₦airaland Forum

The Brotherhood of the Cross and Star (BCS), under the spiritual leadership of His Holiness Olumba Olumba Obu, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to seek the divine blueprint of Olumba Olumba Obu to address Nigeria's worsening economic challenges.

The group argued that the country's deepening hardship cannot be resolved through political or economic policies alone, insisting that lasting national transformation requires spiritual guidance, humility and love.

The Directorate for Evangelism of the Brotherhood of the Cross and Star, Archbishop David Irefin, disclosed this during an exclusive interview with The Guardian, he said Nigeria's worsening hardship reflects a failure by leaders and citizens to acknowledge God in governance, adding that lasting solutions require humility, love and spiritual direction.

Irefin maintained that no government can successfully tackle Nigeria's mounting political and socio-economic challenges without acknowledging God and embracing divine direction.

He argued that Nigerians have misunderstood true worship, saying many believe religious activities alone amount to serving God, whereas hatred, discrimination, violence and other social vices have continued to divide the nation.

According to him, "They are not aware that God exists only where love reigns. God is love. That is why our Lord Jesus Christ taught that anyone who does not love his or her neighbour cannot truly claim to love God.

"Today, Nigerians are divided along religious and political lines. They have forgotten that God created all people for His own pleasure. Muslims, Christians and followers of African traditional religion are all children of the same God. You cannot claim to worship God while hating those He created.

"The practice of religion without genuine love has left many Nigerians wanting before God and deserving of punishment. This is the major reason Nigeria is plagued by insecurity, confusion, poverty, suffering and other social challenges.

"His Holiness Olumba Olumba Obu has revealed that God is love and that the true followers of God are identified by their character. They practise love, peace, humility, patience, self-control, mercy and forgiveness.

"Those who truly worship God are not identified by religious affiliation but by their conduct. They are not involved in violence, kidnapping, war, materialism, discrimination, ethnic hatred or any form of evil. They neither judge nor condemn others because judgment belongs to God alone."

The Archbishop further claimed that His Holiness Olumba Olumba Obu has repeatedly declared that he possesses the blueprint capable of transforming Nigeria's economy and restoring national prosperity.

He stressed that the appeal was not directed at President Tinubu alone but at all Nigerians, urging both leaders and citizens to embrace repentance, forgiveness and national reconciliation.

Irefin added: "President Tinubu alone should not be blamed for the suffering and challenges confronting the country. Nigerians themselves have refused to seek the face of God. Instead, many are quick to seek solutions from prophets, sages, traditionalists, sheikhs, angels and even demonic forces.

"It is not difficult to observe that governments readily open their doors to Christian, Islamic and traditional religious leaders, but not to members of the Brotherhood of the Cross and Star, who believe they are witnessing the manifestation of the true and living God in their midst.

"That notwithstanding, God remains interested in the affairs of Nigeria, and only He can rescue the country from its present challenges.

"It is time for the President, ministers, governors and everyone who genuinely loves Nigeria to seek the face of His Holiness Olumba Olumba Obu, whom we believe possesses the blueprint for transforming Nigeria's economy. His Holiness does not need their money, wealth or recognition to be who he is.

"All Nigerians have sinned, regardless of status, ethnicity, class or religion. The time has come for everyone to repent, turn away from evil and wholeheartedly embrace the gospel of love as preached and practised by His Holiness Olumba Olumba Obu in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ."

The Northern Nigeria Christian Youth Association (NNCYA), has called on Christian leaders across the country to exercise restraint in their public comments after private engagements with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging them to prioritise national unity, peace and constructive dialogue.

The NNCYA acknowledged the significant role of religious leaders in shaping national values but maintained that no single institution holds exclusive authority over the country's moral direction.

In a statement jointly signed by the association's National Secretary, Bason Sunday, and National Publicity Secretary, Pastor Ruth Wada, the group said recent reactions following the meeting between the Catholic Bishops' Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) and President Tinubu had generated unnecessary public tension.

According to the statement, “We have watched the fallout following the meeting between the Catholic Bishops' Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) and His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR. While we honor our fathers in faith, including His Eminence, Cardinal John Onaiyekan, as true shepherds of God’s flock, we must cry out from the grassroots.

“As youths living daily with the real struggles of the 19 Northern States, we say this with deep reverence, when spiritual fathers step into the halls of power, the words that follow must build up the house of God and the nation, not set fire to the roof.

“Access to the President is a sacred trust meant for intercession and counsel, not fuel for television commentary. Our holy Scriptures warn us clearly about the weight of private counsel and the power of the tongue. Proverbs 25:9 admonishes us, ‘Debate thy cause with thy neighbour himself; and discover not a secret to another.’

“When a father sits down with the leader of the land, receives his undivided attention, and hears direct responses to his concerns, kingdom grace demands that the sanctity of that meeting be kept intact. Running to media cameras immediately afterward to offer selective personal commentary does not build peace, it overheats the polity and creates confusion among the sheep.

“We must ask ourselves as believers: are we using our positions to solve problems or to stir up public anger? Disagreeing with policy is normal in a nation, but turning differences into accusations of presidential apathy only divides the body.
Here in the North, security is not a political talking point, it is our daily life.”

The youth body also cautioned against portraying the President as indifferent to the country's security and economic challenges, arguing that as Commander-in-Chief, President Tinubu receives intelligence and security briefings that may not be available to the public.

It cited Proverbs 18:13 to encourage Nigerians to avoid reaching conclusions without full knowledge of ongoing efforts to tackle insecurity and other national concerns.

They said that no single group holds a monopoly on the national conscience. God speaks through many channels, and the President also hears directly from the grassroots, community leaders, media, and security reports.

The association urged clerics across denominations to use their influence to strengthen national cohesion, quoting Romans 14:19 and 1 Timothy 2:1–2 to underscore the biblical mandate for Christians to pursue peace and pray for those in authority.

The NNCYA added, "I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. The Christian youth of Northern Nigeria stand firmly behind every genuine effort for national healing, security, and economic revival.”

They call on young believers to stay calm, remain prayerful, and reject any attempt to turn the pulpit into an arena for political division.

The association prayed for wisdom for Nigeria's leaders and appealed to all citizens to work collectively towards sustaining peace and unity across the country.

The presidential candidate of the Democratic Leadership Alliance (DLA), Dr. Johnson Emmanuel Chukwuka, has criticised what he described as unequal attention to the plight of schoolchildren allegedly kidnapped in Borno State, questioning why the incident has not received the same level of national concern as a similar case in Oyo State.

The DLA presidential candidate argued that every Nigerian child deserves equal protection and concern, regardless of geographical location or ethnic background.

In a statement, Chukwuka said no fewer than 37 children remain missing following an attack on Government Day Secondary School in Lassa, Askira/Uba Local Government Area of Borno State.

Chukwuka urged Nigerians, particularly those in the northern part of the country, to pay closer attention to what he called a pattern of unequal responses to national tragedies.

He said: “No fewer than 37 innocent children are still missing after the brutal attack on Government Day Secondary School in Lassa, Askira/Uba Local Government Area of Borno State. These young lives were snatched away at almost the exact same time as the schoolchildren in Oyo State.

“Yet one tragedy dominates the headlines, commands urgent government action, and receives national attention, while the other is quietly pushed aside. Is this equality? Is this justice? Is this the Nigeria we claim to build?.

“When some children’s lives are treated as urgent and others are treated as afterthoughts, it is not governance, it is selective humanity. It is a dangerous signal that some citizens matter more than others simply because of where they come from.

“Northerners especially must open their eyes. The cards being played with your children’s lives are clear for anyone willing to see. This silence, this imbalance, this selective outrage is not accidental. It is a pattern. And it is deeply saddening.”

He questioned how long citizens would continue to accept what he termed a double standard in addressing security challenges affecting different parts of the country.

The presidential hopeful also urged Nigerians to make informed decisions in future elections, saying the country needs leaders who place equal value on the lives of every citizen.

He added, “In the forthcoming elections, Nigerians, particularly those in the North, must rise above sentiment and make deliberate, wiser choices. Leadership that values every Nigerian child equally is not a privilege. It is a right. Anything less is a betrayal.”

The crisis rocking the senator David Mark-led African Democratic Congress (ADC) took a fresh turn on Wednesday, as the party's National Youth Wing demanded an independent investigation into alleged irregularities that marred its primary elections across the country.

The youth wing also insisted that any party leaders found culpable should immediately resign from their positions.

The ADC National Youth Leader, Comrade Balarabe Rufai, disclosed this in Abuja, during a press briefing, said the party's youth wing could no longer remain silent over allegations that, if proven, would undermine the party's commitment to internal democracy, transparency and fairness.

The youth leader urged the National Working Committee to immediately establish an independent review panel to investigate all complaints arising from the primaries.

The youth wing said it had received petitions from aspirants across 23 states alleging manipulation of candidate nominations, financial inducements and other breaches of the party's constitution, warning that failure to address the complaints could undermine the ADC's credibility as Nigeria's leading opposition platform.

Rufai said: “Only a few Months ago, thousands of party members across our wards, local governments, and states celebrated what many believed would mark another important chapter in the democratic journey of our great party.

“Aspirants invested their personal resources, supporters travelled long distances, volunteers gave countless hours, and young Nigerians stood shoulder to shoulder with hope that every legitimate vote and every genuine mandate would be respected.

“For many, the primary election was more than a contest for party tickets. It was a test of our commitment to fairness, transparency, and internal democracy. Today, that hope has been overshadowed by deep concern.”
Rufai disclosed that formal petitions had already been submitted to the party's Legal Department by the Appeal Committee constituted by the party, as well as by aggrieved aspirants, but lamented that no action had been taken.
He said thousands of party members had participated in the primary elections believing the process would reflect the party's democratic ideals, but noted that the exercise had instead generated widespread dissatisfaction among aspirants.

He added, “If these allegations are true, then those affected deserve justice, our members deserve answers, and our party deserves the courage to confront the truth. We have received petitions supported by documentary evidence alleging that some party officials accepted improper financial inducements to alter candidate nominations across over twenty-three states.

“It is on record that formal petitions were already submitted directly to the Legal Department by the party-constituted Appeal Committee as well as aggrieved party aspirants, yet regrettably, nothing was done to address these clear breaches.

“If these allegations are established through an independent investigation, they would represent a grave violation of our party's constitution, democratic principles, and the trust of our members. We now hold official records, petitions, and correspondence submitted by affected members for review.

“Behind every petition is a person who invested hope, time, resources, and the confidence of their supporters in this process. Today, some have resigned from the party they helped to build.

“Others have turned to the courts because they believe they have nowhere else to seek redress. Many remain within our ranks, waiting patiently for their concerns to be heard. Their disappointment should concern every leader who believes in justice and fairness.

“Every unresolved complaint weakens confidence in our internal processes and places unnecessary strain on the unity we need ahead of the general election. This uncertainty threatens our standing as the largest opposition force on the continent. The Youth Wing will not stand by while the collective effort of millions of loyal members is undermined.

“As the voice of the largest demographic within our party, we have a responsibility to speak when the confidence of our members is at stake. This is not about protecting individuals or settling political scores. It is about protecting the integrity of our party. Every honest official should welcome an independent review because transparency strengthens institutions, while silence only fuels suspicion.

“We call for immediate, transparent, and decisive action. The National Working Committee must establish an independent review process to examine every complaint promptly and fairly.

