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  • Rivers APC chief hails reforms in passport processing under Tinubu

    Rivers APC chief hails reforms in passport processing under Tinubu

    A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, Darlington Nwauju, has applauded various reforms in passport processing under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration

    Nwauju particularly hailed the latest reform introduced by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, in the passport processing regime.

    Speaking in Port Harcourt on Tuesday, Nwauju said the tangible, visible and eye-popping reforms introduced since Tinubu appointed Dr Tunji-Ojo had turned around the fortunes of the ministry and surpassed the achievements of his predecessors.

    He said, “Talking about international standards, the regime of manual and archaic method of applications for special expatriate permits and temporary work permits which shortchanged the nation of huge revenues due to the inconsistencies, inaccuracies and manipulations that led to all manner of discordant data of aliens shortchanging Nigerians of work spaces and denying the nation of revenues, will soon be a thing of the past with the introduction of a compulsory online processing method.

    READ ALSO: Aiyedatiwa assigns portfolios to newly sworn-in Ondo commissioners

    “Again, this Minister has ensured that the number of E-passport issuance centres across the country increases to 44, while there are now 47 such centres in the diaspora. Interestingly, all passports being issued are now ICAO-compliant with enhanced features.

    “By pushing to resolve the backlog of more than 200,000 passport applications plus a #20billion naira debt inherited by his Ministry, Dr Tunji-Ojo’s competence and capacity are worth all the attention as it remains a huge reminder that public service is indeed a call to duty and not for unnecessary showmanship and grandeur.”

    Nwauju said that with a little over 3,546,258 passports processed in less than two years and saving the nation of N1bn annually from third-party contractors through sheer ingenuity of subjecting birth/marriage certificates introduced by the Ministry, was a masterstroke.

  • Tinubu orders agencies to address concerns behind new US, UAE visa restrictions

    Tinubu orders agencies to address concerns behind new US, UAE visa restrictions

    …reiterates commitment to Nigeria’s diplomatic ties and 4-D foreign policy agenda

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed relevant federal agencies to take all necessary actions to address the issues identified by the governments of the United States and the United Arab Emirates in their recent changes to visa issuance policies affecting Nigerian citizens.

    This was contained in a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, in Abuja on Tuesday.

    According to the statement, the United States government formally notified Nigeria that its decision to review visa privileges for Nigerian passport holders was informed by two key concerns: the growing incidence of visa overstays by Nigerian nationals and challenges in obtaining reliable access to applicants’ records.

    Washington further explained that the adjustments are part of its global visa reciprocity framework, which is routinely reviewed and subject to policy revisions, including entry limits and validity periods.

    President Tinubu, in response, instructed all concerned Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to work collaboratively and ensure full compliance with Nigeria’s international obligations.

    The President specifically tasked the agencies with enhancing intergovernmental cooperation and fortifying systems that authenticate the identities of Nigerians seeking consular services abroad.

    READ ALSO: Presidency: FEC postpones special session in honour of Buhari

    “The President calls on all Nigerians to respect the immigration regulations of their host countries and to uphold the integrity of the permits and privileges granted to them under the laws of those jurisdictions,” the statement read.

    On the visa situation involving the United Arab Emirates, the Federal Government noted that it had not received any formal notification from Abu Dhabi authorities indicating a change in visa policy. However, it acknowledged that visa issuance was proceeding “in a gradual and orderly manner.”

    Despite the absence of official communication, President Tinubu welcomed the constructive engagement of the UAE government, affirming that any genuine concerns being addressed through diplomatic channels were receiving the attention of Nigerian authorities.

    The statement reaffirmed the Federal Government’s “unwavering commitment to maintaining and strengthening the longstanding and cordial diplomatic relations” with both countries and assured citizens that Nigeria’s foreign policy under the Tinubu administration remains focused on ensuring that Nigerians can “travel, work, and live with dignity and respect in any part of the world.”

    President Tinubu’s stance aligns with the administration’s 4-D Foreign Policy agenda, which prioritises Democracy, Development, Demography, and Diaspora engagement.

    As engagements continue, the Federal Government pledged to sustain its efforts at improving international cooperation, data-sharing mechanisms, and transparency in the visa application process to avoid future bottlenecks for Nigerian citizens abroad.

    The statement also reiterated the President’s assurance that no effort would be spared to protect the interests of Nigerians globally and to foster mutual respect in all bilateral relations.

