Tinubu

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Tinubu has declared a nationwide security emergency and authorised the immediate recruitment of thousands of new personnel into the military and police force.

In a major address from the Statehouse on Tuesday, the President announced that the Nigeria Police Force is to recruit an additional 20,000 officers, a move that will bring the total number of new recruits to 50,000.

To accommodate the surge in trainees, the President has authorised the police to use various National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) camps as temporary training depots. He also directed that officers recently withdrawn from VIP guard duties undergo “crash training” before being redeployed to areas with high security challenges.

The announcement comes amid a wave of attacks and kidnappings across several states.

President Tinubu commended the security agencies for the recent release of abducted schoolgirls in Kebbi and worshippers in Kwara, but pledged to sustain efforts to rescue the remaining students of a Catholic school in Niger State and other hostages.

Outlining a multi-pronged strategy, the President also ordered the Department of State Services (DSS) to immediately deploy all trained forest guards to “flush out terrorists and bandits lurking in our forests.”

He declared, “There will be no more hiding places for agents of evil.”

In a significant political move, President Tinubu called on the National Assembly to review the nation’s laws to allow states to establish their own police forces.

He also advised state governments to reconsider the establishment of boarding schools in remote, insecure areas.

Addressing the farmer-herder crisis, the President urged herders to end open grazing, surrender illegal weapons, and embrace ranching, which he described as “the path forward for sustainable livestock farming and national harmony.”

He paid tribute to fallen soldiers, including Brigadier-General Musa Uba, and issued a stern warning to adversaries: “Those who want to test our resolve should never mistake our restraint for weakness.”

The President concluded by urging citizens to remain calm, vigilant, and to cooperate with security agencies, stating, “We are in this fight together, and together we shall win.”

By Ibrahim Yunusa

Amidst the heightened security tension, President Bola Ahmad cancels his planned trip to G20 Leader’s Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa and delegated Vice president, Kashim Shettima to represent him in the meeting.

Disclosed by Stanley Nkwocha, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of The Vice President, Shettima has departed Abuja for the G20 Leader’s Summit.

President Tinubu has cancelled the trip to South Africa awaiting the security briefings on the current escalated terrorists operations in Kebbi and Niger state.

The Presidential statement said, President Cyril Ramaphosa, the South African leader who also serves as the current President of the G20 group had invited his Nigerian counterpart to participate in this year’s edition.

The Summit, scheduled to take place from Saturday, November 22nd, to Sunday, November 23rd, at the Johannesburg Expo Centre, will bring together leaders from the world’s top 20 economies, including the European Union, the African Union, financial institutions, among others.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Federal Government has expressed confidence in the Nigerian military amid reports of an alleged failed coup against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, made the government’s position known in an interview with newsmen on Sunday. He stated that the administration had “no reason to doubt the military” following the Defence Headquarters’ denial of the alleged coup report.

On Saturday, the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, had dismissed a report by Sahara Reporters that linked the detention of 16 military officers to a failed coup.Gusau, in his statement, described the publication as “intended to cause unnecessary tension and distrust among the populace.”

He explained that the cancellation of the 65th Independence Day celebration was “purely administrative,” allowing the president to attend a bilateral engagement abroad while troops continued operations against insecurity.

He added, “The ongoing investigation involving the 16 officers is a routine internal process aimed at ensuring discipline and professionalism is maintained within the ranks. An investigative panel has been duly constituted, and its findings would be made public.”

Reaffirming the government’s trust in the military, Idris said, “The Federal Government has no reason to doubt the military on what it has said. The Federal Government believes that the Armed Forces of Nigeria is committed to ensuring the territorial integrity of the country and also strengthening its fight against insecurity. The Federal Government commends the military, and it will continue to support them in their task of ensuring the security of Nigeria.”

Opposition Calls For Transparency

Opposition parties, however, have urged the Federal Government and the military to ensure transparency regarding the matter.The National Publicity Secretary of the New Nigeria People’s Party, Ladipo Johnson, said Nigerians deserved to know the truth about the alleged plot.

“They should let us know what actually happened. We have to know the charges and whether they are facing court-martial or not,” he stated.

Similarly, the Labour Party’s Interim National Publicity Secretary, Tony Akeni, expressed concern that the military appeared to be “speaking with two mouths.”

He said, “They said those in detention are there because of some disciplinary measures. Yet, we have sources within the rank and file saying there indeed was an issue of that nature.”

Akeni appealed to the military to “be courageous, according to the oath of their service, to bring the actual facts to the public so that innocent lives do not suffer.”

The National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement Worldwide, Dr Yunusa Tanko, also cautioned against drawing hasty conclusions.