“Any official found, after a fair and independent investigation, to have manipulated the nomination process or accepted improper inducements must face the full disciplinary measures provided under the party's constitution. Where credible evidence indicates criminal conduct, the matter should be referred to the appropriate law enforcement authorities.”

Rufai also called on aggrieved aspirants across the 36 states to submit their petitions, delegate tallies, video evidence and other supporting documents to the Office of the National Youth Leader for compilation and presentation to the appropriate organs of the party.

Despite the controversy, he reaffirmed the youth wing's loyalty to the ADC and declared support for the party's presidential ticket of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, alongside all validly nominated candidates nationwide.

“We believe this party is strongest when it is transparent, accountable, and faithful to its own rules. We owe every aspirant a fair process, every member an honest organization, and every Nigerian the confidence that we are prepared to hold ourselves to the same standards we expect of others.

“No political party can ask Nigerians to trust its commitment to democracy if it is unwilling to defend democracy within its own house. It is high time that if the current leadership of the party cannot bring the perpetrators of these gross injustices to book, then they must resign and make way for those ready to restore integrity to our party.

“May Almighty God give us the wisdom to pursue justice with fairness and integrity. May He comfort those who have suffered injustice and grant our party leadership the courage to enforce transparency without fear or favor.

“To ensure these issues are exhaustively pursued, the ADC Youth Wing Legal Advisers, chaired by Barr. I.U. Wali and Barr. Juliet Laba, will work directly with aggrieved aspirants until all their issues are justifiably resolved. We pray for God's guidance upon our presidential team, all valid candidates, and the entire nation. Amen,” he said

The Founder and Executive Director of the ÀLÁÁFÍÀ Initiative for Gender and Development, Dr. Temilola George, has called for stronger collaboration among government, civil society organisations, development partners and community leaders to end menstrual stigma and improve menstrual health education across Nigeria.

The organisation stressed that many girls still miss school, suffer stigma or resort to unhygienic alternatives during menstruation because they cannot afford sanitary products, describing the situation as a threat to their health, dignity and confidence.

George, disclosed this during a menstrual health outreach organised by the ÀLÁÁFÍÀ Initiative in Karmo Village, Jiwa Chiefdom, Abuja, themed, “Because Every Girl Deserves to Feel Confident, Every Day.”

She noted that the outreach reached and educated 100 participants, 80 women and 20 men, on the importance of menstrual health, hygiene and building confidence during menstruation.

She noted that the foundation sensitized and impacted 100 participants, 80 women and 20 men, on the importance of menstrual health and building confidence during menstruation.

George said the newly established organisation was created to complement government efforts through community-based interventions aimed at improving the lives of vulnerable populations, particularly women and girls.

She said: “This is our first major project, and we intend to implement many more impactful programmes. The government cannot do everything alone. Organisations like ours exist to mobilise resources, carry out charitable projects and improve lives.

“Some girls stay indoors because they fear being stained, while others still rely on rags or old cloth because they cannot afford sanitary pads. Through sensitisation and the distribution of affordable sanitary pads, we can improve menstrual hygiene, protect women's health, build confidence and create healthier communities.”

George call on stakeholders to work together to ensure every girl has access to accurate menstrual health information, affordable sanitary products and a supportive environment.

Also speaking, the Founder and Executive Director of Pad-Up Africa, Ashley Olachi Lori, warned that poor menstrual health education, persistent cultural stigma and weak implementation of existing policies are contributing to rising cases of teenage pregnancies in Nigeria.

She said involving men and boys in menstrual health advocacy was critical to dismantling misconceptions surrounding menstruation and building community-wide support for girls and women.

According to Lori, the intervention was inspired by the realities faced by vulnerable girls who lack access to sanitary pads and adequate knowledge about menstrual health.

She said: “We have many indigent women and girls here who cannot afford sanitary pads. To our surprise, some of them had never used sanitary pads before, while others had been using them without understanding their menstrual cycle.

“We are seeing an increasing number of teenage pregnancies because many young girls do not understand their menstrual cycle. This programme is not intended to encourage unsafe sexual behaviour.

“Rather, it is to help young people understand their menstrual cycle so they can make informed decisions. Abstinence remains the safest option, but understanding the menstrual cycle is important in preventing unintended pregnancies.”

Lori explained that the outreach deliberately engaged men and boys to break the silence around menstruation and encourage them to support girls and women while understanding the emotional and physical changes associated with menstruation.

She also identified cultural resistance and inadequate funding as major obstacles to menstrual health advocacy.

The Village Head of Karmo Sabo, Jiwa Chiefdom, Chief Umar Sarki Gani, described the outreach as timely and impactful, saying it had equipped women with practical knowledge on menstrual hygiene and personal health.

He appealed to the government to provide financial and institutional support to organisations promoting health education in underserved communities.

One of the beneficiaries, Saidu Aisha, said participants gained a better understanding of menstrual hygiene, menstrual cycle management and the importance of seeking medical attention for severe menstrual pain.

The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG), has condemned the killing of 23 farmers by suspected armed bandits in Sauna District of Talata Mafara Local Government Area of Zamfara State, describing the attack as a tragic reminder of the worsening insecurity facing rural communities in Northern Nigeria.

The group called on the Federal Government and security agencies to launch decisive operations against banditry and strengthen the protection of farming communities to avert further attacks and safeguard the country's food security.

In a statement issued by its National Coordinator, Comrade Jamilu Aliyu Charanchi, the CNG expressed condolences to the families of the victims, the people of Sauna District and the Zamfara State Government over what it described as an "unacceptable loss of innocent lives."

According to the group, the victims were reportedly attacked and killed while cultivating their farmlands, underscoring the growing threat posed by armed criminal groups to rural communities.

Charanchi said: “The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) condemns in the strongest possible terms the horrific massacre of innocent farmers in Sauna District of Talata Mafara Local Government Area of Zamfara State. This follows reports that no fewer than 23 farmers were murdered in cold blood by armed bandits while cultivating their farmlands.

“The CNG extends its deepest condolences to the bereaved families, the people of Sauna District, the government and people of Zamfara State over this tragic and unacceptable loss of lives. We pray for the peaceful repose of the souls of the deceased and for the speedy recovery of those who may have sustained injuries during the attack.

“It is particularly disturbing that the victims were ordinary farmers engaged in lawful economic activities to feed their families and contribute to Nigeria's food security. That armed criminals could invade farmlands in broad daylight, open fire indiscriminately and escape without immediate consequence is a grave indictment of our security architecture.

“The timing of this attack makes it even more alarming. The rainy season is the most critical period in our subsistence agricultural system. Farmers across the North are expected to be on their farms cultivating crops that will sustain millions of Nigerians.

“Unfortunately, fear has increasingly replaced hope as farming communities now face the impossible choice between cultivating their land and risking death at the hands of armed criminals.

“If farmers are prevented from accessing their farms because of insecurity, the consequences will reecho across the country. Nigeria risks reduced agricultural output, worsening food shortages, higher food inflation, rural displacement and deeper economic hardship. National food security cannot be achieved where farmers are left unprotected.”

He calls on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the National Security Adviser, the Chief of Defence Staff, the Chief of Army Staff, the Inspector-General of Police and other security agencies to immediately intensify coordinated military and intelligence operations across Zamfara and other frontline states affected by banditry.

The CNG also appealed to the Zamfara State Government to strengthen collaboration with federal security agencies, traditional rulers and local communities to improve intelligence gathering, surveillance and rapid response capabilities.

Charanchi added, “Beyond reactive deployments, the government must establish a sustained security presence around vulnerable farming communities, major farming corridors and rural access roads throughout this farming season. Farmers deserve to cultivate their lands under the protection of the state, not at the mercy of criminal gangs.

“The Government should also provide immediate humanitarian assistance to the affected families and communities while ensuring that survivors receive adequate medical, psychological and economic support.

“We further call for the immediate apprehension and prosecution of those responsible for this heinous crime. Nigerians are increasingly losing confidence because perpetrators of such atrocities are rarely brought to justice. Ending impunity remains one of the strongest deterrents against future attacks.

“The CNG reiterates that the protection of lives and property remains the foremost constitutional responsibility of government. Every farmer killed is not just a human tragedy but also a direct attack on the economy, food security and national stability.

“This is not the time for routine condemnations or official sympathies. It is time for decisive, intelligence-driven and sustained security operations that restore confidence to rural communities and guarantee that every Nigerian can live and work without fear. The blood of innocent farmers must not continue to water the fields that should be feeding our nation.”

The Northern Nigeria Christian Youth Association (NNCYA), has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, National Security Adviser (NSA) Mallam Nuhu Ribadu and the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), over commendation from United States President Donald Trump recognising Nigeria's efforts in combating terrorism and protecting vulnerable Christian communities.

The association said the diplomatic recognition reflects the Federal Government's commitment to tackling insecurity and safeguarding the lives and property of citizens, particularly in Northern Nigeria.

In a statement issued by its National Secretary, Bason Sunday, the NNCYA said President Trump's acknowledgement of Nigeria's security achievements was a strong validation of the Tinubu administration's determination to restore peace and stability across the country.

The group also praised the leadership of the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, describing him as the architect of strategic intelligence coordination, proactive conflict resolution and the revitalisation of Nigeria's security architecture.

Sunday said: “The NNCYA warmly welcomes President Trump's acknowledgement of the U.S. Nigeria 2026 Defence Cooperation Roadmap, the deployment of U.S. Special Operations Forces to equip our military, and the successful joint counter-terrorism operations, including the recent neutralisation of top ISIS leadership in the Lake Chad region.

“Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, National Security Adviser (NSA), we salute the NSA for his strategic intelligence direction, proactive conflict resolution, and masterminding the robust U.S.-Nigeria Joint Working Group. His efforts have revitalized national security architecture, disrupted terror networks, and restored confidence in state security apparatuses.”

He stresses that these international milestones and operational successes on the ground would not be possible without the visionary coordination and tactical excellence of Nigeria's security chiefs.

The association equally lauded the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), for what it described as his courageous, inclusive and results-oriented leadership of the armed forces.

Sunday added, “We passionately commend the Minister of Defence for his courageous, inclusive, and results-driven leadership of our armed forces. As a dedicated leader who understands the unique security terrain of Northern Nigeria, Gen. Musa’s steadfast commitment to defending all communities and restoring peace to affected areas remains commendable.

“As faith-based youth leaders committed to peace, security, and national development, the NNCYA urges all Nigerians, regardless of ethnic or religious backgrounds to remain united and support the ongoing peace initiatives.

"President Trump's commendation proves that President Tinubu's administration is taking the right, decisive steps to safeguard all Nigerians, particularly Christian communities in the North that have endured heavy burdens. Security is a shared responsibility, and we stand shoulder-to-shoulder with our security leadership."

The association also called on the international community to deepen bilateral cooperation with Nigeria in the areas of defence, intelligence sharing and socio-economic development to strengthen efforts aimed at defeating terrorism and other criminal elements across West Africa.

The President of the Rotary Club of Abuja Highrise, Rotarian Ishaku Maigida, has reaffirmed the club's commitment to humanitarian service by providing free healthcare and support to women, children and other vulnerable groups in the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC).

The one-day maternal and child health outreach delivered essential healthcare services to scores of women, children and other residents of Yimitu Village in Waru District, Garki Chiefdom, Abuja, underscoring Rotary's commitment to improving the wellbeing of underserved communities.

