The agitation for the creation of Anioma state as the 6th South East state must be seen as beyond modern politics. The agitation dates back to the Mid-Western era with the likes of the then Premier of the region, Chief Dennis Osadebe who obviously took a cue from his forefathers who identified a common ancestry and lineage with similar culture, language, food and social life.
The Senator representing Delta North Senatorial District, Senator Ned Nwoko has pushed the agitation further by sponsoring a bill for the creation of Anioma state from the present Delta state in affirmation of the conviction of his forbears who stood for a unification of the Igbos across what now stands as more than seven states since the regional gobvernments were dissolved into states. He feels that his legislative duties is anchored in raising a voice for his people.
He is looking beyond politics as he stands on the legacy of his royal heritage to preserve the legacies of his forbears. As a Prince of Idumuje-Ugboko, a descendant of HRH Obi Nwoko 1, it is almost a baton he intends to carry over to the next generation that an Anioma state becomes a reality. He is hoping that by the time the 10th Senate passes the final Bill and President Tinubu administration gives the people the gift of not just a state but a legacy that would outlive everyone in this generation, the country as a whole would get value in increased unity, security and maximized human and material productivity.
Of course there is the fact that some people due to political or economic reasons might be on the other side but a careful evaluation shows that legacies of this type is for the greater good and beyond personal gratifications. In a democratic era, it is not just about few voices, there would be a referendum to give the people a chance to affirm their silent requests and the majority would always have their way.
Anioma area of Delta would be one of the most viable states in the country given the natural and human resources in the area. Some of the most productive individuals in the most strategic sectors of the country come from the Anioma axis. We have the giants in the banking and Oil and Gas sectors, Academia, diplomacy, Politics, Media etc. from Anioma part of Delta state. So its not surprising that the other parts of Delta continue to covet the gains they are getting from the Anioma part even if the people are denied their true identity ironically.The people want to be re-united with their brothers and sisters across at least more than the seven states around.
The civil war brought the identity crisis that seems to be confusing generations but a distinct state would reunite the people and make the unity of the country stronger. That some public figures who obviously have a carry-over of the ar-induced identity crisis often claim to be non-Igbos for political and survivalist reasons does not invalidate the silent agitations of the citizens who have gone through being called Mid-western Igbos, Bendel Igbos, Rivers Igbos to Delta Igbos for a state of their own that should belong to the South East where they trace their ancestry with undeniable socio-religious and cultural similarities.
The quest for unity and security in the country should not be mere rhetoric. Practical steps like assuaging discontent of historical proportions, healing past emotional wounds like The Asaba massacre can reassure the youth and generations that their interest for citizenship is not taken for granted. The proverb that says that when there is equity, discontent takes flight is very true but steps must be taken to achieve same.
Creating an Anioma state would not just be in a literal sense, it would be a validation of the promise for federal character and sense of justice that can calm frayed nerves and increase security and productivity for the whole country. They say, treat a child like his mates and he will be happy. The South East needs a 6th state and Anioma people are ready for the reunification.
First Tier 1 Financial Institution to release its H1 2025 results
In a financial environment marked by continued volatility, regulatory recalibration, and fast-changing customer expectations, First Holdco Plc has reaffirmed its position as the leading financial institution in Nigeria by delivering a robust half-year performance, underscored by significant growth in its core business operations. The results reaffirm the Group’s strong fundamentals, resilient business model, and disciplined execution of its strategic priorities in a dynamic operating environment. The Group submitted its unaudited consolidated financial statements for the half-year (H1) period ended 30 June 2025, to the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX), taking a deliberate lead by becoming the first among Tier 1 financial institutions in Nigeria to release its report. This timely disclosure sets a transparent tone and offers stakeholders a clear view of the Group’s sustained performance, evolving strategy, and forward-looking resilience.
A review of the unaudited results for the six months ended June 30, 2025, reveals a consistent performance across its core operations, with gross earnings rising to N1.7 trillion, an 18.1% increase over the corresponding period of 2024. The growth in gross earnings was primarily driven by a 51.7% surge in interest income, which reached N1.4 trillion, compared to N947.7 billion in the prior year. Net interest income followed a similar upward trajectory, expanding by 75.7% to N904.8 billion, a testament to the Group’s ability to optimize its lending portfolio and capitalize on favourable interest rate dynamics.
