A Moral imperative: Why Britain’s recognition of Palestine is a step towards justice

By Pastor Peters Omoragbon, a proud Nigerian British citizen:

As a dual citizen whose life bridges two worlds—my Nigerian heritage and my British home—I have watched UK politics with a critical eye. Like many, I have found the policies of the recent Tory government, and now the new Labour administration, to be a mixed bag, often leaning towards the anti-people austerity that has strained our social fabric. Yet, in politics, moments arise that transcend partisan criticism and speak to a deeper, universal morality. The British government’s decision to officially recognise the state of Palestine is one such moment, and for the first time in a long time, I feel a surge of pride in my Prime Minister, Keir Starmer.

My disagreement with the UK’s, and indeed the West’s, approach to Israel has been long-standing. For years, the world has stood by as successive Israeli governments, particularly the current far-right coalition led by Benjamin Netanyahu, have pursued blatantly expansionist policies in the West Bank, entrenching a system of apartheid and committing acts that leading human rights organisations, including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, have labelled as war crimes. The failure to hold them accountable has been a stain on the conscience of the international community.

This brings us to a painful historical parallel. When the Nazis systematically exterminated six million Jews, the world eventually rose in unison, vowing “Never Again.” This pledge was meant to be a universal shield for all humanity against genocide, not a exclusive promise for one people. So, we must ask: what is the difference between a Jewish life and a Palestinian life? The bombing of Gaza, which according to the Gaza Health Ministry (an agency deemed reliable by the UN and WHO) has killed over 67,000 people, the majority women and children, and the deliberate use of starvation as a weapon of war—a clear violation of the Geneva Conventions—suggest that our leaders see a stark difference. The blind, uncritical support and funding provided by the United States government, a policy now echoed by Donald Trump, enables this carnage, making them complicit in the atrocity.

Let me be unequivocal: the Hamas attacks on October 7th were a horrific atrocity. The murder of approximately 1,200 Israelis and the taking of over 250 hostages were acts of terror for which there can be no justification. However, as the International Court of Justice (ICJ) has indicated in its provisional rulings, a crime against a people does not license genocide of that people. Netanyahu’s disproportionate response, which has levelled over 60% of Gaza’s buildings and created a famine, is not self-defence; it is collective punishment on an industrial scale.

The argument that recognising Palestine “rewards Hamas” is not just flawed; it is profoundly hypocritical. It ignores the crucial context of how Hamas came to be. In 2006, Hamas won a democratic legislative election in the Palestinian territories, an outcome verified by international observers. Instead of engaging with this result, the US and Israel immediately moved to isolate and punish the Palestinian people, imposing a crippling blockade on Gaza that continues to this day. This is the ultimate contradiction: we claim to champion democracy while refusing to accept its outcomes when they are inconvenient. Who bestowed upon the US and Israel the right to decide who governs a sovereign people?

History is replete with groups labelled “terrorists” by occupying powers who are later recognised as freedom fighters. Menachem Begin, a future Israeli Prime Minister, was the leader of the Irgun, a group responsible for bombing the King David Hotel in 1946, killing 91 people. Nelson Mandela’s African National Congress (ANC) was once on the US terror list for its armed struggle against apartheid. The United States itself was born from a violent revolution against its British colonisers. This is not to equate these struggles, but to illustrate that resistance to occupation, however messy and violent, is a historical constant. To pretend otherwise is a failure of honesty.

The families of the Israeli hostages have my deepest sympathy. But their demand that the world withhold recognition of Palestine until their loved ones are returned, while understandable, is misguided. This crisis did not begin on October 7th; it is the bloody culmination of a 56-year military occupation and a 16-year siege. The most urgent demand must be for an immediate and permanent ceasefire, the only way to ensure the safe return of hostages and stop the endless flow of Palestinian corpses. Why are their lives deemed more precious than the thousands of Palestinian children buried under the rubble?

Prime Minister Starmer, your decision to recognise the state of Palestine is not an act of hostility towards Israel. It is a reaffirmation of Britain’s commitment to international law, to the two-state solution it has paid lip service to for decades, and to the basic principle that every life holds equal value. It is a courageous step away from the suffocating influence of a US foreign policy that has been morally bankrupt on this issue.

This is a landmark decision. It places Britain, finally, on the right side of history. It declares that the Palestinian people have an inalienable right to self-determination and statehood, not as a prize for good behaviour, but as a fundamental human right. For taking this bold step to align Britain with justice and humanity, you have made this citizen proud. We will support you all the way. For in the end, every life matters—whether Israeli or Palestinian.

