Category: Politics

  • 2027: Wike-backed PDP fixes May 25 for presidential primaries

    2027: Wike-backed PDP fixes May 25 for presidential primaries

    ABUJA, NIGERIA (Agency Report) — March 12, 2026 — The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), backed by Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has released its timetable for the 2027 General Elections, fixing May 25 for the Presidential primary election.

    The party announced the development in a communique issued at the end of the 106th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, read by the National Publicity Secretary, Mr Jungudo Mohammed, in Abuja on Wednesday.

    The NEC fixed the submission of the membership register for April 10, State Assembly primaries for May 2, National Assembly primaries for May 9, and gubernatorial primaries for May 16.

    It explained that the timetable was in line with the revised timetable and schedule of activities for the 2027 General Elections as issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), pursuant to the provisions of the Electoral Act, 2022.

    It noted the proposed schedule of activities in compliance with the INEC timetable, including the submission of the party’s register of members to the commission and the conduct of party primaries for various elective offices.

    “This also included the timelines for the resolution of disputes arising from such primaries,” it added.

    It urged all organs and stakeholders of the party to commence the necessary preparations and ensure strict adherence to the approved timetable and all relevant statutory provisions.

    The NEC commended the National Caretaker Working Committee (NCWC) led by Abdulrahman Mohammed for its commitment and efforts in stabilising the party and guiding its affairs during this transitional period.

    The committee noted with satisfaction the successful conduct of the Ward and Local Government Congresses, while the State Congresses were scheduled to be held this weekend across the country.

    It expressed confidence that the congress would be peaceful, transparent, and in strict compliance with the constitution and guidelines of the party.

    The NEC further approved the conduct of the Zonal Congresses scheduled to take place in a fortnight, as part of the party’s orderly progression toward the National Convention.

    It called on all leaders, stakeholders, and members across the country to remain united, disciplined, and focused, and to support all processes leading to the successful conduct of the State, Zonal, and National Convention activities.

    It welcomed the judgments of the Court of Appeal affirming the leadership and authority of the NCWC, noting that the rulings have strengthened the constitutional processes and stability of the Party.

    The communique emphasised the urgent need for reconciliation, unity, and collective responsibility among all leaders and stakeholders of the party.

    It stressed that the strength of the PDP lies in its ability to resolve internal disagreements through dialogue, mutual respect, and adherence to party structures.

    The NEC further called on all parties involved in disputes within the party to embrace reconciliation and refrain from pursuing further litigation at the Supreme Court, in the overriding interest of unity, stability, and the future of the party.

    It approved the commencement and expansion of the party’s electronic membership registration as part of efforts to modernise the party’s membership database, strengthen grassroots participation, and enhance transparency and efficiency in party administration.

    The party reaffirmed preparations for the forthcoming National Convention scheduled for March 29 and 30, where a new National Working Committee (NWC) would be elected in accordance with the constitution of the party.

    The NEC reaffirmed the commitment of the party to democratic principles, national unity, good governance, and the welfare of Nigerians, while assuring citizens that the PDP remains the most credible platform for responsible leadership and national development.

    It expressed optimism for renewed unity and determination among party leaders and members, to strengthen the party’s position for greater national service. (NAN).

  • Minister pledges action on infrastructure at Lagos Trade-Fair Complex

    Minister pledges action on infrastructure at Lagos Trade-Fair Complex

    LAGOS, NIGERIA (Agency Report) — March 12, 2026 — Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, has pledged to address infrastructure and operational challenges hindering businesses at the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex.

    Oduwole pledged during a visit and inspection of the complex along the Badagry Expressway on Wednesday in Lagos.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the minister met traders, importers and entrepreneurs to discuss challenges affecting business operations within the market.

    She said the government recognised the vital role of local investors and businesses in driving trade and economic growth, noting their concerns had been duly acknowledged.

    Oluwole said, “We have been talking about attracting foreign investments, but local investments must also thrive.

    “We will work with you on the logistics and infrastructure challenges raised to encourage more people to trade here.”

    She assured traders that the government would address the issues progressively, stressing that practical solutions would be implemented.

    “We will tackle these issues one after another, and I assure you that solutions will be provided,” she said.

    Earlier, President of the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex, Mr Okechukwu Ezigbo, decried the poor infrastructure, multiple taxation and extortion by non-state actors.

