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Gov. Ugwuanyi Puts Ink On Paper, N103.5b 2018 Budget is Signed
Today, Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, signed into law the N103.5 billion 2018 budget recently passed by the House of Assembly.
This, the Governor did with a firm promise to fully implement the appropriation law for the benefit of the people and rapid and sustainable development of the state.
Signing the budget at the Government House, Enugu, in the presence of his Deputy, Mrs. Cecilia Ezeilo and other members of the State Executive Council; members of the House of Assembly led by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Edward Ubosi; State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Hon. Augustine Nnamani, among other top government functionaries, Gov. Ugwuanyi noted that the House after due deliberation on the budget and consideration of the defence by the various ministries, MDAs, Parastatals and all concerned with the budget, increased the budget size from N98,563,500,000 to N103,563,500,000.
The governor commended the members of the House for the speedy and considerate passage of the budget and the “wonderful” cooperation they have accorded the state government since inception.
He also expressed appreciation to the people of the state, who he described as the true heroes of democracy, for the opportunity to serve and their “unwavering” support and prayers for his administration, reassuring them that his promise to deliver good governance and selfless service to the state remains sacrosanct.
“Mr. Speaker, Honourable Members, I equally wish to assure you of our commitment to the full implementation of this budget as we are fully aware that this will enable us realize all the objectives that we have set down in it for the benefit of our people and for the rapid and sustainable development of our dear state”, Gov. Ugwuanyi said.
Earlier in his remark, the Speaker commended Gov. Ugwuanyi for the modest budget, which he said reduced both the internal and external borrowing to 16 percent, describing the governor as a good manager of finance.
Rt. Hon. Ubosi, who stated that the budget will not put the state in “a very tight condition” and “cannot hang any debt on us”, also explained that the appropriation law was increased by N5 billion to accommodate road projects that need urgent attention such as the Nkalagu-Eha-Amufu federal road at Isi-Uzo Local Government Area and other roads across the three senatorial districts of the state.
He also applauded the state’s Board of Internal Revenue led by Prince Emeka Odo for its innovation and resourcefulness in generating income for the state saying: “They are trying in reducing the stress on the state”.
The Speaker equally appreciated members of the State Executive Council, especially the commissioners for their “wonderful” cooperation and support during the budget defence, stressing the synergy was unprecedented and commendable.
While disclosing that the House made minor adjustments in the budget, Ubosi assured that the House in the course of its oversight function will monitor the implementation to the letter.
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Widows, Wives and More than 2,000 Residents of Ikeja Police Barracks Benefit from YP4T’s Initiative
More than 2,000 individuals from the Ikeja Police Barracks community benefited from an impactful outreach program spearheaded by Young Professionals for Tinubu (YP4T), an advocacy and support group working in alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The initiative provided critical medical services, care packages, food supplies, and financial assistance to widows, wives, and vulnerable residents, demonstrating the heart of nation-building through community-centered support.
The program, which united healthcare professionals, community organizers, and volunteers, complemented the government’s broader efforts to bring essential services closer to the people.
Residents of the Ikeja Police Barracks received free medical consultations, blood pressure and diabetes screenings, and wellness advice. Widows and families also left with care packages filled with food items, toiletries, and financial support to help alleviate the pressures of the holiday season.
Dr. Love V. Tinuoye, CEO of Medvita Consultancy and the lead doctor on-site, reflected on the impact:
“This initiative reflects a collective commitment to advancing healthcare in Nigeria. We were able to screen for and address critical health issues such as hypertension and diabetes while also providing preventive care like vaccinations and cancer screenings. This is what true community-focused care looks like.”
Beyond medical services, the outreach distributed care packages containing food staples, toiletries, and financial support, designed to alleviate the challenges faced by vulnerable members of the police barracks community.
The event highlights the ongoing efforts under the Renewed Hope Agenda to provide inclusive support for Nigerians across the country. Initiatives like this not only extend access to essential services but also strengthen the fabric of communities.
