The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, CON, made the disclosure while presenting his special remarks at the National Convening and Report Launch on Strengthening the Nexus between Democracy and Economic Development in Nigeria on Thursday, 9th April, 2026, in Abuja.

The SGF, who was represented by the Permanent, General Services Office, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, mni, stated that the Federal Government remains open to constructive, evidence-driven engagement and will continue to collaborate with the National Assembly, sub-national governments, the private sector, civil society, and development partners to strengthen democratic governance as a foundation for inclusive economic growth.

Head, Information & Public Relations Department, OSGF, Chris Ugwuegbulam who issued the press release on the event said the SGF stressed that there is a need to build and sustain confidence in democratic institutions and processes through transparency, credible electoral systems, trusted dispute resolution mechanisms and a legislative environment that promotes effective oversight and representation for all citizens. He added that strengthening these pillars will not only enhance governance outcomes but also encourage deeper collaboration with development partners, including the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).

In his remarks, the former President and Chairman of the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation, His Excellency, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR, underscored the importance of freedom and justice as key elements, through which democracy thrives, enjoining government to ensure that these elements are entrenched in the democratic process for economic development.

At the formal unveiling of the report, The Democracy Dividend: Governance and Growth, the Executive Director of the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation, Ann Iyonu, outlined 10 policy imperatives that will catalyse national growth and development, which centre on fiscal discipline, digitised procurement, and transparency in democratic processes. She therefore called on policymakers, legislators, civil society and development partners to engage openly with the report findings and translate evidence into practical policy actions.

The post FG Reiterates Commitment to Working with Strategic Partners to Strengthen Democratic Governance  appeared first on Daily Dates Nigeria.

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Yet, beyond the social media skirmishes and emotional exchanges, Trump’s statement reveals something deeper: a familiar pattern in the United States’ dealings with Africa. It is the weaponization of crisis narratives—whether framed as human rights violations, religious persecution, or authoritarianism—to justify interference, delegitimize leadership, and ultimately gain influence over the continent’s natural and strategic resources.

Trump’s sudden “concern” for Nigerian Christians is not an isolated outburst. It fits into a long history of American strategic communication, where moral rhetoric masks geopolitical ambition. The same method has been applied, with devastating consequences, in Sudan, Libya, and Egypt.

Sudan: Sanctions, Secession, and the Gold-Oil Equation

Sudan offers a textbook case of how Washington’s moral posturing often conceals material interests. Once oil was discovered there in commercial quantities, the U.S. shifted from engagement to isolation. In the 1990s, when Sudan drew closer to China for oil development, Washington retaliated by designating it a “state sponsor of terrorism.” Economic sanctions crippled Sudan’s economy for decades.

The Darfur conflict in the early 2000s was subsequently cast in U.S. media and diplomatic circles as “genocide”—a term with powerful emotional pull. While there were undeniable atrocities, the selective outrage conveniently weakened Khartoum and paved the way for further Western leverage.

In 2011, with U.S. backing, South Sudan seceded from the North. The event was hailed internationally as a victory for self-determination. Yet, the result was two unstable states locked in economic and political disarray. The oil-rich South lacked infrastructure and governance, while the North lost critical oil revenue. The region remains fragile, but multinational companies gained easier access to its oil and gold wealth through new contracts and “peace” interventions.

Today, as Sudan endures another violent internal war, one constant remains—the external appetite for its resources, especially gold. Instability has made extraction and export less traceable, more profitable for global actors operating behind humanitarian façades.

Libya: From African Powerhouse to Western Playground

If Sudan’s story was slow manipulation, Libya’s was swift destruction.
Before 2011, Libya under Muammar Gaddafi stood as Africa’s wealthiest nation by GDP per capita. The country provided free healthcare, education, and generous social welfare programs. But more significantly, Gaddafi began championing a Pan-African financial system—including a gold-backed dinar—to reduce Africa’s dependence on the U.S. dollar and Western-controlled financial institutions.

