The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Remi Tinubu’s presence at U.S. prayer excites Trump

    Remi Tinubu’s presence at U.S. prayer excites Trump

    United States President Donald Trump yesterday acknowledged the presence of Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, at the 74th National Prayer Breakfast  in Washington, D.C.

    In his address during the event, Trump drew attention to Mrs. Tinubu. He described her as a respected figure and noting her role as a Christian pastor in the largest church in Nigeria.

    The event, a long-standing tradition in the U.S. capital that brings together political and religious leaders, took a notable turn when the American president paused his address to spotlight the Nigerian First Lady.

    President Trump described her as a woman of significant influence and faith, acknowledging her spiritual role back home.

    “We’re honored to be joined today by the First Lady of Nigeria, who also happens to serve as a Christian pastor at the largest church in Nigeria. A very respected woman. First Lady, please, where are you? Thank you very much. It’s a great honor. Thank you very much. Very respected person, too,” Trump said, searching the crowd before acknowledging her presence.

    READ ALSO: The dynamics of Kano governor’s defection

    The recognition followed a period of complex diplomatic exchanges between Washington and Abuja.

    Recently, the U.S. government has kept a close eye on security and religious dynamics within Nigeria.

    This followed earlier comments from the U.S. administration concerning the protection of faith-based communities.

    The Federal Government had maintained that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains dedicated to upholding the rights of all citizens, regardless of their creed.

    The National Prayer Breakfast is an annual event that brings together political leaders, faith leaders, and dignitaries from across the world for prayer and reflection.

  • Nigeria, World Bank strengthen partnership to boost economy

    Nigeria, World Bank strengthen partnership to boost economy

    The World Bank has agreed to provide enhanced supports to speed up Nigeria’s economic reforms to attract large-scale investment and open up more job opportunities for the country’s fast-growing population.

    At a high-level discussions in Abuja between Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, and Managing Director, Operations, World Bank Group, Ms. Anna Bjerde, the World Bank said it would provide enhanced supports for ongoing initiatives to deepen Nigeria’s reform agenda to ensure more visible positive impacts on the daily lives of Nigerians.

    Both sides agreed that sustained cooperation between Nigeria and the World Bank would be crucial in ensuring that reforms translate into lasting economic gains and improved living standards for citizens.

    Bjerde said the World Bank would continue backing investment-driven growth strategy, with strong attention on infrastructure delivery and greater involvement of the private sector.

    She said: “Our support will remain focused on helping Nigeria turn its plans into tangible outcomes, especially in infrastructure and private sector-led growth,” Ms. Bjerde said.

    READ ALSO: President rallies relief materials to affected Kwara communities

    She expressed satisfaction with the direction of Nigeria’s economic reforms and praised the government for its clear sense of purpose.

    According to her, international markets and development partners are paying closer attention to Nigeria, as confidence in the reform agenda continues to build.

    She said: “The clarity of direction we are seeing is encouraging, and it is contributing to growing interest from investors and partners”.

    Edun told the World Bank delegation that recent policy steps taken by the administration are beginning to yield positive momentum across key sectors of the economy.

    He said the government is firmly focused on growth, investment and employment creation as central pillars of its economic strategy.

    “Our priority is to create an environment where investment can flow, businesses can grow and Nigerians can find meaningful work.

    “The reforms underway are designed to unlock productivity and place the economy on a more sustainable path,” Edun said.

    A statement issued yesterday by the Ministry of Finance outlined that key areas discussed during the meeting, which involved officials from both sides, included improving access to stable electricity supply, boosting agricultural productivity, speeding up the rollout of digital infrastructure and making trade easier across borders.

     The discussions pointed to Nigeria’s shift from making reforms to delivering real results, with both sides committed to building a stronger economy that provides jobs, stability and shared prosperity for Nigerians.

    The meeting also restated the federal government’s economic path under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, with officials noting that confidence in Nigeria’s reform programme is gaining ground among global investors and development partners.

    The country expressed its ambition to deepen changes in the power and energy sectors while positioning itself as a major economic hub in West Africa.

    Officials pointed to Abuja’s status as the host city of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) as part of Nigeria’s broader role in driving regional integration, trade and economic cooperation.

  • Senate defends action on Electoral Act Amendment

    Senate defends action on Electoral Act Amendment

    • ADC, NNPP, others fault Red chamber

    The Senate yesterday defended its passage of the Electoral Acts Amendment Bill.

    It also explained that its objection to the real-time uploading of poll results does not amount to the jettisoning of the electronic transmission of results.

    Ranking senators, led by Enyinnaya Abaribe, said the report that electronic voting was discarded was false.

