President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved an increase in salaries for members of the Nigerian Armed Forces, reinforcing his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare and working conditions of military personnel across the country. The announcement was made during an interfaith Iftar gathering with Nigeria’s Service Chiefs at the Aso Rock Presidential Villa in Abuja. During the event, the president emphasized that strengthening the welfare structure of military personnel remains a key priority for his administration. He stated that issues related to accommodation, living standards, and overall well-being of service members will receive serious attention moving forward. Tinubu Commends Sacrifices of Armed Forces Speaking at the gathering, President Tinubu noted that the interfaith breaking of fast symbolizes unity within Nigeria’s diverse society. According to him, the event demonstrates how people from different faiths can come together in harmony while strengthening national integration and mutual understanding. He explained that the moment provides an opportunity for reflection and collective purpose, highlighting the importance of collaboration among citizens regardless of religious background. Tinubu also acknowledged the recent approvals granted to the Nigerian Army, which were mentioned earlier by the Chief of Army Staff. He described those decisions as timely and appropriate, reiterating his administration’s determination to strengthen the operational and welfare framework of the military. Recognition of Military Dedication The president expressed gratitude to members of the armed forces for their sacrifices in defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity and safeguarding national sovereignty. He pointed out that many service members remain separated from their families for extended periods while performing their duties in difficult and sometimes dangerous environments. According to him, numerous troops are currently deployed in regions where they confront threats from banditry and terrorist groups. Despite these risks, they continue to carry out their responsibilities with commitment and courage. Tinubu stated that the Nigerian government and citizens deeply appreciate these sacrifices and recognize the dedication of the military in maintaining national security. Government Pledges Improved Welfare and Support The president reassured the military leadership that the welfare of personnel will remain a major focus of his administration’s policies. He stressed that his government intends to strengthen support systems that benefit both service members and their families. He also emphasized that improving housing conditions, welfare packages, and other opportunities available to military families will receive priority attention in upcoming government decisions. Tinubu further noted that the diversity within Nigeria is a defining strength that contributes to the country’s unity and progress. He commended the leadership of the armed forces for their continuous efforts in protecting the nation from threats posed by criminal groups and insurgents. According to him, the government will continue working collaboratively with military leaders to ensure that service members feel supported and valued for their contributions to national stability. The president concluded by assuring the armed forces that their sacrifices will always be recognized by the nation and that his administration will do everything possible to ensure that they have no reason to regret their service to Nigeria.
Vice President Kashim Shettima has reiterated the Federal Government’s unwavering resolve to ensure that no region within Nigeria is ever dominated or controlled by terrorist groups. His remarks followed the latest wave of insurgent violence reported in Borno State, a development that has once again drawn national attention to security concerns in the North-East. Speaking on Saturday, the Vice President reacted to several disturbing incidents that occurred recently. These incidents included the abduction of residents in Ngoshe and coordinated assaults targeting military formations in Konduga, Marte, Jakana, and Mainok. According to an official statement released by Stanley Nkwocha, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications in the Office of the Vice President, Shettima disclosed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had already ordered an urgent and comprehensive deployment of security forces to confront the attackers and restore calm in the affected communities. The Vice President described the recent attacks as a painful reminder that the country continues to face security challenges. Nevertheless, he emphasized that the Nigerian government remains determined to overcome the threats posed by extremist groups. “The incidents witnessed over the last few days are a stark reminder of the darkness that still lingers,” Shettima stated. “However, our choice as a nation is clear—we stand for hope rather than despair and light instead of darkness.” He further explained that President Tinubu had been fully briefed on the situation and had promptly instructed security authorities to initiate a broad and decisive mobilisation across Nigeria’s security architecture. According to him, the Federal Government will not allow any individual or group attempting to forcefully displace communities or seize Nigerian territory to find refuge anywhere within the country. “The President has directed a swift and complete mobilisation of our security structure. Nigeria will never permit any safe haven for those who attempt to occupy even a single inch of our land,” he affirmed. The Vice President stressed that the government will not succumb to intimidation resulting from what he described as cowardly acts carried out by insurgents. He also disclosed that additional tactical support and intelligence-driven reinforcements have already been deployed to strengthen military operations across the North-East region. Shettima noted that the ongoing fight against terrorism goes beyond a conventional military campaign. In his view, the struggle represents a defence of humanity against extremist ideologies that promote violence and hatred. “This effort is not merely about warfare,” he said. “It is a struggle to protect the very essence of our humanity from those spreading poisonous narratives of hate. Their brutal actions will never weaken our resolve.” He assured Nigerians that all individuals responsible for the attacks would face justice in accordance with the law. At the same time, he reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to securing the safe return of those who were abducted during the incidents. The Vice President expressed deep sympathy for the families who lost loved ones, particularly soldiers who sacrificed their lives while defending the nation. “Our hearts go out to the families affected by these tragic events and to the courageous troops who paid the ultimate price while protecting the country,” Shettima said. “This administration remains committed to ensuring that abducted citizens are safely reunited with their loved ones.” In addition, Shettima praised the strength and perseverance demonstrated by residents of Borno State despite years of insurgency-related hardship. He also commended the efforts of the state government under Governor Babagana Zulum, alongside the dedication and bravery displayed by military personnel and other security operatives currently on the frontline of the counter-insurgency campaign. He concluded by emphasizing that collaboration between federal authorities, state leadership, security agencies, and local communities remains crucial to defeating terrorism and restoring long-term peace across the region.
