The Nation Newspaper

Category: Politics

  • Council poll: We must be united to take over FCT, Jisalo tells APC members

    Council poll: We must be united to take over FCT, Jisalo tells APC members

    Ahead of Area Council elections in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), the Minister of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, Hon. Bitrus Jisalo has called for unity among leaders and members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) if the party must regain territory.

    The Minister of State, Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Dr. Maryam Mahmoud Bankure, also counselled leaders of the party in the territory to go after all aggrieved members in the Area Councils with a view to winning the February 2026 council elections.

    The two leaders spoke on Monday at a crucial unity stakeholders meeting of APC ward, local government and state executive officers in Abuja.

    Addressing party leaders, Jisalo noted the party has what it takes to take over the territory at the Area Council elections, but stressed that they must close ranks in order to deliver the territory to the party.

    Directing the Hon. Abdulmalik Usman-led FCT State Executive Committee to reach out to aggrieved members, the Minister said he would be ready to meet with them so as to smoothening all rough edges in the party and reconcile all the parties.

    Read Also: I survived six gunshots, says Charles Okocha

    Jisalo who serves as the leader of the party in FCT, assured level playing ground for all aspirants at the party’s shadow election, but stressed the need for hard work. “It is not enough for us to have what it takes to win, we must be ready to work hard and ensure we work as a united front in the forthcoming Area Council elections and the 2027 general elections.

    “We are set to win all the 62 wards and the 6 area councils in FCT. We shall come up with a winning strategy after the party primary.”

    The Minister of State, FCT, Maryam Bankure, called for unity among party members while she also advised the leadership to effectively engage women and youth in the territory as the preparation for the council election gathers steam.

    She also underscored the importance of unity among party members, advising that the party cannot afford to allow the past mistakes and misunderstanding to continue to split the party.

    The APC Zonal Secretary (North Central), Hon. Yakubu Adamu said the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party has directed that various committees be set up for effective coordination ahead of the 2026 area council elections in the territory.

    Adamu, who also promised a level playing ground for all aspirants, directed that reconciliation, election, financial, and security committees should be set up at all levels of the party ahead of next year elections.

    Advising party members in the territory to embrace peace and unity, Adamu said, “now that we have authentic party leaders from the ward to local government and to the state levels in FCT, we must all march out ensure victory for our party during the next Area Council elections in 2026 and the general elections in 2027.”

    The meeting was attended by all leaders of the party from the 62 wards of the territory along with state executive officers.

  • Tinubu committed to ensuring student loans for all Nigerians – Aide 

    Tinubu committed to ensuring student loans for all Nigerians – Aide 

    President Bola Tinubu launched the student loan scheme with the understanding that education is essential for a productive life in today’s world. 

    This was stated by the Personal Assistant to the President on Constituency Affairs, Khadijat Omotayo, on Monday in Adamawa State.

    She emphasized that a nation cannot secure a truly great future without educating its youth. 

    “Mr. President is deeply committed to ensuring that student loans reach all Nigerian students,” she said during a town hall meeting in Yola, which brought together community representatives from across Adamawa State.

    “Our royal fathers, our mothers, our youth leaders, tell your students to apply for student loans. There is no future for anyone who is not educated,” she told the array of Adamawa people who attended the ‘Town Hall Meeting with Critical Stakeholders’ which took place at the Banquet Hall of Government House, Yola.

    Read Also: I survived six gunshots, says Charles Okocha

    “Even if you are self-employed, even in your own business, if you are not educated, you can’t effectively compete with people who are educated. That is why Mr President says, ‘Come, I want to give you a loan.’ The president wishes that everyone takes advantage of this scheme,” Khadijat Omotayo said.

    During the town hall meeting, people who represented the various local government areas and other interest groups at the meeting complained about many development projects of the Federal Government in their communities that were abandoned.

    In her response to the complaints and requests of the people, the Personal Assistant to the President on Constituency Affairs assured that the complaints would be addressed.

    She said that to start with, the next time she would be visiting Adamawa State, she would be with many empowerment interventions.

