Obi Calls on President Tinubu to Use Local Healthcare Facilities and Experience Nigeria’s Infrastructure Firsthand

ABUJA — Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, has urged President Bola Tinubu to set an example by utilizing Nigeria’s healthcare facilities instead of seeking medical treatment abroad. Obi, a former governor of Anambra State, said this would not only encourage Nigerians to trust their local health institutions but also help address the country’s chronic issue of medical tourism.

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Thursday, Obi suggested that the President conduct his next medical examination at one of Nigeria’s national hospitals, such as the National Hospital in Abuja, or at one of the country’s regional Federal Medical Centres (FMCs) in cities like Sokoto, Birnin Kebbi, Calabar, Umuahia, or Akure.

“It is time for you to visit our national hospitals,” Obi said. “Consider conducting your next medical examination at one of these hospitals. This will allow you to assess the state of healthcare facilities available to Nigerians and help you understand their condition, enabling you to make informed decisions on how to improve and modernize them.”

In his first 18 months in office, President Tinubu, alongside Vice President Kashim Shettima, has embarked on 42 trips across 27 countries, spending more than 180 days abroad. Tinubu alone has made 29 trips to 16 countries, with a significant number of these trips, particularly to France, raising speculation about their possible medical purpose.

Obi emphasized that such international trips should be weighed against the importance of engaging directly with the country’s critical challenges. He also proposed that the President experience the state of Nigeria’s roads firsthand by taking short trips across the country. Obi suggested journeys such as the under-100-kilometer route between Calabar in Cross River State and Uyo in Akwa Ibom State, or from Benin in Edo State to Warri in Delta State.

Drawing from his tenure as governor, Obi recalled taking former President Olusegun Obasanjo on a road trip from Awka to Onitsha, which led to the federal government approving the reconstruction of roads in the region. He argued that such experiences could help President Tinubu identify key issues and take meaningful actions.

Obi also called for impromptu and planned visits to Nigeria’s tertiary institutions to ensure that the resources allocated to education are used effectively. These visits, he said, would provide critical insights into the state of Nigeria’s universities and the impact of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND).

On political matters, Obi dismissed rumors of a potential merger with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) or the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP). He clarified that there was no formal agreement with any party but urged Nigerians to unite in 2027 to oust the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

In response, the APC, through its National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, accused Obi of hypocrisy, claiming that his New Year’s message was misleading and designed to score political points. Morka emphasized that the current administration under President Tinubu has made substantial progress in addressing Nigeria’s economic and security challenges.

“Eighteen months into President Tinubu’s administration, the economy has shown steady progress,” Morka said. “The administration is committed to ensuring that the ongoing reforms achieve their full potential and transform the country for the better.”

He further criticized Obi, pointing out that his tenure as governor of Anambra State had yielded little transformation or significant achievements. Morka argued that Obi’s constant pessimism is an attempt to undermine the current government, which he believes is steadily improving Nigeria’s fortunes.

“The vision and reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda are already making a tangible impact,” Morka said. “We urge Nigerians to stay confident that better days are ahead.”

2025: There’s Hope On The Horizon For Nigeria, Lagos – Sanwo-Olu

By Ifeoma Ikem

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has spread a message of hope and optimism for Nigeria and Lagos as the world celebrates Christmas.

Speaking at the Cathedral Church of Christ, Marina Lagos, Governor Sanwo-Olu assured citizens that 2025 holds promise for a better future.

The governor expressed gratitude to God for the country’s resilience despite its challenges. He commended residents for their faith in his administration, pledging to continue working towards a safe, secure, and prosperous Lagos.

Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasized the importance of living in peace and harmony, urging families and friends to support one another.

“As a government, we’ll continue to provide enabling environment for growth and advancement, especially infrastructure development.

“Nigeria will be better eventually just like our President assured us in his media chat, and everyone will smile,” he added.

Meanwhile, the Diocesan Bishop of Lagos, Rt. Revd. Ifedola Senasu Okupevi appealed to the federal and state governments to alleviate the suffering of the masses.

He called for policy relaxation to bring peace and prosperity to the land.

According to Dr. Okupevi, the citizenry must jettison tribal sentiments and embrace unity, stressing that by so doing, “we will realize the country of our dreams.”

Prince Adesegun Rallies Support For Senator Adeola’s Gubernatorial Bid

…Donates 100 bags of rice , five million to ijebu North APC Leaders

In a remarkable demonstration of his commitment to the welfare of party members and the development of Ijebu North Local Government, Prince Fatai Adesegun convened a strategic meeting with leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the local government area.

The meeting provided an opportunity for Prince Fatai to commend the APC leadership for their steadfastness and dedication to the party’s progress. He emphasized the importance of unity, grassroots mobilization, and proactive engagement to ensure the APC’s continued success in future elections.

As part of his goodwill gesture, the Ago Iwoye Prince donated 100 bags of rice and a sum of N5 million to support party members across Ijebu North. He further contributed N1 million toward the renovation of the APC Secretariat in the local government, underscoring his commitment to strengthening the party’s administrative structure.

In his remarks, Fatai Adesegun expressed his appreciation for the exemplary leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Dapo Abiodun, and Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola YAYI. He commended Senator Adeola for his dedication to the welfare of the people and his visionary leadership.

Adesegun also used the occasion to rally support for Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola’s 2027 gubernatorial bid, describing it as the best path forward for Ogun State. He highlighted Senator Adeola’s wealth of experience and his relentless quest for massive development across the state.

“Senator Adeola has proven himself as a visionary leader with the experience and passion required to transform Ogun State. His gubernatorial ambition is a golden opportunity for us to secure a brighter future for our state,” Adesegun said.

The meeting witnessed the presence of notable APC leaders and stakeholders, including Hon. Mosun Oladipupo, the Ijebu North Local Government Chairman, who led the Local Government Secretary, other executives of the party, and all 11 Ward Chairmen. Chief Dele Mogaji, a two-time Vice Chairman of the Local Government, and Mrs. Bukky Onadeko, a frontline women leader in the Local Government, were also in attendance.

Party members expressed their gratitude to Adesegun for his generosity, foresight, and leadership, pledging their unwavering loyalty and commitment to the party’s vision and goals.

Adesegun’s actions and advocacy for a united front resonate as a call for collective responsibility, setting the stage for a prosperous future for Ijebu North and Ogun State under the APC banner.