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  • Tinubu’s executive order unlocking growth in oil sector – Investor

    Tinubu’s executive order unlocking growth in oil sector – Investor

    Chairman of Shoreline Group, Kola Karim, has commended the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration for introducing an executive order that increased the spending limit for operators in the oil and gas sector from $2 million to $10 million.

    Karim, who spoke at the ongoing ninth edition of the Future Investment Initiative (FII) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, delivered a paper on leadership, energy, and Africa’s development future, highlighting the role of bold policy reforms in unlocking Nigeria’s full oil potential.

    He said: “Before now, $2 million wouldn’t even buy a compressor, which is essential to operate in oil and gas. The problem of Nigeria’s oil and gas industry isn’t about reserves—we have 47 billion barrels of oil and 210 trillion cubic feet of gas—it’s about aging infrastructure.”

    According to him, the order has already begun to yield results, allowing companies to import and install much-needed equipment, boosting production and drilling activity.

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    “This production growth is not by accident. The executive order has made it easier for operators to invest and get things done. We’re now at about 1.7 million barrels per day, and with the renewed drilling activity, we’ll surpass the 3 million target.”

    But Karim believes Nigeria must be more ambitious.

    “For me, the focus shouldn’t be three million. By 2030, Nigeria should target five million barrels per day,” he insisted, comparing Nigeria’s potential to global leaders: “The U.S. is producing 12.5 million barrels and targeting 15; Saudi Arabia is at 11.5. Ten years ago, the UAE was producing what Nigeria was, 2.5 million barrels, but today, they’re at 4.2.”

  • Tinubu and the significance of yesterday (2)

    Tinubu and the significance of yesterday (2)

    The detail makes the difference! In 1961, the regional government in Western Nigeria made tax cuts to shore up its dwindling electoral prospects, largely caused by a drop in commodity prices. There was, however, an unexpected resistance to the tax cuts in some provinces, particularly in Ekiti, Ijebu and Ondo. Over 300 people were arraigned before magistrates across the region for unruly conduct and bound over. The key point here is that people, after an initial resistance in the middle of the 1950s, had come to accept the benefits of paying taxes. Even by today’s standards worldwide, this is real political sophistication.

    Obviously, this new paradigm is the basis for the laudable, very well-thought-out tax reforms of the Tinubu administration. Fifteen years down the road, the political maturation fostered by these reforms will definitely manifest as resistance to proposed tax cuts, which will be interpreted by the populace as an attempt to undermine their economic rights, even their right to life. This cultural shift would be the highlight of the president’s very important thrust to redefine Nigeria’s political economy, and the verdict of history will ultimately be very favourable to him and his endeavours.

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    For years, Nigeria has been basking in the euphoria of a revenue economy, but where has that taken us? As we speak, Nigeria holds a complex position in World Bank assessments. In terms of national income per person, the country faces significant challenges, as evidenced by its recent ranking of 146 out of 191 countries on GDP per capita. However, when viewed by overall economic size, the Bank acknowledges Nigeria as the largest economy in Africa by Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Despite its status as Africa’s economic giant, the World Bank officially classifies the country as a Lower Middle-Income Economy.

    Again, the question is: do we need the World Bank to tell us that all is not well with Nigeria? Of course, stepping onto the streets will reveal the gravity of the mass misery ravaging our land. If we look at the faces of the people, and evaluate the children who daily trek to their schools with practically nothing in their stomachs, and simply because their parents want to save the N200 or N300 cost of Korope, then maybe we can have better words to situate our predicament.

    In the 1960s, things were not this bad because there was a real state. The simple truth is that the political leaders of that era were adequately prepared for leadership roles. Those leaders went into politics because they believed in something, and they pursued it diligently. Since they had a clear agenda for development, their focus was fundamentally different from what obtains these days.

    But what can we say about our latter-day leaders? A majority of them are in politics purely because of limited economic opportunities. Since they’re driven only by the fear of personal poverty, they’re bereft of any ideological base. They are not developmentalists because they’re not in politics to build or develop anything. They are children of entitlement, simply dancing away their people’s sorrow. If this were not the case, when was the last time a major factory was established in a town like Ijebu-Jesa in Osun State?

    The Agent General of Western Nigeria in London during the First Republic was the de-facto Minister of Export, coordinating the sale of exports like cocoa, palm oil, rubber and the like. It was he who would negotiate markets, shipping and insurance. He always had strong targets, so he was always a very busy man. If we may ask, what is Nigeria’s High Commissioner to the UK selling to the outside world and how much is he remitting to Nigeria as proceeds from the sale of our exports? What’s his target and how is he coping with it?

    Yes, personal charisma might win an election, but, while the principalities and powers of the past cannot be reversed, it offers a barometer for learning. Consider Obafemi Awolowo’s 1952 speech to the Western Region House of Assembly on the establishment of the Cooperative Bank; it reads as if the late sage were delivering a Nobel Prize in Economics Acceptance Speech. Characteristically, Awo’s speech was a display of deep, powerful and dialectical thinking. Unfortunately, the majority of those in power today have neither that depth nor the intellectual interest. This critical lack of clear direction and intellectual leadership is one of the primary reasons why Nigeria struggles to survive.

