FG Applauds Saudi Arabia For 50-Students Petroleum Scholarship Offer, Reaffirms Strong Bilateral Ties

The Federal Government of Nigeria has commended the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for offering fully funded scholarships to 50 Nigerian students in petroleum and mineral studies, describing the gesture as a strategic investment in Nigeria’s human capital development and a testament to the enduring bilateral relationship between both nations.

The Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, gave the commendation while receiving the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Nigeria, Yousef Bin Mohammed Al-Balawi, during a courtesy visit to his office in Abuja on Monday, 27 April, 2026.

Speaking during the meeting, the Minister expressed Nigeria’s deep appreciation for the scholarship initiative, noting that it aligns with the Federal Government’s priority to strengthen critical sectors of the economy through capacity building. “This is not just a scholarship programme; it is a strategic investment in Nigeria’s future, particularly in key sectors such as petroleum and solid minerals that are central to our economic growth and diversification,” the Minister stated.

Eereporter.com
He highlighted the significance of the initiative, noting that the programme is expected to be sustained annually, thereby creating a long-term impact. “The fact that this initiative is designed to be continuous, with 50 Nigerian students benefiting year after year, makes it even more impactful. It guarantees a steady pipeline of skilled professionals for our critical industries,” he said.

Idris further assured Ambassador Al-Balawi of Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and to fast-tracking existing agreements between the two countries. “We are committed as a government to deepening this partnership and ensuring that all existing agreements, including the pending Memoranda of Understanding in broadcasting and other sectors, are fully implemented for mutual benefit,” he said.

The Minister also used the occasion to convey Nigeria’s solidarity with Saudi Arabia amid ongoing tensions in the Gulf region, expressing hope for peace and stability. “Let me also take this opportunity, on behalf of the Federal Government of Nigeria, to express our solidarity with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia at this time of tensions in the Gulf region. We sincerely hope for continued peace, stability, and diplomatic resolution of all issues,” he stated.

Earlier in his remarks, Ambassador Al-Balawi conveyed the Saudi leadership’s appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his show of solidarity, noting that it reflects the strength of relations between the two nations.

He announced that the scholarship offer was conveyed through an official communication from the King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, and that the package includes tuition, travel tickets, accommodation, and monthly stipends. “This initiative reflects the genuine and strong relationship between Saudi Arabia and Nigeria. It is about real cooperation and real investment in the future of Nigerian youth,” Ambassador Al-Balawi said.

Saudi Arabia

Ambassador Al-Balawi also highlighted ongoing efforts to expand economic cooperation, particularly in trade and investment, describing Nigeria and Saudi Arabia as key regional economic powers with vast partnership potential.

Those present at the meeting were the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, Dr. Binyerem C. Ukaire; the Director, Public Communications and National Orientation, Barr. Henshaw Ogubike, the Director, Production, Publications and Documentary, Mr. Okunnu Ibidapo; the Director, Public Relations and Protocol, Dr. Suleiman Haruna, alongside other senior officials of the Ministry.

Rabiu Ibrahim, mnipr

Special Assistant (Media) to the Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation

27th April, 2026

Umahi To Ebonyi NASS Hopefuls: Close Ranks With Governor, Achieve Consensus As Ebonyi Targets Over 95% Votes For Tinubu’s Re-election

The Minister of Works, Senator Engr. David Umahi, CON has intervened in the emerging disagreement among political stakeholders in Ebonyi Central, calling for unity, restraint, and alignment with the leadership of the state as preparations intensify ahead of the next election cycle.

The intervention followed a video that surfaced on April 24, 2026, showing what appeared to be a misunderstanding between the senator representing Ebonyi Central, Senator Ken Eze, and a National Assembly aspirant from Ikwo Local Government Area, Chief Christian Asaga Nwali at the burial event of the father of Chief Peter Orogwu AKA BabyOku. The disagreement, which quickly drew attention online, centered on who should succeed Senator Eze at the end of his current tenure.

Concerned by the development, Umahi, who described both men as his political mentees, moved swiftly to calm tensions. On April 26, he hosted the two leaders in a meeting aimed at restoring order and reinforcing unity within the political family.

Eereporter.com
Speaking after the meeting, the minister commended both parties for their respect and willingness to resolve the issue.

“I want to thank you people highly for this show of respect coming from you concerning what ordinarily should not be a problem. Sen. Ken Eze is my product, C sagas is my product but they are having some issues, not directly but their boys is causing some problems for a matter that doesn’t lie in their hands.”

He recalled that the question of zoning had been addressed in the past, noting that there was an understanding that the Ebonyi Central senatorial seat would rotate to Ikwo after the current tenure.

“Firstly, the central senatorial seat had an agreement that after the present four year term position, it will go to Ikwo and incidentally, the decision was made by my Boss, referring to his predecessor as Governor, Chief Martin Elechi and the governor was in that meeting. Of course he was very strategic in my administration. So that is why C-sagas can say he is contesting.”

Even so, Umahi stressed that politics remains dynamic and that decisions must be guided by present realities and collective leadership.

“Now, politics is dynamic, life is dynamic. Life is very very simple. I have advised them, first to maintain peace. It is the right of everyone to contest but the decision is beyond them.”

He urged both camps to take their concerns to the Governor of Ebonyi State, Rt. Hon. Francis Nwifuru, whom he described as a leader deserving of full respect.

