The Nation Newspaper

Category: Featured

  • JUST IN: Court orders Police to maintain status quo in tinted glass permit case

    JUST IN: Court orders Police to maintain status quo in tinted glass permit case

    The Federal High Court sitting in Warri has ordered the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) and the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to maintain the status quo in the ongoing legal dispute over the enforcement of the tinted glass permit policy.

    The order was given Friday in Suit No. FHC/WR/CS/103/2025, filed by lawyer, John Aikpokpo-Martins, against the IGP and the NPF.

    READ ALSO: What disqualified BBNaija housemates stand to lose

    NBA Publicity Secretary Bridget Edokwe said the court specifically directed the police to respect judicial processes and refrain from any action that could undermine the pending case.

    Details shortly…

  • JUST IN: Church of England names Mullally first woman Archbishop of Canterbury

    JUST IN: Church of England names Mullally first woman Archbishop of Canterbury

    The Church of England has named Dame Sarah Elisabeth Mullally as the new Archbishop of Canterbury, making her the first woman to occupy the office in the more than 1,400 year history of the Anglican Communion.

    Mullally, who has been serving as Bishop of London since 2018, emerged the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury following the approval of the Crown Nominations Commission and confirmation by the monarch.

    Born in Woking, Surrey, in 1962, Mullally trained first as a nurse and rose to become Chief Nursing Officer for England before turning to the priesthood. 

    She was ordained in 2001, consecrated bishop in 2015, and appointed Bishop of London in December 2017. She has also served as Dean of the Chapel Royal since 2019.

    READ ALSO: Tiwa Savage thrills at Trace Live

    Her appointment comes at a time the Church is still reeling from the leadership crises and abuse scandals that trailed the tenure of Archbishop Justin Welby, who has stepped aside amid mounting criticism of his handling of safeguarding failures.

    Mullally has been outspoken on the need for reforms, pledging to strengthen safeguarding standards and restore trust in the Church. 

    She has also been noted for her careful handling of sensitive issues such as the place of women in ministry and the debate on sexuality, which continue to divide the global Anglican family.

    Reactions to her emergence have been mixed. Advocates of gender equality in the Church see it as a historic breakthrough, while conservatives in parts of Africa and Asia are expected to view the development with caution.

    Mullally will now face the dual challenge of healing internal divisions and navigating relations across the worldwide Anglican Communion, where theological and cultural differences remain pronounced.

    Clerical observers say her background as both a public servant and a church leader gives her a unique mix of administrative competence and pastoral sensitivity that will be critical in her new role.

    With her election, the Church of England has taken a bold step that many say could redefine its identity in the years to come.

  • Power tussle in PDP NWC deepens

    Power tussle in PDP NWC deepens

    Power struggle in the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP’s) National Working Committee (NWC) has deepened the crisis in the opposition platform ahead of next month’s National Convention.

    The convention, scheduled for Ibadan, Oyo State capital, is billed for November 15 and 16.

    The fresh discord is triggered by the decision of the divided NWC to dissolve the Akwa Ibom State chapter and set up a caretaker committee.

    While a section of the party leadership, led by the National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Damagum, approved the decision, other party officers, led by the National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, voided it.

    Anyanwu explained that there was no formal sitting of the NWC where the decision was ratified.

    The secretary chided the Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, for misleading the Akwa Ibom chapter and the public with a fabricated decision.

    Trouble started when the secretary rejected a directive from the chairman to summon the NWC meeting to deliberate on the composition of the Akwa Ibom State Executive Committee.

    Ologunagba explained that a new caretaker committee for the chapter was set up to replace the state executive committee controlled by the governor, Pastor Umo Eno, who had defected from the party to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    However, Anyanwu said any meeting of NWC presided by Damagum without a prior notice by him as provided by the PDP Constitution is illegal, null and void.

    The secretary said that he has the constitutional duty of taking the notes of the meeting, which was not exercised.

    Anyanwu, insisting that the NWC never decided on the dissolution of the leadership of the party in the state, pointed out that the National Executive Committee (NEC), and not the NWC, has the power to dissolve any state executive committee.

    A letter by Anyanwu, dated October 1, and titled: “RE: Dissolution of Akwa Ibom State Working Committee,” reads: “My attention has been drawn to the purported press statement by the National Publicity Secretary (NPS) of our party, announcing the dissolution of the State Working Committee of Akwa Ibom State.

    “For purposes of clarity, that press statement should be discountenanced because there was no formal sitting of the National Working Committee (NWC) in which such a decision was taken.

    “It is not in the official position and duties of the national Publicity secretary to take actions relating to the implementation of the decisions of the National Working Committee of our party. As a result, the purported press statement is null and void and of no effect.

    “The State Working Committee of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Akwa Ibom State stands un-dissolved.

    “Please, consider this letter as the rightful authority for you to continue in your duties as provided in the PDP Constitution 2017, as amended.”

    Anyanwu is a member of the Nyesom Wike camp that has been locked in conflict with Damagum over the position of the national leadership on outstanding party issues.

    Anyanwu can’t void NWC’s decision, says Ologunagba

    Ologunagba said Anyanwu, who claimed to have voided the NWC’s decision, went beyond his constitutional role.

    Citing the PDP Constitution, he said only the national chairman can summon any meeting of the party, adding that the 607th meeting was duly held and decisions binding on the party taken.

