Category: Politics

ABAKALIKI, Nigeria (NPA) — Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru on Wednesday convened an expanded stakeholders’ meetings of the All Progressives Congress across the political zones of Ebonyi State, saying the engagements were aimed at strengthening unity within the ruling party ahead of future electoral contests.

According to the governor, the meetings were deliberate and necessary to ensure a transparent, inclusive and objective process in the nomination of candidates for various elective positions.

Nwifuru said the consultations were fruitful, with consensus candidates emerging in some areas, while discussions on other positions were deferred to allow for further consultations among party stakeholders.

The governor, who is expected to seek a second term in 2027, said the process reflected the party’s commitment to internal democracy and collective decision-making.

He stressed that the APC remained committed to ensuring that the voices of party members and the people of Ebonyi State were reflected in the selection of candidates, rather than imposing aspirants on the electorate.

“Our goal is to present individuals who truly represent the aspirations and interests of the good people of Ebonyi State,” he said.

In his closing remarks, Nwifuru commended party stakeholders for their sacrifice, maturity, cooperation and dedication to the unity and progress of the APC in the state.

He also urged party faithful to continue working together toward building a stronger APC and a more prosperous Ebonyi State.

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The Kwankwasiyya Movement, a solid political group with a widespread base in northern Nigeria advancing the ambition of former Kano State Governor Senator Rabiu Kwakwanso, has paid a solidarity visit to the Obidient Movement—another influential political pressure group within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), championing the emergence of Mr Peter Obi as Nigeria’s president in the 2027 election.

The high‑powered Kwankwasiyya delegation was led by prominent leaders including Dr Muhammad Hamisu (Coordinator, Kwankwasiyya Diaspora), Dr Habibu Sale Mai Lemo (Spokesperson), Dr Musa Gambo Hamisu Dan Zaki (Chairman, Kwankwasiyya Kano State), Dr Mansur Hassan (President, Kwankwasiyya Scholars Assembly), and Shittu Moshud Asiwaju (National Coordinator, Kwankwasiyya National Network). Others in attendance were Hon Umar Farouk Auta, Dr Daniel Moses, Hon Sani Yusuf Salihu, Engr. Saleh Wailare, and Abubakar Bichi.

Both groups are passionate about a Peter Obi/Rabiu Kwakwanso joint ticket, which they believe has the capacity to challenge and defeat incumbent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Other prominent politicians within the ADC, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Rivers State Governor Rt. Hon. Rotimi Amaechi, are also eyeing the party’s presidential ticket.

According to a statement issued by Dr Yunusa Tanko, Interim National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement Worldwide, the meeting reflects a continuing “resolve to work together towards rescuing Nigeria from the shackles of bad governance and building a New Nigeria that is possible.”

Observers note that the rare show of solidarity between two major grassroots movements signals growing momentum within the ADC, as alliances and negotiations intensify ahead of the 2027 polls.

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, CON, has restated his support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru, while urging members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to embrace unity and discipline ahead of the 2027 elections.

In a statement by Francis Nwaze, FIPMD, Senior Special Assistant to the Honourable Minister of Works (Media), on April 29, 2026, Umahi clarified that there was no directive from the President preventing aspirants from purchasing nomination forms. “I have spoken to Mr President and our governor and there was no instruction from Mr President that those who want to contest elections in Ebonyi State should be shut off from buying forms,” he said.

While affirming the democratic rights of aspirants, Umahi emphasized his political loyalty to both the President and the Governor. “In Ebonyi State, my support is to the governor as we have adopted him as sole candidate. This is the position of Mr President nationwide and our governor agrees with me,” he noted.

He stressed the importance of internal democracy, encouraging consensus where possible and direct primaries where necessary. “Dialogue and negotiation should be adopted by the governor as to possibly reach consensus among all aspirants, and where consensus is not reached, then direct primaries must take place,” Umahi added.

The Minister stressed the need for collective effort to strengthen the APC, warning against divisions. “This position is to keep the party we have suffered to build together and ensure that we are united to make big votes for all our candidates, especially the President and Governor. No one person can do this alone. We need one another,” he concluded.

LAGOS, Nigeria (NPA) — The Lagos State Safety Commission has joined the global community to commemorate World Safety Day, reaffirming its commitment to promoting safer and healthier workplaces across the state.

In a statement issued on April 28, Director‑General Lanre Mojola congratulated workers, employers, and safety advocates worldwide, describing the day as a reminder of the need to prioritise occupational safety. He noted that work‑related accidents and illnesses remain significant global challenges despite growing awareness.

