National

By Sabiu Abdullahi

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has asked the German government to provide used helicopters to support intelligence and reconnaissance operations in the Sahel region.

The request came during a telephone conversation with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Wednesday. This was disclosed in a statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy. The discussion centered on ways to deepen security collaboration between Nigeria and Germany.

Onanuga said both leaders showed concern about the deteriorating security situation across the Sahel corridor. He stated, “The two leaders also expressed worry over the situation in the Sahel region. President Tinubu called for the supply of used helicopters to help in intelligence reconnaissance in the region.”

Quoting the President further, he added, “The Sahel corridor is bad and needs our support. Intelligence support reconnaissance is needed.”

Security was not the only issue addressed. Talks also covered Nigeria’s electricity sector, with emphasis on the Presidential Power Initiative. Tinubu stressed the country’s need for support in power transmission.

In response, Chancellor Merz assured that Siemens would offer technical assistance, while Deutsche Bank would show readiness to finance the project.

Onanuga noted that both sides also discussed partnerships in other sectors. According to him, “the two leaders also expressed their willingness to cooperate in creative arts and skill development”.

Railway cooperation also formed part of the conversation, alongside collaboration in arts and vocational development.

Merz spoke about diplomatic relations as well. He said, “Germany is eagerly awaiting the arrival of Nigeria’s new ambassador to Germany.”

Onanuga added that the German leader highlighted cultural cooperation. “He also spoke about the importance of the arts and called for the establishment of the Great Museum of African Arts,” he said.

The phone call started at 2:01 p.m. and ended at about 2:10 p.m., the statement concluded.

By Dr. Saifullahi Shehu Imam

Politics is often debated in abstract terms of strategy and alignment. But sometimes, it is written in the language of the streets, the markets and the stadiums.

The formal reception of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf into the All Progressives Congress (APC) was one such moment, but to define it merely as a “defection” is to miss the profound human story at its core.

From the moment the Vice President of Nigeria, Alhaji Kashim Shettima’s delegation touched down at Malam Aminu Kano International Airport, it was clear this was not a routine political event; it was a historic convergence of federal intent and grassroots will.

The journey to the Sani Abacha Stadium was, in itself, a powerful political narrative. The first stop was not a politician’s lounge, but the fire-ravaged Singer Market. There, amidst the charred remains of shops and livelihoods, the Vice President Shettima delivered more than just a condolence message, where he also announced a concrete federal commitment of ₦5 billion to support the affected traders. This was not a symbolic politics; it was governance meeting grief with action.

For the traders of Kano, this single act transformed a political realignment into a tangible promise of partnership. It signaled that Kano’s alignment with the centre has already started yielding immediate, practical and tangible support for its people in their moment of need.

From the market, the procession to the stadium became a rolling testament to the depth of this new alliance. The mammoth crowd that lined the streets and filled the venue was not a rented gathering. It was a cross-section of Kano’s very soul. This massive turnout was more than a welcome party; it was a clear and potent signal of electoral mathematics. Public energy of that magnitude rarely gathers around symbolism alone; it gathers around expectation. It was a strong indication that the APC, now fortified with Governor Yusuf’s leadership and grassroots structure, is poised for a landslide in 2027.

The message from the crowd was unambiguous. The coast is clear for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to secure Kano’s votes, for Governor Abba to secure a second term, and for the party to sweep elections from the National Assembly down to the State Assembly.
In his address, Governor Yusuf framed the move not as a personal ambition, but as a strategic decision to bring Kano into the “mainstream of our national politics” and align with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. The logic is undeniable. Kano, as the North’s commercial and demographic powerhouse, has often been held back by being at odds with the federal government. This realignment changes that equation overnight. It means Kano will no longer be a political outlier but a primary beneficiary of federal infrastructure, economic investment, and developmental programmes. It means a direct pipeline from the Renewed Hope Train to the heart of Kano. This is what “Kano First with Renewed Hope” truly means. It means a new compact where federal power is not a distant concept but a present partner in progress. The foundation has been laid, not in sand, but in the solidarity of its people. Now, the work of building a greater Kano begins.

