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Tag: Bola Tinubu

  • An Open Letter to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR,  On the Recent Federal Cabinet Reshuffle and the Status of Cross River State in the Federal Administration

    An Open Letter to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR,  On the Recent Federal Cabinet Reshuffle and the Status of Cross River State in the Federal Administration

    Cross River South Consultative Forum (CRSCF)

    An Open Letter to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR,
    On the Recent Federal Cabinet Reshuffle and the Status of Cross River State in the Federal Administration

    October 27, 2024

    His Excellency,
    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR,
    President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,
    Aso Rock Villa, Abuja.

    Your Excellency,

    The Cross River South Consultative Forum (CRSCF), representing the interests of Cross River State, extends warm regards to you and expresses our profound appreciation for your administration’s achievements within its first year. We recognize the strides you have made towards strengthening Nigeria’s economy and promoting inclusive development across the nation.

    Under your leadership, we have witnessed a historic doubling of aggregate government revenues to over 9.1 trillion Naira and a significant reduction in the portion of revenue spent on debt service, from 97% to 68%. Additionally, the clearance of $5 billion in outstanding foreign exchange obligations has provided the much-needed relief for businesses and the economy. These efforts, among others, have laid a foundation of stability and growth for our country.

    We also commend the resurgence of Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, with production increasing to 1.61 million barrels per day, as well as the signing of two Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) deals worth over half a billion dollars, underscoring your administration’s commitment to fostering a robust investment climate. Your launch of the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Initiative is another milestone, which we believe will pave the way for a more sustainable energy future.

    Moreover, your signing of the National Minimum Wage law, raising the minimum wage to N70,000 per month, has been met with relief by Nigerian workers, especially during these challenging economic times. We applaud your administration’s support for youth through initiatives such as the Student Loan program, the establishment of the Credit Corporation, and the removal of tariffs on essential imports. These reforms reflect your dedication to the well-being of all Nigerians.

    While we deeply appreciate these positive changes, we feel it is important to bring to your attention concerns regarding the recent cabinet reshuffle and its implications for Cross River State’s representation at the federal level. Our state, initially represented by Dr. Betta Edu in the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Senator John Owan-Enoh in the Ministry of Sports Development, now has a single representative, Senator John Owan-Enoh, who has been re-assigned as Minister of State in the Ministry of Trade and Investment (Industry). This adjustment, though positive in some sense, has caused concern among our people, as it tends to reduce Cross River’s influence within the federal administration.

    Cross River was until the recent victory of our great party in Edo State, the sole APC state in the South-South geopolitical zone, standing firmly by the party amid a complex political landscape and our Governor, Senator Bassey Otu has been consistent, clear and unambiguous in his vociferous support for the party, quietly midwifing her victories in Imo and Edo states as chairman of their campaign councils. Given this loyalty and our unflinching support for your administration, we humbly appeal for a reconsideration that would provide Cross River with another ministerial role to ensure our state’s concerns are adequately represented in the federal cabinet.

    Further, Your Excellency, as you consider upcoming federal appointments, we request that Cross River citizens be given key opportunities in federal boards, commissions, parastatals, and ambassadorial roles. This enhanced representation would not only be a testament to your administration’s inclusive approach but also boost the morale and support of the Cross River people.

    We also respectfully urge that attention be directed toward completing the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, a project with transformative potential for Cross River’s economy and regional integration. We are confident that this and other infrastructure projects will stand as enduring legacies of your tenure in our state.

    In closing, we once again express our gratitude for your remarkable leadership. The people of Cross River State, through the CRSCF, appeal for fair and strengthened representation within your administration. We are confident in your dedication to a united Nigeria and remain committed to supporting your vision for a prosperous nation.

    Thank you for your time and consideration of this appeal. May your administration continue to thrive and bring lasting progress to all Nigerians.

    Yours sincerely,

    Signed:

    Sir Maurice Effiwatt

    Prof Emmanuel Eyo, Esq.