The Group delivered a robust 29.7% year-on-year growth in gross fees and commission income to N168.57 billion, with electronic banking fees contributing strongly. This reflects enhanced customer engagement and transactional activity across physical and digital channels.
FirstHoldCo’s balance sheet remained robust, Customer deposits grew year to date to N17.9 trillion with Naira deposits increasing by N1.2 trillion during the same period. This reflects sustained confidence in the institution’s stability, robust funding mix and affirming a strong deposit base. Loans and advances (net) also saw an uptick of 1.1%, reaching N8.9 trillion.
Profit before tax was reported at N356.1 billion, a decline from N412.0 billion in the first half of 2024, attributed largely to the normalisation of foreign exchange gains and an increase in impairment charges. In particular, this reflects ongoing efforts to address forbearance loans within the Group’s portfolio. In line with the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) regulatory framework, First HoldCo Plc is taking proactive steps to fully resolve all forbearance loans. In a statement issued in June 2025, the Group committed to exiting the regulatory forbearance by 2025 financial year end, while it also affirmed that it would continue to pay a dividend to its shareholders.
The Group has strengthened its balance sheet with total assets increasing by 2.5% to N27.2 trillion, up from N26.5 trillion as of December 2024. This demonstrates its commitment to maintaining disciplined risk asset governance and oversight, and its willingness to take proactive measures to mitigate potential risks.
Adebowale Oyedeji, the Group Managing Director, First Holdco Plc while commenting on the unaudited report, emphasised the Group’s commitment to strengthening its earnings profile and completing the recapitalisation of First Bank of Nigeria Ltd (FirstBank) its primary subsidiary, well before the March 2026 deadline. He said, “FirstHoldCo has once again demonstrated its resilience and tenacity amidst a challenging macroeconomic backdrop. In the first half of 2025, gross earnings grew to N1.7 trillion largely on the back of a strong 75.7% y-o-y growth in net interest income to Nt904.8 billion. This underscores our ability to capitalise on market opportunities while maintaining a strong focus on profitability.”
“He further stated “our strategic focus remains accelerating digital transformation, enhancing the customer journey, driving sustainable long-term growth through partnerships, increasing operational excellence and maintaining disciplined risk asset governance and oversight.”
Key financial ratios painted a positive picture of the Group’s core business performance. The net interest margin improved significantly to 10.4%, compared to 7.7% in June 2024, highlighting the Group’s enhanced lending efficiency and overall optimisation of its earning assets. The cost-to-income ratio rose to 50.5%, up from 46.9%, reflecting increased operating expenses in an elevated inflation environment but with a resilient operating income. Asset quality metrics revealed some pressure, with the non-performing loan (NPL) ratio rising to 12.9% from 10.2% in December 2024. This is driven primarily by one oil and gas loan and forbearance related activities for which proactive steps have been taken to sustain the resilience of the balance sheet. Overall, the loan book is continuously being derisked, demonstrating prudent and proactive approach to risk mitigation that strengthens its financial position.
FirstHoldCo’s ability to sustain growth in its core business operations, despite macroeconomic headwinds, speaks to the strength of its underlying fundamentals. The Group’s disciplined approach to risk management and strategic execution positions it favourably for continued stability and growth. As it moves forward, First HoldCo Plc. remains steadfast in its commitment to delivering optimal value to shareholders while contributing to the economic development in its geographical footprint.
Nigeria’s D’Tigress have once again etched their name into the history books, emerging as champions of the 2025 FIBA Women’s Afrobasket in Côte d’Ivoire after a commanding 78-64 victory over Mali in Sunday’s final.
Led by head coach Rena Wakama, the Nigerian side delivered a stellar performance at the Palais des Sports de Treichville in Abidjan to secure their fifth straight continental crown — a feat no other nation has achieved in the tournament’s history.