Speaking during the outreach, Maigida said the intervention reflected Rotary's guiding principle of "Service Above Self", noting that the initiative was specifically designed to address the immediate healthcare needs of vulnerable groups, particularly mothers and children.

As part of the programme, expectant mothers received delivery kits to support safe childbirth, while children were immunised against polio as part of efforts to prevent vaccine-preventable diseases.

Residents also benefited from free medical consultations conducted by doctors, health screening and testing for common ailments, eye examinations and the distribution of free medications to patients diagnosed with various health conditions. Routine health checks, including blood pressure, temperature and weight measurements, were also carried out.

Maigida said the outreach was aimed at bringing quality healthcare closer to rural communities that often have limited access to medical services.

He said: "The initiative not only addressed immediate health needs but also strengthened community wellbeing, particularly for vulnerable women and children."

He added that the outreach underscores the Rotary Club of Abuja Highrise's resolve to continue implementing people-centred projects that improve lives and promote healthier communities across the Federal Capital Territory.

According to him, the successful outreach marks another milestone in the club's humanitarian efforts, stressing that "the journey has just begun" as the club remains committed to expanding its impact through sustainable community-based interventions.

The President of the Rotary Club of Abuja Highrise, Rotarian Ishaku Maigida, has reaffirmed the club's commitment to humanitarian service by providing free healthcare and support to women, children and other vulnerable groups in the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC).

The one-day maternal and child health outreach delivered essential healthcare services to scores of women, children and other residents of Yimitu Village in Waru District, Garki Chiefdom, Abuja, underscoring Rotary's commitment to improving the wellbeing of underserved communities.

Speaking during the outreach, Maigida said the intervention reflected Rotary's guiding principle of "Service Above Self", noting that the initiative was specifically designed to address the immediate healthcare needs of vulnerable groups, particularly mothers and children.

As part of the programme, expectant mothers received delivery kits to support safe childbirth, while children were immunised against polio as part of efforts to prevent vaccine-preventable diseases.

Residents also benefited from free medical consultations conducted by doctors, health screening and testing for common ailments, eye examinations and the distribution of free medications to patients diagnosed with various health conditions. Routine health checks, including blood pressure, temperature and weight measurements, were also carried out.

Maigida said the outreach was aimed at bringing quality healthcare closer to rural communities that often have limited access to medical services.

He said: "The initiative not only addressed immediate health needs but also strengthened community wellbeing, particularly for vulnerable women and children."

He added that the outreach underscores the Rotary Club of Abuja Highrise's resolve to continue implementing people-centred projects that improve lives and promote healthier communities across the Federal Capital Territory.

According to him, the successful outreach marks another milestone in the club's humanitarian efforts, stressing that "the journey has just begun" as the club remains committed to expanding its impact through sustainable community-based interventions.

The Grassroots Mobilisation Initiative (GMI) has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on his third anniversary in office, describing his administration’s reforms as bold and transformative despite the economic hardship faced by many Nigerians.

In a statement by its National Coordinator,
Samaila Musa, the group said President Tinubu had demonstrated uncommon courage by confronting long-standing structural challenges rather than pursuing short-term political gains.

According to the group, although the reforms have imposed significant sacrifices on citizens, they were necessary to prevent economic collapse and reposition the country for sustainable growth.

Musa said: “Our conclusion is clear: No leader in recent history has had the courage to take on Nigeria's toughest problems head-on like President Tinubu. He didn't come to play politics with our future; he came to fix the country from the ground up.

“Facing the Hard Truths Together
We will not pretend that the journey has been easy. We fully acknowledge that some of these reforms have been very tough and hard on millions of Nigerians across the country. We have felt the weight of these changes in our homes, our businesses, and our daily struggles.

“But medicine is often bitter before it heals. Going through that painful phase was necessary to save our country from total collapse and we are confident that the hardest part is finally behind us now.”

GMI commended the Federal Government's policy requiring value addition before the export of strategic minerals, arguing that the measure would encourage local processing, industrialisation and job creation.

The organisation also welcomed ongoing discussions on state policing and reaffirmed its support for measures aimed at improving community security.

The organisation also praised the government's infrastructure drive, citing projects such as the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, the Sokoto-Badagry Expressway and the Ibadan-Ilesha Road as critical investments expected to improve connectivity, facilitate trade and boost agricultural productivity.

He added, “Stopping the Bleeding: Ending the corrupt fuel subsidy and stopping foreign exchange round-tripping wasn't easy, but it was necessary to save Nigeria from bankruptcy. More Money to the Grassroots: Federal allocations to our states and local government councils have jumped from N700 Billion to over N3 Trillion monthly. The money is now where the people are!

“Protecting Our Wealth: Foreign companies can no longer just dig up our gold and lithium and ship them out raw. They must build factories here, creating real jobs for our youth. Stronger Economy: Our national reserves are back above $50 Billion, the highest in 17 years, proving that the sacrifices we made are starting to pay off.

“No more ASUU Strikes: Our children are staying in school thanks to interest-free student loans and better welfare for university staff. Better Wages for Workers: Over 100% increase in the national minimum wage to help families cope with living costs. Dignity bribes just to get a passport. The system now works for regular citizens!

“Taking the Fight to Criminals and Protecting Our Villages. No Soft Touch for Terrorists: President Tinubu has called a spade a spade,all unauthorized armed groups are now classified as terrorists, period.

“More Boots on the Ground: Massive recruitment into the Army and Police so our communities are actually protected. Police Belong to the People, Not VIPs: Withdrawing police officers from guarding big men and sending them into our rural communities to protect everyday citizens.

“State Police is Coming: Pushing for State Police so local communities can secure their own domain. Fighting Corruption Head-On: No cover-ups. If an official is corrupt, they get fired and prosecuted, no matter what party they belong to.

“Nigeria is Respected Again: From the UAE to Turkey and the UK, President Tinubu has made Nigeria proud on the world stage while securing military partnerships to keep us safe.

“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has shown us what real leadership looks like, bold, brave, and focused on the long haul. He didn't take the easy road; he took the right road. We acknowledge the sacrifices everyone had to make during these tough times, but the foundations being built today will guarantee a better life for our children tomorrow. If you didn't know how much work has been done, now you know!”

GMI urged Nigerians to remain patient and continue supporting the administration, expressing confidence that the benefits of the ongoing reforms would become more evident in the coming years.

A faction of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) led by its National Chairman, Hon. Nafiu Bala Gombe, has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to immediately remove the names of Senator David Mark and members of his National Working Committee (NWC) from the commission's portal.

The party maintained that a court judgment directed the electoral commission to withdraw recognition from the David Mark-led NWC and invalidated all decisions, resolutions and actions taken by the committee.

In a statement by Gombe, he said INEC should upload and recognise only what he described as the authentic National Working Committee of the party, in compliance with a court judgment.

The faction also warned former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to stop presenting himself as the African Democratic Congress' presidential candidate for the 2027 general election.

According to the statement, “The legitimate leadership of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, under the guidance of Hon. Nafiu Bala Gombe, hereby calls on the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, to immediately remove the names of Senator David Mark and the members of his NWC from the Commission’s portal.

“INEC is further requested to upload and recognize only the authentic members of the National Working Committee of the ADC, in strict compliance with the judgment of the Court. The said judgment directed INEC to withdraw recognition from the David Mark-led NWC and further invalidates all decisions, resolutions, and actions taken by that Committee.

“In addition, the leadership of the African Democratic Congress hereby issues a formal and final warning to Alhaji Atiku Abubakar to desist, with immediate effect, from parading himself as the Presidential Candidate of the ADC. We reiterate our earlier position that His Excellency, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, is not and has never been the Presidential Candidate of the ADC for the 2027 General Elections.

“We urge Alhaji Atiku Abubakar to refrain forthwith from using the Party’s name, logo, and emblem in spreading falsehoods and misinformation about the African Democratic Congress.

“We also gave him a 7-day ultimatum to come out and tender a public apology to the members and stakeholders of the ADC for making unauthorized statements on behalf of the Party. Failure to comply with the above demand within the stipulated period, we shall seek appropriate legal redress.”

The Gombe-led faction further called on the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) and the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS) to investigate the activities of Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi.

He added, “We urge the relevant security agencies to cause his immediate arrest and prosecution for the dissemination of false information capable of misleading the public and inciting public disturbance, thereby threatening the relative peace we currently enjoy.”

The Grassroots Mobilisation Initiative (GMI), has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Nigeria's security agencies for the successful rescue of the abducted students and a teacher from Oyo/Orire.

The group described the operation as a demonstration of effective leadership and professional security coordination.

In a statement issued on Monday by its National Coordinator, Samaila Musa, the group praised the President for providing strategic leadership that enabled security agencies to carry out the operation successfully.

Musa also expressed appreciation to the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, and the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, for their leadership and oversight throughout the rescue operation.

He said: “We salute the gallant joint officers drawn from various security units who meticulously planned, strategized, and put their lives on the line to ensure these citizens were brought home alive and unharmed.

“Security is Not a Social Media Show
GMI wishes to remind all stakeholders that effective governance and complex security intelligence are not conducted on the pages of newspapers or via social media trends.

“Demanding hourly operational updates on sensitive security matters does not show oversight; rather, it often endangers the lives of both the abductees and the troops on the frontlines. True intelligence thrives in confidentiality, and the success of this mission vindicates the disciplined, quiet professionalism maintained by our security agencies throughout this ordeal.

Musa calls on Nigerians to embrace compassion over partisan politics, especially when human lives are at stake, stressing that security challenges require collective support rather than political division.

Musa challenged politicians, commentators and activists who criticised the Federal Government during the period of the abduction to acknowledge and commend the administration following the successful rescue.

He added, “We challenge those politicians, commentators, and activists who were at the forefront of calling out and criticizing the Tinubu administration during the abduction to find that same energy to commend the government and our troops.

“In the spirit of true patriotism, criticism must be balanced with objective praise when the government delivers on its primary duty of protecting lives. For nearly two decades, our nation has been bedeviled by the scourges of banditry and terrorism.

“However, the decisive and successful resolution of the Oyo/Orire abduction has further elevated the confidence of ordinary citizens across the country. It sends a clear, unmistakable signal that the Tinubu administration is deeply committed to dismantling criminal networks and restoring peace to every corner of Nigeria.

“GMI stands firmly with the Federal Government and our armed forces as they continue the vital work of securing our nation. We congratulate the families of the rescued students,principal and teacher, and we pray for their quick rehabilitation and return to normalcy.”

The National Orientation Agency (NOA), has called on Nigerians to remain united in the fight against insurgency and other security threats, stressing that the country's diversity is a source of strength that must not be exploited by criminal elements seeking to cause fear, division and instability.

The call follows the successful rescue of students and teachers who were abducted by suspected terrorists in schools within Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State after a painstaking, intelligence-led security operation.

Director-General of the Agency, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, commended the gallantry, professionalism and unwavering commitment of the nation's security agencies, describing the operation as another demonstration of what can be achieved through coordinated action, effective intelligence gathering and the dedication of security personnel working together in the national interest.

He particularly praised the month-long operation conducted in the dense forests of the Old Oyo National Park, where security operatives, through meticulous planning, intelligence sharing and inter-agency collaboration, identified terrorist kingpins, disrupted their logistics networks, neutralised their support structures and secured the safe rescue of the victims without making concessions or paying ransom.

