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Category: Politics

  • Tinubu lauds Ogun’s development, inaugurates Gateway Cargo Airport, Arline, and others

    Tinubu lauds Ogun’s development, inaugurates Gateway Cargo Airport, Arline, and others

    ABUJA, NIGERIA, April 5, 2026 (NPA) — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has praised the Ogun State government, describing its developmental strides as deliberate and enduring progress that Nigeria must emulate.

    The President made the disclosure following his state visit to Iperu to inaugurate the Gateway International Cargo Airport and the launch of Gateway Air and other operational assets. Tinubu commended Governor Dapo Abiodun’s administration for its vision and consistency. He noted that the new cargo airport is proof of what is possible when discipline meets ambition. “Our investment is about our people. Today’s foundation is for tomorrow’s prosperity,” he said.

    Tinubu emphasized that true development is not about noise but about decisions that improve lives. He highlighted the state’s initiatives, from the newly launched aircraft to electric bikes, tractors, and enhanced security assets, as examples of practical and visible progress. “Development must touch every level, and I am pleased to see that principle taking shape in Ogun State,” he added.

    The president further explained that his Renewed Hope reforms are creating more resources for sub-national governments, enabling states like Ogun to deliver tangible results. “We will stay the course. We are building for people, and we are building for prosperity,” Tinubu affirmed, urging the continuation of the good work.

  • Kemi Badenoch vows to restore church funding, defend Britain’s Christian heritage

    Kemi Badenoch vows to restore church funding, defend Britain’s Christian heritage

    INTERNATIONAL, April 5, 2026 (NPA) — Kemi Badenoch, Leader of the Conservative Party, has declared that Britain is a Christian country, pledging that her party will continue to honour the nation’s Christian heritage through concrete action rather than words alone.

    In her Easter message, Badenoch announced plans to restore funding for the Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme, which had recently been capped by the government. She emphasized that local churches must be properly maintained and repaired, underscoring their role not only as places of worship but also as vital centres of community life.

    “Churches matter,” she said, noting that in towns and villages across the United Kingdom, they stand as symbols of pride and history, often stretching back centuries. Badenoch warned that neglecting them risks losing irreplaceable heritage.

    She reiterated that the Conservative Party believes it has a responsibility to safeguard churches for future generations. “What are we for if not to conserve the very best of our country and our society for those yet to come?” she asked. Her statement concluded with a pledge: “Conservatives will protect our heritage and build a stronger country.”

  • Peter Obi urges Nigerians to hold fast to hope amid hardship in Easter message

    Peter Obi urges Nigerians to hold fast to hope amid hardship in Easter message

    ABUJA, NIGERIA, April 5, 2026 (NPA) — Mr. Peter Obi, ADC chieftain and former Labour Party presidential candidate, in his Easter message to Nigerians, urged citizens to remain steadfast in hope as they commemorate Easter amid ongoing difficulties. He prayed that the season would inspire renewed faith and strengthen belief in the possibility of a better Nigeria.

    Obi noted that as Christians mark the resurrection of Jesus Christ, even in challenging times, they must hold firmly to hope. He reminded Nigerians that “Good Friday must come before Easter Sunday,” stressing that present hardships should not define the nation’s future.

    Acknowledging the heavy burden many families face due to economic hardship, Obi said: “As we share in your struggles, we urge you not to lose heart. These difficult moments are temporary trials—our collective ‘cross’—that can lead to renewal if we remain resilient and committed to the common good.”

    He further emphasized that Nigeria continues to grapple with serious challenges, particularly in governance and its impact on daily life. Yet, Easter serves as a reminder that after sacrifice comes renewal, and after darkness comes light. According to him, a better Nigeria is achievable when citizens collectively choose accountability, compassion, and responsible leadership.

    Obi expressed confidence that, through God’s grace and the determination of the people, the journey ahead will lead to a brighter future. Though the road may be rough, he affirmed belief in a Nigeria that works for everyone.

