Nigeria’s women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, reaffirmed their dominance on the African continent by cruising past Cameroon with a commanding 83-47 victory in the quarterfinals of the FIBA Women’s AfroBasket 2025 held on Thursday night in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire. With this emphatic win, the six-time African champions and current title holders have advanced to the semi-final round where they will face Senegal, a traditional basketball powerhouse in Africa, in what promises to be a pulsating encounter. Cameroon started the game with a quick burst, taking an early 4-0 lead, hinting at a possible upset. However, the Nigerians swiftly turned the tide, responding with a 7-4 lead that marked the beginning of their relentless dominance. The depth and athleticism of Coach Rena Wakama’s squad proved too much for a Cameroonian team visibly drained from their late-night qualifying battle against Angola. By halftime, D’Tigress had established full control, heading to the locker room with a 36-18 lead. Amy Okonkwo emerged as the spark plug for Nigeria, delivering an electrifying first-half performance with 15 points and 5 rebounds. Coming off the bench, Victoria Macaulay provided crucial minutes with excellent play inside the paint, combining defensive presence and offensive fluidity that further frustrated Cameroon’s already collapsing resistance. The third quarter widened the gap significantly, with Nigeria stretching the lead to 66-31, effectively putting the game beyond Cameroon’s reach. Impressive Stats from the D’Tigress Squad: D’Tigress Secure 2026 FIBA World Cup Qualifiers Spot With the victory, Nigeria officially secured a place in the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup qualifying tournaments, scheduled to take place in March 2026. This spot was also earned by the other semifinalists — Mali, Senegal, and South Sudan — making up the four African representatives for the global qualifiers. They will compete among 24 national teams across four qualification tournaments for the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup 2026. Other qualified teams from the Americas include:Brazil, Argentina, the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, and Colombia — a mix of global heavyweights and emerging contenders.
In a renewed escalation of trade tensions, United States President Donald Trump has signed a new executive order that hikes tariffs on Nigerian exports to the U.S. up to 15 percent. This directive, enacted on July 31, modifies America’s existing reciprocal trade system and formally categorizes Nigeria among over 40 countries penalized for trade imbalances with the U.S. The updated tariff policy is scheduled to take effect from August 7. Previously, in April, the Trump administration had implemented a 14 percent import tariff on Nigerian goods. This measure was part of a broader wave of tariff policies aimed at strengthening domestic manufacturing in the U.S. and addressing what the administration described as long-standing trade injustices. That initial tariff was temporarily paused for 90 days and later extended for another month to allow bilateral negotiations, which ultimately did not progress on Nigeria’s side. New Structure Targets Trade Deficit Nations Under the revised trade structure, any country running a trade deficit with the United States will now face a default 15 percent tariff on all goods shipped to American borders. In contrast, countries with a trade surplus in favor of the U.S. will pay a reduced 10 percent duty. This change reflects a sharp policy shift prioritizing reciprocity in international trade deals. According to the Observatory of Economic Complexity (OEC), Nigeria ranks as the second-largest export destination for U.S. goods in Sub-Saharan Africa. Despite this status, the U.S. maintains a trade surplus with Nigeria, totaling around $3.29 billion, making the country subject to the heightened tariff enforcement. President Trump emphasized that the new measures were essential to restore equitable trade and eliminate what he termed “systemic trade abuse.” The executive order affirms that these tariffs are not just punitive but also protective of American industries and jobs. Crackdown on Transshipment An added component of the executive order includes a hefty 40 percent penalty on transshipments — goods routed through a low-tariff country from a high-tariff country before arriving in the U.S. While transshipment is sometimes used to manage shipping efficiency or cost, American trade officials have flagged it as a tactic often used to circumvent U.S. tariffs. To prevent such practices, the directive grants expanded powers to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), enabling more aggressive investigations and enforcement of trade rule violations. Nigeria’s Position Under Threat from BRICS Association Trade tensions with Nigeria may not end with the 15 percent tariff. In early July, President Trump signaled intentions to impose an additional 10 percent tariff on any nation that aligns itself with the anti-American policy direction of BRICS — the bloc consisting of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. Nigeria formally became the ninth partner of BRICS in January 2025, after Brazil announced the country’s acceptance. Trump was quoted as saying, “There will be no exceptions to this policy.” If the warning is acted upon, Nigerian tariffs could surge from 15 percent to 25 percent, further complicating trade for Nigerian exporters. Impact on Nigeria’s Key Export Sectors Nigeria’s largest export commodity to the U.S. remains crude oil and related petroleum products, which generate 90 percent of the nation’s foreign exchange. However, recent years have seen strategic moves by the government to diversify its export portfolio by promoting non-oil sectors such as cocoa, fertilizers, and other value-added goods. These goods may now encounter higher entry costs into the U.S. market under the new tariff rules. It remains unclear whether oil exports are exempt, as they were in the April tariff round, labeled “Liberation Day.” Written by LMSINT MEDIA, a seasoned journalist with professional reporting experience in trade, maritime, labor, migration, and tech sectors. A graduate of Mass Communication from the University of Jos, and a certified contributor with training from Financial Times, Reuters, and Google, LMSINT MEDIA provides a clear-eyed and informed analysis on intricate trade policies and their implications for Nigeria. He is currently based in Lagos, Nigeria, with regular travel to Abuja for field reporting.
