New Post Africa

Category: Politics

  • BREAKING: Federal Government unveils ₦20 million National Laureate Prize for exceptional students, researchers

    BREAKING: Federal Government unveils ₦20 million National Laureate Prize for exceptional students, researchers

    ABUJA, NIGERIA, 01 April 2026 (NPA) — The Federal Ministry of Education has announced the launch of the Nigeria National Laureate Annual Prize Programme, a groundbreaking initiative designed to reward exceptional academic research and innovation in the nation’s tertiary institutions.

    In a press release issued on 31 March, the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Olatunji Alausa, described the programme as a strategic effort to elevate scholarly excellence and position research as a driver of national development.

    According to Boriowo Folasade, Director of Press and Public Relations, the prize will award ₦5 million for outstanding undergraduate dissertations, ₦10 million for master’s theses, and ₦20 million for doctoral research. Winners will also receive national recognition at a high-profile gala.

    Dr Alausa emphasised that the initiative seeks to reposition academic work as a valuable national asset, encouraging innovation and intellectual contribution. The programme will be funded by the Nigeria Education Repository and Databank (NERD) and its partners, with a 10-member committee chaired by Professor Abubakar Sambo overseeing submissions, evaluations, and selections.

    Tertiary institutions have been directed to nominate outstanding research, while the committee retains the authority to identify exceptional works independently. The 2026 cycle will begin with a call for submissions in May, followed by evaluations from June to September, and will culminate in the National Laureate Gala in Abuja this November.

    The Ministry noted that the prize marks a decisive shift in Nigeria’s academic landscape, contrasting the neglect of scholarly achievement with the lavish rewards often given to reality television contestants. 

    The new programme is a complete departure from a culture where academics are overlooked while participants in TV reality shows walk away with over a hundred million naira for appearing half-naked on national television.

  • New month, new resolve: Peter Mbah reaffirms good governance for Enugu

    New month, new resolve: Peter Mbah reaffirms good governance for Enugu

    LAGOS, NIGERIA, 01 April 2026 (NPA) — Governor of Enugu State, Dr Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to deliver on campaign promises and advance the vision of a stronger, more prosperous Enugu under his ‘Tomorrow is Here’ agenda.

    In his traditional new month message on Wednesday, Mbah wished citizens a happy April, urging them to embrace peace, renewed hope, and success. He described the new month as another opportunity to sustain the momentum of progress already set in motion across the state.

    Mbah’s broader vision is to transform Enugu into a leading hub for business, tourism, and quality living, with a target of increasing the state’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) from $4.4 billion to at least $30 billion within the next 4 to 8 years.

    Since assuming office, the governor has pursued ambitious development projects, including the Enugu Air initiative, smart schools, innovation and technology hubs, rural road construction, urban renewal schemes, and other infrastructure designed to stimulate sustainable economic growth. His message underscored the administration’s determination to build a resilient and prosperous Enugu, assuring citizens that the government remains firmly committed to advancing their collective aspirations.

  • INEC Chairman Amupitan stresses procurement integrity ahead of 2027 elections at workshop

    INEC Chairman Amupitan stresses procurement integrity ahead of 2027 elections at workshop

    LAGOS, NIGERIA, 01 April 2026 (NPA) — The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has entered the second day of its three-day capacity-building workshop for National Electoral Commissioners and senior management staff, with Chairman Prof. Joash O. Amupitan, SAN, leading deliberations on procurement integrity as a cornerstone of credible elections.

    Prof. Amupitan’s active participation underscored the Commission’s commitment to strengthening procurement systems ahead of the 2027 General Election. He emphasised that transparent procurement directly impacts the timely delivery of sensitive materials, deployment of technology, and overall logistics, noting that strict adherence to regulatory frameworks is vital for public confidence.

    Day Two featured interactive sessions in which Commissioners and Directors reflected on past challenges and shared strategies to improve compliance. Mr Nelson Ojougboh of the Bureau of Public Procurement highlighted the importance of aligning procurement with the national budget cycle, warning that non-compliance constitutes a statutory violation. He introduced revised Standard Bidding Documents to enhance transparency and efficiency.

    Prof Prince Michael Ikupolati addressed procurement risks, emphasising proactive management and the use of insurance instruments, such as performance bonds, to safeguard resources. Mrs Nanzok Bukata focused on structured planning, documentation, and transparency, stressing that clear records and due process are essential to credibility.

    The workshop reinforced INEC’s resolve to institutionalise best practices and strengthen its culture of accountability. Prof. Amupitan’s leadership signalled the Commission’s determination to ensure procurement reform supports the successful delivery of a credible and transparent 2027 electoral process.

  • Nigeria’s defence ministers storm Borno, reaffirm commitment to defeating terrorism in North East

    Nigeria’s defence ministers storm Borno, reaffirm commitment to defeating terrorism in North East

    ABUJA, NIGERIA, 01 April 2026 (NPA) — The Minister of Defence, Major General Christopher Musa, and the Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Muhammad Matawalle, paid an operational visit to Headquarters Theatre Command, Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) in Maiduguri on 31 March 2026. The visit aimed to assess ongoing operations, reinforce government commitment to the fight against terrorism, and engage key stakeholders.

