Tinubu

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Tinubu has approved a series of new appointments across federal agencies overseeing energy, scientific research, and fiscal policy.

In a major move for Nigeria’s science and technology sector, Hon. Magaji Da’u Aliyu has been appointed as the Managing Director of the Sheda Science and Technology Complex (SHESTCO) in Abuja. The complex is a critical national asset, responsible for advanced technological research and operating a nuclear research facility.

Simultaneously, the President reconstituted the leadership of the Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency (NEMSA). Engr. Adesayo Olusegun Michael was appointed as the agency’s Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer.

A new board for NEMSA was also unveiled. The members include Engr. Aliyu Abdulazeez as Executive Director (Technical), Ikechi Clara Nwosu (Chairman, South East), and zonal representatives from across the nation: Zubair Abdur’rauf Idris, Igba Elizabeth (North Central), Sani Alhaji Shehu (North East), Adeyemi Adetunji (South West), Engr. Emmanuel Eneji Nkpe (South South), and Engr. Charles Ogbonna Asogwa (South East).

In a separate development, President Tinubu has nominated two individuals as Commissioners for the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC). The nominees are Amina Gamawa (representing Bauchi State) and Abdullahi Muktar (representing Kaduna State). Their names have been forwarded to the Senate for confirmation.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The World Bank has described Nigeria as a country increasingly cited around the world as a model of steady and credible reform leadership.

This is contained in a statement signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, dated February 3, 2026.

The remark came from the World Bank’s Managing Director of Operations, Anna Bjerde, during a meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima at the State House in Abuja on Tuesday. Other officials of the Bank accompanied her to the meeting.

Bjerde praised Nigeria’s reform efforts over the past two years, with emphasis on the government’s determination to remain consistent despite economic pressures. She said the approach and the visible outcomes had strengthened confidence among investors, policymakers and players in the private sector.

She also drew attention to the upcoming Country Partnership Framework, which she said aligns closely with Nigeria’s own development agenda, especially the target of achieving a $1 trillion Gross Domestic Product and 7 per cent economic growth.

President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the reform agenda and acknowledged the difficulties that accompanied the process. He said “there will be no turning back.”

The President explained that although the removal of fuel subsidy and the unification of exchange rates initially pushed inflation upward, the situation has improved, with inflation easing and the naira showing signs of stability. He added that the developments have helped to boost investor confidence and improve the business environment.

According to President Tinubu, the reforms are built on transparency, accountability and policy stability.

He identified agriculture as a major focus of his administration and said investments have been directed toward the sector through the establishment of zonal mechanisation centres, improved seed development and better access to fertilisers. He noted that support from the expanding petrochemical industry has also helped to improve output and encourage farmers to form strong cooperatives.

“Nigeria is the heart of the continent, and we must do what’s necessary to strengthen the economy, particularly looking at the young population of this country, looking at the vast area of arable lands.

“How do we employ mechanisation and make agriculture easier? I have embarked upon that. We have created zonal mechanisation centres to help the farmers,” he said.

President Tinubu urged the World Bank to strengthen its partnership with Nigeria through faster financing, reduced bureaucracy, shared development models, effective risk management and improved capacity building to support inclusive growth.

In her remarks, Bjerde stressed the need to improve access to finance for small, medium and large enterprises, with special attention to mid-sized businesses, which she described as critical to job creation.

She also commended Nigeria’s emphasis on early childhood development and described it as vital to long-term productivity. She assured the country of the Bank’s continued support in that area.

“Many countries around the world, even middle-income and upper-middle-income countries, are suffering again with rising levels of stunting. And here, we’ve identified early childhood development as a strong entry point. So, all of this, to say we’re looking forward to a new country partnership framework,” she said.

Bjerde restated the World Bank Group’s commitment to a programme that reflects Nigeria’s priorities and combines public and private sector support. She added that the Bank, through the International Development Association, the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development and the International Finance Corporation, stands ready to sustain support for Nigeria’s reform agenda.

The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, as well as the Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, Ibrahim Hassan Hadejia, attended the meeting.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

A prominent chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Sani Ahmad Zangina, has vehemently denied reports circulating in some media outlets claiming that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu fell during his visit to Turkey.

Dr. Zangina clarified that the incident in Turkey was not a fall, but rather a deliberate crouch or stoop by the President to greet people in the traditional Turkish manner, which some have misinterpreted and twisted into false news.

