Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Iormem Alia, has directed every political appointee serving in his administration who plans to contest for any elective position in the 2027 general elections to step down from office on or before March 30, 2026. The announcement was made as part of efforts to maintain stability, continuity, and uninterrupted governance across the state. The instruction was disclosed in an official statement released on Friday by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Tersoo Kula. According to the statement, the governor explained that the decision was taken to ensure that the current pace of development in Benue State is not slowed down by political activities or personal ambitions ahead of the upcoming elections. The statement further clarified that the governor believes early resignation by any appointee with political interest will allow for a smooth administrative transition. This, he noted, will help prevent unnecessary distractions that could interfere with the execution of government policies, programmes, and ongoing developmental projects across different parts of the state. Governor Alia emphasized that his administration remains fully committed to completing all ongoing projects and delivering on promises made to the people. He stressed that governance must remain the priority and that political ambitions should never be allowed to affect the progress already recorded under his leadership. He also called on citizens, community leaders, and stakeholders throughout the state to continue supporting his administration’s vision, which focuses on growth, transformation, and long-term development for Benue State. “I invite all people of good conscience to join hands with me so that together we can build a Benue State that attracts everyone and creates opportunities for all,” the governor stated while addressing supporters. While speaking on the achievements recorded so far, the governor pointed to several areas where progress has been made, including road construction, infrastructure upgrades, and improved welfare packages for civil servants working in the state. He explained that visible improvements across the state are clear signs that the government is fulfilling its mandate to the people. “When you see heavy construction equipment working on roads that were once in very bad condition, that is development. When you see civil servants going to work with satisfaction and returning home happily, that is also development,” he said. Governor Alia noted that his administration has already made significant progress but is determined to do more before the end of his tenure. According to him, the promise he made to the people of Benue State remains a binding commitment that guides every decision taken by his government. “I have started the work, I am halfway through, and I am even more determined to continue because that was the agreement I made with the people of Benue State. I cannot apologize to anyone for focusing on development because my responsibility is to improve the state,” he stated. He added that his loyalty is to the people who entrusted him with leadership, and his main concern remains how to improve their living conditions and change the narrative of the state for the better. “My covenant is with the people of Benue State. My focus is on how to make their lives better and how to rewrite the story of this state in a positive way. Nothing will distract me, and nobody will push me to abandon this mission,” the governor declared. Governor Alia concluded by reaffirming that his administration will remain focused on policies, programmes, and actions that directly impact the lives of citizens, adding that the government will continue to work towards sustainable development, economic growth, and improved welfare for all residents of Benue State.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu departed London on Thursday night after completing a two-day historic state visit carried out at the invitation of the British royal family. The Nigerian leader, who travelled alongside the First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, had earlier left Abuja on Tuesday, March 17, for an official State Visit to the United Kingdom as guests of Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla. During the visit, King Charles received President Tinubu and members of his delegation, including the First Lady, at Windsor Castle, where the official activities took place between Wednesday, March 18, and Thursday, March 19. This visit marked a significant diplomatic moment, as it represented the first state visit by a Nigerian Head of State to the United Kingdom in 37 years. It also made President Tinubu the first Nigerian leader to be formally hosted by a British monarch at Windsor Castle, making the occasion historically important in the relationship between both nations. Nigeria and the United Kingdom maintain long-standing diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties that date back many decades. The visit provided an opportunity for both countries to further strengthen cooperation in several key areas, including immigration matters, trade partnerships, investment opportunities, and cultural relations. While staying at Windsor Castle, Their Majesties invited the President and the First Lady to attend a special exhibition showcasing rare items from the Royal Collection connected to Nigeria. The exhibition highlighted historical links between both nations and reflected the shared heritage that has developed over time. In addition to the exhibition, King Charles III held private discussions with President Tinubu. The two leaders also met with organisations involved in interfaith dialogue at both national and international levels, with discussions centred on peace, tolerance, and global cooperation among religious communities. As part of the official programme, the Royal Family organised a formal state banquet in honour of the Nigerian delegation. The event brought together senior government officials, diplomats, and representatives of various institutions to celebrate the enduring partnership between the two countries. During his stay in London, President Tinubu also held a bilateral meeting with Keir Starmer at 10 Downing Street. The meeting led to wider engagement between top officials from Nigeria and the United Kingdom and resulted in the signing of several Memoranda of Understanding and cooperation agreements covering trade, investment, defence collaboration, and cultural exchange.