    Admittedly, what grows a country are not men but the system. However, the system is always put in place by men. More importantly, the matter isn’t about the absence of documents, but about the presence of a functioning, ethical state. Across the ‘parties’, and frankly in most states of the federation, there are dozens of aspirants who are not distinguishable from one another. They are just vying for access to power and resources, rather than the upliftment of the people and upholding the legacy in the Western Region that affirmed the very purpose of governance and indeed of politics itself: ‘To make life more abundant’.

    Who knew about the Port of Singapore in the 1960s? So, what exactly went wrong, and where exactly did our leaders lose the plot?  More critically, where is the substantive plan to bolster security, the very foundation upon which all other state activities must rest? Tragically, the situation is deteriorating so fast that some institutions of higher learning have had to issue curfew timetables for when their students are allowed to move or are forced to go on empty stomachs for the fear of bandit attacks.

    With Tinubu now in the saddle, the optics may be looking good. Who knows?

    • Concluded.
  • Yakassai: North’ll repay Tinubu’s bold

    Yakassai: North’ll repay Tinubu’s bold

    • TSG inaugurates Aiyedatiwa as Grand Patron

    The National Director-General of Tinubu Support Group (TSG), Dr. Umar Tanko Yakassai has expressed strong confidence that the North will repay President Bola Tinubu with his bold economic reforms in transforming the country with overwhelming votes in the 2027 general election.

    Yakassai, who disclosed that the North is ‘morally bound’ to support Tinubu’s second-term bid, said the President has shown courage in tackling the challenges avoided by his predecessors.

    He spoke at the formal inauguration of the TSG Ondo State chapter held in Akure on Friday, where Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa was decorated as the “Grand Patron” of the group.

    The event was held amid a large turnout of political leaders, party loyalists, and stalwarts of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), who led a delegation from Abuja to officially inaugurate the state structure of the TSG.

    Speaking at the event, Yakassai further assured that the Northern is behind the President, adding that despite political noise from opposition voices, Tinubu continues to enjoy broad national support.

    “We, in the North, are morally bound to support President Tinubu’s second-term bid, just as we stood by Buhari in 2015 and 2019. The President has shown courage in tackling challenges his predecessors avoided,” he said.

    He lauded the new leadership of the TSG in the state for its readiness and unity of purpose, noting that the support group is not a typical political platform but the “mother of all Tinubu support organisations” nationwide.

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    “TSG is the number one support group in Nigeria. It’s an umbrella body that registered over 5,000 support groups during the 2023 general election. Every APC governor across the federation is a Grand Patron of TSG in their respective states,” Yakassai said.

    He emphasised that the TSG’s umbilical cord under the national leadership of Hon. James Abiodun Faleke, leads directly to the Presidential Villa, stressing the group’s pivotal role in mobilising grassroots support for President Tinubu’s administration and his prospective 2027 re-election bid.

    Prince Ademola Adegoroye, the Director General of TSG in Ondo State, expressed gratitude to the leadership of the group for the confidence reposed in him and assured of his commitment to building a strong, united structure that will sustain the legacy of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    Also speaking, Mrs. Jumoke Anifowose-Ajasin, the daughter of the late former Governor of old Ondo State, Chief Michael Ajasin, lauded President Tinubu for his courage in confronting Nigeria’s economic and structural challenges.

  • Yakassai: North ‘ll repay Tinubu’s bold economic reforms with massive votes in 2027

    Yakassai: North ‘ll repay Tinubu’s bold economic reforms with massive votes in 2027

    The National Director General of Tinubu Support Group (TSG), Dr. Umar Tanko Yakassai, has expressed strong confidence the North will repay President Bola Tinubu with his bold economic reforms in transforming the country with overwhelming votes in the 2027 general election. 

    Yakassai, who stated the North is ‘morally bound’ to support Tinubu’s second-term bid, said tthe President has shown courage in tackling the challenges avoided by his predecessors. 

    He spoke at the formal inauguration of the TSG Ondo chapter in Akure, the state capital, where Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa was decorated as the “Grand Patron” of the group held on Friday. 

    The event was held amid a large turnout of political leaders, party loyalists, and stalwarts of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), who led a delegation from Abuja to officially inaugurate the state structure of the TSG. 

    Yakassai assured the north is behind the President, adding that despite political noise from opposition voices, Tinubu continues to enjoy broad national support.

    “We, in the North, are morally bound to support President Tinubu’s second-term bid, just as we stood by Buhari in 2015 and 2019. The President has shown courage in tackling challenges his predecessors avoided,” he said.

    He lauded the new leadership of the TSG in the state for its readiness and unity of purpose, noting that the support group is not a typical political platform but the “mother of all Tinubu support organizations” nationwide.

    “TSG is the number one support group in Nigeria. It’s an umbrella body that registered over 5,000 support groups during the 2023 general election. Every APC governor across the federation is a Grand Patron of TSG in their respective states,” Yakassai said. 

    He emphasised that the TSG’s umbilical cord under the national leadership of Hon. James Abiodun Faleke, leads directly to the Presidential Villa, stressing the group’s pivotal role in mobilizing grassroots support for President Tinubu’s administration and his prospective 2027 re-election bid.

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    Prince Ademola Adegoroye, the Director General of TSG in Ondo State, expressed gratitude to the leadership of the group for the confidence reposed in him and assured them of his commitment to building a strong, united structure that will sustain the legacy of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    Adegoroye, who was the former Minister of State for Transportation, added that the group would work to restore the long-lost “reward system” in Nigerian politics, ensuring that loyalty and commitment to the APC are duly recognized.