Pastor Peters Omoragbon is the Executive President and Permanent UN Representative to Nurses Across the Borders International and the First UNFCCC Designated Contact Person from Nigeria. He is equally the General Secretary to the Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation UK Chapter and Director for International Liaison for Nigerian Nurses Charitable Association-UK and President, Diaspora Nurses Association of Nigeria.

 

 

Op-Ed: NIDCOM’s institutional imperative—restoring credibility through accountability, constitutional governance latest

By Pastor Peters Osawaru Omoragbon: 

Executive Summary 

 The recent defence of Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa’s conduct at the 2025 Diaspora Day Celebration obscures a deeper crisis within the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) This rebuttal addresses three critical failures: violation of court-validated leadership structures, neglect of diaspora investments and achievements, and systemic institutional decay exacerbated by unchecked executive authority. The path forward demands depersonalisation of NIDCOM’s operations, adherence to legal frameworks, and alignment with global diplomatic standards of accountability. 

I. Context: Neutrality or Selective Undermining of Legitimacy? 

The narrative framing NIDCOM’s rejection of Nurses Across the Borders and NIDO Europe’s ceremonial plaque as “neutrality” fundamentally misrepresents facts validated by judicial authority:  

Judicial Affirmation of Leadership: On November 8, 2024, the UK County Court at the Royal Courts of Justice dismissed injunctions against Harold Ogunfemi’s election as NIDO Europe Chairman. The June 14, 2025 ruling revalidated this outcome, explicitly dismissing challenges by Mr. Niyi Zaccheus’ faction. Despite receiving this ruling, NIDCOM’s leadership deliberately celebrated the invalidated Zaccheus/Ubochi group at the Diaspora Day event—a faction that fielded only three attendees versus Ogunfemi’s 33 delegates and 20 NGO partners.  

Contradictory Engagement: NIDCOM officials participated in Ogunfemi-led Homeland Development projects during Diaspora Week (July 21–28, 2025), including medical outreaches serving 1,200 Abuja residents by Nurses Across the Borders and ICT initiatives at UniAbuja by the NIDOE Education Committee. Yet, Dabiri-Erewa publicly rejected a plaque commemorating these collaborations—an act not of neutrality but institutional disrespect.  Diplomacy requires tact—the “knack of making a point without making an enemy”. NIDCOM’s actions emboldened factions, undermining diaspora unity.  

II. Documented Contributions vs. Institutional Neglect

NIDO Europe under Ogunfemi delivered measurable nation-building outcomes ignored in NIDCOM’s narrative: 

INITIATIVES: $500M Healthcare Migration Platform, through Nurses Across the Borders in partnership with Partnership with DATAFLOW Group & Nigeria’s Health Ministry, but No acknowledgement from NIDCOM 

Medical Outreach (Gwarimpa/Gwagwalada) amounting to N14M in free services by Nurses Across the Borders, where Representatives attended but no formal recognition during the Diaspora Day celebration and;

NIDO Germany’s University Internet Project, Enhanced educational infrastructure for youths in the universities, whereas NIDCOM prefers Silenced amid factional favouritism.

These projects align with NIDCOM’s statutory mandate to “coordinate diaspora contributions.” Instead, the Commission prioritized visibility events over substantive engagement. 

III. Systemic Institutional Failures 

A. Investment Protection Abandoned 

The WINHOMES demolition in Lagos—where diaspora-owned properties were destroyed—exposed NIDCOM’s silence on asset protection. Despite appeals, no intervention occurred, violating Section 5(b) of the NIDCOM Act (2017) on “diaspora investment safeguards.” 

B. Misallocated Resources 

Defunded programs: Presidential Fellowship, Mortgage Scheme. 

- ₦72M spent by NIDO Europe delegates for community projects, only to be snubbed at ceremonies. 

- Lavish spending on events while diaspora stakeholders are self-financed development work. 

C. Centralization of Power 

Since 2019, NIDCOM has operated without a legally mandated board, enabling unilateral decisions. The Chairman’s tenure (expiring in 2025 under the 4+4-year rule) lacks oversight mechanisms, fostering personality-driven operations antithetical to institutional integrity. 

Global diplomatic practice hinges on “inclusive governance and accountability mechanisms” NIDCOM’s structure fails this test. 

