Jos attack is another evidence of failed leadership.. Leadership that prioritizes politics over protection of lives.. Choosing rather to waste our collective patrimony in pre-election jamboree and pre-coronation plans.. Posterity will judge a leadership that now emboldens,enables and replicates what it once vehemently condemned..
I believe in the power of prayers but prayers won’t replace responsibility.. We need humane leaders.. These current folks have zero affiliation with empathy… We are tired..it’s depressingly exhausting.
We stand with the families who lost loved ones and pray for fortitude to bear the irreparable loss..
And for those who will engage this tweet to support failed leadership for the crumbs they offer you,pls show your irritation via good grammar.. So even if I am irritated by your intentional delusion,I would be encouraged by your mastery of words.. AJS.
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on Friday filed a suit at the Federal High Court to prevent Senator Ireti Kingibe from presenting herself as a member of the party.
New Telegraph reports that the legal action follows the senator’s indefinite suspension by the Wuse Ward Executive Committee on Thursday, March 12.
The suit, which was filed by the party’s lawyer, Maxwell Opara, seeks a judicial declaration that the Wuse Ward Executive Committee has the authority to discipline and suspend party members within its jurisdiction.
The ADC also prayed that the court confirm that Kingibe’s suspension is still valid.
The Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, to recognise Dr. Oluwole Oluyede as the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, for the governorship election in Ekiti State.
In a judgment delivered by Justice Umar, the court granted all the reliefs sought by Oluyede and the PDP in suit numbered FHC/ABJ/CS/40/2026, filed against INEC.
The court criticised the electoral body for excluding Oluyede from the list of candidates for the forthcoming Ekiti governorship election and directed the Commission to immediately recognise him as the PDP candidate.
Justice Umar further ordered INEC to include Oluyede’s name and the PDP logo on the ballot for the election. The court also issued a perpetual injunction restraining the Commission from rejecting or excluding him from any activities related to the governorship poll.
Oluyede had earlier been presented with a certificate of return by the National Chairman of the PDP, Kabiru Turaki, SAN, confirming him as the party’s flagbearer for the 2026 governorship election in Ekiti State.
However, the party said INEC, under the leadership of its chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, SAN, refused to include Oluyede’s name on the list of candidates, prompting the candidate and the PDP to challenge the decision in court.
Reacting to the judgment, the PDP described the ruling as a victory for justice and democracy.
In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Ini Ememobong, the party urged INEC to operate strictly within the law and avoid actions capable of undermining Nigeria’s multi-party democratic system.
The PDP also called on its members in Ekiti State to intensify their campaigns ahead of the governorship election, expressing confidence in victory with Oluyede as its candidate.
I am profoundly grateful to Nigerians from around the world for your prayers, calls, and solidarity following the incident at the ADC office in Benin yesterday. I especially appreciate your support during this difficult time for the family of the distinguished elder and former Governor of Edo State, Chief John Oyegun, who has served Nigeria honourably in various capacities, as well as for another former Governor, Professor Oserheimen Osunbor. Your support has strengthened my faith in our shared humanity and our collective hope for a better Nigeria. My deep gratitude is reflected in my renewed commitment to serve and build our nation.
Experiences of lawlessness are not new to me. Years ago, the violence and insecurity in Anambra shaped my determination to seek the Governorship of the state, convinced that leadership must restore order, security, and public trust. Today, the growing lawlessness across our country calls upon all men and women of goodwill to step forward—not in fear but with a sense of responsibility. As Plato reminded us, the price good people pay for refusing to participate in government is to live under the rule of bad people.
This moment urges Nigerians to be even more resolute in electing leaders defined by competence, commitment, character, and compassion—leaders who prioritise the nation above self and service above power.
Together, with courage and unity, we can build the peaceful, secure, and prosperous Nigeria our people deserve.
With the announcement that the Nigerian Senate is likely to approve the 2026 National Budget on March 17, every Nigerian is asking an important question: which budget will Nigeria use this year? Will it be the budgets for 2023, 2024, 2025, or 2026, or some combination of all these years? It is worth noting that as of last year, in our government, implementation of budget items from the 2023, 2024, and 2025 budgets was in a unique approach to budgeting, which continues to perpetuate a trend of fiscal recklessness.
President Tinubu inherited a legally signed N21.83 trillion budget for 2023. A few months after taking office, he presented a N2.17 trillion supplementary budget that faced widespread criticism for prioritising benefits for public office holders at a time when Nigerians were enduring painful economic reforms without a credible social protection framework. Instead of restoring fiscal discipline, the President repeatedly expanded the 2023 budget without a clearly defined end date.
The pattern persisted with the passage of a N35.06 trillion budget for 2024 and a N54.99 trillion budget for 2025. In less than three years, President Tinubu has exercised appropriation powers over more than N114 trillion in public spending. Yet, the government has failed to achieve even fifty per cent budget implementation, exposing a profound crisis of budget credibility. Alarmingly, until mid-2025, Nigeria was effectively operating with about three overlapping budgets, without clear legal or fiscal guidance on when each one expired or began. No serious country manages its budgets or fiscal operations in such a manner.
Even more troubling is the government’s opaque decision to repeal the 2024 and 2025 budgets and re-enact them with extended implementation timelines. Nigerians have not seen these re-enacted budgets, and there is no public information regarding the specific capital projects included or their associated costs. This is not reform; it represents fiscal obscurity elevated to the level of state policy.
The proposed 2026 budget, despite still lacking critical details, indicates that the administration has no intention of addressing the structural weaknesses at the core of Nigeria’s public finance system.
This lack of transparency is not accidental; it reflects a deliberate pattern of undermining public scrutiny and debate. The Federal Government has stopped publishing treasury reports on the OpenTreasury.gov.ng portal, dismantling a vital transparency framework inherited from the previous administration. In 2025, no budget implementation report was released, regardless of how poor the performance was!
No nation can operate with such recklessness and succeed.
Every effort must be made to quickly return Nigeria to the January-December budget cycle that was inherited and mismanaged by the current government. This change would enhance effective planning and tracking, promote transparency and accountability, and foster sustainable growth and development.
