The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Rivers govt explains N100,000 Yuletide gift

    Rivers govt explains N100,000 Yuletide gift

    The Rivers State government has explained that its annual N100,000 Christmas bonus is paid to all civil servants and public office holders without discrimination.

    In a statement by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information and Communications, Dr. Honour Sirawoo, the  state government said the bonus was disbursed across board to all workers, including pensioners, captured on the Rivers State government’s payroll system.

    Sirawoo said the clarification was in response to the commendation by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) over the recent payment of the Christmas bonus.

    Though he did not mention members of the House of Assembly, the response came a day after the Assembly rejected the money and returned it immediately to the state’s treasury.

    Sirawoo explained that the N100,000 Yuletide gift had been paid consistently in the past three years to civil servants, public officers and pensioners.

    READ ALSO: CBN posts $4.6b balance of payment surplus, PMI hits 57.6 points

    The permanent secretary also explained that the bonus, which had become an annual practice for civil and public servants on the state government’s payroll, was a token of appreciation for their dedication and service throughout the year.

    He added that Governor Siminalayi Fubara remained committed to implementing proactive measures that would provide a social safety net for state employees and their families.

    According to him, the state government regards the NLC not merely as a labour union but also as a critical partner in the “Rivers First” development agenda.

    Sirawoo noted that the union’s public acknowledgement of the gesture reflected the cordial relationship between the administration and the workforce.

    The permanent secretary said the workers are the greatest pride of the Rivers State government.

    “While this bonus is meant to brighten the festive season, our long-term focus remains the continuous improvement of the working environment and the welfare of everyone serving Rivers State,” he said.

  • Tinubu: New Tax Laws will bring prosperity

    Tinubu: New Tax Laws will bring prosperity

    • We’ll deepen collaboration with U.S., others to battle insecurity

    • 10 million jobs empowerment for Nigerians

    • All on-going projects to continue without interruption

    • President urges unity amongst Nigerians

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu yesterday assured Nigerians that the new tax regime being rolled out by his administration will lay the foundation for shared prosperity, sustainable growth and long-term economic stability.

    In his New Year goodwill message to Nigerians, the President said: “The new year marks a critical phase in implementing our tax reforms, designed to build a fair, competitive, and robust fiscal foundation for Nigeria.

    “By harmonising our tax system, we aim to raise revenue sustainably, address fiscal distortions and strengthen our capacity to finance infrastructure and social investments that will deliver shared prosperity.”

    He reiterated that the reforms were not aimed at overburdening citizens but at harmonising the tax system, eliminating multiple taxation and raising revenue sustainably.

    “I commend states that have aligned with the national tax harmonisation agenda by adopting harmonised tax laws to reduce the excessive burden of taxes, levies and fees on our people,” he said.

    President Tinubu added that a streamlined tax system would strengthen the country’s capacity to finance infrastructure and social investments.

    The new tax regime begins today.

    He said the difficult reforms undertaken in 2025 were already yielding measurable gains, despite global economic headwinds.

    The President expressed confidence that the benefits would increasingly be felt by ordinary citizens in the new year.

    He unveiled an ambitious, inclusive growth agenda that will bring at least 10 million Nigerians into productive economic activity.

    He explained that the initiative would empower at least 1,000 people in each of the country’s 8,809 wards through agriculture, trade, food processing and mining.

    He said: “The new year marks the beginning of a more robust phase of economic growth, with tangible improvements in the lives of our people.

    “We will accelerate the implementation of the Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme, aiming to bring at least 10 million Nigerians into productive economic activity by empowering at least 1,000 people in each of the 8,809 wards across the country.”

    READ ALSO: Against the tyranny of small minds

    Welcoming Nigerians to 2026, President Tinubu said his administration remained focused on consolidating economic gains recorded in the past year and building a resilient, inclusive and growth-oriented economy.

    He noted that the fiscal reset initiated by his government had begun to restore confidence and stability across key sectors.

    He said: “A few days ago, I presented the 2026 Appropriation Bill to the National Assembly.

    “In that address, I emphasised that our administration has implemented critical reforms that are laying a solid foundation for long-term stability and prosperity.

    “With patience, fiscal discipline, and unity of purpose, Nigeria will emerge in 2026 stronger and better positioned for sustained growth.”

    According to the President, Nigeria closed 2025 on a strong economic note, recording robust GDP growth in every quarter, with annualised growth projected to exceed four per cent.

    He added that the country maintained trade surpluses, achieved greater exchange-rate stability and steadily reduced inflation, which fell below 15 per cent in line with government targets.

    He further highlighted the performance of the Nigerian Stock Exchange, which, he said, outperformed its peers with a 48.12 per cent gain in 2025, consolidating a bullish run that began in the second half of 2023.

