Tinubu

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.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has issued a firm reassurance to Nigerians and the country’s armed forces that the nation will ultimately triumph over insecurity, declaring that the sacrifices of gallant servicemen and women will never be wasted.

Speaking during an interfaith Iftar (breaking of fast) with members of the Armed Forces at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, on Friday, the President commended the courage and professionalism of troops battling insurgents and bandits across the country.

“I have listened to the Chief of Army Staff on my recent approvals to the Nigerian Armed Forces. My duty is to thank all of you on behalf of a grateful nation, knowing fully well that many times you are without your families and that you stay away from them. Some of you are facing attacks by bandits and terrorists,” President Tinubu said.

He continued: “I commend your courage, sacrifice, and professionalism as you put your lives on the line in defence of Nigeria’s sovereignty and the safety of its citizens. You have been working to serve the country deeply and protect our sovereignty. This nation will always be grateful to you, and your sacrifices will not be in vain, I assure you.”

The President highlighted that the relentless efforts of security forces have continued to degrade the capabilities of terrorist groups and criminal elements operating in various parts of the country. He assured troops of sustained investment in modern equipment, intelligence gathering, and logistics to enhance their operational effectiveness.

In a significant boost to military morale, the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Oluwafemi Oluyode (represented by the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu), revealed that the President had approved an upward review of salaries for all members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, as well as increased allowances for the elite Brigade of Guards.

“I want to most sincerely thank our indefatigable President for the various approvals for the upward review of salaries of members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, as well as the upward review of allowances of the Brigade of Guards,” the CDS stated.

“These various approvals also extend to the areas of equipment procurement as well as the provision of decent accommodations for the members of the armed forces. These laudable approvals will go a long way in enhancing our operational efficiency, and I assure you that they are well-received by all members of the armed forces.”

President Tinubu also used the occasion to thank Nigerians for their endurance during the ongoing economic reengineering of the country, offering a message of hope and resilience.

“I am happy to inform you that your sacrifices and that of fellow citizens, all the sacrifices are not in vain. We are now out of the dark tunnel,” the President declared.

The Commander-in-Chief extended his heartfelt sympathy to the government and people of Borno State following the recent terrorist attack in the state, reaffirming the administration’s commitment to protecting all citizens.

The interfaith gathering provided a unique opportunity for the President and military leadership to break bread together across both faiths, symbolising unity of purpose in the fight against insecurity.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Tinubu has ordered an immediate suspension of the new cashless payment system at airport toll gates nationwide, citing widespread chaos that has caused numerous passengers to miss their flights.

The decision was announced on Wednesday by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, following the Federal Executive Council meeting at the State House, Abuja.

Keyamo stated that the President intervened out of concern for the welfare of citizens, who have faced hours-long delays due to severe gridlock at the access roads to major airports.

“Mr. President was very concerned about the welfare of Nigerians and the fact that most Nigerians were losing their flights,” Keyamo told reporters. “So Mr. President, out of empathy, directed today that we suspend the present system because it creates a lot of gridlock, and Nigerians are suffering as a result of it.”

The cashless policy, implemented less than a week ago by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), was designed to eliminate corruption and optimize revenue collection after more than 50 years of cash transactions. It required motorists to use prepaid cards or electronic payments at toll gates.

However, the transition was plagued by bottlenecks, leading to massive traffic congestion—particularly at the Lagos and Abuja airport toll gates. Videos on social media showed queues stretching for kilometres, forcing travellers to depart for the airport hours earlier than usual.

While reaffirming the government’s commitment to a cashless system, Keyamo clarified that the President’s directive prioritises public convenience over the immediate elimination of cash.

“The major reason why Mr. President took this decision is to eliminate the present gridlock… not that the President is happy with the cash system,” the minister explained.

In the interim, a hybrid system will be implemented, allowing for both cash payments and the use of FAAN cards already purchased by motorists. The minister revealed that the government will now engage private sector participants to develop a more seamless electronic system that prevents future traffic disruptions.

“Mr. President said if we have to pay commission, we have to pay commission, but we’ll bring in private sector participants to help us devise a much more efficient payment system that will still eliminate cash at the gate,” Keyamo stated.

He added that the President has ordered a swift resolution and has directed the ministry to report back to him on the progress of a new, more efficient system.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The presidency has dismissed reports circulating online that kitchen workers at the Presidential Villa attempted to poison Bola Ahmed Tinubu or were arrested over such an incident.

Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, rejected the allegation in a post shared on his X account on Sunday. He described the report as false and urged the public to disregard it.

