Personality in Focus
Betta is Bettering Humanity
By Nnanna Morgan
Love or hate her, Betta is bettering humanity. She is using her platform to advance common good. She is not new to service. Young, energetic and passionate, she is full of dreams. She is creative and innovative. And she has proven these times without number. She is a go-getter. Anything she touches, turns to gold. She is one with Midas touch.
Appointing her to the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation as Minister by the Tinubu administration is therefore a right decision. She is a round peg in a round hole. Her experience and exposure qualify her thus. As former Commissioner of Health in Cross River State, Betta proved her mettle. She showed capacity. When in the role as National Woman Leader of the APC, she exhibited resilience. On the two aforementioned positions, she discharged her jobs creditably and professionally. Today, she is a leading light to womanhood. She is an everyday example of brain and beauty.
With her, realising the fundamental objective principle of State policy which states that ensuring the welfare and security of citizens will be the objective of government is achievable. At her Ministry, Betta has continued to show uncommon determination, zeal and obligation to the wellbeing, welfare and security of Nigerians. She loves Nigeria. She thinks her country. This is why in less than 3 months after being appointed minister, she has not only hit the ground running; she has already left indelible marks for which history will be kind to her.
As Dr. Betta Edu takes charge of the Ministry, Nigerians are upbeat. This is more so that her successes are already being widely felt. Is anyone surprised? Her journey from a young Student Leader to National Party Leader and a Federal Minister sparks hope. Her story is truly inspirational. Her appointment has generated optimism and enthusiasm among Nigerians. She is evidently regarded as a blessing to Nigerian youths and the hundreds of thousands of N-Power beneficiaries who are looking to her for strengthening the social investment scheme and restoring their hopes. And she has not failed.
Not only has she revamped the Social Investment Programme (SIP), she has renamed it the Renewed Hope Conditional Cash Transfer Programme, thus connecting it to the President’s agenda. The main objective is to provide monthly stipends to 15 million vulnerable households to improve their standard of living and alleviate the effect of economic challenges, particularly the removal of fuel subsidies. In order to enhance transparency and prevent the previously identified issues of fraud associated with the programme, she has completely restructured it to exclusively admit individuals with biometric identification. This stringent condition ensures a precise focus on those who are authentically less privileged. Her determination to reach the disadvantaged knows no limits. Betta is making an impact on the nation whilst giving her citizens profound confidence. Not only is she using her platform to advance common good, she is proving herself to be a keystone for growth and development in the country with distinct accomplishments.
It, therefore, comes as no surprise that her outstanding performance in the Ministry is leaving a lasting impression. Even the naysayers cannot deny the significant strides she has made. Her training and exposure have been nothing short of impressive. The various degrees she has obtained in Medicine and Public Health from distinguished international institutions like the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine among others undoubtedly played a crucial role in her achievements. Her journey exemplifies the concept of preparedness meeting opportunity, as she defies conventional expectations to lead alongside seasoned men and women.
The Igbo adage which says that a child that washes his/her hands clean will sure dine with the Kings has Betta in mind. She has washed clean. She is foresighted. A super visionary! Who else would believe a woman born in 1986 could become such a personality of influence, charting a unique course for her generation; and has emerged as a leader in her own right. While many of her peers are searching for employment, she has taken on the role of gatekeeper and protector for them, advocating for the vulnerable in many ways. As a champion of equality, equity, economic justice and political stability, Betta stands for the vulnerable-children, youths, women, poor and the aged. Betta is good, BETTER and Best.
Nigeria is proud of Betta’s contributions. She is indeed a rising star and her prominence is undeniable. As she marks another year in her life journey, we say 37 HEARTY CHEERS to her. At the end, she will be remembered and honoured as an indisputable icon. She will be remembered as a distinguished woman known for her unyielding determination, courage and unwavering resilience. History will record her as one with a heart of gold-who came, saw and conquered. May the sun continue to shine brightly on her path as she, alongside President Tinubu, reshape history and rekindle hope among Nigerians and global populace.