    President Tinubu also said Nigeria’s foreign reserves stood at $45.4 billion as of December 29, 2025, providing a strong buffer against external shocks and strengthening confidence in the naira.

    On foreign investment, the President said investor confidence was returning, as foreign direct investment rose sharply to $720 million in the third quarter of 2025 from $90 million in the preceding quarter.

    He said global credit rating agencies, including Moody’s, Fitch and Standard & Poor’s, had consistently affirmed and applauded Nigeria’s economic direction.

    On security, the President acknowledged that economic progress must go hand in hand with peace and stability, noting that Nigeria continued to face threats from criminal and terrorist elements.

    He noted that in collaboration with international partners, including the United States, decisive actions were taken against terrorist targets in parts of the North-west on December 24, with sustained military operations continuing across the Northwest and Northeast.

    President Tinubu pledged that in 2026, Nigeria’s security and intelligence agencies would deepen cooperation with regional and global partners to eliminate all threats to national security.

    He reaffirmed his commitment to protecting lives, property and the territorial integrity of the country, while restating his belief in decentralised policing, complemented by properly regulated forest guards, as part of the solution to insecurity.

    President Tinubu said his administration would continue to invest in modernising critical infrastructure, including roads, power, ports, railways, airports, pipelines, healthcare, education and agriculture, stressing that all ongoing projects would continue without interruption.

    In a call for national unity, the President urged Nigerians to see nation-building as a shared responsibility, emphasising the need for patriotism, integrity and collective purpose in achieving the country’s goals.

    “To achieve our objectives in 2026, we must all play our part,” he said. “Let us resolve to be better citizens, better neighbours and better stewards of our nation.”

    He wished Nigerians a peaceful, productive and prosperous New Year, while praying for divine protection for the country and its armed forces, and the defeat of all forces threatening national peace and stability.

  • World welcomes new year with fireworks, icy plunges

    World welcomes new year with fireworks, icy plunges

    People around the world yesterday said goodbye to 2025 and expressed hopes for the new year to come.

    Midnight arrived first on the islands closest to the International Date Line in the Pacific Ocean, including Kiritimati (Christmas Island), Tonga and New Zealand.

    In Australia, Sydney began 2026 with a spectacular fireworks display, as per tradition. Some 40,000 pyrotechnic effects stretched 7 km (over 4 miles) across buildings and barges along its harbour and featured a waterfall effect from the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

    This year, it was held under an enhanced police presence, weeks after gunmen killed 15 people at a Jewish event in the city.

    Organisers held a minute’s silence for the victims of the attack at 11 p.m. local time, with the Harbour Bridge lit up in white and a menorah – a symbol of Judaism – projected onto its pylons.

    In Seoul, thousands gathered at the Bosingak bell pavilion, where a bronze bell was struck 33 times at midnight – a tradition rooted in Buddhist cosmology, symbolizing the 33 heavens. The chimes are believed to dispel misfortune and welcome peace and prosperity for the year ahead.

    An hour to the west, there were celebrations and a drum performance at the Juyong Pass, at the Great Wall of China just outside Beijing. Revellers wore headgear and waved boards emblazoned with “2026” and the symbol of a horse. February will mark the arrival of the Year of the Horse on the Chinese lunar calendar.

    READ ALSO: Against the tyranny of small minds

    In Hong Kong, the annual New Year’s fireworks display was called off after the apartment complex blaze in November that killed 161 people. Instead, a light show with the theme of ‘New hopes, new beginnings’ transformed facades in the Central district.

    In Croatia, revels got off to an early start. Since 2000, the town of Fuzine has held its countdown at noon, a tradition that has since spread across the country. Crowds cheered, toasted each other with champagne and danced to music – all in the middle of the day. Some brave souls in Santa hats took a plunge into the icy waters of Lake Bajer.

    Elsewhere, preparations got under way for the more traditional midnight toast. In subzero temperatures in New York, organizers began putting up security barriers and stages ahead of the crowds that will flock to Times Square for the annual ball drop.

    Similarly, on Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro – albeit with warmer weather – staging was being set up for a massive music and fireworks party known as “Reveillon.” Organizers were hoping to beat their 2024 Guinness World Record for the biggest New Year’s Eve celebration.

    In snowy Kyiv and Moscow, both Ukrainians and Russians prepared to see in the new year, expressing hopes of peace after nearly four years of conflict.

    “I wish for the war to end, I think that this is the main and most important topic for our country,” said a woman in central Moscow who gave her name only as Larisa and said she had traveled from distant Altai Krai to see the Russian capital in the winter holidays with her family.