Then came the Arab Spring. What began as protest movements in Tunisia and Egypt morphed into a Western-backed revolution in Libya. Washington and its NATO allies accused Gaddafi of mass atrocities against civilians. Citing the “Responsibility to Protect” (R2P) doctrine, NATO launched a bombing campaign under the guise of humanitarian intervention.

But the mission was anything but humanitarian. Gaddafi was killed, Libya’s government collapsed, and militias fractured the nation. The once-stable state was plunged into chaos, becoming a hub for arms smuggling, human trafficking, and terrorism. Western oil interests, meanwhile, re-entered under favorable terms through intermediaries.

The so-called liberation of Libya achieved three things for the West:

1. The elimination of an African leader advocating continental financial independence.
2. The fragmentation of a resource-rich nation into competing zones.
3. The reassertion of Western control over North African oil and Mediterranean trade routes.

More than a decade later, Libya remains divided, unstable, and exploited—a warning of what happens when external “humanitarianism” masks imperial ambition.

Egypt: The Quiet Control of Strategic Dependency

Egypt’s case is more subtle but no less telling. Since the 1970s, Cairo has been among the largest recipients of U.S. military aid—over $1.3 billion annually. This aid effectively ties Egypt’s defense and foreign policy to Washington’s strategic interests, particularly concerning Israel and the Suez Canal, one of the world’s most critical trade routes.

When the Arab Spring reached Egypt in 2011, Washington initially supported protesters demanding Hosni Mubarak’s resignation. But when Mohammed Morsi, a democratically elected leader, began charting an independent foreign policy, U.S. support quickly evaporated. After the military coup that removed Morsi in 2013, the U.S. quietly resumed business with Egypt’s new rulers.

This dual standard—supporting democracy only when convenient—reveals the depth of America’s strategic calculus. Whenever Cairo leans toward non-Western alliances or pursues policies beyond Washington’s approval, accusations of “authoritarianism” or “human rights violations” conveniently resurface in U.S. discourse.

Nigeria: The New Target of a Familiar Game

Against this backdrop, Trump’s comments about genocide in Nigeria fit a recognizable formula. The U.S. identifies or amplifies an internal division—religious, ethnic, or political—then frames it through the lens of morality or persecution. Once public opinion is stirred, the door opens for diplomatic pressure, covert engagement, or economic manipulation.

Nigeria, with its vast oil and gas reserves and growing geopolitical relevance, is a natural target. At a time when Abuja is strengthening ties with China, BRICS nations, and exploring greater self-reliance in defense and energy, narratives that portray Nigeria as unstable or divided conveniently undermine its international credibility.

Of course, Nigeria has suffered grievous losses from terrorism. Thousands of Christians and Muslims alike have been victims of extremist violence. But to label these complex, multi-causal conflicts as a “genocide against Christians” is both misleading and dangerous. It misrepresents Nigeria’s progress against terror, oversimplifies a multifaceted security challenge, and risks inflaming dormant sectarian suspicions—all while serving external agendas.

From Religion to Resources: The True Battleground

From Khartoum to Tripoli, from Cairo to Abuja, the pattern is unmistakable. The language of compassion—human rights, democracy, religion—has often served as cover for intervention. Behind every “moral outrage” lies a map of strategic resources, trade routes, or geopolitical influence.

Africa’s greatest challenge, therefore, is not merely managing its internal diversity but recognizing and resisting the manipulations of foreign powers that thrive on division. The continent must build stronger institutions, independent media, and regional solidarity to see beyond narratives crafted for external consumption.

When world powers speak passionately about freedom or faith in Africa, the question Africans must ask is not what they say, but rather—what they seek.

The post The United States of America’s Playbook of Resource Control appeared first on Daily Dates Nigeria.

A critical look at Nigeria’s current political and administrative landscape reveals that Christians have never been more represented in governance. From the presidency to state governments and the legislature, Christian leaders occupy key offices that shape the nation’s direction. Nigeria has produced Christian Presidents, Vice Presidents, Senate Presidents, and Governors across several states. This reality challenges the idea of a systemic anti-Christian conspiracy or an orchestrated “genocide” agenda.

