₦airaland Forum

The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to empowering smallholder farmers across the country under the Renewed Hope Government Enterprise and Empowerment Programme (GEEP 3.0), with a renewed push on the FarmerMoni scheme aimed at boosting agricultural productivity and strengthening food security.

According to a statement signed by Attari M. Hope, Anipr, the Deputy Director and Head of Information and Public Relations of the National Social Investment Programme Agency (NSIPA), this assurance was conveyed during a high-level media and sensitisation programme held in Jigawa State for the North-West zone, where the National Coordinator and Chief Executive Officer of NSIPA, Assoc. Prof. Badamasi Lawal, represented by the National Programme Manager of GEEP, Hon. Hamza Baba, underscored the administration’s resolve to sustain targeted financial interventions for farmers.

The event brought together key stakeholders, including government officials, traditional and community leaders, implementation partners, members of the media, and beneficiaries of the FarmerMoni initiative, in a coordinated effort to deepen awareness and reinforce accountability within the programme.

Speaking at the event, Lawal described the Government Enterprise and Empowerment Programme FarmerMoni as a critical pillar of the administration’s agricultural support framework. He noted that the initiative is designed to enable smallholder farmers expand production, improve yields, and contribute meaningfully to national food security objectives.

According to him, the sensitisation exercise specifically targeted registered and revalidated beneficiaries, providing them with detailed guidance on the appropriate utilisation of funds, adherence to accountability standards, and the importance of timely loan repayment to ensure the sustainability of the revolving fund mechanism.

He emphasised that FarmerMoni is not a grant but a recoverable loan scheme, stressing that beneficiaries are required to channel the funds directly into viable agricultural ventures such as crop cultivation, livestock rearing, and poultry production. He further explained that the programme incorporates a flexible moratorium and repayment structure tailored to agricultural cycles, allowing farmers adequate time for cultivation and harvest before repayment obligations commence.

Lawal disclosed that NSIPA has deployed a robust monitoring and evaluation framework, including the GEEP Dashboard, to track beneficiary performance, ensure transparency, and provide necessary support where required. He noted that this system is intended to guarantee proper utilisation of funds while strengthening institutional accountability.

The programme also drew lessons from Jigawa State’s successful goat empowerment scheme, which adopts an asset-based model combining livestock provision with cooperative structures, veterinary services, training, and market linkages. NSIPA signalled plans to integrate similar practical elements into the FarmerMoni initiative by bundling financial support with productive inputs and assets, enhancing group accountability, and introducing simplified asset verification mechanisms.

“This programme is not a handout. It is a structured financial support system designed to grow your agricultural enterprise,” Lawal stated, urging beneficiaries to demonstrate discipline and integrity in managing the funds. He added that effective utilisation would not only improve individual livelihoods but also advance the broader national objective of achieving food security.

Also speaking, the Jigawa State Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and Special Duties welcomed participants and reaffirmed the state government’s alignment with federal agricultural interventions. He commended Governor Malam Umar A. Namadi for sustained investments in irrigation infrastructure, mechanised farming, and access to high-quality inputs, noting that these complementary efforts enhance the impact of federal credit schemes.

The Commissioner reiterated that FarmerMoni remains a repayable facility and encouraged beneficiaries to adopt modern agricultural practices while utilising the funds prudently to boost productivity and household income.

Both NSIPA and Jigawa State authorities jointly called on beneficiaries to strictly apply funds to designated agricultural activities, adhere to agreed moratorium and repayment timelines, engage extension services and cooperative platforms for technical support, and cooperate fully with monitoring processes to ensure the long-term sustainability of the programme.

The sensitisation campaign marks a significant step in consolidating the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, with a clear focus on transforming smallholder agriculture into a viable engine for economic growth and national development.

By James Ezema

The recent call by a U.S.-based lawmaker, Kimberly Daniels, for the removal of Nigeria’s Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has stirred predictable reactions across political and media spaces. Yet, beneath the headlines lies a more important question: is Nigeria’s deepening insecurity the failure of one man—or the consequence of entrenched systemic weaknesses?

Reducing a complex, multi-layered national security crisis to the performance of a single officeholder is not only analytically flawed—it risks distracting from the structural reforms Nigeria urgently needs.


A CRISIS DECADES IN THE MAKING

Nigeria’s insecurity did not begin with Matawalle, nor with the current administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu. From the Boko Haram insurgency in the North-East to banditry in the North-West and communal conflicts cum farmers/herders clashes in parts of the Middle Belt, the country’s security challenges are rooted in long-standing governance gaps.

These include:
I. Weak policing structures and chronic underfunding of the Nigeria Police Force
II. Poor intelligence coordination across security agencies
III. Proliferation of small arms and porous borders
IV. Socioeconomic drivers such as poverty, unemployment, and rural marginalisation
V. Over-reliance on the military for internal security duties

Any serious diagnosis must begin here—not with a politically convenient scapegoat.


MATAWALLE’S RECORD: A MORE BALANCED VIEW

Since his appointment as Minister of State for Defence in 2023, Matawalle has operated within a highly centralised and historically constrained security architecture. Yet, within these limitations, his contributions have been tangible and deserve objective recognition.

First, he has been instrumental in supporting expanded military operations against bandit enclaves in the North-West, particularly through enhanced coordination between ground forces and air components. These operations have disrupted several criminal networks and led to the neutralisation of key warlords.

Second, Matawalle has consistently advocated for kinetic and non-kinetic approaches, recognising that force alone cannot resolve insurgency. His experience as a former governor of Zamfara State informed initiatives that combined military pressure with local engagement strategies aimed at de-escalating violence.

Third, under his watch, there has been increased emphasis on troop welfare and logistics support, including improved supply lines and operational readiness—critical factors often overlooked in public discourse but essential to battlefield effectiveness.

Fourth, he has played a role in strengthening Nigeria’s defence diplomacy, engaging regional and international partners to support intelligence sharing and counterterrorism cooperation.

None of these efforts suggest perfection. But they do indicate active engagement with the problem—not complicity in it, as some narratives have implied without substantiated proof.


THE DANGER OF SIMPLISTIC NARRATIVES

The recommendation by Kimberly Daniels reflects a broader tendency in international commentary: the urge to personalise systemic failures. While such positions may be well-intentioned, they often lack the contextual depth required to understand Nigeria’s unique security environment.

Security sector reform is not achieved through symbolic dismissals. In fact, abrupt leadership changes without structural adjustments can disrupt continuity, weaken morale, and create further instability within the ranks.

Blaming Matawalle alone risks creating a false sense of action while leaving the real problems untouched.


THE REAL ISSUE: A DISTORTED SECURITY ARCHITECTURE

At the heart of Nigeria’s security crisis lies a fundamental misalignment: the military has been overstretched with internal security responsibilities that should primarily belong to the police.

The Nigeria Police Force, constitutionally mandated to handle internal law enforcement, has been weakened over decades by inadequate funding, poor training, and limited operational capacity.

As a result:
I. Soldiers are deployed for routine policing duties
II. Military resources are stretched thin across multiple internal theatres
III. Response times and intelligence gathering suffer
IV. Civil-military relations become strained

This is neither sustainable nor strategically sound.


A WAY FORWARD: REBALANCING SECURITY RESPONSIBILITIES

Rather than focusing on individual removals, the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu should prioritise a phased and deliberate restructuring of Nigeria’s internal security framework.

This must include:
I. Gradual re-equipping and modernisation of the Nigeria Police Force—with emphasis on mobility, communications, forensic capacity, and community policing
II. Comprehensive retraining programmes to enhance professionalism and intelligence-led policing
III. Decentralisation of policing structures, allowing for more responsive state and local security mechanisms
IV. Strategic withdrawal of the military from routine internal operations, reserving its deployment for specialised interventions and external defence roles
V. Strengthening inter-agency coordination, ensuring seamless collaboration between police, intelligence services, and the armed forces

Only through such systemic reforms can Nigeria build a security architecture capable of addressing both current threats and future risks.


CONCLUSION: BEYOND BLAME TO SOLUTIONS

Nigeria stands at a critical juncture. The temptation to assign blame to individuals may offer short-term political satisfaction, but it does little to resolve long-standing structural deficiencies.

Dr Bello Matawalle is not above scrutiny—no public official should be. However, any fair assessment must be grounded in evidence, context, and a clear understanding of institutional constraints.

The path to lasting security lies not in scapegoating, but in bold, systemic reform. It lies in rebuilding institutions, redefining roles, and restoring balance within Nigeria’s security ecosystem.

Above all, it requires leadership that is willing to confront complexity—not reduce it.

Until then, calls for removal—no matter how loudly amplified—risk being nothing more than noise in place of necessary action.


Comrade James Ezema is a journalist, political strategist, and public affairs analyst. He serves as National Vice-President (Investigation) of the Nigerian Guild of Investigative Journalists (NGIJ) and National President of the Association of Bloggers and Journalists Against Fake News (ABJFN). He writes from Abuja, Nigeria.

A significant political development has emerged in Wase Federal Constituency of Plateau State, as members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kadarko District have unanimously endorsed the principle of zoning and leadership rotation ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The resolution was reached during a peaceful yet highly attended stakeholders’ meeting held on April 19, 2026, in Kadarko. The gathering brought together a broad coalition of party faithful and community influencers, including elders, women leaders, youth representatives, and critical stakeholders within the district.

The meeting was led by Hon. Shuaibu Ibrahim Shuaibu (Ambassador), who presided over deliberations that culminated in a unified position on the future of political representation in the constituency.

According to a press statement issued and signed by Wase Concerned Patriots for Zoning, the stakeholders, after extensive and robust deliberations, resolved that zoning remains “the most equitable and inclusive pathway to deepen unity, promote fairness, and ensure every district within Wase Federal Constituency feels a genuine sense of belonging and opportunity to produce leadership.”

The group emphasized that their position was not borne out of opposition to any individual or dissatisfaction with past representation. Instead, they described the call for zoning as “a forward-looking step aimed at sustaining the collective confidence and harmony that Wase Federal Constituency has always enjoyed.”

In a strongly worded declaration delivered on behalf of the meeting, stakeholders noted that the constituency has witnessed nearly two decades of representation by a single individual from one section. While acknowledging the contributions made during that period, they stressed that the time had come for what they termed “a dignified and peaceful transition” that would strengthen internal cohesion within the APC and reposition the constituency for broader participation and development.

“The essence of democracy is inclusivity,” the statement noted, underscoring that leadership rotation is a tested mechanism for balancing competing interests in plural societies. “After nearly two decades of representation by one person from one section of the constituency, the time has come for a dignified and peaceful transition that strengthens the APC family and positions the constituency for even greater progress.”

The meeting also served as a platform for appreciation, as participants expressed gratitude for developmental projects and interventions attracted to Wase Federal Constituency over the years. However, they maintained that sustaining progress requires a more inclusive leadership structure that reflects the diversity of the constituency.

In a call for broader consensus, the Kadarko APC members urged other districts within Wase Federal Constituency, as well as party stakeholders across the board, to engage constructively in dialogue around zoning. They stressed that such engagement must be guided by the long-term interests of unity, peace, and sustainable political development.

“The people of Kadarko District remain committed to the unity of Wase,” the statement affirmed, adding that zoning should not be seen as divisive but rather as a strategic tool for strengthening solidarity. “Wase Federal Constituency belongs to all of us. Fairness and equity today will guarantee a stronger and more united Wase tomorrow.”

Political observers note that this endorsement could significantly shape the dynamics within the APC in Wase ahead of the 2027 elections, especially as conversations around power rotation gain momentum across various constituencies in Plateau State and beyond.

The position taken by Kadarko District stakeholders signals a growing consensus within segments of the APC that structured power-sharing arrangements may be necessary to maintain party cohesion, prevent internal fractures, and enhance electoral competitiveness in the coming political cycle.

A deepening internal crisis is unfolding within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Wase Local Government Area as influential stakeholders from Lamba District have intensified demands for an immediate restructuring of political power in the Wase Federal Constituency, warning that the continued dominance of a single district in the House of Representatives seat threatens the very foundation of democratic representation.

The agitation reached a new crescendo following a district-wide congress convened by the Concerned Lamba District Elite, a coalition of political leaders, professionals, and grassroots actors drawn from the four wards of Lamba. The congress, presided over by Comrade Aminu Gyambar and coordinated by Barrister Yunus Abubakar Gongki, culminated in a unanimous resolution endorsing rotational leadership as the only viable framework for restoring fairness, inclusivity, and political balance across the constituency.

In a strongly worded communiqué issued at the end of the meeting, the group rejected what it described as a “long-standing monopoly” over the federal legislative seat, noting that the position has remained within a single district for nearly two decades. According to the stakeholders, such prolonged concentration of power undermines democratic principles and creates a system that excludes large segments of the population from meaningful political participation.

They argued that democracy cannot thrive where representation is effectively restricted to a narrow political bloc, warning that without deliberate efforts to rotate leadership, electoral processes risk becoming hollow rituals devoid of genuine competition or opportunity. The group characterized the situation as both unjust and unsustainable, cautioning that continued imbalance could provoke deeper divisions within the constituency.

At the core of their demand is a call for the institutionalization of zoning among the constituent districts of Wase Federal Constituency—Wase, Lamba, Kadarko, and Bashar. The Lamba elite maintained that the seat is a collective mandate that must reflect the diversity of the constituency, rather than serving as the preserve of any one district or political network.

They further emphasized that rotational leadership would not only correct perceived historical imbalances but also expand the democratic space, allowing new entrants—particularly young people and individuals from less politically dominant areas—to aspire to leadership positions. In their view, such a system would strengthen public trust in governance and enhance the legitimacy of elected representatives.

The statement also raised alarm over the long-term implications of maintaining the status quo, describing the entrenched dominance as a “dangerous precedent” capable of eroding confidence in both the party and the broader democratic process. It warned that when access to political office appears predetermined, it discourages participation and fosters apathy among voters.

In a direct appeal to the leadership of the APC, the group called for urgent intervention to address what it termed “political manipulation” within the constituency. Specifically, they urged the National Chairman of the party, Nentawe Yilwatda, the Plateau State APC Chairman, Rufus Bature, and the Wase LGA APC Chairman, Shagari, alongside other key stakeholders, to take decisive steps toward implementing a fair and transparent rotation framework.

The stakeholders framed their appeal as a necessary intervention to preserve internal democracy within the APC, stressing that failure to act could deepen grievances and weaken party cohesion ahead of future electoral contests. They called on party leaders at all levels to demonstrate commitment to equity by ensuring that leadership opportunities are distributed in a manner that reflects the collective ownership of the constituency.

Copies of the statement were forwarded to the APC National Secretariat, the Plateau State APC Secretariat, and the Governor of Plateau State, signaling the group’s intention to escalate the matter beyond local party structures if their concerns are not addressed promptly.