The win also guarantees D’Tigress an automatic berth at the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup in Berlin, Germany.
Having edged past a tough Senegalese team in a dramatic semi-final, where they rallied in the fourth quarter to secure a hard-fought win, D’Tigress showed a different level of composure and dominance in the final against Mali.
Mali came out strong, finishing the first quarter with a 26-21 lead. But Nigeria responded swiftly, leveling the game 41-41 by halftime.
The third quarter saw D’Tigress turn on the style, as they pulled ahead 61-56. By the final quarter, the Nigerian side tightened their defense and restricted Mali to just eight points, cruising to a 14-point triumph.
With this latest victory, Nigeria has now lifted the Women’s Afrobasket trophy seven times in total — 2003, 2005, 2017, 2019, 2021, 2023, and 2025 — and remain unbeaten in the competition for a decade. The team’s last loss in the tournament dates back to October 2, 2015, against hosts Cameroon.
This fifth consecutive title reaffirms D’Tigress’ status as the undisputed queens of African women’s basketball.
Suspected herdsmen on Saturday afternoon killed a mother and her son in Ngban settlement, Guma Local Government Area of Benue State.
The victims, identified as Mlumun Igbawua and her son Benjamin Igbawua, were reportedly attacked while working on their rice farm.
It was gathered that the assailants also abducted and brutally tortured another woman, who was later rescued with severe injuries to her back.
Ngban, located between Daudu and Yelewata along the Benue-Nasarawa federal highway, has witnessed several violent attacks in recent months, with many homes destroyed.
Chairman of Guma Local Government and ALGON Chairman in Benue State, Chief Maurice Orwough, confirmed the incident during a visit to the scene.
He revealed that the victims hailed from Tse-Nyibiam, near Ngban in Nyiev Council Ward, and that the area had become a target of recurring violence.
The slain Benjamin’s father was also reported to have been killed earlier in May this year while farming on the same land.
Benjamin’s wife, who went missing during Saturday’s attack, was found alive after enduring severe torture. She has since been reunited with her family.
Chief Orwough said he has directed security agencies to apprehend the perpetrators and called for calm, assuring residents that efforts are ongoing to restore peace and end the violence in the region.
Soludo: any politician talking of one term needs psychiatric examination
The Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, has asked northern political leaders to support President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 election.
Gbajabiamila, speaking during the 2025 Dialogue Session of the Northern Caucus of the National Forum of Former Legislators, which he hosted in Abuja, described President Tinubu as a leader whose track record and commitment to national unity warrant unwavering support.
Further endorsement of the President for a second term came yesterday from Niger State Governor Mohammed Bago and other stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state.
They said they were solidly behind the President and Bago for their reelection.
Anambra State Governor Charles Soludo, who is seeking a fresh mandate in the November 8 off season election, declared that any politician talking of serving for only one term needs psychiatric attention.
Gbajabiamila told his audience in Abuja to mobilise support for Tinubu’s administration and his second-term ambition.
Nigeria’s development, according to him, rests on unity, continuity and adherence to political agreements.
“President Tinubu is not just a Southern leader; he is a national leader who has carried every region along. From critical infrastructure to policy reforms, the North is benefitting from a government that believes in equity and shared prosperity,” Gbajabiamila said.
He said ongoing projects across the north such as road networks, rail line expansions, and agricultural revitalization efforts are evidence of the administration’s balanced approach to national development.
“We are laying solid foundations today, and it is only right that the President is allowed to finish what he started,” Gbajabiamila said.
National Chairman of the Forum, Hon. Nnanna Igbokwe, lauded the Northern Caucus for what he termed a “bold and patriotic stand.”
“This resolution by the Northern Caucus is a significant statement of statesmanship. It shows leadership that transcends personal or regional interest. I am confident that more zones will follow this example in the spirit of unity and continuity,” Igbokwe remarked.
In a communiqué at the end of the dialogue, the group endorsed a southern presidency and President Tinubu’s second-term aspiration.
The document was co-signed by Hon. Rufai Chanchangi, Coordinator of the Northern Caucus, and Hon. Atiwurcha, Secretary of the Caucus.