The Minority Caucus of the House of Representatives has called for the suspension of the implementation of Nigeria’s newly enacted Tax Reform Laws, following allegations that the versions gazetted and circulated to the public were altered after being passed by the National Assembly and assented to by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The call comes amid a growing controversy triggered by claims from a member of the House that the tax reform bills, as approved by both chambers of the National Assembly, were materially different from the copies later gazetted and made public.
The allegation sparked intense debate within and outside the legislature, raising questions about the integrity of the law-making and gazetting process.
In response to the claims, the House of Representatives recently inaugurated a high-powered investigative committee to examine whether the tax laws were unlawfully amended after passage, fraudulently gazetted, or improperly circulated to the public.
The Minority Leader, Rep. Kingsley Chinda, in a statement on Monday, described the situation as a serious constitutional matter that goes beyond partisan politics, warning that any tampering with laws duly passed by the legislature would amount to an attack on democracy.
“The allegations strike at the heart of the independence and credibility of the National Assembly,” the caucus said, assuring Nigerians that it would stand with the House leadership to ensure a thorough investigation and the prosecution of anyone found culpable.
The Minority Caucus explained that under established legislative procedures, only laws transmitted by the Clerk to the National Assembly to the appropriate government agency can be lawfully gazetted, stressing that the National Assembly remains the sole custodian of the authentic versions of laws passed by the Federation.
Related News Tinubu applauded over award of CCTV installation on Second Niger Bridge Rivers APC hails presidential affirmation of Fubara as party leader Tinubu stands by Fubara, says gov is APC leader in Rivers Against this background, the lawmakers urged Nigerians to disregard any purported tax laws in circulation that do not bear the signatures of the Clerk to the National Assembly and the President, insisting that such documents could not have originated from the legislature.
The caucus further warned that any attempt to foist fake or altered laws on Nigerians constitutes a direct assault on the constitutional role of the National Assembly and undermines public confidence in the tax reform agenda.
Consequently, the Minority Caucus called on the Federal Government to suspend the implementation of the tax laws pending the outcome of the ongoing investigation and the confirmation of the authentic texts to be enforced.
It also stressed that Nigerians and the business community are entitled to clear, certified copies of the laws they are expected to obey, noting that legal certainty is essential for compliance, investment and economic stability.
The caucus expressed confidence in President Tinubu’s democratic credentials and urged him to act in the national interest by responding promptly to the concerns raised.
The statement was jointly signed by Minority Whip, Rt. Hon. Ali Isa J.C., PhD; Deputy Minority Leader, Rt. Hon. Aliyu Madaki; and Deputy Minority Whip, Rt. Hon. George Ozodinobi.
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State is currently in the State House, Abuja, for a meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, raising fresh political speculation amid ongoing realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Makinde, a key leader of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), arrived at the State House shortly after the Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, who recently defected from the PDP to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), and proceeded directly to the President’s office.
The Oyo State governor was one of five PDP governors—popularly known as the G-5—who opposed the emergence of Atiku Abubakar as the PDP’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election and worked against the party’s ticket.
As preparations for the 2027 elections gradually gather momentum and following the defection of his Governor, Abba Yusuf, along with most members of the Kano State House of Assembly to the All Progressives Congress (APC), former Kano State Governor and leader of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Alhaji Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, is weighing the option of teaming up with former Vice President and 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, and the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate and former Anambra State governor, Peter Obi, under the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
While his political structure appears to be moving to the APC, Kwankwaso, THISDAY gathered is in talks with the ADC about joining the coalition party along with members of the Kwankwasiyya movement, who are his loyal supporters.
Sources told THISDAY that quiet negotiations are already underway as the politicians explore the possibility of forming a united front ahead of 2027 elections, even as strong indications emerged that the Governor of Kano State, Abba Yusuf, the only NNPP-controlled State is defecting to the APC on Monday.
Governor Yusuf’s planned defection to the APC has reportedly been opposed by Kwankwaso and has sparked sharp disagreement within the Kwankwasiyya movement.
Sources close to the Governor Yusuf disclosed that Vice President, Kashim Shettima; APC National Chairman Yitwalda Nentawe, former governor of the State, Abdullahi Ganduje, along with the state chairman of the party, Abdullahi Abbas, are expected at a brief ceremony on his defection into the ruling party in Abuja. If the talks between Atiku, Obi and Kwankwaso succeed, it could dramatically reshape opposition politics and alter the country’s political math.
Atiku, Obi and Kwankwaso came second, third and fourth in the 2023 presidential election.
But while the ruling party projects confidence with 28 Governors in its fold currently, an emboldened opposition is quietly rebuilding, betting that public frustration could reset the balance of power.
Obi had on Wednesday defected to ADC with his supporters, opposition leaders and some opposition National Assembly and State Assembly lawmakers.
Obi joins the likes of Atiku, David Mark, Aminu Tambuwal, Emeka Ihedioha, Rauf Aregbesola, Nasir El-Rufai, Rotimi Amaechi, Abubakar Malami, among others, in their quest to win the 2027 elections.
A chieftain of the ADC, Dr. Ladan Salihu, yesterday, said Obi joining the ADC has altered Nigeria’s opposition landscape and has positioned the party as a formidable challenger to the ruling APC.
Also yesterday, the APC further tightened its dominance, as Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang formally defected to the ruling party.
These emerged as the PDP yesterday said while its immediate concern was to ensure that all legal issues concerning its leadership are addressed, the opposition must agree to work together to defeat the ruling party.
Adamawa Government cancels Dec 31st cross-over activities over insecurity
Government Cancels Cross Over Activities
Based on credible intelligence reports that border on security, the Adamawa State Government has cancelled all activities planned for the Cross Over Night on 31st December 2025 to 1st January 2026 at the Unity Fly-Over in Jimeta - Yola. The safety and security of citizens remain our top priority. The Government will continue to work with security agencies to ensure peace and stability in the state. We urge all citizens (especially residents of Yola North and South LGAs) to remain vigilant, and steer clear of crowded areas, to avoid any potential risks, and report any suspicious activities to the authorities. Further updates will be provided as necessary.
