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  • Nigeria, Turkiye target $5b trade, pact against insurgency

    Nigeria, Turkiye target $5b trade, pact against insurgency

    • Nine bilateral agreements signed
    • Joint Economy and Trade Committee established

    In a renewed push to deepen economic and strategic ties, Türkiye and Nigeria have set their sights on a $5 billion bilateral trade volume.

    The two countries have also expressed commitment to a joint battle against insurgency in Nigeria and the Sahel region.

    Presidents Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Recep Tayyip Erdogan met in Ankara yesterday to recalibrate relations between the two influential emerging economies.

    President Erdogan reaffirmed Türkiye’s commitment to the ambitious trade target during a joint press briefing with President Tinubu, who is on a state visit.

    He said discussions toward achieving the goal had already begun and would be driven by new institutional frameworks agreed by both sides.

    The Turkish leader said the planned establishment of a Joint Economy and Trade Committee would unlock fresh opportunities to expand and support Turkish investments in Nigeria, describing the mechanism as critical to attaining the $5 billion benchmark.

    Erdogan also praised President Tinubu’s investment-friendly posture, noting that the presence of several Nigerian ministers and senior officials in Ankara underscored Nigeria’s seriousness about economic engagement.

    Last week, Shell Petroleum Development Company (SDPC) acknowledging the President’s reforms and investment-friendly Administration, pledged to invest $20billion.

    A statement by Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga on the joint news conference by both leaders quoted Erdogan as saying: “Today (yesterday), we conducted a comprehensive review of our relations with the esteemed president and his delegation in the fields of trade, investments, energy, education and defence industry.

    “Firstly, we see that we have significant potential in the fields of trade and investment. In today’s meetings, our commitment is to the target of a $5 billion trade volume, and we discussed the steps that need to be taken.

    “We also discussed opportunities to support our investments in Nigeria. We believe that the Joint Economy and Trade Committee, which we agreed to establish today, will be instrumental in this regard.”

    The Turkish President further commended President Tinubu’s ongoing reforms in Nigeria’s energy sector, which he said had contributed to economic restructuring.

    Read Also: Nigerians in UK to converge on London for property wealth creation session

    He expressed optimism that cooperation between the Turkish Petroleum Corporation and Nigerian counterparts would deliver tangible results.

    On security, Erdogan pledged Türkiye’s support for Nigeria’s fight against terrorism, particularly in the Sahel region.

    “Terrorist organisations emerging, particularly in Africa’s Sahel region, unfortunately, pose a threat to the peace of the entire continent.

    “We stand by the friendly people of Nigeria in their fight against terrorism under the leadership of President Tinubu,” he said.

    He added that both leaders explored avenues for closer cooperation in military training and intelligence sharing, noting Türkiye’s readiness to share its experience in counter-terrorism.

    Turkey had been battling insurgency for more than four decades.

    The country fought against the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), which led to the death of over 40,000 people.

    The PKK eventually surrendered after intensified military pressure, drone strikes, and a call from its leader, Abdullah Öcalan, to end the 41-year conflict.

    “In fact, today, we addressed opportunities for closer cooperation in the fields of military training and intelligence.

    “We stated that we are ready to share our country’s significant experience in the fight against terrorism.

    “Also, I believe that we will soon see positive outcomes from the meetings that Nigerian officials will hold with our leading defence industry companies during this visit,” Erdogan said.

    President Tinubu expressed appreciation to Türkiye for its openness and willingness to collaborate in promoting global freedom, stability and prosperity.

    He stressed the importance of building an inclusive economy that caters for vulnerable groups.

    He praised President Erdogan for being “willing to collaborate, willing to help, willing to work together to promote freedom, stability and shared prosperity across the world.”

    “What is very important to the countries being discussed: trade, business, no restrictions, giving opportunity to those who are ready to learn, work and prosper.

    “How do we build an inclusive economy together? How do we reform and get vulnerable people involved in the economy? How do we ensure peace in the world?” President Tinubu asked.

    The President reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to peace and stability in Africa despite regional instability, noting that both leaders discussed joint efforts to counter terrorism.

    “We discussed efforts against terrorism. We discussed how to defeat agents of destabilisation,” he said.

    President Tinubu also commended Erdogan’s role in advancing global peace, particularly his interventions in Somalia.

    At the conclusion of the bilateral meeting, officials of both countries exchanged nine agreements.

    These included agreements on cooperation in diaspora policy and defence cooperation; a joint declaration establishing the economy and trade joint committee, and an agreement on halal quality infrastructure.

    Others were agreements on cooperation in higher education, media and communication, education, cooperation between the Republic of Türkiye’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, diplomacy academy, and Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and foreign service academy; and cooperation between Türkiye’s Ministry of Social Services and Nigeria’s Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development.

    The trade volume between the two nations is about $2 billion.

    While Türkiye exports aircraft, machinery, iron and steel and chemical products, Nigeria exports crude oil and agricultural products to the country.

    ‘Tinubu’s Türkiye visit strategic, not routine’

    Special Adviser to the President on Policy Communication, Daniel Bwala, described President Tinubu’s state visit to Türkiye as strategic and highly consequential, dismissing claims that it is a routine foreign trip.

    Speaking with reporters on the sidelines of the visit, Bwala said the trip was undertaken at the invitation of the Turkish government, a gesture he said underscored Nigeria’s growing diplomatic influence under President Tinubu.

