Category: Politics

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has commended the Nigerian military and security agencies for the successful rescue of 360 abductees from a Boko Haram stronghold in Borno State.

The rescued victims were freed during a major operation carried out by troops of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, from a heavily fortified Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad (JAS) enclave in the Mandara Mountains of southern Borno State.

The Nigerian Army described the mission as one of the most significant hostage rescue operations conducted in the North-East in recent years.

Reacting to the development in a statement on Monday, Atiku expressed delight over the successful operation, noting that it had brought relief to the victims and their families.

“I am elated at reports of the rescue of 360 persons who were abducted by terrorists in Ngoshe, Borno State,” he said.

“Even as this brings to an end the ordeal of the abductees and the anguish of their loved ones since they were abducted in March, we are still faced with threats from terrorism and banditry attacks.”

The former vice president praised the military and other security agencies involved in the operation, acknowledging their professionalism and commitment.

“I acknowledge the role of the military and all other security agencies that were involved in the safe rescue of the Ngoshe abductees,” he stated.

Atiku expressed confidence in the ability of the armed forces to overcome the country’s security challenges if provided with adequate support and effective leadership.

“I am confident that if provided with the necessary tools and much-needed political leadership, the military will bring to an end the nearly two decades of insurgency,” he said.

While celebrating the successful rescue, the ADC presidential candidate urged the government and security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the freedom of other Nigerians still being held captive by terrorists and bandits.

He specifically referenced the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire, Oyo State, and Mussa in Borno State, calling for urgent action to secure their release.

“Even as we savour this rescue, I urge the government and the military to intensify efforts to rescue nearly 100 schoolchildren and teachers abducted in Oriire, Oyo State, and Mussa, Borno State, and all other Nigerians still in the custody of terrorists and bandits,” he said.

Atiku also called for a comprehensive overhaul of the country’s security architecture, with greater emphasis on intelligence gathering, technology and preventive measures.

“More importantly, I call for a rejig of our security architecture that places emphasis on intelligence, technology and pre-emptive actions that nip terrorist and banditry attacks in the bud before they are carried out,” he added.

The rescue operation has been widely hailed as a major breakthrough in ongoing efforts to combat insurgency and restore security in Nigeria’s North-East region.

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has announced a series of measures aimed at strengthening internal democracy, enforcing party supremacy and building what it described as a strong and enduring political institution ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The resolutions were adopted at the party’s second National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting and released in a statement signed by the National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director.

The latest decisions come amid efforts by the party to consolidate its structures and address concerns arising from internal disagreements following its primary election process.

According to the party, all governments elected on the NDC platform would be required to consult party structures on key programmes, policies and appointments, except those involving personal staff.

“The NDC is committed to building the party as a strong and enduring institution, with emphasis on party supremacy,” the statement said.

“The party remains supreme, and members are expected to align their personal interests and agendas with those of the party.”

The party also directed that all affiliated groups and non-governmental organisations associated with it must operate under the supervision and control of established party structures and should not function independently.

As part of efforts to strengthen discipline and accountability, the NDC announced plans to introduce a comprehensive Code of Conduct for party officials and candidates.

To facilitate the process, a committee headed by the party’s National Legal Adviser has been constituted to develop the framework and implementation guidelines.

The NEC also approved the establishment of a National Reconciliation Committee tasked with engaging and reconciling aggrieved members across the country.

According to the party, the initiative is intended to foster unity and strengthen cohesion ahead of future political activities.

The NDC stressed that it was being developed as a sustainable institution rather than a personality-driven movement or a temporary political platform.

“The NDC is being built as an institution, not a personality cult, political movement, or Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) to be used and discarded,” the statement added.

The party urged members to remain committed to its growth and long-term sustainability while placing loyalty to the party and national interest above individual ambitions.

On financial accountability, the NEC resolved to enforce strict transparency in the management of party resources at all levels.