  • 2027: ‘Tinubu will win in Ondo, ADC has no chance’

    2027: ‘Tinubu will win in Ondo, ADC has no chance’

    Benin-Owena River Basin Development Authority (BORBDA) Managing Director, Femi Adekanmbi,  has dismissed the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as “dead on arrival” in Ondo State.

    He cited the party’s lack of credibility and viable policy alternatives to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

    In a statement , Adekanmbi questioned the opposition’s campaign strategy in light of Tinubu’s achievements.

    Read Also: How Buhari and I were admitted in same UK hospital before his death, by Abdulsalami

    “What will the opposition campaign on?” he asked, noting that both Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, key opposition figures, admitted they would have removed fuel subsidies if elected.

    He highlighted that the Federal Government previously borrowed $1 billion monthly to sustain subsidies, a practice Tinubu ended, freeing up resources for development.

    Adekanmbi, an All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain, credited Tinubu’s policies for increasing state allocations by nearly 250 per cent, enabling states to clear outstanding loans and workers’ salaries.

    “No state owes workers’ salaries anymore, unlike in the past when arrears spanned months,” he said.

    He challenged the ADC to clarify its stance on key reforms.

    “Will they reinstate fuel subsidies, reduce state funding by 200 per cent, or revert to the dual exchange rate system under former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor Godwin Emefiele, where dollars were sold at favourable rates to selected individuals for black-market profiteering” Adekanmbi asked.

    He questioned whether the ADC would reverse progress on the minimum wage, currently set above N30,000, cancel the Student Loan program, or halt university funding, risking academic strikes.

    “Since Tinubu’s administration began, we have not witnessed the prolonged ASUU strikes of the past,” he noted.

    Adekanmbi also praised Tinubu’s “Naira for crude” policy, which replaced the dollar-based crude oil trade, strengthening the Naira.

    He asked if the ADC would undo local government autonomy, reinstate the two-year passport processing delay, or cancel the international acceptance of Naira cards, isolating Nigeria from the global economy.

    Additionally, he questioned whether the opposition would halt ongoing dam rehabilitation and irrigation projects under the Federal Ministries of Water Resources and Agriculture, which are enhancing food security.

    Given these policy contrasts, Adekanmbi argued that the ADC stands little chance of success, not only in Ondo State but nationwide.

    “They are complaining because it’s no longer business as usual. Free money from subsidies, CBN dollars, and unexecuted contracts are gone,” he stated.

    The BORBDA Managing Director announced that the Tinubu Support Group (TSG) Ondo State Chapter will soon launch activities to educate citizens on the positive impacts of Tinubu’s administration.

    “The Akure office is being prepared for this purpose,” he said.

    “Tinubu has done much to uplift the underprivileged and rebuild an economy damaged by past mismanagement.

    Nigerians will reject the opposition when campaigns begin.

    “He urged citizens to hold  governors and local government chairmen accountable for not utilizing increased allocations effectively.

    “Thanks to Tinubu’s subsidy removal, states and local governments now receive substantial funds.

    Citizens must demand accountability from these leaders, not the Federal Government, which is fulfilling its role,” he said.

    Adekanmbi criticized some governors for deflecting blame to the Federal Government while underperforming. He cited the example of former Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki, who attributed poor road conditions to the Federal Government.

    “Thankfully, Governor Monday Okpebholo is now fixing those roads,” he added.

    He called on citizens to demand effective use of allocated funds and to focus scrutiny on state and local leaders rather than the Presidency.

  • We cannot defeat Tinubu in 2027 divided, says Edo PDP

    We cannot defeat Tinubu in 2027 divided, says Edo PDP


    Stakeholders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State, on Monday, rose from a meeting with the conclusion that internal crisis rocking the party would make it a difficult to defeat President Bola Tinubu in 2027.

    The stakeholders spoke at a meeting attended by party leaders from the 18 local government areas and presided over by
    Dr. Tony Aziegbemi.

    Aziegbemi reported that the PDP did all it could in the legal battles to retrieve its mandate but the party was deprived of victory. 

    Aziegbemi commended party members for standing firm despite the setback but said the battle ahead was on how to unseat President Bola Tinubu.

    He said: “The next thing is, how do we get Tinubu out in 2027. We cannot continue with the way things are being run in the country”.

    A former Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Jimoh Ijegbai, cautioned the PDP leaders not to deceive themselves.

    “If you are saying we should remove Tinubu from office, which vehicle are we going to use? 

    “If we are going to continue, we must know where we belong in the PDP that is divided. Unless we do that, we will be deceiving ourselves,” Ijegbai, an ex-Deputy Chief of Staff to former Governor Godwin Obaseki.

