₦airaland Forum

A stakeholder of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Martha Agba, has extended warm wishes to boys across Cross River State and Nigeria as the world marks International Boy Child Day.

In a goodwill message released on Saturday, Dr. Agba emphasized the importance of raising boys with strong moral values, quality education, and a sense of responsibility, noting that the future of society depends greatly on the character and mindset of today’s young boys.

She stated that the occasion serves as a reminder for families, schools, communities, and government institutions to pay closer attention to the challenges confronting the boy child, including peer pressure, drug abuse, declining moral standards, and lack of mentorship.

According to her, boys must be intentionally guided and encouraged to become responsible men who will positively impact their communities and the nation at large.

“Every boy deserves the opportunity to grow in a safe and supportive environment where his dreams and potentials can flourish. We must continue to teach our boys the values of discipline, hard work, respect, and leadership,” she said.

Dr. Agba further encouraged boys to remain focused on their education and personal development, while avoiding activities capable of destroying their future.

She also called on parents and guardians to play active roles in nurturing boys with love, wisdom, and proper direction, stressing that a morally sound boy child today will become a dependable leader tomorrow.

The APC stalwart prayed for God’s protection, wisdom, and success upon boys across the country as they continue to strive toward fulfilling their aspirations.

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Hon. Austin Iluore, has felicitated with boys across Nigeria and beyond on the occasion of International Boy Child Day, celebrated annually to promote the welfare, development, and protection of the boy child.

In a statement made available to journalists on Saturday, Hon. Iluore described the boy child as an important pillar in the growth of every family and society, stressing the need for proper guidance, education, moral upbringing, and mentorship for young boys to become responsible leaders in the future.

He noted that while society continues to advocate strongly for the protection and empowerment of the girl child, equal attention should also be given to the emotional, educational, and social well-being of boys, who equally face challenges in today’s rapidly changing world.

Hon. Iluore encouraged parents, guardians, teachers, religious leaders, and stakeholders to invest more in raising disciplined, hardworking, and God-fearing boys who will contribute positively to nation-building.

According to him, “The future of every society depends greatly on how well we nurture and prepare our children today. The boy child deserves love, care, mentorship, and opportunities to thrive and succeed.”

He further urged boys across the country to remain focused, shun social vices, respect societal values, and pursue their dreams with determination and integrity.

Hon. Iluore prayed for wisdom, strength, and divine guidance for every boy child, while reaffirming his commitment to initiatives that promote youth development and societal progress.

The Sentinel Security Advocacy Initiative (SSAI) welcomes the decisive joint military operation by Nigerian and United States forces that resulted in the elimination of Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, also known as Abu-Mainok or Al-Manuki, the second-in-command of the Islamic State (ISIS) globally.

In separate posts on their official social media handles in the early hours of today, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria and President Donald J. Trump of the United States announced the success of the daring strike carried out in the terrorist’s compound in the Lake Chad Basin. The operation, which also neutralised several of al-Minuki’s lieutenants, represents a significant blow to ISIS command structures and a powerful demonstration of what effective international collaboration can achieve in the global fight against terrorism.

President Tinubu stated:
“Nigeria and the United States recorded a significant example of effective collaboration in the fight against terrorism.

Our determined Nigerian Armed Forces, working closely with the Armed Forces of the United States, conducted a daring joint operation that dealt a heavy blow to the ranks of the Islamic State.

Early assessments confirm the elimination of the wanted IS senior leader, Abu-Bilal Al-Manuki, also known as Abu-Mainok, along with several of his lieutenants, during a strike on his compound in the Lake Chad Basin.

Nigeria appreciates this partnership with the United States in advancing our shared security objectives. I extend my sincere gratitude to President Trump for his leadership and unwavering support in this effort.

I commend the personnel involved on both sides for their professionalism and courage, and I look forward to more decisive strikes against all terrorist enclaves across the nation.”

President Trump, in his own statement, thanked the Government of Nigeria for its robust partnership and commitment to the operation, underscoring the mutual trust and shared intelligence that made the strike possible.

The group notes that this breakthrough is the direct outcome of the high-level diplomatic and security engagements initiated by President Tinubu. Only weeks ago, at the behest of the President, Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, led a strategic delegation to the United States where he held crucial meetings with Senator Marco Rubio and Vice President J.D. Vance. Those discussions produced firm pledges for deepened intelligence sharing and enhanced bilateral security collaboration, commitments that have now translated into tangible results on the battlefield.

