Hon. Yakubu Dogara, former Speaker of the House of Representatives and Chairman of the Credit Guarantee Company Limited (NCGC), has joined Nigerians and the global business community in celebrating Alhaji Aliko Dangote on his 69th birthday. In a detailed tribute, Dogara described Dangote as “a visionary whose life’s work has become a cornerstone of Africa’s economic transformation.”

Dogara emphasized that Dangote’s entrepreneurial journey is one of resilience and foresight. From humble beginnings, he built the Dangote Group into Africa’s largest conglomerate, with investments spanning cement, sugar, salt, fertilizers, and the landmark Dangote Refinery. These ventures, Dogara noted, have not only revolutionized industries but also created millions of jobs, strengthened Nigeria’s economy, and reduced dependence on imports. “Alhaji Dangote is not just an entrepreneur; he is a nation-builder whose vision has redefined what is possible for Nigeria and Africa,” Dogara said.

He pointed out that the Dangote Refinery, in particular, represents a turning point in Nigeria’s energy sector, offering the promise of self-sufficiency in petroleum products and positioning the country as a major player in global energy markets. “This singular achievement underscores his commitment to solving Africa’s most pressing challenges through bold and innovative solutions,” Dogara remarked.

Beyond his industrial empire, Dogara praised Dangote’s philanthropy through the Dangote Foundation, which has invested heavily in healthcare, education, and humanitarian relief. From building hospitals and funding scholarships to providing aid during crises, Dangote’s generosity has touched countless lives across the continent. “His philanthropy reflects a deep commitment to humanity. He has shown that true greatness lies not only in building industries but also in uplifting lives,” Dogara added.

Dogara also reflected on the inspirational power of Dangote’s story, stressing that his rise from modest beginnings to global prominence serves as a beacon of hope for young Africans. “His journey proves that with hard work, faith, and determination, Africans can build enterprises that rival the best in the world. He remains a shining example of African excellence,” he concluded.

As Dangote celebrates his 69th birthday, his legacy continues to resonate far beyond Nigeria’s borders. His life stands as a testament to the transformative power of vision, enterprise, and compassion—an enduring reminder that Africa’s future can be defined by innovation, resilience, and generosity

The Senior Staff Association of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has hailed the reappointment of Engr. Sule Ahmed Abdul-Aziz as Managing Director by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, emphasizing his transformative impact on Nigeria’s electricity sector and lauding the President for the decision.

Mr. Solomon Kigbo, representing the association, said TCN under Engr. Abdul-Aziz has shown “remarkable dedication to strengthening the backbone of electricity delivery across Nigeria.” He noted that despite the sector’s complex infrastructure demands and growing energy needs, the company has made consistent progress, embracing innovation and resilience.

Kigbo highlighted TCN’s major achievements, including the expansion and modernization of the national grid. “Through strategic investments in transmission lines, substations, and advanced technologies, the company has improved the stability and reliability of power supply nationwide,” he stated. He added that these efforts have reduced system disruptions and enhanced the efficiency of electricity distribution companies relying on TCN’s network.

He further praised the company’s commitment to infrastructure development, citing upgrades to aging equipment and the construction of new transmission corridors as proactive measures to meet Nigeria’s growing energy demands.

Public affairs analyst Alhaji Usman Abdullahi noted TCN’s focus on human capital development. “By investing in staff training, capacity building, and technical expertise, the organization has fostered a workforce capable of meeting modern energy challenges,” he said, adding that professionalism and continuous improvement have translated into better service delivery and operational excellence.

Barrister Abubakar Usman, leader of the Nigeria Youth Patriotic Front, lauded TCN’s adoption of modern technologies and international best practices. Speaking to journalists in Lagos, he said these measures have improved grid management, system monitoring, transparency, and overall performance. He described TCN as a “shining example of commitment and progress within the nation’s power sector” and praised President Tinubu for appointing a “first-class material” to lead the country’s electricity sector.

