Akinyemi, BoT Chairman, PVC-Naija, Announces “A Nite 4 Naija” as a Media-Only Event; Issues Strong Travel & Safety Advisory to Nigerians

By Citizen Bolaji O. Akinyemi
Apostle & Nation Builder; Chairman, Board of Trustees, PVC-Naija

In view of Nigeria’s deeply troubling security realities and the dangerously volatile nature of the December travel season—marked by intense inter-state movement and heightened exposure to criminal attacks—I hereby make an urgent announcement on behalf of PVC-Naija and issue a strong national travel and safety advisory to all citizens.

As responsible stakeholders in nation-building, we cannot, in good conscience, ignore the escalating danger on Nigeria’s highways and transit corridors. Recent events, including the tragic and unacceptable abduction of six Directors of the Ministry of Defence—on a journey that should never have required road travel—stand as a grave warning to all Nigerians. That painful incident is a stark reminder that even high-ranking officials are no longer insulated from the expanding reach of banditry, kidnapping, and terror on our roads.

It would therefore be reckless to proceed with any gathering that compels long-distance travel in an environment where the safety of lives cannot be guaranteed.

While we acknowledge and appreciate the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the national security architecture—particularly the decisive removal of the Senate Committee Chairman on National Security over alleged terrorist links and the appointment of General Christopher Musa (rtd.) as Minister of Defence—the reality remains that citizens must take personal responsibility for their safety and avoid unnecessary exposure to danger.

A Nite 4 Naija 2025 Now a Media Event

Following a comprehensive security assessment, broad consultations with partners, and an informed evaluation of the nation’s present risk landscape, PVC-Naija hereby announces that “A Nite 4 Naija” will hold strictly as a MEDIA EVENT.

This decision is primarily and unequivocally informed by the prevailing insecurity in the country and our unwavering commitment to the preservation of human life.

Only two categories of persons may attend physically:

1. Awadees residing within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT)

2. Accredited Media Practitioners based in the FCT

All other participants—stakeholders, supporters, partners, award nominees, well-wishers, and members of the general public—are strongly advised not to embark on any travel and are encouraged to join via our official digital and broadcast channels.

Nigeria will be celebrated.
Inspiration will be shared.
Honours and recognitions will still be conferred.

However, no citizen—under any circumstance—should risk their life on a dangerous highway to attend a national event.

No award, recognition, or ceremony is worth the life of any Nigerian.

Public Travel & Safety Advisory

With the NYSC Orientation Camps closing on the 9th of December, parents, guardians, and loved ones are strongly urged to support Corps Members in travelling by air, wherever possible. Young travellers—especially Corps members and students—have tragically become prime targets for kidnappers, traffickers, and armed groups operating along major highways.

In this regard, we appeal to all domestic airline operators in Nigeria to, as part of their corporate social responsibility, offer a minimum of 50% discount on air ticket fares to verified Corps members and students during this high-risk season, as a life-saving intervention.

Furthermore:

Organisations planning December conferences, seminars, or summits are urged to convert such engagements to virtual platforms or broadcast formats.

Churches, NGOs, associations, and professional bodies should refrain from programmes that encourage unnecessary long-distance travel.

Government MDAs are advised to suspend physical examinations, interviews, and trainings that can be reasonably conducted online.

Citizens should avoid night journeys, minimise long-distance trips, and restrict inter-state travel to only what is absolutely essential.

This is not a season for bravado.
This is a season for caution.
This is a season for wisdom.

A Commitment to Nation-Building with Wisdom

Nigeria remains a nation worth celebrating, praying for, and defending. PVC-Naija remains steadfast in its mission to inspire unity, honour sacrifice, and strengthen the civic consciousness of our people. However, true patriotism is not blind—it is thoughtful, responsible, and protective of life.

“A Nite 4 Naija” will go on.
But it will go on safely.
It will go on creatively.
It will go on responsibly.

Let every Nigerian stay alert.
Let every Nigerian stay wise.
Let every Nigerian stay alive.

 

Citizen Bolaji O. Akinyemi
Apostle & Nation Builder
Chairman, Board of Trustees, PVC-Naija