The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Quit now or get ready for tougher times, Marwa warns barons, cartels

    Quit now or get ready for tougher times, Marwa warns barons, cartels

    Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd) has warned drug barons, traffickers and their cartels to quit the criminal trade or face more hard time during his second tenure.

    Marwa was reappointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second tenure of five years on Friday 14th November 2025.

    He told jubilating management staff, officers, men and women of the Agency who gathered to welcome him at its National Headquarters in Abuja following the presidential announcement that  his second tenure will be hell and bleak for those who fail to quit the illicit drug trade. 

    Director, Media and Advocacy, NDLEA Headquarters, Abuja, Femi Babafemi, made this known in a statement on Saturday.

    Marwa expressed appreciation to the president for the recognition of ongoing efforts against substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking in the country.

    “First of all, what a surprise, I did not expect to come back from jumat service to meet these great felicitations, dancing and singing by our personnel. Thank you very much. We would like to thank the almighty God, because always the glory has to go to Him for everything. 

    “We thank the President and Commander-in-Chief for the special recognition of our collective efforts and the new mandate for us to continue with the war against drug abuse and trafficking. I thank the management, officers, men and women of the agency, who continue to provide service to the nation 24/7, in spite of the risks that you all face,” he stated.

    He also acknowledged the unflinching support by the Hon. Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN and the Minister of Finance, Mr. Wale Edun while also expressing thanks to “all our local and international partners, with whom we have continued to collaborate towards ridding Nigeria of illicit substances.” 

    For the drug cartels, Marwa said: “First, this word must go to the cartels. The cartels have not seen anything yet. I promise them this second tenure is going to be hell and bleak for them. Drugs shall not pass, in or out or within Nigeria.” He reaffirmed the Agency’s commitment towards President Tinubu’s mandate, assuring that “in line with our Act, we will continue to do our level best. I remember in my inaugural speech, the day I took over, and I said very clearly that NDLEA will be feared by the drug cartels. And that’s just the beginning.”

    “At the same time, I must appeal to those who are engaged in illicit drug trafficking that this is the right time for them to drop that criminal business and face something legitimate. It is in line with that that we established the Alternative Development Unit, which seeks to persuade those who are perpetrating the illicit drug activities, particularly cannabis growers, who are our greatest challenge in Nigeria, to desist from the habit, collaborate with us. We are going to support towards licit cultivation of crops that are legitimate, legal, and you can sleep with your two eyes closed.

    “But those who refuse to do that can be sure that the NDLEA is up and able on its task of law enforcement. You will be arrested, the drugs will be seized, and your assets will be confiscated. So, you come out from jail, there will be nothing left.”

    He also assured that the Agency will remain committed to its drug demand reduction efforts. “I’ll take the opportunity again to announce the rededication of our efforts towards prevention, sensitization, counseling, treatment, and rehabilitation of our children in our 30 rehabilitation centres. And with the support of the President and the Renewed Hope Agenda, seven more rehab centres are coming up under the 2025 budget that will now make every state to have its own rehab centre.

    “And as well, there will be zonal rehab, more rehab centres and we are getting full collaboration from the Honorable Minister of Health. We appreciate his efforts also, and the Honorable Minister of Education, who has accepted our recommendation for drug tests for our children on admission to tertiary institutions, so that with this we can catch them young before it gets into addiction stage. May the Almighty God bless our President, bless all those that are supporting us, bless the officers, men and women of NDLEA.”

  • FULL LIST: 20 most powerful political positions in the world

    FULL LIST: 20 most powerful political positions in the world

    A new global ranking has outlined the Top 20 Most Powerful Political Positions in the World, highlighting the offices whose decisions shape international security, economic stability, and global diplomacy. 

    From Presidents of major world powers to influential prime ministers and even the mayor of the world’s most economically significant city, the list reflects how political authority is distributed across regions and institutions.

    The ranking underscores not only the dominance of traditional superpowers like the United States and China, but also the growing influence of emerging economies and strategic geopolitical players. 

