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  • ‘Tinubu’s Vatican visit marks new chapter in interfaith cooperation’

    ‘Tinubu’s Vatican visit marks new chapter in interfaith cooperation’

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent visit to the Vatican to meet with Pope Leo has been described as a significant step in Nigeria’s diplomatic and interfaith relations, highlighting his commitment to promoting global cooperation and religious harmony.

    Vice Chairman of Agege Local Government and a political leader in the area, Gbenga Abiola, said the historic visit signalled a broader vision for Nigeria’s progress.

    Read Also: Nigeria among Africa’s top investment destinations – Speaker Abbas

    He noted that Tinubu’s outreach to religious leaders of all faiths showed his determination to foster unity, address shared challenges, and drive national development through inclusive dialogue and collaboration.

    He said: “By engaging with the spiritual leader of the Catholic Church, President Tinubu has set a new standard for leadership in Nigeria and beyond, showcasing his ability to build bridges across religious divides and promote national unity.

    “The President’s visit to the Vatican has been a resounding success, with far-reaching implications for Nigeria’s development. The visit has paved the way for increased cooperation between Nigeria and the Vatican, providing a platform for President Tinubu to showcase Nigeria’s potential as a major player on the international stage.

  • Tinubu at the Vatican: Religious diplomacy as tool of statecraft

    Tinubu at the Vatican: Religious diplomacy as tool of statecraft

    By Ademola Oshodi

    When President Bola Ahmed Tinubu joined world leaders at the Vatican for the investiture of His Holiness, Pope Leo XIV, the moment carried weight far beyond ceremonial significance.  As the first Nigerian Muslim head of state to attend a papal inauguration, President Tinubu’s participation was a subtle yet powerful assertion of Nigeria’s evolving approach to diplomacy – one that is rooted not only in economic or geopolitical interests, but increasingly in values, inclusion, and soft power.

    Nigeria, one of the most religiously diverse countries in the world, is home to over 200 million people, with nearly half identifying as Christians. According to the Vatican News in 2025, Nigeria has one of the highest Catholic populations on the African continent – surpassed only by Dr. Congo. That reality has often been underemphasized in the country’s foreign policy posture.

    President Tinubu’s presence at the investiture of the Catholic Church’s new global leader – himself a historic figure as the first American-born Pope – represents a deliberate recalibration. It affirms that Nigeria’s global engagements will no longer sideline cultural and religious identities that shape its domestic reality. More importantly, it is a signal that under his leadership, religious diplomacy has become a key instrument of Nigerian statecraft.

    This shift matters. In an era marked by rising sectarianism, identity-driven conflict, both locally and globally, Nigeria’s leadership is intentional in projecting the values that hold the federation together: pluralism, inclusion, and mutual respect. The visit recalibrates perceptions of the Tinubu administration, countering narratives that conflate Nigeria’s internal security challenges with governmental indifference to religious harmony.  When a Muslim president stands in solidarity with the Catholic Church at a moment of global attention, it sends an unmistakable message: Nigeria will not be governed by sectarianism. It will be governed by vision.

    This moment also reflects a convergence of values between Pope Leo XIV and President Tinubu. Known for his commitment to social justice, Pope Leo XIV’s lifelong advocacy for worker dignity and inclusion mirrors President Tinubu’s domestic agenda – from the Renewed Hope Conditional Cash Transfer Scheme supporting over 15 million households, to ongoing investments in inclusive education, healthcare, and economic equity. The resonance between Abuja and Rome is not rhetorical, it is substantive.

    Read Also: Tinubu congratulates two British-Nigerians on historic Mayoral elections in London

    More broadly, the visit repositions Nigeria as a moral and cultural force on the global stage. Religious diplomacy, in this context, enhances Nigeria’s soft power, builds trust with international partners, and challenges the narrative of division that has often defined the country’s representation abroad. This visit offers a reminder to the international community and to Nigerians that leadership in a diverse society cannot afford to be performative. It must be deliberate, symbolic, and strategically inclusive. As Africa faces rising religious extremism and sectarian conflict, Nigeria’s example under President Tinubu offers a model for others: a leadership style that governs beyond identity and builds across difference.

    The Tinubu administration now faces the task of translating this diplomatic capital into concrete gains, whether through Vatican-backed peace initiatives or partnerships with Catholic development agencies. What remains undeniable is that Nigeria has, once again, asserted its unique voice on the global stage: one of unity in diversity, and faith in common purpose.

