The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Reps pass N58.472 trillion 2026 budget for second reading, adjourn plenary for budget defence

    Reps pass N58.472 trillion 2026 budget for second reading, adjourn plenary for budget defence

    The House of Representatives on Thursday passed for second reading the 2026 appropriation bill presented to the National Assembly by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on December 19, 2025, while adjourning plenary for two weeks to allow for budget defence by MDAs.

    The appropriation bill, which was scheduled for debate on Wednesday but was deferred to Thursday, was unanimously passed by the House after an executive session by members.

    The only debate on the document was presented by the House Leader, Prof. Julius Ihonvbere, who echoed the words of the President, who described it as a defining moment in the national journey, a journey to peace, growth, stability, and sustainable development.

    Ihonvbere said, “Development that is not sustainable is only temporary, it’s not development at all, and you cannot have development without growth. The process of promoting growth is very challenging, difficult, and painful.

    “That is what we are going through. It can be more painful if we inherited distorted and disarticulated institutions and structures of our politics and economy, which was exactly the case with the present administration.

    “Nobody has ever promised that the journey of restructuring, repositioning, and refocusing our political economy will not be painless. Nobody has ever made that promise. Nobody assumed that the present administration went to space to bring a new set of Nigerians to join it in making Nigeria a better place. It is the same Nigerians who have been here since Shagari, Obasanjo, Jonathan, and Buhari, who precipitated the situation that was inherited.

    “So it’s a challenge, and I’m saying this so that we all put ourselves in the shoes of those trying to manage the economy. I’m not saying they are saints or that they are perfect. It is our job as a national assembly, representing 360 constituencies, fully elected by the people, to guide them to do the right things at all times.

    “Statistics can be good. Sometimes they can mislead, and sometimes they may not reflect our dreams and hopes. But we can’t run away from statistics. We say that the economy before the 2026 budget grew by 3.98 percent. A decent figure compared to many other developing countries.

    That inflation is down to 14.45 percent from about 25 percent, all revenues increased, exports grew, and direct foreign investment expanded. I think we all see the activities of the president. From one country to another, in the midst of winter, trying to sign this rich understanding with other countries. The recent visit to Turkey is an example.

    “I will encourage my colleagues to Google Turkey, and you will discover it’s one of the most developed countries in Europe. But it doesn’t get credit. It gets more international visitors and more international investment than many countries in Europe, including Britain, France, and Belgium.

    “So Turkey is a good country that we can partner with in many ways to move our world forward. The Dollar has remained stable. We promised in the last budget to bring it down to 1,400 from over 1,800. We have not printed a single Naira since this government came into office.

    “It has helped us to stabilise. Our external reserve is at a seven-year high of 47 billion US dollars, sufficient to provide over 10 months of aid.

    This is the background of the 2026 budget. But what are the promises that will be made? To give us a stronger discipline in budget execution and to improve revenue performance.

    We all join hands to give them the new tax laws to ensure revenue generation. We block leakages and generate revenue enough to support their budget and consolidate macroeconomic stability.

    Read Also: Reps seek govt’s intervention in Ondo, Ogun communities’ oil field dispute

    “I know the President is committed. I know that many in his team are committed. I also know that those of us in the National Assembly, especially the House of Representatives, are committed to ensuring that these promises are implemented.

    “What then are our expectations of the 2026 budget as presented? Total revenue expectation is N34.33 trillion from the total expenditure of N58.18 trillion, with a deficit of N23.85 trillion and recurrent non-debt of N15.25 trillion, while capital expenditure will be N26.08 trillion.

    “I think this is a mark of commitment to sustainable development, where your capital is higher than recurrent. But what you find in many instances is that recurrent outweighs capital expenditure. Most of the money goes into salaries and allowances and other costs, whereas capital is not. We have put the oil benchmark at 64.85 dollars. Oil production is at 1.84 million barrels per day.

    “The government has prioritised security and defence, and with the current cooperation with other countries, from the EU to the United States, we can rest assured that we will have a whole new era and approach to tackling the issue of security.

    “I believe that this administration is committed to ensuring that if we all work together, put ideas together, we commit to a better Nigeria, we build a kind of socio-political economic environment that will encourage Nigerians, in their respective constituencies and communities, to reach the highest points of their creative and productive abilities. Nigeria will be a better place, not just for us, but for generations to come.

