₦airaland Forum

The President of the Nigeria Volleyball Federation (NVBF), Engineer Musa Nimrod has commended the Government of Abia State for collaborating with the federation in hosting the 2025 National Divisions I and II Volleyball League.

He expressed this in a statement he personally signed and made available to our correspondent yesterday.

"The Board of Administration of Nigeria Volleyball Federation, on behalf of the entire Nigeria Volleyball Community wishes to express profound gratitude to the Government of Abia State.

"This appreciation is to express our gratitude for the noble collaboration with the Nigeria Volleyball Federation, in organizing the final phase of Division 1 & 2," he said.

The NVBF President said that it is worthy of note to also mention the hospitality of the people of Abia State .

"Nigeria Volleyball Federation appreciates the collaboration which is a precedent for future partnership aimed at youths development through sport, with particular interest to Volleyball.

"Abia is gradually becoming a hub of volleyball in Nigeria, the federation remain grateful and look forward for a prospective ans robust partnership.

"Thank you to the Government and People of Abia," he said.

*Calls for targeted sanctions on corrupt, complicit officials


Former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Timi Frank, has commended United States President Donald Trump for declaring Nigeria a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC) over persistent human rights violations and the government’s failure to protect citizens from killings and insecurity.

He also called for targeted sanctions against corrupt government officials fueling insecurity and impunity in the country.

Trump had on Friday, announced that the United States is designating Nigeria as a “country of particular concern” over what he described as widespread attacks on Christians in Nigeria.

Trump, wrote on his Truth Social account that “Christianity is facing an existential threat in Nigeria.

“Thousands of Christians are being killed. Radical Islamists are responsible for this mass slaughter.

“I am hereby making Nigeria a COUNTRY OF PARTICULAR CONCERN — but that is the least of it.”

Frank in a statement in Abuja described the U.S. action as a bold and long-overdue decision, saying it reflects international recognition of the Nigerian government’s negligence in the face of growing atrocities and systemic corruption.

“We commend President Trump for taking this stand, it is long overdue,” Frank said.

“By this action, President Trump has shown he cares more about the welfare and safety of ordinary Nigerians than those elected to lead them.”

He said the declaration was a direct consequence of the Nigerian government’s tolerance for impunity and the deepening culture of lack of accountability in handling insecurity.

Frank urged the U.S. government to ensure that any sanctions or punitive measures arising from the CPC designation are strictly targeted at officials and their family members implicated in human rights abuses and corruption, rather than innocent Nigerians.

“We appeal to the United States to protect ordinary Nigerians from the fallout of sanctions after due investigations.

“The measures should be directed at those directly responsible for the atrocities, not at citizens already suffering from the government’s failures, Christians and non-Christians alike,” he said.

Frank accused the government of complicity in the worsening insecurity, claiming that officials know those behind the killings but continue to negotiate with insurgents and bandits instead of prosecuting them.

He said: “The truth is that this administration is not interested in ending the killings.

“Insecurity has become a business for some within the system. Corruption and impunity are the twin engines driving this crisis.”

He called on the international community, especially the U.S. and its allies, to take concrete steps to hold corrupt Nigerian officials accountable through visa bans, asset freezes, and blocking of access to illicitly acquired wealth abroad.

Frank said the global community must not remain silent while ordinary Nigerians continue to pay the price for the failure of leadership at home.

“The time for polite diplomacy is over. The world must stand with victims, not with those profiting from bloodshed.

“President Trump’s action gives hope to millions of Nigerians who feel abandoned by their own leaders,” he said.

Frank also warned that failure to act decisively will deepen Nigeria’s crisis, resulting in more deaths, displaced communities, and economic collapse.

“The recurring bloodshed is a direct reflection of governance failure.

“Officials entrusted with protecting lives must be held accountable when they fail,” he added.

Frank thanked Trump for his moral courage and urged other world leaders to emulate his example in standing up for human rights and justice.

It was a moment of pride, gratitude, and renewed commitment to sports development as the Chairman of the Ofugara Give Back Initiative, Mr. Silver Ofugara, was decorated with the prestigious Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) Diamond Jubilee National Award on Thursday in Abuja.

The ceremony, held at the VIP Pavilion of the MKO Abiola National Stadium, formed part of activities marking SWAN's 60th anniversary celebration, and brought together dignitaries, media professionals, athletes, and sports enthusiasts from across the country.

Mr. Ofugara’s recognition underscores his outstanding contributions to grassroots sports development and youth empowerment, particularly through his foundation, which has consistently nurtured young talents and revived community football culture in Delta State and beyond.

After receiving the honour, Ofugara expressed deep appreciation to SWAN for deeming him worthy of the national recognition, stressing that the award serves as a motivation for greater service. He stated that the honour means a lot not just to him but to everyone who believes in the power of sports to transform lives.

While applauding SWAN for its commitment to promoting sporting excellence in Nigeria, he noted that the association continues to stand as the conscience of sports reportage and development, proving that efforts at the grassroots level are valued and acknowledged.

Ofugara also used the occasion to urge government and private sector stakeholders to increase investments in youth sports development and infrastructure.

According to him, sports remain a vital tool for unity, capacity building, and economic empowerment, and Nigeria must channel more resources into training programmes, facilities, and mentorship platforms if it intends to secure a productive future for its young athletes.

In an emotional moment, he dedicated the award to his family for their unwavering support.

He further dedicated the honour to his Boss, Peter Dunia (popularly known as Peter Black), and to his close friend, High Chief Engineer Kestin Pondi, acknowledging their guidance, belief, and encouragement throughout his journey.

SWAN officials congratulated the honouree, applauding his long standing commitment to grassroots sports development, philanthropy, and community youth engagement.

They described him as a shining example of selfless contribution to the growth of sports in Nigeria.

The recognition marks another significant milestone for the Ofugara Give Back Initiative, whose programmes including the Ofugara Peace and Unity Cup have continued to promote social cohesion, talent discovery, and sporting excellence across communities.

As the applause settled, one message echoed clearly Silver Ofugara remains a testament to the transformative power of passion, vision, and dedication in sports, reinforcing the belief that community driven initiatives can build champions, inspire hope, and strengthen the nation.

*Calls for international sanctions, accountability for African leaders



*Says Nigeria’s 2027 election must not be business as usual





Political activist and former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Timi Frank, has condemned recent elections held in Tanzania, Cameroon, and Ivory Coast, describing them as “sham exercises” and “a disgrace to the African continent.”



Frank said what took place in the three countries were not elections but “selections” marred by manipulation, intimidation, and political terrorism.



He lamented that rather than allowing the will of the people to prevail, incumbent leaders in Africa have continued to impose themselves through fraudulent means.



“These elections are a disgrace and shame to Africa. In this 21st century, the continent should be making democratic progress, but what we see instead is the growing culture of rigging, violence, and oppression,” Frank said.



He urged the international community, including the United Nations, the United States, and the European Union, not to recognise or congratulate the outcomes of such fraudulent elections.



According to him, the global community must take decisive steps to rescue democracy in Africa before the continent slides into chaos.



“If nothing is done, this systematic rigging may soon lead to widespread civil unrest and more coups across the continent,” he warned.



Frank who is the United Liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP) Ambassador to East Africa and Middle East, also called on the International Criminal Court (ICC) to investigate and hold accountable the leaders of Tanzania, Cameroon, and Ivory Coast for electoral violence and the loss of lives during the recent polls.



“The U.S. and EU should impose targeted sanctions on these leaders and their cronies who have destroyed the democratic process in their countries,” he stated.



The outspoken activist decried the greed and corruption of African leaders, saying they have abandoned the vision of the continent’s founding fathers like Kwame Nkrumah, Julius Nyerere, Nelson Mandela, Thomas Sankara, Patrice Lumumba, Modibo Keita and Haile Selassie, among other founding fathers.



“The Africa we see today is not the one our heroes fought for.



“The dream of unity, one currency, and one passport has been replaced by selfishness and deceit.



“With these corrupt and greedy leaders, the vision of our founding fathers cannot be achieved,” he said.



Frank further urged African youths not to back down in defending democracy and their right to vote.



“Those who have died defending their votes are heroes. The young generation must continue to resist oppression and stand for justice,” he added.



He also urged the international community to pay attention to the unfolding situation in Tanzania, where citizens have been protesting against a compromised electoral process.



“The people are aggrieved because they know the election was rigged even before the announcement of results. The world must act now,” Frank said.



Turning to Nigeria, Frank cautioned the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies ahead of the 2027 general elections, insisting that the polls must not follow the same path of manipulation seen in other African countries.



“Nigeria’s 2027 election must not be business as usual.



“Any attempt to subvert the people’s will will be strongly resisted. Nigerians will no longer remain silent,” he warned.

In line with the Comptroller-General of Customs’ (CGC) Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR; vision for collaboration, consolidation, and innovation, Comptroller Aminu Sule of the Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone B, Kaduna, successfully completed a strategic working tour of the Sokoto and Kebbi States Commands.


This was contained in a statement signed by the Public Relations Officer, FOU Zone B Kaduna, Chief superintendent of Customs, Saidu Nuruddeen, made available on October 30, 2025


The visit was designed to reinforce the Nigeria Customs Service’s (NCS) commitment to partnership-driven operations, effective border management, and sustainable revenue generation, while actively fostering goodwill among traditional institutions, local communities, and key stakeholders across the zone.

Kebbi Command: Royal Support and Community's Warm embrace

At the Kebbi Area Command, Comptroller Sule was warmly received by the Area Controller, Comptroller Ibrahim Mahmoud Matawalle.

The most significant part of this leg of the tour involved courtesy calls on two esteemed traditional rulers: His Royal Highness, the Emir of Gwandu, Major General Muhammad Iliyasu Bashar (Rtd), CFR, mni, (who is also the Chairman Kebbi state council of Chiefs) and His Royal Highness, the Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Samaila Muhammad Mera, CON.
The royal fathers gave strong commendation to the NCS for its vital role in promoting trade and protecting the national economy.

Crucially, they both pledged their continued support in sensitizing their communities against smuggling and other forms of economic sabotage, emphasizing that a strong partnership with Customs is fundamental for achieving stability and development in the region.
Comptroller Sule expressed his deep gratitude for the warm reception and the genuine cooperation shown by the traditional rulers and the people of Kebbi State.

He stated, “I am deeply touched by the kindness, respect, and cooperation shown by our traditional rulers and host communities. Their partnership strengthens our resolve to work together for national progress and regional development.”

During his time in Kebbi, the Comptroller also engaged in a series of stakeholder meetings with Customs officials, local business leaders, and community representatives.

These discussions were focused on developing and implementing strategies to improve revenue collection, enhance inter-agency cooperation, and streamline trade facilitation processes.

Sokoto/Zamfara Command and Commitment to Synergy

The tour continued at the Sokoto/Zamfara Command, where Comptroller Sule was received by Area Controller Comptroller Aliyu Isa Ndayako.

Their discussions centered on achieving greater operational synergy, improving intelligence sharing, and enhancing enforcement efficiency to ensure seamless service delivery. Comptroller Sule stressed that teamwork and coordination among all Customs formations are critical to realizing the CGC’s reform agenda and effectively deterring economic offenders.
In conclusion, the working tour successfully strengthened community ties and reinforced collaboration with institutional stakeholders across Zone B.

Comptroller Sule reaffirmed his dedication to these partnerships, stating that traditional institutions and community leaders are not just allies but "partners in progress." He assured all parties that FOU Zone B will continue to implement practical measures to enhance cooperation, improve enforcement, and uphold professionalism and transparency as the foundation for sustainable success in the zone.

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) says its strengthened zonal coordination structure is improving disaster prevention, rapid response, and post-emergency recovery in the North West.

Mr. Sani Lokoja, NEMA North West Zonal Director, stated this on Wednesday, during a media interaction in Kaduna.

Lokoja said the agency’s zonal system was designed to bridge national policy with local action, ensuring quicker decisions and better coordination across multiple states.

“Our structure strengthens collaboration, speeds up response, and connects communities directly to national support,” he said.

He noted that the media remained a key partner in disaster management through accurate reporting, public enlightenment, and timely dissemination of safety information.

“We see the media not just as observers but as frontline partners in safeguarding communities,” Lokoja said.

