Category: Politics

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — Minister of Works, David Umahi, has commended China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) for the quality execution of the ongoing Mararaba-Keffi Road reconstruction and expansion project, describing the project as technically completed and ready for commissioning.

Umahi spoke on Saturday during an inspection of the 43.65-kilometre road project linking the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) with Nasarawa State.

The minister said only a few outstanding observations remained to be addressed before the project could be formally commissioned.

“We are very happy with China Harbour. They have done a very good job. Today, the job is technically completed and ready for commissioning,” Umahi said.

“The few observations we have made will be addressed before then.”

The project, executed under the Federal Road Infrastructure Development and Refurbishment Investment Tax Credit Scheme, was awarded in June 2023 at a cost of N73.9 billion.

According to Umahi, the road will significantly improve connectivity, reduce travel time and ease traffic congestion along the busy Abuja-Keffi corridor, one of the most heavily trafficked routes in the North-Central region.

Despite expressing satisfaction with the quality of work, the minister raised concerns over outstanding payments owed to the contractor under the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Tax Credit Scheme.

He noted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had already approved the release of funds for outstanding commitments and appealed for their prompt disbursement.

“We are owing the contractor quite a lot on this project. The President has approved the payment, and I appeal that the funds be released promptly,” Umahi said.

“I feel unhappy when contractors are encouraged to work and the approved funds are withheld.”

The minister also highlighted several design innovations incorporated into the project, including the use of rigid concrete shoulders alongside flexible carriageways to improve durability and reduce long-term maintenance costs.

Umahi further praised Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, for undertaking complementary infrastructure projects around the corridor, particularly flyovers designed to improve traffic flow and ease congestion.

He also directed contractors handling adjoining road projects to adopt night-time construction schedules where necessary to minimise disruptions and inconvenience to motorists.

“We must put the people first. While carrying out these projects, we should not subject road users to unnecessary hardship,” he said.

Earlier, the Federal Controller of Works supervising the project, Yakubu Usman, disclosed that the road had attained 99.8 per cent completion.

According to him, only a few ancillary works, including the installation of streetlights, kerbs and U-drains, remain outstanding.

Usman described the project as a model for future federal highway construction, noting that the innovative shoulder design would strengthen the pavement structure and extend the lifespan of the road.

Speaking on behalf of the contractor, Chairman of CHEC, Wang Wenfei, expressed appreciation to the Federal Government, the Ministry of Works and the National Assembly for their support throughout the execution of the project.

“With the support of the Minister of Works and the National Assembly, we have successfully completed the job,” Wang said.

“We will also address the observations and directives given during the inspection as quickly as possible.”

New Post Africa reports that the Mararaba-Keffi Road is one of the busiest transportation corridors in the North-Central region, serving thousands of commuters and commercial vehicles travelling daily between Abuja and neighbouring states.

The project is expected to enhance regional mobility, facilitate trade and stimulate economic activities along the corridor upon commissioning.

MAIDUGURI, Nigeria (NPA) — Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, on Saturday visited Baga town to discuss plans for the reopening of the waterway linking the northern part of the state with the Republic of Chad, in a move aimed at reviving trade, commerce and cross-border cooperation.

According to a statement issued on Saturday by the governor’s spokesperson and media adviser, Dauda Iliya, the initiative is expected to enhance economic activities and strengthen bilateral relations between Nigeria and Chad.

As part of the visit, Governor Zulum held high-level security meetings with military commanders in Baga and Kukawa to deliberate on measures required to clear and secure the water routes, which have remained largely inaccessible due to years of insurgent activities in the Lake Chad region.

Speaking to journalists after the meetings, the governor said discussions focused on practical steps towards restoring navigation along the strategic waterway.

“Our visit to Baga was to interface with the Nigerian military to discuss the modalities for clearing waterways from Baga to the Republic of Chad,” Zulum said.

“We have discussed many issues and, by the grace of God, the clearance exercise will resume very soon. The governments of Chad and Nigeria are working together to determine how commodities will move between the two countries.”

The reopening of the waterway is expected to facilitate the movement of goods and services, improve livelihoods and boost economic integration among communities around the Lake Chad Basin.

