The Nation Newspaper

Category: SouthEast

  • Budget execution: Benin Unity League hails Okpebholo

    Budget execution: Benin Unity League hails Okpebholo

    The Benin Unity League has lauded Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, following the state’s emergence as one of the nation’s strongest-performing states in budget implementation for the 2025 fiscal year. 

    The group described the development as a clear signal of fiscal discipline, credible planning, and effective governance.

    Data compiled by Agora Policy, based on states’ budget implementation reports, shows that Edo State achieved an 81.2 percent budget execution rate between the first and third quarters of 2025, placing it among the top performers nationwide.

    The figure positions Edo narrowly behind Lagos State, which recorded 81.5 percent, and ahead of several states with significantly larger revenue bases.

    In a statement issued on Tuesday, by the National President, Dr. Osarumwense Osayawemwem, said the performance was particularly noteworthy given Edo State’s revenue profile and economic structure.

    According to the group, sustaining budget execution above 80 percent without the advantage of oil windfalls or extraordinary fiscal buffers reflects strong institutional coordination, prudent spending choices, and realistic budgeting under the Okpebholo administration.

  • Appointment of Musa as Defence Minister “timely, strategic’, says Nduka

    Appointment of Musa as Defence Minister “timely, strategic’, says Nduka

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s appointment of former Chief of Defence Staff, General Ibrahim Musa, as Minister of Defence has drawn significant backing from the business community, with prominent entrepreneur Prince Omoha Nduka voicing strong support.

    In a statement in Lagos, the Chairman of PLG Holdings Limited praised the selection, highlighting its positive reception among military stakeholders and political observers. He linked the approval directly to Nigeria’s pressing security climate.

    “General Musa’s decades of operational leadership, especially in counter-insurgency in the North, suit him precisely for our current challenges,” Omoha stated. He expressed confidence that the appointment would strengthen the nation’s defence framework amid ongoing threats of terrorism, banditry, and regional instability.

    Omoha emphasized that decisive and competent leadership is urgently required to enhance armed forces’ effectiveness and improve safety nationally.

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    Beyond military action, the businessman advocated for an integrated security strategy. He called for stronger civil-military collaboration, incorporating community engagement and socio-economic development into the national defence posture.

    The appointment comes at a period of sustained security concerns across multiple regions. Many hope General Musa’s tenure will bring renewed focus, accountability, and transparency to the Defence Ministry’s operations.

    As General Musa prepares to assume office, anticipation builds for strategic reforms aimed at stabilizing the country. Omoha’s public support reflects a broader sentiment that leadership choices in critical security roles are pivotal to Nigeria’s pursuit of lasting peace and progress.

  • Senator Kalu appreciates Varsity for naming building after him

    Senator Kalu appreciates Varsity for naming building after him

    The Senator representing Abia North Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu has appreciated the board and management of the Southern Atlantic University in Uyo, Akwa ibom state for naming its administrative block after him.

    In a letter of appreciation by the former Abia Governor to our correspondent in Uyo on Tuesday, Kalu said he felt honoured by the gesture extended to him by a private university in Akwa ibom state.

    He acknowledged the pivotal role education plays in the socioeconomic and political development of any nation, urging that Nigeria and her leaders should continue to build brighter future for citizens through investments in education.

    He said: “I remain committed to leveraging this recognition to further support, encourage and empower you to promote educational initiatives and champion policies that improve scientific research and innovations in tertiary institutions, such as yours in Nigeria.

    “It is our collective responsibility to ensure that the youth of our nation have the opportunities they need to succeed. Once again I thank you for your support and this gesture of goodwill. 

    “I pledge to continue working diligently for the advancement of our beloved country and to uphold the values that this honour represents”

    On why he named the administrative building after Senator Kalu, the founder of Southern Atlantic University, Pastor Bassey James, described that the former Abia state governor as a detribalized Nigerian and a man of the people.

    “This is a well conceived decision in appreciation of a Man I met many years ago in Lagos state and he took me in as a younger  brother and  mentored me to face life and achieve success. 

    “Dr Kalu is a Man after God’s heart, a detribalized Nigerian and a Man of the people. He accepted as a younger brother and assisted me to rise in life. 