    Apostle (Hon) James Anam

    Ntufam (Hon) Victor Okon

    Hon. (Mrs) Ada Charles Egwu

    Hon. (Chief) Ani Esin

    Hon Joseph Etene, Esq

    Hon (Mrs) Abigail Duke  Orok

    Barr. Bassey Mensah

    Chief Felix Idem

    Prince Edwin Okon

    Ntufam (Hon) Okon Owuna

    Hon Charles Atu

    Hon. Eyo Nsa Ekpo, Esq – Chairman.

    For and on behalf of the Cross River South Consultative Forum.

  • Bianca Ojukwu: Anambra APC accuses Tinubu of anti-party, threatens mass defection

    Bianca Ojukwu: Anambra APC accuses Tinubu of anti-party, threatens mass defection

    By Ovat Abeng

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) leaders in Anambra State have rejected Ambassador Bianca Ojukwu’s nomination as a minister-designate by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing it as an “anti-party action.”

    During an emergency meeting of party stakeholders in Awka on Thursday, the APC leaders questioned the rationale behind the president’s decision to appoint her without consulting party members.

    They described the appointment as a gross violation of party loyalty that undermines the morale of their members.

    High Chief Bunty Onuigbo, South East Zonal Secretary of APC and member of the APC Elders Forum in Anambra, spoke on behalf of the stakeholders.

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    “This is nothing but an act of anti-party, and it is detrimental. By empowering members of other political parties at the expense of the APC in Anambra State, Mr. President is not supporting party loyalty,” Onuigbo stated.

    He questioned the implications of the appointment, asking, “Does Mr. President want a mass defection of APC members in Anambra to the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA)? Is he indirectly working for APGA in Anambra State?”

    He expressed that the situation is both “unheard of and highly demoralising,” lamenting that the leadership in Abuja seems to be enhancing the fortunes of rival parties at the expense of the APC.

    Onuigbo criticized APGA for monopolizing benefits from programmes or empowerment schemes, which he claimed only served their members while taking credit for initiatives that should include all stakeholders.

    “This is a group that despises the APC and wants nothing to do with us. Mr. President is encouraging them by making such appointments,” he said.

    Onuigbo announced that APC stakeholders have decided to formally present their grievances regarding these appointments to the state Chairman, Chief Basil Ejidike, for submission to the National Working Committee (NWC) and the National Executive Committee (NEC).

  • Cross River South Consultative Forum Congratulates President Tinubu and Governor Otu on their Remarkable Achievements on Occasion of Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day Celebration

    Cross River South Consultative Forum Congratulates President Tinubu and Governor Otu on their Remarkable Achievements on Occasion of Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day Celebration

    On this historic occasion of Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day, the Cross River South Consultative Forum (CRSCF) extends heartfelt congratulations to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency Bassey Edet Otu. Their visionary leadership and transformative policies have undoubtedly propelled Nigeria and Cross River towards a path of prosperity and development.

    President Tinubu’s administration has, within a short time, implemented far-reaching reforms that have significantly impacted Nigeria’s fiscal and economic landscape. His administration has doubled aggregate government revenues to over 9.1 trillion Naira and reduced the debt service burden from 97% to 68%, freeing up resources for critical national projects. The resurgence of Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, with oil production now at 1.61 million barrels per day, is a testament to the President’s efforts to revitalize the economy. Furthermore, the launch of the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Initiative and distribution of one million conversion kits to commercial vehicles have drastically reduced transportation costs by approximately 60%.

    In the education sector, the establishment of the student loan scheme and allocation of N50 billion to support students’ financial needs exemplifies President Tinubu’s commitment to empowering the youth. The administration’s economic policies, including the launch of the Nigerian Youth Academy (NIYA) and the National Youth Talent Export Programme (NATEP), have created unprecedented opportunities for the nation’s youth, positioning Nigeria for future growth and competitiveness.

    In Cross River State, Governor Otu has demonstrated exemplary leadership in transforming the socio-economic fabric of the state. His administration’s decision to release N10 billion to offset outstanding gratuities and pensions has brought much-needed relief to retirees, showcasing his commitment to the welfare of state workers and pensioners. Additionally, the ongoing recruitment into the state civil service is a bold step towards tackling unemployment, creating opportunities for the youth, and strengthening governance in Cross River State.