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During his official visit to the United Kingdom, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu addressed King Charles at Windsor Castle on Wednesday, highlighting notable sports figures of Nigerian heritage who have chosen to represent England. The president used these examples to emphasize the deep-rooted friendship, shared history, and mutual goals that bind Nigeria and the UK. Tinubu specifically mentioned Arsenal footballers Bukayo Saka and Eberechi Eze, as well as boxing champion Anthony Joshua, to illustrate the tangible connections that exist between the two nations. He stressed that the relationship between Nigeria and the UK extends far beyond historical ties, reflecting a shared vision for progress, resilience, and global influence. The president also lauded the Nigerian community in the UK, describing it as one of the most vibrant and influential diaspora communities worldwide. He highlighted the significant contributions of Nigerians across multiple sectors, particularly healthcare. “Nigerians contribute enormously to the vitality of this nation,” Tinubu said. “Within the National Health Service (NHS), Nigerian doctors and nurses play an indispensable role in delivering healthcare. Nigerian-trained medical professionals form one of the largest groups of international doctors serving the NHS.” In the realm of sports, Tinubu noted that Nigerian-born athletes continue to strengthen cultural and human ties between the two countries. He cited examples including rugby star Maro Itoje, footballers Bukayo Saka and Eberechi Eze, and boxing legend Anthony Joshua, underscoring how their achievements reflect the shared values and interconnectedness of both nations. The president further emphasized the strategic partnership fostered through the Commonwealth of Nations, a body uniting 56 countries under King Charles’ leadership. Tinubu highlighted Nigeria’s commitment to contributing constructively to the growth and vitality of this international community, positioning both nations as partners in global progress. “As one of the largest nations within the Commonwealth, Nigeria looks forward to working collaboratively to strengthen global development, innovation, and human connections,” he added. This visit underscores the multifaceted relationship between Nigeria and the UK, spanning diplomacy, culture, healthcare, sports, and international collaboration, showcasing a partnership that is not only historical but also forward-looking.
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A large number of members of the Ogun State House of Assembly have openly declared their support for Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, who represents Ogun West Senatorial District, ahead of the 2027 governorship election under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC). Out of the 26 lawmakers in the Assembly, 20 members collectively agreed to endorse the senator.The announcement was made on Wednesday during a press briefing held at the Iwe-Iroyin Secretariat of the Nigeria Union of Journalists. Speaking on behalf of the Assembly members, the Majority Leader, Yusuf Sheriff Abiodun, explained that the decision was based on Adeola’s long-standing political experience as well as his contributions to both Ogun State and Nigeria at large. According to him, the lawmakers are confident that the senator possesses the leadership capacity required to govern the state effectively if elected in 2027. He stated that the endorsement reflects the collective position of the majority of the lawmakers who believe Adeola has demonstrated commitment to public service over the years. “I am also using this opportunity to declare our total support for the governorship ambition of Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola,” he said. Before announcing their support for the senator, the lawmakers had earlier endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in office in the 2027 general election. Their declaration placed them among several governors, party leaders, and influential political figures across the country who have already expressed support for Tinubu’s re-election bid. The lawmakers noted that their decisions were taken after consultations and careful consideration of political developments within the party and the state. They maintained that unity within the party would play a key role in achieving victory in the next general elections.
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The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has provided clarification regarding the detention of former Kaduna State governor Nasir Ahmad El‑Rufai, stating that the commission did not request a new court order to extend his detention, contrary to reports circulating in the media. In an official statement issued on Tuesday by John Okor Odey, who serves as Head of Media and Public Communication, the commission explained that its appearance in court on March 17, 2026, was strictly for the hearing of an application submitted by El-Rufai. The application challenged the court order that renewed his remand in custody. According to the commission, the motion filed by El-Rufai’s legal team was dated March 6, 2026, and requested the court to overturn the remand order that had earlier been granted on March 5, 2026. During the court session, the ICPC informed the court that its response to the application had been served on El-Rufai’s counsel. After receiving the response, the defence lawyer requested additional time to review the document and prepare a reply. The commission stated that the request led the presiding Magistrate to adjourn the matter until March 31, 2026, in order to allow the defence team adequate time to study the commission’s response and properly address it during the next hearing. The ICPC also explained the sequence of events that resulted in the continued detention of the former governor. It noted that the initial remand order granted investigators a period of fourteen days to examine allegations involving money laundering and abuse of office. After the first remand period expired, the commission applied to the court for another fourteen-day extension to complete its investigation. The court approved the request on March 5, 2026. The agency further revealed that an earlier application filed by El-Rufai’s lawyers to cancel the remand order issued on February 19, 2026, was dismissed by the court on March 9, 2026. According to the statement, El-Rufai remains in custody based on the valid remand order granted on March 5, 2026, and the commission emphasized that the detention follows lawful procedures. The ICPC stressed that it is acting in full compliance with court instructions, including the obligation to submit progress reports on the investigation, while ensuring that due process is followed at every stage. The commission also reaffirmed that its operations are guided by professionalism and strict adherence to the rule of law, noting that the detention order was granted by a competent court in line with the provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act. In addition, the agency warned against the spread of false or unverified information across traditional and social media platforms, urging members of the public to rely only on official statements released by the commission. The ICPC advised the public to verify information before sharing, stating that accurate updates will always be communicated through its official channels.
