New Post Africa

Category: Politics

  • Shettima calls on PR professionals to foster public trust at NIPR Week

    Shettima calls on PR professionals to foster public trust at NIPR Week

    ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — Vice President Kashim Shettima has called on public relations practitioners in Nigeria to communicate government policies with clarity and professionalism, stressing that effective communication is vital to fostering public confidence and trust.

    Speaking on Tuesday at the 3rd Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) Week in Kaduna, hosted by Governor Uba Sani, Shettima underscored the indispensability of public relations in governance. He warned that policies and reforms that are poorly explained often lead to public distrust and resistance.

    “As a government, we regard public relations as a strategic function of governance. It is integral to building trust, managing uncertainty, and sustaining reform,” the Vice President said. He emphasised that practitioners must not only explain what government is doing, but also why it is being done, how it serves the public good, and the role of citizens in its success.

    Shettima highlighted that reforms undertaken by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration can only succeed if citizens understand their purpose and benefits. He urged PR professionals to frame government initiatives in ways that resonate with the public, thereby strengthening democratic governance and reform outcomes.

    During the event, the Vice President also commissioned the newly built Brigadier Abba Kyari Banquet Hall at the Sir Kashim Ibrahim House (Government House), Kaduna. He commended the NIPR for its role in advancing professional standards in communication and for providing a platform to discuss the evolving responsibilities of public relations in national development.

    Shettima’s remarks reinforced the government’s recognition of communication as a cornerstone of reform. He noted that effective engagement with citizens is essential to sustaining confidence in governance, particularly at a time when Nigeria is undergoing significant economic and social transformation.

    The NIPR Week 2026 brought together practitioners, policymakers, and stakeholders to deliberate on the role of public relations in shaping public perception and strengthening national unity. The Vice President’s charge is expected to galvanise PR professionals to adopt more strategic approaches in communicating reforms and policies to the Nigerian public.

  • Enugu leaders visit Aso Rock, back Tinubu’s 2027 re‑election bid

    Enugu leaders visit Aso Rock, back Tinubu’s 2027 re‑election bid

    ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — Political leaders from Enugu State have pledged their full support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re‑election in 2027, describing his administration as transformative and committed to Nigeria’s economic prosperity.

    Governor Peter Mbah led a high‑powered delegation to the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Tuesday. The delegation included Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh; Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke; former Senate President, Ken Nnamani; former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla; and former Governors Sullivan Chime and Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi. Former Governor of old Anambra State, Jim Nwobodo, members of the National Assembly, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and academics were also present.

    President Tinubu, in his remarks, thanked the delegation for their solidarity and commended Governor Mbah for aligning with the governing All Progressives Congress (APC). He noted that testimonies of growth and infrastructural development across states validate the impact of his administration’s economic reforms. Tinubu highlighted improvements in health, education, and infrastructure, stressing that reforms are yielding tangible results.

    The President assured the delegation of continued federal support, particularly in infrastructure projects such as the Port Harcourt–Enugu railway line and power sector reforms. He emphasised that long‑term developmental goals are now achievable with improved funding mechanisms for states.

    Tinubu praised Governor Mbah’s efforts to tackle insecurity and enhance healthcare and education, describing him as a visionary leader.

    Governor Mbah, in his address, said the visit symbolised Enugu’s gratitude for the President’s investment in the state and his commitment to bridging political divides. He recalled Tinubu’s January 2025 visit to Enugu, during which several landmark projects were inaugurated, noting that the interventions boosted socio‑economic development.

    Mbah declared that Enugu’s citizens stand firmly behind the President and will support his re‑election in 2027.

    Former Senate President Ken Nnamani echoed this sentiment, stressing that the achievements in Enugu would not have been possible without federal backing. He affirmed that the state’s leaders and citizens are united in their support for Tinubu’s second‑term ambition.

    The visit is widely seen as a significant boost to President Tinubu’s re‑election campaign and the APC’s prospects in the 2027 polls, particularly as the opposition African Democratic Congress (ADC) seeks to challenge the incumbent’s hold on power.

