All posts by : Iconic News Team

The Federal Government has inaugurated the Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) for the commemoration of Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary, with emphasis on reflecting on the enduring legacies of the founding fathers.

In a statement signed by Chris Ugwuegbulam, Head, Information & Public Relations, the Chairman of the Committee and Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, CON, disclosed during the inaugural meeting held on Wednesday, September 17, 2026, in Abuja that the 66th anniversary provides an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the contributions, sacrifices and enduring legacies of the nation’s founding fathers and heroines who fought for Nigeria’s independence from colonial rule.

The SGF, who was represented at the event by the Permanent Secretary, Political and Economic Affairs Office (PEAO), Mrs. Bekearedebo Augusta Warrens, noted that the achievements recorded since independence were built on the foundation laid by the country’s nationalists, stressing the need to remember their sacrifices while reflecting on the nation’s journey since October 1, 1960.

According to him, the anniversary will also provide an opportunity for the present administration to showcase its achievements and highlight efforts being undertaken to reposition the country through its reform initiatives, against the backdrop of the socio-economic challenges confronting the nation.

He emphasised that activities for this year’s celebration will be low-key, and urged members of the Committee to work with urgency given the limited time before October 1.

The SGF disclosed that the programme of activities will commence with a World Press Conference on Thursday, September 24, 2026; Juma’at Service on Friday, September 25; Church Service on Sunday, September 27, 2026; Independence Day Public Lecture on Wednesday, September 30, 2026; and a nationwide broadcast by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, on Thursday, October 1, 2026.

Members of the Committee include the Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Taiwo Oyedele; Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris; Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo; Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu; Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Administration, Barr. Nyesom Wike; Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Sen. Abubakar Atiku Bagudu; National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu; Special Adviser to the President on Policy Coordination, Hadiza Bala Usman; Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga; Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communications, Chief Sunday Dare; Permanent Secretary, State House, Engr. Temitope Peter Fashedemi; Permanent Secretary, General Services Office (GSO), Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, mni; Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Health, Ms. Kachollom Daju, mni; Permanent Secretary, Cabinet Affairs Office (CAO), Dr. John Chidiebere Ezeamama; Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Olatunji Disu; Director-General, Department of State Services, Mr. Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi; Commander, Guards Brigade, Brig. Gen. Adebisi Olusegun Onasanya; and Permanent Secretary, Political and Economic Affairs Office (PEAO), Mrs. Bekearedebo Augusta Warrens.

The Terms of Reference of the Committee include planning, organising and executing all approved activities for the October 1 celebration; co-opting any organisation or individual considered relevant to the successful execution of the programme; documenting activities for posterity; and undertaking any other assignment required for successful implementation.

In a major boost for workers’ welfare, the Delta State House of Assembly has passed the Executive Bill seeking to institutionalise the payment of 13th-month salary to public servants in the state.

The Bill, which gives statutory backing to the welfare policy introduced by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration, was passed on Tuesday after its third reading at plenary presided over by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Dennis Guwor.

Describing the passage as a significant step towards strengthening workers’ welfare, the Speaker noted that the legislation will provide greater certainty for public servants while boosting morale and productivity in the state civil service.

With its passage, Delta has made history as the first state in Nigeria to establish a statutory framework for the payment of 13th-month salary to public servants.

The legislation, which now awaits the Governor’s assent, is expected to further strengthen the welfare of the Delta workforce and improve productivity and service delivery in line with the MORE Agenda.

Workers across the state have continued to laud the initiative, describing it as a demonstration of Governor Oborevwori’s commitment to putting smiles on the faces of Deltans.

Iconic News gathered that Governor Oborevwori had introduced the 13th-month salary as an annual welfare package upon assumption of office, a gesture the new law now makes permanent and legally binding.

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has carried out a minor cabinet reshuffle, redeploying four commissioners to new ministries.

In a statement, the Secretary to the State Government, Musa Ikhilor, said the redeployments were part of efforts to strengthen governance, improve service delivery and enhance efficiency in the management of state affairs.

According to the statement, Mr. Felix Ehiguese Akhabue was moved from the Ministry of Water Resources to the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, while Barr. Vincent Osas Uwadiae was redeployed from Physical Planning and Urban Development to Water Resources.

Similarly, Mr. Andrew Momodu was moved from the Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy to the Ministry of Oil and Gas Resources, while Prof. Omorodion Ikponmwosa, who previously headed the Ministry of Oil and Gas Resources, was redeployed to the Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy.

Ikhilor said the redeployments take immediate effect.

He added, “The Executive Governor enjoins the affected Commissioners to bring their wealth of experience and expertise to bear in their respective new portfolios and to remain committed to the Administration’s SHINE Agenda for the sustainable development of Edo State.”