    “May this Easter renew our faith, strengthen our resolve, and inspire us to work together for a just and prosperous nation,” his statement concluded.

  • Obi Reminds Nigerians: Tinubu Said, “If I Don’t Deliver Constant Power in Four Years, Don’t Vote for Me Again”

    Obi Reminds Nigerians: Tinubu Said, “If I Don’t Deliver Constant Power in Four Years, Don’t Vote for Me Again”

    ABUJA, NIGERIA, April 4, 2026 (NPA) — A chieftain of the All Democratic Congress (ADC) and presidential aspirant, Mr. Peter Obi, has urged Nigerians not to re-elect President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, citing his failure to deliver on his campaign promise of constant electricity.

    Obi recalled Tinubu’s 2023 pledge: “If I don’t give you constant electricity in four years, don’t vote for me for a second term.” He noted that when Tinubu assumed office, Nigeria’s power supply averaged over 4,000 megawatts with lower tariffs. Today, supply has dropped below that level while tariffs have risen, leaving Nigeria with the lowest per capita electricity consumption globally—just 144 kWh compared to Africa’s average of 617 kWh.

    In a statement, Obi pointed to Tinubu’s own remarks during a brief stop in Jos on April 2, 2026, where he visited families affected by recent attacks. Tinubu reportedly said: “You have no light here. I fly out in ten minutes.” Obi argued that the comment underscored the President’s disregard for citizens enduring prolonged blackouts.

    “At a time when Nigerians are enduring days without power, our leaders cannot even stay a few minutes without it,” the statement read.

    Obi concluded by calling for accountability and change: “Now is the time to stop incompetent leaders—those lacking the capacity and compassion—who prioritise their own comfort over the well-being of the people and make empty promises.”

  • Senator Dickson welcomes defectors into NDC, highlights national political realignment

    Senator Dickson welcomes defectors into NDC, highlights national political realignment

    ABUJA, NIGERIA, April 4, 2026 (Agency Report) — Senator Seriake Dickson, National Leader of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), on Friday formally received defectors from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Social Democratic Party (SDP), and Labour Party (LP) in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), describing the development as part of a growing national political realignment.

    Speaking to journalists after the reception in Abuja, Dickson, who represents Bayelsa West in the Senate and is a former governor of Bayelsa State, confirmed that the entire leadership structure of the SDP in the FCT had collapsed into the NDC. He described the move as both symbolic and strategic.

    “The state chairman, the FCT chairman of SDP and its entire structure, including executives, local government and ward chairmen, have all joined and have been fully integrated into the party,” Dickson said.

    He stressed that the wave of defections was not limited to the FCT but reflected a broader national trend. “What you are seeing in the FCT is happening in other states. At the right time, Nigerians will know. This is not a regional movement; it is national,” he added.

    Dickson emphasized that the NDC was built on inclusivity and national cohesion, offering a platform free from ethnic, religious, or regional bias. “This movement is for all Nigerians, without discrimination. We seek a new Nigeria driven by service, unity, development, and peace. Power is good, but it must be for service,” he said.

    The event also featured the defection of Amanda Pam, a prominent Abuja politician and former Deputy National Legal Adviser of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Pam explained that her decision followed wide consultations with stakeholders across Abuja.

    “I have served this country in different capacities. We have consulted widely on the need to join the NDC, and many believe it offers the right direction,” she said, highlighting her contributions to healthcare development in the FCT during her tenure as Mandate Secretary on Health.

    Pam expressed confidence in the NDC’s electoral prospects, declaring that Abuja voters were ready for change. NDC FCT leader Alhaji Haruna Pai described her as a formidable grassroots mobiliser whose entry would strengthen the party’s influence in the territory.

  • Nigeria to implement MoUs signed with Türkiye — Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu assures

    Nigeria to implement MoUs signed with Türkiye — Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu assures

    ABUJA, NIGERIA, April 4, 2026 (Agency Report) — The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to fully implement the Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) signed with the Republic of Türkiye earlier this year.