    Read Also: Nigeria secures AfDB commitment for agric expansion as SAPZ rolls out to 24 states

    He said 16 of the 18 NWC members attended the meeting where the situation in the Akwa Ibom chapter was discussed and decision taken.

    Ologunagba dismissed reports of a crisis between the acting national chairman and the national secretary over the conduct of congresses in some states and the setting up of a caretaker committee for the chapter.

    He said it was important for every member of the NWC to understand their role as contained in the constitution to avoid violations.

    The secretary, who also spoke on Channels Television last night, accused Anyanwu of promoting his personal interest

    He said: “There was indeed a meeting of the NWC summoned by the national chairman in line with the constitution. It was attended by 16 of 19 members. The national secretary was absent, and having failed to issue the notice of meeting as directed by the chairman, the chairman exercised his powers under Section 29 of our constitution to summon the meeting. “Decisions were taken, including the dissolution of the Akwa Ibom executives, and I was directed to communicate same. That is what I did.”

    He insisted that Anyanwu’s rejection of the decision was not in defence of party interest.

    Ologunagba added: “What you are seeing is the projection of personal interest above the collective interest of the PDP. It is not in the duties of the national secretary to nullify decisions of the NWC simply because he was absent or disagrees personally,” Ologunagba declared.

    Explaining why the Akwa Ibom executives were dissolved, he said the NWC acted on reports that the state structure was compromised and in open alignment with the APC.

    He said: “Section 10 (6) of our constitution is clear: no member of the party shall align with other parties or groups to undermine the PDP. The Akwa Ibom executive was openly controlled by the governor, who even boasted in public that he was in charge of PDP and APC in the state. For us, that was unacceptable.”

    Ogidi: caretaker committee in order

    The National Vice Chairman (Southsouth), Chief Emmanuel Ogidi defended the setting up of the caretaker committees for Akwa Ibom and Cross River.

    He said: “Since the governors left, we thought all was well. We found out that a few people were taking advantage of it.  The NWC of the party intervened and set up a caretaker committee to manage the affairs, pending when the issues would be resolved. It is an NWC decision that must be respected.”

    Last month, members of the group met at the minister’s official residence in Abuja, warning that failure to meet their demands would “render the proposed convention invalid as legitimate members of the party would be disenfranchised.”

    At the meeting were Wike; PDP National Secretary Senator Samuel Anyanwu; former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose; former Enugu State Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi; former Abia State Governor Okezie Ikpeazu; and former Benue State Governor Samuel Ortom.

    The meeting was also attended by the Speaker of the Rivers House of Assembly, Martins Amaewhule, Senator Phillips Aduda, Senator George Sekibo, Micah Jiba, some serving and former members of the National Assembly, as well as some state chairmen and some BoT members.

    A communique read by Ortom listed the demands:

    • Fresh congresses to be held in Ebonyi and Anambra states in compliance with subsisting court judgments;

    • A new Southeast Zonal Congress must be conducted.

    • The outcome of the Southsouth Congress in Calabar, upheld by the courts, must be respected;

    • PDP should conduct the Ekiti local government congresses in line with judicial pronouncements;

    • There should be no micro-zoning of offices beyond the general zoning formula adopted by the National Executive Committee (NEC) to maintain peace and stability;   and

    • The national chairmanship position must remain in the Northcentral, consistent with the zoning arrangement of the 2021 convention.

    Before the meeting, Wike, who had spoken on the preparations for the convention on a television station programme, said: “The issue of the national convention is not the problem; the issue is the problem leading to the convention, and people should understand that.

    “If they are not well taken care of, there is a likelihood that the convention will not hold.”

    Wike also said the choice of venue was not in dispute, insisting that the party must resolve its internal issues before convening.

    He stressed: “The venue is not the subject matter, the subject matter is: ‘Have you done what you were supposed to do before holding that convention? If not, it may be a setback.”

  • N’Assembly mulls one-day general election in 2027

    N’Assembly mulls one-day general election in 2027

    • INEC seeks quick action on election law
    • Mission says half measures won’t yield credible poll

    The National Assembly is considering amendments to the Electoral Act which will likely include the conduct of all elections in one day.

    House of Representatives Speaker Abbas Tajudeen, who gave the assurance yesterday, hinted that Presidential, gubernatorial, national, and state House of Assembly elections might be held on the same day should the bill be passed and assented to by the President.

    He spoke when a delegation of the European Union Election Observation follow-up mission to Nigeria’s  2023 general election visited him in  Abuja yesterday.

    The Barry Andrews-led delegation also visited Headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), where it chairman, Mahmood Yakubu,  warned that delay by the lawmakers in amending the  Electoral Act 2022 could hamper preparations for the 2027 general election. 

    The delegation, which has been in the country for about three weeks to study the level of implementation of the recommendations contained in its report after the 2023 general election,  also interfaced with the Peoples Democratic Party(PDP).

    Abbas, in a statement by his Press Secretary, Leke Bayeiwu, told the EU team that its reports on the 2023 polls were being considered in the ongoing electoral and democratic reforms by the National Assembly.

    Abbas said: “I want to acknowledge that the leadership of the country under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is committed to ensuring that we improve on our electoral processes, particularly regarding the observations made (by international observers) on the 2023 elections.

    “We in the National Assembly have also been busy working to gather as many issues as possible, arising from the last elections, so that we can see how we can legislatively address them; so that our next election will be more transparent, acceptable and in alignment with international standards.” 

