By David Owei,Bayelsa

The *Kiloshele Campaign Organization (KCO)* made a powerful appearance at the *National Pre-Convention of the National Association of University Students (NAUS)*, as the team arrived in large numbers to demonstrate strong support for their principal, *Mr. Kiloshele.*

The atmosphere at the convention venue was electrifying as members and supporters of the campaign organization stormed the event with enthusiasm, solidarity and determination. The presence of the *KCO* team clearly reflected the growing momentum behind *Mr. Kiloshele’s* vision for a more united, progressive and impactful *NAUS.*

*Mr. Kiloshele* reaffirmed his commitment to building a stronger and more inclusive *National Association of University Students* that will truly represent the interests, welfare and aspirations of Nigerian university students.

He emphasized that his ambition is centered on reform, active student representation and creating opportunities that will empower students across the country. According to him, the time has come for a new era where *NAUS* will stand firmly as a voice for students in national development.

Members of the *Kiloshele Campaign Organization* also reiterated their confidence in Mr. Kiloshele’s leadership capacity, stating that his vision, experience and dedication make him the right choice to lead *NAUS* to greater heights.

The strong turnout of supporters at the *pre-convention* signals a growing wave of support as the journey toward the *NAUS* convention continues. With renewed energy and determination, the *KCO team* remains focused on mobilizing students nationwide to achieve their goal of making *NAUS* greater.

By David Owei,Bayelsa

The Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, Dr. Peter Akpe, has assured the people of the state of the Senator Douye Diri-led administration’s irrevocable commitment towards impacting their lives with more development projects and programmes before it’s terminal date in 2028.

Dr. Akpe gave the assurance on Monday while granting audience to the leadership of the Bayelsa Elders Council at his office in Government House, Yenagoa.

He noted that although the Assured Prosperity Administration had recorded impressive progress since inception in February 2020, it would continue to pursue development issues with renewed vigour.

The Deputy Governor, who appreciated the Elders Council for their collaboration with government over the years, however, stressed the need for both parties to sustain the cooperation to achieve their overarching goal of building a more prosperous, safe and better Bayelsa.

Describing the visit as remarkable, Dr Akpe thanked the Bayelsa Elders and other well-meaning individuals of the state for their support, and urged them not to relent in terms of providing guidance and counseling for the present administration to finish strong.

His words: “Life is continuous learning. So, like Solomon in the Bible did, I should be the one looking for you (elders) to tap wisdom from you because you are the custodians of wisdom.

” So, I want to appreciate you for this very remarkable visit and for all you have said concerning the little that I have tried to do in our service to society and humanity over the years.

“Some of you here have always been there to give me counsel in my journey before today. I am not new in government, yet I am new in this office. So, please do not leave us alone; we need the wisdom that God has bestowed on you.

“We appreciate you as a government, and on behalf of the Governor, I want to say thank you. But we want you to continue with your collaboration. As we round off this lap, we strongly believe that with your support, we will get better developmental results for the state.”

Earlier in his remarks, the Chairman of the Bayelsa Elders Council, and former Deputy Governor of the state, Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John Jonah (Rtd.), said one of the Council’s core duties was to collaborate with the government to foster development in the state.

Rear Admiral John Jonah, who congratulated Dr. Akpe, on behalf of the Elders Council, on his recent elevation as deputy governor, assured him of their support in the overall development of the state.

The Bayelsa Elders Council Chairman was accompanied on the visit by his Vice, Elder Zee Debekeme, the Secretary-General, Chief Douyi Douglas Naingba, Retired Major Andrew Oputa, Prof. Francis Sikoki, Lady Love Amaseimogha, Dr Josephine Igodo, Chief Augustine Lugbenwei, Dr Georgina Ngeri-Nwagha, and Chief Mrs Cecilia Olisa.

Top government functionaries in attendance included, the Acting Chief of Staff, Government House, Hon. Irorodamie Komonibo; the Deputy Chief of Staff, Deputy Governor’s Office, Comrade Gowon Toruyouyei, and the Commissioner for Information, Orientation and Strategy, Mrs. Ebiuwou Koku-Obiyai.

By Uthman-Baba Naseer, Minna

Peace has been described as a strong force that unites people and provides lasting solutions to societal challenges.

The Director General of the Halima Ibrahim Babangida Foundation, Afeez Abdulrazaq, stated this during a special iftar organised by the foundation in Minna, the Niger State capital.

Abdulrazaq explained that the event was organised to promote unity, peace, and national cooperation among Nigerians, regardless of their religious or social backgrounds.

According to him, the gathering is the second edition of the foundation’s special iftar programme. He noted that this year’s Ramadan also coincides with the Christian Lenten season, making the event more meaningful in promoting interfaith harmony.

He said the foundation decided to bring people together from different faiths, professions, and social groups as part of efforts to strengthen unity and support nation building.

The Director General explained that the foundation focuses on advancing education, supporting vulnerable people, and encouraging initiatives that contribute to national development.
He noted that the iftar brought together Muslims and Christians, including community leaders, teachers, students, professionals, and government officials.

Abdulrazaq said more than 750 people attended the event, including over 100 Christians who joined Muslims to break the fast. He described the gathering as a clear demonstration of peaceful coexistence and cooperation among Nigerians.

According to him, some Christians also supported the programme by helping to provide food for those observing the fast, which he said shows a strong commitment to unity and mutual understanding.

He explained that the foundation will continue to uphold the legacy of Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida by promoting peace, national cohesion, and programmes that improve the lives of Nigerians.

Abdulrazaq added that the foundation supports students through the payment of school fees and assistance with examination registrations such as the West African Examinations Council examination and the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board examination.

He said students from several institutions attended the programme, including Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Federal University of Technology Minna, and Niger State College of Education Minna.

He stressed that bringing together people of different ages, backgrounds, and beliefs creates an opportunity for learning, understanding, and cooperation, which are essential for national development.

Afeez Abdulrazaq expressed hope that initiatives like the special iftar would continue to strengthen peace, unity, and nation building across the country.

On his part, the guest speaker, Sheikh Nuruddeen Lemu, who delivered a lecture titled “The Qur’an as a Manual for Personal and Social Transformation,” highlighted the importance of reading and studying the Qur’an and applying its teachings in daily life.

He urged people to emulate the lessons of the Qur’an, noting that the holy book provides guidance on how human beings can live a better and more meaningful life.

Also speaking at the event, the Chief Imam of the Police Headquarters Minna Niger State, Yakubu Tahir, spoke on important security measures and preventive tips for public safety.

He called on members of the public to remain security conscious and to report any suspicious activities to the relevant authorities.

The programme, which lasted for about eight hours, featured Qur’anic recitation competitions and quiz sessions among participants.