  • Successful council transition one of my best achievements -Radda

    Successful council transition one of my best achievements -Radda

    Katsina Governor Dikko Umaru Radda has declared that one of his greatest achievements as is ensuring transition from an elected government to another at Local council level. 

    He pointed out he is one of the few Governors that refused to constitute caretaker arrangements at the local council level but transition from one.elected government to another

    Radda, accompanied by his wife, spoke while casting his vote at Polling Unit 010, Barebari A of Radda ward in Charanchi local government area, during Saturday’s local government chairmanship elections.  

    Read Also: Gov Radda reaffirms stance against negotiating with bandits

    He said: “The impressive turnout and orderly behaviour of voters at this polling unit demonstrates that our democracy has reached maturity. 

    ”My administration’s commitment to protecting voters’ civic rights, noting will ensure emergence of leaders who  will truly represent the people’s choice. 

    ”Special arrangements were put in place to ensure comprehensive coverage of all sections of the state during the electoral process.”

    Radda commended the State Independent Electoral Commission (SIEC), security agencies, and electoral observers for their diligent efforts in safeguarding the integrity of the electoral process. 

  • Leadership: Fayemi charts new course for Nigeria’s brighter future

    Leadership: Fayemi charts new course for Nigeria’s brighter future

    The 60th birthday of former Governor of Ekiti State, Dr Kayode Fayemi was more than a celebration. The event, through a youth engagement, provided a platform for him to share his insight on leadership and governance as well as inspire a new generation of leaders. RASAQ IBRAHIM reports…

    The recent 60th birthday celebration of the immediate past Ekiti state governor and ex- Chairman of Nigerian Governor’s Forum, Dr. Kayode Fayemi fondly called ‘JKF’ may  have come and gone, but it was an occasion many will not forget in a hurry.

    The event was a momentous occasion that transcended beyond the borders of mere festivities. It was indeed a mixture of festivities and display of a intellectual gymnastics. It provided a platform for

    the critical interrogation of the nation’s problems and presentation of workable ideas for the way-forward.

    The event also served as a  platform for the pro-democracy activist turned public servant  to impart his unquantifiable wisdom on leadership and  governance to a new generation of leaders. Through a  youth engagement held in Ado-Ekiti, the Ekiti state capital in commemoration of the birthday celebration, ex-governor shared his insights garnered from his many years in public service.

    From the radical trenches of activism to  the alluring corridor of power, Fayemi’s journey has been marked by a consistent and unalloyed commitment to creating positive change in Nigeria.

    His transition from a public intellectual to a political leadership role as Ekiti state Governor in 2010 is a notable milestone . The ex-governor’s experiences, both in governance and leadership made him an ideal figure to inspire a new generation of young leaders.

    The birthday celebration was an epoch-making event that clearly highlighted his unalloyed dedication to mentorship and youth empowerment as well as good governance.

    The event, tagged “Bridging Generations: Leadership, Mentorship and Legacy,” brought together various youth groups to learn from his wealth of experience and gain from his valuable insights into the rudiments of leadership and governance.

    Read Also: Why we’re still in Togo, Benin varsities despite FG’s ban on their certificates —Nigerian students

    The event, convened by a member of the House of Representatives, Akin Rotimi, offered a unique platform for inclusive interaction between the old and the new generations.  Debates, speeches and panelist discussion at the event delved into topics that challenged the mental, emotional and physical preparation of the youth to take up leadership roles.

    The youth dialogue ignited new passion and zeal towards charting a new course for the country’s future with emphasis on youths in leadership. The ambiance of the sprawling Adetiloye Hall, the venue of the event was indeed a welcoming sight. Littered inside the spacious hall were big portraits of the celebrator.

    The red carpet walkway, synthetic grass on the floor,and beautiful cushion chairs added glitz, glamour and panache to the occasion. Decked in a well fitted kaftan attire, the ‘birthday boy’ Fayemi and his  beautiful wife, Erelu Bisi stole the hearts of the mammoth crowds as they walked majestically into the hall. It was in pure joy and enthusiasm that they went about greeting guests.

