The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • APC Delta mandate hails Oborevwori for uniting, strengthening party

    APC Delta mandate hails Oborevwori for uniting, strengthening party

    The APC Delta Mandate has praised the Governor of Delta State, Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, for his inclusive and unifying leadership, describing it as a major factor in strengthening the All Progressives Congress (APC) across the state.

    The group gave the commendation while reviewing the stakeholders’ meeting held recently, which it described as timely, strategic, and critical to consolidating internal cohesion and repositioning the party for future political engagements.

    In a statement, the National President and National Secretary of APC Delta Mandate, Hon. Isaac Anwuzia, and Olorogun Jaro Egbo, respectively, said the meeting clearly reflected Governor Oborevwori’s commitment to building a broad-based, united, and people-driven APC in Delta State.

    According to Anwuzia, the governor’s consistent emphasis on unity, mutual respect, and collective interest resonated strongly with party leaders, stakeholders, and grassroots members drawn from all parts of the state.

    “The stakeholders’ meeting held last Friday was a clear testament to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s political maturity, wisdom, and genuine desire to carry everyone along. His message of unity, humility, and cooperation has further strengthened the APC family in Delta State,” the statement read.

    They noted that under Oborevwori’s leadership, the APC in Delta had experienced renewed confidence, improved internal harmony, and a growing sense of shared purpose among members, irrespective of their political backgrounds.

    Read Also: APC flags, Tinubu’s posters adorn Kano Govt House as Yusuf joins party

    The statement further stated, “Governor Oborevwori has demonstrated that true leadership is anchored on service, dialogue, and inclusiveness. His approach has helped to heal divisions, energise the grassroots and reposition the APC as a strong, united and formidable political force in Delta State”.

    The group further commended the governor for fostering an atmosphere where differing views are accommodated and harmonised in the overall interest of the party and the state, noting that such leadership is essential for sustainable political growth and stability.

    The APC Delta Mandate reaffirmed its unwavering support for Governor Oborevwori and called on party members at all levels to embrace unity, discipline, and collective responsibility as the party continues to strengthen its structures across Delta State.

    “The future of the APC in Delta State is brighter when we speak with one voice. We commend the governor for leading by example and urge all stakeholders to remain committed to the ideals of unity, progress, and service to the people,” the statement concluded.

  • N10m grants: NYSC, BATNF renew three-year youth agribusiness pact

    N10m grants: NYSC, BATNF renew three-year youth agribusiness pact

    The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and the BAT Nigeria Foundation (BATNF) have renewed their agribusiness empowerment partnership, committing up to N10 million in grants to support young Nigerian graduates with viable agricultural business ideas over the next three years.

    The renewed collaboration was formalised with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on January 22, 2026, in Abuja, extending a programme first launched in 2019 under BATNF’s Farmers for the Future (F4F) initiative.

    Speaking on the renewed partnership, the BATNF’s General Manager, Oludare Odusanya, said the agreement reflects the value of continuity in youth-focused development efforts.

    “This MoU is a reaffirmation of a collaboration that began in 2019 and has continued to demonstrate how strategic partnerships can unlock youth potential in agriculture,” Odusanya said.

    “Through Farmers for the Future, we are not only providing grants but also building a system of mentorship, structure, and support that enables corps members to see agribusiness as a serious enterprise pathway,” he added.

    According to Odusanya, under the new agreement, six outstanding NYSC corps members will be selected through a competitive process to benefit from a mix of cash and non-cash support aimed at building sustainable agribusiness ventures. The prize structure, he said, provides N3 million for the first-place winner, N2 million each for two second-place winners, and N1 million each for three third-place winners.

    He noted the partnership leverages NYSC’s nationwide reach to expose young graduates to agribusiness as a viable enterprise option, while BATNF provides funding, mentorship, and structured capacity-building support. Rather than launching a new programme, the MoU deepens an existing initiative that both organisations say has already delivered measurable outcomes for youth entrepreneurship and food security.

    Beyond funding, Odusanya said selected beneficiaries will undergo an intensive development process, including a boot camp, mentorship sessions with agribusiness experts, and ongoing project evaluation. To ensure transparency and accountability, grant disbursement and oversight, he said, will be managed by an independent implementing partner.