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The Governor of Abia State, Alex Otti, has revealed that the state government is preparing to establish the Abia State Safety Commission as part of a broader effort to strengthen safety regulation across the state. According to the governor, the proposed commission will oversee and enforce safety standards in residential buildings, workplaces, commercial markets, and industrial facilities throughout the state. The initiative is designed to ensure that safety practices are properly monitored and implemented in both public and private environments. Governor Otti disclosed this development on Friday while hosting members of the House of Representatives Committee on Safety Standards and Regulations. The delegation was led by its chairman, David Idris Zakarias. During the meeting, the governor explained that the proposal to create the Safety Commission has already secured approval from the State Executive Council. However, the policy still requires legislative endorsement before it can be fully operational across the state. He emphasized that establishing the commission alone will not be enough to guarantee public safety. According to him, continuous public education and awareness about safety practices are equally necessary in order to reduce the risk of disasters and safeguard both lives and property. Governor Otti pointed out that unsafe practices remain common in several markets and public spaces. He highlighted situations where exposed electrical wiring and flammable materials are stored in risky conditions, increasing the possibility of fire outbreaks or other emergencies. To address these concerns, he stressed the need for stronger safety awareness among residents and business owners. He also encouraged the widespread availability of essential safety equipment, including fire extinguishers, to improve emergency preparedness. “We must keep educating the public and ensure safety tools such as fire extinguishers are readily available,” the governor said while discussing the importance of prevention measures. Governor Otti further assured the visiting lawmakers that his administration is committed to ensuring that the safety policy is properly backed by legislation so that the commission can operate effectively once established. Earlier in his remarks, the chairman of the committee, David Idris Zakarias, explained that currently only Lagos State operates a formal Safety Commission in the country. He expressed concern that widespread failure to comply with safety standards is contributing to avoidable risks affecting businesses and citizens across Nigeria. According to him, improving regulatory oversight will help reduce accidents and protect economic activities nationwide. Experts often emphasize that strong safety governance plays a vital role in reducing disaster risks and protecting communities. Organizations such as the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction have repeatedly stressed the importance of preventive safety systems and regulatory frameworks in mitigating disasters around the world.
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Human rights advocate and legal practitioner, Deji Adeyanju, has publicly characterized former Kaduna State governor Nasir El‑Rufai as a tyrannical leader with a persistent inclination toward authoritarian behavior. According to Adeyanju, El‑Rufai’s track record in office reflects an intolerance for opposition and a tendency to suppress those who challenge him. The activist contends that if El‑Rufai were to regain political power, his conduct toward dissenters would be significantly harsher than during his previous tenure. In a message shared on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Adeyanju asserted that El‑Rufai’s current experience of being on the receiving end of state power is a consequence of how he treated critics when he held public office. Adeyanju stated that El‑Rufai embodies an unyielding form of despotism. He further claimed that anyone pushing for the ex‑governor’s return to political influence does so out of desperation or self‑seeking motives rather than principled leadership. To illustrate his point, Adeyanju referenced an incident during the COVID‑19 pandemic involving Islamic cleric Sheikh Bello Yabo, who openly criticized El‑Rufai’s policies. According to Adeyanju, instead of addressing the critique, El‑Rufai allegedly deployed police officers from Kaduna State to apprehend and detain Yabo in Sokoto on the eve of the Sallah festival. Adeyanju argued that even those now exerting pressure against El‑Rufai demonstrate greater restraint than he showed toward his opponents. He concluded by suggesting that El‑Rufai is facing the repercussions — or “karma” — of his previous actions. This critique prompts wider discussions about political leadership and accountability in Nigeria, and how leaders respond to dissent within democratic systems. It also aligns with global concerns about the treatment of human rights defenders and the limits of governmental authority when confronting opposing views. For a broader understanding of how authoritarian tendencies emerge and impact societies, reputable analyses like this one from LMSINT MEDIA offer useful context.