    In his powerful speech, Fayemi shares his insights on governance as well  as leadership with emphasis on importance of sacrifice, responsibility, and service to people. Fayemi’s philosophy is a breath of fresh air in a world where leadership is often synonymous with power. For him,

    leadership is not about titles or positions of authority but about making a positive impact on the lives of others.

    He recalled that as the governor of Ekiti State, his administration implemented a range of initiatives aimed at improving the lives of the people. He claimed that he left an indelible imprints in education, healthcare, infrastructures, agriculture and youth development.

    According to him, his administration’s efforts resulted in various developmental interventions and programmes that have shaped the political and socioeconomic landscape of Ekiti and Nigeria at large.

    While commending the organisers of the youth dialogue for bringing the youths and students together to celebrate his birthday, he noted that he had dedicated his life to service to humanity  through community service,  mentorship, and advancing the course of leadership in the country.

    He encouraged youths to stand up for justice and truth at all times and avoid distractions, saying, “Doing good should not be based on expected benefits; it should be done according to our convictions and what your conscience asks you to do. Whether it is recognised or acknowledged, you should not bother.

    “People around me might have noticed that I’m not comfortable with leadership because it is not a solo effort. It is a team effort. We are the change we want to see in our lives. It is not what we talk about, but what we actually desire.

    “There are people who are in office, and when they get out of office, they suffer serious psychological withdrawal symptoms because they do not live their life as they did when they were in office.

    “That is why leadership is not about the title; leadership is about sacrifice, responsibility, and service, whether in associations, towns, church groups, and others; leadership is about service, not just in the political cycle alone.”, Fayemi added.

    The ex- governor who has been a vocal advocate of youth empowerment and inclusion emphasized the crucial roles  young people must play in shaping the country’s future.

    He stressed that young people possess unique qualities needed to drive  positive change in Nigeria. According to Fayemi, the youths, with their energy, idealism, and creativity, have the potential to drive innovation, entrepreneurship, and social change.

    He encouraged them to take an active role in shaping Nigeria’s future by getting involved in politics, governance, policy planning and implementation.

    Acknowledging the challenges young people face in participating in politics, the ex-governor urged them not to be discouraged. Instead, he encouraged them to seize the opportunities available to them and make their voices heard.

    Fayemi who noted that the barriers to youth participation in governance and party-building have been lowered, called on the older generation, urging them to further create space for young people to participate and lead.

    Speaking, the Ekiti statecgovernor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Habibat Adubiaro, said the life of the former governor is a testament to the years of impact and selfless service to the state, country, and the world.

    Describing him as a passionate and committed leader, Governor Oyebanji revealed that his efforts resulted in developmental interventions and programs when he was governor for two terms in the state.

    He said, “Dr. John Kayode Fayemi’s sixty years on earth is not merely an accumulation of time, but a testament to a life of impact and selfless service to Ekiti State and Nigeria at large in his former positions as a two-term governor, minister, and former chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum.”

    “Today, as we gather here to celebrate a man whose vision, resilience, and passion for progress have shaped the political and socio-economic landscape of Ekiti State and our nation, Nigeria, we also acknowledge the undeniable role he has played in empowering the youth of this State.”

    In his keynote speech,the Africa Regional Director of the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue (HD), Dr Tunde Afolabi, urged youths in the state to draw lessons from Fayemi’s career in private and public life.

    He noted that the ex-governor’s journey offers valuable lessons on how to live a life of pursose, saying “several lessons on how to live a purposeful life garnished with astounding accomplishments, can be gleaned from JKF’s most remarkable journey.”

  • APC stakeholders urge Tinubu to resolve party’s crisis in Sokoto

    APC stakeholders urge Tinubu to resolve party’s crisis in Sokoto

    Some stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Sokoto State have called on the party’s hierarchy to intervene in the allegedly silent crisis within the party’s chapter in the state.

    A stakeholder of the party, Comrade Faruk A. Shehu, who stated this on behalf of Sokoto APC stakeholders in a statement,, expressed dismay over the manner in which the party is being run in the state.

