The Nation Newspaper

Category: Featured

  • State police, power devolution, others back on front burner

    State police, power devolution, others back on front burner

    • Reps hold public hearing on Constitution review today

    The House of Representatives will today hold a  public hearing on the proposed amendment to the 1999 Constitution.  

    The hearing, originally scheduled earlier this month but postponed following the national mourning for former President Muhammadu Buhari, marks a major step in the ongoing efforts to amend the constitution.

    Issues on the front burner are state police, power devolution, state police, special legislative seats for women, electoral and judicial reforms among others.

    Deputy Speaker of the House  Benjamin Kalu, who also chairs the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Constitution Review, is expected to preside over the event at the Congress Hall of the Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja.

    House Spokesman  Akin Rotimi said in a statement that the hearing is designed to consolidate inputs  by  Nigerians during consultations in July across the six geopolitical zones.

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    The consultations featured public hearings at 12 designated centres nationwide.

    Rotimi   described the national hearing as “a vital platform for Nigerians and stakeholders to shape constitutional reforms directly.”

    He encouraged Nigerians to study the Compendium of 86 Constitution Review Bills, available online( https://bit.ly/HCCRCompendium), to better understand the issues under consideration and make informed contributions.

    “This national forum will consolidate citizens’ contributions ahead of legislative voting on the Constitution Review Bills. It demonstrates the House’s commitment to inclusive and participatory governance,” Rotimi said.

    Kalu also underscored the people-driven nature of the exercise, insisting that any amendment must reflect the aspirations of Nigerians.

    “This Constitution belongs to all Nigerians, and its review must reflect the aspirations of our people. I urge citizens and stakeholders to participate fully in the National Public Hearing and make their voices count, because only through your contributions can we achieve a truly participatory and people-driven constitutional review,” he stated.

    The House reaffirmed its commitment to a transparent and credible process, pledging that the outcome would reflect the collective will of Nigerians.

  • Ooni, Ile-Ife residents clash over alleged extortion for Olojo festival levy 

    Ooni, Ile-Ife residents clash over alleged extortion for Olojo festival levy 

    The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi and residents of the community on Sunday bickered over alleged imposition of Olojo Festival levy on them. 

    The residents under the union, Artisans, Peasants and Traders Association of Nigeria (APTAN) in a statement on Sunday jointly signed by its Coordinator and Secretary of APTAN, Ile-Ife Branch, Comrade Saidi Adegoke and Comrade Monsur Jimoh, alleged that their members are being harassed by representatives of the Palace of Ooni of Ife over their refusal to pay the traditional Olojo Festival levy.

    They called on the federal and the state governments as well as the Nigerian Police to intervene. 

    They stated, “The incident occurred at the Ojatuntun Otisese Weekly Market on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, witnessed some men who claimed to represent the Palace of the Ooni of Ife stormed the market and forcefully seized goods belonging to APTAN members.”

    The union identified some of the palace representatives adding that they took the goods away when their member declined to make payment for the Olojo Festival levy. 

    He said, “For over five years, our members have been subjected to harassments, intimidation, and seizure of goods under the guise of compulsory levies for traditional festivals. Goods taken in previous years have never been returned, and this yearly oppression continues despite our repeated appeals.

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    “Our members are largely Muslims. We have consistently paid all other legitimate fees and levies required of us. However, making contributions to activities rooted in idolatry and traditional religious practices (Isese) is forbidden by our faith. 

    “Therefore, compelling Muslims to fund traditional religious practices is a direct violation of our freedom of conscience and our religious rights.”

    Subsequently, they called for the intervention of the President of the Supreme Council of Islamic Affairs, the Sultan of Sokoto however asserted that APTAN and its members hold His Imperial Majesty, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi in the highest esteem. 

    “We believe strongly that the Ooni was not aware of these nefarious acts, which they suspect were being carried out under the influence of certain High Chiefs and the Babaloja, without the knowledge of the Palace.”

    Reacting to the allegations, Ooni through his media aide, Moses Olafare denied the claims, saying Oba Ogunwusi has provided the necessary fund for the festival. 

    He said, “The palace could not have and did not send anybody to commit crime in the name of Olojo festival, stressing that such persons ought to have been arrested and made to face the wrath of the law.

    “No palace can force people to pay lecy for festival talk less the Ooni’s palace. The Ooni has made available needed fund for the festival and volunteers have also made donations towards the successful celebration of the annual event. Whoever go around in the next of the palace should be treated as a criminal and be made to face the wrath of the law.

    “It is also unfortunate that the traders have not informed the palace of the extortion they face annually as they claimed. Since they can identify the people involved they should report to the police and let them face the consequences of their actions”, he added.

  • JUST IN: Ooni arrives Ladoja’s residence

    JUST IN: Ooni arrives Ladoja’s residence

    The Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has arrived at the Bodija residence of Olubadan-designate, Oba Rasidi Ladoja. 