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The Ondo State Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, Victor Olabimtan, has revealed that Bola Ahmed Tinubu has instructed the organisation to enlist 25 individuals from each of the 3,933 polling units in the state as part of preparations for the 2027 presidential election. According to him, the planned recruitment will produce a total of 98,325 grassroots campaigners who will operate directly within polling units across Ondo State. Each of the recruited members will be tasked with persuading a minimum of five voters to support the President during the forthcoming election, strengthening mobilisation at the community level. Olabimtan made this disclosure during the official inauguration of the Ondo State chapter of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, which took place in Akure, the state capital, on Tuesday. He explained that the initiative has been established in all 36 states of the federation to improve communication between the Federal Government and citizens, especially regarding the policies, programmes, and projects introduced under the Renewed Hope Agenda. Speaking at the event, he stated that the directive from the President emphasises the importance of political engagement at the polling unit level rather than relying solely on ward, local government, or state structures. He noted that each polling unit is expected to produce 25 canvassers, and these individuals will receive financial support beginning three months before the election and continuing until two months after the exercise. Payments, he added, will be made directly to the participants. Olabimtan further explained that the strategy is designed to ensure effective voter mobilisation. With every canvasser expected to influence at least five voters, the cumulative effect across the state and the country is projected to significantly improve electoral outcomes for the ruling party. He added that both the President and the Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, will be responsible for funding the remuneration for the campaigners. The coordinator, who also serves as Chairman of the Ondo State Universal Basic Education Board, said the Renewed Hope Ambassadors programme was created to provide accurate information to citizens about Federal Government policies while also gathering feedback from grassroots communities. According to him, the nationwide initiative aims to educate Nigerians about reforms and opportunities introduced by the current administration. The programme is also intended to ensure that members of the public understand the benefits of government interventions and how to access available opportunities. He urged members of the group to remain active in mobilisation efforts and party outreach activities throughout the state. Olabimtan said those selected were chosen based on their experience, credibility, and past contributions, adding that they are expected to strengthen collaboration with structures of the All Progressives Congress at the state, local government, ward, and polling unit levels. He explained that the network would help maintain consistent communication, promote unity within the party, and support elected officials in delivering accurate information about government programmes to their communities. The former Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly also clarified that the establishment of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors will not interfere with the activities of other support groups working for President Tinubu in the state. He commended Governor Aiyedatiwa for his contribution to the selection of members and expressed confidence that the organisation would carry out its responsibilities effectively in order to achieve its objectives ahead of the 2027 general election.
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The Chairman of the Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas (Pi-CNG), Ismaeel Ahmed, has stated that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is not deliberately searching for politicians who want to leave their parties to join the ruling party. Ahmed made this known on Monday during an interview on Politics Today, a political programme aired on Channels Television, where he reacted to the growing number of political defections into the APC. According to reports gathered by LMSINT MEDIA, a large number of political leaders have recently moved into the APC, with several state governors switching allegiance to the ruling party. The Governor of Zamfara State was reported as the most recent to join the party, increasing discussions about the strength of the opposition. At the moment, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State and the Governor of Bauchi State are among the few governors elected under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) who are yet to defect, although there are ongoing speculations that more political changes could still happen. Speaking during the interview, Ahmed explained that the APC does not pressure politicians to join the party, nor does it deliberately try to weaken the opposition by encouraging defections. He said the party only welcomes those who decide on their own to move, but it does not make it a strategy to recruit members from rival parties. Ahmed also expressed his personal opinion about defections in Nigerian politics, stating that he is not particularly comfortable with the idea of politicians constantly changing parties. According to him, frequent defections do not fully reflect the true spirit of democracy, because strong political competition requires stable and organized opposition parties. He further stated that although the APC is always happy to receive new members, the current situation shows that the opposition has not been strong enough to take advantage of political opportunities available to them. Ahmed added that he was surprised at how the opposition failed to use several national issues to improve its position, noting that a stronger opposition would normally use such moments to gain public support. The Pi-CNG chairman concluded by saying that the ruling party is not responsible for the weakness of other parties, and that every political group must work on building its own strength instead of blaming defections for its challenges.