    Governor Otu has also revolutionized agriculture with the inauguration of a 50,000-hectare large-scale rice farming initiative, aiming to enhance food security and boost the state’s economy. The dualization of critical roads such as the Zone 6 NNPC and Tank Farm Road in Calabar, along with the ongoing asphalt resurfacing of metropolitan roads, reflects his administration’s focus on infrastructure renewal.

    Governor Otu’s drive for economic revival is further evidenced by the $3.5 billion funding secured for key infrastructure projects such as the Bakassi Deep Seaport and Superhighway, which will transform Cross River into a hub of economic activity and development. His commitment to food security and job creation through the procurement of 108 units of three-wheel agricultural tractors is expected to generate 1,080 direct jobs.

    On this momentous Independence Day, the Cross River South Consultative Forum salutes President Tinubu and Governor Otu for their visionary leadership and transformative achievements. We are confident that under their stewardship, both Nigeria and Cross River State will continue to witness unprecedented growth, development, and prosperity.

    As we celebrate 64 years of independence, we remain hopeful that the future holds even greater promises for our beloved nation and state.

    Signed:

    Hon. Eyo Nsa Ekpo, Esq
    Sir Maurice Effiwatt
    Prof Emmanuel Eyo, Esq.
    Apostle (Hon) James Anam
    Ntufam (Hon) Victor Okon
    Hon. (Mrs) Ada Charles Egwu
    Hon. (Chief) Ani Esin
    Hon Joseph Etene, Esq
    Hon (Mrs) Abigail Duke
    Barr. Bassey Mensah
    Chief Felix Idem
    Prince Edwin Okon
    Ntufam (Hon) Okon Owuna
    Hon Charles Atu

    Cross River South Consultative Forum (CRSCF)
    Date: 1st October 2024
    Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria

  • Cholera Outbreak: Invest more in health sector – Obi tells Tinubu

    Cholera Outbreak: Invest more in health sector – Obi tells Tinubu

    By Ovat Abeng

    Following the recent cholera outbreak that have claimed many lives in Lagos and other part of the Nigeria, the former Labour Party Presidential Candidate in the 2023 general elections  Mr. Peter Obi has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to deployed more financial resources to health sector to curb further disease outbreaks in the country.

    He alleged that the cause of the outbreak was as a result of lack of investment in the health sector by the present administration.

    Obi made the called at the 6th Public Lecture of the Board of Fellows, Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (BOF-PSN) held at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka on Wednesday.

    According to him, Nigeria should not be talking about outbreaks now, we have build vaccination facility in this country in 1948, almost 20-years before Cyrus that is now the biggest vaccines producer in the World, yet because of the bad leadership, corruption and people not be committed to good leadership are busy frustrating the facility not to function.

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    “Nigerians today, rather resort to prayers whenever they fall sick to secure spiritual cure than going to a hospital.

    He stated that the government rather than partner local pharmaceutical industries for manufacturing of high quality of drugs, and,  medicines, what the government has been doing is issuing licences for importation drugs and collection of revenues from the importers.

    Obi who was the keynote speaker on the lecture topic: “Access to Quality Medicine in An Unstable Environment”, stressed that catering for the health of the citizens is one major priority of any government, but, lamented that do to leadership incompetence in the country the issue of health in the country has not being given attention it deserved.

    He noted that he visited a primary health centre in  an outskirt of Abuja in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and, discovered that there were 50 pregnant women in the hospital, and, there one just one medical staff attending to them.

    He stated that there were about 24,000 primary health centres in the country, but, lamented that none of them is functional.

    He also lamented the allocation to health as contained in the current national budget saying that there was need to prioritise issues concerning health such that in addition to providing health insurance to all the citizens, there should be a deliberate policy by government to ensure local manufacture of drugs and medicines.

    He cited that augmentin drug which used to sell for the sum of N5,000 now sells for N18,000.

    He also took a swipe at the governments at state and federal who give priority to equipping health clinic at Governors’ clinics, Presidency and National Assembly who those they are meant to take care yet abandon for Overseas hospitals while those for the citizens are neglected.