    He stressed that if nothing is done to unite the major stakeholders, President Bola Tinubu mat lose the 2027 elections in the state.

    The stakeholders noted the party’s leaders in the state have not carried along some of the key stakeholders who contributed significantly to the success of Tinubu and the Governor in the 2023 elections.

    He particularly lamented the exclusion of Senator Ibrahim Abdullahi Danbaba and Senator Ibrahim Lamido.

    Read Also: Why we’re still in Togo, Benin varsities despite FG’s ban on their certificates — Nigerian students

    According to the statement, “Danbaba represented Sokoto South Senatorial District in the 8th and 9th Senate, while Senator Ibrahim Lamido is representing Sokoto East Senatorial District in the current National Assembly.”

    The stakeholders emphasised that the duo is important figures in the party, especially noting “Senator Danbaba’s crucial role in ensuring the APC’s victory in the state, utilizing his personal resources and experience to secure the party’s success.”

    However, the statement alleged that “despite his massive contributions, Senator Danbaba has been ignored or sidelined without any compensation at the state and federal levels.”

    “This is notwithstanding his acknowledgment of how his 2023 senatorial election was sabotaged in favor of his opponent.”

    Shehu cautioned the party leaders not to allow Senator Danbaba to leave the APC, as this would lead to the party’s defeat in the 2027 elections due to his large grassroots support base, especially in the Sokoto South Senatorial District.

    He called on the National Chairman of the party, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, to take immediate action to address the issue and give Senator Danbaba the recognition he deserves.

    According to the statement, if urgent steps are not taken to address the crisis,  Danbaba’s supporters will stage a peaceful protest to demand a change in how the party is being run in the state.

  • JUST IN: Ex-Kaduna Senator La’ah quits PDP as three lawmakers defect to APC

    JUST IN: Ex-Kaduna Senator La’ah quits PDP as three lawmakers defect to APC

    Former Kaduna South Senatorial Zone representative, Danjuma La’ah, has officially resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

    His resignation comes as three opposition members of the Kaduna State House of Assembly defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), citing Governor Uba Sani’s performance as their reason for leaving the PDP.

    La’ah, who served in the Senate for eight years, submitted his resignation letter to the PDP Ward Chairman in Mallagum, Kaura Local Government Area, on February 4.

    In his letter, seen by our correspondent on Friday, he described his departure as a personal decision that does not affect his relationship with the people.

    “I humbly write to notify the leadership and members of the Peoples Democratic Party, Mallagum Ward, Kauru Local Government Area of Kaduna State of my resignation from the party with effect from 4/02/025.

    “I, however, thank each of you for your cooperation and support given to me, particularly during my eight-year tenure as Senator representing Kaduna South Senatorial Zone, at the National Assembly, Abuja,” La’ah stated in his letter.

    La’ah also expressed gratitude for the support he received during his tenure and wished his former party members success in their future endeavours.

    “My resignation, which is personal, doesn’t affect my relationship with the people. I therefore wish everyone the best in all future endeavours,” he added.

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    La’ah’s resignation has sparked speculation about his next political move, as the party he plans to join remains unknown.

    Also, the three state lawmakers who defected from PDP to APC are Henry Marah representation Jaba state Constituency, Emmanuel Kantiok, Zonkwa Constituency and Samuel Kambai, representing Zangon Kataf Constituency.

    They made their defection to the APC at their various wards on Thursday.

    Their defection came just two days after the member representing Zangon Kataf/Jaba Federal Constituency at the National Assembly, Amos Magaji also decamped to the APC from PDP.

    According to the three lawmakers, their defection was to align with the ruling party at the state level because of the sterling leadership and performance exhibited by Governor Sani, adding that the political future of their constituents was sacrosanct, and they believed that they would serve their people better in the ruling party.

    Marah, who is also the Spokesman of Kaduna State House of Assembly, stated that PDPs popularity and dominance in Southern Kaduna has crumbled.

