₦airaland Forum

PRESIDENT TINUBU APPOINTS NUHU RIBADU TO LEAD NIGERIAN SIDE OF US–NIGERIA SECURITY WORKING GROUP

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the constitution of the Nigerian team for the US–Nigeria Joint Working Group, a key mechanism for strengthening bilateral cooperation in addressing Nigeria’s security challenges.

The establishment of the Joint Working Group follows the recent high-level visit to Washington, D.C., led by the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, during which both countries agreed to deepen strategic coordination on security.

As National Security Adviser, Ribadu will chair and lead the Nigerian delegation, supported by a multi-stakeholder team drawn from relevant ministries, departments, and agencies.

Members of the Joint Working Group include the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Yusuf Maitama Tuggar; Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar; Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo; Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Dr. Bernard M. Doro; Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede; Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency, Amb. Mohammed Mohammed; and the Inspector General of Police, Mr. Kayode Egbetokun.

Ms. Idayat Hassan of the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and Mr. Paul Alabi of the Embassy of Nigeria in the United States will serve as secretariat.

President Tinubu has urged the Working Group, under Ribadu’s leadership, to collaborate closely with their US counterparts to ensure the effective and timely implementation of all agreed initiatives across sectors.

RIBADU LEADS F.G’s DELEGATION, AS NIGERIA, US OFFICIALS STRENGTHEN SECURITY PARTNERSHIP

Discussions and engagements held last week between a high-level Nigerian delegation and US officials will help strengthen security partnerships between the two countries and open new avenues for cooperation to protect Nigerian citizens.

The delegation, led by the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, met with senior officials across the US Congress, the White House Faith Office, the State Department, the National Security Council, and the Department of War.

In all engagements in Washington, DC, the Nigerian delegation refuted allegations of genocide in Nigeria, emphasising that violent attacks affect families and communities across religious and ethnic lines. The delegation strongly rejected wrongful framing of the situation, saying such would only divide Nigerians and distort the realities on the ground.

Following these engagements, the United States Government affirmed its readiness to deepen security cooperation with Nigeria. This includes enhanced intelligence support, expedited processing of defence equipment requests, and the potential provision of excess defence articles—subject to availability—to reinforce ongoing operations against terrorists and violent extremist groups.

The United States also expressed its willingness to extend complementary support, including humanitarian assistance to affected populations in the Middle Belt and technical support to strengthen early-warning mechanisms.

Both countries agreed to implement immediately a non-binding cooperation framework and to establish a Joint Working Group to ensure a unified and coordinated approach to the agreed areas of cooperation.

In return, the Nigerian delegation reaffirmed the government's commitment to strengthening civilian protection measures.

The discussions provided ample opportunity to correct misconceptions about Nigeria, forged a constructive, solution-driven partnership with the United States, reinforced mutual trust, and advanced a coordinated approach to protecting vulnerable communities, especially in the Middle Belt.

The Federal Government restates its awareness of heightened sensitivities regarding religious freedom and security, and urges citizens to remain assured that firm, urgent, and coordinated steps are being taken to secure the nation.

Members of the delegation included Prince Lateef Olasunkanmi Fagbemi, Attorney General of the Federation; Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, Inspector General of Police; General Christopher Musa, Chief of Defence Staff; Lt. Gen. Emmanuel Parker Undiandeye, Chief of Defence Intelligence; Ms. Idayat Hassan, Special Adviser to the NSA; and Ambassador Ibrahim Babani, Director of Foreign Relations at the Office of the National Security Adviser.

DELAY DEFEATS EQUITY: Engr. Abdullahi Garba Ramat as a Case Study

When justice is delayed, it ceases to be justice. Equity demands that justice must not only be done, but done in good time. Time, in many respects, is the currency that gives justice its meaning.

The prolonged delay in the confirmation of Engr. Abdullahi Garba Ramat as Chairman of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) undermines these principles of natural justice and equity. Why? It has been more than four months since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu nominated Engr. Ramat. He has undergone screening by the Senate and, by every legal and professional standard, fulfilled the requirements of the position. Yet, vested interests have kept his confirmation in limbo.

The Senate Committee on Power—after a thorough, transparent, and bipartisan screening—unanimously cleared him. Their report, recommending his confirmation, was duly transmitted to the Senate leadership over a month ago. Accordingly, the Senate Order Paper of October 22 clearly listed his confirmation as an item for deliberation and adoption. For reasons known only to political bad behaviour, that item was abruptly stepped down.

Reasonable Nigerians are now asking essential questions:

1.⁠ ⁠Can the Senate leadership, by its singular discretion, refuse to present a committee’s report for adoption?
2.⁠ ⁠Should the personal grievances or political interests of a few individuals override the collective decision of a properly constituted Senate Committee?

Although the law does not specify a strict timeframe within which the Senate must conclude its confirmation process, the principles of fairness and administrative justice require that such processes be concluded within a reasonable period. It is therefore unjust—and indeed inequitable—for Engr. Ramat’s confirmation to be subjected to delay without explanation.

If there are new petitions or complaints, submitted after his screening, the Senate has every right to investigate them thoroughly. But such investigations should not justify an indefinite delay in placing the Committee’s report before the full Senate. Due process does not endorse stagnation.

It is on this note that I call the attention of the Senate to this matter. This respected institution must allow justice to prevail. Its continued silence is no longer golden; it is becoming harmful. The perception it now creates is one of political pettiness tarnishing institutional integrity—an impression made even more troubling by the fact that the Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, who hails from the same state as Engr. Ramat, appears to be presiding over this avoidable embarrassment.

Equity demands action. Justice demands a conclusion. The Senate, and its leadership must do what is right.

Abdullahi Maikano is the curator of the Security Watch Network for Good Governance

In Closed-Door Session, Ribadu Meets Hegseth, U.S. Defense Secretary at Pentagon

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Gen. Dan Caine, held a closed-door meeting on Thursday evening with Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, at the Pentagon—an engagement seen as crucial in stabilising U.S.–Nigeria security cooperation following former President Donald Trump’s recent threats to deploy American troops to Nigeria.

Two U.S. defence officials confirmed the meeting, which did not appear on the public schedules of either Hegseth or Caine. Ribadu’s arrival at the Pentagon was also not open to the press, underscoring the sensitivity of the discussions.

Although the Department of Defense—now repeatedly referred to by Hegseth as the “Department of War”—declined to comment on the agenda, senior security sources familiar with the meeting said Mal. Ribadu sought to reinforce Nigeria’s partnership with the United States and to provide clarity on the country’s counterterrorism operations.

The session reportedly focused on strengthening intelligence sharing, expanding joint training for Nigerian forces, and addressing U.S. concerns fuelled by misinformation about religious persecution in Nigeria.

Ribadu, according to officials briefed on the meeting, highlighted Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to dismantle insurgent and criminal networks across the North East and North West, and emphasised that collaborative counterterrorism efforts—not unilateral foreign intervention—remain the most effective path.

Nigeria has already rejected its designation as a “country of particular concern,” insisting that the label was driven by faulty data. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu reiterated that position, stressing that the portrayal of Nigeria as religiously intolerant “does not reflect our national reality,” and fails to acknowledge the government’s consistent work to uphold freedom of religion and belief.

Security observers say Ribadu’s outreach—which comes at a delicate diplomatic moment—helped reaffirm Nigeria as a reliable partner to Washington, ensured continuity in defence cooperation, and countered escalating political rhetoric suggesting U.S. military action.

Why President Tinubu Chose Matawalle To Handle The Kebbi Kidnap Crisis

Dr. Bello Matawalle may not wear military fatigues, but one thing nobody can take away from him is his deep understanding of Nigeria’s security crisis—particularly in the North West, where banditry and mass kidnappings have tormented communities for years. When President Bola Ahmed Tinubu directed the Minister of State for Defence to relocate to Kebbi and take charge of securing the release of abducted schoolgirls, it was not a symbolic gesture. It was a strategic choice rooted in experience, expertise, and a rare grasp of the terrain and its dynamics. Many fail to appreciate that Dr. Matawalle’s appointment as Minister of State for Defence was a deliberate decision based on his proven record.

As Governor of Zamfara State, Dr. Matawalle built a reputation for confronting banditry with a blend of decisiveness and strategic engagement. He once noted publicly that, under his watch, Zamfara enjoyed a period of more than a year without a single bandit attack—an achievement that did not come by accident, but by applying a well-calibrated carrot-and-stick approach that restored a measure of stability to the state.

His efforts went beyond preventing attacks; they extended to rescuing victims—a task he is needed to handle today. In 2020, through the Zamfara Peace Initiative, he secured the unconditional release of 11 kidnap victims without ransom. By June 2022, the Zamfara government announced that over 3,000 kidnap victims had been rescued between September 2019 and January 2022 alone. These included schoolchildren, women, and men abducted across the state. Many of these rescues took place in and around Gando Forest—one of the major hideouts of the region’s most notorious criminal groups. Matawalle’s deep knowledge of the terrain and his collaboration with security forces were instrumental in identifying these hideouts, flushing out the criminals, and bringing victims home.

His understanding of the regional dynamics extended beyond Nigeria’s borders. With the approval of former President Muhammadu Buhari, he made repeated security visits to Niamey, Niger Republic, meeting with then-President Mohammed Bazoum to discuss joint operations, border security, and efforts to halt the inflow of dangerous weapons into the North West. Few leaders in the region possess such cross-border security experience.

Matawalle’s strength are practical and hard-earned. He understands the human terrain of the North West: its cultures, networks, clan dynamics, unspoken hierarchies, and the complicated mix of grievance, criminal opportunism, and survival instincts that fuel the security crisis. Successfully negotiating the release of kidnap victims requires not just authority, but trust, patience, credibility, and the kind of familiarity that cannot be bought or borrowed. Dr. Matawalle has consistently demonstrated all of these.

Perhaps the most defining example of his capability came in 2021, when over 300 schoolboys were abducted in Kankara, Katsina State. It was Matawalle that President Buhari personally contacted. And it was Matawalle who secured their safe return—every single one of them—without a shot fired, and without paying ransom.

This is why the Kebbi crisis demands more than military boots on the ground. It requires someone who understands the psychology of the actors involved, who can navigate informal and sensitive channels, and who knows how to convert intelligence into results without escalating the situation. President Tinubu’s decision to deploy Matawalle to Kebbi reflects clarity: he knows exactly who is best suited for the mission at hand.

Dr. Matawalle is a product of the realities of the North West. He is shaped by them, familiar with their intricacies, and respected by actors who often operate outside formal structures of authority. In a moment like this, such knowledge is as critical as any arsenal or tactical deployment.

Still, the task before him is urgent, delicate, and enormously heavy. But for the girls of Kebbi—taken in fear, held in harsh conditions, and waiting for rescue—there is hope in knowing that the President has placed this mission in the hands of someone who has done it before, and done it repeatedly.

For their sake, and for the country, we hope that this decision yields the outcome every Nigerian desires: their safe return, as swiftly as possible.

- Dahiru Bashir Hassan is a security researcher and writes from the FCT

President Tinubu Deploys Matawalle to Kebbi, Says Your Experience Needed to Deal with Bandits, Bring Girls Back

President Bola Tinubu has asked the Minister of State for Defence, Alhaji Bello Matawalle, to relocate to Kebbi State over the abduction of 25 schoolgirls in the state.

Matawalle, who was formerly governor of Zamfara State, was asked to remain in the state to monitor security efforts to secure the release of the abducted students.

Gunmen abducted 24 students of Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga town, Kebbi State, around 4 am on Monday.

Matawalle, who is expected to arrive in Birni-Kebbi on Friday, gained some experience in dealing with banditry and mass kidnapping during his tenure as governor of Zamfara State from 2019 to 2023.