    Many Ukrainians lamented that peace still seemed a distant prospect.

    But wrapped up warm and visiting a Christmas tree set up in front of Saint Sophia Cathedral in Kyiv, 9-year-old Olesia was more optimistic.

    “I think there will be peace in the new year,” she said.

  • Egbe Amofin slams NBA President for annulling SPIDEL poll

    Egbe Amofin slams NBA President for annulling SPIDEL poll

    The Egbe Amofin Oodua, an association of lawyers of Yoruba extraction, has condemned the annulment of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Section on Public Interest and Development Law (SPIDEL) election, describing it as a “dangerous signal” for the conduct of the NBA’s 2026 general election.

    In a strongly worded statement jointly signed by the Chairman of its Governing Council, Aare Isiaka Olagunju (SAN), and the Secretary, Adetunji Oso (SAN), the group said it was disturbed by the decision of the NBA President, Mazi Afam Osigwe (SAN), to abort the SPIDEL electoral process during the section’s Annual General Conference in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

    Egbe Amofin alleged that the annulment was carried out unilaterally and accused the NBA leadership of undermining democratic norms within the association.

    Osigwe’s response was sought last night via WhatsApp, but he did not respond as of press time.

    The group referred to public allegations made by Dr. Anne Agi, one of the aspirants affected by the annulment, who had narrated events surrounding the aborted SPIDEL election.

    According to Egbe Amofin, the process had progressed to the close of nominations, with some candidates already emerging unopposed, before it was abruptly terminated.

    READ ALSO: CBN posts $4.6b balance of payment surplus, PMI hits 57.6 points

    “It was an ongoing democratic process initiated to produce democratically elected SPIDEL executive members to run the affairs of the forum for two years,” the statement said, adding that the annulment was allegedly driven by “personal vendetta” rather than any transparent complaint or procedural concern.

    Drawing a parallel with the June 12, 1993, election annulment, the group faulted the NBA President for dissolving the process and appointing a caretaker committee to manage SPIDEL for the next two years.

    It described the move as antithetical to the NBA’s long-standing posture as the conscience of the nation and a leading voice against authoritarianism and abuse of power.

    “It is worrisome that the NBA, which consistently berates dictatorial tendencies in government, would permit its chief spokesperson to engage in acts clearly opposed to democratic values,” the statement read.

    The group warned that such actions were eroding the moral authority of the Bar to challenge undemocratic conduct in the wider society.

    Egbe Amofin Oodua also expressed deep concern over what it termed “Afamgate,” insisting that a president who could annul an internal democratic process for partisan reasons could not be trusted to supervise the 2026 NBA election.

    The association alleged that the NBA President had effectively assumed the role of a campaign director by openly supporting a particular aspirant and deploying the resources of the Bar for that purpose.

    It further alleged that members of the ECNBA 2026 were deliberately selected from among the President’s associates to ensure a “predictable outcome” in the forthcoming election.

    Rejecting what it described as a “feeble rejoinder” issued by the NBA in response to Dr. Agi’s allegations, Egbe Amofin Oodua argued that the response failed to directly address the accusations against the President.

    The group said the allegations were neither denied nor properly explained, but were instead rationalised on the grounds of acting in the interest of SPIDEL and the NBA.

    Flowing from its position, the association called for the immediate dissolution of the current ECNBA 2026, insisting that a committee tainted by partisanship could not deliver a free, fair and credible election.

    It also urged past NBA presidents and trustees to intervene and rein in what it described as the President’s partisan conduct.

    “The year 2026 will be a defining moment in the history of the NBA if the right things are not done,” the statement warned.

    Egbe Amofin Oodua concluded by commending Dr. Anne Agi, Bridget Udokwe and Barbara Tosan Onwubiko for what it described as their courage in standing up for democratic values within the Bar, pledging solidarity with them in what it termed a struggle against tyranny and the truncation of the popular will of NBA members.

  • First Lady’s National Library fund closes at N25 billion

    First Lady’s National Library fund closes at N25 billion

    First Lady Oluremi Tinubu said yesterday that the Oluremi @65 Education Fund, established to mark her 65th birthday, has received   N25.52 billion for the National Library Project.

    Senator Tinubu described the donations as a powerful demonstration of Nigerians’ shared commitment to education and national development.

    She said in a statement in which she explained that the donation account for the Education Fund formally closed yesterday, that the project would now proceed under the supervision of the Federal Ministry of Education.

    Senator  Tinubu expressed appreciation to Nigerians, family members, friends and well-wishers who supported the initiative, which was created on September 21 last year for the library project.

