President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Donald Trump on his re-election as the 47th president of the United States.
Trump is on the verge of being declared president-elect by the television networks. In a statement by Bayo Onanuga, his special adviser on information and strategy, Tinubu said he looks forward to strengthening the ties between Nigeria and the United States “amid the complex challenges and opportunities of the contemporary world”. The Nigerian leader added that Trump “will bring the world closer to peace”. “Together, we can foster economic cooperation, promote peace, and address global challenges that affect our citizens,” Tinubu said. “Trump’s victory reflects the trust and confidence the American people have placed in his leadership.” The president also congratulated Americans on their commitment to democracy.
Donald Trump has made history with his incredible comeback to the White House, securing his second term as President of the United States. This remarkable achievement has sent shockwaves around the globe, with world leaders rushing to congratulate him on his victory
Israeli Prime was among the first to extend his warmest congratulations, praising Trump’s win as “history’s greatest comeback”. In a heartfelt message, Netanyahu emphasized the significance of Trump’s return to the White House, highlighting the renewed commitment to the strong alliance between Israel and America.
The 78-year-old president’s campaign focused on issues like border security and economic growth, resonating with his core supporters
Other global leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, El Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele, and UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, also joined in to offer their congratulations. Macron expressed his readiness to work together, while Bukele shared a photo of himself with Trump. Sunak praised Trump’s leadership qualities, noting that his self-belief is precisely what the West needs right now. Former Australian Prime Ministers Tony Abbott and Scott Morrison, as well as former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, also weighed in on Trump’s victory. Medvedev speculated that Trump’s election might impact US foreign policy, particularly regarding aid to Ukraine. Trump’s return to the White House, highlighting the renewed commitment to the strong alliance between Israel and America
Trump’s win has sparked mixed reactions, with some celebrating his return to power and others expressing concerns about the implications of his presidency. The 78-year-old president’s campaign focused on issues like border security and economic growth, resonating with his core supporters.
As Trump prepares to take office for his second term, the world watches with bated breath, eager to see how his leadership will shape global politics .
Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga announced the death in a statement, on Wednesday.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, regrets to announce the passing of Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, Chief of the Army Staff, at age 56.”
“He passed away on Tuesday night in Lagos after a period of illness “Born on February 28, 1968, Lt. General Lagbaja was appointed Chief of Army Staff on June 19, 2023, by President Tinubu.
“His distinguished military career began when he enrolled in the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1987. On September 19, 1992, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Nigerian Infantry Corps as a member of the 39th Regular Course.
“Throughout his service, Lt. General Lagbaja demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment, serving as a platoon commander in the 93 Battalion and the 72 Special Forces Battalion.
“He played pivotal roles in numerous internal security operations, including Operation ZAKI in Benue State, Lafiya Dole in Borno, Udoka in Southeast Nigeria, and Operation Forest Sanity across Kaduna and Niger States.
“An alumnus of the prestigious U.S. Army War College, he earned a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies, demonstrating his dedication to professional growth and excellence in military leadership.
“Lt. General Lagbaja is survived by his beloved wife, Mariya, and their two children.
“President Tinubu expresses his heartfelt condolences to the family and the Nigerian Armed Forces during this difficult time. He wishes Lt. General Lagbaja eternal peace and honours his significant contributions to the nation.”
The Kaduna State Government has said it will engage the parents and guardians of the released children so that together they could work out a rehabilitation plan for the children. The children were part of those released by the Executive Order President Bola Ahmed Tinubu issued after intense public outcry against their arraignment in court for alleged treasonable offence. Governor Sani who was speaking after receiving the children, alleged that some of the children were manipulated by those he called “conflict entrepreneurs” to cause chaos and upheaval in the state. ‘My songs will make you buy bedsheets’- Ironha, who took hawking when fire razed his Yaba shop “I was in the State House, Abuja today to receive our children who were unconditionally released from detention following the intervention of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR. The children were handed over to me by the Vice President, His Excellency, Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON after the charges of treason against them for participation in the August 2024 protests were withdrawn.” “In the course of our interaction with the children after the handover, it was clear that many of them were manipulated by some conflict entrepreneurs out to create a major upheaval in Kaduna State, and by extension Nigeria. I assured the children that after undergoing psychosocial counseling, the State Government will ensure that those of them who are students will be supported to return back to school, while those with skills will be supported with work tools and resources.”