    The monarch arrived amidst drumming, dancing, and jubilation into the waiting hands of hundreds of residents, including high chiefs, Baales, Mogajis, social cultural groups, and title holders.

    The Ooni arrived at about 2:12 pm and was received at the entrance by Oba Ladoja, accompanied by members of the Olubadan-in-Council.

    At the time of this report, the visitor and the host are having a meeting at the parlour of Oba Ladoja.

    Details shortly…

  • JUST IN: Shettima departs Abuja for UN General Assembly in New York

    JUST IN: Shettima departs Abuja for UN General Assembly in New York

    Vice President Kashim Shettima has departed Abuja for New York, United States, where he will represent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). 

    The week-long gathering of world leaders is scheduled to hold from tomorrow, Monday, September 22 to Sunday, September 28, 2025.

    According to a statement earlier issued by Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President Stanley Nkwocha, Senator Shettima will deliver Nigeria’s national statement during the high-level general debates and participate in several side events lined up for the assembly.

    The Vice President’s presence underscores Nigeria’s active engagement in global discourse at a time the UN is marking its 80th anniversary.

    A major highlight of Shettima’s itinerary is his expected announcement of Nigeria’s new Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement.

    The updated climate commitments are set to be unveiled during a special UN event on climate for Heads of State and Government, signaling Nigeria’s readiness to play a stronger role in tackling global environmental challenges.

    The Vice President’s trip comes as President Tinubu continues to push Nigeria’s agenda on sustainable development, climate action, and global partnerships, with Shettima leading the delegation on his behalf at the landmark New York gathering.

  • 2027: CPC bloc restates backing for Tinubu, denies Atiku endorsement

    2027: CPC bloc restates backing for Tinubu, denies Atiku endorsement

    • Ex-state chairmen demand APC addresses alleged marginalisation
    • Presidency to ADC: Tinubu delivered stability, peace in Rivers

    The Forum of State Chairmen of the defunct Congress for Progressives Change yesterday reiterated its support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

    It also distanced itself from the recent visit of some of its members to the Abuja residence of former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, describing it as the personal decision of a few individuals who did not represent the position of the group.

    The Forum also urged the Presidency and the ruling All Progressives Congress to address what it called the continued marginalisation of the CPC bloc within the APC.

    Former Vice President Atiku, who has since renounced his membership of the PDP, is reportedly wooing many opposition figures to rally round him in a bid to challenge President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election.

    Although he is yet to declare for any of the existing political parties, there are indications that the ex-Vice President will formally join the African Democratic Congress ahead of the polls.

    Already, CPC chieftains including former governors of Kaduna and Rivers states, Nasir El-Rufai and Rotimi Amaechi, as well as ex-Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, have teamed up with Atiku to work against Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027.

    Earlier in the week, Atiku had taken to his social media handles to announce the visit of some ex-CPC state chairmen, stressing that he advised them to encourage their supporters to participate in the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration.

    However, in a statement issued yesterday and signed by Kasim Mabo (National Chairman); Sulaiman Oyaremi (National Secretary); Olalekan Obolo (South West Coordinator); Enyinnaya Nnachi (South East Coordinator) and Ahmad Dawayo (North East and North West Coordinator), the Forum clarified that out of its 37 members, only 16 have pledged their support to Atiku while 20 others are in the same boat with President Tinubu.

    The statement claimed that allies of the opposition have been pressuring the forum with offer of financial incentives to dump the APC in preparation for 2027.

    The statement reads in part: “We wish to categorically state that 20 members of the group remain committed to the All Progressives Congress.

    “We wish to state clearly that for some time now our Forum has been put under intense pressure, which includes financial gratification by opposition leaders, which accounts for why nine of our members succumbed to their pressure a few months ago and seven others joined them only last week as it appears they could no longer resist the pressure.

    “As we speak, however, 20 of us remain unwavering as we have lost one of our members from Borno State.

    “This moment, however, calls for reflection, especially by the presidency and the APC leadership, to urgently address the continued neglect of the CPC bloc, particularly the Forum of State Chairmen, who are feeling increasingly alienated.

    “Without the fear of sounding immodest, we remain the direct link to the grassroots structures that gave the CPC its national relevance, and we were the chairmen that worked with President Muhammadu Buhari of blessed memory to achieve the much touted 12.5 million votes.”

    The group noted that the gathering of the CPC elements at Atiku’s residence was nothing short of a move to give the former Vice President a misleading impression of “widespread support.”

    Reaffirming its loyalty, the Forum expressed support for the leadership of the defunct CPC bloc, led by Senator Tanko Al-Makura, Aminu Masari, and Tajudeen Abbas.

    “We remain loyal, patient, but firm in our resolve to demand for better patronage just as we pray that the Almighty God shall continue to guide Mr President and indeed all our leaders,” the statement added.

    Loyalists of former President Muhammadu Buhari, under the aegis of the Forum of the defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) had recently declared support for President Bola Tinubu.

    The declaration came amidst speculations that Buhari’s loyalists were displeased with Tinubu and were planning leave the ruling party en masse.