    “It also encourages those who will come into power well into the future to build on the achievements of the present government, legislators, businessmen, women, and prioritise the welfare, security, and bedrock of the United States.”

    Speaker of the House, Abbas Tajudeen, said about 70% of the budget has already been debated earlier, in 2025, adding that “there is very little that is new. If we are comfortable with the professorial introduction of this budget, we can go ahead and ask the question.”

  • Insecurity: Afenifere asks Tinubu to fast-track state police, strengthen Amotekun in south-west

    Insecurity: Afenifere asks Tinubu to fast-track state police, strengthen Amotekun in south-west

    Leaders of the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, have called on President Bola Tinubu to urgently expedite action on the creation of state police as part of measures to address the worsening security challenges confronting the South-West region and the country at large.

    Recall that President Tinubu had last year, while meeting with a delegation of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), led by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, at his Lagos residence, said his administration was committed to establishing state and community police to change the country’s security narratives.

    He explained that the community and state police will be a “reality once the National Assembly completes the required legislative inputs,” saying his government was not relenting in its efforts to return the nation to peace and prosperity.

    However, Afenifere also urged governors in the South-West to strengthen and adequately empower the regional security outfit, Amotekun Corps, to enable it to tackle the persistent cases of kidnapping, banditry, and other criminal activities ravaging the region.

    The call was contained in a communiqué issued on Thursday at the end of Afenifere’s caucus meeting held at the Akure residence of its National Leader, Chief Reuben Fasoranti.

    The communiqué, signed and issued by the National Publicity Secretary of Afenifere, Mr Jare Ajayi, expressed serious concern over what the group described as the alarming rise in insecurity, noting that incidents of banditry and kidnapping have now become almost a daily occurrence in parts of the South-West.

    According to the organisation, the pattern of attacks across the region suggested a deliberate sabotage aimed at eroding public confidence in the government, stressing that the situation was no longer acceptable.

    “As the saying goes, it’s when one is alive and in good health that one can think of becoming anything. As such, the situation of insecurity in our land leaves a lot to be desired. Afenifere has repeatedly called attention to this menace. We were not just calling attention to the menace; we always provided ideas on the way out.

    “In this way, we call on State Governors in the Southwest to empower the security outfit Amotekun. We also appeal to President Ahmed Bola Tinubu and the state governments to expedite action on the much vaunted State Police.

    “Afenifere called on governors of the Southwest to do more in strengthening Amotekun with a view to curtailing insecurity in the region,” it read.

    The meeting also sympathised with the Oluabo of Ilu-Abo, HRM Oba Olu Falae, the people of Ilu-Abo, and the Ondo state government over the terror attack that occurred in the community last Sunday.

    The group expressed deep concern over increasing acts of terrorism reported in various parts of Yorubaland and called for immediate and decisive action to halt the disturbing trend.

    Afenifere also called on governments at all levels, security agencies, and community leaders to urgently rise to the challenge by adopting practical and sustainable solutions to the menace of insecurity.

    It also urged governors in the Southwest region to initiate a regional rail line project linking the state capitals of Lagos, Oyo, Ogun, Ondo, Osun, and Ekiti States.

    Afenifere added that the rail project, alongside enhanced security collaboration, could be extended to Kwara, Kogi, Edo, and Delta States in alignment with the governments of those states.

    On the newly introduced tax regime, which has been in place since January 2026, Afenifere said it has carefully reviewed the provisions of the tax laws as announced by the federal government led by President Tinubu.

    Read Also: Embrace Akintola’s legacy of courage, unity, politics of cooperation, Tinubu urges Nigerians

    While acknowledging that the intention of the reforms was to reduce the financial burden on low-income earners, the group warned that the current structure could still negatively affect common Nigerians.

    It, therefore, appealed for the N800,000 income threshold to be reviewed upward to allow more low-income earners benefit from the policy.

    Afenifere also commended the federal government for the construction and reconstruction of major roads across the country.

    However, it appealed to the government to prevail on contractors handling the projects to expedite work and ensure quality delivery within stipulated timelines.

    Specifically, the group called for speedy completion of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway; Ibadan-Ilorin-Mokwa Road; Abeokuta-Sagamu Road; Ibadan-Ijebu-Ode Road; Ibadan-Iwo-Osogbo-Ikirun-Offa-Ilorin Road; and the Akure-Oore-Okitipupa-Igbokoda-Akinfosile-Igbotako Road.