“In their responses, the children assured me that they will henceforth be of good behavior and good ambassadors of the state. The State Government will also engage the parents and guardians of the children so that together we can work out a rehabilitation plan that is in the best interest of the children.” “I want to specially thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR for his swift response in ensuring that the children are released unconditionally. I also want to thank the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON for facilitating the smooth handover of the children to the Kaduna State Government. I also thank all well-meaning Nigerians who added their voices to this cause,” he said.
A Protest was held on Monday in Kaduna, North West Nigeria, demanding justice for one Mr. Thompson Emmanuel who was beaten and injured by his former Boss, a Turkish National
The protest was led by a Human Rights Organisation, Eagle Brain. Thompson, who worked as a welder in a Turkish company, Motech United Industry Limited, one of the companies maintaining the Kaduna Refining and Petrochemical Company (KRPC), was smashed on his head repeatedly with a helmet by the Personnel Manager of the company, Mr Gencayl, injuring one of his eyes. According to the victim, trouble started on 25th of October, 2024, when he went to the PM of the company after he was disengaged to demand for his outstanding payment. While making the demand, the PM, engaged him in a heated argument and asked him to vacate the premises telling him that the company was not going to pay him a dime, but he insisted on getting his money.
This led to the PM repeatedly beating him with a helmet on his head and hitting him in one of his eyes. Thompson, explained that when they noticed that he was bleeding, instead of letting him go, he handed him over to a DSS operative working with them and ordered him to take him to the DSS custody. “He sacked me and I went to meet him to tell the Account to pay me and he asked why I should come to his office which resulted in an argument and the next thing he hit my head with a helmet repeatedly. “As I am now, I have no money to go to the hospital for treatment, they refused to take me to the hospital. I had to go to a chemist for treatment. That’s was why I ran to Eagle Brain, for help.” He recounted. Contact could not be established with the company as security guards denied newsmen entry into the KRPC premises. The protesters who matched to the KRPC gate with various inscriptions such as “You must respect the rights of our citizens, Justice for Thompson, Justice must be served, Foreigners cannot come and kill us in our country” and lots more, were also denied entry. However, addressing Journalists after meeting the Management of the Company, Mr. Daniel Ejembi, Chief Executive Officer of Eagle Brain, said their involvement was as a result of a complaint by the victim that his rights have been trampled upon by his former employer. “He came to us that he need justice and we felt whoever was responsible has to face the full wrath of the law and we are here to demand for a compensation for him “The company sacked, injured and abandoned him until we took protest to them and they have agreed to treat him and also promised to meet our demand, but pleading for mercy for their staff. “While we await the fulfillment of their promise to him and get back to us, we are also taking a legal step to make sure the man do not escape justices. “Eagle Brain want justices to be served, that would serve as a deterrent to anyone who has such thought of victimising workers henceforth.” Ejembi, stated.
A community-driven health initiative, “SafeMamaPikin ” has been launched in Kaduna, North West Nigeria, to enhance maternal health care access, by ensuring that women receive comprehensive antenatal care and facility-based deliveries. The Project provides among others, free access to antenatal cases, free ANC services for expectant mothers, necessary health assessment, education and support. It will also partner with local health facilities to ensure that women could deliver safe under the care of qualified health professionals. It also acknowledges that, the fact that addressing maternal mortality is not just about improving health care access, but empowering women and communities to make informed decisions regarding their reproductive health. Therefore, the SafeMamaPikin Project, according to the implementers, Zen Advisory, represents a vital step towards ensuring that all women in Kaduna have the support they need for a safe and healthy pregnancy and childbirth.
