The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • APC northern youths back Wike, condemn protests

    APC northern youths back Wike, condemn protests

    The APC Northern Youths Forum has passed a vote of confidence in the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Hon. Nyesom Wike, praising his performance and describing his leadership as transformative for Abuja.

    Speaking at a press conference, the group said the FCT had witnessed remarkable improvements in infrastructure, security and economic activities under Wike’s stewardship, making the nation’s capital safer, more prosperous and more livable.

    The Forum said Wike’s delivery on key mandates distinguished him as a results-oriented public office holder who had justified the confidence reposed in him by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    It also commended the minister for his “unwavering loyalty” to President Tinubu, noting that his support for the administration’s reforms and development agenda reflected commitment to national unity and progress.

    Read Also: Nyesom Wike’s zero-sum game in Rivers state

    According to the group, Wike’s leadership style has promoted inclusivity and youth empowerment, creating opportunities for young Nigerians to participate meaningfully in governance and nation-building.

    The youths condemned protests being staged against the FCT minister, alleging that those behind them were driven by selfish interests rather than genuine concern for Abuja or the country.

    They described the protests as deliberate attempts to distract the minister and derail ongoing development efforts in the FCT, warning that such actions were inimical to national progress.

    In a statement signed by its Coordinator, Haruna Bature, the APC Northern Youths Forum reaffirmed its support for Wike and President Tinubu, urging the minister to remain focused on delivering dividends of democracy to Nigerians.

  • Kogi East backs Ododo’s second term, seeks return of power to zone in 2031

    Kogi East backs Ododo’s second term, seeks return of power to zone in 2031

    Stakeholders from Kogi East have endorsed Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for a second term in 2027 and resolved to pursue a strategic alliance aimed at returning political power to the senatorial district in 2031.

    This was part of resolutions reached at the Kogi East Political Summit held on Friday, January 16, 2026, at the Auditorium of Prince Abubakar Audu University, Anyigba, Kogi State.

    The communiqué was signed by Professor David Avon Menenge, Secretary of the Planning Committee, and Barrister Musa Isiaka, Chairman of the Planning Committee.

    The summit, organised by the Kogi Elites Forum, brought together scholars from academia, traditional and religious leaders, civil society organisations, women and youth groups, students, faith-based organisations, and Kogi East indigenes in the diaspora.

    Participants deliberated on the long-standing aspiration of Kogi East for fairness, social justice, equity and sustainable development, while acknowledging the economic constraints and political challenges confronting the district in its bid to regain the governorship of the state.

    In a keynote address, the guest speaker, Professor Ilemona Adofu, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Nasarawa State University, presented an analysis of past Kogi State elections, stressing that numerical strength alone does not guarantee electoral victory. 

    He argued that Kogi East must pursue a statewide political agenda rather than an ethnic-based approach and cautioned that dislodging an incumbent governor requires broad, strategic alliances across senatorial districts.

    Speakers at the summit also paid tribute to the founding fathers of Kogi State, including Senator Ahmadu Ali, General Salihu Ibrahim and Senator Tunde Ogbeha, for their leadership roles in the state’s political evolution.

    Read Also: Tinubu congratulates Ododo on birthday

    The summit noted that the 2027 general election presents a critical opportunity for Kogi East to reset its political strategy. 

    Stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to sustained advocacy, unity of purpose, consultations and collaboration with other parts of the state to strengthen the district’s quest for power.

    In a 10-point communiqué issued at the end of the meeting, participants called for an urgent and workable alliance with Kogi Central, where the incumbent governor hails from, as a pathway to returning power to Kogi East.

    The summit appraised Governor Ododo’s two years in office, scoring him “very highly” on developmental initiatives and his handling of security challenges across the state. Consequently, participants unanimously endorsed him to seek re-election in 2027, with an understanding that power should return to Kogi East after the completion of his second term in 2031.

    The gathering also unveiled a “Movement for Strategic Alliance,” a mobilisation platform aimed at promoting peaceful elections devoid of violence and political malpractice in the state.

    It further resolved that a high-level committee comprising eminent leaders from Kogi East, Central and West be constituted to work out modalities for the rotation of power after 2031. While recognising Kogi West’s aspiration to produce the next governor, the summit demanded a level playing field for candidates from both Kogi East and Kogi West at the expiration of Governor Ododo’s tenure.