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Residents of Makoko, Sogunro, and Oko-Agbon communities in Lagos State are experiencing heightened anxiety following the conclusion of an investigative assignment by an ad-hoc committee of the Lagos State House of Assembly, tasked with probing the recent demolition of structures in these areas. The committee, constituted under the leadership of the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, wrapped up its hearings on Thursday, March 5, 2026, after carefully considering submissions from representatives of the three affected communities. The discussions revealed divergent opinions on whether displaced residents should receive financial compensation or be relocated permanently. Traditional Leaders Advocate Relocation During the session, Francis Agoyon, the Alase of the Egun Community in Makoko, strongly recommended permanent relocation for residents impacted by the demolitions instead of providing monetary compensation. Supporting this view, the Baale of Makoko noted that the majority of residents would prefer relocation over financial settlements. He emphasized that the government must specify the proposed relocation sites and clearly define the boundaries of the demolition exercise covering Makoko, Sogunro, and Oko-Agbon to avoid future disputes. Divergent Views from Sogunro Community Contrastingly, representatives from Sogunro advocated for financial compensation, proposing that each displaced resident should receive approximately ₦10 million. They argued that this sum would adequately cover the cost of reconstructing an average bamboo house, which is estimated at around ₦4 million. Tobi, Vice Chairman of the Fishermen Association, expressed concern over the escalating tension among residents, noting widespread uncertainty about the final decisions. He explained that the people’s anxiety is fueled by the lack of clarity on the next steps, with ultimate decisions resting in the hands of traditional leaders. Lagos Assembly’s Response Reacting to the submissions, Hon. Noheem Adams, the Majority Leader of the Lagos State House of Assembly, highlighted his concern regarding the inconsistent positions of the communities. He recalled that representatives initially agreed on compensation but later shifted toward relocation, a change he described as a setback to the Assembly’s efforts to achieve a prompt resolution. Adams confirmed that the committee would compile a comprehensive report, detailing all positions from the communities, and submit it to the Speaker and the full 40-member Assembly for further deliberation. Reconstructed Structures and LABCA Approval Officials from the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LABCA) informed the committee that several structures previously demolished had been rebuilt. LABCA requested the Assembly’s approval to remove these newly erected buildings. Community leaders unanimously agreed that any rebuilt structures within the designated demolition zones should be cleared by the government. Community Committees and Report Submissions Earlier in the process, the Assembly directed the three communities to form 10-member committees, consisting of women, youth, students, and traditional leaders, to address residents’ concerns and help facilitate a smooth resolution. These committees have since submitted their reports to the Assembly Secretariat, outlining community perspectives on compensation, relocation, and rebuilding. The outcome of these submissions is expected to guide the Assembly’s next steps in finalizing decisions and ensuring clarity for affected residents, as the state continues to balance urban planning initiatives with the welfare of local communities.