    “The renewed agreement will run for another three-year cycle, reinforcing both institutions’ commitment to youth economic inclusion and sustainable agriculture. The programme also aims to reposition agriculture in the minds of young Nigerians—from subsistence activity to a modern, scalable business capable of driving economic resilience,” he stated.

    Read Also: Otti promises automatic employment for outstanding NYSC members in Abia

    The MoU was signed on behalf of BATNF by Odusanya and the foundation’s Project Manager, Adetola Oniyelu. Representing NYSC were the Director of the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) Department, Kehinde Aremu-Cole, and Barr. Christopher Ogar of the NYSC Legal Unit.

    “As part of the renewed collaboration, NYSC will continue to deploy its national platforms, including orientation camps and digital communication channels, to drive awareness and participation among corps members. The Scheme will also formally endorse the F4F project, collaborate on programme monitoring and evaluation, and participate in key milestones such as launch and closing ceremonies. BATNF will continue to lead overall project implementation and provide comprehensive reporting at the end of each project cycle,” Odusanya added.

  • DHQ confirms submission of probe report on 16 officers arrested for service violations

    DHQ confirms submission of probe report on 16 officers arrested for service violations

    The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) said it has concluded investigations into the arrest of 16 officers over acts of indiscipline and breaches of service regulations.

    It said that the report on the matter has also been forwarded to the appropriate superior authority in line with extant regulations.

    The Director of Defence Information, Major General Sumaila Uba, announced this in a statement on Monday.

    The statement said, “The comprehensive investigation process, conducted in accordance with established military procedures, has carefully examined all circumstances surrounding the conduct of the affected personnel. The findings have identified a number of officers with allegations of plotting to overthrow the government, which is inconsistent with the ethics, values, and professional standards required of members of the AFN.

    “Accordingly, those with cases to answer will be formally arraigned before an appropriate military judicial panel to face trial in accordance with the Armed Forces Act and other applicable service regulations. This ensures accountability while upholding the principles of fairness and due process.”

    “In October 2025, the military high command announced in a statement that 16 officers were facing military justice for alleged indiscipline and breaches of service regulations.

    It stated that investigations had revealed that their grievances stemmed largely from perceived career stagnation due to repeated failures in promotion examinations, among other issues.

    It further explained that some of the apprehended officers were under jurisdiction for various offences, either awaiting trial or currently undergoing trial.

    The military high command, however, reiterated that “measures being taken are purely disciplinary and part of ongoing institutional mechanisms to preserve order, discipline and operational effectiveness within the ranks.”

    It reaffirmed its resolute commitment to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism, loyalty, and respect for constitutional authority.

  • WAYC honours Osunde with the Nelson Mandela Leadership Award 

    WAYC honours Osunde with the Nelson Mandela Leadership Award 

    The West Africa Youth Council (WAYC) has conferred the prestigious Nelson Mandela Leadership Award of Excellence and Integrity on Ambassador Eghosa Alvin Osunde, distinguished philanthropist, businessman, pastor, and Chairman of Hadi Group, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to ethical leadership, youth empowerment, and sustainable community development across West Africa.

    The award, named in honour of the global icon Nelson Mandela, is reserved for visionary leaders whose lives reflect integrity, courage, selfless service, and commitment to humanity.

    Amb. Osunde has consistently exemplified these values through his humanitarian initiatives, faith-inspired leadership, and enterprise-building efforts that continue to create opportunities for many.

    As a pastor, he has provided spiritual guidance, promoted moral values, and encouraged young people to pursue excellence with integrity and purpose.

    Under his leadership, Hadi Group continues to drive innovation, support entrepreneurs, and empower youths through mentorship, employment, and capacity-building programmes.

    In his remarks, Amb. Osunde expressed heartfelt appreciation to the leadership of the West Africa Youth Council, noting that he is deeply humbled by the recognition. He reaffirmed his commitment to ethical leadership, youth development, and meaningful contributions to national and regional growth.

    Representatives of WAYC commended his passion for service, describing him as a leader whose character and impact reflect the enduring legacy of Nelson Mandela.

    The Leadership of the West Africa Youth Council proudly celebrates Ambassador Eghosa Alvin Osunde as a shining symbol of integrity, excellence, spiritual guidance, and transformational leadership in West Africa.