    He noted that President Tinubu’s stature as a former Chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Authority of Heads of State and Government, as well as Nigeria’s strategic importance on the continent, shaped the level of reception accorded him.

    “The President of Nigeria is a person of influence in Africa, and Nigeria itself plays a strong role on the continent.

    “With the breakthroughs we are recording in the economy, security and governance, this visit carries significant weight,” Bwala said.

    He explained that the state visit formally commenced on Tuesday with a series of engagements aimed at exploring areas of mutual interest, particularly defence, security and economic cooperation.

    Bwala explained that key ministers accompanying the President are scheduled to hold bilateral meetings with their Turkish counterparts to deepen collaboration across critical sectors.

    He also highlighted President Tinubu’s growing international standing, saying his leadership has helped to reinvigorate Nigeria’s diplomatic relations globally, including renewed engagement with major partners such as the United States.

    Citing recent diplomatic engagements with the United Arab Emirates, Bwala said the Türkiye visit builds on Nigeria’s renewed momentum on the global stage.

    He emphasised Türkiye’s strength in defence and security manufacturing, noting its relevance to Nigeria’s security needs, while pointing out areas where Nigeria has also supported Türkiye over the years.

    Describing the engagement as “a meeting of shared interests,” Bwala said both countries stand to benefit from the visit, assuring that details of specific agreements and outcomes would be made public at its conclusion.

    Presidency dismisses stumble as minor incident

    The Presidency described President Tinubu’s stumble during a reception in Ankara as a minor and inconsequential incident.

    Onanuga said: “The President stepped on a metal on the floor, which made him lose his balance. This is not a big deal, except for those who want to make mischief out of the fleeting incident.”

    He stressed that the incident was neither serious nor disruptive, adding that the President remained unharmed and continued with his official schedule.

    “It was a mere stumble, thank God, not a fall,” he added.

  • Mutfwang’s defection reaffirms APC as truly national party, says Shettima

    Mutfwang’s defection reaffirms APC as truly national party, says Shettima

    • President okays work on Akwanga/Jos Road, hiring of 1,000 forest guards

    The defection of Plateau State Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang into the All Progressives Congress (APC) is another evidence that the ruling party is a truly national party, Vice President Kashim Shettima declared yesterday.

    Shettima, spoke during the reception organised at the Jos Pollo Ground to formally receive the Plateau governor into the ruling party.

    Also defecting were Deputy Governor Josephine Piyo, Senator Pam Nwadkou Dachungyang (Plateau North), PDP members in the House of Assembly, other federal lawmakers, local government chairmen and local opposition leaders.

    The event, which makes Mutfwang, the 29th governor of the party, was witnessed by key leaders of the party, including National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda, who presented him with the party’s flag and the broom symbol.

    Leaders of the National Assembly, led by Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House Speaker Abbas Tajudeen, governors of the party led by Chairman of Progressives Governors Forum (PGF) Hope Uzodimma of Imo State were on hand to receive Mutfwang.

    Read Also: Shettima to launch learning, empowerment fund

    Party supporters from across the 17 local governments showed solidarity at the rally.

    Yilwatda, who recalled that Mutfwang was his senior in secondary school, pledged total support for his re-election, adding that all key political leaders, including candidates of Labour Party (LP), New Nigerian Peoples Party (NNPP) in the 2023 election, in his home state, had dumped their parties for the APC platform.

    He urged him to use the broom to sweep the remnants of opposition away if they would not join the ruling party.

    Speaker after speaker at the rally affirmed that Mutfwang’s defection has put all six states in the Northcentral in APC bag as in the Southsouth where all the states are controlled by the APC.

    Twenty-four hours before the Plateau State governor was received, Kano State Govenror Abba Kabir Yusuf was welcomed into the ruling party by Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin and former National Chairman Umar Ganduje after he registered for the party.

    Shettima, whose speech capped yesterday’s rally, said: “Plateau is a reminder that what powers every nation is unity, not unity rooted in sameness, but unity anchored on shared purpose.

    “To have Plateau in the All Progressives Congress is to show the world that we are indeed prepared to be the party for all Nigerians.”

    He relived Plateau State’s historic role in Nigeria’s survival and cohesion, paying tribute to former Head of State, Gen.  Yakubu Gowon,  John Wash Pam, Solomon Lar, Joshua Dariye, Lalong, Tallen,  and other eminent sons and daughters who sacrificed for the nation’s survival.

    Shettima said “Plateau gave Nigeria a leader whose strength lay in reconciliation. Nations survive not by conquest but by healing”.

    The vice president conveyed assurances from President Tinubu that Mutfwang would enjoy full standing and recognition within the APC, stressing that good governance is an asset to any political movement committed to national progress.

    He described the governor as a unifying leader whose administration has begun to reposition Plateau from conflict and stagnation towards peace and transformation.

    He alluded to Mutfwang’s initiatives in peace building, renewable energy deployment for primary healthcare centres, agricultural expansion, transport infrastructure revitalisation, and people-focused budgets in education, healthcare and youth empowerment, urging him to sustain the tempo.

    The APC is wooing more opposition leaders to the ruling party, Yilwatda said.

    He said the membership drive embarked upon by the party has offered opportunity to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) members to jump out of the sinking platform to safety.

    He said: “APC now has 29 states. We will be expecting more. We are not tired of getting everyone. Our intention, our motive is that everyone becomes members of APC.”

    He added: “PDP is drowning. Come to the party that will give you life; come and take the broom that will give you the life jacket.”