In a statement issued by the Agency's Deputy Director of Communication and Media, Paul Odenyi, Issa-Onilu praised the operation carried out in the dense forests of the Old Oyo National Park, where security operatives identified terrorist kingpins, disrupted their logistics network, dismantled support structures and secured the safe rescue of the victims without paying ransom.

He said the successful operation sends a strong message that criminal elements cannot outsmart a united and determined nation.

Mallam Issa-Onilu urged Nigerians to continue supporting the country's security agencies by remaining vigilant, reporting suspicious activities promptly and refusing to allow ethnic, religious or political differences to undermine the collective resolve to defeat those who threaten Nigeria's peace and security.

He said: "The responsibility of securing our nation does not rest with government and security agencies alone. Every Nigerian has a role to play. When citizens cooperate with security agencies, share credible information and reject narratives that divide us, we strengthen our collective ability to protect our communities and preserve our country."

The Director-General also paid glowing tribute to the brave men and women of the security services who made the ultimate sacrifice or sustained injuries during the operation, describing their courage, selflessness and patriotism as a powerful reminder of the immense price many continue to pay to keep Nigeria safe.

He reaffirmed the National Orientation Agency's commitment to promoting national values, responsible citizenship and civic consciousness through its extensive grassroots network across the 774 Local Government Areas of the Federation.

He noted that the Agency would continue to engage communities, mobilise citizens and encourage greater public participation in building a peaceful, united and secure Nigeria.

Mallam Issa-Onilu urged Nigerians to draw confidence from the successes being recorded by the nation's security agencies and to remain steadfast in the belief that, through unity, resilience and collective action, the country will continue to overcome those who seek to undermine its peace and progress.

The Grassroots Mobilisation Initiative (GMI), has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Nigeria's security agencies for the successful rescue of the abducted students and a teacher from Oyo/Orire.

The group described the operation as a demonstration of effective leadership and professional security coordination.

In a statement issued on Monday by its National Coordinator, Samaila Musa, the group praised the President for providing strategic leadership that enabled security agencies to carry out the operation successfully.

Musa also expressed appreciation to the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, and the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, for their leadership and oversight throughout the rescue operation.

He said: “We salute the gallant joint officers drawn from various security units who meticulously planned, strategized, and put their lives on the line to ensure these citizens were brought home alive and unharmed.

“Security is Not a Social Media Show
GMI wishes to remind all stakeholders that effective governance and complex security intelligence are not conducted on the pages of newspapers or via social media trends.

“Demanding hourly operational updates on sensitive security matters does not show oversight; rather, it often endangers the lives of both the abductees and the troops on the frontlines. True intelligence thrives in confidentiality, and the success of this mission vindicates the disciplined, quiet professionalism maintained by our security agencies throughout this ordeal.

Musa calls on Nigerians to embrace compassion over partisan politics, especially when human lives are at stake, stressing that security challenges require collective support rather than political division.

Musa challenged politicians, commentators and activists who criticised the Federal Government during the period of the abduction to acknowledge and commend the administration following the successful rescue.

He added, “We challenge those politicians, commentators, and activists who were at the forefront of calling out and criticizing the Tinubu administration during the abduction to find that same energy to commend the government and our troops.

“In the spirit of true patriotism, criticism must be balanced with objective praise when the government delivers on its primary duty of protecting lives. For nearly two decades, our nation has been bedeviled by the scourges of banditry and terrorism.

“However, the decisive and successful resolution of the Oyo/Orire abduction has further elevated the confidence of ordinary citizens across the country. It sends a clear, unmistakable signal that the Tinubu administration is deeply committed to dismantling criminal networks and restoring peace to every corner of Nigeria.

“GMI stands firmly with the Federal Government and our armed forces as they continue the vital work of securing our nation. We congratulate the families of the rescued students,principal and teacher, and we pray for their quick rehabilitation and return to normalcy.”

The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG), on Sunday, commended the successful rescue of the schoolchildren abducted in Oyo State and called on the Federal Government to intensify efforts to secure the release of pupils kidnapped in Borno State.

The coalition described the rescue operation as proof that coordinated security efforts, effective intelligence gathering and strong political will can deliver positive results in the fight against insecurity.

In a statement by its National Coordinator, Jamilu Aliyu Charanchi, the group praised the gallantry and professionalism of security agencies, intelligence operatives and all those involved in securing the children's release.

According to the coalition, the rescue offers renewed hope to Nigerians battling widespread insecurity and violent crimes across the country.

Charanchi said: “We commend the gallantry and professionalism of the security agencies, intelligence services and all those whose efforts contributed to the safe recovery of the children.

“Their dedication offers a glimmer of hope to Nigerians amid ravaging insecurity and violence. While celebrating this success, CNG is deeply concerned that schoolchildren abducted in Borno State on the same day are yet to regain their freedom.

“Every Nigerian child deserves equal protection regardless of geography, ethnicity, religion or social status. The pain of parents in Borno is no less than that of parents in Oyo."

The coalition urged the Federal Government and security agencies to deploy the same level of urgency, intelligence-driven operations and inter-agency collaboration that led to the successful rescue in Oyo to secure the immediate release of the abducted Borno pupils.

It noted that beyond the two incidents, thousands of Nigerians remain in captivity across the country, while communities in the North-West, North-East, North-Central and other regions continue to suffer recurring attacks, mass abductions and violent crimes.

The group maintained that the value of human life must never be determined by geography or the level of public attention given to any incident, insisting that every kidnapped Nigerian deserves the same commitment from government.

Charanchi added: “The recurring attacks on schools remain particularly troubling. Schools should be places of learning and hope, not targets of criminal violence. Governments at all levels must prioritise the security of educational institutions through improved intelligence gathering, enhanced community policing, better surveillance and adequate protection for vulnerable schools.

“Furthermore, we urge the Government to sustain intelligence-led security operations, improve collaboration among security agencies, and address the root causes of insecurity, including poverty, youth unemployment, weak border controls and the proliferation of illicit arms.

“The rescue of the Oyo schoolchildren should not be viewed as an isolated success but as evidence that determined and coordinated action can produce positive outcomes. Nigerians now expect similar commitment in every case of kidnapping, irrespective of where it occurs.

“CNG stands in solidarity with the families of the yet-to-be-rescued Borno schoolchildren and all other victims of kidnapping across the country. We remain hopeful that with sustained efforts, they too will soon be reunited with their loved ones.

“Nigeria's security institutions have demonstrated that success is possible. The challenge now is to replicate this success consistently until no Nigerian remains in captivity,” he said.

No fewer than 120 football clubs from across Nigeria are set to compete in the 2026 AfriSportPro Youth League, as organisers intensify efforts to strengthen grassroots football development and create professional pathways for young talents.

Beyond the competition, it also noted that the league would provide opportunities for professional scouting, club recruitment, sponsorship activation, community engagement, coach development and international football partnerships.

The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of AfriSportPro, Chukwuebuka Ugwu, disclosed this in Abuja, during a press briefing ahead of the commencement of the second edition of the competition.

Ugwu said the league, which will kick off on July 23 with the Kano Conference at the Sani Abacha Stadium, will feature more than 3,000 Under-19 players drawn from 10 states across Nigeria's six geopolitical zones.

He described the competition as one of Africa's largest structured youth football leagues, designed to identify and nurture young talents through a professionally organised and technology-driven platform.

Ugwu said: “I'm happy to be kicking off this 2026 season after our successful inaugural season in 2025. It's really a great feeling to get to this point despite every challenge along the way. We aim to consistently organise this league every year while adding more states as we go.

“Our vision is to build not just Nigeria's but Africa's leading structured youth football ecosystem. Every young player deserves a pathway to opportunity, and AfriSportPro exists to ensure talent is discovered through structure, performance data and meaningful exposure rather than chance.”

According to him, the league will leverage technology to improve talent identification through match recording, player performance analysis, digital player profiles and digital scouting systems that will provide credible performance data for clubs and scouts.

Ugwu explained that the Kano Conference would officially launch the 2026 season, while conferences in the remaining participating states would commence in phases, with dates to be announced subsequently.

He said the season would culminate in the AfriSportPro National Championship, where the best teams from the various conferences would compete for national honours.

He added that the tournament is expected to attract grassroots football clubs, football academies, FIFA-licensed agents, professional clubs, scouts, corporate sponsors, football enthusiasts and government stakeholders committed to youth sports development.

According to him, AfriSportPro remains committed to creating a sustainable football development structure that bridges the gap between grassroots football and the professional game while giving young Nigerian footballers greater visibility both locally and internationally.

The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG), has condemned the Federal Government over the alleged exclusion of the North-West geopolitical zone from the recently approved federal road projects worth over ₦3.9 trillion.

The coalition described the development as a betrayal of the region's political support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the 2023 general election.

In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Comrade Jamilu Aliyu Charanchi, the CNG said the omission could not be dismissed as an administrative oversight but reflected what it described as a growing pattern of neglect against the region.

Charanchi said: “The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) expresses profound disappointment and outrage over the approval by the Federal Executive Council of 27 federal road projects worth over ₦3.9 trillion across 15 states while deliberately excluding all seven states of the North-West—Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Jigawa, Kebbi, Sokoto and Zamfara.

“This unprecedented omission cannot be dismissed as an administrative oversight. It represents a disturbing pattern of neglect against a region that made perhaps the greatest political investment in the emergence of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2023 presidential election.

“The North-West stood firmly behind President Tinubu when it mattered most when it delivered millions of votes, mobilised its political structures, and defended the APC across difficult political terrain.

“It therefore comes as a rude shock that the same region has now been completely ignored in one of the largest federal road infrastructure approvals since this administration assumed office.

“Even more painful is the fact that the North-West is home to some of the country's busiest and most economically strategic federal highways. From the Kano-Katsina-Maradi corridor to the Sokoto-Gusau-Funtua axis, from the Kaduna-Birnin Gwari corridor to numerous roads linking many towns and cities, these routes serve agriculture, trade, industry and national security. Yet none received attention under the latest approvals.

“The exclusion becomes even more indefensible considering that the Kano–Kaduna–Abuja Expressway, inherited by the present administration as one of the critical federal road projects.”

He argued that despite repeated assurances by the Federal Government, commuters continue to face security challenges, accidents, traffic delays and economic losses on the road while new multi-billion-naira projects are being approved elsewhere.

The CNG said the development appeared inconsistent with the Federal Government's commitment to equity, inclusion and balanced national development.

The coalition held President Tinubu responsible for what it described as a glaring imbalance, arguing that leadership should reflect fairness in the distribution of national infrastructure projects.

Charanchi added, “No responsible government should preside over the complete exclusion of an entire geopolitical zone comprising seven states and tens of millions of Nigerians from a strategic national infrastructure intervention of this magnitude.

“We are equally disappointed in the silence of prominent political office holders from the North-West. The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen; the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin; ministers, presidential advisers, heads of federal agencies and other senior political appointees from the region owe the people an explanation.

“Their continued silence in the face of this obvious injustice raises serious questions about whose interests they truly represent. Political offices were not entrusted to them merely to occupy prestigious positions in Abuja; they were elected and appointed to protect and advance the interests of the people who entrusted them with leadership.

“History will judge harshly those who remain silent while their region suffers systematic neglect. The CNG wishes to remind the Government that the North-West remains the largest voting bloc, largest agricultural hub and one of the country's most important commercial regions.