    “He gave me access to relate with his friends no matter their status and genuinely groomed me into what I have become today in life. Senator Kalu gave me a huge surprise in support of the success of my wedding in 1995 and I appreciate his benevolence.  

    “I met Senator orji Kalu about 11 years before he became the  Abia state governor, he is a successful business Man and with a big network of friends and admirers. His home was  kind of Mecca for all Nigerians and he loves humanity. Senator Kalu touched my life very positively and helped me discover the essence of reaching out to people especially those in need. 

    “Kalu’s home is open to all Nigerians and even foreigners. Igbere community is always visited by people from all walks of life. He never segregates but works with people no matter where they come from. 

    “In his employ are people from all walks of life and he gives equal opportunity to all irrespective of your background. I will not tell the complete story of my life without Senator orji Uzor Kalu and my decision to name our university’s administrative block after him is my little way of saying thank you for his mentorship and kindness”, he said.

  • FG halts NAFDAC’s sachet ban on alcohol pending consultations

    FG halts NAFDAC’s sachet ban on alcohol pending consultations

    The Federal Government has directed immediate suspension of all enforcement actions relating to the proposed ban on sachet alcohol and 200ml PET bottle products, pending the conclusion of consultations and the issuance of a final policy directive.

    The directive was issued by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF), following concerns by the House of Representatives Committee on Food and Drugs Administration and Control.

    In a statement on Monday by Terrence Kuanum, Special Adviser on Public Affairs to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, the OSGF confirmed receipt of an official correspondence from the House Committee dated November 13, 2025. 

    The letter, referenced NASS/10/HR/CT.53/77 and signed by the committee’s Deputy Chairman, Hon. Uchenna Harris Okonkwo, drew attention to existing National Assembly resolutions on the matter and urged caution in the proposed enforcement.

    According to the OSGF, the issues raised in the correspondence are under review in line with its statutory role as Chairman of the Cabinet Secretariat and the coordinating authority for government policy implementation.

    “Accordingly, all actions, decisions, or enforcement measures relating to the proposed sachet alcohol ban are to be suspended pending the conclusion of consultations and the issuance of a final directive,” the statement said.

    The OSGF further clarified that any enforcement action taken by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) or any other agency without due clearance and resolution from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation would be deemed invalid and should be disregarded by the public until an official decision is communicated.

    The office assured Nigerians that it is conducting a comprehensive review of all relevant considerations, including legislative resolutions, public health concerns, economic implications, and the broader national interest, to arrive at a balanced and lawful outcome.

    It added that the public would be formally informed once a final position on the proposed ban has been reached.

  • SEDC approves Enugu relocation, programme rollout for 2026

    SEDC approves Enugu relocation, programme rollout for 2026

    The board of the South East Development Commission (SEDC) has approved the relocation of the commission’s core operations to Enugu and the rollout of key programmes in 2026.

    The approval was given at the third extraordinary meeting of the board, which also served as its final statutory session for 2025.

    The meeting was chaired by Chief Emeka Wogu, chairman of the board of trustees, SEDC.

    The board reviewed the commission’s programme implementation, institutional performance, and strategic engagements undertaken in 2025.

    Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, SEDC, Mark Okoye, described 2025 as a foundational year focused on building systems, governance structures, and strategic partnerships.

    Okoye thanked President Bola Tinubu for supporting the establishment and operationalisation of the commission.

    He also acknowledged the Minister of Regional Development, Abubakar Momoh, and the Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, for their guidance and collaboration.

    Okoye commended south-east governors for their support, especially Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu state, for providing office space to serve as the commission’s headquarters.

    He appreciated board members, executive directors, civil servants, and support staff for their contributions throughout the year.

    The board noted achievements recorded in 2025, including the development of governance and administrative frameworks and the establishment of internal management and advisory committees.

    It also noted strategic engagements with federal ministries, departments and agencies, development finance institutions, state governments, private sector leaders, and the south-east diaspora.

    The board said progress was made on the south-east regional development plan and the conceptualisation of major infrastructure and economic programmes.

    It added that concrete steps had been taken toward relocating the commission’s core operations to Enugu in early 2026.

    Following deliberations, the board endorsed the 2025 year-in-review report presented by the managing director.

    The board approved operational priorities for the first half of 2026, including full transition to the Enugu headquarters.