On 26 February 2021, armed bandits abducted 279 female students aged between 10 and 17 at the Government Girls Science Secondary School, a boarding school in Jangebe, in Zamfara State. The bandits released all the hostages on 2 March 2021.

President Tinubu had postponed his scheduled trip to Johannesburg, South Africa, and Luanda, Angola, as he awaited further security briefings on the kidnapped Kebbi schoolgirls and the attack on Christ Apostolic Church worshippers in Eruku, Kwara State.

IMPENDING LEADERSHIP VACUUM AND OVERSTAYING COMMISSIONERS AT NERC: A LOOMING THREAT TO POWER SECTOR REFORMS AND INVESTOR CONFIDENCE



Nigeria’s electricity sector is edging toward an avoidable leadership crisis. In less than two weeks, the tenure of both the Chairman and Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) will expire. The Electricity Act 2023 does not provide for an Acting Chairman when both offices are vacant, raising the possibility that the Commission could soon be left without any lawful leadership.



For a sector already battling liquidity issues, metering deficits, and persistent operational lapses, a leadership void at the regulatory level could halt key decisions, slow down ongoing reforms, and further weaken already shaky investor confidence.



Engr. Abdullahi Garba Ramat, the President’s nominee for NERC Chairman, has completed the required screening and has only the final step of confirmation left. Industry watchers warn that delaying his confirmation or failing to announce a replacement quickly may plunge the Commission into uncertainty at a critical moment.



His recent appearance on TVC changed many minds within the industry. He spoke confidently about market operations, regulatory structures, digital transformation, and reforms needed to strengthen transparency and consumer protection. Many who initially doubted his competence now consider him adequately prepared and forward-thinking.



Delays driven by political calculations will only deepen the impression that federal appointments have become inconsistent. The electricity sector cannot afford instability at a time when reforms should be accelerating.



Concerns are also growing about the influence of political actors who are believed to pressure the Presidency into postponing or reversing appointments. This perception, whether accurate or not, feeds the narrative that the Tinubu administration is hesitant or inconsistent in handling sensitive postings. Clear and decisive action is needed to correct that impression.



Overstaying Commissioners in Violation of the Electricity Act



Another serious issue is the continued stay of several NERC commissioners whose tenures have already expired, some by almost a year. This clearly violates the Electricity Act 2023, which specifies the duration of appointments: 5 years for the Chairman and 4 years for Commissioners.



Despite this, the following officials remain in office beyond their lawful terms:



Commissioners Who Have Exceeded Their Tenure:

1. Musiliu Oseni, Market Competition and Rates – Appointed 7 February 2017 – End of Tenure 7 February 2025 – Overstayed 9 months

2. Aisha Mahmud, Consumer Affairs – Appointed 1 December 2020 – End of Tenure 1 December 2024 – Overstayed 11 months

3. Shatti Nathan Rogers, Finance and Management Services – Appointed 7 February 2017 – End of Tenure 7 February 2025 – Overstayed 9 months

4. Dafe Akpeneye, Legal, Licensing and Compliance – Appointed 7 February 2017 – End of Tenure 7 February 2025 – Overstayed 9 months



Legal analysts, civil society organisations, and energy stakeholders have repeatedly warned that allowing commissioners to stay beyond their legal tenure is improper and unlawful. Civil society groups are reportedly preparing to challenge the issue in court, while investors are becoming increasingly uneasy about a regulator that does not follow its own laws.



The Path Forward



To stabilise the sector and prevent an avoidable breakdown, President Tinubu should act urgently by:

1. Confirming Engr. Abdullahi Ramat without further delay or nominating a replacement immediately.

2. Directing all commissioners who have exceeded their tenure to vacate office at once.

3. Reaffirming the government’s commitment to law, order and institutional credibility.

Nigeria’s electricity reform efforts and the confidence of investors depend heavily on strong, clear, and lawful leadership. Any further delay risks undermining recent progress and deepening uncertainty in a sector that is central to national development.


Akinloye James is the President of the Initiative to Save Democracy (ISD)

Nigeria has taken a significant step in strengthening its security partnership with the United States following a high-level meeting in Washington, D.C., between Congressman Riley M. Moore and a senior Nigerian delegation led by the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu. The engagement, described as “frank and productive”, comes at a crucial moment in bilateral relations, particularly after recent U.S. decisions and public statements on Nigeria’s internal security situation—decisions which many in international space believe should have involved prior consultation with Nigerian authorities, given their sensitivity and far-reaching implications.

The meeting underscored Nigeria’s readiness to engage constructively with the United States in addressing terrorism, the protection of vulnerable communities, and the growing challenge of misinformation that threatens national cohesion.

Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, Nigeria’s top security official, led a delegation of notable senior figures including the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Her Excellency Bianca Ojukwu; Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun; Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN; Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede; and Chief of Defence Intelligence, Lt. Gen. E. A. P. Undiandeye, among others, sending a clear message about Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening counterterrorism cooperation while firmly protecting its sovereignty.

During the meeting, Nigerian officials outlined the realities of their multidimensional security landscape, including the longstanding fight against Boko Haram and ISWAP, as well as the complex threats of banditry, arms trafficking, and the proliferation of disinformation aimed at destabilising the country.

They emphasized that Nigeria continues to protect all its citizens, regardless of faith, and cautioned against narratives that falsely portray the government as complicit in persecution. Such claims, they noted, undermine national unity and play directly into the hands of extremist groups seeking to exploit religious and ethnic divides.

Congressman Moore, speaking on behalf of the U.S. administration, affirmed America’s readiness to cooperate with Nigeria in tackling terrorism and protecting vulnerable communities, particularly Christians affected by extremist violence in the Northeast and Middle Belt. He stressed the need for visible progress and pledged continued engagement toward dismantling terrorist networks across the country.

“We stand ready to work cooperatively with the Nigerians to help their nation combat the terrorism perpetrated by Boko Haram, ISWAP, and Fulani militants against their population, specifically Christians in the Northeast and Middle Belt regions of Nigeria,” Congressman Riley Moore stated.

"The Nigerian government has the chance to strengthen and deepen its relationship with the United States. President Trump and Congress are united and serious in our resolve to end the violence against Christians and disrupt and destroy terrorist groups within Nigeria.”

Sources noted that the Nigerian delegation emphasised the need for meaningful collaboration which requires accuracy, mutual respect, and continuous dialogue, not unilateral conclusions or decisions taken without Nigeria’s input.

APC Chieftain Urges Senate to Reconsider Confirmation of Engr. Ramat Abdullahi as NERC Chairman

Political advocate and APC stalwart Alwan Hassan has renewed his call for the Nigerian Senate to revisit and conclude the confirmation of Engr. Ramat Abdullahi as Chairman of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), describing the nomination as strategic for the country’s energy future.

Speaking shortly after an engagement he had with the Nigerian Police and the leadership of the Senate, Hassan said his position remains rooted in patriotism and his firm belief in the capacity of young Nigerians to transform the nation. He praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for leading a government that continues to empower young technocrats across key institutions, noting that many of the administration’s most impactful reforms are being driven by young, competent Nigerians.

He cited examples including Charles Odii at SMEDAN, Khalil Halilu at NASENI, the Minister of Youth, as well as Dr. Aminu Maida and Kashifu Inuwa in the communications and digital economy sector, describing them as evidence that young leaders, when entrusted with responsibility, deliver exceptional results.

According to Hassan, Engr. Ramat Abdullahi represents this same generation of competent, energetic, and forward-looking professionals. He recalled that Abdullahi not only underwent screening by the Senate Committee on Power but was widely commended and recommended for confirmation based on merit.

However, Hassan noted that despite being listed on the Order Paper, Abdullahi’s confirmation has stalled, raising concerns about delays in fully constituting the leadership of a commission as strategic as NERC.

“As someone who has followed this process closely, I sincerely appeal to the Senate to take a second look at Engr. Ramat’s case,” he said. “Nigeria’s electricity sector is at a critical point, and we need a regulator with the competence, integrity, and innovative mindset that Engr. Ramat brings to the table. His confirmation will strengthen ongoing reforms and align with the President’s vision for a modern, reliable energy sector.”

Hassan emphasised that his advocacy stems from his commitment to good governance and his belief in the transformational potential of the nominee. He added that the Senate, as a vital democratic institution, plays a key role in ensuring that capable Nigerians are allowed to serve the nation without undue delays.

He reiterated his plea for the upper chamber to “exercise its good conscience and reconsider its stance,” stressing that Abdullahi’s leadership would significantly advance regulatory reforms and support Nigeria’s broader economic agenda.

KSH Named Fellow of NIMechE, Reaffirms Commitment to Strengthening Nigeria’s Engineering Future

The Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), Khalil Suleiman Halilu, has been inducted as a Fellow of the Nigerian Institution of Mechanical Engineers (NIMechE), an honour that highlights his growing influence and contributions to Nigeria’s engineering and industrial transformation.

Halilu described the fellowship as both an encouragement and a renewed call to deepen his commitment to building a stronger engineering and industrial foundation for the country. He expressed gratitude to the leadership of NIMechE for deeming him worthy of the honour and for recognising the reforms, innovations, and institutional strengthening currently taking place at NASENI.

According to him, the recognition further reinforces NASENI’s drive to champion homegrown innovation, advance technology transfer, and promote engineering excellence in alignment with Nigeria’s national development priorities.

He affirmed that the Agency remains focused on delivering results that accelerate industrial growth and support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Senate’s Silence And The Law: The Constitutional Implications Of Abdullahi Garba Ramat’s Unconfirmed Nomination As NERC Chairman

By Abdulkarim Kabiru Maude SAN, Hon. Attorney General, Kano State


On 7 August 2025, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu formally nominated Engr. Dr. Abdullahi Garba Ramat to serve as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC). The presidential statement directed him to assume office in an acting capacity pending confirmation by the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (Senate).

Since then, although the Senate has screened the nominee, it has not formally remitted or pronounced a confirmation decision to the Presidency. In addition, a reliably confirmed source has disclosed that the Senate’s Committee on Power has in fact conducted the screening exercise on Dr. Ramat and has issued a favourable report, cleared him unanimously, which is now being held back from transmission to the Presidency. The source alleges that some influential Senate figures, with personal interest in the position are blocking the release of the report.

This raises pressing constitutional and governance questions: Does the absence of a formal Senate pronouncement amount to non-approval, or is the nomination effectively deemed approved by virtue of the President’s action and the unanimous report by the committee? Under Section 171 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), the President has the power to appoint persons into key public offices, subject in some cases to Senate confirmation.


For NERC, the Electric Power Sector Reform Act, 2005 provides that the Chairman and Commissioners shall be appointed by the President, subject to confirmation by the Senate. Thus, the legislative confirmation requirement embodies the separation of powers: the President proposes, the Senate disposes. However, the Constitution and the enabling Act are silent on the effect of legislative inaction.

This legislative silence creates an institutional vacuum that frustrates governance and undermines the principle of checks and balances. From a purposive interpretative approach, as upheld in Attorney-General of Bendel State v. Attorney-General of the Federation, constitutional provisions must be read in a manner that advances good governance and avoids absurdity. Applying this reasoning, a presidential nomination that has passed through the due process of screening and enjoys a positive committee report should be deemed to subsist.

To hold otherwise would enable legislative inertia to paralyze the executive, contrary to the intent of Sections 5 and 171 of the Constitution, which vest the President with the executive powers necessary to maintain the continuity of government. Additionally, the doctrine of necessity recognized by the courts in A.G. Federation v. Abubakar (2007) 10 NWLR (Pt.1041) 1 permits pragmatic steps to ensure governance does not grind to a halt due to procedural stalemates. Silence is not a constitutional act; it cannot create a vacancy, nor extinguish an appointment validly initiated by the President.