Dr. S.S. Imam is a senior researcher and a political analyst from Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria. He can be reached via: saifaz2005@gmail.com

By Sabiu Abdullahi

President Bola Tinubu has called on Nigerians to forgive him for any wrong he may have done to them, as Muslims commence the holy month of Ramadan. He also urged citizens to embrace peace, unity, and moral rebirth during the sacred period.

The president made the appeal on Wednesday at the opening session of this year’s Tafsir held at the State House mosque in Abuja.

In his remarks, Tinubu drew attention to the simultaneous observance of Ramadan and the Christian Lenten season. He described the overlap as a reflection of shared spiritual values among Nigerians of different faiths.

“Ramadan coincides with Lent, reminding us of our common commitment to sacrifice, discipline, prayer, and self-denial,” he said.

He stressed that the lessons of Ramadan should shape human conduct and relationships. According to him, the period should promote compassion, love, and forgiveness among citizens.

“We start this Ramadan with all the teaching that it brings to us all. But the main principle is to do good to people, to share love and faith, and to forgive sins. I say, if I have sinned, forgive me as Nigerians.”

Tinubu further noted that fasting should not be limited to abstaining from food and drink. He explained that it should reflect kindness, good deeds, forgiveness, and love for humanity.

The president also appealed to Nigerians, regardless of religious background, to offer prayers for national peace. He asked citizens to support government efforts aimed at tackling terrorism, banditry, and other security challenges facing the country.

Speaking at the event, Abdulwahid Suleiman, the Chief Imam of the State House mosque, expressed gratitude to Allah for granting Muslims the opportunity to witness another Ramadan.

He commended Tinubu’s leadership and offered prayers for divine guidance, sound health, and strength for the president and members of his administration. He also prayed for peace, stability, and prosperity across Nigeria.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The State Security Service (SSS) on Wednesday night took former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, into custody shortly after his release from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

El-Rufai had been held by the anti-graft agency since Monday over allegations of corruption. He was granted bail around 8 p.m. on Wednesday. Witnesses said armed SSS operatives were already stationed at the EFCC headquarters and moved in immediately after his release.

Security agents then transported him to the SSS headquarters located in the Asokoro District of Abuja. As of the time of filing this report, authorities had not indicated when he might regain freedom.

His latest arrest is tied to allegations that he illegally intercepted the phone communications of the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu.

Earlier on Monday, the SSS filed cybercrime charges against him before the Federal High Court in Abuja. The case, marked FHC/ABJ/CR/99/2026, followed comments he made during a live interview on Arise Television last Friday.

During the programme, El-Rufai alleged that the NSA’s telephone line had been tapped. He claimed he overheard instructions directing security operatives to detain him. He linked those alleged directives to an incident at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, where security personnel attempted to arrest him upon his return from Cairo, Egypt, last Thursday.

Eyewitnesses recalled that the encounter at the airport became heated. Officials briefly seized his international passport and later escorted him out while supporters chanted nearby.

Following the television interview, prosecutors from the SSS filed charges, accusing him of admitting to intercepting the NSA’s communications. The prosecution also alleged that he failed to report others involved in unlawful interceptions. Authorities further claimed his actions endangered public safety and national security through the use of technical systems to monitor the NSA’s phone.

Investigators said the alleged offences contravene provisions of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) (Amendment) Act, 2024, as well as the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003. A date for arraignment has not yet been announced, and El-Rufai has not issued a public response to the charges.

Developments Leading To Arrest

Recent events began unfolding after his return to Nigeria from Cairo. Security operatives first attempted to detain him at the Abuja airport shortly after arrival.

Video clips that circulated online showed a confrontation between security officials and members of his entourage. Reports indicated that his passport was confiscated during that episode.

El-Rufai later accused the NSA of ordering the attempted arrest through the SSS. He repeated the allegation during his Arise Television appearance, insisting he had knowledge of the directive through intercepted communication.