  • UPDATED: Sunday Igboho arrives Nigeria, appreciates Tinubu, Oba Ladoja, others

    UPDATED: Sunday Igboho arrives Nigeria, appreciates Tinubu, Oba Ladoja, others

    • …visits Olubadan

    Chief Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, has arrived in Nigeria after the removal of his name from the list of wanted persons.

    Igboho returned home from self-exile in neighbouring Cotonou, Benin Republic.

    Upon arrival, Igboho was welcomed by supporters, Muslim clerics, and others at his Soka, Ibadan residence.

    They offered prayers over Igboho’s smooth return, and also prayed for President Bola Tinubu and traditional rulers who intervened in his case.

    While recounting his ordeal, Igboho, who shed tears, lamented that under the previous administration of the late President Muhammadu Buhari, he was declared wanted, denied a Nigerian passport, and had his bank accounts frozen despite favourable court rulings.

    His return could be termed as another homecoming after he fled Nigeria on July 1, 2021, following a raid on his Ibadan residence by a combined team of the Department of State Services and the Nigerian Army over allegations of stockpiling arms and ammunition.

    In 2024, Igboho was in the country briefly for his late mother’s burial ceremony.

    Igboho then proceeded to the palace of Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, where he was warmly received by supporters.

    Read Also: JUST IN: Sunday Igboho set to fully return to Nigeria from self-exile

    The visibly happy Oba Ladoja welcomed Igboho and prayed for his success.

    In his speech, Igboho said: I’m grateful to God Almighty for this day. I’m also grateful to our President. Baba Olubadan Ladoja was instrumental to my final freedom. Since the day I was in Cotonou, he has been checking up on me as a son. Baba Adebanjo also helped me. Baba Ladoja helped me by speaking with elders in Yoruba Land.

    “He spoke with me last Friday while I was in Cotonou. He told me to pack my load, that he was with the President, and he had spoken with him. Baba Ladoja said he begged him, and he has authorised that I am cleared. I’m grateful to God Almighty because I never thought I would come back home.

    “I’m very happy, that’s why I have to come and pay homage to Baba Ladoja. I’m sincerely grateful to President Bola Tinubu.

    “My advice to Yoruba people is for us to unite, so that we can take our region to greater heights. I’m confident that President Bola Tinubu is making efforts to improve security.”

  • First Lady: I work hard because my husband is a hard-working man

    First Lady: I work hard because my husband is a hard-working man

    • …selected as Leadership Newspaper’s ‘Person of the Year’s
    • …says award fires her up to do more

    First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has said her work ethic is inspired by the example of her husband, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing him as a hard-working leader whose commitment to duty pushes her to do more.

    Mrs Tinubu spoke in Abuja on Monday while formally receiving the notification of her selection as Person of the Year by Leadership Newspapers during a courtesy visit by the organisation’s management.

    “I like to work hard because my husband is a hard-working man,” the First Lady said, adding that the recognition had further motivated her to deepen her service to Nigerians.

    According to a statement issued by her Senior Special Assistant on Media, Busola Kukoyi, the First Lady said, “with this, I am fired up for the year. I am guided by the scripture which says I can do all things… there is still more for me to do—what I am doing for the common man”.

    She thanked the newspaper for the honour, describing it as a call to greater responsibility, and expressed appreciation that her efforts as a woman were being acknowledged.

    While noting that society often describes the world as male-dominated, Mrs Tinubu said this reality only challenges women to work harder and remain focused.

    “I have never seen men as a challenge, but that makes me know that I have to work three times as hard to get ahead,” she said, urging young women to be confident, focused, and hardworking.

    The First Lady also paid tribute to the late founder of the Leadership Group, Sam Nda-Isaiah, whom she described as a man of integrity, and commended the current management for sustaining his legacy.

    Earlier, the Chairman of Leadership Newspapers, Zainab Nda-Isaiah, said the decision to honour Mrs Tinubu as Person of the Year 2025 was unanimous, citing the impact of her interventions nationwide through the Renewed Hope Initiative since 2023.

    Senior Vice Chairman of the Group, Azu Ishiekwene, said the First Lady had redefined the Office, turning it into a platform for compassionate leadership that impacts lives beyond ethnic, religious, or political lines.

    The award ceremony is scheduled for February 12, 2026, marking the 18th edition of the honour, which President Tinubu has received three times in the past.