Equally persuasive is the principle of implied approval in public administration. Where a body is empowered to act but fails to do so within a reasonable time, the law presumes that the failure should not defeat another organ’s lawful exercise of power. The Supreme Court in Ladoja v. INEC (2007) 12 NWLR (Pt.1047) 119 emphasized that procedural lapses should not be allowed to frustrate substantive justice or the stability of governance. By parity of reasoning, the Senate’s delay in confirming Engr. Ramat should not invalidate his nomination, particularly where the committee’s clearance has affirmed his competence and suitability.

To the contrary, legislative silence in this context represents an institutional failure that undermines both public confidence and the separation of powers. The power of confirmation was never intended to serve as a weapon of delay or political leverage; it was meant to ensure accountability and competence in public appointments. Where those objectives have been met, continued silence becomes an abuse of process and a disservice to governance efficiency.

According to reliable sources familiar with the proceedings, the Senate Committee on Power has already concluded the screening of Engr. Dr. Abdullahi Garba Ramat. The committee, after a thorough evaluation of his credentials, experience, and performance during the screening session, reportedly issued a unanimous report affirming his competence, integrity, and fitness for the position of Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC).

Every member of the committee was said to have endorsed the report without dissent, describing Dr. Ramat as a professional with the technical depth and administrative capacity needed to reposition Nigeria’s electricity regulatory framework. However, despite the completion of this process, the committee’s report has remained pending, awaiting formal presentation to the Senate in plenary and transmission to the Presidency. Insiders allege that the report’s release is being deliberately delayed due to political interests and internal power plays within the upper chamber.

This factual circumstance deepens the legal inquiry: Not only is the Senate delayed or silent, but the committee has in effect taken the affirmative step of endorsing the nominee, yet the full Senate has not processed the report or formally confirmed him.

Given this scenario, it is instrumental at this juncture to consider two competing interpretative doctrines. Under the Constructive Approval View, once the President nominates, and the Senate (or its committee) screens and issues a favourable report (even if not formally transmitted), the nomination can be treated as deemed approved, particularly if the Senate fails to act within a “reasonable time”.

Silent or indefinite inaction should not paralyse executive functions especially when institutional continuity is at stake. Indeed, the committee’s positive report supports the proposition that the nominee is fit. The presumption of regularity favors continuity of appointments unless the Senate expressly rejects the nominee.

Conversely, the Formal Approval view holds that confirmation must be an affirmative act of the full Senate via resolution; mere screening, even with a favourable report, is not sufficient to constitute confirmation. The Constitution and statute require the Senate’s action, not just the committee’s, and silence cannot be converted into approval by implication.

In this view, the nominee remains in limbo until the Senate votes or transmits a resolution. The blocking by a powerful Senator thus becomes material to the lawfulness of any exercise of the office beyond the acting capacity.

The framers of the Constitution intended confirmation to act as a check, not a tool of obstruction. The factual detail that a single influential Senator is holding up the process for personal interest raises serious concerns: the Senate is not just delayed one member appears to be exercising a veto by inaction. When a committee has done its job and issued a favourable report, and the nominee is ready, the continued blockage threatens the constitutional balance and the raison d’être of the oversight function becomes subverted into a power play.

The delay in confirming a chairman for NERC at this time has real-world consequences: regulatory uncertainty, investor caution, stalled reforms in the electricity sector, and a sense of institutional drift. Dr. Ramat, whose background (40 years, engineering/training credentials) signals a new generation of leadership remains in acting capacity only.

Given the screening and committee clearance, leaving this issue unresolved undermines both the legitimacy of the regulatory regime and signals that procedural manoeuvring trumps merit.

From the political viewpoint, Engr. Dr. Abdullahi Garba Ramat’s situation is even more perplexing. Being a proud son of Kano State, one would ordinarily expect a smooth confirmation process, particularly as the Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau I. Jibrin, also hails from the same state and is widely respected for his consistent advocacy in promoting the interests of his constituents at the federal level.

It therefore defies political logic that a nominee from his home state, especially one reportedly cleared and unanimously endorsed by the Senate Committee on Power, would remain in limbo.

This unusual delay naturally provokes questions: What undercurrents are at play? Why has the Senate withheld action on a report already concluded? Such silence not only fuels speculation of political interference but also underscores the urgent need for transparency and institutional accountability in the confirmation process.

In conclusion, the unfolding facts surrounding the nomination of Engr. Dr. Abdullahi Garba Ramat, his nomination by the President on 7 August 2025, subsequent screening and unanimous clearance by the Senate Committee on Power, the preparation but withholding of the committee’s report, and the Senate’s persistent silence, crystallize a pivotal constitutional question: Does legislative inaction amount to non-approval, or does a valid nomination, coupled with successful screening, mature into a deemed confirmation?

A purposive interpretation of the Constitution, one that respects the delicate balance between executive initiative and legislative oversight, suggests that such a nomination remains presumptively valid until expressly rejected. This view preserves operational continuity in governance while honouring the Senate’s role of check and balance. However, where silence lingers without statutory guidance, legal uncertainty and administrative paralysis inevitably follow.

The present stalemate underscores an urgent need for legislative reform or judicial pronouncement to clarify this grey area.

Only through clear constitutional interpretation and responsible legislative conduct can Nigeria safeguard institutional integrity, good governance, and the supremacy of the rule of law.

To prevent future institutional gridlocks of this nature, a set of clear legal and policy measures is urgently required. Legislation or Senate rules should prescribe a definite time limit, such as thirty or sixty days within which nominations must be either confirmed or rejected, to eliminate prolonged uncertainty. Transparency must also be embedded in the process by ensuring that screening outcomes and committee reports are promptly published and insulated from opaque political interference.

Judicial clarification is imperative through a definitive test case that settles the legal consequences of Senate inaction following a valid committee clearance. Finally, the Presidency should issue a policy directive specifying how long an officer may lawfully serve in an acting capacity pending confirmation, thereby safeguarding administrative continuity while preserving legislative oversight.

Maude is the Kano State Commissioner for Justice and Attorney General.

Ribadu Strengthens Forest Security Operations to Dismantle Criminal Hideouts

The National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has revealed that the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) is intensifying the training of a specialized unit within the Nigeria Forest Security Service as part of ongoing efforts to enhance national security.

Ribadu explained that the initiative forms a key component of the Federal Government’s renewed strategy to dismantle criminal networks and armed groups that have turned the nation’s forests into operational bases and safe havens.

According to him, the enhanced training programme is designed to equip operatives with advanced tactical, surveillance, and intelligence-gathering skills needed to track, intercept, and neutralize criminal elements across forest regions.

The NSA noted that the move underscores the government’s determination to strengthen internal security architecture and restore safety to rural communities that have long suffered from banditry, kidnapping, and other violent crimes.

Pro-Ramat Protesters Storm National Assembly, Demand Senate Confirmation of NERC Nominee

Protesters today gathered at the National Assembly complex in Abuja demanding the immediate confirmation of Engr. Ramat Abdullahi as Chairman of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC).

Armed with placards, the demonstrators accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Deputy Senate President Senator Barau Jibrin of allegedly delaying Abdullahi’s confirmation despite what they described as his “successful screening and outstanding qualifications.”

The protesters insisted that Engr. Abdullahi represents President Bola Tinubu’s reform vision for the power sector, and warned that the Senate must not undermine the administration’s efforts to overhaul the electricity industry.

Some of the inscriptions on their placards read: “National Assembly must not be a clog in the wheel of energy reforms,” “Approve Ramat’s nomination now,” “Akpabio and Barau must stop undermining President Tinubu,” and “NERC needs Ramat now.”

The protesters also questioned the motives behind the delay: “What is Sen. Barau afraid of?” “Engr. Ramat has passed the committee screening, what is Akpabio waiting for?” and “If you have nothing to fear, Engr. Ramat is the right person for NERC.”

Some other messages included: “Senator Barau: stop fighting the interest of Kano State,” and “How can a Kano man be fighting against the interest of Kano State?”

The Pro-Ramat campaigners argued that the nominee is “young, fearless and a reformer,” insisting that his appointment is crucial for achieving the Tinubu administration’s power-sector acceleration programme.

“President Tinubu’s appointees should be respected by the NASS,” one placard read, while another stated, “The National Assembly must support President Tinubu’s power sector reform agenda.”

Engr. Abdullahi was nominated by President Tinubu to chair NERC as part of ongoing reforms in the electricity sector. However, his confirmation has reportedly faced delays following internal disagreements within the Senate leadership.

The protesters vowed to sustain pressure until the Senate releases the screening report and confirms Abdullahi.

Don’t Undermine Tinubu’s Reform Agenda, Group Cautions Senate Over NERC Boss Confirmation

The Grassroots Initiative Concept (GRIC) has issued a formal rejoinder to the Nigerian Senate addressing the delay in confirming Engr. Abdullahi Garba Ramat as Chairman of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), urging transparency and due process in line with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda. GRIC reaffirmed its respect for the Senate’s institutional role, noting that the Senate Committee on Power had screened, cleared, and recommended Engr. Ramat, and that only one petition which was dismissed for lack of merit, was received during the process.

"If indeed it was implied that Engr. Ramat’s confirmation was delayed due to a “baggage of complaints,” this does not reflect the official record of the Senate Committee on Power, chaired by the highly respected Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe.

The records show that Engr. Ramat was screened, cleared, and recommended for confirmation by the committee after a thorough process. Only one petition, questioning his years of experience, was received. After careful evaluation, it was found to be without merit and dismissed.

Several members of the committee have confirmed that the report recommending his confirmation was completed and submitted to the Senate leadership on 22nd October 2025, with copies circulated among members.

The GRIC is in possession of this report, which clearly recommends his confirmation. However, out of respect for the Senate and its internal procedures, we have refrained from releasing it publicly. We trust the distinguished leadership of the Senate to handle this matter with the dignity and discretion it deserves,” the group stated.

The group further stressed that while another nominee screened the same day was confirmed, Ramat’s confirmation has remained pending without explanation.

GRIC appealed to the Senate to clarify on whether the delay is procedural or administrative, emphasising that public confidence in the Senate depends on openness and fairness. It highlighted concerns over mixed public messaging, including comments suggesting “complaints” against the nominee, which contradict the committee’s official findings.

Reiterating support for democratic institutions and President Tinubu’s reform agenda, GRIC called on the Senate’s leadership to uphold transparency, reassure Nigerians and international observers of the Senate’s credibility, and avoid perceptions of political interference.

The group also clarified that references to alleged bribery were based on public speculation, not accusations, and reaffirmed its respect for Senate leadership and confidence that the matter will be resolved with integrity and statesmanship.

Read the Full Rejoinder Statement of GRIC

Senate: Why We Halted Ramat’s Confirmation as NERC Chair —A Rejoinder

The recent statement attributed to the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Senator Yemi Adaramodu (APC, Ekiti South), regarding the delayed confirmation of Engr. Abdullahi Garba Ramat as Chairman of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), has generated understandable public concern and discussion across the country.

At a time when His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, is driving the Renewed Hope Agenda founded on fairness, competence, and youth inclusion, the role of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as a stabilizing pillar of democracy remains indispensable. The credibility and moral authority of the Senate, our foremost legislative body, are essential to sustaining the trust and confidence of the Nigerian people and the international community.

We, the Grassroot Initiave Concept (GRIC), wish to emphasize that we hold the Senate in the highest possible esteem. It is one of the most respected parliaments in Africa, a custodian of the people’s will, and a beacon of legislative excellence. Our intention, therefore, is not to criticize but to clarify facts, defend due process, and safeguard the Senate’s integrity, which remains the foundation of Nigeria’s democratic governance.