    It approved the activation of priority programmes such as the South-East Venture Capital Programme, the M. I. Okpara fellowship, the South-East Investment Company, and the Project Preparation Facility.

    The board also approved the commencement of stakeholder consultations and technical work on the south-east regional development plan.

    It endorsed plans to strengthen institutional capacity through targeted recruitment.

    The board noted the fiscal realities and national policy environment outlined in the 2026 call circular.

    It commended management for maintaining strong partnerships with development finance institutions, federal agencies, state governments, and the private sector.

    The board directed its standing committees to continue providing strategic oversight across environment, projects and partnerships, commercial and industrial development, diversity and inclusion, finance, security, and legal matters.

    The board expressed confidence in the commission’s readiness to roll out visible programmes in 2026.

    Early priorities include operationalising the Enugu headquarters and launching flagship human capital and innovation programmes.

    The board said bankable infrastructure projects would be activated through the project preparation facility and the Southeast Investment company.

    It added that collaboration with south-east state governments would be strengthened on infrastructure, agro-industrial, and social programmes.

    It said engagement with the diaspora and private sector would be expanded to unlock co-financing and investment opportunities.

    “In endorsing the Commission’s relocation to Enugu, the Board affirms that SEDC must remain firmly rooted in the region it was created to serve. This move is more than administrative; it is a symbolic and strategic step toward ensuring our work is directly felt by the communities whose future we are shaping,” Wogu said.

    “The South East is ready for bankable projects. Our focus is to build credibility, structure, and partnerships that unlock long-term financing for transformational infrastructure,” Okoye said.

    The board reaffirmed its commitment to supporting management in building a transparent, disciplined, and high-performing development institution.

    The board thanked partners, stakeholders, and residents of the south-east, expressing optimism that 2026 would be defined by delivery and measurable impact.

  • Cubana protecting our interest, says Amakaeze siblings, disown brother’s claims on disputed Abuja property

    Cubana protecting our interest, says Amakaeze siblings, disown brother’s claims on disputed Abuja property

    Siblings of Rev. Chidiebere Amakaeze have kicked following his claims  against nightclub entrepreneur, Obi Cubana, insisting that the businessman is not indebted in anyway to the family.

    In a now viral video, they claim Cubana had in fact supported them for years.

    Speaking on behalf of the family, Mr. Nwem Amakaeze, the immediate younger brother, said Cubana has consistently fulfilled all financial obligations on the Wuse 2 property in dispute and has even done more than one can imagine. 

    “Let it be on record that Obi Cubana does not owe the Amakaeze family. We are six surviving children. Five of us are united; only our eldest brother chose to go his own way. Despite that, Obinna still pays him and even more,” he said.

    He alleged that Rev. Chidiebere misrepresented himself as the family’s only surviving next-of-kin in 2018 to obtain a sole letter of administration, describing his actions as “wickedness of the highest order.”

    He said: “My brother gives an impression that in fighting Obi Cubana or trying to remove him from the premises, he is doing it on behalf of the family, but there is no lie bigger than that. 

    “In 2018, you came to the Abuja Federal High Court and swore an affidavit that you are the only surviving next of kin and son of Rev. Michael Nwobi Amakaeze. On that premises, you deceived the court to give you a sole letter of administration which was countered then. There is no need for sentiments.”

    Nwem further alleged that their brother had repeatedly stirred conflict, including filing petitions he alleged were false and inciting social-media attacks against Cubana.

     “The information that Obi is trying to take somebody’s property is not correct. Obi just said, “ you have siblings. I can settle today, but they need to have a share. I grew up with them, they are my friends, they are my family.”

    “The problem is internal. For 10 years, I haven’t seen my brother. All he sends are threats and insults. Obi Cubana is only insisting that any settlement must include all siblings,” he added.

    Their elder sister, Adaolisa Amakaeze, also defended Cubana in a separate video, saying he has taken care of the family and paid rent as caretaker of the property, stressing that he is not owing and should not be forced out.

    This comes after Abuja court sheriffs executed an eviction order on December 9, 2025, at Plot 81, Ademola Adetokunbo Crescent, formerly the Cubana Lounge, and handed possession to businessman Mr. Collins Onwuzulike.

    Rev. Chidiebere had claimed he sold the property to Onwuzulike for N2 billion, a claim his siblings have disputed.