    “A lot has happened that could have discouraged many of our leaders, but because you have faith and hope, you are here today. 

    “Through TSG, we will bring back the reward system that has been lacking in our politics,” he stated.

    He pledged to mobilize all stakeholders across the 18 local government areas of Ondo State in support of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda and the governor’s leadership of the party in the state.

    “The Ondo State chapter’s objective is to promote Tinubu’s achievements, unify party members, and mobilize voters under the leadership of Governor Aiyedatiwa as the state party leader.”

     Mrs. Jumoke Anifowose-Ajasin, the daughter of the late former Governor of old Ondo State, Chief Michael Ajasin, lauded President Tinubu for his courage in confronting Nigeria’s economic and structural challenges.

    She urged members of the APC and TSG to remain steadfast in mobilizing for Tinubu’s success in the 2027 elections.

    “President Tinubu has taken bold steps where others hesitated. As Yoruba people, it is our duty to rally behind him and ensure his administration succeeds,” she said.

    Mrs Ajasin described the decoration of Aiyedatiwa as the Grand Patron of the TSG Ondo Chapter as a unifying moment for the APC in the state, applauding the governor for his loyalty to the President and his efforts to strengthen the party’s base.

  • Governors pledge support for Tinubu’s ward development initiative

    Governors pledge support for Tinubu’s ward development initiative

    •Committee holds maiden meeting

    The nation’s 36 governors, under the aegis of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), have declared their support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ward development initiative, tagged: The Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme (RHWDP).

    A statement yesterday in Abuja by NGF Chairman and Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq described the RHWDP as a flagship initiative designed to accelerate economic activity, enhance livelihoods, and strengthen social protection at the grassroots.

    AbdulRazaq said President Tinubu approved the constitution of the RHWDP’s National Steering Committee on October 28, which has the NGF chairman as its Chairman and the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, as the Vice Chairman.

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    The statement reads: “Other members of the committee appointed by Mr. President to represent the six geopolitical zones on the National Steering Committee are as follows: the Governors of Yobe, Mai Mala Buni (Northeast); Bayelsa, Senator Douye Diri (Southsouth); Ogun, Prince Dapo Abiodun (Southwest); Enugu, Dr. Peter Mbah (Southeast); Katsina, Dr. Dikko Umar Radda (Northwest); and Benue, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia (Northcentral).

    “In view of the urgency of the committee’s mandate, the inaugural meeting of the committee was held on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, at the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) Secretariat, Abuja.

    “The meeting, chaired by His Excellency AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, marks a major step toward operationalizing Mr. President’s ward-based development strategy across Nigeria’s 8,809 wards.

    “With this inaugural meeting, progress has begun toward achieving the objectives of the RHWDP, which include the rollout of implementation frameworks, coordination structures, and resource-mobilisation mechanisms across all tiers of government.

    “The Nigeria Governors’ Forum reaffirms its commitment to working closely with the Federal Government to ensure that the Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme delivers measurable impact at the grassroots and strengthens Nigeria’s pathway to inclusive growth.”

  • Be proactive and get result, Tinubu orders Service chiefs

    Be proactive and get result, Tinubu orders Service chiefs

    • CDS pledges Armed Forces loyalty to defence of democracy

    • Shake-up in Army

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu yesterday decorated the Service chiefs with their new ranks, giving them an order to ‘’flush out’’ terrorists and other non-state actors in all zones of the country.

    ‘’It is time to defeat the enemies. Clear them off; clear them out. ‘Nigerians need results, not excuses,’ the President told them.  

     Tinubu gave them tips on how they could effortlessly achieve the task. ‘’Be pre-emptive, innovative and courageous,’’ he challenged them.

    The President said even with the “recent emergence of new armed groups,’’ Nigeria can no longer allow the insecurity that began to worsen in 2009 to continue.  

    ‘’We are in a hurry to celebrate peace, ’’ he said, describing security as an essential element without which everything is rendered meaningless.

    The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Gen. Olufemi Oluyede became a four-star general while the Service chiefs were elevated to three-star generals. The Chief of Defence Intelligence also became a three-star general.

    Upgraded are:  Gen. Oluyede; Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu (Chief of Army Staff); Air Marshall Kevin Aneke (Chief of Air Staff) and Vice-Admiral Idi Abbas (Chief of Naval Staff) and Lt. Gen. Emmanuel Undiendeye  (Chief of Defence Intelligence)

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    The President received assurances from Gen. Oluyede, who spoke on behalf of others, of the military’s readiness to deliver on the task, defend the Constitution and protect the nation’s democracy.

    Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Akpabio, House of Representatives’ Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, and Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, witnessed the ceremony.

    Other top government functionaries at the event, held at the Council Chambers of the State House, Abuja, were  Defence Minister Abubakar Badaru;  National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu; Deputy Senate President  Barau Jibrin; Deputy Speaker  Benjamin Kalu; Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF) Chairman AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq (Kwara); Governors  Dapo Abiodun (Ogun) and Umar Namadi (Jigawa)  and senior military officers.

    President Tinubu said for the war against insecurity to become a thing of the past, the military must change its direction by deploying technology and superior joint planning to “defeat the enemies.”

    “I charge you also to be innovative, pre-emptive, and courageous. Let’s stay ahead of those who seek to threaten our peace, freedom and stability. Let us deploy technology where necessary. We cannot allow the crisis that began in 2009 to persist any longer. It is time to defeat the enemies,” he said.