    This is not just an anecdote from a foreign visit. It is a statement of intent. A diplomatic reset. And perhaps, a roadmap for how Nigeria can lead, not just with military strength or economic leverage, but with moral clarity, cultural confidence, and strategic purpose.

    President Tinubu’s presence at the Vatican transcends merely ticking diplomatic boxes. It proves that Nigeria is not governed by the religion of its leader but by the responsibility of its Constitution. It showed that faith, dignity, and inclusion are central to our global posture. We are one people – many faiths, yet one nation.

  • Tinubu flags food security, regional inclusion as pillars of national stability at Taraba investment summit

    Tinubu flags food security, regional inclusion as pillars of national stability at Taraba investment summit

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has underscored food security and inclusive regional development as fundamental pillars for Nigeria’s long-term stability, calling on stakeholders to unlock the nation’s vast agricultural and industrial potential, especially in resource-rich states like Taraba.

    Speaking through Vice President Kashim Shettima at the opening ceremony of the Taraba International Investment Summit 2025 in Jalingo on Wednesday, President Tinubu emphasised that Nigeria’s economic transformation must begin from the grassroots and be driven by local resources.

    He described food sufficiency as “the first currency of national stability,” noting that agriculture will remain central to his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

    In a statement issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Communications Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, President Tinubu described Taraba State as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s agricultural and industrial future, as its agricultural potential is a manifestation of the nation’s shared prosperity.

    “Food sufficiency is the first currency of national stability. This is why we have prioritised agriculture as the anchor of our national strategy,” he said.

    The President praised Taraba’s vast agricultural assets, calling for a shift from subsistence farming to industrial-scale food production.

    “Our farmers must transition from the use of hoes and cutlasses to tractors and harvesters,” he said, stressing that modern tools are vital for increasing productivity and feeding Nigeria’s growing population.

     Noting that Taraba is not just a state with potential, but also a strategic player in the national economy, President Tinubu described the state as a major player in producing export-grade tea, coffee, and livestock for the meat industry.

    “Taraba’s role in this vision is central. From the export-grade tea and coffee grown on its hills to the livestock raised here that feed the nation’s meat industry, this state is an agricultural powerhouse that must be fully harnessed.

    “The Kashimbila Dam, Nigeria’s largest hydroelectric dam, is not merely a monument of engineering. It is a symbol of what is possible when we dream and deliver,” he stated.

    Read Also: Northern leaders endorse Tinubu for 2027, back reforms in security, economy, governance

    The Nigerian leader warned, however, that Nigeria’s development goals would not be met by merely exporting raw commodities: “We cannot live on raw produce and unprocessed minerals. What we need are factories to add value, clusters to drive innovation, and industrial parks to convert ideas into impact.”

    He stressed that every region of Nigeria has a role to play in national prosperity, saying each part of Nigeria is a gift to the other, just as he said each region “complements the other so profoundly that the deficiency of one region is often redeemed by the sufficiency of the other.

    “Our ultimate awakening as a nation begins with this realisation that no part of this country can thrive in isolation. What Taraba offers the nation is more than its breathtaking mountains or fertile valleys; it is a strategic contribution to our shared prosperity,” the President added.

    He commended Governor Agbu Kefas for his visionary leadership, which he has demonstrated by convening the summit.

    “There’s no doubt that you have chosen to reshape the destiny of your people. This is a defining moment for Taraba. We are determined to ensure that investment does not remain a tale of Lagos and Abuja alone. We are expanding the map of economic inclusion to include Jalingo, Gembu, Takum, Wukari, Bali, and every enterprising corner of Taraba,” President Tinubu told the governor.

    He assured that the federal government is not a distant observer but a committed partner in transforming the state’s economic potential into measurable growth.

    As the global demand for clean energy minerals like lithium and cobalt accelerates, President Tinubu called on investors to take a long-term view of Taraba’s role in the future of sustainable technology.

    Earlier, Governor Kefas said that with the summit, life has come to Taraba State, assuring investors that the state is peaceful and safe for business, with huge human and natural resources.

    Governor Kefas told investors present at the national summit that he has created an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.

    Speaking on behalf of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF), Governor Mohammed Bago of Niger State, who represented the Chairman of the Forum, pledged the cooperation of the subnationals in developing agriculture in Nigeria.

    “All the factors of production, land, water, sun and many others are all inherent in Taraba. So, the State government must be an enabler of businesses,” Governor Bago said.