    Afenifere further appreciated the federal government for commencing the reconstruction of the Ibadan-Ife-Akure Road, expressing optimism that the project would be completed within the shortest possible time.

    Prominent personalities at the caucus meeting included Chief Femi Aluko, Hon. Korede Duyile, Agbaakin Ademola Folarin, Abagun Kole Omololu, Hon. Lekan Alabi, Chief Deji Wellington, Dr. Niyi Osoba, and High Chief Ayo Abereoran.

    Others are: Chief (Mrs) Grace Animola, Rt. Hon. Bakita Bello, Ambassador Samson Obanibi, Engr. Lai Gboluaje, Alhaji Abdullah Kasali, and Chief Kehinde Oladeinde.

  • PDP’s Gbenga Hashim slams ethnic rhetoric, warns against north–south divide

    PDP’s Gbenga Hashim slams ethnic rhetoric, warns against north–south divide

    Presidential hopeful of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr. Gbenga Hashim, has condemned what he described as attempts by aides of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to stoke regional and ethnic divisions, warning that such actions undermine Nigeria’s unity.

    Hashim said the renewed push for a North–South narrative by elements within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is a political distraction aimed at deflecting attention from economic challenges and governance concerns under the Tinubu administration.

    Reacting to a statement attributed to the Chief of Staff to the President, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, Hashim described the approach as “reckless” and harmful to Nigeria’s national security interests.

    “Dividing Nigeria along regional lines in order to evade accountability for governance failures is dangerous and unacceptable. It amounts to a betrayal of the oath to uphold the unity of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he said.

    Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, the PDP chieftain dismissed arguments based on rotational presidency, insisting that Nigerians are more concerned about competence, accountability, and effective governance than symbolic power-sharing arrangements.

    “Nigerians are not asking for a Northern or Southern president. They are asking for a competent president, one who can revive the economy, secure lives and property, and unite the country around a shared future of Prosperity,” he stated.

    Hashim reminded the APC that both regions have had substantial opportunities to govern Nigeria since 1999, noting that the South has produced presidents for approximately 17 years, while the North has governed for about 10 years within the same democratic period.

    Read Also: 2027: North Central PDP chairmen back Gbenga Hashim

    “Leadership failure cannot be blamed on geography. Both regions have governed. What matters now is performance, not origin,” he said.

    He warned that resurrecting ethnic narratives at a time of deep economic distress, rising insecurity, and social fragmentation only exposes the ruling party’s lack of credible solutions.

    “Using ethnicity and region to mask incompetence is not only lazy politics, it is also a direct insult to Nigerians who are struggling to survive,” Hashim added.

    Calling on citizens across the country to reject divisive politics, Hashim stressed that the APC would not be able to hide behind regional sentiment in the next election cycle.

    “Come 2027, Nigerians will vote for leadership, not tribal loyalty. The era of emotional blackmail is over,” he concluded.

  • ECOWAS target 5% regional growth in 2026 – Touray

    ECOWAS target 5% regional growth in 2026 – Touray

    …says member states outperformed continent in previous year

    The President of the Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS Commission, Omar Alieu Touray, on Thursday, disclosed that the region is targeting 5% growth in 2026.

    Touray, who disclosed this in a meeting with partners, said the region did not do badly in the previous year.

    He said the sub-region recorded 4.6% growth, outperforming the continent.

    “The annual report that hopefully you will all get indicates that global economic growth has slowed down in 2025, and although inflation eased relatively, uncertainty remains high. Yet in the midst of these global headwinds, Africa, our continent, continues to demonstrate remarkable resilience. Growth is recovering, inflation is declining, and political stability has improved in a number of regions.

    “This resilience is also evident within our own community, our own West African community. In 2025, the region outperformed the continental average. Growth was 4.6% and is expected to get to 5% in 2026, and this is for ECOWAS.”

    The Commission’s president attributed the growth recorded to the various reforms undertaken by the member states.

    He said, “This robust performance is driven by structural reforms, rising investment in mining and energy, improvement in regional trade facilitation, and a strong rebound in services, transport, and tourism. Although inflation remains elevated, we have noticed some fall, and in some cases very sharp fall, and that fall has been helped by coordinated monetary policies and better food supply conditions across member states. Fiscal deficits have narrowed significantly as governments strengthen revenue mobilisation and rationalise public expenditure.

    “Our debt-to-GDP ratio has also declined modestly, reflecting strong nominal growth and improved macroeconomic management. Our external position remains sound. The regional current account surplus has strengthened, bolstered by high export earnings from oil, gold, and bauxite, as well as improved primary income balances.”