    Alberta Okonofua urged the PDP to put its acts together and wondered how the party planned to defeat Tinubu.

    “If we don’t put our house properly I don’t know how we are going to oust him (Tinubu). The party has two factions in Edo which makes the task of unseating Tinubu difficult. 

    Read Also: Makinde mourns Buhari, commiserates with Tinubu, ex-president’s family

    Former Campaign Director General, Asue Ighodalo Campaign Organization, Hon. Matthew Iduoriyekemwen, insisted thay the party must fashion out ways on how to win election in 2027.

    Iduoriyekemwen foreclosed victory for the PDP in next month’s by-election in Edo State.

    “We cannot continue like this. Mr. Chairman, if we must solve PDP problem, it must be solved from the National. If Asue’s votes didn’t count, I see any election that will count. So, we must sit down and take a decision. The PDP we have today does not have the capacity to stand in opposition to the APC”, he added. 

    But Ighodalo, differed stating the PDP would win any election with over 70 percent of the votes.

    He assured that the PDP would decide what was in the best interest of Edo State. 

    “The leaders will meet and return to the people. Nobody would dictate to anybody. We would collectively decide where to go,” he said. 

  • ‘Tinubu’s gas reform ‘ll unlock huge benefits for economy’

    ‘Tinubu’s gas reform ‘ll unlock huge benefits for economy’

    President Bola Tinubu’s reform in the gas sector of the energy industry would unlock huge benefits for the Nigerian economy.

    Chairman, NIPCO Plc, Chief Bestman Anekwe, said the company fully aligns with Tinubu’s goal of promoting gas as a transition fuel because of its numerous benefits to the economy.

    Anekwe, whose company had acquired Mobil Oil Nigeria and renamed it 11 Plc in 2017, spoke at NIPCO’s 20th annual general meeting at the weekend in Abuja.

    According to him, the renewed vigour of the Tinubu-led government in the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) project, which has seen several vehicles converted to run on gas alongside fossil fuels, represents a major boost for Nigeria’s economic growth.

    “Our company recognized the potential of CNG more than 15 years ago, seeking Federal Government approval to establish the gas infrastructure that allowed motorists to switch to gas. That vision aligns perfectly with President Tinubu’s goal of promoting gas as a transition fuel.

    “We strongly believe that the administration’s reforms will unlock numerous benefits to Nigeria’s economy and open a new vista for motorists to adopt Compressed Natural Gas (Auto CNG) as a cleaner alternative to conventional fossil fuels,” Anekwe said.

    He assured that the group would continue to upscale investments in all verticals of its operations, in pursuit of its vision of being the first-choice company in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry for all stakeholders.

    He outlined that government’s efforts have seen increased crude oil production, with Nigeria’s crude oil production reaching 1.5 million barrels per day (bpd) in 2024, up from 1.34 million bpd in 2023 as well as increased investment and job creation that contributed to both direct and indirect employment.

    He noted that the government’s naira – for – crude initiative helped to stabilise the local currency and reduce pressure on foreign exchange for refineries operating in the country, adding that NIPCO subsequently adapted new strategies to capitalise on emerging opportunities while creating value for its stakeholders.

    He assured shareholders that the group remains committed to sustainable business growth and strategic investments in its core business lines, driven by a singular focus on maximizing long-term value for its valued shareholders.

    He said: “By prioritizing targeted investments in our operations, we aim to guarantee appreciable improvement in dividend payouts and drive overall growth, ultimately enhancing shareholders return and securing the company’s prosperous future”.

     He said NIPCO remains focused on enhancing profitability through diversified revenue streams across all verticals of its operations.

    “We are committed to advancing sustainability and good corporate governance principles, fostering improved business practices. With continuous investments in staff development, we are building a culture of stellar service delivery to further position us as a driver of long-term value for our shareholders,” Anekwe said.

    Read Also: Babangida: Nigeria has lost a symbol, I have lost a friend, brother

    He pointed out that the 2024 business year was remarkable in the annals of the company’s operations, marking two decades since the technical commissioning of its ultra-modern terminal in Apapa, Lagos.

    According to him, NIPCO’s robust financial performance underscored its strategic growth in key revenue segments as it has been positioned for continued success in Nigeria’s downstream sector.

    He said: “Our resilience and effective revenue strategies have driven shareholder value”.