    It also places regional blocs such as the European Union on the same stage as nation-states, emphasizing the expanding role of supranational governance in today’s interconnected world.

    Here are the top 20 most powerful political positions in the world

    1. United States – President

    2. China – General Secretary of the Communist Party

    3. India – Prime Minister

    4. European Union – President of the EU Commission

    5. Germany – Chancellor

    6. Russia – President

    7. United Kingdom – Prime Minister

    8. France – President

    9. Japan – Prime Minister

    10. Saudi Arabia – King

    11. Türkiye – President

    12. Israel – Prime Minister

    13. Canada – Prime Minister

    14. Brazil – President

    15. United States (NYC) – Mayor of New York City

    16. South Korea – President

    17. Indonesia – President

    18. Italy – Prime Minister

    19. Mexico – President

    20. Nigeria – President

  • NAF bombs terrorists’ enclave in Zamfara, eliminate scores

    NAF bombs terrorists’ enclave in Zamfara, eliminate scores

    Scores of terrorists were neutralised in Zamfara State when the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) fighter jets bombed their enclave at Sauri, Tsafe Local Government Area of the state. 

    The strikes also destroyed terrorists’ critical structures and logistics points, a move that may likely withered the criminals’ operational capability in the area. 

    This came a day after Minister of State for Defence Bello Mattawale announced that the Federal Government had deployed additional troops and ordered decisive action against armed groups across the state.

    According to a statement by NAF’s spokesperson, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, on Saturday, the strikes were conducted on November 14, after “comprehensive intelligence and surveillance operations confirmed significant terrorist activity and rustled livestock concealed in a high-ground hideout used by the criminals as both a defensive position and a logistics hub.”

    The statement said the Air Component, acting on the intelligence, executed multiple coordinated strikes on the identified targets, achieving direct hits that dislodged surviving terrorists who attempted to flee into surrounding vegetation but were subsequently tracked and effectively engaged.

    “The successful mission resulted in the neutralisation of numerous terrorists and the destruction of critical structures and logistics points, significantly degrading the criminals’ operational capability in the area,” it said.

    The statement said the decisive action by the Air Component against the terrorists reinforced the recent directive of the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, to “find them, hunt them down, and protect our people.”

    It said the operation also underscored the unwavering resolve of the Joint Task Force and the NAF under the Operation FANSAN YAMMA to “deny terrorists safe havens, strengthen security in Zamfara State, and support wider national efforts to restore lasting peace and stability across the North West.” 

  • MOSIEND hails Wike’s firm, committed leadership of FCT 

    MOSIEND hails Wike’s firm, committed leadership of FCT 

    The Movement for the Survival of the Izon Ethnic Nationality in the Niger Delta (MOSIEND) has applauded the firm and committed leadership of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Chief Nyesom Wike.

    While x-raying the incident involving Wike and a young Naval officer acting on the instruction of a retired Chief of Naval Staff over a disputed parcel of land in Abuja, MOSIEND said the action of the minister was not a reflection of arrogance but a decisive and courageous move to restore order in the FCT.

    The President of MOSIEND, Kennedy Tonjo West, in a statement in Port Harcourt, Rivers State at the weekend, said Wike acted within the full scope of his official authority as the minister of FCT.

    West said: “While several social media commentators have attempted to twist the narrative to portray the Honourable Minister as overbearing, MOSIEND wishes to state categorically that Chief Wike acted within the full scope of his official authority as Minister of the FCT, whose constitutional duty includes the protection of all Federal Capital Territory assets and the enforcement of regulations governing land administration in Abuja.

    “Chief Wike’s action reflects not arrogance, but firm leadership and commitment to restoring order, transparency, and accountability in the management of the FCT. Those who may not be comfortable with his assertive style should separate personal sentiments from the principle of lawful governance. The law must always take precedence over emotion or influence”.

