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NDA Course 47 Marks 30th Reunion With Health Walk, Sporting Activities

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Members of the 47th Regular Course of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) have converged on Abuja for their 30th reunion anniversary, the first since leaving the academy.

The reunion activities commenced on Friday with series of activities including the health walk and sporting activities on Saturday morning to end with a dinner.

The health walk had the members who are mainly serving officers of the Nigerian Army, Navy and Air Force and their spouses, participating.

Among the members of the course is the Director-General, National Youths Service Corps, Brig -Gen. Olakunle Nafiu and the Naval Spokesperson, Commodore Ayiwuyor Adams-Aliu, among others.

Speaking to newsmen at the event, Commodore Ahmad Madawaki, Chairman, Central Organising Committee, said the reunion was a long-awaited moment for the course, bringing together colleagues, families and friends.

Madawaki said the three-day event began on Friday with Juma’at prayers and a social evening, and would feature sports, family breakfast, a health talk, an annual general meeting and a reunion dinner.

He said the dinner would be graced by retired Air Marshal Al-Amin Dagash, the first Commandant of NDA when they commenced the course.

“We have looked forward to this for many years, and to the glory of God, it has become possible this year.

“It is heartwarming to see colleagues, families and spouses gathered together.

“Even though we have lost some colleagues over the years, their memories remain with us as we celebrate,” he said.

Madawaki wished the course continued success, good health, more promotions, long life and stronger unity, adding that the reunion was an opportunity to renew bonds and celebrate achievements.

The celebration is expected to round off on Sunday with a thanksgiving service

Lighting Expo Records N600m Deals, Boosts China-Africa Cooperation

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The 2025 Nigeria International Lighting Exhibition has ended in Lagos, with on-site transactions exceeding N600 million and fresh commitments to deepen China-Africa cooperation in lighting and energy.

The exhibition, with the theme ‘Zero-Carbon Lighting: Supporting Nigeria’s Energy Transition Goals,’ was held from Wednesday, September 17-19, in Lagos.

Ms Lisa Lin Xueying, General Manager of Zhongshan Company Ltd., organisers of the expo, said the exhibition attracted over 100 global enterprises alongside several local firms.

She said over 3,000 professional attendees witnessed the signing of landmark agreements between local and foreign companies during the two-day event.

According to her, VellMax and Solar-Sunbest Integrated Services Ltd signed an intent order valued at N100 million.

She added that MXS Home, Buchi Lighting, Great Future, Cieto Lighting, De Solid Vision and De King entered long-term partnerships estimated at N500 million annually.

Describing the outcome as phenomenal, Xueying said it had positioned Nigeria as a hub for Africa’s lighting industry.

She noted that the development had transformed China-Africa lighting cooperation “from blueprint to reality.”

“The deals signed with local entrepreneurs will further open Nigeria’s lighting and energy sector,” she said.

Xueying stated that the West Africa-exclusive exhibition set records in commercial value, technological empowerment, knowledge sharing, and innovation over the past three days.

She revealed that more than 20 exhibitors showcased products ranging from smart lighting solutions to off-grid photovoltaic systems, highlighting technology’s role in lighting up Africa.

According to her, ten thematic forums were held on tax policies, professional standards, and investment opportunities, guiding firms planning operations in Nigeria.

She expressed gratitude to exhibitors, describing the event as “a beacon for Africa, lighting up Lagos with technological innovation.”

Looking ahead, Xueying announced plans to establish the Africa Lighting Industry Alliance and the China-Africa Technology Transfer Centre in 2026.

She added that the 2026 edition of the exhibition would hold in Lagos from September 16-18, 2025.

Commending the organisers, Mr Anthony Ifeanyi, Chief Executive Officer of Cieto Lighting, said he secured a distributorship deal worth N100 million.

“I appreciate the organisers of this expo and pray it continues, enabling more local entrepreneurs to benefit,” Ifeanyi said.

Also, Mr Agochukwu Elijah, Managing Director of MXS Home, said the event provided a long-awaited opportunity to expand his business.