Under the focused leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Nigeria is demonstrating a renewed and uncompromising resolve to end the scourge of insurgency. The partnership and operational synergy being coordinated through the Office of the National Security Adviser, led by Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, are already yielding positive, measurable outcomes.

Intelligence-led operations of this nature remain the only proven strategy capable of completely obliterating terrorist networks by dismantling their command structures, supply chains, and logistical lifelines.

SSAI particularly commends President Tinubu for his hands-on leadership and for consistently equipping the nation’s security agencies with the necessary resources, modern platforms, and operational freedom to confront insurgents head-on.

The Office of the NSA has equally shown remarkable diligence in choking off terrorists’ supply lines and logistics networks while significantly improving inter-agency coordination across military, intelligence, and law enforcement formations. These silent, behind-the-scenes efforts are the bedrock of the victories now being recorded.

The Sentinel Security Advocacy Initiative therefore calls on President Tinubu to sustain this momentum by continuing to provide support and resources to the nation’s security agencies. We equally urge the Office of the National Security Adviser to maintain its current trajectory of delivering results through precise, intelligence-driven actions — conducted with the professionalism and discretion that have become its hallmark.

Terrorism has no place in Nigeria’s future. Today’s success proves that when leadership, resources, and international partnership align, victory is not only possible, it is inevitable, Dr. Morris Ekanem Effiong, Convener Sentinel Security Advocacy Initiative concluded.

Former actor-turned-politician, Mr. Desmond Elliot, has come under heavy criticism from some Nigerians over his bid to return to the Lagos State House of Assembly for a fourth term.

Elliot, who has represented Surulere Constituency I for 12 years, recently declared his intention to seek re-election, a move that has sparked reactions across social media platforms, with several residents questioning his performance and continued stay in office.

Speaking during an engagement with constituents in Surulere, Elliot described his style as politics of hospitality, while appealing to residents to support his ambition.

The lawmaker said his administration had embarked on projects aimed at improving the constituency, including road rehabilitation, installation of street lights and environmental sanitation initiatives.

He said despite lacking the financial strength to compete with opponents, he enjoys massive grassroots support.

Speaking during an engagement with constituents in Surulere, Elliot described his style as politics of hospitality, while appealing to residents to support his ambition.

The lawmaker said his administration had embarked on projects aimed at improving the constituency, including road rehabilitation, installation of street lights and environmental sanitation initiatives.

He said despite lacking the financial strength to compete with opponents, he enjoys massive grassroots support.

According to him, Elliot said : “You invested in me the first, second and third time,” he said, urging the people to vote according to their conscience.

“That is why I chose people to sweep the streets,and do other infrastructure all these are not magic there is someone behind it.

“This coming election is not between me and my supreme leader, Femi Gbajabiamila,” he said.

“I don’t have money to compete, but I have the street backing. I have votes in Alausa to pick, so I need the street backup,” Elliot added, while thanking constituents for the opportunity to serve them and promising more development if re-elected.

However, several Nigerians faulted his ambition, insisting that he had not done enough to justify another term in office.

A Facebook user, identified as Akingboye Omolade, challenged the lawmaker to present his achievements to the people

Show us your scorecard. Show us the projects you executed in your constituency. Step down,” he said.

Another Facebook user , Tiamiyu Adul, questioned Elliot’s impact on Surulere people over the years.
“What are your achievements since all these years? What have you delivered to Surulere people? Now that election has come, you need their votes,” he stated.

Also reacting, another Facebook user identified as Adam Omobolaji said many residents of Surulere were already demanding a change in representation.

According to him, there had been growing calls for another individual to represent the constituency after Elliot’s three consecutive terms in office.

He also linked Elliot’s political rise to the influence of Gbajabiamila, alleging that political arrangements had previously favoured the actor-turned-politician.

People should not be blinded to the truth. Gbajabiamila has been the one backing Elliot all these years,” he claimed

Joint Security Watch Kwara South has rejected claims that banditry and kidnapping have left large parts of Kwara South deserted and reduced the zone’s voter base.

In a statement issued today, the group said the narrative was inaccurate and being used for political purposes ahead of the APC governorship race.

“Banditry and kidnapping in Kwara entered through ungoverned forests and weak border points. They are not indigenous to Kwara South and do not define our people,” said Elder Olaitan Oyin-Zubair, Coordinator of Joint Security Watch Kwara South.

