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Why I Won’t Force My Deputy To Join APC – Gov Diri

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Why I Won’t Force My Deputy To Join APC – Gov Diri

Gov. Douye Diri of Bayelsa says he will not compel his deputy, Sen Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, to join him in the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Diri formally joined the APC on November 3 without his deputy, fuelling speculations that Ewhrudjakpo has been penciled down for impeachment by the Bayelsa State House of Assembly majority of who followed Diri to APC.

The deputy governor subsequently approached a Federal High Court in Abuja to restrain the Bayelsa Assembly from the plot to impeach him for choosing to remain in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Diri resigned from PDP on Oct. 15 citing obvious reasons for his decision but his deputy did not join him in the new party.

The governor made the assertion during the weekly state executive council meeting in the Government House, Yenagoa, on Wednesday with Ewhrudjakpo also present.

According to him, as a matter of principle, I believe in engagement rather than confrontation; I will continue to discuss with my deputy.

While admitting that it is difficult for both of them to be in different political parties, Diri expressed the optimism that ongoing engagements with his deputy would yield positive results.

He disclosed that the case filed by Ewhrudjakpo at a Federal High Court in Abuja to halt a purported impeachment plan had been discontinued after they discussed it.

He urged the people of the state to love one another and see politics as a means to bring development and not to pull others down.

“I express our gratitude to the people of our state for the successful and well attended thanksgiving day service. The spirit of oneness and love is what we should keep exhibiting.

“I would also like to thank the people for the mammoth crowd at the sports complex during our defection.

“I appreciate the leader of our party, President Bola Tinubu, and Vice President Kashim Shettima. I pledge our loyalty to continue to work for a better Nigeria, for the upliftment of the standard of living of our people.

“Let me address an issue that had been a subject of speculation in the media. I do not intend to force people to join the APC but rather to appeal to them to see reason with me. I might have the power today but not tomorrow.

“It is actually difficult for the governor to be on one side and the deputy on another. But we will continue to talk and we might end up in the same party tomorrow.

“We must not heat up the polity. We are done with violence in Bayelsa State. We are brothers and we are one. Politics should be for the development of the state and not to fight one another.” Diri said.

On the rumour of the arrival in the state of armed men from a part of the country, the governor dispelled it as fake news.

He however, assured that security agencies had been put on notice to check any threat in any part of the state.

He reaffirmed Bayelsa as one of the most secured states in the country and urged the people to go about their businesses and report security issues to relevant agencies rather than rushing to post falsehoods on social media.

At the meeting, the Commissioner for Health, Prof. Seiyefa Brisibe, presented to the governor the recognition of Bayelsa as the “Best State in Health Insurance Service Delivery” by the Nigeria Governors Forum.

His counterpart in the Ministry of Sports, Dr. Daniel Igali, also presented a “Distinguished Governor Award for Outstanding Support to SWAN and Contribution to Sports Development In Nigeria” from the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria.

LIFE-ND Project, A Testament Of How Investment In Youth, Women Can Transform Communities -IFAD

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LIFE-ND Project, A Testament Of How Investment In Youth, Women Can Transform Communities -IFAD

The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) Country Director in Nigeria, Mrs Dede Ekoue, has described the Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprises in the Niger Delta (LIFE-ND) project as more than a development intervention but “a movement of hope, resilience, and transformation for young Nigerians.

The director disclosed that, “from our field visits, LIFE-ND stands as a living testimony of how targeted investments in youth and women can transform communities.”

The director stated this in Benin during the wrap-up of the Fifth Joint Supervision Mission of the FGN/NDDC/IFAD LIFE-ND Project.

This joint initiative of the Federal Government (FG), the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), is aimed to enhance rural livelihoods through agribusiness development.

Represented by the Country Programme Analyst, Dr Ogunniyi Adebayo, described Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprises in the Niger Delta (LIFE-ND) project as one that has impacted so many families in the region.

He commended the innovation and enterprise displayed by the beneficiaries across the region, saying that the project had continued to unlock productivity among youths and women.

“From our field visits, LIFE-ND stands as a living testimony of how targeted investments in youth and women can transform communities.

“IFAD remains committed to scaling up this success through additional financing,” Adebayo said.