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ABUJA, Nigeria — In a decisive effort to reduce the frequency of nationwide strikes, the Federal Government has ratified the 2025 National Industrial Relations Policy (NIRP) designed to oversee and streamline trade union operations across Nigeria. This announcement coincides with news that the contentious circular which sparked a recent strike among healthcare professionals has now been formally revoked. Additionally, high-level discussions with striking nurses are scheduled to resume today. Government Moves to Harmonize Labour Relations During a post-meeting press briefing at the Presidential Villa, following the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting chaired by President Bola Tinubu, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, unveiled the NIRP as a strategic tool to stabilize industrial relations and ensure predictability in workplace dynamics. According to Idris, the new policy document was crafted to address the enduring wave of labour unrest caused by the absence of a national regulatory framework. The initiative, proposed by the Minister of Labour and Employment, aims to introduce a standard protocol for industrial relations. “This new National Industrial Relations Policy is crucial in bringing about consistent and peaceful interaction between employers and trade unions,” he stated. “It promotes effective collaboration between all stakeholders — government, employers, and employees — in line with global best practices and International Labour Organisation (ILO) standards.” Despite Nigeria having robust labour legislation in place, the government acknowledged that enforcement gaps have allowed stakeholders to flout established laws, thus necessitating the adoption of a fresh, comprehensive policy. Healthcare Sector Turmoil and Circular Withdrawal Addressing the ongoing health sector disruption, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate, clarified that the government had withdrawn the controversial circular issued by the National Salaries, Income and Wages Commission, which had triggered outrage among nurses and medical professionals. Prof. Pate emphasized that ongoing conversations with unions like the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) and nursing bodies are focused not only on financial demands but also on systemic issues, such as the centralization of nurses’ postings. “Our engagement with the unions is ongoing. Not all demands are monetary. We’re tackling administrative issues too. Respect and support for health workers is a key government priority,” Pate explained. Labour Unions Warn Against Government Interference Meanwhile, the leadership of Organized Labour has reaffirmed its stance against attempts by any external actors to sow discord between the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC). The unions allege that there is a deliberate ploy to weaken their joint advocacy for improved worker welfare. Speaking during the reception of the new executives of the Radio, Television and Arts Workers Union (RATTAWU), TUC President Festus Osifo, through Secretary-General Dr. Nuhu Toro, emphasized unity and resistance against divisive tactics. “The TUC is united in purpose. Attempts to divide our ranks have been noted, but we remain undeterred. Together with the NLC, we will fight for justice, equity, and enhanced worker welfare,” said Dr. Toro. At the NLC headquarters, President Joe Ajaero echoed the sentiment. He denounced recent government interventions in trade union affairs and cited a case where security agencies allegedly meddled in an internal union dispute within RATTAWU. Ajaero criticized both government and union members who invite security forces to disrupt union meetings, warning that such actions are contrary to the principles of union autonomy protected by ILO conventions. “Trade unions are autonomous institutions. They must be allowed to function freely without state interference,” Ajaero insisted. He also condemned the government’s alleged tampering with workers’ contributions to institutions like the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) and the National Pension Commission (PenCom). Nurses Hold Their Ground: Action Must Precede Talks As the nationwide warning strike led by the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), Federal Health Institutions Sector (FHI), enters its third day, National Chairman Morakinyo-Olajide Rilwan insisted that the government must demonstrate action, not just words. “Verbal commitments are insufficient. We need visible steps taken to meet some of our key demands before suspending this industrial action,” Rilwan stated at a press briefing in Abuja. He further explained that discussions held so far had failed to yield any agreement due to the absence of vital government representatives, including the Minister of Health and the Head of Civil Service. “Nurses are compassionate by nature and not quick to strike. But our patience has limits. We waited long enough. Now, the government must show seriousness.” Rilwan confirmed that prior to the strike, ample notice was given to the government, but it failed to respond constructively. Although a meeting took place with Labour Minister Muhammadu Dingyadi, it ended in deadlock. FG Open to Negotiations with Health Workers In a renewed effort to calm tensions, the Federal Government reiterated its readiness to engage constructively with the striking nurses and doctors. Coordinating Minister Pate said the government had already taken preliminary steps and would meet union leaders again to resolve all lingering issues. The Tinubu-led administration also announced the approval of an Oncology Centre at the University College Hospital in Ibadan, marking what officials described as a “transformative health sector agenda.”