Following the security meetings, Governor Zulum embarked on an inspection tour of major public infrastructure projects in Kukawa Local Government Area.

The projects inspected included an ongoing General Hospital, a Mega Primary School and the High Islamic College, all designed to improve access to healthcare, education and social development services in the area.

The High Islamic College is intended to provide educational opportunities for out-of-school children and Almajiri pupils by integrating Islamic and Western curricula. The model, according to the state government, will enable graduates to qualify for admission into universities, polytechnics and colleges of education across the country.

In addition to the infrastructure projects, the governor announced plans to support farmers and fishing communities as part of broader efforts to revitalise economic activities in the region.

He said the state government would soon distribute farming tools, agricultural implements and improved seedlings to local farmers as well as returnee fishing communities to boost food production and livelihoods. The initiative forms part of ongoing efforts by the Borno State Government to restore normalcy, improve economic opportunities.

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has constituted its Ekiti State Governorship Campaign Committee as part of preparations for the forthcoming governorship election in the state.

The party announced the development in a statement, saying the committee would be responsible for coordinating campaign activities, mobilising support across the state, engaging critical stakeholders and driving the party’s message to voters in all parts of Ekiti State.

According to the ADC, the committee comprises party leaders, political strategists, legal practitioners, media professionals and grassroots mobilisers drawn from across the country.

Among those appointed into various committees are former presidential aspirant Ose Anenih, former presidential spokesman Lauretta Onochie, former Ekiti State Deputy Governor Prof. Kolapo Olusola-Eleka, former Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly Rt. Hon. Gboyega Aribisogan, and several other political stakeholders.

The party said the committee’s mandate is to strengthen its grassroots presence, coordinate campaign operations and ensure effective voter engagement ahead of the election.

“The committee is tasked with coordinating campaign activities, mobilising support across the state, engaging critical stakeholders, and driving the party’s vision and message to every community in Ekiti State,” the statement said.

ADC congratulated all members appointed to serve on the committee, expressing confidence in their capacity, commitment and dedication to delivering a successful campaign.

The party reiterated its commitment to providing what it described as credible leadership, responsible governance and a brighter future for the people of Ekiti State.

“Together, we remain focused on providing the people of Ekiti State with credible leadership, responsible governance and a brighter future,” the statement added.

The constitution of the campaign committee marks a significant step in the ADC’s preparations for the Ekiti governorship election as the party intensifies efforts to expand its political support base in the state.

ENUGU, Nigeria (NPA) — A massive political rally organised by stakeholders and residents of Enugu East Senatorial District on Saturday culminated in a resounding endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah for second terms in office ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The rally, tagged “Ofu Obi Mega Rally”, drew thousands of supporters to the Okpara Square in Enugu and was attended by an array of political leaders, traditional rulers, business figures and influential stakeholders from across the senatorial district.

Among the prominent personalities present were former President of the Senate, Senator Ken Nnamani; former Governor of old Anambra State, Senator Jim Nwobodo; former Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Enugu State, Chief Ben Nwoye; former Minister of Information, Chief Frank Nweke Jr.; and several other political leaders from the Nkanu cultural bloc.

The event, described by organisers as one of the largest political gatherings witnessed in Enugu State in recent years, featured the formal endorsement of Governor Mbah’s re-election bid and President Tinubu’s expected second-term campaign.

In a symbolic show of support, traditional rulers from the zone presented Governor Mbah with the Ofo, a revered Igbo symbol of authority, justice and legitimacy. The governor was also presented with a cheque of N300 million contributed by stakeholders and supporters from the zone to support his future political activities.

Former Governor Jim Nwobodo moved the motion for Governor Mbah’s endorsement, insisting that the governor should be allowed to complete what he described as a transformative eight-year development agenda for the state.

Speaking at the rally, stakeholders said Governor Mbah had translated campaign promises into measurable achievements across critical sectors of the economy, including infrastructure, education, healthcare, transportation, technology, security and agriculture.

They also cited what they described as a productive working relationship between the Enugu State Government and the administration of President Tinubu, noting that the partnership had attracted federal projects, strategic appointments and interventions to the state.

Chairman of the Planning Committee, Deacon Okey Ogbodo, said the unprecedented turnout reflected widespread appreciation for the direction of governance in the state.