    Also, business mogul and President of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, said he will continue to invest in Nigeria and mobilise other businesses to invest in Nigeria because when local investors perform excellently, they will encourage foreign investors to join them without invitation.

    “We want to remain here and continue to invest in Nigeria to impact the lives of others, as we keep creating jobs and more jobs. When the local investors are doing well, the foreign ones will come without anybody inviting them. When you have a good restaurant, you will not need to invite people to come and eat. You will hear them talking about such restaurants. Start with the local investors, and this state shall become the shining star,” he said.

    On his part, renowned banker and Chairman of Heirs Holdings, Chief Tony Elumelu, said Africa has opened an investment window for the world because the continent has what it can showcase.

    He pledged to partner with Taraba State in ensuring that its vision comes true. Investments help in building the capacity of our youth through employment generation. When we create investment, we improve our people,” he said.

    For his part, the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence, Mohammed Abubakar Sa’ad III, commended the Taraba State Governor for organising an international investment forum, which he described as historic.

    Speaking on behalf of the spiritual and traditional leaders in Nigeria, the Sultan called on people in leadership positions to change the scenario, even as he said Taraba State is more secure now under the leadership of Governor Kefas, and urged the Governor to sustain the tide.

  • Tinubu congratulates two British-Nigerians on historic Mayoral elections in London

    Tinubu congratulates two British-Nigerians on historic Mayoral elections in London

    President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Opeyemi Bright and Jason Jackson, two British-Nigerians, on their election as Mayors of Barking and Dagenham, and Islington, respectively.

    Bright, at 29, is the youngest-ever Mayor of Barking and Dagenham, while Jackson is Islington’s first Nigerian-born Mayor since 1900.

    Tinubu, in a statement through his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, praised their commitment to honesty, integrity, and community service, noting their achievements as inspirations for young people.

    Read Also: Northern leaders endorse Tinubu for 2027, back reforms in security, economy, governance

    He expressed confidence in their ability to make a positive impact in their new roles.

    “On behalf of the government and people of Nigeria, I extend heartfelt congratulations to Mayors Opeyemi Bright and Jason Jackson. I urge you to continue giving your best in your new roles as the first citizens of Barking and Dagenham and Islington.

    “I have every confidence in your abilities and look forward to the positive impact you will make in your respective boroughs,” Tinubu stated.

  • Northern leaders endorse Tinubu for 2027, back reforms in security, economy, governance

    Northern leaders endorse Tinubu for 2027, back reforms in security, economy, governance

    The Northern Bridge Builders Forum, a coalition of respected leaders from the 19 northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has thrown its weight behind President Bola Tinubu’s administration and endorsed him for a second term in 2027.

    The forum also commended his sweeping reforms in security, the economy, local government autonomy, and national unity.

    Speaking during a press conference at the Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja, the convener of the forum, Senator Joel Danlami Ikenya, said the group made up of eminent personalities from the three northern geopolitical zones, gathered to evaluate the impact of federal government policies on the region and the nation since President Tinubu assumed office on May 29, 2023.

    According to Senator Ikenya, who was flanked by his members, the Northern Bridge Builders Forum resolved to support the President’s reform agenda while also proposing key recommendations to address rising security concerns and economic pressures in the region.

    Read Also: Tinubu hails British-Nigerians Bright, Jackson on mayoral inauguration in London

    The forum acknowledged the administration’s strategic focus on national security, particularly in the northern states plagued by insurgents, bandits, and other criminal groups.

    It hailed the proposed establishment of Armed Forest Guards, now before the National Assembly, as a commendable move to combat insecurity in forested areas.

    However, the forum raised alarm over renewed deadly attacks in states like Borno, Zamfara, Benue, Plateau, Katsina, Sokoto, and Niger, warning that groups such as Boko Haram, ISWAP, and other criminal gangs appear to have regrouped and rearmed.

    “The resurgence of violence in our communities is alarming. The wanton destruction of lives, farms, and properties reinforces fears that terrorist groups are once again gaining ground,” Ikenya said.

    The forum praised President Tinubu’s economic reforms, describing them as bold and necessary.

    While acknowledging the hardship that followed the removal of fuel subsidy, they said the increased monthly allocations to states and repayment of Nigeria’s IMF debts were signs of economic progress.

    They also lauded the President for stabilising the currency and attracting foreign investments, referencing praise from the British High Commissioner as evidence of growing international confidence in Nigeria’s economy.

