A former National Legal Adviser of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Jacob Mark, has asserted that 2027 presidential hopeful Peter Obi should be the one making efforts to return to the PDP—not the reverse. Mark emphasized that the PDP remains the most structurally grounded political party in Nigeria, boasting 37 state chairmen and executive arms at every local government and ward level across the nation. According to him, these features set the PDP apart from other parties that merely operate with a national chairman without robust grassroots organization. Describing the PDP as a formidable political “machine,” Mark noted that any ambitious presidential candidate serious about winning a nationwide election should be eager to leverage its nationwide network and structure. ?️ Image Keyphrase: Peter Obi PDP 2027 presidential election strategy Context: Peter Obi’s Exit and Labour Party Move As reported by LMSINT MEDIA, Peter Obi, the former governor of Anambra State, left the PDP ahead of the 2023 general elections. His decision to decamp came after realizing he was unlikely to clinch the PDP’s presidential ticket. Subsequently, he joined the Labour Party, under which he contested in the presidential race. According to the official declaration by INEC (Independent National Electoral Commission), Obi finished third behind the PDP and All Progressives Congress (APC) candidates. Despite his loss, Obi’s popularity surged, particularly among Nigerian youths and urban voters. His political brand remains one of the most talked-about in Nigeria’s current political discourse. Jerry Gana’s Call for Obi’s Return Professor Jerry Gana, a founding member of the PDP and respected political figure, had on several occasions expressed his desire to see Obi return to the party. Gana even hinted at Obi possibly becoming the PDP’s flag bearer for the 2027 presidential election. However, during an interview on Arise News, Jacob Mark clarified that while Peter Obi’s re-entry into PDP would be “a welcome development,” no such decision has been officially made by the party. Obi’s 2023 Exit Was a Personal Choice, Not a Denial Mark insisted that contrary to public belief, Peter Obi was never denied the opportunity to contest the PDP presidential primaries in 2023. He pointed out that Obi left of his own accord before the primaries were conducted. “Peter Obi had the freedom to choose his political path and opted for the Labour Party. It wasn’t a matter of PDP pushing him out,” Mark said. PDP Yet to Decide on 2027 Flag Bearer The former legal adviser stressed that although many PDP stakeholders view Obi as a “sellable candidate,” the party has not yet made any concrete decision regarding him or any other potential 2027 flag bearer. “Obi is undeniably a political brand that any party would love to have, but we’ve not reached the point where the PDP has decided to hand him the ticket,” he clarified. Why Peter Obi Should Seek PDP’s Platform Mark argued that if Obi is genuinely serious about contesting and winning the 2027 presidential election, it would be in his best interest to consider returning to a party like the PDP, which has the national spread, history, and machinery to win a federal election. “The PDP shouldn’t be begging any candidate to join. Instead, it is the aspirants who should recognize the strength of PDP’s structure and desire to join it,” he added. Mark reiterated that while Obi is welcome to rejoin the PDP, there’s no internal campaign or policy within the party pushing for his return. He emphasized that 2027 is still a distant road, and many other candidates will likely emerge. Reorganizing the PDP Remains Priority Rather than chase after individuals, Mark believes the PDP should focus on internal reorganization, particularly at the national leadership level. He said the party should solidify its opposition role and rebuild unity among its members, especially after internal wrangling in recent years. “We already have 37 functioning state chairmen and structured representation down to every ward in Nigeria. That is more than any other party can boast of,” he noted. PDP Welcoming Returnees — But Not Desperate Mark disclosed that many former PDP members who joined other coalitions or platforms have already returned to the fold. Recent meetings have seen the rejoining of high-profile figures, including the former governors of Jigawa and Niger States. He stated emphatically that: “Peter Obi’s return would be appreciated, but it’s not a pressing agenda or party-wide pursuit. The PDP remains open to all returnees and welcomes old and new members alike.”
