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Category: Politics

  • Lagos launches Africa’s first Flood Risk Insurance Scheme for vulnerable residents

    Lagos launches Africa’s first Flood Risk Insurance Scheme for vulnerable residents

    LAGOS, Nigeria (NPA) — The Lagos State Government has launched what it described as Africa’s first Flood Risk Insurance Policy aimed at providing rapid financial assistance to vulnerable residents affected by flooding across the state.

    Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu described the initiative as a major shift from reactive disaster response to proactive climate risk management, saying the programme was designed to protect lives, livelihoods and critical infrastructure in flood-prone communities.

    Speaking during the launch at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Sanwo-Olu said the insurance policy would ensure support reaches flood victims swiftly and transparently whenever disasters occur.

    Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, the governor disclosed that the scheme would cover more than four million vulnerable residents across seven high-risk local government areas, including Ajeromi-Ifelodun, Alimosho, Amuwo-Odofin, Apapa, Kosofe, Ojo and Somolu.

    According to the state government, the programme provides potential payouts of up to $7.5 million for each flood event.

    Sanwo-Olu noted that beneficiaries would not pay premiums or complete complicated documentation processes, explaining that the initiative is fully funded by the state government using existing social registers, including the Lagos State Residents Registration Agency database.

    He also urged the Federal Government and other states to adopt similar models to strengthen climate resilience nationwide.

    Commissioner for Finance Abayomi Oluyomi described the initiative as a strategic fiscal protection mechanism capable of improving emergency response and post-disaster recovery.

    He warned that Lagos remains increasingly vulnerable to climate-related threats such as sea-level rise and extreme rainfall, with projections suggesting climate inaction could cost the state up to $40 billion by 2050.

    The commissioner disclosed that the German Government, through the InsuResilience Solutions Fund, would finance 90 percent of the insurance premium in the first year, while Lagos State covers the remaining 10 percent.

    Special Adviser to the Governor on Sustainable Development Goals, Oreoluwa Finnih, described the programme as a major milestone in promoting fiscal sustainability and climate resilience.

    Finnih said the scheme would deploy satellite technology for transparency while covering pluvial, fluvial and coastal flooding.

    The programme will also support direct household relief and restoration of damaged public infrastructure through integration with the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency.

    Representatives of the United Nations Development Programme, the European Union, the German Government, the World Bank and the African Development Bank attended the launch event alongside private sector insurance partners.

    Officials said the initiative emerged from collaborations developed after engagements at COP27 in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, as part of efforts to build a resilient and future-ready Lagos.

  • Supreme Court restores David Mark‑led ADC leadership as Atiku, party hail ruling

    Supreme Court restores David Mark‑led ADC leadership as Atiku, party hail ruling

    ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The Supreme Court of Nigeria on Thursday restored the leadership structure of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) led by former Senate President David Mark, after setting aside an earlier order of the Court of Appeal directing parties to maintain the status quo ante bellum.

    In its ruling, the apex court held that the preservative order issued by the lower court was unnecessary and improper, especially after the appeal before it had already been dismissed. Delivering judgment, Justice Mohammed Garba stated that there was effectively “nothing left” for the appellate court to preserve at the time the order was made.

    The Supreme Court consequently vacated the directive and ordered that the substantive leadership dispute be returned to the Federal High Court for hearing on its merits. The ruling effectively restores the David Mark‑led structure, including former Osun State governor Rauf Aregbesola, who serves as National Secretary, pending the outcome of the substantive suit.

    The court emphasized that preservative or status quo orders can only be issued where a valid subject matter requires protection. “Giving such an order in an appeal it had already dismissed was unnecessary, unwarranted and improper,” it held.

    The decision carries significant implications for the ADC’s internal leadership contest ahead of political realignments and preparations for the 2027 general elections. The crisis had triggered legal battles among rival factions over control of the party’s national structure.

    As of press time, the certified true copy of the judgment had not yet been released. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar welcomed the ruling, describing it as a firm affirmation of David Mark’s leadership, while warning against complacency. He urged supporters to remain vigilant, stressing that “eternal vigilance is the price of liberty.”

    The ADC also congratulated members nationwide, calling the judgment a clear affirmation of its legitimacy under Senator Mark and Ogbeni Aregbesola. The party commended the unanimous five‑man panel of the Supreme Court, while warning that attempts to weaken opposition voices persist. It vowed to remain resolute in its mission to provide Nigerians with a credible alternative and urged members and supporters to stay vigilant.

  • Peter Obi lambasts Tinubu, says borrowing for consumption is “leprous and a killer cancer”

    Peter Obi lambasts Tinubu, says borrowing for consumption is “leprous and a killer cancer”

    ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — Former Anambra State governor and 2027 presidential hopeful, Peter Obi, has criticized the borrowing pattern of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, alleging that many of the loans obtained by the Federal Government fail to meet both legal requirements and economic prudence.

