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2021 BUDGET : Brigade Of Guards To Consume More than 1.5 Billion Naira

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Abbas Yushau Yusuf

The Minister of Defence, Maj Gen Bashir Salihi Magashi (rtd) has defended the Ministry of Defence 2021 budget proposal before the House of Representatives Committee on Defence Chaired by Babajimi Bande at the Green chamber of the National Assembly.

General Magashi presented Three hundred and forty billion, three hundred and fifteen million, three hundred and fifty nine thousand, two hundred and fifty five naira ninety five kobo.(N340,315,359,255.95) for the Ministry of Defence 2021 fiscal year.

The Minister who was accompanied by the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Defence, Hussaini Babangida said the budget is premised on the 2020-2023 Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP) of the government as well as predicated on strengthening the Services and other Military institutions.

This is to enable them perform their statutory responsibility without lacking the necessary requirements.

He gave a breakdown of the budget proposal of two billion, seventy six million, four hundred and nine thousand, eight hundred and forty four naira (N2,076,409,844.00) as main Overhead cost of the Ministry for the year out of which the sum of One billion five hundred and twenty million (N1,520,000,000.00) is for the Brigade of Guards. In addition, the sum of five hundred and fifty six million, four hundred and nine thousand eight hundred and four naira (N556,409,844.00) is budgeted for its regular Overhead expenditure to arrive at the grand total of three hundred and forty billion, three hundred and fifteen million, three hundred and fifty nine thousand two hundred and fifty five naira, ninety five. kobo( N340,315,359,255.95).

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According to the Minister, the Projects to be executed by the Ministry in the 2021 budget include the on-going and Special projects approved by the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Muhammadu Buhari which cover
acquisition of Defence Equipment to be executed on government to government on win-win basis estimated at $692,968,573.00 out of which 30% was released by the Federal Ministry of Finance, Budget and National Planning.

The Defence Minister, disclosed that the Ministry has the Presidential
directive to execute a stalled contract put at USD269,734,420.50 for the delivery of seven hundred (700) Troops Carrying Vehicles and fifty (50) buses awarded since 2014 by the Office of the National Security Adviser.

Meanwhile, the Minister had earlier summarised the 2020 budget performance as at 26th October pointing out that 88% of the Overhead was utilised while the total Expenditure for Capital utilised stands at 16%. He however blamed the low Capital utilisation on four causative factors. They include, the challenge of the general effects of Covid-19 pandemic, paucity of funds, late releases of Capital funds and bureaucratic bottleneck associated with procurement process.

He assured the House Committee on Defence, that the Ministry is poised to actualising its statutory responsibility of providing adequate security to entrenche peace in a united Nigeria.

In a statement by Muhammad Abdulkadiri said the Chairman House Committee on Defence Babajimi Bande reiterated the commitment of members to doing the needful with the budget proposal without any delay.

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Full Gospel Business Men’s Fellowship Unveils 2026 Lagos Convention Logo

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The Full Gospel Business Men’s Fellowship International (FGBMFI), Nigeria, on Thursday, January 29, 2026, unveiled the official logo for its 2026 Lagos National Convention at a press briefing held at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Maitama, Abuja, with former Senate President, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim, calling for conviction-driven Christian leadership across business and public life.

The unveiling marked a key milestone in preparations for the national convention, which is expected to attract members and stakeholders from across Nigeria and beyond. Leaders of the fellowship used the occasion to outline the vision, theme, and activities planned for the 2026 gathering.

Among dignitaries present were the National President of FGBMFI Nigeria, Barrister Isaac Okpanachi; Senator Anyim Pius Anyim; Southwest 3 District Coordinator and Planning Committee Chairman, Mr. Sunny Beyioku; Board of Trustees member, Arc. Daniel Wadzani; National Vice President (Convention), Mr. Victor Tony Emmanuel; National Vice President (Outreaches), Mr. Wake Ademo; Chairman, Special Outreaches, Dr. Kelechi Idimogu; Chairman, National Convention Committee, Mr. Kelechi Agu; and District Coordinator, North Central 1, Sir Roland.

In his opening remarks, Mr. Beyioku assured members of the public that preparations for the convention were progressing steadily. He said all districts of the fellowship were actively involved in the planning process, with deliberate efforts to highlight the origins and growth of FGBMFI in Nigeria, adding that the fellowship remained committed to fulfilling its mandate.
Addressing the gathering, Barrister Okpanachi announced that the 2026 National Convention would hold at the National Theatre, Lagos, described as the historic venue where the fellowship first began in Nigeria. He also unveiled the theme of the convention as “Pressing Towards the Mark” (Philippians 3:14), noting that it reflects focus, resilience, and unwavering commitment to God’s calling.

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The national president explained that the newly unveiled logo symbolises the fellowship’s vision of reaching professionals, public servants, and individuals engaged in legitimate vocations. He also acknowledged Senator Anyim for his longstanding support of the fellowship, expressing optimism that Nigeria would continue to serve as a model for integrity in business and governance.