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    Those who met in Abuja in May and declared support for the president included the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dr Tajudeen Abbas who sent in his apologies; Katsina State Governor, Dr Dikko Radda; the Niger State Governor, Umar Bago, who also sent in his apologies; Foreign Affairs minister, Maitama Tuggar; former Governor of Nasarawa State, Senator Tanko Almakura; former Katsina State Governor and ex-House Speaker, Aminu Bello Masari and Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency NDLEA, General Buba Marwa (rtd).

    Others included a former Aviation minister, Hadi Sirika; former Director General of the Voice of Nigeria VoN, Osita Okechukwu, former presidential aide, Okoi Obono Obla, former National Secretary of the APC, Arc. Waziri Bulama, former House of Representatives member, Farouk Adamu and many others.

    Presidency to ADC: Tinubu delivered stability, peace in Rivers

    The Presidency yesterday dismissed criticisms by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) over President Tinubu’s handling of the Rivers State emergency rule.

    It argued that the President’s intervention delivered stability, restored democratic institutions and returned peace to the state.

    In a post on his verified X handle, @SundayDareSD, Presidential Adviser on Media and Public Communication, Chief Sunday Dare, described ADC’s allegations of autocracy, manipulation and undermining federalism as “laughable” and an exercise in “nuisance politics.”

    Dare said the President acted constitutionally under Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), invoking emergency powers to prevent bloodshed and restore governance at a time of grave threat to law and order in Rivers State.

    “The Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is clear: under Section 305, the President has the power — and the duty — to act when law and order are under grave threat.

    “What the President delivered is stability, the return of democratic institutions, and peace in Rivers State.

    “Nigerians can see the difference: President Tinubu acted right. That is what posterity will remember him for,” Dare said.

    He dismissed ADC’s claims of federal manipulation, noting that officials in Rivers were not reduced to presidential appointees but rather protected from chaos until conditions allowed for their reinstatement.

    “To accuse the President of undermining federalism is laughable; as a former governor, no Nigerian alive presently has fought harder for state autonomy than Asiwaju Bola Tinubu.

    “What ADC offers Nigerians is late pontification and empty noise. What the President delivered is stability, peace and order,” Dare said.

    The Presidency maintained that President Tinubu’s decision was neither whimsical nor partisan, but a constitutional necessity to protect the state and, by extension, the federation.

    It’s Tinubu or nothing in 2027, Lagos LCDA declares

    In another show of support for the President yesterday, Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, expressed strong conviction that the 2027 election will be a walk over for President Tinubu.

    Obasa made the declaration at the launch of a Tinubu 2027 support group in Ojokoro LCDA of Lagos State.

    At the carnival-like event which took place at the local government playing ground, Obasa commended the council for taking the initiative to mobilize support for Tinubu, urging them to match their words with actions.

    He said: “The President is doing wonderfully well. Within two years, his achievements are unprecedented. We can imagine what more he will still do. Let’s play our parts by being available to our people and by drawing them closer.

    “If we do this, I am sure the election will be a walkover for APC and President Bola Tinubu come 2027.”

    The coordinator of the group, Hon. Emmanuel Oltu, the lawmaker representing Ijaiye II at the Lagos State House of Assembly, had earlier declared that the move became necessary to prove that the council area remains Tinubu’s stronghold.

    The Chairman House Committee on Agriculture said the council had put structures in place to galvanise mass support for Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election.

    2027: Kwara South leaders root for Tinubu

    Political leaders and opinion moulders from Kwara South senatorial district have declared that President Bola Tinubu’s administration has attracted recognition and opportunities to the area..

    They accordingly encouraged the President to throw his hat in the ring for the 2027 presidential election.

    Speaking at the Kwara South Leaders’ Roundtable in Oro, Irepodun Local Government Area, Deputy Senate Leader, Senator Oyelola Ashiru, said the district had every reason to align with President Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC) because of the appointments and federal attention given to their people.

    The roundtable was themed “Unity for Progress: Charting a Sustainable Future for Kwara South.”

    “There will be a new Kwara South. You will be inspired, you will be taught a new lesson, and you will see the changes yourself.

    “If President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is not making Nigeria a great nation, I would not remain in APC,” he said.

    Senator Ashiru said the endorsement was driven by a vision for progress and not politics, adding that “we are saying this because we want Nigeria to be great. We are saying it because we want Kwara South to develop.

    “The President has recognised us and has done so much for us. The best thing any leader can stand on is the interest of his people.”

    Ashiru also praised Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq’s strides in education, especially in Kwara South, urging him not to retire after 2027 but take on bigger responsibilities at the national level.

    He further expressed his support for any son or daughter of Kwara South who may contest the governorship in future.

    In his remarks, Executive Secretary of the National Institute for Cultural Orientation (NICO), Otunba Abiodun Ajiboye, also emphasised that unity is the foundation for development.

    “Kwara South desires a platform for unity. Only when we are united can we think of development.