He stated that President Tinubu is in excellent health and has no medical issues, emphasizing that the President continues to carry out his duties without any impediment.

“It is regrettable how some media outlets are deliberately spreading falsehood. We are putting them on notice that any newspaper that republishes the claim that President Tinubu fell, when he merely stooped to greet, will face immediate legal action,” said Dr. Zangina.

The APC chieftain added that such reports are capable of causing public alarm and confusion, calling on journalists to adhere to the ethics of truthful and responsible reporting.

He also urged Nigerians to disregard rumors and to always rely on credible sources before making judgments on any matter concerning the President.

Finally, Dr. Sani Ahmad Zangina stressed that the APC will not tolerate the spread of falsehoods about the President, assuring that the law will take its course against anyone found culpable.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

In a move to bolster bilateral relations, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will on Monday commence a state visit to the Republic of Türkiye.

The visit is designed to enhance cooperation in critical sectors including security, aviation, and innovation. It comes in reciprocity to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s official visit to Nigeria in October 2021.

During the engagement, both leaders are expected to oversee the signing of several memoranda of understanding (MoUs). These agreements will span areas such as scientific research, energy, military cooperation, and media communications.

A business forum featuring investors from both nations will run concurrently to explore economic partnerships.

The President’s delegation comprises top government officials: the Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Justice, Defence, Women Affairs, Interior, and Culture & Creative Economy. Also included are the National Security Adviser and the Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency.

President Tinubu is scheduled to return to Nigeria after the visit.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Tinubu has assigned four high-profile diplomats to strategic allied nations, including the United States, United Kingdom, France, and Turkey.

The postings come from a pool of 68 ambassador-designates confirmed by the Senate last December.

The assignments see Ambassador Ayodele Oke posted to France, while Colonel Lateef Are is designated for the United States. Ambassador Amin Dalhatu, previously Nigeria’s envoy to South Korea, will serve as High Commissioner to the United Kingdom.

Notably, former Kebbi State Governor Usman Isa Dakingari Suleiman is appointed ambassador-designate to Turkey. This posting precedes President Tinubu’s scheduled state visit to Ankara next week.

According to a presidential memo to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the ministry has been directed to formally notify the host governments of the designations in line with established diplomatic protocols.

The posting of the remaining confirmed envoys is expected to follow.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar AlgasgainiA major political realignment may be imminent as President Bola Tinubu is set to meet with the leader of the Kwankwasiyya movement, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.The highly anticipated meeting, scheduled for later today, follows closely on the heels of President Tinubu’s closed-door session with Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, a key Kwankwaso protégé, at the Presidential Villa on Wednesday.Reliable sources indicate Governor Yusuf facilitated the engagement after President Tinubu expressed a desire to harmonize political interests across party lines. This is seen as part of broader consultations ahead of the 2027 general elections.Senator Kwankwaso, the 2023 presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), had previously opposed joining the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). However, he recently hinted at a potential shift, stating he would consider a move if presented with a “satisfactory offer” from the ruling party.A senior APC North-West leader confirmed the planned meeting, stating, “The President is keen on broadening his political base. Discussions will likely focus on national stability, political cooperation, and the future alignment of forces ahead of 2027.”This rapid political maneuvering has intensified speculation about the future of the NNPP and the influential Kwankwasiyya structure. It remains unclear whether Kwankwaso and Governor Yusuf are planning a coordinated move or separate strategies.Political analysts suggest that aligning the Kwankwasiyya movement with the APC would significantly reshape northern politics. Such a move could also undermine efforts by opposition figures like Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar to form a formidable “Third Force” coalition, with Kwankwaso previously considered a central pillar.Securing the cooperation of both Kano’s sitting governor and its most influential political movement would dramatically bolster the APC’s strength in the vote-rich state, a critical battleground in any national election.All parties involved have yet to make official statements as the political landscape awaits the outcome of this crucial meeting.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Tinubu has commended Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, for his administration’s focus on impactful projects in education, health, and transportation.

The President made the remarks on Saturday in Maiduguri during an official tour, where he commissioned several new projects.

The commissioned facilities include the international wing of the Muhammadu Buhari Airport, a new VIP extension, and a fleet of Electric Vehicles, intra-state buses, and tricycles. He also inaugurated three model schools covering primary, junior secondary, and senior secondary levels.