     Key extracts of the audited report and accounts for the year ended December 31, 2024 showed that NIPCO reported turnover of N1.458 trillion and a profit after tax of N11.50 billion. Earnings per share stood at N61.26. The meeting approved the payment of a dividend per share of N7, representing total payout of N1.31 billion. The company retained N10.18 billion to strengthen its working capital.

     “I would like to take this opportunity to appreciate all our stakeholders who have contributed to making the year under review a successful one. We strongly believe that our strong pedigree in the downstream sector, coupled with improved performance, will propel us to greater heights in the coming year, resulting in more value addition to our esteemed stakeholders,” Anekwe said.

  • President back in Abuja after St. Lucia state visit, 17th BRICS summit in Brazil

    President back in Abuja after St. Lucia state visit, 17th BRICS summit in Brazil

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu yesterday arrived in Abuja after a 150-day diplomatic outreach to Saint Lucia and Brazil.

    The President, who touched down at the Presidential Wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja around 1:30 a.m., was received by some senior members of the administration and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

    Those who received the President at the airport included the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu; the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Abubakar Bagudu; the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle; the senator representing Sokoto North, Aliyu Wamakko; the Minister of State for Works, Muhammad Goronyo; the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Political and other Matters, Kabiru Masari; as well as senior security officers.

    Read Also: Public affairs analyst: Nigerians should support one another

    President Tinubu departed Nigeria on Saturday, June 28, for what was described as a strategic outreach aimed at strengthening ties with regions historically under-engaged in Nigeria’s diplomatic matrix.

    His first stop was Saint Lucia, where he made a historic visit to build new ties and explore emerging partnerships with Caribbean states.

    While in Saint Lucia, President Tinubu interacted with regional leaders under the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), reinforcing Nigeria’s growing interest in Caribbean diplomacy and South-South cooperation.

    He subsequently proceeded to Brazil to participate in the 17th BRICS Summit held in Rio de Janeiro.

    On arrival in Rio de Janeiro, a day before the summit, President Tinubu held a bilateral meeting with his Brazilian counterpart, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.

  • Tinubu, Abiodun pay tributes to Awujale

    Tinubu, Abiodun pay tributes to Awujale

    •Monarch’s passing is double pain’

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Dapo Abiodun have paid tribute to the late Awujale of Ijebu Land, Oba Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona.

    The foremost royal father joined his ancestors yesterday, according to a statement signed by the Ogun State governor.

    Expressing deep sorrow, the President described the demise of the monarch as a personal and national tragedy that struck with double pain – coming on the same day as the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari.

    In an emotional tribute he personally issued, Tinubu said the revered monarch’s demise left an enormous void in the traditional leadership of Yoruba Land and Nigeria at large.

    The statement reads: “I received the news of this transition with double pain in my heart as it coincided with the passing of my predecessor, President Muhammadu Buhari.

    “The demise of Oba Adetona has left an enormous void within the traditional institutions in Yoruba Land and Nigeria in general.”

    Describing the late monarch as one of Nigeria’s most outstanding and revered traditional rulers, Tinubu said Oba Adetona’s over 65-year reign on the Ijebu throne was marked by dignity, progress, and unshakable dedication to duty.

    “Oba Adetona was a towering natural ruler who served his people with dignity, panache, class, and an unmistakable sense of duty,” he said.

    The monarch, who ascended the throne at the age of 26, ruled Ijebu Land for more than six decades, guiding his people through times of transformation and national uncertainty.

    President Tinubu noted that the Awujale consistently played the role of a stabilising voice during Nigeria’s difficult moments.

    “In a time of national crisis and uncertainty, he stood firmly as a voice of reason,” Tinubu said, adding that Oba Adetona’s leadership brought tremendous progress and development to Ijebu-Ode and its environs.

    Reflecting on their close relationship, Tinubu described the Awujale as “a honest arbiter, confidant and reliable leader without any guile.

    “I enjoyed an excellent personal relationship with Kabiyesi. I will forever cherish our time together. I found his company comforting, wisdom enriching, and candour empowering,” the President added.

    Beyond traditional leadership, Tinubu hailed Oba Adetona’s legacy of philanthropy and commitment to education.

    He praised the monarch’s enduring contribution to scholarship through the establishment of the School of Postgraduate and Research Studies in Governance at Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye.

    “Oba Adetona’s sterling qualities of service, philanthropy, investment in education, and research… will be enduring monuments in his memory,” the President said.

    President Tinubu extended his condolences to the Adetona family, the government and people of Ogun State, particularly Governor Dapo Abiodun, and all sons and daughters of Ijebu Land.

