
Yusuf Babatunde Abdullahi, Chairman of Ilorin Emirate Mall, has urged Nigerian governments to prioritize pro-business policies and create an enabling environment to stimulate the economy of Northern Nigeria. In an interview with Arewa PUNCH, Abdullahi highlighted structural challenges hindering business growth and national industrialization, stating that Nigeria's ambition to become an industrial hub requires a coordinated and multi-layered strategy. He emphasized that the country's economic issues stem from structural inefficiencies rather than a lack of resources, advocating for a deliberate and multi-pronged industrialization framework. Abdullahi stressed the importance of small and medium-scale enterprises as key drivers of job creation and economic expansion, calling for targeted reforms such as access to affordable financing, tax incentives, and regulatory support. He also identified poor infrastructure, including erratic power supply and inadequate road networks, as significant constraints to industrial growth. Discussing his own investments in oil and gas, real estate, and retail, Abdullahi noted his desire to foster local economic development and inspire young entrepreneurs, while also emphasizing the importance of social responsibility through initiatives like scholarships and community development.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.

England midfielder Jude Bellingham believes the national team is more connected heading into this summer's World Cup compared to their Euro 2024 campaign. Bellingham, who played a key role in England reaching the Euro 2024 final, reflected on the squad's experience, stating that lessons were learned from the tournament. He noted that during the Euros, some aspects off the pitch were handled poorly, and the group did not feel as connected as it could have, partly due to expectations. Despite reaching the final, England's performances often faced scrutiny, and Bellingham mentioned that even when winning, there wasn't a feeling of happiness. The 22-year-old emphasized the need for the squad to balance a winning mentality with enjoying success. Looking ahead to the World Cup, Bellingham highlighted the importance of every squad member feeling valued and included, stressing that everyone must be ready and feel like a significant part of the team. England will begin their World Cup campaign against Croatia in Arlington, Texas, next Wednesday.

President Bola Tinubu announced the renaming of the Institute of Petroleum Studies, Kaduna, to the General Shehu Musa Yar'Adua University of Geological Sciences and Engineering Technology. This decision, made on Friday, honors the late military officer's contributions to Nigeria's transition to civilian rule and his vision of national partnership. The renaming was part of President Tinubu's Democracy Day address, recognizing architects of Nigeria's democratic journey. The President also announced national honors for over 30 democracy heroes and soldier-democrats of the June 12 struggle, including posthumous recognitions for Dr. Arthur Nwankwo and Ben Charles-Obi, with the complete list to be released soon.
Must ReadPresident Bola Tinubu stated that the abduction of schoolchildren in Oyo and Borno states has dampened this year鈥檚 Democracy Day celebrations. He reaffirmed his administration's commitment to ensuring their safe return and enhancing Nigeria's security. During his national address for Nigeria's 27th Democracy Day, his fourth since taking office in 2023, President Tinubu emphasized that "Democracy without security is a mirage." He highlighted that his administration has declared a security emergency and approved the recruitment of over 50,000 new police officers and thousands of military personnel. The President also commended the armed forces, police, intelligence services, traditional rulers, faith leaders, and community heads for their contributions to peace and reconciliation efforts.