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READ FULL TEXT OF PRESIDENT TINUBU’S INAUGURAL SPEECH.

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My Fellow Citizens,

I stand before you honoured to assume the sacred mandate you have given me. My love for this nation is abiding. My confidence in its people, unwavering. And my faith in God Almighty, absolute. I know that His hand shall provide the needed moral strength and clarity of purpose in those instances when we seem to have reached the limits of our human capacity.

This day is bold and majestic yet bright and full of spirit, as is our precious nation.

As a nation, we have long ago decided to march beyond the dimness of night into the open day of renewed national hope.

We must now decide whether to stick to the work required to create a better society or to hide in the shadows of our untapped potential. I can think of only one solution. We are too strong a country and too firmly rooted as a people to deprive ourselves of our greatest potential. Millions of people have prayed for this country, and our collective sacrifices have influenced its journey.
We have faced challenges that might have caused other societies to disintegrate. The hope of a brighter future, however, merges with our enhanced ability to shape that future at this SUBLIME moment because we have carried the great load to get there. We have more solidly established this country as a democracy in both word and deed, surprising many but not ourselves
Our political heritage today emphasizes a smooth transition from one government to another. This transfer of power is a representation of our faith in God, our steadfast belief in representative government, and our confidence in our ability to remake this country into the kind of society it was always meant to be. Permit me to now address President Muhammadu Buhari, my predecessor. You have been a trustworthy, patriotic leader who has done your best for the country you adore, Mr. President. You are a deserving friend and partner, to put it more personally. I hope History treats you well.
Critics of Nigeria have been spreading the myth that our country will disintegrate or possibly perish for many years.
However, here we are. We have made mistakes along the way, but our tenacity and diversity have seen us through. Sometimes our burdens may cause us to stoop, but they will not ever cause us to fall. As the most populous country in Africa, the Black Race’s best hope, and its most steadfast defender, we stand out instead. As citizens, we therefore vow that Nigeria shall endure so long as this earth endures, as one unified people committed to one undivided national cause. The torch of human growth is now in our hands as Fate and Destiny come together. We cannot allow it to slip. We raise this flame aloft in order for it to shine on every home and in every heart that claims to be Nigerian. We raise this beam because it illuminates our way with kindness, unity, and peace. May this brilliant light never go out.

Although we will rule on your behalf, we will never be in charge of you. We will talk and consult, but we will never give orders. We will be inclusive of everyone and never disparage someone for possessing opinions that differ from our own. This nation needs to be further repaired and healed, not torn apart and damaged. In keeping with this, allow me to make a few observations about the election that led to this point. It was a competitive battle. Additionally, it was won fairly. Nigeria has not held an election of higher caliber since the establishment of the Fourth Republic. The result reflected the people’s wishes. However, despite winning, I am no more a Nigerian than my rivals. They are not any less patriotic as a result. They will always be considered my fellow citizens. And I shall treat them accordingly. They stand for significant constituencies and issues that wisdom would be foolish to dismiss. They have brought legal action on their behalf. They have the right to seek legal remedies, and I fully support them in exercising this right. The foundation of the rule of law is this.
Our founding ancestors valiantly sacrificed themselves more than 60 years ago to establish Nigeria as an independent country. The work done by those who came before us must never wither, but must instead blossom and give birth to a better world. Let us move forward with the mission they started and believed in. Let us renew our commitment to making Nigeria, regardless of creed, ethnicity, or place of origin, the indispensable home for each and every one of us. Thank you to all of my fans. I reach out across the aisle to folks who cast different ballots. I beg you to understand it in terms of brotherhood and national connection. Political overtones have vanished in my opinion. Nigerians are all I can see. May we sustain these excellent ideas as the new Nigerian standard.
My fellow citizens, The Nigerian ideal I am referring to is more comprehensive than only an increase in economic and other statistics. Although these items are significant, they can never fully communicate our story. Our goal is to make changes to our way of life that foster our humanity, promote kindness toward one another, and appropriately honor our group’s efforts to address the social issues that seek to divide us. We have a nation on paper thanks to our constitution and laws. By deepening the ties of economic cooperation, social solidarity, and cultural understanding, we must work harder to bring these beautiful documents to life. Let us cultivate a spirit of justice and equity among us. The South must recognize that good for the North advances its own interests in addition to seeking good for itself. The South must be seen similarly by the North. You are all my people, whether you come from the twisting creeks of the Niger Delta, the wide northern savannah, the boardrooms of Lagos, the humming capital of Abuja, or the bustling markets of Onitsha. As your president, I will act impartially toward everyone and with compassion for everyone.
My team will make critical details of our initiative public in the days and weeks to come. Today, allow me to briefly describe a few programs that embody our vision of progressive good governance in support of the Nigerian ideal: The simple guiding ideas for our administration are as follows:

1. Nigeria will be impartially administered in accordance with the law and the constitution.

2. We will protect the country from terrorism and all other types of criminal activity that put the peace and stability of both our nation and our area in danger.