    “As the nation mourns Oba Adetona’s passing… may our departed Kabiyesi find eternal rest, and may we be comforted by his legacy of outstanding service,” the President said.

    Ogun governor lists monarch’s legacies

    Governor Abiodun, who listed the legacies of the roral father, acknowledged the late Awujale’s efforts at fostering educational advancements, healthcare improvements and economic growth within the state and Nigeria.

    In a statement, the governor said that Ijebu Land witnessed remarkable strides in infrastructure and community development under the reigns of the Awujale.

    The statements reads: “It is with profound gratitude to Allah that I announce the passing of His Royal Majesty, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, the revered Awujale of Ijebu Land.

    Read Also: CDS: Buhari was an exemplary leader, committed to Nigeria’s progress

    “Oba Adetona joined his ancestors today (yesterday), July 13, 2025 at the age of 91 leaving behind a remarkable legacy that has significantly shaped Ijebu Land, Ogun State and Nigeria in general.

    “It is indeed double sadness that Oba Adetona joined his ancestors the same day that the former President, Muhammadu died in a London, the United Kingdom (UK) hospital.

    “Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona was a remarkable royal father, who ascended the throne in 1960, marking the beginning of a transformative era for Ijebu Land.

    “Throughout his reign, he was a beacon of unity, cultural preservation, and progressive development. His dedication to the welfare of his people was evident in his efforts to foster educational advancements, healthcare improvements, and economic growth within the state and Nigeria.

    “Under his guidance, Ijebuland witnessed remarkable strides in infrastructure and community development, establishing itself as a model of progress in Ogun State. His leadership not only enhanced the cultural heritage of Ijebu Land with the Ojude Oba festival attaining international standards but also solidified its reputation as a thriving hub of commerce and tradition.

    “As we mourn his passing, let us celebrate the extra-ordinary life of Oba Adetona and honour his contributions to our country.

    “His wisdom, kindness, and unwavering commitment to the betterment of his people will forever be etched in our hearts.

    “May his soul rest in peace, and may we continue to uphold the values he instilled in us during his illustrious reign.”

  • Tinubu mourns Awujale, says monarch’s passing met him with ‘double pain’

    Tinubu mourns Awujale, says monarch’s passing met him with ‘double pain’

    …describes Oba Adetona as a towering ruler and honest arbiter who served Nigeria with dignity and candour

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the death of the Awujale and paramount ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, describing the loss as a personal and national tragedy that struck with double pain, coming on the same day as the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari.

    In an emotional tribute he personally issued, President Tinubu said the revered monarch’s demise Sunday night left an enormous void in the traditional leadership of Yorubaland and Nigeria at large.

    “I received the news of this transition Saturday night with double pain in my heart as it coincided with the passing of my predecessor, President Muhammadu Buhari. The demise of Oba Adetona has left an enormous void within the traditional institutions in Yorubaland and Nigeria in general”, the President said.

    Describing the late monarch as one of Nigeria’s most outstanding and revered traditional rulers, Tinubu said Oba Adetona’s over 65-year reign on the Ijebu throne was marked by dignity, progress, and unshakable dedication to duty.

    “Oba Adetona was a towering natural ruler who served his people with dignity, panache, class, and an unmistakable sense of duty,” he said.

    The monarch, who ascended the throne at the age of 26, ruled Ijebuland for more than six decades, guiding his people through times of transformation and national uncertainty.

    President Tinubu noted that the Awujale consistently played the role of a stabilising voice during Nigeria’s difficult moments.

    “In a time of national crisis and uncertainty, he stood firmly as a voice of reason,” Tinubu said, adding that Oba Adetona’s leadership brought tremendous progress and development to Ijebu-Ode and its environs.

    Reflecting on their close relationship, Tinubu described the Awujale as “an honest arbiter, confidante, and reliable leader without any guile.”

    Read Also: BREAKING: Tinubu announces Buhari’s death, sends Shettima to escort body to Nigeria

    “I enjoyed an excellent personal relationship with Kabiyesi. I will forever cherish our time together. I found his company comforting, wisdom enriching, and candour empowering,” the President added.

    Beyond traditional leadership, Tinubu hailed Oba Adetona’s legacy of philanthropy and commitment to education.

    He praised the monarch’s enduring contribution to scholarship through the establishment of the School of Postgraduate and Research Studies in Governance at Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye.

    “Oba Adetona’s sterling qualities of service, philanthropy, investment in education, and research… will be enduring monuments in his memory,” the President said.