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The Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) has expressed strong dissatisfaction with the amended Electoral Act, insisting that the legislation does not provide any meaningful advantage to Nigerian citizens. The chairman of IPAC, Yusuf Dantalle, made this assertion on Thursday while speaking during an interview on Arise Television. During the discussion, he emphasized that the council had earlier developed a unified position and forwarded its recommendations to the National Assembly, but none of those proposals were reflected in the final amendment. According to Dantalle, several irregularities that the council initially identified remain embedded within the revised law. He stressed that the concerns raised by the political parties were ignored despite being formally presented to lawmakers responsible for reviewing electoral regulations. He explained that the council carefully examined the provisions of the Electoral Act alongside constitutional review processes and collectively agreed on a set of recommendations designed to strengthen the nation’s democratic framework. These proposals were compiled, harmonized, and formally submitted to the National Assembly Joint Committee on Electoral Act Amendment and Constitutional Review. However, he lamented that none of the submissions provided by IPAC were included in the final legislative outcome. Dantalle stated: “Some of the irregularities we highlighted are still present in the current law. From our assessment, the Electoral Act does not provide any real benefit to Nigerians. “During the process involving the review of both the Electoral Act and the Constitution, IPAC—which represents all registered political parties—held several consultations where we clearly outlined our collective position. “We compiled our recommendations, harmonised them, and forwarded the document to the National Assembly Joint Committee responsible for the Electoral Act amendment and constitutional review. Unfortunately, none of those proposals were considered or adopted.” He questioned the overall value of the amendment and its potential impact on Nigeria’s democratic process. Dantalle further raised concerns about the practical implications of the legislation, asking what tangible benefits the country stands to gain from the new provisions. He said the key issues that should guide electoral reforms include whether the law strengthens democracy, improves governance structures, and enhances the credibility of the electoral system. According to him, these are the fundamental questions that remain unanswered. “The major concern now is: what exactly does Nigeria gain from this? How does the amended law improve the democratic process? In what way will it strengthen the system? These are the issues we continue to raise,” he said. To illustrate his argument, Dantalle referenced the implementation challenges surrounding Nigeria’s National Identification Number registration process. He recalled that the government previously mandated all telecommunications users to link their phone numbers to the National Identification Number (NIN) Nigeria. However, the deadline had to be extended after authorities were unable to complete the process within the stipulated timeframe. Dantalle argued that if such logistical difficulties occurred during the NIN registration process, greater caution should be exercised when implementing reforms related to elections. He pointed out that electoral activities have a direct impact on every citizen because they determine leadership positions and influence national governance. Given the importance of elections, he questioned why there appeared to be urgency in passing and signing the Electoral Act without fully addressing stakeholder concerns. “Remember that in this same country, authorities attempted to link every phone line to the National Identification Number. The government later extended the deadline because the process could not be completed within the given time. “Now we are dealing with elections that influence the lives of all Nigerians and determine leadership within the country. So the question remains: why the haste in passing and signing the Electoral Act?” he asked.
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Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has encouraged citizens across the country to move away from what she described as an “entitlement mentality,” emphasizing that Nigerians should instead cultivate a culture rooted in responsibility, honesty, and dedicated service in whatever roles they occupy. The message was disclosed in an official statement released on Thursday and signed by her Senior Special Assistant on Media, Busola Kukoyi. According to the statement, the First Lady made this appeal while hosting an interfaith Breaking of Fast gathering for women. The event combined the observances of Iftar and Lent, bringing together women from diverse professional and social backgrounds across Nigeria. During her address at the gathering, Mrs. Tinubu highlighted the symbolic significance of the Muslim Ramadan fasting period occurring at the same time as the Christian Lenten season. She noted that this rare overlap carries a deeper national message about unity, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence among people of different religious traditions. The First Lady explained that the simultaneous observance of Ramadan and Lent offers Nigerians an opportunity to reflect on shared values such as sacrifice, discipline, humility, and spiritual renewal. “Today is truly a special day. It is a moment that God has created for us to come together, especially women from different backgrounds. When the Ramadan fast began and the Lenten season also started around the same period, it felt as though God was speaking to us collectively as a nation,” she stated. Mrs. Tinubu also pointed out that although there have been attempts in recent times by certain individuals or groups to exploit religious differences in order to create division, the Nigerian people historically have maintained peaceful relationships regardless of religious affiliation. She observed that many Nigerian families already demonstrate religious harmony in their everyday lives, with members belonging to different faith traditions while still living peacefully