“Across all sectors, the evidence of transformational leadership is speaking louder than propaganda. The people can see the difference. The people can testify that Enugu State is moving forward with confidence and speed,” he said.

“Indeed, if it were possible to borrow governors, other states would have been lining up to borrow our governor.”

Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, also praised the administration’s development strides, describing the rally as an expression of gratitude by the people of Enugu East Senatorial District.

In his remarks, former Senate President Ken Nnamani strongly backed Governor Mbah’s re-election bid, describing him as a visionary leader with a clear development agenda for the state.

Nnamani argued that leadership should be based on competence, integrity and proven performance rather than political sentiment or personal grievances.

“I am one of those who said that Mbah has vision and he is rich in ideas and educational strategy,” he said.

“Anybody aspiring to govern must present a clear vision and demonstrate the capacity to lead. As far as I can see, we have only one candidate who is running for governor, and that is Governor Peter Mbah. We won’t use the governorship seat to try our luck.”

Echoing similar sentiments, elder statesman and former Governor of old Anambra State, Senator Jim Nwobodo, urged political actors considering contesting against Mbah in 2027 to reconsider their ambitions.

According to him, the governor’s performance has earned him support across political party lines.

“Everyone will vote for Peter Mbah – APC, PDP, NDC, ADC and the rest because you have performed wonderfully well,” Nwobodo declared.

“Enugu West had two terms and Nsukka Zone also had two terms. We must be allowed to complete our own two terms.”

Responding to the endorsements, Governor Mbah thanked the people for the confidence they reposed in him during the 2023 governorship election, recalling that he had only a vision to present at the time.

He said the support of the people enabled his administration to pursue an ambitious development agenda that has since produced tangible results across the state.

According to the governor, projects such as Smart Green Schools, improved healthcare infrastructure, road construction, water supply schemes, modern transport terminals and the launch of Enugu Air have begun transforming the state’s economic and social landscape.

“You took a leap of faith when you entrusted me with leadership. Today, we are seeing the results of that faith,” he said.

“Smart Green Schools in every ward; healthcare moving closer to families; roads connecting communities; water returning where people waited too long; modern transport terminals served by air-conditioned buses with Wi-Fi; Enugu Air opening new pathways to the world; investors arriving; conferences coming; businesses taking a fresh look at Enugu — and the list goes on.”

The governor also announced that the state would soon commence work on a 660-megawatt coal-fired power plant aimed at improving electricity supply and driving industrial growth.

“A few days from now, we will break ground on a 660MW coal-fired power plant that moves us closer to a future where our people no longer plan their lives around darkness,” he stated.

“In a literal sense, the lights will go on in Enugu permanently.”

Governor Mbah also commended President Tinubu’s economic reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda, describing them as difficult but necessary measures that have increased the capacity of states to deliver development projects.

“By taking difficult decisions and freeing up resources that had long been trapped in an unsustainable subsidy system, he has given states greater agency, both in the responsibility and the resources to act,” he said.

Looking ahead to the 2027 elections, Mbah urged residents to remain united and focused on protecting the gains already recorded, warning against divisive politics and what he described as political opportunism.

“Political cowboys will surface. Some will bring noise; some will bring anger; some will bring division. We will bring results,” the governor said.

“Our answer must be clarity. Our answer must be unity. Our answer must be the work.”

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated the Founder and General Superintendent of the Deeper Christian Life Ministry, Pastor William Folorunso Kumuyi, on his 85th birthday, describing him as a remarkable servant of God whose ministry has transformed millions of lives worldwide.

In a statement issued on Saturday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President praised Pastor Kumuyi’s enduring legacy of faith, wisdom and dedication to Christian service spanning more than five decades.

Tinubu noted that the cleric’s unwavering commitment to evangelism, discipleship and spiritual development has helped build one of Nigeria’s most influential Christian ministries.

The President also highlighted the global reach of the Global Crusade with Kumuyi (GCK), describing it as a platform that has extended hope, encouragement and spiritual guidance to millions of people beyond Nigeria’s borders.

