The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • 2027: RTEAN to mobilise members for Tinubu’s re-election

    2027: RTEAN to mobilise members for Tinubu’s re-election

    Ahead of the 2027 presidential election, the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN) has endorsed President Bola Tinubu for another term.

    The organisation pledged a nationwide grassroots mobilisation, logistics support, and the activation of its structures across the 774 local government areas in the country for the president’s re-election.

    President of RTEAN, Musa Maitakobi, made the declaration when members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Jagaban Squad paid him a courtesy visit, where he was formally crowned Life Patron of the group.

    As part of its commitment, Maitakobi announced that the association would donate a fully branded bus to the Jagaban Squad to enhance its visibility and mobility within Abuja.

    According to him, the bus would be branded with the Jagaban Squad identity and photographs of President Tinubu, himself, and the Abuja-based Coordinator of the group, serving as a mobile platform to showcase the squad’s activities.

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    He disclosed that discussions were already ongoing with key APC stakeholders on the possibility of securing additional buses to strengthen nationwide outreach ahead of the 2027 election.

    Maitakobi described RTEAN as one of the most organised political support structures in the country, noting that the association has functional leadership in all local government areas.

    He said, “RTEAN chairmen in every state are fully committed to ensuring victory for the APC. Once the campaign officially begins, our mobilisation efforts will be intensified.”

    He added that the association plans to convene a national convention to publicly reaffirm its political direction and support for the President.

    Recalling RTEAN’s early endorsement of Tinubu ahead of the 2023 elections, Maitakobi said members of the association openly identified with the APC candidate at campaign rallies across the country.

    “At the presidential campaign rally in Jos in 2023, we were present in our uniforms. We were also seen in Kano, Ogun, Jigawa, and many other locations across the country,” he added.

    He revealed that his loyalty to the APC had come at personal cost, including the demolition of his house in his home state.

    Looking ahead to 2027, he assured that RTEAN’s efforts would surpass previous campaigns.

    “By the grace of God, our focus is now on 2027. Compared to what we did in the past, our efforts this time will be doubled and even multiplied. Those who honored me as Patron of the Jagaban Squad are determined to show the world that we stand firmly with Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” he said.

    Maitakobi also commended the Tinubu administration for what he described as transformative initiatives in the transport sector, particularly the introduction of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicles and filling stations across parts of the country.

    He noted that transport unions, including RTEAN and the Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO), as well as labour centres, have benefited from the distribution of CNG vehicles.

    The RTEAN president expressed optimism that a Transport Bank, similar to the Bank of Industry and the Bank of Agriculture, would be established to support operators in the sector.

    He disclosed that RTEAN has over five million registered members nationwide, pledging continued loyalty to the Tinubu administration.

    In his remarks, National Coordinator of the APC Jagaban Squad, Adekunle Alebiosu, appreciated RTEAN for its partnership and support, describing the association as a formidable organisation capable of boosting grassroots mobilisation for the APC ahead of the 2027 elections.

    He commended the RTEAN leadership for the donation of the bus and other planned logistics, describing the association as an integral part of the APC family.

    He said, “RTEAN is a formidable organization with a strong nationwide structure. Its support will significantly boost grassroots mobilization for the APC ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

    “We are confident that this partnership between RTEAN and the Jagaban Squad will yield positive results and contribute immensely to the success of President Tinubu and the APC in the coming election cycle.”

  • NCC, NSCDC raise concerns over rising incidents of fibre cuts across Nigeria

    NCC, NSCDC raise concerns over rising incidents of fibre cuts across Nigeria

    The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) have expressed concerns over the sudden rise of fibre optic cuts and damages across the country.

    The two bodies said the development comes at high costs not only for the telecommunications industry, but for Nigeria’s critical national assets and infrastructures.

    According to a statement issued by the Public Relations Officer of the NSCDC in Abuja, Babawale Afolabi, the NCC and NSCDC warned construction companies and concerned agencies to desist from willful cuts or damage to telecommunications infrastructures forthwith.

    Babawale said, “The rising incidents of avoidable fibre cuts resulting from negligence will no longer be excused, noting that offenders risk prosecution as the act constitutes a crime.”

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    He noted that fibre optic cables are critical national assets that power Nigeria’s digital economy, enable seamless communication, support emergency services, connect businesses, and facilitate government operations.

    Babawale maintained that the destruction of cables, whether through negligence, lack of coordination, or willful actions, poses a direct threat to national security, economic stability, and public safety.

