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  • Agbese hails Tinubu’s approval of NNPCL debt cancellation, praises Ojulari’s leadership

    Agbese hails Tinubu’s approval of NNPCL debt cancellation, praises Ojulari’s leadership

    The Deputy Spokesperson of the House of Representatives, Hon. Philip Agbese, has hailed President Bola Tinubu’s approval of the cancellation of substantial legacy debts owed by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) to the Federation Account as a resounding endorsement of the transparent and transformative leadership of NNPCL Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari.

    The presidential directive, which wiped out approximately $1.42 billion and N5.57 trillion in outstanding obligations as of December 31, 2024, followed a meticulous reconciliation by the Stakeholder Alignment Committee.

    Agbese described the move as a clear vote of confidence in Ojulari’s stewardship.

    “This debt forgiveness is not just financial relief; it is a powerful testament to the trust the Presidency has in Engr. Ojulari’s commitment to transparency and accountability,” Agbese said.

    “Under his leadership, NNPCL has opened its books like never before, enabling accurate reconciliation of long-standing disputes and paving the way for this historic clean slate.”

    Agbese pointed to several landmark achievements under Ojulari  as evidence of his disciplined approach that has repositioned NNPCL as a commercially viable and profit-driven entity.

    “The resumption of monthly financial and operational reports – a practice dormant since 2021 – has restored stakeholder confidence and ensured real-time oversight,” he noted.

    “This level of openness directly facilitated the transparent reconciliation process that led to the debt cancellation.”

    He further commended the record-breaking performance in upstream operations.

    Read Also: Why House repealed, re-enacted 2024, 2025 Appropriation Acts, by Agbese 

    “NNPCL’s subsidiary, NNPC Exploration and Production Limited, achieved a daily output of 355,000 barrels on December 1, 2025 – the highest in 36 years,” Agbese stated.

    “With average production surging 52% from 203,000 barrels per day in 2023 to 312,000 in 2025, and national output climbing to over 1.7 million barrels per day, Ojulari has delivered tangible results through collaborations with partners and robust measures against crude theft.”

    On infrastructure, Agbese highlighted major breakthroughs.

    “The completion of the main line welding for the $2.8 billion Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano gas pipeline, including the challenging River Niger crossing, is a game-changer,” he said.

    “This milestone, achieved under Ojulari’s watch, will soon deliver gas to northern Nigeria, sparking industrial growth and economic diversification.”

    Agbese also praised Ojulari’s forward-looking targets.

    “Setting realistic goals for 1.8 million barrels per day in 2026, backed by the Petroleum Industry Act reforms that have freed NNPCL from federal funding dependency, shows visionary leadership,” he added.

    “These reforms have turned NNPCL into a profit-oriented company focused on national energy security.”

    Touching on downstream efforts, Agbese noted steady advancements in refinery rehabilitation.”Ojulari’s team has made significant progress on the Port Harcourt Refining Company, aligning with broader initiatives to boost domestic refining capacity and reduce import dependence,” he remarked.

    “This comprehensive approach ensures long-term sustainability.”

    Agbese emphasised the broader impact.”With this debt resolution, NNPCL can now channel full energy into current operations and future investments,” he said.

    “Engr. Ojulari’s transparent leadership has not only resolved historical burdens but is building a stronger, more accountable national oil company for all Nigerians. We look forward to even greater milestones ahead.”

  • Agbese hails Speaker Abbas’ leadership in House of Reps

    Agbese hails Speaker Abbas’ leadership in House of Reps

    The Deputy Spokesperson of the House of Representatives, Philip Agbese, has praised Speaker Abbas Tajudeen for emerging stronger in 2025 after navigating significant political, institutional, and leadership challenges that could have divided the House.

    In an interview on Wednesday, Agbese emphasized that the House remains committed to strengthening Nigeria’s democracy. 

    He described 2025 as a defining year for the 10th House of Representatives, noting that despite intense pressure from various quarters, the Speaker “stood as a pillar of truth, sacrifice and stability.”

    “Despite the many challenges we encountered in 2025, Speaker Abbas justified his leadership. 

    He proved that leadership is not about convenience, but about standing on truth and making sacrifices for the collective good of the institution and the country,” Agbese said.

    He added that issues which might have fractured previous assemblies were managed by Speaker Abbas with restraint, consultation, and strict adherence to parliamentary rules, preserving unity within the House.