    He told the team that a recent joint Senate and House of Representatives leadership meeting resolved to isolate electoral amendment issues and accelerate their consideration and passage.

    He allayed fears about the timeliness of the reforms.

    He said: “We agreed that because of some of the amendments that we want to bring forth – (some are by way of Act of Parliament, some are by constitutional amendment) we will fast track and isolate the electoral issues and take them as one, single entity; and push them forward for the National Assembly to deliberate and take a position; and then send them to the sub-nationals (state Houses of Assembly) to also consider    within a short timeframe – between now and December.” 

    Reassuring that the Parliament was “very serious” about electoral reforms, Abbas said the National Assembly was proposing new initiatives, including reserved parliamentary seats for women, reserved parliamentary seats for Persons With Disability (PLWDs), a constitutional role and financial autonomy for traditional rulers, a single-day election, among others.

    He explained that it was the thinking of many members of the National Assembly that a single-day election would not only improve efficiency and transparency in electoral conduct but also reduce costs by almost 40 per cent.

    He said: “Like the single-day election, it is to hold the election of the president, National Assembly membership, governorship and state House of Assembly membership elections on the same day.

    “In our own thinking, it will help to reduce our electoral costs to as much as 40 per cent if we can hold the elections within a day. It will also improve transparency and increase efficiency, particularly on the turnout of voters.” 

    Read Also: Nigeria secures AfDB commitment for agric expansion as SAPZ rolls out to 24 states

    The Speaker, however, urged the EU to assist the National Assembly in the area of advocacy and publicity, especially at the subnational level.

      “One takeaway from this meeting is to take the assurance from me and my colleagues that we will not be late. We will do the needful as far as legislation is concerned to enable INEC to have all the necessary tools and provisions to make the 2027 election much better than the 2023 election,” he said.

    Leader of the delegation,   Andrews, who earlier wished the Speaker a happy 60th birthday, thanked him for working with the EU on different policies.

    Andrews, a European Parliamentary member,   expressed the desire of the EU to see Nigeria’s democracy and elections meet international standards.

    He told Abbas that part of the recommendations in the 2023 election report required legislative initiatives. He admitted that some had been carried out by the National Assembly.

     “We have a good story to tell, frankly,” Andrews said, but expressed concerns about the possibility of an amended Electoral Act being ready for use by INEC to conduct the 2027 polls. 

    INEC  seeks quick amendment to  Electoral Act 

    Receiving the EU team, INEC chairman  Yakubu charged the National Assembly to quicken the amendment to the current Electoral Act.

    He warned that the non-existence of a new legal framework could negatively affect its preparations for the 2027 elections.

    “We appeal to the National Assembly for an expeditious consideration of the electoral reform proposal. An early passage of law is critical to our planning for the elections,’’ Yakubu said. 

    He added: “An Election is a process governed by law. Many of your recommendations require the review of our electoral laws. For this reason, the commission had interfaced with our National Assembly, including holding a retreat with the Joint Committee on Electoral Matters (Senate and House of Representatives).

    ‘’Uncertainty over the legal framework for the election can unsettle the work of the Commission as the election draws nearer.” 

    The INEC boss told  the   delegation  that their current visit was the third  “ that  the present commission is receiving such a mission.’’

    He said: ‘’I recall that in 2017, we received Mr Santiago Fisas, who led the EU Election Observation to Nigeria’s 2015 General Election.

    ‘’Similarly, in 2022, we hosted Maria Arena, who led the EU Election Observation Mission to Nigeria in 2019. Today, we are glad to receive Mr Barry Andrews, who led the EU Mission to the 2023 general election.

    “In 2019, the EU EOM made 30 recommendations, out of which 11 were specifically addressed to INEC. Three of them were identified as priority recommendations, while eight were categorised as general.

    “By comparison, your 2023 report made 23 recommendations, out of which eight  (34.8 per cent) require action by INEC, of which only one recommendation was listed as a priority.

    ‘’The remaining 15 (65.2 per cent) recommendations, of which five were categorised as priority, require action by other entities in the Executive, Legislature and the Judiciary, as well as political parties and multiple stakeholders such as civil society organisations, the media and professional bodies.

    “The commission has carefully considered all eight recommendations specifically addressed to us in your report. Action has been taken on aspects of the recommendations that only require administrative action to implement.

    “Similarly, action is being taken on cross-cutting recommendations that require collective action between INEC and other bodies and stakeholders while waiting for the conclusion of the ongoing legal review by the National Assembly on the recommendations that require legislative intervention.

    “To this end, the commission has prepared a detailed response on each one of your direct observations, which we shared with you at this meeting. If time permits, we can go over each of the recommendations seriatim.

    “I must also add that your recommendations, along with similar reports from other national and international election observers, were the subject of wide-ranging consultations with critical institutions and stakeholders during our own review of the 2023 general election.

    “The review report contains 142 recommendations for electoral reform. In addition, the commission published our main 2023 general election report over a year ago. The two reports are available from our website.

    “We look forward to the next EU EOM for the 2027 General Election. As you are aware, international Election Observation Missions are deployed on the invitation of the commission. I want to reassure you that we will continue to engage with you.”

    “Very soon, the commission will send out invitations to the EU as well as the Commonwealth, the African Union and ECOWAS for the 2027 general election. We believe that the recommendations arising from your observation of our election and electoral process help to improve the quality of our elections and electoral activities.”

