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Tinubu’s Govt Turns To Fasting As Nigeria Faces Starvation—Then Abruptly Cancels

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6 months ago

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Tinubu’s Govt Turns To Fasting As Nigeria Faces Starvation—Then Abruptly Cancels

In a surprising twist that blends bureaucracy with spirituality, Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security recently called on its staff to observe a three-day fasting and prayer session in a bid to seek divine intervention for the country’s worsening hunger crisis. But just days before the spiritual program was set to begin, the government quietly suspended it—without explanation.

This turn of events not only highlights the depth of Nigeria’s food insecurity problem but also raises serious questions about the Tinubu administration’s preparedness to tackle a crisis of this magnitude.

A Nation at Risk: The Hunger Emergency in Numbers

According to recent data from the World Food Programme (WFP), Nigeria is on the brink of a major food crisis. The agency estimates that 33.1 million Nigerians will experience food insecurity by 2025, with 1.8 million facing emergency hunger levels—a staggering 80% increase from 2024.

The epicenter of this disaster remains the Northeast region, particularly Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe states, where insecurity and conflict have made agriculture nearly impossible. Farmers have abandoned their lands, supply chains are in shambles, and food prices continue to skyrocket.

When in Doubt, Pray?

In a memo dated June 11, 2025, signed by Director of Human Resources, Mrs. Adedayo Modupe, the Ministry called on all its staff—directors, deputies, desk officers and more—to join a “solemn prayer session for God’s guidance” on June 16, 23, and 30. Staff were also encouraged to fast on each of those Mondays as a show of spiritual solidarity.

The event was scheduled to take place at noon in Conference Hall B of the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja, with the theme: “Divine Intervention for Protection and National Development.”

And Then… Silence

But as the public began to react to the curious blend of state responsibility and spiritual appeal, a second notice was issued. This time, staff were informed that the fasting and prayer sessions had been “postponed till further notice.” No reason was given, and attempts by journalists to get clarity from the Ministry yielded little. The Acting Director of Information, Ezeaja Ikemefuna, simply confirmed the postponement—full stop.

Analysis: Prayers Alone Won’t Feed a Nation

Let’s be clear: faith is a powerful force, and spiritual resilience has long been a part of Nigeria’s cultural and social fabric. But relying on divine intervention without pairing it with bold policy action, agricultural investment, and security reform is, frankly, a recipe for disaster.

Food insecurity is not a spiritual phenomenon—it’s a complex issue tied to governance, infrastructure, and economic stability. From fertilizer shortages to farmer displacement due to banditry, these are structural problems that require immediate and sustained intervention.

If anything, the abrupt cancellation of the prayer initiative suggests internal confusion or fear of public backlash. Was this a genuine effort to engage faith as part of national recovery? Or a misguided attempt to appear responsive while avoiding the hard decisions?

Conclusion: Faith Needs Fuel, Not Just Fasting

Nigerians don’t need more ceremonies or symbolic gestures—they need food on their tables, security on their farms, and confidence in their leaders. While a prayer session may comfort some, what the nation truly cries out for is competent leadership, targeted investment in agriculture, and a safety net that works.

If the government cannot provide these, no amount of fasting will change what’s coming.

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Crime

Fresh Wave Of Insecurity: Pregnant Woman And Several Residents Abducted In Niger And FCT

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1 week ago

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November 28, 2025

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Fresh Wave Of Insecurity: Pregnant Woman And Several Residents Abducted In Niger And FCT

Nigeria continues to face serious security challenges as multiple communities in Niger State and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) experienced coordinated attacks this week. These incidents come just days after the abduction of students from St. Mary’s Catholic School in Niger State……CONTINUE READING

New Abduction in Niger State

Residents of Palaita community in Erena Ward, Shiroro Local Government Area were thrown into distress on Wednesday when armed groups invaded a rice farm and abducted several workers, including a pregnant woman. Community sources estimated the number of kidnapped victims to be around 24, while the Niger State Police Command confirmed 10 abductions as investigations continue.

Eyewitnesses said the incident occurred around 2:00 p.m. while farmers were busy harvesting their crops. Despite the community’s close proximity to a military base in Erena, the attackers escaped before security personnel arrived.

In a separate incident in Kakuru community, also in Erena Ward, residents reported that a visually impaired man was assaulted after refusing to hand over a mobile phone. The victim was given first aid, though his current condition remains unclear.

Police spokesperson, SP Wasiu Abiodun, confirmed the attacks, assuring that security agencies are actively working to rescue the victims and restore calm in the affected areas.

Fresh Abductions in the FCT

In Abuja, communities in the Bwari Area Council faced renewed tension following another night attack in Gidan-Bijimi, a settlement near the Kaduna boundary. Six young women and a 16-year-old boy were taken during the raid, according to residents.

The attack, which occurred around 9:47 p.m. on Wednesday, created panic among locals already concerned by previous incidents in the region. Local vigilance groups attempted to intervene but retreated due to limited resources.

As of Thursday morning, families reported that no contact had been made with the attackers, while police were still verifying the details.