    “There were issues in 2025 that, if it were in the past, would have broken the unity of the House. But under Speaker Abbas, those issues did not escalate because he placed the institution above personal or sectional interests,” Agbese noted.

    Citing the controversy over alleged alterations of gazetted tax laws differing from what the National Assembly approved, Agbese said this presented a key test of leadership. 

    He added that Speaker Abbas has so far demonstrated effective leadership in managing the matter since it was raised on the floor of the House by Hon. Abdulsammad Dasuki.

    “As you are aware, Mr Speaker acted swiftly by setting up a 7-man ad-hoc committee to investigate the matter and report back to the House for further legislative action.

    “Besides, the Speaker alongside the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio have equally directed the Clerk to the National Assembly to also commence the process of re-gazetting the tax laws to ensure they align with what have been approved by the National Assembly. This shows responsive leadership.

    “The National Assembly, as the custodian of legislative authority, has responded not with defensiveness or evasion, but with institutional sobriety. The leadership of both Chambers has activated the very safeguards that give law its moral and legal force: verification, certification, and transparency. This is not an act of weakness. It is the essence of legislative strength,” he said.

    Agbese also made reference to issues surrounding the recruitment into the National Assembly Service Commission (NASC) as another delicate moments for the House during the year.

    “The NASC employment controversy almost turned the parliament against itself. Emotions were high, interests were conflicting, and pressure was intense. But the Speaker handled it with wisdom and maturity, ensuring that the House did not descend into chaos,” he said.

    He added that the Speaker consistently emphasised due process and dialogue, preventing the issue from degenerating into an institutional crisis.

    On members’ welfare and constituency project concerns, Agbese said the Speaker Abbas-led leadership again, demonstrated patience and understanding, even as lawmakers voiced frustrations.

    “Members’ welfare and constituency projects are sensitive issues. They touch directly on our responsibilities to our constituents. Speaker Abbas ensured that these matters were addressed through engagements and transparency, rather than confrontation,” he said.

    Agbese also pointed to the handling of the state of emergency declaration in Rivers State as a major test of leadership, stressing that the House under Speaker Abbas acted strictly within constitutional and procedural boundaries.

    “On the issue of the state of emergency in Rivers State, our rule book was our guiding principle. Speaker Abbas ensured that emotions were set aside and that decisions were taken in line with the Constitution and the Standing Orders of the House,” he said.

    According to him, the Speaker’s approach helped prevent the issue from polarising lawmakers along partisan or regional lines.

    “He managed it in a way that preserved the integrity of the House and reaffirmed our commitment to constitutionalism,” Agbese added.

    The Deputy Spokesperson stressed that the House of Representatives remains determined to play its role as a stabilising force in Nigeria’s democracy.

    “The House of Representatives is determined to strengthen Nigeria’s democracy. That resolve was evident throughout 2025, even in the face of challenges and as we return in 2026, we hope to do more in deepening our democracy”,he said.

    Agbese described Speaker Abbas as a leader who understands the weight of institutional responsibility.

    “Speaker Abbas has shown that leadership is about service, sacrifice and accountability. In 2025, he passed every test placed before him, not for personal glory, but for the stability of the House and the progress of our democracy,” he said.

    He expressed confidence that the Speaker’s leadership style going into 2026 and beyond, would continue to guide the House through future challenges, reinforcing its role as the people’s parliament.

  • Why House repealed, re-enacted 2024, 2025 Appropriation Acts, by Agbese 

    Why House repealed, re-enacted 2024, 2025 Appropriation Acts, by Agbese 

    The Deputy Spokesperson of the House of Representatives, Hon. Philip Agbese has said the recent decision by the House to repeal and re-enact the 2024 and 2025 Appropriation Acts was driven by the need to align Nigeria’s budgeting framework with global best practices, enhance transparency, and ease implementation challenges.

    Speaking in an interview on Friday, Agbese said the lawmakers took the step to strengthen accountability at all levels of government while reducing the oversight burden that typically trails budget execution.

    According to him, the repeal and re-enactment will help streamline the country’s fiscal process by ensuring a more coherent and predictable funding structure.

    “Basically, it is to align the nation’s budgeting system with global and international best practices. It is also to ensure transparency and accountability at all levels, and to lessen the burden of oversight during implementation,” Agbese said.