    Also, the National Assembly set up the conference committees to harmonise the different versions of the bill passed by the Senate and the House of Representatives.

    Senate President Godswill Akpabio said the committee was mandated to conclude its assignment this month to enable the National Assembly transmit a harmonised bill to the President for assent.

    The House of Representatives passed the  Bill on December 23, last year, while the Senate approved its version two days ago.

    A key amendments by the Senate is the reduction of the period for the issuance of the electoral timetable from 360 days to 180 days.

    While the House of Representatives approved electronic transmission of results from polling units to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Result Viewing Portal (IREV) in real time and simultaneously with physical collation, the Senate retained the 2022 framework which allows the Commission to determine the mode of transmission..

    READ ALSO: The dynamics of Kano governor’s defection

     Akpabio announced the constitution of the Senate Conference Committee, shortly after the Red Chamber passed its version of the Bill.

    The committee is expected to reconcile areas of disagreement with the version approved by the House of Representatives.

    The Senate committee will be chaired by the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Electoral Matters, Senator Simon Lalong.

    Members of the Senate Committee are Senators Adamu Aliero, Adeniyi Adegbomire, Orji Uzor Kalu, Abba Moro, Asuquo Ekpeyong, Aminu Abbas and Tokunbo Abiru.

    Also, House of Representatives Spokesman Akin Rotimi said the Green Chamber conference committee will work with the Senate team in harmonising the Bill.

    Members of the House committee, led by the Chairman of the House Committee on Electoral Matters, Adebayo Balogun (South West), include Fred Agbedi (South South), Sada Soli (North West), Ahmadu Jaha (North East), Iduma Igariwey Enwo (South East), Saidu Musa Abdullahi (North Central) and Zainab Gimba, representing women.

    Criticisms by opposition elements, including former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) Buba Galadima and African Democratic Congress (ADC), have trailed the Senate’s passage of the bill.

    Electronic transmission intact, says Abaribe

    Abaribe told reporters in Abuja that the Senate neither voted against electronic transmission nor called for return to manual processes, stressing that the reports along those lines were incorrect and misleading.

    He said: “Yesterday (Wednesday), the Senate did not — I repeat — did not pass transfer of results which was in the 2022 Act. What we passed, and which the Senate President himself clarified while sitting on his chair, is transmission of results. And I need to make this very clear.”

    Abaribe lamented that the distinction between “transfer” and “transmission” had been wrongly interpreted, fuelling the impression that the Senate had taken Nigeria backwards on electoral reforms.

    He said senators were compelled to address the media because the Senate’s action had been misunderstood.

    Abaribe said: “We felt that it would be necessary to make a clarification of what happened yesterday, to put the record straight.”

    Noting that senators are conscious of the public trust placed on the National Assembly by Nigerians, he added: “Every one of us who is a senator, who has the privilege to represent a senatorial district, came here under the trust of their senatorial districts.

    “Each one of us infused in himself or herself a public trust handed to us by Nigerians to do the absolute best for Nigeria.”

    Abaribe explained that the provision for electronic transmission of results was not an afterthought but the product of an extensive legislative process involving both chambers of the National Assembly and key stakeholders.

    He stressed: “There was a joint committee of both the Senate and the House of Representatives, made up of members of the electoral committees in both chambers.

     “These joint committees had several retreats, both in Abuja and elsewhere, and each of those retreats was done with INEC and civil society organisations.

     “Everyone agreed, and at the end of the retreats, that electronic transmission of results was the way to go. That agreement was reflected in the reports laid before both the House and the Senate.”

    Dismissing claims that any clause supporting electronic transmission was removed at any stage of the Senate process, he said: “There was no going backwards,” he said. “As the Senate President reiterated yesterday, we are not going backwards; rather, we are going home.”

    He disclosed that after the report of the Senate Committee on Electoral Matters was presented, the Senate constituted an ad hoc committee to further review it.

    Abaribe said: “It was the report of that ad hoc committee, alongside the report of the Senate electoral committee and the executive session we held, that led to our agreement on Clause 60(3), which provides for electronic transmission of results, including real-time transmission.”

    He noted that confusion arose during plenary because of the crowded chamber and multiple conversations, prompting some senators to seek further clarification after the session.

    Abaribe said: “We went back individually to find out exactly what was done, and we were reassured. The Senate President himself confirmed – and you have the videos – that we passed electronic transmission of results.”

    He explained that a harmonisation committee had been set up to reconcile differences between the Senate and House versions of the bill but stressed that the process was not yet concluded.

    “After our plenary session yesterday, we adjourned but did not come back to pass the Votes and Proceedings,” he said. “That is our rule, and you all here know it.”