Earlier, Chief Casmir Emenine, President of Lagos Island Electrical Dealers Association, stressed that the expo went beyond showcasing lamps and fixtures.

He said it demonstrated how technology and creativity intersect to shape experiences, moods, and possibilities.

According to him, lighting often connects with architecture, interior design and artificial intelligence, enhancing comfort, safety, and functionality.

Living 59 Years With Sickle Cell: Ifeoma Christine Ifejika, A Powerhouse Of Hope And Strength

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There are stories that inspire not just because of what they say but because of the life lived behind them. Sickle cell disorder is one such story—a genetic blood condition in which red blood cells, instead of flowing smoothly, take a rigid, “sickle” shape. These cells can block blood vessels, causing pain crises, fatigue, and other serious health complications. For millions living with this condition, resilience, courage, and hope are part of daily life.
Majority of persons with sickle cell hardly live long. Indeed, it is delightfully strange to such persons. That is why the story of Ifeoma Christine Ifejika is a compelling story of hope and resilience.

Yesterday, September 17, 2025, that resilience came alive at the launch of Phoenix Rising and Love Letters to Warriors, authored by the remarkable 59-year-old sickle cell warrior, Ifeoma Christine Ifejika. Held at Nooks Apartment, Trans Amadi, Port Harcourt, the event radiated warmth and a profound sense of belonging. It was more than a book launch—it was a celebration of hope and the power of the human spirit.

From the start, attendees were welcomed into an intimate, uplifting atmosphere. The compere’s contagious energy kept everyone engaged throughout the program. Guests from different spheres and walks of life were not mere spectators. They became part of a shared experience, witnessing stories of courage unfold in real time.

Several sickle cell warriors, as well as those who had lost loved ones to the disorder, took the stage to share their journeys. Their narratives were raw, authentic, and deeply moving—sharing trials marked by rejection, loneliness, and helplessness, alongside triumphs and moments of hope. They emphasized the genetic risks of the condition, advising couples carrying sickle cell genes to be aware of potential challenges for their children. These testimonies were seamlessly interwoven with Ifeoma’s own story, creating a tapestry of strength that resonated with everyone present.

Ifeoma Christine Ifejika took the spotlight, narrating her journey with heartfelt honesty. Describing Phoenix Rising as the chronicle of her 59-year journey with sickle cell disorder, she shared an excerpt revealing her first crisis at the age of nine and how those early challenges shaped her resilience and determination.

Her second book, Love Letters to Warriors, reflects the battles she fought and won. It is not just for those born with sickle cell disorder but for anyone bearing a cross, offering encouragement and hope.

“They are words of healing, hope, and peace of mind to help process what one is going through positively,” she stated.

With guidance from her late mother, who was medically inclined, Ifeoma learned to manage crises and avoided living in the stigmatization of shame and fear of rejection. Instead, she embraced her condition while recognizing that there is more to her than sickle cell disorder.

“I am planted in the sickle cell farm, but I have to bloom despite the thorns of sickle cell disorder.”

Love Letters to Warriors highlights her battles and triumphs while also sharing experiences of other warriors. She calls this fight “deliberate,” reflecting the daily realities of every person living with the condition.

“These letters reflect personal battles that God’s special grace helped me overcome. They also mirror other experiences shared by other warriors, and we have to battle together.”

Like a phoenix rising from the ashes, Ifeoma has transformed the trials of living with sickle cell disorder into a story of hope, renewal, and inspiration. Despite decades of living with the condition, she has turned her experiences into encouragement for others. Her books stem from a desire to uplift sickle cell warriors and show that courage and purpose can thrive even amidst adversity.

Beyond her writing, Ifeoma is the founder of the Sickle Cell Interactive Management Association (SCIMA), a Nigerian nonprofit established in 2005 to address neglect and ignorance about sickle cell disorder. SCIMA raises awareness, provides counselling, and supports affected individuals through campaigns, workshops, and exhibitions while collaborating with stakeholders to advocate for better healthcare services and policies.