Humwashi Wonosikou Chief Press Secretary to the Governor 30th December, 2025
REJECTION OF APPOINTMENT INTO OYO STATE CARETAKER COMMITTEE
The National Chairman, National Working Committee (NWC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Wadata Plaza, Abuja.
Dear Sir,
I write with deep appreciation to the National Working Committee of our great Party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), for the confidence reposed in me through my nomination as a Member of the Oyo State Caretaker Committee.
I am grateful for the consideration and for the opportunity to serve the Party at any level. However, after sober reflection and wide consultation, I regret to formally decline the appointment.
My decision is guided principally by my longstanding political convictions and loyalty to leadership. As a committed party man, I have always aligned my political actions and responsibilities with the ideals, vision, and leadership structure under which I serve. In this instance, the constitution of the Caretaker Committee, without the input or participation of the Leader of the Party in Oyo State, His Excellency, Engr. Oluseyi Makinde, FNSE, Executive Governor of Oyo State, places me in a difficult position of conscience.
I hold His Excellency in the highest esteem, and I remain firmly committed to the values, principles, and leadership direction he represents. Accepting this appointment under the present circumstances would be inconsistent with those ideals and my personal sense of political propriety.
This decision is taken with utmost respect to the National Working Committee and without prejudice to my continued loyalty to the PDP and my readiness to serve the Party whenever such service aligns with established leadership structures and shared values.
Please accept the assurances of my highest regards.
The police in Lagos have arrested Adenike Atanda, wife of Sodeeq Atanda, a senior reporter with the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ).
The police also arrested the nine-month old baby of the Atandas.
FIJ understands that Atanda’s wife and baby were arrested by men of Nigeria Police Force (NPF) in Owutu, Ikorodu area of Lagos, on Monday evening after tracking them to their neighbourhood.
Neither Adenike nor her nine-month-old baby is a journalist. As of the time of filing this report, FIJ has yet to ascertain their crime.
"We are terminating the habit of running three budgets in one inflow. By March 31, 2026, all capital liabilities from previous years will be fully funded and closed. From April, Nigeria will operate on a single budget."
''Let me be upfront with you, this is a reset, a very hard one. Avoiding abandoned projects, unpaid contractual obligations. and running multiple budgets. ..So we are terminating the habit of running 3 budgets on one.''
''Let me be upfront with you, this is a reset, a very hard one. Avoiding abandoned projects, unpaid contractual obligations. and running multiple budgets. ..So we are terminating the habit of running 3 budgets on one.''
FULL SPEECH BY PRESIDENT BOLA AHMED TINUBU AT THE PRESENTATION OF THE 2026 NATIONAL BUDGET.
“Budget of Consolidation, Renewed Resilience and Shared Prosperity”
Distinguished Senate President, Rt. Honourable Speaker and Honourable Members of the House of Representatives, Distinguished Senators and Honourable Members of the National Assembly, Fellow Nigerians,
1. I appear before this Joint Session of the National Assembly, in fulfilment of my constitutional duty, to present the 2026 Appropriation Bill of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
2. This is a defining moment in our national journey of reform and transformation. Over the last two and a half years, we made a deliberate choice: to confront long‑standing structural weaknesses, stabilise our economy, rebuild confidence, and lay a durable foundation for a more resilient, inclusive, and dynamic Nigeria.
3. These reforms were necessary — and they have not been painless. Families and businesses have faced pressure; established systems have been disrupted; and budget execution has been tested. I acknowledge these difficulties plainly, and I assure Nigerians that their sacrifices are not in vain. The path of reform is seldom smooth, but it is the surest route to lasting stability and shared prosperity.
4. Today, we come with a Budget that consolidates our gains, strengthens our resilience, and turns recovery into improved living standards for every Nigerian household. THEME OF THE 2026 BUDGET
5. The 2026 Budget is themed: “Budget of Consolidation, Renewed Resilience and Shared Prosperity”. It reflects our determination to lock in macroeconomic stability, deepen competitiveness, and ensure that growth translates into decent jobs, rising incomes, and a better quality of life across our Federation. ECONOMIC REALITIES: SIGNS OF STABILISATION, PURPOSE OF THE NEXT STEP
6. Mr. Chairman of this Joint Sitting, the 2026 Budget was prepared against an improving global outlook. Yet, our focus remains Nigeria: building a strong economy that works for our people.
7. I am encouraged that our reform efforts are already yielding measurable results: (a)Our economy grew by 3.98% in Q3 2025, higher than the 3.86% recorded in Q3 2024. (b)Inflation has moderated for eight consecutive months, with headline inflation declining to 14.45% in November 2025, from 24.23% in March 2025. With stabilising food and energy prices, tighter monetary conditions, and improving supply responses, we expect the disinflationary trend to persist—so that inflation continues to decline further over the 2026 horizon, barring major supply shocks. (c)Oil production has improved, supported by enhanced security, technology deployment, and sector reforms. (d)Non‑oil revenues have expanded significantly through better tax administration —not excessive taxation. (e)Investor confidence is returning, reflected in capital inflows, renewed project financing, and stronger private‑sector participation. (f)Our external reserves rose to a 7‑year high of about US$47 billion as at 14 November 2025, providing more than 10 months of import cover and a stronger buffer against shocks.
8. These outcomes are not accidental. They reflect difficult but deliberate policy choices. Our task now is to consolidate these gains—so that stability becomes prosperity, and prosperity becomes shared prosperity.
2025 BUDGET PERFORMANCE: LESSONS, ACCOUNTABILITY, AND EXECUTION
9. Distinguished Members, our 2025 budget implementation faced the realities of transition and competing execution demands. As at Q3 2025, we recorded: (a)₦18.6 trillion in revenue—representing 61% of our target; and (b)₦24.66 trillion in expenditure—representing 60% of our target.
10. Following the extension of the 2024 capital budget execution to December 2025, a total of ₦2.23 trillion was released for the implementation of 2024 capital projects as at June 2025.
11. While fiscal challenges persisted, government met its key obligations. However, only ₦3.10 trillion—about 17.7% of the 2025 capital budget—was released as at Q3, reflecting the emphasis on completing priority 2024 capital projects during the transition period.