“As partners in nation building, we subscribe to issues that unite us as a people for the peace and progress of our nation, Nigeria.
“We align to the unifying foundation of our country which relates to the rotation of power between the NORTH and the SOUTH. We advocate that the south be allowed to complete their tenure.
“The forum is of the belief that it will be in the best interest of the north for the incumbent to complete the tenure of the south,” it said.
The 2025 Dialogue Session was in continuation of nationwide consultations by the Forum aimed at fostering inclusive governance and ensuring a smooth democratic transition.
The Northern Caucus of National Forum of Former Legislators, at the end of the 2025 Dialogue Session, appreciated the efforts of government so far, but urged more efforts to address security challenges, especially in Zamfara, Katsina, Plateau, Benue and Niger, among others.
While the forum appreciated the COS for the engagement, it urged the government to engage more with critical stakeholders for better delivery.
Niger APC stakeholders give backing
The Niger State APC leaders said President Tinubu and Governor Bago, having taken giant strides in their first term, deserve to be supported for a second term.
Leader of Niger State APC Caucus at the National Assembly and Senator representing Niger East, Muhammad Sani Musa, moved the motion for the endorsement, and was seconded by the member representing Bida/Gbako/Katcha Federal Constituency, Saidu Musa Abdul.
Other high profile members of the party, including Information and National Orientation Minister Muhammad Idris Malagi; Minister of State for Agriculture, Senator Abdullahi Sabi; and Vice Chairman APC North Central, Mu’azu Bawa, all commended the transformational efforts of both President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Umaru Bago, and called for their continuity in office.
Niger State Deputy Governor, Comrade Yakubu Garba; Speaker Niger State House of Assembly Abdulmalik Sarkin Daji; Chairman APC Niger State Aminu Musa Bobi and ALGON Chairman Niger State, Ilyasu Zakari, were also among the APC bigwigs at the event.
In his remarks, Bago thanked all the APC stakeholders for the trust and confidence reposed i him, saying all APC members should remain committed to the growth of the party which was instrumental to their emergence in their various political positions.
He asked APC supporters to continue to play key roles in promoting the party and canvassing support for Tinubu.
The Niger State endorsement came on the heels of last Wednesday’s support by North’s leaders at a two-day roundtable on Government-Citizen Engagement held in Kaduna.
Information and National Orientation Minister Mohammed Idris said at the end of the conference: “The verdict from most northern opinion leaders, technocrats and academics, amongst others, is that the Tinubu administration is pro-North in all ramifications – from appointments to spending on the region in infrastructure, health, education, agriculture, livestock, housing and the unprecedented opportunity it offers for the northern youth.
“The ministers and heads of parastatals who attended the event performed creditably in communicating the achievements of President Tinubu.”
Present at the engagement were representatives of the Federal Government, led by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, and included the National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, members of the Federal Executive Council, heads of federal agencies, Chief of Defence Staff and security chiefs from the Northern part of the country.
Aiyedatiwa to coordinate Tinubu’s re-election in Ondo
Ondo State Information and Orientation Commissioner, Idowu Ajanaku, said yesterday that political structures in support of President Bola Tinubu’s re-election in the state would be coordinated by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.
This, Ajanaku said, was to guide against disorganised or unauthorised campaign activities.
He reaffirmed Aiyedatiwa’s leadership role in coordinating all political structures in the state, following the launch of the “Ondo State for Tinubu 2027” campaign platform by the governor during a meeting of All Progressives Congress (APC) state leaders at the Government House, Akure, the state capital.
The governor had declared the platform as the unified and umbrella body for all pro-Tinubu support groups operating in the state.
Ajanaku said in a statement that the initiative was consistent with the provisions of the APC Constitution, which recognises the governor as the state leader of the party.
He said: “As the leader of the APC in Ondo State, Governor Aiyedatiwa bears the legitimate mandate to coordinate and streamline all campaign efforts in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu.”
The Commissioner said Aiyedatiwa’s long-standing alliance with President Tinubu since 2012 and his deep understanding of the President’s political vision make him well-positioned to champion the coordinated effort.