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The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has publicly reiterated that Alhaji Shehu Musa Gabam, also known by the traditional title Makaman Tilde, remains the party’s duly elected National Chairman. The party’s declaration came in response to ongoing internal disagreements and was supported by confirmation that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) still officially recognizes Gabam as the party’s legitimate national leader. This affirmation was disclosed through a formal statement released via the SDP’s verified official X (formerly Twitter) handle, where the party clarified its leadership stance to address growing speculation. The announcement emphasized that the electoral body, which is constitutionally empowered to oversee party operations in Nigeria, has maintained a consistent and clear position on the matter. “The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has continued to maintain a clear and consistent position regarding the ongoing leadership issues within our great party, the Social Democratic Party (SDP),” the statement read. The statement went further to outline the legal authority INEC holds over party structures and leadership matters. The SDP reminded the public that INEC’s mandate includes registering, regulating, and supervising political parties in line with the Nigerian Constitution. “As the constitutionally empowered body responsible for the registration, regulation, and oversight of political parties in Nigeria, INEC has remained steadfast in ensuring that all political parties adhere strictly to constitutional provisions and statutory requirements,” the party emphasized. In light of these developments, the party unequivocally reaffirmed that Shehu Musa Gabam remains the legitimate National Chairman, urging every loyal member and stakeholder across the country to respect the party’s recognized leadership framework. “We therefore wish to unequivocally inform all loyal members, supporters of the SDP across the country, and the general public that His Excellency, Alhaji Shehu Musa Gabam (Makaman Tilde) remains the duly elected National Chairman of the SDP, as recognized by INEC,” the statement added. The SDP further noted that any official party communication, directive, or internal correspondence must bear Gabam’s signature to be considered valid. This directive was issued to eliminate confusion within the party’s structure and prevent misinformation from spreading among its members and the general public. “All official communications, directives, or correspondences of the party must be duly signed by him to be considered valid and binding. We urge everyone to be properly guided in this regard,” the party cautioned. In closing, the SDP extended its appreciation to both INEC and Nigeria’s various security agencies for their continuous commitment to democracy and the rule of law. The party acknowledged the professionalism shown by these institutions in safeguarding the legal and democratic processes in the country. “In conclusion, we sincerely appreciate INEC and all security agencies across the country for their professionalism and unwavering commitment to upholding democratic principles and the rule of law,” the statement concluded.