The Lead, Mohammed Yahaya
Launching the Project at the Kaduna State Ministry of Health on Monday, the State Lead, Malam Mohammed Yahaya said the Intervention would result in establishing a state support health insurance cover for at least, One thousand (1,000) women in selected PHCs under the first phase, while the Project would later expand to other States in the northern parts of the country. The Project would also support Kaduna State with Public Private Partnership (PPP) towards improving and driving economic interventions for families and adopting a primary health care centre through a PPP with the local government. Mohammed Yahaya narrated the expected outcome of the intervention, to increased skilled deliveries, reduced mortality and higher contraceptive use, while the socio-economic impact would include improved health literacy and data driven economic strategies. The Lead therefore called on all stakeholders to join SafeMamaPikin and Partners to transform Maternal and Child health in Kaduna State to deliver life saving services. In their contributions, stakeholders at the launch including officials from the State Ministries of Health, Budget and Planning as well as CSOs, NGOs and a traditional ruler, Bunnun Zazzau, District Head of Doka, Alhaji Bala Tijjani Mohammed described the Project as a welcome development and timely inview of the economic hardship in the country. The benefits of reducing infant and maternal mortality, they said, can not be overemphasized because of their multiplier effect on the national economy. The Stakeholders who stressed the need for sustainability of the project beyond the One year timeframe, also called for diligence. The Implementers, Zen Advocacy, is a premier advisory firm committed to support government in transforming policies, business and health care systems across Africa.
Linda Umaru, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Lynda’s Hair & Beauty Supply, and Lynda’s African Delicacies, is a Nigerian-American, born in Billiri town of Gombe State, Nigeria.
A mother of five, Linda’s journey into the business world is a testament to resilience, entrepreneurial spirit, and a passion for her culture.
Linda’s educational journey began at the Central Primary School Billiri, where she obtained her first school leaving certificate, before proceeding to Government Girls Secondary School Yana in Bauchi State for her secondary education.
She pursued higher education at the University of Maiduguri in Borno State, where she earned a degree in Business Administration.
The foundation acquired through business degree, as well as petty businesses she embarked on in between school equipped her with the skills she would later use to navigate the complexities of the corporate world and, eventually, her entrepreneurial ventures in the United States.
After her degree, Linda joined First Bank of Nigeria, one of the country’s most reputable financial institutions. This experience provided her with invaluable insights into the world of finance and business management.
However, in 2005, Linda made a significant life decision. She moved to the United States to join her husband, bringing with her dreams and aspirations that would soon begin to take shape in a new land.
In the United States, Linda continued her career in banking, working for Bank of America in Irvine city, California. Balancing her professional life and raising her children was undoubtedly challenging, but it also spurred her creativity and determination. “I had to take a decision of ending the bank job to raise my kids,” she said.
Customers hair braided at Lynda’s hair salon, Irvine, California
It was during this time that Linda identified a gap in the market – a demand for authentic African hair braiding services. “I didn’t waste time, but went straight into it,” Linda said.
Starting a business in a new country is no small feat, but Linda was undeterred. She began her braiding business from her home in Irvine, California. Word quickly spread, and soon, the traffic to her home became unmanageable.
Realizing the potential of her burgeoning business, Linda with strong support from her husband, Lamela Umaru, took a bold step in 2015 and opened her first shop.
This move marked the official birth of LYNDA’S HAIR & BEAUTY SUPPLY.
Beauty products on display at the Lynda’s hair and beauty salon
Her shop not only provided top-notch braiding services but also became a hub for cultural exchange. “It is a mini-Africa. You find people from many places,” her husband said.
Linda employed and trained individuals who had no prior braiding experience, empowering them with a skill that was both an art and a means of livelihood. Her shop became a beacon of community support and empowerment, helping many to find their feet in a new country.
As her hair and beauty business flourished, Linda and her husband noticed another opportunity. The growing demand for Nigerian cuisine among both Nigerians and non-Nigerians in Orange County of California was impossible to ignore.
Customers at the Lynda’s African Delicacies Truck
In 2019, she launched LYNDA’S AFRICAN DELICACIES, a restaurant business that offered a taste of home to many and introduced Nigerian culinary delights to a broader audience. It started in a food truck.
The food truck business quickly gained popularity, and it became evident that there was a significant market for Nigerian food. Linda’s entrepreneurial spirit did not stop there.
Recognizing the potential for further growth, she embarked on building a larger restaurant to accommodate the increasing number of customers. Linda puts in a lot of energy to make this happen.
Customers waiting for service at the Lynda’s African Delicacies Truck
Her daughter, Lizkebe, reflects on this period: “My mom’s work ethic is something that not a lot of people can do if they even tried. She would wake up early in the morning, go to work around 9, and won’t return home until 11pm. She would prioritize her work over anything, even herself.”