IV. Global Standards vs. NIDCOM’s Reality 

Best Practice

While the Ogunfemi ensures Inclusive Leadership Recognition, NIDCOM prefers Court-validated leaders’ exclusion

While leadership NIDOE under Harold Ogunfemi prefers Transparent Budgeting, NIDCOM prioritised Visibility events over projects

In NIDO-E, there is board oversight while no board since NIDCOM inception in 2019

Conflict mediation is preferred by NIDOE , but no factional dialogue initiated or attempted by NIDCOM Chairman but would rather rely on hearsay from cronies.

V. Reform Agenda: Institutional Renewal Over Personality Cultism 

To restore credibility, NIDCOM must:  Reconstitute the Board Immediately: Appoint seasoned diplomats—not political loyalists—to enforce checks on executive power; Implement Court Directives: Recognize Harold Ogunfemi’s NIDO Europe leadership and formalize the Worldwide Council per Section 2(g) of the NIDCOM Act; Establish Investment Protection Protocols: Create a diaspora asset safeguard unit with legal enforcement powers; Audit Budget Allocations: Redirect 70% of the yearly event budgets to project grants and skill-transfer programs; Adopt Diplomatic Professionalism: Train staff of the NIDCOM in conflict mediation and cross-cultural communication to replace divisive tactics. Some of the staff have no regard for Diasporas, especially during events.

Conclusion: Diplomacy Demands Institutional Credibility 

The diaspora contributes over $20B annually in remittances and expertise—a lifeline for Nigeria’s economy. Yet, NIDCOM’s current trajectory risks alienating this critical demographic through personalized governance and constitutional disregard. As Ambassador Chas Freeman notes, diplomacy is “the management of relations between states and peoples to advance national interests”. For NIDCOM, this begins by depersonalizing operations, respecting judicial and statutory frameworks, and centring the diaspora’s tangible nation-building work. 

Nigeria’s global image and diaspora trust depend on this institutional renewal. We must shift from defending individuals to demanding accountability—and build a commission worthy of its mandate. 

Pastor Peters Omoragbon is a UN ECOSOC humanitarian leader, Climate Action awardee (COP29 Baku), and advocate for diaspora institutional accountability; he is also the Executive President/CEO, Nurses Across the Borders; First UNFCCC Designated Contact Person from Nigeria, General Secretary NIDO UK Chapter and Chairman NIDOE Health Committee and Director for International Liaison for Nigerian Nurses Charitable Association UK, President Diaspora Nurses Association of Nigeria-DNAN. 

Views expressed are personal.

 

NIDOE Diaspora Day celebration: Good intentions and undiplomatic fallouts

By Cyriacus Nnaji:

Nigerians in Diaspora Organisations, Europe (NIDOE), over the years have adopted what it calls A Week in/for Nigeria to commemorate the Federal Government Diaspora Day Celebration every year under the auspices of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission-NIDCOM led by Hon (Dr.) Abike Dabiri-Erewa OON the Chairman and CEO.

The Week in/for Nigeria by NIDOE goes beyond ordinary celebration as it encompasses several initiatives, including empowerment programs, medical outreaches, visits to orphanages, among others. The grand finale is usually marked by an elaborate pomp and pageantry at the Diaspora Day Celebration where all Diasporans are hosted by the Federal Government to be celebrated and National Honours bestowed on deserving recipients for their contributions to Homeland Development.

In alignment with NIDCOM’s vision and as part of the 2025 Nigerians in Diaspora Day celebration held in Abuja, members of NIDOE, under the leadership of Continental Chairman, Cllr Harold Ogunfemi, executed series of impactful initiatives across health, education, and humanitarian sectors. These activities exemplify NIDOE’s unwavering commitment to supporting development efforts and fostering diaspora-led contributions to nation-building.

A major milestone of such initiatives by NIDOE's was the collaboration with Nurses Across the Borders, to facilitate a high level bilateral meeting with the Honourable Minister of Health for State, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, where key stakeholders including technical experts from DataFlow Group (Dubai) and the World Continuing Education Alliance (UK), were both invited by the NIDOE delegation and far-reaching bilateral agreements were reached on developing a digital platform for ethical migration for the Health workforce in Nigeria.

As part of a strategic offer, these organizations pledged to provide—at no cost—a digital infrastructure for the ethical migration of Nigeria’s healthcare workforce. This platform, valued at approximately $500 million, was instrumental in similar migration success stories in the Philippines and across the Middle East. The Honourable Minister embraced the initiative, establishing an inter-ministerial committee to formalize the partnership via a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to be worked out.

Other successful engagements recorded by the Cllr Ogunfemi led NIDOE delegation at the 2025 Diaspora Week, were the targeted intervention at the School Without Walls, an educational centre for internally displaced children. The support included: 300 exercise books, menstrual hygiene supplies for young girls, prepared meals for 300 children, distribution of staple food items (e.g., rice), cash grants for vocational skill development.