    Other senators present at the briefing include, Austin Akobundu (PDP – Abia Central) Peter Jiya (PDP – Niger South), Ireti Kingibe (ADC – FCT), Victor Umeh (LP – Anambra Central), Binos Yaroe (PDP – Adamawa South), Kabeeb Mustapha (PDP – Jigawa South West, Khalid Mustapha (PDP – Kaduna North), Mohammed Ogoshi  Onawo (APC – Nasarawa South), Aminu Waziri Tambuwal (PDP – Sokoto South), Tony Nwoye (LP – Anambra North), Abdul Ningi (PDP – Bauchi Central), Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP – Kogi Central).

    Rotimi said the “Committee is mandated to confer with its counterpart from the Senate with a view to harmonising the differing provisions of the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill as passed by both Chambers, ahead of final passage by the National Assembly.”

    He added: “The House of Representatives reiterates its commitment to advancing electoral reforms that strengthen transparency, credibility, and public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic process.”

    Senate has rejected reforms, says ADC

    ADC alleged that the Senate is not interested in electoral reforms.

    The National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, said in a statement that reforms are required to strengthen transparency and restore public confidence in elections.

    He also criticised the Senate’s decision to vote against reforms that would have allowed the electronic download of voter cards from I website, reduced the notice period for elections, and shortened the timeline for the publication of candidates’ list from 150 days to 60 days.

    Abdullahi said: “But what the Senate has done amounts to tampering with the laws to expand opportunities for rigging and foist logistical nightmares on INEC that will make future elections even less efficient.”

    Opposition parties: Senate has failed Nigerians

    Factional Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, and New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) counterparts Abdullahiand  Ladipo Johnson, said in a statement that the Senate had failed Nigerians.

    They urged the conference committee to adopt the position of the House of Representatives on real time transmission.

    The statement reads: “Yesterday, the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria passed the amendment to the Electoral Act 2022, wherein, among other things, it rejected the proposal to make mandatory real-time electronic transmission of results at the polling units.

    “The grave  implications of this retrogressive act by the Senate has compelled us as spokespersons of the major opposition political parties to jointly address this issue, which is capable of derailing our hard-earned democracy.

    “With this anti-people and anti-democratic action, we are concerned that the APC-led Senate may have set Nigeria’s democracy back by many decades. It is therefore not surprising that it has deservedly attracted widespread opposition and condemnation from Nigerians across all divides.”

    “We are at a loss as to why a party that is currently deploying technology to run an e-registration of their members across the country is averse to using technology to transmit results.”

    Obi asks Nigerians to reject the proposed law

    Obi, who rejected the bill, said: “The Senate’s blatant rejection of mandatory electronic transmission of election results is an unforgivable act of electoral manipulation ahead of 2027.”

    He added: “This failure to pass a clear safeguard is nothing short of a deliberate assault on Nigeria’s democracy. By rejecting these essential transparency measures, they are eroding the very foundation of credible elections.”

  • Terrorists ‘killed Kwara villagers for refusing strange belief’

    Terrorists ‘killed Kwara villagers for refusing strange belief’

    • DHQ reveals cause of dastardly attack

    • Tinubu, AbdulRazaq meet at Aso Villa

    There was a flurry of activities yesterday following Tuesday night’s chilling attacks on a Kwara community, in which scores were murdered in cold blood by terrorists.

    Community leaders of Woro in Kaiama Local Government Area, in the northern part of Kwara State, said 75 people were buried the same day, with many bodies still scattered in bushes and on farms.

    Yesterday, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, who visited the beleaguered village on Wednesday, more than six hours’ drive from Ilorin, the state capital, was at the Presidential Villa for a meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    The President created Operation Savannah Shield, whose commander arrived in the state yesterday.

    Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun also joined the military in moving men and assets to Kwara State.

    The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) explained the motive behind the killings and how they were carried out.

    Defence spokesman Maj.-Gen. Samaila Uba said in a statement that the terrorists entered Woro and neighbouring communities with the intention of imposing a “twisted” belief through terror and intimidation.

    The DHQ noted that the same spirit was “exhibited by the resilient people of Woro and neighbouring communities, who stood firm against violent coercion and refused to abandon their way of life and constitutional loyalty despite threats.”

    The DHQ revealed that the terrorists initially entered Woro with a request to conduct a preaching and indoctrination session in the village, which was outrightly rejected.

    It said troops were dispatched to dominate the area with robust patrols, surveillance and other security measures for about two weeks.

    “The cowardly terrorists, however, returned weeks later to kill innocent citizens in protest and in a bid to terrorise inhabitants and others.

    “These groups seek to impose their twisted beliefs through terror and intimidation,” the DHQ said.