Nigeria has one of the highest rates of the sickle cell gene (HbS) in the world, with about 20–25% of Nigerians carrying the sickle cell trait (AS) and roughly 2–3% of children born with sickle cell disease (SS). An estimated 150,000 to 200,000 babies are born each year with sickle cell disease in the country.

Dr. Vetty Agala, Executive Secretary of the Rivers State Contributory Health Protection Programme (RIVCHPP), assured attendees that the government is aware of this health challenge and is committed to creating more sickle cell awareness across the 23 local governments of Rivers State, as well as providing financial support to those affected by enrolling them in the state’s health insurance scheme.

Members of the Port Harcourt Rotary Club were also present, lending their full support and emphasizing the importance of community advocacy for sickle cell awareness.

The event was a blend of emotion, celebration, and engagement. Beyond the personal stories, guests enjoyed a lively fashion runway and an auction, adding vibrancy and interactive excitement to the evening.

The launch of Phoenix Rising and Love Letters to Warriors was more than a literary event; it was a celebration of resilience, community, and the transformative power of storytelling. Ifeoma Christine Ifejika emerged not just as an author, but as a symbol of courage, strength, and unwavering hope—a true powerhouse whose life reminds us that even in the face of adversity, one can rise, inspire, and illuminate the paths of others.

By Miracle Chidinma Amaechi

Naval Chief Tasks Personnel On Sustained Physical Fitness, Mental Readiness

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The Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Adm. Emmanuel Ogalla, says sustained physical fitness of personnel remains crucial to the navy’s frontline role in Gulf of Guinea security and internal operations.

Ogalla, represented by the Chief of Operations, Rear Adm. Patrick Nwatu, stated this at the 2025 Nigerian Navy Third Quarter Route March on Saturday in Abuja.

He said the march was more than a fitness routine, describing it as a deliberate strategy to sharpen mental alertness, strengthen endurance, and prepare personnel for the demands of contemporary security challenges.

“The navy’s responsibilities at sea and ashore make it imperative for us to remain mentally alert and physically fit at all times,” he said.

Ogalla said the navy had participated in the recent multinational naval drills, including Exercise Obangame Express, Free Transit, Grand African Nemo and Crocodile Lift to strengthen cooperation with regional and international partners.

According to him, the exercises also enhance maritime domain awareness and safeguard critical sea lanes in the Gulf of Guinea.

The naval chief urged personnel to remain professional, disciplined and respectful of human rights, stressing that synergy with civilians and stakeholders was essential to sustaining national peace and security.

He commended participants of the route march for their resilience, saying their performance demonstrated readiness to defend the nation when called upon.

The march drew participation from across naval units in Abuja as well as youth corps members, sister security agencies, and members of the public.

STATEWIDE BROADCAST BY HIS EXCELLENCY, SIR SIMINALAYI FUBARA, GSSRS

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My dear good people of Rivers State

Recall that Rivers State was placed under a six-month emergency rule, declared by Mr. President, His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, on the 18th of March, 2025, following the intense political crisis in our State.

2. It is without doubt that the last six months had been enormously challenging for our dear State under the emergency rule.

3. As your Governor, I accepted to abide by the state of emergency declaration and chose to cooperate with Mr. President and the National Assembly, guided by my conviction that no sacrifice was too great to secure peace, stability, and progress of Rivers State.

4. This was why I also resisted the pressure to challenge the constitutionality of the declaration of a state of emergency, the suspension of democratic institutions, and all other actions that we endured during this difficult period.

5. In the course of the six-month period, Mr. President graciously brokered the peace process with all the parties successfully. Our Leader, His Excellency, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, CON, all members of the Rivers State House of Assembly and I, as your Governor, have all accepted to bury the hatchet and embrace peace and reconciliation in the best interest of our dear Rivers State.

6. We believe the political crisis is now behind us and that peace and stability have once again returned to Rivers State, though not without the hard lessons learnt from the emergency rule.

7. The responsibility now rests squarely on us: the Government, the State House of Assembly, political leaders and stakeholders to put aside our differences, work for the common good, and advance the interests of our people above all else. We have a duty to ensure that the peace we have all embraced remains permanent in our dear Rivers State.