He explained that NEMA’s work covers preparedness, mitigation, response, recovery, and reconstruction to protect lives, livelihoods, and national assets.

Lokoja said the creation of zonal directorates had enhanced regional coordination and accountability, while the operations offices focus on tactical field deployments.

He cited recent interventions after floods, fires, and communal displacements in Kaduna, Katsina, Kano, Jigawa, Kebbi, Sokoto, and Zamfara States.

The director said the zonal office also coordinated the safe reception and reintegration of Nigerian returnees from neighbouring countries in partnership with government and international humanitarian agencies.

He listed the State Emergency Management Agencies (SEMAs), Armed Forces, Red Cross, and other partners among those supporting NEMA’s unified disaster response framework.

“Disaster management succeeds only when all actors work together with shared responsibility,” Lokoja said.

He said the agency was carrying out community sensitisation in high-risk areas and training volunteers in Kano, Kebbi, and Sokoto States to strengthen early warning and first response capacity.

Lokoja identified climate-related disasters, insecurity, and low public awareness as major challenges affecting access and response operations.

“Our mandate is coordination, not duplication,” he stressed, pledging continued collaboration with partners to support affected persons and communities.

He urged the media and community leaders to intensify public awareness on disaster prevention and preparedness across the zone.

Lokoja’s first 100 days in office have seen improved coordination with state emergency agencies, faster relief delivery during disasters, and stronger partnerships with security and humanitarian actors across the region.

NEMA’s North West Zonal Directorate coordinates emergency response in seven states: Kaduna, Katsina, Kebbi, Kano, Jigawa, Sokoto, and Zamfara.



The Federal government has conducted a three-day intensive entrepreneurship training of 250 Women and Youths in Owan-West Local Government Area of Edo state.

During the training participants were trained on production of Disinfectants, Bleaching items and odour control.



During training exercise participants in groups engaged in practical production of disinfectants and other items inline with the directives of the theoretical training exercise.



After the completion of the programme the federal government gave Start up Capital to the participants as part of efforts to assist them start local production in their communities.



The training programme was conducted at the famous Uhonmora civic centre which is located in the centre of the Community, in the Local government.



During training exercise participants in groups engaged in practical production of disinfectants and other items inline with the directives of the theoretical training exercise.



The training was done by the National Board for Technology Incubation in conjunction with the Management of GGF NIG. LTD

The training exercise started with accreditation of two hundred and Fifty participants of both Female and Male persons drawn from the local



Addressing the gathering the programme lead consultant, Magbagbeola Abass Adebayo

informed them of the rationale behind the training and the accompanied start up Capital benefits.

He further harped on the need for the beneficiaries to make judicious use provided Capital for business purposes and advise against wasting the fund.

On her part the Aisha Oladipo emphasize the need for them utilize knowledge gain during the training to better their lives and assist their families.

The Vice President of Uhonmora Ora Progressives Union worldwide Mrs Evangelina Agbai at the occasion commended the federal government and the facilitator of the training exercise in Owan-West local government Area

She urged the beneficiaries to make judicious use of the acquired Skills and the start up Capital as directed by the Scheme.

The beneficiaries on their parts expressed delight for be part of the federal government initiative and harped on the need to go with the directives of the scheme .

High points of the training exercise saw participants in groups engaged in practical production of the items inline with what their taught during the theory session

The presentation of certificates climaxed the event after which the items produced were distributed to participants.



The training programme was conducted at the famous Uhonmora civic centre which is located in the centre of the community, in the Local government.
The programme was facilitated by the secretary of the National Assembly Service Commission, Mr Lucky Ikharo, FTID.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar's aide, Phrank Shaibu has criticized President Bola Tinubu’s administration over the recent revocation of presidential pardons earlier approved for some convicted individuals, including persons found guilty of serious crimes such as drug trafficking and kidnapping.

Atiku described the move as act of "acting before thinking."

In a strongly worded statement issued on Wednesday evening, signed by Phrank Shaibu, the Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication to former Vice President, described the President’s decision to cancel the pardons as “an act of shame, not wisdom,” accusing the government of being reactive and lacking foresight.

“Once again, Nigerians have witnessed a government that doesn’t lead — it reacts,” he said.

“This U-turn is not an act of wisdom, it’s an act of shame. If Nigerians had kept quiet, would convicted drug lords and kidnappers be walking free today under the President’s blessing?”

Atiku also questioned how the initial list of pardon beneficiaries was compiled and approved, demanding accountability from those involved in the process.

“Who compiled the list? What criteria justified freeing kidnappers and drug offenders? Where was the Attorney-General when this absurdity was cooked up?” he asked.

He argued that the episode reflects a recurring pattern of poor decision-making by the Tinubu administration — one in which policies are announced without proper consideration and later reversed following public backlash.

“This pattern has become too familiar — announce the unthinkable, watch the country erupt, then hurriedly reverse course as if governance is a game of trial and error,” he said.

The statement further stated that a presidential pardon should represent justice and mercy, not a reward for impunity.

“A presidential pardon is not a social experiment. It is a sacred constitutional power meant to reflect justice, mercy, and national interest — not to reward impunity or test public patience,” he said.

Atiku called on the federal government to publish the full list of individuals who were initially recommended for clemency, including details of their offences, to ensure transparency.

“If the President truly means well, let him publish the list of all those who were meant to benefit from this scandal. Let Nigerians see the names, the crimes, and the hands that signed off on this reckless indulgence,” he said.

He concluded that the government’s reversal was merely an attempt at “damage control.

“Until then, this cancellation is nothing but damage control — too little, too late,” the statement added.

A sweeping political shift is gathering momentum in Cross River North senatorial district, as influential stakeholders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have signaled plans to defect en masse to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in solidarity with Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe.

Recall that on October 22, 2025 Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, Senator representing Cross River North, had visited Aso Rock Villa to officially inform President Bola Tinubu of his defection to the ruling party.

Jarigbe followed it up with a visit to the APC State Chairman, Cross River, Chairman, Alphonsus Eba, Esq, also notifying him of his defection and readiness to work with the leadership to reposition the party in the northern senatorial district.

In a statement released Wednesday in Abuja, by the media office of Senator Jarigbe, signed by John Agom Agom,
Special Adviser on Media to Senator Jarigbe, said in continuation of his consultation, the Senator, on Tuesday convened a strategic meeting in Abuja with top PDP figures from the zone to review the political landscape and chart a new direction.

The move, if finalized, is expected to significantly alter the political equation in the northern senatorial zone ahead of the next election cycle.

The statement said: "Discussions at the meeting held at the Rockview Hotel, Abuja on Tuesday, centered on aligning with what participants described as the progressive direction of the state under Governor Bassey Otu and the reform-driven agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu."

While addressing the PDP stakeholders at the meeting, Senator Jarigbe siad he moved over to the APC to assist President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in repositioning the country for greater heights.

The Senator added: "My people should be assured that defecting to the ruling party will not stop me from empowering the constituents and embarking on people-oriented projects and to alleviate the sufferings of the zone.

"I must also assure all the stakeholders that our regular consultations will not stop. There better days ahead," Senator Jarigbe stated.

Speaking, the Cross River State PDP Chairman, Venatius Ikem, Esq, commended Senator Jarigbe for the bold step taken so far, promising to go back to the State Executive members for further consultations on the next line of action.

"In a united front, the stakeholders pledged their support for Governor Otu’s administration and President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

"They further disclosed their intention to officially join the APC alongside Senator Jarigbe after wider consultations, describing the anticipated mass defection as a strategic realignment to give Cross River North a stronger voice in both state and national politics."

Present at the meeting, include Hon. Godwin Offiono, representing Ogoja/Yala Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Chief Austin Edibe; former Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Tom Ogar and Mike Aniah, Esq; Dr. DornKlamz Enamhe, Dr. Paul Ibiala, Hon Peter Ignodor and several other party stalwarts.

Former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Timi Frank, has strongly condemned the declaration of Paul Biya as winner of the recent presidential election in Cameroon.



Frank in a statement in Abuja, described the announcement of the 93-year old Biya as an insult to democracy and a brazen fraud that must be rejected by all who believe in justice and freedom.



He said: “The so-called results announced by the regime are a fabrication and a clear subversion of the people’s will.



“The world must not stand by while democracy in Cameroon is strangled in broad daylight.”



He lamented that peaceful protesters who took to the streets to denounce the daylight robbery of their votes have been met with gunfire, brutality, and mass arrests.



“Innocent Cameroonians are being killed by their own security forces simply for demanding that their votes count.



“This bloodshed must end immediately. Those who ordered and carried out these killings must be held personally accountable before international law.



“The International Criminal Court (ICC) and the United Nations (UN) must investigate and ensure that justice is done.”



According to Frank who is the United Liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP) Ambassador to East Africa and Middle East, the African Union’s “shameful silence in the face of such blatant electoral robbery is a betrayal of its founding principles.”



He added: “By refusing to speak out or act, the AU is enabling tyranny and helping destroy democracy on the continent.



“It is this silence and hypocrisy that fuel coups and instability in Africa, when the people are denied peaceful paths to change, they are pushed to desperation.



“The time has come for the AU to choose between complicity and conscience.”



He called on the United States, the European Union, the United Nations, and all responsible nations to impose targeted sanctions on Paul Biya’s regime, “including travel bans, asset freezes, and suspension of military assistance.”



He added: “The international community must make it clear that those who rig elections, kill citizens, and destroy democratic institutions will pay a heavy price.



“Anything less would embolden other dictators across Africa to repeat this travesty.”



He insisted that the true winner of the Cameroonian election remains Issa Tchiroma Bakary; whose mandate reflects the genuine will of the people.



“The international community must recognise this fact and pressure Paul Biya to step down,” he said.



He urged Cameroonians not to surrender their future to a regime that survives on repression and deceit.



“To the brave people of Cameroon: your courage in the face of tyranny is a beacon of hope.



“Defend your mandate, stand for your democracy, but remain peaceful and united.

The world is watching, and history is on your side.”



According to him, if the world fails to act decisively now, it would set a dangerous precedent, “one that tells African leaders that rigging elections, silencing opponents, and murdering citizens come without consequence.



“This must not happen. The time to act is now. The world must stand with the people of Cameroon and make it clear that stolen elections and blood-stained power have no place in the 21st century,” he said.

‎*Binani, Jada, Barata, Musa, Rabiu donate over N100m to new exco as take off grant

‎

‎

‎By; MOHD ISMAIL

‎

‎The lingering leadership crisis in Adamawa State Chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) took a dramatic turn on Sunday, as the party’s Zonal Working Committee inaugurated a parallel caretaker executive, deepening internal fissures in the highly volatile political party.

‎

‎The inauguration, which was led by the Assistant National Organizing Secretary and North East Zonal Organizing Secretary of the ADC, Umar Bello Jada, popularly known as Calculate, saw the emergence of Mallam Saidu Komsiri as chairman of a 44-man caretaker committee to oversee the party’s affairs in the state.

‎

‎The development came about 24 hours after the North East National Vice Chairman of the party and former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Engr. Babachir David Lawal, inaugurated another committee led by Hon. Sadiq Dasin, signaling a full-blown power tussle between the two major power blocs in the party.

‎

‎Senior stakeholders, including Sen Aishatu Binani, Umar Bello Jada, Abdullahi Musa Speaker, Sen Ahmed Barata donated over N100m cash grant to the newly inaugurated exco as take off grant.

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‎Umar Jada led the donation with a N25m cash while Sen Aishatu Binani donated N40m, Sen Ahmed Barata donated N20m, Rabiu Abubakar donated N30m while Abdullahi Speaker donated 15m.

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‎In a resolution read by Jada on behalf of the Zonal Working Committee, the group accused Engr. Lawal of unilateral decisions and abuse of authority, claiming that his actions were taken without due consultation or approval from the zonal organs of the party.

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‎According to the resolution, Engr. Lawal had earlier set up a committee to reconcile aggrieved party members in Adamawa and Gombe states, with a mandate to submit its findings to the Zonal Working Committee for deliberation and onward recommendation to the National Working Committee (NWC).

‎

‎However, the Zonal Working Committee alleged that Lawal bypassed them by submitting the committee’s report directly to the NWC living them in the dark.

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‎Jada further alleged that the former SGF “singlehandedly appointed a five-man interim committee headed by Hon. Sadiq Dasin,” a decision which was reportedly rejected by the majority of party stakeholders and supporters across Adamawa State.