The party said all officers would be held accountable for funds under their control, while candidates seeking elective offices would be required to fully disclose campaign funding sources and contributions.

According to the resolution, all campaign funds must be channelled through designated party accounts at the local government, state, zonal and national levels, including presidential and governorship campaign accounts where applicable.

The NDC said the measures are designed to strengthen institutional governance, improve transparency and position the party for sustainable growth in the years ahead.

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — Minister of Works, David Umahi, has commended China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) for the quality execution of the ongoing Mararaba-Keffi Road reconstruction and expansion project, describing the project as technically completed and ready for commissioning.

Umahi spoke on Saturday during an inspection of the 43.65-kilometre road project linking the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) with Nasarawa State.

The minister said only a few outstanding observations remained to be addressed before the project could be formally commissioned.

“We are very happy with China Harbour. They have done a very good job. Today, the job is technically completed and ready for commissioning,” Umahi said.

“The few observations we have made will be addressed before then.”

The project, executed under the Federal Road Infrastructure Development and Refurbishment Investment Tax Credit Scheme, was awarded in June 2023 at a cost of N73.9 billion.

According to Umahi, the road will significantly improve connectivity, reduce travel time and ease traffic congestion along the busy Abuja-Keffi corridor, one of the most heavily trafficked routes in the North-Central region.

Despite expressing satisfaction with the quality of work, the minister raised concerns over outstanding payments owed to the contractor under the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Tax Credit Scheme.

He noted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had already approved the release of funds for outstanding commitments and appealed for their prompt disbursement.

“We are owing the contractor quite a lot on this project. The President has approved the payment, and I appeal that the funds be released promptly,” Umahi said.

“I feel unhappy when contractors are encouraged to work and the approved funds are withheld.”

The minister also highlighted several design innovations incorporated into the project, including the use of rigid concrete shoulders alongside flexible carriageways to improve durability and reduce long-term maintenance costs.

Umahi further praised Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, for undertaking complementary infrastructure projects around the corridor, particularly flyovers designed to improve traffic flow and ease congestion.

He also directed contractors handling adjoining road projects to adopt night-time construction schedules where necessary to minimise disruptions and inconvenience to motorists.

“We must put the people first. While carrying out these projects, we should not subject road users to unnecessary hardship,” he said.

Earlier, the Federal Controller of Works supervising the project, Yakubu Usman, disclosed that the road had attained 99.8 per cent completion.

According to him, only a few ancillary works, including the installation of streetlights, kerbs and U-drains, remain outstanding.

Usman described the project as a model for future federal highway construction, noting that the innovative shoulder design would strengthen the pavement structure and extend the lifespan of the road.

Speaking on behalf of the contractor, Chairman of CHEC, Wang Wenfei, expressed appreciation to the Federal Government, the Ministry of Works and the National Assembly for their support throughout the execution of the project.

“With the support of the Minister of Works and the National Assembly, we have successfully completed the job,” Wang said.

“We will also address the observations and directives given during the inspection as quickly as possible.”

New Post Africa reports that the Mararaba-Keffi Road is one of the busiest transportation corridors in the North-Central region, serving thousands of commuters and commercial vehicles travelling daily between Abuja and neighbouring states.

The project is expected to enhance regional mobility, facilitate trade and stimulate economic activities along the corridor upon commissioning.

MAIDUGURI, Nigeria (NPA) — Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, on Saturday visited Baga town to discuss plans for the reopening of the waterway linking the northern part of the state with the Republic of Chad, in a move aimed at reviving trade, commerce and cross-border cooperation.

According to a statement issued on Saturday by the governor’s spokesperson and media adviser, Dauda Iliya, the initiative is expected to enhance economic activities and strengthen bilateral relations between Nigeria and Chad.

As part of the visit, Governor Zulum held high-level security meetings with military commanders in Baga and Kukawa to deliberate on measures required to clear and secure the water routes, which have remained largely inaccessible due to years of insurgent activities in the Lake Chad region.

