January 8, 2026

Description

Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren's Weekly Radio Address (in Diné Bizaad)

Thursday, January 8, 2026

1. Introduction

2. Upcoming Holidays and Appreciation Day

January 8th marks War on Poverty Day
Poverty is a result of systems and priorities, not inevitability
Ending poverty requires action, accountability, and solidarity
Call for inclusive economies, quality education, fair wages, and social protection

3. Local Announcements

Missing person: DeVaughn Dedman, 25, last seen Sunday, December 21, 2025 in Lukachukai, AZ
Contact 928-674-2111 if you have any information
Located: Jimmy Samuel has been found and is safe
Located: Mikaela James has been found and is safe

4. Frequently Asked Question of the Week

Will there be Hardship Assistance? I support this program, my administration is working to stand this program up.
Contact your Delegate for support; OOC will provide updates on dates, deadlines, amounts, eligibility

5. Life Lesson

A new year is an invitation to begin again and grow into who you already are
Carry the lessons, not the weight; release what drained you, keep what strengthened you
Choose patience over pressure, purpose over comparison, courage over fear

6. Accomplishments

Grand opening of Tuba City Senior Center on January 8th
New 5,060-square-foot facility with kitchen, office space, and community gathering areas
$4.6 million secured from Sihasin Fund through CAP-15-18 championed by Delegate Otto Tso
Met with IHS leadership January 5th-6th on realignment plans and healthcare delivery
IHS consultation period open through February 9, 2026
Key turnovers: 2 homes in Lupton, 3 in Houck, 2 in Nahata Dziil (Sanders)
Division of Community Development using $100 million ARPA for modular homes
Over 870 applications received showcasing housing need on Navajo Nation
Navajo Nation Washington Office working with DHS on ICE detention issues affecting Navajo citizens

7. Major Projects

Dayforce ERP system implementation: addressing payroll and system challenges
Payroll corrections, organizational updates, and employee training underway
Visit Department of Personnel Management website for ERP updates and training materials
CHID completed roof replacements, bathroom renovations, insulation, and emergency repairs
Many Farms High School construction ongoing: $200 million project under Great American Outdoors Act
Expected completion November 1, 2027
New Diné Bizaad language resource launched at https://opvp.navajo-nsn.gov/dine-bizaad/
Monthly original stories with audio for language learning
Annual New Year Shoe Game event held at Navajo Nation Museum
Késhjééʼ promotes language, traditional teachings, and community gathering

8. Meet and Greets

January 3rd: Traveled to Provo, Utah to support Navajo student-athlete Sydney Benally
BYU defeated Arizona State 71-62; Benally scored 16 points, 5 rebounds, 3 steals
Benally is a two-time New Mexico Gatorade Player of the Year and Big 12 Freshman of the Week honoree

9. Upcoming Events

Tuesday, January 13: 3rd People's State of the Navajo Nation at Shiprock High School at 8 AM
Direct report to Northern Agency community
Division Directors and staff onsite to answer questions
Resources and program information available

10. Closing: Thank you and tune in next week!

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This audio program and description are produced by the Navajo Nation Office of the President, which is responsible for its content.

Content Coordination: Kristin Carl and OPVP Media Team

Audio Editor: Byron C. Shorty