    Tinubu said the ceremony “is beyond symbolism of decoration,” describing it as “the beginning of our renewed effort to ensure the peace and security of all Nigerians.” 

    Stressing the essence of peace in driving development, the President said: “There cannot be sufficient development if this fundamental aspect of human need is unmet. Our people and our nation must remain secure to enjoy the benefit of governance and democracy.” 

    While saluting the military’s sacrifices and past gains, Tinubu warned that threats are mutating, with the “recent emergence of new armed groups in the troublesome areas of Northcentral, Northwest, and parts of the South.”

    He directed the military high command to be decisive and proactive: “We must not allow these new threats to fester… Let us smash the new snakes right in the head.”

    The President hailed troops for reclaiming once-occupied territories: “In dark times, when terrorists and armed marauders held significant portions of our land, that time is over. You… rose to the challenge and reclaimed those occupied territories, ‘’thank you for the rescue mission. Those areas previously under siege have been rescued, countless kidnapped citizens [freed], and you have significantly diminished the capacity of the terror groups.”

    Tinubu paid tribute to fallen heroes and thanked their families, assuring them that their “sacrifices will not be in vain.”

    He also appreciated the spouses and families of the newly decorated officers, “my deepest thanks and gratitude to you all on behalf of this grateful nation. The security is improving; the sacrifices you make will not be in vain.”

    Calling for tighter inter-service and inter-agency coordination, the President directed them to “work together, compare notes, exchange information effectively and follow up proactively.’’ He added that they must ‘’work with other security agencies and defeat this enemy once and for all.’’

    CDS Oluyede: we’ll defend Nigeria’s democracy

     The military has promised not only to defend democracy but also to intensify efforts to secure the country.

      ‘’We pledge our loyalty to Mr. President, and we will continue to support our flourishing democracy,’’ said CDS Oluyede shortly after taking over the mantle of leadership from his predecessor, Gen. Christopher Musa, at the Defence Headquarters, Abuja.

    Gen. Oluyede also assured Nigerians that the military would rid Nigeria of all forms of criminality and make our nation safer so that socio-economic endeavours can flourish.’’

    Thanking Nigerians for ‘’the support they have given the Armed Forces,’’ he said: ‘’I expect that they give us more so we can make Nigeria safer.”

    Oluyede added that the military, under his leadership, would be guided by the core principles of professionalism, collaboration, discipline, innovation, and accountability, while fostering stronger synergy among the services and defence agencies.

    The CDS noted that the complex and evolving nature of threats confronting our nation demanded that we remain vigilant, innovative, and united.

    “My leadership will, therefore, be guided by the principles of professionalism, discipline, innovation, and accountability,” he said

    Oluyede pledged to enhance intelligence-driven operations and deepen collaboration with other security and law enforcement agencies, emphasising that their objective of restoring and sustaining peace, stability, and national cohesion in every part of our country remained incontestable.

    “Equally important is the welfare of our officers and men, which remains central to operational effectiveness,” he said.

      Immediate past CDS, Gen.Musa, described his tenure as challenging yet rewarding.

     Gen. Musa lauded the media for being dependable in the fight against terrorism and insurgency in the country.

    COAS promises deployment of new strategies

    At the Army Headquarters, also in Abuja, the new COAS, Lt.-Gen. Shaibu promised decisive action to curb insecurity in the country.

    Gen. Shaibu described the security situation, which has led to the displacement of some Nigerians, as unacceptable.

    “We obviously live in tough times, but I do not doubt that we are tough people too.

    “I am aware of the developing situation in some parts of our country, which has put law-abiding citizens in economic hardship, fear and displacement. These situations are not acceptable and need my urgent attention,” he said after taking over. 

    ‘How maritime security will be strengthened’

    CNS, Vice Admiral Abbas, pledged to intensify the fight against crude oil theft, illegal bunkering and other maritime crimes undermining Nigeria’s economy.

     . “I am not unaware that our maritime environment remains threatened by a scourge of crude oil theft, sea robbery, illegal bunkering, illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing, and drug trafficking,’’ he said after assuming his new office at the Naval Headquarters in Abuja.

     The Naval chief said he would enhance fleet capability through aggressive fleet renewal and increased deployment of technology, prioritise personnel training and welfare, and deepen collaboration with other security agencies.

     Describing his appointment as a privilege, Vice Admiral Abbas vowed to discharge his duties with dedication, integrity and loyalty.

    Improvement in security imminent, CAS assures Nigerians

    CAS Air Marshall Aneke vowed to leave no stone unturned to bring about swift improvement in the nation’s security.

    Aneke, who is the 23rd Chief of the Air Staff, took over from his predecessor, Air Marshall Hasan Abubaker, during a brief ceremony at the Nigerian Air Force Headquarters

    The CAS described his appointment as a call to duty, pledging his loyalty to President Tinubu and a commitment to prioritise the welfare of officers, airmen and airwomen of the Air Force.

    “I also pledge my loyalty and that of the Nigerian Air Force officers, airmen and airwomen to the government and people of Nigeria as enshrined in the 1999 Constitution,” Air Marshall Aneke said.

    He appealed to the National Assembly to continue its collaboration with the Air Force, describing legislative backing as vital to the success of ongoing security operations.