Political observers note that the unfolding situation in Wase reflects a broader pattern of intra-party contestation across Nigeria, where questions of zoning, fairness, and access to political power continue to shape alignments and tensions within major political parties. In many cases, such disputes serve as early indicators of shifting loyalties and potential realignments ahead of election cycles.

For the Lamba District Elite, however, the issue goes beyond routine political negotiation. It is framed as a fundamental struggle for inclusion, dignity, and democratic justice. The group insists that the demand for rotational leadership is not aimed at exclusion but at correcting an imbalance that has persisted for too long.

As the controversy continues to unfold, the response of APC leadership—both at the state and national levels—will likely determine whether the situation evolves into a full-blown political crisis or is resolved through negotiated reforms. For now, tensions remain high, and the call for change from Lamba appears to be gaining momentum across sections of the Wase Federal Constituency.

A coalition of aggrieved stakeholders within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Wase Local Government Area has rejected what it termed a “20-year monopoly” over the House of Representatives seat, demanding the institutionalisation of zoning as a corrective mechanism to unlock political participation and restore internal democracy.

The position was reached at a strategic meeting of party members from the six wards of Bashar District, convened under the platform of Wase Concerned Patriots Citizens for Zoning. The gathering, attended by party officials and grassroots actors, resolved that the continued concentration of political power in one individual has created a structural imbalance that must be urgently addressed.

At the centre of the agitation is the prolonged tenure of Ahmed Idris, whose nearly two decades in the federal legislature the group described as emblematic of a wider pattern of exclusion and restricted access to elective office.

Speaking on behalf of the group, convener Dalhatu Abdullahi said the demand for zoning goes beyond partisan calculation, framing it instead as a democratic imperative aimed at dismantling entrenched power structures.

“What we are confronting is not just longevity in office, but a systemic lockjaw that has frozen political mobility in Wase,” Abdullahi stated. “Zoning is the only credible instrument to break this cycle, reopen the political space, and guarantee fairness across all districts.”

The stakeholders argued that a 20-year hold on a single mandate effectively sidelines emerging leaders and erodes the principle of periodic accountability, warning that such dominance risks converting public office into a quasi-private entitlement.

They maintained that zoning should be codified as a binding framework within the APC structure in Wase, ensuring equitable rotation of offices, balanced representation, and broader inclusion of previously marginalised blocs.

The group also aligned its position with what it described as the APC’s broader ideological leaning toward zoning, noting that the policy offers a pathway to dismantle political monopolies and foster unity within the party’s ranks.

In their resolution, the stakeholders called on all political actors in Wase Local Government Area to adopt zoning as a non-negotiable covenant, cautioning that failure to embrace power rotation would deepen disenfranchisement and sustain what they described as “exclusion dressed as electoral choice.”

The development reflects intensifying internal agitation within the APC in Plateau State, as grassroots stakeholders push for structural reforms to recalibrate power distribution and enhance democratic inclusiveness ahead of future elections.

The Federal Government and the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) have deepened collaboration to accelerate the adoption of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) across Nigeria’s 774 Local Government Areas, in a move aimed at advancing clean energy access and reducing environmental and health risks associated with traditional cooking fuels.

The renewed partnership was reinforced during a high-level meeting at the NNPC Towers in Abuja, where the Honourable Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, hosted a delegation led by ALGON National President, Bello Lawal.

The ALGON delegation included the Director General, Barr. Mrs. Evan Enekwe; Chief of Staff, Shehu Jega; and Financial/Lead Consultant, Senator Dr. Alphonsus Ubanesse Igbeke, alongside other senior officials. Central to the discussions was the implementation of the LPG Grassroots Penetration Programme, designed to expand access to clean cooking energy in rural and underserved communities.

In his remarks, Lawal said ALGON’s engagement with the Ministry was driven by the need to institutionalise collaboration that would ensure effective delivery of LPG infrastructure and services at the grassroots. He praised the Ministry’s leadership in initiating the programme and reiterated the Association’s readiness to mobilise communities nationwide.

According to him, ALGON is prepared to support the equitable distribution of LPG cylinders, deploy monitoring mechanisms across rural areas, and facilitate community-level awareness to drive behavioural change. He also proposed the establishment of a joint technical committee, the provision of financial and technical support, the rollout of a nationwide sensitisation campaign, and the commencement of pilot schemes in selected local government areas.

Responding, Ekpo commended ALGON for its proactive approach and acknowledged the Association’s critical role in bridging policy execution gaps at the grassroots. He noted that the Ministry’s existing collaboration with ALGON, particularly through its Technical Working Group chaired by Senator Igbeke, has remained productive and would be further strengthened.

The Minister emphasised that local governments possess the capacity to attract incentives and support programme implementation effectively. He assured that the Ministry would work closely with ALGON and private sector partners to deliver on the initiative, while urging the designation of desk officers to improve coordination and ensure timely communication.

Ekpo highlighted the broader implications of the LPG expansion drive, stressing that the transition from firewood and kerosene to gas would significantly reduce deforestation and indoor air pollution, which he described as a major public health concern.

He noted that the initiative is central to improving the welfare of women, youth, and children, who are most affected by the health hazards of traditional cooking methods. The Minister added that the government remains committed to leveraging Nigeria’s natural gas resources to improve living standards and promote sustainable development.

The meeting also acknowledged the contributions of members of the Technical Working Group, including Senator Igbeke and Dimeji Lamuren, whose roles in shaping the ALGON gas programme were highlighted. Lawal reaffirmed ALGON’s reliance on the existing framework to ensure continuity and effective delivery.

Other participants at the meeting included Dr. Ben Nkechika, ALGON Consultant on Health Matters; Dimeji Lamuren, Deputy Director of Planning, Research and Programmes; Alhaji Lawali Ibrahim, Deputy Director of Human Resources; Gloria Udoh, Secretary; as well as senior directors from the Ministry.

The engagement signals a coordinated push by both tiers of government to scale up clean energy access, positioning LPG as a key driver of Nigeria’s energy transition agenda while targeting improved health outcomes and environmental sustainability at the grassroots.

Concerns over rising non-compliance are mounting across Nigeria’s tax landscape following the expiration of the March 1 deadline for annual personal income tax returns, as a leading tax expert, Prince Chidi Nwafor, warns of escalating penalties and enforcement actions against defaulters.

In a comprehensive online lecture titled “How to File Tax Returns in Nigeria”, the Chief Executive Officer of Taxcorp Global Limited provided an in-depth breakdown of tax obligations for employees, self-employed individuals, and unincorporated entities, while stressing that failure to meet statutory deadlines now carries immediate financial and legal consequences.

Deadline Missed, Penalties Activated

The March 1, 2026 deadline—set by sub-national tax authorities including the Federal Capital Territory Internal Revenue Service and various State Internal Revenue Services—required all eligible individuals to file their annual income tax returns for the 2025 assessment year.

With the deadline now over, tax experts warn that thousands of taxpayers may have automatically fallen into default, triggering penalty provisions under the Nigerian Tax Administration Act 2025.

Under the law, defaulters face an initial penalty of ₦100,000 for the first month of non-compliance, followed by ₦50,000 for each subsequent month—liabilities that have already begun to accumulate as April progresses.

Compliance as Shield Against Enforcement

Nwafor, a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Taxation, emphasised that timely compliance remains the only effective protection against aggressive enforcement measures by tax authorities.

He described what he termed the “Golden Rule of Tax Freedom” as a simple but critical principle: “comply, comply, and comply,” warning that failure to do so could expose taxpayers to audits, account restrictions, reputational damage, and even legal prosecution.

He clarified that taxation in Nigeria applies to income or profit—not bank balances—urging citizens to understand the underlying principles of the system rather than approach compliance mechanically.

Who Was Expected to File

Drawing on provisions of the Nigerian Tax Administration Act 2025, the expert reiterated that every “taxable person”—defined as anyone engaged in economic activity—is legally required to file returns, whether or not they earned income or made profit.

This category includes employees, freelancers, traders, consultants, partnerships, NGOs, and religious organisations. Employees, in particular, were reminded that despite deductions under Pay-As-You-Earn (PAYE), they are still required to submit annual returns using Form A.

However, exemptions apply to individuals with no economic activity, including dependent persons and certain passive-income earners.

Structure and Timelines of Tax Returns

The lecture outlined Nigeria’s multi-layered tax filing framework, noting that while the March 1 deadline applies to individual annual returns, other obligations continue throughout the year.

Employer filings such as Forms H1 and G are due by January 31 annually, while monthly obligations—including PAYE remittances, Value Added Tax (VAT), and withholding tax returns—carry deadlines between the 10th and 21st of the following month.

Failure to meet any of these timelines exposes taxpayers to separate penalties and compliance risks.

Financial and Operational Risks of Non-Compliance

Nwafor warned that beyond statutory penalties, failure to file tax returns can result in denial of tax clearance certificates, which are essential for business transactions, contract bids, and international travel.

He further noted that tax authorities are increasingly adopting data-driven enforcement strategies, leveraging financial disclosures from banks and other institutions to track high-value transactions.

Under existing regulations, financial institutions are required to report transactions exceeding ₦25 million for individuals and ₦100 million for corporate entities to relevant authorities.

Digitalisation and Future Tax Reforms

The expert also highlighted Nigeria’s transition toward a fully digital tax administration system, including online filing platforms and the planned rollout of electronic fiscalisation, which is expected to mandate e-invoicing for businesses by 2027.

He urged taxpayers to adapt early by maintaining accurate financial records and embracing digital compliance tools.

Filing Process and Documentation

Providing a step-by-step guide, the lecture detailed how taxpayers can still file returns post-deadline through online portals managed by authorities such as the Federal Capital Territory Internal Revenue Service.

Required documentation includes payslips, bank statements, audited financial accounts, and evidence of tax payments. Taxpayers are also expected to retain records for at least six years for audit purposes.

Self-Assessment and Legal Responsibility

A key feature of Nigeria’s tax system, according to Nwafor, is self-assessment, where taxpayers calculate and remit their liabilities independently before submission.

He cautioned that all submitted returns are legally binding, regardless of whether they are filed personally or through a tax agent, and that false or incomplete declarations could attract severe sanctions.

Urgent Call for Immediate Compliance

With the filing deadline now behind, the tax expert urged defaulters to act swiftly by submitting outstanding returns and settling applicable penalties to avoid further escalation.

He stressed that Nigeria’s evolving tax system leaves little room for ignorance or delay, noting that increased inter-agency collaboration and digital integration have significantly strengthened enforcement capacity.

As authorities intensify efforts to boost revenue and widen the tax net, the message to taxpayers is clear: late compliance is better than non-compliance—but prompt action is critical to limiting financial and legal exposure.

Follow the link below to watch the full video:
https://youtu.be/vMMDnhapUnk?si=i6H4zP_S5wSbqKCd

By James Ezema

To argue that Nigeria cannot afford policy inconsistencies that weaken its already fragile public health architecture is not an exaggeration. The current disparity in retirement age between medical doctors and veterinary professionals is one such inconsistency—one that demands urgent correction, not bureaucratic delay.

The Federal Government’s decision to approve a 65-year retirement age for selected health professionals was, in principle, commendable. It acknowledged the need to retain scarce expertise within a critical sector. However, by excluding veterinary doctors and veterinary para-professionals—whether explicitly or by omission—the policy has created a dangerous gap that undermines both equity and national health security.

This is not merely a professional grievance; it is a structural flaw with far-reaching consequences.

At the heart of the issue lies a contradiction the government cannot ignore. For decades, Nigeria has maintained a parity framework that places medical and veterinary doctors on equivalent footing in terms of salary structures and conditions of service. The Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) framework recognizes both professions as integral components of the broader health ecosystem. Yet, when it comes to retirement policy, that parity has been abruptly set aside.

This inconsistency is indefensible.

Veterinary professionals are not peripheral actors in the health sector—they are central to it. In an era defined by zoonotic threats, where the majority of emerging infectious diseases originate from animals, excluding veterinarians from extended service retention is not only unfair but strategically reckless.

Nigeria has formally embraced the One Health approach, which integrates human, animal, and environmental health systems. But policy must align with principle. It is contradictory to adopt One Health in theory while sidelining a core component of that framework in practice.

Veterinarians are at the frontline of disease surveillance, outbreak prevention, and biosecurity. They play critical roles in managing threats such as anthrax, rabies, avian influenza, Lassa fever, and other zoonotic diseases that pose direct risks to human populations. Their contribution to safeguarding the nation’s livestock—estimated in the hundreds of millions—is equally vital to food security and economic stability.

Yet, at a time when their relevance has never been greater, policy is forcing them out prematurely.

The workforce realities make this situation even more alarming. Nigeria is already grappling with a severe shortage of veterinary professionals. In some states, only a handful of veterinarians are available, while several local government areas have no veterinary presence at all. Compelling experienced professionals to retire at 60, while their medical counterparts remain in service until 65, will only deepen this crisis.

This is not a theoretical concern—it is an imminent risk.

The case for inclusion has already been made, clearly and responsibly, by the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association and the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development. Their position is grounded in logic, policy precedent, and national interest. They are not seeking special treatment; they are demanding consistency.

The current circular, which limits the 65-year retirement age to clinical professionals in Federal Tertiary Hospitals and excludes those in mainstream civil service structures, is both administratively narrow and strategically flawed. It fails to account for the unique institutional placement of veterinary professionals, who operate largely outside hospital settings but are no less critical to national health outcomes.

Policy must reflect function, not merely location.

This is where decisive leadership becomes imperative. The responsibility now rests squarely with Bola Ahmed Tinubu to address this imbalance and restore coherence to Nigeria’s health and civil service policies.

A clear directive from the President to the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation can correct this anomaly. Such a directive should ensure that veterinary doctors and veterinary para-professionals are fully integrated into the 65-year retirement framework, in line with existing parity policies and the realities of modern public health.

Anything less would signal a troubling disregard for a sector that plays a quiet but indispensable role in national stability.

This is not just about fairness—it is about foresight. Public health security is interconnected, and weakening one component inevitably weakens the entire system.

Nigeria stands at a critical juncture, confronted by complex health, food security, and economic challenges. Retaining experienced veterinary professionals is not optional; it is essential.

The disparity must end—and it must end now.




Comrade James Ezema is a journalist, political strategist, and public affairs analyst. He is the National President of the Association of Bloggers and Journalists Against Fake News (ABJFN), National Vice-President (Investigation) of the Nigerian Guild of Investigative Journalists (NGIJ), and President/National Coordinator of the Not Too Young To Perform (NTYTP), a national leadership development advocacy group. He can be reached via email: jamesezema@gmail.com or WhatsApp: +234 8035823617.