Mojola explained that the observance, championed by the United Nations and the International Labour Organisation, provides an opportunity for stakeholders to strengthen preventive measures, share best practices, and renew commitments to safeguarding workers.

Highlighting this year’s theme, “Good Psychosocial Working Environments: A Pathway to Thriving Workers and Strong Organisations,” Mojola stressed that workplace safety must extend beyond physical protection to include mental well‑being, effective workload management, role clarity, and a positive organisational culture. He said the focus is on reducing psychosocial hazards such as excessive workload, poor communication, lack of support, and inadequate reward systems.

He urged organisations to view employees as partners, not merely resources, and emphasised the importance of flexible work arrangements, respect for work‑life boundaries, and avoiding demands outside official hours. He also advocated for Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs), counselling services, and stress management initiatives, noting that empathy and flexible schedules are essential in preventing burnout.

Mojola reaffirmed Lagos State’s commitment to fostering a robust safety culture by encouraging organisations to adopt modern tools and proactive strategies to reduce workplace incidents. He added that the annual commemoration underscores the importance of continuous learning, strategic planning, and sustained commitment to safety practices.

The Director‑General urged employers, employees, and stakeholders to use the observance to reassess safety protocols and invest in systems that protect lives while enhancing productivity. He reiterated that ensuring safe and healthy work environments is a shared responsibility requiring collective action and innovation.

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu‑Ojukwu as Nigeria’s new Minister of Foreign Affairs, following the resignation of Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, who stepped down to contest in the 2027 elections.

Odumegwu‑Ojukwu previously served as Minister of State in the ministry. In the same development, the President has nominated Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye as Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, subject to Senate confirmation. Enikanolaiye, from Kogi State, currently serves as Senior Special Assistant to the President on Foreign Affairs and International Relations. He is a seasoned diplomat with over three decades of service, having held postings in Addis Ababa, Belgrade, Ottawa, London, and New Delhi, and previously served as Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

According to a statement by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President (Information & Strategy), the appointments are part of efforts to reposition Nigeria’s foreign policy for greater efficiency, strategic engagement, and stronger global partnerships. President Tinubu congratulated the appointees and urged them to promote Nigeria’s national interest, advance economic diplomacy, foster regional stability, and safeguard the welfare of Nigerians at home and abroad.

In another development, President Tinubu has approved the removal of Mr Saidu Mohammed as Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA). He has nominated Mr Rabiu Abdullahi Umar as the new Chief Executive, subject to Senate confirmation.

The decision, made under the Petroleum Industry Act 2021, is aimed at strengthening regulatory effectiveness in the petroleum sector. Umar, a graduate of Accounting from Bayero University and alumnus of Harvard Business School, brings over 25 years of experience across energy, manufacturing, and infrastructure sectors. Pending Senate confirmation, the most senior official of the NMDPRA will oversee operations in an acting capacity.

President Tinubu thanked the outgoing chief executive for his service and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to capable leadership in key regulatory institutions to advance energy security, sector reform, and sustainable economic growth.

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has acknowledged the ruling of an Abuja Federal High Court, presided over by Justice Joyce O. Abdulmalik, which sacked the elected but yet‑to‑be inaugurated State Chairmen of the party.

In a statement issued by Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, National Publicity Secretary of the ADC, the party recalled that it had earlier clarified that the congresses did not truncate the tenure of current State Executives, who would serve out their full term before the newly elected executives are inaugurated.

The party noted that its leadership has instructed its legal team to review the judgment and advise appropriately.

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar on Tuesday visited the Abuja residence of former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, in what he described as a “fruitful engagement” with a fellow member of the African Democratic Congress.

In a post on his verified X account, Atiku said the meeting was cordial and reflective of Amaechi’s long-standing contributions to national development.

“Today, I had an engaging and fruitful audience with my dear brother, H.E. Rotimi Amaechi, at his residence in Abuja. Amaechi is a statesman whose distinguished service as a two-time Speaker, two-time Governor, and two-time Minister continues to echo in the annals of our national life,” he wrote.

The meeting comes as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections, with the Independent National Electoral Commission timetable for party primaries drawing closer. Party leaders and aspirants have stepped up consultations and alliance-building efforts across the country.

Both Atiku and Amaechi are reported to be seeking the ADC presidential ticket, while former Anambra State governor, Peter Obi, is also considered a leading contender.

