Jonathan Sets Example in Political Maturity, Council Says

Ambassador Simeon Uwah, the Executive Secretary of the International Supreme Council for Peace Africa, has emphasized the significant dedication shown by ex-President Goodluck Jonathan when he accepted his loss in the 2015 national elections.

Uwah characterized Jonathan’s choice as a pivotal instance of democratic growth in Africa.

In the 2015 general elections, Jonathan created history by admitting loss to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari in a highly competitive contest.

This never-before-seen action left Nigerians astonished and grabbed the global spotlight.

On Monday, during an interview with reporters in Uyo, precisely ten years following the incident, Uwah highlighted that Jonathan’s choice to relinquish power calmly offers a significant example for African leaders. These leaders often opt to maintain their grip on authority when faced with crises instead of placing peace above all else.

On March 31, 2015, precisely a decade ago, ex-Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan created history by acknowledging his loss to Muhammadu Buhari following a highly competitive presidential poll,” stated Uwah. “During an age when many African political figures frequently turn to aggression, contest elections through dispute, or use unlawful methods to retain control, Jonathan’s gesture of acceptance exemplifies one of the paramount instances of matured democracy in Africa. This act marked a significant shift, with Nigeria’s democratic journey being painted in vivid hues.

Uwah also pointed out that Jonathan’s well-known telephone call to Buhari to extend his congratulations was not merely an act of polite recognition of the electoral outcome.

This was an intentional dedication to tranquility, democratic principles, and the nation’s equilibrium.

“His telephone conversation with Buhari wasn’t just an act of good sportsmanship; it was a deliberate move aimed at promoting peace. This one action prevented potential post-election violence, protected numerous lives, and bolstered Nigeria’s position as a democracy on the international scene,” Uwah emphasized.

He stressed that Jonathan’s choice ought to be seen as an example for Africa, especially considering the ongoing political turmoil across the continent.

As Africa contends with military uprisings, contentious elections, erosion of democracy, and the solidification of autocratic rule, Jonathan’s strategy continues to serve as an essential framework for effective democratic management and reform,” stated Uwah. “Given the escalating political unrest from countries like Guinea to Sudan, and from Gabon to Burkina Faso, fostering nationalist and democratic leadership is not merely a choice but a necessity. Without adhering to this path, Africa could confront far more severe issues.

Uwah also proposed that Jonathan’s calm concession should serve as a case study in courses on governance and leadership training for African leaders.

He urged the African Union and ECOWAS to establish peaceful transfers of power and leadership changes as standard practices to protect democracy across the continent from collapsing.

Political transitions ought to be cooperative rather than confrontational,” Uwah emphasized. “Upcoming leaders should adopt bipartisan approaches and foster national reconciliation as fundamental tenets of leadership.

He ended his speech by quoting Jonathan from that crucial instance: “My ambition does not merit the blood of any Nigerian.”

Uwah called for African leaders to adopt this mindset—not just in rhetoric but in practice—moving forward.

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NANNM Praises Kebbi Nurses: Idris Honored for Excellence in Healthcare Delivery


BIRNIN-KEBBI

— The Kebbi State chapter of the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) took advantage of the Sallah festivities to express gratitude towards nurses in Kebbi State for their dedicated community service.

The chairman of the association’s state branch, Comrade Kilani Abdulwaliyu, during his Eid al-Adha address mentioned that nurses and midwives in the state have dedicated themselves to serving through various healthcare facilities, providing care for millions of residents across Kebbi State.

We cannot express our gratitude sufficiently for your backing as we navigate the operations of the Association, which would not be feasible without each one of you. We extend our greetings on Eid al-Adha, wishing you spent the festival in excellent health.

Mr Kilani took the chance to praise Governor Dr Nasir Idris of Kebbi State for improving work environments for healthcare professionals, notably nurses and midwives, which has helped facilitate comprehensive and effective healthcare services throughout Kebbi State.

I want to commend Governor Idris for enhancing the compensation package for my members, but I also urge the government to include graduate nurses in this new package without delay. This inclusion will help strengthen healthcare services within the state.

The union leader encouraged his members to remain at their jobs to validate their compensation, simultaneously vowing to guarantee all of their rights are safeguarded within the organization.

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Customs Reject CG Tenure Extension, Expose Report as Fraud

The Nigeria Customs Service has stated that the reported extension of tenure for the Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, is untrue.

Abdullahi Maiwada, who serves as the National Public Relations Officer for the organization, issued a statement on Tuesday stating that these reports were incorrect and deceptive.

He stated that the President has exclusive authority over the appointment and extension of terms for members of the CGC, as per the guidelines set out in the NCS Act 2023 and other pertinent rules overseeing public sector appointments.

“The National Customs Service has noticed a fraudulent statement purportedly issued by the State House concerning an extension of the term for the CGC, Adewale Adeniyi. The NCS strongly wants to clarify that this information is incorrect and deceptive,” stated Maiwada.