A fresh policy controversy is unfolding within Nigeria’s public service following the Federal Government’s recent circular approving a 65-year retirement age for selected health professionals—a move that, while well-intentioned, appears to contradict decades of established parity between medical and veterinary practitioners.

At the core of the issue is a longstanding policy framework that recognizes medical doctors and veterinary doctors as equivalent in salary structures and conditions of service. However, the latest administrative directive, issued by the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation on December 31, 2025, introduces a selective application of retirement benefits that excludes veterinary professionals, thereby raising critical questions about policy consistency and institutional alignment.

The circular, which increases the retirement age from 60 to 65 years, is specifically targeted at “skilled clinical health professionals in Federal Tertiary Hospitals and Centres.” While this classification includes a wide range of hospital-based practitioners—such as medical officers, nurses, pharmacists, radiographers, and physiotherapists—it does not extend to veterinary doctors or veterinary para-professionals.

This exclusion is not incidental; it is structural.

By limiting the policy to clinical roles within hospital settings, the circular effectively sidelines veterinary professionals, who predominantly operate within ministries, livestock services, and field-based public health systems. This institutional distinction, while administratively convenient, overlooks the functional equivalence between the two professions as established by earlier government policies.

The contradiction becomes even more apparent when viewed against the backdrop of the Federal Government’s Parity Circular of August 8, 1994. That framework clearly established equal salary structures and conditions of service for medical and veterinary professionals under the CONMESS scheme, as well as parity for allied cadres under CONHESS.

For decades, this parity has served as a guiding principle in the management of Nigeria’s health workforce. It recognized that both professions, though operating in different domains, contribute significantly to national health outcomes.

The new retirement policy, however, departs from that principle.

Prior to the issuance of the circular, both the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA) and the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development had formally advocated for the inclusion of veterinary professionals in the revised retirement framework. Their submissions were grounded not only in the parity policy but also in practical considerations related to workforce sustainability and public health security.

In its communication, the NVMA emphasized the critical shortage of veterinary personnel across the country and warned that maintaining the current retirement age would further deplete an already limited workforce. The association highlighted the growing importance of veterinary professionals in managing zoonotic diseases, noting that a significant proportion of infectious diseases affecting humans originate from animals.

Similarly, the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development underscored the strategic importance of retaining experienced veterinary personnel, particularly in the context of Nigeria’s food security challenges and the need for robust biosecurity systems.

Both submissions made a compelling case for policy alignment.

Yet, the circular’s narrow focus on hospital-based clinical roles has effectively overridden these considerations, creating a policy gap with potential consequences for national health resilience.

The implications extend beyond professional equity. In an era defined by emerging infectious diseases and increasing human-animal interaction, veterinary professionals play a central role in disease surveillance, outbreak prevention, and emergency response. Their exclusion from extended service retention risks weakening a critical component of Nigeria’s health security architecture.

Moreover, the disparity comes at a time when the country is already facing significant shortages in veterinary manpower. Reports indicate that several states have only a handful of practicing veterinarians, with some local government areas lacking any veterinary presence at all. Accelerated retirements under the current framework could exacerbate these gaps, undermining efforts to strengthen public health systems and ensure food safety.

The situation also raises broader questions about policy design and implementation. Should retirement policies be based solely on institutional location, or should they reflect the functional roles and strategic importance of different professional groups within the health ecosystem?

In the case of veterinary professionals, the answer appears clear. Their contributions extend far beyond animal health, encompassing critical areas such as zoonotic disease control, food safety, environmental health, and national biosecurity.

Nigeria’s adoption of the One Health approach further reinforces this interconnected perspective, emphasizing the need for integrated policies that recognize the interdependence of human and animal health systems.

Against this backdrop, the current retirement age disparity appears increasingly difficult to justify.

What is required is a deliberate effort to realign policy with principle. Extending the 65-year retirement age to veterinary doctors and veterinary para-professionals would not only restore consistency with the parity framework but also strengthen the country’s capacity to respond to complex health challenges.

As stakeholders continue to engage with the issue, the focus is likely to remain on the need for administrative review and policy harmonization. The goal is not merely to address a sectoral concern, but to ensure that Nigeria’s public health system is underpinned by coherent, inclusive, and forward-looking policies.

In the final analysis, the contradiction between the current circular and established medical-veterinary parity is more than a technical oversight—it is a test of policy coherence in a system where alignment is critical to national well-being.

The Permanent Secretary, Nigeria's Ministry of Defence, Mr. Richard Pheelangwah has reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to strengthening the operational capacity of the Nigerian Navy through enhanced support, improved readiness, and stronger Civil-Military collaboration.

Mr Pheelangwah made this known during a familiarization visit to the Naval Headquarters on 17th March, 2026, where he commended the leadership and personnel of the Nigerian Navy for their professionalism, dedication, and critical role in safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime domain.

He noted that the visit was aimed at deepening strategic alignment between the Ministry and the Nigerian Navy, as well as gaining firsthand insight into the Service’s operational priorities, challenges, and ongoing initiatives.

Mr Pheelangwah emphasized the need to strengthen civil-military synergy, stressing that effective collaboration between the Ministry of Defence and the Armed Forces remains vital to achieving sustainable national security objectives. He further assured of the Ministry’s readiness to support the Nigerian Navy in critical areas, including force readiness, budgetary compliance, and improved welfare for officers and personnel.

According to him, prioritizing human capital development and welfare remains central to enhancing operational efficiency and morale. He added that it is important Nigeria’s defence industrial base is strengthened, as a way of encouraging greater focus on local content and partnerships that will boost indigenous capacity and contribute to national economic development.

While reiterating the Ministry’s commitment to addressing operational and administrative challenges facing the Nigerian Navy, he called for a unified approach to national defence through enhanced cooperation among the Services. Pheelangwah expressed optimism that with sustained support and collaboration, the Nigerian Navy will continue to play a pivotal role in securing Nigeria’s maritime environment and protecting critical national asset.

In his response, the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas commended the leadership of the Ministry of Defence for the current cordial working relationship with the entire Services. He highlighted areas of need to boost naval personnel’s performance such as; equipment procurements , improved procurement process, infrastructural deficits such as adequate accommodation for naval personnel, especially, as the strength of service expands by the day; increase in staff strength via the employment of Medical staff and funds for completion of all projects started by his predecessor’s. Vice Admiral Idi Abbas pleaded for the Ministry’s supports to be able to achieve those targets.

Present at the event are the Directors from the Ministry and the Principal Staff Officers of the Naval headquarters.

The Conference of Nigeria Political Parties (CNPP) and more than 75 civil society organisations operating under the Coalition of National Civil Society Organisations (CNCSOs) have raised fresh concerns over the ability of Nigeria’s legislature to ensure accountability in corruption investigations, warning that decades of parliamentary probes have rarely produced prosecutions or jail terms for culpable public officials.

The political parties’ umbrella body and its civil society allies made the assertion in a joint press statement signed by CNPP’s Deputy National Publicity Secretary, James Ezema, and the National Secretary of the CNCSOs, Ali Abacha, in reaction to the ongoing Senate investigation into alleged ₦210 trillion accounting discrepancies in the books of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) during the tenure of its former Group Chief Executive Officer, Mele Kyari.

In the strongly worded statement, the groups expressed skepticism about the outcome of the Senate probe, arguing that similar investigations conducted by the National Assembly of Nigeria since the country’s return to democratic rule in 1999 have largely ended without meaningful consequences.

According to the groups, legislative investigations into corruption across various sectors of the Nigerian economy—especially the petroleum industry—have historically generated significant public attention but seldom translated into criminal prosecution or conviction.

They stated that the recurring pattern has become familiar to Nigerians: once a scandal breaks, the legislature convenes hearings, officials are summoned, public outrage follows, and investigative reports are promised. However, the matter often fades away without concrete action against those responsible.

The organisations noted that the latest probe by the Senate into the financial records of the national oil company has again brought the issue of accountability in Nigeria’s petroleum sector to the forefront of national discourse.

The Senate is currently investigating allegations of about ₦210 trillion in accounting discrepancies linked to the operations of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, particularly during the leadership of Mele Kyari, who previously served as Group Managing Director of the defunct Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) before the organisation was restructured and transformed into a limited liability company.

While the CNPP and the coalition of civil society groups welcomed the decision by the Senate to summon former officials of the company to explain the controversial figures, they warned that the probe must not follow what they described as a familiar trajectory of inconclusive investigations.

“For more than two decades, Nigerians have witnessed countless legislative probes that ended without prosecution, conviction, or imprisonment of those responsible for corruption uncovered during the hearings,” the statement said.

The groups recalled that they had repeatedly raised alarm over the financial management of the national oil company during the tenure of the former management led by Mele Kyari, alleging opaque accounting practices and questionable financial disclosures relating to subsidy payments, crude oil transactions and operational expenditures.

They also revisited long-standing concerns about the controversial rehabilitation of Nigeria’s state-owned refineries, particularly the Port Harcourt Refinery, which they said had consumed billions of dollars in public funds without delivering sustainable refining capacity.

According to the groups, repeated announcements by officials of the national oil company suggesting that the refineries had been successfully rehabilitated ultimately turned out to be misleading when the facilities failed to function as expected.

They claimed that trillions of naira and substantial foreign-currency expenditures were reportedly committed to refinery rehabilitation projects across the country, yet the anticipated results never materialised.

The statement noted that the eventual shutdown of operations at the Port Harcourt Refinery by the new management of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited raised serious questions about the effectiveness of the earlier rehabilitation efforts.

Despite the magnitude of the alleged financial irregularities, the groups lamented that no public official had been successfully prosecuted or jailed in connection with the projects.

Beyond the refinery controversy, the organisations also expressed concern about what they described as a disparity in the enforcement of anti-corruption laws in Nigeria.

They accused the country’s major anti-graft agencies—the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC)—of showing greater urgency in cases involving political opponents than in investigations involving high-ranking public officials accused of large-scale economic sabotage.

According to the groups, some members of the immediate past management of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, including Mele Kyari, were reportedly invited and briefly detained by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission following their removal from office.

However, they claimed that the detention lasted only a short period and that the Nigerian public has not been informed of any major findings from the investigation since then.

The groups contrasted this situation with what they described as the aggressive prosecution of some political figures outside the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), many of whom have faced prolonged detention or repeated arrests even after courts granted them bail.

They warned that such disparity creates the perception that anti-corruption enforcement in Nigeria may be selective and politically motivated.

In light of these concerns, the CNPP and the coalition of civil society organisations called for decisive presidential intervention to address the controversy surrounding the finances of the national oil company.

They urged Bola Ahmed Tinubu, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, to issue an executive order establishing an independent judicial commission of inquiry into the financial dealings of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited.

According to the groups, the proposed investigation should cover the period from 2015 to date, particularly in view of the fact that the administration of the late Muhammadu Buhari had previously overseen the judicial seizure of assets and recovery of stolen funds from past officials of the national oil company before 2015.

They also demanded a comprehensive forensic audit of the finances, contracts, crude oil transactions and subsidy claims of the company within the same period.

The groups said the probe should further investigate all funds allocated to the rehabilitation of Nigeria’s refineries, including the Port Harcourt Refinery and other federal facilities.

In addition, they insisted that the activities and decisions of the management of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited under the leadership of Mele Kyari must be thoroughly examined.

They further called for the public presentation of the findings of the forensic audit and judicial inquiry, followed by the immediate prosecution of any officials found culpable.

According to the statement, Nigeria cannot afford a situation in which allegations involving trillions of naira generate public outrage but ultimately produce no consequences.

The organisations stressed that if the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu is genuinely committed to fighting corruption, the most powerful actors in the country’s most strategic economic institution must be subjected to the same level of scrutiny applied to ordinary citizens and political opponents.

They concluded that only a transparent, impartial and credible investigation can restore public confidence in the management of Nigeria’s petroleum resources.

Until such an independent judicial inquiry and comprehensive forensic audit are carried out, the groups warned that legislative hearings alone would remain insufficient to resolve the deep-rooted concerns surrounding the operations of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited.

...As FCT Court Orders Her Arrest

Abitter marital dispute involving a Nigerian international footballer has spiraled into a complex web of alleged corporate fraud, property takeover, police investigations and court actions spanning Lagos and Abuja.

Olanrewaju Kayode, a professional striker currently playing for Turkish club Esenler Erokspor, had petitioned the Inspector-General of Police over what he described as a calculated attempt by his estranged wife, Ezinne Dora Okoro, and several associates to seize control of his company and take possession of assets he claims to have acquired through years of football earnings.

The petition, dated February 9, 2026 and addressed to the Nigeria Police Force Headquarters in Abuja, alleges a “well-coordinated criminal conspiracy” involving forgery, falsification of corporate records and the unlawful takeover of his company, DE J-S Concept Limited.

The unfolding drama has already resulted in the arrest and detention of an Abuja-based lawyer and the issuance of an arrest warrant by a High Court in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.


From Football Success to Domestic Crisis

Kayode’s petition and supporting statements portray a once-stable family life that gradually descended into turmoil amid accusations of infidelity, financial disputes and deepening mistrust.

The footballer said his family relocated from Turkey to Nigeria primarily to improve the educational welfare of their three children while he continued his professional career abroad, including a stint with Turkish club Gençlerbirliği.

According to him, the marriage began to deteriorate around 2023 when he allegedly discovered that his wife had become involved in an extramarital relationship.

He further accused her of living an extravagant lifestyle funded through several loans from financial institutions—debts he said he later settled himself to protect the family’s reputation.

“I have always provided heavily for my family,” Kayode said, claiming he paid his children’s school fees in international schools both in Europe and Nigeria and placed his wife on a monthly allowance running into millions of naira.


Battle for Control of Company

At the center of the dispute lies DE J-S Concept Limited, a company Kayode said he established in 2019 to manage his investments, particularly in real estate.

According to him, the company was incorporated with a share capital of ₦10 million, with 95 percent of the shares belonging to him and 5 percent allocated to his wife.

However, he alleged that sometime in 2024, his estranged wife, in collaboration with Abuja-based lawyer Asuquo Oyokunyi Ulo and unnamed officials of the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), forged his signature and altered the company’s corporate records.

The petition claims the share capital was subsequently increased from ₦10 million to ₦30 million, with ₦20.5 million shares allegedly assigned to his wife—effectively converting her minority stake into majority ownership.

Kayode further alleged that he was unlawfully removed as company secretary and replaced with the lawyer, Ulo, without his knowledge or authorization.


Luxury Cars, Mansions and Missing Documents

The footballer alleged that the disputed corporate changes enabled his estranged wife and her associates to gain control of several assets, including luxury vehicles and residential properties worth hundreds of millions of naira.