His lawyer, Ubong Akpan, criticised the airport incident. He described the attempted arrest as arbitrary and a breach of constitutional rights. The lawyer explained that an EFCC invitation had been delivered to his client’s residence while he was outside the country. He said immediate compliance was not possible under those circumstances.

Akpan added that his client formally notified the EFCC of his readiness to honour the invitation voluntarily upon return, scheduled for 10 a.m. on Monday. He also demanded the return of El-Rufai’s passport. He argued that its seizure violated his client’s dignity, movement rights, and constitutional protections. He warned that legal steps would follow any unlawful detention.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

President Bola Tinubu has signed a new executive order directing the direct remittance of oil and gas revenues into the Federation Account, in a move aimed at protecting national earnings and improving fiscal transparency.

This is contained in a statement signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, today.

According to Onanuga, the directive, issued under Section 5 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), is designed to block revenue leakages, cut wasteful spending, and dismantle overlapping structures within the petroleum sector. The administration said the policy will channel more resources toward national development priorities.

The order draws authority from Section 44(3) of the Constitution, which places ownership and control of all minerals, mineral oils, and natural gas in Nigeria under the Federal Government, including resources located in territorial waters and the Exclusive Economic Zone.

According to the State House, the measure seeks to restore constitutional revenue allocations due to federal, state, and local governments. Officials argued that the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) of 2021 created fiscal and structural channels that reduced remittances through multiple deductions and charges.

Under the existing framework, NNPC Limited retains 30 percent of Federation oil revenue as a management fee from Profit Oil and Profit Gas derived from Production Sharing Contracts, Profit Sharing Contracts, and Risk Service Contracts. The company also keeps 20 percent of its profits for working capital and future investments.

Government officials maintained that the additional 30 percent management retention is unjustified because the 20 percent profit retention already supports operational needs.

The statement further explained that NNPC Limited deducts another 30 percent of profit oil and gas as the Frontier Exploration Fund under Sections 9(4) and (5) of the PIA. Authorities expressed concern that such a large allocation to exploratory activities could create idle cash reserves and encourage inefficient spending, especially when public funds are required for security, education, healthcare, and energy transition programmes.

The government also reviewed the Midstream and Downstream Gas Infrastructure Fund (MDGIF), financed through gas flaring penalties under Section 104 of the PIA. It noted that Section 103 of the same law had already established an Environmental Remediation Fund for host communities affected by petroleum operations. Officials described the dual funding structure as duplicative.

Authorities said these deductions collectively divert more than two-thirds of potential oil revenue away from the Federation Account. They linked declining net oil inflows to the present deduction regime and fragmented oversight system.

The executive order introduces reforms to remove overlapping deductions, particularly the 30 percent allocations tied to profit-sharing arrangements. The goal is to ensure that revenues due to the Federation are fully remitted to support national obligations across all tiers of government.

President Tinubu also raised structural concerns about NNPC Limited’s role as a concessionaire in Production Sharing Contracts. The government believes the present arrangement allows the company to influence operating costs while functioning as a commercial entity. Officials said this dual role creates competitive imbalances and weakens its transition into a fully commercial operator under the PIA.

The order therefore establishes measures to curb financial leakages, improve transparency, and reposition NNPC Limited strictly along commercial lines while protecting public revenue.

The President described the reforms as urgent due to their implications for national budgeting, debt management, economic stability, and citizens’ welfare. He added that his administration will conduct a comprehensive review of the Petroleum Industry Act in consultation with stakeholders to address fiscal and structural gaps.

Under the gazetted order, NNPC Limited will no longer manage the 30 percent Frontier Exploration Fund. All profit allocations previously assigned to the fund from production sharing and related contracts will now be transferred directly to the Federation Account.

The company will also cease collecting the 30 percent management fee on profit oil and gas meant for the Federation.

In addition, all oil and gas operators under production sharing arrangements must remit Royalty Oil, Tax Oil, Profit Oil, Profit Gas, and all other government-due revenues straight to the Federation Account with effect from February 13, 2026.