    Touray also disclosed that the commission placed high attention on insecurity in the year under review, stressing that ECOWAS intensified preventive diplomacy, mediation, and democratic support across the region.

    He also disclosed that we have registered progress in combating organised crime and terrorism.

    He said, “Excellencies, if we look at the various sectors and the various areas of our activity, we will see that in the area of peace and security, our preoccupation remains with growing insecurity that some areas of the region continue to suffer from. Therefore, peace and security remain at the heart of our mandate. In 2025, ECOWAS intensified preventive diplomacy, mediation, and democratic support across the region.

    “We also continue to address the implications of the withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, while keeping our doors open for constructive engagement. Our Committee of Chiefs of Defence Staff completed the rotation of ECOWAS Stand-by Force and reinforced preparations for both the ECOWAS Stand-by Force and the 1,650-strong Counter-Terrorism Brigade. An assessment mission during the year to the Gambia and Guinea-Bissau underscored the need for enhanced training, strengthened monitoring and evaluation, as well as a clear exit strategy for ECOWAS missions in both the Gambia and Guinea-Bissau.

    “We have also registered progress in combating organised crime and terrorism. The ECOWAS Commission formally took over the West Africa Police Information System after 12 years under Interpol. However, reduced security cooperation with the AES bloc has complicated counter-terrorism efforts.

    “While attacks declined slightly, fatalities increased due to the rising use of improvised explosive devices. To strengthen arms control, the Commission donated weapons marking machines to four Member States, and this seeks to improve accountability and tracing.”

    On integration of the region, Touray disclosed that the second phase of the free movement and migration project was launched during the year, and the ECOVISA online portal was also validated.

    He added, “Seven of our Member States are now implementing the ECOWAS National Biometric Identity Card. The seventh one and the most recent one is the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

     “A cross-border cooperation also intensified during the year, benefiting border communities, especially women. Informal cross-border trade data collection has also improved. With Ghana publishing its first national report in 2025.

    As a community, we submitted the revised consolidated regional offer on trading services under the African Continental Free Trade Agreement. And nearly all Member States have ratified the African Continental Free Trade Area. Our support to women and youth has yielded some results.”

    ECOWAS President also disclosed that no fewer than 1,300 small-scale cross-border traders and 50 women-led SMEs benefited from capacity building, while digital skills training expanded opportunities for rural women.

    He also noted that 2025 witnessed the inaugural ECOWAS Trade and Investment Forum and Exhibition as part of the region’s 50th anniversary celebrations.

    He said, “Within the Customs Union, we expanded the electronic certificate of origin pilot, advanced tax harmonization, and connected six Member States to the SIGMAT e-hub, which seeks to facilitate and fasten customs procedures. Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, ECOWAS continued to place vulnerable populations at the centre of its work.

    “We worked hard to strengthen the capacities of women, particularly in conditions of insecurity. We’ve also supported women against anti-trafficking and gender-based violence. Efforts to support women cured of fistula expanded through financial assistance and local production of sanitary products. Over around 8 million U.S. dollars was committed to humanitarian emergencies and disaster risk reduction.”

    He also listed other efforts to include drug rehabilitation services, which is expanded to cover 10 centers across the region.

    Touray said the region in 2025 carried out educational, technical, and vocational training initiatives.

    “With respect to infrastructure, energy, digitalization, and environment, we continue to promote clean, secure, and affordable energy. Under the Pro-Sem2 initiative, regulatory agencies received support to design tariff models and operational guidelines for renewable energy systems. More than 42 million U.S. dollars were mobilized for the Regional Roads Network preparatory studies.

    “Preparations advanced for the prior Dakar-Abidjan corridor, supported by the African Development Bank. We also worked to strengthen aviation safety through the establishment of the regional pool of AFSEC experts. In digital connectivity, Cote d’Ivoire, Ghana, and Nigeria were identified as regional internet exchange point hubs, and preparations for a second submarine cable were completed.

    “Seven member states are now implementing bilateral roaming arrangements. On the environment, ECOWAS advocated globally for the protection of the Upper Guinea Forest and Futa Jalon Highland, and established a regional carbon market framework. Our food security initiatives improved seed regulations, fortified floor reserves, and expanded school feeding to over 30,000 school children.”

