• Describe refinery as Nigeria’s economic pride

Stephen Olufemi Oni, Ilorin

The Youth Farmers Organization for Agricultural Development in Nigeria has honoured the President of Dangote Industries Limited, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, and the company’s Vice President, Mr. Devakumar Edwin, with Merit Awards of Excellence for their remarkable contributions to national growth and youth empowerment.

The presentation took place during a two-day advocacy visit and facility tour of the Dangote Petroleum Refinery in Lagos, where the youth farmers described the refinery as a “national pride” and a symbol of Nigeria’s industrial progress.

Speaking during the event, the National President of the Youth Farmers Organization, Abdulrahman Umar Etudaye, said the honour bestowed on Dangote as Grand Patron of the Group was in recognition of his commitment to nation-building, economic development, and empowerment of young Nigerians.

“Alhaji Aliko Dangote represents the spirit of hard work, vision, and patriotism. His contributions to the nation’s economy and his support for youth empowerment remain an inspiration to millions of Nigerians,” Etudaye said.

Similarly, Mr. Devakumar Edwin was honoured as Patron of the organization in appreciation of his exemplary leadership and continuous support for youth and agricultural development in the country.

Etudaye commended the Dangote Refinery for its world-class facilities and cutting-edge technology, noting that the project stands as a catalyst for Nigeria’s economic transformation. “The refinery is a source of pride to every Nigerian. It represents hope for industrialization, job creation, and energy independence,” he added.

In response, Mr. Edwin thanked the Youth Farmers Organization for the recognition and applauded their commitment to promoting food security and national development, reaffirming Dangote Industries’ resolve to continue investing in youth-oriented projects that drive sustainable growth across the country.

“We remain committed to supporting young Nigerians through empowerment initiatives and by creating opportunities that will secure the nation’s future,” Edwin said.

The youth farmers also invited Mr. Edwin to chair their forthcoming National Food Security Summit in Abuja and extended a special invitation to Alhaji Dangote as Guest of Honour.

The organization pledged to strengthen its collaboration with stakeholders, including Dangote Industries, to advance agricultural development, food security, and youth empowerment for a more prosperous Nigeria.

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A former Minister for Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Chief Mike Kaase Aondoakaaa, SAN has congratulated Nigerians on the 65th Independence Day Celebration of the country.

In his goodwill message to celebrate Nigerians on the special occasion, Chief Aondoakaaa, a frontline 2027 governorship aspirant in Benue State called on Nigerians to keep their hope in the administration of President Bola Tinubu alive.

He called on Nigerians to be patient with President Bola Tinubu, stressing that with time, they will understand that the administration means well for the country.

According to him, October 1st is more than just a public holiday, noting that it’s a time for Nigerians everywhere to celebrate freedom, reflect on how far the nation has come, and look forward with hope.

Furthermore, Chief Kaase Aondoakaaa urged Nigerians to continue to grow together in unity and strength. He also urged them to keep the spirit of unity and love alive.

In his prayer for the nation, Chief Aondoakaaa prayed to God to make Nigeria’s future brighter than the past

He however implored Nigerians to continue to pray for all the leaders in the country as they are the ones God has chosen to lead.

A notorious bandit leader, Isiya Kwashen Garwa, who was recently declared wanted by the Defence Headquarters, has reportedly accepted a peace deal in Katsina State.

Zagazola Makama gathered that Garwa, whose name features among 19 most-wanted terrorists and bandits in Nigeria, has turned up in Hayin Gada community, Faskari Local Government Area, presenting himself as an advocate of dialogue.

Garwa, originally from Kamfanin Daudawa village in Faskari LGA, has long been linked to killings, kidnappings and raids across forest belts in Katsina and neighbouring states.

Security experts describe him as part of a wider network of armed leaders destabilising the North-West and North Central through cross-border operations, exploiting of weak state presence.

Despite his bloody record, Garwa’s recent posture signals a possible shift in approach, as local leaders and security stakeholders weigh the implications of his acceptance of peace terms.

Reactions remain divided. While some residents see the development as a chance to restore calm in long-troubled communities, others question the sincerity of the bandit leader, recalling the atrocities attributed to his group.