1. On the Alleged “Baggage of Public and Private Complaints”

If indeed it was implied that Engr. Ramat’s confirmation was delayed due to a “baggage of complaints,” this does not reflect the official record of the Senate Committee on Power, chaired by the highly respected Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe.

The records show that Engr. Ramat was screened, cleared, and recommended for confirmation by the committee after a thorough process. Only one petition, questioning his years of experience, was received. After careful evaluation, it was found to be without merit and dismissed.

Several members of the committee have confirmed that the report recommending his confirmation was completed and submitted to the Senate leadership on 22nd October 2025, with copies circulated among members.

The GRIC is in possession of this report, which clearly recommends his confirmation. However, out of respect for the Senate and its internal procedures, we have refrained from releasing it publicly. We trust the distinguished leadership of the Senate to handle this matter with the dignity and discretion it deserves.

We remain grateful to the Senate President, His Excellency Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, CON, and the Deputy Senate President, His Excellency Senator Barau I. Jibrin, CON, for their tireless service to the nation. We are fully aware of the enormous responsibility they shoulder in managing the affairs of the Senate and maintaining harmony between the executive and legislative arms of government.

It is in this same spirit of respect and national loyalty that we humbly appeal for clarification as to why the report of the Committee on Power, completed and repeatedly requested for enlistment, has not yet been presented before the full Senate.



2. Senate Procedure and the Question of Delay

By established legislative tradition:
1. The President nominates a candidate.
2. The Senate President refers the nomination to the appropriate committee.
3. The committee screens and submits its report.
4. The Senate deliberates and votes for confirmation or rejection.

In this instance, the Committee on Power faithfully fulfilled its mandate and submitted its report. Yet, while Malam Abubakar Sadiq Yelwa, who was screened on the same day, was confirmed as Managing Director of N-HYPPADEC, Engr. Ramat’s confirmation has remained pending without public explanation.

We are not questioning the Senate’s prerogative, which we recognize and respect fully, but merely appealing for clarity and transparency to prevent unnecessary public misunderstanding.

The Nigerian people hold the Senate in very high regard. A simple clarification will help strengthen that trust and reaffirm the Senate’s reputation as a transparent and impartial arm of government.


3. Key Questions for Clarification

With utmost humility and respect, we seek clarification on the following:
1. If the Committee on Power cleared and recommended Engr. Ramat, why has the report not been presented to the plenary?
2. Why have the Committee’s repeated pleas for enlistment of the report not yet received consideration?
3. Can the distinguished Senate leadership kindly help Nigerians understand whether this delay is procedural, administrative, or otherwise?

We raise these questions not in defiance, but in trust —trust in the Senate’s moral authority and in its history of fairness and justice.


4. Our Stand and National Appeal

This intervention is not about defending an individual but about defending institutional integrity and renewing national faith in democratic institutions.

We represent a broad coalition of patriotic Nigerians, especially young professionals, who deeply believe that the success of the Tinubu administration and the credibility of the 10th Senate are mutually reinforcing.

Our purpose is non-partisan, guided by the conviction that due process, merit, and transparency must continue to define governance in Nigeria.

In light of recent international observations, including comments by the President of the United States on governance and institutional credibility in Nigeria, it is imperative that our institutions, especially the revered Senate, continue to embody transparency, dignity, and independence.

We therefore appeal, respectfully yet earnestly, to the distinguished leadership of the 10th Senate, under Senator Godswill Akpabio and Senator Barau Jibrin, to help Nigerians understand and resolve this matter in the interest of truth, justice, and the image of our nation.

We have absolute confidence that the 10th Senate, guided by its history of fairness and patriotism, will act with wisdom and statesmanship to reaffirm the trust that Nigerians and the world community have long placed in it.

Lastly, On The Alleged $10 Million Bribe Claim:

The statement suggesting that the confirmation of Engr. Ramat was linked to an alleged $10 million bribe is inaccurate and unfairly presented.

For the record, Mr. Alwan’s remarks were purely a reflection of public speculation. He was careful and conditional, using the word “allegedly,” which clearly indicated that he was not accusing the Senate or its leadership of wrongdoing.

The concern raised was about perceptions of political interference, not an indictment of the Senate or any of its distinguished leaders. We therefore respectfully urge that this context be properly understood and communicated.

We reaffirm our deepest respect for the Senate leadership, its distinguished members, and its longstanding tradition of integrity, wisdom, and national service. The Senate has consistently demonstrated a commitment to transparency and justice, and we believe this situation will be handled in that same noble spirit.




Signed:
Ahmed I. Suleiman
(Spokes Person)
Grassroots Initiative Concept (GRIC)
Abuja, Nigeria
Date: 8th November 2025

China Backs Nigeria’s Sovereignty, Rejects US Coercive Diplomacy, Foreign Interference

China has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening strategic cooperation with Nigeria and supporting the country’s sovereign right to pursue independent policy choices, in a move widely interpreted as a response to rising geopolitical pressure on Africa’s largest economy—including recent remarks from the United States.

Following a meeting with National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu in Abuja, China’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, said relations between both nations have entered a “new phase of practical cooperation” since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s state visit to Beijing and participation in the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation summit last year. He noted that joint initiatives in infrastructure, technology, security, and trade are already delivering tangible development gains for Nigerians.

Positioning China as a “comprehensive strategic partner,” Ambassador Dunhai emphasized Beijing’s support for Nigeria’s sovereignty and its right to define its development path without external pressure. He stated that China “opposes interference in the internal affairs of sovereign nations under the guise of religion or human rights,” and condemned what he described as coercive foreign diplomacy, including sanctions and threats of force.

The comments follow heightened U.S. scrutiny of Nigeria’s domestic affairs and come amid a broader contest between global powers for influence across Africa. While avoiding direct reference to Washington, the Ambassador’s remarks signal China’s willingness to present itself as a non-interfering alternative partner, as Nigeria balances critical security and economic ties with both nations.

Ambassador Dunhai added that China stands ready to expand defence and counter-terrorism cooperation with Nigeria, noting that maintaining internal stability and strengthening security institutions remain shared priorities. “China will continue to support Nigeria in safeguarding peace, combating terrorism, and advancing sustainable development,” he said.

With Nigeria emerging as a pivotal player in Africa’s diplomatic and economic landscape, analysts say Abuja’s ability to navigate relationships with both China and the United States will be central to its long-term development and geopolitical influence.

Power, Politics & Paranoia: How Senator Barau Jibrin Is Desperately Fighting to Block Engr. Abdullahi Ramat’s Confirmation as NERC Chairman

In what many insiders describe as a mix of political insecurity and fear of rivalry, the Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, is reportedly using his influence in the National Assembly to frustrate the confirmation of Engr. Abdullahi Garba Ramat as the substantive Chairman/CEO of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC).

Reliable sources within the Senate reveal that Barau’s interference began right from the first day Engr. Ramat appeared before the Senate Committee on Power for screening. Acting through Senator Lado, Barau allegedly moved to stop the process, claiming that Ramat did not possess the required 10 years of experience for the role.

However, the committee swiftly dismissed that claim after confirming that the Electricity Act 2023 does not specify any number of years of experience as a requirement for appointment. In fact, the committee members were reportedly impressed by Ramat’s well-documented achievements, multidisciplinary expertise, and strong leadership background –credentials many agree are more than enough to qualify him even for the position of Minister of Power.


Senate Committee Clears Ramat, But Barau Interferes Again

Despite the attempt to derail the process, the Senate Committee on Power, chaired by Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe (a non-APC member), found Engr. Ramat eminently qualified and recommended him for confirmation alongside nominees for HYPPADEC. The report was listed for consideration on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, but before it could be adopted, Barau allegedly made another move.

According to insider accounts, Senator Barau used his proximity to the Senate President to have Ramat’s confirmation stepped down, allowing only HYPPADEC nominees to be cleared. He reportedly pressured Senator Abaribe to either disqualify Ramat or leave the chamber, forcing the committee chairman to momentarily withdraw, which led to the session being abruptly suspended.



The Real Motive —Fear Born from Political Insecurity

Political insiders believe Senator Barau Jibrin’s hostility toward Engr. Abdullahi Ramat has little to do with qualifications and everything to do with fear of competition –a rivalry that reportedly began the day Engr. Ramat publicly celebrated the birthday of former Governor Engr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.

That single gesture, according to close observers, was interpreted by Barau as a sign of political alignment, even though it was widely seen as a display of respect and goodwill. Since then, Barau has allegedly treated Ramat as a potential rival rather than a professional technocrat, fearing his rising popularity and national recognition.

Engr. Ramat, a young and dynamic technocrat with a spotless record, is known for his integrity, technical depth, and reform-driven mindset. He also enjoys the strong backing of Alhaji Ibrahim Kabir Masari, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Political & Other Matters, one of the most influential figures in the current administration.

Barau, aware of both Ramat’s growing reputation and Masari’s influence, reportedly views his confirmation as a direct threat to his 2027 governorship ambitions.



A Familiar Pattern of Political Suppression

Observers say this isn’t the first time Senator Barau has used his office to undermine promising politicians from Kano State. His record reveals a consistent pattern of political manipulation aimed at weakening perceived rivals.
1- He allegedly engineered the removal of Abdullahi T. Gwarzo as Minister of State for Housing, replacing him with Hon. Abdullahi Atah, a less influential politician.

2- He reportedly blocked Dr. Nasiru Gawuna and Murtala Garo from securing meaningful federal appointments under President Tinubu’s administration.

3- When Maryam Shatti was offered the position of Managing Director of NWDC, Barau allegedly influenced her removal and replaced her with Prof. Shehu Ma’aji, a political lightweight but loyalist.

4- Earlier this year, he was accused of attempting to remove Hon. Abba Bichi as Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, claiming he was “romancing the opposition” –though many saw it as an attempt to suppress a rising star.

5- He has also been linked to moves blocking members of the NNPP-led Kwankwasiyya faction from decamping to the APC, fearing that a united Kano APC bloc could undermine his own control of the party’s structure.



The Ramat Factor –A Political Earthquake Waiting to Happen

Many insiders believe that if Barau succeeds in blocking Ramat’s confirmation, it could trigger serious political consequences both in Abuja and Kano. Such a move would almost certainly damage his relationship with Alhaji Ibrahim Masari, who is said to have played a key role in securing Ramat’s nomination.

It would also open a new chapter of political hostility in Kano, where stakeholders are already growing weary of Barau’s tactics of exclusion and control. As one northern lawmaker reportedly remarked:

“Barau has turned politics into personal warfare. Everyone who shines around him becomes an enemy overnight.”

If the situation escalates, many believe it could mark the beginning of Barau’s political decline, as influential figures within the presidency and the APC may begin to distance themselves from what they see as a destructive brand of politics.



What’s at Stake

This unfolding drama goes beyond personalities. It touches on the very integrity of Nigeria’s political and governance process. Engr. Abdullahi Ramat’s nomination represents competence, youth, and reform-minded leadership –qualities Nigeria desperately needs in its power sector. Blocking such a candidate purely for personal reasons would not only undermine meritocracy but also send a dangerous message that ego trumps excellence.

As the Senate prepares to revisit the confirmation list, all eyes are now on the leadership to see whether justice, fairness, and national interest will prevail or whether personal politics will once again overshadow progress.

One thing remains clear: Kano is watching. The Presidency is watching. And history will record who stood for development — and who stood in its way.



By Ibrahim Musa
Political Analyst & Columnist
ibrahimmusa.reports@gmail.com

TERRORISM: DSS GIVES UPDATE ON PROSECUTION OF TERROR SUSPECTS


On November 19, Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja will continue the trial of two terrorism suspects, Mahmud Muhammad Usman and Abubakar Abba, who are wanted internationally.