Meanwhile, the Edo State Government has reiterated its commitment to sustaining and expanding the Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprises in the Niger Delta (LIFE-ND) project.

The state Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Dr Jerry Uwangue, stated this at the Wrap up meeting of the project implementors in Benin.

Uwangue said the eight-day mission marked another milestone in the collective efforts of partners to enhance rural livelihoods through agribusiness development, youth empowerment, and food systems transformation across the Niger Delta region.

He said Edo’s collaboration with IFAD and NDDC, under the proposed LIFE-ND Plus Initiative, was designed to consolidate achievements and extend project benefits to more communities and beneficiaries.

“Agriculture remains central to Edo’s economic diversification agenda.

“We are committed to strengthening food systems, promoting value addition, and creating market opportunities for farmers and agribusinesses,” he said.

Also speaking, the National Project Coordinator of LIFE-ND, Dr Abiodun Sanni, said the mission provided an opportunity to assess progress, share lessons, and strengthen sustainability strategies.

“The LIFE-ND project has proven to be a model of partnership — empowering youths and women, building viable agribusinesses, and promoting inclusive rural transformation

“identifying access to finance and climate resilience as key priorities going forward,” Sanni said.

In a closing remark, the Edo Project Coordinator, Mr John Omoruyi, expressed appreciation to the Mission Team for their professionalism, dedication, and constructive feedback, adding that their insights would strengthen project delivery and sustainability.

“Your guidance will enhance our implementation strategies and long-term impact,” Omoruyi said.

He reaffirmed Edo Government’s commitment to implementing agreed action points with renewed vigour and accountability.

The mission brought together representatives of FG, NDDC, IFAD, and participating states to review project performance, engage beneficiaries, and chart a roadmap for the next phase of the LIFE-ND initiative.

Alleged N868m Fraud: You Have Case To Answer, Court Tells Ex-Accountant-General of Nigeria

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Alleged N868m Fraud: You Have Case To Answer, Court Tells Ex-Accountant-General of Nigeria

The Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday, dismissed a no-case submission filed by former acting Accountant-General of the Federation (AGoF), Anamekwe Nwabuoku,.

He is charged with money laundering offences to the tune of N868 million.

Justice James Omotosho, in a ruling, held that a prima facie case had been made out against Nwabuoku by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) NDLEA to warrant him to enter his defence.

Justice Omotosho held that the evidence of the prosecution had founded sufficient ground for proceeding with the trial.

“in view of all the exhibits and the evidence of the prosecution, the defendant needs to give some explanations in these regards,” he said.

According to the judge, this is not to say that the defendant is guilty as charged but simply that they be afforded their right to fair hearing and put in their defence before this court.

“I must say here that holding that a prima facie case has been established does not necessarily imply that the court finds the defendants guilty of the charge,” he said

Justice Omotosho said that for Nwabuoku to open his defence was to allow him exhaust the options for his defence and to clear every unresolved issue.

“The defendant is still presumed innocent until proven guilty and the prosecution still has the duty to prove the charge beyond reasonable doubt,” the judge said.

He, however, said that a prima facie case of engaging in money laundering, among other offences, had been established against the ex-AGoF.

The judge, who said that the court was inclined to giving Nwabuoku the opportunity to defend himself, however said that this could be waived expressly or by conduct.

Justice Omotosho consequently adjourned the matter until November 24, November 25 and December 9 for Nwabuoku to open and close his defence.

The judge had, on November 3, fixed today for the ruling on the no-case submission.

Justice Omotosho fixed the date after counsel for Nwabuoku, Harrison Quakers, and lawyer to EFCC, Ekele Iheanacho, SAN, adopted their processes and presented their arguments for and against the application.

Nwabuoku was admitted to a N500 million bail with two sureties in the like sum after he was arraigned on Jan. 15 on a nine-count amended charge.

The EFCC had, in the charge marked: FHC/ABJ/CR/240/2024, listed Nwabuoku as sole defendant.

In count one of the charge filed on November 27, 2024, the EFCC alleged that Nnabuoku, alongside Temeeo Synergy Concept Limited (at large), Turge Global Investment Limited (at large), Laptev Bridge Limited, Arafura Transnational Afro Limited (at large) and other persons (all at large) conspired to convert funds.

