Metro
Int’l Youth Day: Gaidam Charges Youths on Continuous Engagement with Govt
The Minister of Police Affairs, Senator Ibrahim Gaidam, has reiterated the commitment of the Federal Government to cushioning the immediate pains of its policies that will herald a brighter future for Nigerian youths, rebuild Nigeria, and institutionalizing a just and egalitarian society where every Nigerian youth will have equal opportunity to realize their utmost potential.
He stated this, according to a statement signed by the Deputy Director (Information and Public Relations Unit), Mr. Bolaji Kazeem, and made available to the National Association of Online Security News Publishers (NAOSNP), during the Nigeria Police Force Youth Summit in commemoration of the 2024 United Nations International Youths Day Celebration with the theme: Enhancing the Nigeria Youth’s Value for National Security Intelligence held at the Nigeria Police Resource Centre at Jabi, Abuja
The Minister whose speech, which was presented by the Permanent Secretary, Mr. James Sule, highlighted some government policies like operationalizing the student loan scheme programme which gives every Nigerian youth equal opportunity to access higher education.
The statement also highlighted the government’s approval of the new minimum wage, suspension of tariffs on essential food and drugs, and its recent support for local refining of petroleum products through crude sales to indigenous refineries in Naira are laudable initiatives that will put smiles on the faces of Nigerians.
“The ongoing Police Reforms initiative when completed will enunciate an integrated policing paradigm that will focus attention on rural communities to support food production and also harness our solid minerals potential, to foster sustainable development and economic growth. As we mark this year’s UN International Youth Day, let me reassure you of the Ministry of Police Affairs’ commitment to partnering with the Ministry of Youths to create an enabling environment that will support the realization of your dreams and aspirations,” he said.
He further hailed the youths for continuing engagement in constructive discourse with the government to avoid actions and tendencies that will create avenues for our collective enemies to destabilize the Nigerian state.
According to him, “Youth engagement in matters of national security is not just beneficial; it is imperative. The role of our young people in identifying and addressing security challenges cannot be overstated. Young Nigerians possess unique insights, innovative ideas, and the energy required to confront the issues that face our nation. Today, we must focus on how to harness that energy and turn it into a force for good.”
Gaidam pointed out that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the development and empowerment of the youth. This commitment is reflected in various initiatives aimed at fostering youth engagement, promoting entrepreneurship and creating opportunities that will enable our young people to thrive. The Minister noted.
The Minister re-echoes the Government’s position that the message of the peaceful protesters was heard by the Government loud and clear adding that the protest was hijacked by a fifth columnists to disrupt peace, compromise security, and cause wanton destruction of valuable lives and property.
He said the unfortunate incidents of the past week which, resulted in the massive looting and destruction of both public and private property, stand in stark contrast to the peaceful assembly that we advocate for in Democracy. Such actions do not reflect the values of our great nation nor the aspirations of our youth. Gaidam opined
He said, “In recent weeks, we have witnessed a surge in civic engagement among our youth. However, it is essential to remind ourselves of the responsibilities that come with this engagement. The President’s Renewed Hope Agenda is rooted in a vision for a Nigeria where our youth are not only participants but leaders in the quest for national security and development. Together, we must cultivate a culture of constructive dialogue, resorting to discussions as a means to express grievances rather than taking destructive actions”.
The Minister used the epoch-making event as a wonderful opportunity to thank Nigerian youths for yielding to President Ahmed Bola Tinubu’s call to suspend the protest and accept dialogue which is the most viable platform for citizens/government’s engagement.
Accordingly, I extend my deepest condolences to the families of the deceased youths who lost their lives during the protests. My prayers are with their families during these difficult times. Gaidam added.
The Trade Union Congress (TUC) has expressed concern over the rising pressure on workers’ welfare and economic conditions of the country.
The Congress warned that it would embark on nationwide protest, if there is no improvement.
The warning was conveyed in in a communiqué jointly signed by the TUC President, Mr. Festus Osifo, and Secretary-General, Mr. Nuhu Toro, at the end of its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Abuja.
The Congress said the NEC meeting reviewed the state of the nation, developments within the congress, preparations for the 2026 May Day celebration, and other critical issues affecting Nigerian workers.
“The prevailing economic hardship has significantly affected the living standards of Nigerian workers, making daily survival increasingly difficult.
“We are closely monitoring the situation, and if there is no improvement, the congress will have no option but to mobilise workers in defence of their welfare.
“Government must urgently take concrete steps to address the rising cost of living and restore confidence in the economy,” it said.
The Congress said rising fuel prices, inflation, electricity tariff increases and insecurity had combined to erode workers’ purchasing power and living standards.
It noted that global developments, including the Iran–U.S. conflict, were further worsening economic pressures through higher energy costs and supply chain disruptions.
