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Ombugadu Journey to Asia: A Quest for Transformation in Nasarawa state

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Our world faces immense challenges, from poverty to climate change, that require bold actions to mitigate. But true progress emerges not from political posturing or partisanship but through the power of ideas and partnerships.

This truth drives an ambitious new initiative, passionately undertaken by Hon. David Emmanuel Ombugadu, who travelled with a team of interests from Nasarawa State recently on an inspirational three nation journey to Thailand, China and Vietnam in pursuit of knowledge and ideas to transform the lives of the people back home.

The team toured factories, farms, and markets across the three Asian nations to gain first-hand experience of their development models that is fast putting people of that region out of poverty and underdevelopment.

“We are on a mission to acquire knowledge that can be replicated in our state to create jobs, enhance food production, and improve the living standards of our people,” Ombugadu said.

One highlight of the trip was a visit to a massive agricultural facility near Bangkok, where the latest technologies are deployed to achieve high crop yields organically.

“I was amazed by their level of mechanization. If our farmers can adopt such modern methods, it would lead to a boom in production and food security,” noted Ombugadu

The team also toured industrial parks and special economic zones in China, with advanced infrastructure that supports manufacturing enterprises.

“With the right policies and infrastructure, we can also build industrial clusters that will employ thousands of our youth.”

There were also useful lessons on governance from Vietnam’s model of grassroots participation and social welfare policies. “We saw first-hand how the Communist Party engages citizens at the lowest levels. This can inspire more inclusive governance,”

The over one month ten 10 days Asian tour has equipped the delegation with many insights that can now be adapted to local realities. “We will waste no time in implementing policies and projects inspired by this trip within our sectors and control even at the private levels. Certainly, the future is bright for our people,”

The trip, which was inspired by a desire to enhance the lives of the people of Nasarawa State,” said Hon. David Emmanuel Ombugadu in an exclusive interview, was also to gain knowledge and forge partnerships that will uplift our communities through economic empowerment, educational advancement, and improved healthcare.”

Ombugadu highlighted meetings with government officials and business leaders in all three countries as pivotal in shaping a “back to work plan” as a pruvate initiative. “In Thailand, we met with agriculture experts and discovered innovative farming techniques that maximize crop yields. We plan to implement these in Nasarawa state to boost food production,” he said.

The trip to China focused on manufacturing and technology. “We toured factories and met with tech entrepreneurs in Shenzhen. Our goal is to replicate their success by establishing technology hubs and vocational centers through our foundation,” Ombugadu revealed.

Healthcare was the emphasis in Vietnam. “We were impressed by their community-based preventative care model. “we adapt this to provide quality, affordable healthcare access points across the state in line with our current enrolment of people under National Health Insurance plan,” the PDP leader explained.

Ombugadu described the trip as an eye-opening learning experience. “By benchmarking global best practices in agriculture, manufacturing, technology, and healthcare, we can eventually develop policies and programs that create jobs and opportunities for the people,” he said.

The former 2023 PDP governorship candidate explained that “This blueprint paves an ambitious yet achievable path towards economic prosperity. The knowledge gained will help us implement solutions that improve lives. “Our trip proves that by working together, we can build a brighter future for Nasarawa State.”

He said the primary objectives of the trips were to explore opportunities for agricultural mechanization, establish partnerships for agricultural diversification and value addition, Investigate sustainable development practices and environmental conservation techniques.

Ombugadu and his team also highlighted key findings and potential benefits for empowerment through agricultural mechanization and self reliance.

He further explained that the secret behind Vietnamese agricultural mechanization strategy rested on its significant strides in agricultural mechanization, particularly in rice production. “The rate of mechanization for land preparation is 80%, and for rice threshing and harvesting, is 50%.

“The Vietnamese government has implemented policies to support agricultural mechanization, such as the “Build New Rural” program, which could serve as a model for Nasarawa State.”

At a live event, Ombugadu stated that the event showcased advanced agricultural machinery and technologies, including laser-controlled land levelling, mechanized direct seeding, and drones for fertilizer and pesticide application

“These technologies can be adapted to Nasarawa State to improve agricultural productivity and efficiency thereby
empowering close to or more than 20,000 Nasarawa farmers through a policy of subsidisation of power tilling tools, mini tractors, as well as implementing agricultural best practices ro achieve technology transfer.”