Among the assets he claims were taken are two luxury vehicles—a 2022 Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon and a 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE—along with original property documents and multiple residential buildings.

He further alleged that some of the properties were acquired through a real estate developer, Ugochukwu Igboanugo of Ziloc Construction Limited, who handled many of his property transactions in Lagos.

Kayode claims the developer remains in possession of some original property documents and has allegedly been collecting rents from the properties.

Receipts obtained by our correspondent show that payments for the buildings were made directly by the footballer to the developer.


Police Arrest Lawyer Over Alleged Forgery

The dispute escalated when the Nigeria Police Force reportedly detained the lawyer, Asuquo Oyokunyi Ulo, over his alleged involvement in the falsification of Corporate Affairs Commission documents relating to DE J-S Concept Limited.

Sources said Ulo, a partner in a corporate law practice, was picked up on Monday, February 23, 2026 and was held at the Inspector-General of Police Monitoring Team facility at the Force Headquarters in Abuja.

During interrogation, the lawyer reportedly told investigators he had never met the footballer and had only been contracted by another legal practitioner to carry out corporate filings for a fee.


Divorce Battle and Asset Claims

The footballer’s estranged wife is also reported to have filed for divorce.

Sources say she is currently holding on to some of the cars and other properties belonging to the footballer as part of her claims in the divorce proceedings, despite the absence of any court ruling granting her ownership as a result of the alleged falsified DE J-S Concept Limited corporate documents.

Kayode, however, insists that all the properties and vehicles were acquired through his personal earnings as a professional footballer.


Family Rift and Children at the Center

Beyond the legal battle, the dispute has also taken an emotional toll on the couple’s children.

Kayode alleged that his wife left Nigeria with their children at one point without informing him, prompting him to seek the assistance of security agencies to locate them.

According to him, authorities later traced the children to Abuja and returned them to him temporarily before further investigations continued.

The footballer also maintained that he later saw videos showing one of his children celebrating a birthday abroad without his knowledge or participation.


Property Dispute Escalates in Lekki

Meanwhile, the property dispute has spilled into civil legal proceedings in Lagos.

On March 4, 2026, TVO Partners, a Lagos-based law firm, issued a formal quit notice to the footballer and occupants of a five-bedroom duplex located at House No. 5, Block F, Plot 4, Pinnock Beach Estate, Ajiran, Lekki—one of the properties linked to DE J-S Concept Limited.

The letter, acting on behalf of the company, withdrew the licence previously granted to the occupants to live in the property and directed them to vacate by April 30, 2026.

“TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that your continued occupation of the Property after the stated date shall constitute unlawful occupation,” the notice warned, adding that legal steps would be taken to recover possession if the directive is ignored.


FCT High Court Issues Arrest Warrant

In a related development, the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory has issued a warrant of arrest against Ezinne Dora Okoro.

The warrant, dated February 16, 2026 and signed by Hon. Justice M. M. Adamu, directs all police officers to arrest the defendant over allegations of cyberstalking and cyberbullying.

The criminal case was filed by the Nigeria Police Force as complainant.


A Case Drawing National Attention

The unfolding saga blends elements of marital breakdown, corporate governance disputes, property ownership battles and criminal investigations.

Legal observers say the case highlights the complexities that can arise when marital disputes intersect with corporate control and high-value assets.

Kayode, for his part, insists his petition is simply an attempt to protect what he describes as years of hard work.

“This reckless confidence that nothing can be done has compelled me to seek urgent intervention,” he wrote in his petition.

As of the time of filing this report, the individuals named in the allegations had not publicly responded to the claims.

With police investigations ongoing and court proceedings already underway, the case is expected to test both criminal and civil legal frameworks in the weeks ahead.

Nigeria’s Federal Government has lifted the suspension placed on degree certificates obtained from universities in the Republic of Benin and Togo, a development that has brought relief to more than 22,000 Nigerian students whose academic futures had been thrown into uncertainty.

The suspension had earlier been introduced as part of measures to curb certificate racketeering and safeguard the integrity of Nigeria’s education system. However, the restriction affected thousands of Nigerians who graduated from institutions in the two neighbouring countries.

The decision to lift the ban followed a motion adopted by the House of Representatives of Nigeria urging the Federal Government to rescind its blanket invalidation of degree certificates obtained from the Republics of Benin and Togo.

According to government officials, the move came after extensive engagements and reforms aimed at strengthening verification processes to ensure that only legitimate institutions and qualifications are recognised going forward.

Education stakeholders have welcomed the development, describing it as a major step toward restoring hope and opportunities for the affected graduates.

An education consultant and stakeholder in the Benin Republic academic community, Dr. Ugo Magnus Kel, commended the leadership of the National Assembly of Nigeria and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for intervening in the matter and giving thousands of young Nigerians another opportunity to pursue their careers.

Dr. Magnus stated that the decision demonstrates the government’s responsiveness to the concerns of citizens and its commitment to the future of Nigerian youths.

He added that the lifting of the suspension would positively impact the lives of the more than 22,000 affected graduates who had faced significant challenges in securing employment or pursuing further studies since the restriction was introduced.

The education consultant also urged the Federal Government to continue strengthening collaboration with educational authorities in neighbouring countries in order to prevent future abuse of the system while ensuring that genuine students are protected.

Many of the affected graduates have since expressed relief and gratitude, noting that the government’s decision restores their confidence in the Nigerian system and reopens opportunities that had been closed to them for months.

Education analysts also believe the policy reversal will help reintegrate thousands of graduates into the labour market while easing the concerns of Nigerian students studying in institutions across West Africa.

The Nigerian government had in January 2024 announced the suspension of accreditation and evaluation of degree certificates obtained from universities in Benin Republic and Togo following concerns about certificate fraud and irregularities in the admission process.

A coalition of 21 Northern Nigeria youth organisations led by the Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership has commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for adjusting the timetable for the 2027 general elections, describing the decision as a thoughtful move that promotes democratic inclusion and strengthens national cohesion.

In a press statement signed by the President of the Assembly, Abdul Garba Danbature, the groups said the decision by the electoral body under the chairmanship of Joash Ojo Amupitan to move the elections from February 2027 to January 2027 demonstrated foresight and sensitivity to Nigeria’s religious diversity.

The statement noted that the earlier schedule was too close to the Ramadan fasting period, which could have created participation challenges for Muslim voters across the country.

“This strategic recalibration, necessitated by the proximity of the earlier schedule to the holy month of Ramadan, reflects not only administrative foresight but also a deep sensitivity to Nigeria’s religious diversity and plural character,” the statement read.

“The earlier February date posed potential logistical and participatory challenges for millions of Muslim faithful who observe the sacred fasting period with devotion and solemnity. By revising the timetable, INEC has demonstrated a commendable commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that no segment of the Nigerian populace feels inadvertently disadvantaged in the exercise of their constitutional franchise.”

The organisations said the decision followed appeals by religious and community leaders as well as civic stakeholders who urged the Commission to reconsider the timetable in the interest of broader participation.

“It is instructive to note that this adjustment followed earnest appeals by concerned Nigerians, including respected religious and community leaders such as the Sultan of Sokoto and the leadership of the Supreme Council for Sharia in Nigeria, alongside our organization and other civic stakeholders,” the statement said.

“The Commission’s decision to listen, deliberate and act reinforces the principle that democratic institutions must remain attentive to constructive public engagement.”

The coalition dismissed criticisms in some quarters regarding INEC’s leadership, insisting that the timetable adjustment showed that the Commission remains committed to credible and peaceful elections.

“Widely misunderstood in some quarters, this development is in fact further evidence that Professor Amupitan is a responsible and responsive Nigerian, committed to conducting elections that are credible, peaceful and reflective of the will of the people,” the groups stated.

“Leadership, particularly in sensitive national institutions, demands both firmness and flexibility – firmness in upholding the law and flexibility in accommodating legitimate concerns that enhance democratic participation. INEC’s action embodies this delicate balance.”

The youth organisations called on Nigerians to support the Commission and avoid divisive rhetoric ahead of the 2027 elections.

“We call upon all Nigerians, especially those who may have previously harboured reservations about Professor Amupitan’s appointment, to sheath their swords and embrace this positive signal of inclusive governance,” the statement said.

“The adjustment of the timetable is not a concession to sectional interest, but a reinforcement of national equity. From all available indications, the Commission is positioning itself to conduct one of the most credible elections in Nigeria’s democratic history.”


The coalition also stressed the importance of peace in the democratic process, recalling the advocacy of former Head of State, Abdulsalami Abubakar, whom they described as a symbol of dialogue and national unity.

“As a nation, we must remember that peace remains the cornerstone of democratic consolidation. The enduring peace advocacy championed by General Abdulsalami Abubakar continues to remind us that nation-building has no viable alternative to dialogue, tolerance and mutual respect,” the statement added.


The groups further invoked the legacy of the late Northern Nigerian leader, Ahmadu Bello, saying his example of unity across ethnic and religious lines remains relevant to contemporary politics.

“The late Sardauna was renowned for fostering peaceful coexistence among Northerners of diverse faiths and ethnic backgrounds. His cordial relationships across religious and regional lines demonstrated that leadership is best measured not by rhetoric, but by the ability to unite rather than divide,” the statement noted.

The coalition urged political parties, civil society organisations, religious leaders and the electorate to see the timetable adjustment as a collective victory for democracy and to prepare for peaceful participation in the 2027 general elections.

“In conclusion, the adjustment of the 2027 election timetable stands as a reassuring affirmation that Nigeria’s democratic institutions are capable of reflection, consultation, and responsible action,” the statement said.

“We reaffirm our confidence in INEC’s leadership and call on all Nigerians to prepare for a peaceful, inclusive and credible electoral process. Together, in unity and good faith, we can strengthen the foundations of our democracy and advance the cause of national cohesion.”

The Coalition of Registered Political Parties (CRPP), Enugu State Chapter, has insisted that governance in the state must be evaluated strictly on measurable outcomes and verifiable reforms, declaring that public commentary must be responsible, evidence-based, and free of diversionary rhetoric. The coalition made this position known in a comprehensive public statement issued in response to recent criticisms directed at the Governor of Enugu State, Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, by Comrade Kennedy Iyere.

In the statement jointly signed by Chief Innocent Ezeoha, State Coordinator; Dr. Afam Ani, Chairman; and Barr. Ken Ikeh, Secretary, the coalition reaffirmed its democratic credentials while drawing a firm line against what it described as unsubstantiated narratives. “As a coalition committed to democratic accountability, we uphold the right of every citizen to express political opinions,” the statement read. It added, however, that “public discourse must be responsible, evidence-based, and devoid of diversionary rhetoric.”

Defending the administration’s record since May 29, 2023, the CRPP asserted that Governor Mbah’s tenure has been marked by structured reforms and measurable transformation across key sectors. “Governor Mbah’s administration since May 29, 2023 has been defined by structured reforms and measurable sectoral transformation,” the coalition stated, stressing that “assertions labelling his leadership as a ‘mistake’ ignore demonstrable progress across critical areas of governance.”

The coalition highlighted the Smart Green Schools initiative as one of the administration’s most ambitious reforms, describing it as a landmark intervention in education. According to the statement, “The Smart Green Schools initiative — delivering one fully equipped modern learning facility in each of the 260 political wards — represents one of the most ambitious sub-national education reforms in Nigeria.” It further explained that “these institutions integrate digital learning systems, science laboratories, and innovation hubs designed to prepare Enugu’s children for a competitive global economy,” underscoring what it described as a forward-looking approach to human capital development.

On healthcare, the CRPP pointed to the construction and upgrading of 260 Type-2 Primary Healthcare Centres across wards as a major step toward expanding access and improving service delivery. “The ongoing construction and upgrading of 260 Type-2 Primary Healthcare Centres across wards, alongside improvements in medical infrastructure and personnel support systems, significantly enhance healthcare accessibility and quality across urban and rural communities,” the coalition declared.

The statement also addressed security, noting that the administration has strengthened internal safety mechanisms through strategic collaboration. “Through strategic collaboration with federal security agencies and community-based security frameworks, the administration has strengthened internal security architecture, improved response systems, and enhanced public safety confidence,” it said.

In the area of infrastructure and economic management, the coalition cited major road rehabilitation projects, modern transport terminals, aviation sector revival initiatives, digitised land administration, improved internally generated revenue systems, and energy reforms as evidence of fiscal discipline and long-term planning. It stated that these initiatives “demonstrate fiscal discipline and strategic planning aimed at long-term economic sustainability.”

While defending the governor’s record, the CRPP also addressed ongoing legal allegations involving Comrade Iyere. It cautioned that public criticism becomes questionable “when it appears calculated to distract from serious personal legal challenges.” The coalition noted that “it is a matter of public record that the former Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, ordered a formal investigation into Comrade Kennedy Iyere following petitions alleging fraud to the tune of ₦113,508,757.”

According to the statement, “the petition — reportedly filed by Valencia Hotels and other complainants through Valen Legal Practitioners (Victor Adebayo, Esq.) — alleges criminal breach of trust, obtaining by false pretence, cheating, and impersonation.” It further referenced “an earlier petition dated October 23, 2025” which “cited an alleged ₦26 million fraud involving Silver Green Hotel Limited, premised on claims that he represented himself as a staff member of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development capable of facilitating funding for a purported ‘YEIDEP’ youth empowerment programme.” The coalition added that “the complainants reportedly described him as a ‘serial fraudster,’ and investigations were ordered accordingly.”

Despite detailing the allegations, the CRPP emphasized the principle of due process. “We state clearly: these are allegations, and every citizen is presumed innocent until proven otherwise,” the statement stressed. It maintained that “the appropriate forum for resolving such matters is the investigative and judicial process — not public attacks on a sitting governor whose administration is demonstrably delivering results.”

Concluding its position, the coalition urged Iyere to channel his efforts toward addressing the allegations against him. “The CRPP therefore respectfully calls on Comrade Kennedy Iyere to focus his energies on addressing and clearing his name regarding the serious fraud allegations currently under investigation rather than attempting to project frustration onto the governance of Enugu State,” the statement read. It added that “public trust is earned through transparency, accountability, and lawful conduct. If cleared, the investigative process will speak for itself. Until then, responsible civic engagement demands restraint and focus.”

Reaffirming its institutional commitment, the coalition declared that it “remains committed to objective evaluation of governance in Enugu State. Where progress is evident, we will acknowledge it. Where constructive advice is required, we will offer it. But we will not remain silent when unsubstantiated narratives seek to distort the factual record of measurable development.” The statement ended with a pointed reminder that “Enugu State deserves politics rooted in data, discipline, and development — not distraction.”