    “We need to dismantle the type of leadership we have in the country, and, everyone show commitment to install a government that will provide good governance, otherwise, we can’t move forward.

    He also lamented that Nigeria is a signatory to SDG, but since after COVID pandemic, the country has not been able to establish any laboratory to conduct tests for diseases.

    Also speaking, Dr Afam Obidike, Anambra state Commissioner for Health said Gov. Chukwuma Soludo’s administration acquired 5000 hectres of land at Ogboji in Orumba South to build Pharmaceutical Industrial City.

    According to Obidike, the idea of the pharmaceutical industrial city is to change the known concept of importation and selling to manufacturing and exportation of drugs.

    “It will be the biggest pharmaceutical distributors’ hub in West Africa,” he said.

    Earlier in his address, Dr Joel Adagadzu, Chairman, Board of Fellows, PSN, said the recommendations from the lecture would help the leadership of PSN to continue the dialogue with government on finding equitable solutions to access to quality medicines for the teeming population.

    The event was also grace by the Unizik Vice Chancellor, Prof Joseph Ikechebelu, Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Achebe, CEO of PAXS Pharmaceuticals Limited, Uche Akpakama, Unizik Pharmaceutical Students, among others.

  • President Bola Tinubu Urges Samsung to Invest in Nigeria’s Thriving Market

    By Ken Ibenne

    President Bola Tinubu has extended a warm invitation to Samsung, urging the global powerhouse to consider Nigeria as a prime investment destination.

    Tinubu emphasized Nigeria’s conducive business environment, rooted in the principles of “willing buyer, willing seller,” promising seamless access to finance for both local and international investors.

    The call came during a meeting held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, between President Tinubu and Samsung’s President and CEO, Hong Namkoong, and Vice Chairman of Samsung Investment Global, Jungwook Kim. The discussions coincided with the World Economic Forum’s Special gathering on Global Collaboration, Growth, and Energy for Development.

    Tinubu underscored Nigeria’s vast potential, boasting a large and skilled workforce eager for growth and development. He highlighted the nation’s commitment to fostering an environment ripe for investment, leveraging the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Development Fund to unlock opportunities across various sectors.

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    The President outlined specific investment prospects, including infrastructure development and technology initiatives, aligning with Samsung’s expertise. He emphasized the importance of collaboration in key sectors such as crude oil, natural gas, renewable energy, engineering, technology, and agriculture.

    In particular, Tinubu highlighted the opportunity for Samsung to contribute to Nigeria’s energy sector, citing the company’s track record in building power plants worldwide and its expertise in renewable energy solutions. He also emphasized the potential for private sector involvement in developing integrated cold-chain infrastructure within the agriculture sector to mitigate post-harvest losses.

    Expressing enthusiasm for collaboration, Tinubu urged Samsung to seize the opportunity and leverage its experience for mutual benefit. In response, Samsung Chairman Jungwook Kim expressed interest in expanding the company’s presence in Nigeria, citing the success of sister firms operating in the region.

    Kim outlined Samsung’s capabilities in power generation and renewable energy solutions, expressing confidence in the company’s ability to make significant contributions to Nigeria’s energy industry.

    Overall, President Tinubu’s call for investment underscores Nigeria’s commitment to attracting foreign investment and fostering economic growth, presenting Samsung with a lucrative opportunity to capitalize on the nation’s vibrant market and contribute to its development.

  • Ministers Forum Appeals To Tinubu To Reinstate Betta Edu

    Ministers Forum Appeals To Tinubu To Reinstate Betta Edu

     

    …Says her performance was satisfactory

    By Kelvin Obambon

    Cross River State Indigenous Gospel Ministers (CRSIGM) Forum has appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to tamper justice with mercy and recall Dr Betta Edu who was suspended from office as Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation.

    The Forum while making the appeal at a press briefing in Calabar, the Cross River State capital, on Monday, however noted that despite the unfortunate turn of events, Dr Edu within her 6 months reign in the Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation ministry, had put up a satisfactory performance, as evident in the numerous social and economic interventions across the country.