  • Nwokejiobi hails Uzodimma on 67th birthday, lauds new national role

    Nwokejiobi hails Uzodimma on 67th birthday, lauds new national role

    Prominent political figure, Sir Benneth Nwokejiobi, has congratulated Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, on his 67th birthday, describing him as a visionary leader and dedicated public servant.

    In a statement, Nwokejiobi extended heartfelt felicitations to the governor, noting that the celebration coincides with Uzodimma’s recent appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the All Progressives Congress (APC) Renewed Hope Ambassador and Director-General of Party Outreach, Engagement and Mobilisation.

    “Governor Uzodimma’s leadership continues to inspire many.

    “His new national role is a testament to his political stature and commitment to the progress of our party and nation,” Sir Nwokejiobi stated.

    He praised the governor’s efforts in strengthening the APC, fostering unity, and advancing the developmental goals of the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

    “Through strategic engagement and pragmatic leadership, he has contributed significantly to both Imo State and Nigeria at large,” he added.

    Sir Nwokejiobi also expressed gratitude to God for preserving the governor’s life and prayed for his continued service to the people.

    Uzodimma, widely known as Onwa Oyoko, is also the Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum.

    His birthday has attracted goodwill messages from across the country, underscoring his influence as a key figure in Nigerian politics.

  • Economic Summit: Uzodimma drew global attention to Imo, says Nwawuba

    Economic Summit: Uzodimma drew global attention to Imo, says Nwawuba

    Former federal lawmaker Hon. Henry Nwawuba has lauded the scale and significance of the Imo State Economic Summit held in Owerri this week, saying the turnout of high-profile global figures and major investors underscored the state’s rising relevance.

    The summit, hosted by Governor Hope Uzodimma, drew national and international attention, attracting former United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, Vice President Kashim Shettima, industrialist Aliko Dangote and several state governors.

    Nwawuba said the gathering highlighted Uzodimma’s expanding national profile. 

    Analysts, however, noted that the governor’s increased visibility in recent months has also been shaped by strategic political alliances and his appointment by President Bola Tinubu as the South East Renewed Hope Ambassador, a role aimed at deepening federal–regional engagement.

    Commenting on governance in the state, Nwawuba said Uzodimma’s second term has seen notable investments in infrastructure, including ongoing road projects, improved intra-state transport links and efforts to enhance electricity supply in emerging economic zones.

    Policy experts argue that if these initiatives are sustained, Imo could strengthen its position as a manufacturing and logistics hub within the Southeast.

    Nwawuba added that the summit demonstrated Imo’s ambition to seek deeper economic partnerships beyond the region. 

    Observers said the strong turnout reflects renewed interest in states positioning themselves for investment and development collaboration.

    With global political leaders and prominent private-sector players in attendance, analysts believe Imo now has a valuable opportunity to translate the visibility generated by the summit into concrete investments. 

    They noted that the event also signalled the Southeast’s broader push to regain prominence in national economic discourse.

    As Imo builds on the momentum from the summit, stakeholders will be watching closely to see whether the heightened attention leads to long-term projects and measurable economic gains.

  • Reports on Seyi Tinubu’s security overblown – Balami

    Reports on Seyi Tinubu’s security overblown – Balami

    A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Issac Balami, has dismissed the ongoing debates over the security details of Seyi Tinubu, describing the claims by Nobel laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka whom he referred to as a father and mentol, as exaggerated and not a true reflection of reality.

    Soyinka, in a now-viral video, expressed shock after encountering Seyi Tinubu in a Lagos hotel surrounded by what he described as a “battalion” of security personnel enough, in his words, “to end an insurrection.”

    But in a statement on Wednesday, Balami referred to Soyinka’s description as hyperbolic, arguing that the media failed to identify this in their publications. 

    “With what appears like a literary piece or comment, Soyinka, a father who I have high regard for, succeeded in exaggerating the security details of Seyi Tinubu; something the media should have identified before rushing to publish,” Balami said.

    He noted that hyperbole and figurative expression are common tools used by literary icons when attempting to pass a message, insisting that Soyinka’s remarks should be interpreted in that context.