The Coalition of Registered Political Parties (CRPP), Enugu State Chapter, has insisted that governance in the state must be evaluated strictly on measurable outcomes and verifiable reforms, declaring that public commentary must be responsible, evidence-based, and free of diversionary rhetoric. The coalition made this position known in a comprehensive public statement issued in response to recent criticisms directed at the Governor of Enugu State, Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, by Comrade Kennedy Iyere.

In the statement jointly signed by Chief Innocent Ezeoha, State Coordinator; Dr. Afam Ani, Chairman; and Barr. Ken Ikeh, Secretary, the coalition reaffirmed its democratic credentials while drawing a firm line against what it described as unsubstantiated narratives. “As a coalition committed to democratic accountability, we uphold the right of every citizen to express political opinions,” the statement read. It added, however, that “public discourse must be responsible, evidence-based, and devoid of diversionary rhetoric.”

Defending the administration’s record since May 29, 2023, the CRPP asserted that Governor Mbah’s tenure has been marked by structured reforms and measurable transformation across key sectors. “Governor Mbah’s administration since May 29, 2023 has been defined by structured reforms and measurable sectoral transformation,” the coalition stated, stressing that “assertions labelling his leadership as a ‘mistake’ ignore demonstrable progress across critical areas of governance.”

The coalition highlighted the Smart Green Schools initiative as one of the administration’s most ambitious reforms, describing it as a landmark intervention in education. According to the statement, “The Smart Green Schools initiative — delivering one fully equipped modern learning facility in each of the 260 political wards — represents one of the most ambitious sub-national education reforms in Nigeria.” It further explained that “these institutions integrate digital learning systems, science laboratories, and innovation hubs designed to prepare Enugu’s children for a competitive global economy,” underscoring what it described as a forward-looking approach to human capital development.

On healthcare, the CRPP pointed to the construction and upgrading of 260 Type-2 Primary Healthcare Centres across wards as a major step toward expanding access and improving service delivery. “The ongoing construction and upgrading of 260 Type-2 Primary Healthcare Centres across wards, alongside improvements in medical infrastructure and personnel support systems, significantly enhance healthcare accessibility and quality across urban and rural communities,” the coalition declared.

The statement also addressed security, noting that the administration has strengthened internal safety mechanisms through strategic collaboration. “Through strategic collaboration with federal security agencies and community-based security frameworks, the administration has strengthened internal security architecture, improved response systems, and enhanced public safety confidence,” it said.

In the area of infrastructure and economic management, the coalition cited major road rehabilitation projects, modern transport terminals, aviation sector revival initiatives, digitised land administration, improved internally generated revenue systems, and energy reforms as evidence of fiscal discipline and long-term planning. It stated that these initiatives “demonstrate fiscal discipline and strategic planning aimed at long-term economic sustainability.”

While defending the governor’s record, the CRPP also addressed ongoing legal allegations involving Comrade Iyere. It cautioned that public criticism becomes questionable “when it appears calculated to distract from serious personal legal challenges.” The coalition noted that “it is a matter of public record that the former Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, ordered a formal investigation into Comrade Kennedy Iyere following petitions alleging fraud to the tune of ₦113,508,757.”

According to the statement, “the petition — reportedly filed by Valencia Hotels and other complainants through Valen Legal Practitioners (Victor Adebayo, Esq.) — alleges criminal breach of trust, obtaining by false pretence, cheating, and impersonation.” It further referenced “an earlier petition dated October 23, 2025” which “cited an alleged ₦26 million fraud involving Silver Green Hotel Limited, premised on claims that he represented himself as a staff member of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development capable of facilitating funding for a purported ‘YEIDEP’ youth empowerment programme.” The coalition added that “the complainants reportedly described him as a ‘serial fraudster,’ and investigations were ordered accordingly.”

Despite detailing the allegations, the CRPP emphasized the principle of due process. “We state clearly: these are allegations, and every citizen is presumed innocent until proven otherwise,” the statement stressed. It maintained that “the appropriate forum for resolving such matters is the investigative and judicial process — not public attacks on a sitting governor whose administration is demonstrably delivering results.”

Concluding its position, the coalition urged Iyere to channel his efforts toward addressing the allegations against him. “The CRPP therefore respectfully calls on Comrade Kennedy Iyere to focus his energies on addressing and clearing his name regarding the serious fraud allegations currently under investigation rather than attempting to project frustration onto the governance of Enugu State,” the statement read. It added that “public trust is earned through transparency, accountability, and lawful conduct. If cleared, the investigative process will speak for itself. Until then, responsible civic engagement demands restraint and focus.”

Reaffirming its institutional commitment, the coalition declared that it “remains committed to objective evaluation of governance in Enugu State. Where progress is evident, we will acknowledge it. Where constructive advice is required, we will offer it. But we will not remain silent when unsubstantiated narratives seek to distort the factual record of measurable development.” The statement ended with a pointed reminder that “Enugu State deserves politics rooted in data, discipline, and development — not distraction.”

A prominent Christian leader in Nigeria has come out in defense of Sen. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, urging the US Congress to reconsider a proposed visa ban bill that targets the former governor.

Archbishop Designate Isaac Idahosa, Founder/Presiding Bishop of God First Ministries International, described the bill as a "gross injustice" and said it was based on inaccurate information about Kwankwaso's record.

In a letter to the US Congress, Idahosa said Kwankwaso has never been involved in religious extremism, killings, or riots, and has consistently promoted interfaith dialogue and peaceful coexistence among Nigerians.

Idahosa, who served as Kwankwaso's running mate in the 2023 presidential election, said he would not have accepted the position if Kwankwaso held extremist views.

The Archbishop noted that Kwankwaso's views on security were cautious and focused on the welfare of all Nigerians, regardless of faith or ethnicity.

Idahosa urged the US Congress to review the decision and clear Kwankwaso's name, saying the majority of Nigerians are shocked by the proposed bill.

The letter has been seen as a strong endorsement of Kwankwaso's character and commitment to national unity and development.

....Says Chief Of Staff Of Cross River State "Neither A Threat Nor A Rival"



Renowned journalist and former Board Member of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), Abuja, Comrade Obi Offiong Ojage, has strongly distanced himself from a controversial article allegedly circulated in his name and targeting the Chief of Staff to the Cross River State Governor, Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar, as well as the administration of Governor Prince Bassey Otu. In a detailed public statement, Ojage described the publication as fraudulent, malicious, and the handiwork of impersonators determined to create division within the government he said he helped to build.

Ojage, a known media personality and political commentator in Cross River State, insisted that he had “never written anything negative against the Chief of Staff nor the First Lady of Cross River State,” stressing that he remains “a loyal party man to the core.” He declared unequivocally that “the Chief of Staff is neither a threat to me, nor a rival. At best, we're both ardent supporters of the current Governor, Prince Otu. Anything that makes me leave does not wish the Governor well.”

The veteran journalist explained that his attention was recently drawn to an article titled “Cross River in Chains, How One Chief of Staff Has Hijacked An Entire Government Structure: The Silent Sufferings Of Commissioners And A Call To Rescue Cross River From Internal Oppression,” which he said falsely carried his name. According to him, the article was authored by an impersonator who used fabricated contact details and deliberately omitted the distinctive writing style and identification markers associated with his publications.

“Quite recently, my attention was drawn to an article in circulation… The purportedly misplaced innuendos are said to be written by me, when in fact the piece was written by an imposter who did not have my photograph but a logo and phone numbers of the writer instead,” Ojage stated. He further clarified that his name was used “without my consent in connection with a dubious and fraudulent act by a coward,” adding that the phone number attached to the publication, 08037070622, was not his.

Providing verification details, Ojage maintained that his authentic communication line remains 09085942743 and emphasized his consistent tradition of attaching identifiable photographs to his writings. “I do not have logos. I use my name as the writer at the beginning of the write-up and end with either a single photo of mine or that of the person who is being discussed, or both photos,” he explained.

While distancing himself from the contentious publication, Ojage took the opportunity to address broader concerns about governance in the state. He criticised what he described as attempts by unnamed individuals to use his name to ventilate grievances, particularly regarding alleged dissatisfaction among some commissioners. According to him, he finds it inconceivable that such matters should be attributed to him, especially given his longstanding support for the current administration.

“I wondered how that should be my concern, when I know that most of those appointed commissioners in our state of Cross River do not merit that position but were appointed purely out of the generous disposition of the current Governor, Prince Bassey Otu,” Ojage remarked. He added that, in his view, many of those occupying such offices would, under merit-based considerations, have qualified only for lower-level appointments.

The former FRCN board member also made serious allegations regarding the conduct of some commissioners, accusing them of prioritizing financial gain over development. He claimed that certain officials demand kickbacks from contractors before approving payment for completed projects. “This is largely why some of these boofons, now commissioners, insist on collecting a huge amount of money as kick-backs from genuine government contractors who have completed the job,” he alleged, noting that Cross River State requires urgent development interventions that such practices undermine.

Ojage revealed that he had previously advised Governor Otu to dissolve the current State Executive Council and reconstitute it strictly on merit and inclusivity. He clarified, however, that he never blamed any specific official for appointment imbalances. “I didn’t accuse anybody of being responsible for the imbalances in appointment reuse in the state. Because the bulk stops with the Governor. Anyone else is an interloper,” he stated.

He also raised concerns about what he described as unconventional appointment patterns, including the alleged inclusion of multiple executive members of the ruling party into the state executive council as commissioners. According to him, such decisions were taken by the Governor in the spirit of political accommodation, but he lamented that beneficiaries of such gestures have failed to demonstrate gratitude, instead allegedly sponsoring impersonators to attack government officials.

Ojage used the statement to defend the authority and responsibilities of the Chief of Staff, arguing that the office operates strictly within the powers delegated by the Governor. “I am well informed to know that the chief of staff to the Governor of Cross River… is not the Governor nor the Deputy; therefore, any action he takes must have been an order from the Governor to him as an instruction to be obeyed,” he explained.

He further noted that grievances against the Chief of Staff should be directed through appropriate administrative channels, stressing that appointees uncomfortable with official decisions have options that include petitioning the Governor or resigning. “If anyone is not satisfied or comfortable with it, he either seeks ways of aligning with the chief of staff… or resign and go home to another engagement that pays him more,” he asserted.

Addressing controversies surrounding the operations of the “100 Marian Enforcement Unit,” officially known as the Commercial Transport Regulatory Agency (CTRA), Ojage clarified that the agency is an autonomous statutory body established by law and does not fall under any ministry. He argued that agencies outside ministerial control naturally operate under the Governor’s Office and, by extension, the supervisory authority of the Chief of Staff. “Any government agency or parastatal that is not within a ministry automatically sits under the Governor's office… so the noise is not attainable in this case,” he said.

The journalist expressed deep concern over what he described as the misuse of his reputation by anonymous individuals. He challenged those with genuine grievances to openly identify themselves rather than hide behind impersonation. “Such individual or group should be courageous enough to use his or their names or platform to ventilate such anger and not that of someone reputable and outstandingly courageous for saying the truth plainly,” he stated.

Ojage reiterated his central political position, declaring unwavering loyalty to the administration despite personal disappointments. “I may have my grievances, but certainly neither the chief of staff nor the first lady is my nemesis. I cannot blame any of these if at all there is, but the Governor. He has the yam and the knife. Anybody else is a busybody,” he said.

He warned against attempts to associate him with negative publications targeting the government, urging the public to disregard any such content lacking his identifiable markers and official communication channels. He described himself as a committed party loyalist who has endured delays in receiving personal recognition while remaining faithful to the administration he helped bring to power.

“I have displayed loyalty exceedingly, even in the delay of my due, I remained patient and fervent in my resolve not to destroy what I fought jointly to build, except I am being forced to defect to the opposition,” Ojage declared, adding that anyone who pushes him toward defection “does not wish the current Governor well.”

Highlighting his contributions to Governor Otu’s electoral victory, Ojage said he singlehandedly managed the campaign’s publicity, defended the candidate’s public image, and countered opposition attacks through sustained media advocacy. He noted that his efforts attracted widespread public support for the Governor. “I supported the party and the candidacy of Prince Otu from inception to victory, with all my heart and all I had as the exclusive voice of Cross River in the net,” he said.

He lamented that despite his sacrifices and expectations, he has yet to fully realize the benefits of his efforts but maintained that his loyalty remains intact. “Have I realised the reasons for which I sacrificed all that I did? The answer is monosyllabic no! But I am still loyal,” he concluded, urging political actors to avoid dragging him into internal disputes and reminding observers that “the internet does not forget.”

Ojage ended his message with a reflective spiritual note, reinforcing his longstanding signature phrase, “GOD WITH US,” while reiterating his commitment to truth, party unity, and the stability of the Cross River State government.

The NAFESOJE Empowerment Foundation and the Alliance of National Civil Society Organisations (ANCSOs) have formally declared a "non-negotiable" demand for the mandatory real-time electronic transmission of election results in Nigeria.

In a comprehensive joint press release, the groups characterized this technological shift as the essential pillar for safeguarding electoral integrity and strengthening public confidence in a democratic process they described as fragile.

The statement, jointly signed by Hon. Nnaemeka Aleke, President of the NAFESOJE Empowerment Foundation, and Alhaji Abdullahi Abbas, Assistant National Secretary of the ANCSOs, served as a direct challenge to current legislative discussions. The organizations expressed deep concern over any potential resistance within the National Assembly, asserting that attempts to dilute or weaken the provisions for electronic transmission constitute an affront to the collective democratic aspirations of the Nigerian people.

Addressing the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria directly, the coalition reminded lawmakers that their authority is fundamentally representative rather than absolute. The press release noted that lawmakers were elected specifically to defend and advance the interests of the electorate.

According to the groups, democracy thrives on the supremacy of the majority will, and any legislative maneuver that substitutes partisan preferences for the clear demands of the citizenry risks eroding public trust and weakening the very legitimacy of governance institutions.

The organizations highlighted that a diverse coalition of citizens, civil society groups, election observers, and development partners have consistently voiced support for real-time transmission. They argued that this transition is more than a technological upgrade; it is a strategic defense mechanism against historical plagues of the Nigerian electoral system, such as result alteration, manual interference during collation, and ballot fraud. By allowing for immediate public verification, electronic transmission is expected to align Nigeria’s process with globally accepted standards while bolstering the credibility of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

In a patriotic warning, the NAFESOJE Foundation and ANCSOs insisted that the majority's decision must not be sacrificed on the altar of political expediency. They emphasized that the Nigerian electorate remains the ultimate sovereign in a democratic system, and their voice must not be silenced through procedural manipulations or legislative technicalities. The leaders stressed that electoral credibility is inextricably linked to national stability, investor confidence, and political legitimacy, warning that a lack of transparency could aggravate political tensions and damage the nation’s global reputation.