    The military high command mourned with the families of those who lost their loved ones in the Kwara attack and similar incidents across the country.

    READ ALSO: President rallies relief materials to affected Kwara communities

    It commended the remarkable spirit exhibited by various Nigerian communities that have been targeted by terrorists.

    While reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding all Nigerians, the DHQ called for enhanced cooperation between citizens and security agencies.

    It said: “Efforts will continue to be intensified by the military, in conjunction with other security agencies, towards finding and bringing to account those responsible for the dastardly attack and indeed all terrorists in the country.”

    It was gathered that an extremist group, the Mahmuda group, operates between the northern part of Kwara and Niger State.

    AbdulRazaq, briefing reporters after he met with the President, said: “I came to brief Mr President about what happened in Kaiama and also to thank him for the prompt action taken by establishing Operation Savannah Shield.

    “Mr President directed the armed forces to move in, clean up the area and ensure that peace and calm are restored.

    “I am confident because, as I speak to you, the first commander for Operation Savannah Shield has reported in Kwara State, Ilorin, and has hit the ground running. We rely on the military to do what they do best.

    “That will go a long way in deterring criminal elements and bringing calm to the region in Kwara State.”

    Operation Savannah Shield is expected to confront not only terrorist elements but also kidnappers and other criminal groups that have, in recent times, extended their activities across parts of Kwara State and other Northcentral states.

    IGP deploys squad

    Egbetokun ordered the immediate deployment of tactical and intelligence assets to Kaiama LGA.

    He added that the Force had begun a probe into the attack and a manhunt for the perpetrators.

    “Investigations are already underway, and all available resources have been mobilised to ensure that those responsible are identified, apprehended and brought to justice. The perpetrators will not escape the long arm of the law,” he said in a statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin.

    The IGP described the incident as “deeply painful and tragic” and assured that the perpetrators would be apprehended.

    “The Nigeria Police Force strongly condemns the violent attack that occurred on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, in Kaiama,” he said.

    The IGP extended condolences to the families of the victims, as well as to the government and people of the state.

    Egbetokun reassured the public that the police remained steadfast in their responsibility to protect lives and property.

    “The IGP reassures the public that the Nigeria Police Force will continue to do everything necessary to guarantee the safety and security of all citizens,” the statement quoted him as saying.

    He explained that the deployment of tactical, operational and intelligence assets to Kaiama and surrounding communities was aimed at restoring calm, strengthening security presence and preventing further acts of violence.

    The IGP urged the public to remain calm and support ongoing security efforts by providing timely and credible information.

  • Councillors to President: local govt autonomy has earned you 2027

    Councillors to President: local govt autonomy has earned you 2027

    The restoration of local government autonomy and the attendant landmark grassroots development by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu have earned him his re-election in 2027.

    This was the verdict of the National Councilors Forum of Nigeria (NCFN), which spoke through its President, Dr. Evoh Okechukwu Nwikegwu, the councilor representing Enenaezeraku Ward in Ohaozora Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.

    The forum declared its support for President Tinubu at a media briefing on Wednesday in Abuja.

    The forum, which has members across party lines, noted that “as the closest arm of government to the people, councilors understand the aspirations of the citizens and see the direct impact of the President’s strategic reforms”.

    Nwikegwu described the Tinubu administration’s policies as transformational and rural governance-friendly.

    The NCFN president expressed joy that the Renewed Hope Agenda is now a living reality in rural communities across the federation.

    Read Also: Downstream deregulation, forex reforms save Nigeria N6trn fuel import losses – NMDPRA 

    The forum, a formidable nationwide network of 8,809 councillors covering all 774 local government areas and 176,836 polling units, maintained that restoration of Local Government autonomy was the administration’s crowning achievement, labeling it a game changer for funding and accountability.

    It said: “This move, combined with improved rural infrastructure and strategic reforms in agriculture, has laid a solid foundation for national prosperity.”

    The forum applauded the President’s efforts at strengthening national security through the modernisation of the Armed Forces and enhanced intelligence integration.

    Nwikegwu maintained that President Tinubu, since 2023, has demonstrated the necessary courage and competence to deserve a second term to consolidate his work.

    The councilors called for nationwide mobilisation for the President’s re-election in 2027, tasking ward leaders and grassroots coordinators of the forum to take the message of the Tinubu administration to every household across Nigeria.

    The NCFN is one of the largest and most influential grassroots political structures in the country, with a presence felt from urban centres to the most remote villages.