    “I extend my appreciation to all Nigerians, family, friends, and well-wishers who generously supported the Oluremi @65 Education Fund, created in commemoration of my 65th birthday… towards building the National Library,” the First Lady said.

    She noted that the level of support recorded by the fund underscored a collective belief in education, the preservation of knowledge and the broader goal of national development.

    According to her, the initiative also fostered unity and goodwill among Nigerians from different backgrounds.

    READ ALSO: CBN posts $4.6b balance of payment surplus, PMI hits 57.6 points

    “Your support affirms our shared commitment to education, preservation of knowledge and national development. I am deeply encouraged by the goodwill and unity this initiative has inspired,” she said.

     “The project is under the supervision of the Honourable Minister of Education, and any further support may be channelled through the Ministry,” the First Lady added.

    Reiterating her gratitude to all contributors, Senator Tinubu described the fund as a worthy national cause and thanked Nigerians for their trust and generosity.

    “I thank everyone who has contributed to this worthy cause,” she said.

    The First Lady extended goodwill messages to Nigerians as the country approaches the New Year and prayed for peace and prosperity during the year. 

  • Investors net N32tr gain at stock market

    Investors net N32tr gain at stock market

    Investors in Nigerian equities closed 2025 with a net capital gain of N32.13 trillion, sustaining the country as one of the world’s five best-performing stock markets.

    The benchmark index for the Nigerian stock market, the All Share Index (ASI) of the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) ended yesterday with a full-year return of 51.19 per cent, equivalent to net capital gain of N32.13 trillion.

    The performance at the Nigerian market more than doubled returns across several advanced and emerging markets, including the United States (U.S.), United Kingdom, Germany, France and China where average indexed returns were below 25 per cent.

    The MSCI All Country World Index- a global index that tracks large-cap stocks across developed and emerging markets, closed the year with average return of about 20 per cent.

    Group Managing Director, Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX Group), Mr. Temi Popoola, said the sustained rally at the stock market underscored investors’ confidence in the country’s macroeconomic outlook.

    He said: “The Nigerian capital market in 2025 demonstrated resilience despite domestic and global economic headwinds.

    READ ALSO: Against the tyranny of small minds

    “This performance underscores the importance of policy consistency, purposeful reforms, and strategic collaboration in strengthening investor confidence and sustaining market growth.

    “During the year, efforts to advance economic reforms and improve market structures helped support a stable environment for capital formation, while our continued investment in technology played a critical role in expanding access, enhancing transparency, and improving operational efficiency across the market”.

    The ASI closed the year at 155,613.03 points as against the year’s opening index of 102,926.40 points. Aggregate market value of all quoted equities rose from 2025’s opening value of N62.763 trillion to close the year at N99.376 trillion, representing an increase of 58.34 per cent or N36.61 trillion. The difference between the ASI and aggregate market value was due to additional listings recorded during the year.

    Popoola said the NGX would remain focused on deepening partnerships with regulators, issuers, market operators, policymakers, and the wider financial ecosystem to sustain the bullish momentum.

    “We are optimistic about the opportunities ahead and committed to positioning the Nigerian capital market as a key driver of economic growth and wealth creation, while advancing NGX Group’s vision as Africa’s preferred exchange hub.”

    Chairman, Association of Securities Dealing Houses of Nigeria (ASHON), Mr. Sehinde Adenagbe, said the market performance has strong correlation with the economic reforms of the current government.

    Adenagbe said: “There is no gain saying that since President Tinubu took office in May 2023, Nigeria’s stock market has experienced strong growth and renewed investor interest.

    “The NGX All-Share Index more than doubled, rising by around 136 per cent between 2023 and 2025, with market capitalisation expanding sharply and local and foreign participation strengthening”.

    He added that further digitisation of the economy and the capital market has smoothen the onboarding of the youthful demography of the country, especially through the fintech gateway created by the NGX Group, which has tremendously increased inclusiveness in the market.

    According to him, the market performance reflected improved macroeconomic conditions, liquidity, and investor appetite.

    He said: “We believe that these strong performances signal enhanced market confidence, partly driven by broader economic measures under the administration”.

    He highlighted the enactment of the Investment and Securities Act (ISA) 2025 signed into law by President Tinubu, removal of Nigeria from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF)’s “grey list” and the reforms in the foreign exchange (forex) market as major impetus for the market.

    According to him, the transparency and stability in the forex market have helped to reduce distortions, improving the predictability of pricing for foreign investors and businesses.

    “Stable forex conditions have been widely cited as a contributor to increased foreign capital flows into equities and other financial instruments,” Adenagbe said.

    He, however, called for more supportive policies that encourage new listings, including moribund state-owned-enterprises that can be turned around as well as incentives for long-term institutional investment.