“First of all, you need to establish the truth of the matter before you can suggest punitive measures,” he said.

He added that public frustration over the government’s performance might have contributed to the rumour, saying, “People are hungry and tired of being manipulated. So, we are not surprised the anger has gone to that particular level even in the military.”

Afenifere Warns Against Military TakeoverMeanwhile, the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, has cautioned against any attempt to disrupt Nigeria’s democracy, warning that a coup would have disastrous consequences.

Afenifere’s National Publicity Secretary, Jare Ajayi, said in Ibadan that such an act “would set the country back by decades.”

He noted, “The constitution clearly stated that government cannot be changed except through constitutional means.”

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Tinubu has congratulated former Vice President Namadi Sambo on his turbaning as the Sardaunan Zazzau.

The ceremony will be performed by the Emir of Zazzau, Alhaji Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, on Saturday, October 11.In a press release, President Tinubu described the title as one of “great cultural and historical significance in Northern Nigeria.”

He stated that the honour reflects the Zazzau Emirate’s confidence in Sambo’s “wisdom, integrity, and commitment to society’s progress.”

The President praised the former Vice President’s exemplary leadership, humility, and dedication to national development.

He also commended the Emir for upholding the tradition of honouring individuals whose character embodies the Emirate’s values of unity and service.

President Tinubu wished Sambo success in his new role and urged him to continue guiding the younger generation and working with community leaders to advance peace and development in the country.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Presidency has dismissed the latest World Bank report estimating that 139 million Nigerians are living in poverty, describing the figure as “unrealistic” and disconnected from the nation’s true economic situation.

President Bola Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare, stated in a post on his official X handle on Thursday that the World Bank’s statistics must be “properly contextualised” within the framework of global poverty measurement models.

“While Nigeria values its partnership with the World Bank and appreciates its contributions to policy analysis, the figure quoted must be properly contextualised. It is unrealistic,” Dare said.

According to the Presidency, the figure of 139 million Nigerians was derived from the global poverty line of $2.15 per person per day, set in 2017 using Purchasing Power Parity (PPP).

It stressed that the benchmark should not be taken as a direct count of citizens living in poverty.

The statement explained that when converted to local currency, the $2.15 daily poverty threshold amounts to about ₦100,000 per month—significantly higher than Nigeria’s new minimum wage of ₦70,000.

“There must be caution against interpreting the World Bank’s numbers as a literal, real-time headcount,” it added.

“The measure is an analytical construct, not a direct reflection of local income realities.”

The Presidency also noted that poverty assessments using the PPP methodology rely on outdated consumption data—Nigeria’s last major survey being in 2018/2019—and often fail to capture the informal and subsistence economies that support millions of Nigerians.

It emphasised that the World Bank’s estimate should be viewed as a modelled global projection rather than an empirical representation of present-day conditions.

“What truly matters is the trajectory,” the statement concluded, “and Nigeria’s is now one of recovery and inclusive reform.”

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Tinubu has granted posthumous pardons to historical figures including Major General Mamman Vatsa and nationalist Herbert Macaulay, while also approving clemency for 82 current inmates.

The pardons were approved on Thursday following a recommendation from the Presidential Advisory Committee on the Prerogative of Mercy (PACPM), which was endorsed by the National Council of State.

Among the most notable beneficiaries are Major General Mamman Vatsa, executed in 1986 for a treason plot, and Herbert Macaulay, a founding father of Nigerian nationalism who was convicted by British colonial authorities in 1913.

The President also formally pardoned the “Ogoni Nine,” including activist Ken Saro-Wiwa, who were executed in 1995.

For the living, the President commuted the death sentences of seven inmates to life imprisonment and reduced the prison terms of 65 others. A total of 82 inmates were granted clemency.

Notable individuals receiving pardons include former House of Representatives member Farouk Lawan and three others, allowing them to fully reintegrate into society.

The 12-member committee, chaired by the Attorney General, reviewed 294 cases, interviewing 175 inmates and considering 62 applications before making its final recommendations.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is scheduled to travel to Kaduna State on Friday, September 19, for a one-day visit that includes a high-profile wedding and a private condolence call.

According to a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President’s itinerary is centered on two key events.

The primary reason for the visit is the President’s attendance at the wedding ceremony of Nasirudeen Yari, the son of former Governor of Zamfara State and current Senator for Zamfara West, Abdul’aziz Yari.

Nasirudeen will be wed to Safiyya Shehu Idris.Following the wedding festivities, President Tinubu will pay a courtesy visit to Aisha Buhari, the widow of former President Muhammadu Buhari, at the family’s residence in Kaduna.