This initiative is championed under NIDOE’s “No Child Left Behind” programme, with sponsorship from Mr. Michael Otogo (General Secretary, NIDOE), Mrs. Maria Ohilebo (Chairperson, NIDOE Greece), and Mrs. Nene Amodu (Abuja Anchor Officer).

Other impactful activities included the Community Medical Outreach at Gwarinpa Village, a joint medical exercise led by NIDOE's Health Committee and Nurses Across the Borders which provided healthcare access to over 200 residents, including free health screenings and medication. This was followed by a Mass Health Intervention at Gwagwalada Main Market, where Nurses Across the Borders free rendered medical services to approximately 1,000 market participants. Services included: Vital signs monitoring, On-the-spot urinalysis for early disease detection (kidney, liver, pancreas) blood tests, etc., and Medication distribution.

The outreach drew appreciation from local dignitaries, including the Waziri (Prime Minister) of the Gwagwalada Traditional Council with the Faculty of Nursing and Public Health of the University of Abuja led by their Dean Professor Kgadijat Musah collaborating.

NIDOE’s Education Committee, in partnership with the Acting Vice Chancellor, of the University of Abuja Prof. Patricia Manko Lar, launched an ICT Empowerment Project for Nigerian youth under its Education Empowerment program and Equipment Donation to the University of Abuja, In addition, the Germany Chapter of NIDOE donated two modular ergonomic dental chairs to the Dentistry Faculty.

However, a twist to the whole Diaspora Day Celebration achievements, were nearly marred by the unexpected and undiplomatic conduct of the Chairperson of Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), Honourable (Dr) Abike Dabiri-Erewa.

At the grand finale of this year’s celebration, Hon. Dabiri-Erewa was recognized and honoured in acknowledgement of her supposed mutual relationship with NIDOE with an appreciation certificate to be presented to her as a Chairperson of the commission, but to the utmost bewilderment of thousands of those who attended the celebration and millions of TV and YOUTube viewers, Hon. Dabiri-Erewa publicly embarrassed the Harrold Ogunfemi led NIDOE by declining to receive the plague presented to her by NIDOE by walking away from the stage. 

As embarrassing as her action appeared, Nigerians have condemned the action of the NIDCOM Chairperson. They expressed dissatisfaction with such public and unexpected indecorous conduct coming from a person holding such exalted position in NIDCOM. 

According to a statement released by the NIDOE Public Relations Officer, Hon Shakiru Oladunjoye, “NIDOE Europe has always been a pillar of order, excellence, and patriotism. That posture remains unchanged. Our call now is for reflection, correction, and a return to principled engagement.

“Let this moment remind us all: the Diaspora is not a playground for politics; it is a platform for progress. Let reason prevail over rivalry and let facts continue to illuminate the path of institutional diplomacy.

“It is our solemn duty to preserve our institutional credibility. NIDOE cannot be destabilised from without. We stand firm on constitutional grounds and will not be baited into reactionary conduct,” the statement added. 

NIDOE while reaffirming commitment to leadership of Hon. Cllr. Harold Ogunfemi, further described Hon Dabiri-Erewa’s action as a grave misjudgement and a deep institutional discourtesy.

The group maintained that NIDCOM’s Chairperson’s action was not in order because the process that brought the present NIDOE Executive to power met all NIDOE constitutional specifications, a process unambiguously guided by NIDOE Constitution.

“NIDOE is not a body built on whims or shifting preferences. It is a legally structured, policy-driven diaspora institution with over 20 chapters across Europe, governed by a living Constitution ratified by its General Assembly. The NIDOE Constitution tolerates neither factionalism nor power vacuums. It stipulates clearly that only one elected Chairman exists at any given time, and that elections, when constitutionally due, must be conducted under the stewardship of the General Secretary, not imposed or speculated upon by external actors, regardless of stature.

It is on record that in the build-up to this year's Diaspora Week, Hon Cllr Harrold Ogunfemi led 35 NIDOE delegates representing various chapters across Europe to the 2025 Diaspora Day Celebrations and 3 members from NIDOE were given National Honours. An estimated ₦72 million was reportedly expended on this national engagement. Yet, the result was not unity, but was division, orchestrated not by NIDOE, but by an unfortunate precedent of selective recognition by NIDCOM's top leadership.