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has responded to concerns raised by leaders in the media sector regarding tariffs, assuring that the matter would undergo a thorough review and necessary adjustments. During an interfaith iftar with media executives held at the Aso Rock Presidential Villa in Abuja, President Tinubu emphasized that he had paid close attention to the discussions about the tariffs impacting media operations. “I have listened attentively to your concerns. It feels like a collaborative effort today. The issue of tariffs was a key topic of discussion this afternoon,” he stated. The President acknowledged that he could not immediately confirm whether actions had already been taken regarding the tariffs affecting media organizations. However, he promised to ensure that any oversights would be addressed promptly. “If any aspect was overlooked, I will personally go back to make the necessary corrections,” Tinubu assured the attendees. President Tinubu further commended media organizations for their invaluable contributions to national development. He highlighted the crucial role that the media plays in job creation, public education, and information dissemination. “The joy lies in knowing that many of your organizations provide employment opportunities and empower citizens by delivering information that educates, informs, and strengthens our collective understanding,” he added. This initiative reflects the government’s growing awareness of the challenges faced by media institutions and underscores a commitment to fostering a more supportive environment for media practitioners across Nigeria. The potential tariff review could significantly impact media organizations, encouraging sustainable growth and ensuring continued contribution to the socio-economic development of the country.
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The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has expressed profound satisfaction with the progress and quality of works being delivered by indigenous contractors on key federal highway projects initiated by the Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration. He highlighted that their performance is a testament to the growing engineering and construction capacity within Nigeria. During an inspection on Friday of ongoing works along a section of the Calabar corridor, part of the President’s legacy road programme, Umahi commended Nigerian construction firms for their unwavering commitment to national development. He noted that many contractors often continue work even before receiving official mobilization funds, underscoring their patriotism and dedication. The Calabar corridor is a vital segment of the first phase of the 465-kilometre highway project designed to connect southern Nigeria to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), establishing a strategic transport and economic corridor for the nation. Indigenous Contractors Leading by Example According to the minister, several indigenous contractors engaged by the Federal Ministry of Works have continued construction activities despite delays in mobilization funding. “Many of these local contractors have shown remarkable patriotism. Some have not yet been mobilized financially, yet they are already executing works,” Umahi remarked. He noted that at least eight Nigerian construction firms are actively executing projects without formal mobilization, a level of commitment rarely observed among some expatriate companies. Umahi explained that foreign firms often pause work to assess political and economic conditions before committing resources. “These indigenous firms see themselves as partners in nation-building. Companies like Hitech Construction Company have demonstrated that Nigerian contractors can deliver projects with professionalism and quality comparable to international standards,” he added. Route and Scope of the Calabar Corridor The project stretches from Calabar through Ndibe Beach, Afikpo, Amasiri, and Onueke, before extending through the South-South and South-East corridors and eventually linking to Ukwachi (Ndiebor Ishieke) and the old Enugu–Abakaliki road. From there, it proceeds through Mbeke Ishieke and terminates at the boundary between Ebonyi and Benue states. The first section of the corridor covers approximately 125.5 kilometres, with a total contract value of around N454 billion. Umahi confirmed that the Federal Government has already disbursed 30% of the contract sum, in accordance with the Engineering, Procurement, Construction, and Finance (EPC+F) funding model. Under this framework, the government provides 30% of the funds, while contractors source the remaining 70% through private financing. Advanced Road and Bridge Technology The highway is being constructed using concrete pavement technology, which the minister noted is expected to last up to 100 years with minimal maintenance. “Concrete pavement is here to stay in Nigeria due to its durability. With the high-quality materials being used, these roads will serve for decades,” Umahi emphasized. The project also includes significant bridge infrastructure, featuring a 25-span bridge of approximately 700 metres and another bridge measuring roughly 1.5 kilometres. These bridges are being constructed using advanced launching systems, where cranes move along piers to position beams without relying on ground-based operations. Umahi indicated that superstructure works are already in advanced stages and expressed optimism that the project could be completed ahead of the official 36-month timeline, provided the current pace is maintained. “If contractors sustain this speed and the timeline is extended by about nine months, the project could be finished earlier than scheduled,” he said. Approximately 11 kilometres of dual carriageway have already been completed along sections