Meanwhile, Comrade Williams Asukwo, chairman of the Nigerian Project Initiative, called on critics of the reappointment to set aside differences and join efforts in strengthening Nigeria’s power infrastructure. “Yes, there must be opposition, but what is better than cooperation and understanding?” he said, urging all stakeholders to unite for a reliable and robust electricity network.

The reappointment of Engr. Sule Ahmed Abdul-Aziz, combined with widespread praise for his leadership and TCN’s achievements, reflects public confidence in both the Managing Director and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s decision to retain a leader capable of advancing a stable and reliable power supply for Nigerians.

***Say appointee a true Nigerian, global citizen fit for the role

A coalition of civil society groups in Nigeria, in collaboration with the National Good Governance Advocacy Network (NGGAN) and 360 other organisations, have thrown their weight behind the appointment of Dr. Jimoh Ibrahim as Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations.

The groups made the declaration at a world press conference in Abuja, describing the appointee as a true Nigerian and global citizen well-suited for the demanding diplomatic role.

It described Dr. Ibrahim’s selection as a strategic decision that reflects competence and aligns with Nigeria’s aspirations for stronger global engagement.

Dr. Emmanuel Agabi, Convener of the Coalition, stated that the gathering was convened “to affirm our confidence in his capacity to represent our country with distinction.”

He emphasised that the address was “not a rebuttal driven by sentiment, but a statement grounded in facts, perspective, and national interest.”

The Convener added: “The position of Permanent Representative to the United Nations is one of immense responsibility. It demands more than presence. It requires intellect, experience, negotiation skills, and a deep understanding of global systems.”

He noted that in Dr. Jimoh Ibrahim, Nigeria has a figure who embodies these qualities through his blend of enterprise, intellectual depth, and public service.

The statement added: “Dr. Ibrahim has built institutions across various sectors as a businessman, contributing to economic development and creating opportunities for Nigerians. His legislative experience includes serving as Senator representing Ondo South Senatorial District, where he actively participated in national policy discourse.

“He served on key Senate committees such as Appropriations, Finance, Gas, Education, NDDC, Capital Market, Diaspora and NGOs, Trade and Investment, Housing, and Niger Delta.

“Beyond national politics, Dr. Ibrahim served as Nigeria’s Representative in the ECOWAS Parliament and as an Executive Member of the Pan-African Parliament. These roles provided him with direct exposure to regional diplomacy, multilateral engagement, and continental policy coordination.”

The coalition highlighted his academic pursuits and intellectual contributions, describing him as a leader who combines practice with thought and experience with reflection.

The groups stressed that such experience equips Dr. Ibrahim with the insight required to operate effectively within the United Nations system, where diplomacy relies on negotiation, consensus building, and strategic engagement.

They affirmed that Nigeria requires representatives who can engage, interpret, and influence global discourse, and that Dr. Jimoh Ibrahim fits that profile.

Accoding to them, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s decision to appoint Dr. Ibrahim reflects a commitment to selecting individuals based on competence, experience, and strategic value.

The coalition noted that the administration has prioritised reforms, institutional strengthening, and global repositioning, objectives that demand capable hands and informed minds.

Dr. Emmanuel Agabi stated: “Leadership is defined not only by policies but by the quality of individuals entrusted with responsibility.”

He added that the appointment “is a decision rooted in judgment. It is informed by an understanding of the demands of global representation. It is aligned with Nigeria’s aspiration to engage more effectively on the international stage.”

The coalition urged Nigerians to avoid premature conclusions that undermine institutional authority and called for a national discourse guided by balance, scrutiny, fairness, and recognition of merit.

It emphasised that strong democracies encourage criticism but also protect fairness and support decisions that serve long-term national interests.

The groups expressed confidence that Dr. Ibrahim’s experience, exposure, and intellectual depth position him to contribute meaningfully in the role.

They called for a culture that supports capable individuals and promotes national progress, while reaffirming the important role of civil society in providing responsible and objective scrutiny.

The civil society coalition urged all stakeholders to support leadership decisions that strengthen Nigeria’s voice in the international community and called on Nigerians to remain focused on unity, progress, and collective national development.