    West said it was rather disturbing that a serving Naval officer, Lt. Yarima, was deployed to guard or protect a disputed private property allegedly linked to a retired senior military officer. 

    “This raises serious administrative and ethical questions about the misuse of military personnel trained and paid by taxpayers to serve the private interest of retired individuals. Such acts amount to an abuse of military privilege and an affront to civil authority”, he said.

    Insisting that the country operates under a constitutional democracy and not military rule, West said no retired officer, irrespective of past rank or influence, had the right to deploy serving military personnel for personal or commercial purposes. 

    He said the best approach would have been for the retired officer to formally approach the FCT Administration for clarification and due process if there were ownership concerns and not to engage military personnel in civil disputes.

    West said: “It is also important to underscore that the disputed property in question belongs to the Federal Capital Territory, and as the chief administrator, Chief Nyesom Wike has every legal right and responsibility to visit, inspect, and take necessary actions where government property is being encroached upon.

    ” Attempting to obstruct or intimidate him in the discharge of this duty is a direct challenge to the authority of the Federal Government. MOSIEND holds the Nigerian Armed Forces in the highest esteem and recognizes their sacrifices in defending our nation.

    “But we caution against any recurrence of military interference in civil governance matters, as this sets a dangerous precedent in a democratic society. The loyalty of every serving officer must remain to the Constitution and the Commander-in-Chief, not to retired officers or private individuals”.

    West called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the military high command to investigate the alleged misuse of Naval personnel for private assignments and ensure that disciplinary measures were applied to deter future occurrences.

    “Upholding discipline within the ranks is essential for maintaining the integrity and professionalism of our Armed Forces. Nigeria must move forward as a nation guided by the rule of law, respect for civil authority, and due process in governance”, he said.

  • Obiano’s death rumour, wicked, irresponsible – Soludo

    Obiano’s death rumour, wicked, irresponsible – Soludo

    Gov. Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra has dismissed rumours circulating on social media alleging the death of former Governor of the state, Chief Willie Obiano.

    Soludo, in a statement issued on Friday by his Press Secretary, Mr Christian Aburime, said the reports claiming that Obiano died in a London hospital were “malicious and utterly false”.

    He said he had personally spoken with Obiano and could confirm that the former governor was alive and in good health.

    “I view with grave concern the reckless circulation of such malicious rumours. It is both wicked and completely irresponsible.

    “I strongly urge media practitioners, especially online publishers, to uphold the ethics of journalism by verifying any information through official channels before rushing to publish.

    “The spread of unverified death rumours is not only wicked and irresponsible but also erodes public trust,” the governor said.

    Soludo urged members of the public to disregard the trending report, assuring them that Obiano remained hale and hearty.

    He also wished the former governor continued strength, peace and a long, fulfilling life.

    (NAN)

  • I won’t go broke even if I stop making music – Spyro

    I won’t go broke even if I stop making music – Spyro

    Afrobeats singer Spyro has stated that he won’t go bankrupt even if he stops making music, attributing his financial stability to income from corporate events. 

    The ‘Who Is Your Guy’ crooner explained that his music style, suitable for all audiences, secures him bookings from organisations and elites.

    Speaking on the Adesope Live show, Spyro stated that people underestimate his wealth due to his humility. 

    “If I stop making music today, I’m made. A lot of people don’t know that because I don’t brag,” he said.

    Spyro revealed he gets booked for events by banks and prominent figures like Tony Elumelu, adding that artists like Chike and Johnny Drille are among the few called for such events due to their clean music. 

    He said: “I really don’t do industry shows. I do cooperate shows. I have carved a niche for myself in the industry like that. I get book for events by banks and elites like Tony Elumelu every end of the year.

    “Because when they are looking for clean music maybe because children are going to be at the event, only few artists like myself, Chike and Johnny Drille can be called upon.”