under the same roof. “Recently, we have seen many situations where some people attempt to focus attention on our religious differences. But as Nigerians, we know that this is not usually the reality. There are many families where spouses belong to different religions, yet they coexist peacefully. Some of us have lived this reality for decades. In my case, it has been almost forty years,” she said. Reflecting on her own personal experience, the First Lady referenced her nearly four decades of marriage to Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu. She explained that respect, maturity, and mutual understanding have been central to maintaining harmony throughout their relationship. According to her, disagreements have been rare, and both partners have consistently approached their marriage with patience and dignity. “I can honestly say that throughout the years we have been married, I cannot recall more than a couple of times when our voices were raised at each other. That speaks to the level of maturity and respect we have maintained. “This kind of approach to relationships is what helps people live together peacefully,” she added. Beyond discussing unity and family values, Senator Tinubu used the opportunity to encourage Nigerians to rethink attitudes that expect benefits without corresponding effort or contribution. She stressed that national progress depends on individuals who are willing to play active roles in improving their communities rather than waiting for opportunities or advantages without participating in the process. The First Lady further addressed women whose spouses hold positions in government as well as women who occupy leadership roles themselves. She urged them to understand the influence they possess and to use it positively in supporting responsible governance and national development. “Many of the women gathered here either hold professional positions themselves or are married to individuals who serve in public offices. In such circumstances, the wives also carry an important responsibility,” she noted. Mrs. Tinubu emphasized that the actions, attitudes, and values demonstrated by families of public officials can contribute to shaping the culture of leadership within the country. She also highlighted the importance of mentorship and the responsibility older generations carry in guiding younger Nigerians. According to her, the future of the country will largely depend on the principles and moral standards passed on to emerging generations. Encouraging participants at the event to take mentorship seriously, she said that nurturing responsible young leaders requires deliberate effort, positive examples, and strong moral guidance. The gathering also featured a lecture delivered by Professor Ganiyat Adejoke Adesina-Uthman, a Director at the National Open University of Nigeria. Speaking on the topic “Serving with Excellence, Compassion and Integrity in Public Life,” the academic highlighted the importance of ethical leadership in public institutions. Professor Adesina-Uthman raised concerns about what she described as a growing crisis of public trust in government offices and institutions. According to her, rebuilding confidence among citizens requires leaders who demonstrate accountability, compassion, and transparency in their duties. She explained that excellence in public service should not be seen merely as a professional expectation but as a moral obligation for those entrusted with authority. The scholar also stressed that integrity remains an indispensable principle for anyone serving in a public capacity, noting that ethical leadership forms the foundation for effective governance and sustainable national development.
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Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to continuously fostering a business‑friendly atmosphere capable of boosting the economic prospects of the state. The governor made this declaration on Wednesday during a courtesy visit by officials of the Aba Sports Club 1926 to Government House, led by the club’s Millennium President and its 68th President, Chief Nkene Enukeme. In his remarks, Governor Otti emphasized that the ongoing revitalization of Aba city remains a central focus of his government’s strategic agenda. He stated that his administration will make deliberate efforts to reimagine and improve Aba’s commercial environment, explaining: “As a government, we’ll do everything possible to continue to reinvent Aba. We talked about the Radisson Blu – Enyimba Hotel, and of course, construction is on. The presence of a Five‑Star Hotel in Aba will automatically redefine and elevate virtually everything. It will not send people out, but it will bring them up.” The governor also pointed out that introducing a world‑class hospitality establishment like the Radisson Blu – Enyimba Hotel will set new benchmarks across multiple sectors, stimulating healthy competition among local enterprises and lifting overall standards. He added: “There are gains to come. If you want to maintain a hotel in Aba, then you have to aim to be at the highest standard. That’s how societies improve. That’s how organisations also support society.” Governor Otti took time to congratulate Chief Nkene Enukeme on his leadership position at the club, applauding him for preserving and enhancing the legacy of his late father. He remarked: “It doesn’t happen like that very often. A lot of people who have built things, by the time they leave, the entire thing collapses. So, you need to also document some of those things that you did so that others can learn. I’m very proud of you; just keep it up.” In response, Chief Nkene Enukeme explained that the purpose of the visit was to solidify the partnership between the Aba Sports Club and the state government, while showing appreciation for the support provided to the club’s infrastructure. He praised Governor Otti’s leadership, noting that the visible transformation of governance culture — characterised by fiscal responsibility and a sharp focus on infrastructure renewal — continues to uplift the hopes of Abia residents. According to Nkene: “The visible shift in the governance culture of Abia State, characterised by fiscal discipline and a clear focus on infrastructural renewal, is not only commendable but serves as a beacon of hope for all Abians.”