    “We must also appreciate our Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, for the wonderful work he is doing,” he noted.

    In his remarks, one of the opinion moulders in the district, Chief Abiodun Dada, called for political harmony among stakeholders, stressing that unity is the key to sustainable growth in the district.

    “Our elders say one tree cannot make a forest. In the same way, no single town or group can build the future of Kwara South alone. Unity is the very heartbeat of development”, he said.

    Dada highlighted the gains of the Renewed Hope Agenda, noting that Kwara South has never enjoyed the kind of recognition it has now, pointing to appointments such as the Deputy Senate Leader, the Attorney-General of the Federation, and the Group Managing Director of NNPCL.

    “Have we enjoyed political patronage like this before? The answer is no. This is a clear indication that Kwara South has a greater future in this dispensation”, he stated, urging leaders to work towards securing the governorship in 2027.

    Former APC chairman in Kwara State, Bashir Omolaja Bolarinwa, aligned with the resolution, commending the people of Kwara South for coming together to endorse President Tinubu.

    “Genuine, dedicated, courageous, progressive, forward-looking people of Kwara South have gathered here to endorse President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in office given his track record,” Bolarinwa said.

  • Abbas, Sanwo-Olu, others hail First Lady on 65th birthday

    Abbas, Sanwo-Olu, others hail First Lady on 65th birthday

    • Deputy Speaker: She’s an inspiration to women
    • Sanwo-Olu, Lagos APC, others hail First Lady

    Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, said yesterday that the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has lived an impactful and inspiring life, empowering Nigerian youths to greater heights.

    The Speaker eulogised the First Lady on her 65th birthday, describing her as an accomplished leader whose impact inspires many women.

    He was joined by his deputy, Hon. Benjamin Kalu to eulogise the First Lady on the August occasion, describing her as an inspiration to women and a compassionate leader.

    In a congratulatory message signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Leke Olatunji Baiyewu, Speaker Abbas described Senator Tinubu as a loving wife, a sound politician, an experienced lawmaker, a great women mobiliser and a philanthropist of repute.

    He noted that Senator Tinubu has touched many lives, especially women and children, through her pet projects and empowerment programmes.

    Describing her as the “Mother of the Nation,” the Speaker said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR could not have had a better partner than his wife who is also an icon of democracy.

    Speaker Abbas recalled how Mrs Tinubu, as the First Lady of Lagos State between 1999 and 2003, used her New Era Foundation to empower the youth, mentoring them and sponsoring their education and healthcare.

    He also recalled how resourceful and hardworking Senator Tinubu was at the National Assembly while representing Lagos Central Senatorial District for a record three terms.

    The Speaker said her current Renewed Hope Initiative as Nigeria’s First Lady has blessed Nigerians across ethnic and religious divides, with her philanthropic gestures being felt by the common people at the grassroots.

    “Her life has been characterised by service to humanity, progressive initiatives and philanthropy.

    “As the Mother of the Nation, she has been a blessing to many lives, an inspiration to many women in government and politics.

    “Senator Tinubu’s positive impact was felt as the First Lady in Lagos State, and her humanitarian gestures as Nigeria’s First Lady are now giving hope to people across the country through her Renewed Hope Initiative.

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    “It is my prayer that God grants her long life in sound body and mind,” the Speaker said.

    Speaker Abbas commended the First Lady for choosing not to mark her birthday with fanfare and instead focusing on developing and strengthening education especially among the less privileged under the ‘Oluremi at 65 Education Fund’.

    This, Speaker Abbas noted, is in recognition of the First Lady’s “long-standing commitment to education and youth empowerment.”

    Deputy Speaker Kalu: She’s an inspiration to women

    The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, described the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, as an inspiration to women and a compassionate leader.

    In a congratulatory message, he also described the First Lady as an inspiration to women, a compassionate leader, and strong pillar of support for President Bola Tinubu.

    The Deputy Speaker noted the First Lady’s passion for youth and women empowerment, saying she has demonstrated that through her numerous pet projects.

    The Deputy Speaker commended the First Lady for throwing her weight behind the reserved seats bill which seeks to address and overcome gender disparities and ensure women’s inclusion in governance.

    While urging the first Lady to continue setting examples for women in leadership and governance, Kalu prayed for continued God’s guidance and good health for the First Lady.

    He said: “I heartily congratulate Senator Oluremi Tinubu, the wife our President and leader, His Excellency Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, GCFR on the occasion of her 65th birthday.

    “Senator Oluremi is a passionate and kindhearted leader who has dedicated her life to selfless service to our dear nation in different capacities both in private and public service.

    “I commend her relentless advocacy for the advancement and well-being of the girl child, as well as her unwavering commitment to promoting education for children, women and the less privileged.

    “The parliament is proud of her achievements during her time in the Senate, and I urge her to continue setting examples for women in leadership and governance.

    “Happy birthday, Your Excellency, and many happy returns.”