“Honourable Dabiri-Erewa's refusal to accept a ceremonial token from NIDOE, an organisation she has previously collaborated with, and spoken fondly of, is no small matter. It was not just a personal decision. It was a symbolic rebuke, executed live on television and YouTube, and directed at the very institution that embodies the Nigerian Diaspora’s democratic maturity in Europe,” the statement further disclosed. 

The group stated that Hon. Dabiri-Erewa’s action has widened an unnecessary gulf between NIDCOM and NIDOE and said nobody should play politics with NIDOE. “It has bruised trust, discouraged cohesion, and emboldened those who seek to destabilise our internal processes by extra-constitutional means. 

“To play politics on a day intended to celebrate diaspora achievements is, in the mildest of terms, unfortunate. We will not be drawn into a culture of public discord. But we will express, as a unified body under the able leadership of Hon. Cllr. Harold Ogunfemi, our collective dissatisfaction.

 

Hon Sale James strikes peace deal between Egba Agatu, Ologba communities of Agatu LGA, harps on significance of peace

The importance of peaceful coexistence cannot be over emphasized, and without peace, there would be no development.

For over 18 years, the people of Egba Agatu and Ologba communities of Agatu LGA of Benue State have been at daggers drawn over land dispute leading to loss of lives and properties. 

However, it was this need for tranquility and peaceful co- existence that led Hon Adakole Saleh James, a critical stakeholder of Egba Agatu Community, Founder of Adakole Network for Peace in Agatu, and a Benue State House of Assembly Hopeful come 2027, took it upon himself to bring peace to the two warring communities of Egba Agatu and Ologba.

Yesterday being Sunday, April 20, 2025, Adakole James successfully brought the two communities together to embrace peace after taking up the peace role in 2013.

Adakole Saleh James said that Agatu Local Government Area, Benue State is one of the 23 LGAs in Benue State, predominantly inhabited by peace loving farmers, faming and fishing is their major occupation.

"I grew up to know about the cultural heritage of the Agatu Communities. We occupy a local government in Benue State and part of Nasarawa State.

"We have been peace loving people until 2008, I think it was in my secondary school when the crisis started in Egba which is my own very Community. This crisis was between Egba which is my own community and Ologba. This crisis has led to loss of lives and property and escalated beyond these two communities.

"We could not access our farms, we could no longer go for fishing, as I said earlier our major occupation is farming and fishing, your father doesn't need to be a Civil Servant, your mother doesn't need to be a government worker to careter for the family members. We are predominantly farmers and this was a lucrative and major source of our livelihood. 

"And this crisis has actually denied us of government presence, no good roads, if not now that we have contractors on site and works ongoing through the efforts of the Governor, thank God for Governor Hyacinth Alia, who saw the need to connect the rural and the urban cities together," he narrated.

Sale James thanked the current governor of Benue State for remembering the two communities with infrastructural development such as roads, maintaining that the two communities were literally abandoned by government due to insecurity, adding that without peace there would not be any form of development. "So we thank God for his intervention on infrastructure. This is the only development we can say we are witnessing since 2008, the government has outrightly abandoned us and every blame goes to insecurity.

"No development can come in any society without peace, any society at war, meaningful development cannot strive, and the war is not against external bodies, it is a war between brothers, a community against another Community within a particular set of people. It was a serious war since 2008," he disclosed.

Sale James revealed how he took up the challenge of bringing peace to the two communities even at the risk of his own life. "By 2013, I took up this challenge, and say we cannot continue like this, myself particularly, I have lost lives, immediate family members, houses burnt down as a result of this crisis."

He stated that if anyone has lost anything in the war, he has lost a lot. "If there is anyone who has lost anything in this crisis, I can say I have lost more. So I say, can I continue to wait and lose more lives? I may even be the next victim.

"So I picked up this challenge in 2013, I started preaching peace within my community, then we use social media, media houses to reach out to other communities because I couldn't access them.

"Sometimes without security you cannot access these other communities to talk to them, thank God for social media, we always talk to ourselves on social media by reaching out to each other, on the need for peace, the essence of peace, why peace needs to be maintained and sustained, the need for forgiveness in order for us to grow, there is the need to let go, there is no need to fight over land, piece of land, there is no need. So when they saw the genuineness, the sincerity, because actually everyone was tired, the Egba community, the Ologba community and every other community, they were all tired of the crisis, we were tired of retardation, tired of retrogression, tired of backwardness, tired of lack of basic amenities such as health facilities, no functional schools in most of these areas, it has gotten to everybody's neck, so it has become everybody's business, and I am happy that the youths have woken up, from the enlightenment, from the discussions we had with youths from the commities and for the first time, I have been visiting the communities on some occasions, youths of Ologba Community, I have been visiting them, engaging them, on the essence of peace, why we must go back to the ancient path, why we must rebuild that Agatu that was inherited from our four fathers because I grew up riding bicycles, from my community to other communities 2am mid night, and you will hear nothing, but now people will be on transit, you will leave your house and say I am going to market, I am coming, I am going to the farm, and you just hear that somebody has been kidnapped and that is the end." 