    Ezigbo warned that failure to urgently address the challenges could force many businesses to shut down investments worth trillions of naira.

    He said traders required stronger government support to sustain their contributions running into billions of naira annually in government revenue.

    Ezigbo noted that traders and investors had invested heavily in developing the complex after years of neglect.

    “This market feeds the entire West African region, but due to infrastructure decay, we are losing customers to Cotonou and Seme,” he said.

    He also decried widespread extortion along the trade corridor linking the Seme border and the market.

    “There are about 22 checkpoints between Seme and here, run by state and non-state actors, and we are extorted at each point,” he said.

    Ezigbo urged the government to remove illegal checkpoints and curb the activities of touts extorting traders along the corridor.

    He also appealed for improved road networks, a stable electricity supply and water infrastructure within the complex to ease business operations.

    Ezigbo added that hostile policies and the demolition of some market structures last year caused heavy financial losses for traders.

    He said improving the business environment would encourage local manufacturing and reduce reliance on imports. (NAN).

  • Royal Family hosts Nigerian diaspora ahead of Tinubu’s UK visit

    Royal Family hosts Nigerian diaspora ahead of Tinubu’s UK visit

    LAGOS, NIGERIA (NPA) — March 12, 2026 — The English Royal Family on Wednesday hosted a reception with members of the Nigerian Diaspora in the United Kingdom, ahead of the forthcoming State Visit of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, scheduled for March 18–19, 2026, at the invitation of King Charles III.

    In a post on its official X handle, the Royal Family wrote: “Last night, The King hosted a reception with members of the Nigerian Diaspora in the UK, ahead of the incoming State Visit of the President of Nigeria.”

    The post added: “With jollof rice and music by Dele Sosimi and the Afrobeats Orchestra — it was a wonderful evening. Thank you to everyone who joined us!”

    During the visit, Tinubu will be hosted by King Charles III and Queen Camilla at Windsor Castle, accompanied by First Lady Oluremi Tinubu.

    The visit marks the first inward State Visit by a Nigerian President in 37 years, underscoring Nigeria’s growing diplomatic influence and strengthening ties between Nigeria and the United Kingdom.

  • Bobi Wine decries continued political repression in Uganda

    Bobi Wine decries continued political repression in Uganda

    LAGOS, NIGERIA (NPA) — March 12, 2026 — Ugandan opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine, has condemned what he described as ongoing political repression by the Ugandan Government and security agencies, particularly targeting his security team.

    In a statement issued Wednesday, Wine alleged that during the 2021 election, police officers attached to his campaign were violently attacked and subjected to brutality. He further claimed that after the polls, several of them, including their head Afande Kato, were arrested and detained for an extended period.

    He said the officers were interrogated about his party’s sources of funding, his meetings, and election strategies, as well as why they sought to shield him from violent attacks by other sections of the police and military. Wine added that similar harassment has continued into 2026, with campaign officers again being arrested and questioned.

    The opposition leader stressed that these officers were targeted simply for performing their duties with professionalism and patriotism. He urged Ugandans to stand in solidarity with them and work toward securing their freedom.

    The statement reads in part: “In the 2021 election, the police officers who were attached to our campaign were attacked violently and subjected to all manner of brutality. After the election, several of them including their head, Afande Kato were arrested and detained for a long period.”

    “Now, in 2026, we have learnt that the officers who were attached to our campaign have also been arrested and are being interrogated. These officers are usually targeted for doing their job with professionalism and patriotism. May we all stand in solidarity with them, and work for their freedom.”

    Wine, who has endured political harassment since 2017, now faces arrest and challenges to his party’s legitimacy—underscoring the broader struggle between Uganda’s opposition and President Museveni’s entrenched administration.

  • Nigeria reaffirms commitment to education reform at Commonwealth Celebration

    Nigeria reaffirms commitment to education reform at Commonwealth Celebration

    ABUJA, NIGERIA (NPA) — March 12, 2026 — Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Education has reiterated its dedication to strengthening education reforms, expanding opportunities for young Nigerians, and deepening collaboration with other Commonwealth nations to advance sustainable development and shared prosperity. This was highlighted during the 2026 Commonwealth Celebration held at the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja.

    The Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, emphasized that the 2026 theme, “Unlocking Opportunities Together for a Prosperous Commonwealth,” aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes education reform, innovation, human capital development, and inclusive economic growth.

