***Applauds Tinubu’s planned 30-day National Youth Conference

A non governmental group, Unveiling and Rebranding Nigeria Initiative (URNI) has unveiled ambitious plans to train 30 million Nigerian youths to become self-employed entrepreneurs. Speaking during a press briefing at Novera Hall in Abuja, the organization’s Lead Strategist, Mrs. Obiageri Agubata, laid out URNI’s vision to empower the youth, foster patriotism, and use technology to drive national rebranding efforts.

“Our overall goal is to have 30 million young Nigerians in our database, each of them equipped with a skill that positions them to become entrepreneurs,” Agubata stated.
She emphasized that the initiative is critical for fostering self-employment, particularly among the youth, to reduce dependency on government job creation.

The national launch of the initiative according to her, is set for October 26, 2024, at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Center in Abuja.
It will feature panel discussions, cultural exhibitions, and the release of the book “Faces of Patriotism,” which honors Nigeria’s patriotic heroes and seeks to inspire future generations.
During the press conference, Agubata addressed the importance of changing the national narrative, starting from the grassroots. “We know where the problems are; we know we are part of the solution. It’s time to stop pointing fingers and start working together,” she said, adding that the initiative will focus on young Nigerians, with a vision to instill patriotism from as early as six years old.
“We want to teach the youth to ask not what Nigeria can do for them, but what they can do to make Nigeria a better place,” Ndulue remarked. URNI aims to use technology, entrepreneurship training, and community engagement to shift the mindset of Nigerian youth, fostering a new generation of leaders equipped with skills and a strong sense of national pride.
A key aspect of URNI’s mission is to harness the potential of technology and innovation.
Agubata outlined plans for establishing tech hubs across the country, focusing on skills such as coding, data analytics, and artificial intelligence.
These hubs aim to provide young Nigerians with the tools needed to thrive in the digital economy.
In addition to technology, URNI will also launch initiatives in agricultural technology (agrotech), training young Nigerians to become modern farmers using tech-driven methods.
“Farming is a goldmine we have not fully tapped into,” said Agubata, highlighting the need for self-reliance in multiple sectors.
Agubata stressed that URNI is not just about immediate solutions but long-term cultural and mindset shifts. “The initiative will roll out a School of Networking, connecting young Nigerians with mentors both in the country and abroad, aiming to build a robust network of support for aspiring leaders.
She also emphasized the role of media in promoting positive stories about Nigeria. “We want to shine a light on what is right with Nigeria. There are amazing young people across this country doing great things, and we must tell their stories,” Agubata said, noting that technology will be used to amplify these success stories to inspire others.
As part of its programming, URNI will also develop book clubs and reading initiatives aimed at younger children, designed to cultivate a deeper appreciation for Nigeria’s history and heritage.
The initiative’s leaders expressed confidence that the efforts will reshape the national narrative, build a culture of self-reliance, and create a brighter future for the country.
URNI’s official launch will bring together stakeholders from the public and private sectors, setting the stage for a sustained national rebranding effort.
Speaking earlier at the news conference, Chairman Advisory Committee of URNI, Dr. Vincent Ugochukwu, emphasized the core principles of the initiative.
He said, “Our vision at URNI is to foster a nation where Nigerians, both at home and abroad, celebrate their heritage and actively contribute to the country’s development.
“URNI will place a major focus on engaging Nigerian youth, recognizing them as the driving force behind national rebranding efforts.”
“We believe that the youth are the heartbeat of this nation. It is their creativity, resilience, and dedication that will drive the future we all want to see.
The Assistant Chairman URNI Advisory Committee Mr. Nura Ibrahim Miko said URNI is committed to empowering young Nigerians to take charge of their destiny and lead the charge for positive change.
Similarly, the URNI Programme Coordinator, Mr. Abdulkadir Lawal, described the planned 30-day National Youth Conference by President Bola Tinubu, as a welcome development
He said it would be an opportunity for young Nigerians to express the views about the country and set an agenda for the leadership on how to move the country forward.y

By Ahmed Rufa’i, Dutse

Former Jigawa State Governor, Alhaji Sule Lamido, has criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s decision to embark on a two-week vacation abroad amid Nigeria’s current economic and security challenges.

In a statement posted on his Facebook page titled “DEAF, DUMB, CONFOUNDED”, Lamido questioned the President’s decision to reflect on his administration’s economic reforms from outside the country. He argued that this decision shows a lack of empathy for the suffering of Nigerians.

“He (President Tinubu) traveled out to reflect on his administration’s economic reforms,” Lamido wrote, alleging that the current government has deliberately inflicted hardship, pain, and agony on the Nigerian people.

Lamido further expressed doubt that the President could fully comprehend the country’s grim situation while enjoying the comfort of Europe, stating, “Has he (President Tinubu) the human empathy, compassion, love, care, and concern to ponder and reflect in the comfort zone of Europe on Nigerians’ gory situations?”

He concluded by drawing a parallel to biblical times, citing the story of Pharaoh and Moses.

This criticism comes after the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Niyi Onanuga, announced that President Tinubu would be taking a two-week vacation in the United Kingdom as part of his yearly leave. According to Onanuga, the vacation would serve as a “working retreat” for the President to reflect on his administration’s economic policies.

The Special Adviser also confirmed that the President would return to the country after the leave period ends.

***Insists, Bwala is a National Asset

As Nigeria celebrates its 64th Independence Anniversary, the Santuraki of Ebira and former Special Assistant to Speaker Aminu Tambuwal, Alhaji Saidu Ugonoh, has extended his message of congratulations to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and all Nigerians.
In his statement, Ugonoh emphasized the importance of a cabinet reshuffle to enhance the effectiveness of the Tinubu administration in delivering on its promises of democracy.

Ugonoh, an entrepreneur and U.S.-based politician, advocated for the inclusion of Nigerians who have excelled in various sectors and shown proven competence.
He urged President Tinubu to appoint capable individuals to key government positions, particularly in sensitive areas.
He noted that Nigeria has an abundance of talent that should be tapped into for national progress.

He specifically mentioned Dr. Daniel Bwala, describing him as a valuable asset to Nigeria, particularly in the area of public image management. Ugonoh suggested that individuals like Bwala, who possess a deep understanding of global perspectives, are ideally suited to promote Nigeria’s image on the world stage.
He emphasized the importance of government communication and engagement with the public through the media.

Ugonoh also commended President Tinubu for his openness to working with individuals who had previously criticized him, referencing Bwala’s role as spokesperson for Atiku Abubakar during the 2023 presidential election. He praised the President’s leadership qualities in setting aside campaign criticisms and embracing diverse perspectives for the nation’s benefit.

He further noted that rebuilding Nigeria requires more than just the efforts of traditional politicians. According to Ugonoh, the government should be open to including those with opposing views to bring fresh insights that can contribute to national development. He highlighted that in many nations facing economic and security challenges, such inclusive leadership fosters growth and innovation.

While commending Nigerians for their resilience, the Santuraki urged the Federal Government to remain transparent and intentional in its decision-making, keeping citizens informed about the direction of the country. He also expressed empathy for the victims of the recent flooding in Borno State, encouraging swift government action to address the plight of the affected communities.

Additionally, Ugonoh congratulated the Governor-elect of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on his victory, urging him to focus on delivering for the people who elected him.