Speaking to journalists after the meetings, the governor said discussions focused on practical steps towards restoring navigation along the strategic waterway.

“Our visit to Baga was to interface with the Nigerian military to discuss the modalities for clearing waterways from Baga to the Republic of Chad,” Zulum said.

“We have discussed many issues and, by the grace of God, the clearance exercise will resume very soon. The governments of Chad and Nigeria are working together to determine how commodities will move between the two countries.”

The reopening of the waterway is expected to facilitate the movement of goods and services, improve livelihoods and boost economic integration among communities around the Lake Chad Basin.

Following the security meetings, Governor Zulum embarked on an inspection tour of major public infrastructure projects in Kukawa Local Government Area.

The projects inspected included an ongoing General Hospital, a Mega Primary School and the High Islamic College, all designed to improve access to healthcare, education and social development services in the area.

The High Islamic College is intended to provide educational opportunities for out-of-school children and Almajiri pupils by integrating Islamic and Western curricula. The model, according to the state government, will enable graduates to qualify for admission into universities, polytechnics and colleges of education across the country.

In addition to the infrastructure projects, the governor announced plans to support farmers and fishing communities as part of broader efforts to revitalise economic activities in the region.

He said the state government would soon distribute farming tools, agricultural implements and improved seedlings to local farmers as well as returnee fishing communities to boost food production and livelihoods. The initiative forms part of ongoing efforts by the Borno State Government to restore normalcy, improve economic opportunities.

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has constituted its Ekiti State Governorship Campaign Committee as part of preparations for the forthcoming governorship election in the state.

The party announced the development in a statement, saying the committee would be responsible for coordinating campaign activities, mobilising support across the state, engaging critical stakeholders and driving the party’s message to voters in all parts of Ekiti State.

According to the ADC, the committee comprises party leaders, political strategists, legal practitioners, media professionals and grassroots mobilisers drawn from across the country.

Among those appointed into various committees are former presidential aspirant Ose Anenih, former presidential spokesman Lauretta Onochie, former Ekiti State Deputy Governor Prof. Kolapo Olusola-Eleka, former Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly Rt. Hon. Gboyega Aribisogan, and several other political stakeholders.

The party said the committee’s mandate is to strengthen its grassroots presence, coordinate campaign operations and ensure effective voter engagement ahead of the election.

“The committee is tasked with coordinating campaign activities, mobilising support across the state, engaging critical stakeholders, and driving the party’s vision and message to every community in Ekiti State,” the statement said.

ADC congratulated all members appointed to serve on the committee, expressing confidence in their capacity, commitment and dedication to delivering a successful campaign.

The party reiterated its commitment to providing what it described as credible leadership, responsible governance and a brighter future for the people of Ekiti State.

“Together, we remain focused on providing the people of Ekiti State with credible leadership, responsible governance and a brighter future,” the statement added.

The constitution of the campaign committee marks a significant step in the ADC’s preparations for the Ekiti governorship election as the party intensifies efforts to expand its political support base in the state.

ENUGU, Nigeria (NPA) — A massive political rally organised by stakeholders and residents of Enugu East Senatorial District on Saturday culminated in a resounding endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah for second terms in office ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The rally, tagged “Ofu Obi Mega Rally”, drew thousands of supporters to the Okpara Square in Enugu and was attended by an array of political leaders, traditional rulers, business figures and influential stakeholders from across the senatorial district.

Among the prominent personalities present were former President of the Senate, Senator Ken Nnamani; former Governor of old Anambra State, Senator Jim Nwobodo; former Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Enugu State, Chief Ben Nwoye; former Minister of Information, Chief Frank Nweke Jr.; and several other political leaders from the Nkanu cultural bloc.

The event, described by organisers as one of the largest political gatherings witnessed in Enugu State in recent years, featured the formal endorsement of Governor Mbah’s re-election bid and President Tinubu’s expected second-term campaign.

