB detection in children also improved, rising from 8,293 in 2018 to about 43,000 in 2024, marking a commendable achievement in the fight against TB.”Despite progress, a significant number of TB cases remain undetected, sustaining transmission within communities. Alarmingly, an untreated TB patient can infect 12–15 people annually” he said.The Minister of State explained that, “At this juncture, I would like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to the mother of the nation and our esteemed Global and National Stop TB Champion, Her Excellency, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for your unwavering support in our efforts to eradicate TB in Nigeria and beyond. “Your generous donation of one billion naira (#1,000,000,000.00) to the TB program during your investiture as the Global and National Stop TB Champion in 2024 is being put to excellent use. The funds have facilitated the procurement of 25 TB molecular diagnostic machines and reagents capable of testing over 15,000 Nigerians for TB. Additionally, part of the donation is being utilized to support the development of the National TB Policy”.Dr. Walter Kazadi Mulombo, in his goodwill message lamented that, the world faces existential threat of losing the huge gains the world has made against TB over the past 20 years due to funding cuts which have started to disrupt access to services for prevention, screening, and treatment for people with TB. He commended Nigeria for scaling up many new innovations and interventions that have resulted in the huge numbers of TB cases notified from 138,583 in 2020 during the pandemic year to 418,198 in 2024 which is more than 300% increase. He warned, “Any disruptions to TB services therefore will have fatal consequences for the thousands of people affected by the disease in Nigeria”.He appealed to the Sauka community leaders, “My message to the community leaders here today is simple. We should continue to provide leadership in the communities we serve to ensure the essential health care package including preventive, promotive, curative, rehabilitative and palliative health services are delivered to the people”. In her welcome address, Dr. Queen Ogbuji-Ladipo, Acting Board Chair, Stop TB partnership Nigeria, said TB remains a public health challenge each year in Nigeria because every 7 minutes, one person dies of TB in Nigeria.She lamented, Nigeria has the highest number of TB patients and rank 6th globally.

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Chimaroke Nnamani: Progenitor of Ebeano, Misunderstood Leader, Vindicated at 66.

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By Paul Mumeh

Senator Chimaroke Nnamani, former Governor of Enugu State, stands tall as one of the most intriguing, visionary, and intellectually gifted political figures of Nigeria’s Fourth Republic. Physician, philosopher, statesman, motivational speaker, and political strategist, the man fondly called “Ebeano” remains a phenomenon whose impact on politics, governance, and public discourse continues to resonate far beyond Enugu State.

Born on May 30, 1960 in Port Harcourt, Rivers state with an uncommon blend of intellect and courage, Senator Nnamani first distinguished himself in medicine as a specialist doctor before venturing into politics.

Yet even in politics, he never abandoned the analytical depth and precision of a medical professional. His approach to governance reflected diagnosis, treatment, and long-term planning — qualities that made him one of the frontline members of Nigeria’s celebrated 1999 class of governors.
As Governor of Enugu State from 1999 to 2007, he redefined governance and political organisation in the state. At a time when democracy was still fragile and experimental in Nigeria, Chimaroke Nnamani emerged as one of the loudest advocates of people-oriented governance. He coined and popularised the now-famous phrase, “Dividends of Democracy,” a concept that has since become a permanent part of Nigeria’s political vocabulary. What many now repeat casually was, for him, a philosophical conviction — that democracy must translate into visible benefits for ordinary citizens.
Beyond governance, Nnamani transformed the political landscape of Enugu State through the establishment of the Ebeano political family — a structure that evolved from a movement into a political dynasty. Since 1999, regardless of changing political parties and shifting alliances, the Ebeano philosophy has consistently produced political office holders; councillors, local government chairmen, state and national assembly legislators, ministers, and governors — while nurturing influential leaders across the state. That enduring relevance remains a testament to the strategic depth and organisational genius of its founder.
As Senator representing Enugu East in two different eras — from 2007 to 2011 and again from 2019 to 2023 — Nnamani remained a powerful voice of reason, intellect, and candour. Highly cerebral and unapologetically frank, he earned respect as a politician who never shied away from difficult truths. He called a spade a spade, regardless of whose interests were affected. In an environment where political correctness often overshadows honesty, Chimaroke Nnamani chose courage over convenience.
His Ebeano Lecture Series further revealed the depth of his intellect and foresight. Through those lectures, he dissected local and global issues with philosophical clarity and uncommon eloquence. Time and again, many dismissed or misunderstood his positions, only for subsequent events to vindicate his predictions and perspectives. Like a thinker ahead of his era, he often saw tomorrow before others fully recognised today.