Usman (aka Abu Bara'a) and Abba (aka Isah Adam and Mahmud Al-Nigeri) were captured in a high-risk, intelligence-led, counter-terrorism operation in July by the Department of State Services (DSS), after several months of chasing them.



The two are believed to be leaders of the Jama’atu Ansarul Muslimina fi-Biladis Sudan, commonly known as ANSARU, Nigeria’s Al-Qaeda affiliate



Usman, the self-styled Emir of ANSARU, allegedly coordinated various terrorist sleeper cells across Nigeria. He is also believed to have masterminded several high-profile kidnappings and robberies, the proceeds of which were used to finance terrorism over the years.



Abba, Usman's chief of staff and deputy, is alleged to have led the so-called “Mahmudawa” cell, which operated around the Kainji National Park, located on the border between the states of Niger and Kwara, as well as the Republic of Benin.



The Office of the National Security Adviser(ONSA), in a statement issued on August 16, claimed Mamuda received training in Libya between 2013 and 2015 under foreign jihadist instructors from Egypt, Tunisia, and Algeria. He is said to have specialised in weapons handling and IED fabrication.



Usman and Abba are being tried on a 32-count terrorism charge, and on which they were arraigned in late August. One of the counts related to illegal mining, to which Usman pleaded guilty and has since been sentenced to 15 years. Abba pleaded not guilty to all the 32 counts.



The DSS is also prosecuting another terror suspect, Khalid Al‑Barnawi, accused of being the mastermind of the August 26, 2011, bombing of the United Nations Complex in Abuja, in which 20 people were killed and more than 70 others injured.



Captured in 2016, Al Barnawi is facing trial along with four other terror suspects - Mohammed Bashir Saleh, Umar Mohammed Bello aka Datti, Mohammed Salisu, and Yakubu Nuhu aka Bello Maishayi.



The trial has been delayed for an extended period due to legal and procedural issues, including the suspects being occasionally brought to court without any counsel appearing for them.



The DSS recently requested the court to grant accelerated hearing in the case, a request Justice Nwite granted.



On October 23 and 24, a trial-within-trial was conducted, during which videos of the defendants' confessional statements were played in the courtroom.



On August 11, the DSS arraigned five men before a Federal High Court in Abuja over their alleged involvement in the June 5, 2022 attack at St. Francs Catholic Church, Owo, Ondo State.



The five are: Idris Abdulmalik Omeiza, Al Qasim Idris, Jamiu Abdulmalik, Abdulhaleem Idris and Momoh Otuho Abubakar.



Over 40 people died in the attack, while over 100 individuals sustained injuries.



The five defendants were arraigned on a nine-count terrorism charge, marked: FHC/ABJ/CR/301/2025, in which they are accused among others, of being members of Al Shabab terrorist group, with cell in Kogi State.



The defendants are also alleged to have carried out the attack in furtherance of their religious ideology.



They pleaded not guilty when the charge was read to them, following which Justice Nwite ordered that they be remanded in the custody of the prosecuting agency.



In a ruling on September 10 the judge rejected their request for bail on the grounds that they were not only charged with offences that capital in nature, they are also accused of being members of a notorious terrorist organisation.



Justice Nwite agreed with the prosecuting lawyer that the evidence against the defendants was strong and could not be overlooked.



The judge said the argument by the DSS that the defendants would jump bail was not disputed by them and deemed to be true.



Also undergoing trial are the suspects arrested in connection with the Yelwata massacre in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State on June 13 2025.



The attack, in which dozens of people were killed and 107 injured, drew worldwide condemnation. President Bola Tinubu paid a condolence visit to the state and demanded the arrest of the killers and attackers.



On June 24 2025, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, announced the arrest of 26 suspects in connection with the massacre.



In August 2025, the DSS filed terrorism-related charges before the Federal High Court in Abuja, against nine suspects. Two suspects, Haruna Adamu and Muhammad Abdullahi of Awe local government area of Nassarawa state, who are still at large, were charged with four counts of terrorism, among which is the concealment of information about the attacks, before they were staged in Abinsi and Yelwata villages between June 13th and 14th.



In total, the DSS filed six separate charges against the arrested suspects, who are now undergoing trial. They are Adamu and Abdullahi are Musa Beniyon, Bako Malowa, Ibrahim Tunga, Asara Ahnadu, Legu Musa, Adamu Yale, Boddi Ayuba, and Pyeure Damina.



The DSS also charged two other suspects, Terkende Ashuwa and Amos Alede of Guma local government area of Benue State, with three counts for allegedly carrying out reprisal attack against the terror suspects involved in the Abinsi and Yelwata attacks.



Their trial, which is ongoing, before Justice Nwite's court began with their arraignment in early September, with the defendants pleading not guilty.

Director General of the DSS, Tosin Ajayi, said;

" The various arrests and trials of terrorism suspects showed that Nigeria's security agencies have been diligent in dealing with the perpetrators of terror in the country. The men we are prosecuting are separate from the hundreds of suspects under the military's protective custody, whose cases are being handled by the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation. In July last year, 125 of the terrorists were convicted.


"We shall continue to make the suspects accountable for disrupting the peace of our country, in consonance with the rule of law."

President Tinubu remains committed to religious freedom and protection of all Nigerians

Chairman/CEO, Nigerians in the Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) has urged Nigerians at home and abroad to unite against the decision to classify Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern by President Donald Trump of US.

Making reference to statements issued by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dabiri-Erewa appealed to Nigerians in the diaspora to remain calm, united and continue to defend and project the true image of the country.

In a statement issued by Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of the Commission stated that Nigeria is a country built on tolerance, diversity and democratic values.

She said that the conspiracy theory depicting Nigeria as a country killing Christians in particular, is not the true reflection of what is going on in Nigeria.

"Nigeria remains steadfast in upholding democracy, religious freedom, and constitutional guarantees that protect citizens of all faiths", she said.

Dabiri-Erewa said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed the nation’s unwavering commitment to religious liberty and mutual respect.

The NIDCOM Boss said that the Nigeria Ministry of Foreign Affairs has also issued a strong statement on this matter, and urged all Nigerians in the diaspora to speak against the untrue perception

"The perception is definitely not true. There are issues with evil terrorists in some parts of the country, no doubt. What President Trump needs to do is to support the efforts of our government in quashing them not to falsely denigrate our country", she added.

e-signed.
Abdur-Rahman Balogun (mnipr)
Director of Media, Public Relations and Protocols (NIDCOM) Abuja.

Wale Edun to Banks: Deepen Access to Credit for SMEs

Nigeria’s Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, has urged banks to strengthen their support for inclusive growth by expanding access to credit and deepening the capital market for small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

Speaking at the 2025 Fellowship Investiture of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) held over the weekend in Lagos, themed “Banking Beyond Borders: Leveraging Technological Innovation for Enhanced Performance,” Edun emphasised the critical role of the banking sector in driving innovation, job creation, and sustainable economic development.

The minister noted that while the economy has been recording steady growth, more effort is needed to ensure that prosperity translates into broad-based inclusion.

“We now have what I would call Mr. President’s agenda—rapid growth accelerating well above 4 percent—and we expect it to continue,” Edun said. “We have sustained the reform efforts since May 29, 2023, and we have stayed the course. But we need inclusivity—and that means good-paying jobs for our young people.”

Edun challenged financial institutions to play a more proactive role in financing innovation and small business development, stressing that SMEs remain the engine of job creation and national competitiveness.

“We in the finance and banking industry have more work to do because we must finance ideas,” he said. “We must deepen the capital market and expand credit access all the way down to small SMEs. They should not have to go to Silicon Valley. If we don’t meet their aspirations, they will turn to crypto or virtual platforms—and then we’ll have another issue.”

The minister also commended the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and its governor, Yemi Cardoso, for implementing monetary policies that have helped stabilise the financial system despite prevailing economic headwinds.

“Monetary policy under the CBN governor has stabilised the financial system in a most commendable way,” Edun said. “We recognise him and thank him for his efforts. Of course, it’s a team effort—and while those eye-watering interest rates have to be managed by the fiscal side, the fight against inflation is one we must all be part of.”

Edun reaffirmed the government’s commitment to sustaining reforms aimed at achieving high and inclusive growth, with particular emphasis on improving access to finance, empowering young entrepreneurs, and maintaining macroeconomic stability.

Trump’s ignorance about Nigeria: The dangers of a manufactured “Christian genocide”, By Phillip van Niekerk

Two years ago, at a dinner in Washington for so-called Africa “experts” to brief an incoming congressman on the continent, the newly elected lawmaker began his contribution by declaring that one of Africa’s most urgent crises was a “Christian genocide” in Nigeria. When asked to elaborate, he cited a single name — Nnamdi Kanu — as an example of a persecuted Christian languishing in prison.

The table fell silent when someone gently explained that Kanu was not a pastor or missionary but a Biafran secessionist leader, jailed for fomenting rebellion and inciting violence, not for his faith.

That same combination of ignorance and emotional manipulation resurfaced this weekend when Donald Trump erupted on social media, threatening a “fast, vicious and sweet” military invasion of Nigeria to stop a supposed genocide against Christians. The statement was as dangerous as it was absurd.

If Trump had paused to consult the American military, which has spent years partnering quietly with Nigerian forces against Boko Haram and other insurgents, he might have learnt that Nigeria’s conflicts are real — but they are not religious wars.

It is astonishing that the United States spends billions of dollars annually on intelligence gathering, yet its political leaders can still be so profoundly misinformed about Africa’s most populous country. Yes, Christians in parts of Nigeria have suffered horrific violence from extremists. But so too have Muslims, often in even greater numbers. In Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa — the heart of the Boko Haram insurgency — most victims have been Muslim civilians murdered for rejecting the group’s nihilistic ideology.

Trump’s eruption is the culmination of a years-long lobbying campaign in Washington by Biafran separatists, who have cleverly repackaged their secessionist grievance as a struggle to save “persecuted Christians.” Since 2019, Biafran groups have declared more than a million dollars on lobbying in Washington, through Mercury Public Affairs, BW Global Group and Daniel Goldin.

They have found a receptive audience among Christian nationalists in the United States, who see Nigeria through the prism of their own culture wars. Senator Ted Cruz has floated legislation invoking religious persecution. Congressman Riley Moore has made it a personal crusade. Even the comedian, Bill Maher, got in on the act, scolding the media for ignoring it.

The strategy is familiar. It echoes the “white genocide” narrative promoted by far-right activists about Afrikaner farmers — a storyline that the Trump administration once enthusiastically adopted, before quietly erasing it from the discourse.

As with some Afrikaners, many Nigerian Igbos feel that they are the victims of discrimination, second class citizens in a country that has never quite healed the wounds of the Biafran civil war of 1967 to 1970.

In Washington, the campaign deploys the same emotional triggers: a grain of truth wrapped in distortion, amplified through the machinery of American grievance politics.

That grain of truth begins with the Boko Haram war, launched in 2009 in northeastern Nigeria, which has killed tens of thousands across faith lines. It extends to the Middle Belt, where Muslim and Christian farming communities have clashed violently, and to the recurring conflicts between Fulani herders and largely Christian agriculturalists. These are complex, overlapping crises — rooted in land scarcity, climate stress, and state weakness — not a simple religious persecution. Much of the violence is simple banditry and criminality.
To reduce it to “Christian genocide” is not just inaccurate. It is dangerous.

Nigeria is far from perfect, and its government has often handled these conflicts clumsily or brutally. But it is also a country of extraordinary coexistence: roughly half-Christian, half-Muslim, and among the world’s most religiously integrated societies. Its current president, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is a Muslim. His wife, Oluremi Tinubu, is a Christian pastor. Nigeria’s cabinet, parliament, and cities are filled with people who cross those supposed lines every day without bloodshed.