12. Let me be clear: 2026 will be a year of stronger discipline in budget execution. I have issued directives to the Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, the Honourable Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, the Accountant‑General of the Federation, and the Director‑General of the Budget Office of the Federation to ensure that the 2026 Budget is implemented strictly in line with the appropriated details and timelines.
13. We expect improved revenue performance through the new National Tax Acts and the ongoing reforms in the oil and gas sector—reforms designed not merely to raise revenue, but to drive transparency, efficiency, fairness, and long‑term value in our fiscal architecture.
14. I will also be unequivocal about Government‑Owned Enterprises. Heads of all GOEs are hereby directed to meet their assigned revenue targets. To support this, we will deploy end‑to‑end digitisation of revenue mobilisation—standardised e‑collections, interoperable payment rails, automated reconciliation, data‑driven risk profiling, and real‑time performance dashboards—so leakages are sealed, compliance is verifiable, and remittances are prompt. These targets will form core components of performance evaluations and institutional scorecards. Nigeria can no longer afford leakages, inefficiencies, or underperformance in strategic agencies. Every institution must play its part.
PHILOSOPHY AND OBJECTIVES OF THE 2026 BUDGET 15. Mr. Chairman and fellow Nigerians, the 2026 Budget is guided by four clear objectives: (a)One, consolidate macroeconomic stability; (b)Two, improve the business and investment environment; (c)Three, promote job‑rich growth and reduce poverty; and (d)Four, strengthen human capital while protecting the vulnerable.
16. In short: we will spend with purpose, manage debt with discipline, and pursue growth that is broad‑based — not narrow — and sustainable — not temporary.
2026 BUDGET OVERVIEW: THE FISCAL FRAMEWORK 17. Distinguished Members, the 2026 Federal Budget is anchored on realism, prudence, and growth orientation.
18. The key aggregates are as follows: (a)Expected total revenue: ₦34.33 trillion. (b)Projected total expenditure: ₦58.18 trillion, including ₦15.52 trillion for debt servicing. (c)Recurrent (non‑debt) expenditure: ₦15.25 trillion. (d)Capital expenditure: ₦26.08 trillion. (e)Budget deficit: ₦23.85 trillion, representing 4.28% of GDP.
19. These numbers are not just accounting lines. They are a statement of national priorities. We remain firmly committed to fiscal sustainability, debt transparency, and value‑for‑money spending.
20. The 2026–2028 Medium‑Term Expenditure Framework and Fiscal Strategy Paper sets the parameters for this Budget. Our projections are based on: (a)a conservative crude oil benchmark of US$64.85 per barrel; (b)crude oil production of 1.84 million barrels per day; and (c)an exchange rate of ₦1,400 to the US Dollar for the 2026 fiscal year.
21. We will continue to reduce waste, strengthen controls, and ensure that every naira borrowed or spent delivers measurable public value — especially in infrastructure, human capital, and security.
PRIORITIES AND ALLOCATIONS: SECURITY, PEOPLE, PRODUCTIVITY 22. Our allocations reflect the Renewed Hope Agenda and the practical needs of Nigerians. Key sectoral provisions include: •Defence and Security: ₦5.41 trillion •Infrastructure: ₦3.56 trillion •Education: ₦3.52 trillion •Health: ₦2.48 trillion
23. These priorities are interlinked. Without security, investment will not thrive. Without educated and healthy citizens, productivity will not rise. Without infrastructure, jobs and enterprise will not scale. This is why the Budget is designed as one coherent programme of national renewal. A. National Security and Peacebuilding.
24. Security remains the foundation of development. The 2026 Budget strengthens support for: (a)modernisation of the Armed Forces; (b)intelligence‑driven policing and joint operations; (c)border security and technology‑enabled surveillance; and (d)community‑based peacebuilding and conflict prevention.
25. We will invest in security with clear accountability for outcomes—because security spending must deliver security results. To secure our country, our priority will remain on increasing the fighting capability of our armed forces and other security agencies by boosting personnel and procuring cutting-edge platforms and other hardware. We are also pursuing a new era of criminal justice system to stamp out terrorism, banditry, kidnapping for ransom and other violent crimes. Our administration is resetting the national security architecture and establishing a new national counterterrorism doctrine—a holistic redesign anchored on unified command, intelligence, community stability, and counter-insurgency. This new doctrine will fundamentally change how we confront terrorism and other violent crimes that have become existential threats to our corporate survival and have heightened anxiety among our people.
Henceforth, and under this new architecture, any armed group or gun-wielding non-state actors operating outside state authority will be regarded as terrorists. These include bandits, militias, armed gangs, criminal networks with weapons, armed robbers, violent cult groups, forest-based armed collectives, and foreign-linked mercenaries. Groups or individuals conducting violence for political, ethnic, financial, or sectarian objectives are also classified as terrorists. Members of any group extorting communities, kidnapping civilians, occupying or seeking to occupy territory within Nigeria will be classified as terrorists. The denominator is that if you wield lethal weapons and act outside the state's authority, you are a terrorist. Any individual or entity that enables the listed groups as financiers, money handlers, harbourers, informants, ransom facilitators, and negotiators will also be classified as terrorists. Political protectors and intermediaries, transporters, arms suppliers, and safe-house owners will be declared as terrorists. Politicians, traditional rulers, community leaders, and religious leaders who facilitate and encourage violent actions and terror within Nigeria and against our citizens are also terrorists.
B. Human Capital Development: Education and Health 26. No nation can grow beyond the quality of its people. The 2026 Budget strengthens investments in education, skills, healthcare, and social protection.
27. In education, we are expanding access to higher education through the Nigerian Education Loan Fund. Over 418,000 students have been supported, in partnership with 229 tertiary institutions nationwide.
28. In healthcare, I am pleased to highlight that investment in healthcare is 6% of total budget size, net of liabilities.
29. We also appreciate the support of international partners. Recent high‑level engagements with the Government of the United States have opened the door to over US$500 million in grant funding for targeted health interventions across Nigeria. We welcome this partnership and assure Nigerians that these resources will be deployed transparently and effectively. C. Infrastructure and Economic Productivity
30. Across the nation, projects under the Renewed Hope Agenda are moving from vision to reality—transport and energy infrastructure, port modernisation, agricultural reforms, and strategic investments that unlock private capital.