    Chairman of the Forum, Evangelist Stephen Atukanre, who addressed journalists alongside the Secretary, Rev. Dr. Edet Okon and other members, said (CRSIGM) has been organizing monthly prayers for Cross River and Nigeria for peace, unity and progress, adding that it has been fervent in its prayers for the success of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led administration.

    “We are here today for just one purpose; to draw the attention of His Excellency, President BOLA Ahmed Tinubu GCFR to the plight of the down trodden Nigerians who had looked upon the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation under the watch of Dr. Betta Edu, a brilliant and selfless young Nigerian who walks with the aspiration of millions of the poor in all ramifications and had given hope to the hopeless through the “Renewed Hope Agenda,” of our dear President Tinubu, in the course of her duty, drawing hatred and envy to herself simply because she’s doing the right thing. Let us not join issues with politicians and their pulldown syndrome as clearly shown by some of us, if it’s not me, may it never work.

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    “Our position as Cross River State Indigenous Gospel Ministers (CRSIGM) Forum
    having watched the ordeal of Dr. Betta Edu and the politics behind her travails is quite unfortunate and make bold to appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to listen to our prayers, thus:

    “Silence isn’t golden at all times. Hence, it is our wish that Dr. Betta Edu should be recall to her Ministry to continue her good work to achieving the “Renewed Hope Agenda.”

    “Should the baby be thrown with the bath water because the water is dirty?

    “Should the Renewed Hope Agenda die with the aspiration of millions of poor Nigerians because of mere suspicion and allegations of corruption and still under investigation?

    “It is not Dr. Betta Edu that is on trial here but the Administration. Hence, we must wakeup against sentiments and playing to the gallery for a few disgruntled elements to the detriment of our people.

    “We have followed the political activism of President Tinubu and know his stand against social injustice as a result of minority tag or gender. Hence, our appeal to recall Dr. Betta Edu back to her place of work to continue her good work.

    “The Cross River State Indigenous Gospel Ministers (CRSIGM) Forum pledged
    her unalloyed support to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, Governor Senator
    Prince Bassey Edet Otu of Cross River State as we hold both to the highest esteemed; but wouldn’t stop to call them to order as it concerns good governance, accountability, security and safety of Nigerians for prosperity to strive,” the Forum said.

    Members of Cross River State Indigenous Ministers Forum
  • C’River State NDDC Rep, Orok Duke, delivers Easter message of hope

    C’River State NDDC Rep, Orok Duke, delivers Easter message of hope

    …aligns with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda

    In his Easter message of hope, Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, the Cross River State Representative, echoed sentiments that resonate with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. Duke’s focus on repositioning the economy aligns with Tinubu’s vision for a revitalized Nigeria. Duke emphasized the gradual traction the state’s economic repositioning efforts are gaining, instilling optimism among the populace.

    “For the good people of Cross River,” Duke stated, “my mission ensures that the state isn’t denied the many privileges it deserves. I am poised to fight against the injustices that have bedeviled our state, ensuring equitable access to opportunities for all.”

    Evidence on the ground affirms the presence of a people-oriented administration led by HE Sen. Prince Bassey Otu. Duke commended Otu’s commitment to delivering on promises, highlighting the commendable efforts directed towards the betterment of the state.

    “As heads of various federal MDAs and representatives of our people,” Duke urged, “we must complement the Governor’s endeavors in bringing democratic dividends to our people, fostering inclusive development and progress.”

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    Reflecting on recent challenges, Duke offered a perspective rooted in faith and resilience. “Let’s consider the few months of the Naira fall, the hike in the prices of goods and petrol as our calvary experiences,” he noted. “The changes we are beginning to see are the resurrection of the nation, which our Christian experiences and dogma will inspire us to demonstrate in the coming days.”

    Duke’s message underscores the importance of perseverance and unity in overcoming socio-economic hurdles. It serves as a rallying call for citizens to embrace hope and actively participate in the collective journey toward progress.

    As Cross River State prepares to navigate through uncertainties, Duke’s Easter message serves as a beacon of hope, guiding the way toward a brighter and more prosperous future for all its inhabitants. Through collaborative efforts and unwavering determination, the state stands poised to overcome challenges and emerge stronger than ever before.