In a symbolic show of support, traditional rulers from the zone presented Governor Mbah with the Ofo, a revered Igbo symbol of authority, justice and legitimacy. The governor was also presented with a cheque of N300 million contributed by stakeholders and supporters from the zone to support his future political activities.

Former Governor Jim Nwobodo moved the motion for Governor Mbah’s endorsement, insisting that the governor should be allowed to complete what he described as a transformative eight-year development agenda for the state.

Speaking at the rally, stakeholders said Governor Mbah had translated campaign promises into measurable achievements across critical sectors of the economy, including infrastructure, education, healthcare, transportation, technology, security and agriculture.

They also cited what they described as a productive working relationship between the Enugu State Government and the administration of President Tinubu, noting that the partnership had attracted federal projects, strategic appointments and interventions to the state.

Chairman of the Planning Committee, Deacon Okey Ogbodo, said the unprecedented turnout reflected widespread appreciation for the direction of governance in the state.

“Across all sectors, the evidence of transformational leadership is speaking louder than propaganda. The people can see the difference. The people can testify that Enugu State is moving forward with confidence and speed,” he said.

“Indeed, if it were possible to borrow governors, other states would have been lining up to borrow our governor.”

Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, also praised the administration’s development strides, describing the rally as an expression of gratitude by the people of Enugu East Senatorial District.

In his remarks, former Senate President Ken Nnamani strongly backed Governor Mbah’s re-election bid, describing him as a visionary leader with a clear development agenda for the state.

Nnamani argued that leadership should be based on competence, integrity and proven performance rather than political sentiment or personal grievances.

“I am one of those who said that Mbah has vision and he is rich in ideas and educational strategy,” he said.

“Anybody aspiring to govern must present a clear vision and demonstrate the capacity to lead. As far as I can see, we have only one candidate who is running for governor, and that is Governor Peter Mbah. We won’t use the governorship seat to try our luck.”

Echoing similar sentiments, elder statesman and former Governor of old Anambra State, Senator Jim Nwobodo, urged political actors considering contesting against Mbah in 2027 to reconsider their ambitions.

According to him, the governor’s performance has earned him support across political party lines.

“Everyone will vote for Peter Mbah – APC, PDP, NDC, ADC and the rest because you have performed wonderfully well,” Nwobodo declared.

“Enugu West had two terms and Nsukka Zone also had two terms. We must be allowed to complete our own two terms.”

Responding to the endorsements, Governor Mbah thanked the people for the confidence they reposed in him during the 2023 governorship election, recalling that he had only a vision to present at the time.

He said the support of the people enabled his administration to pursue an ambitious development agenda that has since produced tangible results across the state.

According to the governor, projects such as Smart Green Schools, improved healthcare infrastructure, road construction, water supply schemes, modern transport terminals and the launch of Enugu Air have begun transforming the state’s economic and social landscape.

“You took a leap of faith when you entrusted me with leadership. Today, we are seeing the results of that faith,” he said.

“Smart Green Schools in every ward; healthcare moving closer to families; roads connecting communities; water returning where people waited too long; modern transport terminals served by air-conditioned buses with Wi-Fi; Enugu Air opening new pathways to the world; investors arriving; conferences coming; businesses taking a fresh look at Enugu — and the list goes on.”

The governor also announced that the state would soon commence work on a 660-megawatt coal-fired power plant aimed at improving electricity supply and driving industrial growth.

“A few days from now, we will break ground on a 660MW coal-fired power plant that moves us closer to a future where our people no longer plan their lives around darkness,” he stated.

“In a literal sense, the lights will go on in Enugu permanently.”

Governor Mbah also commended President Tinubu’s economic reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda, describing them as difficult but necessary measures that have increased the capacity of states to deliver development projects.

“By taking difficult decisions and freeing up resources that had long been trapped in an unsustainable subsidy system, he has given states greater agency, both in the responsibility and the resources to act,” he said.