  • Peter Obi warns against NBC’S “attempt to silence media,” says yesterday’s democracy advocates now oppress the press

    Peter Obi warns against NBC’S “attempt to silence media,” says yesterday’s democracy advocates now oppress the press

    ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — Prominent African Democratic Congress (ADC) leader and 2027 presidential aspirant Mr Peter Obi has cautioned that Nigeria is “drifting dangerously” following the Formal Notice issued last week by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to broadcasters.

    In a statement titled “Yesterday’s Advocates of Democracy, Today’s Oppressor of the Press”, Obi said the directive comes at a time when Nigeria should be strengthening democratic institutions, not undermining them. He described the notice, particularly in the context of the approaching general elections, as “very troubling.”

    Obi, who contested the 2023 presidential election under the Labour Party, stressed that a free and responsible media should never be treated as an enemy of government. “The media is the conscience of the nation,” he said, warning that attempts to stifle voices, moderate opinions, or intimidate journalists under the guise of regulation only weaken Nigeria’s fragile democracy.

    He argued that institutions exist to serve the people, not governments, and urged authorities to focus on addressing insecurity, economic hardship, and the frustrations of young Nigerians rather than controlling media narratives.

    “Nigeria does not need stronger control. Nigeria needs stronger institutions. I stand in solidarity with Nigeria’s media houses and broadcasters who are resisting this attempt to silence independent voices and restrict free expression,” Obi declared.

    He concluded by calling for a return to transparency, accountability, and independence across government agencies. “We cannot continue to endanger our democracy,” he said.

  • African Union commission signs MoU with KAICIID to advance dialogue and peace

    African Union commission signs MoU with KAICIID to advance dialogue and peace

    ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia (NPA) — The African Union Commission (AUC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz International Centre for Interreligious and Intercultural Dialogue (KAICIID), aimed at strengthening cooperation in promoting dialogue as a foundation for peace, stability, and sustainable development across Africa.

    Speaking at the signing ceremony on 20 April 2026, AUC Deputy Chairperson H.E. Selma Malika Haddadi described the agreement as a milestone in advancing shared commitments to conflict prevention, social cohesion, and inclusive governance.

    “This Agreement reflects more than institutional cooperation; it affirms a common strategic vision that interreligious and intercultural dialogue is indispensable to conflict prevention, social cohesion, and the building of resilient, inclusive societies,” Haddadi said.

    Guided by Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want, the MoU underscores key principles, including:

    • Promoting dialogue and tolerance as tools for conflict resolution.
    • Engaging governments, civil society, faith-based actors, and citizens in shaping peace.
    • Empowering youth and women as central actors in mediation and resilience.
    • Translating commitments into practical cooperation through joint programmes, capacity-building, and knowledge exchange.

    The partnership builds on earlier cooperation between the AU and KAICIID dating back to 2016, and a formal MoU signed in 2019. Haddadi noted that the renewed agreement reflects a determination to counter the misuse of religion and culture as drivers of conflict, instead harnessing them as forces for reconciliation and human solidarity.

    She emphasised that the collaboration will provide a structured platform for scaling initiatives through the Citizens and Diaspora Organisations Directorate (CIDO) and the Economic, Social and Cultural Council (ECOSOCC), ensuring dialogue is anchored both at policy level and within communities.

    “This Memorandum is not an endpoint, but a platform for actions anchored in shared values, mutual respect, and a firm commitment to advancing peace through dialogue,” Haddadi concluded.

  • Jimoh Ibrahim presents Letter of Credence, assumes role as Nigeria’s UN Permanent Representative

    Jimoh Ibrahim presents Letter of Credence, assumes role as Nigeria’s UN Permanent Representative

    NEW YORK, USA (NPA) — Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Dr Jimoh Ibrahim, CFR, has formally presented his Letter of Credence to UN Secretary-General António Guterres in New York, marking his official assumption of office.

    In a statement, Ibrahim wrote: “I had the honour of presenting my Letter of Credence to the Secretary-General of the United Nations in New York, USA, officially assuming my role as Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations.”