According to the PDP candidate China-ASEAN Agricultural Cooperation has established agricultural experimental stations in the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN), including Vietnam, to improve cultivation efficiency and promote sustainable practices.

He added that collaborating with these institutions and sectors could facilitate the transfer to enhance local traditional agricultural practices.

In interms of Agricultural Diversification and Value Addition, Ombugadu said Thailand-Vietnam Agriculture have a history of successful agricultural collaboration, particularly in rice production and export, noting that establishing similar bilateral partnerships could help Nasarawa State diversify its agricultural output and improve value addition processes.

“China has developed advanced techniques in seedling breeding, water and fertilizer management, and pest control, which have been successfully implemented in ASEAN countries.”

“Adopting these techniques in Nasarawa State could lead to higher crop yields and better quality produce.”

In terms of sustainable development and environmental conservation, Ombugadu is of the opinion that renewable energy could be the solutions with Vietnam’s focus on smart and environmentally friendly technologies, such as efficient irrigation systems and renewable energy solutions, aligns with the goals of the “Back to Work Plan.”

Implementing these solutions in Nasarawa State, he said, could provide sustainable energy sources for agricultural operations in rural communities.

He added that the use of efficient water management and irrigation systems demonstrated in Vietnam can address water scarcity challenges anywhere it is located with emphasis on agroforestry and soil conservation saying China’s emphasis on sustainable and resilient agriculture, including agroforestry and soil conservation techniques, can be replicated in Nasarawa State to restore degraded lands and promote sustainable land management.

Enhancing healthcare access through NHIS, building on our previous success, he said would foster partnerships with corporations and organisations, promoting investments and job creation for youth and women.

He said his blueprint will serve as a roadmap for translating international engagements into tangible and transformative initiatives that will drive economic growth, food security, and sustainable development in the private and community sectors locally.

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RUN Set to Mobilize Millions of Youth for Tinubu/Akpabio Ahead of 2027

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Following the conclusion of party primaries, Rising Up for a United Nigeria (RUN) as a civil society group championing the cause of all youths and middle age citizens has congratulated His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on his landslide victory in the presidential primaries recently held.

RUN also congratulated Senator Godswill Akpabio for emerging unopposed and the wild jubilation that greeted his victory as the Senator representing his constituency, the good people of Akwa Ibom State and Nigeria at large.

In a press release signed by Amb. Solomon Adodo and made available to journalists, a copy of which was sighted by our correspondent, the group described the win of the duo as beam of hope for Nigeria beyond 2027.

According to him, “the win of Asiwaju and Akpabio signals a beam of hope for Nigeria that beyond 2027, we shall be consolidating on the gains of synergetic partnership between the legislature and the executive as a precursor for rapid development.

“The support extended to Mr. President by the Senate President has yielded significant strides in fasttracking development across all parameters that affect national productivity”

The group therefore called on all Nigerians to come out in their numbers to support the president while outlining series programs with potentials to foster national unity across regional and religious lines.

“As a group representing the interests of Nigeria youths, we are determined to key into the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President towards improving the skill set of Nigeria youths towards increased productivity and an end to unemployment”, the release stated.

The group expressed confidence in the possibility of a new Nigeria of our dreams with the victories of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Senator Godswill Akpabio who will definitely be handed a second term as the Senate President “to continue synergizing with Mr. President for a better Nigeria”.

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HON. JA’AFARU YAKUBU HONOURED WITH DOUBLE TRADITIONAL TITLES OF CHIROMAN GASSOL AND MARAFAN BAKUNDI BALI