    As part of its implementation strategy, the summit announced the establishment of the Kogi Elites Strategic Group (KESG) to drive its resolutions. Traditional rulers were also encouraged to form a Kogi East Council of Traditional Rulers to enhance consultations and collaboration with government and other stakeholders.

    Participants commended the proposed establishment of a military barrack at Ogidibeje Junction and applauded the Chief of Army Staff, the Federal Government and the Kogi State Government for the initiative. They recommended the creation of a local security body to work with the barrack to further strengthen security in the state.

    The summit concluded with expressions of appreciation to traditional rulers, spiritual leaders, political party representatives, academics, speakers and panelists, as well as the organisers and the management of Prince Abubakar Audu University for their roles in the success of the event.

  • Why Nigerians in Diaspora reluctant to invest in Nigeria, by Winhomes CEO

    Why Nigerians in Diaspora reluctant to invest in Nigeria, by Winhomes CEO

    The Chief Executive Officer of Winhomes, Engr Stella Okengwu, has explained why many Nigerians in the diaspora are increasingly reluctant to invest in the country, citing policy inconsistency, poor protection of private investments and actions of government officials that undermine investor confidence.

    Speaking in a recent video interview on Arise Tv, Okengwu said her experience as a diaspora investor has been “mixed and at times disappointing,” stressing that public actions and statements by authorities have created fear rather than reassurance for Nigerians seeking to invest back home.

    According to her, despite having all required approvals and documentation, her company’s infrastructure and property were demolished. 

    “We did all the things, we had all our documentation intact. We were not on the 2006 gazetted alignment, and all of a sudden they just came and bamboozled everything, demolishing our infrastructure and property,” she said.

    Okengwu noted that when senior government officials publicly question or misrepresent lawful private investments, it sends a dangerous signal to potential investors.

    She also raised concerns over what she described as a lack of transparency in infrastructure costing, particularly in projects involving difficult terrains such as swampy areas.

    “Building roads through swamp water with bridges and drainage will never cost the same as building on dry land. The failure to clearly explain these costs leaves everyone dumbfounded,” she said.

    On the issue of compensation for demolished properties, the Winhomes CEO accused the authorities of being unclear and politicising the matter, warning that such conduct further damages Nigeria’s image as an investment destination.

    Okengwu revealed that her firm brought in about $250 million in foreign direct investment, rejecting claims that she was involved in any fraudulent activity.

    “How can I be a fraud when you came into our estates and demolished them on your order? Claims about marine cables on land are false. Marine is in the deep sea, not on land,” she said, insisting she has evidence to back her claims.

    She disclosed that she has written to the Senate and the House of Representatives, saying she is determined to exhaust local remedies before seeking international intervention.

    “We want to try Nigeria first before seeking help from the international community,” Okengwu said, adding that she has also engaged with a United States senator for legal guidance on petitioning relevant anti-corruption agencies.

    According to her, restoring confidence among Nigerians in the diaspora will require transparency, respect for due process and genuine protection of lawful private investments.

    “How can we get Nigeria right if people who follow the rules are treated this way?” She queried.

  • Police intercept explosive-making materials, foil trafficking attempt in Kano

    Police intercept explosive-making materials, foil trafficking attempt in Kano

    The Kano State Police Command has intercepted suspected explosive materials and illicit drugs in two separate operations.

    On January 13, police officers attached to Rijiyar Lemo Police Division executed a search warrant at a residence in Tudun Bojuwa Quarters of Fagge local government area, discovering 6 rolls of detonating codes, 20 parcels of Cannabis Sativa, and 220 sachets of Exol tablets.

    In another recent operation, police officers attached to Anti-Daba Unit intercepted a tricycle rider at Sani Mainagge Quarters of Gwale local government area with 3,700 pieces of electric detonators. The suspect, Ibrahim Garba, aka ‘Manyan Baki’, 49, of Zamfara State, confessed to facilitating the movement of the materials from Nasarawa State.

    Read Also: Two police officers killed as gunmen attack patrol team in Enugu

    Police spokesman Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa said detectives were still investigating the incidents and interrogating the suspects.

