Tinubu

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Tinubu has approved a N3.3 trillion payment plan to settle long-standing debts in Nigeria’s power sector, a move aimed at restoring reliable electricity nationwide.

The debt, accumulated between February 2015 and March 2025, was verified and agreed upon as a full and final settlement under the Presidential Power Sector Financial Reforms Programme.

Implementation is already underway, with 15 power plants signing settlement agreements worth N2.3 trillion. The Federal Government has raised N501 billion for the payments, of which N223 billion has been disbursed.

According to a statehouse release, the government expects the settlement to stabilise generation, improve electricity reliability, attract investment, create jobs, and enhance service delivery.

“This programme is not just about settling legacy debts. It is about restoring confidence across the power sector, ensuring gas suppliers are paid, power plants can keep running, and the system begins to work more reliably,” said Olu Arowolo-Verheijen, Special Adviser on Energy to the President.

She noted that broader reforms, including better metering and service-based tariffs, are also progressing. The government is prioritising power supply to businesses and industries to boost job creation and economic growth.

President Tinubu commended stakeholders involved in resolving the legacy issues and confirmed that the next phase (Series II) will begin this quarter.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has faulted the administration of President Bola Tinubu over the crisis rocking the African Democratic Congress (ADC), describing the situation as a setback for democratic values.

Obi made his position known in a post shared on X on Thursday. He expressed concern over what he described as a contradiction involving individuals who once championed democracy and human rights during the era of General Sani Abacha.

He stated that many of those figures, who were active under the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), now appear to act in ways that contradict the ideals they once promoted. He added that recent developments suggest a decline in respect for democratic principles.

He wrote: “Yesterday defenders of democracy, today’s destroyers. What a shame.

“What an irony of history, that the acclaimed defenders of democracy and human rights who claimed to have fought for democracy during the era of General Sani Abacha now find themselves worse than the man they opposed.

“today, General Sani Abacha, once presumed face of oppression, will be remembered as seemingly more democratic and more respectful of human rights than the so-called champions of activism from the NADECO days. Power indeed reveals character.”

Obi’s remarks followed the decision of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to delete the names of former Senate President David Mark and former Osun State governor Rauf Aregbesola from its portal as national chairman and national secretary of the ADC.

INEC also stated that it would not recognise Nafiu Bala Gombe, who is pursuing recognition as national chairman through the courts.

The commission further announced that it has suspended recognition of all factions within the party. It added that it would not monitor any congresses or conventions organised by the rival groups until the Federal High Court delivers a final judgment on the matter.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Professor Shu’aibu Shehu Aliyu as the new Executive Secretary of the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF), replacing Ahmed Galadima Aminu, who resigned to contest the 2027 governorship election in Adamawa State.

In a separate decision, the President renewed the appointment of Engineer Sule Ahmed Abdulaziz as Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) for a second and final term.

Both appointments take immediate effect.

Professor Aliyu, until his new role, served as Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Mass Literacy, Adult and Non-Formal Education. Described as a distinguished academic and seasoned administrator, he brings extensive experience in research, education, and institutional leadership.

The President expects him to leverage his background to reposition the PTDF for greater impact in human capital development, innovation, and strategic support for Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.

Engineer Abdulaziz’s reappointment followed a comprehensive assessment of his performance, during which the TCN recorded notable improvements in grid stability, transmission capacity expansion, and system modernisation. With over three decades of experience in the power sector, he has also strengthened regional electricity integration through his leadership role in the West African Power Pool (WAPP).

President Tinubu urged both appointees to discharge their duties with diligence, integrity, and a strong sense of national service, in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

President Bola Tinubu has asked the Nigerian Senate to approve fresh external loans estimated at about ₦9 trillion to ₦9.6 trillion to support the country’s financial obligations.

The request was presented through two separate letters sent to Senate President Godswill Akpabio and read during Tuesday’s plenary.

In one of the letters, the President sought approval to secure a $5 billion facility from Abu Dhabi Bank. The fund is intended to address the budget deficit and meet existing debt commitments. In another request, Tinubu asked lawmakers to approve a $1 billion loan from Citibank in London to finance the rehabilitation of key port infrastructure.

The proposed upgrades will focus on the Lagos Port Complex and Tin Can Island Port, which are among the busiest seaports in the country. According to the President, the project will tackle infrastructure challenges, improve efficiency, strengthen safety standards, and support non-oil trade. He also noted that the move will help position Nigeria as a competitive trade hub in the region.