  • 2027: Let’s be men of honour north is known for, Yakassi tells Atiku, El-Rufai

    2027: Let’s be men of honour north is known for, Yakassi tells Atiku, El-Rufai

    Dr. Umar Tanko-Yakasai, Director General of the Tinubu Support Group (TSG), has called on northern political leaders, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Kaduna State Governor Malam Nasir El-Rufai, to uphold integrity by supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s bid for a second term in 2027.

    The advice came on Monday in Abuja after Yakassai received a N200 million dummy cheque from the Northern Nigeria Youth Leaders Forum (NNYLF) to fund the purchase of Tinubu’s nomination and expression of interest forms for the upcoming elections.

    Commending the northern youths for their initiative, Yakassai urged political leaders from the region to emulate their example by prioritising national unity, fairness, and justice over personal ambitions.

    He stressed that the North should allow President Tinubu to complete his full two-term tenure, drawing parallels with the uninterrupted eight-year presidency of the late President Muhammadu Buhari.

    “For us in northern Nigeria, we are men of our word,” Yakassai said. “Northern politicians seeking the presidency in 2027 should not place selfish interests above justice, fairness, and equity. The presidency should remain in southern Nigeria for the full eight-year term, as promised.”

    He added that his advocacy aligns with a consistent ideological stance, recalling his support for justice during the Goodluck Jonathan administration.

    Yakassai concluded by emphasising that northern leaders must defend their credibility and moral responsibility, insisting they stand for justice and progress for all Nigerians, including President Tinubu.

    He said, “If Atiku wants to contest, he should, but he is being selfish. If El-Rufai wants to contest, he is selfish. There is no justification to say that the presidency should not remain in southern Nigeria for 8 uninterrupted years.

    “When my region was asking for 8 years, during the Goodluck Jonathan administration, I joined in saying justice must be served. If I were in the front for justice for my people, I should also be in the front for justice to be served for all Nigerians, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    “All of us from northern Nigeria, nobody should blackmail us. Nobody should intimidate us. Nobody should attempt to undermine our credibility and moral rights. We are for justice and progress.”

  • Kwankwaso’s son resigns as Sports commissioner

    Kwankwaso’s son resigns as Sports commissioner

    Kano State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Mustapha Rabiu Kwankwaso, the son of the leader of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has resigned his appointment and membership of the Kano State Executive Council.

    Mustapha’s resignation followed his father’s disapproval of Governor Abba Yusuf’s defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    The Kwankwaso junior announced his resignation in a letter on Monday, stating that the decision to bring to an end his tenure in the cabinet of Governor Abba Yusuf was with a “heavy heart.”

    He expressed deep appreciation to Governor Yusuf for the opportunity to serve the state, describing his time in office as “rewarding and impactful.”

    Read Also: BREAKING: Kano Governor Abba Yusuf officially joins APC

    “I want to express my deepest gratitude to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf for the opportunity to serve the great people of Kano State. I have cherished the experiences and lessons gained while serving, and I appreciate the trust placed in me,” he stated.

    Kwankwaso also offered prayers for the continued welfare of young people in the state, urging sustained attention to youth empowerment and sports development programmes.

    He wrote, “As I resign, I pray that the youth of Kano State will continue to receive the attention and support they deserve. I hope for the best for our sports development programmes and initiatives, and I am confident that they will flourish in the years to come.”

    Kwankwaso further prayed for continued peace and progress in the state, asking God to bless Kano State and its people, while wishing the Yusuf government success in its efforts.

  • BREAKING: Kano Governor Abba Yusuf officially joins APC

    BREAKING: Kano Governor Abba Yusuf officially joins APC

    The Governor of Kano State, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has officially joined the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    Yusuf defected to the ruling party on Monday during a formal ceremony held at the Coronation Hall of the Kano State Government House.

    He was received into the APC by top party leaders, including former APC National Chairman and ex-Kano State Governor, Abdullahi Ganduje; the Deputy President of the Senate and Senator representing Kano South, Barau Jibrin; the Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Yusuf Abdullahi Ata; alongside other senior party officials.

    Read Also: Kwankwaso’s son resigns as Sports commissioner

    Speaking at the event, the governor said his decision to return to the APC was driven by the need to work more closely with the Federal Government, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to accelerate development in Kano State.

