The Kano State Executive Council has approved N51.5 billion for vital infrastructure and public service delivery projects across the state, including road rehabilitation and traffic light upgrades

(more…)

The Gateway Front Foundation, in collaboration with Senator Gbenga Daniel, launches a 5-year Food Security & Humanitarian Funding Initiative, featuring a Loyalty ATM Card for vulnerable populations, aligning with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda

Demonstrating its continued dedication to community empowerment and sustainable development, the Gateway Front Foundation (GFF), in partnership with Senator Otunba Gbenga Daniel (OGD), proudly launched its 2025–2030 Food Security & Humanitarian Funding Initiative on Tuesday.

Also read: OGD: Revolutionizing Education in Ogun East Senatorial District

This ambitious five-year program strategically aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aiming to deliver impactful palliatives and crucial support to the most vulnerable members of society.

Since its establishment in February 2000, the GFF has been at the forefront of numerous humanitarian interventions across Ogun State and the South West region, focusing on vital areas such as health care, capacity building, economic empowerment, and educational development.

This latest initiative marks a significant step forward with the official unveiling of the GFF Loyalty ATM Card. This innovative and accessible platform is designed to provide emergency and ongoing palliative support to mothers, children, widows, and low-income households.

The initiative officially commenced today, April 22, 2025, in the Ijebu North East Local Government Area. This initial phase will serve as a pilot program across four Local Government Council Areas within the Ogun East Senatorial District, with the aim of establishing a successful model for full-scale implementation across all nine Local Government Councils in the district over time.

The GFF Loyalty Card, seamlessly integrated into Nigeria’s commercial banking system, will enable verified members and volunteers of the GFF to access emergency funds for essential needs, including food and medication, particularly in response to the subsidy removal and prevailing economic challenges.

The GFF Loyalty Card embodies a core philosophy of “Being Your Brother’s Keeper,” an ethos deeply ingrained within the Gateway Movement and the driving force behind this significant humanitarian endeavor.

Speaking at the launch event, Senator Gbenga Daniel, the Federal Government’s representative for Ogun East, reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to grassroots development and ensuring equitable access to federal palliatives.

Backed by his extensive network of national supporters and community stakeholders, Senator Daniel emphasized the critical role of technology, strategic partnerships, and transparency in ensuring the initiative’s success.

To guarantee seamless access and maintain transparency, the GFF has partnered with a reputable commercial bank and experienced technology consultants to establish an automated backend system for the efficient and intermittent disbursement of funds.

Furthermore, trained Gateway Movement Representatives at the ward and LGA levels will be readily available to assist beneficiaries with registration, address inquiries, and facilitate card activation.

The comprehensive 2025–2030 support agenda also encompasses ongoing impactful GFF programs, including:

GFF Eye Care and Surgery Initiative: Providing essential optical health services to underserved populations.

GFF Empowerment and Skill Acquisition Projects: Equipping women and youth with valuable vocational skills and entrepreneurship opportunities.

Education Enrollment & Scholarship Assistance: Supporting school-aged children with crucial tuition aid and necessary educational materials.

As this significant new phase of its work unfolds, the GFF is calling on more Nigerians to embrace the spirit of service, foster collaboration, and actively participate in shared responsibility.

With the vital support of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and dedicated partners across all sectors, the vision of a more inclusive and resilient Nigeria remains firmly within reach.

Rivers Police begin probe into alleged journalist assault during #TakeItBackProtest, vowing transparency and accountability

The Rivers State Police Command has opened a formal investigation into the alleged assault on journalists during the recent #TakeItBackProtest in Port Harcourt, following a strong petition by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Rivers State chapter.

Also read: Mr Macaroni responds to protest over celebritie’s silence amid national hardship

In a detailed statement issued on Wednesday by Police spokesperson Grace Iringe-Koko, the Command condemned the conduct of some of its officers and reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, professionalism, and accountability.

The NUJ had demanded a formal apology within 14 days and threatened to boycott Police activities in the state if their demands were ignored.

“The Rivers State Police Command has received with concern the complaints by our strategic partner, the Nigeria Union of Journalists, over the alleged assault on its members by some police officers during a recent planned protest,” the statement began.

“The Command unequivocally condemns this unfortunate incident and has commenced a full and thorough investigation into the matter,” it continued.

Preliminary findings have already led to the identification of several officers involved, who are currently being questioned.

The Command promised to make its findings public and assured the NUJ and the wider public that the matter would not be swept under the carpet.

The Police also reaffirmed the value of its relationship with journalists, describing the media as vital to peace, security, and public enlightenment.

“We value the longstanding relationship and collaborative efforts shared with the NUJ and regret any actions that may have strained this bond,” the statement read.

The Command further clarified that it was aware of the planned protest and had deployed officers to maintain public order.

It, however, distanced itself from what it described as the “overzealous conduct” of a few officers, adding that the purpose of Police presence was to prevent criminal elements from hijacking the protest.

“The Command remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting lives and property across Rivers State and will continue to carry out its duties with professionalism, empathy, and respect for human rights,” the spokesperson said.

As pressure mounts from media stakeholders and civil society groups, the Rivers Police’s response to the journalist assault claims will likely shape public trust in the Force’s ability to police itself and uphold democratic principles, including press freedom.