After the letters were read, Senate President Akpabio referred both requests to the Senate Committee on Local and Foreign Debts, led by Aliyu Wamakko, for further review and quick consideration.

The development comes at a time when concerns continue to grow over Nigeria’s rising debt profile and dependence on external borrowing to fund budget gaps.

It also follows a $1 billion Development Policy Financing loan approved by the World Bank four months ago under the initiative titled “Nigeria Actions for Investment and Jobs Acceleration (P512892).” The facility includes a $500 million International Development Association credit and a $500 million International Bank for Reconstruction and Development loan.

The World Bank explained the objective of the programme in its document, stating: “The proposed Development Policy Financing supports Nigeria’s pivot from stabilisation to inclusive growth and job creation. Structured as a two-tranche standalone operation of US$1.0 billion (US$500m IDA credit and US$500m IBRD loan), it seeks to catalyse private sector–led investment by expanding access to credit, deepening capital markets and digital services, easing inflationary pressures, and promoting export diversification,” the document read.

The Federal Ministry of Finance will oversee the implementation of the facility, as the World Bank has cleared the loan preparation process to move forward.

Since 2023, the Tinubu administration has introduced several economic reforms. These include the removal of petrol subsidy, the unification of exchange rates, and the stoppage of central bank deficit financing. The government said these steps, introduced under the Renewed Hope Agenda, have helped stabilise the economy, reduce the fiscal deficit, and improve investor confidence.

Despite these measures, economic growth remains slow, with over 130 million Nigerians still living in poverty. The World Bank noted that although stability has improved, “Nigeria’s economy has yet to shift decisively into a higher and inclusive growth path,” which highlights the need for increased investment to boost productivity, expand exports, and create jobs.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Germany has declined the nomination of former minister Femi Fani-Kayode as Nigeria’s ambassador, citing concerns over his past remarks and conduct, according to an exclusive report.

Recall that President Bola Tinubu had approved Mr Fani-Kayode’s appointment on March 6, assigning him to a Central European country as ambassador-designate. However, the German authorities rejected the nomination a week later, on March 13, 2026.

Officials in Germany based their decision on what they described as “erratic behaviour, controversial past statements, particularly his divisive ethnocentric, tribalistic, and religious fundamentalist comments in Nigeria”, which they said were “destabilising”.

The development followed a recent incident in Abuja where Mr Fani-Kayode reportedly clashed with the United Kingdom’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery. The disagreement occurred during a Ramadan dinner hosted by Senator Bashir Lado, the president’s special adviser on Senate matters.

Efforts to obtain Mr Fani-Kayode’s response were unsuccessful as of Sunday.

A senior government official, however, indicated that the former minister might be reassigned to South Africa in a similar diplomatic role.

Mr Fani-Kayode remains one of the high-profile figures nominated by President Tinubu for ambassadorial positions. He has, over the years, attracted attention for controversial public statements and social media posts.

In August 2020, he faced criticism after verbally attacking a journalist who questioned the source of funding for his nationwide tour. At a press briefing in Calabar, the reporter had asked, “Who is bankrolling you?” Mr Fani-Kayode responded by calling the journalist “stupid” and described the question as “insulting”. He later issued an apology following widespread backlash.

He was also involved in a public dispute with his estranged wife, Precious Chikwendu, over child custody.

In addition, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission had filed charges against him, including fraud, money laundering, and forgery spanning nearly two decades. However, between 2024 and 2025, courts dismissed the cases. The rulings cited the prosecution’s inability to establish a link between Mr Fani-Kayode and the alleged offences, which included claims of fraudulent receipt of N4.9 billion, laundering of N200 million and later N8 billion, as well as forgery of medical documents.

Femi Fani-Kayode, Nigeria’s ambassador to Germany, has called on citizens to rally behind President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

The former minister of aviation is among the 65 ambassadors recently cleared for deployment earlier in March.

In a statement released on Friday, Fani-Kayode extended Eid-el-Fitr greetings to Muslims in Nigeria and abroad. He also expressed optimism about the current administration, stating that “Tinubu is on the right path to transform the nation”.

Eid-el-Fitr marks the end of the Ramadan fast observed by Muslims worldwide.

Fani-Kayode encouraged Nigerians to uphold the values practiced during Ramadan, such as patience, compassion, generosity, and unity. He stressed that these qualities are important for peaceful coexistence and national unity, regardless of ethnic or religious differences.

The envoy also voiced confidence in the country’s future under Tinubu’s leadership. He urged Nigerians to remain hopeful and committed to good governance and national development.