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The Member representing Bali/Gassol Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Ja’afaru Chiroma Yakubu (ADC), has been conferred with two prestigious traditional titles — Chiroman Gassol and Marafan Bakundi Bali — in recognition of his exemplary leadership, commitment to public service, and immense contributions to community development.
The traditional honours were officially bestowed on the federal lawmaker by the revered traditional ruler of Bakundi Chiefdom, His Royal Highness, Alhaji Kabiru Muhammad Gidado Misa, the 10th Lamdo of Bakundi, during a colourful coronation ceremony attended by members of the royal family, community leaders, political associates, supporters, and well-wishers.
The conferment of the dual traditional titles has continued to attract widespread commendation from stakeholders across Taraba State and beyond, with many describing the recognition as a reflection of Hon. Ja’afaru Yakubu’s growing influence, grassroots connection, and unwavering dedication to the wellbeing of his people.
In a congratulatory message issued by his Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Comrade Bashir Umar Dali, the lawmaker was described as a courageous, humble, and visionary leader whose commitment to humanity and community advancement has remained outstanding.
According to the statement, the titles Chiroman Gassol and Marafan Bakundi Bali are symbolic recognitions of the lawmaker’s selfless service, people-oriented representation, and tireless efforts towards promoting unity, peace, and sustainable development across Bali/Gassol Federal Constituency.
The statement further noted that Hon. Ja’afaru Yakubu has consistently distinguished himself through impactful representation, empowerment initiatives, and developmental interventions aimed at improving the lives of the people.
“Your commitment and selfless contributions to the growth and progress of the people continue to inspire many across Bali/Gassol Federal Constituency and beyond,” the statement read.
Comrade Bashir Umar Dali also prayed for greater wisdom, strength, honour, and divine guidance for the federal lawmaker as he continues to shoulder greater traditional and leadership responsibilities in service to the people.
Observers have described the conferment of the two traditional titles as a major endorsement of Hon. Ja’afaru Yakubu’s leadership credentials and his increasing relevance in the socio-political and traditional landscape of Taraba State.
The titles Chiroman Gassol and Marafan Bakundi Bali are regarded as highly respected honours within the traditional institution, reserved for individuals who have demonstrated exceptional character, loyalty, service, and commitment to the development and unity of their communities.

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EID-EL-KABIR: BELLO BABAYO BELLO COMMENDS TINUBU, SHETTIMA, GOMBE GOVERNOR AS HE FELICITATES WITH MUSLIMS NATIONWIDE

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The Executive Director, Networks, Niger Delta Power Holding Company Limited (NDPHC), Engr. Bello Babayo Bello, FNSE, has extended warm felicitations to Muslim faithful across Nigeria, particularly the people of Gombe State, on the occasion of the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebration, urging citizens to continue promoting peace, unity, love, and national development.
In a goodwill message released to journalists on the occasion of the Islamic festival, Engr. Bello described Eid-el-Kabir as a sacred celebration that reflects the virtues of sacrifice, obedience, faith, compassion, and gratitude to Almighty Allah as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim (AS).
He called on Muslims to use the spiritual significance of the season to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, support one another, and continue praying for the peace, stability, and prosperity of Nigeria.
Engr. Bello also commended the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his commitment to national development, economic reforms, infrastructural advancement, and efforts aimed at strengthening unity and progress across the country.
According to him, the administration of President Tinubu has continued to demonstrate determination in laying foundations for long-term growth and national transformation through bold policies and strategic governance initiatives.
The NDPHC Executive Director equally praised Vice President Kashim Shettima, GCON, for his loyalty, dedication, and support toward the actualization of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Federal Government.
He noted that the Vice President has continued to play a vital role in promoting stability, inclusion, and effective coordination within government.
Engr. Bello further applauded the Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, for what he described as purposeful leadership and remarkable strides in infrastructural development, healthcare, education, youth empowerment, and peaceful coexistence in the state.
He said the governor’s developmental policies and inclusive style of governance have continued to attract admiration and confidence from the people of Gombe State and beyond.
“Eid-el-Kabir remains a season of reflection, gratitude, sacrifice, and devotion to Almighty Allah. It is also a period that reminds us of the importance of unity, compassion, tolerance, and service to humanity. As we celebrate, we must continue to pray for our leaders and for the continued peace, progress, and prosperity of our dear nation,” he stated.
Engr. Bello urged Muslim faithful to extend love and kindness to the less privileged, widows, orphans, and vulnerable members of society during the Sallah festivities, stressing that charity and generosity are central teachings of Islam.
He also commended the people of Gombe State for sustaining the culture of peaceful coexistence, harmony, and mutual respect among diverse communities.
The engineering professional and public administrator expressed optimism that Nigeria would continue to witness greater development, unity, and economic advancement under the leadership of President Tinubu.
He prayed for Allah’s continued guidance, wisdom, protection, and blessings upon the President, Vice President, Governor Inuwa Yahaya, and all leaders across the country.
Engr. Bello finally wished Muslim faithful in Gombe State and across Nigeria a peaceful, joyous, and spiritually fulfilling Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

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