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‎“The action of Engr. B.D. Lawal was uncoordinated and unethical, as he claimed to be acting on behalf of both the zonal and national leadership of the party, a claim that is not true. At no time did the Zonal Working Committee or the National Executive Committee (NEC) approve such decisions,” Jada said.

‎

‎The committee noted that before any new leadership could be installed, the existing three-man caretaker committee led by Yohanna Shehu ought to have been formally dissolved in line with the party’s constitution noting that since that process did not take place, the actions of Engr. Lawal were null, void and of no effect.

‎

‎Consequently, the Zonal Working Committee announced a set of resolutions aimed at restoring order and legitimacy to the party’s leadership structure in Adamawa State.

‎

‎The Zonal Working Ctee therefore dissolved the interim leadership of the Yohanna Shehu-led three-man executive; announced the formation of a

‎44-man interim committee under the leadership of Mallam Saidu Komsiri and inaugurated the committee immediately to avert any leadership vacuum.

‎

‎In his acceptance speech, the new caretaker chairman, Saidu Komsiri thanked the national chairman of the party, Sen David Mark and the national leader of the party, Atiku Abubakar for creating the enabling environment for internal democracy to thrive in the party.

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‎”I stand before you today with humility and gratitude to accept the call to serve as Caretaker Committee Chairman of our great Party, the African Democratic Congress, Adamawa State Chapter.

‎

‎”This assignment comes at a time when our party has faced turbulence, arbitrariness, and dictatorial tendencies that nearly weakened our internal democracy. But today marks a new beginning, a rebirth of discipline, inclusion, and genuine leadership.

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‎”Under the guidance of our National Chairman, Senator David Mark, and with the blessing and inspiration of our great son of the soil, His Excellency Atiku Abubakar, we will restore the ADC in Adamawa to its rightful place as a platform of integrity, unity, and service.

‎

‎”This Committee will uphold the ADC Constitution, reconcile all aggrieved members, and open a new chapter of peace and accountability.

‎We will embark immediately on membership mobilization and renewal, reaching every 4,104 unit, 226 wards, the 21 local government Areas, to give every loyal ADC member a sense of belong, a voice and a place.

‎

‎”Let me be clear, this is not a time for division or selfish ambition.

‎It is a time to rebuild trust, revive our structures, and prepare the ADC to stand strong in the political reawakening of Adamawa State.

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‎”Together, with the wisdom of Senator David Mark and the visionary leadership of Atiku Abubakar, we shall make Adamawa ADC a model of unity and democratic maturity in Nigeria,” he said.

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‎Meanwhile, the ZWC also announced Hon. Ibrahim Bappa Waziri as the Chairman, Adamawa Elders Forum. The forum consist of a member from each of the 226 wards while Sen. Ahmed Barata was announced as the Convener/Coordinator Grassroots Stakeholders Forum with 2 members from each polling unit of the 4102 units making membership of the forum to be 8,204 strong. According to Jada, the composition of the forum consist of one man and one woman from each polling unit.

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‎In the same vein, Alhaji Mijinyawa Umaru Kugama has been ratified as DG mobilisation for Atiku 2027 primary elections.

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By; ATIKU ABUBAKAR



There is a disturbing yet growing pattern by which the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu continues to muzzle free speech and, in so doing, erode the integrity of the democratic ethos that define our nation.

It is a development that should trouble every Nigerian, for if this creeping culture of repression continues unchecked, it will ultimately turn the Federal Government into a bully — and make subjects of free citizens.

The Silencing of Voices

The roll call of Nigerians currently on trial or languishing in detention facilities across the country is far too long to recount. For months now, both local and international human rights organisations have drawn attention to the steady descent of the Tinubu administration into the shadows of dictatorship.

Under the obnoxious Cyberstalking Act, this government has metamorphosed into a leviathan — one that thrives on fear and seeks to silence the very voices that sustain democracy. This is an aberration, an affront to freedom, and it must be roundly rejected.

The so-called Cyberstalking Act is a chilling reminder of the infamous Sedition Laws that many civilized nations have long discarded. In the 21st century, it is unthinkable that the Government of Nigeria— or any government, for that matter —should seek to control free speech, that sacred pillar of liberty and the lifeblood of democracy.

The People vs. Power

Any law that impedes, suppresses, or limits the right of citizens to make critical remarks about their leaders — whether on digital highways, in print, or through spoken word — is undemocratic and a direct assault on the spirit of fundamental human rights.

In the two and a half years since the Tinubu administration began unleashing its cocktail of economic hardship, hunger, and despair on the Nigerian people, we have witnessed protests and outcries from citizens who can no longer bear the weight of bad governance. Yet, rather than listen, the government has chosen the path of brute force and intimidation — treating dissent as treason and turning peaceful protesters into prisoners.

It is tragic, indeed, that such violations of constitutionally guaranteed rights are occurring at a time when our democracy ought to be maturing. We must remind the Tinubu regime that no government, no matter how powerful, is greater than the people. To attempt otherwise is impolitic, preposterous, and destined to fail.

A Government Without Restraint

While it is true that government bears the responsibility to maintain law and order, no responsible administration fires live canisters at peaceful protesters or hides behind ambiguous laws to arrest and re-arrest citizens who have been granted bail by competent courts.

The Tinubu government’s disregard for the rule of law and persistent disobedience of court orders have become its most infamous credentials. Human rights groups, both at home and abroad, have repeatedly raised the alarm, yet the pattern persists.

From journalists jailed for speaking truth to power, to citizens arrested during the #EndBadGovernance protests, Nigerians continue to suffer persecution simply for daring to think, to speak, or to protest. If truth be told, this regime may have surpassed all its predecessors in the reckless use of state power to crush public opinion.

The Erosion of Institutions

Since the inception of this administration, Amnesty International has consistently faulted its human rights record. Other reputable bodies such as the Nigeria Union of Journalists and Media Rights Agenda have cried out against the jackboot oppression of journalists and citizens by state agents whose only mission seems to be to stifle dissent.

Today, President Tinubu and his government behave as though they are sovereigns over the people. As they continue to suffocate dissent, they also attempt to subdue opposition parties and silence every voice of reason.

Even institutions that should act as checks on executive excesses — legislatures, oversight agencies, and the judiciary — have become mere rubber stamps, their leaders tripping over themselves to sing the praises of a president few dare to question.

The Final Reckoning

As a democrat and stakeholder in the opposition, I am convinced that the 2027 general election will be a defining moment — a contest not merely between parties, but between the Tinubu hegemony and the will of the Nigerian people.

And history bears eternal witness to one truth: no despot no matter how powerful, has ever triumphed over the collective voice of a determined people.


Atiku Abubakar, is Vice President, Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999-2007.

*Says Nigeria has all it takes to top sports worldwide

*Insists sports can grow economy, a SWAN holds special prayers





The governments at all levels in Nigeria, have been tasked to invest more in sports in view of its uniting factor as well as the huge economic potentials.

The task was given by the Chairman of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), 19 Northern States and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Reverend Joseph John Hayab, in an interview with newsmen on the sidelines of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria SWAN @60 Church Service held at the the Supernatural Dominion Bible Ministry International, Gonin Gora Kaduna on Sunday October 26, 2025.

Hayab said that with greater investments in sports, the current insecurity bedeviling the country could be a thing of the past.


"If you see the enthusiasm, the commitment youth put into sports,
then there's nothing wrong to use sports to catch them. I have seen inter-church competitions. I've seen inter-faith competitions. I've seen inter-community competitions.

"Because what this country needs today is unity. If sports can give us unity, let's hold it. nations of the world are investing millions and trillions of dollars into sports.

"For people who probably don't know what sports is all about, we watch sports on TV and think that's all when you march into stadia that we are watching on TV and see the kind of investment associated
with it, you will know that sports does not only bring unity, sports also its an economic booster for nations. It creates jobs for them. If we enhance sports, it will be far more than what we are thinking so I salute sports writers at 60,," he said.


He therefore, charged Nigerians to continue investing in sports.

"Because in this country, we must invest in the talents of our children, we must invest in the talent of our future generation. Great nations of the world apart from technology, one other thing that makes them famous is sports.


"Jamaica today, is celebrated because of sports. Even Kenya, Ethiopia in Africa, are celebrated in the world today because of sports. Nigeria has all it takes to be the best sporting nation or community in the world.

"What we need is to encourage our people and to speak to those who are directly in charge of sports activities in Nigeria to understand that sports is not sentiment," he said.


Speaking further, he said, "there are more things they can use sports for and the money they are using to fight banditry, will be a thing of the past.

He prayed that sports writers will use their writings through sports in promoting unity.



"All this is to further bring people together. So if sport writers are celebrating 60, please, we want to use this occasion to encourage you to write more positive stories about sports, how sports can unite people, of different faith,
how sports can unite people of different tribes, how sports can unite people of different denominations, how sports can unite people of different communities," Reverend Hayab, who is also the Country Director, Global Peace Foundation Nigeria (GPFN), stressed.

"For all of us, despite that we practice faith, sports is part of our lives. We grew up doing sport in schools. We grew up doing sports in different areas. And even in church. Most of us in church today, have introduced sports into our activities because for our youth, one thing we can catch them is to use sports," he declared.

Also speaking, SWAN President, Isaiah Kemje Benjamin informed that the church service is part of activities lined up to celebrate SWAN @60.

Represented by his SA Media, Okpani Jacob Onjewu Dickson, he explained that on Friday all over Nigeria, Juma'at Mosque prayers were held, with the Christians doing same simultaneously across the 36 states and the FCT on Sunday

He informed that the SWAN @60 activities would gather steam on October 29 in Abuja with the arrival of its full council members from all over the country.

"On 30th we will have lectures with several distinguished personalities, including the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu presenting papers.

"On 31st we would hold the SWAN @60 Awards, launching of compendium and fundraising for SWAN House in Abuja," the President said




Earlier in his sermon, Brother Philip Adejumo of the Supernatural Dominion Bible Ministry International, underscored the importance of faith in the lives of humans.

He said with faith, nothing is impossible, while charging faithful to always exhibit the virtues of Jesus Christ.

The service was organized by Kaduna SWAN Vice Chairman, Okpani Mike Odeh James, who led members in delivering a vote of thanks at the event.

*Continues back to school project





An apex humanitarian Foundation under the aegis Collins Onyeaji foundation has continued to gain more accolades, as members of the foundation visited select public primary schools in Oru East LGA.



According to the mission and vision of the humanitarian outfit, the foundation was set up to alleviate the burden of parents associated with new academic session resumption and other educational needs, targeting 10000 pupils in 586 primary schools of the 95 LGAs of South east Nigeria - Imo, Anambra, Abia,Ebonyi and Enugu states.



In continuation of the project which was earlier kicked off, the foundation train moved from 21st to 24th October 2025, with a visit to selected schools in Oru East LGA Imo State, Community Primary School Umuduru Amiri, Central School Amiri, Central school Isieke Awomama, Ubachimma Primary School Awomama, Central School Ihitte Akatta.



Management and staff of the above visited schools, were visibly elated by the philanthropic gesture of Mr Collins Onyeaji, founder of Collins Onyeaji foundation who they described as a beacon of Hope to the down trodden, they also expressed happiness by showering praises on the donor , who they reiterated has performed credible well, despite the excruciating hardship in the country.



A member of staff of one of the schools visited said, "he chose to extend hand of assistance to parents to ensure that young children of school age in south east Nigeria have no excuses towards actualizing their aspirations and dreams of acquiring basic formal education for their children"



As the foundation train began its journey, the first port of call was, Community Primary school Umuduru Amiri, where the head teacher Mrs Okoro Scholastica embraced the team, she extolled members of Collins Onyeaji foundation for their magnanimity in addressing this pressing needs of the pupils and parents.



She prayed to God to replenish the pockets of Collins Onyeaji foundation, maintaining that since the project is geared towards humanity, it will be divinely sustained.



She encouraged her pupils who are beneficiaries of the kind gesture, to put in more efforts in their studies as that is the only way this laudable project will bear the desired fruits, praying to God to replenish the pockets of the donor.



At Central School Amiri, the head teacher, Mrs Nwaghaluke Thecla, expressed gratitude to Collins Onyeaji foundation for choosing to help the parents ease the burden of school resumption.