    “Though the economic reforms have caused some short-term pain, we believe they lay the foundation for a more prosperous and stable Nigeria

    One of the key highlights of the forum’s deliberations was support for the implementation of local government autonomy.

    They hailed the Tinubu administration’s efforts, especially its successful legal battles at the Supreme Court to uphold the constitutional rights of local governments to financial independence.

    The forum urged state governors to comply fully with the implementation, which they said would fast-track grassroots development and bring governance closer to the people.

    The Northern Bridge Builders Forum applauded the President’s inclusive leadership style and efforts in promoting national cohesion across ethnic and religious lines.

    They described Tinubu’s approach as tolerant and dialogue-driven, citing the appointments of Vice President Kashim Shettima and SGF George Akume as symbols of northern inclusion in national leadership.

    “The North is well represented and has confidence in the team Mr. President has assembled,” Senator Ikenya added.

    In their final communiqué, the forum urged Nigerians to be patient and continue supporting the Tinubu administration’s reform agenda.

    They resolved to consolidate and sustain recent security gains, particularly in the North; urge the National Assembly to expedite the passage of the Armed Forest Guards Bill; provide timely farming inputs to improve food productivity; and introduce short-term economic relief measures to cushion the current hardship.

    The forum publicly endorsed President Tinubu for a second term, citing his “visionary leadership and courage in initiating necessary reforms.”

    “In view of the efforts so far, the Northern Bridge Builders Forum unequivocally endorses Mr. President, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, for a second term in 2027 to continue the good works he is doing,” Ikenya declared.

  • APC national secretary woos three PDP Osun senators after endorsement of Tinubu

    APC national secretary woos three PDP Osun senators after endorsement of Tinubu

    The National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Ajibola Basiru, has wooed three incumbent Osun State senators of the People Democratic Party (PDP) to join the national ruling party after endorsing President Bola Tinubu ahead of 2027.

    Basiru, through the head of his gubernatorial campaign team, Professor Remi Ajala, in a statement on Wednesday, said that the trio’s decision to support Tinubu’s reelection is not enough until they join the APC.

    He commended the PDP senators, Francis Fadahunsi (Osun East), Lere Oyewumi (Osun West), and Olubiyi Fadeyi (Osun Central), saying they have done what the Yorubas would call Omoluabi.

    He said, “The public recognition by the PDP senators of President Tinubu’s achievements especially in the areas of infrastructure development, economic reforms, food security, and national security is another testimonial that Nigeria is working under our leader and moving towards the clear path of development and it shows a clear act of truthfulness and statesmanship.

    “This shows his leadership and style of governance are bringing positive results to Nigerians, including the electorate and constituents in their different senatorial districts in Osun State.

    Read Also: Tinubu hails British-Nigerians Bright, Jackson on mayoral inauguration in London

    “We appreciate that these senators have acknowledged the Renewed Hope Agenda and how it is beginning to positively impact their constituencies. This kind of honest leadership deserves to be encouraged and applauded, especially in a time when Nigerians seek real progress.”

    He admonished the PDP senators to take their loyalty and support a step further, stating that it is not enough to praise the President from a distance for self-serving purposes, but they should wholly align fully with the progressive family at the national and state levels to cement their endorsement of President Tinubu.

    “Full alliance and alignment with APC at the state level will show true commitment and allow Osun state and her citizens to fully benefit from the President’s bigger vision to integrate development across the length and breadth of Nigeria.

    “Pitching your tent with the APC will help bring the needed development to the Osun APC-led state government when inaugurated in 2026, in key sectors such as infrastructure, education, agriculture, sustainable economy, and healthcare. It will also help end the underperformance and maladministration currently witnessed under the deceptive administration of Governor Ademola Adeleke.”

    “Finally, we call on the three Osun PDP senators to display courage and show real leadership by joining forces with progressive elements and emulating other national assembly lawmakers who have already moved to the APC. This is the time to act for the good of Osun State and Nigeria at large,” he admonished. 

  • BREAKING: Benue NASS APC Caucus endorses Tinubu for 2027

    BREAKING: Benue NASS APC Caucus endorses Tinubu for 2027

    …tasks Gov Alia to partner FG in tackling insecurity

    The Benue State All Progressives Congress (APC) caucus in the National Assembly on Wednesday endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in office.

    They, however, called on the Governor of Benue State, Rev. Father Hyacinth Alia, to collaborate with the federal government to curb rising insecurity in the state.

    Among the Benue APC lawmakers who endorsed Tinubu are two Senators and 10 House of Representatives members.