  • CEPASD, AU, UNDP, host 5th youth model african union summit in Addis Ababa

    CEPASD, AU, UNDP, host 5th youth model african union summit in Addis Ababa

    The Center for Peace Advocacy and Sustainable Development (CEPASD), in collaboration with the African Union, UNDP Regional Service Centre Addis Ababa, Model African Union Ethiopia (MAU-E), and strategic partners including the Bahá’í International Community, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and the Ethiopia Youth Dialogue for Peace Association, has successfully hosted the 5th Youth Model African Union (YMAU) Extraordinary Summit at the African Union Headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

    The summit convened energetic young leaders from across Africa to simulate key AU organs such as the AU Assembly, the Peace and Security Council (AUPSC), and the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR). 

    The simulation offered participants a practical understanding of the AU’s governance framework, decision-making systems, and continental policy processes.

    The opening ceremony featured inspiring remarks from several distinguished dignitaries, including Mrs. Nirina Kiplagat, UNDP Coordinator for Governance and Peacebuilding in Africa; H.E. Maxy Ogbede, Nigeria’s Ambassador to Ethiopia; Ms. Illwad Mohammed, Acting Head of the AU Youth Development and Engagement Division; and H.E. Nebiat Getachew, Spokesperson of Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

    Convener of YMAU and Executive Director of CEPASD, Mr. Augustine Igweshi, described the summit as more than a simulation, calling it a platform where African youth actively design solutions to the continent’s most urgent challenges.

    “YMAU gives voice to the next generation of African leaders, diplomats, policymakers, and peacemakers. It is where young people learn to think like the AU, lead with vision, and build bridges across borders,” he said.

    Mr. Igweshi highlighted that the simulation empowered delegates with real-world skills in diplomacy, foreign policy analysis, negotiation, research, coalition building, and consensus-driven leadership.

    Addressing the summit’s theme, “Building a United Front to Advance the Cause of Justice for African Youth and People of African Descent through Reparations,” he stressed that reparations go beyond financial compensation to encompass justice, dignity, and historical restoration.

    “Reparations are about healing the wounds of history and building a future rooted in equality and respect,” he noted.

    He urged participants to take the simulations seriously, adding, “Debate with passion, listen with respect, and negotiate with purpose. Let this not just be a simulation but a statement that Africa’s youth are ready to lead, unite, and take ownership of their countries and the continent’s destiny.”

    Initiated by CEPASD, the Youth Model African Union Summit continues to stand as one of Africa’s leading experiential platforms for leadership and diplomacy, strengthening youth involvement in continental governance and advancing the vision of Agenda 2063.

  • PDP BoT disowns own reconciliation committee report, rejects caretaker committee.

    PDP BoT disowns own reconciliation committee report, rejects caretaker committee.

    The Board of Trustees of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has disowned the report of the Reconciliation Committee it set up to find a lasting solution to the crisis facing the party

    A statement on Saturday morning titled: “PDP Board of Trustees (BoT) disowns Reconciliation Committee Report” by chairman of the Board Senator Adolphus Wabara said the report does not represent the position of the Board. 

    Wabara said the BoT stands by the resolution to go ahead with the national convention in line with the Supreme Court judgement that made the affairs of political parties their internal affair. 

    According to him, the report of the six-man committee headed by Amb. Hassan Adamu has not been discussed and adopted by the Board and cannot be taken as the official position of the BoT. 

    The statement reads: “The Board of Trustees (BoT) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) hereby categorically dissociates and distances itself from the purported Report of the BoT Reconciliation Committee being circulated in some section of the media.

    “The BoT states in clear terms that the content of the said Report is not and does not represent the official position of the Board. Having not been considered or adopted by the BoT, it cannot in any form or guise whatsoever be regarded as the position of the BoT.

    “The BoT is unwavering in its endorsement of the conduct of the elective National Convention as scheduled on Saturday, 15th to Sunday, 16th November, 2025 in Ibadan, Oyo State capital for the purpose of electing new set of leaders to pilot the affairs of the party in the next four years. 