    Commissioner of Police Ibrahim Adamu Bakori commended the officers for the good job. He urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station.

    He also advised the public not to touch suspicious items, but to keep a safe distance and report any suspicion immediately.

  • No alternative to Tinubu in 2027, Oyo APC guber aspirant Oladele tells Nigerians

    No alternative to Tinubu in 2027, Oyo APC guber aspirant Oladele tells Nigerians

    • …says it’s youth o clock in Oyo

    Oyo APC gubernatorial aspirant, Oloye Saheed Oladele, has urged Nigerians to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for second term.

    Oloye Oladele made this statement during the hosting of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors at the grand finale of the 14-Federal Constituency Tour at the Ibadan North Federal Constituency. 

    The event was held at Yemetu Police Barracks playground. Oloye Oladele joined the Ibadan North APC to host Oyo State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress and the Renewed Hope Ambassadors.

    The Baàmèkó of Ibadanland said it’s youth’s time in Oyo as he said unity is paramount to return to Agodi Government House in 2027. 

    He stated that there’s no alternative to President Tinubu because of the transformative policies being pursued by his administration to reset Nigeria to the path of economic and social prosperity.

    Oloye Oladele expressed delight at the turnout of party leaders, grassroot mobilisers, and dedicated party members, describing it as encouraging and inspiring.

    He further asserted that the large turnout of party members and supporters at the gathering reflected the growing strength, unity and shared sense of purpose within Oyo APC. 

    Read Also: Shettima departs Abuja to represent Tinubu at Guinea inauguration, heads to Davos

    He reaffirmed Oyo APC’s sacrosanct support for President Tinubu who has been adopted as APC’s  sole presidential candidate for 2027 general election. 

    He urged Nigerians to continue to support President Tinubu’s transformative policies as Oloye Oladele expressed confidence that the policies would bring national development and shared prosperity.

    Oloye Oladele lauded Senator Teslim Folarin for his efforts so far at reuniting Oyo APC and canvassing support for President Tinubu’s reelection.

  • I’d love to collaborate with Ed Sheeran, Davido – London Bus Aunty

    I’d love to collaborate with Ed Sheeran, Davido – London Bus Aunty

    Content creator Bemi Orojogun, popularly known as London Bus Aunty, has revealed that her dream TikTok collaborations would be British singer Ed Sheeran and Afrobeats singer Davido in Nigeria.

    She expressed her admiration for both artists, saying, “I’d probably say in the UK, it would definitely be Ed Sheeran. In Nigeria, I’d probably say Davido because I love Davido”.

    As a viral sensation, Bemi has already made waves with her street interviews and bus conversations, winning the Video of the Year award at the TikTok UK Awards 2025.

    Read Also: London Mayor congratulates Nigerian Bus Aunty on UK TikTok award win

    According to her, she’s open to collaborating with other creators and celebrities, embracing spontaneous interactions and community engagement.

    “I’m open to it. Anyone can come on the street and join me on the buses,” she said.

    Bemi’s rise to fame is attributed to her unique content, showcasing London’s iconic double-decker buses and spreading joy.

    She’s collaborated with major brands like Burberry, H&M, and Jacquemus.

  • Tinubu, Akume eulogise Akande at 87

    Tinubu, Akume eulogise Akande at 87

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, on Friday paid glowing tributes to former Osun State Governor and elder statesman, Chief Bisi Akande, describing him as a pillar of Nigeria’s democratic evolution.

    They spoke at the 87th birthday celebration of Chief Akande held in Ila-Orangun, Osun State, where they praised his lifelong commitment to democratic ideals, principled leadership and selfless service to the nation, noting that his contributions to Nigeria’s political development remain enduring and invaluable.

    President Tinubu’s goodwill message was delivered by Senator Akume at the ceremony. 

    In the message, the President described Akande as a mentor whose wisdom and counsel have guided generations of political leaders through difficult moments in Nigeria’s democratic journey.

    According to a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the Secretary Government of the Federation (SGF) on Media and Publicity, Yomi Odunuga, he said the nation owes the elder statesman a debt of gratitude for his sacrifices and steadfast belief in democratic governance, praying for continued good health, strength and peace for him.