The funds were said to be proceeds of unlawful activities.

The anti-graft agency said the offence was contrary to Section 18 of the Money Laundering Prohibition Act, 2011 as (amended by Act No. 1 of 2012) and punishable under Section 15(3) of the same Act.

Nwabuoku was alleged to have perpetrated the act while he served as the Director of Finance and Accounts in the Ministry of Defence between 2019 and 2021.

Nwabuoku was later appointed acting AGoF on May 20, 2022 under ex-President Muhammadu Buhari after Ahmed Idris was suspended as AGoF over alleged N80 billion fraud.

He was, however, removed in July 2022, few weeks after assumed office.

Sylva Okolieaboh, a Director at the Treasury Single Account (TSA) Department, replaced Nwabuoku as acting AGoF.

Okolieaboh’s appointment followed a report that Nwabuoku was under the radar of EFCC over corruption allegations.

On January 31, 2025, the 1st prosecution witness (PW-1), Eucharia Ezeodi, a Zenith Bank Plc staff, and a director with the federal civil service, Felix Nweke, a PW-2, gave their testimonies against the defendant.

The anti-graft agency, however, closed its case after calling nine witnesses to establish its case against Nwabuoku.

Two Nigerians Rescued, Two Others Missing In Mediterranean Sea Shipwreck – IOM … 42 Persons Feared Dead

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Two Nigerians Rescued, Two Others Missing In Mediterranean Sea Shipwreck – IOM … 42 Persons Feared Dead

The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) says two Nigerian nationals are missing while two others died after a vessel carrying 49 people capsized while crossing the Mediterranean.

IOM said 42 people are missing and presumed dead and seven rescued following a shipwreck off Libya, the latest fatal crossing in the Central Mediterranean.

More than 1,000 lives have been lost in 2025 in the Mediterranean, according to IOM.

The Nigerians were among 49 migrants and refugees aboard a rubber boat that departed from Zuwara in northwest Libya around 3am on November 3, IOM said, citing survivors.

“The vessel capsized roughly six hours later after high waves caused the engine to fail,” IOM said.

“All passengers, 47 men and two women, were thrown overboard.

“The boat drifted for six days before Libyan authorities rescued seven men – four from Sudan, two from Nigeria and one from Cameroon – on Nov. 8.

“The missing passengers include 29 from Sudan, eight from Somalia, three from Cameroon, and two from Nigeria.”

The agency said, “IOM’s team provided the survivors with emergency medical care, water, and food upon arrival at the disembarkation point in coordination with relevant authorities,”

The tragic event comes just weeks after other deadly incidents off Surman, Libya, and the island of Lampedusa in southern Italy.

Latest data from IOM’s Missing Migrants Project reveals that the death toll in the Central Mediterranean has already surpassed 1,000 this year, as people attempt the treacherous sea journey to Europe.

“With this latest shipwreck, the total has risen even further, reinforcing the urgent need for strengthened regional cooperation,” IOM said.

The agency also called for “expanded safe and regular migration pathways and more effective search and rescue operations to prevent further loss of life”.

“IOM upholds that humane and orderly migration benefits both “people on the move” and society as a whole.”

Since 2014, more than 25,600 people have died or disappeared in the Central Mediterranean, which spans from North Africa to Italy.

It is the world’s deadliest migration route due to factors that include the length of the journey, which can take days.

Other factors include increasingly dangerous smuggling patterns, gaps in search-and-rescue capacity and restrictions on the work of NGOs saving lives at sea.

In addition, migrants often make the crossing in unseaworthy, overloaded inflatable boats.

IOM said because many of the unseaworthy vessels can be launched at one time, this can complicate search and rescue efforts.

EFCC Investigates Two Suspected Oil Thieves In Uyo

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EFCC Investigates Two Suspected Oil Thieves In Uyo

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has begun investigations of two suspected oil thieves, who were arrested over alleged dealing in petroleum products without the requisite licence.

Its spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, said this in a statement on Thursday in Abuja.

According to him, they were arrested at Ikot Ekpene on Nov. 4, by a Joint Task Force team of officers from the 2-Brigade Nigerian Army Military Cantonment, Mbiokporo, Nsit Ibom Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.