“As the convener of Global Crusade with Kumuyi (GCK), your voice has reached beyond the church walls and national borders, bringing hope and encouragement to millions across the world,” Tinubu said.

He further commended Pastor Kumuyi for his numerous publications and teachings, which he said have illuminated minds, inspired hearts and provided timeless guidance to people seeking truth and purpose.

According to the President, the respected cleric’s ministry has positively impacted countless lives, strengthened families, inspired leaders and nurtured generations of believers.

“Your writings have illuminated minds, inspired hearts and provided timeless guidance to those seeking truth and purpose,” he stated.

Tinubu prayed for continued divine strength, good health, peace and grace for the Deeper Life founder as he marks the milestone age of 85.

“On this special day, I pray that Almighty God continues to grant you strength, divine health, peace and abundant grace,” the President added.

Pastor Kumuyi is widely regarded as one of Africa’s most influential Christian leaders, with a ministry that has expanded across several continents through evangelism, teaching and humanitarian outreach.

ABAKALIKI, Nigeria (NPA) — The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ebonyi State has welcomed a recent Court of Appeal ruling which reaffirmed the party’s internal processes and leadership structure.

In a statement issued by the State Publicity Secretary, Hon. Nwafor Richard Nwali, the party said the judgment nullified the purported National Caretaker Committee led by Samuel Nnaemeka Anyanwu and Muhammed Abdurahaman.

According to the party, the ruling reinforces the authority of the Interim National Working Committee (INWC) led by Kabiru Tanimu Turaki (SAN), which it described as the legitimate leadership of the PDP.

The Ebonyi PDP, under the leadership of High Chief Onyema Peter Nwele, expressed support for the court’s decision, noting that it underscores the right of political parties to manage their internal affairs in line with democratic principles.

“The judiciary’s recognition of the party’s authority to manage its internal affairs underscores the resilience of democratic institutions,” the statement said.

The party urged members across the country, particularly at the grassroots level, to remain committed to the ideals and vision of the PDP, which it described as a platform capable of restoring effective democratic governance in Nigeria.

The Ebonyi chapter also called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to immediately update its records and website to reflect what it described as the party’s lawful leadership structure in line with the court ruling.

It further urged individuals affected by the judgment to desist from presenting themselves as leaders of the party and avoid actions capable of creating confusion within its ranks.

The party also reaffirmed its support for the zoning arrangement in Ebonyi State, insisting that the PDP governorship ticket remains reserved for the Ebonyi North Senatorial Zone.

The statement stressed the party’s commitment to transparent leadership, peace and grassroots mobilisation as part of efforts to strengthen public confidence and reposition the PDP ahead of future elections.

The Ebonyi PDP called on its supporters to remain united and continue contributing to the growth and development of the party across the state and the country.

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has issued a detailed clarification following disputes that trailed its recent primary election, where some aspirants alleged they were sidelined.

In a statement titled “Understanding the Just Concluded NDC Primary Elections” and signed by Barrister Ikenna Alex‑Morgan Enekweizu, National Secretary, the party described itself as Nigeria’s fastest‑growing political movement, committed to leadership, consultation, inclusiveness, and consensus‑building. It emphasised that its operations are guided by an established stakeholder leadership structure with caucus heads across all states.

Highlighting the South‑East zone, the party noted that its presidential candidate, His Excellency Peter Obi, entered the NDC with a respected leadership framework comprising elder statesmen and political leaders serving as caucus heads. These include Chief Onyema Ugochukwu (Abia), Dr Sam Egwu (Ebonyi), Dr Okwesilieze Nwodo (Enugu), and Chief Achike Udenwa (Imo), while Obi’s team coordinates the process in Anambra State. These leaders were tasked with consultations, consensus‑building, and recommendations based on the political dynamics of their states.

The party stressed that the process was conducted without prejudice to aspirants’ rights. Those who disagreed with caucus recommendations were free to test their popularity at the grassroots level, and such democratic participation was duly accommodated. The NDC insisted that its National Secretariat never imposed candidates, but rather directed aspirants to engage with caucus leaders, stakeholders, and grassroots members.

Reaffirming its affirmative action policy, the party highlighted efforts to encourage female participation and support serving parliamentarians. It acknowledged reports of aspirants prematurely declaring candidacy and complaints about aspects of the process, noting that these issues were addressed by the appeal panel and party leadership.