    Read Also: ECOWAS lifts sanctions on Guinea

    “We also strengthened sanitary and phytosanitary measures and supported women cooperatives to enhance regional agricultural trade.

    “With regard to our institutional capacity building, the Commission completed its 2025-2027 medium-term expenditure framework across all institutions and validated the ECOWAS risk management framework. A mid-term review of the community strategic framework was also undertaken.

    “Excellencies, now turning to our institutions, you will find that our ECOWAS Court of Justice continues to provide justice within the community. Forty-five decisions were delivered, and the Court also continued its outreach activities. Our West African Health Organization also strengthened epidemic preparedness and procured essential medical equipment”.

    He also highlighted the role of ECOWAS in aborting the attempted coup in the Republic of Benin.

    “And not only did ECOWAS confine itself to condemnation, but ECOWAS also took drastic measures, very rapid intervention, to send the right message to the world that the region stands for no coup, there is zero tolerance for anti-constitutional behaviour in the region. And we continue to maintain that position,” he said.

    On the position of the region in Guinea-Bissau, he said, “The message of ECOWAS was very clear. ECOWAS calls for a short transition led by an inclusive government, and the government must have a limited mandate just to prepare, just to undertake constitutional reforms, electoral reforms, and prepare for free and fair elections.”

    On why ECOWAS did not act on the result of the Presidential election in Guinea-Bissau, Touray said the result of the poll was destroyed, and so there was nothing to hold on to.

    This, he stressed, explained the decision to give the junta a short transition period. 

  • Personnel welfare: Coalition faults alleged media attacks on NSCDC leadership

    Personnel welfare: Coalition faults alleged media attacks on NSCDC leadership

    The Coalition of Civil Societies (CCS) has dismissed online reports alleging non-payment of promotion arrears and diversion of welfare funds under the current leadership of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), describing the claims as false and misleading.

    The coalition said a report published on January 23, 2026, was part of a coordinated attempt to misinform the public and stir disaffection within the Corps under the leadership of the Commandant General, Ahmed Abubakar Audi.

    In a statement on Thursday, the Coalition’s National Coordinator, Sunday Attah, said the “coordinated attack” reports were not only inaccurate but deliberately crafted to discredit the NSCDC.

    “The Coalition will not stand by while faceless interests weaponise the media to blackmail a critical national security institution. These repeated, unfounded attacks are not journalism; they are acts of institutional sabotage with dangerous consequences,” he said.

    The Coalition clarified that the payment of salary and promotion arrears for paramilitary agencies does not fall solely within the authority of the NSCDC leadership, noting that such matters are handled through the Presidential Committee on Arrears, chaired by the Director-General of the Budget Office of the Federation and the Accountant-General of the Federation.

    According to the statement, records show that when the current Commandant General assumed office in 2021, the Corps had accumulated more than five years of unpaid arrears.

    Read Also: NSCDC Abuja decorates 402 newly promoted officers with new ranks

    It said engagement with relevant government bodies led to the clearance of arrears covering 2015 to 2019, affecting over 37,000 personnel nationwide.

    The Coalition added that arrears for the 2020–2022 period have been processed and approved, pending fund release, while those for 2023–2024 await presidential approval and budgetary provision.

    On promotion arrears, Attah said the 2025 promotion examination results were released only in December 2025, making allegations of diversion unfounded.

    “The media must decide whether it stands for truth or allows itself to be hired as a blunt instrument of character assassination. Ethical journalism demands verification, not vendetta,” Attah said.

    The Coalition urged NSCDC personnel to remain focused, assuring them that efforts were ongoing to secure payment of all outstanding entitlements, stating, “The truth is stubborn. No amount of manufactured outrage or digital noise can erase the facts.”

  • Embrace Akintola’s legacy of courage, unity, politics of cooperation, Tinubu urges Nigerians

    Embrace Akintola’s legacy of courage, unity, politics of cooperation, Tinubu urges Nigerians

    President Bola Tinubu on Thursday called on Nigerians to imbibe the enduring qualities of courage, resilience, unity, and politics of cooperation exemplified by the late Chief Samuel Ladoke Akintola, while consciously eschewing bitterness, acrimony, and divisive tendencies in national life.

    Urging Nigerians to draw inspiration from Chief Akintola’s legacy of bridge-building, fairness, and patriotism, the President stressed that the remembrance of past tragedies should serve not to reopen old wounds but to heal them through understanding and a renewed commitment to national unity.