She encouraged her pupils who are beneficiaries of the philanthropic gesture to always take their studies seriously as that is the only way to guarantee Collins Onyeaji foundation genuine commitment to their studies.



She prayed for the sustenance of the project.



As the train moved to Central School Awo Omamma , the head teacher Mrs Madu Priscilla, praised the leadership of Collins Onyeaji foundation for their foresight in not only alleviating the burden of parents, but spurring children of school age to be serious with school and studies, as those materials necessary for seamless studies have been provided. She prayed for God's guidance upon Collins Onyeaji Foundation.



The storyline remained the same at Ubachima Primary school Awo Omamma as Mrs Akubueze Scholastica, eulogized Collins Onyeaji Foundation for choosing her school among the rest in the LGA and expressed satisfaction with the quality of the materials of the back to school project, stating that it will not only last for her pupils, but have ensured financial savings for parents, she prayed for God's replenishment upon Collins Onyeaji foundation.



As encomium continues to pour, the foundation's train culminated at Central School Ihitte Akatta where the head teacher, Mrs Ogele Esther, seized the platform to call on other good spirited individuals to emulate Collins Onyeaji.



She reiterated that the foundation didn't only raise hope for the school children, but guaranteed them that quality education is the bedrock of a thriving society.

She prayed for God's protection upon the foundation as they continue with the laudable project.



A cross section of rural dwellers who spoke with our reporters in areas visited, said that Mr Collins Onyeaji's philanthropic gesture will bring back pupils to public schools as they will not only have materials for their education, but will be in a conducive learning environment.



In their respective speeches ,they requested for synergy and collaboration between teachers and Collins Onyeaji foundation, highlighting attached benefits . As the prayed for God's protection upon the leadership and members of Collins Onyeaji Foundation .



It would be recalled that Collins Onyeaji Foundation kicked off sometime ago, and has been instrumental in providing school bags and other learning resource to pupils in various schools in the South Eastern Nigeria.



This project highlights the value Collins Onyeaji Foundation places on quality education, especially basic formal education, with the attendant accessibility to children in rural communities.

The Management of Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) has said that its attention been drawn to an AI generated video widely circulating on the social media by unscrupulous persons, in which, ABU was mentioned as the institution under which nuclear weapon/device was being developed for Nigeria.

This was contained in a statement signed by the Director, Public Affairs Directorate, Office of the Vice-Chancellor, ABU, Auwalu Umar dated Saturday October 25, 2025.

"Other falsehood in the video was an allegation that “in the 1980s, Nigerian scientists were secretly enriching weapons grade uranium hidden deeply in a remote wilderness of Kaduna State.” It also alleged that “researchers at ABU had built sophisticated centrifuge obtained from the AQ Khan Network from Pakistan,” claiming that “by 1987, they were months away from the first nuclear device.” the statement said.

It further said that it is pertinent for the university management to debunk the assertions and put the facts straight, beginning with the history and evolution of Nigeria's Nuclear Energy Programme, including contribution of Ahmadu Bello University to the programme.

"In the 1980s, a majority of the scientists at the Centre for Energy Research and Training (CERT), Ahmadu Bello University were trainees in foreign institutions and were not back in the country until earlier 1990s. So, how could it have been possible for trainee scientists to enrich uranium?

"Nigeria and, indeed, ABU have no connections with the AQ Khan Network from Pakistan let alone receiving equipment for the construction of a centrifuge.

"By 1987, CERT had no any nuclear facility in operation apart from the 14 MeV Neutron Generator, which became operational only in 1988. The major nuclear project (i.e. NIRR-1) was initiated in 1996 under the IAEA Technical Cooperation programme that culminated into the commissioning of the first nuclear reactor in Nigeria in 2004.

"It is on record that the test of an Atomic Bomb by France in the Sahara Desert in 1960 was the first activity that triggered the interest of the Federal Government in nuclear. The then Federal Government set up the Federal Radiation Protection Service (FRPS) in the Department of Physics, University of Ibadan, being the only one in the country. This was to monitor the adverse effect of the test on citizens and environment.

"Nigeria joined the UN Nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in 1964, signifying its intention for peaceful applications of nuclear science and technology only.

"Following the advancement and sophistications of nuclear weapons programme of South Africa, the Murtala-Obasanjo Regime in 1976 pronounced ABU, Zaria and OAU, Ile-Ife as two institutions to drive Nigeria's nuclear programme, emphasizing peaceful uses in line with IAEA charter. Before then, Nigeria was one of the countries to sign the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) in 1968. All these are pointers to the desire of the country to peaceful uses of nuclear energy.

"Under the aegis of ABU Governing Council, the Centre for Energy Research and Training (ABU) was established by Statute 29 of Ahmadu Bello University Laws following the promulgation of Decree 46 of 1976, which established the Nigeria Atomic Energy Commission (NAEC).

"CERT swung into action and eventually established modest nuclear facilities with collaboration of the IAEA and other international stakeholders from USA, Russia, China, etc. The 34 kW Nuclear Research Reactor, the Nigeria Research Reacor-1 (NIRR-1), is a notable facility acquired under a tripartite initiative between China, Nigeria and the IAEA in 2004. The reactor, which was running on weapons grade Highly Enriched Uranium (HEU), was converted to Low Enriched Uranium (LEU) in line with Global Threat Reduction Initiatives (GTRI) in 2018.

"The foregoing activities were carried out with openness and participation of development partners, including the UN nuclear watchdog and others from the US. The current LEU core in the reactor was designed locally but it was manufactured in China. This underscores the fact that Nigeria does not own or operate a uranium enrichment or fuel fabrication plant, anywhere on its territory as alleged in the video.

"This is line with the provisions of the NPT appended to by Nigeria in 1968, as well as Pelindaba Treaty, which came into force in 2009. These provisions bar Nigeria from developing nuclear weapons or receiving nuclear energy technologies, including the enrichment plant from countries like Pakistan that have well established nuclear weapons programme as stated in the video.

"Nigeria and ABU have always pursued peaceful applications of nuclear science and technology for the socio-economic development of the country. This was demonstrated by the founder of the University through the visit to the Museum of Atomic Energy at Oak Ridge National Laboratory in the US on 22nd July, 1960. This was even before he established the university in 1962. ABU established the Centre for Energy Research and Training to fulfill the dream of our founder through the provision of facilities and services for peaceful uses for the advancement of humanity," it said.

Former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Timi Frank, has condemned, in strong terms, the unlawful arrest and detention of human rights activist and pro-democracy campaigner, Omoyele Sowore, by the Nigeria Police.



“We strongly condemn this reckless action as an assault on democracy, freedom of speech, and the fundamental rights guaranteed under the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” Frank said in a statement in Abuja.



“The arrest of Sowore is not only unjustifiable but represents a dangerous slide towards authoritarianism in a country that claims to operate under democratic principles.”



According to him, it is unacceptable that in 2025, Nigerians are still being harassed, intimidated, and detained for peacefully expressing dissenting opinions or calling for good governance.



“The right to protest, to assemble, and to hold government accountable are fundamental pillars of any true democracy,” he said. “Suppressing these rights through intimidation and arbitrary arrests is a betrayal of the democratic promises made to the Nigerian people.”



Frank who is the United Liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP), Ambassador to East Africa and Middle East, called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, and all relevant authorities to immediately and unconditionally release Sowore and other peaceful protesters arrested in Abuja and across the country.



“Tinubu’s administration must demonstrate commitment to the rule of law and respect for human rights by ending the culture of fear and intimidation.



“Nigeria is currently facing serious security, economic, and governance challenges that require constructive engagement, not repression,” he said.



He urged the government to focus its energy on addressing pressing national issues instead of silencing voices of dissent.



He said: “It is unbecoming of this administration to intimidate and oppress citizens in a democratic period like this.



“We are not under military rule where dissent is a crime. This is supposed to be a democracy that Nigeria is practising.



“Yet, under this administration, we are witnessing dictatorship, oppression, and the suppression of free speech.



“This is why the international community cannot take Nigeria or this administration seriously.



“There are so many serious security issues in the country. We expect our security agencies to channel their energy towards arresting bandits, criminals, and Boko Haram members, not innocent citizens who are peacefully protesting against bad governance.



“If the administration were doing what is right and keeping its campaign promises to Nigerians, nobody would criticise or take to the streets.



“Arresting unarmed citizens anytime there’s a protest is totally wrong and must stop.”



He called on the National Human Rights Commission, civil society groups, and the international community, including the United States Government, the European Union, and the United Nations Human Rights Council, to intervene and prevail on the Nigerian government to respect the rights of its citizens.



He said: “We saw recently how there were massive protests in America and other parts of the world against Donald Trump’s administration.



“Yet, Trump or the American government never tear-gassed or arrested peaceful protesters.



“That is what true democracy looks like. True leaders, like Trump in that instance, understand that citizens have the right to criticise their government.



“Nigeria has now become a country where the government oppresses its citizens. This administration has turned dictatorial and despotic.



“While insecurity ravages the nation, they focus on intimidating citizens instead of fighting corruption.



“In this government, people who loot the country are rewarded. They negotiate with bandits and criminals while they harass, intimidate, and arrest peaceful protesters.



“The same thing is happening to journalists. Today in Nigeria, journalists have no press freedom. This administration is now worse than some military regimes of the past.



“They also intimidate and oppress members of the opposition political parties, forcing people to join their party or face arrest and prosecution.



“We are using this opportunity to call on the international community, especially the American government, to help rescue Nigerians from the hands of this administration.”

Contrary to media reports credited to one Murtala Gamji of the Northern Nigeria Youth Leaders Forum, who accused former Vice President of Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar, of political motives over his sincere call for the release of IPOB self-determination agitator, Mr. Nnamdi Kanu, a prominent group on the platform of Ethnic Youth Leaders for Peace (EYLP) has declared that the former Vice President was right absolutely.



The Gamji's group had claimed that Atiku was using Kanu’s case as a tool to launch his political campaign and that his call would “set the country on fire.”



But responding to Gamji's claims through a statement signed by its national coordinator, Rilwan Mohammed Tukur, on Sunday in Abuja, the Ethnic Youth Leaders for Peace said it was clear that Murtala Gamji misunderstood the meaning of Atiku’s good intentions, "which have nothing to do with personal interest. If Atiku has any interest in the matter, it is only his desire for peace and stability in the country."



According to Tukur, as a statesman, Atiku will always support efforts that bring peace and unity to Nigeria.



"Contrary to Gamji's wrong understanding of Nigeria's problems, there are some legal issues that need political solutions for the sake of peace and stability.



"Did the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua not resolve the Niger Delta crisis through a political solution instead of endless court cases?



"The Niger Delta is peaceful today because Yar’Adua chose dialogue over war — he released the militant leaders from detention and granted them amnesty."



The statement said it is unfair to attack Atiku for lending his voice to calls for a political solution to the IPOB issue.



It added that Atiku is a statesman who will always support actions that bring peace to Nigeria, as the saying goes, 'peace is better than being right.'



"Does the Northern Youth Leaders Forum have short memories? Where were they when 400 Boko Haram members were freed and enrolled into the deradicalisation and rehabilitation programme of the federal government? That programme was part of former President Buhari’s non-legal and non-military solutions to the Boko Haram problem. Why didn’t Murtala Gamji speak up then?



"Katsina State recently held talks with bandits who have been terrorising their communities. Those affected chose dialogue because they realised that military action alone cannot solve everything. Why didn’t Murtala Gamji condemn these peace efforts? One can not treat one security issue differently from another because all of them are threats to the country’s peace. The IPOB agitation is no less serious than other security challenges Nigeria faces.



"It is, therefore, completely wrong to attack Atiku for calling for the release of Nnamdi Kanu as part of efforts to find a political solution to the IPOB issue. We can not pretend that IPOB is not a national problem that needs quick political resolution rather than endless court battles. Atiku’s only interest in Kanu’s case is to help reduce tension in the South East through political dialogue instead of continued legal fights that only create more anger among IPOB supporters.



"As a true statesman, Atiku will always support any effort aimed at achieving peace and stability in Nigeria."

*Describes SWAN recognition as a national honour






As the countdown to the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) 60th anniversary billed for Abuja draws nearer, a prominent figure and human rights activist in the country, Alhaji Yerima Shettima has expressed delight to be one of those that will grace the historic event.



