First Lady’s Renewed Hope Initiative Pledges Extra ₦1bn in Global Fight Against Tuberculosis

On Monday, Nigeria’s First Lady and Senator Oluremi Tinubu committed ₦1 billion towards eradicating tuberculosis in Nigeria by the year 2030.

This contribution mirrors a comparable sum donated to the cause in March 2024, coinciding with her designation as both Global and National Stop-TB Champion.

“I wish to contribute an extra N1 billion from the Renewed Hope Initiative to combat tuberculosis in Nigeria,” stated Mrs. Tinubu during the 2025 World TB Day Community Outreach event held at the Sauka Village, located on Airport Road in Abuja.

The Senior Special Assistant for Media with the Office of the First Lady, Mrs. Busola Kukoyi, made this announcement in a statement released on Monday entitled, ‘Renewed Hope Initiative, RHI contributes N1 billion to bolster efforts against tuberculosis.’

She characterized the disease as a Public Health Crisis requiring immediate action, appealing to Nigerians to undergo testing and be aware of their Tuberculosis status.

The First Lady stated that eliminating TB by 2030 is a shared duty among government officials, traditional and religious figures, lawmakers, young people, medical professionals, entities from the private sector, NGOs, grassroots organizations, as well as international collaborators.

The data presented in the World Health Organization’s 2024 Global TB Report are concerning. In Nigeria, tuberculosis claims a life every seven minutes.

“This indicates that during our brief stay at this event, numerous additional lives could be lost if we fail to take swift and decisive action,” she stated.

Mrs. Tinubu contended that the widespread occurrence of tuberculosis in Nigeria is intolerable, and everyone needs to contribute their efforts to combat this preventable and treatable illness.

As the Ambassador for Global and National TB Control, I renew my pledge to tackle the epidemic of tuberculosis within our country.

I am committed to promoting greater financial investment and policy changes to enhance tuberculosis control initiatives, as well as rallying resources and collaborations to back TB awareness and treatment programs.

“I am committed to continuing the amplification of TB survivor voices and combating stigma and discrimination. Additionally, I pledge to guarantee that women, children, and marginalized communities receive equitable access to TB treatment,” she vowed.

The First Lady highlighted that the administration has focused on increasing TB testing and treatment facilities throughout Nigeria to guarantee free and readily available care for everyone. Additionally, they aim to bolster grassroots healthcare networks to better serve marginalized groups and improve financial support as well as collaborations to expand TB control initiatives.

For World Tuberculosis Day 2025, the First Lady stated in her personal message that eradicating TB can be achieved through “our collective action, funding effective strategies, and guaranteeing access to vital treatments for everyone requiring them.”

Today, on World Tuberculosis Day 2025, I stand with the international community in renewing our pledge to eradicate one of the globe’s most lethal contagious illnesses, tuberculosis.

Aligned with this year’s theme, ‘Yes! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver,’ we are encouraged to understand that defeating tuberculosis becomes achievable when we join forces, commit resources to effective strategies, and guarantee access to vital treatments for everyone requiring them.

As the national and global champion for stopping tuberculosis, I embrace this role with profound personal dedication. The battle against TB isn’t merely a matter of policy; it’s deeply personal to me, as I’ve experienced the sorrow of losing a dear friend to the disease. This serves as a stark reminder that TB continues to pose a significant health risk, particularly when left unrecognized and unaddressed. We cannot afford to let additional lives be claimed by an illness that can both be prevented and cured.

She urged all Nigerians to treat tuberculosis with seriousness, stating, “Should you experience a continuous cough lasting over 14 days, unexpected weight reduction, night sweats, or fevers, kindly go to the closest healthcare center for complimentary TB screening and therapy. Tuberculosis can be cured, and prompt medical intervention preserves lives.”

In his earlier comments, Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Salako, stated that eliminating tuberculosis in Nigeria by 2030 is achievable, particularly since President Bola Tinubu has instructed the ministry to enhance the overall health and welfare of Nigerians.

In immediate reaction to the appeal from the Sapeyi of Garki, Dr. Usman Kupi, who requested a Primary Health Centre for the Sauka Community, the First Lady guaranteed their request would be fulfilled after having an urgent conversation with the Minister regarding the matter.

A health lecture covered the aspects of tuberculosis including its causes, symptoms, preventive measures, diagnostic methods, and treatments. Additionally, screening for the condition took place during the Community Outreach event.

The theme for World Tuberculosis Day 2025 is ‘Yes! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, and Deliver,’ with the local slogan being ‘We Fit Do Am.’

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Leaders Pledge Enhanced Funding for FCT Traditional Rulers

The House of Representatives has pledged to support the traditional leaders in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), promising improved financial assistance and efforts to resolve their issues.