    “This position is guided by the Judgment of the Supreme Court which reaffirmed the supremacy of a political party in the conduct of its internal affairs.

    “In that regard, the BoT rejects any suggestion for a Caretaker Committee for the party. Such idea cannot be contemplated as the Board and, of course the PDP, have irreversibly decided for an elective National Convention which is within the scope of the internal affairs of the party to which the courts have no jurisdiction.

    “The BoT therefore urges Party members to remain committed and focused on the success of the Elective National Convention”. 

  • African Customs Conference will accelerate economic recovery, boost MSME exports — Adeniyi

    African Customs Conference will accelerate economic recovery, boost MSME exports — Adeniyi

    The Federal Government on Friday said the high-level African customs conference scheduled to hold in Abuja next week will serve as a major catalyst for economic recovery, stronger competitiveness and expanded export opportunities for small businesses under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

    Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, told journalists at the State House, Abuja,  that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s strong support for the initiative reflects the administration’s resolve to place trade at the heart of national development, poverty reduction and industrial expansion.

    The conference is expected to attract more than 30 African customs administrations, with 22 represented at Director-General level, alongside senior government officials, investors, manufacturers, airlines, shipping companies, port operators and logistics firms. 

    It will focus on dismantling long-standing barriers to cross-border trade and driving deeper continental integration.

    Adeniyi said the engagement marks a strategic departure from tradition as the private sector will lead the opening day, allowing businesses to speak directly to customs leaders and policymakers about the operational realities of intra-African trade.

    “Governments don’t trade; customs doesn’t trade. It is economic operators who move goods. Their voices must shape the reforms, whether on non-tariff barriers, procedural delays, port inefficiencies or uneven application of AfCFTA preferences”, he said.

    He noted that intra-African trade remains one of Nigeria’s most underutilised growth engines, pointing out that although the country has recorded more than 30 per cent growth in export volumes in the last two years, the bulk of the increase is directed outside the continent. 

    Redirecting exports to Africa’s $3.4 trillion market, he said, would unlock new value chains, reduce logistics costs, ease currency settlement and create jobs.

    Highlighting positive examples, he said SMEs in the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) programme are already exporting leather goods, handicrafts, processed foods and hibiscus flowers to Southern Africa, proving Nigeria’s capacity to compete on the continent.

    Adeniyi linked Nigeria’s growing preparedness for AfCFTA to the Tinubu administration’s broader reforms, including customs modernisation, port decongestion, improved port infrastructure and the rollout of a national single window. 

    He added that Nigeria’s hosting of the next Intra-African Trade Fair, and President Tinubu’s recognition as Champion of Intra-African Trade in Services, have further strengthened the country’s leadership position.

    Responding to concerns about the impact of tariff liberalisation on revenue, he argued that long-term economic gains far outweigh short-term pressures. 

    “Yes, we collect revenue, but trade brings far greater prosperity. You cannot eat your cake and have it,” he said.

    He listed key outcomes Nigeria aims to drive at the conference, including a unified customs position on AfCFTA implementation, solutions to non-tariff barriers, a single platform for customs, financiers and economic operators, stronger partnerships with Afreximbank and the AfCFTA Secretariat, and practical, action-oriented reforms.

    Adeniyi also disclosed that AfCFTA implementation is one of the specific KPIs tied to his renewed mandate after President Tinubu extended his service years. 

    Implementing the agreement, he explained, requires capacity building and strong political will, as countries must gradually suspend customs duties on intra-African trade until they reach zero.

    He said this informed the creation of the Concept of Partnerships for African Cooperation (CIPAC), which has rallied national actors including the Nigerian Export Promotion Council, NEXIM Bank, commercial banks and the Nigerian Ports Authority behind Customs’ leadership role.

    Acknowledging the implementation difficulties faced by regional blocs in the past, he said the challenges are not unique to Nigeria and reflect broader continental realities. 

    He stressed that duty-free access to African-produced goods would reduce production costs, expand markets and spur investment.