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Dolores Osteen, the beloved co-founder of the globally renowned Lakewood Church, widely referred to by family, church members, and followers as “Mama Dodie,” has sadly passed away. Her son, Pastor Joel Osteen, shared the heartbreaking news via a post on X (formerly known as Twitter) on Thursday, confirming the peaceful transition of his mother at the age of 91 due to natural causes. In the heartfelt announcement, Pastor Joel Osteen wrote: “It is with a heavy heart that Victoria and I, along with our family, announce the passing of our cherished mother and grandmother, Dolores ‘Dodie’ Osteen.” Dolores Osteen was not only the mother of one of America’s most prominent televangelists but also a pillar in the foundation and spiritual life of Lakewood Church, located in Houston, Texas. Her unwavering faith, warmth, and inspiring testimony of surviving cancer contributed to her iconic status within the Christian community worldwide. Paying tribute to her enduring legacy, former President of Nigeria, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, expressed deep sorrow on Thursday night. In his condolence statement, he recognized Mrs. Osteen’s enduring spiritual strength and impact: “Mrs. Osteen was a remarkable woman of deep faith and resilience. Her legacy will endure not only through the continued impact of Lakewood Church but also through the countless lives she touched with her kindness and deep faith.” Her life was one marked by grace, unwavering devotion, and decades of ministry that reached people across generations and continents. From the early days of co-founding the church with her late husband, John Osteen, to being a spiritual guide and symbol of strength, her influence remains deeply embedded in the hearts of millions. The global Christian community continues to mourn this significant loss while celebrating her lasting influence. Dolores Osteen leaves behind a legacy rooted in compassion, healing, and unwavering belief in God’s purpose.
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In a strategic government restructuring move, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the transfer of the Office of the Surveyor-General of the Federation (OSGoF) from the Federal Ministry of Works to the Presidency. This decision was formally disclosed by Mohammed Idris, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, after the conclusion of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting held on Thursday. The FEC session, chaired by the President himself, deliberated on several national policy adjustments. As reported by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the primary objective behind this transfer is to boost geospatial data coordination across national planning sectors. The move is anticipated to facilitate direct executive supervision over activities involving land management, geospatial intelligence, and national mapping policies. Although the Minister did not elaborate on the precise motivations for the realignment, it aligns with the Tinubu-led administration’s governance reform agenda and underscores a growing reliance on geospatial intelligence for infrastructure development, national security, and urban planning. The Office of the Surveyor-General of the Federation (OSGoF) remains Nigeria’s highest authority on mapping and geospatial services. Its responsibilities include producing and managing national geospatial data, offering mapping services, and supporting government projects with critical spatial information.
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Benue State has recorded 31 suspected Mpox cases across five Local Government Areas (LGAs): Makurdi, Ushongo, Gwer East, Katsina-Ala, and Guma, raising public health concerns across the state. This development was made known by Mrs. Grace Wende, the Executive Secretary of the Benue State Primary Health Care Board, during the Benue State Stakeholders Engagement and Town Hall Meeting on the rollout of the Mpox vaccination campaign. She confirmed that out of the 31 suspected cases, six had been verified as positive. Speaking on her behalf, the State Immunisation Officer, Mr. Emmanuel Adega, disclosed that Makurdi LGA reported 10 suspected cases, Katsina-Ala had eight, Gwer East recorded seven, Guma documented four, and Ushongo had two unconfirmed incidents. According to him, “Of these, we confirmed one case in Gwer East, two in Katsina-Ala, three in Makurdi, and one in Guma LGAs.” The reported Mpox cases emerged in June, and biological samples were collected from the affected individuals and taken to the laboratory for testing. The test results were released in July, confirming the disease in six individuals. Mrs. Wende further stated that all persons who had direct contact with the confirmed cases were traced, their details documented, and monitored closely for 43 days. None of the contacts developed symptoms during the observation period. These contacts have now been scheduled for vaccination as part of the state’s containment efforts. She clarified that the Mpox vaccination campaign will not cover the entire state but will target specific communities considered high-risk for Mpox outbreaks. Mrs. Wende urged community leaders, health workers, and stakeholders to lend their support to the campaign and emphasized the importance of reporting suspected cases promptly for immediate response by health professionals. In his health presentation, UNICEF’s Social and Behaviour Change Consultant, Victor Olaniyi, explained that Mpox is a contagious viral infection that affects both humans and animals. He described its symptoms, which typically include fever, swollen lymph nodes, and rashes with blisters that form scabs before healing. Olaniyi warned that Mpox spreads easily through physical contact, but assured the public of the vaccine’s safety and effectiveness. Due to the limited vaccine doses allocated to Benue State, the immunization effort will prioritize the most affected communities. He also mentioned that the World Health Organization (WHO) has approved the vaccine for emergency use, and it will be given to individuals aged 18 and above. He emphasized, “The vaccine is safe, free, and effective. It requires two doses for full protection. Apart from getting vaccinated, people must maintain personal hygiene and avoid contact with those showing symptoms of Mpox.”