Church Confirms Passing of Kaduna Cleric

The Diocese of Kaduna, Anglican Communion, has announced the death of Venerable Edwin Achi, who was abducted in October along with his wife and daughter. His passing was described as a deep loss to the Diocese and the wider Christian community. The Church also announced the cancellation of the upcoming “Stand Up for Jesus 2025” event in his honour.

The Diocese assured that prayers continue for the safe return of his wife and daughter.

Federal Government Responds to Rising Insecurity

Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, reaffirmed that the Nigerian military is intensifying efforts to eliminate criminal networks responsible for attacks across the country. He explained that intermittent assaults are typical of guerrilla-style tactics but insisted that security forces are “working day and night” to restore normalcy.

He further confirmed that the Federal Government has launched a full investigation into recent school abductions, including claims that security personnel were withdrawn prior to an incident in Kebbi State.

Police Redeploy Over 11,000 Personnel

Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, revealed that 11,566 police officers previously assigned to VIP protection have now been deployed to underserved communities to strengthen grassroots security.

He stated that the initiative is part of broader reforms aimed at improving community policing and ensuring fair distribution of manpower nationwide.

Cardinal Onaiyekan Calls for Better Equipment, Not More Personnel

Catholic Cardinal John Onaiyekan called on the Federal Government to prioritize properly equipping the officers already serving across the country rather than recruiting additional personnel. The Cardinal emphasized the need for immediate action, stressing that adequately supported police officers are capable of confronting insecurity.

Experts and Community Leaders Advocate Unity

Former Senator Shehu Sani and humanitarian organizations participating in the 9th International Conference on Love and Tolerance urged Nigerians to embrace unity, understanding, and dialogue. They highlighted the importance of addressing root causes of conflict, promoting peaceful coexistence, and supporting security agencies with the resources they need to protect communities.

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Crime

Dalung Breaks Silence: TikTok Chat With Bandit Exposes Deep Secrets Behind The Violence

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1 week ago

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November 28, 2025

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Dalung Breaks Silence: TikTok Chat With Bandit Exposes Deep Secrets Behind The Violence

Former Minister of Sports, Solomon Dalung, has opened up about a surprising and thought-provoking conversation he once had with a young man who claimed to be living in the bush as a bandit. Dalung shared the experience during an interview with News Central, explaining how the encounter gave him a deeper understanding of the issues fueling insecurity……CONTINUE READING

According to Dalung, he was browsing TikTok when he came across the young man, who openly described himself as someone living in the forest due to ongoing conflict. Curious, Dalung asked why they engaged in violent activities. The young man responded that they had suffered losses themselves and felt targeted by vigilante groups who, according to him, harmed their people and took their cattle. This, he said, pushed them into retaliation and led them deeper into the bush.

Dalung explained that he challenged the young man, pointing out that innocent people—including other Fulani individuals—were being harmed in the process. The young man replied that, from their viewpoint, only those living in the bush were considered part of their community, while anyone living in town was seen differently. It was a response that, according to Dalung, revealed how distorted perceptions can worsen the cycle of conflict.

Wanting to know if there was any path toward peace, Dalung asked what could help end the violence. The young man shared that they were open to negotiation and discussions that could encourage them to give up their weapons and reintegrate into society. Dalung noted that the confidence with which the young man spoke was unsettling, but it also showed that dialogue could be part of the solution.

Reflecting on the experience, Dalung urged the National Assembly to consider constitutional changes that would allow Nigerians the legal right to defend themselves responsibly, especially in areas affected by insecurity.

His conversation serves as a reminder of how complex the nation’s security challenges are—and how personal engagement, understanding, and strategic dialogue may help chart a way forward.

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Latest

Oyo State: Millions Lost As Fire Damages Two Residential Buildings In Ibadan And Kishi

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1 week ago

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November 28, 2025

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Oyo State: Millions Lost As Fire Damages Two Residential Buildings In Ibadan And Kishi

Oyo State

Two separate fire incidents have destroyed properties worth millions of naira in Oyo State, affecting residential buildings in both Ibadan and Kishi on Wednesday night…..CONTINUE READING

The first incident occurred at 17 Prestige Estate, Joop Bad Hour Crescent, Onirele, Ibadan, where the living room of a four-bedroom duplex was severely damaged. Although the fire consumed valuable household items, no injuries or loss of life were recorded.

In Kishi town, a second fire broke out at 1 Alhaji Rosco Street, Ajangba Area, where the generator room of another four-bedroom residence was engulfed. The blaze also affected property worth millions of naira before firefighters arrived.

Chairman of the Oyo State Fire Service, Hon. Maroof Akinwande, confirmed both incidents on Friday. He praised the swift response of fire officers, noting that their timely intervention prevented the flames from spreading to other parts of the buildings.

According to Akinwande:

“When we arrived, the living room of the duplex was already on fire. Our officers launched a prompt and coordinated attack, preventing the fire from spreading further. No casualty was recorded, and properties worth millions were saved. The cause of the incident is still under investigation.”

He added that the Kishi incident was also contained quickly:

“Upon arrival, we discovered the generator room was completely engulfed. Our firemen acted immediately and stopped the fire from reaching the main building. It was fully extinguished in record time.”

The Oyo State Fire Service has urged residents to prioritize safety measures, maintain electrical and generator installations, and report emergencies promptly to reduce losses.

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