Her vision was to create a space where people could enjoy authentic Nigerian dishes in a welcoming environment. Lizkebe notes, “Working both the restaurant, salon and even handling the employees can be stressful on her part. This is difficult to deal with while also getting little sleep every day.
Linda’s plans extend beyond just serving delicious food. She aims to build a franchise that makes Nigerian cuisine accessible in various locations across the United States.
This ambitious plan includes not only promoting the importation of Nigerian food ingredients, but “supporting local farmers in Nigeria,” she said.
By investing in these farmers, Linda hopes to create a sustainable supply chain that benefits both her business and the agricultural sector in Nigeria.
LEVERAGING AGOA
A key enabler in this vision is the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), a U.S. trade policy established in 2000 that provides duty-free treatment to goods from eligible sub-Saharan African countries, including Nigeria.
AGOA aims to promote economic growth and development through trade and investment, making it more affordable for Linda to import ingredients for her restaurant. This ensures a steady supply of authentic Nigerian ingredients, promoting cultural exchange and supporting the Nigerian economy.
Food on display at the Lynda’s African Delicacies restaurant
AGOA’s framework encourages the importation of goods that are either wholly obtained or sufficiently manufactured in Nigeria, meaning a significant portion of the product’s value is added within the country.
This supports local Nigerian farmers and producers, helping to diversify the types of products available in the U.S. market. By leveraging AGOA, Linda can ensure that her restaurant business thrives while contributing to the economic development of both Nigeria and the United States.
Moreover, the impact of AGOA extends beyond mere trade benefits. It helps bridge economic disparities by creating opportunities for African businesses to compete in the global market.
For Linda, this means she can source high-quality, traditional ingredients directly from Nigeria, maintaining the authenticity of her dishes while also supporting the livelihoods of Nigerian farmers.
This mutually beneficial relationship exemplifies how trade policies can foster economic growth and development on both sides of the Atlantic.
AGOA also facilitates capacity building and technical assistance, ensuring that Nigerian exporters meet international standards and requirements.
Food on display at an event attended by Lynda’s African Delicacies
This is crucial for businesses like LYNDA’S AFRICAN DELICACIES, as it guarantees that the products imported are of the highest quality. Linda’s reliance on AGOA underscores the importance of supportive trade policies in driving business success and economic development.
Her journey is a remarkable example of how one can turn passion into a thriving business, all while giving back to the community and staying connected to one’s roots.
Linda Umaru’s story is not just about personal success; it is about lifting others up and making a positive impact on both sides of the Atlantic.
Two socio -economic and cultural groups, in Kankara Local Govt Area of Katsina State, North West Nigeria, Ketare District Development Association and Ketare Youth Development Association have felicitated with their Monarch, the Kanwan Katsina District Head of Ketare, Alhaji Usman Bello Kankara who clocks twenty Four years on the throne.
Kanwan Katsina in a regalia at one of his outings
A statement jointly signed by the chairmen of Ketare Distinct Development Association, Ibrahim Sam’ila Ketare and that of Youth Development Association, Comrade Mudassuru Lawal Gurbi commended the traditional ruler for bringing developmental projects to communities of Ketare district.
.The statement described the Twenty Four years of the Kanwan Katsina on the throne as eventful and full of achievements in the areas of youth and women empowerment, educational development, Water supply, Health, roads, computer training for the youths among others. The Two associations wished the Kanwan Katsina, Alhaji Usman Bello Kankara good health, God’s guidance and blessing to continue to woo more developments to the communities of Ketare District and Kankara local government as a whole. Ketare District Development Association and Ketare Youth Development Association also see Alhaji Usman Bello Kankara as a leader who has fashion for the development of his domain where he goes around government ministries, agencies and departments to scout for projects to be executed in the district. The statement prayed for continued peace in Ketare District, the Local Government, the State and the Nigeria, as a whole. The traditional ruler, Alhaji Usman Bello Kankara was turbaned on the Forth of November 2000 by the Late Emir of Katsina, Alhaji Muhammadu Kabir Usman.
Two socio -economic and cultural groups, in Kankara Local Govt Area of Katsina State, North West Nigeria, Ketare District Development Association and Ketare Youth Development Association have felicitated with their Monarch, the Kanwan Katsina District Head of Ketare, Alhaji Usman Bello Kankara who clocks twenty Four years on the throne.