He said for years this bad blood between the two communities continued and none of the communities could be exempted, adding that the meeting on Sunday brought joy to both communities "And for years this has been happening for a long time, this has been happening repeatedly,   I cannot exempt my own community, I cannot exempt the other communities, of course both communities are involved in this, and this has taken so many lives, nobody knows who is next, so the meeting yesterday was one of the happiest moment in both communities. 

"As I said I have been engaging them individually and I saw the need for us to move as a people, this time around not just as individuals, so when I visited the other Community, we had joyful moment, it was a deliberate effort, if you choose peace and I don't choose peace, there won't be peace, it has to be a deliberate effort between the two of us.

"So I led the youths from the other community to my community and when I introduced them to my people as youths from the other community, our people were happy, there was palpable joy and we had fruitful discussions, they agreed to sustain the tempo of peace, we are also devising strategies in order to sustain the peace, and we agreed to be having this engagement with the youths  regularly.

"A crisis that lasted for close to 18 years, there is no magic about it, it is deliberate, it has to be genuine from both sides, they have to see the genuineness, they have to see the transparency of the process, they have to see the integrity of the whole process, and myself been the Founder of Adakole Network for Peace in Agatu, carrying out this outreach, reaching out to less-privileged and the displaced in this crisis, they see the sincerity of purpose, it is a welcome development."

Speaking further, he said that latest meeting was the first of its kind since the starting of the crisis, saying that to sustain the peace there is need for regular meeting to renew the mindset of the two warring brothers. "There is need to sustain this on continuous basis to see a renewed mindset, to see the youths transformed and I commend my team members reaching out to the less privileged, the displaced as a result of the crisis."With Adakole Network for Peace in Agatu (A.N.P.A), peace is here.

 

Chief Ambassador Nwaobi tasks Prince Ukachukwu on strong vision, pays him courtesy visit in Abuja

Divine Uchenna:

The race for the topmost job in Anambra State has commenced and it is time for critical stakeholders to stand up to be counted.

No wonder, the Business mogul, CHAIRMAN/CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, BRIGHAMS HOTEL  & SUITES LTD and BINOLEX NIGERIA WIRE & CABLE LTD, Chief Ambassador Christian Chukwuebuka Nwaobi, has paid a courtesy visit to Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu (Ikukuoma Ndigbo) the All Progressives Congress (APC) Flag-bearer in the November 8, 2025 Governorship Election in Anambra State, with the sole objective of advising him on the way forward.

During the visit in Abuja on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, the Osumenyi born billionaire, industrialist and hospitality expert, used the opportunity offered by the visit to advise Prince Ukachukwu on some critical issues capable of ensuring his victory at the poll on November 8.

Also known as AGBALANZE EZE-UMEAFOJURU of Osumenyi and Ezinifite Kingdom, Ambassador Nwaobi urged the Gubernatorial candidate on the need to develop a Strong Vision, understand the state's challenges and opportunities, identify key areas to focus on, such as education, infrastructure, healthcare and, or economic development.

Ambassador Nwaobi stressed that as the only candidate who is hoped to dislodge the incumbent governor from the Government House in Awka, he must take Responsibility,  recognize that his life and career are his responsibility, take ownership of his actions, decisions, and policies as that would help him to build trust with voters and stakeholders.

Hon. Nwaobi maintained that managing expectations is also vital. “Be aware of the expectations of various stakeholders, including voters, party members, and special interest groups, balance these expectations with your vision and goals.”

He also harped on the need for honesty and transparency. “Be Authentic and Honest; be true to yourself and your values. Voters can tell when you're being insincere. Honesty and transparency are crucial for building trust.

“Listen and Empathize, you should understand the concerns and needs of your constituents. Show empathy and compassion, and be willing to listen to different perspectives,” he said.

Agbalanze added that building a strong team is as important as working hard, showing perseverance and surrounding himself with professionals who share the same vision as he does. “Surround yourself with experienced and dedicated professionals who share your vision. This will help you make informed decisions and implement effective policies. Work hard and persevere. Running for governor requires dedication, hard work, and resilience. Be prepared to face challenges and setbacks, and stay focused on your goals,” he added. 