3. We will restructure our economy to promote growth and development by generating jobs, ensuring food security, and putting an end to severe poverty.

4. Women and young people will take center stage in our administration.
5. To deter corruption and increase the efficacy and efficiency of the various anti-corruption institutions, our administration will continue to adopt proactive measures such promoting a credit culture. SECURITY Our administration’s main goal must be security because, in an environment of instability and violence, neither prosperity nor justice can triumph. Both our security DOCTRINE and its ARCHITECTURE will need to be changed if we are to effectively combat this threat. In order to enhance our investment in security professionals, we must do more than simply hire additional people. We will offer greater instruction, gear, salary, and firepower

OUR ECONOMY
In terms of the economy, our goals are to drastically lower unemployment and increase GDP growth. The following actions are what we plan to take to achieve this: First, there will be a budgetary reform that stimulates the economy without causing inflation. Second, industrial policy would make use of all available fiscal tools to support domestic manufacturing and reduce reliance on imports. Third, both homes and businesses will be able to obtain and afford electricity. Networks for transmission and distribution should be strengthened, and power generation should nearly double. States will be urged to create local sources as well. I want to let both domestic and foreign investors know that our government would look into all of their grievances regarding excessive taxation and other investment-inhibiting measures.
We will make sure that international corporations and investors return their hard-earned dividends and profits to their native countries. JOBS My administration must provide our youth with worthwhile opportunities. We will keep our promise from the campaign to create a million new employment in the digital sector. Additionally, our government will collaborate with the National Assembly to draft a comprehensive Jobs and Prosperity measure. This legislation would grant our administration the freedom to pursue labor-intensive infrastructure upgrades, support light industry, and enhance social services for the underprivileged, old, and vulnerable. Agriculture Commodity exchange boards must guarantee minimum prices for specific crops and animal products in order to protect rural incomes. There will be a national program for storage and other facilities to cut waste and spoiling.
To boost production and engage in value-added processing, agricultural centers will be established across the country. The livestock industry will be made aware of the best contemporary techniques and the measures taken to lessen the industry’s ongoing disputes over land and water resources. These steps will increase food availability while lowering its price. Farmers would make more money while paying less on average in Nigeria. More on President Tinubu Inaugural Speech INFRASTRUCTURE The Buhari administration’s work on infrastructure will continue. Priority should be given to developments in the national rail, road, and port networks.

FUEL SUBSIDY
We applaud the outgoing administration’s decision to phase out the fuel subsidy system, which has progressively favored the wealthy over the poor. In the context of depleting resources, subsidies can no longer be used to justify their ever-rising prices. Instead, we will reinvest the money in better public infrastructure, healthcare, education, and employment opportunities that will significantly better millions of people’s lives. FINANCIAL POLITICS A comprehensive spring cleaning is required for monetary policy. To achieve a single exchange rate, the Central Bank must work. As a result, money will be diverted from arbitrage into significant investments in the machinery, tools, and employment that drive the actual economy. To promote consumer spending and investment in ways that support the economy at a greater level, interest rates must be decreased. Despite any conceptual virtues, considering the number of unbanked Nigerians, the CBN overly implemented the currency swap. A review of the policy is required. My administration will treat both currencies as legal money in the interim. INTERNAL POLICY
Please allow me to make a few foreign policy thoughts given the world we live in. It is urgently concerning that some countries in our near neighborhood have turned away from democracy and the catastrophe in Sudan. The peace and security of the African continent and the West African subregion must thus be my top priority in terms of foreign policy. To put an end to ongoing crises and prevent new ones, we will collaborate with ECOWAS, the AU, and other willing partners in the international community. We will restructure our foreign policy to more actively lead the regional and continental search for collective prosperity while we contain challenges to peace.
Conclusion
The proudest day of my life is right now. However, I do not own this day. You, the Nigerian people, are the rightful owners. Nigeria proclaims on this day that it belongs among the major democracies of the globe. Nigeria will live there forever. We have arrived at this unique time thanks to the progression of our past and the promise of the future. So that the Nigerian ideal turns into and always stays the Nigerian reality, I want you to work with me to make Nigeria a more ideal country and democracy. Because I am the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and I go by the name Bola Ahmed Tinubu, I can confidently state that these things are within our immediate reach. Godspeed, and may He also bless our cherished country.