    Odumegwu-Ojukwu gave the assurance in a statement issued on Friday by her Special Assistant on Communication and New Media, Dr. Magnus Eze, following a courtesy visit by the Turkish Ambassador to Nigeria, Mehmet Poroy, at her office in Abuja.

    She recalled that President Bola Tinubu’s visit to Ankara on January 27, at the invitation of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, further strengthened bilateral ties and produced several agreements across strategic sectors.

    “Bilateral relations between Nigeria and Türkiye have blossomed over the years in all ramifications, and political relations remain cordial,” Odumegwu-Ojukwu said. “The MoUs signed point to the importance of implementation, ensuring both nations derive tangible benefits for their people.”

    The agreements cover cooperation in education, collaboration between Nigeria’s Foreign Service Academy and Türkiye’s Diplomacy Academy, the establishment of a Joint Economic and Trade Committee (JETCO), and protocols on military cooperation. Others include partnerships on Halal quality infrastructure, media and communications, and social services for women, children, persons with disabilities, and older persons.

  • NiDOA hails Alausa’s transformational impact in education, announces Ministerial Award

    NiDOA hails Alausa’s transformational impact in education, announces Ministerial Award

    ABUJA, NIGERIA, April 4, 2026 (Agency Report) — The Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation (NiDO) Americas – South Savannah, Georgia, has commended Dr. Morufu Alausa, Nigeria’s Minister of Education, for what it described as a transformational impact in the country’s education sector within just one year in office.

    In a statement jointly signed by Chapter President Collins Ikegwuonu and Vice-President Dr. Tomi Ademokun, NiDOA announced plans to confer the Ministerial Impact Award on Alausa in recognition of his visionary leadership, bold reforms, and contributions to advancing Nigeria’s global standing in education.

    The organisation highlighted Alausa’s initiatives aimed at shifting Nigeria’s education system from a focus on access to one centered on excellence. It praised his role as a diaspora trailblazer whose service and innovation have made the Nigerian-American diaspora proud.

    Among the achievements cited were:

    • Transition from the 6-3-3-4 system to a modern 12-year basic education model.
    • A new emphasis on technical education with an 80 percent practical / 20 percent theory approach.
    • Introduction of data-driven education planning systems.
    • Launch of the National Education Loan Fund (NELFUND).
    • Expansion of girls’ education initiatives under the AGILE programme.
    • Digital transformation of learning and administration.
    • Policy and curriculum reforms, alongside improved governance and accountability.

    NiDOA noted that these reforms were backed by verified ministry reports and measurable outcomes, describing them as evidence of Alausa’s “bold reforms and renewed national vision for education.”

    “As a distinguished leader from the diaspora, Alausa represents the excellence and global impact of Nigerian professionals abroad,” the statement read. “NiDOA South Savannah affirms its continued support for policies that empower youth, strengthen institutions, and drive sustainable national progress.”

    Alausa, a retired surgeon from Chicago, has been widely credited with driving innovation and reform in Nigeria’s education sector since assuming office. The award, NiDOA said, is both a recognition of his achievements and an encouragement to sustain momentum in transforming Nigeria’s education landscape.

  • President Tinubu urges unity, sacrifice in 2026 Easter message

    President Tinubu urges unity, sacrifice in 2026 Easter message

    ABUJA, NIGERIA, 3 April 2026 (NPA) — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on Nigerians to embrace unity, resilience, and sacrifice as the nation celebrates Easter, linking the season’s message of redemption and triumph to Nigeria’s ongoing struggles with economic and security challenges.

    In his Easter message released from the State House, today,Tinubu said the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ symbolize “the triumph of light over darkness,” a theme he argued resonates with Nigeria’s current realities.

    Acknowledging persistent threats from terrorism and banditry, Tinubu praised the Armed Forces for their sacrifices and assured citizens that his administration is investing resources and forging foreign partnerships to deliver “decisive blows” against criminal actors. He referenced his recent visit to Jos, Plateau State, where he commiserated with victims of violence and pledged better days ahead.