    The delegation  told  Yakubu   that the EU    was pleased with the implementation of some of its  recommendations on  the 2023 general election by INEC

    He insisted that Nigeria must move beyond half-measures.

    Andrews pointed out that election observation is not about interference, but strengthening democracy in Nigeria, in Africa, and across the world.

    Andrews warned that reforms in the judiciary, administration, and the Constitution remain too slow, with transparency in result publication still unresolved.

  • JUST IN: Faith disqualified from BBNaija show

    JUST IN: Faith disqualified from BBNaija show

    Big Brother Naija housemate Faith has been disqualified from the reality show following a heated altercation with fellow contestant Sultana during a skincare task rehearsal.

    The announcement was made by Biggie on Thursday evening, hours after the clash left Sultana with a twisted ankle and a hand injury.

    The dispute began when Sultana accused Faith of being controlling and insisting on leading the group despite the task not falling within his medical expertise.

    Read Also: BBNaija 10: Faith, Sultana clash during skincare task

    Tensions escalated when Faith dragged a basket containing group materials, causing Sultana to fall.

    Despite interventions from housemate Kaybobo, who briefly took the basket from Faith, the confrontation continued, prompting Sultana to declare she could no longer work with him.

    The incident sparked outrage among viewers, many of whom demanded Faith’s disqualification for causing physical harm to a fellow housemate — a call Biggie eventually upheld.

  • JUST IN: Shettima returns after UN, Germany engagements

    JUST IN: Shettima returns after UN, Germany engagements

    Vice President Kashim Shettima on Thursday returned to Abuja after a week-long international mission where he represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York and concluded strategic engagements in Germany.

    During the high-level meetings in New York, the Vice President delivered President Tinubu’s national statement in which Nigeria called for comprehensive reforms of the United Nations, including a permanent African seat on the Security Council. 

    He also championed Africa’s sovereignty over its estimated $700 billion mineral resources, urging global equity in resource governance.

    READ ALSO: Renewing fight against out-of-school children, poor girl-child education

    Shettima also met with United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, who commended Nigeria’s bid for a permanent Security Council seat, and later showcased Nigeria’s $200 billion energy transition opportunity to global investors in line with the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

    The Vice President strengthened strategic partnerships with the United Kingdom, the Gates Foundation, and other international stakeholders while assuring the Nigerian diaspora community of robust engagement in the policies and programmes of President Tinubu’s administration.

    Shettima proceeded to Germany where he held further talks with financial and development partners, rounding off what observers described as a highly successful diplomatic mission before returning to Abuja.

  • Governors renew pledge to speed up development in states 

    Governors renew pledge to speed up development in states 

    • Sub-nationals helmsmen use Independence Day to reflect on economic reforms, insecurity, others 

    Governors have reaffirmed the pledge to raise their performance in line with calls by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for them to “wet the grass further”.

    They use the opportunity of the Independence Day programmes and statement to convey their willingness to do more.

    The President’s admonition is based on the improved revenue going to the states and councils as fallout of the removal of petrol subsidy.

    From about N700 billion being shared from the Federation Account to the federation, states and council pre-May 2023, the Federation Account Allocation has risen to N2.2 trillion shared in August.

    In many of the states, there were activities to mark the country’s 65th Independence Anniversary, the military parade which would have been held in Abuja was cancelled in the last minute.

    The only activities from the Federal Government were the broadcast by the President and his inauguration of the refurbished National Art theatre in Lagos, which was named after Nobel Laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka.

    Governors renewed their calls for unity, cohesion and peace as they joined Nigerians in the celebration.

    They urged Nigerians to place patriotism and national unity above religious sentiments and ethnicity.

    In messages to their people and Nigerians, Governors Usman Ododo (Kogi), Ahmadu Fintiri (Adamawa), Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau), Lucky Aiyedatiwa (Ondo), Peter Mbah (Enugu), Monday Okpebholo (Edo), Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), and Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike urged Nigerians to support the reforms of the Tinubu administration.

    Ododo: Let’s renew our love for Nigeria

    Ododo urged the people of Kogi to renew their love for the country and shun division.

    He said: “Independence Day is more than a date on our calendar; it is a call to patriotism, to unity, and to the shared responsibility of building a nation that guarantees peace, justice, and prosperity. Our strength as a people lies in our courage to overcome challenges.”

    The governor sympathised with victims of the boat accident in Ibaji Local Government, which claimed lives.

    He vowed to promote people-focused policies, infrastructural renewal, healthcare reforms, educational transformation, agricultural expansion, and improved security.

     Ododo added: “As patriotic citizens, let us continue to support the laudable reforms of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whose bold steps have set a template for sustainable development. As a nation, we are reaping the fruits of his courage.”

    It is a moment of sober reflection, says Mutfwang

    Mutfwang said the celebration offered opportunities for sober reflection, urging Nigerians to pray for peace and unity.

    In a statement by his media aide, the governor paid tribute to the founding fathers for their courage, resilience, and spirit of togetherness.

    Mutfwang said: “This milestone calls for sober reflection on our unity, peace, and progress. Our hope and confidence remain that God is at work in Nigeria, and despite our challenges, this nation shall be great.”

    He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to building a Plateau where peace, security, and prosperity will thrive.

    Mutfwang promised to prioritise protection of life and property, infrastructural development, and the promotion of unity across ethnic and religious divides.

    ‘Tinubu repositioning Nigeria ‘

    Okpebholo said actions and decisions of President Bola Tinubu is moving the country towards economic stability and growth.