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who is away in Turkey, was represented by Shettima.

    1,000 forest guards in Plateau

    Shettima said the president has ordered the construction of the Akwanga/Jos Road and recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in Plateau to complement the push for security in the state.

    Akpabio, who led his colleagues, including Barau, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, Simon Lalong, Rochas Okorocha and Adams Oshiomhole, said Northcentral has now become another APC stronghold.

    He said it is now evident that President Tinubu will win the next poll and Mutfwang will secure a second term.

    House of Representatives Speaker Tajudeen Abba, who hailed Mutfwang’s courage, urged him to embark on reconciliation in the state to foster cohesion and harmony.

    At the rally were PGF chairman Uzodimma; governors Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos State), Ahmad,Aliyu (Sokoto), Dikko Raddah (Katsina), Monday Okphebolo (Edo), Abdullahi Sule(Nasarawa), Babagana Zulum (Borno), Agbu Kwfas (Taraba), and Francis Nwifuru (Akwa Ibom).

    Other dignitaries included Secretary to the Government of the Federation Senator George Akume; former Plateau Deputy Governor Pauline Tallen; former House of Representatives Deputy Speaker Idris Wase; Prof David Yakubu; APC National Secretary Senator Ajibola Basiru and other National Working Committee (NWC) members – Saliu Muazu, Duro Meseko, Chinedu Ogah, Senator Lawrence Adudu, Abdulkarim Kana, Garuba Datti, Mustapha Saliu and Sulemain Argungu.

    ‘Mutfwang will get second term ticket’

    Yilwatda, who was Mutfwang’s rival during the 2023 poll, assured that he will get the second term ticket and win in next year’s election.

    He said there is no vacancy in the Plateau Government House because APC is waxing stronger, having collapsed into one big family.

    The APC chair expressed excitment that the governor, who was his senior in secondary school and opponent, would team with APC during the general election.

    Yilwatda said: “My joy knows no bound. The candidates of APC, PDP, LP and other parties are now in APC. All the structues are now in APC, which is more powerful, more united, more intimidating and more prepared to deliver victory to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. We are better, stronger and more united.”

    The chairman added: “There will be justice. There will be no tribal sentiment. There will be peace in Plateau State. We will work together, not by words, but by action.

    “That brotherhood that made us one, that brotherhood that makes us thick should expand. The time for unity, justice and peace is here.”

    Turning to Mutfwang, the chairman said: “Our broom will give you strength to sweep all your supporters to APC.  The broom will sweep away disunity. The broom will ensure that we are one.”

    Yilwatda also said in 2027, both the President and the governor will win in Plateau overwhelmingly.

    He added: “Anybody who dies not belong to the APC is a minority. All our federal and state lawmakers are APC. Our local government chairmen are APC. I urged those who are yet to join APC to come.”

    Tinubu is  most Christian-friendly leader, says Akpabio

    Akpabio described President Tinubu-led administration as the most Christian friendly government since Nigeria came into existence.

    He said: “Let me place on record that the President Bola Tinubu-led administration is the most Christian-friendly administration since the creation of Nigeria. He has shown this through his actions and deeds. He treats both Christians and Muslims equally.”

    The Senate President hailed Mutfwang for taking Plateau to the centre of Nigeria’s political gravity.

    He said: “Mr. Governor, I congratulate you on this action of taking the people of Plateau to the centre of national politics. Let me assure you that insecurity will soon come to an end in the Plateau.

    “We will support your government in all sectors inorder to better the lives of your people. We will not leave you alone. Today’s action has finally brought all the states in the North Central geo- political zone into the party. This is significant.

    ‘Government will do everything within its powers to protect Nigerians no matter their religious inclination and belief. We will support President Tinubu through approval of funds inorder to shut down all IDP camps in the state.”

    Abbas: governor should reconcile tribes in Plateau

     Abbas described the occasion as historic, noting that Plateau was the last state in the Northcentral to join the APC.

    He urged Mutfwang to embrace reconciliation and provide inclusive leadership as the party leader in the state.

    Abbas said: “As the state party leader, you should embrace reconciliation and promote brotherhood. Take members of APC and PDP as one indivisible family and give everyone a sense of belonging.”

    APC will bring prosperity, says Uzodimma

    Uzodimma said APC will nit renege on its promise of renewed hope, development and prosperity.

    He described Mutfwang as one of the best and brightest, assuring that Plateau would reap the benefit of defection.

    No formidable team like Tinubu/Shettima, says Sule

    Sule said Northcentral is now a stronghold of APC, noting that the six ststes are under the leadership of the ruling party.

    He said Plateau had chosen a path that would reposition it to fully support President Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027.

    He praised the President’s passion for national unity and progress, urging Nigerians to work together to steady the nation.

    The governor paid special tribute to Shettima, acknowledging his pivotal role in encouraging his defection to the ruling party.

    I will unite Plateau, says Mutfwang

    Mutfwang promised to unite the state and fortify the party to achieve victory in future polls.

    He said: “Today’s movement is a landmark. It is statement that the people on the Plateau have made and they are here in their thousands to publicly declare their support for the APC and to return President Tinubu back to office in 2027.

    “We are beginning a journey that our forefathers had long expected that we be united for peace and development.”

    He thanked the president, Akpabio, Abbas and other party leaders for encouraging him to join the ruling party.

    Stressing that “Plateau is a must-win state in future elections,” the governor, who hailed President Tinubu’s gestures, said: “it is better to follow a man that knows road.”