  • The dynamics of Kano governor’s defection

    The dynamics of Kano governor’s defection

    The Permutations:

    There are new political and power dynamics in Kano State, as Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf defects from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) and Kwankwasiya group to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). As we count down to the 2027 general elections in Nigeria, the days and months ahead will be very interesting. However, even though this is a win for the APC, but due to the sophisticated nature of Kano politics, it is not over until it’s over!

    Essentially, Senator Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso a former Governor of Kano State and the national leader of the Kwankwasiya group has overreached. So, obviously, the die is cast. He has lost his key political godson, who, coincidentally, is his son-in-law, to his political arch-enemy, former governor Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, and APC. In my view, this type of politics of sense of entitlement of the political class, and the vicious cycle of transactional political godfatherism in Nigeria is timing out. For instance, we are witnessing what is playing out, which is at a crescendo in Rivers state. We are witnessing what is happening in Kano state. Not long ago, we saw what played out between Governor Uba Sani, and his predecessor, Governor Nasir El- Rufa’i.

    This is a lesson for political players that sometimes you need to play the long game. And indeed, for those that have the stay power in politics, they play for the long game.

    Potential Implications:

    However, with this development, trouble is waiting to happen amongst the political titans within the APC in Kano State.  This trouble has been brewing subliminally before the arrival of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf. Power brokers like a former Governor of Kano State and immediate past National Chairman or the APC Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, who was hitherto the leader of the APC in Kano State; the Deputy Senate President of the Federation, Senator Barau Jibrin, who has been nursing the ambition and has been investing heavily to emerge as the APC Governorship candidate l  to contest against Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, and other political juggernauts in Kano he already been scheming for supremacy build to the APC congresses. Therefore, it will be interesting to see how these strange bedfellows will fully align with Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, who has practically no political structure, especially build up to the upcoming  ward, state, regional, and national Congresses and Convention.

    Kano State politics is peculiar. The fact that Mr. President intervened is true. The fact that the Convention will play a role is true. But as you come down the political structure, the disposition and the consciousness is not the same. The cunningness of the politicians iand voters, including those ones that Mr. President has marshalled, is different. They will go in the night and say, do this.”Shebi” it’s the President. I want to hold on to what he’s given me. But when the day is cast and it’s too late, everybody will answer his name.

    The litmus test for his excellency Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf will start having is during the upcoming APC Congress. Because that is when he will start setting up his own political structure. Even though the APC stalwarts may like to “donate” or “rent” their structure for Governor Abba Kabir in the interest winning the elections for President Tinubu and the APC, none of the APC political gladiators is ready to remain political subordinated for the next five, six years.

    Therefore what remains to be seen is if the APC political titans will be 100% loyal to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf. What also remains to be seen if of the Kwankwasiya structure that Governor Abba has taken to APC will get a strong holding within in the APC. Or if they return to the NNPP if they do not feel full accommodated in APC. Or if they will remain in the APC and sabotage the APC at the critical time of elections.  This is because the Kano APC is it constituted now is a conglomeration of sworn and bitter political enemies whose rivalry and long term interests are hardly negotiable. Of course in the face value, the words of President Tinubu may sink in and be effective only for a while. But the political gladiators know that the current arrangement only serves the interest of Mr. President, while their respective mid to long term political structures and ambitions are in jeopardy. This is especially so given the fact that the 2027 general elections will determine the political structures and future of these politicians.

    Furthermore, it is clear that Governor Abba Kabir’s defection to the APC is for self preservation and to consolidate his quest for second term in office which is not really guaranteed even with the defection to the APC. This is because, the Kwankwasiya movement is still solid at the grassroots level in Kano. Whoever underestimates or overlooks the love for the Kwankwasiya movement under the leadership of Senator Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso is doing so at his own peril! Indeed the masses love Senator Kwankwaso and if anything the defection of Governor Abba Kabir has triggered more attention and sympathy for Senator Kwankwaso and the Kwankwasiya movement.

    Meanwhile, it is worthy of note that , due to the alleged overbearing influence of Senator Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso on Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, a few months into the administration of Governor Abba Yusuf, the protagonists, started a mantra in Kano, saying, “Abba tsaya da kafafunka”, or “Abba tsaya da kanka” , meaning, “Abba Kabir, stand on your feet” (Abba be independent). And that mantra was the beginning of what we have seen that has happened today. Consequently, some members of the cabinet of governor Abba Kabir who were also members of the NNPP and the Kwankwasiya movement, including, the former Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Abdullahi Baffa Bichi, started moving away to the APC, claiming  that there is an overbearing hold on the governor by Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso. Further down the line, that continued to crystallise. And, obviously, like I said in my opening remarks earlier, this is a typical template of godfatherism,  playing out between a godson and godfather.

