The Federal Government has reaffirmed its determined commitment to national unity, inclusion and equitable development, declaring that the South-East remains a critical partner in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision of building a peaceful, prosperous and united Nigeria under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

The Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, FNIPR, gave the assurance while addressing journalists at a press briefing in Umuahia, Abia State, following the South-East Regional Security Summit held.

The Minister said the Tinubu administration is deliberately strengthening engagement with the South-East through sustained dialogue, strategic investments and inclusive governance aimed at fostering national cohesion and ensuring that every Nigerian enjoys equal opportunities regardless of region.

According to him, the South-East Regional Security Summit, organised by the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement (South-East) in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Defence and hosted by the Abia State Government, brought together government officials, security agencies, traditional rulers, community leaders, professionals, youth groups and political stakeholders to fashion lasting solutions to the region’s security challenges.
He described the summit as a demonstration of the Federal Government’s readiness to listen to citizens, engage communities and develop solutions that reflect local realities.
“The message from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is clear. Every Nigerian, irrespective of location, has the right to live, work and pursue prosperity in a safe and secure environment,” the Minister stated.
Mohammed Idris stressed that security remains central to the Renewed Hope Agenda but noted that sustainable peace goes beyond military action. He explained that the administration is combining improved security operations with economic empowerment, infrastructure renewal, human capital development and social inclusion to guarantee lasting stability.

He disclosed that President Tinubu has continued to strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture through enhanced support for security agencies, improved operational capacity, intelligence coordination and stronger collaboration among federal, state and community stakeholders.
Responding to questions on allegations of marginalisation of the South-East, the Minister dismissed the perception, insisting that the President has demonstrated an inclusive approach through strategic appointments, infrastructure development and targeted investments across the region.
He cited the appointment of Senator Dave Umahi as Minister of Works, the execution of massive federal road projects linking states and cities, the establishment of one of Nigeria’s three world-class Cancer Centres in Enugu and the inclusion of the South-East in the Federal Government’s rollout of 1,000 Primary Healthcare Centres nationwide as clear evidence of the administration’s commitment to the region.
“The stability of the South-East is critical to Nigeria’s overall progress. The perception of exclusion is not the reality. President Tinubu is committed to ensuring that every region benefits from the dividends of democracy,” he said.

The Minister maintained that no resources due to states are being withheld by the Federal Government, advising state governments to undertake proper needs assessments and prioritise projects that directly improve the welfare of their people, while assuring that the Federal Government remains ready to support developmental initiatives across the federation.

He further disclosed that the Federal Government would continue its engagement with South-East stakeholders, noting that the administration is not shying away from addressing genuine concerns and agitations through constructive dialogue.
On concerns over the nation’s borrowing profile, Mohammed Idris defended the administration’s economic reforms, stating that the impact is evident in ongoing infrastructure projects, increased allocations to states and programmes designed to stimulate economic growth, support small businesses, provide student financing, expand consumer credit and strengthen social protection.
The Minister also highlighted the role of the Bank Verification Number (BVN) and National Identification Number (NIN) in promoting financial transparency, combating criminal financial transactions and expanding social inclusion.
He added that the Federal Government has intensified the fight against banditry, terrorism and other forms of criminality through the deployment of sophisticated technology and intelligence-driven operations, while emphasising that feedback obtained from citizens continues to shape government policies and interventions.
Mohammed Idris reaffirmed that President Tinubu’s administration remains committed to building a Nigeria where every region can realise its full potential, saying that peace in the South-East would attract greater investment, create jobs, strengthen businesses and further advance the nation’s collective aspiration for unity, security and sustainable development.

…Renew Pledge to Unity, Merit and Patriotism

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, GCFR, and Abia State Governor Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, led political, military, traditional and religious leaders in a solemn national tribute to Nigeria’s first Military Head of State, late Major General Johnson Thomas Umunnakwe Aguiyi-Ironsi, at the 60th Memorial Anniversary held at the Aguiyi-Ironsi Conference Centre and International Conference Centre, Umuahia.

The event drew dignitaries from across the country to honour the legacy of a leader described as a courageous patriot who made the ultimate sacrifice for Nigeria’s unity and stability.

President Tinubu was represented by the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, Rtd.

In his address, the President described Major-General Aguiyi-Ironsi as a patriot whose life was dedicated to the progress and unity of Nigeria, and who assumed leadership at a time of immense political uncertainty.