    He noted that the decision would also pave the way for a single national budget cycle after March 31, 2026, a move he described as critical to seamless execution by the Executive arm.

    Agbese commended the Hon. Abubakar Bichi-led House Committee on Appropriations for their diligent and prompt work on the re-enactment bill transmitted to the House by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    He said the committee’s promptness paved way for the eventual consideration and passage of the bill before the lawmakers proceeded on their Christmas and New Year holidays.

    According to him, the work of the committee has further helped in addressing the issue of running multiple budgets in the country.

    He said running of multiple budgets will lead to fiscal confusion and dissipation of government’s finances in the execution of multiple projects, leading to poor outcome.

    The lawmaker observed that the abysmally low performance of the 2025 capital budget was due to the running of multiple budgets.

    “By adopting a single budget after March 31, 2026, the Executive will be able to execute the budget without much hassle. When there is a single funding system, it becomes easier to manage cash flow and ensure timely releases,” he added.

    Agbese commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for providing leadership that supports fiscal reforms, describing the President’s commitment to budget discipline and economic stability as reassuring.

    His commendation was in response to the recent commitment made by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu that running of multiple budgets would end by March 31, 2026.

    President Tinubu during presentation of the 2026 budget announced that the era of multiple budget implementations in Nigeria will come to an end by March 2026, stating that from April, the country will operate a single budget anchored on a unified revenue cycle.

    According to the President, the reform is aimed at addressing long-standing challenges such as abandoned projects, unpaid contractual obligations and overlapping budgets inherited across different administrations.

    “This is research, a very hard one. Avoiding abandoned projects, unpaid contractual obligations and running multiple budgets, both inherited and of fulfilled mandates, is a problem staring the nation.

    “So we are terminating the habit of running through a budget on one inflow. By March 31, 2026, all capital liabilities from previous years will be fully funded and closed. No overlaps, no excuses and no rollover cultures,” he said.

    He described Tinubu as a listening leader, adding that his commitment to end multiple budgets was in response to calls by lawmakers and other experts who have spoken against the running of multiple budgets which often lead to fiscal indiscipline.

    The lawmaker also passed a vote of confidence on the President’s economic team, particularly the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, praising them for taking the time to develop a budget framework that reflects Nigeria’s economic realities.

    “We want to commend the economic team, especially the budget and planning ministry, for putting together a budget plan that reflects the nation’s reality and the economic interests of the various segments of our society,” he said.

    Agbese stressed that the House remains committed to reforms that will strengthen public finance management, improve service delivery, and restore public confidence in the budgeting process.

  • Akume mourns veteran journalist, Agbese, says Nigeria has lost a national treasure

    Akume mourns veteran journalist, Agbese, says Nigeria has lost a national treasure

    Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has described the death of veteran journalist and columnist, Mr. Dan Agbese, as a colossal national loss, saying his passing has created a vacuum that will be difficult to fill.

    In a condolence statement issued on Tuesday, the SGF said Agbese’s demise came at a critical moment in the nation’s democratic journey, noting that his “fatherly role and vast experience” would be deeply missed by both the media and the country at large.

    In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Public Affairs, Terrence Kuanum, Akume hailed the late journalist as one of the pioneer trailblazers of Nigeria’s modern press, recalling his prominent role in challenging military rule and championing the restoration of democracy.

    “His death is a monumental national loss. Dan Agbese was a fine gentleman to the core. He was a man of strong conviction with unimpeachable character and unwavering determination to achieve great goals against all odds. His penchant for justice, equity, and fairness set him apart from the rest,” the SGF said.

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    He praised Agbese’s sharp prose, incisive commentary, and decades-long dedication to journalism, which he said helped shape modern investigative reporting and Nigeria’s socio-political discourse.

    “The late Dan Agbese was a doyen of journalism and a merchant of biting satire. He was such a versatile, bold, and confident writer whose quill dripped brutal frankness. A mentor and father who professionally refined his mentees and turned them into masters of the pen craft,” Akume added.

    The SGF urged the Agbese family, friends, and colleagues in the media industry to take solace in the exemplary life he lived, praying that God grant repose to his soul.

  • Tinubu mourns Newswatch co-founder Agbese

    Tinubu mourns Newswatch co-founder Agbese

    President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the death of veteran journalist and Newswatch co-founder, Chief Dan Agbese, describing his passing as a painful and monumental loss to Nigeria’s media landscape.