Shettima expressed this, when he received a letter of invitation, presented to him by SWAN President, accompanied by other national and state executive at his office in Kaduna.

"I must confess to you that I'm overwhelmed to be honoured by SWAN because SWAN under your watch has done a lot and has still been doing a lot for the well-being of the country in terms of sports.

"And I must confess to you, I have not seen myself as part of those who will be nominated for such a big national award.

"But to God be the glory, here we are. I'm so glad and this will go a long way," he said.

He therefore, vowed to be present at the event, all things being equal.

"In my life, it's going to be a moment that I will continue to reflect on. This is beautiful.

"And in terms of whether you're going to ask whether I'm going to be present, God willing, if I'm alive, and healthy, you can be assured that. I will be there In person, I'm not going to send anybody. I will be there myself," he declared.

According to him, sports is something that deserves serious attention in the country, in view of its impact.



"What do i mean by that, we found ourselves in the society where the hope of our younger generation is almost being dashed off if not for sports today, there wouldn't have been a country where there will be peace.



"No matter how we look at it and that's why I keep saying, Nigeria at 65 is worth celebrating, and I repeatedly keep saying that because this sports of a thing has actually supported in making us remain as a country," he said.



Earlier in his remarks, SWAN President, Isaiah Kemje Benjamin informed his host that he was there to personally present an invitation letter to him ahead of the SWAN @60, billed for Abuja on October 30 and 31.



"I'm here with some few national and state officers to make a special presentation and an invitation to you.

"Your Excellency, we are here to make two presentations, one is a nomination for the SWAN National Meritorious Service Award and we are celebrating what we refer to as our Diamond Jubilee, so we are inviting you," he said

He explained that SWAN was established in the year 1964 and SWAN is 60 years now since it was established.



"The celebration is kickstarting from the 28th, which will be the arrival of the national officers.

"On the 29th, we have the arrival of the full council, that is the secretaries and chairmen of all the state chapters, including FCT and on the 30th, we will be having some paper presentations, seminars and discussions, more or less like a sports summit.



"The Director General of the National Sports Commission will be making a paper presentation the wife of the Senate President will also be making a paper presentation, as well as others," he informed.

*says sanction Biya




Former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and United Liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP) Ambassador to East Africa and the Middle East, Comrade Timi Frank, has called on President Donald Trump and leaders of the international community to recognise opposition presidential candidate, Issa Tchiroma Bakary, as the duly elected President of Cameroon.

Frank made the call in a statement issued in Abuja on Tuesday, following widespread allegations of President Paul Biya’s attempt to thwart the will of the people by again seeking to manipulate the results to elongate his stay in office.

Citing publicly posted polling unit results and region-by-region vote tallies, Frank asserted that the data clearly shows Tchiroma Bakary as the legitimate winner of the election.

“From all indications, the people of Cameroon have spoken through the ballot and overwhelmingly chosen Issa Tchiroma Bakary. But as we’ve seen too often in Africa, the will of the people is under threat from entrenched dictatorships,” he said.

Frank condemned the Biya regime’s alleged intimidation, harassment, and violence against citizens protesting against attempt to upturn the results of the election, warning that any attempt to manipulate the outcome through the courts could push the nation into unprecedented crisis.

“Paul Biya, at 92, remains Africa’s longest-serving leader. His refusal to relinquish power despite popular rejection is a mockery of democracy,” Frank stated. “Cameroon is already burning because the youth are rejecting attempts ti manipulate the outcome in favour of Biya. They know who truly won,” he said.

He appealed to the United States, European Union, African Union, and other democratic actors to withhold recognition of Biya and instead recognise Issa Tchiroma Bakary as the rightful president-elect.

He also urged them to impose targeted sanctions on the Biya regime if the electoral result is tampered with.

“I call on President Donald Trump and other global leaders to help Cameroonians by recognising Bakary and by imposing diplomatic and economic sanctions on Biya’s regime. The rigging of elections in Africa must stop. The time has come for the will of the people to prevail.”

Frank commended Trump for his recent diplomatic efforts in the Middle East and urged him to turn global attention to Africa’s deepening democratic crisis.

He warned that failure to hold leaders accountable could encourage further democratic backsliding across the continent, including Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.

“If the international community does not act now, what is happening in Cameroon may soon be replicated elsewhere, including Nigeria. The African Union must also act urgently. Silence is not neutrality — it is complicity,” he warned.

Frank also issued a strong plea to Cameroon’s military and police forces to end the violent crackdown on peaceful demonstrators and respect the right of citizens to protest.

“We call on Cameroon’s security forces to stop arresting, tear-gassing, and killing peaceful protesters. They must uphold the constitution and protect the people’s democratic rights,” he said.

He praised the courage of Cameroonian youth, who he described as the driving force behind the country’s democratic awakening.

“This young generation has decided that enough is enough. They are standing up to decades of authoritarian rule, and we join them in their quest to reclaim their nation peacefully and democratically,” Frank declared.

Drawing parallels to other political crises across Africa, Frank cited Ivory Coast, where President Alassane Ouattara, now 83, is reportedly seeking a controversial fourth term in office.

“From Cameroon to Ivory Coast, we are seeing the same dangerous pattern of leaders clinging to power. This must stop if Africa is to progress,” he said.

He called on world leaders to set a precedent for electoral justice in Africa.

“We urge all global democratic actors to recognise Bakary as the winner of this election. The time to act is now — to save Cameroon and defend democracy across Africa,” he said.

By; KATO P. LADAN, Kaduna





The Natives, a congregation of all tribes, ethnics and religions in Nigeria has rolled out drums in celebration of the first son of the President, Seyi Tinubu as he marks 40 years of age.



Supreme Leader of The Natives, Hon. Olalekan Smart Edwards, declared that there could have been disorder in the current administration but for the presence of Seyi Tinubu, describing him as the missing voice previous administrations lack



In a statement released on Monday in Abuja, signed by the group's Supreme Leader, said Seyi Tinubu deserves appreciation, especially for every young man or woman serving in current administration.



According to him, Seyi Tinubu is the missing voice that previous administrations lacked. We are bold to say Nigerians were gifted differently in this administration. So to the entire Tinubu family, thank you, for allowing the true character of us in him find expression without limitations.



The statement described the President’s son as a pathfinder and a trailblazer, adding that his impact on their national life is noticeable.



"You are indeed the Knight with the Golden Armor. You have been armed with grace from on HIGH, you have withdrawn yourself from the circles of comfort to be owned by Nigerians of all shades and colors. You have stayed well defined in this presidency as that untiring bridge to young people reinforced everyday and everywhere with compassion.



"Without you in this government, it would have been a total disorder.



"For young people whose hopes have been shattered by grievances, disconnection and continual neglect by various administrations, your listening ear, patience and empathy is deeply appreciated.



"As your legendary father sets his focus to reconstruct Nigeria, turning our national potentials to global reality, you laid it upon your shoulders to be a worthy son, strengthening support for MDAs, leading youth focused integration, cooperation and participation which has provided opportunities to mainstream youths around policy discussions, political positions and sustainable development programs."



While appreciating Seyi Tinubu's role in ensuring stability, youth2 friendly policies and creating opportunities for young people in government, the ethnic group said: "For every young person sitting in any office within this administration, Seyi Tinubu deserves some credit and recognition.



"Your humility as First Son carries along with it the impact and importance of this administration. An era like never before in which Nigeria first is a foreign policy. We also see your hand reflecting Young People First, both male and female in President Tinubu’s administration.



"Oluwaseyi, you have found yourself in places a President could never visit, homes a Governor could never enter, streets people of influence could never stand. You have stretched your hand beyond the Villa into creeks and under bridges, communities of students and the helpless, you are untiring solution provider.



To various organizations whom you have crossed their paths, you came in as a negotiator, a midwife, a team player and a human shield from all forms of neglect, oppression, exploitation and abandonment.



"On behalf of the entire Natives, Nigerian citizens of all tribes, religion, communities, we celebrate with you and your family. It has become obvious that you will be rewarded, as you have become blessing to our country,' the statement said

The third edition of the Ofugara Peace and Unity Football Tournament entered its second week with thrilling encounters across various centers, as teams continued to jostle for supremacy and a place in the knockout stage.

Saturday, October 11, 2025, witnessed a flurry of goals and tightly contested battles. The Ijaw Ex-Professionals pulled off one of the biggest surprises of the competition so far, defeating defending champions Corner-Lux All-Stars 2–0 in a result that shocked many fans who had expected the outcome to go the other way.

Led by their talismanic striker, Okiki Musampa, the Ijaw side showcased remarkable attacking flair and composure. Masuampa’s strength and precision up front unsettled the Corner-Lux defense, inspiring the underdogs to a famous victory that ended the champions’ unbeaten run and marked the Ijaw Ex-Professionals as serious contenders for this year’s title.

In other fixtures, Ex-Leopard All-Stars edged Ubeji All-Stars 1–0 in a tightly contested match, while Agbaro All-Stars and Uvwie Ex-Players battled to a 1–1 draw. Planners All-Stars and Okpe All-Stars Ugbokodo also settled for a goalless stalemate.

Elsewhere, Delta All-Stars displayed dominance with a 2–0 triumph over Sapele All-Stars, and Okpe All-Stars Osubi narrowly defeated DSC All-Stars 1–0 to wrap up the day’s action.

The competition continued with intense matchups on Sunday, October 12, 2025, as Udu Ex-Professionals battled to a hard-earned 2–1 victory over Express All-Stars. Uvwie All-Stars stunned Maracana All-Stars 2–1 in one of the most entertaining games of the weekend.

Elsewhere, Ex-Polavis All-Stars cruised past Delta All-Stars Veterans 2–0, while Daudu All-Stars and Ex-Enerhen United All-Stars thrilled spectators in a 2–2 draw. The final match of the week saw Ighogbadu All-Stars seal a narrow 1–0 win over Ex-Mowoe All-Stars, maintaining the tournament’s reputation for competitive grassroots football and community spirit.

The Ofugara Peace and Unity Cup, now in its third edition, continues to foster unity and rekindle sporting passion among ex-players and All-Star teams across Delta State.

By; MURTALA ADOGI MOHAMMED


When the World Bank released its October 8, 2025 report on Nigeria, it told two very different stories about one nation. On one hand, it highlighted early macroeconomic gains: growth is returning, the naira is stabilizing, reserves are rising, and public debt is falling. On the other hand, it revealed a painful truth — 136 million Nigerians, or 60 percent of the population, now live below the poverty line.

This paradox between progress and poverty has become the defining story of Nigeria’s current economic reform journey. The administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has made bold fiscal moves — removing fuel subsidies, floating the naira, and overhauling the tax system — but for most citizens, the question remains: When will these reforms begin to reflect in people’s lives?

1. The Early Gains on Paper

The World Bank report acknowledges that Nigeria’s economy is showing signs of stabilization and growth, driven by reforms such as subsidy removal, currency devaluation, and tax adjustments. The country’s GDP rose by 3.9 percent in the first half of 2025, foreign reserves have climbed above $42 billion, and the current account surplus now stands at 6.1 percent of GDP. For the first time in a decade, public debt has fallen to about 39.8 percent of GDP.

These are encouraging figures by any standard, signalling that the reforms have restored a measure of macroeconomic stability. However, while the numbers look impressive in Abuja, the reality in Nigerian markets and households tells a very different story. The statistics show promise, but the streets show pain.


2. The Gains Have Not Reached Households

Reforms have strengthened government finances but weakened household resilience. The removal of fuel subsidies and the liberalization of the foreign exchange market may have balanced fiscal books, but they also triggered inflationary shocks that hit the poorest Nigerians hardest. Food inflation remains above 34 percent, with basic items such as rice, maize, and yam now far beyond the reach of average families. Transportation and energy costs have doubled, while small businesses struggle with rising input costs and shrinking margins.

In essence, macroeconomic gains have not translated into microeconomic relief. The books may be balanced, but the kitchen tables remain empty.

3. States Have More Money, But Where Are the Results?

Since subsidy removal, allocations to states from the Federation Account (FAAC) have reached record highs — over ₦2 trillion monthly in some instances. In principle, this should lead to expanded investments in social programs, infrastructure, and job creation. Unfortunately, the evidence of such progress is scarce. Many states lack the basic instruments for accountability — delivery units, performance compacts, or poverty scorecards — to show how these increased funds are improving lives.