“The region contributes to the economy significantly on agricultural produce, livestock, manufactured goods and cross-border trade. Neglecting its road infrastructure is not merely an injustice to the North-West—it is an economic disservice to Nigeria.

“We therefore demand the immediate review of the approved road projects to accommodate critical federal highways across the seven North-West states. At the very minimum, the Federal Government must urgently accelerate the completion of the Abuja–Kaduna–Kano Expressway and announce new interventions covering other neglected strategic roads across the region.

“The CNG will continue to resist every manifestation of regional marginalisation as our position has always been guided by justice, fairness and equal treatment of all sections of Nigeria.

“The people of the North-West deserve infrastructure commensurate with their enormous contributions to the Nigerian economy and democracy, not abandonment after the ballots have been counted.”

The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG), has condemned the Federal Government over the alleged exclusion of the North-West geopolitical zone from the recently approved federal road projects worth over ₦3.9 trillion.

The coalition described the development as a betrayal of the region's political support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the 2023 general election.

In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Comrade Jamilu Aliyu Charanchi, the CNG said the omission could not be dismissed as an administrative oversight but reflected what it described as a growing pattern of neglect against the region.

Charanchi said: “The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) expresses profound disappointment and outrage over the approval by the Federal Executive Council of 27 federal road projects worth over ₦3.9 trillion across 15 states while deliberately excluding all seven states of the North-West—Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Jigawa, Kebbi, Sokoto and Zamfara.

“This unprecedented omission cannot be dismissed as an administrative oversight. It represents a disturbing pattern of neglect against a region that made perhaps the greatest political investment in the emergence of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2023 presidential election.

“The North-West stood firmly behind President Tinubu when it mattered most when it delivered millions of votes, mobilised its political structures, and defended the APC across difficult political terrain.

“It therefore comes as a rude shock that the same region has now been completely ignored in one of the largest federal road infrastructure approvals since this administration assumed office.

“Even more painful is the fact that the North-West is home to some of the country's busiest and most economically strategic federal highways. From the Kano-Katsina-Maradi corridor to the Sokoto-Gusau-Funtua axis, from the Kaduna-Birnin Gwari corridor to numerous roads linking many towns and cities, these routes serve agriculture, trade, industry and national security. Yet none received attention under the latest approvals.

“The exclusion becomes even more indefensible considering that the Kano–Kaduna–Abuja Expressway, inherited by the present administration as one of the critical federal road projects.”

He argued that despite repeated assurances by the Federal Government, commuters continue to face security challenges, accidents, traffic delays and economic losses on the road while new multi-billion-naira projects are being approved elsewhere.

The CNG said the development appeared inconsistent with the Federal Government's commitment to equity, inclusion and balanced national development.

The coalition held President Tinubu responsible for what it described as a glaring imbalance, arguing that leadership should reflect fairness in the distribution of national infrastructure projects.

Charanchi added, “No responsible government should preside over the complete exclusion of an entire geopolitical zone comprising seven states and tens of millions of Nigerians from a strategic national infrastructure intervention of this magnitude.

“We are equally disappointed in the silence of prominent political office holders from the North-West. The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen; the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin; ministers, presidential advisers, heads of federal agencies and other senior political appointees from the region owe the people an explanation.

“Their continued silence in the face of this obvious injustice raises serious questions about whose interests they truly represent. Political offices were not entrusted to them merely to occupy prestigious positions in Abuja; they were elected and appointed to protect and advance the interests of the people who entrusted them with leadership.

“History will judge harshly those who remain silent while their region suffers systematic neglect. The CNG wishes to remind the Government that the North-West remains the largest voting bloc, largest agricultural hub and one of the country's most important commercial regions.

“The region contributes to the economy significantly on agricultural produce, livestock, manufactured goods and cross-border trade. Neglecting its road infrastructure is not merely an injustice to the North-West—it is an economic disservice to Nigeria.

“We therefore demand the immediate review of the approved road projects to accommodate critical federal highways across the seven North-West states. At the very minimum, the Federal Government must urgently accelerate the completion of the Abuja–Kaduna–Kano Expressway and announce new interventions covering other neglected strategic roads across the region.

“The CNG will continue to resist every manifestation of regional marginalisation as our position has always been guided by justice, fairness and equal treatment of all sections of Nigeria.

“The people of the North-West deserve infrastructure commensurate with their enormous contributions to the Nigerian economy and democracy, not abandonment after the ballots have been counted.”

A coalition of northern youth organisations under the umbrella of the Northern Youth Frontiers (NYF), on Monday, commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over the Federal Government's strategic partnership with global payments company, Mastercard.

The group also called on the Federal Government to ensure that Northern Nigeria is fully integrated into the implementation of the fintech and digital economy initiatives expected to emerge from the partnership.

In a statement signed by the Chairman of the NYF, Sama Musa, the coalition said the recent visit of Mastercard Global Chief Executive Officer, Michael Miebach, to President Bola Tinubu at the State House in Abuja demonstrated growing international confidence in Nigeria's economic reforms.

He said: “Our commendation follows the high-powered visit of Mastercard’s Global CEO, Michael Miebach, to President Tinubu at the State House in Abuja, where Miebach revealed that the tech giant actively injects $2 Billion in foreign exchange into the Nigerian economy annually, blocks $200 million in financial fraud, and is set to deploy massive resources to unlock the potential of Nigeria’s Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).”

The NYF described the development as a landmark investment that would strengthen Nigeria's digital economy while creating new opportunities for businesses, entrepreneurs and young people across the country.

The coalition highlighted several key aspects of the proposed collaboration, including the establishment of a Cyber Centre of Excellence that will deploy artificial intelligence to enhance cyber threat intelligence, combat financial fraud and strengthen Nigeria's expanding digital infrastructure.

He also welcomed plans for a three-year digital capacity-building programme designed to equip five million small businesses with digital and cybersecurity skills, as well as expanded collaboration between Mastercard, the Central Bank of Nigeria and local financial institutions to improve intra-African trade and facilitate diaspora remittances.

While applauding the initiative, the NYF urged the Federal Government to ensure that Northern Nigeria does not miss out on the opportunities presented by the partnership.

He added, “The Northern Youth Frontiers notes that this deep global commitment from Mastercard validates the economic reforms driven by the president. We celebrate the key components of this direct economic booster.

“The cyber centre of excellence, A proposed advanced technical hub leveraging AI to capture threat intelligence, combat financial fraud, and protect the nation’s rapidly scaling digital architecture.
Massive SME Digital Training. A strategic three-year capacity-building initiative aimed at equipping 5 million small businesses with vital digital skills and cybersecurity defences.

“Expanding Digital Economic Corridors, deeper operational collaborations with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and local financial institutions to boost intra-African trade and streamline diaspora remittances.

“A Passionate Plea for Equitability, do Not Leave the North Behind in Fintech"
While celebrating this massive economic victory for Nigeria, the Northern Youth Frontiers seized this historic moment to firmly present the interests of the millions of industrious youths and small business owners across the Northern region.

“Historically, the Northern region has lagged significantly behind in terms of financial technology (fintech) infrastructure, digital inclusion, and access to modern credit facilities compared to our Southern counterparts. For this Mastercard partnership to achieve true national transformation, it must be rolled out equitably.

“The NYF passionately appeals to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, and the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, to deliberately ensure that the North is prominently featured as a major hub when these programs commence.

“Specifically, the coalition requests,
“Zonal Sub-Hubs for the Cyber Centre of Excellence: That tech incubation and cyber intelligence structures be decentralized to key Northern urban centres like Kaduna, Kano, or Maiduguri to harness the digital talents of Northern youths.

“Targeted Allocations for the 5 Million SME Training: That a substantial quota of the 5 million small businesses slated for digital skills training be strictly reserved for entrepreneurs across the 19 Northern states, particularly our local traders, agricultural MSMEs, and cottage industries.”

He further advocated an aggressive financial inclusion drive targeting unbanked and underbanked rural communities across Northern Nigeria through partnerships with financial institutions.

“President Tinubu has consistently stated that Nigeria’s tech-savvy youth are our greatest national asset. We, the Northern youth, are ready, capable, and eager to compete in this global digital economy.

“However, to build a resilient and balanced nation, the digital divide must be bridged.
We thank Mr. President for securing this $2 billion economic lifeline, and we trust his fatherly disposition to ensure that the North is fully carried along as a primary beneficiary of the Mastercard digital revolution,” he said.

A coalition of youth organisations under the Nigeria Ethnic Nationalities Youth Leaders Council Worldwide (NENYLCW), has dismissed a viral video linking former Zamfara State Governor, Senator Abdulazeez Yari, to an alleged gold smuggling operation in Kano State.


This comes amid speculative reports linking Yari to a gold consignment reportedly intercepted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) at the Malam Aminu International Airport in Kano (MAKIA).


In a statement by the group President General, Comrade Terry Obieh and the Deputy Comrade Muhammad Hamisu Dass, described the viral videos as a childish fabrication that is senseless.


They said the report stemmed from poorly scripted work by content creators and desperate politicians, noting that after taking time to analyze the video in circulation, there was no doubt that it should be consigned to dustbin.


They said: “We have taken our time to watch the couple of videos in circulation and there is no doubt that they are handiwork of mischief makers. The videos are more or less poorly scripted content, fabricated by those who stop at nothing while playing destructive politics.


“How low could people go all in the name of politics? Just in the name of getting at people they consider political opponents.


“His Excellency Senator Yari is a decent man who has maintained a clean record in office, and any effort to dent those records would amount to nothing.


“It is also on record that he has remained a firm supporter of the current administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and one of its pillars in Northern Nigeria.


“Suffice it to say that this is part of the agenda to whittle down his influence and diminish the support for Mr President, a situation that has been a pattern within that political corridor.”


The group, while urging the members of the public to disregard such tactics, urged security agencies to fish out those behind “the fake report. If people are not taught lessons, fake news will continue to cause great damage to the country.”


The group urged a detailed and transparent investigation.

The factional leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), led by National Chairman Nafiu Bala Gombe, has dismissed claims that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar is its presidential candidate for the 2027 general elections, insisting that the party has already concluded its internal processes and nominated Chris Uba as its flag bearer.

The party stated that Atiku "is not, and has never been," the presidential candidate of the ADC for the 2027 elections.

In a statement signed by its National Chairman, Nafiu Bala Gombe, the party said it was issuing the clarification in the public interest and to safeguard the integrity of Nigeria's democratic process.

It also disowned a group allegedly operating under the leadership of David Mark, describing it as a self-styled faction that is not recognised by the party.

According to the statement, the group does not constitute any legitimate organ of the ADC and therefore lacks the constitutional and legal authority, including recognition by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), to conduct congresses, primaries or make binding decisions on behalf of the party.

He said: “The legitimate National Leadership of the ADC is fully cognizant of sustained overtures and coordinated efforts by certain coalition elements to compel the Party into political alliances with other platforms.

“The Party categorically states that the African Democratic Congress is not in any form of alliance, merger, or coalition with any other political party. The ADC remains an autonomous, ideologically grounded, and self-reliant political party committed to contesting all elections on its own merit, structure, and manifesto.

“In strict compliance with the provisions of the ADC Constitution and the Electoral Act 2026 as guided by INEC, the Party has lawfully concluded its internal processes and has duly nominated its presidential candidate for the 2027 general elections.