“I am commissioning this primary, junior secondary school and senior secondary schools to the glory of God, and continuous education of our children,” President Tinubu stated.

The visit also featured a cultural dimension as the President participated in the marriage ceremony of Sadeeq Sheriff, son of former Governor Ali Modu Sheriff. In line with Kanuri tradition, President Tinubu stood in as the father of the groom, while Governor Zulum acted as the father of the bride to receive the traditional bride price in gold coins.

The ceremony was held at the Maiduguri Central Mosque and hosted by the Shehu of Borno, Alhaji (Dr.) Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai Al-Amin El-Kanemi.The events were attended by seven state governors, senators, and ministers.

President Tinubu departed Maiduguri for Bauchi State at 3.25 pm.

By Uzair Adam

The Supreme Court on Friday upheld the death sentence earlier handed to Maryam Sanda, daughter-in-law of a former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), after finding her guilty of culpable homicide.

Sanda was sentenced to death by hanging by an Abuja High Court on January 27, 2020, for fatally stabbing her husband, Bilyamin Bello, at their Abuja home in 2017.

Despite spending about six years and eight months in Suleja prison, her sentence was reduced to 12 years after President Bola Tinubu granted her clemency under his executive powers.

Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, had stated that the presidential pardon was based on “compassionate grounds and the best interest of the children,” noting her “good conduct, new lifestyle, role-modelling to other inmates, and remorse.”

However, in a split judgement of four to one, a five-member panel of the Supreme Court on Friday reaffirmed the original death sentence. The apex court dismissed Sanda’s appeal, holding that all issues she raised failed to challenge the earlier conviction.

Justice Moore Adumein, who delivered the lead judgement, ruled that the prosecution proved its case beyond reasonable doubt.

The court further described the earlier ruling of the Court of Appeal—which upheld her conviction—as sound and without error.

The Supreme Court also faulted President Tinubu’s decision to grant a pardon in a case of culpable homicide while an appeal was still pending, noting that such an action was inappropriate for an ongoing judicial matter.

By Anwar Usman

President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday said the directive to redeploy police officers working with VIPs, VVIPs and ministers was not negotiable urging all ministers to ensure immediate compliance.

This was revealed in a statement issued by the Presidential spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga.The president while speaking at the opening of the Federal Executive in Abuja warned all relevant stakeholders against non-compliance.

He noted that, “Police officers were trained to protect the lives and properties of citizens, particularly the most vulnerable in society not the protection of VIPs” adding that, the NCDC are trained for VIP protection, and they are armed too.

He also ordered the minister of interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, for the immediate replacement of police officers by the civil defense corps.

“We face security challenges of kidnapping, banditry and terrorism. We need all forces utilized. I know some people are exposed; we will make exceptions. The Civil defense is very much around,” the president stated.

Tinubu directed the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, Minister of Police Affairs, Sen. Ibrahim Gaidam and the Inspector General of Police to follow up on the implementation of the order.

The President also urged the Vice President Kashim Shettima, who is the chairman of the National Economic Council (NEC) to further sensitise governors and other stakeholders on the implementation of the reforms on ranching.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Tinubu alongside the National Assembly and the FCT Minister have pledged a total of N320 million to the Nigerian Legion, the association for military veterans and families of fallen heroes.

The donations were announced on Tuesday at the launch of the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Emblem Appeal at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

President Tinubu led the contributions with a donation of N200 million, promising that his administration remains dedicated to the welfare of serving personnel, injured officers, and the families of those who died in service.

He praised the military’s sacrifices and ongoing role in securing the nation.

The National Assembly, represented by Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Deputy House Speaker Benjamin Kalu, donated N100 million.

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, contributed N20 million.

During his address, President Tinubu called on government institutions, businesses, and individuals to donate generously to the Legion.

He highlighted his administration’s security gains, including the surrender of thousands of insurgents and improved maritime security, reiterating that security is the central pillar of his “Renewed Hope” agenda.

The Chief of Defence Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, urged Nigerians to wear the remembrance poppy emblem and support the appeal fund as a symbol of national gratitude.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Mr. Richard Pheelangwa, commended the President’s consistent support for the military.

The Armed Forces Remembrance Day is observed annually on January 15th to honour fallen soldiers and recognise living veterans.