    He also stated that the achievements of Governor Sani have erased animosity towards the ruling party as peace, security and unity have returned to Southern Kaduna under the present administration.

    He observed that the achievements of the state governor have erased animosity towards the ruling party and effectively ‘killed’ the opposition parties in the state.

    “A major realignment in the power structure of the etate House of Assembly is looming as we’re expecting more opposition members to dump the PDP for APC, Mara said.

  • Group seeks protection for Lagos Assembly speaker Meranda amid leadership crisis

    Group seeks protection for Lagos Assembly speaker Meranda amid leadership crisis

    • …faults alleged plan to reinstate ex-speaker Obasa

    The Centre for Human and Socio-Economic Rights (CHSR) has called for the protection of democracy and the independence of the Lagos State House of Assembly (LAHA) following the recent leadership change that removed Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa as Speaker and brought in Rt. Hon. Mojisola Lasbat Meranda.

    Speaking at a press briefing in Lagos on Thursday, CHSR President Comrade Alex Omotehinse stressed the importance of an unfettered legislative process and urged all stakeholders to respect the decision of the majority members of the House.

    “It would amount to a declaration of war on democracy to continue to precipitate a needless crisis that impedes legislative business and undermines governance in Lagos State,” Omotehinse said.

    He also condemned attempts to reinstate Obasa, questioning why efforts were being made to impose him back into office despite Meranda’s lawful and procedural selection.

    The CHSR maintained that the Lagos Assembly, as a body accountable to the electorate, must operate without external interference. 

    The group urged lawmakers to support Speaker Meranda, emphasizing that her leadership would foster inclusivity, transparency, and democratic principles.

    “Being the first woman to hold this position in over five decades, her emergence is a positive step towards gender inclusivity in governance,” Omotehinse added.

    He also warned against any attempts to undermine the democratic process by imposing Obasa as “a perpetual and untouchable speaker,” describing such efforts as an assault on the collective will of Lagosians.

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    While expressing satisfaction that legislative activities had resumed after weeks of uncertainty, CHSR pledged to continue monitoring the situation. The group urged Meranda to remain focused and not be distracted by opposition forces attempting to upturn the assembly’s decision.

    CHSR also demanded that “LAHA members be allowed to exercise unfettered freedom in conducting legislative business! 

    “The speaker chosen by the majority of members must be allowed to preside over the business of the house without intimidation or harassment!!

    “Democracy must not be trampled or surrendered!!!”

    The group advocated for safeguarding democracy and preserving the integrity of the Lagos Assembly, reaffirming its commitment to holding the government accountable to the people.

  • Ogun 2027: What is Yayi up to?

    Ogun 2027: What is Yayi up to?

    By Bolaji Oyeleye

    In the tapestry of Nigerian politics, there are leaders whose actions speak louder than their words. And one such individual is Senator Olamilekan Adeola (fondly known as Yayi). Representing the Ogun West Senatorial District, Yayi has exemplified what it means to be a servant-leader, deeply rooted in the welfare of his people. Through his relentless drive for development and empowerment, he has not only earned the admiration of his constituents but has also positioned himself as a visionary leader with the potential to transform Ogun State.

    Yayi’s tenure as a senator has been marked by a slew of impactful initiatives aimed at improving the lives of the people in Ogun West. Understanding the critical importance of infrastructure in fostering socio-economic growth, he has championed numerous educational, vocational and infrastructural projects across the district. Roads that were once impassable and a bane to economic activities have now become smooth pathways connecting communities, enabling trade, and improving mobility. These infrastructure projects are not just constructions of concrete and asphalt but are symbolic of his commitment to laying a solid foundation for the prosperity of Ogun West.

    In addition, Senator Adeola has also been a pillar of support for the empowerment of youth and women. Recognising that a vibrant and skilled youth population is the bedrock of any progressive society, he has introduced various programmes aimed at providing vocational training, startup capital, and mentorship for young people in his constituency. Women, who often face systemic barriers to economic opportunities, have also benefited immensely from his empowerment schemes. Whether through skills acquisition programmes, grants for small businesses, or agricultural support initiatives, Yayi has demonstrated his resolve to uplift the often-overlooked segments of the society.