Across Nigeria, Christian influence remains strong and visible. In almost every street, there are at least two denominational churches—except perhaps in gated estates that may have one central worship center. Most government establishments also have two chapels: one for Catholics and another for Pentecostal or Protestant congregations. This structure underscores the degree of religious freedom Christians already enjoy across the nation.

The inclusiveness is even more evident within the Aso Rock Presidential Villa. The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, is an Assistant Pastor at the Redeemed Christian Church of God—a devoted Christian who has consistently used her office to promote unity, compassion, and faith. She has opened the Villa to Christian leaders more than any First Lady in recent history. Her charitable gestures—ranging from material to financial donations—have been remarkable, all aimed at assuring Nigerians that her husband’s administration is for all citizens regardless of religion.

The Villa’s Chaplain, Rt. Revd. (Dr.) Steven Adegbite, is not just a spiritual leader but also serves as the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC). His dual role grants him direct access to both the Villa and national leadership. If there truly were an organized attempt at “Christian genocide,” as some claim, he would be in the best position to raise the alarm directly to the President. The absence of such evidence speaks volumes.

This brings us to a crucial question: why is CAN advancing this narrative now?
While insecurity affects people of all faiths—Muslims, Christians, and others alike—isolating these national challenges as “Christian-only” issues risks politicizing national pain and dividing communities. There are growing concerns that certain leaders within CAN’s hierarchy may be positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 elections, using the rhetoric of persecution to attract sympathy and political leverage.

This is a dangerous and unspiritual path. As Scripture reminds us, “You cannot serve both God and mammon” (Matthew 6:24). The Church must not become a pawn in partisan politics. It must remain a moral compass, not a megaphone for manipulation.

At this critical juncture, it is also important to highlight the role of the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council (NIREC)—an institution designed precisely to address issues of religious tension and misunderstanding.
NIREC is a voluntary association made up of sixty (60) members: thirty (30) Christians and thirty (30) Muslims. It was originally formed on the 11th of September, 1999, with fifty (50) members—twenty-five from each faith—but was reviewed in March 2019 to include more women and youth. The establishment of NIREC was driven by the need to respond to incessant ethno-religious crises that punctuated Nigeria’s socio-political landscape.

NIREC serves as a permanent and independent body that provides religious leaders and traditional rulers with a credible platform for dialogue, collaboration, and mutual understanding. It lays the foundation for sustainable peace, religious harmony, and social cohesion in the country. As such, NIREC has a major role to play in deliberating and stating the true state of religious affairs in Nigeria. Its position—grounded in inclusivity, representation, and mutual respect—should serve as a reference point in discerning truth from politically motivated narratives.

In view of this, CAN must work hand-in-hand with NIREC and other interfaith institutions to promote national unity, not deepen division. The association’s strength should be used to build bridges, not to stoke suspicion or fear.

Nigeria’s Christian community has thrived despite challenges, and its leaders have continuously shaped the nation’s destiny. The right response now is not to amplify fear, but to strengthen faith, uphold truth, and champion peace.

The Church in Nigeria stands as a beacon of hope and moral authority. But to preserve that moral capital, its leaders must separate faith from politics, conviction from ambition, and truth from propaganda.

The post What Does CAN Stand to Gain Over the “Christian Genocide” Narrative in Nigeria? appeared first on Daily Dates Nigeria.

The announcement was made by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, in a statement released on Monday and signed by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary,  Magdalene Ajani.

In the statement, Tunji-Ojo congratulated Nigerians both at home and abroad, urging them to uphold the patriotic spirit, unity, and resilience that have sustained the nation since independence in 1960.

“He urged Nigerians to further keep faith in the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, which is anchored on national rebirth, economic transformation, and collective prosperity,” the statement read.

The minister expressed optimism that with collective cooperation, Nigeria will continue to grow stronger in peace, progress, and development. He also wished citizens a memorable 2025 Independence Day celebration.