He said that where attacks occurred, they targeted isolated routes and settlements with limited security presence. In areas where intelligence and joint operations were deployed early, attacks were repelled and displaced families have returned to their farms.

Oyin-Zubair also pointed to electoral data to buttress Kwara South’s political viability within the APC. He cited the 2019 and 2023 elections, stating that the region led other zones in APC performance. According to him, the party recorded 68% success in Kwara South, compared to 35% in Kwara Central, the zone currently pushing the narrative that Kwara South lacks voting strength due to bandit attacks.

The group outlined ongoing security measures, including community-led patrols, an early warning system in every ward, air surveillance over identified hotspots, and joint operations with the police, NSCDC, and local vigilante across Irepodun, Ekiti, Oke-Ero, Isin, and Offa local government areas.

“Kwara South is securing its land, protecting its people, and restoring normal life and economic activity. We will not accept the use of insecurity as a tool for political exclusion,” Oyin-Zubair said.

The group urged the public to rely on verified information and said Kwara South remained safe enough to live, farm, trade, and vote.


Joint Security Watch Kwara South
Sunday, 10th May, 2026

Abuja

The Finance Director of the City Boy Movement in Edo State, Hon. Austin Iluore, has commended the Director General of the movement, Mr. Francis Tosin Shoga, for what he described as significant progress in expanding the organisation’s presence across the country.

Iluore gave the commendation during a courtesy visit to the Director General at the movement’s headquarters, where he was received by top officials including the National Coordinator, Favour Abayomi, the Legal Adviser, Barr. Sylvester Udemezue, and other national officers.

The visit, though routine in appearance, comes against the backdrop of increasing attention on the internal cohesion and structural development of youth-driven political platforms in Nigeria.

Speaking during the meeting, Iluore praised Shoga’s leadership, noting that the steady growth and rising influence of the City Boy Movement are a direct reflection of strategic coordination and commitment at the helm.

He reaffirmed his support for the leadership, stressing the importance of unity and alignment in sustaining the organisation’s momentum.

He also paid tribute to the convener of the movement, Mr. Seyi Tinubu, describing the initiative as visionary and impactful in fostering youth engagement and participation in national development.

Analysts say such public endorsements by key officials often signal efforts to strengthen internal confidence within emerging political movements, particularly as they navigate questions around structure, inclusiveness, and long-term relevance.

In his response, the Director General, Francis Tosin Shoga, appreciated the visit and described it as a demonstration of solidarity. He reiterated the movement’s commitment to its core objectives and its resolve to remain focused and united.

The development highlights a broader issue within Nigeria’s evolving political landscape, how youth-oriented movements can consolidate internal support while building resilient structures capable of sustaining national influence beyond individual personalities.

The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) has reaffirmed its commitment to expanding education beyond boundaries, just as 56 inmates from correctional centres nationwide prepare to graduate at its 15th convocation ceremony.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Uduma Uduma, said this during a pre-convocation news conference on Tuesday in Abuja.

Uduma described the initiative as a deliberate policy focused on inclusion, second chances, and fostering meaningful national transformation through education.

The convocation, scheduled for April 18, would be conducted across NOUN multiple study centres nationwide.

“The inmates are among the 24,575 students graduating at the ceremony, reflecting the university’s broad reach and inclusive approach to learning, which ensures that education remains accessible to diverse groups across Nigeria,” he said.

Uduma said the decision to educate persons behind bars reflected NOUN’s philosophy that “no human being is beyond redemption.”

He noted that access to knowledge remained a fundamental right regardless of circumstance.

Uduma said the university’s Open and Distance Learning (ODL) model had made it possible to extend academic programmes into correctional facilities, removing barriers of location and social status.

According to him, the inmates’ participation in the convocation is not symbolic but a reflection of real academic work and personal transformation.

“For us, it is not just about awarding certificates; it is about restoring dignity, rebuilding identity and reaffirming humanity.

“The inclusion of inmates aligns with NOUN’s broader mandate of widening access to education and ensuring that no segment of society is excluded.

“The initiative demonstrates how education can serve as a tool for rehabilitation and reintegration, offering inmates a pathway to rebuild their lives after incarceration.

“The success of inmates in the programme underscores the transformative power of knowledge and the need for sustained investment in inclusive education,” he said.

Uduma described the university as “a quiet revolution” in Nigeria’s education sector, emphasising that learning was no longer confined to physical classrooms.

He said NOUN’s model had continued to attract diverse learners, including workers, women, and other non-traditional students, alongside those in correctional centres.