Across the country, wage arrears persist, capital projects remain stalled, and poverty indicators are barely moving. Revenues have risen, but results remain flat. Without a clear link between fiscal transfers and tangible social outcomes, Nigeria risks replacing centralized inefficiency with decentralized waste.

4. Reforms Came Before Safety Nets

Perhaps the most critical challenge is the sequence of implementation. The government’s fiscal corrections came long before any substantial social protection measures. The reforms were necessary, but the timing was brutal. Fuel and FX adjustments pushed costs up across every sector, yet social safety programs — including cash transfers, wage adjustments, and small-business funds — have been slow and inconsistent.

The ₦35,000 wage award for civil servants remains unevenly implemented across states, and the ₦75 billion MSME fund has reached only a small fraction of intended beneficiaries. By acting before cushioning, Nigeria effectively exposed millions to reform shocks without protection. The result is a widening gap between macro stability and human security.

5. The Missing Link: Delivery and Accountability

The missing ingredient in Nigeria’s reform agenda is delivery discipline. Reforms do not implement themselves; institutions do. Nigeria urgently needs a Results-Based Intergovernmental Financing Framework — one that links federal transfers and reform dividends to measurable state-level progress in reducing poverty and improving service delivery.

States that meet performance benchmarks in education, healthcare, and infrastructure should be rewarded, while those that fail must face fiscal scrutiny. Reform dividends should flow to results, not rhetoric. Until national growth is connected to household welfare, Nigeria will continue to record progress in statistics but not in people’s lives.

6. The Hard Questions

Two years into this administration, Nigerians are justified in asking: Is the strategy of pushing more money to states truly working to lift people out of poverty? Where is the credible evidence that these resources are being used to reduce hardship or expand opportunity? And must we continue with what is clearly not working?

These are not political questions; they are developmental ones. They demand evidence, transparency, and measurable results.

7. Reforms Must Change Lives

Economic reform is not an end in itself. It is a means to expand freedom, dignity, and opportunity. If reforms do not improve livelihoods, they risk losing public legitimacy. The government deserves credit for its courage and fiscal discipline, but now must shift from announcements to outcomes — from policies to proof.

Reforms should not only balance the books — they should change lives. Economic transformation must be felt in households, not just seen in headlines.

Murtala Adogi Mohammed, PhD
Futurist | Governance Strategist | Policy Extrapreneur
Founder & CEO, System Strategy & Policy Lab (SSPL)
mamurtala@gmail.com

*Says Nigerians being slaughtered like chickens

*Commends Trump, others over concerns





A political activist and former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Timi Frank, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to immediately sack the nation’s security chiefs following the unabated killings of Nigerians across the country.



Frank, in a statement in Abuja, in reaction to the fresh killing of soldiers in Borno state by suspected Boko Haram insurgents, expressed deep concern over the rising wave of insecurity, banditry, and kidnappings, describing the situation as a national tragedy that requires urgent executive action.



According to Frank, Nigerians are being killed “like chickens” daily across the North, South, East, and West, a clear indication that the country’s security architecture has collapsed under the current leadership.



“Our soldiers and policemen are dying in large numbers due to poor funding and lack of proper equipment. Despite massive budgetary allocations to the security sector, the funds do not reach the men and women on the front lines, nor are they used to purchase the right equipment needed to combat insecurity,” the statement read.



Frank stated that the continuous killings have attracted international attention and commended U.S. President Donald Trump and Senator Ted Cruz, for their advocacy on behalf of Nigerians, especially their condemnation of the incessant killing of Nigerians in parts of the country.



“We commend President Donald Trump for his concern and moral courage in speaking against the killings of Nigerians. We equally commend Senator Ted Cruz for lending his voice to these injustices. Their actions have helped to break the silence of our political class, especially those in the ruling party,” the statement added.



Frank who is the United Liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP) Ambassador to East Africa and the Middle East, also urged the United States government, under the leadership of President Trump and other international partners, to intensify pressure on the Nigerian government to release the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.



“This administration cannot continue to negotiate with terrorists while detaining innocent and peaceful Nigerians. We therefore call on the international community, especially the U.S. government, to intervene and pressurise President Tinubu to release Nnamdi Kanu immediately,” he said.



The statement further commended President Trump for his leadership in facilitating negotiations for the release of Israeli hostages in Gaza, urging him to “show the same compassion and leadership” by lending his voice to the call for Nnamdi Kanu’s release.



He also lauded activist Omoyele Sowore, a former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), for boldly leading the call for Kanu’s unconditional release from detention.



On Nigeria–U.S. relations, Frank emphasised the importance of preserving the historic friendship between both nations.



“Nigeria has always maintained a cordial relationship with the United States. We will not allow any government or individuals to destroy that friendship. As Nigerians, we remain committed to strengthening our ties with the U.S. in the interest of peace, democracy, and global security,” he said.



He lambasted the Nigerian Senate for criticising Ted Cruz over his comments about killing of innocent Nigerians describing them a as a “disgrace and disappointment.”



“If the Senate and by extension the National Assembly had faithfully and diligently carried out their constitutional mandate of oversight and representation in checkmating executive recklessness like the continued detention of Nnamdi Kanu and getting the security chiefs to act in protecting the lives and property of Nigerians, Senator Ted Cruz would not have picked on Nigeria as a good example of unwarranted attacks,

killings and intimidation of innocent citizens by deadly gangs.



“Look at how they took their time to respond to Senator Ted Cruz’s comments, while they failed over the years to stand for justice by calling for the release of Nnamdi Kanu or to ensure through their oversight powers that the security chiefs live up to their mandate to protect defenceless Nigerians from horrific attacks and killings,” he said.

*Reject protest by faceless group




The Association of Ebonyi Indigenes Socio-Cultural in the Diaspora, (AEISCID) has condemned a 'faceless group' purportedly under the aegis of Concerned Youths for Distinguished Senator David Umahi, demanding an apology from an AriseTV anchor, Rufai Oseni over his altercation with the Minister of Works Dave Umahi recently.

The Ebonyi Indigenes in diaspora said the youths, described as "scanty group, looking forlone, dejected and like an outnumbered horse", neither represented the broad voice of Ebonyi youths nor the spirit of people of the state.

In a statement released Saturday in Abuja, signed by the AEISCID's President, Ambassador Pascal Oluchukwu, called on genuine Ebonyi youths to rise above manipulation, focus on their future, and refuse to be used to attack journalists or institutions that stand for accountability and transparency.

According to Oluchukwu, the protest by the so called Ebonyi youth against the AriseTV anchor, for all intent and purpose and by every available fact, was the handiwork of a few misguided individuals, many of whom are known former low grade political appointees or members of the now-disbanded Ebubeagu militia who served under Umahi’s administration.

"Their actions only reinforce the culture of sycophancy and intolerance that characterized Umahi's uncommonly dictatorial eight years in office."

On the verbal war of words during the interview, "AEISCID notes that the AriseTV interview was a routine professional engagement where a journalist sought clarification on the cost of federal road projects under the Ministry of Works in line with the extant provisions of Section 22 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria which provides that the Press must at all times hold government at all levels accountable to the governed.

"We note that such questions as posed by fearless Rufai Oseni to a public officer like the Minister of Works Engr. David Umahi on the exact cost per kilometer of the coastal highway are fundamental to transparency and public accountability; values that every public servant ought to embrace, not resist. It is therefore regrettable that rather than addressing the substance of public concern, certain individuals in Ebonyi have chosen to lend themselves as instruments of Umahi’s attack on the messenger, attempting to intimidate press freedom and conceal information about the very leadership records that has left the state’s economy and institutions in dire straits."

The Ebonyi group, however said during the eight years of Governor Umahi in Ebonyi" Journalists were banned from Government House and some physically assaulted for asking questions on accountability, seeking clarifications or probity in governance.

"The Ebubeagu militia was widely accused of attacks on opposition members and citizens. Same illegal outfit was used to clandestinely abduct and torture journalists and social media critics and any opponent that dares him l, sometimes right inside the old Government House for merely baring their minds on issues of State's policy or governance or for aspiring with an ambition without Umahi's thorough sanctioning.

"We sadly recall that over 17 flyovers were constructed across a State with no traffic; including two in front of his private residence in Uburu- an area with negligible vehicular activity, while pensioners went unpaid and civil servants stagnated without promotions or living wages. These were all part of Umahi's masterful schemings that lined up his pockets and left the rest of Ebonyians poorer.

"We also reflect that public contracts were routinely executed through direct labour systems that enriched family members and appointees, in flagrant disregard of the ICPC Act and public service rules.

"Healthcare, education, and local government administration suffered severe neglect.

"The Dr. Chuba Okadigbo International Airport, hurriedly commissioned in 2023, has since been exposed as structurally defective, costing the state tens of billions more for rehabilitation under the current administration; with the facility still non-functional and flood-prone.

"We restate that the above postulations are not political opinions but verifiable realities documented by local and national observers, and repeatedly highlighted by AEISCID in multiple policy briefs and media interventions during Umahi’s horrific administration.

"We further recall that there is before the EFCC, a pending investigations, instituted against the Umahi administration between April and May 2023- that is towards the end of his tenure, to which Engr. Umahi had filed suits at the Federal High Court, Abakaliki, seeking to restrain the EFCC, ICPC, the Nigeria Police, and the Code of Conduct Bureau from investigating petitions and financial transactions relating to his administration and local government accounts.

"We, therefore, call on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to brief Nigerians on the status of these investigations and explain why, despite the Supreme Court’s reaffirmation of its powers over state and local government finances, these suits have not been struck out or withdrawn.

"Transparency demands that no public official, past or present, should be seen to be above or as beyond the reach of the law."

While calling on the Arise News, the Nigeria Broadcasting Commission (NBC), the Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria (BON), and indeed the Nigerian public to ignore the antics of the self-serving group who seek to shield powerful figures from accountability, the statement said the majority of Ebonyi citizens, at home and abroad, are embarrassed by the conduct of that protest and by the very interview that exposed a temperament unbefitting of a public officer.

"AESID calls on Senator Umahi, now Minister of Works, to comport himself with the dignity his current office demands, to respond to public inquiries with facts and humility, and to desist from actions or utterances that further damage the image of Ebonyi State and its people."

The Ebonyi Indigenes group discribed the state as a land of proud, intelligent, and peace-loving people who cherish hard work, fairness, and truth; not rooted in sycophancy and propaganda.

"As we have done consistently, AEISCID will continue to speak for justice, good governance, and the collective dignity of Ebonyi people—wherever they may be."

*Questions Otti's alleged N54bn smart schools





A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abia, Prince Paul Ikonne has called on Governor of Abia State, Alex Otti, to desist from chasing political clout with the name of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and instead concentrate on providing answers to the questions and accountability to the people of Abia State.



Prince Ikonne said the governor’s recent public remarks on the issue of Nnamdi Kanu were nothing but a desperate attempt to gain attention.



Addressing a large gathering of Ukwa la Ngwa youths who paid him a courtesy visit, Prince Ikonne expressed deep concern that Governor Otti appeared to have continued to use sensitive national issues to distract Abia’s from his growing record of underperformance and questionable financial practices.



In a statement released Saturday in Abuja by his Chief Press Secretary, Dr. Ujo Justice, Ikonne said: “It is unfortunate that rather than giving Abians a transparent account of how public funds are being utilized, Governor Otti has chosen to play politics with the emotions of the people by dragging the name of Nnamdi Kanu into his failing government narrative.”



Prince Ikonne questioned the governor’s sincerity and credibility, wondering why the so-called ₦54 billion “Smart School” project and the ₦6 billion “Recreational Center” allegedly executed under Otti’s administration have remained invisible.



He challenged the governor to point to the exact locations of those projects and to invite the media for verification.



“If truly these projects exist, why were they not commissioned during the governor’s recent public show of some rehabilitated roads ? Why does every report from Abia Government House end up as social media content with no substance on the ground?” Ikonne queried.



He noted that the Abia State Government’s quarterly performance report shows disturbing figures — money written off for projects that neither exist nor can be traced — while the government continues to receive over ₦30 billion monthly in allocations and Internally Generated Revenue.