According to him, the 2026 convention is designed to connect, inspire, and reposition members spiritually and professionally. Planned activities include rallies, Bible teachings, prison outreaches, and exclusive dinners and luncheons for professionals, politicians, civil servants, artisans, and other stakeholders.

Responding to questions from journalists, the leadership highlighted the impact of previous conventions, noting that sustained outreach programmes and publications have increased the fellowship’s visibility nationwide. They cited several prominent Nigerians who have been associated with the fellowship as examples of ethical leadership in public service.

On digital engagement, FGBMFI leaders said the fellowship is strengthening its online presence, expanding virtual meetings, and developing youth-focused content. Barrister Okpanachi also referenced his YouTube platform, LifeLight Help TV, as part of efforts to reach a wider audience.

Speaking at the event, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim stressed that Christian engagement in public and professional life must be rooted in conviction, noting that the fellowship plays a critical role in reinforcing moral values across sectors.

The event concluded with a joint unveiling of the convention logo and closing remarks by NEC member, Dr. Jerry Abutu, followed by prayers.

Founded in December 1951 in Los Angeles, California, by dairy farmer Demos Shakarian, the Full Gospel Business Men’s Fellowship International has grown into a global movement. Nigeria is currently described as having the largest concentration of FGBMFI chapters worldwide.

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Defection: One Kano Agenda Supports Any Political Shift For Development

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A non-partisan civic movement, One Kano Agenda, has said that the political party under which a governor operates is less important than the quality of governance delivered to the people, following the recent defection of Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Speaking at a press conference held on Wednesday at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Secretariat, Kano, the group said its position was guided strictly by the interests of Kano State and not by party politics.

Addressing journalists, the Director-General of One Kano Agenda, Ambassador Abbas Abdullahi Yakasai, stressed that the organisation remains a strictly non-partisan civic platform committed to unity, inclusiveness, and sustainable development.

“Our allegiance is not to any political party or coalition, but solely to Kano State and its people. Kano comes first, always,” Yakasai declared.

According to the group, a governor’s change of political party is irrelevant as long as governance remains inclusive, people-centred, and focused on tangible development outcomes. It noted that leadership should be assessed based on actions, policies, and results rather than party labels.

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One Kano Agenda said it was prepared to engage constructively with any administration that demonstrates commitment to peace, security, economic growth, education, healthcare, infrastructure development, and youth and women empowerment, regardless of party affiliation.

The group also commended Governor Yusuf for establishing the Kano Elders Forum, describing it as a laudable initiative capable of strengthening unity, stability, and long-term thinking in the state if sincerely sustained.

“The creation of a non-political forum of respected elders reflects an appreciation for wisdom, experience, and moral authority in governance,” the group said.

However, One Kano Agenda cautioned the governor against allowing political pressures or external influences to derail his primary responsibility to the people of Kano State.

“Kano State is bigger than any political party. Its future must never be subordinated to partisan battles, external political calculations, or personal ambitions,” the group warned.

The organisation further cautioned political actors and other stakeholders against exploiting the current political situation to spread division, misinformation, or tension within the state, urging maturity and restraint.

It called on citizens and the media to focus attention on pressing challenges facing the state, including unemployment, insecurity, education, healthcare delivery, urban development, and economic revitalisation.

In a show of goodwill, One Kano Agenda extended an open hand of engagement to the governor and his administration, offering policy ideas, research, and citizen-driven input aimed at improving governance and accelerating development.

“Democracy allows for political movement, but it also demands accountability and results,” the group stated, urging residents to prioritise performance, integrity, and impact over party affiliation.

The press conference concluded with a reaffirmation of the group’s commitment to Kano State above politics and personal ambition.

The statement was jointly signed by Ambassador Abbas Abdullahi Yakasai, Director-General of One Kano Agenda, and Barrister Moukhtar Musa, Secretary-General of the organisation

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Buba Galadima says late President Buhari ensured Abba Kabir Yusuf wasn’t rigged out in 2023 — and was bitter after ex-Governor Ganduje mocked him as Habu Na Habu

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A prominent politician and ally of NNPP National Leader Buba Galadima said the late President Muhammadu Buhari made sure that Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s victory at the polls during the 2023 general election was affirmed and announced by INEC.

Buba Galadima stated this in an interview with Arise Television.

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Buba said the late President was bitter when, prior to the general election, former Governor of Kano State Abdullahi Umar Ganduje addressed the late President as Habu Na Habu, meaning a drunkard who goes naked on the streets.

Buba Galadima was reacting to the recent defection of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf to the APC from the NNPP, a brainchild of former Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.

Buba Galadima said Almighty Allah is on their side and He gives power to whom He wishes, and Abba became the Governor.

He said at the Tribunal they were given victory, but the judgment was changed in Abuja and they appealed. He said the judges were intimidated and they declared Gawuna.

According to him, when they took the case to the Supreme Court, three judges said they did not want a bloodbath in Kano, and on January 12, 2024, they reaffirmed Abba Kabir Yusuf as Governor of the state.

Buba Galadima was reacting to the recent defection of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf to the All Progressive Congress where Former Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje is the party leader in Kano

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