31. We will take decisive steps to strengthen agricultural markets. Food security is national security. The 2026 Budget prioritises input financing and mechanisation; irrigation and climate‑resilient agriculture; storage and processing; and agro‑value chains.
32. These measures will reduce post‑harvest losses, improve incomes for smallholders, deepen agro‑industrialisation, and build a more resilient, diversified economy.
DELIVERY, DISCIPLINE, AND NATIONAL COMPACT 33. Distinguished Members and fellow Nigerians, the greatest budget is not the one we announce. It is the one we deliver.
34. Therefore, 2026 will be guided by three practical commitments: (a)Better revenue mobilisation through efficiency, transparency, and compliance—especially from GOEs and improved oil and gas sector governance. (b)Better spending: prioritising projects that can be completed, measured, and felt by citizens. (c)Better accountability: strengthening procurement discipline, monitoring, and reporting—so Nigerians can see what their money is funding.
35. This is how we will build trust: by matching our words with results, and our allocations with outcomes.
CONCLUSION: A BUDGET THAT BELONGS TO ALL OF US 36. Distinguished Members of the National Assembly, fellow Nigerians, the 2026 Budget is not a budget of promises; it is a Budget of Consolidation, Renewed Resilience and Shared Prosperity. It builds on the reforms of the past two and a half years, addresses emerging challenges, and sets a clear path towards a more secure, more competitive, more equitable, and more hopeful Nigeria.
37. I commend the understanding, sacrifice, and resilience of our people. My administration remains committed to easing the burdens of transition and ensuring that the benefits of reform reach households and communities across the Federation.
38. With unity of purpose between the Executive and the Legislature—and with the resilience of the Nigerian people—we will deliver the full promise of the Renewed Hope Agenda.
39. It is with great pleasure, therefore, that I lay before this distinguished Joint Session of the National Assembly the 2026 Appropriation Bill of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, titled: “Budget of Consolidation, Renewed Resilience and Shared Prosperity”. May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Thank you.
The Senate has confirmed three non-career ambassadorial nominees.
They are Lateef Kayode Kolawole Are (Ogun State ), Aminu Muhammad Dalhatu (Jigawa), and Emmanuel Ayodele Oke (Oyo).
The confirmation, which was done on Tuesday in Abuja, followed the consideration of the report of the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs.
The committee, in its report, observed that the nominees possessed the required qualifications, experience, conduct and character to represent Nigeria as non-career ambassadors.
The report added that the three nominees also displayed an understanding of international diplomacy during their screening.
The three nominees were the first set forwarded to the Senate by President Bola Tinubu two weeks ago.
There are 64 more nominees, comprising career and non-career ambassadors, awaiting confirmation.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Monday, December 15, 2025, opposed moves by a former Minister of Labour and Employment, Chris Ngige to secure bail after being arraigned before Justice M.A. Hassan of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, High Court, Gwarimpa Abuja.
Prosecution counsel, Sylvanus Tahir, SAN, told the court to approach the issue of bail for the former Minister with caution as he failed to return his international passport to the EFCC after being allowed to travel abroad on a medical trip. He undertook to return the passport but failed until he was arrested by the Commission.
“He made an undertaking that he will return the passport on November 19, 2025. The defendant could not obtain an affidavit of loss in the UK but rather chose to come back to Nigeria to obtain an affidavit, what stopped him from obtaining a relevant police report from London?”
“The logical thing to do was to depose an affidavit of loss in the country. What does Nigerian police know about a loss of passport in the UK? What we are saying my Lord is that the defendant is in gross breach of the administrative bail granted by the EFCC. Suddenly he is asking this court to grant him bail in terms and conditions granted by the EFCC. Let us not shoot ourselves in the leg. The defendant is in violation of Section 162 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015. He undermines and jeopardises the provision of ACJA. The totality of this case calls for extreme caution, we submit that the court should refuse the application and order for accelerated trial.”
The defendant counsel, Patrick Ikweato, SAN, has however asked the court to grant the defendant bail. “I am asking my lord to admit the defendant to bail, the appeals are there stated in the application, we rely on all the processes as well as the written application", he said.
Justice Hassan adjourned the matter to Thursday, 18 December, 2025 for ruling on the application.
Ngige was arraigned on an eight-count charge bordering on alleged contract fraud and accepting gifts to the tune of N2,261,722, 535.84( Two Billion, Two Hundred and Sixty One Million, Seven Hundred and Twenty Two Thousand, Five Hundred and Thirty Five Naira, Eighty Four Kobo).
The Independent National Electoral Commission in Osun State has said it was not informed of another primary reportedly conducted by a faction of the Accord Party in the state.
A faction of the Accord Party in Osun on Sunday reportedly held a primary election that produced Bamigbola Clement as its candidate for the August 8, 2026, governorship poll.
The exercise, held in Osogbo, the state capital, began with the accreditation of delegates.
A large contingent of armed police operatives was also observed around the venue.
Bamigbola, the only aspirant presented to delegates, confirmed his emergence.
“It is true. We had our primary, and I emerged the consensus candidate,” he told The PUNCH.
However, INEC’s Public Relations Officer in the state, Musa Olurode, said the commission was unaware of the parallel exercise.
“We have monitored the only Accord Party primary a few days ago. The report has been submitted. INEC is not aware of any other party’s primary,” Olurode said.
The PUNCH reports that Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, last Wednesday, emerged as the Accord Party candidate for next year’s poll.
Adeleke was the only aspirant in that primary, also held in Osogbo.
Announcing the result, Abdulazeez Salaudeen, Secretary of the electoral committee that conducted the primary, said Adeleke polled 145 votes out of 150 delegates drawn from the state’s 30 local government areas.
Five votes were voided.
“The electoral committee has delivered on its mandate. After voting and counting witnessed by the agents of the candidate and the officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission, having the highest number of votes, I declare Senator Nurudeen Ademola Adeleke as the winner of the primary,” Salaudeen said.