Concluding their appeal, the foundation and ANCSOs called upon patriotic lawmakers to rise above partisan divides and enshrine mandatory real-time electronic transmission into the legal framework without ambiguity or discretionary loopholes. They also urged the Nigerian public—including youth, professional bodies, and labor unions—to remain vigilant in protecting the sanctity of their votes.

The groups maintained that for Nigeria’s democracy to evolve, it must move toward a system where every result reflects the true will of the people and every process commands the full confidence of the public.

....Pass Vote of Confidence



The NAFESOJE Empowerment Foundation, in collaboration with the Alliance of National Civil Society Organisations (ANCSOs), has congratulated the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig Gen Buba Marwa (retd.), on his recent reappointment, describing the development as a testament to his leadership capacity, competence and track record in public service.

In a congratulatory letter jointly signed by Hon. Nnaemeka Aleke, President of NAFESOJE Empowerment Foundation, and Alhaji Abdullahi Abbas, Assistant National Secretary of ANCSOs, and addressed to the NDLEA boss at the Agency’s National Headquarters in Abuja, the organisations expressed their strong endorsement of his administration while highlighting what they described as his impactful contributions to governance, security and national development.

The civil society groups stated that they are “responsible Non-Governmental Organisation in the field of good Governance, Empowerment and Government Project Monitoring and one of the strategic partners in the operationalization and effectualization of national development through our support to ensure due process to the policies of the Federal Government of Nigeria.”

They further declared, “We write with great sense of honour to congratulate you on your reappointment as the Chairman / CEO of NDLEA,” adding that the development reflects “your administrative capacity, excellence, proven character, competence, wealth of experience, credibility and track record.”

The organisations also used the opportunity to highlight several achievements credited to the NDLEA Chairman in his previous public service roles. They recalled his tenure as Military Governor of Lagos State between 1996 and 1999, noting that during the administration, “you implemented programmes such as operation 250 roads which greatly improved the standards of the roads and saved motorists of chances of always visit to mechanic village and gives vehicle a longer life span.”

They further acknowledged the introduction of “Operation Sweep that checkmated and improved the security of Lagos State to the highest standards,” alongside efforts aimed at strengthening the healthcare sector. According to the statement, his administration undertook the “reviving of health centres and health post to improve the health condition of Lagos State, free malaria treatment and many more, built Lagos University College of Medicine, Eko Tourist Beach Resort.”

The groups also commended the introduction of the tricycle operation, popularly known as Keke Marwa, transportation initiative, stating that it was designed to improve mobility and reduce transportation costs. They noted that “introducing Keke Marwa to better and reduce the cost of transportation. Today, keke is use nationwide in Nigeria.”

Referencing his earlier service as Governor of Borno State between 1990 and 1992, the organisations praised what they described as a pioneering policy initiative, noting that he “introduced first ever establishment of state Ministry of Water Resources and it is now a sample to Nigeria at large.”

They also highlighted his diplomatic service as Defence Adviser in New York, where he addressed long-standing logistical challenges, stating that “accommodation have always pose a terrible problem but your vision made it necessary for you to secure permanent official residence thereby saving your successor with accommodation problems.”

On his current assignment at the NDLEA, the groups credited him with strengthening institutional infrastructure and operational efficiency, stating, “Finally, in your current national assignment, you built the first ever barrack for the 35 years old Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and placed a major crackdown on drug barons and trafficking.”

They further praised internal reforms within the agency, noting, “It is worthy to mention that you restructured the activities of officers on duty making it possible for officers to mount on the road to do proper search on motorists, motorcycle and even walking on bare foot along the road.”

The civil society organisations expressed concern about the broader implications of drug abuse on national security, stating that “access and the use of hard or restricted drugs and its abuse have contributed greatly to the increased in the insecurity of our Nation.”

They added that security personnel face heightened challenges when confronting criminal elements allegedly under the influence of narcotics, noting, “Our security agents engages with terrorists, Bandit and Boko haram with their clear eyes whereas the sets they are battling with are heavily on influence of drugs where fear is of no essence to them and Dutch courage is fully in place.”

While commending the NDLEA leadership, the groups reiterated their support and appreciation for what they described as purposeful and transformative governance, stating, “Based on the milestone, the NAFESOJE Empowerment Foundation and Alliance of National Civil Society Organisations (ANCSOs) wishes to congratulate, salute and appreciate you on your transformative and purposeful leadership.”

They also indicated their intention to deepen engagement with the agency, and other relevant bodies to make sure that drug abuse and access to hard drugs will be a thing of the past among Nigeria youths.
The message concluded with assurances of continued respect and cooperation, with the organisations stating, “Please accept the assurance of our highest regards.”

As the new year unfolds amid rising political ambitions and intense struggles for power, veteran journalist and former Board Member of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), Abuja, Comrade Obi Offiong Ojage, has issued what he describes as an “end-time message” to those who occupy positions of authority. The message is both a warning and a moral appeal: power attained or exercised through ingratitude, betrayal, and evil shortcuts inevitably ends in failure.

In his New Year address, Ojage cautioned that any ambition that pushes an individual toward evil practices, manipulation, or moral compromise is destined to destroy its owner. True success, he argued, flows from personal capacity, discipline, and the natural order through which the Almighty or Mother Nature aligns people with the ability to help a worthy cause succeed. When leaders win without compromise, he said, it is because unseen forces have already prepared both the victory and the human instruments required to achieve it.

Ojage warned that it is against the laws of nature and divinity for those who benefit from such uncommon favour to turn against the very people who helped them reach the heights they now occupy. He described such behaviour as reckless and self-sabotaging, stressing that even when political alliances must end, they should do so peacefully and honourably. Power, he reminded leaders, is temporary, and no individual is immune to sudden reversals of fortune.

According to the seasoned journalist, many leaders fall into crisis not because of external enemies but because they are persuaded to “eat alone” and sever ties with loyal allies. Those who encourage such isolation, he warned, are not friends but enemies in disguise, patiently working to replace trusted companions while advancing their own selfish interests. He added that even inner impulses that promote resentment toward long-standing supporters should be viewed as dangerous signals.

Ojage described the act of repaying good with evil as a form of wickedness driven by greed, envy, jealousy, and political immaturity. Over time, he said, this wickedness produces slow but certain decline, as leaders lose moral authority, political strength, and public goodwill. In many cases, he observed, leaders end up surrounded by former adversaries masquerading as new allies, while genuine supporters are pushed aside or persecuted.

Expanding on the philosophical core of his message, Ojage explained that before anyone is elevated, nature prepares not only the individual but also a network of allies whose time may not yet have come but whose capacities are essential to the success of the chosen one. These relationships form a value chain intended to benefit everyone in due course. When leaders disrupt this chain through ingratitude or cruelty, they undermine the very foundation of their success.

The New Year message also strongly criticised reliance on religious or occult shortcuts to power. Ojage warned that desperate politicians often fall prey to self-proclaimed spiritual practitioners who claim special visions, prayers, or supernatural influence. He maintained that such figures merely attach themselves to success that has already been determined by destiny, strategy, and hard work, only to later exploit leaders financially and psychologically.

According to him, once power is secured, these same actors frequently sow suspicion within leadership circles, framing loyal allies as threats and encouraging the use of force to eliminate imagined enemies. The result, he said, is injustice, repression, and eventual instability.

Ojage urged all leaders currently enjoying power to use the new year as a moment of self-examination, reconciliation, and moral reset. He advised them to retrace their steps where necessary and mend fences with those who genuinely contributed to their rise, warning that failure to do so places their leadership on a path toward collapse.

In a reflective conclusion, Ojage reminded leaders that conscience is the ultimate judge of human actions. He described it as the voice of the soul and the true measure of alignment with the divine. To ignore conscience, he warned, is to fight against oneself and against the very source of life.

Declaring his words as an end-time counsel drawn from history and observation, Ojage concluded that power divorced from gratitude, humility, and moral restraint cannot endure. Ingratitude and evil shortcuts, he warned, may bring temporary advantage, but they always lead to an inevitable fall.

The National Publicity Secretary of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Hon. Hamisu Anani, has extended heartfelt Christmas greetings to Christian faithful across the country, urging them to remain steadfast in faith while promoting unity, peace, and national hope during the Yuletide season.

Hon. Anani, who also serves as the Executive Chairman of Wase Local Government Area and the ALGON Chairman of Plateau State, described Christmas as a deeply significant period for millions of Nigerians whose Christian faith continues to shape the nation’s moral, spiritual, and cultural foundations.

In his goodwill message, he acknowledged the vital place of Christians in Nigeria’s diverse society, noting that their presence adds “unique vibrancy” to the nation’s religious and cultural landscape. He praised their “steadfast devotion, fervent prayers, and unwavering commitment to communal harmony,” which he said reflect the strength of Nigeria’s plural identity and shared values.

According to the ALGON spokesman, the Christian community has consistently demonstrated resilience and compassion, particularly through its contributions to education, healthcare, and social development across the country. He noted that “their collective efforts in education, health, and social outreach have fortified the nation’s social fabric and inspired countless acts of goodwill,” reinforcing national cohesion at both local and national levels.

Hon. Anani expressed confidence that the enduring spirit of unity and service associated with the Christian faith will continue to support Nigeria’s progress, especially as the country looks ahead to important national milestones. He pointed to “the pivotal elections in 2027 and developmental milestones of 2026” as moments that require collective responsibility, understanding, and peaceful coexistence among citizens.

Offering prayers for the nation, he said he hoped that “the blessings of this joyous season illuminate every heart, foster greater understanding among all faiths, and usher in a year replete with progress, stability, and divine grace for every Nigerian.”

He concluded the message on behalf of local government chairmen in Plateau State, the 36 states of the federation, and the Federal Capital Territory, extending warm Christmas and New Year wishes to Plateau State Governor, His Excellency Caleb Mftuang, members of the State Executive Council, the Judiciary, the mass media, civil society organisations, the informal sector, trade unions, ministries, departments and agencies, as well as women, youths, and all Nigerians of goodwill.

Hon. Hamisu Anani wished all Christians and citizens across the country “a blessed Christmas and a prosperous New Year filled with hope, peace, and abundant blessings,” reaffirming his call for unity and national harmony during the festive season.

The Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Rivers State, and Executive Chairman of Port Harcourt City Local Government Area (PHALGA), Hon. Sir Allwell Ihunda, has urged the people of Rivers State to embrace unity, teamwork and shared responsibility as the surest path to building resilient communities across the state.

In his Christmas message, Hon. Ihunda reflected on the deeper meaning of the season, describing it as a time of renewed hope and collective strength. He said, “in the hush of this holy night, when starlight whispers the promise of hope, I am compelled to speak from the depths of a grateful heart,” noting that “the miracle of Christmas ignites a fire within us—a fire that can melt the hardest of challenges and illuminate the path to a brighter Rivers State.”

Extending goodwill on behalf of the Local Government Council Chairmen, the ALGON Chairman conveyed warm Christmas greetings to Governor Similayi Fubara and other stakeholders in the state. According to him, “to His Excellency Governor Similayi Fubara, the State Executive Council, the Judiciary, the Mass Media, Civil Society, women, youths and every cherished citizen of Rivers State, I on behalf of the Local Government Council Chairmen, heartily extend our warmest Christmas greetings.”

Hon. Ihunda commended what he described as the “unwavering dedication and spirited leadership with tangible realities of progress” across the state, emphasizing that sustained development can only be achieved through collective effort. He assured stakeholders of continued collaboration, adding that “together we will continue to do our best on our part.”

Speaking on his dual role as ALGON Chairman and Executive Chairman of PHALGA, Hon. Ihunda stressed that grassroots governance is anchored on cooperation and shared vision. He stated that “building resilient communities, delivering essential services, and nurturing the unity that defines our great state is a function of teamwork and team-spirit of which we shall bring to bear.”

He further prayed for peace, love and prosperity for families and communities across Rivers State, expressing hope that “the radiant light of the Nativity fill your homes with peace, your hearts with love, and our beloved Rivers with lasting prosperity.”

The ALGON Chairman called on citizens and leaders to renew their commitment to the common good, urging that “let us reaffirm our pledge to work hand-in-hand for the welfare of every Rivers citizen, ensuring that the blessings of this season echo throughout the years to come.”

He concluded by wishing the people of Rivers State a joyous Christmas and a fulfilling New Year, saying, “wishing you a joyous Christmas and a New Year blessed with health, harmony and progress.”

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has dismissed recent calls by the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) and a former governorship candidate in Zamfara State, Alhaji Sani Shinkafi demanding the sack of the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, describing the attacks as politically motivated, misplaced and diversionary.

In a statement issued on Tuesday and signed by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwuniko, HURIWA described the threats of nationwide protests by NANS over demands for Matawalle’s removal as reckless, unserious and far removed from the core mandate of a student body. The group accused NANS of acting as political errand runners rather than advocates for students’ welfare and the improvement of Nigeria’s failing education sector.

HURIWA advised NANS and its leadership to “return to classrooms and lecture halls” and refocus on issues that directly affect students, including poor funding of education, decaying infrastructure in universities, incessant strikes, and the alarming decline in academic standards. According to the group, Nigerian universities are increasingly being reduced to the level of glorified primary schools due to chronic underfunding and neglect.

“The duty of NANS is not to issue ultimatums to the President or to campaign for the sack of ministers. Their responsibility is to defend the interests of Nigerian students whose future is being mortgaged by poor budgeting for education, overcrowded classrooms, ill-equipped laboratories and demoralised lecturers,” HURIWA said.

The rights group noted that the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has consistently raised concerns about inadequate funding and the collapse of academic standards, stressing that these are the areas where NANS should be deploying its energy and influence. It added that protests should be channelled towards demanding better learning conditions, improved welfare for students and lecturers, and meaningful reforms in the education sector.

“NANS should stop grandstanding and playing to the gallery of politicians. They should work with lecturers, engage policymakers constructively and fight for a system that guarantees quality education and a secure future for Nigerian students. Threatening protests over the fate of a minister is not only misplaced, it is irresponsible,” HURIWA stated.

On the criticisms coming from Alhaji Sani Shinkafi Shinkafi, HURIWA described his interventions as overtly political and driven by partisan interests rather than genuine concern for national security. The group pointed out that Zamfara State remains a hotbed of intense political rivalry between the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and that Shinkafi’s comments must be understood within that context.

HURIWA noted that Shinkafi, now aligned with the PDP in Zamfara State after previously belonging to APGA, is widely perceived as working in the political interest of the incumbent administration in the state. According to the group, his repeated attacks on Matawalle are linked to growing fears within rival political camps that the former Zamfara governor and current Minister could emerge as a strong contender under the APC platform in the 2027 gubernatorial election.

