West is Russia’s enemy, not Ukraine itself, says Putin.

West is Russia’s enemy, not Ukraine itself, says Putin.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said yesterday that the true enemy of his country is the West rather than Ukraine itself.

“The point is not that they help our enemy, but they are our enemy, they solve their issues with their (Ukraine’s) hands,” Putin said during a meeting at a military hospital in the Moscow region.

Stating that this has been the case “for centuries” and that it continues today, Putin said that Ukraine itself is not an enemy for Russia, but rather those that intend to “destroy Russian statehood” and inflict a “strategic defeat” of Moscow on the front line.

“There are people who sympathise with us, but there are so-called (Western) elites for whom the existence of Russia, at least in its current quality, in its current size, as they think, is unacceptable,” Putin further said.

Russia’s president went on to argue that Western elites “nurtured” Ukraine for a long time to create the conflict seen today.

“Unfortunately for us, they achieved, created this conflict and are trying to solve their task with the help of Ukrainians, namely the task of fighting Russia,” he said.

Commenting on Ukraine’s recent strike on the Russian city of Belgorod which resulted in the death of 24 people, Putin said Russia should not strike back at places with civilian populations in Ukraine despite “everything boiling inside”.

He said that Russia will not leave “a single crime of this kind” go “unpunished,” further describing the strike that took place on Saturday as a “terrorist attack”.

Ukraine’s armed forces are doing this to intimidate Russia and create uncertainty in the country, Putin further said, adding: “But we, for our part, will increase the blows that I said.”

He went on to say that Moscow wants to end the conflict “as quickly as possible” and “only on our terms.”

2024: Oyebanji expresses confidence in a more prosperous Nigeria.

2024: Oyebanji expresses confidence in a more prosperous Nigeria.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji has expressed confidence in the nation’s ability to navigate through the current economic challenges and emerge stronger and more prosperous in 2024. 

Governor Oyebanji, who stated this on Monday during the new year service at the First Baptist Church, Ikogosi Ekiti, said Nigerians should remain resolute and resilient, assuring that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is prioritizing the well-being of the people with targeted programs and policies that will bring succor to the masses.

Acknowledging the prevailing economic challenges facing the nation, the Governor said strategic plans and policies have been put in place to address the root cause of the economic instability.

 He maintained that year 2024 will be the end of economic challenges confronting the nation.

Expressing confidence in the ability of President Tinubu to revitalize the economy and steer the country towards prosperity, Oyebanji said the President is committed to fostering an environment conducive for business growth, foreign investment, and job creation.

He urge Nigerians to support and trust in the administration’s strategies, assuring them that the sacrifice made today will pave the way for a brighter future.

The Governor also charged the people to continue praying for the President, be patient with government and be optimistic of a prosperous year ahead.

“Nigeria is our Jerusalem, let us help the President with our prayers, he has spoken to us this morning, I urge us to let’s have trust in him and be patient a little” the Governor asserted.

2024: LP‘ll adjust to new role as Nigeria’s main opposition party — Obi.

2024: LP‘ll adjust to new role as Nigeria’s main opposition party — Obi.

The 2023 Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi, says a new Nigeria is possible despite the numerous yet-to-be-fulfilled aspirations of citizens.

Obi, in his New Year Message to Nigerians on Monday, said that “As Nigeria is the only country we have, deeply endowed but lacking good leadership over the years, we will continue to seek a new Nigeria that we know is possible.”

According to him, the party will continue to adjust to new role as Nigeria’s main opposition party.

Expressing his heartfelt and warmest greetings to all Nigerians, Obi prayed God to bless them richly and grant them their good hearts’ desires in the new year and beyond.

Obi said: “The events of past year are now part of our national history. As we trudge on, we remain mindful of the State of our Nation, and that our best hopes and aspirations remain largely unfulfilled.

“Peace and security continue to elude us with the rising level of bloodletting deeply troubling and sometimes beyond a war situation.

“A situation where hundreds of Nigerians are violently killed in December alone is deeply sad and unacceptable.

“While we pray for the repose of the souls departed, we demand that the Federal Government must do whatever is required to bring the perpetrators to justice and permanently stop a reoccurrence in any part of Nigeria.”

He noted that the nation’s economy needed a turnaround considering the rising unemployment, inflation, poverty, inequality and other key socio-economic variables.

“Nigerians are now very aware and convinced that good governance, inclusive development, and accountable leadership expected in a functional democracy, continue to elude us.