    Adenagbe said: “We also need more structural reforms, coordinated implementation, market infrastructure improvements and inclusive growth measures to sustain momentum and position Nigeria as a competitive driver of national economic growth and development.

    “The issue surrounding the Capital Gains Tax (CGT) should be revisited to give the market clarity. More intentional approaches are needed to stamp out insecurity and acts of terrorism from the country as investors want to put their resources in secured environment.”

    Managing Director, GTI Capital, Mr. Kehinde Hassan, said investors appeared confident about the outlook for the Nigerian economy.

    He noted that the stock market is the closest reflection of a country’s global economic rating as investors are sensitive to risks.

    The double-digit 51.19 per cent return in 2025 marked the sixth consecutive bullish run for the Nigerian market. The ASI had made the top global chart in 2024 with average return of 37.65 per cent, equivalent to net capital gain of N15.4 trillion.

    The ASI had closed 2023 as one of the three best-performing markets globally. Average return for Nigerian equities in 2023 stood at 45.90 per cent, equivalent to net capital gains of N12.81 trillion.

    The market had broken its well-known previous cycle of decline in pre-election year to record its third consecutive positive performance in 2022, with full-year average return of 19.98 per cent, equivalent to net capital gain of N4.455 trillion. It had closed 2021 with average return of 6.07 per cent, equivalent to net capital gains of N1.278 trillion.

    In the throes of the outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, it had recorded average return of 50.03 per cent, representing net capital gains of N6.483 trillion.

    ASI closed 2023 at 74,773.77 points as against its opening index of 51,251.06 points for the year. It had opened 2022 at 42,716.44 points.

    Aggregate market value of all quoted equities had also risen from 2023’s opening value of N27.915 trillion to close the year at N40.918 trillion. It had recorded N22.297 trillion as opening value for 2022.

  • I will disclose our agreement with Fubara, says Wike

    I will disclose our agreement with Fubara, says Wike

    Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike, yesterday said he would soon make public  the peace agreement reached between him and Rivers State Governor  Siminalayi Fubara  before President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    Wike spoke during a ‘Thank You Visit’ to Tai Local Government  Area.

    President Tinubu, in June  brokered a peace deal between Wike and Fubara that ended the protracted political crisis that engulfed the state.

    The minister accused Fubara of allegedly reneging   on the  agreement saying; ‘very soon, we will let people know what we agreed on before Mr President.’

    He advised the people of Tai against dealing with people who cannot keep their promise in the name of politics, stressing that such people should not be trusted.

    The minister, who said the Rivers people are battle ready for 2027 elections, warned that money will not determine the outcome of the election.

    According to him, what mattered  is the will of the people.

    READ ALSO: Against the tyranny of small minds

    Wike said he was in the  local government to thank the people of Tai for standing by him and President Tinubu.

    He said: “It was a tough battle in 2023. You took a risk, worked with us and God gave us victory.

    “See what the risk had resulted to – a federal university sited in Tai and many other benefits”.

    Senator  Barry Npigi (APC – Rivers Southeast) thanked Tinubu and Wike for the support in the senatorial district. He said  “the people never had it this good”.

    Npigi assured Wike that the  people were available to do his bidding for  justice, equity and fairness that they see in Tinubu.

    “I want to assure you on behalf of the people of Rivers Southeast, that we will continue to be with you,” he said.

    Also, Mr Bernard Nbar, representing Tai Constituency in Rivers Assembly,  assured Wike of the continued support of his constituents.

    “You can count on the Tai people, because Tai people keep to their words,” Nbar said.

    Chairman of Tai Local Government, Mbakpone Okpe, thanked Wike for interacting with Tai people.

    Okpe said that the minister’s directive to vote Tinubu in 2023 was a blessing following the good things that have continued to follow his people.

    He said; “Our people have continued to benefit from appointments, infrastructure, empowerment and other dividends of democracy.

    “For these reasons and more, we are eager to return Mr President for a second tenure. We will roll out all our votes for Tinubu and whoever you support”.

    FCT minister: Tinubu kept to agreement made to Rivers 

    The President  yesterday got plaudits from Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike  for keeping to promises made to the people of Rivers State during the  campaign ahead  of the 2023 presidential election.

    Wike compared Tinubu to  Governor Siminalayi Fubara, whom he said has not kept to agreement made to his people.

    It was  when he visited Eleme Local Government Area of Rivers.

    He said Tinubu has put smiles on the faces of the people of Rivers, adding that they will  support  his re-election.

    The minister said that part of the decision was to support Tinubu’s re-election for a second term and correct the leadership mistake in Rivers.

    He stressed that no amount of money would change their course, saying; “when they lose power they will know what they have done.