    The President spoke through the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, who represented him at the 2026 Samuel Akintola Memorial Lecture and the 60th Remembrance of the former Premier of Western Nigeria.

    The event was held at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan.

    President Tinubu, who was the Special Guest of Honour at the event, conveyed his warm greetings to participants and described the memorial lecture, themed Unity in Diversity: Lessons from Chief Ladoke Akintola’s Legacy, as a fitting tribute to one of Nigeria’s foremost nationalists whose life and sacrifice remain central to the country’s historical journey.

    According to the President, Chief Samuel Ladoke Akintola, like several other leaders of Nigeria’s formative years, paid the ultimate price with his life so that the nation could attain its full potential.

    He recalled that the January 15, 1966, military coup extinguished many national leaders in their prime and set Nigeria on a difficult path, but stressed that the country has endured and will continue to prevail as one strong, indivisible, and united nation.

    President Tinubu reassured Nigerians that, notwithstanding prevailing socio-economic challenges, his administration remains firmly committed to building on the foundations laid by Chief Akintola and other national heroes through reforms, policies, and people-oriented initiatives aimed at securing a more sustainable and inclusive prosperity.

    He urged Nigerians to exercise patience and understanding as ongoing reforms begin to yield positive outcomes, emphasising that the objectives of government policies are not to make life harder for citizens but to secure a brighter and more stable future for all.

    Reflecting on the life and times of Chief Akintola, the President described him as a man of many parts who distinguished himself as a teacher, journalist, legal mind, and passionate politician. He noted that Akintola rose from humble beginnings in Ogbomoso to national prominence, becoming the first Premier of the Western Region in post-independence Nigeria.

    The President highlighted Akintola’s service as a federal minister, the first Leader of the Opposition in the Federal Parliament, and Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, as well as his contributions to major national institutions such as the University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria Airways, and the University of Ife, Ile-Ife.

    He noted that Akintola was widely regarded as one of the most astute politicians of his era.

    Beyond public offices and traditional titles, President Tinubu said Akintola’s greatest legacy lay in his ideals and principles, particularly his advocacy of the politics of cooperation, a bridge-building philosophy that emphasised consensus over conflict and national unity over regional isolation.

    He recalled that Akintola consistently urged alignment with the national mainstream and championed equitable distribution of the nation’s wealth to all regions through his doctrine of a fair share.

    The President also reflected on the narrative surrounding the January 1966 coup, noting that while allegations of corruption were cited as justification, Chief Akintola stood out as a builder who initiated and completed impactful development projects.

    He observed that a deeper scholarly examination of public administration in pre-1966 Western Nigeria would further enrich the nation’s historical understanding.

    Read Also: Tinubu condoles with  grieving  Ndidi on father’s death

    President Tinubu paid tribute to other patriots who lost their lives during the coup, including Sir Ahmadu Bello, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Chief Festus Okotie-Eboh, and senior military officers, noting that their sacrifices underscore the grave consequences of disunity, distrust, and political intolerance.

    Describing Nigeria as a nation of diverse peoples, languages, and faiths, the President stressed that diversity must be harnessed as a source of strength rather than division. He affirmed that unity in diversity remains the only viable path to lasting peace and progress in a plural society like Nigeria.

    Highlighting current efforts to promote inclusive development, President Tinubu pointed to the establishment of Regional Development Commissions across the six geopolitical zones as a deliberate strategy to decentralise development, address region-specific challenges, and ensure that no part of the country is left behind. He said this approach reflects Chief Akintola’s philosophy of fairness and equitable distribution of national resources.

    The President also underscored the importance of human capital development, particularly education, citing the Nigerian Education Loan Fund as a landmark initiative designed to remove financial barriers to higher education.

    He noted that over 600,000 students nationwide have already benefited from interest-free loans under the scheme, describing education as the most potent weapon against poverty, insecurity, and division.

    Addressing the people of the Southwest, President Tinubu acknowledged the region’s profound contributions to Nigeria’s development and assured that his administration remains attentive to its aspirations for good governance, infrastructure development, economic opportunities, and respect for cultural heritage.

    He noted that the South-West Development Commission is operational, with federal projects in power, roads, rail, agribusiness, and innovation being accelerated.

  • Yekini Ibrahim’s ‘Koleoso’ breaks record, hits 100 million YouTube views

    Yekini Ibrahim’s ‘Koleoso’ breaks record, hits 100 million YouTube views

    Actor and producer Yekini Ibrahim, popularly known as Iteledicon, has announced that his film “Koleoso” has surpassed 100 million views on YouTube, a first for a Nollywood title and African movie.