He added: “This is not just a show of loyalty but a strategic move to prevent factionalism and promote unity within the party.”
Ajanaku urged individuals and groups promoting President Tinubu’s second term ambition to do so within the framework of the governor’s political structure.
He said: “While His Excellency welcomes and appreciates the enthusiasm of all support groups, such activities must operate under the umbrella of “Ondo State for Tinubu 2027″ and by extension the governor’s leadership.”
The Commissioner cautioned against any parallel or unauthorised campaign activities that may sow discord or create political tension in the state.
He urged party faithful to embrace unity, discipline and constitutional order as the 2027 political calendar unfolds.
Soludo: any politician talking of one term needs psychiatric examination
Governor Soludo said any politician promising to serve only one term is only lying.
Such politicians should undergo psychiatric test, he said at a rally.
His words: “The next governor after Chukwuma Soludo will come from Anambra Central. Anybody who is contesting for governor from Anambra South is trying to disrupt the zoning system in Anambra.
“Some of them want to come to lie to us. How can anybody with brain, you think you are talking to fools’ you come to people and say I will do only one term.
“Any politician who said that must be sent to the psychiatric because the person must have some mental problem.
“When the constitution allows you to stay for eight years, you are coming to tell us I am going to spend only one term. Tell us where it has ever happened. Who?
“Anybody who is saying ‘I’m going to do one term needs psychiatric examination, because you are taking everybody else to be a fool.
“Anambra, we have advanced. There are calibre and category of people that Anambra has. We are not going to go back. Street urchins, Anambra has no place for street urchins.
“Some of them, their secondary school certificate is questionable. They have no school cert. I tell you. Anyway, that is for another day; not today.
“Some of them have no school cert; they want to be governor of Anambra. Anambra of Azikiwe, Nwafor Orizu of this world, of Odumegwu Ojukwu, Alex Ekwueme, Chinua Achebe; that is the state we are talking about.
“I am getting angry actually when they say they want to be governor of Anambra. Very annoying. With GCE; without knowing who took it for them.”
The All Progressives Congress (APC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Africa Democratic Congress (ADC) are pulling all the strings for what they perceive as an immense test of popularity in next week’s by-elections in 12 states of the federation.
At stake are two senatorial seats, five House of Representatives slots and nine House of Assembly positions.
The polls are to be conducted for 6,987 polling units, 32 local government areas and 356 wards with 3,553,659 registered voters eligible to exercise their rights on the day.
National Secretary of the APC, Senator Ajibola Bashiru, told The Nation yesterday that his party was set and prepared for the by-elections
“We are prepared for the by-elections in all the 16 constituencies. The same commitment we give to the general election is what we give any off-season election. August 16 election is no exception,” Bashiru said by phone.
He added:”We have started campaign in all the affected constituencies in Anambra, Edo, Ogun, Oyo, Niger and other states.
“With the level of our preparation, we are optimistic of victory. We are optimistic that we shall be victorious in almost all the constituencies come Saturday, August 16.”
The PDP is also set for the polls with its candidates intensifying campaigns in the affected states.
In response to a Whatsapp message asking about the party’s preparations, Chairman of PDP Caretaker Committee for the South-South, Chief Emmanuel Ogidi, sent a cryptic statement, with some affirmation of religious hope.
He said: “Trust God, no matter what!”, quoting Psalm 46:1 that “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”
The Edo State PDP Caretaker Committee Publicity Secretary, Chris Osa Nehikhare, had earlier said that the chapter has assembled a strong team of party leaders to drive its campaign.
“The Edo PDP is confident that this team, under the capable leadership of Senator Clifford Ordia, will drive a robust, issue-based campaign that resonates with the aspirations of the people of Edo Central,” Osa Nehikhare stated.
Other national officers of the party contacted declined to talk.
The ADC is also presenting candidates for the elections.
The party’s immediate past National Chairman, Ralph Nwosu, said in his last statement as chairman that the ADC was keen on increasing its representation in the national and state assemblies through the by-elections.