8. On behalf of the Government and the good people of Rivers State, I extend our heartfelt gratitude to Mr. President for his fatherly disposition and decisive interventions in resolving the political crisis and for graciously restoring full democratic governance to our State.

9. Personally, I will never take Mr. President’s kindness for granted, and for that, I hereby reaffirm my utmost loyalty and eternal gratitude.

10. To those who have expressed genuine fears, frustrations, and uncertainty over the nature of the peace process, I assure you that your concerns are valid and understood. However, nothing has been irretrievably lost; there remains ample opportunity for necessary adjustments, continued reconciliation, and inclusiveness. We must all remember the saying… ” the costliest peace is cheaper than the cheapest war”.

11. Accordingly, let us, therefore, embrace this moment as a fresh beginning. Let us work together with renewed hope and determination to build a stronger, more peaceful and prosperous Rivers State. I assure you that we will continuously work towards ensuring that we carry everyone along.

12. Despite the turbulence, you are aware of the credible milestones our administration achieved in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and other key sectors over the last two years.

13. Our immediate responsibility is to return to the path of governance and development by completing the projects which we started by ensuring none of them is starved of funds or neglected, thereby reviving our economy, protecting lives and property, and improving the wellbeing of all Rivers people.

14. I commit to working harmoniously with the Rivers State House of Assembly to recover lost grounds and accelerate the social and economic advancement of our dear State. I also renew my pledge to serve with the fear of God, humility and a high sense of duty.

15. I wish to sincerely thank you, the resilient people of Rivers State, for your patience, courage, and peaceful conduct during the six months of emergency rule.

16. I also extend appreciation to all stakeholders, religious leaders, traditional rulers, civil society groups, political actors, women groups, youths, concerned citizens at home and abroad, and well-wishers whose prayers and support sustained us through the challenging period.

17. Above all, let us draw strength from our shared identity as Rivers people. Our diversity is our greatest asset, and our unity the strongest guarantee of our future. We must rise above bitterness and division and channel our energies into rebuilding trust, fostering inclusiveness, and securing a peaceful and prosperous State for all.

18. Once again, I thank and appreciate our Father, Mr President, His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR for his timely intervention and dedication to ensuring the restoration of peace and stability in our State.

19. 1 also thank our Leader, His Excellency Nyesom Ezenwo Wike CON, the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory for committing to the prompt resolution of the political impasse in the State.
20. I also wish to express my profound thanks to the President of the Senate His Excellency Senator Godswill Akpabio; the Speaker of the House of Representatives, His Excellency Dr. Abbas Tajudeen; and the distinguished members of the National Assembly for the role they all played in the resolution of the matter.

21. I thank the Honourable Speaker and all members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, respected elders, stakeholders and all concerned citizens for working together to resolve our differences and ensuring peace and harmony in our State.

22. Finally, I call on all citizens of Rivers State, regardless of political, religious, or ethnic affiliation, to join hands in rebuilding our beloved State and securing a future of dignity and progress for everyone. In all, I give glory to the Almighty God.

Thank you all.

May God bless Rivers State and all its people.

May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Fubara Pledges Unity, Progress As Rivers State Moves Ahead

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Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has assured residents of renewed focus on peace, unity, and development as the state emerges from six months of emergency rule.

In a broadcast on Friday, the Governor reflected on the political turbulence that led President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to impose emergency rule on March 18, 2025.

He described the period as “difficult but necessary” and said his administration chose cooperation over confrontation for the sake of peace.

“No sacrifice is too great to secure the peace, stability, and progress of Rivers State,” Fubara declared.

He thanked President Tinubu for mediating reconciliation between him, Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike, and the Rivers State House of Assembly.

Governor Fubara also commended the National Assembly, traditional rulers, civil society, and citizens for supporting the state through the crisis.

According to Fubara, the renewed peace provides an opportunity to “recover lost grounds” and accelerate governance. He pledged to complete stalled projects, boost the economy, improve healthcare and education, and work with the Assembly to deliver inclusive development.