    Agbese, a celebrated writer, editor and respected public commentator, died on Monday in Lagos at 81. 

    He held the traditional title of Awan’Otun of Agila in Ado Local Government Area of Benue State.

    In a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu said Agbese was a towering figure whose work helped redefine journalism practice in the country.

    The President recalled that Agbese, along with his colleagues at the trailblazing Newswatch weekly magazine, ushered in a new era of investigative and interpretative reporting that set enduring standards for professionalism, ethics and courage in the media.

    Read Also: Akpabio, Mark, Obi, Shehu mourn media icon Dan Agbese

    “Dan Agbese was not just a journalist; he was an institution. His pen shaped public opinion, strengthened democratic discourse, and inspired a generation of media practitioners,” Tinubu said.

    He noted that Agbese served Nigeria with “integrity, courage, and commitment to truth and justice,” stressing that his contributions to the evolution of modern Nigerian journalism would remain indelible.

    “I join his family, particularly his wife, children, and the entire media community, in mourning. May his legacy continue to guide the noble calling of journalism in our nation,” the President added.

  • Agbese urges Orji Kalu to apologise over alleged pilots’ drug allegations

    Agbese urges Orji Kalu to apologise over alleged pilots’ drug allegations

    The Deputy Spokesperson of the House of Representatives, Hon. Philip Agbese, has called on Senator Orji Uzor Kalu to apologise and withdraw his recent comment suggesting that some pilots in Nigeria use Indian hemp.

    Kalu, a former governor of Abia State, made the remark during Wednesday’s plenary while contributing to a motion on aviation safety following a Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) report on the Air Peace runway incident in Port Harcourt.

    Addressing journalists in Abuja on Thursday, Agbese said while the National Assembly must continue to prioritise aviation safety, public officials should refrain from making statements that could damage the reputation of professionals in the industry.

    He noted that such comments could unfairly tarnish the image of hardworking Nigerian pilots who have consistently demonstrated competence, discipline, and adherence to global safety standards.

    “Our pilots are among the most competent and disciplined professionals in the world. They undergo rigorous training, regular health and safety checks, and international certification processes. Nigeria’s airspace remains one of the safest in Africa,” Agbese said.

    Read Also: Yahaya Bello will emerge stronger from EFCC case – Agbese

    He added that many young Nigerians who chose to serve their country in the aviation sector instead of seeking opportunities abroad deserve encouragement and recognition, not criticism.

    “Rather than discouraging our youths who are giving their best to this country, we should celebrate their excellence. Some of the finest pilots globally are Nigerians — flying not only for domestic airlines but also for leading carriers in Europe, the Middle East, and North America,” he stated.

    Agbese also commended the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN), for upholding high safety standards and ensuring effective coordination among agencies under the ministry’s supervision.

    “The aviation ministry under Festus Keyamo (SAN) has maintained consistency in promoting safety, accountability, and inter-agency coordination. Agencies such as FAAN, NCAA, NAMA, and NSIB are all doing commendable work to sustain confidence in Nigeria’s aviation system,” he noted.

    The lawmaker described Kalu’s remark as unfortunate, saying it could undermine confidence in a sector that depends heavily on public trust and international credibility.

    “Distinguished Senator Kalu should retract that statement and tender an apology to our aviation professionals. These are men and women who have built their careers through discipline and integrity. We must not destroy their reputation with unverified claims,” Agbese said.

    He reaffirmed the House of Representatives’ commitment to supporting policies that enhance aviation safety, workforce development, and infrastructure improvement.

    “It is our duty as parliamentarians to ensure proper oversight and accountability. But while doing so, our words must inspire trust. The aviation sector thrives on confidence, and our professionals have continued to earn that trust through their diligence and expertise,” he concluded.

  • Only telecom sector reforms enough to earn Tinubu a second term – Agbese

    Only telecom sector reforms enough to earn Tinubu a second term – Agbese

    • …Telecoms Reforms Could Secure Tinubu a Second Term – House Deputy Spokesperson

    The Deputy Spokesperson of the House of Representatives, Hon. Philip Agbese, has said that the ongoing reforms in Nigeria’s telecommunications sector under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu are so fundamental that they could secure him a second term in office.