In a significant move aimed at restructuring the administrative setup, Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has relieved two commissioners of their duties and appointed their replacements. This announcement came via an official statement issued on Thursday by the governor’s media aide, Mallam Dauda Iliya. Details of the Cabinet Reshuffle The government reshuffle affects two key ministries — the Ministry of Environment and the Ministry of Intergovernmental and Special Duties. Governor Zulum expressed gratitude to the outgoing commissioners for their service to the state. He acknowledged their efforts and conveyed his best wishes for their future pursuits, stating: “We appreciate their services and wish them success in their future endeavours.” New Commissioners Appointed To fill the newly vacant positions, Governor Zulum named Engr. Mohammed Habib and Ibrahim Hala Hassan as the newly appointed commissioners for the affected ministries. Their immediate assumption of office marks a strategic step in realigning governance and administrative responsibilities across the state. Appointment of New Education Board Chairman In a parallel development, Professor Zulum also announced the appointment of Professor Yusuf Gana Balami as the new Executive Chairman of the Borno State Secondary Education Board. Professor Balami is a distinguished academic expert in Educational Psychology, originating from Hawul Local Government Area in southern Borno. His career began at the Borno State Ministry of Education, where he served from 1984 to 1988. Following that tenure, he joined the University of Maiduguri, where he climbed the academic ladder and attained the rank of full professor in 2014. Professor Balami is widely recognized in the academic community, with numerous scholarly publications to his name. He has served as both a lead and co-author in multiple research papers and is affiliated with several professional academic bodies. Governor Zulum’s Expectations Congratulating Professor Balami on his new role, Governor Zulum encouraged him to leverage his extensive experience in both educational administration and academia to transform secondary education across Borno State. He remarked: “I urge Professor Balami to apply his wealth of experience in education both as an administrator and academician to improving the quality of secondary education in the state.” Presentation to the State Assembly According to the official statement, all newly appointed officials, including the commissioners and the education board chairman, have been formally presented to the Borno State House of Assembly for confirmation in accordance with constitutional protocols.
Kindly Share:
In a bold step towards revitalizing the tourism sector and promoting cultural heritage in Ogun State, Governor Dapo Abiodun has officially commissioned the newly upgraded Olumo Rock Tourism Complex located in Abeokuta. As part of the initiative to foster tourism and cultural awareness, the governor declared that public access to the iconic site will be free of charge from now until the end of September. Governor Abiodun, speaking during the launch event of the renovated site, emphasized that the move is designed to deepen public appreciation for tourism while reconnecting people to the rich cultural traditions and values embedded in the state’s historical landmarks. A Fully Upgraded Tourism Hub The newly transformed Olumo Rock Complex now features a state-of-the-art galleria showcasing artistic pieces, including photographs of prominent Nigerians. The site also boasts a stylish gazebo for relaxation, a restaurant that offers both indigenous and continental cuisine, retail spaces for adire fabric sales, and a standby power generator to ensure uninterrupted energy supply for the new elevators and other modern amenities. According to the governor, Olumo Rock is more than just a natural formation of boulders. It stands as a sacred emblem of refuge, strength, and historical identity for the Egba people. “For hundreds of years, this rock has stood strong, offering both safety and a sense of identity to the Egba during eras of upheaval and transition,” Governor Abiodun explained. He reiterated that the restoration of the tourist centre goes beyond mere infrastructure improvements—it symbolizes the revival of memory, pride, and the reinforcement of cultural identity for the people of the state. Economic and Cultural Significance The governor highlighted the strategic importance of tourism in his administration’s ISEYA development framework. He stressed that a well-structured tourism sector could serve as a major driver of local economic growth by attracting investment, creating jobs, and promoting cross-cultural understanding. Governor Abiodun declared Ogun State as a top destination for global tourists, encouraging visitors from within Nigeria and abroad to explore the cultural richness the