    “Under the Designation and Protection of Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII) Order 2024, telecommunication fibre infrastructure is classified as Critical National Information Infrastructure. Consequently, any damage resulting from unauthorized digging, construction activities, or failure to collaborate with relevant authorities to prevent damage during construction constitutes a criminal offence,” he said.

    Babawale warned that individuals, construction companies, or government contractors who damage fibre optic infrastructure would be made to face prosecution and applicable sanctions as provided under existing laws, including the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act 2015.

    He said NCC and NSCDC would take action on “future damage to fibre optic infrastructure caused by excavation, road construction, or any civil engineering activity conducted without due consultation or collaboration with network operators and relevant regulators”, asserting that there would be strict legal consequences henceforth.

    He called on federal, state and local government agencies; road construction companies; utility service providers; and private developers to ensure full compliance by conducting pre‑construction verification of fibre routes and collaborate with the NCC, telecom operators and NSCDC before and during construction; adhering to approved guidelines for excavation and right‑of‑way management; and reporting any accidental damage immediately to enable rapid response and mitigation.

    He said the public is encouraged to report any act of fibre-optic infrastructure sabotage or damage to the nearest NSCDC Office or email to protect@ncc.gov.ng, cipu@nscdc.gov.ng, or call 622 toll-free.

  • NAHCON intensifies early preparations for hitch-free Hajj

    NAHCON intensifies early preparations for hitch-free Hajj

    The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has reaffirmed its commitment to early, orderly, and timely preparations for the Hajj exercise, as part of efforts to ensure a seamless experience for Nigerian pilgrims.

    The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NAHCON, Prof Abdullahi Saleh Usman, gave the assurance while outlining the commission’s strategic plans anchored on early planning, effective institutional coordination, and strict compliance with established procedures.

    Prof Usman said the commission’s actions are fully aligned with the policy direction of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises the welfare and spiritual well-being of Nigerians.

    He also noted that NAHCON operates under the supervision of Vice President Kashim Shettima, with a clear emphasis on the timely completion of all critical Hajj preparatory activities.

    According to him, priority attention is currently being given to the early conclusion of accommodation arrangements for state pilgrims in Makkah, in line with Saudi Arabian regulatory timelines.

    READ ALSO: Okpebholo’s weekend surprise for three workers

    To further strengthen preparations, the NAHCON Chairman said that he has authorised the deployment of a high-level executive delegation to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The delegation is mandated to provide executive oversight, finalise and take over all pending accommodation arrangements in Makkah, and ensure full compliance with Saudi regulations to avert operational delays.

    The delegation includes Commissioner for Planning, Research, Statistics, Information and Library Services Prof Abubakar Yagawal; Board Member representing the North West Zone Sheikh Muhammad Bin Uthman; his southwest and southeast counterparts Dr Tajudeen Oladejo and Hajiya Aishat Obi Ahmed, and Secretary of the Commission Dr Mustapha Mohammed Ali.

    Prof Usman explained that while the delegation carries out its assignment in Saudi Arabia, he will remain in Nigeria to receive the Saudi Arabian Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dr Tawfiq Al-Rabiah, who is expected to visit the country later this month.

    According to him, NAHCON has activated robust internal governance, coordination, and oversight mechanisms to ensure accountability, procedural compliance, and effective execution of all preparatory activities.

    This, he said, includes sustained engagement with board members, senior management, service providers, and relevant Saudi authorities to ensure adherence to approved timelines and regulations.

    He assured stakeholders and intending pilgrims that the commission remains focused on delivering an exceptional and hitch-free Hajj in line with international best practice.

    Prof Usman added that NAHCON will continue to provide official updates through its established communication channels as preparations for the 2026 Hajj progress.

  • Rivers APC chief praises reforms in interior ministry, revalidates membership

    Rivers APC chief praises reforms in interior ministry, revalidates membership

    Chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, Darlington Nwauju, has praised the transformation in the Interior Ministry under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    Nwauju spoke at the weekend after participating in the ongoing e-registration exercise of the APC at Obiohia Ward 3 Polling Unit 17 in Omuma LGA, Rivers State.

    He urged party members across Omuma LGA and beyond to take advantage of the one-week extension and participate in the e-membership registration exercise.

     Nwauju said he decided to revalidate his membership to re-echo his much-publicised support for the policy of verifiable transformation recorded since August 21, 2023, when Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo took over the Interior Ministry under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    He said, “Without ambiguity, Nigerians across different strata can agree with me that all four paramilitary agencies under the Interior Ministry have witnessed textbook reforms.