On his campaign strategies, Hon. Nwaobi said “Some key qualities to demonstrate during your campaign include integrity by showing that you're committed to doing what's right, even when it's difficult. Show leadership by demonstrating your ability to inspire and motivate others. Accountability is taking responsibility for your actions and decisions; have compassion by showing that you care about the wellbeing of your constituents,” Ambassador Nwaobi stressed. 

Speaking on how he would engage his voters, Nwaobi advised Prince Ukachukwu on strategies to consider while engaging with voters and stakeholders. He told the gubernatorial candidate who doubles as his brother to advise with permission, respect people's boundaries and ask if they want advice or input.

Ambassador Nwaobi said he must develop listening ear, give people a chance to share their thoughts and concerns, as well as avoiding judging people so as to focus on finding solutions rather than placing blame, and that he must provide long-term support and guidance to those who need it.

 

Association of Christian Correspondents of Nigeria felicitates with an icon, Bishop Charles Ighele @ 70

Cyriacus Nnaji:

Association of Christian Correspondents of Nigeria (ACCN) has joined millions across the globe in celebrating the 70th birthday of Bishop Charles Ighele, an icon and the General Superintendent of Holy Spirit Mission, popularly known as the Happy Family Centre.

Bishop Ighele clocked 70 today, Tuesday, 8th, April, 2025.

In a press release signed by Adeola Ogunlade, President, Association of Christian Correspondents of Nigeria (ACCN) Bishop Ighele has consistently exemplified integrity, spiritual leadership, and a lifelong commitment to the work of God.

He said “As a Patron of our Association, Bishop Ighele has consistently exemplified integrity, spiritual leadership, and a lifelong commitment to the work of God and the welfare of humanity. He has remained firm, compassionate, and unrelenting in the pursuit of a society that reflects Christ’s love in action.”

“Under Bishop Ighele’s leadership, Holy Spirit Mission has grown to nearly 80 branches across Nigeria. Beyond preaching the gospel, the ministry is deeply involved in feeding the poor, empowering entrepreneurs, and restoring dignity to vulnerable populations. His deep concern for food security has led to a massive agricultural initiative in Ogun State, with plans to build a University of Agriculture and Rural Development,” he added

Ogunlade also stated that Bishop Ighele also champions education, youth development. “Bishop Ighele also champions education, youth development and the transformation of communities through practical skills training. His ministry is currently developing a Skills Acquisition Institute to inspire and equip young Nigerians with tools for self-reliance, particularly in agriculture and enterprise.

“The Happy Family Television Programme, which he co-presents with his wife Carol, broke ground in 1995 as Nigeria’s first regular marriage and family intimacy broadcast. Today, it continues to inspire strong, godly homes across the country.

“A graduate of the University of Ife with a degree in History and Political Science (1980), Bishop Ighele has combined intellectual depth with spiritual discernment to lead a church that speaks to both soul and society.

“As he marks his 70th birthday this April, we honor a man who believes the church must not just be a place of worship but a force for societal transformation. Bishop Ighele has taught us that true ministry meets people at their point of need—with compassion, with strategy, and with vision.

“We celebrate his life, his service, and his legacy. Happy 70th birthday, Bishop Charles” he said.

 

 

 

Olujoke, Akhaine, Adegoke call for strengthening of Democracy in Nigeria

Experts, professionals, stakeholders, including Dr. Asekere Olujoke, Professor Sylvester Odion Akhaine and Mr. Kunle Adegoke (SAN) have called for the strengthening of Democracy in Nigeria.

The trio made the call at a Subnational Conference on Strengthening of Democracy in Nigeria, organized by the Centre for Democracy and Development, Lagos, at The Dover Hotel, in Ikeja, Lagos State, on April 3^rd, 2025. The identified several challenges undermining Nigeria’s democracy, as well as recommendations which are aimed at strengthening democracy in Nigeria.

Theme of the Conference was Strengthening Nigeria Democracy: Pathways to Good Governance and Political Integrity.

Kunle Adegoke (SAN) delivered a paper titled Strengthening the Roles of CSOs, Political Parties, Media & other stakeholders in Mobilizing Citizens for Electoral Political Participation & Oversight Functions

He said “It has become imperative for us all to have interest in how to ensure that we get governance right as our fates and futures are determined by the choices we make or fail to make today just as our present has been a product of the past. It is on this note that I congratulate the organizers of today’s event for considering our collective interest a serious business that should not be left to chances.”