state has to offer. He added that the Olumo Rock Complex has now been fully remodeled with facilities that can compete with international tourism standards. “This isn’t just a facelift—it is a transformation of a historical treasure into a global heritage site,” he noted. “With its current upgrade, Olumo Rock has become a magnet for both cultural and economic activity.” The new complex has designated zones for artisans, vendors, and creatives, thereby creating a platform for showcasing talents and empowering young people to benefit from increased tourist traffic. The centre is expected to stimulate local businesses and foster a thriving creative economy in Ogun. Spiritual and Cultural Anchor Beyond economic benefits, Olumo Rock remains a symbol of collective identity and spiritual heritage. It is a reminder of the unity, strength, innovation, and resilience of the people. Governor Abiodun described the site as a spiritual connection to ancestral values and cultural depth, making it an open invitation to the world to experience the soul of the Egba people. Looking ahead, the governor revealed plans to develop other tourist sites across Ogun State. He assured that the management of the newly upgraded Olumo Rock Complex will be entrusted to a reputable concessionaire to ensure its continuous upkeep and professional handling. Stakeholders Applaud the Development Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Sesan Fagbayi, expressed his gratitude to Governor Abiodun for revamping the tourism hub. He noted that the revitalization of Olumo Rock is expected to attract more visitors, both local and international, thereby enriching the state’s tourism landscape. Similarly, the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, commended the initiative and reminisced on the rock’s historical role. He shared that Olumo Rock once served as a strategic military outpost and sanctuary for the Egba people during pre-colonial conflicts. The monarch also highlighted its spiritual relevance, being a site known for answered prayers and leisure activities. Nike Art Gallery to Draw Global Attention Chief (Mrs) Nike Okundaye, CEO of Nike Art Gallery, expressed optimism that the site’s renovation will attract a wave of global tourism. She disclosed plans to bring international museum patrons and art lovers to Olumo Rock to immerse themselves in the richness of Nigeria’s cultural heritage. “We will connect cultures—sharing our traditions while learning from others. This site will not only draw global attention but also create jobs and open up new income opportunities,” she said. She added with strong conviction that Olumo Rock, now restored and modernized, will soon rank as Nigeria’s number one cultural destination.
Kindly Share:
The Court of Appeal, operating from its judicial division in Akure—the capital city of Ondo State—has officially upheld the election of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa as the duly elected executive leader of the state. Aiyedatiwa, who secured his seat under the banner of the All Progressives Congress (APC), received a fresh judicial endorsement following a rigorous legal challenge posed by the opposition. According to LMSINT MEDIA, this latest ruling by the appellate court solidifies an earlier decision delivered by the Ondo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal, which had also declared Aiyedatiwa the legitimate winner of the gubernatorial contest. The tribunal, in its earlier ruling, struck out and dismissed all claims and petitions presented by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its flagbearer, Agboola Ajayi, who had contested the final results of the election. The opposition’s arguments, alleging electoral malpractice and procedural irregularities, were deemed unsubstantial and legally unconvincing. With the Appeal Court now affirming the lower tribunal’s judgment, Governor Aiyedatiwa’s mandate has been judicially validated for the second time, reinforcing both his electoral legitimacy and the ruling party’s political dominance in Ondo State. This judgment marks a significant moment in the state’s political climate, effectively putting to rest any constitutional ambiguity surrounding the governorship seat. It further highlights the resilience of Nigeria’s judicial system in defending electoral outcomes grounded in transparency and due process. The legal proceedings reflect the judiciary’s critical role in Nigeria’s democracy and underline how multi-tiered electoral dispute resolution functions within the framework of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) guidelines and the 2022 Electoral Act. As it stands, Governor Aiyedatiwa continues his administration with renewed legal backing, while the PDP and its candidate are expected to either accept the ruling or explore further constitutional recourse at the Supreme Court, should they wish to pursue the matter.