“When Shinkafi speaks on Matawalle, Nigerians must listen with discernment. This is not a neutral intervention. It is a politically coloured attack rooted in Zamfara’s fierce power contest. Shinkafi’s political journey, from APGA to his current alignment, shows clearly where his interests lie,” HURIWA said.

The association warned against the politicisation of security matters and cautioned that reckless accusations and public grandstanding could undermine national stability. It urged all actors to allow due process, evidence-based assessments and institutional mechanisms to address security challenges rather than turning them into tools for political warfare.

HURIWA reaffirmed its position that criticism of public officials must be anchored on facts, national interest and respect for democratic institutions, not partisan fear or opportunism.

The group called on Nigerians to remain vigilant against attempts to manipulate public opinion through politically driven narratives, insisting that both students’ bodies and political actors must act responsibly in the interest of the nation.

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has strongly condemned what it described as a coordinated wave of social media harassment, cyberbullying and politically motivated attacks against the Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Mohammed Matawalle, following the recent circulation of an old video taken out of context.

In a statement issued on Monday and signed by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, HURIWA said the renewed attempts to portray Matawalle as a sympathiser of terrorists were dishonest, malicious and driven by partisan interests rather than any genuine concern for national security or accountability.

HURIWA noted that the video being recycled was recorded in 2021 when Matawalle was Governor of Zamfara State and reflected a policy approach at the time aimed at de-escalating violence and protecting vulnerable communities caught between armed groups and vigilante excesses. According to the rights group, reducing such complex security conversations to simplistic soundbites years later is a deliberate effort to misinform the public and incite hatred.

The association stressed that it is both intellectually lazy and morally reckless to equate efforts at conflict resolution, dialogue or intelligence-led engagement with criminal endorsement. It argued that modern counterinsurgency strategies across the world recognise that understanding the drivers of violence does not amount to justifying it.

HURIWA observed that the timing of the renewed attacks is suspicious, coming shortly after the resignation of the former Minister of Defence on health grounds and the subsequent appointment of General Christopher Musa as Defence Minister. The organisation said it is not coincidental that these narratives resurfaced at a moment of transition within the defence architecture, suggesting a deliberate attempt to sow discord and weaken public confidence in the Tinubu administration.

According to HURIWA, the campaign against Matawalle bears the clear fingerprints of political vendetta, particularly from individuals and groups unsettled by his political relevance, his loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his continued influence in Zamfara State politics. The group said some of the attacks are also rooted in calculations ahead of future electoral contests in Zamfara, where Matawalle remains a formidable political force.

HURIWA maintained that since assuming office as Minister of State for Defence, Matawalle has demonstrated commitment to the collective security agenda of the Tinubu administration, working within established military and intelligence frameworks rather than acting as a lone political actor. The association said attempts to reduce national security challenges to personal scapegoating ignore the institutional nature of defence operations and the shared responsibility of multiple agencies.

The rights group further described the attacks as part of a broader anti-Tinubu campaign by political adversaries who, unable to confront the President directly, have chosen to target some of his most loyal and visible allies. According to HURIWA, Matawalle has become a fallback target for those seeking to undermine the President by proxy, precisely because of his reputation as one of Tinubu’s most steadfast political foot soldiers.

HURIWA warned that normalising cyberbullying, misinformation and character assassination against public officials without evidence poses a serious threat to democratic discourse and national cohesion. It urged Nigerians to distinguish between legitimate criticism and orchestrated disinformation designed to inflame emotions and destabilise governance.

The association also faulted calls for Matawalle’s resignation, describing them as baseless and unjustified. Instead, HURIWA said that an objective assessment of his political service and loyalty to the current administration would warrant recognition rather than vilification.

“Rather than campaigning for Dr Matawalle to be sacked, those who genuinely care about good governance should be demanding that President Tinubu elevate him to a senior ministerial position,” HURIWA stated. “He has shown uncommon dedication, political discipline and loyalty to the President and the ruling party, qualities that are essential for stability in any administration.”

HURIWA concluded by calling on security agencies to remain focused on their constitutional duties and not be distracted by online noise, while urging social media users to exercise restraint and responsibility. The group reaffirmed its commitment to defending democratic institutions, rule of law and fairness, warning that weaponising misinformation against public officials ultimately undermines national security and democracy itself.

It won't work, even NOW, because there is no political will to enforce such orders.

Even this one by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is not going to work.
The President will soon forget he issued the directive.

The reason it will not work is the same reason why Nigeria is not working!

In a significant political development aimed at strengthening governance and expanding democratic dividends at the grassroots, the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Rivers State Chapter, has formally endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s 2027 presidential bid. The declaration, made on December 8, 2025, marks a decisive shift in the state’s political trajectory.

The endorsement followed a unanimous resolution reached during a meeting attended by all 23 Local Government Area Chairmen, Vice Chairmen, and Councillors in Rivers State, signaling broad-based support for President Tinubu’s leadership and policy direction.

The motion was moved by Hon. Sir (Dr.) Chidi Julius Lloyd, Chairman of Emohua LGA, and seconded by Dr. Thomas Bariere, Chairman of Khana LGA, reflecting what participants described as a consensus on the President’s performance.

ALGON Chairman and Mayor of Port Harcourt City LGA, Sir Hon. Allwell Ihunda, reaffirmed the confidence of local government leaders in Tinubu’s governance style. He pointed to federal interventions and political stabilization efforts in Rivers State as key factors behind the group’s decision.

“The endorsement reflects ALGON’s recognition of President Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to Rivers State’s development,” Ihunda said. He added that ALGON in the state is prepared to mobilize grassroots support to sustain the gains recorded under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

The gathering also featured contributions from ALGON executives, Chairmen of the 23 LGAs, Vice Chairmen (Women), and Leaders of the Legislative Council, all of whom articulated their support for the President and emphasized perceived benefits under the ruling party.

The endorsement represents a renewed alignment among critical stakeholders, who pledged loyalty to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and declared their resolve to deliver Rivers State for President Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election.

Ihunda expressed appreciation to delegates for their solidarity and promised to drive community-focused engagement and mobilization efforts across the state to reinforce support for President Tinubu’s re-election bid.

Source: https://abujabizreports.com/2025/12/09/2027-algon-rivers-state-throws-weight-behind-president-tinubu/

Nigeria-born student leader, H.E. Osisiogu Osikenyi has been re-elected President of the All-Africa Students Union (AASU) following the successful conclusion of the first phase of elections for the Union’s 14th Elective Congress held on Saturday, November 22, 2025, in Accra, Ghana.

The announcement was contained in an official statement issued by Miss Angel Mbuthia, Chairperson of the AASU Electoral Commission, who confirmed that the elections were conducted strictly in line with the AASU Constitution and the Electoral Guidelines governing the congress. Only candidates nominated by member organisations in good financial standing were cleared to contest.

Reacting moments after his re-election was announced on Sunday, Osisiogu expressed profound gratitude to the Union and to Nigeria’s national students’ body, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), for the trust reposed in him. “I am deeply honoured by the confidence the AASU community has placed in me. Special gratitude goes as well to the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) for nominating me. This mandate belongs to every student who believes in a stronger, more united Continental movement,” he said. He added that he looks forward to leading “with humility, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to the aspirations of Africa’s students and young people.”

Osisiogu’s renewed mandate places Nigeria once again at the forefront of continental student representation, strengthening the country’s influence in Africa’s largest and most historic student movement. AASU, which has been active for over five decades, continues to serve as the unified voice of millions of students across the continent.

Alongside the Nigerian President, several other key officers were elected during the first phase. They include Divine Edem Kwadzoeh (Ghana) as Secretary-General, Maravilha Kapaia (Angola) as Deputy President, Alistar Pfunye (Zimbabwe) as Deputy Secretary-General, Rosália Djedjo (Guinea-Bissau) as Vice President for West Africa, Valentine Mugun Chepkoech (Kenya) as Vice President for East Africa, and Vanessa Kokoe Ajavon (Togo) as Secretary for Finance and Administration.

AASU extended congratulations to all successful candidates and praised member organisations for once again demonstrating commitment to the democratic values that have guided the Union since its establishment.

Meanwhile, the Union announced that the second phase of the 14th Elective Congress will hold on Monday, December 15, 2025, during which several outstanding positions across the Executive Committee and Secretariat will be contested. These include Vice Presidents for North, Central, and Southern Africa, multiple Executive Committee Member slots, and key Secretariat portfolios such as Secretary for Education and Students’ Rights, Secretary for Press and Information, and Secretary for Gender and Affirmative Action.

As the continent prepares for the next phase of leadership selection, Osisiogu’s re-election is widely seen as a strong vote of confidence in his administration’s focus on student empowerment, policy advocacy, and strengthening cross-border collaboration in the African education space.

The All-Africa Students Union (AASU) is the largest and most influential student movement in Africa, uniting students across the continent—from basic education to higher learning institutions. Since its founding in 1972, AASU has expanded its presence to all 54 African countries, making it the umbrella organization for all African students. Its membership comprises all national student unions across the continent, along with youth and student groups from primary to tertiary levels.

COMMUNIQUÉ OF THE NATIONAL POLITICAL SUMMIT ON CREDIBLE ELECTIONS AND POLITICAL STABILITY OF NIGERIA, HELD ON TUESDAY, 11TH NOVEMBER, 2025 AT THE CONFERENCE HALL, NICON LUXURY HOTEL, TAFAWA BALEWA WAY, FCT ABUJA

Preamble

The National Political Summit, 2025 was convened by the National Consultative Front (NCFront) in conjunction with the Labour & Civil Society Front (LCSF), under the theme: "Critical & Mandatory Constitutional Amendments for Credible Elections in 2027." The Summit attracted over 600 participants and delegates representing a broad spectrum of stakeholders from government, the private sector, civil society, academia, political parties, the diaspora, and other interest groups.

Goodwill messages and keynote interventions were received from former President Goodluck Jonathan; former Vice President Prof. Yemi Osinbajo; Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf; former Governor Rotimi Amaechi; former presidential candidate Mr. Peter Obi; Summit LOC Chairman Prof. Pat Utomi; former Minister and Keynote Speaker Dr. Oby Ezekwesili; NLC President Comrade Joe Ajaero; former presidential candidate Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim; Lead Speaker Prince Adewole Adebayo, Esq; former NIDO Chairperson Mrs. Patience Ndidi Key; Senator Shehu Sani; Senator Ikechukwu Obiora; Lead Speaker Prof. Okey Okechukwu, mni; IPAC Chairman Alhaji Mamman Yusuf Dantalle; Dr. Bilikisu Magoro; High Chief Peter Ameh; Veteran Olawale Okunniyi (Secretary, LOC), among others.

Summit Objective

The Pan-Nigerian Summit on Political Reforms 2025 was conceived as a platform for diverse political stakeholders of Nigeria to examine and reach consensus on essential constitutional amendments needed to perfect Nigeria’s electoral framework ahead of the 2027 general elections. It also sought to launch a formidable, citizens-led national movement as an inclusive platform for political stakeholders—including government institutions, the private sector, and citizens—to engage and proffer enduring panacea to Nigeria’s electoral crises and threats to national security.

To this end, Summit Keynote discussions squarely focused the implications of the recent warning of United States President, Donald Trump, concerning Nigeria’s unabated insecurity, and the urgent need for a credible electoral framework as Nigeria approaches the 2027 elections.

Observations and Suggestions

Panelists, delegates, and stakeholders at the summit made several critical observations and far-reaching suggestions with significant potential to enhance national stability and improve the country’s electoral integrity as follows:

1. Security and Sovereignty:
The Summit noted that government’s laxity and insensitivity in protecting citizens’ lives have emboldened banditry and terrorism, inadvertently prompting external interventions—such as the one by the United States—since sovereignty is not absolute in international relations.

2. Political Party Reform:
Stakeholders emphasized the urgent need for comprehensive political party reforms, alongside efforts to reform INEC, noting that political parties serve as the primary training grounds for political leaders and public officials.

3. Tackling Election Rigging:
The Summit called for all stakeholders to intensify efforts to eliminate election rigging—along with its associated practices of inducement, fraud, and manipulation—which continue to undermine Nigeria’s electoral integrity and government legitimacy in Nigeria.

Recommendations

The Summit adopted the following key recommendations:

a. Financial Autonomy for INEC:
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) should be equipped and empowered to enjoy full financial autonomy by receiving its allocation directly from the Federation Account, in full and on schedule, without interference from any arm of government.

b. Open Budget Framework:
INEC should operate an open budget system and work closely with the organized civil society to enhance transparency and accountability in its operations.

c. Prosecution Powers:
INEC should be constitutionally empowered to prosecute electoral offenders independently, rather than relying solely on the Police or the Attorney-General of the Federation.

d. Early, Diaspora, and Electronic Voting:
Early voting, diaspora voting, electronic voting, and real-time electronic transmission of results should be made legally mandatory to reduce or eradicate manipulation and circumvention of election results.

e. Structural & Governance Reforms of INEC:
INEC’s recruitment processes should be insulated from the Executive. The appointment of INEC national and state leadership should be handled by broad mix of established stakeholders and not the Executive.

f. Ending Judicial Determination of Elections:
Strong reforms should be pursued to eliminate the current aberration, where electoral outcomes are effectively determined in courts rather than at polling units.

g. Special Seats for Women and Vulnerable Groups in Government:
The National Assembly should be compelled to provide for special seats for women and other vulnerable groups in the constitution to be elected and participate in governance.

h. Burden of Proof:
The constitution should be amended to remove the burden of proof from candidates and political parties in election petitions, placing it appropriately on INEC.


Conclusion

In conclusion, keynote speakers, panelists, and stakeholders reached a general consensus on the urgent need to pursue comprehensive reforms of Nigeria’s flawed electoral laws ahead of the 2027 elections. The Summit further agreed on the necessity to unbundle INEC to improve electoral administration, and to create constitutionally guaranteed special seats for women and other vulnerable groups.

The Summit also advised that Nigeria should engage the United States diplomatically on the basis of mutual respect and openness

Finally, the Summit formally launched the Movement for Credible Elections (MCE)—a new citizens’ mass movement ahead of the 2027 elections—with an Interim Steering Leadership constituted to mobilize Nigerians to end election rigging and manipulation in Nigeria once and for all.