    Balami argued that Seyi Tinubu deserves reasonable security protection, not because he is the son of the President but due to his philanthropic work and growing political profile, with many Lagos residents projecting him as a potential next governor of the state.

    “ Even though Seyi Tinubu has not declared or confirmed his interest to run for any public office, his endorsement by Lagos youths and others is enough security threat. 

    “The few security personnel you see around Seyi Tinubu are justified, as Lagosians have put him in the eye 

    “This puts him at serious security risk considering how strategic Lagos is and the number of persons eyeing the governorship seat, whether he is running or not,” he said.

    Balami further stated that based on his personal observations, Seyi Tinubu is “too humble” to move around with the level of security Soyinka described. 

    He said that many of the individuals seen around him are supporters and volunteer guards  such as Man-O’-War members who accompany him due to his philanthropy.

    He added that other groups often seen with Seyi include the Community Auxiliary Development for Effective Transformation Network (CADETN), a youth-focused voluntary outfit.

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    According to Balami, it is normal for children of sitting or former Presidents to have substantial security, adding that the difference in Seyi’s case is his active involvement in politics and his visible role in projecting President Tinubu’s administration.

    He said: “It is clear that some politicians have seized on Prof. Soyinka’s comments and are now sponsoring narratives across social media to smear Seyi Tinubu. This is expected, given Seyi’s visibility in his father’s administration. Seyi is everywhere mobilizing for his father and for the APC, so the issue is no longer about what Prof. Soyinka said — it is about people politicizing it for their own advantage.

    “But I have always advised Seyi Tinubu to stay focused and not be discouraged. He should continue his humanitarian work and keep mobilizing the youths. No campaign of calumny should be allowed to weaken his commitment or his passion for a better Nigeria,” he said.

    Balami emphasised that he maintains great respect for Prof. Soyinka but insisted that the acclaimed writer’s descriptions fit into his well-known use of imagery.

    “Comparing Seyi Tinubu’s security to that of a battalion, and saying that his security details alone can end an insurrection, speaks to the same hyperbole I have continued to reiterate,” he said.

    He further argued that critics would be the first to blame the presidency if any security breach occurred around Seyi Tinubu.

    “Withdrawing security from Seyi Tinubu is as good as telling him not to appear anywhere or to become inactive politically,” Balami stated.

    He added that security needs vary for everyone including Soyinka himself, depending on their activities and destinations.

    “As for Seyi Tinubu, he travels far into the North, South and East in an effort to preach peace and unite youths across different states. So it remains unfair to say the few supporters and some security personnel that work with him should be removed. It will do more harm to the nation than good,” Balami said.

  • N200b suit: Natasha should prove allegations against Akpabio, says CSOs

    N200b suit: Natasha should prove allegations against Akpabio, says CSOs

    A coalition of civil society organisations has said Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan now has a “golden opportunity” to substantiate her allegations against Senate President Senator Godswill Akpabio, following the N200 billion libel suit he filed against her.

    Akpabio’s suit stemmed from Akpoti-Uduaghan’s public accusations of sexual harassment and gender-based injustice—claims the Senate President firmly denies.

    Filed before the Federal Capital Territory High Court with case number FCT/HC/CV/3356/2025, the suit alleges that Akpoti-Uduaghan defamed Akpabio through comments made on television, radio, and online platforms, where she reportedly described him as “a predator who exploited his position for personal gratification.”

    Reacting to the development, Nigeria Integrity Watch, a coalition of civic organisations, welcomed the lawsuit, saying it presents a lawful avenue for resolving the matter.

    Dr. John Samuel Nangi, National Convener of NIW, said in a Saturday statement that the dispute remains “strictly personal and private” between both lawmakers.

    “This is a civil way of ending the matter. It offers Senator Akpoti a crucial opportunity to clear her name and bring the case to a judicial conclusion,” he said.

    Nangi stressed that neither the Senate nor the federal government is involved in the case, noting that Akpabio has the right to seek legal redress, just as Akpoti-Uduaghan now has the opportunity to prove her claims.

    He urged both senators to respect the judicial process and refrain from turning the issue into a media spectacle.

    “This case belongs in court and not before journalists,” he cautioned.

    Nangi added that Nigerians are more focused on pressing national challenges than political drama and advised both parties to allow the judiciary resolve the matter without seeking undue publicity or sympathy.