of the corridor. Umahi further instructed contractors to establish an additional concrete production plant at Onueke, facilitating simultaneous construction from multiple fronts. Integration with National Infrastructure Network The Calabar corridor is part of four major legacy infrastructure corridors being implemented under the Tinubu administration, designed to integrate with existing transport networks. Once completed, the highway will connect with the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway, creating a seamless multi-regional transport route. Other significant projects include: Collaboration with State Governments Umahi also recognized the critical role of state governments in facilitating the projects, particularly in compensation for affected property owners. He commended the Ebonyi State Government for timely payments, which allowed contractors to commence work without delays. “In situations where contractors have not yet been mobilized, they cannot handle compensation payments. Support from state governments is therefore essential,” Umahi said. He further disclosed that additional compensation payments are being processed for property owners affected by planned road expansions and dualization works in several communities.
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Portraits of Iranian military generals and nuclear scientists, killed during an Israeli strike on June 13, 2025, were displayed along roads in Tehran, while heavy smoke and flames engulfed an oil refinery in southern Tehran following an overnight air raid on June 15, 2025. (File/AFP) Iran has issued a stark warning to the United States, threatening to reduce American-linked oil facilities to “a pile of ashes” as the ongoing Middle East war drives global oil prices sharply higher. This comes after US President Donald Trump indicated he might “wipe out” Iran’s largest oil export hub on Kharg Island. Since hostilities erupted on February 28, waves of drone, missile, and air strikes have displaced millions and reportedly killed over 1,200 people in Iran, with US and Israeli forces leading the attacks. Despite facing overwhelming military power, Iran has launched missile and drone counterattacks against at least ten countries, signaling its resilience and intent to escalate the conflict further. Iran has also threatened international oil trade by warning it may target tankers in the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a critical channel carrying roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply. This threat has caused crude oil prices to surge more than 40% since the conflict began. President Trump stated that US forces had “totally obliterated” military targets on Kharg Island, describing the operation as “one of the most powerful bombing raids in Middle Eastern history.” However, he said that the US had refrained from targeting the oil infrastructure—at least for now. He warned, “Should Iran, or anyone else, interfere with the free and safe passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz, I will immediately reconsider this decision.” To ensure oil exports continue, the US Navy plans to begin escorting tankers through the Strait of Hormuz soon. Iran’s military, in response, declared that any US attack on its oil facilities or energy infrastructure linked to US interests would result in immediate destruction and turn these installations into “ashes,” according to Iranian media reports. Human Cost and Displacement The US and Israeli campaign has reportedly killed more than 1,200 people in Iran, though independent verification is lacking. The United Nations refugee agency estimates that up to 3.2 million people have been displaced within Iran since the start of the war. Escalating Attacks on Tehran Heavy explosions shook Tehran late Friday as the US vowed to intensify its airstrikes. Trump declared Iran “totally defeated” and insisted on terms that he would not negotiate. The Pentagon confirmed that US and Israeli forces had targeted over 15,000 locations in Iran in just two weeks, with Israel alone reporting 7,600 strikes, primarily against missile programs. Iran continues to project strength, despite the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei at the onset of the US-Israeli offensive. His son, Mojtaba Khamenei, was appointed as the new leader, though he remains largely absent from public view and is reportedly injured. Within Iran, the Revolutionary Guards have warned of strict crackdowns on anti-government protests, recalling demonstrations in January that led to thousands of deaths. Authorities have also maintained a widespread internet blackout throughout the conflict. Regional Fallout The war has extended beyond Iran’s borders. A drone strike hit the US embassy in Baghdad, Iraq, shortly after two Iran-backed militants were killed in airstrikes. The Pentagon reportedly dispatched the USS Tripoli, an amphibious assault ship with approximately 2,500 Marines, to the region, signaling the possibility of expanded US operations. Since the war began, 13 US personnel have died, including six in a non-combat aircraft crash in Iraq. Gulf states remain under threat. Qatar intercepted two missiles over its capital, Doha, prompting evacuations in key areas. Saudi Arabia reported intercepting dozens of drones on Friday. Turkey confirmed NATO forces downed a ballistic missile launched from Iran—marking the third such interception during the conflict. Lebanon has also become a theater of war after Tehran-backed militants attacked Israel in retaliation for the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader. Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon killed a dozen medical staff at a healthcare facility, and Lebanese authorities report at least 773 fatalities from attacks aimed at neutralizing Hezbollah, Iran’s regional ally.
