The Nation Newspaper

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

    Rivers APC chief praises reforms in interior ministry, revalidates membership

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

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

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

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

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

    READ ALSO: Okpebholo’s weekend surprise for three workers

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

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

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

  • Lokpobiri mourns victims of fatal Bayelsa road crash

    Lokpobiri mourns victims of fatal Bayelsa road crash

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

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

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

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

    READ ALSO: Okpebholo’s weekend surprise for three workers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Pastor Kingsley defends Bible-inspired tattoo as form of evangelism

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Fela honoured with Grammy lifetime achievement award

    Fela honoured with Grammy lifetime achievement award

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Otti: No coalition with opposition political parties

    Otti: No coalition with opposition political parties

    …to hold congresses next month

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • FG arraigns alleged perpetrators of Benue killings Monday

    FG arraigns alleged perpetrators of Benue killings Monday

    Some suspects arrested in connection with killings in Yelwata, a town in Benue State, will be arraigned on Monday before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court in Abuja.

    Kamarudeen Ogundele, Media aide to the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Lateef Fagbemi, disclosed this in a statement on Sunday.

    Ogundele said the decision to arraign the suspects followed “a painstaking investigation and collaboration by government agencies.”

    Read Also: Nigeria on ‘healing journey’ to $1trn economy by 2030 – Presidency

    He added that “the office of the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice wishes to assure Nigerians that Justice will be ensured in the matter to send a strong signal to the enemies of the country, acting under any disguise.

    “The administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is committed to the protection of the lives and property of all as enshrined in the constitution.”

  • Interfaith Week: First Lady calls for love, peace, compassion, respect

    Interfaith Week: First Lady calls for love, peace, compassion, respect

    …urges Nigerians to turn prayer into action, seeks dialogue, unity across faiths

    First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has called on Nigerians to uphold the shared values of love, peace, compassion, respect, and service to humanity as the country joins the rest of the world to observe World Interfaith Harmony Week 2026.

    In a message to mark the week-long observance, Senator Tinubu said these universal values remain the strongest bonds uniting people across different faiths and beliefs, stressing their importance to national cohesion and peaceful coexistence.

    She urged Nigerians to move “from prayer to action,” noting that the nation’s diverse religious traditions should inspire dialogue, mutual understanding, and collective efforts toward building a more peaceful and inclusive society.

    Read Also: Nigeria on ‘healing journey’ to $1trn economy by 2030 – Presidency

    The First Lady spoke in the context of the 2026 World Interfaith Harmony Week, observed from February 1 to 7, with the theme, “Celebrating Peace, Honouring Leaders – From Prayer to Action.”

    According to her, interfaith harmony goes beyond symbolic gestures, requiring deliberate actions that promote tolerance, respect, and cooperation among adherents of different religions.

    She expressed optimism that Nigeria’s diversity, when guided by shared moral values, can serve as a powerful force for unity and national development.

    Senator Tinubu wished Nigerians a happy World Interfaith Harmony Week 2026, reaffirming her commitment to promoting peace, inclusion, and understanding across all faiths.

    World Interfaith Harmony Week is observed annually to encourage interreligious dialogue and cooperation as a means of fostering peace and stability within societies.

  • World Hijab Day: First Lady urges mutual respect, peaceful coexistence

    World Hijab Day: First Lady urges mutual respect, peaceful coexistence

    …calls for unity across cultures, beliefs

    …describes diversity as Nigeria’s shared strength

    First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has called on Nigerians to embrace mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and solidarity across cultures and beliefs, saying national unity is strengthened by diversity.

    The First Lady made the call in a message to mark World Hijab Day 2026, where she urged citizens to continue building bridges of understanding and tolerance, noting that Nigeria’s plural identity should be a source of cohesion rather than division.

    She said that together, Nigerians are stronger when they respect one another’s choices, faiths, and identities, stressing that peaceful coexistence remains essential to national harmony and progress.

    Read Also: Nigeria on ‘healing journey’ to $1trn economy by 2030 – Presidency

    Earlier in her message, Senator Tinubu said she was celebrating the beauty of choice, faith, and identity of Muslim women on the occasion of World Hijab Day 2026, which carries the theme “Unity in Hijab.”

    She described the hijab as a symbol of obedience, dignity, strength, and worship for many women, adding that it also serves as a reminder that diversity should unite rather than divide societies.

    The First Lady reaffirmed her commitment to promoting inclusion, understanding, and respect among Nigerians of all backgrounds, while wishing Muslim women and the wider public a happy World Hijab Day.

    World Hijab Day is observed annually to promote awareness, tolerance, and freedom of religious expression, particularly for Muslim women around the world.

  • In less than three years, Tinubu has a lot to show for his stewardship — Onanuga

    In less than three years, Tinubu has a lot to show for his stewardship — Onanuga

    …references The Economist’s positive analysis of administration’s progress

    …cites inflation drop, reserve growth, investor return

    The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, has said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has achieved significant economic gains in less than three years in office, citing a recent assessment by The Economist.

    Onanuga, in a post on his verified X handle, @aonanuga1956, drew attention to the January 29 edition of the magazine, which reviewed the state of Nigeria’s economy before and after President Tinubu assumed office in 2023.

    According to the magazine, President Tinubu inherited a deeply troubled economy marked by severe fiscal and monetary imbalances.

    It noted that when he took office, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) faced unmet obligations of about $7 billion, equivalent to 1.4 per cent of GDP at the time, a situation that triggered a mass exit of international investors.

    The publication added that the apex bank’s credibility had been undermined by loose monetary policy, mismanagement of foreign exchange reserves, and the maintenance of an unsustainable multi-tier exchange rate regime, while the Federal Government spent about $10 billion, or 2.2 per cent of GDP, on fuel subsidy in 2022 alone.

    It said the Tinubu administration responded with “drastic structural reforms,” including the removal of fuel subsidy and the unification of the foreign exchange market, allowing the naira to float more freely.

    The magazine further observed that monetary policy was aggressively tightened to curb inflation, while the government also moved to improve security in the Niger Delta and introduced tax incentives to attract investors and boost oil production.

    Read Also: Nigeria on ‘healing journey’ to $1trn economy by 2030 – Presidency

    While acknowledging that Nigerians, particularly the poor and middle class, continue to feel the impact of higher fuel and food prices, the publication said the reforms appear to be yielding results.

    It noted that annual inflation, which peaked at 34.8 per cent in December 2024, fell sharply to 15.2 per cent by December 2025, while economic growth is returning, with the International Monetary Fund projecting 4.4 per cent growth in 2026.

    According to the assessment, the naira has stabilised after two major devaluations in 2023, and Nigeria’s foreign exchange reserves have risen to $46 billion, their highest level in seven years.

    The publication said improvements in macroeconomic stability are restoring investor confidence, citing plans by Shell to finalise development of a $20 billion offshore oilfield by 2027 and a $1.5 billion deepwater investment commitment by Exxon Mobil.

    It added that local business leaders are also more optimistic, with oil and gas output rising due to improved security and increased participation by indigenous firms in the Niger Delta.

    According to the post, the magazine concluded that the reforms should provide the government with greater fiscal breathing room, particularly as a more competitive naira boosts non-oil exports such as cocoa and cashew nuts.