“The African Democratic Congress presents Professor Chris Uba as its duly recognized flag bearer. The Party is of the firm conviction that Professor Uba possesses the requisite competence, capacity, character, and national appeal to provide transformational leadership for Nigeria at this critical period in our history.

“The Leadership of the African Democratic Congress hereby issues a formal and final warning to Alhaji Atiku Abubakar to desist, with immediate effect, from holding himself out or parading himself as the presidential candidate of the ADC.

“The ADC was founded on the principles of national renewal, inclusive governance, and credible alternative leadership. The Party is not, and will not be, a rental platform or a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) for political opportunists, displaced individuals, or coalition actors seeking to leverage our structure for personal ambition.”

He warned that it would pursue all available legal and constitutional remedies to protect its identity and structure against what it described as unauthorised appropriation or misrepresentation.

The ADC also dismissed recent allegations of a plot to prevent the party from participating in the 2027 general elections, describing such claims as baseless and unsupported by credible evidence.

The party reaffirmed its confidence in INEC and the country's constitutional and electoral framework, saying it would not be distracted by narratives intended to create panic or public confusion.

He added, “The African Democratic Congress will not be reduced to an instrument of chaos. We will not permit any individual or group to exploit our platform to spread misinformation, incite civil disturbances, or destabilize the polity to advance selfish political objectives.

“The ADC is fully prepared and strategically positioned for the 2027 general elections. The Party will present competent, qualified, and credible candidates for all elective positions at the Presidential, Senatorial, House of Representatives, Gubernatorial, State Assembly, and Local Government levels.

“We therefore urge all bonafide members, stakeholders, teeming supporters, INEC, security agencies, and the general public to remain calm, resolute, and steadfast. All persons are advised to be guided strictly by this official position and to disregard any statements, announcements, or actions emanating from unauthorized persons or factions.”

Former local government council chairmen in Edo State, has called for the immediate integration of local governments into Nigeria's security architecture, insisting that the country's worsening insecurity cannot be effectively addressed from Abuja and state capitals alone.

The call was contained in the "LG Charter on Insecurity 2026: A Demand for Direct Grassroots Action," adopted after a strategic meeting of the Edo State Group of Local Government Council Chairmen (2018–2021) in Benin City.

In a communiqué was signed on behalf of the Edo State Group of Local Government Council Chairmen (2018–2021) by the Chairman of the Communiqué Drafting Committee and former Chairman of Esan North East Local Government Area, Hon. Austine Okoibhole, alongside former Chairman of Uhunmwode Local Government Council, Hon. Napoleon Agbama, and former Chairman of Etsako Central Local Government Council, Hon. John Akhigbe.

They said: “As former Chief Security Officers at the grassroots, we present 20 root causes of banditry, kidnapping, cultism, and armed robbery and 5 non-negotiable solutions. Nigeria cannot win this war from Abuja and state capitals alone. The time has come to fund, equip and empower Local Governments as first responders.

“Unemployment, corruption, porous borders, moral decline, social inequality, lack of local government autonomy, poor deployment of technology, delayed justice, governance failure, the out-of-school children crisis, poor education, parental neglect, collapsed value systems, and the exclusion of traditional rulers, hunters, and vigilante groups from the country's security framework.

“Joblessness, 20M+ out-of-school children, education crisis. Solution: FG to fund a Security-for-Jobs Programme, ₦500M per LGA annually. At ₦50,000 monthly, this engages 833 youths per LGA in community policing, agro-rangers, and infrastructure brigades. Nationally: 645,000 youths off the streets across 774 LGAs. Pay LGAs ₦10,000 bounty for every child returned to school.

“Border breaches, sidelined LGAs, intelligence gaps. Solution: Legally empower LG Chairmen to chair Joint Security Committees with Army, Police, DSS, Traditional Rulers, and Vigilantes. Release ₦20M monthly security votes directly to LGAs with verified intel. Equip border LGAs with ₦1B special grants and surveillance drones.”

On justice delivery, the former council chairmen advocated the establishment of mobile courts at the local government level to handle kidnapping and banditry cases within a 90-day timeline, while calling on the judiciary to ensure the enforcement of penalties already prescribed under existing laws.

The group further proposed that 30 per cent of recoveries by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) originating from each local government should be channelled towards installing CCTV cameras and streetlights in affected communities.

They added, “Illegal mining, oil theft, war chests for bandits. Create LG Natural Resource Committees to co-manage all mining/oil sites. Mandate 5% of royalties paid directly into LG Security Trust Funds, starve criminals, fund protection.

“Problem: Dane guns vs AK-47s, moral collapse, cultism in schools. Solution: ₦200M LG Tech Grant per LGA for CCTV, trackers, and comms. ₦5B annual National Reorientation Fund for LG-led peace town halls. Redirect 50% of TETFund to LG technical schools — tie funding to WAEC passes and drops in cultism.

“LGAs are Nigeria’s first line of defence. They know the forests. They know the actors. They hear the whispers before the gunshots. No drone can replace a village head. No Abuja memo can replace a hunter who tracks for a living. A security strategy without LGAs is a strategy designed to fail.”

Declaring insecurity a national emergency, the former council chairmen warned that continued attacks by kidnappers, bandits and other criminal elements were leading to the displacement of rural communities, abandonment of farmlands and increasing threats to national stability.

They argued that extraordinary measures were required to confront what they described as an existential threat to Nigeria.

Among their key demands to the Federal Government are the adoption of the LG Charter on Insecurity 2026 as national policy within 90 days, constitutional amendments to establish state police with local government commands, quarterly publication of Local Government Security Scorecards, and the direct allocation of 20 per cent of Nigeria's defence budget to local governments for grassroots security initiatives.

“Publish a quarterly LG Security Scorecard— Naira for Naira, crime for crime. Fund the frontline: Nigeria spends ₦3T on defence with 60% of territory unsafe. Allocate 20% = ₦600B directly to LGAs to cover the Security-for-Jobs Programme (₦387B) and LG Tech Grants (₦154.8B) They know the terrain. They know the people. Fund them or keep failing.

“We, the Edo State Group of Local Government Council Chairmen (2018–2021)resolve: Security cannot be imported from Abuja and State capitals, It must be built in our wards, villages, and LGAs. We demand immediate integration of Local Governments into Nigeria’s security architecture, with money, law, tech, and accountability.” the group declared.

The Grassroots Mobilization Initiative (GMI) and the Democracy Watch Initiative (DWI) has strongly criticized the recent call by Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to resign, describing the demand as “childish,” unconstitutional and disconnected from democratic realities.

In a joint statement signed by GMI Director of Media, Emeka Wogu, and DWI Director of Strategic Communications, Tunji Bamidele, the groups argued that Nigeria’s democracy provides constitutional mechanisms for leadership evaluation and change, not pressure through social media campaigns.

The two organizations, said Obi’s comments amounted to political grandstanding and failed to recognize the ongoing reforms and institutional changes being implemented by the Tinubu administration.

The coalitions described Obi’s comments as "social media grandstanding" by a political actor completely disconnected from constitutional realities, democratic processes and the incremental, foundational victories currently taking shape on the ground across Nigerian communities.

The statement read: ​“We need to remind Mr. Obi that Nigeria operates under a constitutional presidential democracy, not a social media echo chamber or an internet debate.

“You do not bully a democratically elected sitting president out of office simply because you are dissatisfied with the pace of governance. The proper test of public support remains the ballot box and democratic institutions.”

The coalitions pointed to recent electoral outcomes in various parts of the country as evidence that Nigerians continue to engage with democratic processes and are making their choices through elections rather than online discourse.

According to the groups, local government and senatorial elections conducted in Ekiti State, and across key constituencies in Nasarawa, Enugu, Ondo and Rivers states reflected public confidence in the governing party and demonstrated that democratic participation remains active across the country.

The organizations urged political actors and citizens to assess the administration based on measurable developments rather than partisan narratives.

“Restoring Security and Territorial Integrity: President Tinubu did not inherit a stable nation; he inherited severe security deficits across multiple zones. Today, the Armed Forces are systematically taking the fight to criminal elements, clearing over 15,000 terrorists out of critical forest reserves and neutralizing high-profile bandit kingpins.

“Displaced families in Borno and the Northwest are steadily returning to reconstructed communities. Fiscal Decentralization & Empowering Local Governance: For decades, local government areas (LGAs) and state governors complained of starvation of funds to fix community infrastructure.

“Following bold reforms to halt wasteful subsidy regimes, state and local statutory revenues have more than doubled compared to 2022 levels. Wealth is finally being decentralized down to the third tier of government, enabling local leadership to fund rural access roads, primary health centers, and community pipes.

“Academic Stability and Human Capital Investment: For three consecutive years, Nigerian public university students have remained in the classroom without losing a single day to ASUU or NASU industrial actions. A four-year course is once again a four-year course, eliminating prolonged tuition and accommodation expenses for families.

“Furthermore, through institutionalized student loan frameworks, nearly two million students from low-income households now have access to interest-free loans to secure their higher education.

“Transition to Clean Energy & Infrastructure Expansion: The strategic rollout of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) infrastructure is providing commercial drivers and commuters with a viable, lower-cost alternative to premium motor spirit (petrol).

“Concurrently, legacy infrastructure projects like the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and the Sokoto-Badagry superhighway are transforming from conceptual blueprints into active construction sites, generating thousands of local jobs.

“Dismantling the "Estimated Billing" Monopoly: By signing the Electricity Act into law, the administration decentralized power generation and distribution, empowering states to build independent grids.

“For everyday consumers and small businesses, the aggressive deployment of prepaid meters is systematically eradicating the extortionist "estimated billing" practices that have long penalized market stalls and small enterprises.”

They said the measures would help reduce dependence on estimated billing and improve service delivery to households and small businesses.

While acknowledging the economic difficulties currently faced by many Nigerians, the organizations maintained that some of the pressures were linked to global economic conditions beyond the control of any single government.

“President Tinubu did not trigger global inflation, but his administration is actively constructing the institutional shields to insulate Nigerian households from its worst effects.

“The Naira is gradually finding its macroeconomic equilibrium, foreign reserves remain robust at over $50 billion, and domestic oil production has recovered to 1.8 million barrels per day. The macroeconomic foundation is solidifying.

“The 2027 general elections remain the next constitutional arena for leadership evaluation. If Mr. Obi wishes to test the popularity of the Tinubu administration's structural reforms among the real people on the street, he must exercise patience until the ballot boxes open.

“Until then, the opposition must allow governance to proceed, allow our military forces to secure the land, and allow national institutions to function without manufactured crises.”

The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG), has condemned the alleged ethnic profiling and harassment of Hausa/Fulani residents in parts of the South-West by operatives of the Ondo State Security Network Agency, popularly known as Amotekun.

The group specifically faulted the reported two-hour ultimatum allegedly issued by Yoruba Nation agitator, Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, to Fulani residents in Igboho, Oyo State, following a recent kidnapping incident in the area.

In a statement issued by its National Coordinator, Jamilu Aliyu Charanchi, the coalition also expressed concern over reports and widely circulated videos allegedly showing operatives of the Ondo State Security Network Agency (Amotekun) profiling, publicly parading and threatening women identified as Hausa/Fulani residents engaged in lawful activities in Ondo State.

