The Academy of International Affairs (AIA), Nigeria, has joined the global community in celebrating the 100th birthday of former United States President, Jimmy Carter.
The Academy, comprising distinguished diplomats, academics, and foreign policy experts, expressed its admiration for Carter’s tireless efforts in promoting global peace, health, and human rights, particularly in Africa.

In a letter addressed to President Carter, the Academy’s Founder and President, Prof. Bolaji Akinyemi, commended Carter’s lifetime of service.
Prof. Akinyemi highlighted the former U.S. president’s contributions through the Carter Center, which has led initiatives in conflict resolution and healthcare improvements across 65 countries, including many African nations.

“We admire your commitment to eradicating diseases such as guinea worm disease, river blindness, malaria, and trachoma, which have saved countless lives and improved the quality of life for millions,” Akinyemi noted.
The former Foreign Minister continued in eulogising the contributions of former President Carter “towards a better world through the various activities being undertaken by him and his spouse, Mrs. Rosalyn Carter through their platform, the Carter Centre.” He further praised the centennial’s legacy “in resolving conflicts, improving health care in over 65 countries especially in parts of Africa”, adding “we also note your commitment to eradicating diseases such as guinea worm disease, river blindness, malaria, trachoma and mental health and save countless lives and improve the quality of life for millions of people.”

The Academy concluded its tribute by wishing President Carter good health and wellbeing and prays that his memory will continue to resonate with the deepest appreciation across Nigeria and Africa and resonate to the entire global community.

As Nigeria celebrates its 64th Independence Anniversary Senator Basheer Lado, Special Adviser to the President on Senate Matters, has congratulated Nigerians on the significant milestone.
He lauded the resilience and strength of Nigerians in overcoming challenges and reflected on the sacrifices made by the nation’s founding fathers, including Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, Sir Ahmadu Bello, and Chief Anthony Enahoro.
The senator further emphasized the need for all Nigerians to contribute toward building a more united and stable country for future generations. He acknowledged the current administration’s efforts under the leadership of President Bola Ahmad Tinubu to return Nigeria to its former glory through the Renewed Hope Agenda, a series of policies aimed at improving various sectors of the economy.

Lado highlighted key initiatives focused on ensuring security, reducing unemployment, and achieving food security. He expressed optimism that, with collective effort, the country can achieve the vision of a prosperous Nigeria.

In his closing remarks, Senator Lado reaffirmed his belief that “Together, we can achieve the Nigeria of our dreams,” and wished the entire nation a happy Independence Day celebration.

President of the Host Communities of Nigeria Producing Oil and Gas (HOSTCOM),Dr. Benjamin Style Tamaranebi, has extended warm congratulations to Engr. Gbenga Komolafe FNSE, CFR, Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), on his 61st birthday.

In his message, Dr. Tamaranebi lauded Engr. Komolafe for his remarkable leadership in the upstream petroleum sector. Within just three years, Engr. Komolafe has transformed the sector, implementing reforms that have elevated Nigeria’s petroleum industry to new heights.
A key aspect of his leadership he said has been his commitment to the development of host communities, fostering stronger relationships between these communities and the Commission.

Dr. Tamaranebi highlighted significant milestones under Engr. Komolafe’s tenure, such as the establishment of an Alternative Dispute Resolution Centre (ADRC) in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, aimed at resolving community-related litigations. Additionally, the creation of host community response centers in all oil and gas-producing states has improved the management of Host Community Development Trusts.

The HOSTCOM President also commended Engr. Komolafe for his firm stance on ensuring oil companies remit the required 3% annual operational expenditure (OPEX) to host communities as mandated by the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA). To date, over 200 billion Naira has been paid into the Host Communities Development Trusts.

Dr. Tamaranebi further expressed his support for the Commission’s efforts and applauded the introduction of the HOSTCOMPLY initiative, which promotes sustainability and transparency in the sector. He emphasized that these efforts have contributed to Nigeria’s increased crude oil production, now approaching 1.8 million barrels per day, aiding domestic requirements and local refining.
In closing, Dr. Tamaranebi prayed for God’s continued wisdom, blessings, and protection upon Engr. Komolafe as he continues to lead with distinction. He celebrated the Commission Chief Executive as a leader who has made a lasting impact on both the petroleum sector and host communities.
‘Happy 61st birthday to our indefatigable leader, Engr. Gbenga Komolafe’