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The General Manager of the Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Agency (LNSA), Prince Dr. Ifalade Oyekan, has affirmed that Lagos State is thoroughly equipped and ready for the implementation of State Police. He highlighted that the state’s current security framework is strategically structured to adapt easily to a full state policing system once the legal environment is established. In an official statement, Prince Oyekan pointed out that the Agency — widely recognized as one of Nigeria’s forerunners in community‑oriented policing — was intentionally developed with the flexibility and readiness needed to evolve into a comprehensive security force. This anticipatory setup is aimed at ensuring that Lagos seamlessly aligns with the framework of State Police when it becomes legally sanctioned. He emphasized that the LNSA has undergone significant restructuring to effectively address contemporary security challenges. This transformation places strong emphasis on proactive measures, modern technology, and intelligence‑led initiatives as central components of its strategy to protect lives and property across the state. “We are not created to simply react to crime after it has occurred. Our trained Corps Officers are equipped to anticipate possible threats, prevent emerging security risks, and proactively reduce incidents before they escalate,” Oyekan explained. According to him, the organization’s operational philosophy centers on grassroots engagement, intelligence collection, and rapid early intervention. These core functions, he noted, reflect the same principles and expectations envisioned for state‑level policing, making Lagos uniquely equipped for the transition. Recently reappointed by Lagos State Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo‑Olu for a second five‑year tenure, Prince Oyekan restated the Agency’s unwavering dedication to strengthening community‑based safety structures and fostering collaborative security cooperation throughout Lagos. He reiterated that under Governor Sanwo‑Olu’s leadership, the LNSA and its operational wing will continue to modernize intelligently, enhancing their capacity to serve as a responsive, efficient, and community‑centric safety institution. In a related development at the national level, the Inspector‑General of Police, Tunji Disu, has inaugurated an eight‑member committee tasked with guiding the implementation of State Police and driving forward a reformed policing agenda in Nigeria. This committee was established soon after his appointment as the 23rd indigenous Inspector‑General of Police, reflecting the growing federal commitment to restructuring Nigeria’s policing architecture.
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The Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, has declared that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) currently controls 31 state governments across Nigeria, adding that additional governors are expected to align with the party in the near future. The governor made this statement on Wednesday during the formal reception ceremony held for new defectors in Benin City, the Edo State capital. The event drew party leaders, stakeholders, and supporters who gathered to witness the strengthening of the party’s structure within the state. Addressing attendees at the ceremony, Okpebholo appreciated the people of Edo State for the spirit of unity that, according to him, continues to consolidate the party’s influence and cohesion. He noted that the sense of togetherness among party faithful has played a major role in reinforcing APC’s dominance both at the state and national levels. According to him: “Let me begin by appreciating the people of Edo State for the unity that binds us together and keeps us under one political platform. We now have 31 governors under the All Progressives Congress, APC, and I want to inform you that more governors are on their way to join our fold. I must also convey my deep appreciation to our father, for whom this gathering is held today, President Bola Tinubu. He has been exceptionally supportive to us, and we assure him that Edo State will stand firmly with him in the 2027 general elections.” The governor further emphasized his administration’s commitment to strengthening party structures in the state ahead of the 2027 electoral cycle. He reiterated that Edo would remain supportive of the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, describing him as a strong pillar behind the party’s growth and national presence. The reception of defectors, according to party officials present at the event, reflects the continued realignment within Nigeria’s political landscape as preparations gradually build toward the next general elections.