  • JUST IN: Tinubu approves 15 percent Import Duty on petrol, diesel imports

    JUST IN: Tinubu approves 15 percent Import Duty on petrol, diesel imports

    President Bola Tinubu has approved a 15 percent ad-valorem import duty on diesel and premium motor spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol.

    The approval was conveyed in a letter dated October 21, 2025, by Damilotun Aderemi, the President’s Private Secretary, to the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).

    Tinubu’s decision followed a request from the FIRS to apply the 15 percent duty on the cost, insurance, and freight (CIF) value, aimed at aligning import costs with domestic realities.

    With the implementation of the new import duty, the price of petrol is expected to rise by an estimated N99.72 per litre.

    Following the announcement, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) disclosed that it has commenced a comprehensive review of the nation’s three petroleum refineries to bring them back to operation.

    NNPCL Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO), Bayo Ojulari, shared the update in a post on his official X handle on Wednesday night.

    According to Ojulari, one of the strategies being considered is the engagement of technical equity partners to “high-grade or repurpose” the refineries.

    Tagged “Update on Our Refineries,” Ojulari wrote: “The NNPCL continues to remain optimistic that the refineries will operate efficiently, despite current setbacks.”

  • Nigerians in diaspora back Tinubu’s re-election

    Nigerians in diaspora back Tinubu’s re-election

    Nigerians in the diaspora under the aegis of Tinubu Ambo Support Group (TASG) have declared their support for re-election of President Bola Tinubu in 2027.

    TASG Diaspora Director, Kelvin Muyiwa, spoke at a solidarity meeting in England, where members lauded Tinubu’s efforts in stabilising the economy and restoring public confidence in governance.

    Muyiwa praised the President’s “visionary leadership,” noting that despite initial challenges, the administration has remained focused on repositioning Nigeria for sustainable growth through reforms in infrastructure, power, and industrial development.

    “We have observed the President’s steps in reviving critical sectors of the economy. His Renewed Hope Agenda is yielding results, and we believe he deserves another term to consolidate on the gains,” he said.

    The group called on Nigerians at home to participate in the voter registration by obtaining their Permanent Voter Cards, stressing that participation in the electoral process is vital to sustaining democracy and national development.

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    “We urge every Nigerian, especially youths, to register for their PVCs. The power to decide the future of our country lies in our hands,” he added.

    The congress of the group also expressed its support for Akinwunmi Ambode, former Lagos State governor, urging him to contest in 2027.

    Muyiwa noted that Ambode’s first tenure remains “a benchmark in good governance, urban renewal, and people-oriented leadership,” adding that his return would further accelerate the development of the state.

    “Ambode’s leadership transformed Lagos into a model city for other states to emulate. Bringing him back will consolidate those gains,” he said.

    Tinubu Ambo Support Group reaffirmed its commitment to mobilising support among Nigerians in the diaspora and at home to ensure the electoral success of Tinubu and Ambode in the 2027 polls.

  • Tinubu and the burden of governance

    Tinubu and the burden of governance

    • By Jacob Edi

    Governance, in its truest sense, is no tea party. It demands courage, clarity, and the moral stamina to make hard choices—even when those choices are unpopular. Since assuming office, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has come face to face with the full weight of that reality. With the honeymoon of campaign promises over, what stared him in the face was the burden of governance — raw, unfiltered, and relentless.

    Unarguably, Tinubu, inherited a nation on the edge, fractured by insecurity, weakened by economic haemorrhage, bruised by years of inconsistent policy direction where corruption was almost a directing principle of state policy. But where others dithered, he has chosen to confront Nigeria’s demons head-on.

    The abrupt removal of fuel subsidy and the floating of the naira were not populist moves at all but they were necessary, painful, and perhaps overdue… little wonder all the presidential candidates made these necessary policies a campaign promise. Yet, for many Nigerians, these policies have been the hardest pills to swallow.

    There’s a peculiar loneliness that comes with leadership.  Tinubu now bears that loneliness. In a country where sentiment often overshadows sense, where people want change but resist the cost of it, leading becomes a paradox. Nigerians want progress, but not pain. They want reforms, but without disruptions. Governance, however, does not bend to such emotional economics.

    Still, one cannot ignore the irony that Tinubu, the political strategist who built alliances and empires in Lagos and beyond, now faces the toughest opponent yet—governance itself. Lagos was his experiment; Nigeria is his final test. The scale is different, the stakes higher, and the consequences more immediate. Every policy has ripple effects that touch millions, every delay widens the trust deficit, and every misstep becomes amplified in the national consciousness.

    His decision to reshuffle the military hierarchy, for instance, came at a time when whispers of a coup had begun to float through the corridors of speculation.

    With military dispatch, the military dismissed this rumour.

    Still, Tinubu acted. For all intents and purposes, the decision “to strengthen the nation’s security architecture” is a demonstration that as important as loyalty may be to the state apparatus, it supersedes regional or political sentiment. The men in uniform must be inspired, equipped, and accountable. National security cannot afford complacency.

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    He understood that leadership isn’t about waiting for crisis to mature before taking action. Unlike his immediate predecessor, who often hesitated in moments of national insecurity, Tinubu demonstrated the presence of mind that defines statesmanship. In a season of political unease, he chose decisiveness over dithering.