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    His leadership philosophy is anchored on inclusivity and grassroots engagement. Unlike some politicians who become detached from their constituents, Yayi has remained accessible, listening to the needs and aspirations of the people he represents. This close connection has enabled him to implement projects that are both relevant and impactful. The positive changes he has brought to Ogun West have not only improved living standards, but have also restored hope in the power of governance to effect meaningful change.

    Looking to the future, Senator Adeola has the right skill set and competencies to serve as the Chief Executive of Ogun State come 2027. This will not only be a logical extension of his service to the people but rather an opportunity to upscale and deploy his service to the people of Ogun State on a larger scale.

    His exemplary track record in Ogun West presents a compelling argument for his suitability to lead Ogun State to unprecedented heights. Despite its immense potential as an economic powerhouse, the state’s resources have remained largely underutilised, with successive administrations failing to maximise these opportunities. The state now needs a leader with the rare ability to combine visionary thinking with pragmatic execution. Yayi’s tenure as a senator has demonstrated that he embodies these qualities, offering a clear and transformative vision, a tireless work ethic, and an unshakable commitment to the well-being of the people.

    Beyond his developmental strides, Yayi’s leadership is also underpinned by his integrity and ability to inspire hope. In a political landscape often characterised by cynicism, he stands out as a beacon of trustworthiness and dedication. His ability to mobilise resources and implement sustainable projects reflects his financial prudence and administrative acumen – qualities that are indispensable for governing a state like Ogun.

    As 2027 approaches, the demand for visionary leadership and effective governance becomes more urgent. Ogun State requires a leader who can navigate the complexities of a VUCAD (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, Ambiguous, and Disruptive) environment with clarity and resilience. Such a leader must possess the strategic acumen to adapt to challenges, the foresight to anticipate opportunities, and the decisiveness to drive impactful solutions. Yayi’s proven track record of results-driven leadership and his ability to inspire confidence among his constituents position him as the ideal candidate to lead Ogun State into a future of stability and prosperity.

    Senator Adeola has made remarkable strides in empowering his Ogun West constituents and transforming the region. Through his skill acquisition programmes, he has trained and equipped over 6,000 indigenes with essential vocational skills. Demonstrating his commitment to education, he funded the construction of a library at the Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro, and played a pivotal role in its upgrade to a university.

    In education, Senator Adeola has facilitated the construction of 156 classrooms equipped with modern facilities, along with three ICT centres located at Nazareth High School, Imeko in Imeko-Afon Local Government Area (LGA); the School of Nursing, Ilaro (Yewa South LGA); and AUD Comprehensive High School, Ota (Ado-Odo Ota LGA). He also provided school furniture for 25 institutions, spanning primary, secondary, and tertiary levels.

    Similarly, his Mega Empowerment Programme has renewed hope among his people by providing startup grants and empowerment tools to over 10,000 constituents and institutions, bolstering their capacity to contribute meaningfully to societal development. Additionally, he has improved access to electricity by donating transformers to various communities across his senatorial district.

    In a groundbreaking achievement, Senator Adeola recently facilitated the construction of a state-of-the-art two-storey building at Mayigi Community High School in Ilashe, Ipokia LGA. This imposing structure, set to be commissioned soon, features 18 fully furnished classrooms and modern offices, representing a significant leap forward in the educational development of Ogun West Senatorial District.

    Senator Adeola has shown that leadership is not about wielding power, but about empowering others. His developmental projects in Ogun West, his commitment to youth and women empowerment, and his accessibility to his constituents all underscore his deep love for his people and his desire to see them thrive.

    As he sets his sights on the governorship of Ogun State, one thing is certain: with Yayi at the helm, the future of Ogun State will be Bountiful, Resilient, Inclusive, Great, Harmonious and Thriving (BRIGHT).