The former Attorney General of Edo State and Managing Partner of Samson-Ima Osagie and Associates, Dr. Samson Osagie, has expressed profound grief over the passing of Late Madam Charity Okpebholo, mother of the Coordinator, Office of the First Lady of Edo State, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani.

In his condolence message, Dr. Osagie described the late matriarch as a pillar of virtue, faith and selfless love whose life was a blessing to all who knew her.

He noted that the loss of a mother is profound, for she is the root from which the family draws strength.

“Madam please accept my sincere condolences on the demise of your beloved mother. May her soul rest in peace. Amen” He said

Dr Osagie prayed that God grants the family fortitude to bear the irreparable loss, and that the legacies of love, discipline and godliness left by Late Madam Charity will continue to shine through her children and grandchildren.

Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has inaugurated four new boards and agencies, charging members to uphold integrity, transparency and dedication in the discharge of their duties.

During the ceremony held at Government House, Benin City, the governor said the appointments were a call to serve both the people and God.

He listed the inaugurated bodies as the Edo State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board, Consumer Protection Committee and the Edo State Rural Access Roads Agency, RARA.

Governor Okpebholo urged the appointees to work in unity and ensure their decisions bring tangible benefits to Edo people.

“This is not merely a responsibility to the people; it is also a responsibility before God. I urge you to place the interests of the people above personal considerations,” he said.

Representatives of the various boards also addressed the gathering.

Speaking for the Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board, Chairman Very Rev. Fr. Alfred Agbonlahor thanked the governor and pledged to promote the welfare of Christian pilgrims.

Chairman of the Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Mallam Musa Muhammad Uduimoh, assured of efficient and transparent service delivery to intending pilgrims.

Also,Chairman of the Consumer Protection Committee, Mr. Iyamu Osaro Destiny, promised to protect consumers and ensure fairness in trade across the state.

Engr. Momodu Oghenakhoghie Goodluck was likewise inaugurated as Director-General of Edo State Rural Access Roads Agency.

The event had in attendance the Deputy Governor of Edo State Rt. Hon Dennis Idahosa; Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor; Chief of Staff, Hon Yakubu Musa; members of the State Executive Council, and other dignitaries.

Chief Daniel Osi Orbih, a scion of the Legendary Chief MCK Orbih political dynasty from Ogbonna, in the heartland of the Afemai nation, Edo State, was a n undeniable titan in Nigerian politics, whose strategic brilliance and unwavering leadership shaped the political landscape of Edo State and the South-South geopolitical zone for over two decades.

Fondly nicknamed, the Kulukulu 1 of Africa, he was reputed for his courageous but calm disposition, tactical mastery, and capacity to build formidable coalitions. Orbih, indeed bestrode the political Nigerian political landscape like the colossus he is.

His death on August 31, 2026, at a middle age of 64, marked the end of an era and the fall of one of the biggest trees in the political forest of Edo State.He was a great Leader

He will forever be missed

Rt. Hon Samson Osagie, Ph.D,FICMC

Attorney General,Edo State.
(2024-2025)

The Benin Consultative Forum (BCF), a socio-cultural organisation founded for the advancement of the Benin people and Nigeria, has marked the one-year remembrance of its late Pioneer President, Dr. Solomon Ehigiator Arase, CFR.

In a statement issued today, to commemorate one year of his demise, the Forum described the late Dr. Arase as a visionary leader whose wisdom and foresight laid the foundation for the socio-cultural organisation.

Describing him as a trailblazer who united many, celebrated the Benin heritage and dedicated his life to building a just and egalitarian society, the Benin Consultative Forum describes him as a visionary leader whose wisdom laid a foundation of the organization.

They said his dedication to justice, cultural preservation, unity, and service to humanity has continued to inspire members of the Forum and the Benin nation at large.

“We remember him as a trailblazer who united many, celebrated our heritage, and dedicated his life to building a just and egalitarian society,” it stated.

“The Benin people, Nigeria, and humanity at large will continue to cherish Dr. Arase’s exemplary life, uncommon dedication, selfless service, and compassionate leadership,” the statement further read.

BCF further noted that although the late Dr. Arase is no longer alive, his enduring legacy, treasured values, and unceasing struggles for humanity and service continue to guide its path forward.

The late Dr Solomon Arase was the pioneer President to the Forum while Dr Samson Osagie, who now serves as the Acting President, was the Vice President of the Forum

He will be remembered as a trailblazer who celebrated Edo heritage using his position as NCP to create a safer society for all to thrive particularly in Edo State.

The Forum has prayed for the peaceful repose of his soul, extending their loving thoughts and solidarity to his family,and expressed optimism that although he is no longer with them physically, his enduring legacy, treasured values and unceasing struggles to humanity and advance service will continue to guide the Forum’s pathway forward.