    “No nation can thrive where fear prevails, and no progress can be sustained without peace,” Tinubu stated, urging Nigerians to support lawful efforts and reject forces that threaten collective well-being.

    The President also addressed economic reforms, noting their immediate impact but insisting they are designed to lead to shared prosperity. He emphasized that “true transformation cannot be achieved without sacrifice,” framing current hardships as part of a path toward long-term progress.

    As Nigeria approaches another electoral cycle, Tinubu reminded political actors of their civic duty, stressing adherence to the Electoral Act and calling for choices guided by peace, stability, and continuity.

    Despite present pressures, Tinubu expressed optimism, citing economic indicators that suggest the country is “making the right choices.” He thanked citizens for their support and trust, pledging to continue serving toward a “democratically stronger, more prosperous, and safer nation.”

  • ADC insists on congresses despite INEC’s delisting of Mark-led leadership

    ADC insists on congresses despite INEC’s delisting of Mark-led leadership

    ABUJA, NIGERIA, 3 April 2026 (NPA) — The African Democratic Congress (ADC), in a public notice on Friday, informed its members that despite what it described as “INEC’s illegal actions,” the party will proceed with its congresses as scheduled. The ADC said it had duly notified Nigeria’s electoral body through letters dated 27 February 2026 and 28 March 2026.

    In the congress notice signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, and National Organising Secretary, Prince Chinedu Idigo, the ADC outlined the timetable as follows: screening of aspirants on 7 April; appeals on the screening exercise on 8 April; polling unit, ward, and local government congresses on 9 April; appeals on those congresses on 10 April; state congresses on 11 April; appeals to the state congresses on 12 April; and the party’s national convention on 14 April 2026.

    Meanwhile, the ADC criticised INEC’s delisting of the David Mark‑led leadership from its website, describing it as a sinister plot by agents of the ruling APC government to destabilise the party following the movement of H.E. Rabiu Kwankwaso to the ADC. The party alleged that the ruling APC is attempting to hijack its leadership, calling it “the only viable opposition party left in the country.” 

    It added that the plan has reached a new level of desperation in recent days, driven by fear of the ADC’s growing momentum and the possibility that Nigerians may begin to believe change is achievable.

    The ADC reaffirmed its commitment to remain law‑abiding while resisting by all lawful means any attempt to undermine its independence. “If they are not acting on his orders, President Tinubu should rein in his enforcers before it is too late,” the party said, stressing that it remains focused on its duty to Nigerians and determined to protect its democratic processes.

  • Iran’s envoy criticises Argentina’s expulsion decision, says decision influenced by US, Israel

    Iran’s envoy criticises Argentina’s expulsion decision, says decision influenced by US, Israel

    INTERNATIONAL, NIGERIA, 3 April 2026 (NPA) — Iran’s chargé d’affaires in Argentina, Mohsen Soltani Tehrani, has condemned Buenos Aires’ decision to expel him, warning that the move “does not benefit” his host country and “only makes things worse.”

    Speaking in an interview before departing Argentina for Tehran, the veteran diplomat criticised what he described as Argentina’s misguided political participation in the ongoing Iran War. “It is not a sovereign decision to join an illegal war against all international norms,” Tehrani said, accusing the Argentine government of aligning itself too closely with the United States and Israel in the Middle East conflict.

    He stressed that Iran does not object to Argentina maintaining relations with Washington or Tel Aviv, but strongly opposed the government’s declaration that Argentina is part of the aggression against Iran. “What we criticise is that the President says Argentina is part of the aggression, that he is willing to send logistical support and that ‘we are going to win the war.’ That is something very serious,” Soltani noted.

    The envoy argued that such rhetoric carries consequences even if Argentina lacks the capacity to send troops. “Just saying it has consequences. The President’s decisions may bring consequences,” he warned, adding that the stance undermines Argentina’s sovereignty and risks escalating tensions. 

    Tehrani concluded that the expulsion reflects a broader failure of diplomacy and could further isolate Argentina at a time when constructive engagement is most needed.