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has formally approved the extension of Prof. Ayo Omotayo’s tenure as Director-General of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, Plateau State. The renewal grants him a concluding four-year term in office. The announcement was made on Wednesday through an official statement released by the President’s spokesperson, Mr. Bayo Onanuga. The communication explained that the reappointment reflects the administration’s trust in Prof. Omotayo’s leadership capacity and his sustained input toward strategic policy development and Nigeria’s broader national advancement agenda. According to reports from the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Prof. Omotayo initially assumed the role in November 2021 following his appointment by former President Muhammadu Buhari. His nomination later received confirmation from the Senate in February 2022, solidifying his leadership at the institute. An academic with deep expertise in environmental sustainability, Prof. Omotayo earned a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in Geography from the University of Ibadan, where he pursued his studies between 1980 and 1990. His professional journey in academia commenced at Lagos State University in 1985. Demonstrating notable scholarly progress, he advanced rapidly within the institution and attained the rank of Senior Lecturer in 1992 at the age of 30. Over the years, he occupied several key administrative and academic positions. Between 2012 and 2017, he served as Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences at Lagos State University. Before his elevation to the position of Director-General of NIPSS in 2021, he was the Director of the Centre for Planning at the same university, where he contributed to institutional strategy and development planning. The National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) remains Nigeria’s foremost public policy think tank. The institution is central to the training of high-level public officials and stakeholders, while also promoting informed dialogue on governance, national strategy, and long-term development planning. Through its programmes, NIPSS continues to shape policy discourse and leadership orientation across the country.
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Adamu Garba, a former presidential aspirant under the All Progressives Congress (APC), has expressed concern over the ongoing ground and aerial attacks reportedly carried out by Kurdish forces alongside Israeli troops targeting Iran. Garba stated that the coordinated land and air operations could significantly strain Iran’s defenses, warning that the situation might deteriorate rapidly. According to him, the intensity of the assault suggests that the coming hours may prove even more challenging for Tehran. In a statement shared on Facebook, Garba further alleged that the United States Central Command (CENTCOM) has reportedly assembled approximately 50,000 personnel in preparation for potential offensive deployment against Iran. He indicated that such mobilization, if confirmed, would represent a major widening of the confrontation. These reported developments point to a sharp rise in geopolitical tensions across the Middle East, heightening fears of a broader regional conflict involving multiple actors. Garba wrote: “Simultaneous air and ground offensives have been launched against Iran by Kurdish units and the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). The night ahead will be even more difficult for Iran. “At the same time, the United States Central Command has reportedly positioned about 50,000 troops, specifically prepared for offensive operations directed at Iran. The conflict is intensifying at a very fast pace. “Targeting Tehran reflects an act of desperation by the U.S.–Israel partnership, aimed more at causing suffering than achieving any decisive strategic objective. “It is ironic that some of the strongest critics of Iran’s clerical leadership reside in cities such as Tehran. “Attacks on these urban centers risk amplifying resentment and may drive many citizens toward backing the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) out of retaliation rather than ideological alignment.
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Vice President Kashim Shettima has clarified that the newly introduced tax reform policies are not designed to worsen economic hardship for Nigerians. Instead, he explained that the measures are structured to remove the heavy burden of multiple taxation affecting small enterprises and low-income earners across the country, ultimately contributing to poverty reduction. According to Shettima, the design and rollout of the tax reforms were carefully thought through to enhance citizens’ living conditions. He stressed that claims suggesting the reforms would further impoverish Nigerians are inaccurate and politically motivated. The Vice President delivered these remarks on behalf of President Bola Tinubu during an interfaith breaking of fast event held in observance of Ramadan and Lent at the State House. He explained that the administration remains deeply concerned about the economic struggles faced by many Nigerians and has continued to introduce policy tools aimed at easing hardship. He emphasized that these reforms are intended to uplift vulnerable groups without placing additional financial pressure on them. Addressing criticisms surrounding the tax policies, Shettima stated that some individuals spreading fears about the reforms are misinforming the public. He maintained that the objective of the new framework is to simplify the tax system, reduce overlapping charges, and create a more equitable structure for small businesses and ordinary citizens. He further noted that the government has a responsibility to communicate openly with Nigerians regarding its economic direction. According to him, there is a need for proactive engagement, including educating citizens about the true intentions behind the reforms and countering narratives that portray them negatively. The Vice President also pointed to broader economic adjustments already undertaken by the administration. These include strengthening the country’s foreign exchange reserves, harmonizing exchange rate mechanisms, and removing a long-standing fuel subsidy arrangement that, according to the government, primarily benefited a limited segment of the population. Shettima stated that the bold steps taken by President Tinubu demonstrate leadership and a willingness to confront structural challenges that previous governments avoided addressing. He argued that while such reforms may generate debate, they are necessary for long-term economic stability and inclusive growth. He concluded by reiterating that the overall goal of the tax reform agenda is to create a more transparent, efficient, and growth-driven system capable of improving national revenue without worsening poverty levels.