    The Ministers began with a courtesy call on the Shehu of Borno, expressing gratitude for his support to the Armed Forces and acknowledging the resilience of the people. They later met the Deputy Governor at the Borno State Government House, who conveyed appreciation for the sacrifices of troops. The Ministers assured of intensified efforts to enhance security and strengthen collaboration with the state government.

    In honour of fallen heroes, they laid wreaths at the Military Cemetery in Maiduguri, underscoring national gratitude for troops who paid the supreme price. At OPHK Headquarters, Theatre Commander Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar briefed them on recent operations, including the neutralisation of over 280 terrorists during Ramadan, the disruption of logistics networks, and the rescue of abducted civilians.

    According to a statement on Wednesday, Major General Christopher Musa commended the Armed Forces for their professionalism and resilience, stressing the need for sustained national support. The visit also featured an inspection of the new Command and Control Centre and commissioning of family accommodation for troops, reflecting the government’s commitment to improved welfare and morale.

  • Nigeria government pledges strong measures after the Jos North attack

    Nigeria government pledges strong measures after the Jos North attack

    ABUJA, NIGERIA, 31 March 2026 (NPA) — The Federal Government has expressed deep concern over the tragic attack in Angwan Rukuba, Jos North, extending condolences to the victims’ families and the people of Plateau State.

    Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Tuesday, assured Nigerians that security agencies responded swiftly. Troops under Operation Enduring Peace were mobilised immediately, cordoning off the area, securing access routes, and launching clearance operations to track down perpetrators. These actions, he said, prevented further escalation and demonstrated the government’s readiness to act decisively.

    Idris explained that the response forms part of a broader security framework in Plateau and the wider North-Central region. Reinforced surveillance, troop deployments, joint patrols, and rapid response mechanisms have been introduced to neutralise threats proactively. At the national level, the government remains committed to dismantling criminal networks through targeted military offensives and strategic deployments.

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu convened a high-level meeting with security and intelligence chiefs to review the situation and chart a lasting solution. He also invited Plateau Governor Caleb Mutfwang for further deliberations, with outcomes to be made public. Idris emphasised that these steps highlight the seriousness with which the Federal Government is treating the matter.

    The Plateau State Government has imposed a 48-hour curfew in Jos North to stabilise the environment and support operations. State authorities continue to work closely with federal agencies to prevent reprisals, restore calm, and facilitate investigations.

    While acknowledging the gravity of the incident, Idris stressed that it reflects localised tensions rather than a collapse of national security. He noted that Plateau has long faced communal challenges, but assured Nigerians that both federal and state governments are committed to restoring peace and protecting lives.

  • Two more Tinubu ministers resign to seek elective positions in 2027 

    Two more Tinubu ministers resign to seek elective positions in 2027 

    ABUJA, NIGERIA, 31 March 2026 (NPA) — Two more appointees in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s government have stepped down to meet the deadline set for officials seeking elective positions in the 2027 elections.

    The latest resignations include Hon. Lawan Kolo Geidam, Mandate Secretary of the Youth and Sports Secretariat of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), who will contest the Yobe State Governorship election, and Senator Saidu Ahmed Alkali, Minister of Transportation, who is vying for the Gombe State Governorship race.

    Their departures follow that of the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, who resigned earlier to pursue elective office. In his resignation letter submitted to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Tuggar expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for the opportunity to serve and contribute to the implementation of the administration’s 4D foreign policy strategy.

  • Tinubu condemns Plateau and Kaduna attacks, orders intensified security response

    Tinubu condemns Plateau and Kaduna attacks, orders intensified security response

    ABUJA, 31 March 2026 (NPA) — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has strongly condemned the recent attacks by gunmen in Angwan Rukuba District, Jos North, Plateau State, and in Kahir village, Kagarko Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

    The President described the assault in Jos and the abduction and killing of wedding guests in Kaduna as “barbaric and cowardly acts” that strike at the heart of Nigeria’s values and will not go unpunished.

    “Anyone who sneaks under the cover of night to kill defenceless citizens, as done in Jos and Kahir village, is a heartless coward. By targeting soft communities, their aim is not only to inflict harm but also to provoke reprisals and escalate bloodshed,” Tinubu said.

    He directed security agencies to intensify efforts to track down the perpetrators and warned against the spread of misinformation that could inflame tensions. He also cautioned sections of the media against framing the attacks as religiously motivated.

    According to a statement issued Tuesday by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President (Information & Strategy), Tinubu reaffirmed that security agencies are actively addressing the situation and stressed the cooperation of the public as essential to maintaining peace. He urged communities to comply with evacuation and relocation directives where necessary, and welcomed the safe return of two victims abducted in Kaduna.

    “I urge our security agencies to be more proactive in preventing these attacks by acting on early warning intelligence. All remaining abductees from Kahir village must be rescued immediately,” the President said.