At its recent NEC meeting, the NDC resolved to commence a comprehensive reconciliation process. The party called on caucus leaders, state chairmen, and stakeholders to engage all aspirants in the interest of unity, cohesion, and continued growth. It reiterated that grievances should be channelled through state caucuses for resolution, underscoring its commitment to transparency and inclusiveness.

STRASBOURG, France (NPA) — Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has called on the European Union to adopt a new approach to its relationship with Africa, arguing that strong leadership and accountable governance remain the continent’s most pressing challenges.

Obi made the remarks on Thursday while addressing members of the European Parliament in Strasbourg, France, where he advocated deeper Africa-EU cooperation built on genuine partnership, democratic values and sustainable development.

Speaking before lawmakers, the former Anambra State governor described Africa as “the last frontier of global development,” noting that despite its vast natural resources and youthful population, the continent continues to face significant developmental setbacks due largely to leadership failures.

According to Obi, Africa’s greatest challenge is not a shortage of resources or human capital but the absence of effective governance structures capable of driving economic growth and institutional development.

“A developed Nigeria would benefit Europe more than anyone else,” Obi told the parliamentarians, highlighting the close geographical and economic ties between Africa and Europe.

He urged European leaders to move beyond traditional aid-based relationships and embrace partnerships focused on good governance, youth empowerment, economic opportunity and democratic accountability.

Obi stressed that a stable and prosperous Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation and largest economy, would generate mutual benefits for both continents through enhanced trade, security cooperation and economic development.

He also called for sustained dialogue between African and European stakeholders, saying meaningful collaboration is essential to addressing shared challenges and unlocking new opportunities.

The engagement formed part of a series of high-level meetings held in Strasbourg, where Obi interacted with members of several European Parliament committees, including those responsible for Foreign Affairs, Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs, Development, Transport and Tourism, as well as the Africa-EU Delegation.

Obi, recently unveiled as the presidential candidate of the NDC, has continued to promote his agenda centred on governance reform, economic productivity and youth inclusion under his “A New Nigeria Is Possible” vision.

Political observers say the European Parliament appearance is part of his broader international engagement strategy as attention gradually shifts toward Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.

The visit also adds to a growing list of diplomatic engagements between Obi and international stakeholders, reflecting increasing global interest in Nigeria’s political future and Africa’s evolving role in global development.

MAKURDI, Nigeria (NPA) — Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, has flagged off the 2026 Fertiliser and Farm Inputs Sales and Distribution Exercise, announcing a 51 per cent subsidy on fertiliser to support farmers and boost food production across the state.

Under the programme, fertiliser will be sold to farmers at ₦28,000 per bag, significantly below market price, as part of the state government’s efforts to reduce production costs and strengthen agricultural productivity.

In a statement issued on Thursday, Governor Alia said the initiative is designed to empower farmers, increase food output, create jobs and stimulate economic growth in rural communities.

“This is about empowering our farmers, lowering production costs, increasing food production, creating jobs and strengthening the economies of our rural communities,” the governor said.

Describing Benue as the “Food Basket of the Nation,” Alia stressed the need for the state to maintain its leadership role in agricultural production through targeted investments and support programmes.

He said the government is expanding land aggregation initiatives, improving access to quality farm inputs, rehabilitating rural roads, promoting irrigation farming, supporting agro-processing and creating opportunities for youths and women in agribusiness.

According to the governor, the fertiliser and farm input distribution programme will be implemented across all 23 local government areas of the state.

He assured farmers that strict transparency measures have been put in place to ensure that genuine beneficiaries receive the subsidised inputs.

“We will not tolerate diversion, exploitation or any form of malpractice,” Alia warned.

The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to agriculture, describing the sector as the backbone of Benue’s economy and a critical driver of sustainable development.

“To all our hardworking farmers, the government is standing with you. Let us cultivate more land, produce more food, create more wealth and build a greater Benue for generations to come,” he said.

The initiative forms part of the state government’s broader strategy to enhance food security, improve livelihoods and position Benue as a leading agricultural hub in Nigeria and across Africa.