He said the suspects were handed over to the Uyo Zonal Directorate of the EFCC on November 7.

Oyewale said, ”At the time of their arrest, the suspects were allegedly loading petroleum products suspected to be illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) from an underground dump into a truck.

”An estimated quantity of 19,400 litres of the said product were stored in the underground dump at Olive Field Filling Station Ikot Ekpene.

”Other items handed over to the commission include: The Iveco truck loaded with approximately 3, 287 litres of the illegally refined AGO and the underground dump at Olive Field Filling Station with estimated 19, 400 litres of the suspected illegally refined AGO.

”Other items include: two Yamaha pumping machines, four suction hoses, one Mercedes Benz MI 350 with registration number KRF 287 EP and a DAF 75 CF with Reg. number GGE 193 XG.”

He said Col. JK Adisa handed over the suspects and exhibits on behalf of the Commander 2-Brigade Nigeria Army, Brig.-Gen. NE Okoloagu.

According to him, Assistant Superintendent of the EFCC, ASE 1 Taiwo Habeeb, received the suspects and exhibits on behalf of the Zonal Director, Assistant Commander of the EFCC ACE1 Oshodi Johnson.

He thanked the Army for the confidence reposed in the Commission and assured them of a thorough investigation and diligent prosecution.

A’Ibom Assembly Orders Clampdown On Covered Number Plates, Unregistered Vehicles

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A’Ibom Assembly Orders Clampdown On Covered Number Plates, Unregistered Vehicles

The Akwa Ibom House of Assembly has passed a resolution urging relevant agencies to clamp down on covered numbered plates and unregistered vehicle users in the state.

The resolution followed a motion on urgent public importance moved by Mr Uwem Imoh-Ita, the member representing Mkpat Enin constituency.

In the resolution, the house directed the police command in Akwa Ibom to ensure strict enforcement of the ban on use of covered number plates and unregistered vehicles.

The assembly further directed the state Ministry of Works and Fire Service to take the matter up with construction companies in the state to ensure compliance.

It also urged the Federal Road Safety Corps in the state to intensify surveillance on the matter in the interest of public safety

Moving the motion, Imoh-Ita said that some residents of that state had developed the habit of using covered number plates and unregistered vehicles.

“It has been noticed that many vehicles belonging to construction companies that operate in the state are guilty of this.

“Their vehicles, especially heavy-duty trucks, ply the roads without registration or identification numbers, this is not allowed,” he said.

The assemblyman said that such vehicles posed serious threats to public safety, because they could not be traced in the event of an accident.

FG Suspends Implementation of 15% Import Duty On Fuel, Diesel

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FG Suspends Implementation of 15% Import Duty On Fuel, Diesel

The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has announced that it will no longer pursue the planned 15 percent import duty on petroleum products.

George Ene-Ita, Director of the Authority’s Public Affairs Department, made the disclosure on Thursday, advising the public to avoid panic buying.

It would be recalled that on October 29, President Bola Tinubu had approved an import tariff on petrol and diesel, a measure intended to increase the landing cost of imported fuel.

The approval was communicated in a letter signed by his Private Secretary, Damilotun Aderemi, following a proposal by the Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service, Zacch Adedeji.

The proposed policy sought to apply a 15 per cent duty on the cost, insurance, and freight (CIF) value of imported petrol and diesel to align import prices with domestic market realities. Implementation was scheduled for November 21, 2025.

The duty was designed to support local refineries, including the Dangote Refinery and modular plants, by making imported fuel more expensive. However, experts warned it could raise fuel prices for consumers, potentially adding up to ₦150 per litre or more, and contribute to inflation and higher transportation costs.

In its update, NMDPRA confirmed that the import duty would no longer be implemented. “It should also be noted that the implementation of the 15% ad-valorem import duty on imported Premium Motor Spirit and Diesel is no longer in view,” the statement read.

The Authority further reassured Nigerians that the country has an adequate supply of petroleum products, within the acceptable national sufficiency threshold, especially during this peak demand .