    He said in a broadcast that the Renewed Hope Agenda reflected the true essence of Independence.

     The governor said he has remained focused on rebuilding Edo State into a land of peace, opportunity, and progress, adding that he has worked hard to make the state safer.

    “We are grateful to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his efforts to reposition Nigeria for greatness.

    “In two years of the administration, Nigeria has been freed from the chaos of long fuel queues, and from the satanic subsidy rackets, which siphoned our national wealth and left the masses in abject poverty.

    “The Renewed Hope has also expanded our economy and freed the states from having to queue for bailouts in Abuja before they could pay workers’ salaries. That era is over. We can only be grateful for these and other interventions of the Tinubu administration.”

    Read Also: Akpabio to Tinubu: prepare to receive more opposition governors into APC

    Oborevwori: we should build stronger nation

     Oborevwori urged Nigerians to remain steadfast in their commitment to building a stronger and more united nation.

    He noted that the economy has improved, emphasising the need to support President Tinubu’s reforms.

    The governor said in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, that the ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’ and his administration’s ‘MORE Agenda’ were designed to improve the living standards of the people.

    Oborevwori appealed to ethnic groups in the state to embrace peace and unity,  stressing that they are prerequisites for sustainable development.

    Tinubu is vindicated, says Mbah

    Mbah urged Nigerians to be optimistic in the face of challenges, promising that the economic policies of the President Tinubu and citizens’ huge sacrifices would pay off, if the nation stays the course.

    He said while the anniversary may understandably be low-key, it did not obviate Nigeria’s progress as an independent nation.

    Mbah said: “At 65, our independence is a reminder of what we can achieve as a people when we are united. It is also a reminder that progress demands sacrifice and that tomorrow is shaped by the choices we make today.

    “The commemoration of our 65th Independence anniversary may understandably be low-key, but the significance of the progress we have made as a nation is by no means underwhelming.

    “They are manifest in the remarkable achievements in key sectors. They reflect as well in the bold reforms of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu that brought stability to the economy. The sacrifices may be huge today, but the end will vindicate the decisions if we stay the course.”

     Mbah, while also recommitting to his administration’s inclusive development model, maintained that Enugu State, under his watch, was on the path of turnaround and exponential economic growth.

    He added: “In Enugu State, this Independence Day is a fitting occasion to recommit to our pledge to make inclusion the cornerstone of government policy; to create wealth and deploy it for everyone in Enugu State. We are staying the course. And no one will be left behind.”

    Fintiri pardons six prisoners

    Fintiri described unity as Nigeria’s greatest treasure, urging Nigerians to strengthen the bond.

    He said: “Like rivers that flow into one mighty stream, our differences must flow into one shared destiny,” Fintiri said, asserting that a divided Adamawa — like a divided Nigeria — cannot stand.

    “As we mark this day, let us renew a sacred pledge: to make Independence matter — not in words, but in real change.”

    The governor said his government has, in the last six years, executed projects to make Adamawa a better state.

    A statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Humwashi Wonosikou, said the governor pardoned six prison inmates.

    Aiyedatiwa: Reform is a blessing

    Aiyedatiwa said Nigeria is fortunate to have President Tinubu at the helm of affairs, praising his bold economic reforms and developmental agenda.

    The governor spoke at the Independence celebration at the Arcade Ground in Akure, the state capital.

    He said the country is making steady progress with the Renewed Hope Agenda.

    Aiyedatiwa said: “Our country is blessed at a time like this to have a visionary leader like Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    “We must continue to appreciate Mr. President for his bold economic reforms, social re-engineering, and massive infrastructural development. Indications are that Nigeria is making progress and on the path of glory with the Renewed Hope Agenda.

    The governor urged Nigerians to remember the courage of the founding fathers and draw lessons from the country’s journey since 1960.

    He added: “This celebration is not just about remembering a date in history. It is about reflecting on our journey as a people. Independence gave us more than self-rule – it gave us the dignity of identity, the right to dream as Nigerians, and the opportunity to chart a course for our future,” he noted.

    Aiyedatiwa said his administration has remained committed to its promises under the ‘OUR EASE’ agenda, highlighting key projects, including dualisation and rehabilitation of roads, improvements in the health sector, bursaries and scholarships for indigent students, and support for security agencies.”

    Otti: Don’t lose faith in Nigeria

     Abia State Governor Alex Otti urged Nigerians not to lose faith in the face of challenges confronting the country.

    Adeleke: Let’s respect the law

    Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke urged President Bola Tinubu and other political actors to respect the rule of law and obey judicial process.

    He said in a statement by his media, Olawale Rasheed, that Nigeria should live to expectation as a federal state.

    He described the celebration as a critical point to assess the state of national constitutional democracy, the rule of law and delivery of good governance.

    The governor emphasised the need to guide and protect the foundation of national governance through full compliance with the constitution and respect for the rule of law.

    He said: “We have made progress but we can move faster and better. We have recorded progress but we should continue to protect the foundation of our national existence, the constitution and its interpretation by a truly independent judiciary.

     “I felicitate with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Nigerians. I task the political class to strive towards true federalism. Federating units must be strengthened in the context of more devolution of powers and resources.

     “I urge Osun people to remain law-abiding, calm and peaceful as the state is deploying democratic tools to advance and protect the interest of the state. We must resist the temptation to take laws into our hands.”