Today a new chapter opens in the annals of the Legal Profession in Nigeria with the inauguration of the first elected female President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Mrs Oyinkansola
Badejo-Okunsoya, SAN.

I congratulate her on this historic accomplishment.
I also wish to commend Mazi Afam J. Osigwe, SAN, the immediate past President of the NBA for his achievements & the successful transition to a new Leadership of the Bar in Nigeria. The Legal Profession must continue promote the cause of justice & progress in our fledging democracy.

Inspite of the challenges, the NBA has continued to play its role in defending the administration of justice particularly the independence of the judiciary.

At this crucial stage of another democratic transition, the NBA must rise up to its abiding responsibility while also consolidating on the programs of the bar aimed at ensuring sanity in the profession and enforcing the regime of appropriate remuneration of Legal Practitioners in Nigeria. Once again congratulations Madam #NBAPresident.

Samson R. OSAGIE, Ph.D,FICMC
Former Attorney General, Edo State

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, on Thursday joined the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, at the presentation of financial support to families of fallen heroes of the Armed Forces and the Nigeria Police Force.

The event, organised by the Office of the First Lady through the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) Social Investment Programme, was held at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

This second edition of the initiative targeted families of security personnel who lost their lives in the line of duty since the inception of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

A total of 1,638 families of deceased police officers received financial empowerment packages aimed at helping them rebuild their livelihoods and cater for their dependants.

The ceremony was also attended by the Wife of the Vice President, Hajia Nana Shettima; Wife of the Senate President, Mrs. Ekaette Unoma Akpabio; Service Chiefs; the President of the Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA); and wives of heads of security agencies.

Speaking at the event, IGP Disu expressed appreciation to President Tinubu and the First Lady for the intervention, describing it as a demonstration of national gratitude and compassion.

“The Renewed Hope Initiative goes beyond policy. It is about restoring dignity and supporting citizens at vulnerable moments,” the IGP said.

He assured the bereaved families that the sacrifices of their loved ones would never be forgotten, and reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to prioritising the welfare of its personnel and providing continued support to families of officers who paid the ultimate price.

Sovereign wealth is a pool of a sovereign nation’s financial assets and resources managed and invested for savings, economicstabilization and infrastructural development.

For Nigeria, the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority is charged with the mandate to manage its sovereign wealth fund

The fund is set up to secure long-term prosperity for the nation beyond short-term revenue and government expenditure cycles.

At the this year’s Nigerian Bar Association Annual General Conference (NBA-AGC 2026), the former Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice,Edo State Dr. Samson Osagie said the fund which must be managed with sound governance principles and transparency has the capacity to grow beyond $3.44 billion which it is currently and urged government to harness all necessary revenue sources particularly the mineral resources which are been exploited in some parts of the by private individuals in connivance with their foreign partners without been accounted for in the national revenue pool.

Dr. Osagie spoke on the topic that sovereign wealth exists to manage fluctuating sources of national revenue and convert them into lasting economic value as Its purpose is to save during periods of high income, stabilize public finance when earnings fall, and diversify Nigeria’s wealth beyond a single source. He tied this directly to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, stressing that sovereign wealth must drive sustainable growth, resilient infrastructure, decent work, and responsible use of national resources.

The core idea, he said, is to convert revenue from finite or fluctuating resources into assets that generate value over the long term. That shift moves Nigeria from dependence on narrow income streams to a broader, more sustainable economic base.

On ownership and structure, Dr. Osagie noted that sovereign wealth covers stabilization funds and savings or future generation andinfrastructure funds. But it is the law that gives it meaning. The law defines ownership, control, mandate and objectives of the fun. The laws lays down the parameters for receiving, investing and withdrawing funds, and the governance structure of the institution(NSIA)

He described sovereign wealth as unique in the financial system because it combines public ownership, investment activity, and national development objectives or goals. It functions as both capital and an institutional vehicle, working with securities, fund managers, stock brokers and other professionals under financial regulation. Key partners he identified include the World Bank Group, IMF and the CBN for monetary coordination and surveillance.

To strengthen Nigeria’s Sovereign wealth architecture, Dr. Osagie urged adoption of elements of the Norwegian investment model for a disciplined contributions to the Nigerian SWF and diversified, long-term investments for substantial returns. He stressed the need for financial strength, capital adequacy, quality investment management, and strong research and advisory capacity.

He concluded with a charge: Sovereign wealth can convert current wealth into long-term prosperity through fiscal stability and infrastructure. But it must remain a long-term national trust, not a pool for short-term political spending. The government must prioritize strategic investments that expand productive capacity, infrastructure and employment nationwide.

On a final note,Dr. Osagie left the NBA-AGC 2026 with one demand: protect the fund with law, run it with expertise, fund it adequately, adopt global best practices and keep politics out of it. That is how it can enable sustainable economic development for the future of Nigeria.