Addressing concerns about lasting peace, the Governor urged Rivers people to remain patient and united. “The costliest peace is still cheaper than the cheapest war,” he reminded.

Calling for an end to political and ethnic divisions, Fubara said Rivers’ diversity must be seen as a strength rather than a weakness. “We must rise above bitterness and channel our energies into building a peaceful and prosperous state for all,” he added.

Increased FAAC Allocation:  Group Tasks LGs On Grassroots Impact

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The Tinubu Media Force (TMF), a support group for President Bola Tinubu, has called on  local governments across the country to translate the improved funds allocated  to them by the Federal Government  to greater impact at the grassroots.

TMF National Coordinator, Mr Oluwagbenga Abiola, made the call in a statement on Friday in Lagos, while applauding President Bola Tinubu’s leadership ingenuity in generating and allocating  more funds to states and local governments.

Abiola commended Tinubu for the historic revenue distribution milestone achieved through the Federation Accounts Allocation Committee (FAAC) in August.

According to him, FAAC disbursement of N2.225 trillion to the three tiers of government in August, marks the second consecutive month that allocations have surpassed N2 trillion.

“This as clear evidence of the President’s economic reforms, fiscal discipline, and bold measures to plug revenue leakages.

“We challenges local governments to invest in food hubs, entrepreneurship support, CNG transport, and market logistics.

“The record disbursement must translate into tangible benefits for ordinary Nigerians.

“The local governments, being the closest arm of government to the people, are uniquely positioned to channel these resources into projects that directly reduce the cost of living,” he said.

The coordinator of the youth-based group said investment in the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) bus transportation models would be a sustainable solution to rising transport costs.

On food security, Abiola advised local councils to establish food hubs and storage facilities across the country’s 774 local government areas.

He noted that such infrastructure would reduce post-harvest losses, stabilise supply chains, and keep food prices affordable for families.

“Food hubs and storage systems at the grassroots will enhance preservation, minimise waste, and guarantee fair returns for both farmers and traders,” he said.

Abiola called for the creation of logistics and distribution mechanism  that can supply food efficiently into local government markets.

By putting structured systems in place, Abiola argued that councils would gain a measure of regulatory oversight over food supply and pricing, while also ensuring consistent access to safe and affordable produce in every community.

He also stressed the importance of entrepreneurship funding and talent discovery for young people

Abiola urged local governments to establish programmes that nurture innovation and creativity at the grassroots.

“By creating youth enterprise funds, training hubs, and skill incubation centers, councils can empower the next generation with opportunities for self-reliance, job creation, and sustainable livelihoods,” he added.

He urged local governments to craft policies in line with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, stressing that the record FAAC allocation presented an unprecedented opportunity.

Fubara To Make Statewide Broadcast, 6.00pm Today

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Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has arrived in Port Harcourt.

The governor arrived at the Port Harcourt International Airport at about 12:19 p.m. on Friday, more than 24 hours after President Bola Tinubu ended the six-month emergency rule in the state.

He was greeted by a crowd of supporters who had earlier converged at the VIP wing of the Port Harcourt International Airport, awaiting his arrival

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, who arrived at the Port Harcourt International Airport, Friday is expected to make a statewide broadcast to the people of the state by 6.00 p.m today, September 19 2025. He is expected, during the broadcast, to acknowledge every stakeholder who contributed to the ongoing peace and stability in the state.

The governor who arrived at the Government House in Port Harcourt, accompanied by his wife, key stakeholders, and security heads, and his Chief of Staff, Edison Ehie.

On arrival at Government House, the governor inspected his official residence and later proceeded to his office.

Speaking to journalists, Governor Fubara expressed gratitude for the warm reception he received at the airport and the crowd that gathered at the government house yesterday, describing it as a display of love and solidarity.

“I am humbled by what I saw at the airport. I was also briefed and shown photographs of what happened at the Government House yesterday. It was a reaffirmation of the bond between the people and their government,” he said.

Fubara assured that his administration would remain committed to policies and actions that improve the lives of Rivers people.

