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

Thursday, April 16, 2026

1. Introduction

2. Navajo Nation Sovereignty Day

April 16 marks Navajo Nation Sovereignty Day, honoring the Kerr-McGee Corp. v. Navajo Tribe (1985) Supreme Court decision affirming the Nation's right to tax non-Indian businesses on its land without federal approval
The ruling recognized taxation as a core power of sovereignty, setting a precedent for tribes nationwide

3. Local Announcements

Missing person: Tenena Benally, 14-year-old female, last seen Monday, April 6, 2026, in Shiprock, NM. Contact 505-368-1350 with any information
Located: Neilton Neil Maryboy has been found and is safe
Located: Devin Socee Adaky has been found and is safe

4. Frequently Asked Question of the Week

Caring for our elders is a sacred responsibility — resources available to support families:
DALTCS: senior centers, meals, transportation, caregiver support — (928) 871-6869 | https://daltcs.navajo-nsn.gov
NDCFS (Adult & Elder Care / APS): in-home care, case management, elder protection services — (928) 871-6175 | https://ndcfs.org
Senior Centers: meals, transportation, activities — contact your local chapter house
If you suspect elder abuse, contact local social services or emergency services immediately

5. Life Lesson

Our elders carry our stories, language, and identity — honoring them through care, respect, and presence is one of our most important responsibilities
To every caregiver: your dedication uplifts our elders, strengthens our families, and preserves our culture — your work matters and your impact will be felt for generations

6. Accomplishments

Secured nearly $150 million in broadband funding through the federal BEAD Program in partnership with Arizona — one of the largest allocations to any tribal nation. The project will connect ~17,000 homes and anchor institutions, with construction beginning late 2026 and completion by 2030
Proclaimed April 11–17, 2026, as the Week of the Young Child, highlighting Head Start, pre-K, kindergarten, and culturally grounded learning rooted in Diné traditions and intergenerational teaching
NHLCO served 23 clients in Q3 FY2026 through the Diné Relocatee Funds Home Renovation Program, providing $5,000 in building materials per household under a sweat equity model
Community Representatives assisted an elder displaced after her grandson burned down her home — helped with housing paperwork, document recovery, and connected her with ADABI for a restraining order and a replacement walker
Met with ASU Decision Theater partners in Tsé Bonito on April 10 to discuss a Vision Diné Action Plan and a potential Decision-Making Center using data-driven tools while maintaining Navajo data sovereignty

7. Major Projects

NDCFS School Clothing and Supplies Program portal is now open — up to $200 per eligible child (ages 3–18). Portal closes at 200 children. Apply at https://ndcfs.org/navajo-school-clothing-school-supplies-program/
DNR Director Mike Halona and Community Representative Gervana Begay met with the San Juan River Water Users Group to advance agricultural support. Two proposals developed: $100,000 through DCD and $500,000 to expand efforts

8. Meet and Greets

Honored the Rehoboth Lynx for their outstanding season and runner-up state championship title

9. Upcoming Events

Saturday, April 18: Welcome Baby event at Shiprock High School at 9 AM — for families expecting or who welcomed a baby between April 2025 and April 2026. Gift bags while supplies last. Register at http://opvp.navajo-nsn.gov/welcome-baby

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