    “Ask your governor what he told President Bola Tinubu during the meeting. If he did not say anything, I will.

    “President Bola Tinubu has kept to agreement while governor did not.

    “We have done it before and we are going to do it again. We are prepared; we have made a decision and we are not going back. I want you to be strong. Nobody will intimidate us”.

    He explained that the people that were entrusted with power in Rivers have been misled by money and power, adding that greed and lack of gratitude lead to downfall.

    He said he was in the community to thank Eleme people for standing firm with Tinubu; “and I want to say that I have not taken your support for granted.

    “In spite of all the troubles, Tinubu decided that I, a Southsouth person, should be the Minister of FCT. It has never happened before.

    “Also, the ongoing development in this area has never happened before until Tinubu became President”.

    Earlier, Chief Aforji Igwe, representing Eleme in Rivers Assembly, described Wike as a “fair, just and a man of integrity”

    Igwe pledged the support of Eleme people to the minister due to his outstanding support to the people.

    Also, Chairman of Eleme Council, Chief Obarilormate Ollor, hailed Wike for what he described as all the infrastructural intervention in the area during his time as governor of Rivers.

    Ollor assured Wike that the people were with him and ready to go wherever he asked them to go.

    He said the people were already aware of his directive for the re-election of Tinubu but awaiting the directive for the governorship election in 2027.

  • Obi’s defection opens battle for ADC ticket with Atiku

    Obi’s defection opens battle for ADC ticket with Atiku

    The stage is set for the battle for the 2027 presidential ticket of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

    Yesterday, former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi defected from the Labour Party (LP) to the opposition party, which serves as the platform for coalition forces led by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.

    Contrary to the general feeling that ADC is being repositioned for the realisation of Atiku’s presidential ambition, Obi’s defection may have set up the battle with the Adamawa-born politician for the ticket.

    Obi, who ran for president on the platform of the LP in 2023 defected to the ADC during the  meeting of Southeast party chieftains held at the Nike Lake Resort in Enugu, capital of Enugu State.

    He was received into the fold by the Interim National Chairman, former Senate President David Mark, who applauded him for the bold step.

    Mark said Obi’s entry into the ADC signalled the return of the Southeast to the centre of national decision-making, adding that it is a clean break from politics of exclusion, deceit and broken promises.

    The Southeast geo-political zone which was controlled mainly by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) since 1991, is now dominated by the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    The ruling party has three governors – Enugu, Imo and Ebonyi. The All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) controls Anmabra, while Labour Party holds sway in Abia.

    Mark added: “Together, we will enthrone internal democracy, respect for party members and people-oriented governance. Our collective vision is a secure nation, a productive economy driven by true federalism, massive job creation, youth and women inclusion.”

    He assured new members of mutual respect, fairness, transparency and genuine partnership within the party, urging them to integrate into party structures, mobilise at the grassroots and deepen the ADC’s presence across the Southeast and beyond.

    Mark said: “This event is not just a reception; it marks the foundation of a strong and winning national coalition. ADC is your home. Together, we will rewrite Nigeria’s political story and secure a better future for generations to come.”

    Justifying his defection, Obi said it was guided by patriotism and the overriding national interest.

    He said he had decided to team up with ADC leaders to liberate the country from leadership failure.

    Southeast ADC stalwarts hailed the defection, saying that it would offer a veritable integrative platform for the zone.

    READ ALSO: CBN posts $4.6b balance of payment surplus, PMI hits 57.6 points

    Obi called for unity, credible elections and purposeful leadership to pave the way for socio-economic transformation.

    He said Nigeria was at a historic crossroads, stressing that moments of deep national crisis demand courage, clarity of purpose and decisive action.

    Obi said: “My decision to join the ADC is guided solely by patriotism and national interest. We must rescue Nigeria from division, injustice and ineffective leadership, and return power to the people.”

    He lamented what he described as the systematic erosion of democratic values, electoral malpractice and institutional weakness, insisting that electoral integrity should be the foundation of national rebirth.

    Obi called for the reforms of the electoral process, particularly the strengthening of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), credible transmission of results and strict adherence to electoral laws ahead of the 2027 general election.

    The former governor decried rising poverty, youth unemployment, insecurity and corruption, saying that over 130 million Nigerians were living in multidimensional poverty.

    But the Julius Abure faction of the LP chided Obi for compounding the party’s protracted crisis before leaving.

    The faction apologised to Nigerians for fielding him as candidate in the last general election.

    Abia State Governor Alex Otti, the only governor elected on the ticket of the LP, said although Obi informed him before leaving the party, he has no intention of abandoning it.