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President Bola Tinubu has officially approved the relocation of the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) from the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development to the Presidency, overriding objections from Minister Festus Keyamo. While it remains unclear which specific office within the Presidency will oversee the bureau, sources from Saturday PUNCH confirm that the President’s approval signals a significant shift in the agency’s administrative alignment. This move ends months of deliberations over the bureau’s optimal placement for operational efficiency. Background of the Controversy For months, stakeholders, lawmakers, and transport sector operators have debated the bureau’s location. Advocates for independence argued that placing the NSIB under the Ministry of Aviation restricted its effectiveness, given its oversight responsibilities across air, rail, maritime, and road safety. Conversely, Keyamo insisted that the bureau should remain within the ministry to retain streamlined governance. Ultimately, President Tinubu concluded that the NSIB would execute its duties more efficiently while reporting directly to the Presidency. Advisory from the Presidency In a letter dated November 3, 2025, obtained by our correspondent, Hadiza Usman, Special Adviser to the President on Policy and Coordination and Head of the Central Results Delivery Coordination Unit, recommended relocating the bureau. Usman highlighted that the move aligns with global best practices, referencing the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) in the United States, which reports directly to the federal government to ensure autonomy and credibility in investigations (NTSB Official Site). The letter emphasized that NSIB’s current placement under the aviation ministry, as outlined in Section 66, Page A1136 of the Establishment Act, limits its capacity to investigate not only air accidents but also marine, rail, and tracked vehicle incidents. According to Usman, moving the bureau to the Presidency would: The proposal suggested that the NSIB report to the Presidency via the Office of the National Security Adviser, a strategic shift designed to enhance its operational independence and credibility. Presidential Approval On March 5, 2026, through his Private Secretary, Damilola Aderemi, President Tinubu formally approved Usman’s recommendation, signaling the end of the bureau’s operations under the Ministry of Aviation. This development aligns with earlier reports by The PUNCH, which indicated that the Federal Government, supported by the National Assembly, considered removing the NSIB from the Ministry of Aviation’s control. Transport sector stakeholders, including the Ministry of Transportation and the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, had consistently advocated for placing the bureau under the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation. Importance of Operational Independence The NSIB is responsible for investigating accidents across land, water, and air transportation in Nigeria. For years, the agency has sought enhanced funding, resources, and autonomy to improve its service delivery and investigative credibility. In June 2025, the Federal Ministry of Aviation opposed the National Assembly’s plan to relocate the NSIB, presenting its case during a public hearing organized by the joint committee on Special Duties and Aviation in Abuja. Then-Permanent Secretary Abubakar Kana argued that the bureau should remain under the ministry while strengthening its operational framework to ensure functional independence. Kana stated, “I recommend that the National Assembly and its relevant stakeholders should please retain the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau within the Federal Ministry of Aviation.” However, the Presidential approval now overrides this stance, reflecting a broader strategy to align Nigeria’s accident investigation protocols with global standards.
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Adamu Abubakar, son of former Nigerian Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has officially switched his political allegiance from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). This move marks a significant development in the political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections. According to reports from LMSINT MEDIA, Adamu, who previously served as a commissioner in Adamawa State, formally resigned from the PDP on Thursday. Within hours of this resignation, he completed his online registration with the ADC, aligning himself with the party where his father is planning to run for president in 2027. On social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Adamu urged his followers and supporters to join him in the ADC. He emphasized the importance of collective action in promoting good governance and national development. In his post, he stated: “I call on all my supporters and well-wishers to register with the ADC as we work together to advance the cause of good governance and national development.” Political analysts suggest that this defection could have a ripple effect on the political dynamics in Adamawa State and beyond. With the 2027 election approaching, movements like this indicate a strategic consolidation of supporters ahead of the presidential race. Adamu’s transition to ADC also signals a generational shift within Nigerian politics, reflecting younger leaders’ active engagement in shaping party platforms. As political activities intensify, the ADC could potentially emerge as a significant contender, particularly if influential figures like the Abubakars continue to rally support for its agenda.