The idea that Abuja is colluding in the persecution of Christians is as false as it is incendiary.

If Trump truly cared about Nigerian lives, he might note that the Tinubu government has been fighting, not aiding, the extremists — often with US logistical and intelligence support. The Pentagon, better than anyone, knows that a military intervention in Nigeria would not be swift or clean. It would be catastrophic, plunging West Africa’s fragile equilibrium into chaos at the very moment when Russian forces — now rebranded as the “Africa Corps” — are being pushed back in the Sahelian states, the epicentre of the Jihadist insurgencies.

Stoking religious hysteria from afar risks achieving what Boko Haram and the Islamic State in West Africa could not: turning Nigeria’s diversity into its undoing.

There is a legitimate role for international support in protecting vulnerable communities, helping Nigeria guard its borders, strengthening peacekeeping and deploying sophisticated technology to prevent violence. As Nigerian commentators have pointed out, the international community needs to close ranks in identifying, sanctioning and prosecuting not just the active participants but the financial sponsors and collaborators with those who are responsible.

The world needs partnership, not performative threats of invasion.
It needs steady diplomacy, not social-media outbursts dressed up as moral crusades.

Trump’s outburst exposes more than his ignorance of Africa. It reveals how easily American domestic politics can be weaponised to distort African realities. The real victims of that distortion are not in Washington’s think-tanks or on cable news. They are the Nigerians — Muslim and Christian alike — who must live with the consequences.

Phillip van Niekerk is the managing partner of Calabar Consulting, a risk consulting company specialising in Africa. The views expressed are his own.

From Concern to Confrontation: Trump’s Threat and What It Means for Nigeria

The world watched, almost disbelieving, as a U.S. president openly threatened military action against Nigeria over its internal security challenges. Such statements are not just provocative; they are unprecedented. Sovereignty, a cornerstone of international law, is violated the moment one nation casually hints at invading another because of its domestic challenges. Diplomacy exists to prevent exactly this sort of recklessness, yet what we witnessed was a blatant dismissal of protocol and a disregard for the very decency that underpins global order. For a nation already battling insecurity and economic strain, it is a sharp reminder that respect in the global arena must be earned and constantly defended.

At first glance, Trump’s words might sound like moral outrage. He says he is worried about Christians being persecuted and is standing up for justice. But that is only the surface. Beneath it lies something else entirely. It is political arrogance. It is America once again playing the world’s policeman, deciding which nations have failed and which need to be fixed. Nigeria has its problems, no doubt, but they are Nigeria’s problems. They are for Nigerians to solve, not a foreign power that has enough turmoil of its own.

The United States, for all its wealth and power, is not free from chaos. In 2023 alone, more than forty-two thousand Americans died from gun violence. That is about a hundred and seventeen people every single day. Mass shootings, racial violence, and hate crimes have become part of its reality. Yet no one threatens to invade America to fix it. So when a U.S. president lectures another country about internal security, it rings hollow. It is not only hypocritical, it is an insult to Nigeria’s sovereignty.

But this is not just about hypocrisy. There is calculation behind Trump’s words. His so-called concern for Christians is less about compassion and more about politics. It plays well with his conservative base back home, especially with evangelical voters who see him as their defender. Nigeria becomes part of that performance, a backdrop for his campaign theatre. In that sense, the threat is not only offensive, it is dangerous, because it ties Nigeria’s fate to America’s domestic politics. Yet there is also a geopolitical motive. Nigeria’s growing assertiveness on the global stage, and its refusal to yield to certain Western pressures, only deepen the strain.

For Nigeria, the implications are serious. The threat exposes how fragile the country’s diplomatic posture has become. Two years after recalling ambassadors, Nigeria still has no formal representation in over a hundred foreign missions. That silence weakens its global voice and limits its ability to defend its interests when attacked. When a nation leaves its diplomatic seats empty, others will fill them with their own stories, and those stories are rarely flattering.

Trump’s comments also test Nigeria’s unity. Citizens may criticise the government, but this is not about the president. It is about the country itself. When a foreign leader threatens Nigeria, it is every Nigerian who is being challenged. The country cannot afford to appear divided. Supporting the government’s response does not mean endorsing its policies. It means standing up for national dignity.

The government, for its part, must move beyond symbolic outrage. It must act with discipline and intelligence. Summoning the U.S. ambassador and issuing a clear statement of objection are necessary first steps. But Nigeria must go further, restoring its diplomatic presence, briefing allies across Africa, and engaging the African Union, ECOWAS, and the United Nations. Silence would signal weakness, but outrage without strategy would only feed the narrative of instability. This is the moment for clarity, calm, and coordination.

There is another danger that cannot be ignored. Trump’s framing of Nigeria’s insecurity as a war between Christians and Muslims is false and deeply irresponsible. The country’s problems are complex. They are about poverty, bad governance, corruption, and regional neglect, not about religion. Allowing outsiders to define those problems through a religious lens risks deepening internal division and justifying external interference. Once others define your crisis, they also decide how it should be solved.

So what does Trump’s threat really mean for Nigeria? It is a wake-up call. It exposes how the world now sees Nigeria, vulnerable, uncoordinated, and lacking diplomatic focus, and how easily those weaknesses can be exploited for political theatre abroad. By dressing political ambition in the language of faith, Trump has shown how religion can be weaponised to justify interference. Framing Nigeria’s challenges as “Christian versus Muslim” reduces complex security and social realities to a dangerous binary, inviting division both at home and abroad. Yet within this lies an opportunity: for Nigeria to reassert its sovereignty, rebuild its diplomatic capacity, and reject any narrative that turns its internal struggles into someone else’s moral crusade.

Nigeria does not seek conflict, but it cannot accept intimidation either. Trump’s threat is more than a diplomatic provocation; it is a test of Nigeria’s unity, maturity, and international standing. History has shown that moral arrogance often marks the beginning of imperial decline, and this moment challenges Nigeria to rise above reaction and act with wisdom. If the government responds with strategy and the people stand together, Trump’s reckless words could achieve the opposite of what he intended. They could remind Nigeria that its dignity is worth defending, its sovereignty is not negotiable, and that true strength lies in calm, principled resolve, the kind that earns respect without firing a shot.

—- Abu Sidiq
Chairman Council, Federal Polytechnic Jo’s, Plateu State.

Trump’s “Country of Concern” Tag on Nigeria: Religion, Revenge, or a Bigger Game?

Yesterday, US President Donald Trump labelled Nigeria a “Country of Particular Concern” over alleged religious persecution. The announcement sent ripples across Nigeria and beyond. For years, claims of a “Christian genocide” have circulated in international media, often with little evidence and much emotion. This latest designation takes matters higher, raising questions about Nigeria’s diplomatic posture and America’s motives.

Let us start with what went wrong at home. Nigeria’s response to such a grave accusation has been clumsy and unserious. Instead of elevating the issue through formal diplomatic channels, engaging legal experts, or pushing back with verifiable data, most early reactions came from citizens on social media. Many acted out of genuine concern and patriotism, not government direction, revealing a troubling absence of strategy from those meant to defend the nation’s image.

The only thing resembling an official effort was the engagement of a political influencer who invited some American social media personalities to Nigeria to counter the genocide narrative. He claimed they had debunked the allegation, but it backfired. The visitors disowned the exercise, accused their hosts of misrepresentation, and exposed it as a poorly planned propaganda stunt. What should have been a sober diplomatic rebuttal became a social media circus that embarrassed the country and weakened its defence.

Beyond that misstep lies a deeper pattern. There appears to be a broader agenda at play, one that goes beyond religion. Nigeria’s growing independence on the global stage has not gone unnoticed, especially its refusal to bend to certain Western demands, from oil deals to diplomatic alignments. The recent review of the US visa policy toward Nigeria, reportedly linked to Abuja’s refusal to accept deportees and comply with bilateral conditions, adds another layer of tension. In global politics, moral outrage often hides political manoeuvring.

Nigeria’s security challenges are real. The country has grappled with terrorism, banditry, and communal violence that have claimed thousands of lives. But these conflicts stem more from poverty, weak governance, and resource struggles than from religion. To label them a “Christian genocide” oversimplifies a complex reality and weaponises human suffering for political ends.

Every time America amplifies stories of religious persecution in Nigeria, it is rarely about saving lives. It is about shaping perception, creating pressure, and tightening control. It fits a familiar pattern: destabilise Nigeria, gain influence, access resources, and win ground in the global contest with China and Russia. A divided Nigeria is easier to manipulate than a united one.

Some believe Nigeria’s refusal to yield to certain Western expectations has deepened these tensions. What looks like concern may actually be strategy. The “Country of Concern” tag reflects not Nigeria’s reality but America’s interests.

This is why Nigeria’s response must be strategic, not sentimental. Our diplomats, not influencers, should take the lead. The government must engage Washington through facts, not emotion, and tell Nigeria’s story as it truly is: a nation with complex security challenges, yes, but also a resilient and plural society holding itself together. It must strengthen its foreign ministry, empower embassies, and communicate clearly without compromising sovereignty.

Trump’s designation should not provoke panic. It should provoke strategy. Our real defence lies in unity, not outrage; in diplomacy, not denial; in confidence, not confusion. The world respects nations that defend their truth with clarity. Nigeria must stop reacting to narratives written abroad and start writing its own. The world may see this as a story of religion. In truth, it is a story of power, influence, and perception. Nigeria must decide whether to be a pawn or a player in that global game. In a world where narratives shape nations, Nigeria must own its story or risk being written out of it.

—— Abu Sidiq

Tuggar Reviews Diplomatic Progress, Sets New Priorities for Nigeria’s Foreign Service

As the month of October winds down, Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, has convened a strategic review meeting with heads of departments and agencies under the Ministry to assess progress on deliverables tied to the Ministerial Performance Bond (MPB). The meeting examined institutional performance across departments and missions, ongoing administrative reforms, and Nigeria’s evolving diplomatic priorities.

Ambassador Tuggar noted that the review followed his recent visits to key parastatals under the Ministry, aimed at ensuring full alignment with the Ministry’s 4D Doctrine — Democracy, Development, Demography, and Diaspora. The discussion centred on measures to strengthen efficiency within the foreign service and advance Nigeria’s international presence.

Among the priorities identified were the rehabilitation of the Lagos Liaison Office, enhanced funding for the Foreign Service Academy in Badagry, and commendation for the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA) over its innovative partnerships and infrastructure growth.

The Minister also reviewed ongoing initiatives, including the digitalisation of Ministry processes, timely submission of mission budgets, and the improvement of economic reporting from Nigeria’s missions abroad. He further confirmed that plans were underway to operationalise the Abuja Airport Lounge and establish a similar facility in Lagos to support diplomatic convenience and service delivery.

Tuggar disclosed that engagements with the Ministers of Finance and Budget & Economic Planning had set the stage for a 2026 budget that better reflects the needs of the foreign service and sustains Nigeria’s expanding global role. He also commended the Ministry’s role in Nigeria’s recent diplomatic success at the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF), which produced Dr. Philip Mshelbila as Secretary-General and the Rt. Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo as President of the 2026 Ministerial Meeting.

Reaffirming that Nigeria’s foreign policy remains guided by the 4Ds, Tuggar underscored the country’s growing leadership in regional diplomacy, citing platforms such as the Regional Peace and Development (RPD) Programme and the West Africa Economic Summit (WAES). He also directed renewed focus on upcoming international elections, including Nigeria’s campaign for Dr. Olufemi Elias to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and other strategic global positions.