“But we must be consistent and resolute in our demand for rule of law, regulatory quality and government effectiveness for transformative solutions to litany of our social problems.

“If there is one fundamental threat to our democracy, it is the undermining and weakening of our national institutions and the capture of state affairs and resources by few individuals and private interests.

“This must stop for Nigeria to move forward and function as an inclusive and sustainable society and nation,” Obi, a former two-term Anambra governor, said.

According to him, in a democratic and secular country like ours, there must be full respect for the separation of powers between the three independent arms of government, as well as between the federating units.

He said  the National Assembly should devote time and commit itself to diligent performance of their functions like the 2024 budget that required their prudent examination and subsequent patriotic oriented approval or rejection.

Obi said  the nation must work assiduously to avoid drifting to a one-party state, or a situation, where the Federal Government intervened unduly in the internal affairs of the states, particularly in circumstances where national security is not threatened.

He added: “We in Labour Party have undertaken in the national interest and in our undying commitment to a New Nigeria that is possible, to remain firmly in opposition and as such, must remain focused going forward.

“Our collective role in nation building remains fundamental and obligatory,” Obi said.

He used the opportunity to thank all Nigerians who supported his campaign during the 2023 elections and voted for his party because of their belief in the quest for a New Nigeria.

Obi said the outcome of the 2023 presidential elections was contested and remained so, on record,” but the Courts of law have spoken; so be it”.

He said: “I wish to thank members of the Labour Party, the Obidient Family, friends and well-wishers of Nigeria for their loyalty, resilience, tenacity and commitment to true democracy.

“We will continue ongoing discussions and efforts for the Labour Party to adjust to our new role as Nigeria’s main opposition party.

Read Also: Peter Obi pledges N5millions to support Plateau attack victims

“We will continue to constructively engage all Nigerians and our friends, who have now realised the vast implications of the road not taken; and the folly of national interest decisions predicated on sentiments and primordial interests.”

Obi said that Nigeria remained a God-given country and that the business of Nigeria was far too important to be left to those involved in transactional politics.

“I am involved in the struggle for a New Nigeria that is possible and works for all and will remain passionately committed to the crusade.

“I, therefore,  implore you all who strive for a New Nigeria to remain fully engaged, committed and resilient as it is and will be possible.” 

(NAN)

2024: Lawan seeks support for Tinubu, says Nigeria on threshold of possibilities.

2024: Lawan seeks support for Tinubu, says Nigeria on threshold of possibilities.

Former Senate president, Ahmad Lawan, has called on Nigerians to support the policies of President Bola Tinubu’s administration in the new year.

Lawan, in his New Year message on Monday, January 1, said that Nigeria is on the threshold of possibilities with the coming of the new year.

He called on Nigerians to embrace opportunities, as well as challenges with courage and determination.

The former Senate president underscored the need to support President Bola Tinubu’s administration and his policies, adding that the federal government is focused on creating a prosperous and just society for Nigerians.

Lawan said: “As we welcome the New Year 2024, our great country stands on the threshold of immense possibilities. It is a time for reflection, renewal, and renewed commitment to the values that make Nigeria the giant of Africa.

“The past year has been a challenging one for our nation, with security issues, economic difficulties, and other trials testing our resolve. However, we have emerged stronger and more resilient, united by our shared aspiration for a better future for ourselves, our children, and generations to come.

“As we embark on this new chapter in our nation’s history, I want to take this opportunity to underscore the need to support our government and the policies of the President Bola Tinubu administration.

“Unity and cooperation are the cornerstones of progress. When we stand together as a nation, we can achieve great things.

“The President Bola Tinubu administration is committed to building a better future for all Nigerians. His policies are geared towards economic growth, job creation, security, and unity. These policies are not merely words on paper; they are concrete steps towards creating a more prosperous and just society.

“To make these policies a reality, the President needs the collective support of every Nigerian. We need to join hands and work together to create a conducive environment for progress. We need to embrace unity, tolerance, and understanding, setting aside differences that may divide us.

“Let us put aside partisan politics and personal interests and work towards the common goal of nation-building. Let us support our President and his administration as they implement policies aimed at improving our lives and the lives of our children. The road ahead may not be easy, but together, we can overcome any challenge that comes our way.

“As we begin 2024, I believe that our greatest asset is the indomitable spirit of the Nigerian people. We are known for our warmth, our creativity, and our unwavering optimism. We are a nation of problem solvers, innovators, and entrepreneurs.

“This spirit of innovation and resilience has been evident in the way our people have responded to the challenges of the past year. We have seen the emergence of new businesses, the development of new technologies, and a groundswell of support for community-led initiatives.