    Speaking to journalists in Abuja on Wednesday, Agbese noted that while Nigerians have endured economic pains triggered by necessary reforms in other sectors, the transformation of telecoms has stood out as a clear success story that directly impacts the daily lives of millions of citizens.

    He added that if the current trajectory is sustained, the telecoms sector could become President Tinubu’s most compelling re-election asset.

    “The transformation in telecoms is not cosmetic; it is foundational. When millions of Nigerians get safer, more reliable connectivity, and when our networks begin to deliver broadband that supports jobs, education and business, citizens will remember who made that possible. That is why reforms in this sector alone can merit another mandate for President Tinubu,” Agbese said.

    He noted that one of the most significant steps has been the consolidation of the National Identification Number (NIN) and Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) linkage. 

    “What had lingered for years under previous administrations was achieved within one year of Tinubu’s presidency, cleaning up the database of active mobile lines and strengthening national security,” Agbese observed. 

    According to the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), over 153 million SIMs have now been harmonised with the NIN, a development Agbese described as “one of the most far-reaching exercises in Nigeria’s digital history.”

    Read Also: Why 10th House will defend Speaker Abbas, by Deputy Spokesman Agbese

    The lawmaker also pointed to the strides in broadband expansion, citing figures released by the NCC indicating a steady rise in penetration since 2023. 

    He maintained that improved access to high-speed internet was beginning to change the landscape of education, business and civic engagement across the country.

    “Connectivity is the new infrastructure. More people online means more economic activity, more taxation base and more resilience. This is the quiet revolution that the Tinubu administration is delivering,” he said.

    Agbese further commended the regulator for ensuring that Nigerians were now enjoying improved service delivery, with value for money and services that match the growing demands of a youthful population. 

    He noted that the NCC was also increasingly looking at corporate social responsibility as a necessity for communities, ensuring that telecoms investment leaves a wider impact beyond profits.

    The deputy spokesperson added that the push towards 5G technology and the careful management of spectrum licensing have further underlined the government’s determination to future-proof Nigeria’s digital economy. 

    He stressed that the policy environment has given operators the confidence to continue investing in infrastructure despite foreign exchange pressures and a challenging macroeconomic climate.

    Beyond infrastructure, he praised the Tinubu administration for listening to industry concerns about over-taxation. He recalled that proposed levies on telecom services, which would have increased the cost of calls and data for consumers, were suspended on the orders of the President. 

    According to him, this fiscal reprieve has kept services affordable and has allowed the sector to maintain momentum at a time when households are grappling with high living costs.

    “President Tinubu deserves credit for recognising the strategic importance of this sector and making the right calls. By removing unnecessary levies and encouraging reforms that promote investment, the government has ensured that Nigeria remains one of the fastest-growing digital markets in Africa,” the lawmaker added.

    Agbese, however, acknowledged that challenges remain, particularly in extending reliable services to rural communities and ensuring that tariff adjustments do not widen the digital divide. He urged private operators to deepen investment while calling on regulators to maintain policy stability that would attract new capital.

    He noted that despite these challenges, the telecoms sector offers a powerful narrative of delivery that the administration can proudly take to the Nigerian people.

    “Delivery on telecoms is tangible for ordinary Nigerians. It is visible in schools, markets and farms. It is the kind of delivery that people feel – and remember – when they go to vote,” Agbese added.

  • CDS, service chiefs have made tremendous gains in war against terrorism, banditry – Agbese

    CDS, service chiefs have made tremendous gains in war against terrorism, banditry – Agbese

    …hails CNS, COAS as outstanding officers globally respected for their performance

    The Deputy Spokesperson of the House of Representatives, Hon. Philip Agbese, has lauded the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, and the service chiefs for what he described as tangible and strategic gains in Nigeria’s campaign against terrorism, banditry, and other crimes threatening national stability.

    Agbese, who represents Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency of Benue State, said the current military leadership has reinvigorated counter-insurgency and counter-banditry operations in a manner that is restoring public confidence.

    He insisted that recent calls in some quarters for the removal of the service chiefs were “propaganda warfare” from terrorist networks, designed to demoralise troops and distract the public from ongoing successes.

    Speaking with journalists on Thursday at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja on his way to an international engagement, the UK-trained lawyer urged Nigerians to resist narratives that weaken the morale of fighting forces.