Kindly Share:
Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD Behold, a king shall reign in righteousness, and princes shall rule in judgment. And a man shall be as an hiding place from the wind, and a covert from the tempest; as rivers of water in a dry place, as the shadow of a great rock in a weary land (Isaiah 32:1-2). Our theme scripture is prophetic about the Millennium. The latter part alludes to the unique role we (the Church) would be playing in the millennial reign, when Israel takes center stage. The millennial reign of Christ is not for the Church. It’s for Israel. So, what are we, the Church, going to be doing then? We’re going to be carrying out angelic assignments. Our role at the millennial reign of Christ is very different from what a lot of people think; it’s going to be much like what the angels do today in ministering for us. In that day, the Jews will walk in the Millennial blessings that characterize the life of the saints which we have now, while we, the Church, will function like the angels, arriving suddenly, disappearing, moving to specific places to carry out angelic ministrations as directed by God. It’s going to be super exciting; it’s another class of ministry. We’re not going to be dealing with people, trying to carry out physical administrative functions as priests, no! The priests of those days shall be the Jews. But until then, in these last days, in these present moments, what does God expect of us? He has given us a Kingdom to run, and He expects us to run it for Him effectively in this time. It has taken almost 2,000 years to arrive at this point, and the Lord is expectant. James 5:7-8 says, “…Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it…Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh.” What we just read gives us a vivid picture: God is waiting for the precious fruit of the earth, the souls of men. This is what He expects in these closing moments of the Church age, a great influx of souls from all nations. So, win souls like never before. The fields are ripe with harvest, and you’re the labourer, thrust into the fields by the Lord to bring in the end time harvest. PRAYERDear Father, thank you for the privilege of serving you and fulfilling your purpose in these last days. I yield myself completely to your plans, prepared and ready to carry out your assignments with diligence, excellence, and joy. I am effective in running the Kingdom you have given to us, bringing in the precious fruit of the earth as we prepare for the coming of the Lord. Amen. FURTHER STUDYJohn 5:7-8 NIV“Sir,” the invalid replied, “I have no one to help me into the pool when the water is stirred. While I am trying to get in, someone else goes down ahead of me.” Then Jesus said to him, “Get up! Pick up your mat and walk.” Matthew 24:14 KJVAnd this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come. Revelation 20:4-6 KJVAnd I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years. But the rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection. Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years. DAILY SCRIPTURE READING1-Year Bible Reading PlanRomans 5:12-21 & Psalms 52-55 2-Year Bible Reading PlanLuke 12:13-21 & Judges 6 DAILY AFFIRMATIONS: Precious Father, You’re great, gracious and glorious; You’re loving, holy, just and true. Thank You for Your blessings in my life: the divine favours that You cause me to experience always. I’m grateful, Lord, for Your faithfulness towards me! You’ve given me all that pertains to life and godliness; thank You for making my life the effulgence of Your glory and righteousness. Thank You for my triumphant life in Christ! Thank You for the Holy Spirit who lives in me and in whom and through whom I can do all things. Thank You for granting me all that I require for life and godliness. I’m delighted to know that I’m Your treasured possession, ordained to show forth Your wonderful deeds and display Your virtues and perfections. You have made my life beautiful! I’ll never walk in sickness or defeat! The victorious and glorious life is mine now. Christ is my assurance of health and life eternal. I have dominion in Christ, I rule over my body with the Word of God and in the Name of Jesus. I disallow infirmity and I cut off any abnormality from my body. I thank You, for loving me, blessing me, and increasing my numbers. Yes, God likes me. He takes pleasure in me. He is partial toward me. I am preferred for promotion, opportunities, favour, and advantage. I am preferred for blessings. I have favour with God and man. I am blessed in my going out and my coming in. I’m blessed in my body, mind, and spirit. My youth and strength are renewed like the eagles. The Lord my God orchestrates all things in my favour, so that I continually walk in super-abundance. He liberally supply my every need, I live in His blessings. The grace for quickness and speed are at work in me. The works of