Meanwhile, an Abuja court on Wednesday ruled that INEC should not recognise any factional leadership within the ADC, further deepening uncertainty within the party. The development raises concerns about the party’s ability to meet INEC’s deadline for nominating candidates.

ADC leaders have since called on the Supreme Court to expedite proceedings in the leadership dispute to enable the party remain competitive in the 2027 elections.

Atiku also expressed appreciation for the reception he received during the visit, thanking Amaechi for his “warmth, grace and generosity of spirit.”

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has endorsed Lagos State Deputy Governor, Obafemi Hamzat, as the candidate of the All Progressives Congress for the 2027 governorship election in Lagos State.

The endorsement follows a similar backing by Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, days earlier.

Tinubu’s position was conveyed in a statement issued on Tuesday by Sanwo-Olu after he and other party leaders visited the President in Abuja.

“Today, President Bola Tinubu officially endorsed my Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, as the APC candidate for the 2027 Lagos gubernatorial election,” the statement read.

Sanwo-Olu described Hamzat as a reliable and capable leader, adding that the President’s endorsement reflects strong trust and confidence in his ability to lead the state.

He expressed optimism that Hamzat would build on existing achievements and sustain the development agenda for Lagos.

“There is still much to be done, but the path ahead for Lagos is clear,” the governor said.

The endorsement is seen as a significant political signal ahead of the 2027 election, reinforcing Hamzat’s position within the ruling party as other aspirants jostle for the party’s ticket as the election draws near.

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau I. Jibrin, CFR, has outlined key takeaways from Tuesday’s plenary, which featured new bills, motions, and confirmations.

Two bills were introduced and passed first reading, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s request for $516,333,007 syndicated financing from Deutsche Bank AG for the construction of the Sokoto–Badagry super highway. The Senate later approved the financing after adopting the report of the Committee on Local and Foreign Debts.

Three motions were also considered and adopted. These included the rescission and recommittal of the Nigerian Institute of Transport Technology Bill, which was subsequently passed after addressing critical gaps. Other motions focused on the Onitsha building materials market fire in Anambra State, moved by Senator Tony Nwoye, and the renewed attacks in Lamurde LGA of Adamawa State, moved by Senator Binos Yaroe. The Senate directed the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction to provide immediate relief materials to affected traders and displaced communities.

Senator Barau commended President Tinubu’s infrastructure drive, noting that the Sokoto–Badagry super highway will boost agriculture by opening access to land and dams for crop cultivation. He also cited ongoing projects such as the reconstruction of the Abuja–Kaduna–Kano highway as evidence of the president’s commitment to national development.

Additionally, the Senate confirmed several appointments, including Lamido Abubakar Yuguda as Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Peggy Ufamina Onwu as Independent Director on the board of the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), and Amina Gamawa (Bauchi State) and Abdullahi Muktar (Kaduna State) as Commissioners in the Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission. The confirmations followed presidential requests and the adoption of committee reports screening the nominees.

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — Former Anambra State governor and presidential aspirant, Peter Obi, has raised concern over claims by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission that six out of every ten Nigerian university students are involved in internet fraud, popularly known as “419”.

Describing the revelation as “deeply troubling,” Obi said the development should not be taken lightly, warning that it points to a broader moral and systemic crisis.

He noted that Nigeria already has a limited higher education population, estimated at between 2 and 2.5 million students. If the EFCC’s claim is accurate, he said, it would mean that roughly 1.4 million young people are involved in fraudulent activities.

“This is not just a crime issue; it is a serious moral and systemic failure,” he said.

Obi questioned the societal factors driving such behaviour, including the type of role models young people are exposed to and the values being reinforced in the country.

“Young people become what they consistently see. When a system appears to reward wrongdoing, when integrity is not upheld, and when those in leadership are associated with allegations of dishonesty without consequence, it sends a dangerous message,” he stated.

According to him, such trends suggest that hard work and integrity are no longer prioritised, contributing to what he described as a collapse in moral values.

Citing the ancient Greek philosopher Socrates, Obi added, “An unexamined life is not worth living,” urging Nigeria to reflect on its current trajectory.

The former governor emphasised that the issue should not be framed as condemnation of young people, but rather as a reflection of leadership failures.

“This is about acknowledging that leadership sets the tone. If integrity is not demonstrated at the top, it cannot be expected at the bottom,” he said.

Obi called for urgent efforts to rebuild Nigeria’s value system, enforce accountability without bias, and create an environment where honesty, hard work and discipline are rewarded.

He stressed that such reforms are essential to securing the country’s future.