    For a nation built on a very fragile federal equilibrium, rejigging the nation’s security architecture could spark delicate and dangerous insinuations that might reignite old suspicions that national cohesion is giving way to sectional dominance. But it is instructive that, on matters of security, emotional analysis takes a back seat when the safety of the nation is at stake. And for those who glory in conspiracy theorization to suggest that Mr. President acted in panic, would they rather nothing was done? The consequence of inaction would not just be grievous but incalculable.

    This is not to romanticize Tinubu’s leadership. Governance is not judged by intent alone but by impact. The question remains: are Nigerians safer, more hopeful, and better off than they were a year ago? The answer is complicated. Inflation bites, the naira flounders, and insecurity still stalks communities from the North to the South. The hardship is real. Truth is, nations are not rebuilt in comfort. The first stage of reform is always chaos before order. Tinubu’s Nigeria is still in that inchoate phase, where pain precedes progress and where every gain comes with resistance.

    Those who compare him to past presidents often miss the point. Tinubu’s burden is heavier because the rot runs deeper. Buhari’s administration, while cloaked in anti-corruption rhetoric, left behind a hollowed-out economy, fractured security architecture, and an exhausted citizenry. Jonathan for all his calm demeanour lacked the will to confront Nigeria’s entrenched dysfunction. The Otueke-born politician procrastinated till the end.   Tinubu, however, appears determined to face these challenges by reengineering the system, even if it means burning political capital rather than deploy the use of rhetoric.

    The burden of governance is not just about fixing problems; it’s about restoring faith. Nigerians have been lied to, disappointed, and left hanging by leaders who promised reform but delivered excuses… remember the rice pyramid arrangement? This is in our recent history. Tinubu’s challenge, is psychological and this beyond policy. He must convince a weary nation that this time, the pain is worth it. That this time, the sacrifice will yield fruit. That this time, the government is not bluffing.

    It is commendable that Tinubu recognizes that leadership requires more than political dexterity, it demands the presence of mind to act decisively when the nation’s pulse weakens. But presence of mind must evolve into presence of results. Nigerians are impatient, and rightfully so. They have been promised greatness for too long and delivered mediocrity instead.

    In the end, Tinubu’s burden is not unique. Every leader, at some point, confronts the limits of their myth. The power that once seemed all-conquering becomes a daily struggle to survive the expectations it created. That is the nadir of power… when the cheers fade and all that’s left is responsibility.

    As echoes of another presidential election get louder, President Tinubu and his team must make a clear choice: either rise to the moment and etch his name in the annals of statesmanship, or succumb to the weight of Nigeria’s perpetual contradictions. The burden of governance is heavy, but it is also the only path to redemption for both leader and nation.

    As Nigerians endure the turbulence of reform, one thing remains clear: the days ahead will test not just Tinubu’s capacity to govern, but his courage to stay true to his convictions. For a man who has waited decades for this moment, the real question now is whether he can bear the burden he so passionately sought.

    The cheers fade. The applause becomes muted. And suddenly, every decision is questioned. Herein lies the burden of leadership.

    • Edi, a journalist, writes from Abuja.
  • 2027: S’West governors, leaders rally behind Tinubu

    2027: S’West governors, leaders rally behind Tinubu

    • Ministers give scorecards

    • Development commissions are silent restructuring, says Akande

    • Fasoranti: we need to unite

    Southwest leaders yesterday said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu deserves re-election in 2027 because he is fulfilling his campaign promises to the country.

    According to them, the president has not let the region and other Nigerians down, adding that his bold reforms are yielding the dividends of development.

    The leading lights also brainstormed on strategies for fast-tracking regional integration to foster progress in the geo-political zone. 

    Elder statesman and pioneer national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Chief Bisi Akande urged the region to emulate other regions who are taking advantage of how President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is setting the country on the path of federalism through restructuring.

    Afenifere Leader Chief Reuben Fasoranti, who renewed his call for unity among Yoruba, said the race should return to the welfarist and progressive ideology of ‘freedom for all, life more abundant.’

    Pa Fasoranti, 99, was represented by Senator Femi Okurounmu.

    The chairman of Proshare Limited, Olufemi Awoyemi, advised the six Southwest states to collaborate economically based on the proposals enjoined by the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN).

    Eminent Yoruba leaders joined the six governors  on the first day of the two-day-conference in Akure, Ondo State capital, to examine how the region can recover its lost ground and chart a course towards prosperity.

    The theme of the conference is: ‘Strengthen democracy through dialogue: assessing progress, charting the future.

    READ ALSO: Why petrol prices are high despite cheaper crude

    Ministers, special advisers and other senior officials from the region, who tendered their stewardship, explained to the stakeholders the scorecard of the Tinubu administration, based on the implementation of the Renewed Hope Agenda. 

    The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, spoke on the efficiency of the fiscal reforms and national planning.

    The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, Minister of Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, and Minister of State for Health, Iziaq Salako, said the administration is on course in charting a path for sustainable development.

    The host, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, and his Lagos State counterpart, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who hailed President Tinubu for his courage and boldness, said his performance aptly recommended him for re-election.

    After reviewing the achievements of the Tinubu’s government, Aiyedatiwa said: “We are for Tinubu beyond 2027. It is in the interest of our region and Nigeria. Here in Ondo State, our support for the president is like an Executive Order that cannot be reversed.”