    President Tinubu also expressed confidence that Akande’s legacy of integrity and patriotism would continue to illuminate Nigeria’s path towards unity, stability and progress.

    In his personal goodwill message, Akume described Chief Akande as an embodiment of courage, humility and unwavering commitment to democratic values, noting that his service to the nation has left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s political history.

    Recalling their political collaboration, Akume said they jointly launched a deliberate strategy aimed at dismantling the dominance of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the South-West. He explained that the effort was driven by a shared belief in progressive governance, discipline and grassroots mobilisation.

    Read Also: Sanwo-Olu celebrates Akande at 87

    According to him, the strategy reshaped the region’s political landscape and laid the foundation for the emergence of a formidable opposition that later evolved into the All Progressives Congress.

    Akume also commended Akande’s tenure as Governor of Osun State and his role as the interim National Chairman of the APC, noting that his leadership helped shape Nigeria’s political landscape and strengthened democratic governance.

    He added that Akande’s vision, integrity and wisdom continue to inspire leaders across generations, stressing that Nigeria’s democratic journey would be incomplete without recognising his immense contributions to national development.

  • Rivers’ lawmakers got N350m each, Fubara’s aide alleges

    Rivers’ lawmakers got N350m each, Fubara’s aide alleges

    The Special Adviser to Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Darlington Orji, has alleged that members of the Rivers State House of Assembly received N350 million each for constituency projects, despite claims by some lawmakers that certain payments to them were not appropriated.

    He said the funds were disbursed under the administration of then Sole Administrator, Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas.

    Orji made the allegation yesterday while appearing on Arise Television’s Morning Show, where he addressed questions surrounding the budget process and recent tensions between the executive and the legislature.

    Fubara’s aide made the claim amidst ongoing faceoff between the governor and majority of the state’s House of Assembly, leading to initiating impeachment proceedings against the governor.

    Orji, who also referred to a N100,000 payment made in December to civil servants as an end-of-year appreciation, noted that the same amount was extended to members of the House of Assembly, though some lawmakers reportedly rejected it on the grounds that it was not appropriated.

    Orji questioned the rejection, arguing that the lawmakers had previously accepted N350 million each for constituency projects without raising concerns about appropriation.

    He said, “You know that your platform is a very respected one, and I will not come here to tell lies. I will not say what I’m not sure of now. Because the Governor did not agree with them on that, so they didn’t come up with a presentation.

    Read Also: BREAKING: Rivers Assembly vows to proceed with Fubara’s removal 

    “You know that in preparing budget, there are too many things that will be improved that will make up the appropriation bill. And when they say the interest was not captured, and the man (Fubara) said, don’t worry, by December.

    “So the specific amount I do not know as it stands today, because that presentation was not made because His Excellency, the governor, refused to accept that. But don’t forget, in December, there was N100,000 that was given to civil servants as a way of appreciating them and end of the package, it was also given to the members of Rivers. Some people rejected the money.

    “They rejected it that it was not appropriated. You cannot build something of nothing now you rejected because N100,000 was not appropriated. Can you ask them, please, sir, the N350 million naira that was given to each of them for their constituency project, where did it come from? Why did they not reject it since it was not appropriated?”

    “It was Ibok-Ete Ibas, the Sole Administrator, after the signing of the Appropriation Act, that’s the budget has been passed to law, it was there they gave them the money. Why did they not say it was not captured, and the SUV car?”

  • Arewa group plans northern convention to tackle insecurity, shape 2027 politics

    Arewa group plans northern convention to tackle insecurity, shape 2027 politics

    • …blames rising insecurity on weak prosecution of criminals, culture of impunity
    • …calls on Northern leaders to emulate Sardauna’s values of integrity, unity, institution-building

    The Rebuild Arewa Initiative for Development (RAI4D) has announced plans to convene a major regional convention aimed at forging a unified strategy on security, development and inclusive governance ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    The group disclosed this on Friday in Abuja while briefing journalists on activities lined up to mark the 2026 Sardauna Memorial Day. 

    It said the proposed convention, scheduled for April, would provide a non-partisan platform for stakeholders across Northern Nigeria to collectively address the region’s pressing socio-economic, political and security challenges.

