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Democracy Day: Ododo Salutes Nigerians, Restates Commitment To Inclusive Governance

…Urges Citizens To Strengthen Resolve To Protect Nation’s Democracy
As the nation marks the 2025 Democracy Day, the Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has saluted Nigerians, urging them to rekindle the spirit of unity, civic responsibility and democratic engagement, even as he restated commitment to inclusive governance.
The Governor in a message to commemorate the historic day, described June 12 as a defining moment in Nigeria’s journey toward democratic governance, calling it “a solemn reminder that democracy is not gifted, it is earned.”
He also urged the citizens to strengthen resolve to protect the nation’s democracy.
The message reads, “Today, we celebrate as one people, united in history, in hope, and in purpose,” the governor declared, as he paid glowing tribute to the heroes of the 1993 presidential election, widely regarded as the freest and fairest in the country’s history but sadly annulled.
He acknowledged the sacrifices of pro-democracy champions, singling out President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, as one of the foremost figures whose relentless struggle helped birth the democratic freedoms Nigerians now enjoy.
“The sacrifices made by pro-democracy heroes, including our father, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, must never be forgotten,” Ododo said.
While reaffirming Kogi State’s unwavering commitment to the democratic ideals of inclusion, justice, and accountability, Governor Ododo pledged to continue leading a people-centered administration that delivers concrete results in infrastructure, agriculture, healthcare, and security.
“We’re not only beneficiaries of the democracy earned through the blood and sweat of our heroes; we are stewards of its promise,” he affirmed.
The governor stressed that democracy thrives when it’s participatory and accountable.
He noted that his administration remains focused on building strong institutions, promoting transparency, and empowering citizens—especially the youth—to take an active role in governance.
“To our youth, you are not the leaders of tomorrow; you are the true guardians of our democracy today. This democracy belongs to you,” he charged.
The Governor also called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society actors, and public servants to lead by example, stating that democracy is best measured not by titles or rhetoric, but by tangible results that improve the lives of the people.
“Let’s remember that democracy is strengthened not by titles, but by service…not by rhetoric, but by results,” he said.
The Kogi State Chief Servant urged citizens to remain vigilant against forces that threaten national unity, stressing the importance of defending democratic values from “disruption, division, and all other tendencies that undermine national interest.
”In a reaffirmation of alignment with national development goals, the governor pledged full support for the policies and programmes under President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
In conclusion, the Governor pledged to continue working “day and night” to protect the rights and freedoms of all residents of Kogi State, ensuring they can live and work in safety and dignity.
“Let’s rise together in the spirit of nationhood. Let us stand together in the pursuit of progress. Let’s walk together on the path of peace, equity, and sustainable development,” the governor urged.
News
Masobe Books to Publish Groundbreaking Essay Collection by Dr. Dakuku Peterside on Nigeria

Masobe Books, a leading publisher of Nigerian literature, today announced the upcoming release of a highly anticipated essay collection by Dr. Dakuku Peterside, a prominent figure in Nigerian public life.
The collection, which is titled: Beneath the Surface: Essays on Nigeria’s Chequered Journey, a powerful new work by renowned columnist and public policy expert, Dr. Dakuku Peterside.
Dr. Peterside, known for his contributions to policy, economics, and thought leadership, has compiled a series of essays exploring a range of critical issues facing the nation.
The collection is expected to delve into topics such as governance, economic development, social justice, national unity, security challenges, the future of democracy, and the role of youth.
“We are incredibly excited to be publishing Dr. Peterside’s work,” said [Name and Title of a Masobe Books representative, ideally the publisher].
“His deep understanding of Nigeria, combined with his clear and articulate writing style, makes this collection essential reading for anyone interested in the country’s present and future.”
Masobe Books anticipates that the collection will appeal to a broad audience, including policymakers, academics, students, and the general public.
Slated for publication in October 2025 under the publisher’s Makere imprint, the book promises to spark critical conversations about Nigeria’s past, present, and future.
Further details, including the title of the collection and planned promotional events, will be announced in the coming weeks.
Dr. Dakuku Peterside has a distinguished career, having served as a former Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), a former member of the House of Representatives.
He is widely respected for his expertise and contributions to national discourse.
The essay collection offers a panoramic exploration of Nigeria’s complex landscape—its economy, governance, youth energy, leadership challenges, and international standing.
Described as a “360-degree perspective” on the country’s evolving narrative, the book digs deep into the nation’s layered experiences and contradictions.
The book has already received high praise from thought leaders. Renowned Kenyan scholar, Professor P.L.O. Lumumba, hailed it as “a manual that every conscientious person in authority should read.”
Bishop Matthew Kukah called it “a window for future exploration of the options for a new Nigeria,” while Prof. Kyari Mohammed declared it “a must read for policy makers, academics and the general reader.”
Masobe Books has announced plans for formal launch events in Lagos and Abuja to accompany the book’s international and local release.
This marks Dr. Peterside’s third major publication, following Strategic Turnaround and Leading in a Storm.
For inquiries and updates, the public is encouraged to contact Theresa Ominiabohs at Masobe Books or visit www.masobebooks.com.
The publisher can also be followed on Instagram and Twitter via @masobebooksng.
News
MTN, Airtel, IHS Towers Rev up FG’s 3MTT programme by N5bn
“This kind of collaboration is what drives our vision of building a future-ready workforce and positioning Nigeria as a net exporter of technical talent,” said Tijani.

Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, said that MTN Nigeria made a cumulative N3 billion contribution to support the federal government’s 3MTT programme.
3MTT is an acronym for 3 Million Technical Talent, a bold initiative and a critical component of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda which is aimed at developing a local pool of technical talent for the country and the global tech ecosystem.
Tijani also disclosed that previously, the Airtel Africa Foundation had contributed N1 billion to support the same programme, while infrastructure service provider, IHS Tower, has entered an agreement worth another N1 billion with the Ministry to build learning communities across the nation for the 3MTT programme.
“This kind of collaboration is what drives our vision of building a future-ready workforce and positioning Nigeria as a net exporter of technical talent,” said Tijani.
He explained:” The tech talent will be trained in cohorts. The program started with 30, 000 Nigerians, which was one percent of the 3 million target, while another 270,000 were later selected for the second cohort to bring the number to 10 percent.
The 3 Million Tech Talent will be trained in areas of speciality including: Digital Marketing, Project Management Software, Cloud Platforms Navigation, Data Analysis and Visualisation, Search Engine Optimisation (SEO), CRM Management, Accounting Software, Graphics Design and UX/UI Design, among others.
News
BREAKING: Many feared dead in Lagos building collapse

A three-storey building today collapsed on Lagos Island, injuring some occupants while yet to be determined number of persons are under the rubbles.
The building located on Asesi Lane around the Adeniji Adele Road went down suddenly early today.
“Four persons have been rescued from the rubble so far. They have been taken to hospital,” Lagos State Information Commissioner Gbenga Omotoso said in a Facebook post.
Emergency responders from the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), among others, have since gotten to the incident scene.
Developing story…
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