    Sanwo-Olu celebrates ‘compassionate, strong-willed’ First Lady

    Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, yesterday joined the horde of well-wishers on the occasion of Senator Oluremi Tinubu’s 65th birthday.

    He described Senator Tinubu as a compassionate and strong-willed individual who has been a pillar of support to President Bola Tinubu through the Renewed Hope Initiative, which he said has impacted millions of Nigerians positively.

    In a congratulatory message issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Gboyega Akosile, Governor Sanwo-Olu said Lagos is proud to celebrate Senator Tinubu at 65 following her dedicated service to Lagos State as First Lady and member of the Senate for 12 years.

    He said Nigeria’s First Lady’s selfless dedication to public service has continued to shine since President Tinubu assumed office on May 29, 2023, noting that she has used her office to impact the lives of many Nigerians, especially women.

    Governor Sanwo-Olu, who praised the First Lady for her tireless efforts in addressing the needs of women and children through various empowerment programmes and projects, said the Renewed Hope Initiative, which she championed, has provided relief and support to families across the country.

    He said: “On behalf of my adorable wife, Ibijoke, the government and the entire people of Lagos State, I heartily congratulate Senator Oluremi Tinubu, Nigeria’s First Lady and the wife of our leader and President, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, on the occasion of her 65th birthday.

    “Senator Oluremi Tinubu is a great ambassador of our dear State. She has served the State passionately as First Lady for eight years and as a member of the Upper Chamber of the National Assembly for three consecutive terms without any blemish.

    “We are proud of her achievements in both private and public offices. Her contributions to the development of both Lagos and Nigeria are commendable.

    “We celebrate Senator Oluremi Tinubu today and always for her kindness, advocacy for social justice, and philanthropic endeavours.

    “As our Amazon, Senator Oluremi Tinubu turns 65, I pray for God’s continued guidance and good health for her.

    “God will give her more strength and grace to render more service to humanity and our dear country, Nigeria.”

    Lagos APC, Abiru greet First Lady at 65

    The Lagos State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Senator Tokunbo Abiru has congratulated the first lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on the occasion of his 65th birthday.

    Lagos APC chairman Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi, in a statement by the Publicity Secretary, Seye Oladejo, described Senator Oluremi Tinubu as a rare gift to the nation, a woman of grace, compassion and unwavering commitment to the service of humanity.

    He said: “From her impactful years as a three-term Senator representing Lagos Central to her present role as First Lady, she has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership, humility, and dedication to the well-being of Nigerians.

    “Her tireless advocacy for women empowerment, youth development, education and care for the less privileged has positively touched countless lives and stands as an enduring legacy of her passion for service.

    “She remains an exemplary role model, a source of strength, and an inspiration to many across generations.

    “On this special day, the Lagos APC joins family, friends, associates, and millions of well-wishers at home and abroad in celebrating a distinguished daughter of Lagos and pride of our nation.

    “We pray for her continued good health, divine wisdom, and renewed strength to continue her invaluable contributions to national development.”

    Abiru, in a statement by his media aide, Enitan Olukotun, hailed the celebrator’s many remarkable accomplishments as the ever-gracious and supportive wife of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    He said: “We are immensely proud of your enduring contributions to nation-building, your compassion for humanity, and your inspiring service to our country.

    “As a true amazon, you have consistently exemplified humility, resilience, and a deep sense of duty. Your unwavering commitment to public service, your leadership in preserving progressive democratic ideals, and your tireless efforts in championing the cause of the vulnerable stand as a lasting testament to your legacy.

    “Through your impactful humanitarian interventions and purposeful initiatives, you have touched countless lives and uplifted the most disadvantaged in our society.”

    Abiru added: On this joyous occasion, we join your family, friends, associates, and innumerable well-wishers in offering prayers for your continued good health, strength, and fulfillment.

    “May the Almighty God bless you abundantly, grant the desires of your heart, and endow you with greater grace and vitality to remain an icon of hope, inspiration, and leadership for many Nigerians.”

    Obasa: She’s a pivotal force, inestimable cheerleader

    In a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Dave Agboola, the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. (Dr) Mudashiru Obasa, Senator Oluremi Tinubu as the ‘Mother of the Nation’ who has given so much of herself for the betterment of humanity and Nigeria through her boundless philanthropy and political stewardship.

    He commended the First Lady for her impact on many lives, especially the youth, women, and vulnerable people. He also commended her robust stewardship as a three-term Senator, and now as the First Lady of Nigeria.

    The Speaker described Mrs Tinubu as “a pivotal force, inestimable cheerleader, and foremost partner of our beloved President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in his mission to enthrone a more prosperous and progressive Nigeria through the Renewed Hope Agenda.”

    Obasa noted that like the New Era Foundation established when she was the First Lady of Lagos State, Senator Tinubu is making life better for many Nigerians through the Renewed Hope Initiative, which aims to lift individuals out of poverty through education, empowerment and compassionate support.