Kindly Share:
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS – On Wednesday, Manchester United continued their impressive pre-season form with a commanding 4-1 win over AFC Bournemouth during the Premier League Summer Series, held at the iconic Soldier Field stadium in Chicago. The match, played under rainy and blustery conditions, saw United deliver a confident display under manager Ruben Amorim. The Red Devils struck early when Rasmus Hojlund connected with a beautifully curved cross from Patrick Dorgu on the left flank. The Denmark international executed a perfectly timed leap to nod the ball past Bournemouth’s goalkeeper, Djordje Petrovic, giving United the lead in just the eighth minute. Dorgu, who had already impressed with his assist, extended United’s advantage in the 25th minute. After a smart, lofted free-kick from midfielder Mason Mount, the young left-back powered his way into the penalty area and calmly slotted the ball beneath the onrushing Petrovic to make it 2-0. United maintained dominance into the second half. In the 53rd minute, Amad Diallo added a third goal, pushing the score to 3-0. Shortly after, Amorim rotated his squad, making nine substitutions with 20 minutes remaining. Among the changes, teenage sensation Ethan Williams made an instant impact. Just two minutes after entering the pitch, Williams curled a low shot into the far corner, scoring United’s fourth goal and further reinforcing his rising reputation within the squad. Manchester United’s only moment of misfortune came late in the game when defender Matthijs de Ligt inadvertently turned the ball into his own net in the 88th minute, handing Bournemouth a consolation goal. In a separate match played on the same day as part of the U.S.-based pre-season series, West Ham United fought back to defeat Everton 2-1. Former Everton boss David Moyes watched his side fall behind in the 17th minute to a strike by Idrissa Gueye. However, the Hammers responded through Brazilian midfielder Lucas Paquetá, who equalized just before halftime. German forward Niclas Füllkrug sealed the victory in the 64th minute. The result marked another disappointing outing for Everton, who had previously suffered a heavy 3-0 defeat to Bournemouth earlier in the week. Speaking after the match, Moyes admitted his squad was under-resourced for the U.S. tour. “I’m not overly concerned because I don’t have the players I need,” he stated. “We knew coming into the tournament that it would be tough. Our squad isn’t in the right condition to compete strongly right now.” With one matchday remaining in the Premier League Summer Series, the four-team tournament will conclude this Sunday in Atlanta. Manchester United are set to take on Everton, while West Ham will face Bournemouth.
Kindly Share:
Donnarumma Reportedly Seeking Same Salary as Osimhen at Galatasaray – Uğur Karakullukçu Galatasaray analyst and sports broadcaster Uğur Karakullukçu has claimed that Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) shot-stopper Gianluigi Donnarumma is now requesting a salary equivalent to that of Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen, following the latter’s unveiling at Galatasaray. Speaking during his analysis on his personal YouTube channel, Karakullukçu broke down Galatasaray’s current goalkeeping plans amid their recent high-profile signing. The Turkish Süper Lig champions are in the market for a new first-choice goalkeeper and are currently showing strong interest in Manchester City’s Ederson as a summer transfer target. It was officially confirmed this week that Galatasaray has secured the services of Victor Osimhen, with his medical examination slated for Thursday. “Donnarumma left Milan—a club where he rose through the youth ranks—at a time when his departure left the team uncertain,” Karakullukçu stated, according to Turkish outlet Habersarikirmizi. “He has now conquered every major trophy at PSG and is reportedly seeking a fresh contract. He is demanding a salary that matches Victor Osimhen’s at Galatasaray: €25 million annually, in addition to performance-related bonuses.” Karakullukçu warned that the Turkish club may not gain financially from bringing in a goalkeeper of Donnarumma’s wage demands. “You’ve already stretched your budget significantly for Osimhen. Signing Donnarumma as well could raise your total spending to nearly €250 million. Is that truly necessary for Galatasaray?” He added that a more realistic and financially sound option could be Ederson. “Last season, the club had success with 39-year-old veteran Fernando Muslera. Bringing in Ederson, who is 31, could be a smart and balanced move for the team.”