  • Tinubu @72: C’River NDDC Rep Eulogizes Nigeria’s President

    Tinubu @72: C’River NDDC Rep Eulogizes Nigeria’s President

     

    …Says he leads a life of sacrifice and service

    By Kelvin Obambon

    The member representing Cross River State in the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, has felicitated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the occasion of his 72nd birthday.

    Duke, in a birthday message, noted that for cancelling all formal birthday ceremonies, President Tinubu has proven beyond words that he is a leader that leads a life of sacrifice and service to the nation, especially at a historic moment like this when all hands are on the plough to fix Nigeria’s economy.

    “On this special day, we celebrate a visionary leader whose dedication to the betterment of our nation has been unwavering. Your commitment to progress, integrity, and unity has inspired countless individuals.

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    “Your leadership has been a beacon of hope, guiding us towards a brighter future filled with promise and prosperity.

    As you mark another year of wisdom and grace, may your path be illuminated with success and fulfillment. Your passion for service and your tireless efforts to uplift the lives of others are truly commendable.

    “Your legacy of excellence and resilience continues to inspire us all to strive for greatness and make a positive impact in our society.

    “Happy birthday, your Excellency,” he writes.

  • Cross River community appeals to President Tinubu to reconsider Betta Edu

    Cross River community appeals to President Tinubu to reconsider Betta Edu

    By Solomon Azu

    The people of Ebom Eburutu kingdom in Abi local council in Cross River State have appealed to President Bola Tinubu to re-consider the allegations against suspended Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu, who they described as their daughter.

    The appeal is contained in a communique issued after an enlarge meeting of the Abi Traditional Rulers Council held at the palace of Ovai Usa 1 of Ebom, HRH Ovai George Nkanu Egu.

    The communique which was personally read by the Ovai Usa 1 of Ebom kingdom stated that recently the community conferred a chieftaincy title on the suspended minister following her track record on the past offices she has held, stressing that her clean profile has proved that her travail, from all indications, has the hand of some highly-placed fifth columnists in government who are trying to pull her down.

    The monarch said while it is difficult to totally absolve her of wrong-doing in the present circumstances, her statement that her travails were orchestrated by political traducers, may have some basis after all. The communique however appealed to the President to temper justice with mercy and re-call her back.

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    According to the communique,
    “The only perfect being we have observed and noticed is the Almighty God. The functions of government include encouraging good things and good appointees and discouraging bad things and bad appointees.

    ”The case against Betta Edu, is just an allegation, and in the wisdom of the President, it is being investigated, it is after the investigation is completed and the report made available to the government, that the government will now take the final decision. So we should not be in a hurry and don’t allow any sickness like anxiety cirrhosis.”

  • Sports Minister Extends Gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for National Teams’ Backlog, Boosting AFCON Preparations

    Sports Minister Extends Gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for National Teams’ Backlog, Boosting AFCON Preparations

    …Says move further reiterates the President’s commitment to sports development

    The Honourable Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh has expressed his appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the recent approval of a substantial N12 billion disbursement to address the longstanding outstanding backlog owed to Nigeria’s National teams, as well as boost the mood of the Super Eagles, ahead of the African Cup of Nations kicking off this weekend.

    The payment encompasses the settlement of senior national team coaches salaries spanning 15 months, as well as the disbursement of bonuses owed to both senior and junior national teams (male and female). This significant financial injection is particularly timely as it arrived just when the preparations of the Super Eagles for the AFCON struck top gear.

    The Minister thanked Mr. President for approving the funds, noting that it reflects his love for sports. He added that the approval not only serves as a morale booster for the teams involved but also underscores the government’s dedication to fostering excellence in Nigerian sports on the continental stage.

    “This is a clear indication of Mr. President’s commitment to sports development. This explains why he made Sports Development a standalone Ministry, so as to pay closer attention to its pertinent issues. On behalf of the Ministry and the NFF, I thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” Senator Enoh said.

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    He assured the President Tinubu that the team will do everything within its powers to make the nation proud at the continental showpiece. Nigeria takes on Equatorial Guinea on Sunday, in its first game at the AFCOn before tackling Ivory Coast and Guinea Bissau in Abidjan.