    Tinubu commended Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang for his efforts in containing the situation in Jos, and Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani for supporting rescue operations. He assured both states of federal support, expressed condolences to the families of those killed, and prayed for the recovery of the injured.

    “Our government is acquiring more sophisticated equipment to enable security agencies to track and neutralise criminals in real time, wherever they may be,” he added.

  • US Congressman warns Nigeria of severe consequences after Jos attack

    US Congressman warns Nigeria of severe consequences after Jos attack

    INTERNATIONAL, 30 March 2026 (NPA) — US Congressman Riley Moore has warned that Nigeria’s relationship with the United States could face “significant consequences” if there is a repeat of the killings in Jos North, Plateau State, where over a dozen people were massacred on Sunday.

    In a statement on Monday, Moore — who served on a Congressional inquiry into alleged killings of Christians in Nigeria and had previously made recommendations to President Trump on resolving the issue — alleged that “radical Islamic terrorists opened fire on the Christians in Jos before hacking them to pieces with machetes.”

    He described the attack as “sickening and unacceptable,” but added that it was “not surprising,” claiming it followed a regular pattern of assaults.

    The statement read in part: “This tragedy follows a pattern of radical Islamic terrorists massacring Christians on Holy Days. In fact, terrorists have attacked Christians in Nigeria on every single holy day in recent memory, except for last Christmas — when President Trump sent 12 tomahawk cruise missiles to stop them.”

    Moore further warned:“Abuja knows this pattern and they must massively ramp up security for the Triduum and Easter. If they don’t take this threat seriously and mobilise to defend our brothers and sisters in Christ, blood of these martyrs will be on their hands, and there will be significant consequences for Nigeria’s relationship with the United States.”

  • BREAKING: Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar resigns as Nigeria’s Foreign Minister

    BREAKING: Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar resigns as Nigeria’s Foreign Minister

    ABUJA, NIGERIA, 30 March 2026 (NPA) — Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, has resigned in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive that all appointees intending to contest elective positions in the forthcoming general elections must step down by 31 March 2026.

    On Monday, Tuggar submitted his resignation letter to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation. In the letter, he expressed profound gratitude to President Tinubu for the opportunity to serve and contribute to the implementation of the President’s 4D foreign policy strategy as Nigeria’s guiding framework.

    According to a statement signed by Alkasim Abdulkadir, Special Assistant on Media and Communications Strategy to Ambassador Tuggar, the former minister also thanked the management and staff of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as well as members of the diplomatic community, for their cooperation and support during his tenure.

    The statement highlighted Tuggar’s achievements, including advancing people-centred diplomacy through humanitarian evacuations, scholarship facilitation, and sustained support for Nigerians abroad. His tenure also saw enhanced diaspora engagement, the development of a structured Nigerians-in-Diaspora database, and strengthened bilateral and multilateral relations, particularly with partners in the Global South.

    He was credited with promoting regional and security cooperation, establishing the Regional Partnership for Democracy (RPD), and driving economic diplomacy by positioning Nigeria as an attractive destination for foreign investment, especially in the energy sector. Tuggar also facilitated diplomatic resolutions that secured the release of detained Nigerians abroad.

    His resignation letter was received by Dr Abubakar Kana, Permanent Secretary, General Services Office, on behalf of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, ahead of the stipulated deadline.

  • Atiku Abubakar condemns Jos attack, calls for urgent action

    Atiku Abubakar condemns Jos attack, calls for urgent action

    ABUJA, NIGERIA, 30 March 2026 (NPA) — A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and presidential aspirant for the 2027 election, Atiku Abubakar, has expressed outrage over the barbaric attack on Gari Ya Waye community in Angwan Rukuba, Jos, which claimed numerous lives and left many injured.

    In a statement on Monday, Atiku described the assault as a damning indictment of Nigeria’s near-total security collapse. He said the incident was not merely a lapse in security but a tragic descent into lawlessness where human lives are treated as expendable.

    He criticised the government’s repeated pronouncements and “so-called marching orders,” noting that insecurity remains a grim daily reality for ordinary Nigerians. “It is long past the time for outrage without action. The anger across the land must now compel urgent, decisive political will to confront and crush this menace. The continued slaughter of innocent citizens cannot become our new normal,” he said.

    The former Vice President extended his condolences to the families of the victims, praying for strength and comfort in this dark moment.

    No fewer than 15 people were killed on Sunday night in Plateau State, Nigeria’s north-central region, when suspected terrorists stormed Angwan Rukuba community in Jos North Local Government Area. Eyewitnesses reported that the attackers, riding motorcycles, opened fire indiscriminately around 7:30 p.m., leaving several critically injured and sparking panic as residents fled.

    Security forces under Operation Enduring Peace were swiftly deployed to restore calm and prevent further bloodshed. In response, the Plateau State Government imposed a strict 48-hour curfew across Jos North, effective from midnight, to halt any escalation of violence.