    Well, having done that now, Governor Abba Kabir was able to use this opportunity of his bosse’s overbearing influence, and at the same time, his overreaching with regards to the political dynamics at the national level.

    Read Also: Hashim: New tax reforms will put Nigeria in global GDP league

    It’s not over until it’s over!:

    The defection of Governor Abba Kabir from the NNPP to the APC has certainly dealt a blow on Senator Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso’s political structure- the Kwankwasiya movement, in the short term. However, it is highly likely that in the mid to long term, Senator Rabi’u  Musa Kwankwaso and the Kwankwasiya movement could resurge stronger, far as potentially Kano state politics is concerned, if anything. This is especially so if we go back to history. Kano politicians and voters are masters of this protest vote game we play.

    Let remind us of what happened during the 1991 Gubernatorial elections in Kano State between when the Gubernatorial candidate of the then Social Democratic Party (SDP) candidate, late Engineer, Magaji Abdullahi, and the Gubernatorial candidate of the National Republican Convention (NRC), Arc.  Kabiru Ibrahlm Gaya. Members of the two factions of the defunct Peoples Redemption Party (PRP)  were members of the SDP. The PRP had two factions: the faction loyal to late Mallam Aminu Kano, the former national leader of the PRP, that we call the “Tabo” group, and the faction loyal to late Alhaki Abubakar Rimi, a former governor of Kano State. This is akin to what we have now in the APC in Kano state, and with governor Abba Kabir group and the APC team under the leadership of Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje which is know in Kano as the “Gandujiya”.  group. When push came to shove, and late Engr. Magaji of the PRP “Tabo” faction emerged as the SDP Governorship candidate, the “Santsi” group kept quiet. But during the election, guess what they did? The “Santsi” faction and their supporters, in protest gave their votes  to the NRC candidate, and that is how Arc. Kabiru Ibrahlm Gaya emerged as the governor of Kano State. This political calculus, is typical of Kano politics notwithstanding Presidential intervention or interference or directive.

    All being said, how Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf continues to deliver the dividends of democracy to the masses in Kano state between now and 2027 and beyond, will determine how the massive Kwankwasiya movement will sway in terms of voting pattern. Now we have seen how the political elites in the cabinet of governor Abba Kabir have moved to the APC.  What is important to note is that the defections have not significantly impacted the value of the Kwankwasiya at the grassroots, What remains to be seen is how it plays out in the voting pattern.

  • African creatives, others gather for Launch 26 Conference

    African creatives, others gather for Launch 26 Conference

    A two-day creative industry featuring thousands of photographers, videographers, content creators, and creative entrepreneurs from across Africa and the global diaspora was held recently.

    Oluseyi Adegeye Magic, founder of RareMagic Academy, convened the gathering tagged: Launch 26 Conference.

    The conference, held on January 26 and 27, 2026, was designed to equip creatives with the skills, structure, and mindset required to move from talent-driven practice to sustainable creative businesses.

    Day One, a specialised masterclass focused on Photography, Videography, and Content Creation, took place in Ikeja, Lagos. The session recorded over 300 onsite participants, with many more joining virtually from different parts of Africa.

    The Grand Finale, which was also held in Lagos on January 27 witnessed an even larger turnout, with over 1,500 participants onsite and thousands more joining online from across the globe.

    The conference featured notable industry leaders and thought drivers, including Mr. Kola Oshalusi, Emmanuel Oyeleke, Henry Oji (Big H), Kelechi Amadi, amongst others and the Special Assistant to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria on Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy, Mr. Ayo Adeagbo.

    Speaking at the event, Mr. Ayo Adeagbo emphasised the importance of structure and governance in the creative economy, urging creators to think beyond talent and begin to see their work as capital that must be properly managed to thrive in today’s economy.

    Participants praised the conference for its depth, organisation, and access to industry leaders. Dennis Temituro, a participant from Ghana, described Launch 26 as “epic,” noting that it made a strong statement for creatives who inspire other creatives.

    According to him, “The organisers outdid themselves by bringing seasoned creators off the shelves and making them accessible to the next generation. That alone is powerful.”

    Another participant, Simeon Keys Photography, commended the organisers for delivering on their promises to VIP attendees, particularly the exclusive lounge access to speakers.

    “The VIP experience allowed me to connect directly with speakers, exchange contacts, and have meaningful conversations. That level of access is rare and extremely valuable,” he said.

    With its impressive turnout, strong lineup of speakers, and focus on practical growth for creatives, Launch 26 has further positioned Oluseyi Adegeye Magic as a leading voice in Africa’s evolving creative education and business ecosystem.