Prince Ikonne described Governor Otti’s administration as “a government of repainting, rebranding of some old structures while claiming new achievements.”



He added that Abians are now wiser and will no longer be deceived by mere aesthetics or photo opportunities.



On the issue of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the APC chieftain said: "For more than two years in office, Governor Otti never paid a visit, never made a concrete intervention, and never demonstrated any concern about Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s situation. Now that his government’s credibility is collapsing, he suddenly remembers Kanu. That is hypocrisy at its peak,” Ikonne said.



He emphasized that Mazi Nnamdi Kanu will regain his freedom without Alex Otti’s political grandstanding, and urged the governor to stop exploiting the issue for personal and political advantage.



"Let me thank my friend and brother Hon. Obi Aguoch and Hon. Ichita for their efforts towards the freedom of Mazi Nnamdi which I believe will bring good results very soon.”



Prince Ikonne further encouraged Abia youths to remain vigilant, courageous, and firm in demanding accountability from their leaders, noting that no amount of propaganda can substitute for genuine performance.



He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for ensuring consistent financial support to state governments and for creating national frameworks aimed at stabilizing the economy. Ikonne expressed disappointment that while such resources are available, the Abia State Government has failed to translate them into real developmental results.



“Leadership is about impact, not impression,” he concluded. “Abians deserve transparency, real projects, and visible progress — not endless excuses, photo-ops, and political drama.”

*Questions Otti's alleged N54bn smart schools





A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abia, Prince Paul Ikonne has called on Governor of Abia State, Alex Otti, to desist from chasing political clout with the name of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and instead concentrate on providing answers to the questions and accountability to the people of Abia State.



Prince Ikonne said the governor’s recent public remarks on the issue of Nnamdi Kanu were nothing but a desperate attempt to gain attention.



Addressing a large gathering of Ukwa la Ngwa youths who paid him a courtesy visit, Prince Ikonne expressed deep concern that Governor Otti appeared to have continued to use sensitive national issues to distract Abia’s from his growing record of underperformance and questionable financial practices.



In a statement released Saturday in Abuja by his Chief Press Secretary, Dr. Ujo Justice, Ikonne said: “It is unfortunate that rather than giving Abians a transparent account of how public funds are being utilized, Governor Otti has chosen to play politics with the emotions of the people by dragging the name of Nnamdi Kanu into his failing government narrative.”



Prince Ikonne questioned the governor’s sincerity and credibility, wondering why the so-called ₦54 billion “Smart School” project and the ₦6 billion “Recreational Center” allegedly executed under Otti’s administration have remained invisible.



He challenged the governor to point to the exact locations of those projects and to invite the media for verification.



“If truly these projects exist, why were they not commissioned during the governor’s recent public show of some rehabilitated roads ? Why does every report from Abia Government House end up as social media content with no substance on the ground?” Ikonne queried.



He noted that the Abia State Government’s quarterly performance report shows disturbing figures — money written off for projects that neither exist nor can be traced — while the government continues to receive over ₦30 billion monthly in allocations and Internally Generated Revenue.



Prince Ikonne described Governor Otti’s administration as “a government of repainting, rebranding of some old structures while claiming new achievements.”



He added that Abians are now wiser and will no longer be deceived by mere aesthetics or photo opportunities.



On the issue of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the APC chieftain said: "For more than two years in office, Governor Otti never paid a visit, never made a concrete intervention, and never demonstrated any concern about Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s situation. Now that his government’s credibility is collapsing, he suddenly remembers Kanu. That is hypocrisy at its peak,” Ikonne said.



He emphasized that Mazi Nnamdi Kanu will regain his freedom without Alex Otti’s political grandstanding, and urged the governor to stop exploiting the issue for personal and political advantage.



"Let me thank my friend and brother Hon. Obi Aguoch and Hon. Ichita for their efforts towards the freedom of Mazi Nnamdi which I believe will bring good results very soon.”



Prince Ikonne further encouraged Abia youths to remain vigilant, courageous, and firm in demanding accountability from their leaders, noting that no amount of propaganda can substitute for genuine performance.



He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for ensuring consistent financial support to state governments and for creating national frameworks aimed at stabilizing the economy. Ikonne expressed disappointment that while such resources are available, the Abia State Government has failed to translate them into real developmental results.



“Leadership is about impact, not impression,” he concluded. “Abians deserve transparency, real projects, and visible progress — not endless excuses, photo-ops, and political drama.”

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) on Friday engaged the residents of Kaduna State as part of activities marking the 2025 Customer Service Week, aimed at strengthening public awareness, feedback, and preparedness for emergencies.



The celebration marked by a two-day event, themed, ‘Mission Possible’, highlighted the agency’s commitment to excellence, empathy, and accountability in humanitarian service delivery to Nigerians affected by disasters and emergencies.



The Director-General of NEMA, Mrs Zubaida Umar, represented by the North-West Zonal Director, Mr. Sani Lokoja, said the event was not merely an annual ritual, but a reaffirmation of the agency’s values and service culture.



“As the nation’s apex disaster management agency, our customers are the millions of Nigerians whose lives and livelihoods depend on our efficiency, empathy, and professionalism,” she said.



Umar explained that disasters often occur without warning, making compassion and timely response crucial to restoring hope.



She said the week’s activities included sessions on quality assurance and compliance in humanitarian service delivery to ensure that relief reached those who needed it most.



She commended NEMA staff, frontline responders, call-centre operators, and partners for their professionalism and resilience, urging them to sustain a service culture rooted in empathy, teamwork, and integrity.







Also speaking, Mr Sulaiman Muhammad, Head of Operations, NEMA Kaduna Office, said the customer service day provided a platform for the residents to engage with the agency, evaluate its services, and enhance cooperation in disaster management.



Muhammad stated that disaster management was a shared responsibility, adding that public participation was essential to effective response.



“The simulation we conducted today represents a real-life emergency scenario.



“It shows how our team responds to a fire incident from evacuation to treatment of casualties by paramedics based on injury severity,” he said.



Muhammad reiterated that NEMA remains on standby 24 hours daily to respond to emergencies across the state, with the goal of saving lives and protecting property.



He urged the residents to stay vigilant and promptly report emergencies to NEMA or relevant authorities for quick intervention.



The event featured a live disaster simulation, interactive feedback sessions, and discussions on strengthening community participation in emergency response across Kaduna State.



The event was held on Thursday 9 and Friday 10 October.

*Records increase of 182% in revenue to over N1bn in September



The Nigerian Customs Service (NCS), Seme Area Command has intercepted 10,000 bags of expired flour, smugglers were attempting to import into the country.



This was disclosed by the Area Controller, Comptroller A.O. Adenuga, in his maiden press briefing held on Thursday October 9, 2025, to brief the press on the activities of the command from September 1 to October 9.

"During the period under review, our operatives through credible intelligence and strong inter-agency collaboration, made significant seizures notably:

"Five (5) trucks conveying a total of 10,000 bags of expired flour originating from Egypt, with a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of One Billion, Two Hundred and Ten Million, Three Hundred Thousand Naira (₦1,210,300,000.00) only, intercepted in a joint operation with NAFDAC," he disclosed.



According to him, the health risks associated with consuming such expired products could have led to severe infections, food poisoning, and long-term health complications.



"Beyond health implications, such unwholesome goods undermine local industries and erode consumer trust," he added.



While listing other seizures made within the period under review he said that, one thousand one hundred and four (1,104) parcels of Cannabis Sativa (Marijuana) was intercepted through actionable intelligence.



"The social and psychological toll of such substances on our youth can not be overstated," he said.

According to him, " one Hundred and Twenty (120) packs of tramadol 120mg seized by our operatives, with Two (2) suspects handed over to the NDLEA, Seme Command on October 7th, 2025 for further investigation.



"Other seized items include: 2,043 bags of foreign parboiled rice (50kg each), 150 bales of second-hand clothing, 169 bottles of DSP Cough Syrup with Codeine and five used vehicles."



The Seme Customs boss revealed that the total Duty Paid Value (DPV) for all seizures stand at one billion, nine hundred and ninety-nine million, ninety-three thousand, four hundred and twenty-nine naira (₦1,999,093,429.00) only.



"These results underscore the CGC’s operational philosophy that smuggling is an economic sabotage that robs the nation of vital revenue and endangers public welfare. Our position is clear along the Lagos-Abidjan that any economic resource diverted into smuggling will be a colossal waste; it will be better to channel such resources into legitimate business that could empower thousands of Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (SMEs) and create jobs.



"It is worthy of note to commend the Nigerian Armed Forces, especially the Nigerian Navy (NN), for their support in the fight against smuggling in this corridor. The NN FOB Badagry has demonstrated that we are partners in this fight against smuggling by severally handing over foreign parboiled rice intercepted and seized on the waterways and its surrounding, we really appreciate them for that," he explained.





While welcoming those at the briefing, he said that to the glory of Almighty God, and through the gracious confidence reposed on him by the Comptroller General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR and his esteemed management team, he is deeply honoured to assume the leadership of the Command, a responsibility he officially took over on September 8, 2025.



"This occasion presents an important opportunity to render an account of my stewardship and to share the progress we have collectively achieved within this short but eventful period. Guided by the vision and reform-driven philosophy of the Comptroller General of Customs and propelled by the dedication and professionalism of the officers and men of this Command, we have made remarkable strides in fulfilling our core mandates.

"Upon assumption of duty, and in line with the CGC’s strategic vision anchored on the policy thrust of Consolidation, Collaboration and Innovation, I declared Trade Facilitation as the hallmark of our administration. We believe that when trade is facilitated, processes are streamlined, costs are reduced and more revenue is generated.



"Guided by the CGC’s commitment to transparency and modernization, the Seme Area Command has intensified efforts to simplify procedures, strengthen inter-agency coordination, and ensure that legitimate traders enjoy the full benefits of Customs modernization and regional integration along the Lagos–Abidjan corridor," he said







He said that under the renewed vigour inspired by the CGC’s leadership, the Command generated a total of one billion, five hundred million, twenty-nine thousand, two hundred and thirty-three naira and eighty-eight kobo (₦1,500,029,233.88) in September 2025, compared to five hundred and thirty-one million, four hundred and sixty-two thousand, three hundred and thirty-two naira and forty-five kobo (₦531,462,332.45) only collected in August 2025, representing an exceptional increase of over 182%.



"This outstanding performance reflects the effectiveness of the CGC’s reform agenda built on compliance, transparency and data-driven monitoring of goods as well as the dedication of officers and men who continue to embody his vision of a modern, efficient and accountable Customs Service.



"In alignment with the Federal Government’s drive to diversify the economy through non-oil exports and in direct compliance with the CGC’s directive to promote legitimate export trade, the Command facilitated the export of Fifty-Three Thousand, Nine Hundred and Eighty-Nine Point Four Six Metric Tonnes (53,989.46) metric tonnes of goods with a Free on Board (FOB) value of Seven Billion, Nine Hundred and Sixty-Nine Million, Three Hundred and Seventy-Six Thousand, One Hundred and Ninety-Eight Naira and Seventy-Eight Kobo (₦7,969,376,198.78) only.



"The total Nigeria Export Supervision Scheme (NESS) fee stood at Thirty-Nine Million, Eight Hundred and Sixty-Eight Thousand, Three Hundred and Fifty-Four Naira, Forty-Two Kobo (₦39,868,354.42) only.



"These exports, comprising agricultural produce and manufactured goods, demonstrate the renewed confidence of exporters in the Seme Command as a viable trade hub under the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme (ETLS)," he said.



On anti-smuggling operations, he said that under the guidance of the CGC’s zero-tolerance stance on smuggling, Seme Command remains unwavering in its commitment to suppress smuggling and protect national security, public health and economic stability.



On stakeholder engagement and inter-agency synergy, he said that in alignment with The Comptroller General of Customs (CGC’s) emphasis on stakeholder collaboration, the Command convened two major stakeholders’ engagements from October 6 to 7 2025.



"The first meeting brought together Heads of Security Agencies, traditional rulers, and critical stakeholders along the Seme–Krake corridor, where far-reaching resolutions were reached to address multiple checkpoints, extortion and other trade impediments.