    Speaking at the briefing, RAID’s Director of Communications and Publicity, Comrade Bitako Abubakar Umar, said the convention would bring together political, traditional and religious leaders, as well as youth and women groups, civil society organisations, professionals and business leaders from across the North.

    According to him, participants are expected to work towards articulating a common position on restoring peace, tackling poverty and unemployment, reviving education and strengthening governance in the region.

    Umar explained that the initiative is designed to produce a people-driven roadmap that would help guide leadership choices and policy direction in the build-up to the 2027 polls, while reaffirming the North’s commitment to unity, constructive engagement and national development.

    He warned that the prevailing insecurity in the region, marked by banditry, terrorism, farmer-herder conflicts and kidnappings, poses a grave threat not only to Northern Nigeria but also to the country’s overall stability and prosperity.

    Fielding questions from journalists, Umar attributed the worsening security situation to weak prosecution of criminal elements, poor governance and the failure to effectively implement key social policies, particularly in the education sector. 

    He lamented what he described as a culture of impunity, noting that reports of past commissions of inquiry were rarely followed by concrete prosecutions.

    He also criticised the payment of ransom to kidnappers, arguing that it reinforces inequality and further incentivises criminal activity. 

    Umar added that the poor implementation of the Universal Basic Education policy has contributed to the growing number of out-of-school children, many of whom, he said, are vulnerable to recruitment by extremist and criminal groups operating in the region.

    Beyond security concerns, Umar said political interference, historical injustices and selective remembrance of national leaders have continued to fuel discontent in the North, stressing the need for inclusive dialogue and broader recognition of shared sacrifices in Nigeria’s nation-building process.

    Earlier, RAI4D’s Secretary, Kabiru Duhu, renewed calls for Northern Nigeria to emulate the leadership philosophy of Sir Ahmadu Bello, describing his legacies as critical to addressing insecurity, poverty and weak institutions.

    Sir Ahmadu Bello, the Sardauna of Sokoto and Premier of Northern Nigeria from 1954 until his assassination in 1966, was widely regarded as a visionary statesman who prioritised education, unity, institutional development and moral leadership.

    Duhu recalled that the Sardauna’s administration established landmark institutions, including Ahmadu Bello University, alongside teachers’ colleges, scholarship schemes and agricultural initiatives that drove economic growth and social cohesion across the region. 

    He noted that the Sardauna’s inclusive governance style, personal integrity and long-term planning remain highly relevant in addressing contemporary challenges.

  • Dr Akpa builds free state-of-the-art hospital in Ankpa

    Dr Akpa builds free state-of-the-art hospital in Ankpa

    A state-of-the-art hospital is being constructed in Ankpa Local Government Area of Kogi State by Dr Engr. Stephen Achema Akpa is nearing completion, with work reported to be about 70 per cent finished.

    Dr Akpa, who is the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Zoe New Dawn Nigeria Limited and Rehoboth City Estate, said the facility is intended to improve access to quality healthcare in the area. According to project details, the hospital is designed to provide modern medical services, with plans for medications to be offered free of charge to patients.

    The project has been described by residents as a major intervention in a community that has long faced challenges in accessing adequate healthcare services. When completed, the facility is expected to ease the burden on families who often travel long distances for medical treatment.

    Beyond the hospital project, Dr Akpa has been involved in several philanthropic initiatives across Kogi State and the Federal Capital Territory. These include the distribution of food items during festive periods, educational support through scholarship programmes, and financial assistance aimed at supporting individuals and families.

    Read Also: Sampling Fela music doesn’t make you him – Seun Kuti

    In addition to his humanitarian efforts, Dr Akpa is also active in real estate development through Zoe New Dawn Nigeria Limited. The company has ongoing and completed estate projects in locations such as Maitama 2, Katampe Extension, Guzape 2, Apo Wassa, Apo Gude, Jabi, Dakibiyu, Lugbe, and Gwarinpa in Abuja. The developments are designed as integrated communities, incorporating healthcare facilities, schools, shopping centres, and recreational spaces.

    As construction progresses at the Ankpa hospital site, community leaders and residents have expressed optimism that the project will contribute significantly to improved healthcare delivery and overall social development in the area.

    The initiative adds to growing private-sector participation in addressing healthcare and infrastructure gaps, particularly at the grassroots level, where access to essential services remains limited.