  • APC plans inclusive convention, congresses as Tinubu meets party leaders, N’Assembly heads

    APC plans inclusive convention, congresses as Tinubu meets party leaders, N’Assembly heads

     …we’re reviewing timetable, studying political environment to ensure nobody is left behind – Yilwatda

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday met with key segments of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), as the party disclosed plans to organise an inclusive national convention and congresses, in line with its growth and expanding membership.

    The meeting, held at the State House, Abuja, with the party’s national leadership, sub-national leaders and the APC caucus in the National Assembly, was described as a strategic session to align preparations and ensure synergy among the various arms of government and the party structure.

    Speaking after the meeting, the National Chairman of the APC, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, said the engagement with the President was to review the party’s readiness for the forthcoming convention and congresses.

    “It was just a brief meeting to review the preparations for the convention and the congresses and the synergy between all arms of government so that we can be on one page; the sub-national, the national, the National Assembly and the party,” Yilwatda said.

    READ ALSO; Only six new products added to Nigeria’s export list – Adedeji

    According to him, the party leadership also assessed the prevailing political environment and resolved to ensure that the process would be broad-based and inclusive, particularly in view of the influx of new members and governors into the party.

    “Same timetable, the same planning activities, but just to study the environment and review our preparation as a party and ensure inclusivity,” he said.

    Yilwatda added that the APC was determined to carry all stakeholders along as it expands.

    “Both at national and sub-national, I want to carry everybody along with the party. We have new members who have come in, new governors, new members, the party is expanding every day, we are growing beyond bounds. We want to ensure that in the course of this growth nobody is left behind,” he stated.

    Those at the meeting included the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio; Chairman of the Nigerian Governors Forum (NGF), Governor Abdurahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State; Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum (PGF), Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State; Deputy President of the Senate, Barau Jibrin; Majority Leader of the House of Representatives, Prof. Julius Ihonvbere; Chief Whip of the House, Usman Bello Kumo; Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila; and the APC National Secretary, Senator Ajibola Bashiru.

    On the President’s role in the party’s preparations, Yilwatda said Tinubu was fully supportive, describing his counsel as valuable.

    “Excellent. Mr. President, as you know, is a shrewd politician, very experienced, and his advice was remarkable,” he said.

    He also credited the party’s continued growth to Tinubu’s political experience and leadership.

    “The expansion, the growth, is because of his experience and his depth of knowledge in political cycle,” the APC chairman added.

    It would be recalled that the APC in late January and early February released its adjusted timetable for its various congresses and the National Convention.

    In the new timetable, the ward congresses was fixed for February 18; the local government congresses are scheduled for February 20; state congresses for March 7; zonal congresses for March 21; and the National Convention to hold between March 27 and 28, all this year.

    The APC is expected to intensify consultations across the federation ahead of the convention and congresses, as the party leadership seeks to consolidate unity and accommodate new entrants within its ranks.

  • Electoral Act 2026 can undermine 2027 polls, says Galadima

    Electoral Act 2026 can undermine 2027 polls, says Galadima

    A chieftain of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Alhaji Buba Galadima, has faulted key provisions of the Electoral Act 2026, warning that the recent amendments could weaken Nigeria’s democracy, undermine electoral integrity and open the door to manipulation ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    Galadima, who spoke on Frontline, a current affairs programme on Eagle 102.5 FM, Ilese-Ijebu, criticised the reduction of the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) statutory timeline for election preparations, describing it as unrealistic and counter-productive.

    “Even if you calculate backwards, INEC could not meet the 360-day timeline, not to talk of a shorter one. You are creating unnecessary pressure that can only lead to chaos,” he said.

    He also condemned the National Assembly for retaining discretionary powers for INEC on the electronic transmission of results, arguing that the provision leaves room for abuse.

    “They never expunged that provision. They only left it at the discretion of INEC, which is creating room for rigging. The Senate is only wise by half,” Galadima said.

    According to him, lawmakers deliberately shifted responsibility to INEC, despite the commission’s lack of independence. “They want to shift responsibility to INEC, but INEC is appointed by the executive, and you know for sure that it is what the executive wants that INEC will likely do,” he added.

    READ ALSO; Only six new products added to Nigeria’s export list – Adedeji

    Galadima accused the lawmakers of enacting the new electoral law for self-serving interests rather than the national good, saying it failed to improve on previous legislation.

    “We thought that each time we pass an electoral bill, it would improve on the last one. But this one is clearly for personal protection by the Senate. There is no innovation in it. They could as well have left the 2022 Electoral Act intact instead of bastardising it for what they envisage to do in 2027,” he said.

    Questioning INEC’s capacity to act independently, Galadima said the commission lacked the institutional leverage to withstand political pressure, a development he warned could influence the conduct of the next election.