    Yusuf was elected governor in 2023 on the platform of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP). He later resigned from the party along with several members of the Kano State House of Assembly and the House of Representatives, paving the way for his return to the APC.

    Details shortly…

  • 15 million Nigerians use drugs, says NDLEA

    15 million Nigerians use drugs, says NDLEA

    • …as Ondo recorded 336 arrests, seized 22,316 kilogrammes of illicit drugs, secured 62 convictions

    The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has disclosed that no fewer than 15 million Nigerians are involved in drug use across the country.

    The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the agency, Brig.-Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (retd.) made this known during a courtesy visit to Ondo State Governor Lucky at his office in Akure on Monday.

    Marwa said findings from the 2018 United Nations drug use survey revealed that Nigerians within the 15 to 64 age bracket were involved in drug consumption, adding that one in every seven Nigerians in that category uses drugs.

    He described the figure as “unacceptably high.”

    The NDLEA boss, while presenting data on drug use prevalence, enforcement outcomes, and cannabis production nationwide, decried the level of drug abuse in Ondo state, putting the prevalence rate at 17 per cent, representing about 400,000 users.

    Marwa compared the figure with Lagos state, which he said had a 33 percent prevalence rate, translating to about two million users, and Oyo state, with 24 percent.

    According to him, the NDLEA command in Ondo state recorded 336 arrests, seized 22,316 kilograms of illicit drugs, and secured 62 convictions within the period under review.

    He added that about 207,000 kilograms of cannabis were seized and destroyed from farms and plantations across the state.

    Marwa also disclosed that the agency’s counselling and rehabilitation centre in Ondo treated 243 drug users last year, noting that the state remained the highest producer of cannabis in Nigeria due to its favourable climate and soil conditions.

    The NDLEA chairman further revealed that the agency had commissioned the Nigerian Academy of Science to conduct a scientific study on cannabis-extracted oil for medicinal purposes, stressing that any policy decision on controlled cultivation and export would be strictly evidence-based.

    He said the agency had also established an Alternative Development Unit at its headquarters to complement law enforcement efforts by encouraging cannabis-growing communities to switch to legal crops.

    “The strategy involves community development, provision of farm inputs, infrastructure, schools, clinics, and access to markets to ensure sustainable livelihoods.

    “Ondo State has been selected for a pilot study of the programme after one year of engagement with cannabis-producing communities,” Marwa said.

    He lauded the Ondo State government for its support, including the establishment of a State Drug Control Committee, plans to extend it to the local government level, and the provision of financial and operational assistance to the NDLEA command.

    Remarking, Governor Aiyedatiwa pledged the full support of his administration to the NDLEA, particularly following the launch of the Alternative Development Programme in the state.

    He commended Marwa for personally leading the initiative, describing it as a clear demonstration of commitment to curbing illicit drug cultivation, trafficking, and consumption.

    The governor applauded the agency for selecting Ondo State for the pilot programme, acknowledging reports that the state was Nigeria’s largest producer of cannabis.

    He, however, noted that Ondo State was also a major producer of legitimate agricultural commodities such as cocoa, owing to its vast forests, fertile soil, and favourable climate.

    While noting that the majority of residents were law-abiding, Aiyedatiwa admitted that a few still engaged in illicit cultivation.

    He assured the NDLEA of continued government support, recalling previous assistance with vehicles and logistics to strengthen enforcement.

    The governor welcomed the proposal to establish an Alternative Development Unit in the state, suggesting that it could operate under the governor’s office in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and relevant advisers.

    Aiyedatiwa highlighted ongoing initiatives such as the “Youth on Ridges” programme, under which over 5,000 hectares were cleared for cocoa cultivation, and the state’s “tomato revolution,” which he said now supplies about 40 percent of tomatoes consumed in Lagos.

    He stressed the importance of community engagement with traditional rulers, churches, and mosques to promote behavioural change, noting that education and enforcement must go hand in hand.

    The governor also expressed interest in the medicinal use of cannabis oil, urging the NDLEA to expedite its ongoing research and share the findings with the state.

    He advocated controlled cultivation of cannabis for medicinal purposes, citing global best practices and approvals in other countries, noting that cannabis oil ranks among the most valuable oils traded globally.