The decision to call off the strike followed a virtual emergency meeting of the National Executive Council (NEC) held yesterday, during which the association reviewed recent engagements with the Federal Government.
The industrial action was initiated to press for the implementation of key demands, including upward review of shift and uniform allowances, introduction of a separate salary structure for nurses, increase in core duty allowance, mass recruitment of nursing personnel, and the creation of a dedicated nursing department within the Federal Ministry of Health.
On Friday, NANNM officials met with representatives of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Ministry of Labour and Employment, Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Office of the Accountant General, National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission, and other relevant stakeholders in a bid to resolve the issues.
Confirmation of the suspension was given yesterday by Chidi Aligwe, Assistant Secretary-General of the association, who said, “The strike has been suspended. Nurses and midwives are to resume duty immediately.”
A circular titled “Suspension of the Ongoing Nationwide Nurses’ Strike,” signed by NANNM’s National President, Haruna Mamman, and General Secretary, T.A. Shettima, formally announced the suspension.
The circular stated that the NEC resolved to suspend the strike after extensively reviewing the signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and the agreed timeline for implementation of key issues.
The circular reads in part: “NEC acknowledges the positive steps taken by the Federal Government in responding to the nine core demands of NANNM, particularly the commitment to clear timelines for implementation.
“In view of the formal agreement reached, and in line with the principle of dialogue and good faith, NEC hereby suspends the ongoing nationwide strike action with immediate effect.
“NEC has directed the national leadership to continue monitoring the implementation of the signed MoU and track the government’s compliance with the agreed timelines.
“State councils are directed to mobilize members for the immediate resumption of duty. NEC resolved that no member of NANNM, including intern and locum nurses, should be victimized for participating in the nationwide strike.
“NEC appreciates the commitment and solidarity of all members throughout this action and reiterates that NANNM remains steadfast in defending the welfare, dignity, and professional rights of all nurses and midwives in Nigeria.”
The decision to call off the strike followed a virtual emergency meeting of the National Executive Council (NEC) on Saturday, during which the association reviewed recent engagements with the Federal Government.
The industrial action was initiated to press for the implementation of key demands, including upward review of shift and uniform allowances, introduction of a separate salary structure for nurses, increase in core duty allowance, mass recruitment of nursing personnel, and the creation of a dedicated nursing department within the Federal Ministry of Health.
On Friday, NANNM officials met with representatives of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Ministry of Labour and Employment, Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Office of the Accountant General, National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission, and other relevant stakeholders in a bid to resolve the issues.
Confirmation of the suspension was given on Saturday by Chidi Aligwe, Assistant Secretary-General of the association, who said, “The strike has been suspended. Nurses and midwives are to resume duty immediately”.
A circular titled “Suspension of the ongoing nationwide nurses’ strike,” by NANNM’s National President, Haruna Mamman, and General Secretary, T.A. Shettima, formally announced the suspension.
The circular stated that the NEC resolved to suspend the strike after extensively reviewing the signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and the agreed timeline for implementation of key issues.
The circular reads in part: “NEC acknowledges the positive steps taken by the Federal Government in responding to the nine core demands of NANNM, particularly the commitment to clear timelines for implementation.
“In view of the formal agreement reached, and in line with the principle of dialogue and good faith, NEC hereby suspends the ongoing nationwide strike action with immediate effect.
“NEC has directed the national leadership to continue monitoring the implementation of the signed MoU and track the government’s compliance with the agreed timelines.
“State councils are directed to mobilize members for the immediate resumption of duty. NEC resolved that no member of NANNM, including intern and locum nurses, should be victimized for participating in the nationwide strike.
“NEC appreciates the commitment and solidarity of all members throughout this action and reiterates that NANNM remains steadfast in defending the welfare, dignity, and professional rights of all nurses and midwives in Nigeria.”
Chief of Staff to the President Femi Gbajabiamila has called on northern political leaders to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Gbajabiamila, who made the appeal during the 2025 Dialogue Session of the Northern Caucus of the National Forum of Former Legislators, which he hosted in Abuja, described President Tinubu as a leader whose track record and commitment to national unity warrant unwavering support.