    The people of Ogun West are proud of their senator, and the entire state looks forward with optimism to the realisation of a greater Ogun under his leadership. Yayi is not just a politician; he is a movement, a promise, and a leader we can all believe in.

    • Oyeleye was Ogun State Commissioner for Environment

  • A Sardauna’s path in Kwara

    A Sardauna’s path in Kwara

    By Rafiu Ajakaye

    There is a reason Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, _Sardauna_ of Ilorin, enjoys his solo moves within or outside of the state capital: he, among other things, fears the genuflection and the praise-singing that may get in the way of his primary assignment if everyone is in the know.

    That habit is grossly misunderstood, but he is contented with seeing things without the fillers and being able to focus on his work while attracting lesser attention to himself.

    Like every human being, he welcomes being accorded his due without the praises that come with the political environment. He scoffs at sycophancy and purposeless exposure. Instead, he encourages constructive criticisms for better governance outcomes.

    This attitude explains his disapproval of celebrations on his birthdays as a sitting Governor. He fears that the sudden celebration does not last and there is no basis encouraging it. This is fine, although there is a thin line between telling the story of an individual for posterity and buttering them up for whatever purpose. 

    Regardless, I am persuaded by Edward Said’s statement that ‘nations themselves are narrations. The power to narrate, or block other narratives from forming and emerging, is very important to culture’.

    As he clocked 65 a few hours ago, bookmakers have a lot to document about the seventh democratic Governor of Kwara State whose tenure is synonymous with unmatched rebuilding and modernisation of the capital city Ilorin, rural development, youth and women empowerment, gender inclusion, and countless economic initiatives that have steadily put the people back to productive work.

    Apart from his legacy projects, which are unrivalled in the history of the state, he has effected profound psychosocial reforms with his approach to governance, which many consider strange. His style and personal discipline have put government appointees on a leash.

    Along with his no-siren movement and the spartan style, his decision to discontinue the everyday gathering and merriment in Government House, a relic of the past years, is a strong message that attention must now be paid to higher productivity.

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    A party chieftain recently told me: ‘That style appeared painful and distant at the beginning, but it is really reshaping the mindset of our people. Except for a few people, you hardly see any crowd hanging around the party secretariat these days except during important events. It is a good thing. It simply tells our people to do something much more meaningful, rather than loitering around politicians. It is good for everyone as it restores the dignity of the human person, and I hope his successor does the same.’

    The Governor is very nostalgic about the Ilorin of his childhood. He strongly believes in restoring sanity to the GRA, especially — devoid of the health-shattering loud disco music in the evenings— and much of what ought to constitute the central business district of the capital city. A story is told of an old couple who complained that their health had deteriorated with some unhealthy practices within the GRA, a narrative that apparently aligns with his sentiment.

    This is a reason he feels that the Kwara Hotel, a fit-for-purpose relaxation facility outside of residentials, must regain its status along with other well-located premium hospitality facilities in the state. This is a critical public health issue, as it is about appropriate land use and sustainable living.

    His reforms are not without its critics. Yet true leaders, once convinced of the genuineness of their actions, should not fear being heckled. The sense of pride and the excitement with which Kwarans have received the new look of the capital city have drowned out the criticisms from the political opposition.

    Abdulrazaq is a typical leader trapped at the intersection of history, the current realities of the digital age, and the capacity of his own people, Kwarans. This is why his decisions are mostly dictated by the geography, demography, and history of the state, sometimes ruffling feathers.

    Restoring the proper land use and aesthetics of the GRA and environs reflects his interrogation of history, such as the location and naming of the Sugar Factory film studios to remind younger generations of the Tate & Lyle. The garment factory, the largest in Nigeria in one single location, brought to memory the legacy of cloth-making and enterprise for which Kwarans were known, while the bespoke Innovation Hub speaks to his understanding of how technology has redesigned how we live in this century.

    Governor Abdulrazaq understands that Kwara has one of the largest concentration of shea trees in the country, explaining his establishment of two factories in Kaiama and Baruten in the shea belt, the former being one of the biggest in the country.