Charanchi warning that collective punishment and stereotyping of entire ethnic groups could further inflame tensions and undermine national unity.

The coalition further condemned the worsening security situation across the country, including kidnapping, terrorism, banditry, separatist violence, ritual killings, drug and human trafficking, and other organised criminal activities that continue to threaten national stability and damage Nigeria's international image.

According to the group, every region of the country has experienced different forms of criminality over the years and no ethnic group should be blamed for the actions of criminal elements.

Charanchi said: “The North struggles with terrorism, banditry and kidnapping; the South-East faces kidnapping, violent criminal gangs and separatist-related terrorism; the South-West grapples with cybercrime, armed robbery, romance scams and cultism, while the Niger Delta contends with oil theft, piracy and illegal refining. These security challenges are products of criminal enterprises, not the identities of entire ethnic groups.”

The coalition argued that just as it would be wrong to profile all Yoruba people because of internet fraud, all Igbo because of drug trafficking or criminal gangs, or all Niger Delta residents because of oil theft, it is equally unacceptable to stigmatise all Fulani or Hausa people because some criminals claim those identities.

The CNG stressed that criminal responsibility is individual and not ethnic, insisting that security agencies should focus on identifying, arresting and prosecuting actual offenders rather than targeting innocent citizens based on their ethnic background.

While reaffirming support for lawful efforts by security agencies and communities to combat kidnapping, terrorism, banditry and other crimes, the coalition warned against replacing intelligence-led security operations with ethnic profiling and collective punishment.

The coalition called on Sunday Igboho and other agitators to direct their energies toward demanding accountability from security agencies and the criminal justice system rather than threatening innocent members of any ethnic community.

Charanchi added, “We categorically reject the dangerous practice of collective punishment and ethnic stereotyping. No Nigerian should become a suspect merely because of his or her ethnicity, appearance or place of origin.

“We find it completely unacceptable that innocent women conducting legitimate businesses in Ondo were publicly paraded or humiliated because they are Hausa or Fulani. Such actions are discriminatory and inconsistent with the freedoms guaranteed by the Constitution.

“Nigeria belongs to every Nigerian. Every citizen has the right to live, work and conduct legitimate business in any part of the country without fear of harassment or ethnic persecution.

“Likewise, issuing ultimatums to entire ethnic communities or assigning collective responsibility to law-abiding Nigerians for the actions of a few criminals is reckless, irresponsible and capable of inflaming ethnic tensions. Criminal liability is personal, not ethnic.

“The pursuit of justice must never be replaced with ethnic intimidation. The Fulani community, like every other ethnic group, consists overwhelmingly of law-abiding citizens engaged in legitimate occupations. Equally, criminals exist across all ethnic and religious backgrounds.

“Nigeria cannot defeat insecurity by replacing intelligence-led security measures with ethnic blame games and collective punishment.

“We will never accept the criminalisation of an entire ethnic community because of the alleged crimes of a few individuals. This principle is neither negotiable nor selective.”

The coalition demanded that the Ondo State Government investigate the conduct of Amotekun personnel featured in the circulated videos and impose appropriate sanctions on any officers found culpable of misconduct.

It also urged the state government to publicly reaffirm the rights of all lawful residents irrespective of ethnic origin.

The group further called on security agencies in Igboho, Oyo State, to ensure the protection of all residents, including Fulani communities, while intensifying efforts to identify and prosecute those responsible for the reported kidnapping incident.

The coalition appealed to the Federal Government to treat the growing trend of ethnic profiling as a serious threat to national cohesion and take urgent steps to address it.

It also urged political leaders, traditional rulers and public commentators across the country to exercise restraint in their public statements and avoid assigning collective guilt to entire ethnic communities.

Reaffirming its position, the CNG said it supports lawful, intelligence-driven and evidence-based policing as the most effective approach to tackling insecurity but would continue to oppose any attempt to substitute due process with ethnic vendetta.

"Law-abiding Nigerians deserve to live, trade and pursue their livelihoods anywhere in the country without fear of being profiled, harassed, publicly humiliated or threatened with expulsion simply because of their identity," the coalition stated.

Over 500,000 residents of Yache communities in Yala LGA, Cross River State, have raised alarm over years of infrastructure neglect, calling on the South-South Development Commission (SSDC) to urgently restore electricity to the area.

The appeal was contained in a formal letter addressed to the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the South-South Development Commission in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, a copy of which was obtained by journalists.

The letter, signed by the Cross River State Commissioner for Education, Senator Professor, Stephen A. Odey, painted a grim picture of life in the agrarian communities, saying the absence of electricity, good roads and potable water has crippled development and left residents isolated despite their significant contributions to the state's economy and political landscape.

Odey also drew attention to the political significance of the Yache people, describing their contribution to democratic participation as substantial and deserving of government attention.

According to his letter, “The people of Yache occupy a dominant land mass in the North-Eastern flank of Yala Local Government Area with an estimated population of over half a million people.

“The communities stretch up to the boundary with Benue State with extensive agricultural practice in assorted agricultural products that feed the state and beyond.

“The Yache communities, which include Alifokpa, Uchu, Ijiegu, Wonye, Osina and Mbuo, have continued to suffer from unavailability of electricity, good roads and potable water supply. Consequently, little or no level of development is attracted to the area as a result of this glaring infrastructure neglect.

“It is important to mention that the political relevance of Yache ward and its people to the national democratic setting is highly inestimable. Apart from turning out the highest chunk of votes in Yala Local Government Area, its dogged support to the APC Administration at all levels is unquantifiable.

“With 33 polling units and a voting strength of over 23,000, the people deserve unreserved attention to equate their prominence in the political dynamics of the present administration.

“It is out of this consideration that I, on behalf of the Chiefs, Elders, Political elites and the good people of Yache, bring this precarious situation to your attention and humbly seek the intervention of your very esteemed commission in the provision of electricity power supply to the Yache communities.

“Your intervention will surely go into the annals of history and the Yache people will remain highly grateful and appreciative of your kind gesture.”

The appeal comes amid increasing calls for accelerated rural infrastructure development across Cross River State, particularly in agricultural communities considered critical to food security and economic growth.

The Executive Secretary of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), Prof. Idris Muhammad Bugaje, has said that Nigeria's iron and steel industry cannot achieve its full potential without a steady supply of highly skilled welders.

Its said that the NBTE had assessed and approved the Soldamatic training package for adoption in polytechnics across the country.

Bugaje, disclosed this in Abuja, during the unveiling and certificate presentation ceremony for graduates of the Soldamatic Augmented Reality Welding Training Programme at the Whitecloud TVET Academy.

He explained that welding remains a critical component of industrialisation, serving as the foundation for steel production, oil and gas infrastructure, construction projects, pipelines, and manufacturing activities.

He noted that welders were also imported from India during the construction of the Dangote Refinery, while projects such as the Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano (AKK) Gas Pipeline exposed significant local capacity gaps.

He said: “The iron and steel industry cannot function without welders because steel sheets cannot perform their intended functions unless they are welded together to form columns, pipes and other structures required by industry.

“As we speak today, Nigeria is still importing welders from overseas. In the oil and gas industry in Warri and Port Harcourt, professionals from countries such as Indonesia and the Philippines are working both onshore and offshore in welding-related jobs.”

The NBTE chief described the graduation of the trainees as a major milestone in Nigeria's efforts to bridge technical skills gaps and build a workforce capable of supporting the country's industrial ambitions.

He commended Soldamatic Nigeria Limited for introducing Augmented Reality Welding technology, noting that the innovation offers a practical solution to accelerating skills acquisition while reducing training costs and risks.

In his remarks, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Whitecloud TVET Solutions Limited, Mr. Oluranti Netufo Jasper, said the training programme was designed to strengthen Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) while preparing young Nigerians for opportunities in an evolving industrial economy.

He explained that the pioneer cohort, sponsored by Ways and Wills Concept Limited, received intensive training in Welding and Fabrication Technology using the Soldamatic Augmented Reality Welding system.

According to Jasper, the programme combines 40 per cent digital simulation with 60 per cent hands-on practical workshop experience, enabling trainees to develop both theoretical knowledge and practical competence.

He said: “The Soldamatic system integrates real welding tools with advanced digital overlays that guide learners in real time, helping them build precision, confidence and operational excellence in a safe and controlled environment.”

He noted that the technology reduces material wastage, improves safety, accelerates learning and provides detailed performance feedback that helps instructors monitor progress effectively.

Jasper reaffirmed Whitecloud's commitment to advancing skills development as a strategy for tackling unemployment, promoting entrepreneurship and supporting industrial growth.

Also speaking, President of Women in Mining Nigeria, Hon. Engr. Dr. Janet Adeyemi, described welding as one of the sectors capable of creating wealth and driving economic transformation.

She said: “There is virtually no engineering or construction project that can succeed without welding. Whether it is road construction, housing development, oil and gas infrastructure or industrial facilities, welding remains indispensable.

“Welding remains one of the most important skills in the engineering value chain. Whether it is pipelines, ships, bridges, storage facilities or industrial plants, welders play a critical role.”

Adeyemi urged the graduates to embrace entrepreneurship and continuous learning, stressing that technological innovation is changing perceptions about the profession and creating new opportunities.

Board of Trustees member of the Nigerian Institute of Welding, Alhaji Ismaila Sifawa, described welding as the backbone of engineering and industrial development.

He noted that professionally trained Nigerian welders have secured employment opportunities across the globe, including major infrastructure projects in Africa, the Middle East and South America.

One of the graduating trainees, Utibe Christina Umoh, praised the programme for combining virtual learning with practical workshop experience.

She said the Soldamatic technology enabled trainees to gain confidence before entering the workshop, making practical welding easier and safer.

The Special Adviser to the Speaker of the House of Representatives on Policy and Strategy, Barr. Chimdi Neliaku, has urged members of the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) to embrace self-empowerment, volunteerism, and excellence.

The policy adviser noted that excellence remains one of the most effective ways for young people to stand out in an increasingly competitive environment.

Neliaku disclosed this in Abuja, while receiving members of the YALI on a courtesy visit under the YALI Abuja 10-for-10 Legacy Mentorship Programme, an eight-week leadership fellowship designed to connect emerging leaders with accomplished professionals across key sectors.

The eight-week fellowship programme is designed to connect emerging leaders with accomplished professionals across key sectors, including Civic Engagement, Entrepreneurship, Public Management, Media, and Agriculture, while exposing participants to practical governance and leadership experiences.

Neliaku encouraged young Nigerians to take advantage of available opportunities regardless of their circumstances, stressing that meaningful impact often begins with small steps.

She said: “Try to do something that anybody can do. If you cannot identify an organisation or individual to volunteer with, find something within your capacity. It may only cost your transport fare, but there is always something you can do.

“For me, it all starts with the can-do spirit. If you are already defeated in your mind, that is the end; you have already lost. But if you believe you can always make something out of nothing and create value anywhere, then opportunities will come.”

Drawing from his personal experience, Neliaku disclosed that. She ventured into business while still in secondary school, engaging in baking and selling cakes, among other entrepreneurial activities.

She advised youths to develop a clear vision for their future and remain steadfast in pursuing their goals.

Neliaku further stressed that advances in technology, particularly artificial intelligence and internet-based learning platforms, have made skills acquisition more accessible than ever before.