    He added: “We have not come to take over. We have come to add value. All disunity and rivalries will now disappear. Plateau will be united.  No more opposition in Plateau. We are not defecting. We are realigning. We are re-engineeribg. Plateau will be the joker in 2027.”

    We can’t stop politicians from joining our party, says Morka

    APC National Publicity Secretary Felix Morka said the party cannot prevent politicians from defecting.

    He described the wave of defections as a reflection of confidence in the administration of President Bola Tinubu.

    Morka spoke during an interview monitored a cable television, where he responded to concerns over the growing number of governors defecting into the APC, including Kano governor.

    Morka said governors defecting to the ruling party were aligning themselves with what he described as a ‘resurging Nigeria’ under the Tinubu administration.

    He said: “What you see is governors who have decided to join our party to identify with this resurging Nigeria that this President is clearly positioning Nigeria to be.”

    The spokesman added that the APC welcomed new members and would not act as a barrier to politicians seeking to join the party.

    “We are happy; we are excited about people who join our party. We cannot be gatekeepers to filter out people who want to join our camp. We don’t do that because it is undemocratic,” Morka said.

    Dismissing fears that the defections could lead to a one-party state, Morka dismissed such concerns, arguing that Nigeria had experienced similar political dominance in the past without undermining democracy.

    He said: “The PDP at some point in our history governed Nigeria with about the same number of governors. I was very active in the political world at that time and there was no spectre anywhere about a one-party state because the PDP had those numbers of governors.

    “That’s not the case now, and I think we should not equate people joining our party with that mode.”

  • Tax: Banks can’t debit account without owner’s consent

    Tax: Banks can’t debit account without owner’s consent

    The Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee has said that banks cannot debit customers accounts for taxes without the consent of such customers.

    Chairman, Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee, Mr Taiwo Oyedele, said that tax authorities in Nigeria do not have the power to directly debit or take money from people’s bank accounts.

    Oyedele was reacting to media reports suggesting that the Lagos State Government planned to start debiting the personal accounts of taxpayers who fail to pay their taxes.

    He described such reports as misleading, noting that they did not reflect how the law actually works.

    He explained that what exists in Nigerian tax law is the “power of substitution,” which is very different from directly taking money from a person’s bank account.

    He said: “The power of substitution is a tax recovery method that allows the tax authority to ask a third party to pay money that belongs to a taxpayer who has refused to settle a confirmed and unpaid tax debt. This only happens after all legal and administrative steps, including court appeals, have been completed”.

    According to him, the power of substitution cannot be used freely or without limits as it is tightly controlled by law and can only be applied after a long process has been followed.

    “This is not an arbitrary or routine action. It is a last resort that can only be used after enquiries, assessments, objections, final notices and court appeals have all been concluded, and the tax debt has become final and legally due,” Oyedele said.

    He also allayed fears among low-income earners and small business owners pointing out that people who earn the national minimum wage or small businesses that fall below the taxable threshold are not affected by such measure like power of substitution.

    He said: “The power of substitution only makes sense where there is a large and confirmed tax debt. Most low-income earners and small businesses do not fall into this category under the new tax laws”.

    He explained that this approach is not unique to Nigeria as many countries use similar systems to recover unpaid taxes.

    “This is a global practice. Other countries also allow tax authorities to use third parties, such as through garnishment or third-party payment notices, to collect confirmed tax debts,” Oyedele said.

    He pointed out that the main reason for having this power is to make the tax system fair to everyone.

    He said: “Without strong tools to enforce payment, honest taxpayers end up carrying the burden, while those who refuse to pay are encouraged. This can put pressure on government finances and lead to higher taxes for everyone else”.

    Read Also: New tax laws boost workers’ January salary- Oyedele

    He outlined the strict conditions that must be met before the power of substitution can be used. He said the tax authority must first complete the full process of establishing the tax debt, the debt must be final and legally due, and the taxpayer must have refused or failed to pay within the time given in writing.

    He added that when a third party is appointed as a “substitute,” it means the person or organisation holds money belonging to the taxpayer or owes the taxpayer some money.

    “The tax authority can send a notice to anyone who is holding funds for the taxpayer or owes the taxpayer money,” Oyedele said.

    He explained that such a person is not forced to act without a chance to respond. He said the law allows the appointed party to either comply or formally object in writing within 30 days, stating clear reasons for the objection.

    He said: “There are also full rights of appeal under the tax dispute system, just like with any tax assessment”.

    He said there were several protections in place to prevent abuse of the process, including the right to due process in assessing the tax, the right of the substitute to object, the right to appeal, and the involvement of the Office of the Tax Ombud to protect taxpayer rights.

    He insisted that the power of substitution was not meant to punish people or be used regularly.

    He said: “It is a carefully controlled tool designed to make sure the tax system is fair. It exists to ensure that people who have a confirmed and lawful tax debt cannot simply ignore their obligation to pay”.

    He urged the public to seek correct information and not be misled by reports that suggest tax authorities can simply reach into bank accounts without following the law.

  • Presidency dismisses Tinubu’s stumble in Ankara as minor incident

    Presidency dismisses Tinubu’s stumble in Ankara as minor incident

    The Presidency on Tuesday played down reports that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu tripped during a reception in Ankara, Türkiye, describing the incident as a minor stumble that did not in any way disrupt his official engagements.

    President Tinubu, who is on a state visit to Türkiye, reportedly lost his balance briefly during a reception organised in his honour in Ankara, sparking reactions across social and traditional media platforms.