    “This INEC doesn’t even have the lever to call anybody to order. That clearly indicates what this INEC is likely to do in the next election,” he stated.

    He also criticised what he described as increasing judicial interference in internal party affairs, warning that such actions were damaging to democracy and the legal profession.

    “A justice of the Supreme Court once warned judges against interfering in party politics. It is a disgrace that judges now take partisan positions, like what happened in Ibadan,” he said.

    The NNPP stalwart dismissed claims that electronic voting and transmission were unworkable in Nigeria, insisting that technology had advanced enough to make the process seamless. 

    “In these days of technology, there is nothing you cannot do. What happened before was not accidental, it was a deliberate glitch. If we want electronic voting and transmission, it is possible. Other countries even offered Nigeria satellite coverage free of charge because they wanted free and fair elections, but the government refused because they wanted to manipulate the system,” he alleged.

    Galadima further accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of using state institutions to weaken opposition parties and force political realignments. 

    He said, “This government and the APC are stifling opposition. They are using the judiciary, the National Assembly, and agencies like the EFCC, ICPC and DSS to coerce opposition figures,” he claimed. Recent defections to the ruling party were not driven by good governance or economic performance.

    “It is not because the APC has provided education or repaired the economy. In fact, they destroyed the economy. People are defecting because they committed an offence and do not want to be asked questions. 

    “But Nigerians are not fools,” he added, while calling for greater public vigilance. 

    He also urged citizens to actively engage in governance and resist policies that threaten democracy. Every citizen must have an opinion and must have the right to accept or reject any act of government. Democracy can only survive if the people defend it,” Galadima said.

  • Kaiama massacre: Tinubu orders federal, state agencies to provide relief to affected communities 

    Kaiama massacre: Tinubu orders federal, state agencies to provide relief to affected communities 

    …condemns “cowardly, beastly” assault, says perpetrators will not escape justice

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday evening directed close collaboration between federal and state agencies to provide immediate support and relief to communities affected by the deadly terrorist attack in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State.

    The President, in a message posted on his verified X handle, @officialABAT, said the directive was also aimed at ensuring that those behind the atrocity are pursued and brought to justice.

    “I have further directed close collaboration between federal and state agencies to provide immediate support and relief to the affected community and to ensure that those responsible for this atrocity are pursued and brought to justice,” Tinubu said.

    The President disclosed that he met earlier in the day with the Executive Governor of Kwara State, Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq, who briefed him on the incident in Kaiama LGA.

    “Today, I met with the Executive Governor of Kwara State, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, to be debriefed on the incident in Kaiama LGA,” he said.

    READ ALSO; Only six new products added to Nigeria’s export list – Adedeji

    Tinubu condemned the attack in strong terms, describing the gunmen as heartless for targeting defenceless villagers.

    “I condemn in the strongest terms this cowardly and beastly attack. The gunmen are heartless for choosing soft targets in their doomed campaign of terror,” he stated.

    According to him, the assailants’ actions were not only criminal but also an affront to national values and faith.

    “Their actions offend our humanity, our faith, and our shared values as a nation,” he added.

    The President recalled that he had, a day earlier, ordered the immediate deployment of an army battalion to Kaiama Local Government Area following the “horrific attack on innocent villagers in Worro.”

    He said the new military command would spearhead Operation Savannah Shield to checkmate the terrorists and protect communities.

    “Yesterday, I directed the immediate deployment of an army battalion to Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State following the horrific attack on innocent villagers in Worro. This new military command will spearhead Operation Savannah Shield to checkmate these barbaric terrorists and protect defenceless communities,” Tinubu said.

    The President noted that the attack was particularly disturbing because the victims were reportedly killed for rejecting forced indoctrination.

    Tinubu praised the victims for refusing to be drawn into extremist ideology, stressing that Nigeria would not surrender its people to terror disguised as religion.

    “As I said, ‘It is commendable that the community members, even though Muslims, refused to be conscripted into a weird belief that promoted violence over peace and dialogue.’ Nigeria will never surrender its people to extremism and terrorism masquerading as faith,” he declared.

    He assured that the perpetrators would be tracked and punished, insisting they would not evade justice.

    “They will not go scot-free,” the President said.

    Tinubu also offered prayers for the victims and condolences to their families, while reaffirming the Federal Government’s support for Kwara State.

    “I pray for the repose of the souls of the departed and extend my deepest condolences to the families who have lost loved ones. I also sympathise with the people and government of Kwara State. The Federal Government stands with you,” he said.

    He pledged that the government would protect communities and defeat those seeking to divide the country through terror.

    “We will protect our communities, defend our values, and defeat those who seek to divide us through terror,” Tinubu added.