“I have advised them that we have a governor in the state, His Excellency Rt. Hon. Francis Nwifuru, and he is a man of great quality. He has respect for all the leaders. He must be accorded his own respect. So my advice to them is to gather 10 leaders from Ezza and Ikwo respectively and go and meet the governor.”

According to the minister, only a structured engagement involving the governor and selected leaders from both sides can produce a fair and lasting resolution.

“Only these two leaders have the capacity to resolve it. If Ikwo doesn’t go now, they will go in future, if Ezza doesn’t continue they will still have another opportunity but let that decision be between the governor and the selected leader from both clan.”

Shifting focus to the broader political landscape, Umahi emphasized the need for unity in order to deliver overwhelming support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“They are one people and we wouldn’t allow anything to divide them… just like the governor mentioned in church yesterday that the election we have, the president is fully and totally adopted in Ebonyi state and I, myself is saying that he is the sole candidate in Ebonyi state.”

He pointed to ongoing federal projects in the state as a strong reason for continued support.

“And any decision we’re going to make concerning the National assembly will revolve around getting maximum vote for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu because what the president is doing in Ebonyi state we have never had any federal project of even 10% of that magnitude.”

Umahi made it clear that political decisions at all levels must align with the goal of delivering a decisive mandate for the President.

“So it is in our interest irrespective of what they are vying for. Make sure that we are very strategic and then bring up people and carry the people along so that we give President Tinubu 95% vote. Our vote is not for any clannish candidate. Our vote remains for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu…”

Umahi To Ebonyi NASS Hopefuls

He added that consultations would continue to ensure consensus candidates emerge for the National Assembly.

“It is a very strategic move we’re going to be making and I will be working closely with the governor to ensure that we carry the people along… to arrive at the consensus candidate of the National Assembly…”

The minister also reaffirmed strong support for the state governor, warning against any political challenge to his position.

“Nobody should touch the governor of Ebonyi state position, it is a no go area… Because we are all committed to the two tenures of our governors.”

Earlier, Senator Ken Eze expressed appreciation for the minister’s intervention, describing him as a father figure whose leadership continues to guide them.

“You’re a good father and at a time like this we are proud to say we have you as our father. We came to you as your children to intervene and we’re proud of you, you’ve always shown that leadership.”

He appealed to supporters to avoid actions that could deepen divisions, especially on social media.

“To all our supporters, the social media influencer please we’re one people. We’re brother. C saga is my brother. We have no reason to quarrel… Please don’t fight in the social media. Please stop writing against any leader… If you write against any leader or C Sagas you’re not writing for me.”

Also speaking, Chief Christian Asaga Nwali echoed the call for unity and respect for leadership.

“We appreciate you dearly, here we are we are all your subjects. We promise to always make you proud your excellency and Ebonyi will be peaceful as far as we’re concerned…”

He urged supporters to refrain from insults and trust the process.

“…it is only God that enthrones a leader… Please no insults to our leaders no insults to anyone, we’re together and in unison.”

Francis Nwaze, FIPMD
Senior Special Assistant to the Honourable Minister of Works (Media)
April 26, 2026

Information Minister Mohammed Idris Conferred With ‘Image Maker Award 2026’

The Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has described the Image Maker Award 2026, conferred on him by Vanguard Media Limited, publishers of the Vanguard newspaper, as a testament to the determination to build trust and to the broader communication ecosystem supporting the Federal Government’s reform efforts.

Idris, who received the award at an elaborate ceremony held on Friday at Eko Hotel & Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, said the recognition comes at a pivotal time for Nigeria, marked by bold reforms and a commitment to repositioning the nation for sustainable growth.

“This award is a testament to the trust we strive to build with every Nigerian. Communication is at the heart of governance, and it must foster confidence, unity, and hope,” said Idris, adding, “Communication must not only inform but also build trust.”

He further highlighted the importance of transparency and regular engagement with the public and the media, noting that fostering open dialogue has been crucial in bridging the gap between governance and public perception.

The Minister also underscored the vital role of timely, accurate information in matters of national security, stressing ongoing collaboration with security agencies and media partners to maintain public calm and strengthen confidence in government efforts.

He also recognized the indispensable roles of the media, his colleagues in government, and the Ministry’s dedicated staff in advancing Nigeria’s communication framework. He commended Vanguard Media Limited for its commitment to excellence and for celebrating national service.

“As we navigate major policy shifts—including the removal of fuel subsidies, foreign exchange reforms, and fiscal restructuring—our approach has centered on clarity, consistency, and credibility. We are committed to ensuring that government decisions are communicated with empathy and responsibility, always highlighting their long-term benefits for all Nigerians,” Idris emphasized.

Mohammed Idris

He reaffirmed his commitment to “upholding the highest standards of public communication, anchored on truth, transparency, and accountability.” The award, he explained, “is not an endpoint, but a call to do more for the Nigerian people.”

Eereporter.com
The award ceremony was attended by distinguished Nigerians, including the Executive Governor of Enugu State, His Excellency Peter Mbah; the Executive Governor of Taraba State, His Excellency Agbu Kefas; the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo; the Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Imaan Suleiman Ibrahim; the Bishop of the Sokoto Catholic Diocese, Bishop Mathew Hassan Kukah; and a host of others.

Rabiu Ibrahim, mnipr
Special Assistant (Media) to the Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation.
Saturday, April 25, 2026