Reacting to the factional primary, the caretaker Chairman of Accord Party in Osun State, Babalola Akande, said those who organised the exercise are not recognised by the party.
Addressing journalists in Osogbo on Sunday, Akande reiterated that Adeleke remains the duly nominated and lawful governorship candidate of the Accord Party in the state.
He said, “This position is incontestable, irreversible, and firmly grounded in law, having emerged through due process in accordance with the Constitution of the Accord, the Electoral Act 2022, and established judicial precedents,”[b][/b] he said.
He urged Osun residents to ignore the “distractions, which are the handiwork of politically displaced actors who, having been repeatedly rejected by the electorate, now resort to impersonation, falsehood, and institutional sabotage in a futile bid to return to power through the back door.
“We are hearing that the person being used for this purpose is a legal practitioner. That, to us, will make our job easy, as our party will stop at nothing but to report him to the appropriate authorities, including the LPDC.
“We therefore make bold to state that any institution or authority that accords recognition, protection, or legitimacy to such impostors or their activities does so at its own legal peril, as the Accord will promptly and decisively invoke necessary judicial intervention to protect its constitutional rights, internal democracy, and the sanctity of the ballot.
“For the final time, and for the sake of emphasis, by virtue of the valid primary election lawfully conducted on Wednesday, 10th December 2025, Governor Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke is the sole and legally recognised governorship candidate of the Accord in Osun State. No parallel structure, no impersonator, and no contrived spectacle can alter this legal reality.”
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has felicitated the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Chief Nyesom Wike, on his 58th birthday, describing him as a leader whose commitment to public service continues to yield visible results.
Fubara, in a goodwill message he personally signed in Port Harcourt on Saturday, said the state is proud of the former governor of Rivers State for the infrastructural development under his watch in Abuja as the FCT minister.
Fubara, in the message on behalf of his family and the people of the state, said the celebration is significant, and it is coming at a time when Wike’s leadership in the FCT has continued to attract national attention for its infrastructural impact.
He noted that Wike’s sterling qualities have translated into positive and unprecedented contributions to the development of FCT, particularly in the expansion of public infrastructure and the improvement of service delivery.
He said, “We are proud of you. You have continued to provide enduring infrastructural development in Abuja, reinforcing your reputation as a public servant committed to results and to the advancement of the Nigerian capital city.
Fubara, however, wished Wike a fulfilling celebration as he marks another year of life and service to the nation.
Facts have emerged on how Adamu Talba, a former senator who passed away on July 14, was nominated for ambassadorial appointment by President Bola Tinubu last week.
The discovery of his death attracted widespread criticism to the presidency, with outspoken political commentator and activist, Mahdi Shehu, describing the blunder as worthy of inclusion in the Guinness Book of Records.
PREMIUM TIMES findings revealed that the deceased senator was nominated by the Minister of Police Affairs, Ibrahim Geidam, many months ago.
President Tinubu delayed the appointment of ambassadors for nearly two years until he released the list of nominees after his administration came in the cross hairs of American President Donald Trump and some Republican lawmakers over alleged persecution and killings of Christians in Nigeria.
Some critics have described the nomination of the ambassadors as a panicky reaction to the American pressures.
Our reporter gathered that the children of the late lawmaker sent an appreciation letter to Mr Geidam, who is a former governor and political godfather of Yobe State, for recommending their father for the appointment.
The list released by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga also contains spelling errors, as the late senator’s surname, Garba, was rendered as ‘Tarba’, and his local government area was stated as ‘Na-gari’, instead of ‘Nangere’.
Mr Shehu, in a post shared on X on Friday, described the mistake as a sad, scandalous and avoidable blunder.
“This clearly shows everything is being done in a panicky, haphazard and fire brigade approach out of FEAR and in a hurry to please local and foreign influencers so that ‘the lion’ can have some sleep,” he wrote.
In the opinion of the Katsina-born outspoken businessman and medical practitioner, the appearance of a deceased person on an official list reveals deep institutional failures.
He questioned why agencies tasked with verifying the names and backgrounds of nominees did not carry out even the most basic checks.
“It shows how agencies responsible for vetting nominees are clearly not doing their job,” he wrote.
“Regimes that will continue to fail are those that have no blueprint, no action plan, panicky, full of injustice and unfairness, with open bias and hate against those they perceive or are made to perceive them as enemies that must be eliminated at all cost.
Currently, it’s unclear whether Yobe has a new nominee, as state officials have remained silent on the matter.
However, there are rumours that the immediate past Minister of Power, Abubakar Aliyu, may replace the late senator as the nominee from the state. He comes from the same senatorial district as the late Mr Talba.
When contacted, Mr Aliyu denied knowledge of the rumours.
“This is political time, and there are too many speculations on people’s minds and on their lips. The truth is that our ways are different from those of Allah, and whatever people speculate, Allah’s will still prevail, and for me, my absolute belief is in Him and Him alone”, Mr Aliyu said.
The Senate has approved President Bola Tinubu’s request to deploy Nigerian troops to the Republic of Benin in support of efforts to restore peace and stability following last weekend’s attempted coup.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio announced this on Tuesday during plenary after lawmakers considered the request in the Committee of the Whole in line with section 5, Part 11 of the Constitution.
The Senators unanimously voted in favour of the deployment, giving legislative backing for the regional security intervention.
Akpabio described the decision as a step in the right direction, noting that instability in any neighboring state poses a threat to the entire region.
“An injury to one is an injury to all,” the lawmaker said.
He underscored that it is Nigeria’s responsibility to support its Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) partner.
The Senate’s consent letter will be transmitted to President Tinubu immediately.
Tinubu had written to the Senate, seeking their approval for the deployment of troops to the Benin Republic. He said that Nigeria has a historical responsibility to support Benin under the existing Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) security frameworks.
According to the President, the crisis demands “urgent external intervention” to help restore stability and prevent further breakdown of order.
Benin Republic’s attempted coup occurred on Sunday, when some military personnel announced the removal of President Patrice Talon.