    Alausa underscored the Federal Government’s continued investment in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) as a key driver of national progress. He revealed that about 250,000 Nigerians are currently enrolled in programmes across technical colleges, skills centres, and accredited vocational institutions, where they are gaining industry-relevant skills essential for the modern workforce.

    In a statement on Thursday, the ministry noted that the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Abel Enitan, described education as the most powerful tool for unlocking opportunities, reducing inequality, and driving national development. He stressed the importance of leveraging Commonwealth partnerships to strengthen learning, foster research collaboration, and promote youth empowerment initiatives.

  • Yilwatda commends Tinubu’s leadership and Renewed Hope Agenda

    Yilwatda commends Tinubu’s leadership and Renewed Hope Agenda

    ABUJA, NIGERIA (NPA) — March 12, 2026 — The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Profesor Nentawe G. Yilwatda, has lauded President Tinubu for the sacrifices he has made in service to the nation, expressing strong confidence in the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

    The APC leader noted that Tinubu’s economic policies are beginning to yield results, with key indicators showing signs of stabilization and restoring confidence in Nigeria’s economic trajectory.

    According to a statement on Thursday, Yilwatda said he had the privilege of breaking the fast with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima on Wednesday, during an interfaith breaking of fast with leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Inter Party Advisory Council (IPAC) at the State House, Abuja.

    He emphasized that Nigeria’s diversity in religion, culture, and political affiliation strengthens the collective faith in the nation and should inspire unity, tolerance, and dialogue for national progress.

    Yilwatda also commended Tinubu for his unwavering commitment to democratic governance and the rule of law, following his assent to the Electoral Law of 2026 and the signing of the Electoral Bill.

    Professor Nentawe was appointed as the National Chairman of the APC on July 24, 2025, after serving as Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and previously as a Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). His appointment drew controversy, with critics questioning his past role as an INEC commissioner and remarks he made regarding the killings of Christians in Nigeria.

  • Engr. Dave Umahi condoles family of slain Ebonyi monarch

    Engr. Dave Umahi condoles family of slain Ebonyi monarch

    ABAKALIKI, NIGERIA (NPA) — March 12, 2026 — The Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi has paid a condolence visit to the family of His Royal Highness Eze Francis Igwe, father of the former Deputy Governor of Ebonyi State, in Alike Ikwo Local Government Area. The visit follows the brutal killing of the traditional ruler by alleged kidnappers.

    In a statement by Francis Nwaze, Senior Special Assistant to the Minister (Media), Umahi condemned the act and urged the bereaved to remain steadfast in faith despite the painful loss. He described the killing as a disturbing reflection of society’s cruelty, saying, “When I heard of this occurrence, it was like a dream. The people that did this are not human beings.”

    He added, “Such strange acts show the Bible is being fulfilled. He was a father to us, a man of wisdom, committed to God and humanity. My prayer is that the wrath of God will be upon those responsible.”

    Umahi consoled the family, pledging support: “Your mother is now our mother; we must care for her. I commend the Governor for his efforts to save our father, though it pleased God otherwise. I assure you, I am part of your family, and you have my shoulder to lean on.”

    Former Deputy Governor Barr. Kelechi Igwe thanked the Minister for standing with them: “On behalf of HRH Eze Igwe’s family and cabinet, we are grateful. The storms you have weathered teach us to be strong, and we are strong.”

  • Fubara swears in commissioners, urges commitment to progress in Rivers State

    Fubara swears in commissioners, urges commitment to progress in Rivers State

    PORT HARCOURT, NIGERIA (NPA) — March 11, 2026 — Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara on Wednesday swore in newly confirmed commissioners, charging them to deliver progress and strengthen governance in the oil‑rich state.

    Speaking after the swearing‑in ceremony, Fubara urged the commissioners to harness their expertise and experience in accelerating development across Rivers State. “Today, I charged our newly sworn‑in Commissioners to bring their very best to the service of Rivers people. The task before us is clear: to harness all our expertise and experience into delivering progress, strengthening governance, and accelerating development across our state. We remain committed to building a better Rivers State for all,” he said in a statement.

    The new appointments come amid heightened political tensions in Rivers State, one of Nigeria’s leading oil‑producing regions. Analysts suggest that the cabinet reshuffle may help ease the charged political environment, which has been marked by frequent infighting.