    Adeniyi also highlighted Customs’ improved performance, reporting more than 70 per cent revenue growth in 2023 and 101 per cent in 2024, with this year’s figures expected to surpass previous records. 

    He added that Customs remains committed not only to revenue but to national security and trade facilitation.

    He said the Abuja conference represents a national effort to reposition Nigeria within Africa’s trade landscape. 

    “This conference is about Nigeria signalling its readiness for Africa. With your support, Nigerians will better appreciate the enormous opportunities that AfCFTA holds for our economic renewal”, he said.

    He urged the media and citizens to support the initiative, adding, “we need your assistance, your cooperation and your guidance to help Nigeria and Africa fully realise the potential that trade offers.”

  • Full List: Seven most visited countries In the world

    Full List: Seven most visited countries In the world

    New figures from the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) show that international travel has not only bounced back but is now surpassing pre-pandemic momentum. Several destinations posted record-breaking arrivals in 2024–2025, with Seven countries standing out as global tourism powerhouses.

    Here are the seven most visited countries in the world

    1. France – 89.4 million visitors
    France continues to lead the world in tourism, welcoming close to 90 million people. Its magnetic appeal cuts across culture, history, food, fashion, and art. From Parisian landmarks to picturesque wine regions, France’s well-connected transport system and diverse landscapes keep travellers coming in massive numbers.

    2. Spain – 83.7 million visitors
    Spain follows closely, drawing more than 83 million tourists. Its warm weather, coastal charm, and vibrant cities remain major attractions. Barcelona, Madrid, Seville, and the Balearic Islands headline its tourism map. The country’s sustainability drive and impressive list of UNESCO sites have also strengthened its global standing.

    3. United States – 79.3 million visitors
    The U.S. remains one of the world’s most varied travel destinations, recording over 79 million international arrivals. From urban icons like New York and Los Angeles to national parks and entertainment hubs, the country offers a broad mix of experiences. Strong marketing efforts and improved travel connections have helped sustain its high numbers.

    4. China – 65.7 million visitors
    China maintains its place among the most visited countries, with around 66 million travellers in the past year. Visitors continue to be drawn to its blend of ancient wonders and cutting-edge modernity. Landmarks such as the Great Wall and the Forbidden City, combined with fast-developing cities like Shanghai, highlight its evolving tourism landscape.

    5. Italy – 64.5 million visitors
    Italy completes the top five, attracting about 64 million visitors. Its global reputation for art, architecture, and cuisine remains unmatched. Rome, Venice, Florence, and Milan are perennial favourites, supported by strong cultural branding and a tourism sector known for warmth and hospitality.

    6. Mexico – 38 million visitors

    Mexico attracts around 32 million international tourists and six million domestic travelers each year. This is not surprising considering the country’s rich history, delicious affordable cuisine, and lively arts and culture scene. One of the main tourist attractions is the chance to explore the ancient ruins of the Mayan and Aztec civilizations, including famous sites like Chichen Itza and Teotihuacan. Other travelers go to enjoy Mexico’s stunning beaches in places like Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, and Cozumel. Mexican food is another big draw, with world-renowned dishes like carne asada, mole poblano, and guacamole. Additionally, visitors can partake in iconic festivals and fiestas like Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), the Vive Latino music festival, and Cinco de Mayo.

    7. United Kingdom – 30 million visitors

    The United Kingdom is undeniably one of the most visited countries in the world, and it’s easy to see why. Comprised of England, Scotland, Wales and North Ireland, the UK boasts a rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, lively cities, and a reputation for being welcoming and friendly. It’s home to some of the most famous global landmarks, including Stonehenge, Big Ben, and Edinburgh Castle (pictured above). The capital city, London, attracts millions of tourists yearly with its diverse range of museums, art galleries, and iconic attractions like Buckingham Palace and the London Eye. Other popular destinations in the UK include the charming Cotswolds, the rolling hills of Scotland, and the historical city of Bath.