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Tag: Betta Edu

  • As Tinubu Campaigns In Akwa Ibom, Edu Urges Stakeholders To Integrate Women, Farmers Into Ibom Projects

    As Tinubu Campaigns In Akwa Ibom, Edu Urges Stakeholders To Integrate Women, Farmers Into Ibom Projects

    By BANNERNEWS Reporter, Uyo

    Dr Betta Edu, Co-Director of the Women Mobilisation Directorate of the APC Presidential Campaign Council, has urged relevant stakeholders to ensure that women-owned businesses, farmers, entrepreneurs and skilled workers benefit from economic opportunities created by projects commissioned in Akwa Ibom State.

    Edu made the call following the commissioning of several projects executed by Governor Umo Eno’s administration by President Bola Tinubu on Friday, November 6.

    She said the Ibom Aviation Village, ARISE Palm Resort, Airport-Okopedi Road, Ring Road 3 and other infrastructure investments had the potential to create jobs, expand businesses and improve livelihoods across the state.

    According to her, the aviation and tourism facilities would open up business opportunities in hospitality, catering, transportation, retail trade and other services, particularly for women entrepreneurs and small-scale business owners.

    She said improved road infrastructure would also ease the transportation of agricultural produce from rural communities to markets in Uyo and other urban centres, reducing transportation costs and post-harvest losses for farmers.

    Edu noted that rural women farmers had continued to face difficulties accessing markets because of poor roads, high transportation costs and delays in moving their produce.

    She added that the projects would improve access to healthcare facilities, schools and other essential services, while the International Airport Hospital would strengthen healthcare delivery, particularly for women, children and vulnerable groups.

    The former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation commended Governor Eno for the infrastructure investments, saying their economic benefits should extend to communities and small businesses beyond the immediate project locations.

    She also commended President Tinubu for supporting collaboration between the Federal Government and state governments in delivering infrastructure and promoting economic development.

    Edu, who spoke during engagements with the Akwa Ibom Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, and women in the state, said the projects aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda’s objectives of economic growth, job creation and improved living standards.

  • Betta Edu Hosts Former New York Mayor Eric Adams, Calls for Stronger U.S.–Nigeria Partnership

    Betta Edu Hosts Former New York Mayor Eric Adams, Calls for Stronger U.S.–Nigeria Partnership

    By BANNERNEWS Reporter

    Abuja – Dr. Betta Edu on Sunday hosted the 111th Mayor of New York City, Eric Adams, at her residence in Abuja, in a meeting focused on deepening U.S.–Nigeria collaboration across security, health, humanitarian response, and economic development.

    Mayor Adams, a former police officer and two-term President of the New York City Council, served as New York City’s 111th mayor from January 2022 to December 2025. The Abuja engagement marked his first international visit since leaving office.

    The meeting comes amid growing U.S. concerns over insecurity in Nigeria and emerging gaps in the country’s health and humanitarian sectors following recent reductions in international aid. Discussions also highlighted the renewed efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to strengthen international cooperation in protecting vulnerable communities.

    Speaking after the meeting, Dr. Edu said the dialogue offered a platform to present Nigeria’s security realities from a citizen-focused perspective. She commended the Federal Government’s efforts to curb insecurity, while drawing attention to humanitarian challenges and funding gaps created by declining external support.

    Health sector reforms were a major focus, particularly Nigeria’s push toward Universal Health Coverage. Dr. Edu noted that high out-of-pocket healthcare costs continue to exacerbate poverty, stressing the need for sustained international investment and partnerships.

    On economic matters, she described Nigeria’s economy as stabilizing and open to mutually beneficial investments. She urged Adams to leverage his global influence to attract investors, grants, and development funding into critical sectors.

    Dr. Edu called for holistic U.S.–Nigeria collaboration, emphasizing that support should extend beyond security to include health, education, and humanitarian services. She also encouraged Adams to mobilize the Nigerian diaspora in New York to promote a positive image of Nigeria and contribute to national development.

    “I feel honoured to receive him, and Nigeria will greatly benefit from this strategic visit,” Dr. Edu said. “We believe he will use his global platform to advocate for Nigeria and mobilize support for our people.”

    Mayor Adams praised the Nigerian community in New York, urging them to stay connected to their roots. “You are Nigerian-American, not American-Nigerian,” he said, pledging to use his networks to attract investments, grants, and programs that can reduce insecurity, improve healthcare delivery, and expand education access.

    In a gesture of cultural pride, Dr. Edu presented Adams with locally made souvenirs, including beautifully crafted Adire fabrics, showcasing Nigeria’s rich heritage.

  • Betta Edu Stresses Need For Sustained Fight Against Insurgency

    Betta Edu Stresses Need For Sustained Fight Against Insurgency

    By BANNERNEWS Reporter
    Former minister of humanitarian affairs and poverty alleviation, Dr Betta Edu has called for continued national support for Nigeria’s military in order to sustain the fight against banditry and insurgency which have ravaged parts of the country in recent times.
    In a statement she issued today to celebrate the Nigerian Armed Forces to mark this year’s Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day, she commended their steadfast service which ensures national unity, peace, and stability of our dear nation.

    She said in the face of evolving security challenges, Nigerian soldiers have remained steadfast and resolute.

    “Our men and women in uniform have remained resolute, standing as guardians of Nigeria’s collective identity with courage, discipline, and patriotism.

    “The Armed Forces continue to play a decisive role in defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity, securing land, air, and maritime borders against forces that threaten national sovereignty.

    “Through sustained operations and strategic vigilance, they have ensured that Nigeria remains whole and indivisible, strengthening public confidence in the authority of the state.

    “In the fight against insurgency, the military has recorded significant gains, dismantling terrorist enclaves, reclaiming territories, and restoring civil governance in affected areas.”

    Edu noted that the efforts and bravery of Nigerian soldiers have weakened insurgent networks, and allowed displaced citizens to return home to rebuild their lives.

    As we commemorate this year’s Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day,

    She said the sacrifices of the military should be honoured and acknowledged.
    “Their bravery and commitment reflect an unshakable loyalty to the nation.  I salute our heroes in uniform and reaffirm the need for continued support for our military. May the Labour of our Heroes past never be in vain. One Nigeria; non-negotiable”.