According to the Minister, these efforts reinforce Nigeria’s commitment to promoting democratic governance, stability, and economic resilience across West Africa while ensuring that the nation’s diplomatic machinery remains responsive to a rapidly changing world.

Edun: Fuel Subsidy Removal, FX Reforms Have Strengthened Nigeria’s Public Finances

The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, has reaffirmed that the removal of fuel subsidies and the implementation of foreign exchange reforms have strengthened Nigeria’s public finances, improved investor confidence, and redirected national resources toward citizens and productive investments.

Speaking in Akure, Ondo State, during the South West Stakeholders Dialogue, Mr. Edun reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to disciplined fiscal management, transparency, and private sector–led growth under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Quoting the Minister, the Director of Information and Public Relations, Mohammed Manga, said in a statement: “Nigeria’s resources are now benefiting the many, not the few. Our reforms are levelling the playing field, boosting competitiveness, and enabling sustainable economic expansion.”

Mr. Edun noted that the reforms are already delivering measurable results — including faster GDP growth, easing inflationary pressures, and a stabilising exchange rate. He also highlighted key interventions such as digital cash transfers to vulnerable households, the rollout of student financing under NELFUND, and the government’s plan to deploy a 90,000-kilometre fibre-optic network across the country to expand digital access and drive innovation.

He emphasised that the administration remains focused on reforms that attract investment, deepen inclusion, and lay the foundation for long-term prosperity. “We are creating the right conditions for businesses to thrive and for every Nigerian to benefit from the nation’s progress,” the Minister concluded.

A Word For The New Chiefs in Town

Most definitely, as a fall out from the planned failed putsch, President Bola Tinubu fired his service chiefs last week. This was expected. The thought alone of a coup within the ranks of the military is unacceptable. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is in order.

His appointment of replacements to immediately fill in the slots was expected, and they have been screened by the Senate. The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Olufemi Oluyede was elevated to Chief of Defense Staff. The former Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa was booted. Major-General W. Shaibu was appointed Chief of Army Staff; Air Vice Marshal S.K. Aneke took over as Chief of Air Staff, while Rear Admiral I. Abbas took over as Chief of Naval Staff. The Chief of Defence Intelligence, Major-General E.A.P. Undiendeye who most likely played the most significant role in uncovering the dastardly plot was retained. The National Security Adviser, Mal. Nuhu Ribadu, of course, remained: he is the President’s most instrumental official in coordinating security policy.

The new service chiefs will continue from where the former chiefs stopped. But they must approach their roles in even hastier pace. The former chiefs, through the coordination of the National Security Adviser had set solid footing and laid good foundation for the work the new chiefs would be expected to execute. They had eliminated several threats and made the country considerably safer. I acknowledge that it is impossible to eliminate all security threats at this moment, given Nigeria’s peculiar situation.

The threat of Boko Haram still lingers, even though the ideology is fading. Credit must be given to the Armed Forces as they have dealt good blow to that terrorism ideology. But they must do well to clean it up completely and deny any further breathing space to the terrorists. Nigerians in the North East must be able to return to normalcy soonest. Maiduguri and its environs should no longer be known for terrorism but for commerce as it once was known for.

The same goes for banditry. The Kaduna-Abuja Expressway, was a thoroughfare that kindled fear in the hearts of travellers is much safer. Thanks to the efforts of Mallam Nuhu Ribadu and the security agencies he coordinated to effectively man the route, and flush out the bandits in those areas, making their venture unprofitable. The major kingpins have been eliminated through well-coordinated campaigns of the security agencies. Despite all these, banditry in Nigeria is not yet history. Every now and then, those who have been chased out of towns and highways scramble out of their holes to unleash terror in villages and communities, seeking food and ransom.

Our new chiefs have the duty to complete the good job that was started. They must meet the bandits in their hideouts and eliminate all of them. Nigerians are eager to write off this phase of criminality even as we move closer to a more secure and safe country.

The good work conducted in the South Eastern parts of the country, where the near-defunct IPOB has no capacity to conduct attacks must be upheld. Mal. Nuhu Ribadu, in his remarks in Kaduna recently attested to the fact that the Monday sit-at-home order has lost grip in the region. Our new chiefs need to ensure that the people of the South East fully resume full normalcy of their lives in the shortest possible time.

In the South South too, militancy has ebbed. It’s complete end must be sustained.

When President Bola Tinubu appointed these service chiefs, he charged them to justify the confidence he and Nigerians reposed in them by enhancing professionalism, vigilance, unity, and camaraderie within the Armed Forces.

Let me highlight one key point from the President’s charge. It is the need for more professionalism within the armed forces. Again, I reiterate that it is an irresponsible thing, a perversion, and the height of disrespect for Nigerians that a group of members of our armed forces even conceived the thought of a destabilisation of our democracy.

The new service chiefs must have in their consciousness the very problem that saw to their elevation in rank and assignment. If they want to keep their jobs they must rid their services of all forms of unprofessional conduct. The armed forces must remain in the barracks with no business in the politics of our country. All officers that think otherwise must be flushed out completely. Democracy is here to stay.

My most crucial word to the new chiefs comes at this tail end. It is the matter of collaboration with each other. The successes that the former Service Chiefs were able to record were not the doing of any single service alone. It was the outcome of successful collaboration under the coordination of the National Security Adviser, Mal. Nuhu Ribadu.

Through Mal. Ribadu’s coordination, they delivered swift blows to terrorist heads, eliminated bandit leaders, and restored sanity to our highways and business spaces. Coordination and collaboration were key to this. If our new chiefs must rise above the bar set by their predecessors, they must work closely with Mal. Ribadu—he has proven to be a strong central midfielder, as those familiar with football will say.

Working in silos was unfortunately the bane of the late President Buhari’s security architecture. We must not return to that after steady progress has been made by the Office of the National Security Adviser. With these few words, I wish the new chiefs the best. I pray that Nigeria will be safer under their watch. God be with them.

Mohammed T. Abiodun is a historian, he writes from Abuja.

STATEHOUSE PRESS RELEASE

PRESIDENT TINUBU CELEBRATES KHALIL HALILU @KSHalilu, EXECUTIVE VICE CHAIRMAN OF @NASENIHQ, ON HIS 35TH BIRTHDAY
 
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu extends his heartfelt felicitations to Mr Khalil Suleiman Halilu, the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), on his 35th birthday.
 
The President extols Mr Halilu, one of the youngest appointees of the Renewed Hope administration, for redefining public sector innovation through his dynamic leadership and forward-thinking reforms that have repositioned NASENI as a cornerstone of Nigeria's industrial and technological advancement.
 
President Tinubu lauds the NASENI chief for his youthful vigour, clarity of purpose, and commitment to harnessing indigenous ingenuity to drive economic diversification and job creation.
 
President Tinubu wishes Halilu continued success and wisdom in his service to the nation, encouraging him to sustain his remarkable contributions to the Renewed Hope Agenda and Nigeria's technological self-reliance.
 
Bayo Onanuga
Special Adviser to the President
(Information and Strategy)
October 29, 2025

Nigeria’s Economic Future Anchored on Responsible and Visionary Leadership — Edun

The Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, has reiterated that Nigeria’s economic transformation rests on responsible and visionary leadership — one that sustains reforms, drives innovation, and ensures inclusive growth.

Speaking at the Oxford Global Think Tank Leadership Conference in Abuja on Tuesday, themed “Better Leadership for a Better Nigeria,” Mr. Edun commended Ms. Arumah Oteh for convening a platform that invests in nurturing the next generation of leaders committed to national progress.

The Minister underscored that leadership development is central to stability and long-term prosperity, stressing that Nigeria’s economic renewal depends on leaders who combine foresight with empathy and discipline. “Our economic future rests on leadership that listens, learns, and leads with purpose — ensuring that every reform delivers growth and opportunity,” he stated.

Citing practical examples of reform translating into impact, Mr. Edun highlighted ongoing initiatives such as the digital cash transfer programme reaching 8.1 million Nigerians — with a target of 15 million — and the Ward-Based Development Programme, which supports small businesses and community enterprises across more than 8,000 wards nationwide.

He reaffirmed the administration’s unwavering commitment to macroeconomic stability, fiscal transparency, and inclusive development, noting that sustainable growth can only be achieved through strong, ethical leadership at all levels.

“With responsible leadership and continued reform, Nigeria is well positioned for sustained growth that benefits all citizens and inspires confidence in the private sector,” he said.

Mr. Edun concluded by congratulating Ms. Oteh and the Oxford Global Think Tank for fostering an important national conversation on leadership excellence and for promoting the kind of dialogue that will help build a more resilient and prosperous Nigeria.

NSA: Any violence during Anambra guber will be met with strong response

Mal. Nuhu Ribadu, the National Security Adviser (NSA), has warned that any act of violence during the Anambra governorship election will be met with commensurate response from security agencies.

Ribadu, represented by Hassan Yahaya Abdullahi, director of internal security at the office of the NSA, issued the warning on Tuesday during a meeting of the inter-agency consultative committee on election security (ICCES) with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Abuja.

The National Security Adviser said the federal government has put in place robust security measures to ensure a peaceful election.

He added that the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) and other security agencies are fully prepared to ensure safety before, during, and after the poll.

“As we prepare for the Anambra state governorship election on 8th November 2025, we have put in place robust security measures,” he said.

“These include enhanced surveillance, the deployment of sufficient security personnel, and improved intelligence gathering to prevent any attempt by disruptive elements or desperate politicians to undermine the electoral process.”

*Nigeria’s exit from the FATF grey list: A major boost to President Tinubu’s economic and monetary reforms*


When the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) placed Nigeria on its grey list in February 2023, it laid bare the cracks in the country’s defences against money laundering, terrorist financing, and illicit financial flows. The designation—officially known as “jurisdiction under increased monitoring”—sent a clear message to the global financial community: Nigeria had serious gaps in its regulatory and compliance systems.

The consequences were immediate. International banks and investors became cautious, subjecting Nigerian transactions to stricter scrutiny and higher compliance costs. Foreign direct investment slowed, correspondent banking relationships weakened, and Nigeria’s reputation within the global financial system took a hit.

Two years later, that story has changed dramatically — and in ways few anticipated. On the 24th of October 2025, the FATF announced Nigeria’s removal from the grey list, marking not just a regulatory milestone but a powerful vote of confidence in the country’s financial integrity and reform trajectory. More importantly, it validates the Tinubu administration’s economic and monetary reform agenda, proving that Nigeria is moving decisively toward transparency, accountability, and global best practices.

This turnaround was no accident. It is the result of deliberate, coordinated policy action led by the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), the Minister of Justice/Attorney General of the Federation, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) — all operating under a reform-driven administration determined to restore investor trust and reposition Nigeria as a credible global partner.


*Restoring trust and credibility in Nigeria’s financial system*


FATF’s decision is a global endorsement of Nigeria’s work to strengthen its anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorist financing (CFT) systems. Over the past two years, Nigerian institutions have closed regulatory gaps, enhanced beneficial ownership transparency, and improved the sharing of financial intelligence.

A major shift in confidence came with the arrival of Central Bank Governor Olayemi Cardoso. When he assumed the helm in September 2023, Cardoso knew credibility was Nigeria’s most valuable currency. From his first days in office, he made integrity and compliance the cornerstones of financial reform. He moved quietly but decisively—tightening oversight, enforcing stricter AML and CFT standards, and ensuring banks that flouted regulations faced real consequences.

“We have to rebuild credibility from within,” Cardoso often emphasised in his public remarks. The results soon spoke for themselves. Confidence began to return, regulators aligned, and Nigeria’s commitment to global financial standards became unmistakable. By the time FATF announced Nigeria’s removal from the grey list, it was clear that Cardoso’s reforms had not only solved a technical problem — they had helped repair the country’s reputation in the eyes of the world.