    READ ALSO: Okpebholo’s weekend surprise for three workers

    “These reforms are improved border management, checking smuggling/trafficking activities via the use of advanced technological platforms, prioritizing staff welfare/wellbeing with the promotion of over 75,202 officers across all four paramilitary agencies, increment in feeding allowance for inmates at correctional centres nationwide, clearing a backlog of 204,332 passports, standardization of our international passports, introducing centralized data capturing at the NIS, introduction of contactless e-gates to cut down travel time and improve security checks, modernization of fire stations among others.”

    Nwauju, who is a founding member of the APC, served as a member of the Interim Committee 2014, LGA party agent for the 2019 Presidential elections, LGA Caretaker Chairman of APC 2020/21, before his election into the State Executive Committee of APC during the October 16, 2021, nationwide congresses.

    He further appealed to the leadership of the APC in Nigeria not to underestimate the potency of pending litigations involving the party in Rivers state to avoid the 2019 experience”.

  • Lokpobiri mourns victims of fatal Bayelsa road crash

    Lokpobiri mourns victims of fatal Bayelsa road crash

    The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, has expressed deep sorrow over a fatal road accident that claimed two lives on Friday along the Sagbama–Ekeremor Road at Orua community in Bayelsa State.

    The accident involved an 18-seater Toyota Hiace bus travelling from Yenagoa to Ofoni for the burial of a former Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo. Reports said the bus collided with a truck, resulting in the death of two passengers, while several others sustained varying degrees of injuries.

    In a statement by Nneamaka Okafor, Special Assistant, Media and Communication to the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Lokpobiri described the incident as heartbreaking, noting that it occurred at a time when the state was already in mourning.

    “It is deeply saddening that lives were lost in such tragic circumstances, especially when families and loved ones were gathered to pay their last respects to a revered leader,” the minister said.

    READ ALSO: Okpebholo’s weekend surprise for three workers

    He commiserated with Governor Douye Diri, the Bayelsa State Government, and the people of the state over the incident, describing it as a painful loss to the entire state.

    “This is a tragic loss not only to the affected families but to Bayelsa State as a whole. My thoughts and prayers are with everyone impacted by this unfortunate incident,” he said.

    The minister extended his condolences to the families of the deceased, praying for divine comfort and strength, and also expressed concern for those injured in the crash.

    “I pray for the speedy recovery of those who sustained injuries and that they receive the best possible medical care,” he added.

    Senator Lokpobiri further urged motorists to exercise caution on the roads, particularly during periods of increased travel, while reaffirming his solidarity with the people of Bayelsa State in their moment of grief.

  • Kurmin Wali: 80 Worshippers escape from bandits’ den, 86 still in captivity

    Kurmin Wali: 80 Worshippers escape from bandits’ den, 86 still in captivity

    Eighty worshippers abducted during a church service at Kurmin Wali in Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State have escaped from their captors and reunited with their families.

    The Village Head of Kurmin Wali, Ishaku Dan’azumi, disclosed this on Sunday, saying the escapees fled from the bandits’ camp and took refuge in neighbouring communities before returning home.

    Dan’azumi explained that although about 177 worshippers were initially believed to have been kidnapped during the attack on three churches, 80 have now been confirmed safe after escaping from captivity.

    He, however, said 86 worshippers are still being held in the forest by the bandits, with families anxiously awaiting their return.

    “We have observed that some people are trying to politicise our situation, even as families are going through serious trauma,” the village head said.

    He appealed to the government and the military to urgently intensify rescue efforts to secure the safe release of those still in captivity.

    “We are appealing to the government and the military to expedite action to secure the safe return of the remaining 86 people still in the bandits’ camp,” Dan’azumi added.

    The Nation recalled that conflicting accounts followed the January 18 attack, which had triggered denials and counter-claims from officials, religious leaders, and community members.

    While the Kaduna State Police Command and the Kajuru Local Government Council initially dismissed reports of a mass abduction as falsehood, community leaders and church officials insisted that scores of worshippers were taken during services.

    The controversy deepened when a list of 177 alleged abductees, said to have been compiled by families and church leaders, surfaced following a public challenge by the Police Commissioner for concrete details.

    Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern States and the FCT, Rev. John Joseph Hayab, had earlier confirmed that over 160 worshippers were abducted from churches in the area during Sunday worship.