    Reacting privately to the incident, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said the President merely stepped on an object on the floor and momentarily lost his balance.

    “The President stepped on a metal on the floor, which made him lose his balance. This is not a big deal, except for those who want to make mischief out of the fleeting incident”, Onanuga said.

    Read Also: Economic model under Tinubu to drive higher GDP, says IMPI

    He stressed that the development was neither serious nor consequential, adding that the President remained unharmed and continued with his scheduled programme.

    “It was a mere stumble, thank God, not a fall,” Onanuga added.

    Officials around him on the trip have said President Tinubu remained fully engaged in his official activities in Ankara, holding meetings and participating in events lined up for the state visit, which is aimed at strengthening diplomatic, economic, and strategic ties between Nigeria and Türkiye.

  • ‘Why we charged Sowore over false claim against Tinubu,’ by DSS

    ‘Why we charged Sowore over false claim against Tinubu,’ by DSS

    The Department of State Services (DSS) has said its decision to file a charge against online publisher and politician, Omoyele Sowore, was because of the security implications of the post he made on social media calling President Bola Tinubu a criminal.

    The DSS is prosecuting Sowore before a Federal High Court in Abuja for allegedly making false claim against the person of Present Bola Tinubu by referring to him as a criminal in a post he made on his “X” and Facebook accounts.

    An official of the DSS,  Cyril Nosike explained the rationale behind Sowore’s prosecution while being cross-examined on Tuesday by the defendant’s lawyer, Marshall Abubakar.

    Abubakar, who played a video in court showing President Tinubu promising to protect the rights of all Nigerians, including those abusing him and calling him names, asked the witness to explain why the DSS decided to file the charge against his client despite the President’s promise.

    In response, the witness said his organisation filed the charge because of the security implications of the post made by Sowore.

    The witness said the video of President Tinubu, posted by Sowore on his social media platforms, was made in Brazil when the President went there on state visit.

    Nosike said he was not in Brazil with the President and did not personally record the video, which was also played in court again on Tuesday at Abubakar’s request.

    The witness said he downloaded the video when it was posted by the defendant, adding that he neither knew when the video was uploaded nor when it was made.

    The witness also said he neither knew who recorded the video nor 

    where the video was made in Brazil.

    Nosike said he did not interview the President regarding this video and that he did not also take any statement from the President to confirm if he was the person in the video.

    The witness also said he did not take statement from the President on the effect or otherwise of the video on him and that he did not know whether or not the President is aware of the post made by Sowore.

    He said he did not have before the court any defamation complaint from the President.

    The DSS officer, who said the President is the victim of the alleged post made by Sowore, said he is not aware that the DSS put Sowore on trial in 2019  for calling for a revolution in the country.

    The witness also said that is not aware that 2019 trial of the defendant is on the website of the DSS and is equally unaware that the defendant’s phone has been with the DSS since 2019.

    He said he did not know anything about a judgment of the court asking the DSS to release Sowore’s three phones to him.

    Read Also: Trial of Sowore over alleged cyber bullying of Tinubu resumes Jan 22

    At that point Abubakar tendered a certified true copy (CTC) order  made on February 19, 2024 by Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja, which the defence lawyer claimed directed the DSS to release his client’s phones.

    Justice Mohammed Umar admitted the document in evidence.

    Abubakar also tendered a flash drive containing some videos, including one where President Tinubu, dressed in Igbo traditional attire, promised to protect the rights of all, and another one showing now Ambassador-designate, Reno Omokri, vowing not to accept any appointment under President Tinubu and calling him a drug lord during the last electioneering campaign.

    The video clips were later played in open court at Abubakar’s request.

    The witness said he did not know whether or not his agency carry out checks and screening of government’a appointees like judges, ministers and ambassadors.

    Nosike said he could not say why the DSS cleared Omokri, who called the President a drug lord, for ambassadorial appointment.

    Further hearing in the case resumes on February 4.

  • JUST IN: Super Eagles captain Ndidi loses father in road accident

    JUST IN: Super Eagles captain Ndidi loses father in road accident

    Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi has lost his father, Sunday Ndidi, who passed away on Tuesday following a road accident in Delta State.

    Sunday Ndidi, a retired military officer, was reportedly involved in a crash in Umunede, Delta State. He was rushed to a hospital in nearby Agbor, where doctors later confirmed his death.

    The sad news was announced by Beşiktaş, Ndidi’s club side in Turkey, which expressed deep sorrow over the loss of their midfielder’s father.

    “May Allah have mercy on the deceased. We offer our heartfelt condolences to our footballer Wilfred Ndidi, his family, and all his loved ones,” the club said in a message shared on X.

    Read Also: Man United open talks with Ndidi

    Ndidi recently assumed the captaincy of Nigeria, taking over from William Troost-Ekong. He led the Super Eagles to a third-place finish at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, a tournament that marked a personal milestone as he scored his first-ever goal for the national team.

    During the competition, Ndidi also spoke fondly of his father and referenced his admiration for former Nigeria captain Kanu Nwankwo while explaining the inspiration behind his goal celebration against Tunisia.

    Messages of condolence have continued to pour in from fans, teammates, and the Nigerian football community.

  • Atiku’s son hails Tinubu’s economic policies, backs re-election

    Atiku’s son hails Tinubu’s economic policies, backs re-election

    Abba Atiku Abubakar, son of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has attributed his support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid to what he described as the administration’s innovative and business-friendly economic policies.