Kindly Share:
Nigeria’s national women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, the reigning champions of the Women’s AfroBasket tournament, are set to take on Cameroon in a thrilling quarter-final faceoff at the Palais des Sports de Treichville in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, today, Thursday. The much-awaited knockout game is scheduled to tip off at 10 PM Nigerian time, promising a fiercely competitive battle as both sides fight for a place in the semi-finals of the 2025 Women’s AfroBasket Championship. D’Tigress progressed to the quarter-final stage following back-to-back victories in the group phase. Their campaign began on a dominant note, demolishing Rwanda with an emphatic 92-45 win. In their next outing, the Nigerian squad encountered stiffer resistance but eventually secured a 65-60 triumph over Mozambique, sealing their qualification into the top eight of the tournament. Under the leadership of Head Coach Rena Wakama, the team has maintained composure, grit, and tactical discipline—qualities that have been vital in their journey toward defending their continental crown. Meanwhile, Cameroon earned their place in the quarter-finals with an impressive performance, overpowering Angola in their last group match. The Cameroonian side cruised to an 85-64 win, showcasing their offensive strength and strategic execution. As the competition intensifies, D’Tigress will be looking to etch their names in the history books by becoming the first-ever team to win the Women’s AfroBasket title five times in a row—a milestone that would further solidify Nigeria’s dominance in African women’s basketball. This match-up between two top-tier basketball nations is set to deliver high-stakes action and electrifying moments, with fans across Africa and the diaspora tuning in to witness the clash of continental titans
Kindly Share:
Nigerian fashion influencer and entrepreneur, Sophia Momodu, has made it clear that having another child is not a part of her current plans or goals. Sophia, who is the mother of Imade Adeleke, the first daughter of renowned Nigerian music star Davido, shared her candid thoughts during an interaction with a fan via Snapchat. The conversation was sparked when a fan praised her daughter, Imade, referring to her as “the most beautiful girl ever.” The fan, evidently impressed by Imade’s charm and looks, proceeded to ask Sophia whether she was considering having another child in the near future. In her response, Sophia did not hesitate to express her stance. She firmly stated that growing her family is not on her list of current life priorities. According to her, making the decision to have a child should be about more than just appearances or the ability to produce beautiful children. Sophia made it clear that while she acknowledges the compliments about her daughter, those kinds of comments are not compelling reasons for her to become a mother again. “Another baby isn’t on my list of priorities, talk more of having another simply because I make beautiful babies,” she wrote in response to the fan. Her remarks reflect a personal decision that resonates with many women who choose to focus on other aspects of their lives — such as personal growth, career development, or emotional wellbeing — rather than societal expectations around motherhood. This revelation from Sophia offers a broader commentary on how many modern women are choosing to define their life journeys on their own terms, without succumbing to pressure to expand their families simply for appearances or societal validation. Sophia Momodu, who has often been in the public eye due to her past relationship with Davido and their co-parenting dynamic, continues to be vocal about her choices, using platforms like Snapchat and Instagram to interact with her audience. Her statement is also a subtle encouragement for young mothers and women alike to prioritize intentional parenting, personal readiness, and emotional stability over societal perceptions or praise.
Kindly Share:
A total of more than ₦20 billion has been allocated by the Federal Government of Nigeria for the development and operational funding of 4,362 Primary Health Care Centres (PHCs) situated across the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, over the span of the past two years. This substantial financial intervention was facilitated under the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) framework, a strategic initiative focused on expanding access to essential healthcare services nationwide. The information was made public through a press release signed by Rabiu Ibrahim, the Special Assistant (Media) to the Minister of Information and National Orientation. This development was further elaborated by Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, during his address at the ongoing interactive session on Government-Citizen Engagement, organized by the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation in Kaduna State on Wednesday. Major Milestone in Primary Healthcare Delivery According to the Minister, “Over the last two years, more than ₦20 billion has been disbursed to 4,362 PHCs spread across Northern Nigeria.” This statement