    “Her work is not just about policies, it’s about touching lives and bringing about real, tangible change in our society. Her commitment to the welfare of the Nigerian people is unparalleled,” the Speaker said.

     “As we celebrate Senator Oluremi Tinubu’s contributions to nation-building, we look forward to the future she is helping to create – one marked by progress, prosperity, and unity.

    “History will be kind to her for her steadfast dedication and unparalleled passion for the welfare of the Nigerian people, and for the empathy, grace, and resilience with which she does them,” Obasa said.

  • Government unveils 10-year livestock growth plan

    Government unveils 10-year livestock growth plan

    • Targets doubling of herd size by 2035

    The federal government has unveiled the National Livestock Growth and Advancement Strategy (NL-GAS), a two-phased 10-year plan aimed at transforming Nigeria’s livestock sector into a key driver of food security and economic growth.

    The strategy was presented by the Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Idi Mukhtar Maiha, during the Economic Management Team (EMT) meeting held in Abuja.

    According to the minister, NL-GAS sets out a roadmap to double the national herd size and expand sectoral output by at least 100 per cent by 2035, with implementation anchored on strong collaboration between the public and private sectors.

    Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, said NL-GAS is consistent with the federal government’s broader economic reform programme. He explained that the livestock strategy reflects a deliberate effort to attract investment and reduce reliance on food imports.

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    “Initiatives such as NL-GAS align with our reform agenda and demonstrate government’s commitment to unlocking investment and enhancing food security,” Edun said. “The objective is to lay a foundation for sustainable, private-sector-led growth that will deliver long-term benefits to Nigerians.”

    The launch coincided with a review of Nigeria’s economic performance and sectoral priorities by the EMT. Officials noted continued signs of stability, attributing the trend to a competitive exchange rate and disciplined reforms.

    According to the team, inflation has eased for the fifth consecutive month, standing at 20 per cent, while Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth remains above 3 per cent. In addition, Nigeria posted a merchandise trade surplus of ₦7.4 trillion in the second quarter of 2025, reflecting stronger export performance relative to imports.

  • Explosion at DICON factory kills one, injures four in Kaduna

    Explosion at DICON factory kills one, injures four in Kaduna

    An explosion at the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) factory in Kaduna on Saturday killed one person and injured four others.

    The incident, which occurred around 10 am at the corporation’s ordnance disposal pit in Kurmin Gwari area of Kaduna metropolis, was linked to expired raw materials used in arms production.

    Residents said the deafening blast shook buildings and sent panic across the neighbourhood. “I heard a very big blast, it shook the surrounding buildings. People were running, thinking it was a bomb explosion,” a resident told our correspondent.

    The victims, on weekend duty, were initially rushed to St. Gerard Catholic Hospital, Kakuri, before being evacuated by military ambulance to the 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital.

    An eyewitness said the explosion involved primer powder and other volatile substances. “It killed a military officer on the spot and injured four civilian staff, who are in critical condition,” he recounted.

    When our correspondent visited St. Gerard Hospital shortly after the blast, sympathisers, relatives and DICON staff were seen trooping in, some in tears.

    Confirming the incident, DICON’s Public Relations Officer, Maria Sambo, said the explosion occurred during the disposal of expired ordnance.

    According to her: “Some old storage bunkers used to store raw materials contained several expired items, including Ammonium Nitrate, primer caps and propellants. Since July, efforts had been on to safely destroy them, and most had already been disposed of. Unfortunately, an accident occurred while specialists were concluding the disposal of the remaining materials.”

    She added that the injured staff were receiving treatment at the 44 Army Reference Hospital, while the remains of the deceased had been deposited at the mortuary.

    “While commiserating with staff, families and friends of the deceased and wishing the injured a quick recovery, DICON assures the public that the situation is under control and there is no cause for panic. The neighbouring community can go about their normal activities as the remaining materials have been made safe,” the statement read.

    The management also disclosed that a Board of Inquiry has been constituted to determine the immediate cause of the blast.

  • Tinubu delivered stability, peace in Rivers, Presidency tells ADC

    Tinubu delivered stability, peace in Rivers, Presidency tells ADC

    The Presidency has dismissed criticisms by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) over President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s handling of the Rivers emergency rule, stressing that the President’s intervention delivered stability, restored democratic institutions, and returned peace to the state.

    In a post on his verified X handle, @SundayDareSD, Presidential Adviser on Media and Public Communication, Chief Sunday Dare, described the ADC’s allegations of autocracy, manipulation, and undermining federalism as “laughable” and an exercise in “nuisance politics.”

    Dare said the President acted constitutionally under Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), invoking emergency powers to prevent bloodshed and restore governance at a time of grave threat to law and order in Rivers State.

    “The Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is clear: under Section 305, the President has the power — and the duty — to act when law and order are under grave threat.

    “What the President delivered is stability, the return of democratic institutions, and peace in Rivers State. Nigerians can see the difference: President Tinubu acted right. That is what posterity will remember him for,” Dare said. 