    Also, Presidential Adviser on Information and Strategy Bayo Onanuga, who reacted to the defection, said Obi cannot lead Nigeria because nations are built with home-grown policies and not cut-and-paste ideas.

    It was the third time the former governor would change parties since 2013 when he completed his two terms as governor.

    In 2019, he defected from APGA on the platform in which he ruled Anambra State to PDP, where he paired with Atiku as running mate during the poll.

    In 2023, Obi, who also left the PDP to LP to run for president, came third during the election, trailing Atiku of PDP and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of the APC.

    Others at the event were Senator Aminu Tambuwal, Dr. Pat Utomi, Senator Ben Obi, Senator Tony Nwoye, Senator Gilbert Nnaji, Chief Onyema Ugochukwu, Chief Simon Okeke, Mrs. Josephine Anini, Idu Emeka, Sheumi, Harrison Ogara, Achike Udenwa, Sam Egwu, Okwesilieze Nwodo and Emeka Ihedioha; Senator Victor Umeh and Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe;

    Ihedioha, a former Imo State Governor, who moved the motion for the adoption of the ADC as a platform for Southeast stakeholders, said the region had suffered prolonged exclusion from the centre since 2015 and required a credible vehicle to guarantee inclusion, relevance and effective participation in national governance.

    He urged political leaders and supporters in the region to register massively with the ADC as a historic step towards restoring balance, justice and national cohesion.

    I’m not leaving LP, says Otti

    Otti said he has no intention of leaving LP, unless efforts to redeem the party fail.

    The governor, who reacted to the defection during his media chat at Umuahia, the state capital, said: “I joined Labour Party before Peter Obi. I didn’t join the Labour Party with him. He communicated me that he was leaving Labour Party and I gave him my blessings, but I remain in Labour Party.”

    He added: “I told him that I will have to continue the struggle to rescue Labour Party. That’s the party that brought me to power.

    “If we fight and get to the end and we can’t retrieve Labour Party, then, we can now discuss options. But for now, I am not defecting with him.”

    Abure: Obi unfit as candidate

    The Abure LP-faction in a statement by its Publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifoh, said the former governor had lost the 2023 charm.

    Ifoh mocked his defection speech, describing it as “lacklustre,” and “wondered what new he intends to sell to Nigerians.”

    He said the party was finally liberated by Obi’s defection, adding that it is a blessing.

    The statement reads in part: “It will be on record that the leadership of the Labour Party had since urged Obi and his disgruntled followers to exit the party if they were unable to work with the leadership of the party.

    “As a matter of fact, the party had suspended many of the lawmakers for anti party and was clearly going to meet the same treatment on the Presidential Candidate but for the intervention of some well meaning Nigerians.

    “The crisis we had in the Labour Party was caused by Peter Obi and the Abia state governor, Dr. Alex Otti. It was them that sponsored the insurrection against the Julius Abure leadership. We had also expected Governor Otti to follow Obi out of the party. We are surprised that even though he has been suspended from the party, he is still loitering around. It is still not too late for him to follow his political leader.”

    Why Obi can’t lead, by Onanuga

    Chiding Obi for hypocrisy, Onanuga said no country can achieve sustainable development by simply copying ideas and models from other nations without regard to local realities.

    In a post on Onanuga’s verified X handle, @aonanuga1956, Onanuga said that leadership requires originality and deep understanding of a nation’s peculiar circumstances, not imitation of foreign experiences.

    He said: “Nations are not identical, and what worked in Indonesia or the USA may not necessarily work in Nigeria. No leader can move a country forward by simply copying and pasting models from elsewhere. Nations require original thinkers, not copycats. Homegrown solutions are essential for proper development.”

    The presidential aide noted that Obi had abandoned the party he used to pursue his “ill-fated” presidential ambition in 2023, adding that nearly three years after the election, he is still aggrieved about the outcome.

    He said: “About three years after the 2023 election, Obi, the wandering politician, who moved from APGA to PDP to Labour and now ADC, still sounded bitter about coming third.

    “He continues to claim he was robbed of victory, even though empirical analyses of the poll showed he could not have won and was fortunate to even emerge third because of the anomalous polling figures recorded for him in his South East region.”

    In tweet on his X, Atiku expressed the hope that Obi’s defection would deepen relationship.

    The tweet reads: “Today marks a significant moment in the history of political coalitions in our country, with the official declaration of my brother and associate, Peter Obi, into the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

    “It is my pleasure to welcome him officially, as we look forward to a robust working relationship that will foster a virile opposition, one that will ultimately form a government capable of bringing prosperity and peace to our people.”

    ‘Obidient Movement will follow Obi to ADC’

    The National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, Yunusa Tanko, said the supporters  will follow Obi to the ADC.