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The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement (North Central), Dr. Abiodun Essiet, has begun a three-day stakeholder dialogue and community engagement exercise in Benue State as part of the Federal Government’s renewed efforts to address persistent security challenges and strengthen peacebuilding at the grassroots level. The visit involves meetings with government officials as well as direct interaction with residents of communities affected by insecurity across the state. The engagement is in line with the policy direction of President Bola Tinubu, which encourages community participation in conflict resolution while improving collaboration between local authorities and federal agencies on security and border management matters. During the engagement, Essiet held discussions with the Deputy Governor of Benue State, Sam Ode, where both parties reviewed the current security situation and explored ways the Federal Government and the state can work more closely on community and boundary-related concerns. Ode explained the steps already taken by the state government to tackle insecurity, especially in border communities where clashes and disputes have been reported. He also highlighted the cooperation between Benue State and neighbouring states including Taraba and Nasarawa, noting that joint efforts are ongoing to address cross-border crime, land disagreements and communal conflicts along shared boundaries. According to him, the Benue State Government remains committed to strengthening collaboration with federal authorities in order to resolve boundary disputes and maintain peace and stability in affected communities. Essiet also paid a courtesy visit to Governor Hyacinth Alia, where she outlined the objectives of the three-day dialogue and the broader goals of the community engagement programme. The meeting provided an opportunity for both sides to review feedback gathered from residents and community leaders, while also discussing ways to improve communication channels and conflict resolution mechanisms at the local level. Governor Alia welcomed the initiative and drew attention to complaints raised by residents, particularly the poor condition of some federal roads in parts of the state. He noted that damaged road infrastructure has made it difficult for security agencies to respond quickly during emergency situations in certain rural communities. To ensure the success of the programme, the governor directed the Benue State Department of Peace and Reconciliation together with the Community Engagement Unit to work closely with Essiet’s team throughout the exercise. He explained that the departments would coordinate activities and align them with existing peacebuilding programmes already being implemented by the state government. As part of the engagement schedule, Essiet is expected to assess the security situation in Kwande Local Government Area and hold consultations with stakeholders across the Benue North-East Senatorial District. She will also organise a citizens’ assembly bringing together representatives from Katsina-Ala, Konshisha, Kwande, Logo, Ukum, Ushongo and Vandeikya local government areas to encourage dialogue, cooperation and peaceful coexistence among communities. The visit comes at a time when several communities in Benue State continue to experience security threats and communal tensions that have affected livelihoods and social stability in recent years. Meanwhile, defence and security stakeholders have called for the creation of trauma support centres for widows of fallen military personnel. They emphasised the importance of providing psychological, emotional and social assistance to families who lost loved ones while serving the nation. According to the stakeholders, many widows face grief, trauma and financial hardship after the death of their spouses, making counselling services, rehabilitation programmes and welfare support very necessary. Speaking during the Silent Heroes Coterie held under the Heroes for Heroes Project organised by Youth Ablaze in Abuja, Hussaina Bangshika urged both federal and state governments, as well as civil society organisations, to collaborate in providing structured trauma support services. She stated that the government must take responsibility because the fallen soldiers died while protecting the country and defending its territorial integrity. Bangshika explained that although some support initiatives exist, they are limited in scope and often short-term. She added that military families usually endure long periods of emotional stress whenever their spouses are deployed, living with constant uncertainty about their safety. According to her, the trauma experienced by families of military personnel can last for many years, which makes specialised therapy and long-term support necessary for widows as well as soldiers returning from conflict operations. In a goodwill message, health journalist and public health advocate Moji Makanjuola said no widow should suffer for the sacrifice made by her husband in service to the nation. She urged the government to strengthen welfare programmes for families of fallen heroes. Chairman of the organising committee, Lt-Commander Ibrahim Babainna (rtd), said any nation that wants to inspire future generations must recognise and honour the courage of those who served. Convener of the Heroes for Heroes Project, Dr Faith Eches, explained that the initiative is designed to recognise bravery, celebrate dedication and acknowledge the sacrifices made by individuals contributing to national development.