“The 2026 graduating cohort reflects this diversity, cutting across faculties and social backgrounds.

“The university will continue to expand access through technology-driven learning, while strengthening support systems for students in all locations, including custodial centres.

“The prison education initiative is part of a long-term vision to position NOUN as a leading institution in inclusive and flexible learning in Africa,” Uduma said.

The vice-chancellor said all NOUN graduates were expected to participate in the convocation irrespective of their location.

The VC reiterated that certificates would be issued immediately after the ceremony, describing it as a shift towards efficiency and student-focused service delivery.

He commended staff and partners for sustaining the university’s nationwide structure, noting that such coordination made it possible to reach underserved populations, including inmates.

Uduma also called for continued support from stakeholders, particularly the media, in amplifying the impact of initiatives that promote access to education

Iluore Augustine has extended warm Easter greetings to the people of his constituency in Etsako East, Etsako West, and Etsako Central in Edo State, urging them to embrace the values of love, sacrifice, and renewed hope that define the season.

In his Easter message, he described the celebration as a significant reminder of faith, unity, and the triumph of perseverance. He called on constituents across Ward 2 and the entire federal constituency to remain united and committed to the collective growth and development of the area.

As part of his Easter goodwill gesture, Iluore Augustine disbursed cash gifts to constituents across the constituency, bringing relief and support to families during the festive period. The gesture reflects his dedication to the welfare of his people and his continuous effort to uplift lives at the grassroots.

He encouraged the people to remain resilient and hopeful despite prevailing challenges, emphasizing that unity and shared purpose remain key to sustainable progress.

He also prayed for peace, prosperity, and divine blessings upon every household across the constituency, wishing them a joyful and fulfilling Easter celebration.

In his address, he urged his constituents to continue to pray for and support the current Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, stressing that collective backing and spiritual support would strengthen the administration’s efforts toward peace, development, and good governance across the state.

“May this season bring renewed strength, abundant blessings, and lasting happiness to our people,” he concluded.

Foremost banker and economist Mohammed Hayatu-Deen has warned that Nigeria’s democracy faces a dangerous erosion following recent decisions by the Independent National Electoral Commission that he says threaten the integrity of the electoral process.

In a statement released on Friday, Hayatu-Deen expressed grave concerns about what he described as a shrinking democratic space, cautioning that actions capable of excluding legitimate political participation could undermine public trust in elections.

“When a commission charged with protecting participation instead restricts it, we must ask: in whose interest does it act?” he said.

He pointed specifically to INEC’s move to revalidate the national voters register and its decision not to engage with or receive correspondence from the African Democratic Congress, warning that such actions carry serious democratic consequences.

“Any action that potentially disenfranchises voters or prevents a political party from fielding candidates strikes at the core of democratic rights,” he said.

“Democracy is not merely a calendar of elections. It is a covenant, one that demands equal access, transparent rules, and the unshakeable confidence of citizens that the process is fair.”

Hayatu-Deen cautioned that once public confidence is weakened, the damage extends well beyond any single election.
“Once that confidence is undermined, the legitimacy of every outcome that follows is called into question. Nigeria cannot afford that erosion.”

He placed the electoral concerns within the wider security and economic pressures facing the country, arguing that institutional integrity and the daily hardships of ordinary Nigerians are directly connected.

“The two are inseparable. Weaken the institutions, and you weaken the nation’s capacity to heal itself,” he said.

While insisting his intervention was not partisan, he warned that democratic decline rarely announces itself loudly.

“The gradual erosion of democratic norms is rarely dramatic. It announces itself in quiet exclusions, and in institutions that bend just enough to serve power. But the consequences, when they fully arrive, are often devastating.”

He called on those in authority to act with restraint and fidelity to the rule of law, and urged Nigerians across political divides to remain vigilant.

“The preservation of our democracy is not the work of any single party or person. It is a shared responsibility,” he said.

Mohammed Hayatu-Deen, OON, is a Nigerian economist, banker, and elder statesman from Bama, Borno State. Over a four-decade career he rose to become Group Managing Director of the New Nigeria Development Company before transforming FSB International Bank from a failing government institution into a major commercial lender, widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s most successful privatisation stories. A two-term chairman of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group, he has served on the boards of institutions ranging from the Nigerian Stock Exchange to the World Economic Forum. He was conferred with the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger in 2000. In the 2023 general elections, he was an aspirant for the presidency of the Federal Republic of Nigeria on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party.