    Sani reaffirms unity, development, national renewal

    Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani paid tribute to the founding fathers, noting that though the nation’s journey had been marked by challenges, Nigerians have demonstrated courage and hope.

    He said: “Our path as a nation has been defined by resilience. Nigerians have shown capacity to endure and to hope. Together, we are overcoming. Together, we are rising.”

    Highlighting Kaduna’s progress under his administration, Sani listed 85 road projects covering 785 kilometres, the reopening of key markets, and reclamation of over 500,000 hectares of farmland.

    On peace building, the governor pointed to the expansion of community policing, as well as dialogue and reconciliation initiatives, aimed at strengthening security and fostering unity at the grassroots.

    He reaffirmed Kaduna’s alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, stressing that bold national reforms were restoring prosperity and investor confidence.

    Sani said: “Nigeria’s future is bright, and Kaduna’s role in that future is significant. With God’s guidance and our collective resolve, we will overcome our challenges and realise the full potential of our state and indeed the entire nation.”

    Abiodun: Nigeria on course

    Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun said the country is experiencing a rebirth, adding President Tinubu has demonstrated capacity.

    He emphasised that the President’s economic blueprint reflects the needs of Nigerians and global realities of the 21st century.

    Abiodun, who spoke at the celebration at June 12 Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta, the state capital, said Nigeria would be stronger if citizens work and cooperate with governments in the course of nation building.

    He said the task of nation building is enormous, hence the need for Nigerians, irrespective of religion, ethnicity, political affiliation, and social status, to work with governments to realise the objective.

    Abiodun said: “The theme of the celebration, ‘All Hands on Deck for a Greater Nation,’ was timely and instructive for Nigeria to work together for a greater nation.”

    “Building a stronger Nigeria is not the sole responsibility of the government; it is a duty for every Nigerian at home and abroad.”

    The governor noted that as the gateway to Nigeria’s prosperity and transformative future, Ogun State remains a proud contributor to the nation’s project, as its history is intertwined with that of the country’s history through the activities and struggles of its forebears.

    He said the celebration is a historic milestone in the life of the nation, as it afforded the people of the state an opportunity to join their compatriots here and in the diaspora to create a nation of resilience, unity, and hope.

    “It is not only marking the passage of time but reaffirming the resolve to choose freedom, unity, and shared prosperity envisioned by our founding fathers,” he said.

    The Speaker of the House of Assembly, Oludaisi Elemide, said the challenges facing the country are an indication that Nigeria is growing, urging Nigerians to stop complaining and start doing the right thing to take the nation to its destination.

    Chief Justice Mosunmola Dipeolu said Nigeria is on the verge of overcoming its challenges, hence the need for continued prayers for the country.

    Alia: We must draw inspiration from founding fathers

    Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia urged Nigerians to draw inspiration from the founding fathers.

    He paid tribute to the founding fathers, who gave their lives in defence of freedom.

    Alia, in a broadcast to the state, urged Nigerians to support President Tinubu’s reforms.

    He said: “We are reforming our systems both at state and federal levels. The removal of fuel subsidy has enhanced the revenue leading to infrastructure development.

    “In just over two years, we have renovated 354 schools, employing over 9,000 qualified teachers and ensuring our children receive quality education in safe and welcoming environments.

    Soludo hails economic reforms, urges hope

    Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo described Nigeria “a symbol of hope, freedom, and the possibility of the black race,” urging citizens to see the celebration as a time of “sober reflection.”

    He praised President Tinubu for implementing reforms, including removal of fuel subsidy, stabilisation of the exchange rate, among others.

    The governor described the steps as “necessary medicine for an economy long distorted and pampered over.”

    Soludo said: “With good governance laid at the foundation, the nation is poised for “accelerated growth and transformation.”

     He highlighted the indomitable spirit of Nigerians in overcoming challenges, saying: “With vision, hard work, and faith, no obstacle is insurmountable.”

    The governor urged Nigerians to stand firm in the face of adversity.

    He called for a collective effort, urging individuals to play their roles in nation-building through patriotism, payment of taxes, support for reforms, and holding leaders accountable.

    Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed commitment to inclusive governance, social protection

    Speaking at the celebration organised by the Ministry of Home Affairs, Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Sanwo-Olu, said the nation could only achieve lasting progress if government and the people worked together in synergy, with shared trust and responsibility.

    He said: “As Henry Ford once said, if everyone is moving forward together, then success takes care of itself. That is the spirit we must embrace as a nation.”

    The governor noted that since the inception of his administration, deliberate policies had been introduced under the T.H.E.M.E.S agenda, later expanded into the T.H.E.M.E.S Plus agenda, to deepen social inclusion and youth empowerment.

    Sanwo-Olu added: “We realised that to achieve greater impact, we had to double our pace and broaden our focus.

    “That is why the T.H.E.M.E.S Plus agenda goes beyond infrastructure to also strengthen gender balance, protect the vulnerable and empower our young people.”

    The governor said no Lagos resident would be left behind in the drive for development, pointing to the expansion of the Lagos Social Register to capture over one million households across all 57 councils.

    He stressed: “This register has become the backbone of our welfare programmes, ensuring that support truly gets to those who need it most – from widows to the elderly, and persons with disabilities.”

    Sanwo-Olu listed interventions, including affordable healthcare through the State Health Insurance Scheme, food subsidy initiatives, affordable housing schemes, scholarships for indigent students, and empowerment through 37 skill acquisition centres.