Kudos to a great woman of inspiration. Ride on Honourable Minister of the Federal Republic. March on. Accomplish more for us.
Nnanna Morgan is a Public Affairs Analyst and resides in Lagos
The family of Bolaji Olarewaju, popularly known as Big Bolaji has confirmed the passing of the singer following a brief illness.
According to a statement signed by the Family on Saturday, Bolaji died on Easter Saturday.
The statement said, “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Bolaji Olarewaju, affectionately known as “Big B,” a cherished father, husband, brother, and an esteemed figure in both the church community, an ordained Pastor in the RCCG and a giant in the music industry and our community. Bolaji left us on Easter Saturday, 19th April 2025, after a brief illness.
“His departure leaves a void in our hearts that can not be filled.
“Bolaji’s life was a testament to his passion for music, his unwavering faith, and his dedication to uplifting those around him. His legacy is not only in the melodies he created but in the lives he touched and the unquantifiable joy he spread.
“We take solace in knowing that his absence with us is his presence with the Lord, and the indelible mark he left on all who had the privilege of knowing him will not be erased.
“As we navigate through this time of loss, we kindly request privacy to mourn as a family. We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of love and support we have received and ask that you continue to keep us in your prayers.
“Details regarding the obsequies will be shared in due course as we come together to celebrate Bolaji’s remarkable life and legacy.
“Thank you for respecting our wishes during this incredibly difficult time. With gratitude, The Family of Bolaji Olarewaju.”
Pascal Dozie, a renowned Nigerian entrepreneur and business leader has died. He was 86.
According to sources close to the deceased, Dozie died a battle with old age-related illness.
Dozie, was a man of many parts, best known for founding Diamond Bank and serving as chairman of Pan-Atlantic University.
He was born on April 9, 1939, in Egbu, Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria. Dozie’s educational background includes a degree in Economics from the London School of Economics and a master’s in Administrative Science from City University in London.
Dozie also founded theAfrican Development Consulting Group, which worked with notable clients like Nestle and Pfizer. He served as MTN Group chairman but later resigned and was succeeded by Ernest Ndukwe.
Dozie received the prestigious National Award of the Order of the Niger (OON) for his contributions to Nigeria’s banking industry.
Dozie is survived by his wife Chinyere Dozie, and five children among other relatives.
A former governor of Oyo State, Dr. Victor Olunloyo, is dead.
According to a statement by his family on Sunday, he died a few days before his 90th birthday.
The statement titled ‘Victor Olunloyo goes home’ was signed by Oladapo Ogunwusi on behalf of the family.
It read, “With a heavy heart but gratitude to the Almighty, we announce the passing into glory of Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo, former governor of Oyo State, mathematician and engineer and renowned technocrat, a few days before his 90th birthday.
“The Balogun of Oyo and Otun Bobasewa of Ife, Dr. Olunloyo was first Rector, Ibadan polytechnic and first Rector, Kwara State Polytechnic among other notable appointments.
“His long record of service to the nation and humanity is a source of pride to his family and associates even as we come to grip with this devastating event.
“The Olunloyo family will appreciate the understanding of the press and the public as they commence efforts to give him a befitting burial.
“Even from everlasting to everlasting, He is God.”
About a year ago in April 2024, the rumour of the death of the elder statesman was reported by some news platforms.
But speaking with The PUNCH correspondent who visited his Molete residence in Ibadan, the state capital, he debunked the rumour, saying he was hale and hearty.
“I’m still here, not yet gone,” he declared then.
He also expressed worry over the rumour and asked who would live forever, stressing, “Those breaking death news and the person presumed dead will all die one day.
“I’ve been lucky. My father died at 42, while my mother died at 102. I’m 89. I’ve crossed the expected life age.”
The elder statesman also illustrated how the rumour of his death hit several news platforms on June 7, 2022.
He noted that the rumour mongers claimed that he died at the University College Hospital, Ibadan.
A few days later, the family issued a statement, declaring that he was not dead but suffering from old age ailment and asked Nigerians to pray for him to survive the health complications.