She added, “The skills are not difficult to find. AI and the internet have democratized information. You can learn almost anything today. Anyone who lacks certain skills often faces a mindset challenge rather than an access challenge. There are platforms that allow you to learn what you need to know, you just have to be committed.

“Have that can-do spirit and you will discover that opportunities are everywhere. I see life as a simulation; what you make out of it depends largely on what you choose to do with it. If you approach life with determination and purpose, you can achieve remarkable things."

Also participating in the programme was LIDA Network, which served as a media partner for the mentorship series. The organisation provided media coverage and documentation support to amplify key lessons and engagements from the session.

While speaking, LIDA Network Project Manager, Lilian Akpa, underscored the importance of creating platforms that inspire young people to pursue excellence, leadership, and personal development.

She said the partnership with YALI Abuja was intended to ensure that the impactful conversations reached a wider audience and encouraged more young people to take advantage of leadership opportunities.

In his remarks, YALI Abuja Coordinator, Utibe-Abasi Udotong, described the mentorship initiative as a transformative platform that is opening doors for young leaders across the Federal Capital Territory and beyond.

According to Udotong, Oladayo has gone beyond traditional mentoring by helping participants build strategic relationships and professional networks that can shape their future careers.

He said: "I am always eager to see people grow. In fact, my greatest joy comes from seeing others develop and succeed. I am very grateful to our leader, Moyo, a former coordinator of the YALI Network, for making this initiative possible.

"She has not only guided her mentee and shown her the ropes but has also gone beyond sharing knowledge and wisdom by helping her build valuable relationships and networks."

He noted that one of the highlights of the programme was the opportunity for the mentee to engage directly with Neliaku, whom he described as one of the most outstanding women serving in the legislature.

Udotong also highlighted the broader impact of the YALI Network Abuja Chapter over the past decade, noting that the organisation has empowered thousands of young people through mentorship, internships, leadership training, and community development initiatives.

He disclosed that the chapter recently celebrated its 10th anniversary and is currently implementing a mentorship programme targeting 30 beneficiaries across three cohorts.

He added, “We currently have an ongoing mentorship initiative benefiting 10 YALI members. By God's grace, we will have three cohorts, which means 30 YALI members will benefit from the programme.

“Some YALI members are currently working with different companies as a direct result of opportunities created through YALI. Last year, several members also secured placements with companies through the network."

A coalition of Northern youth groups under the aegis of the Northern Youth Frontiers (NYF), on Monday, called on political stakeholders to allow the South to complete its traditional two-term tenure before the presidency returns to the North in 2031.

The coalition called on stakeholders to prioritise long-term regional development over short-term political gains, insisting that the search for a 21st-century leader for Northern Nigeria should begin immediately.

In a statement by the Chairman of NYF, Sama Musa, declared support for the continuation of the current North-South power rotation arrangement,

The group said it had undertaken a comprehensive review of Nigeria's evolving political landscape, including activities within major political parties ahead of future elections, and concluded that Northern Nigeria must adopt a long-term strategy focused on producing a globally competitive presidential candidate.

The coalition, which said it represents youth organizations acroaaaass the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), argued that the region's future should not be tied to what it described as "transactional politics" or short-term political arrangements.

The coalition stated that it had resolved to support the completion of the current administration's tenure in the interest of political stability and national cohesion.

He said: “We are making this concession deliberately, out of political maturity and a desire for national stability. Consequently, we are entirely unwilling to gamble away the future of our region on short-sighted political arrangements that do not serve our long-term interests. We reject two specific political traps currently being floated by political actors:

“We are completely against the idea of supporting a short-term Northern candidate who will serve only one term (four years) and be forced by national dynamics to hand power back to the South. This option delays our long-term regional positioning.

“We equally reject any political permutation that introduces a fresh Southern candidate who will serve only one term, promising a hand-over to a Northerner. Neither of these options sits well with us. We refuse to trade the collective destiny of the North for temporary political arrangements.

“The time for the north to take over is 2031 straight eight years insha Allah. Rather than settling for stop-gap measures or political experiments, the Northern Youth Frontiers has resolved to use this political window to shop for a stellar, elite-level presidential material.

“The youth of Northern Nigeria are no longer interested in tokenism or outdated governance models. We deserve a leader who understands digital economy, industrialization, security architecture, educational reform, and job creation.

“We need a candidate who sees the immense population of Northern youth not as a liability, but as a driving asset for national transformation. Moving forward, the Northern Youth Frontiers will begin extensive consultations across the length and breadth of the country to identify, vet, and align with leadership materials that meet this premium standard.

“We call on all traditional rulers, political stakeholders, elders and fellow youth organizations across the North to look past short-term gains and join us in this noble, visionary quest. The future of Northern Nigeria cannot be gambled away. The search for a 21st-century leader begins now.”

Evans Travel & Tours Limited, a leading West African tour operator, on Sunday, expanded its operations to the Benin Republic as part of efforts to strengthen regional tourism, improve cross-border travel experiences, and promote West Africa as a unified cultural destination.

The company said the expansion follows its official registration in Benin Republic and aligns with its long-term vision of making travel across West Africa more structured, accessible and professionally guided for tourists, diaspora visitors and cultural explorers.

Speaking on the development, the Founded by travel entrepreneur Evans Aguiyi, Evans Travel & Tours has built a reputation for organizing multi-country tours across West Africa, including overland journeys through Nigeria, Benin Republic, Togo, Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire, offering travellers immersive cultural, historical and heritage experiences.

Aguiyi described Benin Republic as a strategic destination within the West African tourism landscape due to its rich cultural heritage, historical significance in the transatlantic slave trade and vibrant traditional and spiritual practices.

According to him, the expansion will improve travel logistics, facilitate cultural exchange and enhance access to some of the region’s most important tourism destinations, including Ouidah, Cotonou and Porto-Novo.

He noted that West Africa possesses enormous tourism potential but requires better coordination, storytelling and professionally guided travel systems to unlock its full value for international visitors.

Aguiyi said the company specializes in a broad range of structured travel experiences across the sub-region, including multi-country tours spanning Nigeria, Benin Republic, Togo, Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire, as well as cross-border road trip experiences across member states of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

He added that the company also offers single-country cultural and heritage tours, day trips, city excursions, private guided tours, educational travel packages and customized group experiences tailored to families, corporate organizations and members of the African diaspora.

According to him, the company's tourism packages are designed to provide travellers with authentic cultural immersion through direct engagement with local communities, traditional festivals, heritage sites, food experiences and historical storytelling.

Aguiyi said: "The expansion comes at a time when global interest in African heritage tourism, diaspora reconnection travel and cultural exploration across West Africa is growing rapidly.

“Countries such as Ghana, Benin Republic, Nigeria and Côte d’Ivoire continue to attract increasing numbers of international visitors interested in meaningful cultural and historical experiences.”

He explained that travellers are increasingly seeking authentic cultural experiences, ancestry and heritage exploration opportunities, historical slave route tours, overland adventures and multi-country African travel experiences.

Aguiyi reaffirmed the company’s commitment to connecting travellers with authentic African experiences through professionally guided tours that blend history, culture, tradition, and meaningful local interaction.

He said the company's mission is to contribute to the growth of regional tourism by showcasing the diverse cultural assets of West Africa while making cross-border travel more seamless and accessible.

The Grassroots Mobilisation Initiative (GMI), on Friday, expressed deep concern over the growing spread of fabricated news and disinformation across Nigeria possessing a serious threat to national security and social cohesion.

The group accused what it described as “malicious elements and unpatriotic citizens” of deliberately manufacturing and disseminating false information aimed at creating distrust between citizens and the government, while fueling instability across the country.

In a statement issued by its National Coordinator, Samaila Musa, the organization said the deliberate distortion of facts and outright fabrication of stories had moved beyond political propaganda and now constitutes a direct attack on Nigeria’s peace, unity and security.

According to GMI, Nigeria is already grappling with multiple security challenges and cannot afford additional threats from individuals who exploit digital platforms to spread misinformation capable of triggering violence and social unrest.

Musa said: “As a grassroots organization rooted in the realities of ordinary Nigerians, we are compelled to speak out. The deliberate twisting of facts and the outright fabrication of stories have reached a level that can no longer be ignored.

“Nigeria is currently dealing with serious security challenges on multiple fronts, and we cannot allow digital saboteurs to push the nation into avoidable crises through lies.

“What we are seeing today is no longer just the casual sharing of unverified rumors on WhatsApp. Mischief-makers and desperate actors are now using advanced technology, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), to forge official documents, clone the voices of top government officials, and create deepfake videos of religious and regional leaders.

“These manipulated videos and audios are intentionally created in local languages to deceive the public, create panic, and trigger spontaneous violence in our communities. When people can no longer distinguish between a genuine statement from security agencies and a fabricated clip designed to cause trouble, our collective safety is in extreme danger.

"Nigeria is a diverse nation, and our unity is something we must guard jealously. When people sit in the comfort of their rooms and invent stories about ethnic attacks, military compromises, or artificial economic failure, they are not exercising freedom of speech. This is clear sabotage against the peace and survival of our country."

The group identified three major areas where fake news and disinformation are causing significant harm.

GMI said the circulation of false military casualty figures, doctored videos of security operations and misleading narratives about the armed forces undermine the morale of troops engaged in frontline operations against insurgents, bandits, and other criminal elements.

Musa added, “The Dangerous Impact on Security Operations and National Unity
The real-world damage caused by this disinformation enterprise is already costing lives and destroying properties. GMI points out three critical areas where these fabrications are harming the country:

“The constant spread of fake military casualty figures, doctored videos of tactical retreats, and false narratives of complicity among our troops only serves to demoralize the brave men and women on the frontline. It gives undue confidence to bandits, insurgents, and criminals.

“In a multi-ethnic and multi-religious society like ours, an engineered lie can spark immediate reprisal attacks. We see a calculated attempt by online actors to pit the North against the South, and Christians against Muslims, simply to drive traffic, gain followers, or satisfy political sponsors.

“While every Nigerian has the constitutional right to criticize public policies and demand accountability, there is a clear line between constructive opposition and deliberate subversion. Forging official circulars, creating fake CBN policies, and inventing corruption stories to provoke the public into violent protests will only lead to anarchy.

“We cannot continue to fold our arms and watch digital mercenaries destroy the fabric of our society. The Grassroots Mobilisation Initiative calls for immediate action from all quarters:

“Before you click "share" or "forward" on any sensitive security or political news, ask yourself if it is from a verified, credible mainstream media house. If you share a video that ends up causing a riot or loss of life in another part of the country, you are just as guilty as the rioters.”

GMI also called on law enforcement and security agencies to strengthen the enforcement of existing cybercrime laws and ensure that individuals operating fake news networks are identified irrespective of their social status, political affiliation, or geographical location.

The organization further urged major social media companies, including Meta, X, and TikTok, to improve their monitoring systems and swiftly remove harmful content, particularly misinformation translated into local Nigerian languages that could incite violence.

The group emphasized that while economic setbacks can be overcome through policy reforms and national effort, the consequences of ethnic and religious conflicts fueled by disinformation could have far-reaching and lasting effects on the country's unity.

“The Grassroots Mobilisation Initiative reminds all citizens that a damaged economy can be repaired, but a nation torn apart by ethnic and religious violence fueled by digital lies is difficult to rebuild. We must choose patriotism over viral engagement. Let us protect Nigeria’s security by refusing to be tools for spreading falsehood,“ he added.