    In an Instagram post, Ibrahim expressed pride in his achievement, crediting his team, family, and fans for their support.

    He described the milestone as proof of hard work, consistency, and creativity.

    He wrote, “History. Record. Legacy. Koleoso hits 100million + views. In total. Officially, the first Nollywood title and the first African movie title to hit this milestone on YouTube as one title. Yes—one title. One story. One movement.

    “Hard work. Consistency. Creativity. From day zero, we won this. Let this be known that I, Ibrahim Yekini Bakare (Iteledicon), am the FIRST to pull this stunt in the history of Nollywood. Do not deny me my flower.

    Read Also: Ibrahim Yekini: I’ve lost count of movies I produced

    “I am proud of myself, proud of my team, proud of my family.

    “This is a strong fan base. My Koleoso family, my legends—you made this happen.

    To the cast and crew—this is our win. This is a win for Nollywood. This is a win for Africa. A win for the culture. A win for the Yorubas. A win for Nigeria.

    “This hits different. This is loud. This is magical. This is unbelievable. This is golden. Please use your calculator for clarity. Numbers don’t lie.”

  • Abuja-Kaduna train attack: Victims’ complaints against Tukur Mamu supported DSS’ probe – Witness

    Abuja-Kaduna train attack: Victims’ complaints against Tukur Mamu supported DSS’ probe – Witness

    An investigator with the Department of State Services (DSS) has told a Federal High Court in Abuja that the complaints lodged by rescued victims of the 2022 Abuja-Kaduna bound train attack against alleged terrorist negotiator, Tukur Mamu, supported investigations by the agency.

    The DSS official spoke on Tuesday while being cross-examined by Mamu’s lawyer, Johnson Usman (SAN), at the resumed hearing in the terrorism case brought against the alleged terrorist negotiator.

    The revelation by the witness, who is the sixth prosecution witness (PW6), was in response to a question by Usman, who had asked the witness to ‘confirm to the court if any of the rescued victims, including the wife of the Commandant, Jaji, made any complaint against the defendant to the DSS.’

    Responding, the witness, who wore a mask and testified behind a screen, said some of the victims filed complaints, and one of them was in writing.

    At that point, prosecuting lawyer, David Kaswe of the Federal Ministry of Justice, interjected and complained about the mode of questioning being adopted by the defence lawyer.

    Kaswe said that, despite an earlier order of the court that the identity of actors in the case, including victims and witnesses, should be protected, Usman was framing his questions in a manner capable of exposing the identity of the categories of people in respect of which the court’s order was made.

    In response, Usman argued that none of the names he called was a witness before the court.

    He added that although the court actually made an order for trial in camera and for the protection of the identity of the witnesses, the trial should not be conducted in a manner that prejudices the defendant.

    When he resumed his testimony, the witness said investigators interviewed six victims of the attack in the course of the investigation.

    On whether the six victims were interviewed in the presence of the defendant, the witness said no.

    The witness said the audio exhibit tendered by the prosecution was an extract of the transcribed WhatsApp conversation between Mamu and the terrorists.

    On whether his team interviewed a former Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor (retd.); Major General Idris Garba, and Hannafi of the Directorate of Military Intelligence (DMI), the witness said no.

    The witness confirmed that Sheikh Gumi, Gen Abdulkadir, and General Jalingo were also interviewed, but not in the presence of the defendant.

    He said members of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) committee were not brought to the DSS facility and interviewed in the presence of the defendant.

    The witness gave Exhibit R8 (a statement made by the defendant) and read a portion where Mamu said he is a publisher of a newspaper and a magazine

    In another portion, the defendant also said he is a publisher, a media consultant, and a journalist, from which he earns his income.

    The witness said investigators, including him, investigated the defendant’s claims of being a publisher, media consultant, and journalist.

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    PW6 said they also investigated the defendant’s claim that he was acting with the permission of the authority.

    He confirmed that the defendant’s request that every actor in the negotiation be brought together to be interviewed in his presence was not granted.

    The witness said he was not part of the search party and did not know if the closed-circuit television (CCTV) in the defendant’s office was among the other valuables recovered from him.

    PW6 said he was not among those who reviewed or watched the CCTV.

    At the conclusion of the cross-examination, Kaswe told the court that the prosecution would be closing its case with the sixth prosecution witness.