“There is a robust domestic supply of petroleum products (AGO, PMS, LPG, etc) sourced from both local refineries and importation to ensure timely replenishment of stocks at storage depots and retail stations during this period.

“The Authority wishes to use this opportunity to advise against any hoarding, panic buying, or non-market reflective escalation of prices of petroleum products.

“The Authority will continue to closely monitor the supply situation and take appropriate regulatory measures to prevent disruption of supply and distribution of petroleum products across the country, especially during this peak demand period
NMDPRA also warned against hoarding, panic buying, and unjustified price increases, pledging to closely monitor the supply situation and take regulatory measures to prevent disruptions.

“While appreciating the continued efforts of stakeholders in the midstream and downstream value chain in ensuring smooth and uninterrupted supply, the public is assured of NMDPRA’s commitment to energy security,” the statement concluded.

The Pen That Shapes the Nation: Uzodimma Challenges Editors to Uphold Democracy, Unity, and Electoral Integrity Ahead of 2027

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The Pen That Shapes the Nation: Uzodimma Challenges Editors to Uphold Democracy, Unity, and Electoral Integrity Ahead of 2027

Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has urged Nigerian editors to embrace their influence responsibly in shaping public trust, national cohesion, and democracy ahead of the 2027 general elections. He delivered the keynote address at the 2025 All Nigerian Editors Conference (ANEC) in Abuja, themed “Democratic Governance and National Cohesion: The Role of Editors” with the sub-theme “Electoral Integrity and Trust Deficit: What Nigerians Expect in 2027.”

Describing editors as “gatekeepers of truth,” Uzodimma said their decisions shape national perception, public trust, and the very soul of Nigeria’s democracy.

“Without electoral integrity, democracy won’t exist.”

“Electoral integrity begets democracy and democracy begets good governance and good governance fast-tracks the exorcism of trust deficit.”

He emphasized the power editors wield in society:

“You wield the most powerful weapon on earth — the pen. Every editorial choice, every headline and every frame determines how Nigerians see their leaders, their democracy, and their country. The pen is mightier than the sword, and in your hands lies the power to heal or to divide.”

He called on editors to rise above commercial, political, and proprietary pressures, committing to national interest, accuracy, and integrity in reporting.

“Coverage that frames every political disagreement as existential conflict, every policy as failure, trains citizens to see democracy as chaos.”

Reflecting on the 2023 general elections, the Governor said editorial decisions significantly influenced public perception of electoral integrity. While some newsrooms upheld professionalism and provided context, others amplified narratives of systematic fraud. This selective framing, he noted, eroded public confidence, shaped voter attitudes, and, in some cases, undermined the legitimacy of the process.

Citing the 2023 Edelman Trust Barometer, Uzodimma highlighted the gravity of the trust deficit:

Only 51% of Nigerians trust the media, compared with 71% for NGOs and 66% for businesses.

“When citizens distrust the media, democracy itself is endangered.”

He stressed that electoral integrity begins with editorial integrity, noting that editors cannot abdicate responsibility while holding others accountable. The narratives they create shape the nation’s political culture and determine whether Nigerians enter elections in hope or cynicism.

Uzodimma urged editors to promote cohesion, shared values, and confidence in democracy, citing economic growth, foreign investment, and robust market activity as examples of narratives that inspire patriotism.

“You can hold the government accountable while still highlighting progress. Editorial choices can inspire patriotism and confidence ahead of 2027 without compromising professional integrity.”

In his closing remarks, the Governor commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to transparency and national cohesion:

“When a sitting President dedicates time to a gathering of editors and communication professionals, it signals that the battle against disinformation and the project of national cohesion are treated as matters of national importance.”

He reminded attendees of the media’s unique role as the Fourth Estate:

“Let 2027 be the election year when the media became architects of a shared democratic future.”

“The narratives chosen between now and then will determine whether Nigerians approach the polls with trust, unity, and hope.”

“You are the last line standing, the goldfish of our democracy. Your choices matter.”

The conference, which brought together top editors, media executives, and communication professionals from across the nation, continued with panels on electoral reporting, trust restoration, and nation-building through responsible journalism.