The President has also halted payments of gas flaring penalties into the MDGIF. Going forward, proceeds from such penalties will be paid into the Federation Account. Any spending from the MDGIF must comply with existing public procurement regulations.

Tinubu approved the creation of a joint project team to coordinate integrated petroleum operations. The designated commission will interface with license holders where upstream and midstream activities are combined.

An Implementation Committee has also been constituted to supervise execution of the order. Members include the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, the Minister of Budget and National Planning, and the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil).

Other members are the Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service, a representative of the Ministry of Justice, the President’s Special Adviser on Energy, and the Director-General of the Budget Office of the Federation, who will serve as committee secretariat.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has assented to the Electoral Act amendment bill, officially making it part of Nigeria’s electoral legal framework.

The new law comes after the National Assembly concluded work on the legislation on Tuesday. Both chambers had spent several months deliberating on the bill. Lawmakers carried out reviews and introduced a series of amendments before its final passage.

The presidential approval marks the last stage required for the amendment to take effect, following the legislative process.

Details of the new provisions contained in the amended Electoral Act are expected to emerge subsequently.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Leaders of the Hausa community in Rivers State have alleged that four of their members lost their lives during last weekend’s protest said to be directed at northerners at Oil Mill Market, located in the Rumuokwurusi axis of Port Harcourt.

The Chairman of the Hausa Community in the state, Mr. Musa Saidu, made the disclosure on Tuesday. He spoke after leading a delegation of northern leaders to the market to evaluate the level of damage recorded during the unrest.

He explained that many business premises owned by northern traders were attacked. Several shops were looted, while others were destroyed.

While addressing journalists, Saidu appealed to northerners residing in the state to remain calm despite the tension. He stressed that northern residents are peaceful people who conduct legitimate businesses like other Nigerians living in Rivers State.

“About four northern traders were killed during the protest at Oil Mill Market. I visited the area today with some journalists. We went round the shops of those affected and saw that many had been looted,” he said.

The protest was linked to the killing of an indigene identified as Nchelem Samuel Festus. He was allegedly killed by a northern commercial motorcyclist in Igwuruta, within Ikwerre Local Government Area.

Festus had been accused of stealing a motorcycle from a shop owned by northerners. Trouble started when an effort was made to recover the motorcycle. An argument broke out in the process. The motorcyclist allegedly stabbed Festus, who later died from the injuries he sustained.

The incident, which occurred on February 10, triggered protests in the area. Demonstrators accused northern commercial motorcycle operators of responsibility for Festus’ death. They also alleged that some riders were involved in crimes such as rape and kidnapping.

Protesters blocked the Port Harcourt International Airport Road. They demanded an immediate prohibition of commercial motorcycle activities by northern riders.

Fresh tension surfaced on Saturday after another violent incident at the same market. A wheelbarrow pusher, Zakara Afaaruwu, allegedly stabbed a trader from Benue State, Higightor Wenem, during a disagreement over trading space. Wenem died from the attack.

The development led to renewed assaults on northern traders. More shops and businesses were vandalised and looted in the process.

Police authorities confirmed that Afaaruwu had been arrested. They added that he remains in custody as investigations continue, with prosecution likely to follow.

However, the Police Public Relations Officer in Rivers State, CSP Grace Iringe-Koko, dismissed claims that four northern traders were killed.

“I’m not aware of any killing. I have already stated what happened during the protest,” she said.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the National Assembly have reportedly agreed to revise the timetable for Nigeria’s 2027 elections, moving the presidential poll from February 20 to January 16 and the governorship elections from March 6 to January 30. The decision comes after widespread criticism that the original schedule coincided with the Ramadan fasting period.

Insiders within the electoral body and federal legislature confirmed the shift, describing it as a response to mounting concerns from religious groups, political stakeholders, and civil society organizations.

“After several meetings, both sides agreed that the February date is no longer tenable. The new proposal now on the table is January 16 for the presidential election and January 30 for the governorship polls,” a senior INEC official told newsmen on condition of anonymity.

A ranking senator echoed the development but noted that the proposal would still undergo debate in the National Assembly.