According to the TUC, Nigerian workers have not benefited from higher global oil prices but continue to face rising costs of transportation, food and essential services.
It urged the Federal Government to deploy excess crude revenue to cushion economic shocks and support vulnerable citizens.
The congress also called for urgent measures to stabilise fuel prices, improve electricity supply, and address insecurity nationwide.
It emphasised the need for policies that promote decent work, job security and social protection.
“The government must prioritise the welfare, dignity and security of Nigerian workers in all policy decisions,” it said.
The TUC further called for tax relief for manufacturing companies and workers to ease economic pressure and stimulate productivity.
On electricity, it condemned repeated tariff increases without improved service delivery and demanded fair pricing, universal metering, and an end to estimated billing.
The congress expressed concern over rising insecurity, describing it as a major threat to economic activities and workers’ safety.
It urged government at all levels to adopt coordinated, intelligence-driven strategies to protect lives, farms, businesses and critical infrastructure.
“A stitch in time saves nine,” the communiqué added.
A small-scale grocery seller from Plateau State, Ejiofor Akujieze, has emerged the grand prize winner of ₦5 million in the Golden Morn Golden Hunt, a nationwide consumer campaign by Nestlé Nigeria that rewarded Nigerians with a total of ₦80 million in cash and prizes.
Akujieze, who expressed surprise at his win, described the moment as life-changing. “It came as a shock to me. I won ₦5 million, and it will go a long way. I am very grateful,” he said, noting that the prize will support the expansion of his grocery business.
The Golden Morn Golden Hunt, which commenced in January 2026, recorded strong participation from consumers across the country, with over 200,000 entries received. Designed around Golden Morn’s smaller, affordable pack sizes to encourage wider participation, the campaign made it easier for more Nigerians to take part. At the end of seven draws, a total of 16,324 winners emerged, receiving cash prizes ranging from ₦10,000 to ₦1 million, alongside airtime rewards and exciting items such as washing machines, MacBooks, iPhones, and 55-inch televisions, in addition to the grand prize.
Speaking on the campaign, Omofasa Orhiunu, Category Manager, Healthy Cereals at Nestlé Nigeria, said the initiative was designed to connect more closely with consumers while giving them an opportunity to experience the brand.
“Golden Morn has been part of everyday life for Nigerian families, and with the Golden Hunt, we wanted more people to experience that,” he said. “It gave both our loyal consumers and new ones the opportunity to enjoy a nourishing product that fits into their daily routines, while also being rewarded in a simple and accessible way.”
Also speaking, Wassim Elhusseini, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Nestlé Nigeria Plc, said the campaign reflects the company’s commitment to creating value for consumers beyond its products.
“For over 40 years, Golden Morn has been nourishing Nigerian families and earning their trust,” he said. “The Golden Hunt was our way of recognising that trust and giving back in a way that is meaningful and inclusive. What has been most inspiring are the real stories behind the wins, how this has made a difference in people’s lives. That is what truly matters to us.”
Golden Morn, a cherished homegrown brand, continues to provide wholesome nourishment made from carefully selected grains. It is enriched through its Grain Smart blend, which combines essential vitamins and minerals to support energy and overall wellbeing for individuals and families.
Through initiatives like the Golden Hunt, Nestlé Nigeria continues to strengthen its connection with consumers while delivering on its commitment to providing accessible, nutritious food and supporting thriving communities across the country.
A presidential aspirant of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Peter Obi, on Monday, consulted former President Goodluck Jonathan on the state of the nation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Obi disclosed this after a closed-door meeting with the former president in Abuja. He led a delegation of South-East political leaders to the meeting, including serving and former lawmakers, as well as former Governor of Imo State, Achike Udenwa.
Briefing journalists after the meeting, the former Anambra State governor said the visit was part of ongoing consultations ahead of the 2027 elections.
“Notable South-East leaders have come in consultation with our respected former president. That is basically what it is—on the 2027 elections and, overall, about Nigeria,” Obi said.
Obi has been holding meetings with political heavyweights across the country as part of ongoing consultations ahead of the ADC presidential primary for the 2027 general elections.
Last week, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party was in Bauchi with South-East leaders, where they held a closed-door meeting with Bala Mohammed.
Speaking after the meeting, Obi said the visit was focused on building national unity and strengthening cooperation across regions.
“My purpose is to solicit the support and cooperation of His Excellency and the stakeholders of Bauchi and the North-East in our quest to unite this country. We want to have a united country to build a future for our children.
“The country cannot continue the way it is today; we are headed in the wrong direction, and we need to reverse that for everybody. That is the simple purpose of why we are here – to seek the support of the stakeholders of Bauchi in building a new Nigeria that will be of benefit to all,” he added.