The claim had alleged that some staff working in the kitchen at Aso Rock were involved in a poisoning attempt targeting the president.

Reacting to the development, Onanuga said:
“No Aso Rock kitchen staff arrested. No Aso Rock kitchen staff attempted to poison President Tinubu. Please ignore this fake news being disseminated by this video,”

He maintained that the story lacked any basis and should not be taken seriously.

Further details are expected as the situation develops.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The presidency has dismissed reports circulating online that kitchen workers at the Presidential Villa attempted to poison Bola Ahmed Tinubu or were arrested over such an incident.

Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, rejected the allegation in a post shared on his X account on Sunday. He described the report as false and urged the public to disregard it.

The claim had alleged that some staff working in the kitchen at Aso Rock were involved in a poisoning attempt targeting the president.

Reacting to the development, Onanuga said:
“No Aso Rock kitchen staff arrested. No Aso Rock kitchen staff attempted to poison President Tinubu. Please ignore this fake news being disseminated by this video,”

He maintained that the story lacked any basis and should not be taken seriously.

Further details are expected as the situation develops.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a one-year extension of the ban on the export of raw shea nuts, reinforcing the federal government’s drive to enhance local industrial capacity and value addition in the agricultural sector.

The new directive extends the prohibition from February 26, 2026, to February 25, 2027. This move, according to a State House statement, aligns with the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda by promoting domestic processing, improving livelihoods in shea-producing communities, and positioning Nigeria as a key player in the global value chain for agricultural products.

In a bid to streamline implementation, President Tinubu has directed the Ministers of Industry, Trade and Investment, along with the Presidential Food Security Coordination Unit (PFSCU), to develop and coordinate a unified national framework for the shea nut value chain. The framework aims to harmonize industrialization, trade, and investment priorities.

Furthermore, the President has ordered the withdrawal of all waivers permitting the export of raw shea nuts and has sanctioned a new export mechanism managed by the Nigerian Commodity Exchange (NCX). Any future export of surplus raw materials must now be conducted exclusively through the NCX in accordance with approved guidelines.

To support producers and processors, the President has also authorized the Federal Ministry of Finance to establish a dedicated NESS Support Window. This will facilitate a Livelihood Finance Mechanism aimed at boosting production and processing capacity.

Shea nuts, harvested from trees prevalent in Nigeria’s Savanna belt, are processed into shea butter—a high-demand ingredient in cosmetics and cooking oil. Government data indicates that processed shea butter commands prices 10 to 20 times higher than raw nuts, underscoring the economic rationale for the policy.

The federal government reiterated its commitment to fostering inclusive growth and local manufacturing through policies that strengthen Nigeria’s competitiveness in international agricultural markets.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has charged the newly appointed Acting Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, with the critical task of restoring peace and strengthening security across Nigeria.

The President issued the directive on Wednesday at the State House, Abuja, during the official decoration of Disu, following the retirement of former IGP Kayode Egbetokun.

The appointment is subject to the ratification of the Nigeria Police Council, which is scheduled to meet next week, and subsequent confirmation by the Senate.

President Tinubu expressed confidence in Disu’s ability to tackle the nation’s security challenges, citing the new police chief’s track record.

“I made this decision for you to assume this responsibility. I know your record. I saw the dedication you exhibited while you were in Lagos when I was governor,” the President stated.

Describing the appointment as coming at a pivotal moment for the country, President Tinubu urged the Acting IGP to focus on rebuilding public trust in the Nigeria Police Force. He emphasized the need for the police to work collaboratively with other security agencies to safeguard lives and property.

“Lead firmly but fairly, demand professionalism at every level and ensure that the safety of lives and property remains our highest priority. It’s a daunting challenge. I know you can do it. You have my word, you have my full support,” the President assured.

The President further directed Disu to advance the security pillars of the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, expressing confidence in his discipline, operational experience, and leadership capacity.

“Nigeria is challenged with banditry, terrorism and other criminal activities. You will be part of the thinking and innovation to overcome them,” Tinubu said.

In a moment of appreciation, President Tinubu also paid tribute to the outgoing Inspector-General, Kayode Egbetokun, who was present at the ceremony with his spouse.

“To the outgoing Inspector-General, we are a grateful nation. Nigeria appreciates your contribution to maintaining law and order,” he said.

The President urged Egbetokun to offer his counsel to the new police chief when needed, adding, “You have not succeeded without a good successor. His success will also be part of your legacy.”

The ceremony was attended by the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu; Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila; Governor of Delta State, Sheriff Oborevwori; senior government officials; and family members of the new Acting IGP.