Game Changer

NIPR CONFERS HONOURARY FELLOWSHIP ON NIPSS DG, PROFESSOR OMOTAYO The Director-General of National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Prof. Ayo Omotayo, has been conferred with an Honorary Fellowship of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), alongside eleven other distinguished Nigerians, including the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu. The prestigious ceremony took place at the Banquet Hall of Government House, Kaduna State, on Thursday, April 23, 2026, as part of activities marking NIPR Week 2026. In a goodwill will message prepared for the occasion, Prof. Omotayo expressed deep appreciation for the recognition, describing it as more than a personal honour but a strong endorsement of the critical link between policy, communication, and national development. He noted that effective governance depends not only on well-crafted policies but also on how well they are communicated, understood, and embraced by the public. He emphasized that the induction signals a strategic alignment between NIPSS and NIPR, stressing that “policy without communication is ineffective, and communication without policy is directionless.” According to him, the moment presents a valuable opportunity for both institutions to deepen collaboration in areas such as strategic communication, public engagement, and crisis management. Prof. Omotayo further highlighted the need to build public trust through clear, evidence-based communication, adding that national development requires the collective efforts of policymakers, communicators, institutions, and citizens alike. He called on NIPR to continue championing professionalism, truth, and ethical standards, especially in an era challenged by misinformation and public distrust. The DG also expressed optimism that stronger collaboration between NIPSS and NIPR would help shape a coherent national narrative, enhance governance outcomes, and strengthen Nigeria’s democratic foundations. The event brought together key stakeholders, communication experts, and policymakers, marking a significant step toward fostering synergy between policy formulation and strategic public communication in Nigeria.

STATEHOUSE PRESS RELEASE PRESIDENT TINUBU APPROVES N3.3 TRILLION PAYMENT PLAN TO RESTORE RELIABLE ELECTRICITY President Bola Tinubu has approved the payment plan to finally settle the outstanding debts under the Presidential Power Sector Financial Reforms Programme. The debt repayment plan followed the final review of the legacy debts that have beset the power sector for more than a decade. The long-standing debts accumulated between February 2015 and March 2025. Following verification, ₦3.3 trillion has been agreed as a full and final settlement, ensuring a fair and transparent resolution. Implementation has begun, with 15 power plants signing settlement agreements totalling ₦2.3 trillion. The Federal Government has already raised ₦501 billion to fund these payments. Out of the amount, N223 billion has been disbursed, with further payments underway. What this means for Nigerians: With payments reaching the power value chain, generation will be more stable. With power plants supported, electricity reliability will improve. And as the sector stabilises, more investment, more jobs, and better service will follow. “This programme is not just about settling legacy debts. It is about restoring confidence across the power sector — ensuring gas suppliers are paid, power plants can keep running, and the system begins to work more reliably," explained Olu Arowolo-Verheijen, Special Adviser on Energy to President Tinubu. “It is part of a broader set of reforms already underway — including better metering and service-based tariffs that link what you pay to the quality of electricity you receive. “The government is also prioritising power supply to businesses, industries, and small enterprises — because reliable electricity is critical to creating jobs, supporting livelihoods, and growing the economy. “The goal is simple: more reliable power for homes, stronger support for businesses, and a system that works better for all Nigerians," she added. President Tinubu has commended all stakeholders who supported efforts to resolve the legacy issues in the power sector. He has also confirmed that the next phase (Series II) will begin this quarter. Bayo Onanuga Special Adviser to the President (Information and Strategy) April 5, 2026