The soldiers who called themselves the “Military Committee for Refoundation” (CMR) took to national television to announce that they had met and concluded that “Mr Patrice Talon is removed from office as president of the republic”.
However, the country’s military thwarted the effort and regained control.
“The regular army is regaining control. The city (Cotonou) and the country are completely secure,” sources close to Talon said. “It’s just a matter of time before everything returns to normal. The clean-up is progressing well.”
In the wake of the attempted coup, ECOWAS said it will deploy a standby force to the area.
“After consultation among members of the Mediation and Security Council at the level of Heads of State and Government, the Chair of ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government has ordered the deployment of elements of the ECOWAS Standby Force to the Republic of Benin with immediate effect,” the regional bloc said.
“The Regional Force shall be made up of troops from the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Republic of Sierra Leone, the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire, and the Republic of Ghana.
“The Force shall support the Government and the Republican Army of Benin to preserve constitutional order and the territorial integrity of the Republic of Benin”.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has just held a closed-door meeting with six governors elected on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) at the State House, Abuja.
The purpose of the meeting was not immediately clear, and details of the agenda were not disclosed at press time.
Those in attendance include the governors of Jigawa (Umar Namadi), Edo (Monday Okpebholo), Ekiti (Biodun Oyebanji), Kogi (Usman Ododo), Sokoto (Aliyu Sokoto) and Kebbi (Dr Nasir Idris) states.
The meeting, which which lasted less than an hour was held in the President’s office.
Although no official of the Presidency has proffered a hint of the reason for the meeting, it came amid recent mounting security challenges facing the nation.
It has also coincided with ongoing national political consultations and preparations ahead of key party and governance engagements.
When approached by journalists for comments, the governors declined to speak.
It emerged Sunday evening that the Mohammed Abdulrahman-led Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), supported by the minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, is planning to hold its own convention in serious opposition to the November 16 convention held by the Oyo State governor, Seyi Makinde’s backed faction in Ibadan.
Ahead of the planned convention, the Board of Trustees (BoT) of the PDP is currently holding a crucial meeting in Abuja, with a renewed pledge to restore confidence in the party and reposition its structures by conducting congresses in states where congresses were yet to take place.
The meeting, which is currently ongoing at the Life Camp official residence of the FCT minister drew a full house of party figures, including BoT members, National Working Committee (NWC) members, state chairmen, and National Assembly members.
Among those present were PDP National Chairman, Abdul-Rahman Mohammed; National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu; former FCT Senator Philip Tanimu Aduda; former Abia State Governor and ambassador-designate, Okezie Ikpeazu; and Wike himself.
In his opening address, BoT Chairman, Senator Mao Ohuabunwa, reaffirmed the body’s commitment to stabilising the party, rebuilding trust among its members, and ensuring that congresses are conducted in states where they remain outstanding.
Ohuabunwa, who leads the BoT in the Mohammed Abdulrahman-led faction, said the board was determined to work collaboratively with the NWC to ensure that all actions follow due process, party guidelines, and the Electoral Act.
“We are going to work with this NWC, encourage them and support them to ensure that the right things are done,” he said.
“We are making meaningful progress in reorganising affected states, including constituting credible caretaker committees to prepare the ground for transparent congresses and the subsequent convention.”
He stressed that the reforms underway were aimed at rebuilding trust, strengthening internal structures, and reinforcing the PDP’s standing as a disciplined, democratic institution.
According to him, the present moment demands unity of purpose: “As the conscience of the party, the BoT must continue to provide stability, wisdom, and moral guidance. Our responsibility is to safeguard the soul of the party, steer it away from divisive tendencies, and reinforce the values that have historically set the PDP apart.”
Ohuabunwa urged members to rise above sentiments and commit to consolidating ongoing reforms, deepening cohesion, and preparing the party for greater leadership responsibilities in the months ahead.
He expressed appreciation to all attendees, noting the short notice and travel difficulties many had endured to be present.
The BoT meeting is expected to be followed by a session of the National Executive Committee (NEC) later tonight, where key decisions regarding pending state congresses and the proposed national convention will be taken.
Former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Amb. Illiya Damagum, on Tuesday, formally handed over to the party’s leadership to the Tanimu Turaki-led National Working Committee (NWC).
The tenure of the past NWC ends on December 8, amid a legal tussle with the camp led by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike.
The handover event, held at the Bauchi State Governor’s Lodge in Abuja, was attended by some former members of the NWC.
Damagum said members of the new NWC have been saddled with the responsibility of putting the party together.
The former chairman said their experience will be a guide to the new leadership of the party.
Noting that the Turaki leadership emerged at a time of challenges, he said, “The beauty of it is that we were able to surmount all the obstacles that we faced and we will continue to surmount them.”
He described the future of the PDP is bright and that it is still the party to beat. “That’s why they lose sleep about PDP. They keep putting different hurdles in our way, but God will see us through. We are positive. God is a just God; He does not support injustice. “
Damagun added that those causing the crisis in the party might get respite for a while, but assured that they will face the consequences of their actions.
For his part, Turaki commended the immediate past NWC for their efforts and assured that he would continue to work for the party.
Former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, has dismissed suggestions that he may run as a vice-presidential candidate with the former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, or be part of any joint presidential ticket in the 2027 elections.
Amaechi declared that he is running for the presidency and will not be a running mate to anybody.
His statement comes after Atiku’s political ally and media entrepreneur, Dele Momodu, suggested that Atiku might consider the former Rivers State governor should the 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, declines to run with him.
Momodu, in an interview with Sunday PUNCH, said, “A lot of people are underrating Amaechi. Amaechi single-handedly handed power to Buhari. What the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, is doing now, though in an unruly manner, Amaechi did quite well when he was governor of Rivers State. Amaechi mobilised more than any other person for Buhari, even more than Tinubu. If Obi does not make up his mind or chooses to run alone, then I believe the mantle might fall on Rotimi Amaechi.According to him, he was legally allocated a parcel of land after making a genuine offer of payment for the establishment of the University of Sports, which he said has since become a beneficial institution in his community.
Responding through his media aide, David Iyofor, Amaechi insisted that his ambition is solely to become the President of the country and not Vice President.