“These are all signs that Nigeria is on the right track, a country that is on the rise. We have the potential to become a global powerhouse, a beacon of progress and prosperity for the entire African continent.

“But to achieve this potential, we must continue to work together, to set aside our differences, and to focus on the common goal of building a better Nigeria for all.

“In 2024, let us resolve to be more united, more compassionate, and more determined to make a difference. Let us work together to build a more prosperous, more just, and more peaceful Nigeria.

“As we celebrate the New Year, may we find joy and renewed hope in our hearts. May we embrace the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead with courage and determination. And may we always remember the words of our national anthem: ‘Arise, O compatriots, Nigeria’s call obey.’”

President’s wife welcomes Abuja’s first baby of the year.

President’s wife welcomes Abuja’s first baby of the year.

Wife of the President, Remi Tinubu, on Monday, welcomed the first baby of the year, Boluwatife Johnson, at the National Hospital, in Abuja.

Boluwatife was born at 12.03 am on January 1.

Mrs Tinubu urged influential persons in the country to work with the government to enhance the healthcare delivery system in the country, as the government cannot do it alone.

“I urge nursing mothers to take adequate care of their babies, ensure that they are immunised as and when due, practise exclusive breastfeeding and provide them with adequate nutritious and healthy weaning food for their brain development.

“Expectant mothers should always take antenatal and postnatal care seriously, maintain basic hygiene at home, space their births, register their babies with the National Population Commission and make efforts to enrol them in school at the appropriate age,” she said.

The First Lady further implored women to know their HIV/AIDS status.

We’ll enact laws to drive development, says Anambra speaker.

We’ll enact laws to drive development, says Anambra speaker.

The Speaker of the Anambra State House of Assembly, Dr Somtochukwu Udeze, has assured the people of the state that the legislature will continue to enact laws and resolutions to uplift the standard of living of residents in the state.

Udeze, in his New Year message on Monday from his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Emma Madu, also noted that the legislature would make laws that would drive development in the state.

“The legislative agenda of the 8th Assembly coincided with Gov. Chukwuma Soludo’s agenda, which revolves around infrastructure development, economic transformation, security, and human capital development, among others.

“As we march into the New Year, we will continue to enact laws that will drive development and impact on the lives of residents.

“I urge residents to support the government in making the state a liveable and prosperous homeland,” he said.

The Speaker said that the growth and development of the state was a collective responsibility, urging religious bodies to intensify prayers for peace and progress of the state.

He also urged Nigerians to be confident and remain steadfast even amid challenges as well as aspire for the realisation of the dream of a prosperous nation in 2024.

(NAN)

Ododo to Nigerians: 2024 will be year of redemption.

Ododo to Nigerians: 2024 will be year of redemption. 

The Kogi State Governor-Elect, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has expressed confidence in the upcoming year, declaring it as a year of redemption for both Nigerians and the people of Kogi.

In a New Year message made available to PUNCH Online, Ododo said 2024 is the year when the hope of Nigerians will be renewed.

He added that the decision of the President to implement the fuel subsidy removal policy was the best in the interest of the nation’s economy, applauding Tinubu for his efforts at rebounding the nation’s oil refineries.

“We have gone through the sacrifice period of the oil subsidy removal. From the second quarter of 2024, we will bounce back stronger and our economy will be unstoppable from that point.

“I call on Nigerians and Kogites to continue to give total support to the present administration as it is working hard to improve the living standards of the citizenry. 2024 is a year that will herald the arrival of Nigeria on the global stage.”

The governor-elect charged Kogites to pray for him as he will be stepping into the shoes of “Kogi’s best Governor ever”, promising to fulfil their expectations.

He said, “For us in Kogi State, it is a year of transition. I will be taking over from Kogi’s best Governor ever. It is a huge task to match the heroics of His Excellency Alh. Yahaya Bello but with God on our side, we won’t let down the flag of progress in our dear state.

“It is a big challenge to take over from a hugely successful administration. But the Governor himself has prepared us mentally, administratively, and politically for the task ahead. We won’t fail the people of Kogi State.

“Our agenda is to continue and consolidate the achievements of the present administration in the state. We have no doubt whatsoever that we can build on the solid foundation that was laid by our leader and Governor, Alh. Yahaya Bello,” he stated.

He urged Kogites to continue to pray for the greatness of the state and Nigeria, saying Nigerians are already seeing the “bright light of the nation under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”