    Obi argued that the scale of borrowing under the current administration has not been matched with clear evidence showing how the funds would improve Nigeria’s productive capacity or the welfare of citizens.

    In a statement released on Thursday and titled “When Borrowing is Leprosy and Cancerous,” the former Labour Party presidential candidate warned that debt becomes dangerous when used for consumption rather than productive investment.

    “Borrowing is not only a leprosy, but a killer cancer when it is borrowed for consumption and not production as it is in Nigeria today,” Obi said.

    According to him, borrowing for consumption gradually weakens a nation’s economic health, damages its reputation and undermines its long-term autonomy.

    “One of the major ‘leprosy’ afflicting Nigeria today is not just debt, but debt without productivity — debt that is not tied to measurable economic value, jobs, growth, or improved living standards for the Nigerian people,” he stated.

    Obi maintained that no serious economy borrows recklessly, stressing that countries only borrow with discipline, defined objectives and sustainable repayment plans tied to productive investments.

    Citing provisions of the Fiscal Responsibility Act 2007, Obi noted that any government seeking to borrow is legally required to specify the purpose of the loan and provide a cost-benefit analysis detailing its economic and social benefits.

    Quoting directly from the law, Obi said: “Any government in the Federation or its agencies and corporations desirous of borrowing shall specify the purpose for which the borrowing is intended and present a cost-benefit analysis detailing the economic and social benefits.”

    He argued that many of the loans secured by the current administration do not adequately demonstrate how they would stimulate economic growth or improve the lives of Nigerians in measurable terms.

    The former governor further warned that Nigeria’s rising debt servicing obligations could severely constrain future economic growth and limit government capacity to invest in critical sectors.

    “What matters is not debt-to-GDP as much as debt-to-debt servicing ratio because the latter constrains our capacity to finance the sectors that drive human development and economic growth,” Obi said.

    He added that when borrowed funds are poorly utilized, the country is left servicing debts that neither generate revenue nor enhance future productive capacity.

    “If the money is wrongly spent as we do in Nigeria currently, it becomes double jeopardy because you are using current revenue to service debts that did not add to revenue or improve capacity for more production in the future,” he stated.

    Obi concluded by insisting that governments must go beyond merely defending loans and instead ensure transparency, accountability and tangible benefits to citizens. “A responsible government does not merely defend borrowing; it explains it, justifies it, and most importantly, ensures it works for the people,” he said.

  • Umahi receives new NLNG CEO, announces presidential approval for dualisation of Bodo‑Bonny Road link

    Umahi receives new NLNG CEO, announces presidential approval for dualisation of Bodo‑Bonny Road link

    ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The Minister of Works, Senator Engr. David Umahi, CON, has received the new Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG), Adeleye Falade, at the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja, using the occasion to announce fresh presidential approval for a major road project in Rivers State.

    According to a statement issued by Francis Nwaze, FIPMD, Senior Special Assistant to the Minister (Media), on April 30, 2026, the meeting focused on the completed Bodo‑Bonny Road and the next phase of development linking it to the East‑West Road, a critical route for movement of people and goods in the Niger Delta.

    Speaking during the visit, Umahi revealed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, CON has approved the dualisation of the 8.9‑kilometre road connecting Bodo‑Bonny to the East‑West Road. The project will be built with concrete and will include two flyovers, solar‑powered streetlights, and modern monitoring systems.

    He explained that part of the funds saved from the Bodo‑Bonny Road project has already been redirected to install solar lights and tree planting along the axis. Umahi stressed that the Tinubu administration is committed to constructing durable roads designed to last decades, while also enhancing safety and boosting economic activity.

    Earlier, Abdul Humaru introduced the NLNG team, noting the visit was to present the new CEO and pay a courtesy call.

    In his remarks, Falade thanked the Federal Government for its support, particularly on the Bodo‑Bonny Road, which he said has already transformed life for residents and businesses.

    He expressed readiness for continued collaboration on the new project, describing the approval as vital to maximizing the benefits of the completed road.

  • Peter Mbah rates Enugu higher on security as state becomes first to equip agents with body cameras

    Peter Mbah rates Enugu higher on security as state becomes first to equip agents with body cameras

    ENUGU, Nigeria (NPA) — Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah has reiterated his administration’s commitment to providing iron-clad security across Enugu State, highlighting the deployment of advanced security technology and surveillance infrastructure as part of efforts to safeguard lives, property and investments.

    Mbah said security has remained central to his administration’s governance strategy since assuming office, explaining that the government has invested heavily in surveillance drones, security cameras, a state‑of‑the‑art Command and Control Centre, and supporting infrastructure to ensure round‑the‑clock monitoring across the southeastern state.