 

Nigeria’s Marine, Blue Economy Offer Boundless Investment Opportunities–FG

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The Federal Government of Nigeria says the nation’s marine and blue economy offers vast, untapped investment opportunities, positioning the country as a strategic destination for foreign investors seeking sustainable growth.

Mr Adegboyega Oyetola, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy said this on Friday in a statement signed by his Media Adviser, Dr Bolaji Akinola.

Oyetola is represented at the London International Shipping Week (LISW) 2025, by Dr Dayo Mobereola, Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA).

Oyetola said that Nigeria’s maritime sector had the potentials to drive economic growth, create jobs and position the nation as a regional maritime hub.

He urged African investors and other maritime investors and stakeholders to seize the vast opportunities to harness the sector’s immense opportunities.

“We urge investors to look beyond short-term gains and embrace the long-term benefits of investing in Nigeria’s fast-evolving maritime landscape.

“Our oceans and inland waterways are our life-blood, our highways to prosperity and the very arteries that will fuel the African Continental Free Trade Area.

“Nigeria’s significant progress in maritime security, the success of the Deep Blue Project has eliminated piracy in Nigerian waters and contributed to a sharp decline in incidents across the Gulf of Guinea.

“Nigeria has recorded three consecutive years without piracy attacks in its territorial waters, a feat that has earned commendations from the International Maritime Bureau.

“This is proof that Nigeria is a safe destination for maritime investments,” he said.

Oyetola said that Nigeria’s growing port infrastructure with the landmark Lekki Deep Sea Port stood as a symbol of public-private partnership success.

According to him, the state-of-the-art facilities and capacity berth the world’s largest vessels and Lekki Port is expected to serve as a vital trans-shipment hub for landlocked African nations.

The minister said that the government’s ambitious reforms were all geared towards positioning Nigeria as the maritime hub of West and Central Africa.

He said that government understood seas security was non-negotiable and remained committed to sustaining its security gains through technology-driven surveillance, strong legal frameworks and regional collaboration.

This, he said, would scale-up trans-shipment operations for countries such as Chad, Niger and Burkina Faso, positioning Nigeria as the maritime hub of the sub-region.

Oyetola called for support for Nigeria’s candidature for election into Category C of the IMO Council for the 2026–2027 Biennium.

“Our campaign is not just about a seat for Nigeria; it is about securing a stronger voice for the entire African continent,” he said.

Oyetola called for collaborations with in the African maritime sector for secured, sustainable, and seamlessly integrated maritime industry.

N23.9 Trillion Capital Component Of 2025 Budget To Roll Over To 2026 … NASS Seeks Withdrawal Of Contracts Circulars

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The National Assembly has called for the withdrawal of all circulars already issued for contract awards in the 2025 fiscal year.

The parliament strongly indicated that the N23.9 trillion capital component of the entire N54.99 trillion 2025 budget will extend to 2026 fiscal year.

The resolution for withdrawal of circulars already issued for contracts award for the 2025 fiscal year by the Executive, was jointly taken by committees on Appropriations of both the Senate and the House of Representatives in Abuja.

The joint resolution was sequel to the earlier one taken by the Appropriation Committee in the House of Representatives on Wednesday during interactive session with the economic team of the federal government.

The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriations, Senator Solomon Adeola, said that the capital component of 2024 budget will continue until December 31, 2025.

“Implementation of capital component of 2025 budget will commence as soon as possible, as Authority to Incur Expenditure (AIE), should be issued within seven days after this session with the economic team.

“Circulars issued by the Ministry of Finance to the Ministries Departments Agencies (MDAs) should be withdrawn pending issuance of AIE.”

Members of the economic team at the assessment of 2024 and 2025 budget implementation session with the joint committee include the Minister of Finance, Mr Wale Edun, Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Atiku Bagudu.

Others are the Accountant-General of the Federation, Samsudeen Ogunjimi, and the Director-General of the Budget Office of the Federation, Tanimu Yakubu.

The two parties later went into closed door session after the adoption of the resolution without any contrary opinion from any member of the economic team.