On April 18, 2025, a remarkable chapter in the educational sector of the North-West geopolitical zone was lifted with the announcement of a N5 billion scholarship initiative by Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Ph.D., GCON, the Speaker of the House of Representatives. This groundbreaking initiative, aimed at supporting 30,000 students pursuing higher education, is not merely an allocation of funds; it is a clarion call for empowerment and a strategic commitment to fostering a brighter future for a region historically plagued by socio-economic challenges. By Abdul-Azeez Suleiman The scholarship program, encompassing the seven states of the North-West—Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi,…
Author: TheStories
In a world that celebrates grand romantic gestures, extravagant weddings, and Instagram-worthy couple goals, it is easy to become swept up in the emotional whirlwind of love and overlook the practical realities that come with a lifelong partnership. But marriage, in its most enduring and genuine form, is not just about love or physical attraction—it is about values, mindsets, and worldviews. It is about marrying a way of thinking, a belief system, and a set of principles that will either enrich or erode the life you build together. By Prof. Chiwuike Uba Too often, people enter into marriage based on…
Union Bank of Nigeria, under its Made In Naija initiative, has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting homegrown businesses by sponsoring the RISE Business Challenge at the University of Lagos, Akoka, during the 6th Annual Youth Leadership Conference. Dubbed Turning Point 6.0, the Resilience, Innovation, Social Responsibility, and Entrepreneurship (RISE) Challenge is a collaboration between Union Bank and the conference convener, Mr. Olusegun Odufuwa, aimed at empowering youth-led businesses through financial and mentorship support via a pitch competition. Targeted at uplifting young men and women with essential entrepreneurial skills, the event aligns with one of the Bank’s core objectives: promoting Made…
Nigerian companies, including Dangote Cement, MTN Nigeria, BUA Cement, BUA Foods, Nigerian Breweries, Nestlé Nigeria, Dangote Sugar, Seplat Energy, Aradel Holdings, and Lafarge Africa, endured significant financial pressure in 2024, as interest expenses soared to record levels, driven by the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) tight monetary policy and rising debt exposure. The CBN’s sustained benchmark interest rate hikes, aimed at curbing inflation and ensuring real positive returns, pushed borrowing costs to new highs, placing a major strain on corporate earnings. An analysis of 2024 audited financial statements from 10 publicly listed companies—including Dangote Cement, MTN Nigeria, BUA Cement, BUA…
Theme: “The Covenant-Keeping God: Jehovah Racham (God of Mercy)” – Titus 3:5 Dearly Beloved in Christ, Grace and peace be unto you in the name of our Risen Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ! He is Risen – Hallelujah! As we gather to celebrate the glorious resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ in this Easter season of 2025, I bring warm greetings to every member of our Diocese, the Church of Nigeria, and indeed, the entire nation. Easter is a powerful reminder that out of pain comes purpose, and from death springs forth eternal life. In a world marred by chaos,…
The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has stated that Nigeria and the European Union (EU) must deepen their collaboration in defence and security to effectively tackle emerging threats. The Minister made this known when he received Mr. Casmin Dirban, Director of the Peace Partnership and Crisis Management Department of the European External Action Service (EEAS) in Brussels, who paid him a courtesy visit at the Ministry of Defence Headquarters, Ship House, Abuja. During the meeting, both parties discussed enhancing cooperation on security matters, particularly in the fight against terrorism, insurgency, and banditry that have continued to affect Nigeria and…
The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening its defence capabilities through strategic collaboration with the Armed Forces of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. He made this call during a meeting with a high-level delegation from Pakistan, led by General Shahir Shamsad, at his office in Ship House, Abuja. The Minister commended Pakistan’s counter-terrorism strategies, describing them as cost-effective and exemplary for Nigeria to consider. He highlighted that the enduring relationship between both nations is anchored in mutual respect, shared challenges, and aligned strategic interests. “The history of cooperation between Nigeria and Pakistan provides a…
In the bustling corridors of power in Abuja and the grand halls of international summits, one man has consistently stood tall beside President Bola Ahmed Tinubu — Vice President Kashim Shettima. Calm, articulate, and resolutely loyal, Shettima has not only proven to be a reliable deputy but a statesman in his own right. From echoing the President’s vision on foreign soil to championing bold economic reforms at home, Shettima has quietly become the face of consistency and commitment in an administration navigating one of Nigeria’s most transformative periods.
The Northern region of Nigeria stands at a pivotal crossroads, one that demands a collective commitment to leadership and unity in the face of daunting challenges. In the aftermath of the 2023 general elections, it has become increasingly clear that Vice President Kashim Shettima represents not just a political figure but a beacon of hope for the North. His ability to galvanize the Northern political elites, transcend religious divides, and inspire a new vision for the future underscores the necessity for the region to rally behind him now and in the years to come. By Abdul-Azeez Suleiman During the tumultuous…
In a world increasingly defined by division and tribalism, the presence of a modern leader who transcends such boundaries is both refreshing and necessary. Vice President Kashim Shettima exemplifies this ideal, as demonstrated during his recent visit to Lagos to honor the memory of Mrs. Gbemisola Olowolafe, the late wife of Dr. Tunji Olowolafe, Chancellor of Ekiti State University and former Chairman of GZ Industries (GZI). The service of songs and night of tributes held in her honor was not merely a ceremonial gathering; it was a poignant reminder of the power of a life devoted to philanthropy, community service,…