Perhaps nowhere was this more evident than during the political turbulence of 2023. Against prevailing sentiments within the Peoples Democratic Party, Senator Nnamani openly supported Bola Ahmed Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress. To many of his political associates and constituents, the move appeared controversial, even unacceptable. They rose against him politically, interpreting his action as betrayal or political aberration. Yet, in his characteristic manner, Nnamani insisted on what he believed was the pathway forward.
Ironically, not long after the 2023 elections, many within the same political establishment and among the voices that opposed him began embracing the Tinubu administration with enthusiasm. Those who once condemned his position gradually became apostles of the same political direction he had earlier championed, with several eventually aligning with the APC. Once again, Chimaroke Nnamani’s foresight appeared vindicated.
Yet politics, especially in Nigeria, can be frustrating to the well-intentioned. Despite the sacrifices and political risks he took, Senator Nnamani found himself isolated and unrewarded. Even the political structure he supported did not reciprocate his loyalty in the manner many expected. Left in the political cold, he chose dignity over bitterness and returned to his first calling — medicine — resuming professional practice in the United States, where he is reputed for his work in foetal medicine, the specialised care of unborn babies.
There is profound symbolism in that journey. After years of helping to birth political ideas, institutions, and leaders, the doctor returned to the science of preserving life itself. It reflects the essence of the man: resilient, purposeful, and deeply committed to service regardless of circumstance.
At 66, Senator Chimaroke Nnamani’s story is not merely one of political victories and setbacks. It is the story of conviction. It is the story of a man who often walked ahead of the crowd — misunderstood in the moment but vindicated by history. It is the story of a statesman whose ideas outlived controversies and whose political philosophy continues to shape generations.
As he celebrates this milestone, this should not be a moment of discouragement over the fickleness of politics or the contradictions of human nature. Rather, it is a moment of reflection, renewal, and reaffirmation of purpose. Nigeria still needs voices of courage, intellect, and foresight. The nation still needs statesmen willing to chart difficult but necessary paths toward unity, justice, and development.
For Senator Chimaroke Nnamani, aka Ebeano, the journey at 66 is not an ending but the continuation of a legacy built on vision, resilience, and uncommon courage.
Happy 66th Birthday to a physician of bodies, a diagnostician of society, and a philosopher of politics. May the years ahead bring renewed strength, greater fulfilment, and the satisfaction of knowing that history often remembers pioneers more kindly than contemporaries do.

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Governor Fintiri Marks Sevenrh Anniversary, Attributes Achievements to God, Financial Discipline

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From Yagana Ali, Yola

Adamawa State Governor, Rt. Hon. Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, has credited the remarkable achievements of his administration in the last seven years to divine grace, financial discipline, and careful planning, describing the transformation across the state as divinely inspired and people-driven.


Marking seven years of the “Fresh Air” administration, Governor Fintiri said that despite the complexity of managing a large and diverse population, Adamawa has witnessed huge prosperity and visible progress across all sectors.

“Notwithstanding the complexity of managing the massive population of the State, it is evident that Adamawa has been hugely prosperous,” the Governor said.
“I just want to say a big thank you to everyone that has been a co-traveler in this journey over the last seven years. It has not been easy, but to the glory of God, it is evident that there is huge prosperity in Adamawa.”
He noted that beyond policy and political will, prudent management of resources has been central to the administration’s success.
“In all these, the complexity of managing people means there has to be something else driving it. In all situations, we give glory to God. In all situations, we are grateful that He has given us the opportunity to become a source of joy to the people of Adamawa. Our success is also anchored on financial discipline and careful planning. “No one is left behind and nothing is left untouched.” he stated.
Governor Fintiri commended the resilience, patience, and unwavering support of the people of Adamawa, saying their partnership has been critical to the progress recorded since 2019.
“The last seven years have been very eventful and very fruitful. You can see remarkable progress going on across the length and breadth of Adamawa. This would not have been possible without the support and resilience of our people. You stood with us through the challenges, believed in the vision, and partnered with government to deliver results,” he said.
The Governor assured citizens that the administration remains committed to consolidating on the gains made and expanding service delivery in the year ahead.
“So, for me, the last seven years have been very eventful and very fruitful. We can only do better and render more services to the people in the next one year. Our commitment remains: “No one is left behind and nothing is left untouched,” Governor Fintiri added.

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Benue Correspondents Chapel Counters NUJ, Passes Confidence Vote on Alia’s CPS

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From Attah Ede, Makurdi

The Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Benue State Council, has passed a vote of confidence on the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Sir Tersoo Kulas over his satisfactory performance in office.


However, the Chapel passed Vote of No Confidence on the
State Chairman, Comrade Bemdoo Ugber, over what it described as unruly behaviour and repeated public embarrassment of the union members.

The chapel equally accused the state Chairman of financial mismanagement, abuse of office, and constantly dragging the union into public disgrace.

This was contained in a communique issued by the chapel at the end of its emergency congress held on Wednesday in Makurdi.

The members accused Ugber, of diverting union funds, commercialised the council bus, and turned the union into a platform for personal battles, alleging that over ₦5 million realised from NUJ-owned schools and the Rector of Federal Polytechnic, Wannune, had not been properly accounted for.

The Chapel further claimed that out of the ₦10 million support fund, a bus, and palm trees donated to the union by Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Alia, the Chairman allegedly diverted ₦3.5 million without clear explanation.

The communiqué which was signed by the drafting committee consist of Kajo Martin, Tor- Acka Vande and John Shaiaodo, condemned what it described as the “commercialisation” of the NUJ bus, alleging that journalists were forced to pay as much as ₦50,000 before being allowed access to the vehicle.