affirms the government’s commitment to expanding healthcare delivery, particularly in underserved regions. Execution of Health Projects in Northern Nigeria’s Tertiary Institutions Further details from the statement indicate that a total of 274 health-related infrastructure projects have been implemented across 35 tertiary healthcare institutions in Northern Nigeria. These interventions are reported to have supported the treatment of over 4.5 million outpatient visits and 1.6 million inpatient cases. These figures underscore the significant impact of federal investment in healthcare infrastructure in the region and the enhanced service delivery outcomes achieved through the initiative. Federal Government’s Broader Commitment to Healthcare Transformation The Minister emphasized that the healthcare delivery reforms currently being implemented by the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led administration are not merely rhetorical but are supported by tangible actions. This includes consistent infrastructural upgrades and systematic investment across all three tiers of the health sector in Nigeria. Understanding the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) The Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) stands as a pivotal reform in Nigeria’s healthcare financing model. It is tailored to guarantee affordable and quality healthcare for Nigeria’s most vulnerable populations—particularly those in rural and economically disadvantaged communities. The BHCPF was created under the National Health Act of 2014 and was officially launched in 2019. As a significant component of Nigeria’s push towards achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC), it serves to reduce out-of-pocket healthcare expenditure and reinstate public trust in the nation’s health systems. This fund is mandated to receive a minimum of 1% of the nation’s Consolidated Revenue Fund (CRF) annually. These funds are distributed through designated gateways, ensuring that they reach states, local governments, and over 10,000 PHCs nationwide. Scope of Implementation and Impact So Far With an estimated 30,000 PHCs operating across Nigeria—many of which suffer from inadequate infrastructure and staffing—the BHCPF was introduced to close these service delivery gaps, especially in remote areas. As of November 2024, the Federal Government had already disbursed ₦45 billion to PHCs under this fund. An additional ₦32.88 billion was approved by March 2025, further reinforcing its momentum. The impact has been tangible: over 7,000 PHCs have so far benefited from the fund. These facilities have been able to provide vital health services, stock up on medical supplies, and carry out minor renovations essential to efficient healthcare delivery. The BHCPF continues to expand its reach by directly channeling financial support to healthcare centers at the grassroots level, thereby strengthening Nigeria’s primary health care infrastructure and promoting health equity nationwide.
Kindly Share:
In a candid statement that’s gaining attention, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, the former governor of Ekiti State and past Minister of Solid Minerals, has openly held President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration accountable for the worsening economic conditions in Nigeria — particularly the escalating hunger crisis and the devastating state of federal road infrastructure across Ekiti State. In a video circulating widely on social media platforms, Mr. Fayemi didn’t mince words. He asserted that it would be dishonest for anyone to pretend that Nigerians are content with the current leadership. While the exact date of the recording remains unverified, its content has already sparked considerable national discourse. “Unless we are lying to ourselves, Nigerians are clearly unhappy with the Tinubu-led administration because of severe hunger and scarcity of cash,” Mr. Fayemi emphasized. The former Ekiti State helmsman, who was once an ally and party colleague of Mr. Tinubu under the All Progressives Congress (APC), expressed grave concern over the neglected condition of major federal roads in the state. “Look around at the roads — especially those that fall under the federal government’s jurisdiction. If you pass through Efon, you will understand the ordeal. The same applies when journeying through Omuwo to Ilasa, then heading toward Aiyedun and down to Oye,” he explained. According to Fayemi, the state of these routes not only reflects the lack of federal attention but also burdens state governments with unexpected financial responsibilities. He further disclosed that the incumbent governor of Ekiti, Biodun Oyebanji, had to allocate nearly ₦20 billion from the state’s coffers to rehabilitate these dilapidated federal roads — funds which, he said, have yet to be reimbursed by the federal government. This public criticism from a former Tinubu loyalist suggests growing frustration within the ruling APC, particularly among those from states feeling the pinch of inadequate federal infrastructure support. It also highlights deeper national issues such as rising food insecurity and limited cash flow affecting everyday Nigerians.