    He dismissed the ADC’s claims of federal manipulation, noting that officials in Rivers were not reduced to presidential appointees but rather protected from chaos until conditions allowed for their reinstatement.

    “To accuse the President of undermining federalism is laughable; as a former Governor, no Nigerian alive presently has fought harder for state autonomy than Asiwaju Bola Tinubu. 

    “What ADC offers Nigerians is late pontification and empty noise. What the President delivered is stability, peace, and order,” Dare said.

    The Presidency maintained that President Tinubu’s decision was neither whimsical nor partisan, but a constitutional necessity to protect the state and by extension, the federation.

  • Why I didn’t challenge emergency rule — Fubara

    Why I didn’t challenge emergency rule — Fubara

    • Hails Tinubu’s intervention as fatherly, decisive

    • Commends Wike, Akpabio, Abbas, others

    • Commits to honour agreements, cordial relations with Assembly

    Amid the euphoria that greeted his return to office yesterday, Rivers State governor, Siminalayi Fubara, recalled the circumstances that surrounded his six-month absence from office and why he did not see any need to challenge his suspension.

    Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu and members of the state’s House of Assembly were all suspended on March 18 in a broadcast by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu declaring a six-month emergency rule following an intractable face-off between the governor and the lawmakers.

    Addressing the people in a statewide broadcast, Governor Fubara hailed the intervention of Presisent Bola Ahmed Tinubu in resolving the political crisis and restoring democratic governance in a fatherly and decisive manner.

    Fubara said: “On behalf of the government and the good people of Rivers State, I extend our heartfelt gratitude to Mr. President for his fatherly disposition and decisive interventions in resolving the political crisis and for graciously restoring full democratic governance to our state.

    “Personally, I will never take Mr. President’s kindness for granted, and for that, I hereby reaffirm my utmost loyalty and eternal gratitude”.

    He described the last six months of emergency rule as challenging even as he recalled the steps President Tinubu took to reconcile all the warring parties.

    The governor said he resisted the pressure to challenge the emergency rule because of his conviction that no sacrifice was too great to secure peace.

    He said: “It is without doubt that the last six months had been enormously challenging for our dear state under the emergency rule.

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    “As your Governor, I accepted to abide by the state of emergency declaration and chose to cooperate with Mr. President and the National Assembly, guided by my conviction that no sacrifice was too great to secure peace, stability and progress of Rivers State.

    “This was why I also resisted the pressure to challenge the constitutionality of the declaration of a state of emergency, the suspension of democratic institutions, and all other actions that we endured during this difficult period.

    “In the course of the six-month period, Mr. President graciously brokered the peace process with all the parties successfully.

    “Our Leader, His Excellency, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, all members of the Rivers State House of Assembly and I, as your Governor, have all accepted to bury the hatchet and embrace peace and reconciliation in the best interest of our dear Rivers State.”

    Fubara assured those expressing genuine fears, frustrations and uncertainties over the nature of the peace process that their concerns were valid and understood.

    He said: “However, nothing has been irretrievably lost. There remains ample opportunity for necessary adjustments, continued reconciliation, and inclusiveness.

    “We must all remember the saying, ‘the costliest peace is cheaper than the cheapest war’.

    “Accordingly, let us, therefore, embrace this moment as a fresh beginning. Let us work together with renewed hope and determination to build a stronger, more peaceful and prosperous Rivers State. I assure you that we will continuously work towards ensuring that we carry everyone along.”

    The governor said despite the turbulence, his administration made credible milestones in infrastructure, education, healthcare and other key sectors over the last two years.

    He noted that his government was faced with immediate responsibility to return to the path of governance and development by completing the projects it started and ensuring that none of them was starved of funds or neglected.

    On his relationship with the House of Assembly going forward, Fubara said: “I commit to working harmoniously with the Rivers State House of Assembly to recover lost grounds and accelerate the social and economic advancement of our dear state.

    “I also renew my pledge to serve with the fear of God, humility and a high sense of duty.”

    The governor thanked “the resilient people of Rivers for their patience, courage and peaceful conduct during the six months of emergency rule.

    He extended his appreciation to all stakeholders, religious leaders, traditional rulers, civil society groups, political actors, women groups, youths, concerned citizens at home and abroad, and well-wishers whose prayers and support sustained them through the challenging period.

    Fubara appealed to Rivers people to draw strength from their shared identity, saying that their diversity remained their greatest asset, and their unity the strongest guarantee of their future.

    “We must rise above bitterness and division and channel our energies into rebuilding trust, fostering inclusiveness and securing a peaceful and prosperous state for all,” he said.

    Referring to Wike as “our leader”, Fubara thanked him for committing to the prompt resolution of the political impasse in the state.

    He thanked the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio; the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dr. Abbas Tajudeen; and the distinguished members of the National Assembly for the role they all played in the resolution of the matter.

    Fubara hailed the Speaker and all members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, respected elders, stakeholders and all concerned citizens for working together to resolve their differences and ensuring peace and harmony in the state.