He offered prayers for peace, stability, and progress in the country, while wishing Muslims a happy Eid celebration.

President Bola Tinubu has called on Muslims across Nigeria to use the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations to pray for peace, prosperity, and national unity.

The message was conveyed on Thursday through a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga. Tinubu urged Nigerian Muslims to rededicate themselves to the principles of Ramadan, which emphasise piety, empathy, and harmony among people.

“As Muslims worldwide celebrate Eid-el-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated the Muslim faithful in Nigeria, urging renewed commitment to the nation and humanity,” the statement read.

“We have a lot to draw from the noble lessons of Ramadan, especially at a time like this. We must continue to abide by the virtues of piety, selflessness, perseverance, kindness and compassion beyond this period,” Tinubu added.

The President also encouraged Muslims to reach out to the needy, regardless of their faith, as a demonstration of unity and solidarity.

This call comes as the nation prepares to mark the end of Ramadan, a period of reflection, fasting, and spiritual renewal for Muslims worldwide.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed the enduring friendship between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, emphasizing that the relationship will continue to grow. He made the remarks during a state banquet held in his honour at Windsor Castle.

Addressing the royal audience, President Tinubu said:
“It is a profound honour to stand before you today, representing the people of Nigeria as we reaffirm the enduring bonds of friendship, history, and shared purpose that have united our two nations for several centuries.”

He expressed deep appreciation to King Charles III and Queen Camilla for their hospitality, noting the warmth extended to him, his wife Oluremi, and the Nigerian delegation. Highlighting the historic nature of his visit, Tinubu remarked that he is the first Nigerian leader to speak at Windsor Castle, which has stood as a symbol of continuity for nearly a millennium.

“Nigeria and the United Kingdom have shared more than just history; our two nations share a vision of progress and resilience. Today, we continue that journey, committed to building a future rooted in partnership, mutual respect, and common values,” he said.

President Tinubu reflected on Britain’s contributions to democratic governance, citing the Magna Carta of 1215 and the works of thinkers like Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, and Edmund Burke. He also acknowledged the influence of British literary figures, including William Shakespeare and Charles Dickens, whose works have shaped the English language spoken worldwide.

“In Nigeria, elements of these traditions continue to inform the institutional foundations of our own republic,” he added, noting that Nigerian courts, parliamentary structures, and civil services draw inspiration from British models adapted to local contexts.

The President also highlighted the role of Nigerians living in the UK. “The Nigerian community in the United Kingdom has become one of the most dynamic diaspora communities worldwide. Nigerians contribute enormously to the vitality of this nation. Within the National Health Service, Nigerian doctors and nurses play an indispensable role in delivering healthcare,” he said. He further cited contributions in sports, mentioning rugby star Maro Itoje, footballers Bukayo Saka and Eberechi Eze, and champion boxer Anthony Joshua.

Tinubu emphasized the strategic importance of the Commonwealth of Nations, underlining Nigeria’s commitment to the growth of the global community. He also addressed regional security challenges: “Our West African region faces complex terrorism challenges with roots in the Sahel. Nigeria carries an enormous responsibility to help safeguard regional stability. In confronting these threats, partnership with the United Kingdom remains essential.”

Despite the challenges, the President expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future: “We are a nation of diverse and vibrant people, of young people dreaming big, of entrepreneurs with a global outlook, and of a hopeful people determined to realise their full potential.”

He paid tribute to the United Kingdom for providing refuge during Nigeria’s military dictatorship, recalling his personal experience: “Like many Nigerians involved in the pro-democracy struggle, I found safety here, and I recall that my residence was placed under Metropolitan Police surveillance for protection following threats from agents of the junta.”

Concluding his speech, President Tinubu proposed a toast:
“To the special bond between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, and to the bright future that we shall build together. God bless His Majesty The King. God bless Nigeria. God bless the United Kingdom. Thank you very much.”

Vice-President Kashim Shettima has praised Anambra State governor, Chukwuma Soludo, for his role in Nigeria’s development and his intellectual contributions to national discourse.

Shettima spoke on Tuesday in Awka, the Anambra State capital, during Soludo’s inauguration for a second term. He attended the event as a representative of President Bola Tinubu.

In a statement issued by Stanley Nkwocha, his senior special assistant on media and communications, the vice-president described Soludo as a committed public servant with strong ideas and dedication to national progress.

“The policies of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, have benefited from the candour, specialist insight, and patriotic counsel of this distinguished economist, this restless thinker, and this public intellectual of uncommon range, both in open fora and in private conversations. And that is how it should be,” Shettima stated.