    Residents maintained that gunmen stormed three churches: Catholic, ECWA and Cherubim and Seraphim, shut the gates, and marched congregants into the surrounding bush.

    Days after the incident, the village head revealed that the bandits demanded N250 million and 20 motorcycles as ransom, a demand he described as far beyond the reach of the rural community.

    He lamented that Kurmin Wali and neighbouring villages have long lived under the shadow of repeated bandit attacks, kidnappings, and displacement.

    Amid the tension and confusion, Governor Uba Sani visited Kurmin Wali to sympathize with residents and reassure them of government support.

    The governor, accompanied by the Commissioner of Police, Muhammad Rabiu; Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Sule Shuaibu (SAN); Chairman of Kajuru Local Government Area, Dauda Madaki, and other senior officials, met with families and community leaders.

    Addressing residents, Governor Sani said he was in the community to personally commiserate with them over the attack and to assure them that the state would not abandon the victims or their families.

    “In Kaduna State, every life matters. We are here to assure the people of Kurmin Wali that the government is collaborating with all security agencies to ensure that those abducted return home safely,” he said.

    He also disclosed that some residents sustained injuries during the incident and promised that the state government would bear the cost of medical treatment for all affected persons.

    When contacted on the latest development, the Kaduna State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Mansir Hassan, said the police would soon issue a comprehensive report on the Kurmin Wali incident.

  • Pantami, associates donate ₦45m to support APC e-registration in Gombe

    Pantami, associates donate ₦45m to support APC e-registration in Gombe

    Former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Prof. Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami and his associates have donated ₦45.25 million to boost the All Progressives Congress (APC) grassroots activities in Gombe State.

    The support is targeted at strengthening the party’s ongoing electronic membership registration and revalidation exercise across the state’s 11 local government areas and 114 political wards.

    The initiative follows the official launch of the digital registration drive by Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya on January 13, 2026, as part of efforts to modernise party administration through technology.

    The funds were presented on January 31 at the APC Secretariat in Gombe by prominent figures, including Alhaji Ahmad Abubakar Walama, ex-Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, and Dr. Abubakar Sa’idu Yagi, ex-Chief Medical Director, Federal Teaching Hospital, Gombe.

    Others were Dr Umar Bello Akko of the Federal University Kashere, Mrs Abigail Abubakar, Alhaji Hassan Ali Pantami (Sintalin Pantami), Hon. Muhammad Buhari Dalhatu, Hon. Maigoro Saleh, Alhaji Isyaku Salihu Dan Makayo, and Alhaji Umar Ibrahim.

    The delegation also included Alhaji Nasiru Ahmad Pantami, Malam Muhammad Abdullahi, Pantami Social Media Groups led by Comrade Abba Sani Pantami, and other stakeholders throughout Gombe, underscoring cross-generational participation.

    The financial contribution was received by the APC State Chairman, Mr. Nittel K. Amangal, alongside the State Secretary and all 11 local government party chairmen.

    The leaders expressed appreciation for the donation, described as timely aid that will deepen the party’s reach at the grassroots level, consolidate organisational strength, and digital capacity ahead of future political cycles.

    According to officials, the funds will facilitate logistics, digital infrastructure deployment, and mobilisation efforts to ensure smooth implementation of the e-registration exercise, particularly in underserved communities.

    “The support by Pantami and associates will reinforce the push for a transparent, data-driven, and verifiable membership database that aligns with global best practices in digital identity systems,” an APC member said.

  • Pastor Kingsley defends Bible-inspired tattoo as form of evangelism

    Pastor Kingsley defends Bible-inspired tattoo as form of evangelism

    Renowned relationship coach and head of David Christian Centre, Kingsley Okonkwo has defended his decision to get a tattoo of John 3:16 on his arm, describing it as a bold move to spread the Gospel.

    The tattoo, revealed in a video posted on Okonkwo’s official Instagram page on Saturday, bears the scripture John 3:16 in Roman numerals — “III: XVI.”

    The tattoo, revealed on his 50th birthday, has sparked mixed reactions online, with some critics questioning its appropriateness for a pastor.

    In a statement on Sunday, Okonkwo framed the tattoo as a form of creative evangelism, saying it had helped preach the Gospel to millions.

    “My religious brothers and sisters were busy judging over tattoo; they didn’t notice that the gospel (John 3:16) was preached to millions in 24hrs by almost all blogs.

    “Anyway, we will share in details on Monday night. For now, please come to my praise party/thanksgiving service this Sunday @dcclagos on mainland & island. There will be food, fun, and praise”, he wrote.