    Read Also: ‘Tinubu’s economic reforms making Nigeria great again’

    The Benue APC National Assembly caucus made their positions known at a press briefing at the National Assembly.

    The two Senators are Titus Zam and Emmanuel Udende, while the 12 lawmakers include Hon. Dickson Tarkigir, Hon. David Ogewu, Hon. Sesoo Ikpagher, Hon. Terseer Ugbor, and Hon. Asema Achado.

    Others are Hon. Philip Agbese, Hon Sekav Iyoryom, Hon. Regina Akume, Hon. Blessing Onuh and Hon. Solomon Wombo

    Details shortly…

  • Tinubu hails British-Nigerians Bright, Jackson on mayoral inauguration in London

    Tinubu hails British-Nigerians Bright, Jackson on mayoral inauguration in London

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has celebrated two British-Nigerians, Opeyemi Bright and Jason Jackson, following their historic elections and swearing-in ceremonies as mayors in the United Kingdom.

    In a statement issued on Wednesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu hailed the duo for their outstanding achievements and praised them for upholding the proud tradition of excellence and integrity that Nigerians in the diaspora continue to embody across the globe.

    Bright, 29, made history as the youngest-ever Civic Mayor of Barking and Dagenham, a London borough with a rich multicultural heritage.

    Her election comes after seven years of active community service, having first been elected as the borough’s youngest Labour councillor at the age of 22 in 2018.

    Jackson, meanwhile, broke new ground as the first Nigerian-born Mayor of Islington since the borough’s formation in 1900.

    His swift ascent in public service began with his election as a councillor in 2022, and he quickly rose to become Chair of Islington’s influential Homes and Communities Committee in 2023.

    Read Also: Media attacks on Seyi Tinubu affront on youths, less privileged – Balami

    President Tinubu, in his message, applauded their dedication to public service and urged them to continue championing the ideals of honesty, hard work, and selfless commitment to the common good.

    “On behalf of the government and people of Nigeria, I extend heartfelt congratulations to Mayors Opeyemi Bright and Jason Jackson.

    “I urge you to continue giving your best in your new roles as the first citizens of Barking and Dagenham, and Islington. I have every confidence in your abilities and look forward to the positive impact you will make in your respective boroughs”, the President said.

    The President added that their inspiring journeys from councillors to mayors would serve as powerful examples to young Nigerians everywhere, showing that with perseverance, integrity, and a heart for service, they too can rise to positions of leadership and make meaningful contributions to society.

  • ‘Tinubu’s economic reforms making Nigeria great again’

    ‘Tinubu’s economic reforms making Nigeria great again’

    Minister for Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris has praised the ongoing economic reforms of the President Bola Tinubu administration.

    He assured Nigerians the renewed hope agenda of the current administration is paving the way for a robust economic recovery. 

    Idris spoke on Tuesday during official opening ceremony of  the Nigerian Public Relations Week  2025 in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital 

    He said: “The two years of the Tinubu administration have shown significant progress, including the allocation of N1.5 trillion to revamp the Bank of Agriculture.”

    Read Also: Tinubu back in Abuja

    The Minister appealed to public relations professionals to key into ongoing efforts and reforms to rebrand the nation’s reputation  and attract investors into the country . 

    The President and Chairman–Council NIPR, Dr. Ike Neliaku, reiterated the need for effective communication in leadership, citing it as a major problem facing the country.

    According to the NIPR President, effective communication is crucial for building a prosperous Nigeria. “Lack of effective communication is a major problem of leadership in Nigeria. We can build a prosperous Nigeria, together, if we work collaboratively.” He said 

    He also announced that Nigeria will host the 2026 World Public Relations Forum, which is expected to bring together public relations practitioners from around the world.

  • Umahi: All Southeast governors backing Tinubu for second term

    Umahi: All Southeast governors backing Tinubu for second term

    • ‘Plan for Southeast summit on endorsement on course’ •President’s performance wonderful, says Eno

    Southeast governors, irrespective of political leanings, are backing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in recognition of his commitment to equity, national unity and development, Works Minister Dave Umahi has said.

    He said plans are underway for a regional political summit where Southeast leaders would endorse the President for a second term.

    Umahi, former Governor of Ebonyi State, spoke to officials of the government as part of a documentary to commemorate the second anniversary of the Tinubu Administration.

    He urged Southeast leaders, including former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, to support the president for another term.