He emphasized again that currently, no such instruction has been passed along to the NCS by the relevant bodies.

Maiwada insisted that the leadership of the organization continues to concentrate on achieving its legal responsibilities which include promoting trade, generating income, and ensuring border safety.

As per his statement, with the oversight of the present CGC, the organization has kept pushing forward significant changes designed to “update customs procedures, boost cooperation among different agencies, and foster the country’s economic development.”

The spokesperson for the NCS requested that both the general public and all involved parties refer solely to official sources for precise details about the organization.

He stressed that any updates about assignments or term decisions will be officially conveyed via the relevant governmental bodies.

“The service values the ongoing support from stakeholders and continues to be dedicated to maintaining transparency, demonstrating professionalism, and serving the nation,” he stated.

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Sudan Rejects Ruto’s Tea Export Claims; Kenya’s Ban Remains

Sudan maintains that it has not lifted the ban on tea imports from Kenya, which was implemented around three weeks ago as a protest against Nairobi’s association with the paramilitary group Rapid Support Forces (RSF) that are battling the governing military council.

On Tuesday, Sudan’s embassy in Nairobi refuted President William Ruto’s statements from Monday evening, claiming that Kenyan merchants continue to sell tea to Sudan. These claims were deemed incorrect by the embassy.

During a joint interview with local radio and TV outlets held at the Sagana State Lodge in central Kenya, the president stated, “Despite their claim of not purchasing our tea, we continue to sell tea to Sudan. The demand for our product compels them to do so. Therefore, there isn’t an issue regarding the sale of tea, which contributes positively to profits within the tea industry.” However, on Tuesday, Sudan released a statement asserting that the import ban imposed on March 11, 2025, was never reconsidered.
“The Ministry of Trade and Supplies in Sudan enacted a directive halting all goods coming from Kenya according to what aligns best with Sudan’s national interests,” explained the embassy. “This measure has been strictly enforced, ensuring that no items originating from Kenya—tea included—are allowed entry into Sudan. We remain steadfast in maintaining these trading policies due to significant domestic economic and diplomatic reasons,” the communication concluded.

They also stated that any assertions to the contrary are baseless and incorrect.

Meanwhile, Khartoum reiterated its “dedication to regional collaboration and productive discussions, adhering to the tenets of mutual respect and non-intervention.” Tea merchants informed The EastAfrican that approximately 207 shipping containers filled with tea destined for export to Sudan are currently stalled within the supply chain, which could result in damages exceeding $10 million.

The East African Tea Trade Association (EATTA) Managing Director, George Omuga, has urged Nairobi to collaborate with Sudan in granting at least a one-month period for clearing tea shipments destined for that nation. This move aims to minimize potential financial setbacks for both merchants and growers.

There are 400 bags of tea headed for Sudan at the port of Mombasa, along with various shipments stored in warehouses, navigating the high seas, and waiting at Port Sudan for approval.

In early March, Eatta expressed worries over possible repercussions in Sudan, a crucial marketplace for the nation’s tea industry, following the RSF’s holding of a ceremonial political gathering in Nairobi aimed at establishing an alternative administration.

Black market brew: Sudan conflict disrupts Kenya’s tea exports
Sudan has labeled Kenya’s sheltering of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which has been engaged in combat with the Sudanese army since March 2023, as hostile towards the Sudanese population. Consequently, they imposed a prohibition on imports from Kenya into their country.

Kenya ranks among the top 10 suppliers of tea to Sudan, and the current conflict could lead to reduced exports, affecting bilateral commerce.

Other Kenyan goods shipped to Sudan include food items and medicines.

Prior to the present deadlock, Sudan purchased approximately $37 million worth of Kenyan tea. This information was provided by SyndiGate Media Inc.
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Assam’s CM Sarma Unveils Multi-Layered Strategy to Empower Nari Shakti

Assam’s CM Sarma Unveils Multi-Layered Strategy to Empower Nari Shakti

Biswanath
(Assam), India, April 1 (ANI): The Chief Minister of Assam
Himanta Biswa Sarma
On Tuesday, the ‘Lakhpati Baideo’ initiative commenced with the launch of Assam’s largest women entrepreneur support program. During this event, he presented the initial batch of checks to 23,375 female business owners as part of the Mukhyamatri Mahila Udyamita Abhiyan at the newly established Kettala Playground in Borgang, Behali.
Biswanath
district.

Through this launch, 2,704,161 SHG members will reap benefits as Assam progresses toward a new epoch of female financial autonomy.

Under the Abhiyan initiative, Chief Minister Sarma distributed the initial installment of Rs 10,000 as startup funds to female recipients with the aim of enhancing self-employment prospects.

During his address, Chief Minister Sarma stated, “For empowering our state in Assam, we are implementing a multifaceted approach.”
Nari Shakti
from young students to senior citizens. Open access for all, tuition-free education, and living assistance via Orunodoi,
Chief Minister Women Entrepreneurship Scheme
(MMMUA), senior citizen pensions, and complimentary food grains—in each phase, we remain steadfast in our support.
Nari Shakti
.”