“That is the working proposal. But until it is formally adopted, it remains subject to change,” the lawmaker said.

The change follows intense opposition to the initial schedule. INEC had first set February 20, 2027, for presidential and National Assembly elections, with governorship and state assembly elections slated for March 6. Muslim groups and political actors criticized the timing, pointing out that it fell within the 2027 Ramadan period, projected from February 7 to March 8.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar publicly warned that holding elections during fasting could suppress voter turnout among Muslims. Former presidential aide Bashir Ahmad also urged the commission to reconsider, stressing that meaningful participation could be affected during a period traditionally devoted to fasting and spiritual reflection.

Over the weekend, some lawmakers reportedly proposed February 13 as a compromise. However, fresh consultations between INEC and the National Assembly appear to have produced a more substantial adjustment, pushing the elections into January. If approved, January 16 would rank among the earliest presidential election dates in Nigeria’s Fourth Republic.

The National Assembly acted swiftly to reflect the urgency of the matter. Clerk to the National Assembly Kamoru Ogunlana directed senators and members of the House of Representatives to reconvene at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, for what was described as a session to take “very crucial decisions.”

Although the official notice did not outline the agenda, insiders confirmed that reconsideration of the 2027 election timetable was the primary reason for the emergency plenary session. Consequently, a conference committee meeting scheduled for Monday to harmonize differences in the Electoral Act Amendment Bill was suspended.

Sada Soli, a member of the House conference committee, confirmed the suspension, while another member, Iduma Igariwey, acknowledged the postponement. A Senate source said lawmakers would prioritize resolving the sensitive issue of election dates before returning to other contested provisions of the bill.

The proposed change signals INEC’s willingness to respond to public and political pressure, illustrating the influence of citizen engagement, religious concerns, and political discourse in shaping electoral arrangements in Nigeria.

Today marked a poignant and memorable milestone in Nigerian history as hundreds of students, dignitaries, scholars, veterans and guests from within and outside Kano converged at Bayero University, Kano for the 50-year Commemoration Symposium organised by Rundunar Kishin Kano (RKK) — also known as the Kano Patriotic Front. The event was held in honour and remembrance of the late General Murtala Ramat Muhammed, the former Head of State whose leadership left an indelible impact on Nigeria’s governance and national identity.
Punch Newspapers

The symposium, convened on the anniversary of General Murtala’s assassination on 13 February 1976, brought together a diverse audience, including university dons, students, political leaders, community figures and patriotic Nigerians who came to reflect on and celebrate the life, leadership philosophy and enduring legacy of one of the country’s most revered leaders.

In his opening remarks, the Convener of the event and National Coordinator of RKK, Major General Ibrahim Sani (rtd) received widespread praise for spearheading a well-executed and inspirational program that resonated deeply with all present. The event was noted for its meticulous planning, vibrant energy and strong turnout — a testament to both General Murtala’s continued relevance and RKK’s organizational capacity.

“General Murtala Ramat Muhammed remains one of the most powerful voices of integrity and reform in our national memory,” General Ibrahim declared. “Today, we do not only remember the man, but we recommit ourselves to the values he championed — patriotism, leadership with integrity and unwavering service to our nation.” The address set a reflective and aspirational tone for the day’s activities.

The symposium featured a range of speeches, video show, purposeful discussions and academic reflections on the late Head of State’s life and leadership. Distinguished speakers shared insights on his role in reshaping Nigeria’s civil service, tackling corruption, restoring national discipline and positioning the country as a principled voice on the global stage — contributions widely acknowledged as foundational to the modern Nigerian state.

Students from various faculties at Bayero University actively participated in the discussions, underscoring the relevance of historical leadership lessons for the country’s youth.

Special prayers were offered for the repose of General Murtala’s soul and for the nation’s continued unity and progress.

Guests attending from outside Kano described the symposium as “inspiring and deeply moving,” highlighting the significance of such platforms in preserving Nigeria’s historical consciousness and encouraging cross-generational dialogue.