    Speaking on phone, he said: “We have made our position categorically clear right from the beginning that wherever Peter Obi is going we are going with him. We will make a declaration soon.

    “You can see at the declaration today that it was the Obidient Movement logo and that of the ADC. That is to tell you that we are stepping our foot where Obi steps his own foot. There is no ambiguity in that regard.”

  • NYCN Diaspora wishes Nigeria prosperous New Year

    NYCN Diaspora wishes Nigeria prosperous New Year

    Vice President of National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) Diaspora, Ambassador Collins Idahosa, has extended warm wishes to youths across Nigeria.

    The 2024-2025 Nigeria’s Glober Award winner, in a statement, said: ” I urge our youths to remain focused, united, and committed to building a brighter future for our nation. It is imperative that we reject violence and work collectively towards a prosperous Nigeria! 

    “To all Nigerian youths, let us be the catalysts for positive change, promoting peace, unity, and progress in our beloved country.

    “I also call on the Federal Government of Nigeria to prioritize the youth in all national agendas, recognising that the youth are the future leaders and driving force of our nation.

    “Furthermore, I urge the Federal Government to re-emphasize its commitment to local government autonomy, as this will significantly enhance grassroots development and empower local communities to drive progress in their respective areas.

    “To Nigerian youths in the diaspora, I say: remain focused! Don’t let current challenges distract you from your goals. Stay engaged, stay committed, and believe that the situation will improve. Your contributions are vital to Nigeria’s growth! 

    “We also extend our warmest congratulations to Mr. Seyi Tinubu on receiving a Chieftaincy title in Boston! May this honor bring joy and recognition to the First Family of Nigeria.

    “NYCN was formed by visionary leaders to unite Nigerian youth, promote national development, and empower the next generation of leaders. We reaffirm our commitment to this purpose and call on all Nigerian youth, at home and in the diaspora, to join us in propelling Nigeria forward! 

    “Happy New Year, Nigeria! “

  • Mining marshals arrest five suspects for illegal mining, impersonation in Abuja

    Mining marshals arrest five suspects for illegal mining, impersonation in Abuja

    The Mining Marshals have arrested five men over alleged illegal mining activities and impersonation in Kuje Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, authorities have said.

    The suspects were arrested on 27 December 2025 at Kebi Mangoro, Kuje Area Council, following what officials described as a credible intelligence tip-off on ongoing illegal mining operations.

    Those arrested were identified as Muhammed Aliyu, 39; Abdulrahman Hashimu, 32; Tahir Muhammed, 43; Awaje Abduljalal, 19; and Kabiru Adamu, 38.

    According to the Mining Marshals, preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects were involved in operating multiple illegal mining sites across Abuja and neighbouring Nasarawa State. Investigators further alleged that the group deployed a privately owned Toyota Hilux vehicle branded with the colours and insignia of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to evade security checkpoints and intimidate stakeholders.

    Officials said the suspects confessed to the offences during interrogation. One of them, who identified himself as a manager, reportedly told investigators that their operations were directed by one Alhaji Mohammed Dahiru Salihu, popularly known as Mundasa of Mundasa Global Limited, who is currently at large.

    The suspect claimed that only Mr Salihu could explain why the group lacked the requisite licences and statutory documentation required to operate in the solid minerals sector.

    In a further twist, the Mining Marshals disclosed that while investigations were ongoing, intelligence reports indicated that the principal suspect and other accomplices still at large allegedly approached the nominal complainant — the lawful mineral title holder on whose concession the arrests were made — in an attempt to compromise and undermine the investigation.

    This alleged interference, officials said, was formally documented by the investigation team and will form part of the evidentiary materials for prosecution, alongside the suspects’ confessional statements, which authorities stressed were obtained voluntarily and without duress.

    The Mining Marshals expressed particular concern over what they described as the growing security threats associated with illegal mining, especially the impersonation of security agencies.

    They noted that the use of an NSCDC-branded Hilux vehicle by the suspects posed a direct risk to public trust and national security.

    Although the suspects were temporarily released on bail following an application by their counsel, Douglas Najime of Chatham Partners, the Mining Marshals said investigations were ongoing.

    Reaffirming the Federal Government’s zero-tolerance policy against illegal mining, ACC John Onoja Attah, Commander of the Mining Marshals, assured that the suspects would be charged to court at the conclusion of investigations.

    Mr Attah said the case would be prosecuted strictly in line with the Mining Marshals’ Standard Operating Procedures, adding that the NSCDC would not relent in its resolve to sanitise Nigeria’s mining sector and dismantle all networks involved in illegal mining activities nationwide.