    Echoing him, Sanwo-Olu said: “Under the transformative leadership of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, Nigeria is being reshaped into a land of renewed confidence, investment, and prosperity. The results speak for themselves: a more stable currency, a unified exchange rate, growing exports, surging revenues, and renewed investor optimism. These are not abstract numbers; they are the visible footprints of the Renewed Hope vision — a testament to what resolute leadership can achieve.

    “The reforms did not start out easily, as we can all attest to. But the President, more than anyone else, was confident that the temporary pain would be followed by permanent benefits. And time has surely vindicated him and reaffirmed that Nigerians made the best and most beneficial electoral choice in 2023—which we must consolidate upon in 2027!”

    At the event were Ogun State Deputy Governor Alhaja Noimot Salako-Oyedele, who stood for Governor Dapo Abiodun; Secretary to Ekiti State Government Prof. Habibat Adubiaro, represented Governor Biodun Oyebanji, who was inaugurating the Igbara Odo-Ikere Road along with Edo State Governor Monday Okpbeholo as part of his third anniversary programme.

     Ondo State Deputy Governor Olayide Adelami, Chief Sehinde Arogbofa, former Ondo State Governor Olusegun Mimiko, Senator Remi Okurinboye, Dr. Tunji Abayomi, Third Republic House of Representatives Chief Whip Olawale Oshun, and NDDC Executive Director Chief Ifedayo Abegunde.

    Also present were Senator Ganiyu Solomon, Cornelius Ojelabi, Lasisi Oluboyo, Prof. Banji Aluko, Chief Pius Akinyelure, Ondo APC Chairman Ade Adetimehin, Ambassador Sola Iji, Chief Jamiu Ekungba, Presidential Adviser on Information and Strategy Bayo Onanuga, former Oyo State Deputy Governor Alake Adeyemo, former Ogun State Deputy Governor Segun Adesegun, Dare Babarinsa, Tunde Rahmon, Dr. Adetunji Adeoye, Ondo State Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Chairman Pade Adeniji, Bola Adewusi, Chief Jide Awe, Sola Elesin, Ayo Afolabi, Taiwo Olatunbosun, Idowu Ajanaku, and DAWN Director-General Dr. Seye Oyeleye.

    Traditional rulers at the conference included the Alafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, the Olowo of Owo and Chairman, Council of Obas, Ondo State, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye, the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, the Alake and paramount ruler of Egbaland,  Oba Michael Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Laoye, and the Osemawe of Ondo, Oba Victor Kiladejo.

    Development commissions are silent restructuring, says Akande

    Akande, former governor of Osun State,  described the establishment of regional development commissions by President Tinubu as a “quiet restructuring” of the federation.

    He praised President Tinubu for subtly restoring the spirit of federalism through regional empowerment and institutional decentralization.

    Akande described the commissions as “economic engines” designed to empower regions to take charge of their own growth trajectories.

    He said: “In a stroke of visionary leadership, the present administration has established and inaugurated five regional development commissions – the North West, North Central, North East, South East, and now our own South West Development Commission (SWDC).

    “For us in the Southwest, this is both an opportunity and a responsibility – to once again lead by example, demonstrating how local collaboration, innovative thinking, and strategic implementation can drive sustainable development under the Renewed Hope Agenda.”

    Akande believes that purposeful restructuring should begin with the “restitution of genuine federalism” to ensure equality of opportunity for all citizens and foster community and regional development.

    We must make S’west Commission a model, says Awoyemi

    Awoyemi, who was the keynote speaker, spoke on ‘Two years of the Tinubu administration: Southwest’s perspective and posterity.’

    He noted that under the administration, Nigeria had moved from the worst risk zone to the recovery zone.

    However, he said there is a translation gap between what he described as statistical economy and street economy, adding that the gap between macroeconomic stability and micro-economic reality should be bridged.

    Awoyemi said there is a problem triggered by the inability of the sub-national units to complement the efforts of the Federal Government.

    He said: “What Tinubu government has done is important.  But what Southwest governors should do are more important..”

    Awoyemi said while the current crop of leaders benefitted from the vision of illustrious pathfinders like Obafemi Awolowo,  Adekunle Ajasin and Bisi Onabanjo, what the governors have done only amounted to tokenism.

    He charged them to erect good standards like the ones they inherited from the founding fathers.

    Urging Southwest to effectively utilise the opportunity provided by the Southwest Development Commission, he said: “Southwest Commission’s goals, as highlighted by DAWN, has the objective of building a globally competitive economy.

    “Southwest Commission should not become a constituency project awarding commission. The purpose is to come up with plans, in synergy with DAWN, to build a legacy like the Oodua Group.

    “Southwest should talk about regional rail and renewable power supply, agro-allied industries. Lagos and Ogun should be able to resolve their boundary problems.”

    Aiyedatiwa calls for sustained federal, state collaboration

    Aiyedatiwa said: “It takes courageous, visionary, and transformative leadership in the mould of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to take such bold decisions. Nigerians deserve more of his exemplary leadership till the foreseeable future.”

    He noted that the President’s policies had significantly stabilised the economy, boosted non-oil revenues, and promoted fiscal discipline.

    Aiyedatiwa added: “It is gratifying that these reforms have started yielding the desired dividends as the economy has been substantially stabilised with the non-oil sector now contributing significant revenue to the federation accounts as against the situation hitherto.”

    The governor added that improved financial inflows from the Federation Account had empowered sub-national governments to execute developmental projects that directly impact citizens.