“Nigeria remains grateful for the invaluable sacrifices made by your distinguished son, husband, and father in the service of our fatherland.
General Aguiyi-Ironsi was an outstanding professional soldier whose military career was marked by disciplined courage, loyalty, and commitment to duty.
His assumption of leadership came at a time when Nigeria faced immense political uncertainty and national anxiety. Although his tenure was brief, he demonstrated a firm commitment to preserving national unity, restoring stability and maintaining the integrity of the Nigerian State,”_ Tinubu stated.

The President added that the values of patriotism, discipline, selfless service, integrity and national unity which Aguiyi-Ironsi exemplified “remain as relevant today as they were 60 years ago.”

General Musa also commended Governor Otti’s leadership
“His Excellency, our hardworking Governor, I want to say a very big thank you for all the good works you have been doing. You have set a standard of governance… without any noise, and things continue to change. We appreciate you, sir. I’m looking forward to coming to celebrate during your inauguration for the second term.”

In his address,the host Governor, Dr Alex Otti called for greater national cohesion and merit-based leadership, describing the late Head of State as a selfless leader whose sacrifice should continue to inspire generations.

“We came here to celebrate a man who gave his life for the rest of us. Personally, I believe we are better off as one country, connected and working together, than divided,” Gov. Otti declared.

He said Aguiyi-Ironsi’s willingness to lay down his life demonstrated uncommon patriotism and emphasized the need for Nigeria to remain one indivisible nation united by a common purpose.

The Governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to meritocracy, noting that appointments in Abia are based on competence, integrity and capacity rather than state of origin. He cited the appointment of an Edo State indigene as Abia Head of Service as proof.

Gov. Otti also paid tribute to Chief Obasanjo as a father and mentor, and to Dame Patience Jonathan, announcing that Abia will join in celebrating Chief Obasanjo’s 90th birthday on March 5, 2027.

In separate goodwill messages, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, former Chief of Army Staff ,General Azubuike Ihejirika (Rtd), and former First Lady Dame Patience Goodluck Jonathan described the memorial as a fitting tribute to a distinguished patriot who paid the supreme price in active service.

They commended Governor Otti for supporting initiatives that promote national unity, peace and historical remembrance, and urged Nigerians to remain united and uphold the values for which the late military leader stood.

They maintained that honouring heroes like Aguiyi-Ironsi would inspire future generations to embrace selfless service and unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s unity.

Presenting the citation, the late General’s daughter, Mrs. Louisa Aguiyi-Ironsi, described her father as a true nationalist whose leadership was anchored on discipline, meritocracy, patriotism and the professionalisation of the Armed Forces.

She said the wreath-laying was “a solemn tribute to honour a life devoted to the service of Nigeria and to preserve the legacy of a leader who made the ultimate sacrifice for national unity.”

“This gathering is not intended for mere performance of ceremonial rites. Today, we do not assemble to reopen old debates nor to magnify historical divisions. This commemoration therefore serves a dual purpose. First, it stands as a solemn tribute to his personal sacrifice and steadfast commitment to a united Nigeria. Second, it is a clarion call to present and future leaders to draw inspiration from that commitment. The Nigerian aspiration must be anchored on justice, accountability, discipline, and the collective good,”_ she stated.

Louisa also paid glowing tribute to the late Lieutenant Colonel Adekunle Fajuyi, describing his loyalty and sacrifice as enduring symbols of courage and national service.

Speaking on behalf of the family, former Minister of Defence and first son, Ambassador Thomas Aguiyi-Ironsi, expressed profound appreciation to President Tinubu and Governor Otti.

He commended the Abia Government for renovating the gravesite and supporting the event, and noted that Governor Otti “has performed exceptionally well in governance and deserves a second term in office.”

Relatives earlier appealed to Nigerians to reflect on Aguiyi-Ironsi’s contributions and assess his legacy with fairness and historical objectivity, urging citizens to uphold patriotism, peaceful coexistence and national integration.

The ceremony reached its emotional peak with prayers and consecration of the tomb by the Bishop of Umuahia Catholic Diocese, Most Rev. Michael Kalu Ukpong, alongside other clergy.

This was followed by the laying of wreaths by the President’s representative, Governor Otti, representative of Governor Charles Soludo, Commissioner Dr. Law Mefor, Dame Patience Jonathan, and other dignitaries.