“That is what it means to be in the business of nation-building. It means placing the welfare of the federation above the vanity of partisan fences. It means understanding that Nigeria is too precious a vessel to be abandoned to the storms simply because the rowers wear different colours.”

He said Soludo has shown that leadership can bring people together without conflict. He noted that such leadership can persuade without disrespect and remain firm without losing its values, especially at a time of division.

“It is therefore no surprise that his people have welcomed him again and entrusted him with another term to hold the rudder of this great state and guide it farther into safe and prosperous waters,” he stated, declaring that “the people of Anambra are today renewing not just a mandate, but a covenant with competence.”

“And as Dr Onyekachukwu Ibezim takes this oath once again beside him, the state is also affirming that leadership is not only about the brilliance of the man at the top but also about the steadiness, loyalty, and discipline of those who help translate vision into order and order into progress,” the vice-president added.

Shettima said the Anambra governor has demonstrated that political differences do not have to lead to conflict. He noted that such differences can create room for cooperation.

“Professor Soludo has shown, too, that it is possible to see beyond the dangerous shenanigans that so often pass for politics in our clime and to keep faith with the higher calling of public life,” he said.

The vice-president also highlighted Soludo’s influence on national conversations. He said the governor’s views on economic and political matters attract wide attention.

He said Soludo has maintained a cordial working relationship with the federal government. He added that this has created stability in engagements between both sides.

According to him, the governor has demonstrated a commitment to real change rather than political rhetoric.

Shettima said the Anambra government has taken steps to improve public order, strengthen security, and tackle criminal activities in parts of the state. He expressed confidence that the second term would consolidate earlier achievements.

He added that the federal government remains ready to work with state governments that prioritise the welfare of citizens.

In his speech, Soludo pledged to serve the state with renewed dedication. He said his administration would build on the progress recorded in his first term, with focus on development and transformation.

“Anambra state has witnessed significant progress in the health, education, financial, agricultural, and other sectors under his leadership,” he said.

The governor also expressed appreciation to the people of Anambra for their support during the last election.

“The unprecedented 73 percent of the votes you cast in our favour was more than ordinary votes but an affirmation of love, patriotism, and partnership in rebuilding our homeland. We will never take your historic support for granted,” he said.

Soludo also thanked President Tinubu, Vice-President Shettima, and their spouses for their support.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the creation of a new Presidential Petroleum Reform & Value Optimisation Taskforce, tasking it with designing the next phase of structural reforms in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.

The time-bound, high-level working group is chaired by Mr. Fola Adeola, a co-founder of Guaranty Trust Bank and founder of the Fate Foundation. The President has tasked the committee with producing execution-ready blueprints aimed at consolidating ongoing reforms, unlocking capital, and strengthening Nigeria’s position as a premier global energy investment destination.

The Taskforce includes a diverse group of members: Ademola Adeyemi-Bero, Osagie Okunbor, Abubakar Suleiman, Adaeze Aguele, Farouk Gumel, Phillipa Osakwe-Okoye, and Seyi Bella. Mofoluwasho Fadayomi will serve as secretary.

Operating as a technical reform body rather than a representative committee, the group is expected to engage industry operators, regulators, investors, and civil society as consultees while focusing on actionable policy design.

The Taskforce has been given a clear mandate to deliver three major reform blueprints within six months. According to a State House press release, the deliverables include:

1. Immediate Structural Fixes: An implementation toolkit featuring draft legislative amendments, executive instruments, and institutional restructuring proposals.
2. Capital & Liquidity Acceleration Blueprint: A strategy aimed at unlocking between $5–$10 billion in sectoral liquidity while safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereign interests.
3. National Energy Transformation Strategy: A ten-year roadmap with measurable targets for production, foreign exchange earnings, GDP contribution, and cost competitiveness.

The Taskforce will report directly to the President, providing monthly progress memoranda. An interim report is expected in three months, with final outputs due within six months of its inauguration.

To ensure coordination and avoid duplication, President Tinubu has directed all existing committees, teams, and working groups established under various reform initiatives within the sector to align their activities with the new Taskforce.

Furthermore, all relevant Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) have been instructed to provide full technical support and share institutional knowledge with the group. The Taskforce is designed to be a temporary body and will automatically dissolve upon submission and acceptance of its final report.

The Presidency stated that the creation of the Taskforce represents a strategic instrument to accelerate reforms, strengthen governance, and position Nigeria’s petroleum resources as a foundation for sustainable economic transformation.