The visit is seen as a gesture of respect and condolence following the passing of the former leader.

The President is expected to return to the nation’s capital, Abuja, on the same day after concluding his engagements.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has officially returned to office following the end of the six-month emergency rule declared by President Bola Tinubu.

Rear Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, who served as Sole Administrator during the period, formally handed over to Fubara and addressed the state for the last time in a broadcast.

Tinubu had suspended Fubara half a year ago and placed Rivers under federal control.

On Thursday, the president lifted the emergency rule and reinstated the governor.In his farewell message, Ibas said: “My dear citizens of Rivers State, it’s with gratitude in my heart and humility in my spirit that I address you today for the final time as administrator of our beloved State.

“Six months ago, Tinubu entrusted me with this solemn responsibility of steering Rivers State through an extraordinary moment in its history.

“Today, I can say with conviction that the grace of God and through our collective effort the mandate has been accomplished.

“Law and order has been restored, local governments elections have been conducted and chairmen elected by the people now serve in office.

“Statutory boards and commissions have been reconstituted and are performing their duties, the state budget has been passed by the National Assembly providing a legitimate physical framework for governance.

These are milestones of progress that belong to all of us that reflect the resilience of the people determined never to let their state slip into paralysis.

“One of the enduring lessons of this season is that the exercise of power without restraint can cripple institutions and rivalry without dialogue clearly endangers democracy.

“As I reflect on this assignment, I do so with deep appreciation, I have met outstanding men and women across this state bureaucracy, diligent in their duties and devoted to our state. I have benefited from the wise guidance and counsel of statesmen who spoke truth at all moments.

“Now as I hand back the reigns of leadership to Sim Fubara, I do so with confidence and respect and I urge all Rivers people to support him wholeheartedly because leadership and followership is a shared responsibility.

“No matter how competent and clear a vision may be, it can only come to fruition and thrive with the active support of citizens. For me, this is the closing of another chapter in life devoted to service at sea, diplomacy and now in governance.”

The handover ends Ibas’ brief but eventful stewardship of Rivers State, while Fubara resumes his role as the elected leader of the oil-rich state.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Tinubu has extended his congratulations to two Nigerians, Farouk Gumel and Tobi Amusan, for their recent exceptional accomplishments on the international stage.

In a press release issued on Monday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President commended Gumel on his appointment as the Chairman of the Botswana Sovereign Wealth Fund Limited.

Tinubu described the appointment as a recognition of Gumel’s expertise and dedication, noting that it reflects the high esteem in which Nigerian professionals are held globally.

The President highlighted Gumel’s role as Vice Chairman for Africa at the Tropical General Investment (TGI) Group and his contributions to Nigeria’s food security efforts.

“I am confident he will excel and further cement Nigeria’s reputation for excellence in global finance,’’ the President stated.

The President also celebrated hurdler Tobi Amusan for winning a silver medal in the women’s 100m hurdles at the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo.

He praised her relentless drive, resilience, and unwavering spirit, calling her achievement a source of immense national pride.

“Tobi has once again demonstrated that with patriotic fervour, coupled with hard work and determination, any height is surmountable,” Tinubu said.

The President wished both individuals continued success in their endeavours and assured them of the federal government’s full support.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Tinubu announced on Tuesday that the Federal Government has already met its revenue target for the 2025 fiscal year, achieving the milestone in August of this year.

Speaking at a meeting with legacy members of the defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, the President attributed this achievement to his administration’s economic reforms, which have focused on stimulating the non-oil sector.

“The economy is now stabilised. Nobody is trading pieces of paper for foreign exchange anymore. The economy is now predictable. You do not need to know the CBN Governor to obtain foreign exchange or import goods,” President Tinubu stated.

He assured Nigerians that his Renewed Hope Agenda remains focused on building critical infrastructure, improving healthcare, ensuring food sovereignty, and providing security.

To guarantee food sovereignty, the President revealed plans to establish agricultural mechanisation centres across all regions of the country to build capacity and expand cultivation.

“We are going to have trainees. That programme is our path to food sovereignty,” he said.Reflecting on the political merger that formed the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Tinubu described it as “a sweet memory” and thanked the delegation for their support.

He also promised to sustain the legacies of former President Muhammadu Buhari, including immortalising him with a ‘Buhari House,’ and assured that more members of the old CPC would be brought into the government.

The leader of the delegation and former Governor of Nasarawa State, Umaru Tanko Al-Makura, assured the President of the group’s loyalty and commitment to the success of his administration and his ultimate victory in the 2027 elections.

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, who was also present, thanked the President for his statesmanship and magnanimity.