    President Tinubu extended his condolences to the Adetona family, the government and people of Ogun State, particularly Governor Dapo Abiodun, and all sons and daughters of Ijebuland.

    “As the nation mourns Oba Adetona’s passing… may our departed Kabiyesi find eternal rest, and may we be comforted by his legacy of outstanding service,” the President said.

  • BREAKING: Tinubu announces Buhari’s death, sends Shettima to escort body to Nigeria

    BREAKING: Tinubu announces Buhari’s death, sends Shettima to escort body to Nigeria

    …flags to fly at half-staff as Nigeria mourns former President

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has formally announced the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who died Saturday afternoon in London at the age of 82 after a prolonged illness.

    The announcement was made in a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

    According to the statement, President Buhari passed away at about 4:30 p.m. in a London clinic.

    In honour of the late leader, President Tinubu has directed that the national flag be flown at half-staff across the country as a mark of respect.

    President Tinubu, who has since spoken with the former First Lady, Mrs Aisha Buhari, extended his condolences to the bereaved family, the people of Katsina State, and the nation at large.

    In a solemn act of state honour, President Tinubu has also dispatched Vice President Kashim Shettima to the United Kingdom to accompany the body of the former president back to Nigeria.

    Read Also: Stop deceiving Nigerians, Bauchi man tells ADC leaders

    “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced the passing of his predecessor, President Muhammadu Buhari.

    “President Buhari died today in London at about 4.30 pm, following a prolonged illness.

    “President Tinubu has spoken with Mrs Aishat Buhari, the former President’s widow and offered his deep condolences.

    “President Tinubu has also ordered Vice President Kashim Shettima to proceed to the United Kingdom to accompany President Muhammadu Buhari’s body back to Nigeria.

    “Former President Buhari was twice elected Nigeria’s President in 2015 and 2019.

    “He also served as military head of state between January 1984 and August 1985.

    “President Tinubu has ordered flags at half-staff as a mark of respect for the departed leader”, the statement said.

    Muhammadu Buhari, who served as Nigeria’s President from 2015 to 2019, had previously ruled as military Head of State between January 1984 and August 1985 following a coup.

    A retired Major General in the Nigerian Army, Buhari became a central figure in Nigerian political life for over four decades, known for his reputation for discipline, anti-corruption stance, and austere personal style.

    His tenure as a democratically elected President marked a historic moment in Nigeria’s Fourth Republic, as he became the first opposition candidate to defeat an incumbent president at the ballot box.

  • Plateau: Tinubu will defeat coalition group in 2027 – Bishop Katung

    Plateau: Tinubu will defeat coalition group in 2027 – Bishop Katung

    The President and founder of the Living Stone Assembly church in Jos, Bishop Jonas Katung  has described the coming together of Nasir El-rufai , Atiku Abubakar  and others to work against Tinubu’s re- election in 2027  will not succeed.

    According to Bishop Katung in an interview said President Tinubu is not Jonathan and that President Tinubu despite the forces that fought against him in 2023 general election, won the Presidency.

    According to Bishop Katung, it would not be simple to defeat him now that he is operating from inside Aso Rock.

     “They  are not angels, he said former governor El- Rufai ruled kaduna State for eight years and caused so many religious problems in the state and that peace could only return to the state when his predecessor governor Uba Sani came onboard.

    He said what them  Opposition are doing in coalition group is to whip up tribal sentiment

    “Tinubu should probe members of the coalition by investigating their past activities.”

    Bishop Katung who is Secretary General of Council of Northern Pentecostal Bishops said that going by their past activities, he said the people in coalition group should not be in power, describing them as a group of vampires who should not be allowed to take over  Power in Nigeria.

    According to him, the key figures in the coalition are former members of the PDP and APC and that they have nothing new to offer Nigerians.

    Read Also: Tinubu back in Abuja after Saint Lucia state visit, 17th BRICS Summit in Brazil

    He said after the First Lady Mariam Babangida’s pet project better life for Nigerian Rural women, the next First Lady that is doing well is Senator Remi Tinubu, going from state to state to launch her project ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’ to support her husband to succeed.

    He said the combination of the president and his wife is what Nigerians want at this moment.

    He added that in the last two years “we have seen what the government could do compared to what the past government did, saying why are the coalition members playing with the rest of Nigerians?;

    ” It is good to go with what we can see than empty promises from empty vessels with the heart of deceit who are only after their selfish interest.” he stressed.

    According to him, the coalition group is dead on arrival because they are going no where, all their  members have questions to answer about their past roles  in government. Bishop Katung stressed.