    The former Senator representing Ondo South noted that the presentation symbolises Nigeria’s renewed voice, commitment, and presence in global diplomacy.

    Appointed as part of the Federal Government’s effort to strengthen Nigeria’s diplomatic footprint, Ibrahim brings a blend of private-sector experience and public service to the role. A lawyer, businessman, and politician, he is expected to advance Nigeria’s interests on key international issues.

    His appointment is regarded as strategic, particularly as Nigeria seeks stronger influence in multilateral diplomacy, peacekeeping, and economic cooperation. As Permanent Representative, Ibrahim will engage in high-level negotiations, represent Nigeria at the UN General Assembly, and promote the country’s positions on security, development, and global governance reforms.

  • Amnesty International accuses NBC of attempting to gag journalists with Formal Notice

    Amnesty International accuses NBC of attempting to gag journalists with Formal Notice

    ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — Amnesty International has strongly condemned what it described as the latest “outrageous and desperate attempt” by Nigeria’s National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to gag journalists and the media, following the issuance of a controversial formal notice to broadcasters dated 17 April 2026.

    The rights organisation said the commission has no authority to dictate how journalists should carry out their work.

    “The notice, which targets political broadcasts and anchors of current affairs programmes, imposes unduly restrictive and invasive controls on the media. The bizarre directive is an attempt to pressure journalists and media organisations into self-censorship,” Amnesty stated.

    It emphasised that Nigeria’s vibrant broadcast media, with its independent editorial content, enables citizens to freely seek, debate, and share information, as guaranteed under the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.

    Amnesty called on Nigerian authorities to stop using the NBC in what it described as an “unrelenting quest” to silence journalists and media organisations vital to maintaining an independent and diverse media space.

    “The latest threat issued by NBC is authoritarian and unconstitutional. Broadcasters must continue doing their job fiercely and independently, without fear,” the statement concluded.

  • OGSG congratulates Governor Abiodun on endorsement as consensus candidate for 2027 senate race

    OGSG congratulates Governor Abiodun on endorsement as consensus candidate for 2027 senate race

    ABOEKUTA, Nigeria (NPA) — The Ogun State Government (OGSG) New Media Team has congratulated Governor Dapo Abiodun on his endorsement by Ogun East APC stakeholders as their consensus candidate for the Ogun East Senatorial District election in 2027.

    In a statement signed by SF Ojo Emmanuel A., Senior Special Assistant on New Media to the Governor, the team described the endorsement as a resounding vote of confidence in Abiodun’s purposeful leadership, remarkable achievements in office, and commitment to inclusive governance, party unity, and people-centred development.

    The group noted that the broad-based gathering of party leaders, elected officials, grassroots mobilisers, women, youth leaders, and stakeholders across Ogun East spoke with one voice in adopting the governor for the Senate. It described the decision as both historic and well-deserved, reflecting the trust and admiration he commands within the party and among the people.

    “We celebrate this significant political milestone and pray that God continues to grant Your Excellency greater wisdom, strength, and grace for the tasks ahead. May this endorsement mark the beginning of even greater service to Ogun State and Nigeria at large,” the statement added.

  • OK Movement unveils national structures backing Obi–Kwankwaso ticket

    OK Movement unveils national structures backing Obi–Kwankwaso ticket

    ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The OK Movement, a political group advocating for the emergence of Mr. Peter Obi and Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso as presidential and vice-presidential candidates under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has formally unveiled its national structures to advance their political ambitions ahead of the 2027 elections.

    In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Justin Ijeh, the group described itself as a “bold, people-powered political force” committed to uniting Nigerians across divides to confront economic hardship, restore accountable leadership, and drive national renewal.

    The statement noted that Nigeria faces a defining moment, with citizens enduring rising living costs, insecurity, and economic volatility. The unveiling of national and state structures, it said, marks “the birth of a coordinated, nationwide engine for systemic reform and national rebirth.”