    He said President Tinubu’s economic initiatives are more favourable to businesses than those of previous administrations, adding that the reforms have reshaped his political alignment ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    Abba made the remarks during a solidarity visit to the leadership of the City Boy Movement (CBM) in Abuja on Monday evening, where he led members of the Haske Atiku Organisation, now rebranded as the Haske Tinubu Organisation.

    He recalled that he formally defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) on January 15, collecting his membership card at Gwadabwa Ward in Yola North Local Government Area of Adamawa State, where he publicly pledged support for Tinubu’s second-term ambition.

    Read Also: Atiku’s son Abba officially defects to APC, backs Tinubu’s re-election

    According to him, his decision to back the president was driven by admiration for the economic policies introduced since 2023, which he believes are positioning the country for stronger private-sector growth and investment.

    According to him, “This administration has introduced policies that have every Nigerian in mind. If anyone says this government is not doing well, I will tell them they are lying,” he said. “I believe that if given another term, the government will do even more because it is focused.”

    He explained that his long-standing experience in business has given him a clear perspective on economic governance in Nigeria.

    “Since the return of democratic rule in 1999, I have been in business, and I am still in business today. The economic policies of Mr. President are favourable—not just to businesses, but to Nigerians in general, who are already benefiting from these reforms,” he stated.

    He also explained that his decision to join the APC and align with the City Boy Movement was motivated by his passion for the Tinubu-led administration and his desire to serve.

    “My joining the APC and the City Boy Movement is based on my belief in this administration. I also intend to use this platform to serve the people of Adamawa at the National Assembly level. Mr. President has made youth inclusion in politics a reality,” Abubakar added.

    The Director General of the City Boy Movement, Mr. Oluwatosin Shoga reaffirmed President Tinubu’s commitment to youth participation in governance and leadership.

    He noted that one of CBM’s core strategic mandates is to ensure that young Nigerians are deliberately positioned for leadership roles while encouraging greater youth involvement in the political process.

    Abba’s delegation was received by the Director General of CBM, Mr. Shoga, and the National Coordinator, Mr. Favour Abayomi.

  • Shell’s planned $20b investment driven by Tinubu’s policies

    Shell’s planned $20b investment driven by Tinubu’s policies

    Global energy giant, Shell Plc has credited President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s visionary leadership and reforms for its latest decision to invest additional $20 billion in Nigeria.

    Shell is also committing to more long-term investments in Nigeria in what the corporation described as a “sea change” from where it was several years ago, when it was pulling back on investments in the country.

    Global Chief Executive, Shell Plc, Mr Wael Sawan, at a meeting with President Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, said the bold and visionary leadership of President Tinubu was the major reason Shell is deepening its investments in Nigeria.

    According to him, President Tinubu’s leadership has created a healthy and stable climate that is restoring investors’ confidence and stimulating new investment decisions.

    Shell’s new project, Bonga Southwest, will see the corporation investing about $20 billion in foreign direct investment. The new investment, which is expected to reach Final Investment Decision (FID) soon, comes on the heels of a string of recent investments by Shell including $5 billion in Bonga North, $2 billion in HI conventional gas project and the gas project with the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) Limited.  

    Sawan said: “We have really been in a space where we are very keen to invest in Nigeria. But I would say this has not always been the case. Your leadership and your vision have created an investment climate over the last few years that, I will be very honest with you, propelled us to invest, in particular, also as we compare to other investments around the world.

    “Stability in today’s environment will honestly have a premium for corporates because we are investing not for one administration or five or 10 years, we want to invest for 20, 30, 40 years and in the case of Nigeria, for many, many decades”.

    READ ALSO: ‘Nigeria has not recovered from military rule’

    He pointed out that Nigeria, under the Tinubu administration, is one of the countries attracting significant investment from global oil companies.

    He said Shell sees further opportunities for additional investments in Nigeria given President Tinubu’s transformative leadership, his team and investors-friendly policies.

    He noted that Shell has recently expanded its investments in Nigeria by deepening its interest in Block OML 118, the Bonga Block.

    “Total Energies was selling, so we bought it because we want to deepen further. But that, we think, is not enough. We think there is more to invest here, and we understand the vision that you have for the country. And so we are indeed working on a project, Bonga Southwest, that could, if we reach an FID stage, see us, with our partners, invest around $20 billion in foreign direct investment, half of which will be capital. The other half will be the operating expenses and the like that will come into the country.

    “This will be one of the biggest, I would say, energy projects in the world,” Sawan said.

    He added that the corporation still sees “opportunities like Bonga South, which is further in the funnel, to be able to continue to invest”.

    He said: “Your Excellency, to Bonga Southwest, that huge project, I would like to thank you. I want to thank you for the leadership you have shown there to be able to provide the incremental incentives that are now getting us line of sight to an investment in this project with our partners”.

    He also commended the President’s team, describing them as outstanding professionals.

    “And that leadership, I would also say, has put many of the people that we are working with, your team, are amongst the best that we are dealing with anywhere in the world, and that professionalism allows us to be able to have the confidence, and I would say our partners as well, to have the confidence to continue to invest,” Sawan said.

    Special Adviser to the President on Information & Strategy, Mr Bayo Onanuga, in a statement, stated that at the meeting, President Tinubu approved the gazetting of targeted, investment-linked incentives to support the proposed Bonga South West deep offshore oil project by Shell and its partners.