The communique read: “The Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Benue State Council, at its Emergency Congress held on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at the Correspondents’ Chapel Office, Makurdi, deliberated extensively on issues affecting the union and the conduct of the State Council leadership.

“Members condemned the conversion of the NUJ bus to commercial use by the Chairman, where journalists were reportedly required to pay Fifty Thousand Naira (₦50,000) or more before accessing the vehicle for use.

“The Chapel further accused the NUJ Chairman of factionalising the union by allegedly patronising non-members at the expense of genuine members and engaging in public altercations over financial matters, thereby bringing the image of the union into disrepute.

“The Chairman has factionalised the union by empowering non-members while sidelining genuine journalists, and publicly embarrassed the NUJ through repeated disputes over money”.

“The recent incident during the APC presidential primaries at the party secretariat where the Chairman engaged some journalists physically and held them hostage behind closed doors for hours over financial disagreements is one of the instances.

“We acknowledged efforts of the State government towards the well being of of Journalism and therefore, passed a vote of confidence in Governor Alia, his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Tersoo Kula, and the governor’s media handlers for their cordial relations with journalists and efforts to sanitise journalism practice in the state”.

The Chapel however distanced itself from the recent communiqué issued by the NUJ State Council, insisting that the outcome of that congress was manipulated by “non-professionals and hired individuals.”

It therefore directed members and all Correspondents’ Chapel representatives serving in the State Working Committee, State Executive Council, and other committees to immediately withdraw from all activities of the NUJ Benue State Council pending resolution of the issues raised

Meanwhile, the Government House Press Crew in Benue State has also dissociated itself from the vote of no confidence recently passed on the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Hyacinth Alia, Sir Tersoo Kula, by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Benue State Council.

In a communiqué issued and signed by the Chairman of the Government House Press Crew, Pius Iroja Angbo, the group described the move by the NUJ leadership under Comrade Bemdoo Ugber as a campaign of blackmail and intimidation targeted at the Chief Press Secretary.

The press crew accused the NUJ Chairman of allegedly using the union platform to settle personal scores and undermine the administration of Governor Hyacinth Alia ahead of the state’s political season.

According to the statement, Sir Tersoo Kula has conducted himself professionally since assuming office in May 2023, maintaining cordial relationships with journalists while promoting the activities and policies of the Alia administration.

The group further alleged that attempts to ridicule the CPS and damage his reputation would fail, insisting that the move only exposed what it described as a deliberate agenda by some individuals within the media to work against the current administration and its appointees.

The communiqué noted that rather than engaging in internal conflicts, the media should focus on development journalism by highlighting government reforms, infrastructure projects, and policies aimed at improving the lives of the people of Benue State.

The Government House Press Crew also commended Governor Alia for restoring peace within the NUJ and supporting a peaceful atmosphere that led to the emergence of the current union leadership.

Consequently, the group unanimously passed a vote of confidence on Governor Hyacinth Alia for what it described as people-oriented leadership, and also reaffirmed its support for Sir Tersoo Kula, praising his efforts in strengthening media relations and promoting responsible journalism in the state.
[9:35 AM, 5/29/2026] Boss Daily Asset: Governor Fintiri Marks Sevenrh Anniversary, Attributes Achievements to God, Financial Discipline

From Yagana Ali, Yola

Adamawa State Governor, Rt. Hon. Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, has credited the remarkable achievements of his administration in the last seven years to divine grace, financial discipline, and careful planning, describing the transformation across the state as divinely inspired and people-driven.
Marking seven years of the “Fresh Air” administration, Governor Fintiri said that despite the complexity of managing a large and diverse population, Adamawa has witnessed huge prosperity and visible progress across all sectors.
“Notwithstanding the complexity of managing the massive population of the State, it is evident that Adamawa has been hugely prosperous,” the Governor said. “I just want to say a big thank you to everyone that has been a co-traveler in this journey over the last seven years. It has not been easy, but to the glory of God, it is evident that there is huge prosperity in Adamawa.”
He noted that beyond policy and political will, prudent management of resources has been central to the administration’s success.
“In all these, the complexity of managing people means there has to be something else driving it. In all situations, we give glory to God. In all situations, we are grateful that He has given us the opportunity to become a source of joy to the people of Adamawa. Our success is also anchored on financial discipline and careful planning. “No one is left behind and nothing is left untouched.” he stated.
Governor Fintiri commended the resilience, patience, and unwavering support of the people of Adamawa, saying their partnership has been critical to the progress recorded since 2019.
“The last seven years have been very eventful and very fruitful. You can see remarkable progress going on across the length and breadth of Adamawa. This would not have been possible without the support and resilience of our people. You stood with us through the challenges, believed in the vision, and partnered with government to deliver results,” he said.
The Governor assured citizens that the administration remains committed to consolidating on the gains made and expanding service delivery in the year ahead.
“So, for me, the last seven years have been very eventful and very fruitful. We can only do better and render more services to the people in the next one year. Our commitment remains: “No one is left behind and nothing is left untouched,” Governor Fintiri added.

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