Other dignitaries present included: Abia Deputy Governor Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu;  representatives of the National Assembly; Archbishops and other Clergy; heads of federal agencies, traditional rulers, military officers and other distinguished guests.

The ceremony ended with a renewed national call for unity, peaceful coexistence, patriotism and selfless leadership as enduring values exemplified by Major General Johnson Thomas Umunnakwe Aguiyi-Ironsi.

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Abia State Command, has announced a decline in Road Traffic Crashes (RTCs) and fatalities in 2025 compared to the 2024 figures, attributing the feat to concerted efforts by the Corps, the State Government, security agencies, and other key stakeholders.

Sector Commander of the Abia State FRSC, Ngozi Ezeoma, made this known in Umuahia during a town hall meeting of stakeholders for the 2025 Ember Months campaign, themed around collective responsibility and sustained safety awareness.

Ezeoma disclosed that the reduction was achieved through continuous sensitization, education, and enforcement of road traffic regulations across key corridors in the state.

“The numbers recorded so far are sobering and underscore the urgent need for sustained intervention and shared commitment,” she said, noting that the FRSC’s 2025 Corporate Strategic Goal No. 1 is to achieve a 10% reduction in road traffic fatalities and injuries through focused interventions.

She further revealed that the Ember Months public enlightenment campaign will be launched in motor parks, churches, mosques, and marketplaces, utilizing indigenous languages and repetitive messaging for greater impact.

According to her, mobile courts will be deployed to swiftly prosecute traffic offenders, while driver re-certification and pre-trip vehicle inspections will be conducted in partnership with transport unions and other stakeholders.

Ezeoma urged motorists and road users to shun over-speeding, overloading, drunk driving, and other dangerous practices that endanger lives, adding that safety on the roads is a shared responsibility.

“Let our collective resolve translate into action on the streets, in our communities, and within our institutions. The success of this meeting depends on what each of us does after today,” she emphasized.

Delivering a lecture during the meeting, the Sector Public Education Officer, J.K. Igbonekwu, dismissed the myth that road accidents during Ember Months are caused by “blood-sucking demons.” He attributed such incidents instead to human recklessness, negligence, and disregard for safety rules.

Also speaking, the Abia State Commissioner for Transport, Dr. Chimezie Ukaegbu, cautioned motorists against endangering their lives and those of their passengers as the festive season approaches.

Dr. Ukaegbu, who was a guest at the event, urged all road users to cultivate a culture of safety, responsibility, and awareness, stressing that road safety is a shared duty and not the sole responsibility of government or enforcement agencies.

“Everyone who uses, the road whether a driver, pedestrian, cyclist, or passenger plays a role.

Drivers must obey speed limits, avoid distractions, and never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Passengers and pedestrians must also encourage safe behavior and obey traffic signals,” he said.

He further advised motorists to carry out regular vehicle checks, avoid impatience on the road, and always wear seatbelts, adding that simple precautions could save countless lives.

“The good news is that promoting road safety doesn’t require superhuman effort — just commitment to simple acts of caution and care,” the Commissioner added.

Dr. Ukaegbu reaffirmed that the State Ministry of Transport would continue to partner with the FRSC in life-saving campaigns and public awareness programmes.

Delivering a goodwill message, Lady Gloria Ify Abiakam, Chairman of the Association of Heads of Federal Establishments, commended the FRSC and its leadership for their sustained dedication to saving lives across Nigeria’s highways.

“T his gathering reminds us that road safety is not merely a duty but a shared responsibility — one that calls upon our collective conscience to protect the sanctity of human life,” she said.

Lady Abiakam reaffirmed the commitment of the Federal Community to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the FRSC in its mission to ensure that every journey ends in safety, joy, and reunion.

“In times like the Ember Months, when the roads grow busier and risks heighten, may we remember that every life matters, every caution counts, and every act of responsibility saves a family from tears,” she noted.

She praised the FRSC leadership and officers for their tireless service, describing their work as “humanity in action.”

“May this town hall ignite renewed awareness, deeper collaboration, and stronger resolve toward achieving safer roads and fuller lives for all.
Together, we can make our roads not just pathways of travel, but highways of hope,” she concluded.

The event brought together representatives from transport unions, religious organizations, civil society, and the media , all united by a shared commitment to make Abia roads safer, especially during the high-risk Ember Months.