Mrs. Jumoke Elom, a businesswoman and beneficiary, shared her gratitude:
“I am deeply grateful for this program. The care my family received today—both medical and material—has given us hope and reminded us that we are not alone. It shows that there is real support for families like mine.”
The outreach program was also a platform for demonstrating the principles of nation-building through collaborative action. Alex Oware, Security Expert and Director of YP4T, explained the motivation behind the initiative: “The Renewed Hope Agenda is about about bringing real transformation to communities. This initiative embodies that vision by supporting over 2,000 people—not just through tangible resources, but by reaffirming their place in the collective growth of our nation. It lies at the soul of Renewed Hope: fostering resilience and creating opportunities for all Nigerians.”
The outreach program extended beyond healthcare, providing food and financial support to families within the police barracks. A touching moment involved a widow who, after receiving her care package, expressed her gratitude with tears of joy. Her story is just one of many that reflect the transformative power of collective action.
This initiative by YP4T—an advocacy and support group of Nigerian professionals from across the globe—represents a continued commitment to driving grassroots impact, inspired by President Tinubu’s vision. The success of the Ikeja outreach program demonstrates the power of collaboration between the public and private sectors to deliver meaningful change across Nigeria.
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Matawalle Salutes Nigerian Military, Citizens at Christmas
… Calls for Love and Peaceful Coexistence
The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, H.E. Dr. Bello Mohammad Matawalle, has extended warm greetings to the Nigerian military and all citizens, both Christians and non-Christians, during this joyous Christmas season.
In his message, he emphasized the importance of embodying the spirit of love and peaceful coexistence, urging all Nigerians to reflect on these values not only during the festive period but throughout the year.
“This season serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring principles of peace, unity, love, and sacrifice that bind us as a nation,” he stated.
The Minister encouraged every Nigerian, regardless of their religious beliefs, to celebrate and honor President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, as well as the brave men and women of the Armed Forces who tirelessly demonstrate their patriotism in safeguarding the safety and sovereignty of our beloved country.
Highlighting the significance of the yuletide season, he noted that it should reinforce our bonds of unity, foster a spirit of camaraderie, and inspire compassion towards one another. He called on all citizens to remain steadfast in their collective efforts to build a secure and prosperous Nigeria.
In conclusion, the Minister wished everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Henshaw Ogubike, MNIPR, FCAI, FSCA, FCPE
Director of Information, Press and Public Relations
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Tinubu to Revitalize Zamfara and Nigeria’s Economy – Matawalle
…Says no government has shown so much support to LGs, State Governments like President Bola Ahmed Tinubu….
The Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Mohammad Matawalle, has expressed confidence that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR will significantly enhance the economies of Zamfara State and Nigeria as a whole.
Matawalle who is currently on a five-day visit to his home state, the Minister and former Governor of Zamfara commended President Tinubu for his unprecedented support for Local Government Councils and state governments. “No previous administration has demonstrated such a strong commitment to developing local councils and states as President Tinubu,” Matawalle remarked.
He highlighted the President’s role as a grassroots mobilizer, emphasizing his passion for local development. “President Tinubu has allocated substantial funds to states and local government councils, enabling them to undertake impactful development projects,” he added.
Matawalle urged party supporters to collaborate with their leaders to reclaim the lost mandate from the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Zamfara State. “It is essential for all APC members to remain law-abiding citizens,” he stated, reinforcing the party’s commitment to uphold the law.
Addressing a large gathering of supporters who welcomed him, Matawalle reassured them of the federal government’s ongoing efforts to combat banditry and terrorism in the region. “With the federal government’s initiatives to address security challenges, we will soon experience a renewed sense of safety and peace,” he emphasized.
He concluded his address by urging the community to continue supporting the government at all levels. “Together, we can restore peace and order in our country,” Matawalle affirmed.