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Prominent Opposition Leaders Unite Under ADC Ahead of 2027 Elections

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By Divine Perezide

Abuja, Nigeria – July 2, 2025

A major political realignment is underway in Nigeria as leading opposition figures have formally adopted the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as the platform to challenge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 general elections.

The unveiling ceremony, which took place at the prestigious Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja, drew a crowd of influential politicians and political observers. Amongst those in attendance were former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, and former Rivers State Governor and Minister for Transport, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi.

Also present was the former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, along with other notable figures from across Nigeria’s political spectrum.

The event marked the formal endorsement of the ADC by a coalition of opposition leaders who are seeking to consolidate forces in a bid to mount serious challenge to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and President Tinubu in the upcoming 2027 polls.

Sources close to the coalition disclosed that discussions are already underway to restructure the leadership of the ADC to reflect the interests and participation of the newly joined political heavyweights. The move is aimed creating a united front capable of galvanising nationwide support and offering a credible alternative to the current administration.

Speaking at the gathering, coalition members emphasized the urgent need to rescue Nigeria from what they describe as deepening economic hardship, rising insecurity, and declining public trust in governance.

“The time has come for patriotic Nigerians to rise above party lines and work together to restore hope and accountability in our nation,” one of the leaders said.

The formation of this alliance signals the beginning of what could be a heated political season, with the opposition setting the tone early for what promises to be a fiercely contested Presidential race in 2027.

Moredetails regarding the coalition’s leadership structure, policy agenda, and campaign roadmap are expected to be unveiled in the coming weeks.

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HON. NEGERESE, OTHER POLITICAL LEADERS PAY CONDOLENCES TO LATE PA. MITIN, REGENT OF OPOROMOR KINGDOM 

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By Divine Perezide

Yenagoa, Bayelsa State – July 2, 2025

Prominent political leaders of Ekeremor extraction and beyond paid a Condolence Visit to the family of Late Chief Mitin Tamaraumienye, the revered Regent of Oporomor Kingdom, who passed away recently.

Leading the delegation was Hon. Berry Negerese, the leader of the ‘Wind of Progress’ political movement, who described the late regent as a custodian of history, peace, tradition, unity, and a political pillar in Ekeremor and Ijaw nation at large. The visit took place in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital, where family members and sympathisers gathered to honour the life and legacy of the departed patriarc.

Among others was Hon. John Alla, the Bayelsa State Commissioner for Tourism Development, Barr. Japan Udoji, State Coordinator of the Wind of Progress Movement; Hon. Victor K. Ebiyekon, Secretary of the forum; and Capt. Joshua J. Oropere, Chairman of the EA Host Communities Development Trust, Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) board.

The delegation offered heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, acknowledging Chief Tamaraumienye’s role as a father and in preserving the cultural heritage of and traditional authority of Oporomor kingdom. They also commended his contributions to the peace and development of Ndoro community and beyond.

Ina brief remark during the visit, Barr. Udoji expressed, “The passing of Chief Tamaraumienye is not only a loss to his immediate family but also to the entire Ekeremor Local Government Area, and Ijaw Nation. He was a symbol of truth, courage, and wisdom.”

The condolence visit ended with prayers for strength and comfort for the family, and tributes echoing the profound impact the late regent had on the socio-cultural and socio-political landscape of not just Ekeremor Local Government Area but Bayelsa State and Ijaw Nation at large.

Meanwhile, burial arrangements are yet to be announced by the family as of press time.

(c) IduwiniVoice

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Press Statement

PRESS STATEMENT ON IJAW NATIONAL DAY CELEBRARTIONS 2025 

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Being Text of Press Statement Issued By Prof. Benjamin Okaba, President, Ijaw National Congress (INC) Global, in the Aftermath of the 2025 Ijaw National Day Celebrations

I am delighted to share with the Ijaw Nation and the general public the report on the Ijaw National Day Celebrations 2025, which took place from June 26th to 29th, 2025. The annual event is an avenue to showcase the rich culture of the Ijaw people.