    Obi was the standard bearer of the Labour Party, which lost to President Tinubu in 2023.

    Obi won more than 90 per cent of the votes in his Southeast zone, leaving President Tinubu with less than five per cent in 2023.

    There are only two governors elected on the platform of the APC in the Southeast.

    These are Hope Uzodimma (Imo) and Francis Nwifuru (Ebonyi).

    The remaining three states are shared among three parties – Governor Peter Mba (Enugu) is of the PDP, Alex Otti (Abia) is of the LP, and Charles Soludo (Anambra) is of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).

    Soludo publicly endorsed the President during his visit to his state early this month.

    Although Mbah is yet to declare support, he is believed to be an admirer of the president.

    Barring any unforeseen circumstances, the President is due in Umuahia, the Abia State capital, on a visit on Friday.

    Also yesterday, Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno declared that the President’s performance had made it imperative for him to get the support of all.

    Eno spoke at Aso Villa in Abuja after meeting with Vice President Kashim Shettima.

    A statement by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, quoted Umahi as saying that the Southeast is currently experiencing an unprecedented level of federal engagement, especially in infrastructure delivery, under the Tinubu Administration.

    Umahi, who hailed the President for giving the Southeast a sense of belonging, said the region has benefitted from the ongoing federal road projects, including the Port Harcourt–Enugu, Enugu–Abakaliki, Enugu–Onitsha, Onitsha–Owerri highways, in addition to the Second Niger Bridge.

    Read Also: Tinubu: A catalytic and cathartic state visit

    He said: “For the first time, the Southeast has a Minister of Works. That’s not symbolic—it is strategic.

    “What we are seeing are real, measurable projects on the ground.”

    He said President Tinubu had already paid 30 per cent of the cost of the Second Niger Bridge.

    Reflecting on the long-standing complaints of marginalisation in the region, Umahi said the feeling is changing under the current administration.

    He stressed: “When I was governor and even deputy governor in Ebonyi State, one of our greatest worries was the absence of federal presence.

    “Today, under President Tinubu, we have at least four federal projects actively ongoing in the state.”

    The minister said the President’s approach to governance has restored hope and redefined how national integration is perceived in the region.

    He said: “The Igbo man is naturally enterprising. What we want is fairness and equal opportunity—and that is what Mr. President is delivering.”

    Umahi said the proposed summit would further strengthen unity, accelerate project delivery and enhance national cohesion.

    He added: “All Southeast governors—irrespective of political affiliation—are united in support of President Tinubu. The forthcoming summit will make that support official.

    “Leadership is not about self—it’s about the people. If someone else is already doing what you would have done for your people, support them.

    “I call on my brother, His Excellency Peter Obi, to join us and work with Mr. President.

    “He must be part of this summit where we will collectively endorse President Tinubu for the 2027 election. I say it boldly: the Southeast is happy with the President.”

    Umahi, who shed light on the benefits of the key federal projects.

    He said the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway is advancing steadily, with over 80 per cent of Section 1—stretching from Ahmadu Bello Way to the Lekki Deep Sea Port and ending at Eleko Junction—already completed.

    He said Section 2, from Eleko Junction to the Lagos-Ogun border, is also in progress.

    Umahi said the users of Section 1 of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway would start paying tolls from December.

    He added: “This road is not just a road—it’s a corridor of growth. It has solar-powered lights, CCTV infrastructure, and even carbon credit potential. It is designed as a six-lane concrete-paved highway.”

    The minister explained that Sections 3 and 3B, totalling 65 kilometres and covering areas in Cross River and Akwa Ibom States, have been inaugurated,  with host communities expressing strong support and optimism over the project’s long-term benefits.

    Umahi alluded to the historical background of the Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway, recalling that the project was first mooted by former President Shehu Shagari in the Second Republic.

    He said: “This project is breathing life into an old vision that was left dormant for over 40 years.

    “It is part of the President’s broader effort to unlock Nigeria’s economic and trade corridors.”

    The minister also spoke on the Trans-Saharan Trade Route and the Ogun-Ondo-Niger Corridor, describing the four projects as key pillars of Nigeria’s long-term economic integration agenda.

    He added: “These are legacy projects—economically viable, environmentally sustainable, and future-driven. The President is turning visions into tangible infrastructure.”

    Umahi praised President Tinubu’s foresight, saying that the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway was conceived by him nearly seven years ago.

    He added: “Now, he is bringing that vision to life. It speaks volumes about his consistency, leadership, and unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s growth.”