As Nigeria commemorates this golden jubilee of General Murtala’s legacy, events like today’s symposium reflect a broader national effort to celebrate and critically engage with the leadership ideals that have shaped the nation’s trajectory.

About General Murtala Ramat Muhammed:
General Murtala Ramat Muhammed was Nigeria’s Head of State from July 1975 until his assassination in February 1976. Though his tenure was brief, his leadership remains celebrated for decisive reforms that revitalised the civil service, strengthened national governance and anchored Nigeria’s international stance on justice, Pan-African solidarity and anti-colonial advocacy.

The successful commemoration by RKK at Bayero University stands as a fitting tribute to a leader whose legacy continues to inspire Nigerians five decades after his passing.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has described 2025 as a period during which Muslims in Nigeria experienced an unprecedented wave of anti-Islamic sentiment. The statement comes amid controversies over claims of a so-called ‘Christian genocide.’

The Council, led by its President-General and Amirul Mumineen, His Eminence, Alh. Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, Sultan of Sokoto, issued the statement in a release on Sunday. The release, signed by NSCIA Secretary-General, Professor Is-haq Oloyede, also called on Nigerian Muslims to observe the crescent of the month of Ramadan immediately after sunset on Tuesday, February 17.

According to NSCIA, last year presented significant challenges for Islam and Muslims in Nigeria, reflecting difficulties faced by millions of Muslims worldwide.

The Council stated, “Muslims have found themselves in the vortex of heightened Islamophobic hysteria that seeks to criminalise Muslims through spinning narratives that are inconsistent with the reality of insecurity in Nigeria.

“The agenda of the secessionist elements and bigoted religious leaders is to turn Nigeria into a war theatre where Muslims would be annihilated in millions through the spurious ‘Christian Genocide’ that was manipulated to gain the attention of imperial powers.”

NSCIA also highlighted that Muslims have been pressured to condemn actions they did not commit, while victims of attacks are often portrayed as perpetrators. “Muslims have thus become ‘double victims’ who are, on the one hand, the major victims of Boko Haram, banditry, and Lakurawa, the most heinous of such incidents happening in the underreported gruesome murder of about 200 Muslims in Kwara state and also, on the other hand, the victims of negative narratives that erase Muslim suffering.

“The culture of inequality against Muslims is being entrenched because Christians have foreign powers to defend them while Muslims appear defenseless.”

The Council criticized media coverage for failing to uphold fairness and objectivity in reporting matters concerning Muslims. It cited previous cases to illustrate the bias. “These assertions can be illustrated with the deliberate attempt to demonise Islam and Muslims by the media in the case of Yunusa (a Muslim) versus Eze Oruru (a Christian) in 2015, with the incident sensationalised as Muslim jihad to forcefully convert a Christian minor into Islam. Then, a media mob trial of Muslims in general preceded the eventual trial and conviction of Yunusa.

“Conversely, in 2026, it is now public that for years, one Christian, Ifeanyi Onyewuenyi, had abducted a Muslim minor, Walida Abdullahi, and allegedly forced her both into marriage and conversion to Christianity.

“Yet, no one has condemned Christianity or Christians for this individual act. No faith community is accused of complicity.

“Similarly, Muslims in Nigeria and Islam are being taunted, scandalised and condemned because a mob with a Muslim identity took law into their hands and murdered Deborah for an alleged blasphemy.

“In contrast, Pastor Dio Idon of ECWA, Kasuwan Magani, Southern Kaduna, was on 4th January 2026, killed and totally burnt by a Christian mob that accused him of witchcraft. However, the media have been silent on the religion of the mob in the Christian-dominated community.

“The recent attempt to Christianise the victimhood of Muslim worshippers in Maiduguri by Channels television and the hasty Christianisation of the unfortunate abducted girls in Kebbi are also still fresh in our memory.”

The NSCIA statement reflects ongoing concerns over religious inequality, biased narratives, and the safety of Muslims in Nigeria. The Council urged its followers to remain vigilant while observing religious duties, highlighting the need for accurate reporting and fair treatment in public discourse.