Highlights of the celebrations are as follow:

Day One (1) – Thursday 26th June

The programme started on Thursday, 26th of June, 2025, at the respective Zones and Chapters, with Prayer Time, Unity Walk, Cultural Displays and Goodwill Messages. The address of Mr. President, Prof. Benjamin Okaba ‘Consolidating on the Gains of Constructive Engagement in the Ijaw Quest for Self-determination’, was presented by leaders in the respective zones and chapters.

Day Two (2) – Friday 27th June

The Headquarters of INC, Ijaw House, played host to delegates from the zones and chapters, and the general public, as the Art Exhibition of the Ijaw Nation featured in the 2nd day of the celebration. However, before the exhibition, a pep-talk on the Ijaw language counting system (presented by Pa Bozegha Whyte) was introduced, as part of the day’s activities. The Art Exhibition included Ijaw Art/History, Ijaw Cuisine, Skills, Photographic Exhibition of Ijaw Heroes/Heroines in various fields of endeavour, who have made significant contributions to the progress of the Ijaw Nation. Corporate Social Responsibility Showcase also featured in this event, with business owners displaying their goods.

Day Three (3) – Saturday 28th June

The 3rd day was in two sessions – morning and evening sessions.

Activities lined up for the morning session, which started from 9am to 3pm, included Children’s Cultural Fashion Parade, Language Quiz, Essay Writing and Traditional Outdoor Games. Students from six schools partook in the fashion parade, quiz and essay competitions.

Simultaneously, participants of the traditional outdoor games of epele, apodo and akoko thrilled the audience with their outstanding performances. A Cultural Troupe from the Eastern Zone, Street Icons of Port-Harcourt entertained the audience, displaying the rich cultural dance steps of the Ijaw Nation.

The evening session, Gala/Awards Night, began at 6:30pm, with the opening address of the Chairman of the Occasion, HRM King Bubaraye Dakolo, after the welcome address by Mr. President, Prof. Benjamin Okaba. A documentary on ‘Ijaw Self-Determination Agenda: The Journey So Far’ was in display, to bring to light the efforts made so far.

The highpoint of the occasion was the Special Appreciation and Recognition of illustrious Ijaw sons and daughters who have made outstanding impacts to the growth of the Ijaw Nation. The under-listed are the recipients of the awards.

List of Award Recipients of Ijaw National Recognition.

1. Senator Douye Diri – Governor of Bayelsa State

2. HIM Pere (Barr.) Zachaeus Doubra Egbunu, JP – Agadagba of Arogbo Kingdom

3. HRM King Bubaraye Dakolo, Agada IV – Ebenanaowei of Ekpetiama Kingdom

4. HE General Bright Ateke Fibonumama (Rtd), JP – Obeamumuodo of Abuloma Kingdom

5. HRM King (Adm) Goddy Idaminabo, CON – Amayanabo of Kala Ogoloma Kingdom

6. Chief Joshua B. Fumudoh – First elected President of INC

7. Hon. Frederick Yeitiemone Agbedi – Member Representing Bayelsa West

8. Teinbo Saturday Seliyefubara Jack-Rich – Chairman, Belema Oil Producing Nig. Ltd

9. Gesi Asamowei – Chairman, Pelfaco Nigeria Ltd

10. Dr. Felix Tuodolo – First President of IYC

11. Prof. Steve Azaiki – Chairman, Steve Azaiki Foundation

12. Mrs Rosemary Naingba Oduone – Founder, Ijaw Women Connect

13. Prof. Christopher Ogolo Ikporukpo – 2nd VC of Niger Delta University (First University in Ijaw Land)

14. Dr. Tano Dumoyei Agusomu – Head of Geography Dept, NDU, Amassoma, Head of Ijaw Map Technical Team

15. Surv. Victor Tupere George, MNIS – Geography Dept, NDU, Amassoma, Member of Ijaw Map Technical Team

16. Barrister Smooth – Famous Ijaw Musical Activist

17. Ovieteme George – Foremost Ijaw Journalist

18. Coach Monday Sinclair – Former Nigerian National Team Coach

19. Ijaw Women United for SIM

The audience was spectacularly entertained by the Bayelsa State Cultural Troupe and Barrister Smooth (the Paddle of the Niger Delta).

Day Four (4) Sunday 29th – Thanksgiving Service

The programme was concluded with a Thanksgiving Service at Royal House of Grace, Yenagoa by 11am. NEC, CITRE/NRC Leadership, Central Zone Exco and Clan Chairmen, 2025 Ijaw National Day Celebration Committee Members were in attendance.

Thank you

 

Prof. Benjamin Okaba

President, Ijaw National Congress (INC) Global

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