    He said: “Even during difficult times such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the removal of fuel subsidy, Lagos stood firm and people-focused, ensuring that our relief measures reached the most vulnerable.”

    The governor called for unity among Nigerians, stressing that national progress required collective sacrifice.

     “Government alone cannot build this nation. It requires the commitment of every Nigerian, setting aside political, tribal and religious differences,” Sanwo-Olu said.

    He urged citizens to use social media responsibly, saying it should be a platform for constructive engagement rather than division.

    “The task before us is to build, not tear down. It is to unite, not divide; to inspire, not to discourage.”

    Sanwo-Olu commended President Tinubu for his leadership, noting that recent downward trends in inflation, exchange rates, food prices and insecurity were signs that reforms were beginning to yield results.

    He said: “As your cheerleader in Lagos, we are resolute in working with your administration to ensure that the promises made to Nigerians are realised in real time.”

    Sanwo-Olu further expressed confidence in Nigeria’s future, assuring investors and the international community of Lagos’ position as a peaceful, investment-friendly destination.

  • Soyinka: why I accepted renaming of National Arts Theatre after me

    Soyinka: why I accepted renaming of National Arts Theatre after me

    …President directs creation of Fund for maintenance

      Nobel laureate Prof Wole Soyinka yesterday explained why he accepted the renaming of the National Theatre, Lagos after him.

      He said he never believed that the monument could ever be revamped.

      He admitted that he accepted the honour with mixed feelings, despite being a critic of many past leaders, who appropriated public monuments.

      “I have to stand up in public and watch my name being put up as yet another appropriator. It just didn’t seem very well for me,” the literary giant said. 

      Soyinka, who spoke at the reopening of the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and Creative Arts (formerly National Arts Theatre, Iganmu Lagos), said he accepted to eat his words if the monumental turn-around of the theatre complex is what he would get in return.

      He explained that before the renovation of the edifice, he thought it was irredeemable, but the Bankers’ Committee “made me eat my words.”’

      He said the Bankers’ Committee had done a great job and brought the edifice to global standards. He said that with the recreation of the edifice, Nigerians can now watch Africa Theatre at home instead of travelling abroad.

      The Bankers’ Committee committed N68 billion into the project.

      President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the occasion directed the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to float a National Arts Theatre Endowment Fund to ensure the maintenance of the national edifice.

      Soyinka said: “And one of the reasons was I nearly electrocuted two of my actors. That is how they crept into my car. The roofs were leaking, so the pools of water were everywhere.  And of course, there were electric wires also.

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      “One other reason is nostalgia. I remember this building when it was first erected, when we did it originally. I think we called it General’s Hat, because of the shape of the roof. There’s a constant re-conception very little of what I call the African architectural intelligence in it.

      “Then there’s another reason why I thought I should accept.

      Well, I was already ambushed. They shaved my head behind me. I would have raised a squawk. But, then I decided, this building belongs to me. It belongs to me.”

      Tinubu directs CBN to float National Theatre Endowment Fund

      The promised to contribute to the endowment fund.  

      Among the prominent persons at the event were First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu,  Senate President Godswill Akpabio, CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso, who coordinated the Bankers’ Committee, Emir of Kano Muhammadu Sanusi, who is a former CBN governor; Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and  Minister of Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa. 

       President Tinubu said there was no controversy in the National Theatre being renamed,  adding that he considered Prof Soyinka’s contributions to the arts and culture.

      “Prof. Wole Soyinka is one of the greatest assets of the world. So, the renaming could not have gone to anyone else,” he said.

       The President advised Nigerians to stop talking negatively about the country.

         “Let us all come together to rebuild Nigeria. The youth should also renew their hope in Nigeria and work together for its continued greatness,” he said.

      Cardoso said the Bankers Committee was committed to spending N68 billion in remodelling the edifice.

      “The Central Bank of Nigeria, the Bankers’ Committee, the Lagos State Government, and the Ministry of Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy came together with a shared purpose to deliver this national project, with the Bankers’ Committee alone committing approximately N68 billion, not as corporate social responsibility but as a deliberate investment in Nigeria’s cultural future,” Cardoso said.

      He said that the project stands as proof that when the public and private sectors unite behind a shared national purpose, there is no limit to what Nigeria can achieve.

      The CBN boss stated that 65 years after our nation’s founding,  Nigeria’s creative spirit remains alive, pervasive and shaping global culture.

      “This edifice has stood for nearly half a century as a proud symbol of our heritage. Completed in 1976 and inaugurated at FESTAC ’77, it became a beacon of African creativity and a repository of our shared history,” he said.

      Cardoso explained that  by renaming the National Arts Theatre as the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and Creative Arts in July 2024, ‘’President Tinubu charted a bold course to place creativity at the heart of Nigeria’s renaissance.” 

      Cardoso explained that the Wole Soyinka Centre is more than a renovation; it is a rebirth.

      “Its iconic silhouette has been preserved while delivering world-class performance halls, cinema spaces, exhibition galleries, an African literature library, rehearsal rooms, media and medical facilities, and fully modernised infrastructure. The surrounding grounds now offer gardens, outdoor exhibition areas, upgraded access, and seamless integration with the Lagos Blue Line rail, placing culture at the heart of city life,” he said.