    He noted that the issue of security is the biggest elephant in the room. “If we are going to realis our dream of growing this economy exponentially, we have to address it. Business don’t undertake security risks. Government, your primary responsibility is to provide security. We understood that clearly from day one,” he said.

    According to the governor, the security architecture introduced by his administration is the first of its kind in Nigeria and is designed to provide sustainable, technology-driven policing and rapid emergency response capabilities.

    In a broadcast reviewed by our correspondent, Mbah outlined his administration’s security achievements, noting that the state has deployed more than 150 distress‑response squad vehicles and established a Command‑and‑Control Centre with round‑the‑clock surveillance of identified hotspots across Enugu State. He emphasized that the scale of these measures is unmatched by any other state.

    He added that security agencies operating within the state had also been equipped with modern communication gadgets to improve coordination and operational efficiency.

    The governor further revealed that security operatives in the state had been fitted with body cameras — a development he described as the first by any state government in Nigeria — to promote accountability and ensure that security operations are conducted within the confines of the law.

    “We have spared no effort in building a security network that is fit for purpose, so that Ndi Enugu and businesses can feel safe, protected and confident,” Mbah said.

    Political and economic analysts have praised the governor, who campaigned under the “Tomorrow is Here” mantra, for what they described as responsible and responsive leadership focused on economic transformation and institutional reforms.

    Mbah’s broader economic vision is aimed at transforming Enugu into a major hub for business, tourism and quality living, with a target of increasing the state’s Gross Domestic Product from $4.4 billion to at least $30 billion within the next four to eight years.

    Since assuming office, the governor has pursued a series of ambitious projects, including the Enugu Air initiative, Smart Green Schools, innovation and technology hubs, rural road construction and urban renewal programmes aimed at stimulating sustainable economic growth.

    In the first quarter of 2026, the Enugu State Government inaugurated the Enugu Haier Factory, a $20 million Foreign Direct Investment project by Haier Global Business Group in partnership with the state government.

    The factory, located in Enugu, is expected to position the state as a production hub for smartphones, tablets, computers, smart boards, Android televisions, education and health technologies, as well as renewable energy solutions.

    Under the arrangement, the state government provided land for the facility and is expected to serve as its largest customer through the purchase of 25,000 all-in-one desktop computers and 300,000 tablets for deployment across the state’s 260 Smart Green Schools.

    Mbah described the investment as a major milestone in his administration’s efforts to reposition Enugu as a preferred destination for industry, technology and innovation-driven growth.

    Vice President of Haier Group, Sun Yongle, said the facility will initially produce about 200,000 units annually across ICT, medical equipment, and renewable energy product lines, with plans to expand the workforce to more than 200 employees.

  • Bianca Ojukwu thanks Tinubu for appointment as Foreign Affairs Minister, receives congratulations from Israel

    Bianca Ojukwu thanks Tinubu for appointment as Foreign Affairs Minister, receives congratulations from Israel

    ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — Bianca Odumegwu‑Ojukwu has expressed her profound appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu following her appointment as Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs.

    In a statement issued on April 30, 2026, she said: “I am truly honored to step into this new position, and wish to express my most profound appreciation to our Nation’s President. Your Excellency, I am truly humbled by your trust and confidence in my abilities.”

    Odumegwu‑Ojukwu noted that she looks forward to contributing to the continued success of the administration’s 4D Foreign Policy Priorities under the Renewed Hope Agenda, as well as advancing Nigeria’s citizen diplomacy imperatives. She reaffirmed her commitment to promoting Nigeria’s national interests on the global stage.

    Meanwhile, Israel’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gideon Sa’ar, has extended his congratulations to Odumegwu‑Ojukwu, expressing optimism about deepening relations between Israel and Nigeria. “I look forward to working with Minister Odumegwu‑Ojukwu to advance cooperation between our respective countries,” Sa’ar said.

  • Nwifuru moves to consolidate APC ahead of 2027 second-term bid in Ebonyi

    Nwifuru moves to consolidate APC ahead of 2027 second-term bid in Ebonyi

    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.

  • Kwankwasiyya Movement visits Obidient Group, resolves to work together

    Kwankwasiyya Movement visits Obidient Group, resolves to work together

    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.

  • Umahi reaffirms support for Tinubu, Nwifuru, urges consensus or direct primaries in Ebonyi

    Umahi reaffirms support for Tinubu, Nwifuru, urges consensus or direct primaries in Ebonyi

    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 marks 2026 World Safety Day, highlights psychosocial well‑being

    Lagos marks 2026 World Safety Day, highlights psychosocial well‑being

    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.