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Viktor Gyökeres, the talented Sweden international striker, has openly shared the reasons behind his decision to sign with Arsenal Football Club, despite receiving multiple offers from prominent teams across Europe. After weeks of speculation, Gyökeres officially completed his move to Arsenal on Saturday, having finalized the signing of his contract following a successful medical assessment conducted at the Emirates Stadium. The striker, known for his strong physical presence and clinical finishing, will now wear the iconic number 14 shirt for the North London outfit. His transfer comes from Sporting CP, the Portuguese giants where he had been a key figure in their attacking line-up. In a candid interview published on Arsenal’s official website, Gyökeres stated: “There were more clubs involved, but I wanted to come here at Arsenal… it’s the best club for me.” He acknowledged that the transfer was anything but straightforward: “It wasn’t an easy deal. Some people spoke to the media all the time… they thought they were protecting the interest of the club.” Gyökeres’s choice to sign with Arsenal, despite offers from other high-profile clubs, is being interpreted by fans and pundits as a huge endorsement of Mikel Arteta’s vision and project. Arsenal has been aggressively reinforcing their squad in pursuit of silverware, and Gyökeres is expected to add the natural striker presence they lacked in recent seasons. Many analysts believe that Arsenal’s failure to secure the Premier League title last season—finishing as runners-up to Liverpool—was partly due to the absence of a true center-forward. The club’s attacking unit, while talented, missed several key chances in critical fixtures. With Gyökeres now part of the team, there is renewed hope that the Gunners will finally lift the trophy next season. This signing also signals Arsenal’s continued ambition to challenge both domestically and in Europe. Gyökeres’s arrival provides Arteta with a reliable striker option capable of leading the front line and delivering crucial goals, especially in tight fixtures. As supporters eagerly await his debut, expectations are high that Gyökeres will emulate the legendary performances of past Arsenal number 14s and help drive the club to new heights in the upcoming season.
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In a closely contested preseason encounter hosted in Hong Kong, Tottenham Hotspur secured a narrow 1-0 victory over their long-time rivals Arsenal on Thursday. This match served as a key preparation fixture ahead of the 2025/2026 campaign and drew significant attention from fans across Asia and Europe. The decisive moment in the match came during the first half, when Pape Matar Sarr capitalized on a costly error by Arsenal. David Raya, the Gunners’ goalkeeper, attempted to build play from the back by passing the ball centrally. However, youngster Myles Lewis-Skelly was quickly dispossessed in midfield by Spurs’ high press. Seizing the opportunity, Sarr noticed Raya was off his line and, with remarkable composure, chipped the ball perfectly over the keeper to find the back of the net. The precision and vision behind the strike demonstrated Sarr’s growing maturity and awareness in Tottenham’s midfield. Arsenal, who had previously impressed in Asia with commanding wins over AC Milan and Newcastle United, appeared disjointed throughout the encounter. Their usually fluid passing and attacking flair were notably absent, with Spurs doing well to disrupt their rhythm. This unexpected defeat marks Arsenal’s first loss in their preseason tour, dampening the momentum they had built up in their earlier fixtures. Manager Mikel Arteta will undoubtedly reflect on the performance, particularly the defensive error that led to the goal, as he looks to fine-tune his squad for the challenges of the upcoming season. Looking ahead, Arsenal will resume their preparations in the prestigious Emirates Cup, where they are set to face Athletic Bilbao and Villarreal. These games will serve as critical opportunities to regain confidence and integrate tactical adjustments before the Premier League kicks off. Tottenham, on the other hand, will take plenty of positives from this win. The clean sheet and disciplined team structure will give new coach and fans alike reasons for optimism as the squad builds cohesion during preseason.