    “The service chiefs have given us clear evidence that Nigeria can win this war. The terrorists and their enablers understand this, so they resort to psychological warfare. Their demand for a change of leadership is not for Nigeria’s benefit — it is a survival tactic for terror,” Agbese said.

    He singled out General Musa for praise, pointing to his coordination of joint military operations and his ability to align the different services under a unified counter-terrorism framework.

    According to him, the hosting of the African Defence Chiefs’ Summit in Abuja in August was a landmark achievement that showed Musa’s vision extended beyond Nigeria to the continent at large.

    “That summit was not just a gathering; it was a statement. Nigeria, under General Musa, showed leadership by convening African militaries to discuss African solutions to African problems,” Agbese said.

    Agbese also commended the Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, for his determined fight against oil theft, illegal refining, and maritime crime.

    He said the Navy’s successes in protecting pipelines and curbing smuggling have translated directly into improved revenue inflows for the government.

    “The Chief of Naval Staff has demonstrated uncommon commitment in safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime domain. His leadership in curbing pipeline vandalism, oil theft, and other maritime crimes has not only secured vital national assets but also restored confidence in our waters. Today, illegal oil smuggling is no longer the thriving industry it once was, thanks to his strategic innovations and the dedication of naval officers under his command,” Agbese said.

    “By protecting the nation’s blue economy, the Chief of Naval Staff has helped to stabilise government revenue at a time when Nigeria’s economic survival depends on it. His efforts resonate far beyond our shores, earning him respect in the global naval community. I commend him for showing that with vision and discipline, our armed forces can deliver solutions that transform both our economy and our security.”

    On the role of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, Agbese, was emphatic that his field-driven leadership style has begun to turn the tide in troubled theatres of operation.

    He said Oluyede’s tactical innovations and insistence on officers leading from the front have boosted morale among soldiers and shaken the confidence of insurgents and bandits.

    “General Oluyede is not a desk officer; he is on the ground with the troops. His operational strategy has degraded terrorist enclaves in the North-East and weakened bandit networks in the North-West. Communities are regaining confidence because they see the Army’s presence and feel its renewed vigour,” Agbese observed.

    He added that Oluyede’s outreach to local communities in conflict zones has also created fresh avenues for intelligence-gathering, which is proving decisive in anticipating and thwarting attacks.

    “Security cannot be won by bullets alone; it requires the trust of the people. General Oluyede understands this and has fostered the kind of community collaboration that gives our troops a critical advantage,” he said.

    Read Also: Why 10th House will defend Speaker Abbas, by Deputy Spokesman Agbese

    Agbese, who is also a member of the Pan-African Parliament, pledged to use his continental platform to push for deeper regional defence cooperation.

    “I will present model laws at the forthcoming Pan-African Parliament plenary in Johannesburg. Nigeria must not only lead the fight with strength on the battlefield but also with intellect at the policy level,” Agbese said.

    He explained that the PAP develops laws for domestication across the continent, adding: “There is no better time to design a continental framework for combating insecurity than now, when Nigeria’s security architecture has taken the lead and is yielding results.”

    On calls for the sack of the service chiefs, the deputy spokesperson said Nigerians must reject the “propaganda of despair.” According to him, those amplifying such calls are unwittingly aiding a terrorist strategy.

    “Our service chiefs are among the finest officers in Africa today. They are respected globally for their professionalism and results. To call for their removal now is to sabotage the progress we are making. We cannot allow terrorists to set our agenda,” he declared.

    Agbese urged Nigerians to remain steadfast in their support for the armed forces while holding leaders accountable through constructive engagements.

  • Why members of 10th House will defend Abbas’ mandate as Speaker – Agbese

    Why members of 10th House will defend Abbas’ mandate as Speaker – Agbese

    The deputy spokesperson of the House of Representatives, Rep Philip Agbese, has said members of the 10th Assembly will continue to defend the mandate of the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, because of his inclusive and respectful leadership style.

    Speaking with journalists in Abuja on Monday, Agbese described Abbas as “a Speaker for all,” noting that since assuming office, he has carried all 359 other lawmakers along in decision-making and legislative engagements.

    “The Speaker is not a sectional leader. He is not someone who wants to run the House as a clique. From the very first day, he made it clear that he is here to serve all members and Nigerians. This is why you see overwhelming support across party lines for him,” Agbese said.