    He is currently rebuilding the Patigi Motel to resuscitate the regatta, a dream now strengthened by the establishment of the Kampe National Park in the same axis. The Governor is fascinated by the successes of the Okin Biscuits in Offa and Jebba paper mills, but his dream for the two is hampered by boardroom politics and decay in which they are long trapped. The visual arts centre heralds his vision for creativity, tourism, and sports development, explaining the investment in the Owu Water Fall road, eight-winged squash court, international conference centre, and the resuscitation of the indoor sports hall, table tennis area, among others.

    Along with dozens of rural roads that connect towns and agrarian communities, the Governor has recently delivered the Osi and Ilesha Baruba campuses of Kwara State University, a pointer to his effort to ensure statewide development and roll back rural urban migration.

    The focus on Offa and Lafiagi Stadia this year will strengthen this effort, as would the ongoing Shonga ICT Centre and the upcoming rehabilitation of the Patigi Cultural Centre.

    He believes that the capital city is filled up and growing informally. This has consequences for sustainable living in the future. The Ilorin smart city, his brainchild, is to allow for a well-planned physical development.

    But his dreams will require a successor who views Kwara as a state in a race to fulfil its destiny, bolstered by its geography, culture, and the lofty aspirations of its people. From health, education, agribusiness, social protection, and infrastructure, his successor will be lucky to inherit a template to move faster, possibly less encumbered by the hugely entrenched prebendary politics that stared Abdulrazaq in the face.

    His achievements are a new record breaker in the annals of Kwara. He has hired up to 8,600 teachers between 2019 and now, the highest that any (Kwara) administration has employed since 1999, while his KwaraLEARN continues to improve literacy, numeracy, and general learning outcomes.

    Abdulrazaq’s handling of sensitive issues of national importance proves his bonafide as a true leader who, like Konrad Adenauer, prefers dialogue, strategic humility, consensus-building, and patience in place of grandstanding and media show. In deference to the President, whom he holds in high esteem, and in national interest, he convinced his colleagues of the need to work out a consensus tax policy for Nigeria. He had acted in the same way following the subsidy removal, the transitional difficulties, and the multifaceted responses to mitigate the effects on the public. He proved that such sensitive moments require leaders to act with extreme caution — a quality that speaks to his standing as the Sardauna of the southernmost emirate in Nigeria.

    ▪ Ajakaye is Chief Press Secretary to the Governor

  • Moghalu picks LP Anambra Gov form

    Moghalu picks LP Anambra Gov form

    The founding National Auditor of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Chief George Moghalu has picked the Anambra governorship nomination and expression of interest forms of the Labour Party (LP).

    He said he is in the race to unseat Governor Chukwuma Soludo in the November 2025 contest.

    The gubernatorial aspirant also expressed confidence in spite of LP’s leadership crisis, the party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi and other party chieftains in the state will work for his victory at the polls.

    Presenting his nomination forms to the party’s National Chairman, Julius Abure in Abuja at the party headquarters, Moghalu who was the immediate past Managing Director of National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), expressed confidence he will emerge as the party’s candidate in April and lead the party to victory at the November 8 governorship election.

    Expressing confidence of picking the party’s ticket, Moghalu said,  “I have confidence that the party leadership will provide us platform for a contestation.

    He said: “Our ambition is not a war, the truth is that at the end of the day one person will fly the flag of the Labour Party in Anambra State, and I believe with confidence in God that I will be that person.

    “Mr. Chairman, one assurance I will give you today is that I will not betray confidence, I will not let you down. I will go with Labour and I will win with Labour Party by God’s grace.” 

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    The governorship aspirant, who described himself as a party man, added that his loyalty to wherever he belong can never be questioned.

    He said his decision to team up with the Labour Party was reached after consultations with his constituents and other stakeholders.

    “A lot of people who know me, they were actually surprised that I was able to change my political platform because I have always remained in one political platform since inception of this political dispensation, but I had to leave to join the Labour Party.”

    Abure thanked the new entrant for having confidence in the party, assuring him of level playing ground during the party’s governorship primary in Awka, Anambra State.