    • Kale projects inflation’s drop to 14  per cent

      Kale projects inflation’s drop to 14  per cent

      Chief Economist at Afrexximbank, Yemi Kale, yesterday projected that inflation could fall to about 14 per cent by the end of 2026 if the Federal Government’s ongoing structural reforms are sustained.

      Kale, former Statistician-General of the Federation, spoke at the Independence Day edition of ‘The Platform Nigeria’ yesterday, with the theme: “Rebuilding our nation.”

      Others who spoke at the event convened by the Pastor Poju Oyemade Covenant of Nation were entrepreneur/ expert on food ecosystems, Ndidi Okonkwo Nwuneli; governance expert and lawyer, Joe Abah; strategy consultant, Leke Alder; and former Super Eagles captain, Segun Odegbami.

      Delivering his speech entitled ‘Reform and resilience: Strengthening Nigeria’s economic Foundations,’ Kale projected that inflation could fall to about 14 per cent by the end of next year, if reforms are sustained.

      He, however, cautioned that despite the projected drop in inflation, Nigerians would continue to feel the strain.

      “Between now and then, the hardship will continue. The lesson here is clear: reforms must be matched with targeted and effective social cushions to protect the most vulnerable,” Kale said.

      The expert urged the Federal Government to stay the course on reforms despite the short-term hardships they inflict on Nigerians.

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      He warned that abandoning the reform process could push the country back into another cycle of low growth, high inequality, and fiscal stress.

      According to him, the government’s reforms since 2023, including subsidy removal, exchange rate unification, and tighter monetary policy, have begun stabilising the macroeconomy.

      Kale, however, stressed that the reforms would be incomplete without strong social protection and structural transformation.

      He said: “Reform is like curing a fever. You must endure some discomfort as the medicine takes effect. But the alternative of letting the fever run just because the pill is bitter, or the injection is too painful, is far worse.”

      Kale pointed out that Nigeria’s monetary policy had regained credibility after years of inconsistency and quasi-fiscal interventions by the Central Bank.

      He noted the sharp increase in the monetary policy rate to 27.5 per cent, one of the steepest in history, which was recently reduced to 27 per cent, as well as efforts to mop up excess liquidity through streamlined open market operations.

      The Afrexximbank boss said importantly, these actions were accompanied by clearer communication, regular policy reports, forward guidance, and transparent explanations of the inflation outlook.

      The results, according to him, are now visible.

      For instance, headline inflation, which averaged 25–30 per cent in 2023 and 2024, he said, has begun to ease towards the low 20s.

      Also, every percentage point reduction, he added, protects the real value of salaries, pensions, and savings, and reduces uncertainty for investors who must plan projects years in advance.

      Kale was, however, quick to acknowledge that while macroeconomic stabilisation was visible in the data, millions of Nigerians still measure progress in “the price of food, the reality of electricity, and their children’s job prospects.”

      He commended initiatives like the Student Loan Act and state-level fuel relief packages but called for deeper reforms in education, healthcare, and social protection.

      “Without shared opportunities, inequality and unrest will erode stability. Power and fiscal reforms should empower states, while federal economic and agro-processing zones can lift lagging regions,” he said.

      On Nigeria’s energy and electricity challenges, Kale lauded the Dangote refinery, which exported its first gasoline cargoes in 2025, as a step toward reducing dependence on imported refined products.

      He, however, identified a number of unresolved issues that could hinder its impact on domestic supply, such as reliable feedstock supply, transparent pricing formulas, labour disputes, and clear currency settlement mechanisms.

      Kale also identified infrastructure investment as both an economic necessity and a macroeconomic stabiliser.

      Citing World Bank projections, he said Nigeria requires $3 trillion by 2050 to meet infrastructure needs, including $575 billion for the transport sector between 2020 and 2043.

      He urged that part of the savings from subsidy removal should be legislated and earmarked for transport, logistics, and energy infrastructure.

    • BREAKING: INEC clarifies position on Ehie’s Rivers Assembly seat 

      BREAKING: INEC clarifies position on Ehie’s Rivers Assembly seat 

      The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Rivers State Office, has described as incorrect the viral report suggesting that the commission refused to accept the resignation of Edison Ehie as a member representing Ahoada East State Consttituency in the state House of Assembly.

      The commission reaction came after reports quoted the Rivers Resident Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Gabriel Yomere as saying that Ehie, who resigned during the political crisis, to become the Chief of Staff to Governor Siminalayi Fubara still remained a member of the House.

      A statement signed for thr REC by the commission’s Acting Head of Department, Voter Education and Publicity, Geraldine Ekelemu, said the REC was very transparent in his statement that the decision as to the organization of any election lied solely with the Commission’s Headquarters.

      The statement said: “The decision of INEC on when to conduct a bye-election is only conditioned on its receipt of a formal notice from the appropriate authorities recognized by the Constitution, stating that any legislative seat has become vacant, and INEC cannot, on its own, declare, recognize, or determine when any legislative seat has become vacant.

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      “The REC’s opinion and perception surrounding the issue of resignation, which he freely expressed during the IPAC visit, has been misconstrued as a Policy statement from the Commission.

      “Any claim that INEC ‘did not accept’ the resignation of the member representing Ahoada-East State Constituency II is factually incorrect and legally unfounded. 

      “INEC does not adjudicate on the validity of a declaration of vacancy. Once it has been signed and transmitted by the authorized legislative authority and in this case, Rivers State House of Assembly, the Commission will commence the processes required to conduct a bye-election in line with constitutional provisions and the Electoral Act”.