IMO BREAKING NEWS BLOG

In an inspiring act of recognition and encouragement, the former Chief of Staff to former Imo State Governor, His Excellency Rochas Okorocha, and Founder of the Ugwumba Leadership Center, Chief Uche Nwosu, has awarded a full scholarship to a staff member of Westbrook Hotel, Miss Chinonso, for her exceptional conduct and admirable presentation at work.

Chief Nwosu, who also once vied for the governorship seat in Imo State, was reportedly moved by Miss Chinonso’s dedication, politeness, and impressive dressing, which stood out during a visit to the hotel. In response, he announced that she would be sponsored through a full academic scholarship to acquire a university degree—courtesy of the Ugwumba Leadership Center.

In addition to the scholarship, Chief Nwosu called on the management of Westbrook Hotel to increase Miss Chinonso’s salary, emphasizing that her work ethic and carriage exemplify the kind of values that should be rewarded in the Nigerian workforce.

“This young woman represents what we advocate at the Ugwumba Leadership Center—dignity in labor, self-respect, discipline, and excellence,” Chief Nwosu said. “She didn’t have to speak much; her appearance and attitude spoke volumes. I believe in rewarding excellence, and I’m proud to support her education and future.”

The degree program, fully sponsored by Chief Nwosu, will cover tuition, fees, and other necessary academic expenses, allowing Miss Chinonso to pursue higher education while continuing to be an example to others in her field.

Overwhelmed by the surprise, Miss Chinonso expressed deep gratitude, saying, “This is a dream come true. I’ve always wanted to further my education, but finances were a major challenge. I thank Chief Uche Nwosu from the bottom of my heart. I will not take this opportunity for granted.”

The management of Westbrook Hotel commended Chief Nwosu’s kind gesture, noting that it has already begun to inspire other staff members to step up their commitment and professionalism.

The Ugwumba Leadership Center, established to groom the next generation of leaders and entrepreneurs, has consistently championed youth empowerment and capacity building. Through this latest scholarship initiative, Chief Uche Nwosu once again reinforces the message that hard work, integrity, and self-respect still open doors in today’s society.

This story of Miss Chinonso is a powerful reminder that diligence in work can indeed lead to life-changing opportunities—sometimes in the most unexpected moments.

Former Rivers Deputy Speaker Marshall Stanley-Uwom has asked the Federal High Court in Abuja to block the release of local government allocations to Rivers State Sole Administrator, Ibok-Ete Ibas.

Stanley-Uwom, a former lawmaker under Governor Nyesom Wike, argues that Ibas cannot appoint unelected caretakers to manage local governments and seeks a declaration ending the state of emergency in Rivers. He also wants the court to compel Ibas to vacate his position and allow the democratically elected governor to resume office.

The suit, FHC/ABJ/CS/797/2025, names President Bola Tinubu and other government entities as defendants. Stanley-Uwom has raised constitutional questions concerning the legality of Ibas's actions, including the release of funds to unelected officials and the removal of elected members of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission. 

The Lagos State Government has revealed that 26,592 public school students failed the 2024 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), sparking concern within the state’s education sector.

Commissioner for Basic, Primary, and Secondary Education, Jamiu Tolani Alli-Balogun, made the announcement on Thursday during the 2025 Ministerial Press Briefing at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre, Alausa, Ikeja.

He stated that 45.7% of the 58,188 public school candidates who took the exam did not pass, despite the government spending N1.577 billion to cover WAEC registration fees for the students. 

In a bold step toward agricultural development and economic empowerment, the National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA) officially launched the Renewed Hope Women and Youth Empowerment Programme in Oba-Oke, Olorunda Local Government Area of Osun State. The initiative, which aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, is designed to build a sustainable middle economic class through agriculture. At the heart of the program is an innovative revolving poultry production model aimed at creating continuous income for local women and youth.

Addressing the gathering, NALDA’s Executive Secretary emphasized the program’s structure: each of the 80 beneficiaries will receive two poultry cages, twenty three-week-old birds, and four bags of high-quality feed. After a nurturing period of three to four weeks, off-takers will purchase the matured birds, with profits distributed among the participants, NALDA, and the community. This cycle is designed to be self-sustaining, allowing more participants to benefit over time. "This is more than an empowerment scheme it's a grassroots revolution in agribusiness," the Executive Secretary stated. “We are laying the foundation for a model that can expand across Osun State and the country at large.”

Founded briefly in 1992 and revived in 2020 under the Buhari administration, NALDA has a renewed mandate to drive agricultural transformation. Its operations span bush clearing, land preparation, processing, and marketing all in collaboration with local and international partners. “NALDA coordinates stakeholders to ensure real output in agriculture whether in crops, fishery, poultry, or livestock,” he noted. “Our farm estates and equipment are strategically positioned nationwide to support food security and export growth.”

While acknowledging the political backdrop, the Executive Secretary insisted the programme transcends politics. “This is a social enterprise. With sincerity and commitment, it will deliver consistent returns.” The event concluded with a strong message of gratitude and unity. “What we’ve started here today will extend its impact across neighboring communities. Together, we support President Tinubu’s vision with action and dedication.”