He charged the forum to mobilize support for Tinubu’s administration and his second-term ambition.
The former Speaker said Nigeria’s development rests on unity, continuity, and adherence to political agreements.
“President Tinubu is not just a Southern leader; he is a national leader who has carried every region along.From critical infrastructure to policy reforms, the North is benefitting from a government that believes in equity and shared prosperity,” Gbajabiamila said.
He pointed to ongoing infrastructure projects across Northern Nigeria, including road networks, rail line expansions, and agricultural revitalization efforts, as evidence of the administration’s balanced approach to national development.
“We are laying solid foundations today, and it is only right that the President is allowed to finish what he started,” Gbajabiamila said.
National Chairman of the Forum, Hon. Nnanna Igbokwe, lauded the Northern Caucus for what he termed a “bold and patriotic stand.”
“This resolution by the Northern Caucus is a significant statement of statesmanship. It shows leadership that transcends personal or regional interest. I am confident that more zones will follow this example in the spirit of unity and continuity,” Igbokwe remarked.
Following deliberations, the Northern Caucus issued a communiqué endorsing the Southern Presidency and President Tinubu’s second-term aspiration.
The document was co-signed by Hon. Rufai Chanchangi, Coordinator of the Northern Caucus, and Hon. Atiwurcha, Secretary of the Caucus.
“As partners in nation building, we subscribe to issues that unite us as a people for the peace and progress of our nation, Nigeria. We align to the unifying foundation of our country which relates to the rotation of power between the NORTH and SOUTH. We advocate that the south be allowed to complete their tenure.
“The forum is of the belief that it will be in the best interest of the north for the incumbent to complete the tenure of the south.” the communiqué declared.
The 2025 Dialogue Session is part of a series of nationwide consultations by the Forum aimed at fostering inclusive governance and ensuring a smooth democratic transition.
The Northern Caucus of National Forum of Former Legislators at the end of the 2025 Dialogue Session, appreciated the efforts of government so far, but urged more efforts to address security challenges, especially in Zamfara, Katsina, Plateau, Benue, Niger among others.
The forum said the dialogue session accorded the opportunity to engage with representatives of former legislators from the northern part of the country for proper understanding of government actions and directions.
While the forum appreciated the COS for the engagement, it urged the government to engage more with critical stakeholders for better delivery.
Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre of Saint Lucia has strongly defended the recent visit of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to his country, describing criticism of the visit as “shameful and disgraceful,” and condemning what he called politically motivated attacks laced with the residue of colonial self-hate.
Speaking in the capital, Castries, during his 2025 Emancipation Day address, Prime Minister Pierre took a firm stand against detractors who opposed the Nigerian leader’s state visit.
He argued that the backlash, driven by partisan interests and subtly supported by the opposition, reflected deeper psychological scars from slavery.
“The vilification and denigration of the President of Nigeria, Bola Tinubu, by a politically motivated group, tacitly supported by the opposition party, was another demonstration of the harmful effects of the legacy of slavery: self-hate and a readiness to accept African people and their descendants as inferior. That behaviour was nothing short of shameful and disgraceful”, Pierre stated.
The Prime Minister noted that if a visiting head of state had come from a different part of the world, the reception would have been markedly more respectful.
Turning to the substance of the visit, Pierre emphasized the significance of President Tinubu’s presence in Saint Lucia, describing it as an honour for the island nation and a milestone in fostering deeper bilateral and regional relationships.
“To the government and people of the Republic of Nigeria, the government and people of Saint Lucia have been honoured by the visit of your President and look forward to establishing and deepening economic, social and cultural ties with your country,” he said.
He disclosed that during Tinubu’s visit, several memoranda of understanding (MOUs) were signed to strengthen cooperation in areas such as education, culture, economics, and social development—not just with Saint Lucia, but across the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS).
“My administration will do its best to ensure that those MOUs bear fruit at the earliest opportunity,” Pierre pledged, reiterating his government’s commitment to Pan-Africanism and solidarity among peoples of African descent.