    According to him, Abbas’ leadership over the last two years has promoted harmony and reduced friction among lawmakers, as members feel a sense of belonging and dignity.

    “One thing Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, PhD, has done differently is to treat everyone with respect, whether you are a first-time member or a ranking lawmaker, from the majority or minority caucus. He engages with us, he listens, and he acts. That is the kind of leadership that builds trust,” he added.

    Agbese maintained that this inclusive and non-discriminatory style explains why members are prepared to stand by Abbas against any attempt to undermine his leadership.

    Read Also: Agbese hails Abbas, Kalu for resolving FG–contractors standoff

    “We have seen in the past how divisions and exclusion weakened the legislature in some assemblies. But today, the House is united behind the Speaker because we know he is sincere, transparent, and committed to the collective good of the 10th Assembly and Nigerians,” the deputy spokesperson said.

    He further noted that Abbas’ leadership is already yielding results in the quality of debates, motions, and bills being processed, stressing that the stability of the House under his watch is key to deepening Nigeria’s democracy.

    “What the Speaker is doing is giving every member a voice. That is why you see robust debates, diverse perspectives, and a stronger legislature. We will continue to defend his mandate because it is not just about him, it is about the institution and the Nigerian people,” Agbese said.

  • Agbese hails Abbas, Kalu for resolving FG–contractors standoff

    Agbese hails Abbas, Kalu for resolving FG–contractors standoff

    Deputy Spokesperson of the House of Representatives, Hon. Chief Philip Agbese, has commended Speaker Dr. Tajudeen Abbas and his deputy, Dr. Benjamin Kalu, for their swift intervention in resolving the protracted dispute between the Federal Government and indigenous contractors.

    Earlier in the week, Speaker Abbas, through his Chief of Staff, Prof. Jakes Dan Azumi, announced two special ad-hoc committees—one led by Deputy Speaker Kalu to address funding complaints of constituency projects, and another chaired by former Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Idris Wase to probe alleged lopsided recruitment in the National Assembly bureaucracy.

    Barely 24 hours later, Kalu convened an expanded meeting with Finance Minister Dr. Wale Edu, Accountant-General of the Federation Mr. Samsudeen Babatunde Ogunjimi, and about 100 contractors nationwide. His intervention successfully brokered a resolution, paving the way for contractor payments to begin on Monday, September 8, 2025.

    Speaking to journalists on Friday, Agbese—who represents Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency of Benue State—praised the Kalu-led committee for swiftly ending the contractors’ long-standing protests.

    He described the development as a reflection of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’ and proof that the 10th House is committed to the welfare of Nigerians, especially at the grassroots.

    “This swift intervention by His Excellency, Kalu-led Committee, has greatly solved more than half of Nigerians’ problems. You know a hungry man is an angry man. And it is when a man is hungry that he would appreciate a plate of food. These Contractors have actually been agitating, now succors have come their way, as they will be smiling at the banks as from Monday next week.

    “This is what only responsible and responsive leadership can give. We must give it to the Speaker and his Deputy! This is what we have known them for, and this is one of the reasons why the entire 358 Members of the House will continue to rally round them with support until the timeline of the 10th House is over; and we pray for the 11th House to be graciously blessed with the duo of Abbas and Kalu, again”, Agbese added.

    Read Also: Rep. Agbese slams Bafarawa over criticism of Tinubu’s administration

    He said, “The House under Abbass has played several strategic roles between critical stakeholders such as averting industrial disputes between the Federal Government and ASUU, FG and NLC, and most recently, conflict between the FG and the youths, where Mr. Speaker engaged young Nigerians in marathon meetings that lasted for days before amicable resolutions were reached.

    “What that tells us is that, with Tajudeen Abass heading a strategic arm of Government as Speaker, the President can always go to bed with his eyes fully closed as well as the youths and other stakeholders having a Government that they are sure will protect and serve their interest, irrespective of the hour of the day”.

    The lawmaker expressed great optimism that the development would no doubt make Nigerians happy, as those contractors have families, loved ones, and friends who depend on them.

    Agbese, however, called on the Contractors and the general public to keep faith with the current leadership of the House and the executive, trusting their various Representatives enough to work with the administration in delivering all the deliverables encapsulated in the 2024 and 2025 budgets.