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Nigerian forward Victor Osimhen has finally opened up about the motivation behind his determined efforts to secure a permanent move back to Galatasaray, emphasizing a strong emotional bond with the club and its supporters. The Turkish football giants, Galatasaray, etched their name into the history books of Turkish football after finalizing a record-breaking €75 million transfer deal to bring Osimhen from Italian club Napoli. The move stands as one of the most significant and high-profile signings in Turkish Super Lig history. Arriving in Istanbul on Wednesday evening, Osimhen was welcomed with overwhelming support as passionate fans of the Yellow-Reds gathered at Ataturk Airport to celebrate his return. The energy at the airport reflected the fans’ eagerness to see their star forward back in Galatasaray colors. Osimhen, now 26, will be officially unveiled in a signing ceremony scheduled to take place at Rams Park Stadium ahead of the highly anticipated Lazio clash on Saturday. In a heartfelt interview with GSTV, the club’s official channel, Osimhen opened up about why returning to the club was so crucial for him. Reflecting on his previous loan stint at Galatasaray, he shared his deep-rooted affection for the city, its people, and the football culture that resonates with him on a personal level. “I feel a profound connection with this club, the city, and the fans,” Osimhen explained during the broadcast. “That’s the reason I fought with everything I had to come back permanently.” The striker expressed his continued passion and unwavering commitment to both the club and its supporters: “That feeling is still very much alive within me. I want to keep playing with intent and with a purpose. I’m here to give my best, not just for myself, but for every single fan who believes in me. I’m genuinely thrilled to be back.” Osimhen’s permanent return to Galatasaray signals not only a new chapter in his career but also a promising season ahead for the club, with fans hoping he will be the catalyst for further domestic and continental triumphs.
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In a strategic security move under Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), Nigerian military troops have neutralized a suspected bandit during a raid in the Mararaba Gbagi community of Benue State. This targeted clearance operation took place on Tuesday, July 30, 2025, following actionable intelligence reports pointing to the presence of criminal armed elements operating within the region. According to a statement released by Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, who currently serves as the Acting Media Information Officer for OPWS, the troops were swiftly deployed to the identified location and engaged the criminals in a fierce gun battle. “The troops encountered heavy resistance but maintained fire superiority. One of the armed criminals was neutralized, while others managed to escape into nearby areas with various degrees of gunshot injuries,” Lieutenant Zubairu confirmed. Following the successful engagement, troops uncovered a hidden weapons cache believed to be used by the armed group. The items recovered from the site included: In addition to the weaponry, the soldiers discovered and destroyed ritual charms and makeshift shrines used by the suspects, which were believed to offer mystical protection and perceived invulnerability during criminal activities. Major General Moses Gara, Commander of Operation Whirl Stroke, commended the troops for their courage, tactical precision, and the seamless execution of the mission. He further reiterated the military’s unwavering commitment to restoring peace and stability in Benue and surrounding states. “This operation sends a direct and stern message to all criminal actors: there is no refuge for banditry, insurgency, or violent crimes within our operational zones,” General Gara emphasized. He urged citizens to maintain active cooperation with security agencies by sharing reliable intelligence that can help thwart future threats. Background on Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) Launched as a strategic response to the rise in armed banditry, communal violence, and terrorism, Operation Whirl Stroke covers volatile areas across Benue, Nasarawa, Taraba, and parts of Niger State. The mission continues to record notable progress in dismantling terror networks and restoring law and order in communities previously destabilized by conflict.
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Jacob Mark, a former National Legal Adviser of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has firmly stated that Peter Obi, the ex-governor of Anambra State, was never denied the party’s presidential ticket. According to Mark, Obi made the personal decision to exit PDP and join the Labour Party (LP) before the 2022 presidential primaries even took place. Mark’s revelation comes amidst comments made by Ali Modu Sheriff, a former acting National Chairman of the PDP, who recently suggested that Obi’s return to the PDP is imminent. Adding fuel to the speculation, Katchy Ononuju, a political ally close to Obi, confirmed that there’s a strong possibility of Obi’s return. He pointed out that the PDP has now agreed to zone its 2027 presidential ticket to the South, which aligns with Obi’s regional background. Despite these assertions, Jacob Mark has voiced his doubts regarding any concrete agreement within PDP to hand over the 2027 presidential ticket to Obi. Speaking during a live interview with Arise Television on Thursday, Mark emphasized: “To the best of my knowledge, Peter Obi was not denied the PDP presidential ticket during the 2023 cycle. He made the voluntary decision to exit the party before the primaries began. No one pushed him out; he had a free choice and chose to align with the Labour Party instead.” Mark acknowledged the ongoing speculation about Obi’s potential return to PDP, but he insisted that such a move would be based solely on Obi’s personal discretion and not on any official resolution by the PDP leadership. “Many people are speculating that he may return, and while that’s their opinion based on valid political reasoning, there is no official decision by the PDP to offer Obi the party’s ticket. Those speculations are just individual projections.” He further added that Peter Obi emerged as a powerful political brand during the 2023 presidential race. Likewise, the PDP remains a dominant and recognized political brand in Nigeria. “If these two brands were to unite, it could create significant momentum. However, we are not at that stage yet where the PDP has formally resolved to present Obi as its presidential flagbearer.” Mark described Obi as a marketable and highly respected figure, with a significant following and public trust. “He is a strong political brand that resonates with millions of Nigerians. If he does return to PDP, he would certainly be a valuable candidate. And in politics, if there’s a candidate that resonates with the people and is widely acceptable, any strategic political party would logically want that individual to represent them at the national level.”