Looking ahead to the 2027 elections, Mbah urged residents to remain united and focused on protecting the gains already recorded, warning against divisive politics and what he described as political opportunism.

“Political cowboys will surface. Some will bring noise; some will bring anger; some will bring division. We will bring results,” the governor said.

“Our answer must be clarity. Our answer must be unity. Our answer must be the work.”

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated the Founder and General Superintendent of the Deeper Christian Life Ministry, Pastor William Folorunso Kumuyi, on his 85th birthday, describing him as a remarkable servant of God whose ministry has transformed millions of lives worldwide.

In a statement issued on Saturday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President praised Pastor Kumuyi’s enduring legacy of faith, wisdom and dedication to Christian service spanning more than five decades.

Tinubu noted that the cleric’s unwavering commitment to evangelism, discipleship and spiritual development has helped build one of Nigeria’s most influential Christian ministries.

The President also highlighted the global reach of the Global Crusade with Kumuyi (GCK), describing it as a platform that has extended hope, encouragement and spiritual guidance to millions of people beyond Nigeria’s borders.

“As the convener of Global Crusade with Kumuyi (GCK), your voice has reached beyond the church walls and national borders, bringing hope and encouragement to millions across the world,” Tinubu said.

He further commended Pastor Kumuyi for his numerous publications and teachings, which he said have illuminated minds, inspired hearts and provided timeless guidance to people seeking truth and purpose.

According to the President, the respected cleric’s ministry has positively impacted countless lives, strengthened families, inspired leaders and nurtured generations of believers.

“Your writings have illuminated minds, inspired hearts and provided timeless guidance to those seeking truth and purpose,” he stated.

Tinubu prayed for continued divine strength, good health, peace and grace for the Deeper Life founder as he marks the milestone age of 85.

“On this special day, I pray that Almighty God continues to grant you strength, divine health, peace and abundant grace,” the President added.

Pastor Kumuyi is widely regarded as one of Africa’s most influential Christian leaders, with a ministry that has expanded across several continents through evangelism, teaching and humanitarian outreach.

ABAKALIKI, Nigeria (NPA) — The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ebonyi State has welcomed a recent Court of Appeal ruling which reaffirmed the party’s internal processes and leadership structure.

In a statement issued by the State Publicity Secretary, Hon. Nwafor Richard Nwali, the party said the judgment nullified the purported National Caretaker Committee led by Samuel Nnaemeka Anyanwu and Muhammed Abdurahaman.

According to the party, the ruling reinforces the authority of the Interim National Working Committee (INWC) led by Kabiru Tanimu Turaki (SAN), which it described as the legitimate leadership of the PDP.

The Ebonyi PDP, under the leadership of High Chief Onyema Peter Nwele, expressed support for the court’s decision, noting that it underscores the right of political parties to manage their internal affairs in line with democratic principles.

“The judiciary’s recognition of the party’s authority to manage its internal affairs underscores the resilience of democratic institutions,” the statement said.

The party urged members across the country, particularly at the grassroots level, to remain committed to the ideals and vision of the PDP, which it described as a platform capable of restoring effective democratic governance in Nigeria.

The Ebonyi chapter also called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to immediately update its records and website to reflect what it described as the party’s lawful leadership structure in line with the court ruling.

It further urged individuals affected by the judgment to desist from presenting themselves as leaders of the party and avoid actions capable of creating confusion within its ranks.

The party also reaffirmed its support for the zoning arrangement in Ebonyi State, insisting that the PDP governorship ticket remains reserved for the Ebonyi North Senatorial Zone.

The statement stressed the party’s commitment to transparent leadership, peace and grassroots mobilisation as part of efforts to strengthen public confidence and reposition the PDP ahead of future elections.

The Ebonyi PDP called on its supporters to remain united and continue contributing to the growth and development of the party across the state and the country.