    The President also directed his Special Adviser on Energy, Mrs Olu Arowolo-Verheijen, to facilitate the gazette of the incentives in line with Nigeria’s existing legal and fiscal frameworks.

     The President made it clear that the incentives were not blanket concessions but linked to verifiable investments.

    “They are ring-fenced and investment-linked, focused on new capital and incremental production, strong local content delivery, and in-country value addition.

    “My expectation is clear: Bonga South West must reach a Final Investment Decision within the first term of this administration,” President Tinubu said.

  • Kano quakes with governor, lawmakers defection to APC

    Kano quakes with governor, lawmakers defection to APC

    • Barau excited by movement into party

    • Kwankwaso’s son quits exco

    A major realignment of political forces ahead of next year’s polls occurred in Kano State yesterday.

    Governor Abba Yusuf, 22 members of the House of Assembly, eight members of the House of Representatives, 44 local government chairmen and several political appointees defected from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    Also defecting with the governor were eight federal legislators, 44 local government chairmen and 484 councillors.

    Explaining their decision, the lawmakers said the move was driven by the need for political stability and sustainable development.

    The development triggered ripples within the state’s political space, particularly among members of the Kwankwasiyya Movement led by Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso.

    Kwankwaso’s son, Mustapha Kwankwaso, subsequently resigned his appointment as Commissioner for Youths and Sports Development, citing a conflict of loyalty.

    At a separate event elsewhere in the sprawling Kano metropolis, Kwankwaso met with members of his political group and others who declined to follow Governor Yusuf into the APC.

    Today in Jos, the Plateau State capital, Governor Caleb Mutfwang is expected to be formally received into the APC by Vice President Kashim Shettima and the party’s National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda.

    Exuding confidence, Yusuf was warmly received into the APC by former APC National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje; Deputy Senate President, Senator Jibril Barau; Senator Kawu Sumaila; Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Yusuf Atah; members of the House of Representatives; and other party chieftains.

    They commended him for what they described as courage and political foresight at the defection ceremony held at the Coronation Hall of Government House, Kano, where he received the party’s flag and membership card.

    The governor pledged to work closely with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to accelerate development and deliver more dividends of democracy to the people of Kano State.

    READ ALSO: Accord, APC, ADC ready for battle

    He described his defection as a choice for progress over pride and emphasised the significance of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

    Yusuf also announced plans to establish a Kano Elders Council aimed at promoting stability, unity and good governance in the state.

    He commended Ganduje and Barau Jibrin for their support, assuring them that he would not let them down.

    The governor recalled that he first joined the APC in 2014, when he won the party’s primary election for the Kano Central Senatorial seat, which he later relinquished to Senator Kwankwaso.

    He cited governance realities, national cohesion and development needs as reasons for returning to the APC, which he described as “familiar and structured for progressive governance.”

    According to him, his return would strengthen cooperation with the Federal Government, fast-track development, improve security and enhance service delivery in Kano State.

    Yusuf said: “I am entering the APC together with 22 state lawmakers, eight federal legislators, 44 local government chairmen and 484 councillors.

    “We will work collectively to advance the party’s noble ideals for the overall political development of Kano State.

    “Our mission is to advance the Kano agenda, which remains our primary concern, not personal interest.”

    Ganduje urges governorship aspirants to step aside

    Ganduje urged all governorship aspirants in Kano State to shelve their ambitions, declaring that the APC ticket for 2027 would be ceded to Yusuf.

    He called on party members to rally behind the governor, whom he described as the leader of the party in the state.

    Ganduje said: “Anyone seeking to govern Kano State in 2027 should put their ambition on hold to enable Governor Yusuf complete his two-term tenure.”

    The former governor of Kano State praised Yusuf for defecting to what he called the progressive camp and for placing the interest of the state above personal considerations.

    He added: “I can categorically tell you that you are going to win in 2027 by a landslide because those contesting for the same seat have agreed to step aside.

    “To us, the leaders of the APC, this is a memorable occasion. I strongly welcome Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf back to his home.”

    Ganduje recalled that Yusuf was part of the APC at its formation but left due to political differences.

    “Now, we are thankful that you are back to your party and your home,” he said.

    Describing Yusuf as a progressive politician, Ganduje cited his policies, utterances and implementation style as evidence.

    He formally declared Yusuf as the leader of the APC in Kano State, saying: “As the leader of the APC in Kano today, you embody the party’s policies.”

    Putting to rest speculation about party leadership, he added: “Governor Yusuf today stands as the leader of the party in the state.”

    Ganduje also described President Tinubu as a nationalist who treats citizens equally, regardless of religion or ethnicity.

    Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, himself a governorship aspirant, joined Ganduje in raising Yusuf’s hands during the reception.

    He commended Yusuf for what he called a bold and decisive return to the APC, describing the move as lasting.

    In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Malam Ismail Mudashir, Barau said he would work with Yusuf and other stakeholders to address the challenges facing Kano State.

    Barau recalled that his entry into politics over three decades ago was driven by a desire to serve the people of Kano and Nigeria.

    He said he has remained committed to that mission and would continue to work for unity, progress and development.

    Barau said: “I welcome His Excellency, the Governor of our beloved state, Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf, to our great party, the APC, the largest political party in Africa.

    “I also want to reassure President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of my unalloyed commitment to the Renewed Hope Agenda, as we work together to take Nigeria to the next level.”

    The Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi, said in a statement that Yusuf does not require Kwankwaso’s support to secure a second term.