"All agencies reaffirmed their commitment to eradicating unnecessary checkpoints and ensuring the seamless movement of legitimate goods and persons without compromising national security. The second engagement involved our Benin Republic Customs counterparts, businessmen and licensed Customs agents from both sides of the border.



"This collaborative forum aimed to harmonize border operations and further strengthen the Lagos–Abidjan trade corridor, reflecting the CGC’s regional integration agenda," he assured.



On their commitment going forward, he said that under the visionary leadership of CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, the Seme Area Command remains resolute in balancing the triad of revenue generation, trade facilitation and national security.



"We shall continue to enhance our operational efficiency through technology, stakeholder collaboration and proactive intelligence. Our collective mission is to ensure that the Seme-Krake border remains a gateway of prosperity not criminality.



"Together with our partners and stakeholders, we are building a smarter, safer and more prosperous border corridor in full alignment with the CGC’s modernization blueprint," he pledged.



He therefore, expressed profound gratitude to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, and the entire management team for their unwavering support, visionary leadership, and invaluable mentorship.



"My sincere appreciation also goes to the Military, the NPF, DSS, NAFDAC, SON and other relevant security agencies for their continuous collaboration. I also extend my heartfelt thanks to the Traditional Rulers and Community Leaders, as well as the good people of Badagry Local Government, for their remarkable cooperation and partnership.



"I equally commend the hardworking members of the press (our steadfast partners in progress).



"To our esteemed stakeholders and, above all, the dedicated officers and men of the Nigeria Customs Service, Seme Area Command, your commitment, diligence and excellence remain the driving force behind our collective success. You are all deeply appreciated. Your dedication continues to inspire this Command’s achievements and strengthen our resolve to serve with integrity and distinction," he said.

* To promote trade facilitation, cordial relationship


Comptroller Wale Adenuga, Customs Area Controller, Nigeria Customs Service, Seme Area Command has held a Joint Border Management stakeholders' engagement with officials of Benin Republic Customs , other security agencies and representatives of business community from both countries.


This was contained in a statement signed by the Public Relations Officer Seme Area Command, Chief Superintendent of Customs, Isah Sulaiman, made available yesterday.


Addressing participants at the meeting, Comptroller Adenuga said the Seme-Krake border which is strategic to trade in the West African sub region also plays a critical role in intra African trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

He said the meeting is in pursuant of a mandate given by the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR that all identified impediments to free flow of trade are eradicated in line with the extant laws and ECOWAS protocols of free movement of goods and persons.

He said the border holds great economic potential to be beneficial to citizens and traders from the Two (2) countries that have historical, cultural and trade relationships dating from the pre-independence era of both West African countries.

Listing some of the quick takes from the meeting, Comptroller Adenuga highlighted that any officer or non government official caught frustrating free movement of persons and goods that have met all formal conditions shall be arrested and prosecuted


He urged all travelers and traders to bring their complainants to him directly or call the PRO for immediate and prompt action.

He also disclosed that truck examination shall be conducted at the designated examination bay to streamline the process of importation into Nigeria from the neighbouring country.

The meeting, which was the second in a series of strategic engagements under the new controller, was attended by representative of the Chargè d'affaires of the Nigeria Embassy to Benin republic, top security chiefs, business men and women from both countries, also promised to look into issues like timely removal of truck trackers for quicker movement, reduce unnecessary checkpoints, prevent corruption and continually promote dialogue as a means to effective trade.

On space management at the border environment, Comptroller Adenuga said the border is a transit area and should not be made a parking zone or storage point to avoid congestion.

The Head of Benin Customs at the Krake border, Lt. Col Arnaud Midgrokan, who also doubles as Co-Chair of the JBP, appreciated Comptroller Adenuga for the meeting and expressed optimism that the engagement will open avenues to solutions for all identified challenges.

He promised cooperation and regular collaboration with his Nigerian counterpart to promote lawful commercial activities and continually ensure zero compromise to the joint agreements of both countries.

The Local Organising Committees (LOC) of the forthcoming Diamond Jubilee of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has paid a courtesy visit on the management of the Wells Carlton Hotel and Apartments, Abuja ahead of the anniversary celebration scheduled for between Oct. 29 and Oct. 31.

The visit was to explore areas of mutual collaboration towards the celebration tagged SWAN@60 anniversary.

A Statement from the Media and Publicity Committee of the SWAN@60 anniversary on Tuesday said the meeting which was held at the hotel’s headquarters, was part of SWAN’s efforts to partner with reputable corporate organisations for a successful event.

The Statement was signed by Chimezie Anaso and Hembadoon Rosario, Chairman and Secretary respectively of the Committee.

It quoted Ikenna Okonkwo, the Secretary General of SWAN as saying the association was seeking a mutually beneficial partnership that would elevate the quality of the SWAN@60 celebration

Okonkwo also said the collaboration would project the image of the organisation as a key supporter of sports and the media industry in Nigeria.

“SWAN is here to build a relationship that will go beyond the anniversary, we have been a critical stakeholder in Nigeria’s sports ecosystem for 60 years.

“We believe that collaborating with a premium brand like Wells Carlton will strengthen our shared commitment to promoting excellence,” he said.


Also speaking, Ben Ogbemudia, the Chairman of SWAN@60 LOC highlighted the historical connection between sports and hospitality.

Ogbemudia said the two fields have contributed immensely to Nigeria’s image and identity.

“Hospitality and sports have always complemented each other in shaping our national narrative.

“This partnership is an opportunity to celebrate that bond as we showcase the role of the media in sports development over the last six decades,” he said.

Responding, Oluwatosin Malomo, the Managing Director of Wells Carlton Hotel commended SWAN for its consistent contribution to sports growth in Nigeria.

Malomo expressed the hotel’s willingness to partner with the association provided it aligned with their vision of supporting national initiatives and fostering positive impact.

“Let SWAN formally communicate its partnership proposal, and we will be glad to review and respond appropriately,” Malomo said..

Other members of the SWAN@60 LOC in the entourage were Anietie Patrick, Sylvanus Ofekun, Ndubueze Chidoka and Arinzechi Chukwunonso.

By; ALAIBI NNANA JOSEPH

The political space has been abuzz with renewed debate over former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s declaration that he remains open to contesting the 2027 presidential election. Following his statement that he would only step aside “if a younger aspirant defeats me fair and square in the primaries,” a familiar chorus emerged — calling on him to “bow out gracefully.”

One of the loudest of these voices came through an opinion piece titled “Atiku: The Imperative of Graceful Exit.” The writer couched his argument in lofty language about “legacy,” “grace,” and “nation before self.” But when the flowery words are stripped away, the underlying message is clear: Atiku should quit the stage for others.

The question, however, is simple and unavoidable: Who’s really afraid of Atiku — or of a fair contest?

Democracy Is About Choice, Not Coronation

Atiku has not demanded an automatic ticket from any political party. He has not said younger aspirants should not run. His only insistence is that anyone who seeks to lead should be ready to test their popularity at the ballot — through transparent and competitive primaries. That is not arrogance; it is democracy in its purest form.

Those invoking Nelson Mandela’s example miss the point entirely. Mandela’s greatness was not defined by the date he retired, but by the principles he upheld and the battles he fought for justice. Nigeria’s democracy today faces different challenges — weak institutions, economic hardship, insecurity, and political disunity. This is hardly the moment to push aside tested hands in favour of political experiments.

A democracy that silences its most experienced voices for the comfort of others is one walking on crutches. The nation needs both youthful energy and seasoned wisdom — not one at the expense of the other.

Atiku Is Not the Problem — Disunity Is

Atiku Abubakar’s long political journey is a testament to resilience. From the military era of the early 1990s to his democratic rebirth as Vice President in 1999, he has stood at the centre of Nigeria’s democratic evolution. He has been consistent, courageous, and unrelenting in his advocacy for unity, restructuring, and credible elections.

If the opposition finds itself in disarray today, it is not because Atiku refuses to retire. It is because of fear — fear of internal competition, fear of genuine primaries, and fear of merit prevailing over manipulation. Those who truly believe they have the people’s mandate should not be scared of facing Atiku in an open contest. That is the essence of democracy — the people decide, not a few voices in smoky rooms.

Leadership Is Not About Age, But Ideas

There is a growing habit of reducing leadership to a number — as if age alone determines vision or effectiveness. Yet, history is filled with examples to the contrary. The world has seen young leaders fail spectacularly, and elderly leaders steer their nations with wisdom and grace.

Leadership is about ideas, courage, and character — the ability to build consensus, unite diverse interests, and offer credible direction. Atiku’s strength lies in his unmatched political network across Nigeria, his deep understanding of governance, and his consistent call for economic and institutional reforms. These are not qualities that fade with age. Like wine, they actually get better.

Let the Contest Begin

Nigeria’s opposition must learn to strengthen its internal democracy. The 2027 race should not be a coronation but a competition — one that tests vision, strategy, and capacity. If Peter Obi, Goodluck Jonathan, or any other aspirant believes they can lead better, they should face the people in open primaries. That is how democratic institutions mature — through contest, not compromise.

Atiku has nothing to prove, but he has something to offer — experience, structure, and a bridge across Nigeria’s ethnic and generational divides. Those who know the weight of that influence understand why some are eager to edge him out of the race before the whistle even blows.

So again, who’s afraid of Atiku — or the contest?
Perhaps it is those who know that, when the race begins, the man from Adamawa still stands tallest in the arena — not by noise or nostalgia, but by sheer resilience, record, and reach.

Conclusion:
Rather than begging experienced leaders to step aside, Nigeria should demand a level playing field where all aspirants, young or old, can prove their worth. That is the only way to build a democracy where power truly belongs to the people — not to those afraid of a fair contest.

Joseph, a political analyst, writes from Port Harcourt.

The Customs Area Controller (CAC), Nigeria Customs Service, Seme Area Command, Comptroller Wale Adenuga has commenced a series of stakeholders engagements on Monday, 6 October 2025 to enhance national security and facilitate legitimate trade along the Abidjan-Lagos corridor.

This was contained in a statement signed by the Customs Public Relations Officer Seme Command, Chief Superintendent of Customs, Isah Sulaiman, made available on Tuesday October 7, 2025.


Comptroller Adenuga said the meeting which is aimed at making the Seme transit corridor effective and secure is following the policy thrust of the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR and promoting cooperation among security agencies while respecting the rights and dignity of border community dwellers.

He said, "we want everyone to express their minds and tell ourselves the bitter truths. The more we facilitate legitimate trade, the better for our country. When trade thrives, crime reduces. That is the vision our Comptroller-General, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, has consistently championed, building a legacy of trade facilitation and a conducive environment for economic growth.”

The CAC who reminded stakeholders including sister security agencies, traditional rulers, community leaders, trade groups and youths that Seme Border plays a pivotal role in regional trade in West Africa, said trade can only flourish in an atmosphere of security and orderliness.

Comptroller Adenuga reiterated the CGC's commitment to the promotion of seamless movement of persons and goods across Seme and expressed the negative impact of multiple checkpoints by various agencies.

He described too many checkpoints from Seme to Badagry as impediments to trade and and a major cause of delay for legitimate travelers while urging all agencies present to be compliant to laws and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) guiding their operations.

The stakeholders, including the Aholu of Kweme Kingdom, Oba Sejiro Olalekan James;
Onibereko of Ibereko, Oba Israel Adewale Okoya; Col. S.B.Yahaya, Defence Atrachee to Nigeria Embassy in Port Novo who represented the Nigerian Ambassador to Benin Republic; police, intelligence,military and paramilitary heads; members of the border communities and traders all agreed to work together.

Highpoint of the four hours meeting was a resolution to reduce checkpoints along the roads leading in and out of the Seme border as a way to facilitate trade,encourage investment and promote the tourism potentials in the area.

They also agreed to always place national interest, unity while showing respect for the rights and dignity of all travelers and traders operating in Seme.

The meeting also resolved to dismiss unauthorized persons also called camp boys at some checkpoints as they were accused of causing obstruction and harrasment of travelers along the corridor.

The Area Controller promised to draw the plight of Seme inhabitants to the Customs Management for attention in the areas of completing the ongoing customs secondary school project and getting the area reconnected to electricity after it went into blackout for seven years following the activities of vandals who destroyed their power infrastructure.

The heads of all the security agencies, the traditional rulers and other stakeholders present agreed to sustain the tempo of the meeting.