    He called on all citizens of Rivers State, regardless of political, religious, or ethnic affiliation, to join hands in rebuilding the state and securing a future of dignity and progress for everyone.

    Calling for commitment by all stakeholders to make the existing peace in the state permanent, Fubara said: “We believe the political crisis is now behind us and that peace and stability have once again returned to Rivers State, though not without the hard lessons learnt from the emergency rule.

    “The responsibility now rests squarely on us: the Government, the State House of Assembly, political leaders and stakeholders to put aside our differences, work for the common good, and advance the interests of our people above all else.

    We have a duty to ensure that the peace we have all embraced remains permanent in our dear Rivers State”.

    Prior to his state broadcast, Fubara, after arriving at Government House, described the rousing reception as humbling and deeply symbolic.

    He said: “Let me first of all appreciate the wonderful people of Rivers State. I am really humbled by what I saw at the airport.

    “I was also briefed with some photographs of what happened here yesterday. That reception really humbled me. It showed love, confidence, and solidarity.”

    The governor stressed that the overwhelming turnout was more than a celebration, but an affirmation of the enduring connection between his government and the people.

    “It is not just the massive reception by the number of people who came out to celebrate, but a reaffirmation of the bond between this government and the people that we are serving. I want to assure you that we will, by the grace of God, continue to do those things that have made you people love us.”

    Heroic reception greets Fubara’s return

    The governor’s broadcast came few hours after he arrived in Rivers to a heroic reception by a crowd of jubilant residents yesterday.

    The enthusiatic supporters gathered at the Port Harcourt International Airport, Omagwa, as early as 6am to wait for the arrival of Fubara, who was coming to resume duties after the emergency rule was lifted.

    In the crowd were hundreds of the disbanded Simplified Family of the governor, including their leaders and former sacked local government chairmen.

    The Deputy Governor of the state, Prof. Ngozi Odu, was at the airport to receive Fubara.

    Sacked Mayor of Port Harcourt City, Ichemati Ezebunwo, popularly known as Sugar Mayor; a former Commissioner for Information and Communications, Emma Okah; former Commissioner for Health, Dr. Adaeze Oreh; former Nigerian Ambassador to the Netherlands, Oji Ngofa; former Commissioner for Environment, Sydney Gbara and former minority speaker of the three-man House of Assembly, Victor Oko-Jumbo, were among those that waited for the governor.

    Others were former Commissioner for Youths, Chisom Gbali; former Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Evans Bipi; former President of NUPENG, Igwe Achese; and former Commissioner for Education, Dr. Tamunosisi Gogo-Jaja, among others.

    The jubilant supporters, especially the women, were dressed in colourful attires as they sang and danced in expectation of Fubara.

    Some members of Women Unite for SIM, a prayer group, were also sighted among the persons waiting for him at the airport’s car park.

    After waiting for hours, the spirit of the people was lifted when the governor’s official convoy made a grand entry into the VIP wing of the airport, signaling the imminence of his arrival.

    The atmosphere at the airport and the mood of the people changed when the first aircraft belonging to Rivers State Government descended at the tarmac at about 11.40am.

    Most people thought that Fubara was on board the aircraft as they positioned their gadgets to capture him stepping out of the plane.

    Protocol officers laid red carpet towards the plane’s entrance only to discover that the governor was not on board the plane.

    But more than 30 minutes after, a chartered aircraft with registration number 5N-BTX, an Embraer Legacy 600 owned and operated by Anap Jets, a Nigerian airline, arrived the airport.

    The governor stepped down from the aircraft at about 12.20pm after the conclusion of all the protocols at the VIP wing of the airport.

    On sighting the governor, the crowd hailed him and called him various names such as the icon of peace, the ocean, among others.

    Fubara, who wore a blue jeans shirt, a black fez cap and a pair of glasses, was accompanied by his wife, Valerie and his Chief of Staff, Edison Ehie.

    The supporters, who thronged at the airport, were in jubilation as they received Fubara with many of them shouting: “We love you our governor”.

    Fubara was immediately ushered into his vehicle and his convoy with siren blaring headed for the Government House in Port Harcourt.

    From the airport to Government House, crowds thronged out in celebration of the governor’s arrival as they reaffirmed their loyalty and bond with his administration.

    Rivers women hail Tinubu, Wike, Fubara

    Rivers Women under the aegis of Rivers Women Unite for Sim also applauded President Tinubu, Fubara and the FCT Minister, Chief Nyesom Wike, alongside other leaders and stakeholders, for their roles in ending the political impasse and restoring democracy in Rivers State.

    They spoke after their special fellowship tagged: “Finger of God” at the Ecumenical Centre, Port Harcourt.

    The women noted that the suspension of emergency rule and return of democratic structures was a welcome development for the people of Rivers

    They commended all Rivers people, civil society groups, and the media who stood firm during the trying times, and called for forgiveness, deeper healing, reconciliation, and unity to ensure lasting peace, progress and development in the state.