    He stressed: “We, the sub-nationals, are happy as we now have improved allocations to embark upon various developmental projects for the good of our people.”

    ‘We have changed face of power sector’

    Adelabu said due to lack of support by the sector for industries, Nigerians turned to foreign products.

    The minister also lamented the over centralisation of power supply in the past in a country of 36 states and 774 local governments.

    He said the Tinubu administration recognised that supply cannot be centrally handled, adding that government cannot achieve results without decentralization and liberalisation .

    He recalled that the Electricity Bill was the first to be signed into law by the president on assumption of office, pointing out that it opened opportunities for private sector participation.

    Adelabu said: “The vibrancy we have in power supply today has not been like that,” stressing that $4 billion investment has been attracted in the sector.

    The minister said the market reforms has led government to the fact that the subsidy in the sector cannot be sustained.

    He said it is only proper that the ‘Cost Reflective Tarrif’ is paid by customers who enjoy regular supply.

    Reforms in Blue Economy on course

    Oyetola lauded the president for creating the Ministry of Blue Economy, which has affirmed the status of Nigeria as a maritime country.

    He said the Apapa and Tin Can ports had been modernised while the Apapa gridlock is also over.

    The minister said over N1.39 trillion has been generated, assuring that it can only increase.

    He suggested a capacity building programme for youths so that they can take careers in ports.

    Oyetola urged state governments to collaborate with the ministry to phase out ricketting boats on waterways.

    Salako: Preventive approach working

    Salako said the emphasis on preventive approach to medicare has reduced infant and maternal mortality.

    He said the health sector occupies a central position in the implementation of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

    The minister of state lauded the president for creating three cancer centres, thereby averting medical tourism to the tune of $ 1 billion.

    Sanwo-Olu: Southwest states should collaborate

    Sanwo-Olu, Chairman of the South-West Governor’s Forum, charged the region to light the path for Nigeria’s rebirth by deepening collaboration across the states, sectors and communities.

    He urged stakeholders at the summit, which included serving and former political leaders and traditional rulers, ethnic and religious leaders, as well as civil society organisations, women and youths’ leaders, to work in harmony and deploy their assets toward a shared regional agenda that delivers inclusive growth for every citizen.

    Sanwo-Olu said: “We are gathered not merely to reflect on our journey but to reimagine our destiny—a South-West that once again sets the pace for Nigeria’s development and becomes the standard for others to emulate.

    “The establishment of the South-West Development Commission (SWDC) by President Tinubu, with the backing of the National Assembly, is another bold affirmation of our collective destiny. It provides us with an institutional platform to plan, integrate, and deliver the kind of regional transformation that defined the old Western Region under Chief Obafemi Awolowo.

    “Let us rally around this new Commission, not in rhetoric but in action. As the great sage, Obafemi Awolowo reminded us, ‘It is not life that matters, but the courage you bring into it.’ Now is the time to summon that courage once again — to reclaim our heritage of innovation, education, and good governance.

    “We must deepen collaboration — across states, across sectors, and across communities. Diversity has always been our strength; harmony has always been our advantage. Let us deploy these assets toward a shared regional agenda that delivers inclusive growth for every citizen.

    “We must institutionalise peer learning among our state governments — sharing insights, replicating success stories, and jointly pursuing regional infrastructure that binds us together rather than keeping us apart.

    “The South-West has always been a land of firsts—in education, in broadcasting, in urban planning, and in governance. The question before us today is simple: Can we, once again, light the path for Nigeria’s rebirth? I say yes, we can, because the spirit of innovation and unity that defined our past still lives in us. Let us not waste this season of extraordinary opportunity.”

    Governor Sanwo-Olu, who commended President Tinubu for taking bold steps in transforming the country, said Nigeria  is being reshaped into a land of renewed confidence, investment, and prosperity.

    He stressed: “Under the transformative leadership President Tinubu, Nigeria is being reshaped into a land of renewed confidence, investment, and prosperity. The results speak for themselves: a more stable currency, a unified exchange rate, growing exports, surging revenues, and renewed investor optimism. These are not abstract numbers; they are the visible footprints of the Renewed Hope vision — a testament to what resolute leadership can achieve.

    “The reforms did not start out easily, as we can all attest to. But the President, more than anyone else, was confident that the temporary pain would be followed by permanent benefits. And time has surely vindicated him and reaffirmed that Nigerians made the best and most beneficial electoral choice in 2023—which we must consolidate upon in 2027!”

    Governor Sanwo-Olu stressed further that “For states like Lagos that have several investment-worthy initiatives cutting across infrastructure, transportation, agriculture, the digital and creative economy, the blue economy, tourism and entertainment, and many more, this is very good news. President Tinubu’s leadership continues to teach us that boldness and consistency are the twin engines of national renewal.

    “We are now more confident than ever that our landmark public-private partnership (PPP) investment projects, like the 4th Mainland Bridge, the Lagos Green Line, the Lekki International Airport and others, will now be able to attract more investors and partners, given the macroeconomic stability that Nigeria is enjoying.

    “Also, for us in Lagos, we are very well positioned to benefit from Nigeria’s emergence as an export powerhouse, given that Lagos is home to three of Nigeria’s busiest ports. Increased port activity will create more jobs and generate more revenues and taxes. Lagos State first benefited from the President’s foresight when he was Governor a quarter of a century ago and is again benefiting from that remarkable foresight now that he is President.”