This year’s milestone anniversary is tagged “Nigeria @ 65: All Hands on Deck for a Greater Nation.”

Meanwhile, the Federal Government has cancelled the independence parade scheduled to hold on October 1st to mark this year’s celebration.

Daily Dates Nigeria recalls that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu also cancelled military parade in commemoration of the 26th Democracy Day on Thursday, June 12, 2025 and on the same day appeared  at a special joint session of the National Assembly.

This is a developing story.

The post FG Cancels Anniversary Parade, Declares October 1 Public Holiday appeared first on Daily Dates Nigeria.

Daily Dates Nigeria reports that the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Sen. George Akume, CON during the inauguration emphasised on the importance of unity, and patriotism in celebrating the victories and milestones Nigeria has attained.

Director Information to the SGF, Segun Imohiosen in a statement wrote: ‘‘This anniversary is a reminder of where we are coming from and where we are going from here. As a nation, we have faced challenges in areas such as political, economic and social issues but have overcome them. An anniversary is not just a celebration of the past. It is a call for action for the future. We must therefore commit ourselves to build a nation where every citizen feels valued and empowered to contribute his quota to the goals and aspirations of the country’’.

The 65th Independence Anniversary celebration will commence with the World Press Conference on Thursday, 25th September 2025 with the following line-up of activities to mark the national event: Juma’at Service on Friday, 26th September, 2025; Women Activities on Friday 26th September, 2025; Youth Activities and Historical Arts Exhibition on Saturday 27th September, 2025; Church Service on Sunday, 28th September 2025; Public Lecture on Monday, 29th September 2025; while the Presidential Broadcast and 65th Independence Day Parade will hold on Wednesday, 1st October 2025.

As part of the project to mark the independence anniversary, the SGF has unveiled the Nigeria @65 Compendium Project workstation, initiated by CherryAfrica Magazine in collaboration with the Office, designed with a state-of-the-art studio for interview-Tv Series with the top Government functionaries at all levels on their respective milestones in nation building, in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda. The interview session kick-started with the SGF’s interview, where he urged Nigerians to celebrate the nation’s achievements for the past 65 years and to also repose confidence in their leaders.

The national compendium would serve as a comprehensive repository of information on the nation’s milestones and development trajectory cutting across the pre-colonial, colonial and the post-colonial Nigeria with emphasis on the MDAs, the economy, the three tiers of Government, the Renewed Hope Agenda and other key sectors of the economy.

The post FG Inaugurates Committee, Unveils Nigeria @ 65 Compendium Project appeared first on Daily Dates Nigeria.

Solomon Ehigiator Arase, who passed away in Abuja, was a seasoned police officer and lawyer whose career spanned over three decades of service to Nigeria.

Born on 21 June 1956, Arase graduated with a degree in Political Science from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, in 1980 before enlisting into the Nigeria Police Force in 1981.

He later earned an LL.B from the University of Benin and an LL.M in Corporate Management and Finance Law from Lagos State University.

He also held a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies from the University of Ibadan and was a Fellow of the National Defence College (fdc).

A recipient of the National Police Medal (NPM), Arase was widely respected for his academic and professional credentials.

He later earned an LL.B from the University of Benin and an LL.M in Corporate Management and Finance Law from Lagos State University.

He also held a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies from the University of Ibadan and was a Fellow of the National Defence College (fdc).

A recipient of the National Police Medal (NPM), Arase was widely respected for his academic and professional credentials.

Arase was appointed the 18th Inspector-General of Police in April 2015 by then-President Goodluck Jonathan and retired in 2016.

He later chaired the Police Service Commission (PSC) from January 2023 to June 2024.

A police officer with vast experience in intelligence, operations, investigation and administration, Arase is remembered as one of the most intellectually accomplished officers to have led the Nigeria Police Force.

The post Solomon Arase, Former IGP, Lawyer Dies At 69 appeared first on Daily Dates Nigeria.