*A tailwind for Tinubu’s tough monetary reforms*


President Tinubu’s most challenging reforms have been in the monetary sector — from the unification of foreign exchange rates and the removal of multiple FX windows to the transition toward a market-reflective naira. These moves, though necessary, initially triggered turbulence: capital flight, inflationary pressure, and a temporary erosion of public confidence.

The FATF delisting helps steady the ship. It reassures international investors and domestic stakeholders that Nigeria’s financial environment is now more transparent, less risky, and globally compliant. This restored credibility encourages foreign exchange inflows, improves liquidity, and supports naira stabilisation — all critical ingredients in restoring macroeconomic balance.

For a government working to reduce exchange rate volatility and attract diaspora remittances through formal channels, the timing could not be better. And for President Tinubu, the FATF exit is more than a technical achievement—it’s political capital, lending credibility to his economic reform agenda at a time when results are beginning to show.


*Lowering risk and strengthening market confidence*


Foreign investors often view the FATF grey list as a warning sign — a marker of weak oversight and exposure to illicit financial risks. Nigeria’s removal from the list effectively lowers its risk premium, giving multinational corporations, private equity funds, and development partners greater confidence to engage.

In practical terms, this translates into cheaper capital, increased foreign direct investment (FDI), and a stronger appetite for portfolio investments in Nigerian debt and equities.

Combined with Finance Minister Wale Edun’s fiscal consolidation measures and Cardoso’s tighter monetary stance, the improved FATF standing could even prompt credit rating agencies to revise Nigeria’s outlook positively — easing borrowing costs and improving access to global capital markets.


*Digital finance and fintech*


An often-overlooked benefit of FATF compliance is its impact on fintech and digital finance.

Nigeria’s fast-growing digital payments ecosystem — from mobile wallets and e-commerce to blockchain innovation — thrives on global trust and interoperability. Exiting the grey list strengthens the country’s standing in cross-border transactions, correspondent banking, and international payment negotiations.

Fintech firms will now find it easier to attract venture capital and forge partnerships with global networks—a crucial boost to Nigeria’s digital economy ambitions.

But FATF compliance is not just about banking; it’s about governance. The reforms that led to Nigeria’s delisting required deep institutional collaboration across regulators, law enforcement, and policymakers. The resulting improvements in corporate transparency, beneficial ownership disclosure, and inter-agency coordination mark a quiet but decisive victory against systemic opacity.

These achievements align directly with President Tinubu’s anti-corruption and fiscal integrity agenda, reinforcing Nigeria’s reputation at a time when trust in public institutions remains fragile.

Internationally, Nigeria’s improved standing repositions it as a credible partner in combating illicit financial flows, asset recovery, and counter-terrorism cooperation — areas where reputation is as valuable as resources.


*Broadening the economic impact*


Nigeria’s exit from the FATF grey list should be seen as part of a broader economic recalibration—one that includes subsidy reforms, tax rationalisation, fiscal decentralisation, and efforts to expand the productive base of the economy.

The immediate effects will likely include lower transaction costs, faster remittance flows, and greater export competitiveness — particularly for Made-in-Nigeria goods under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Over time, these benefits could compound, supporting the President’s vision of a billion-dollar economy that is more resilient, diversified, and inclusive.

The challenge now is to sustain this credibility—through consistent enforcement, continued transparency, and disciplined reform—ensuring that Nigeria’s hard-won return to global financial respectability becomes permanent.


*_Ayobami Oyalowo is the Executive Director of Finance and Administration at the Ogun-Oshun River Basin Development Authority (O-ORBDA)._*

Nigeria Champions Middle-Power Diplomacy and Green Finance at the Berlin Global Dialogue

At the Berlin Global Dialogue, Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, joined world leaders and policymakers to highlight Nigeria’s expanding global influence, particularly in advancing Middle-Power Diplomacy and Green Finance as pathways to sustainable development.

Speaking on the panel titled “The Pivotal Role of Middle Powers in a Multipolar World,” Ambassador Tuggar underscored that Nigeria’s diplomatic strength lies in bridge-building rather than bloc alignment. He noted that as Africa’s largest economy and most populous nation, Nigeria’s foreign policy is anchored on strategic autonomy, fairness, and mutual respect—principles rooted in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

During the Green Guarantee Group (GGG) Roundtable, the Minister spotlighted Nigeria’s innovative financing mechanisms driving its green transition. These include:

- The establishment of the Nigeria Credit Guarantee Company (NCGC) to de-risk renewable energy and MSME investments;
- A landmark Memorandum of Understanding on guarantee-backed financing for energy transition and green minerals; and
- Strengthened national coordination through the National Council on Climate Change.

Ambassador Tuggar reiterated that green finance is not an act of charity but a strategic investment opportunity, stressing that Nigeria is demonstrating how climate action can be both profitable and transformative.

He concluded by affirming that diplomacy in the 21st century must be defined by collaboration, not domination, and that Nigeria remains committed to shaping a fairer, greener, and more inclusive world.

Nigeria turning towards prosperity by Wale Edun

In this role, I often feel a mix of emotions: deep pride in our national journey, regret over the opportunities we failed to seize, and confidence in our direction of travel today. Despite some historical shortfalls and present-day challenges, I believe the most difficult phase of our economic journey is behind us. Nigeria has turned a decisive corner. The road ahead will demand hard work and discipline, but we are firmly on the right path.

When President Bola Tinubu took office in 2023, Nigeria’s economy was on the brink of fiscal collapse. Slowing growth, surging inflation, and market distortions like the fuel subsidy and multiple exchange rate regimes had created an environment that scared off investment. The President’s mandate was clear – dismantle those market distortions, reward productivity, and create a climate where private investment can thrive.

Two years later, the results are evident at the macro level. GDP grew by 4.23 per cent in the second quarter of 2025. Inflation, while still high, has moderated to 18.02 per cent after six consecutive months of decline. The exchange rate has stabilised, and the gap between official and parallel markets has narrowed to about one per cent, down from a peak of nearly 70 per cent. Importantly, foreign reserves have risen above $43bn, the highest since 2019. These are more than just numbers; they are the foundation for building inclusive growth that benefits every Nigerian.

Notwithstanding, we recognise that the economy is ultimately about people, not statistics. Millions of Nigerians measure progress by the cost of food, transport, and other necessities. I am keenly aware of this reality. Food inflation has been our heaviest burden since it surged after currency depreciation and the removal of fuel subsidies. However, targeted measures are beginning to ease the pressure. A bag of rice that cost about N120,000 last year now averages around N80,000. The prices of garri, pepper, tomatoes, and other essentials have also decreased.

At the same time, we are careful to ensure our smallholder farmers have enough incentives to return to farms next planting season. We are, therefore, implementing programmes that stimulate agricultural production by safeguarding smallholder farmers’ incomes.

Additionally, 8.1 million households nationwide have received direct cash support from the government to help meet basic needs. This is more than a safety net; it ensures that the impact of these necessary reforms is cushioned for the most vulnerable among us, even as we continue to resolve the identity verification issues required to reach our 15 million households’ targets.

The progress we have made does not diminish the tough realities we still face. Debt service costs remain heavy, consuming a larger-than-ideal share of our revenues. This is the consequence of past borrowing and elevated interest rates. At the same time, Nigeria’s fiscal revenue-to-GDP ratio, at about 10 per cent after rebasing, remains one of the lowest in Africa. This limits government resources for essential services like health, education, and infrastructure.

On June 26, 2025, the President signed the new Nigeria Tax Act and companion legislation, to take effect on January 1, 2026. These reforms aim to broaden the tax base, simplify compliance, and reduce leakages, while introducing a more progressive tax regime that shields lower-income earners and adjusts rates for higher earners. Together with structural revenue reforms such as the Revenue Optimisation and Assurance programme, these measures will strengthen revenues, create fiscal space, and support greater investment in our people and infrastructure.

A stable economy is crucial, but stability alone is insufficient. To deliver inclusive prosperity, we must anchor growth in sectors that generate jobs and opportunities. We are providing necessary incentives to revive investments in the oil and gas industry. With improved security, oil theft is down, and production has rebounded to 1.68 million barrels per day, including condensates. Refinery projects are setting the stage for a stronger downstream sector.

In agriculture, we are boosting food supply, reducing reliance on imports, and ensuring farmers have security and access to markets. We are encouraging investment in factories and strategic value chains, creating employment for our young and dynamic workforce. We are investing in technology and the creative sector to harness the energy of our youth and position Nigeria as a hub of innovation. In addition, we are expanding exports beyond oil by tapping into the global demand for critical minerals.

Infrastructure is the backbone of growth. Public funds alone cannot meet Nigeria’s vast needs, so we are attracting private capital through public-private partnerships. The Ajaokuta–Kaduna–Kano gas pipeline, and Project Bridge’s 90,000 km fibre expansion are examples of how we are laying out the groundwork for industrialisation and nationwide connectivity.

As I begin to conclude, the clearest sign that Nigeria is on the right path is the return of confidence. Investors – both domestic and foreign, multilateral institutions, and ordinary citizens – are starting to believe in the nation’s prospects again. But confidence is fragile. Sustaining it demands a predictable policy environment, disciplined fiscal management, and steady progress in reducing inflation.

Our medium-term target is seven per cent growth by 2027/28. Achieving this will require not only government action but the full participation of the private sector, entrepreneurs, and citizens. I am confident that if we work together, we will not only meet this target but surpass it. The task ahead, therefore, is to deepen resilience, broaden opportunities, and ensure that reforms translate into real improvements in daily life – better schools, affordable food, reliable power, accessible healthcare, and jobs for our youth.

Then, we can be rest assured that Nigeria’s next decade will be one of shared prosperity and renewed hope.

Edun is the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy

NASENI Becomes First African Government Agency to Join World Association of Young Scientists

In a milestone that underscores Nigeria’s growing footprint in global science diplomacy, the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) has become the first government agency from the continent to be admitted into the World Association of Young Scientists.

The historic induction, confirmed following the association’s annual plenary meeting, places NASENI alongside an exclusive roster of national science institutions and research bodies from more than 60 countries that are shaping the future of youth-led innovation and cross-border scientific collaboration.

This represents both validation and opportunity for Nigeria. NASENI, established in 1992 to anchor the nation’s industrialization through indigenous engineering capacity, with this membership now gains direct access to a global network of young researchers, funding streams, and collaborative platforms that could accelerate the commercialization of homegrown technologies.

The World Association of Young Scientists, a non-governmental organization that champions youth-driven solutions to global challenges, operates as both convener and catalyst. Through summits, exchange programs, and its prestigious Young Scientist Sustainable Development Goals Award, WAYS connects emerging researchers across disciplines with opportunities to address climate change, food security, and technological inequality—issues that disproportionately affect developing nations.

For NASENI, whose mandate spans everything from solar panel manufacturing to hydropower plant development through a network of specialized institutes across Nigeria, membership offers tangible benefits: access to international best practices, potential research partnerships with institutions in Asia, Europe, and the Americas, and a platform to showcase Nigerian innovation to investors and policymakers beyond the continent.

NASENI’s admission signals that African institutions, when properly positioned, can compete for relevance in shaping how young scientists worldwide tackle shared challenges like sustainable development and ethical research standards.

This move also aligns with broader ambitions to diversify Nigeria from an oil-dependent economy through knowledge-driven sectors. NASENI’s existing work, from engineering materials to scientific equipment for education and industry, has yielded projects including renewable energy installations. Exposure to WAYS’s innovation ecosystem would help bridge gaps of commercialization, while connecting Nigerian prototypes with markets and manufacturing expertise.