CM Sarma stated that according to MMMUA, if the beneficiaries effectively utilize their initial grant of Rs. 10,000 during the second year, they will qualify for an additional amount of Rs 25,000, with Rs 12,500 being a subsidy.
bank loan
, with the remaining ₹12,500 coming as a state grant.

He further mentioned that the state government would cover the interest charges.
bank loan
The Chief Minister stated that women who succeed in their businesses through this initiative will receive an entitlement of Rs 50,000 during the third year.

Chief Minister Sarma stated that the women’s self-help groups (SHGs) would keep receiving all the benefits, since the state government allocated Rs 1,090 crores to 2.17 lakh women SHGs through various programs.

He mentioned that an e-commerce platform was developed and reinforced to assist these women with their business endeavors.

The Chief Minister further stated that for the students from underprivileged backgrounds who are preparing for their matriculation exam, the government will provide a monthly deposit of Rs 300. This financial assistance aims to support these students in accessing tutoring services and improving their performance in the examinations.

He further mentioned that starting today, the government will decrease the price per unit of electricity by Rs 1, and it will purchase each quintal of rice for Rs 2,550 and each quintal of mustard for Rs 6,450.

The Panchayat and Rural Development Minister Ranjeet Kumar Dass, along with Health and Family Welfare Minister Ashok Singhal, Food and Civil Supplies Minister Kaushik Rai, Member of Parliament Ranjit Dutta, Members of Legislative Assembly Diganta Ghatowar, Pramod Borthakur, Utpal Bora, Krishna Kamal Tanti, Amiya Kumar Bhuyan, and numerous other esteemed officials attended the event.

Previously, Chief Minister Sarma launched a specialized health clinic at Rupjyoti Kala Parishad Field in Pabhoi.
Biswanath
.

The specialized health camp aims to make high-quality medical care accessible and budget-friendly for everyone. In an effort to enhance public well-being, the state administration has initiated these health programs throughout each Gram Panchayat, Village Cooperative Development Committee, and city region. These initiatives offer complimentary examinations, medications, as well as guidance on maintaining a healthy lifestyle and proper nutrition.

The health camps will offer free consultations along with diagnostic care. Additionally, the Chief Minister presented Rs 2 lakh as timely aid to 10 former ASHA workers in recognition of their significant contributions.

The Chief Minister, during the inauguration of the Circuit House, also
Biswanath
, planted an Ajar seedling. (ANI)

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Caucus Sounds Alarm Over Urgent Security Issues in Ghana

By Elsie Appiah-Osei

Accra, April 01, GNA – The New Patriotic Party Minority Caucus in Parliament has voiced serious reservations about various crucial security issues in Ghana.

They mentioned this involved the supposed baffling vanishing of 12 containers loaded with gold and money, potential drug smuggling involving private aircraft carrying cocaine and funds, as well as an allegedly pirated assault on a Ghanaian fishing boat.

At a press conference held in Parliament on Tuesday, Rev. John Ntim Fordjour, who serves as the New Patriotic Party (NPP) MP for Assin South and holds the position of Ranking Member on both the Interior and Defense Committees within Parliament, addressed members of the media. He raised a pertinent issue regarding concerns from Ghanaian citizens about whether the government, via National Security, planned to redirect the 12 containers filled with gold and cash, ultimately aiming to mislead the public later on.

He expressed worries regarding two supposed private aircraft: AirMed flight N823AM and Cavok Air, which arrived at Kotoka International Airport in March 2025 with questionable goods thought to include cocaine and money.

“We urge the National Security agency to disclose all details regarding the contents of the cargo transported by these two airplanes into the country, as well as what was loaded onto the same planes when they departed for Gran Canary,” he stated additionally.

Reverend Ntim Fordjour likewise voiced worry over a purportedly reported pirate assault on a Ghanaian fishing ship named “MENGXIN 1,” which took place within Ghana’s territorial waters on March 27, 2025.

As they pushed for a comprehensive inquiry into the event, the Caucus demanded that the government equip the Ghana Navy with the necessary number of Offshore Patrol Vessels to protect Ghana’s territorial waters.

As Ghana’s position as the second most tranquil nation in Africa was precarious, the Minority Caucus determined that it was crucial for the country to remain secure under President John Dramani Mahama’s guidance. They believed it essential to prevent the nation from becoming a refuge for piracy, narcotics smuggling, and financial fraud.

Mr. Kofi Amankwa Manu, the NPP Member of Parliament for Aktwima Kwanwoma and Deputy Ranking member of both the Interior and Defense Committees in Parliament, stated that this matter is a security concern requiring collaborative action. He emphasized that the minority party will contribute their share and urged all other parties involved to also participate actively.

Mr Amankwa Manu cautioned against politicizing Ghana’s security matters and urged for the appropriate focus to be given to them.

GNA

CAA

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