He announced the award of the naira equivalent of $100,000 to each of the 24 players, and the naira equivalent of $50,000 to the technical team.

He also awarded a three-bedroom apartment to each of the players.

The Federal Government led by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, on Monday, received the Nigeria’s Super Falcons, who were crowned champions of the 2024 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Rabat, Morocco.

The victory marks Nigeria’s historic 10th WAFCON title, reaffirming the Super Falcons’ legacy as the most successful team in African women’s football.

The post Breaking News: Tinubu Confers Super Falcons With National Honours appeared first on Daily Dates Nigeria.

Tinubu on Wednesday expressed deep sorrow over the rising death toll and the displacement of thousands due to attacks by armed groups. He extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and all those affected by the crisis.

“The continued killings in Benue State are unacceptable,” the President said.

“As a government, we cannot fold our arms while lives are being wasted and communities destroyed. Every Nigerian deserves to live in peace and security.”

President Tinubu disclosed that the Federal Government would immediately constitute a high-level peace committee to mediate and drive reconciliation efforts across affected communities. He emphasized that traditional rulers from Benue and other key regions would play a central role in the committee’s work, alongside community leaders, security experts, and other critical stakeholders.

“Our traditional institutions are pillars of peace and custodians of culture. Their voices must be at the heart of any lasting solution,” Tinubu stated. “This committee will engage with all sides, address the root causes of the conflict, and chart a path toward genuine peace.”

He stressed that while security operations will continue to prevent further attacks, dialogue, reconciliation, and community involvement are equally essential in healing the wounds of conflict.

“We will combine strength with wisdom, and force with dialogue. Peace in Benue is not negotiable. This administration is fully committed to protecting every Nigerian life,” the President affirmed.

Tinubu urged all parties in the state to support the peace initiative and reject violence, assuring them that the Federal Government will not relent in its duty to secure the lives and livelihoods of the people of Benue.

The post Tinubu to Establish Peace Committee to End Killings in Benue appeared first on Daily Dates Nigeria.

The announcement was made in a statement issued on Sunday and signed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, on behalf of the Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.

The Minister congratulated Nigerians on the occasion, highlighting June 12 as a significant symbol of the country’s democratic journey. He noted that the day marks 26 years of uninterrupted democratic governance, a major milestone in Nigeria’s history.

“June 12 represents our collective journey towards building a nation founded on truth, justice, peace, and prosperity,” Tunji-Ojo said.

Reflecting on Nigeria’s progress since the return to democracy in 1999, the Minister stated, “The last 26 years tell a story of resilience, strength, courage, and a renewed hope in our democratic institutions.”

He reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration’s commitment to strengthening democracy through enduring reforms, transparency, and the rule of law.

The Minister urged all Nigerians to remain committed to national unity and democratic ideals, stressing that the growth of democracy relies on the active participation of the people.

“Democracy is not a destination but a continuous journey. It is through our collective effort that we can safeguard the gains of our democracy and shape a brighter future for generations to come,” the statement concluded.

The post FG Declares June 12 Public Holiday to Mark 26th Democracy Day appeared first on Daily Dates Nigeria.

The announcement of sighting of the moon was made by the Saudi Supreme Court, confirming the start of the holy month of fasting for Muslims across the country.

The moon sighting, which marks the beginning of Ramadan, was confirmed after careful observation by local committees.

This marks the start of a month-long period of reflection, prayer, and community for Muslims around the world.

Fasting during Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam and is considered mandatory for all healthy Muslims.

Meanwhile, the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, presided over by the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has urged Muslims to look out for the 2025 Ramadan moon from Friday, February 28, 2025.

The Sultan made the call on Thursday in a statement signed by the Secretary General of the NSCIA, Prof Ishaq Oloyede.

“The council hereby enjoins Muslims all over the country to be on the lookout for the Ramadan crescent on the night of Friday, 28th of February 2025 and await the official announcement by the President-General of NSCIA on the commencement of the 1446 AH Ramadan fast,” the statement read.

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