    Usman said his client was willing to reveal all that transpired and would elect to enter his defence straight away rather than first making a no-case submission.

    He said, “We want to put everything on the table. Let the whole world see. Let God also see.”

    Justice Mohammed Umar then adjourned till April 23 for the defendant to open his defence.

  • Ekiti govt targets N8.8trn GDP for 2026

    Ekiti govt targets N8.8trn GDP for 2026

    Ekiti State Government has projected a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of N8.8 trillion for the 2026 fiscal year as it unveiled the breakdown of its N415.57bn Budget of Impactful Governance.

    The Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Mr Femi Ajayi, stated this in Ado-Ekiti during a presentation of the 2026 budget analysis to government officials, financial experts, and other stakeholders.

    Ajayi said that the budget was designed to stimulate economic growth through strategic investments in agriculture, education, infrastructure, arts, tourism, and the informal sector.

    He noted that the budget was prepared in line with the 2026–2028 Medium-Term Expenditure Framework and the state’s 30-year Development Plan, saying that the MTEF provided a guide for efficient resource allocation and completion of projects within a medium-term period.

    Ajayi explained that the fiscal framework was based on macroeconomic projections with a spending ceiling of ₦570.05bn, adding that the government adopted a zero-based budgeting approach with emphasis on completing ongoing projects to drive economic growth.

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    He said that funding for the 2026 budget would come from federal allocation (30 per cent), grants from domestic and foreign development partners (29 per cent), Value Added Tax (19 per cent), state independent revenue (11 per cent), and loans (two per cent).

    Ajayi added that recurrent expenditure would be allocated to personnel costs (28 per cent), overheads (28 per cent), grants and subsidies (18 per cent), and debt servicing (0.2 per cent), among others.

    On capital expenditure, Ajayi said that 72 per cent would be spent on economic services, 14 per cent on social services, 13 per cent on administrative services, and one per cent on law and justice.

    He disclosed that capital spending aligned with the administration’s six pillars would focus on infrastructure and industrial development (57 per cent), agriculture and rural development (22 per cent), governance (nine per cent), human capital development (nine per cent), youth development and job creation (two per cent), and arts, culture and tourism (one per cent).

    Ajayi reaffirmed the commitment of the Governor Oyebanji administration to fiscal accountability, transparency, and sustainable growth, adding that safety nets would be provided to cushion the impact of reforms on vulnerable groups.

    In his remarks, the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr Niyi Adebayo, said the success of previous budgets under the administration was driven by inclusive governance, fiscal transparency, and accountability.

    He commended Governor Oyebanji for implementing people-oriented reforms and programmes aimed at accelerating development in the state.

  • Kaduna Mosque dispute: BoT members plan appeal after court dismisses suit against CAC

    Kaduna Mosque dispute: BoT members plan appeal after court dismisses suit against CAC

    …Mosque, school, others belong to our community, not Imam – BoT member

    …It has been handed over to me – Imam, Tukur

    Members of the Board of Trustees (BoT) of Al Manar Education and Development Foundation, proprietors of the Al Manar Juma’at Mosque in Kaduna, have indicated plans to appeal a Federal High Court judgment that dismissed their suit challenging their suspension by the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).

    Justice Rilwanu Aikawa of the Federal High Court in Kaduna on Thursday struck out the case, ruling that it was improperly filed as a fundamental human rights application.

    The court held that the issues raised by the applicants did not fall within the scope of enforceable fundamental rights.

    The trustees had approached the court to set aside their suspension by the CAC, arguing that the action was taken without a fair hearing.

    Speaking after the judgment, counsel to the applicants, Mas’ud Alabelewe Esq., said his clients filed the suit on the basis that their right to a fair hearing had been violated. He noted that the court, however, took a different legal position.

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    Alabelewe said the trustees have applied for the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the judgment to enable a thorough review before deciding on the next legal step, including a possible appeal.

    Separately, a suspended BoT member, Alhaji Aliyu Moddibo, said the trustees were likely to approach the Court of Appeal after studying the full ruling, describing the matter as a dispute over the management and future of the foundation’s assets.

    When contacted, the Chief Imam, Sheikh Tukur Adam Al-Manar, declined to comment on the court’s decision but rejected claims relating to financial impropriety, stating that he is not a signatory to the foundation’s bank accounts.

    He also maintained that the mosque is a Da’awah project entrusted to him by its founders.