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Dr. Nicolas Felix, a former presidential aspirant under the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2023 general election, has firmly dismissed any notion that the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition poses a credible challenge to the ruling party in the upcoming 2027 polls. He boldly declared that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu would secure no less than 15 million votes in the next presidential election. Speaking in Suleja, Niger State, during a community outreach where he distributed thousands of litres of fuel to residents, Felix was accompanied by Hajia Zainab Ibrahim, the Deputy National Woman Leader of the APC. This event was part of his ongoing support for the Renewed Hope Agenda championed by the current administration. When asked about the increasing noise around the ADC and its coalition of political figures, Felix laughed off the idea, comparing it to a house built on shifting sand. According to him, the group lacks direction, purpose, and authenticity. “In a democracy, it is normal and healthy to have an opposition,” he remarked. “But we, in the APC, are not threatened by them in the slightest. They have been campaigning, yet we have not seen or heard of any clear agenda or vision for the country. From our perspective, they don’t present any meaningful threat.” Felix emphasized that such coalitions, despite their political noise, often implode under the weight of their own internal contradictions. “They come together for selfish reasons, and in time, they will fall apart. Their motives are neither noble nor strategic. They don’t stand for anything sustainable.” Looking ahead to 2027, Felix expressed absolute confidence that President Tinubu would emerge victorious with a sweeping number of votes. “We are confident Tinubu will receive no fewer than 15 million votes. Nigerians have seen progress and they will reward that. The ADC and any so-called coalition are not a threat. Let them form whatever they want to form. When the campaigns begin, we will present the performance record of this administration.” He highlighted recent government programs as proof of the administration’s achievements. “Just this morning, students across Nigerian campuses were seen singing and rejoicing. Why? Because they received the NELFund grant — over ₦100 billion with zero interest. I lived in the United States for 21 years and never heard of such an initiative. Now over 600,000 students have received funds to support their education. These students will remember when it’s time to vote, and their families will too. They understand what it means to have access to education. With this kind of impact, 2027 will be a walkover for APC.” In continuing support for the administration’s vision, Felix explained that the free fuel distribution was his personal way of giving back to society under the Renewed Hope mantra. “We’re doing this to uplift our people and ease their burdens,” he said. “This is not for publicity or politics. We just want to make people smile. We did the same during the 2023 elections in Edo State, and we’ve returned to Suleja to bring the same joy to our people.” He noted that the outreach primarily targets those who need the support the most. “While the outreach is open to everyone, we know the real beneficiaries are the Okada riders and Keke operators. These are the people truly affected by fuel prices. Of course, we don’t expect luxury vehicle owners to queue for free fuel. It’s about community. It’s about putting smiles on people’s faces. That’s our only motivation.” In her remarks, Hajia Zainab Ibrahim reaffirmed APC’s ongoing efforts to empower women and advance gender equity in governance. She noted that the Special Seats Bill, currently before the National Assembly, if passed, will be transformational for Nigerian women. “This bill is a major step forward. It will change the game for women in politics. Also, for the first time ever, the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs has been allocated over ₦100 billion in the national budget. This is unprecedented.” She concluded by stating that Nigerian women are solidly behind President Tinubu and will show overwhelming support at the polls in 2027. “We are mobilizing at every level. Women will rally behind this administration because we are finally being seen and empowered,” she said.