Members of the Steering Council of the Movement for Credible Elections (MCE) are listed as follows:

1. Prof. Pat Utomi – Chairman

2. Comrade Ayuba Wabba – Co-Chair

3. Hon. Dr. Usman Bugaje – Deputy Chairman (North)

4. Amb. Nkoyo Toyo – Deputy Chairman (South)

5. Barr. Femi Falana, SAN – Legal Counsel

6. Senator Shehu Sani – Member

7. Dr. Bilikisu Magoro – Member

8. Comrade Ene Obi – Member

9. High Chief Peter Ameh – Member

10. Comrade Alex Adum – Member

11. Lady Ankio Briggs – Member

12. Comrade Promise Adewusi, mni – Director of Administration

13. Comrade Chris Uyot – Director of Mobilization

14. Mallam Hamisu San Turaki – Director of Mobilization

15. Deacon Chris Iyovwaye – Director of Finance

16. Prince Chris Azor – Director of Mobilization

17. Comrade Mark Adebayo – Director of Mobilization

18. Prof. Chris Mustapha Nwaokobia, Jnr. – Director of Communications

19. Peter Randy Akah – Director of Publicity

20. Comrade James Ezema – Media Coordinator

21. Comrade Kamal Yusuf Ahmed – Youth Coordinator

22. Comrade Hauwa Mustapha – Deputy Head of Secretariat

23. Veteran Olawale Okunniyi – Head of Secretariat

Signed:
Comrade James Ezema,
Media Coordinator,
Steering Council,
Movement for Credible Elections (MCE).
+234 8035823617

By Dr. Emmanuel Ashikodi


Since assuming office on May 29, 2023, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has emerged as one of Nigeria’s most notable performing Governors. His administration’s “MORE Agenda” — Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace And Security — has provided a clear roadmap for governance, translating plans into tangible outcomes across infrastructure, social welfare, and fiscal management.

Delta State under Governor Oborevwori is proving that clear vision and disciplined execution can deliver real change.

In just about every sector and aspect of leadership the protagonist of the M.O.R.E Agenda the Executive Governor of Delta State Chief Sheriff Oborevwori has shown unrivaled competency, unflinching capacity and unwavering clarity of purpose and vision.

Infrastructure Delivery: Roads, Bridges, and Connectivity.

The Oborevwori administration has prioritized large-scale infrastructure development. It might interest my readers to know that over 510 Road and Bridge Projects covering nearly 1,450 km are ongoing, and quite a huge number of these laudable projects have been completed in less than 2 and half years of Governor Oborevwori's watch.

Need I mention the many major urban interchanges, including PTI Junction, DSC Roundabout, and Enerhen Junction which targets improved urban mobility. Should I include the very profound Projects linking the towns and villages around Asaba with the State Capital, Asaba. There is always more with the M.O.R.E Agenda of Governor Sheriff, as he is fondly called.

Rural and Riverine areas are receiving critical connectivity projects, ensuring equitable development. These initiatives not only enhance commerce and mobility but also improve daily life for Delta State residents.

From Urban Centres to Rural communities, Delta State is seeing roads and bridges that truly connect its people.

Fiscal Discipline and Economic Growth

Delta State has seen remarkable fiscal improvements under Governor Oborevwori. Under his watch, Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) rose from ₦83 billion in 2023 to ₦158 billion in 2024.

The State’s debt dropped from ₦465 billion to ₦249 billion, reflecting fiscal prudence. And Infrastructure development continues without over-reliance on borrowing.

The above figures highlight an administration that manages resources efficiently while delivering large-scale projects.

People-Centered Governance

Oborevwori’s administration emphasizes human capital and social inclusion. It is on record that in the less than 2 years and 6 months of Governor Sheriff's administration thousands of teaching and non-teaching staff have been recruited across the Local Government Areas of Delta State.

Further to the commitment of the government to education and job creation Governor Sheriff has liberally expanded the scope, size and volume of Student Bursaries as well as the Technical Training and Skill Acquisition Centres across the State.

And remarkably, Social programs like empowerment grants and monthly stipends for vulnerable groups have benefited tens of thousands across the Local Government Areas of the State.

Governor Oborevwori’s policies ensure that no community or citizen is left behind in Delta State’s development journey.

Promoting Peace and Inclusive Governance

Sustainable development requires peace and stability. Such is the fillip that drives Governor Oborevwori's engagement of Traditional Rulers, Youth Groups, and Community Stakeholders in ensuring a united, peaceful and harmonious Delta State, and the success of this governmental programmatic is halcyon.

It is important to state without equivocation that one of the linchpins of Sheriff's administration is enforced accountability, and a dogged pledge to remove underperforming officials and punish erring staff.

His pledge to ensure that Delta State under his watch works for all inspires the many extended programs to previously marginalized communities, fostering inclusion. Need I mention the many Urban and Rural projects scattered across the 3 Senatorial Zones of Delta State, or need I tell you how the State has transitioned into a huge construction site under Governor Sheriff? Don't worry the sequel to this series shall marvel you with figures and statistics.

Recognition and National Credibility

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori's achievements have earned him numerous national acclaim amongst which is, The Governor of the Year 2024 by multiple media houses like the Thisday Newspapers and Arise TV Group, the Vanguard Newspapers, the Silverbird Group, the Sun Newspapers, News Telegraph et al.

He has also been named The Most Prolific Governor of the Year 2025 by the Democracy Heroes Award.

He has been generously commended by elder statesmen and civic leaders for tangible achievements in leadership in such a short period, and this underscores the clarity of purpose and vision of Governor Sheriff.

Challenges and the Road Ahead

While performance is evident, challenges remain, and the ebullient Governor of Delta State Chief Sheriff Oborevwori is not unmindful of this fact. He is therefore committed to sustaining the quality of large-scale projects in the State. He is also committed to ensuring that more jobs are created and greater rural economic development is achieved. And he is committed to strengthening transparency and citizen engagement.

I shall talk about the bold and daring foray into fixing Federal Roads that directly impact the lives of Deltans in the sequel to this effort. Are you aware that very recently he flagged-off the Construction of the Benin-Sapele Road (a Federal Road), do not salivate just yet, I promise you more details and data in the sequel.

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has proven that purpose-driven governance produces results. Delta State’s transformation under his leadership is manifestly cast-in-iron. And with Governor Sheriff M.O.R.E is Assured.

Dr. Emmanuel Ashikodi is of the Concerned Professionals For Good Governance, a good governance advocacy group.

By Prof Chris Mustapha Nwaokobia Jnr


In less than three years in office, Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah has emerged as one of Nigeria’s most visionary and results-oriented State leaders. Through a blend of innovation, technology, fiscal discipline, and bold reforms, Mbah is steadily transforming Enugu State from a once “civil service economy” into a thriving hub of productivity, smart economy driven by technology, and inclusive growth.

His leadership style which is rooted in measurable goals, performance-driven governance, and technological disruption of the status quo has redefined what it means to govern in the 21st century.

A Governor with a Vision and a Plan

From the onset, Mbah made his intentions clear, he told Ndi'Enugu that he wants to grow Enugu’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) from $4.4 billion to $30 billion within eight years, and that he wants to make Enugu State number one on the Performance chart of State Governments. Unlike political rhetoric, this vision was backed by a detailed development blueprint emphasizing innovation, infrastructure, and human capital development.

Today, Enugu’s trajectory under Mbah is unmistakably upward. His approach to governance is systematic, strategic, and data-driven, these and more are the qualities that have earned him admiration across political and economic circles.

Breaking Barriers Through Disruptive Governance.

Governor Mbah’s mantra, “Disruptive Innovation in Governance,” isn’t a slogan, it’s a governing philosophy.
He has dismantled old bureaucracies and built new systems of transparency and efficiency. The Enugu Geographic Information Service (ENGIS), for instance, has digitized over 80% of land titles, cutting approval times from months to just days and eliminating corruption-prone manual processes.

This “business unusual” approach has made Enugu one of Nigeria’s easiest States for investors to operate in.

Solving a 20-Year Water Crisis.

Perhaps one of the most tangible testament to Mbah’s results-oriented leadership is the restoration of Enugu’s long-abandoned water system. For nearly two decades, residents of the State capital survived on tanker water and boreholes. Within his first year, Mbah revived the 9th Mile and Oji River Water Schemes, raising production from just 2 million to over 120 million litres per day.
Today, taps are flowing again across the metropolis, a milestone many thought impossible.

Economic Reforms and Revenue Revolution.

Under Mbah’s fiscal stewardship, Enugu’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) soared from about ₦37 billion in 2022 to ₦144.7 billion by late 2024, an increase of nearly 300%.
Interestingly, this was achieved without imposing new taxes. Instead, the administration widened the tax net, digitized revenue systems, and encouraged formalization of small businesses.

With stronger finances, Enugu is now funding large-scale infrastructure and social projects without borrowing, a rarity in today’s Nigeria.

Education and Human Capital as Cornerstones.

Mbah’s focus on education is sweeping and futuristic. His administration is constructing 260 Smart Green Schools, one per ward, each equipped with digital whiteboards, robotics labs, and high-speed internet. The initiative aims to groom a generation of students who are globally competitive and technologically literate.

In Healthcare, a matching project is ongoing, the Peter Mbah administration is building, and in some cases upgrading a total 260 Primary Health Centres, ensuring that no community is more than a short walk from quality medical services.

Urban Renewal and the Birth of a Smart City.

The New Enugu City Project, sprawling across over 10,000 hectares, exemplifies Mbah’s ambition to turn Enugu into a smart, sustainable, and modern metropolis. The development will host residential estates, business districts, and green corridors designed to accommodate over 300,000 residents, and this clearly is a bold leap toward future-ready urbanization.

Power, Security, and Digital Transformation.

Enugu was among the first States in Nigeria to domesticate the power decentralization Act. Mbah's government enacted the Enugu State Electricity Law 2023, making Enugu one of the first States to regulate its own power market under the national decentralization policy. Simultaneously, the State has deployed an AI-powered Command and Control Centre with drones, CCTV, and facial-recognition systems, drastically improving safety and emergency response thus making Enugu State one of safest in the Country.

Fiscal Discipline.

A key pillar of the administration is not to borrow irresponsibly but to expand state capacity and revenues.

Budget estimates grew from ₦166 billion in 2023 to ₦521.5 billion in 2024, with about 79% allocated to capital expenditure, signalling development focus.

Agriculture, Industry And Job Creation.

Agriculture: Large-scale mechanised farming, revitalisation of moribund Agro-industries (e.g., Palm production), and farm-estate development across the 17 local government areas mark key interventions.

Industry: Legacy firms such as Sunrise Flour Mills and United Palm Products Ltd. are being revived, while new industrial parks and a tractor-assembly plant are being developed.

Transport And Aviation: In a bold move, the state inaugurated its own state-owned airline, “Enugu Air”, and is building modern public transport terminals and CNG-bus fleets.

The mass-transit system (Bus shelters, terminals, CNG buses) strengthens intra-city mobility, reduces congestion and supports the liveability of the State capital.

Digital And Institutional Reform.

Governor Mbah’s team recognizes that bricks and mortar must be matched with systems and governance.

A vast fibre-optic rollout (nearly 380 km of cables) and high-tech command-control and surveillance systems underscore the State’s move into the digital era.

Land titling, business registration and tax/revenue systems have been revamped using digital platforms, reducing red-tape and boosting internally-generated revenue (IGR) significantly.

Institutional restructuring: For example, in July 2025 the government created a new Ministry of Energy & Mineral Resources and conducted a cabinet re-shuffle to sharpen capacities.

Looking Ahead: The Next Steps.

Going into the third year of his term, Governor Mbah has signalled his intent to consolidate gains and deepen reforms. And he is apparently committed to creating more jobs. Transport hubs, Agro-industrial estates, Logistic terminals, and Skill Acquisition Centres across the State.

Scaling Investor Attraction: With new institutions and digitized processes, the State hopes to continue to attract local and foreign direct investment.

Peter Mbah’s administration in Enugu State is nothing if not ambitious. With a clear blueprint, rapid execution of infrastructure and governance reforms, and a focus on transforming systems, the blueprint is visible. Whether the full vision ditto turning Enugu into a US $30 billion economy will be realised depends on sustained execution, private-sector leverage and inclusive growth. And evidently the “Talk-And-Do Governor”, as referred to by several commentators, reflects the tone he has set and the momentum he has generated.

In the sequel to this series, I shall furnish you with further data and details regarding this young man and Governor who is MAD (Making A Difference) in governance, and increasingly transforming and redefining leadership in Nigeria.


Prof Chris Mustapha Nwaokobia Jnr is the Convener of the COUNTRYFIRST MOVEMENT, a good governance advocacy group.

General Hydrocarbons Limited (GHL) has raised alarm over what it describes as an unlawful and contemptuous attempt by the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) to appoint a Receiver over the company in defiance of a valid court order.

In a strongly-worded statement on Wednesday, the company stated that Justice Lewis Allagoa of the Federal High Court, Lagos had on 23 September 2025 — in Suit No: FHC/L/CS/1903/2025 — issued an interim injunction expressly restraining AMCON, its Managing Director, the Attorney General of the Federation, First Bank of Nigeria (FBN), and their agents from taking any steps to enforce any rights over GHL or its assets pending the determination of the substantive motion.

GHL noted that the order was again reinforced in open court on 22 October 2025, in the presence of AMCON’s representatives.

The court injunction, as quoted in the GHL statement, specifically restrains AMCON and all persons acting on its behalf from:
“…taking any steps or continuing with any steps whatsoever to enforce any rights against the Applicant (GHL) or its assets, including but not limited to freezing the accounts of the Applicants, its Directors or Shareholders, the appointment of a Receiver/Receiver Manager, Asset Manager, Recovery Agent, etc…”


The order further blocks any such enforcement actions arising from transactions or agreements relating to AMCON’s purchase of First Bank’s non-performing loan against GHL.

According to the company, the attempt to override the court directive amounts to a calculated abuse of judicial processes, and an alleged scheme by institutions and parties acting in collusion to wrongfully take over GHL’s assets.

“We expect institutions and Government agencies to obey Court Orders and govern Nigeria based on the rule of law, and not lend themselves to be used as willing tools in the hands of private companies to oppress and intimidate innocent citizens, corporate or individual,” GHL said.

The energy firm further asserted that it is not indebted to AMCON, FBN, or any financial institution in Nigeria in any form — either directly or indirectly — and therefore described the attempts to appoint a Receiver as “corrupt, fraudulent, and driven by ulterior motives.”

GHL disclosed that the dispute around its crude oil entitlements has now reached the Supreme Court in Suit No: SC/CV/929/2025. It added that it has also filed to set aside what it termed an inconsistent arbitration award at the Federal High Court in Suit No: FHC/L/CS/2241/2025.

The company confirmed that all relevant parties — including AMCON and its legal proxies — are expected to return to Justice Allagoa’s court on 11 November 2025, where GHL intends to formally report the alleged material non-disclosure, abuse of court processes, and disregard for the subsisting orders of the Federal High Court.

While insisting it will “vehemently resist” any illegal takeover attempt, the company appealed for calm among partners, investors, and the general public.

“As a law-abiding citizen, we urge all our stakeholders to remain calm as we are certain that justice will be served according to the law,” the statement added.