    Addressing the growing debate, the pastor advised followers to stay calm.

    “Those who want to hear about tattoos, drink water and relax. We will talk on Monday after the parties this weekend,” he added.

  • Fela honoured with Grammy lifetime achievement award

    Fela honoured with Grammy lifetime achievement award

    In a historic moment for African music, Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo-Kuti has been posthumously awarded the Recording Academy’s Lifetime Achievement Award.

    The ceremony took place on January 31, 2026, in Los Angeles, with Fela’s children accepting the honour on his behalf.

    The award recognised Fela’s groundbreaking contributions to world music, fusing West African highlife with American jazz and funk to create the iconic Afrobeat sound.

    His legacy continues to inspire artists globally, cementing his place in music history.

    Fela’s children, Yeni, Kunle, Shalewa, and Femi Kuti, accepted the award, with Yeni expressing gratitude and Femi thanking those promoting Afrobeat worldwide.

    Yeni said, “‘I’m sure my father is smiling down on us. I want to acknowledge my siblings who couldn’t be here tonight, Motunrayo and Seun, and my nephew who is carrying Afrobeat to another level, Made.”

    Femi added, “I would like to thank all the people carrying Afrobeat that are in this place tonight. DJs, the press, our label Partisan, our lawyers, fans all over the world. Thank you for bringing our father here, it’s so important for Africa. It’s so important for world peace and struggle”.

    The honour places Fela alongside music legends like Whitney Houston, Chaka Khan, and Cher and Paul Simon.

  • Otti: No coalition with opposition political parties

    Otti: No coalition with opposition political parties

    …to hold congresses next month

    …sets conditions for Abure, others to return to the party

    Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has ruled out the participation of the Labour Party in any coalition to oust the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) from power in 2027.

    Otti said this during the first stakeholders’/ National Executive Council (NEC) meeting after the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) recognised the leadership of Senator Nenadi Usman, the Interim National Chairman of the party.

    The meeting, which was held in Abia Governor’s Lodge, Abuja late on Saturday, had in attendance representatives of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Trade Union Congress, Senator Usman, and other members of the party’s Interim National Working Committee.

    The Abia state governor said that the Labour Party was already a coalition on its own, comprising the Nigerian workers and people of progressive minds.

    Otti said, “Labour is already a coalition. This is the coalition of Nigerian workers and people who are progressive and like-minded.

    “So, I know when people talk about joining another coalition. We have no such plans.”

    The governor also expressed the party’s regret over the defection of its 2023 Presidential candidate, Peter Obi, as well as several lawmakers in the National Assembly to the African Democratic Congress.

    Added, “We regret the exit of the former leader of the party, Peter Obi. While we regret his exit, we wish him well. We have also resolved that the party should come together.

    “The NEC acknowledged that the party has lost some members, particularly those elected under its platform into the National Assembly, as well as some caretaker committee officers who have since been replaced. However, it maintained that the party remains strong.”

    He also said the party would hold congresses from March 2026 and begin a nationwide revalidation of its membership, alongside the registration of new members.

    Otti said, “The National Working Committee and other stakeholders are to organise congresses from the ward to zonal level till the national convention. The timetable has been drafted, and INEC has been notified. Very soon, the congresses will happen, and the national convention will follow.

    “The other issue is the revalidation of membership, and a committee has been set up for congresses to start in March.”

    The meeting further agreed to establish a reconciliation committee to engage aggrieved members willing to return to the party.

    He called on the former National Chairman, Julius Abure, and his team to sheath their swords and return to the party, while also urging Nigerians to join the Labour Party.

    He added, “We also decided that we need to set up a reconciliation committee; the Interim National Working Committee will advise us on it. The whole idea is to reconcile everyone who is willing and desires to come back.

    “I call on Julius Abure and his people to sheath their swords and come back to the party. If they are willing to abide by the rules of the party, we will be happy to take them back.”

    Otti thanked INEC for recognising the Interim National Committee and uploading the names of the party’s leadership on its website in compliance with the Federal High Court of Abuja order.

    The party also regretted that it would not be able to participate in the February 21 Federal Capital Territory area councils election.

    The Abia governor also thanked supporters of the party and assured them that the Labour Party would emerge stronger and more united.

    Otti equally expressed regret that the party would be unable to participate in the forthcoming Federal Capital Territory (FCT) council elections because of circumstances beyond its control, but expressed confidence that the party would be ready for subsequent elections.