Hon. Frederick Agbedi, who serves as the Chairman of the House Committee on FCT Area Councils and Ancillary Matters, provided this commitment when he engaged interactively with the FCT Traditional Council in Abuja on Monday.

Agbedi recognized the significant contribution of traditional leaders in maintaining culture, ensuring safety, resolving disputes, and fostering community growth. He informed the council about the committee’s readiness to seek legal support for allocating five percent of Area Council resources to traditional entities. Additionally, he committed to looking into elevating traditional positions and establishing new chieftaincies to boost their efficiency.

“We acknowledge and value the significant part played by traditional leaders in promoting harmony and stability within the FCT. Your efforts towards local progress are indispensable,” said Agbedi.

He pointed out that the present financial structure doesn’t specifically allow for this kind of funding since resources are mainly set aside for infrastructure, healthcare, education, and social services. He stressed that assigning money to conventional bodies would necessitate revisiting legislation and altering policies accordingly.

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Abegi also revealed that a bill regarding the establishment of Area Council Administrations has successfully completed its initial reading in the House of Representatives. He reassured the council that his team will collaborate with key parties involved to find solutions for the issues faced by traditional leaders, which may include providing them with potential financial assistance.

In reply, Alhaji Adamu Baba Yunusa (the leader of Abaji Chiefdom within the FCT Traditional Council) pointed out the financial difficulties faced by his organization. He mentioned that all 17 ranked chiefdoms spread over the six Area Councils encounter significant issues because they do not receive sufficient financing and lack proper legal backing to enhance their functioning. To tackle these problems, he requested the enforcement of a policy where five percent of local government resources would be allocated to them, similar to practices seen in certain regions.

In the meantime, Hon. Inombek Abiante voiced his dissatisfaction with how the native FCT inhabitants have been treated, whereas Hon. Jonathan Gwefwi took issue with the resettlement procedure, denouncing the removal of individuals from their homelands without providing suitable replacement locations.

The House Committee confirmed ongoing communication and assistance to the traditional leaders, ensuring their roles are acknowledged within the comprehensive governance structure of the FCT and its Area Councils.

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Ghana Secures Major Win on Path to 2026 World Cup Qualification with Dominant Victory Over Madagascar

By Simon Asare

Accra, March 24, GNA – Ghana’s national team, the Black Stars, won against Madagascar with a score of 3-0 in their 2026 World Cup qualifying match held at the Al Hoceima Grand Stadium in Morocco.

Thomas Partey netted two goals and Mohammed Kudus contributed one as the Black Stars secured a dominant win over Madagascar.

In Group I, Ghana tops the standings with 15 points, followed closely by Madagascar with 10 points. Mali and Comoros share the third position with nine points apiece.

The Central African Republic ranks fifth with five points, whereas Chad sits at the bottom of the group without any points.

The Ghana coach, Otto Addo, introduced some alterations by beginning with Jerome Opoku and Abu Francis in the lineup while leaving out Ernest Nuamah and Inaki Williams as substitutes.

The Black Stars began the match strongly, putting pressure on Madagascar’s defense, with Salisu Mohammed nearly scoring in the fifth minute.

In the 11th minute, Partey gave the BlackStars the lead with a strong header off Jordan Ayew’s exquisite cross at the edge of the penalty area.

The Ghanaian team’s defensive setup was remarkably solid during the initial thirty minutes, effectively curbing their adversaries’ offensive efforts.

Goalkeeper Benjamin Asare, appearing for the second time with the Black Stars, enjoyed a relatively calm first half as Madagascar struggled to get their shots on target within the penalty area.

Ghana maintained their single-goal advantage of 1-0 as the match reached halftime.

Ghana’s Black Stars began the second half strongly and added a buffer with a goal from Thomas Partey, who directed his header into the net following a fine delivery from Jordan Ayew.

In the 59th minute, Kudus Mohamed extended the Black Stars’ lead with his third goal, assisted by Jordan Ayew.

Ghana’s captain Ayew pulled off an assist hat-trick in a magnificent performance, leading his team to an easy win.

Madagascar tried hard to cut down the deficit, yet Ghana remained firm in their defense and managed to keep a shutout throughout the full 90 minutes.

Ghana will proceed with their bid for qualification during the upcoming rounds in September, featuring matches against Chad and Mali.

GNA

KOA

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AI to Deliver Property Documents and Unmask Illegal Construction: DK Shivakumar

AI to Deliver Property Documents and Unmask Illegal Construction: DK Shivakumar

Bengaluru
(
Karnataka
[India], March 25 (ANI):
Karnataka
Deputy Chief Minister
DK Shivakumar
On Monday announced that the Bruhat
Bengaluru
Mahanagara Palike (
BBMP
) would utilize artificial intelligence to bring property documents directly to the doorstep and to recognize
illegal construction
s.