    The OK Movement emphasized unity over division, rejecting tribalism, regionalism, and religious sentiment. It pledged to mobilize Nigerians from grassroots to the capital, fostering integrity, competence, and collective responsibility.

    Quoting the third stanza of Nigeria’s National Anthem, the group said its vision is to build “a nation where no man is oppressed, and so, with peace and plenty, Nigeria may be blessed.”

    The movement announced that state chapters will be inaugurated in the coming weeks, inviting Nigerians who believe “our current reality need not be our final destiny” to join.

    Mr. Obi and Senator Kwankwaso continue to enjoy strong support among ADC leaders and a large youth following, who see them as symbols of change against the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

  • Botswana President Boko to embark on state visit to Zimbabwe

    Botswana President Boko to embark on state visit to Zimbabwe

    GABORONE, Botswana (NPA) — The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade has announced a State Visit by the President of the Republic of Botswana, H.E. Duma Gideon Boko, to Zimbabwe from 21–23 April 2026, aimed at deepening economic cooperation between the two countries.

    According to a statement issued by the ministry, a State Banquet will be hosted in honour of President Boko as part of activities marking the visit.

    During the State Visit, President Dr. Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa and President Duma Boko will jointly preside over the 5th Session of the Zimbabwe–Botswana Bi-National Commission (BNC), focusing on strengthening collaboration in key transformative sectors.

    The BNC will be preceded by Senior Officials’ Meetings on 19–20 April 2026 and a Ministerial segment on 21 April 2026, setting the stage for high-level discussions.

    President Boko will also serve as Guest of Honour at the official opening of the 66th Edition of the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair, scheduled for 23 April 2026 at the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre in Bulawayo.

    “H.E. President Mnangagwa and the people of Zimbabwe welcome President Boko to the Republic of Zimbabwe,” the statement concluded.

  • SERAP urges Tinubu to withdraw NBC directive to broadcaster, warns of threat to press freedom

    SERAP urges Tinubu to withdraw NBC directive to broadcaster, warns of threat to press freedom

    ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged President Bola Tinubu to order the immediate withdrawal of a recent directive issued by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), warning that it poses a threat to press freedom and democratic discourse.

    SERAP, a nonpartisan advocacy organisation, said the NBC’s “Formal Notice” to broadcasters, issued on April 17, 2026, imposes vague and unjustified restrictions on journalists and media houses, including sanctions over the expression of personal opinions, alleged intimidation of guests and failure to maintain neutrality.

    In a letter dated April 18 and signed by its Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, the organisation called on the president to direct the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris Malagi, and the NBC to withdraw the notice and refrain from imposing what it described as prior censorship on the media.

    The group also urged the government to review and amend sections of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code cited in the directive to ensure compliance with the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Nigeria’s international human rights obligations.

    SERAP argued that the NBC’s directive represents an attempt to suppress legitimate journalistic expression, particularly ahead of the 2027 general elections, warning that it could undermine Nigerians’ right to access diverse information and engage in open debate.

    According to the organisation, the provisions relied upon by the NBC are vague, overly broad and open to arbitrary interpretation, failing to meet the legal standards of necessity, proportionality and legitimacy required in a democratic society.

    It noted that the Nigerian Constitution, alongside international instruments such as the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, guarantees the right to receive and impart information without interference, including the expression of opinions.

    SERAP maintained that journalistic opinion, commentary and analysis are essential elements of media practice and democratic engagement, stressing that a blanket restriction on presenters expressing personal views amounts to prior restraint.

    The organisation also raised concerns over provisions relating to “bullying” or “intimidation,” arguing that the lack of clear definitions could criminalise legitimate and critical questioning, a core feature of investigative journalism.

    It warned that the threat of sanctions for broadly defined infractions could create a chilling effect on journalists, encourage self-censorship and weaken the media’s role as a public watchdog.

    SERAP gave the Federal Government 48 hours to act on its recommendations or risk legal action, reiterating that any regulatory framework must balance accountability with the protection of fundamental rights and freedom of expression.