    Kwankwaso’s son resigns as commissioner

    Mustapha Kwankwaso, in his resignation letter, thanked the governor for the opportunity to serve the state.

    He said: “As I resign, I pray that the youth of Kano State will continue to receive the attention and support they deserve.”

    He expressed confidence that sports development programmes in the state would continue to flourish and wished the Yusuf administration success.

    Atiku’s son Abba registers for APC

    In Adamawa State, Northeast, Abba Abubakar, son of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, formalised his defection to the APC.

    He received his APC membership card at his Gwadabawa Ward in Yola, the state capital, and was formally welcomed by party leaders at the state secretariat.

    Addressing party executives and members, Abba said he was motivated by the performance of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    He described the President as the best option for Nigeria under the current circumstances and pledged to support his re-election in 2027.

    Abba’s defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) comes six months after his father left the PDP for the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

    Observers note that while Atiku is positioning himself within the ADC ahead of 2027, his son is now in the ruling APC, campaigning for President Tinubu’s re-election.

    Receiving Abba, Adamawa APC Chairman, Idris Shuaibu, said the party appreciated his conviction and decision.

    Shuaibu added that the party was pleased that Abba was bringing his experience and influence into the APC.

    Tinubu to receive Mutfwang into APC today

    All arrangements have been concluded for today’s formal reception of Plateau State Governor, Barrister Caleb Mutfwang, into the APC.

    Mutfwang, who was elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 2023, defected alongside members of the state cabinet, National Assembly members, the entire State House of Assembly, local government chairmen and councillors.

    Vice President Kashim Shettima is expected to represent President Tinubu, who is on an official visit to Turkey.

    He will be joined by Senate President Godswill Akpabio; Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas; APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda; members of the National Working Committee; and governors elected on the platform of the APC.

    Also expected at the event are Plateau traditional rulers and federal and state lawmakers.

    Co-chairman of the Central Planning Committee, Ahmed Wase, said the reception marks a defining moment in Plateau State politics.

    “This event has ignited excitement across the state and beyond,” Wase said, adding that it reflects a growing consensus for unity and inclusive governance.

    He recalled that Governor Mutfwang formally resigned from the PDP on December 29, 2025, citing commitment to purposeful leadership and effective service delivery.

    According to Wase, the governor’s subsequent alignment with the APC signalled support for the Renewed Hope Agenda and a desire to position Plateau State for accelerated development, improved security and better living standards.

  • Military set to court-martial suspects for alleged coup

    Military set to court-martial suspects for alleged coup

    For months, the whispers refused to die down as questions about what truly happened behind the barracks walls persisted.

    Yesterday, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) confirmed what it once dismissed as mere rumour.

    It said investigations into alleged coup plotting within the military have been concluded, with a report submitted on 16 officers arrested for serious service violations, including attempts to overthrow the government.

    The DHQ said the report was forwarded to the appropriate superior authority, in line with extant military regulations.

    The confirmation was contained in a statement by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Sumaila Uba.

    According to the statement, the investigation, conducted strictly in accordance with established military procedures, examined all circumstances surrounding the actions of the affected personnel.

    “The findings have identified a number of officers with allegations of plotting to overthrow the government, which is inconsistent with the ethics, values and professional standards required of members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN),” the statement said.

    Major General Uba explained that officers found to have cases to answer would be formally arraigned before appropriate military judicial panels.

    READ ALSO: ‘Nigeria has not recovered from military rule’

    “Accordingly, those with cases to answer will be formally arraigned before an appropriate military judicial panel to face trial in accordance with the Armed Forces Act and other applicable service regulations.

    This ensures accountability while upholding the principles of fairness and due process,” he added.

    How the coup story broke

    The controversy dates back to October 2025, when reports surfaced alleging that some military officers were involved in a plot to destabilise and possibly overthrow the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    At the time, the reports triggered widespread public concern, coming against the backdrop of coups and attempted coups in several West African countries, including Niger, Mali, Burkina Faso and Guinea.

    The military high command swiftly moved to douse tensions.

    In an initial response, the Defence Headquarters categorically denied that there was any coup plot, describing media reports of an attempt to overthrow the Federal Government as “baseless” and “misleading.”

    However, shortly after the denial, the military announced that 16 officers had been arrested and were facing military justice, not for coup plotting, but for acts of indiscipline and breaches of service regulations.

    What the military said then

    In its October 2025 statement, the DHQ explained that the grievances of the arrested officers stemmed largely from internal issues, particularly perceived career stagnation resulting from repeated failures in promotion examinations, among other service-related complaints.

    The military further stated that some of the officers were already under military jurisdiction for various offences, either awaiting trial or currently undergoing trial, before their latest arrest.

    At the time, the high command was emphatic that the actions taken were purely disciplinary.

    “The measures being taken are purely disciplinary and part of ongoing institutional mechanisms to preserve order, discipline and operational effectiveness within the ranks,” the DHQ said.

    It also reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, loyalty and constitutional authority, insisting that there was no threat to Nigeria’s democratic order.

    A shift from denial to confirmation

    Yesterday’s statement by the DHQ marks a significant shift, from outright denial of coup-related allegations to a confirmation that investigations uncovered claims of plotting to overthrow the government among some of the arrested officers.

    Despite this, the military maintained that the process remains strictly within the bounds of military law and discipline, not political vendetta.

    “The Armed Forces remain resolute in maintaining the highest standards of professionalism, loyalty and respect for constitutional authority,” the DHQ assured Nigerians.