Speaking at a press briefing following a gathering with lawmakers,
Bengaluru
on
BBMP
budget
In 2025-26, he stated, “A significant number of property owners have constructed unauthorized extra floors. Additionally, these individuals are avoiding the appropriate tax payments. To address this issue, we will employ artificial intelligence for detecting and quantifying such violations.”
illegal construction
s.”

He mentioned that approximately 7 lakh properties had unpaid property taxes, out of which around 1 lakh have now been included in the taxable category. “The rest still need to be incorporated into the tax net. The
BBMP
It doesn’t have the authority to impose unlawful conditions, but a new regulation addressing this was enacted last week. Additionally, it’s been determined that private roads within residential complexes will be classified as public thoroughfares,” he clarified.

I have directed my top officials to halt those
BBMP
Officials closely allied with the proprietors of unauthorized constructions. Every property is required to remit taxes without exception. Certain Members of Legislative Assembly (MLAs) have proposed categorizing dwellings into group housing and single housing during approval processes.

He stated that the program to bring khatas directly to residents’ homes will commence in April. “Every property record has been converted into digital format. In collaboration with the relevant constituency MLAs, we will organize informational sessions,” he added.

He mentioned that street vendors will not be allowed to construct shops along the roadsides going forward, and this is also supported by a court ruling.

Up to 3,778 applications have been received for the distribution of pushcarts. We plan to provide 10,000 pushcarts.
BBMP
This year, the deadline for registering pushcarts has been pushed back to the end of April. Vendors who fail to register by then will be removed.
BBMP
He specified that they will create a pushcart tailored specifically for this purpose.

“The carts will resemble bicycles, auto-rickshaws, motorcycles, and conventional pushcart designs. Tender notices will soon be issued for their production. This initiative aims to guarantee that police officers, troublemakers, and bureaucrats do not harass street sellers,” he explained.

He additionally mentioned that the administration is gearing up to carry out the
BBMP
The elections are coming up shortly. We will head towards the elections once the Greater Region is ready.
Bengaluru
“The governance bill has been approved by the Governor,” he stated.

He stated that the chosen delegates
Bengaluru
The city has presented numerous proposals and articulated various requests from the residents of their districts. “Everything will be taken into consideration based on this feedback.”
BBMP
budget
. Numerous BJP legislators were missing from the
budget
The preparatory meeting requested the annulment of the suspension of the MLAs from the assembly. I informed them that it was an issue between the Speaker and the BJP MLAs. I had set up the
budget
“he mentioned additionally.” (ANI)

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Makinde Shakes Up Tertiary Institutions and Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards with Fresh Appointments

The governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, has appointed new members to the governing bodies of three higher education institutions within the state.

The governor likewise sanctioned the appointment of nine part-time members to the Oyo State Pilgrims’ Welfare Board (Christian Wing).

The announcements were made via a letter signed by the Governor’s Chief of Staff, Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi.

Professor Ayodeji Omole has been confirmed for another term as the Chairman of the LAUTECH Governing Council. Additionally, Mrs. Titilayomi Ahmadu, Mr. Idowu Olukunle Adeosun, Mr. Jelili Bamidele Busari, and Dr. Teslim Adediran have joined the council as new appointees. These appointments will commence on April 1, 2025.

The governor has likewise sanctioned the selection of Dr. Adesola Kazeem Adeduntan, who recently served as the CEO of First Bank Nigeria, to chair the governing council of the Abiola Ajimobi Technical University located in Ibadan.

The recently named council members consist of Hon. Seyi Joseph Adisa, who previously served in the House of Assembly; Prof. Samson Olakunle Ojoawo; Dr. Aminat Adekuni Ahmed; and Prof. Mojeed Kolawole Akinsola. Their term begins right away.

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Professor Kazeem Adekunle Adebiyi has also been named as the new Chairperson of Adeseun Ogundoyin Polytechnic in Eruwa. He will complete the remaining tenure left vacant by the late Professor Abiodun Adebowale Ojo, who died recently. This appointment is effective right away.

As part of a connected initiative, the governor additionally named nine part-time members to collaborate with the Chairman of the Oyo State Pilgrims’ Welfare Board (Christian Wing), Bishop David Ademola Moradeyo.

The newly appointed part-time members include: Pastor Biodun Emmanuel Popoola, Pastor Iyiola Olusegun Israel, Reverend Mathew Bolaji Ojo, Reverend Father Vincent Alabi, Mrs. Sarah Olubunmi Amuda, Bishop Ezekiel Adeleke, Reverend Doctor Mathew Olusegun Oludare, Honorable Emmanuel Bayo Akanbi, and Mrs. Femi Odekunle. These appointments will commence immediately.

Governor Makinde urged the newly appointed individuals to perform their responsibilities with commitment, dedication, and unwavering loyalty to the state.

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