    Last week, Newpost Africa reported that the convoy of former governor Rotimi Amaechi was attacked by hoodlums suspected to be politically sponsored, further escalating tensions in the state. The incident has heightened concerns about political violence and instability in the region with presidential aspirant, Mr Peter Obi, calling for accountability.

    Observers say the inclusion of new commissioners in Fubara’s cabinet could provide fresh momentum for governance and development, while also serving as a stabilizing factor in the state’s turbulent political climate.

    The governor’s call for unity and service underscores his administration’s focus on delivering tangible progress to the people of Rivers State, even as political rivalries continue to shape the state’s landscape.

  • Muslim foreign ministers condemn closure of Al‑Aqsa Mosque gates amid regional tensions

    Muslim foreign ministers condemn closure of Al‑Aqsa Mosque gates amid regional tensions

    ABUJA, NIGERIA (NPA) — March 11, 2026 — The foreign ministers of Pakistan, Egypt, Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, Indonesia, Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar have jointly condemned the closure of the gates of Al‑Aqsa Mosque/Al‑Haram Al‑Sharif in Jerusalem.

    In a statement issued Wednesday, the ministers said that “security restrictions on access to the Old City of Jerusalem and its places of worship, coupled with discriminatory and arbitrary access restrictions to other places of worship in the Old City, constitute a flagrant violation of international law, including international humanitarian law, the historical and legal status quo, and the principle of unrestricted access to places of worship.”

    The ministers declared their “absolute rejection and condemnation of this illegal and unjustified measure, as well as Israel’s continued provocative actions at Al‑Aqsa Mosque/Al‑Haram Al‑Sharif and against worshippers.” They stressed that Israel has no sovereignty over occupied Jerusalem or its Islamic and Christian holy sites.

    They reiterated that the entire Al‑Aqsa Mosque compound, covering 144 dunams, is a place of worship exclusively for Muslims, and affirmed that the Jerusalem Endowments and Al‑Aqsa Mosque Affairs Department, affiliated with Jordan’s Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs, is the sole legal authority with jurisdiction to administer the mosque and regulate entry.

    The ministers called on Israel to immediately reopen the gates and refrain from obstructing Muslim worshippers’ access. They also urged the international community to adopt a firm position compelling Israel to halt ongoing violations and illegal practices against Islamic and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem.

    It remains unclear how Israel, already engaged in heavy fighting with Hezbollah in the north and with troops stationed along the Gaza frontier beyond the Yellow Line, will respond. Overall, Israel is at war and on its highest level of alert, making it difficult to suggest that it could reopen the mosque gates at a time when it is battling on multiple fronts.

  • Nigeria reaffirms commitment to partner collaboration in health sector reform

    Nigeria reaffirms commitment to partner collaboration in health sector reform

    ABUJA, NIGERIA (NPA) — March 11, 2026 — Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Health has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening collaboration with development partners as part of ongoing efforts to accelerate healthcare delivery and improve health outcomes nationwide.

    Speaking at the 2026 Health Development Partners Retreat, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare Muhammad Ali Pate emphasized the need for stronger coordination, transparency, and alignment of partner investments with national health priorities. He noted that effective collaboration between government and partners remains critical to advancing Nigeria’s health sector reform agenda.

    According to a statement from the Ministry, deliberations at the retreat focused on practical steps to improve coordination across federal, state, and local government levels, strengthen monitoring and evaluation systems, and ensure that partners deliver on commitments under the Health Sector Compact. Participants highlighted the importance of enhancing visibility of investment portfolios and improving communication mechanisms to support accountability and reduce fragmentation in programme implementation.

    Stakeholders underscored the need to reinforce existing coordination platforms under the Sector‑Wide Approach (SWAp), identifying Technical Working Groups and other governance structures as key mechanisms for improving cross‑agency collaboration. Development partners reiterated their commitment to aligning investments, avoiding duplication, and ensuring that new initiatives are implemented in line with the principles of the compact.

    The retreat also examined the implications of evolving fiscal and financing policies across government levels for the implementation of key health initiatives. Opportunities identified included strengthening monitoring systems through dashboards such as the Results Monitoring, Evaluation and Tracking (RMET) platform, advancing a Technical Assistance Pooled Fund, expanding health insurance coverage, and leveraging private sector participation to support service delivery.

    The meeting concluded with a renewed pledge by the Federal Government and development partners to deepen collaboration, strengthen coordination mechanisms, and support Nigeria’s drive toward a more resilient, efficient, and sustainable health system.