He concluded that the submissions at the conference are necessary if there is true desire to have a society where there is maximum participation in the electoral process and that all stakeholders have their different roles to play which cannot be left undone

Dr. Asekere Olujoke Funmilayo, Senior Lecture, Department of Mass Communication, Yaba College of Technology, said, “We must also address the issue of voter apathy. Voter apathy is a major challenge in our democratic process, and it has resulted in low voter turnout. We must work together to address voter apathy by promoting voter education and mobilization, as well as ensuring that our electoral process is free and fair. We must also address the issue of inadequate voter registration. Inadequate voter registration is another challenge in our electoral process, and it has resulted in the disenfranchisement of many citizens. We must work together to address inadequate voter registration by promoting voter registration drives, as well as ensuring that people truly understand the power of their votes.

“Furthermore, we must address the issue of corruption in our electoral process. Corruption is another major challenge in our electoral process, and it has resulted in the manipulation of election results. We must work together to address corruption in our electoral process by promoting transparency and accountability, as well as ensuring that our electoral officials are neutral and impartial.”

Speaking further, the erudite scholar said that Democracy is a multifaceted concept that extends far beyond the realm of elections and governance. “Democracy is a multifaceted concept that extends far beyond the realm of elections and governance. At its core, democracy is about empowering individuals with sovereignty, ensuring equality among citizens, and fostering a society that values and upholds democratic norms and principles. It is about creating a space where citizens can engage in deliberative discussions, exchange ideas, and participate in collective decision-making processes. Democracy is also about resistance and radical action, where individuals can challenge unjust systems and demand accountability from those in power,” Funmilayo added.

Professor Sylvester Odion Akhaine, Department of Political Science, Lagos State University, looked at Democratic practice in Nigeria after a protracted military rule by x-raying the contradictions of the Fourth Republic marked by Constitutional Deficit which include Pacted transition, rigged polls, weak parties, ideological poverty, defection, absence of tempering, Godfatherism, Corruption , Cost of governance and Illiberalism[ intolerance of dissenting views, rule of force, etc.]

However, at the end the Conference, the organisers, Centre for Democracy and Development issued a communiqué in which they identified some of the Challenges hindering democracy in Nigeria which include Constitutional Deficit comprising Structural and legal inadequacies that impede democratic consolidation. They are Electoral Integrity Issues: Widespread electoral malpractice, including vote buying, rigged polls, and lack of internal party democracy; Weak Political Parties: Absence of ideological direction, frequent defections, and dominance of godfatherism in party politics.

Others are, Corruption and Cost of Governance: High governance costs, poor accountability, and misuse of public resources; Limited Electoral Awareness and Participation: Low voter engagement, especially among youth, and inadequate election education at the grassroots.

They also talked about Challenges in Voter Registration and Accessibility, adding that there is Need for improved registration processes and the establishment of convenient polling units. They also alerted on the Lack of Institutional Strengthening: Weak democratic institutions unable to withstand undue political influence.

Further group advocated the strengthening of democracy in Nigeria by making the following key recommendations: Enhancing Electoral Awareness and Voter Empowerment, saying that Local Government Authorities (LGAs) should actively promote election awareness and facilitate voter registration closer to the people and the National Orientation Agency (NOA) should intensify its democracy education efforts beyond election cycles.

They also suggested improving Electoral Processes and Integrity by Political parties which must uphold internal democracy to ensure credible candidate selection and Institutional frameworks which should be strengthened to curb vote buying and electoral fraud.

The conference concluded by saying that in order to Strengthen Democratic Institutions and Leadership, there is need for the Establishment of robust institutions that uphold transparency and accountability and Recruitment of credible and service-driven political leaders through a refined selection process.

It further stated that to enhance Youth Engagement in Politics, there is need to provide young voters with accurate information to enable informed electoral participation and encouraging youth-led democratic initiatives and leadership development.

The conference also averred that addressing Governance Challenges must consider reducing the high cost of governance and promoting fiscal accountability and Encouraging statesmanship and visionary leadership among political actors.

According the Centre for Democracy and Development, the Strengthening Democracy Conference in Lagos underscored the urgent need for collective action in addressing democratic deficits and reinforcing governance structures.

Stakeholders also agreed that democracy must be seen as a marketplace of ideas, where power is transient and governance is a responsibility rather than an avenue for personal enrichment. Moving forward, there is a need for sustained engagement between citizens, electoral bodies, political parties, and governance institutions to ensure Nigeria’s democratic evolution remains on a progressive trajectory.