Each of the 80 beneficiaries left with a complete starter pack 2 poultry cages, 20 birds, and 4 bags of poultry feed ready to take flight on their journey to financial independence and agricultural entrepreneurship. 

 Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, has called on the South East region to align with the federal government to fully benefit from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda.” Speaking at the unveiling of the Renewed Hope Partners (RHP) in Umuahia on Thursday, Kalu described the initiative as a strategic vehicle designed to translate national achievements into tangible regional development. The event drew political stakeholders, community leaders, and supporters from across the region.

"As we approach the midpoint of President Tinubu’s tenure, the South East must align decisively with the centre," Kalu said. "Renewed Hope Partners is demonstrating our commitment by ensuring that national wins become local victories, and by delivering the South East for President Tinubu in 2027." The RHP, according to Kalu, will establish “Renewed Hope Councils” across all local government areas in the region, working in tandem with the South East Development Commission (SEDC) to implement grassroots-level programs.

Highlighting President Tinubu’s achievements in office, Kalu cited over $50 billion in proposed investments, a 3.4% GDP growth in 2024, and a surge in foreign remittances to $23.4 billion a 61.1% increase from the previous year. He also pointed to cost-saving initiatives like the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) program, expected to save the country ₦2 trillion monthly on petrol imports, alongside the rollout of one million low-cost conversion kits. Infrastructure projects also took center stage. Kalu praised the re-commencement of the Port Harcourt–Maiduguri railway corridor, which he said would reconnect Aba and Onitsha to northern markets, unlocking up to ₦50 billion in annual trade.

On the housing front, he mentioned that the federal government’s plan to deliver over 100,000 new homes nationwide was already underway, starting with 3,112 units nearing completion in Karsana. However, the Deputy Speaker also used the platform to urge the Federal Government to fast-track key development projects in the South East. These include constructing gas pipelines to boost industrialization, expanding the AHL and ANOH energy plants in Imo State, and dredging the Onitsha River to enhance inland waterway trade.

“The South East holds immense potential,” Kalu emphasized. “To unlock it, we need strategic investments in energy, logistics, and infrastructure. This is how we secure a place for our region at the center of Nigeria’s Renewed Hope.” He further called for an upgrade of the Onne port and development of new sea ports at Bonny/Opobo and Bakassi to decongest Lagos and create new export corridors for South East goods. The Renewed Hope Partners, Kalu added, would ensure every household in the region understands and feels the impact of the federal agenda turning policy achievements into votes, and alignment into advancement. 

In a bold step toward transforming Nigeria’s agricultural sector, the Presidential Food Systems Coordination Unit (PFSCU) has announced a series of sweeping initiatives following its 5th Steering Committee (STEERCO) meeting held this week in Abuja.

At the heart of the announcements is the rollout of the National Agribusiness Policy Mechanism (NAPM), a comprehensive strategy aimed at harmonizing agricultural planning and investment across the federal, state, and local levels. By leveraging data, insights, and digital infrastructure, NAPM is expected to improve coordination, transparency, and long-term resilience in Nigeria’s food systems.

Caravan Tour to Spark Grassroots Engagement

As part of its public engagement strategy, PFSCU also unveiled the “Harvesting Hope Caravan” a nationwide tour that will travel across all six geopolitical zones. The Caravan will host interactive town halls, live demonstrations, and cultural showcases, creating platforms for community feedback and building public support for the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Wheat and Rice Value Chains Under Pressure

The STEERCO meeting opened with a sobering review of Nigeria’s national food security dashboard. Sharp disruptions in the wheat and rice value chains—exacerbated by soaring input costs, reduced local production, and an influx of cheaper imports—were highlighted as urgent threats. In response, the Committee approved the creation of an Emergency Ad-Hoc Taskforce to conduct a rapid assessment and provide actionable recommendations to the President.

Early Warning, Smarter Response

To prevent future shocks to the nation’s food supply, PFSCU is partnering with the Office of the National Security Adviser and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) to develop an AI-powered Early Warning and Rapid Response System. The platform will monitor key agricultural indicators and enable coordinated interventions before crises escalate.

$1.1 Billion Green Imperative Project Gains Momentum

The Committee also reviewed milestones under the $1.1 billion Green Imperative Project (GIP). Key developments include the onboarding of 774 mid-sized commercial farms and the establishment of six regional equipment hubs designed to provide farmers with the tools and financing needed to scale production and boost rural economies.

Driving Policy with Evidence

Six regional offices are now being activated to support data collection and evidence-based decision-making. These centers will serve as critical anchors in rolling out the NAPM and supporting digital platforms that guide agricultural planning nationwide.

National Stability Tied to Food Security

Recognizing the deep link between food systems and national security, PFSCU emphasized its commitment to transforming Nigeria’s food future through inclusive partnerships and real-time responsiveness. This commitment was reinforced by recent endorsements at the National Economic Council and a $1 million investment from private sector partners to scale PFSCU’s initiatives.

As Nigeria navigates both immediate challenges and long-term priorities, PFSCU’s latest actions mark a decisive shift toward sustainable, inclusive, and technology-driven agricultural transformation for today and for generations to come.