Amaechi distanced himself from any alliance aimed at making him a running mate.
”Amaechi is not seeking to be running mate to anybody. He does not intend to be a presidential running mate to anybody and will not,” Iyofor said.
He added that Amaechi believes it is the turn of Southern Nigeria to produce the next president and is therefore pursuing the presidential ticket of the ADC.
”Amaechi is not aware of, and will not be part of any talk to be running mate to anybody. For emphasis, Amaechi is running to be President of Nigeria and not to be a running mate to anybody.
”Politicians are kindly advised to leave Amaechi’s name out of any discussion for presidential running mate,” Iyofor added.
Amaechi, who contested the All Progressives Congress presidential ticket in 2023, defected to the ADC earlier this year and has since declared his intention to seek the party’s nomination for the 2027 election.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu received former President Goodluck Jonathan at the Presidential Villa on Saturday on Jonathan’s return to Nigeria from Guinea-Bissau. President Jonathan went to the West African on an election monitoring mission. There were concerns about his safety following a military takeover in Guinea-Bissau.
Why does all PDP & Wike-related cases get assigned to Justices Omotosho, Lifu & Abdulmalik?
The Peoples Democratic Party has expressed worry over repeated assignment of its cases to Justices James Omotosho, Peter Lifu and Mohammed Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court, Abuja Division.
The party in a petition addressed to the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, FCT, Justice John Tsoho, dated November 19 and signed by its National Secretary, Taofeek Arapaja, expressed displeasure over the fixation on the three judges on matters either filed by the PDP or brought against it.
Recall that Justice Omotosho, in a ruling recently on a suit brought before him by Austin Nwachukwu, Amah Nnanah, and Turnah George, the Imo, Abia State Chairmen and South-South Zonal Secretary of the PDP, respectfully, restrained the party from proceeding with its national elective convention, citing the failure to abide by the party’s rules as stipulated in its constitution.
Similarly, Justice Lifu directed the PDP to put the convention on hold until Sule Lamido, a former governor of Jigawa State, procured a nomination form to contest for the Office of the National Chairman of the party.
Lifu agreed with Lamido’s submission that he was unjustly excluded from participating in the convention.
These orders notwithstanding, the party went ahead with the convention, relying on the court order of Justice Ladiran Akintola of the Oyo State High Court.
The conflicting rulings have since led to the factionalisation of the main opposition party, as rival blocs loyal to the PDP Governors Forum and the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, continue to lay claims to the authentic leadership of the party.
The petition read, “I have the instruction and authority of the National Chairman of our party, the Peoples Democratic Party and the entire members of the newly-elected National Working Committee and the National Executive Committee of our party to write this letter to Your Lordship concerning our fear and apprehension regarding all matters either filed by our party or against our party at the Federal High Court, Abuja Judicial Division.
“My Lord, it is of great concern to our party that it would appear that all matters for the past few years filed in the Federal High Court, Abuja Judicial Division, either for or against our party, have always been assigned to the following three judges only, namely: Hon Justice James Omotosho, Hon Justice Peter Lifu and Hon Justice Mohammed Abdulmalik, even though there are other judges numbering up to nine in the Abuja Judicial Division, who could have taken up any of these matters, as the Abuja Division has 12 judges.”
The petition further stated that “Several party members have recently complained bitterly to the newly elected members of the National Working Committee and the National Executive Committee of the above-mentioned scenario.
“Indeed, all these three courts are viewed by party members and indeed the public as ‘courts of particular concern’ with regard to matters pertaining to or affecting the interest of the Peoples Democratic Party.
“My Lord, it is trite that justice must not only be done in all cases and circumstances with regard to matters pending and matters filed in the court of law, but justice must be seen to be done indeed by reasonable members of society, including the members of our party.
“Given the current challenges facing the party, there is a high likelihood of cases being filed for or against the party. It is in this respect that we humbly plead and beg that in no other matters or circumstances with regard to cases that may be filed by or against our party henceforth should be assigned to any of these three judges, since justice is rooted in trust and integrity.
“Our party wishes to reiterate the fact that we have no iota of doubt with regard to the integrity of the judiciary, particularly the Federal High Court, Abuja Judicial Division, headed by Your Lordship in dispensing justice in all cases, other than the above-highlighted fears and apprehension of our party.”
Phrank Shaibu is SSA on Public Communications to ex-VP Atiku
Oshiomhole earlier had in an interview on PoliticsToday stated that the ex-VP was incapable of ruling the country having failed to stabilize the opposition PDP
independent leaders across the country. Leadership in a democratic party is not dictatorship. The PDP, unlike the APC, was never a private estate controlled from Bourdillon, where one individual tele-guides decisions and stifles internal democracy.
If Oshiomhole seeks the man who “fixed a party” into a personal empire, he needs only look at the godfather he serves. Under the APC, party supremacy died, dissent was criminalised, and institutions of state became partisan weapons. That is the only kind of “fixing” Oshiomhole understands.
Atiku’s record speaks for itself: He rebuilt the economy as chairman of the National Economic Council.
He championed reforms that attracted investment and strengthened the private sector.
He has never been President, yet his development blueprint remains the most coherent Nigeria has seen in decades.
The real question is this: If the APC could not fix Nigeria after eight wasted years and nearly 3 years of Tinubu, what moral authority does Oshiomhole have to comment on leadership?
Nigerians know the truth. Atiku Abubakar represents vision, experience, and capacity.
Oshiomhole represents noise, propaganda, and the bruising legacy of a party that betrayed the hopes of millions.
Do Not Proceed To NYSC If You Are Posted To The North - Pastor Leye Femi
I am saying it again .
Do not mobilize for NYSC if you are posted to the North. Stay at home . I am telling you as one who is a Father . It is madness for a father to invest all he has on his kids simply to hand them over the state who has no empathy .
Do not let wicked men use you as pawns .
Go to safe areas for NYSC. Don’t risk your life. If you are harmed , I promise you this country will forget you or claim you didn’t even die ! Wisen up !
Politics › Apostle Johnson Suleman Reacts To Jos Killings by nairalandkachy1(op): 10:04pm On Mar 30
