The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, Grace Ike, has been described as a transformative leader in the media profession as she marks her birthday.

In a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja, a former President of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Evelyn Onyilo, commended Ike for breaking barriers and redefining leadership within the union.

Onyilo noted that Ike made history as the first female chairman of the NUJ FCT Council in over four decades, describing her emergence as a significant milestone for women in journalism.

She said Ike’s tenure had been marked by remarkable achievements, particularly in infrastructural development and the welfare of members, adding that her leadership had also strengthened participation and unity within the union.

“Her tenure has witnessed unprecedented development and effective mobilisation of members to actively participate in the affairs of the union, making her a foremost transformative leader of our era,” Onyilo said.

The publisher of Phenomenal People Magazine further described Ike as a media icon of immense value, praying for greater accomplishments, good health, and continued success in her leadership journey.

Onyilo congratulated Ike on her birthday and wished her many more years of impactful service.

he Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, on Saturday, March 21, 2026, hosted a special Sallah luncheon for troops of the Forward Operations Base (FOB) Sobe in Owan West Local Government Area of Edo State as part of activities marking the Eid-el-Fitr celebration.

Speaking at the event, the COAS reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to improving troop welfare and boosting morale through strategic initiatives. He urged the soldiers to remain resolute in their duty to defend the nation’s peace, unity, and territorial integrity.

Represented by the Commander, 4 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Ahmed Balogun, the Army Chief commended the troops for their resilience and professionalism despite operating under challenging conditions. He noted that their sacrifices and dedication embody the true spirit of the Nigerian soldier.

“They serve in difficult and often demanding environments, far from the comfort of their homes, yet remain steadfast in loyalty and professionalism.

Their endurance, sacrifice, and courage represent the true spirit of the Nigerian soldier,” he said, while praying for their safety and success in ongoing operations.

The COAS also lauded the continued collaboration between the Nigerian Army and other security and intelligence agencies, describing inter-agency synergy as critical to sustaining operational success and national stability.

He further expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, for his unwavering support and commitment to the welfare and operational effectiveness of the military, noting that the President’s leadership remains a strong source of motivation for the Armed Forces.

In his welcome address, the Commander, FOB Sobe, Lieutenant Colonel Stanley Agboro, described the COAS luncheon as a significant annual tradition held during major festive periods, including Eid-el-Fitr, Eid-el-Kabir, Easter, and Christmas.

He said the initiative is aimed at boosting troop morale, recognising their sacrifices, honouring fallen heroes, and strengthening camaraderie within the ranks.

Agboro appreciated the Brigade Commander and his entourage for visiting the base to celebrate with the troops. He also acknowledged the presence of the Vice Chairman of Owan West Local Government Area, Mr Dele Aleburu, who represented the council chairperson, Madam Joy Ohonyon, as well as the traditional ruler of Sobe, HRH Anthony Ero Aleburu I, and heads of other security agencies in the area.

The event featured a luncheon, cultural dance performances, comedy presentations, and morale-boosting songs by the troops.

Happy Birthday To An Achiever, History Shall Be kind To You For Your Noble Strides In Leadership.

In the theatre of leadership, where promises often fade into the background of political routine, a few performers step onto the stage with clarity, purpose, and measurable impact. One such figure is Peter Mbah, the Governor of Enugu State, whose journey continues to attract attention for its pace, precision, and ambition.

As he marks his 54th birthday today the 17th of March, it is fitting to string together not just words, but garlands—symbols of appreciation for a man whose governance style has leaned heavily toward results.
Governor Mbah’s leadership narrative is one defined by urgency.

From the outset, he signaled that governance would not be business as usual. His administration set bold targets, particularly in areas such as education, infrastructure, and economic expansion. Rather than dwell in rhetoric, his approach has emphasized timelines, deliverables, and accountability—traits more commonly associated with corporate leadership than traditional politics.

One of the most striking elements of his governance is his focus on education reform. By prioritizing smart schools and digital learning infrastructure, Mbah has demonstrated an understanding that the future of any society lies in how well it prepares its young minds. His policies reflect a belief that education must not only be accessible but also relevant in a rapidly evolving global landscape, little his signature refrain TOMORROW IS HERE resonates not only with Ndi’Enugu and the people of the South East but across the nation.

Infrastructure development under his watch has also taken center stage. Roads, transport systems, and urban renewal projects have been approached not just as physical upgrades, but as economic enablers. The philosophy is simple: when movement becomes easier, commerce thrives, and when commerce thrives, people prosper.

Beyond policy and projects, there is also the intangible quality of leadership presence. Governor Mbah has cultivated an image of a leader constantly in motion—inspecting, engaging, pushing. This has helped shape public perception of a government that is active and responsive, rather than distant and ceremonial.

At 54, the Governor stands at a point where experience meets momentum. There is enough behind him to assess his direction, and enough ahead to determine his legacy. The expectations are high, but so too is the energy he appears to bring to the role.

Birthdays often invite reflection, but they also offer an opportunity to look forward. For the people of Enugu State, this moment is not just about celebrating the man, but also about evaluating the journey so far and anticipating what lies ahead.

Fifty-four garlands, then, are not merely decorative—they represent milestones, challenges overcome, and ambitions still in pursuit. For a performer in the arena of governance, the applause is never final. It is earned, continuously, in the quiet execution of vision.

Happy Birthday, Governor Peter Mbah, indeed under your responsible and responsive watch over Enugu State TOMORROW IS HERE.

Okechukwu Nwafor
Concerned Professionals For Good Governance. (A Good Leadership Advocacy Group).