Kindly Share:
Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has announced the immediate commencement of upgrade works on the Umuahia Township Stadium as part of a strategic short-term measure to enhance the facility’s functionality for professional football clubs, especially Abia Warriors Football Club, and other sports teams. The Governor made this known on Wednesday while hosting the President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, and his team at his residence in Nvosi, located in the Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area of Abia State. According to Governor Otti, “Plans have already been finalized for the comprehensive improvement of the Umuahia Township Stadium to meet professional standards and reflect what a true sporting arena should look like. The directive has been given, and action is imminent.” He further stated that the current upgrade is designed as a short-term intervention, pending the development of a larger, long-term project—the construction of a modern stadium city in Umuahia. The architectural design and planning phase for this new multi-sport complex is already underway and is intended to transform the city’s sports infrastructure entirely. A Vision for Sports Development and Unity Governor Otti emphasized the importance of sports—especially football—as a powerful force that unites Nigerians regardless of their background. He pointed out that beyond entertainment, sports is an instrument of unity and a means of empowering communities and the youth. He reiterated that true governance is not just about political leadership but about leaving lasting positive impacts on the lives of citizens. “This administration is committed to sustaining Abia’s legacy in sports. We aim to elevate our sporting facilities and ensure Abia maintains its prominent role in Nigerian football,” he affirmed. In the same breath, the Governor congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the recent exploits of the Super Falcons, Nigeria’s national women’s football team, describing their performance as uplifting and worthy of national celebration. NFF President Pledges Support, Commends Abia’s Sporting Legacy Earlier in his remarks, NFF President Ibrahim Gusau expressed appreciation for the Governor’s proactive steps in revamping sports in Abia State. He explained that their visit was a courtesy call to acknowledge the Governor’s unwavering support for football and sports development across the state. Gusau lauded Abia as a historic powerhouse in Nigerian football, noting that the state has, on several occasions, secured back-to-back victories in continental football tournaments. He added that the history of Nigerian sports would be incomplete without recognizing Abia’s contributions. While recognizing Abia Warriors FC as one of the top three football clubs in Nigeria under the stewardship of Governor Otti, the NFF President appealed for the immediate renovation of the Umuahia Township Stadium. He assured the state government of the NFF’s commitment to providing full technical support to ensure the facility is brought back to its peak condition.
Kindly Share:
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has made a bold appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging him to leave the comfort of the Presidential Villa and engage with ordinary citizens directly on the streets to grasp the harsh realities of insecurity in Nigeria. The party emphasized that only by stepping into the lives of everyday Nigerians can the president truly understand the depth of the ongoing national security crisis. Bolaji Abdullahi, the spokesperson for the opposition party, made this assertion on Wednesday during a live appearance on Politics Today, a popular political program on Channels Television. According to Abdullahi, President Tinubu is being misinformed by state governors and some of his closest advisers, who continue to feed him inaccurate assessments of the security situation across various regions in the country. “I sincerely believe that President Tinubu needs to get out of the Villa and speak directly with people on the ground. He should stop listening to this misleading narrative that insecurity has been significantly degraded,” Abdullahi declared. He went further to criticize state governors, accusing them of presenting sanitized versions of reality to maintain their positions of influence and favor rather than conveying the genuine struggles and fears of the masses. Abdullahi’s critique was in response to recent remarks by Daniel Bwala, a media aide to President Tinubu, who argued that insecurity in Nigeria has seen significant improvements under the current administration. Bwala highlighted positive changes in Benue and Plateau States, along with what he described as a decline in violent operations linked to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and unidentified armed groups. “Insecurity has been downgraded significantly,” Bwala asserted during the interview. “What we’re currently witnessing are random criminal acts, not necessarily tied to bad governance, as these issues are not unique to Nigeria alone but happen globally.” However, the ADC spokesperson firmly disagreed, warning that such statements risk putting the president in a dangerous state of illusion, unaware of the pain and terror citizens face daily. “I honestly feel sympathy for President Tinubu because if these are the types of filtered narratives he’s constantly fed, then it’s no surprise that he appears disconnected from the reality on the ground,” Abdullahi noted. He further stressed that numerous Nigerian communities remain deeply affected by violent criminal activity, and that ordinary citizens are still grappling with life-threatening conditions, instability, and economic hardship brought on by rampant insecurity. Abdullahi’s statements underscore growing concerns that the federal government may be operating within an echo chamber, shielded from firsthand reports and the true experiences of millions of Nigerians facing kidnappings, rural attacks, and other forms of violent extremism.