2026: Adeleke Presents N705bn “Budget Of Economic Transformation” To Assembly

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2026: Adeleke Presents N705bn “Budget Of Economic Transformation” To Assembly

Gov. Ademola Adeleke of Osun on Wednesday presented N705 billion before the state assembly as the 2026 draft budget for consideration and approval.

Adeleke said the budget, christened “Budget of Economic Transformation”, is a financial document declaring his administration’s unwavering commitment to improving the lives of every citizen of the state.

The governor said the budget comprises Recurrent Expenditure of N317 billion, made up of personnel cost of N135 billion and overhead cost of N182 billion, which represents 45 per cent of the total budget.

Adeleke also said that the Capital Expenditure amounts to ₦388 billion, which is 55 per cent of the total budget.

The governor said the projected revenue expected in 2026 is N22.7 billion from government share of Federation Account Allocation Committee ( FAAC), Independent Revenue of N199.6 billion, and other receipts of N268 billion.

He said the 2026 budget proposal was prepared based on the projection of the 2026 – 2028 Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) as required by the State Fiscal Responsibility Law 2012.

In his remarks, Mr Adewale Egbedun, Speaker of the Assembly, said the presentation of the budget was constitutionally permissive under Section 121 (1) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (amended).

Egbedun said the assembly would give legislative support to the executive and continue to promote equity, trust, justice, transparency, and prosperity in the state.

He said the assembly would also demand thorough accountability from the heads of ministries, agencies, and departments of government for previous appropriations and expenditures during oversight functions.

‎NGE Seeks Media Tax Relief, Legal Protection For Journalists

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‎NGE Seeks Media Tax Relief, Legal Protection For Journalists

The President of the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), Mr Eze Anaba, has called for fiscal incentives, legal protection, and policy support to strengthen journalism and safeguard press freedom in Nigeria.

‎‎Anaba made the call on Wednesday in his address at the opening of the 21st All Nigerian Editors Conference (ANEC) held at the State House, Abuja, and declared open by President Bola Tinubu.

‎‎He said the conference, themed “Democratic Governance and National Cohesion: The Role of Editors”, reflected the editors’ resolve to uphold truth, deepen democracy, and promote unity.

‎‎The NGE President commended Tinubu for attending the conference, describing his presence as a demonstration of his administration’s recognition of the media as a strategic partner in nation-building.

‎‎He paid tribute to the founding leaders of the Guild, including Malam Baba Dantiye, who initiated the first editors’ conference in 2004, and other industry pioneers such as Uncle Sam Amuka, Aremo Segun Osoba, Prince Nduka Obaigbena, Malam Kabiru Yusuf, and Dr John Momoh.

‎‎Anaba said Nigerian editors must continue to uphold truth, fairness and balance while resisting divisive narratives and misinformation.

‎‎“Editors must defend the sanctity of truth, insist on transparency, and hold power to account, not as adversaries of government, but as constructive partners in the pursuit of national progress,” he said.

‎‎He warned that press freedom remained under threat from economic hardship, insecurity, and repressive laws, calling for reforms to ensure the survival of the media as both a business and a public good.

‎‎The NGE president outlined key policy recommendations, including corporate tax relief for media houses, VAT exemption on media inputs, tax incentives for advertisers, and access to affordable financing for news organizations.

‎‎He also proposed the creation of a Media Development Fund to support digital innovation and newsroom transformation, to be managed by an independent board.

‎‎On legal reforms, Anaba called for the repeal of laws that hinder press freedom and the establishment of a Media Freedom and Safety Charter endorsed by the Presidency, Legislature, and Judiciary.

‎‎“We seek state-sanctioned protection of journalists carrying out legitimate work from arbitrary arrests or misuse of cybercrime laws,” he added.

‎‎Anaba urged editors to use their platforms to foster peace, inclusion, and national understanding, stressing that “the pen must never become an instrument of division or hate, but a tool for healing and bridge-building.”

‎‎He appealed to the President to recognise journalism as a public good deserving of targeted fiscal and legal support “not for patronage, but to strengthen the foundations of democracy.”

‎‎“When the press thrives, democracy breathes. When it is stifled, democracy suffocates,” Anaba said.

‎‎He reaffirmed the Guild’s commitment to ethical journalism, professional development, and collaboration with government and civil society to build a just and united Nigeria.

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