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Where on Earth is President Tinubu

Where on Earth is President Tinubu?

By Biliyaminu Suraj

biliyasuraj1980@yahoo.com

Do you remember the video game Where in the World Is Carmen Sandiego? It was released in 1985 and provided a series of clues to help you find Carmen as she travelled to world. It was similar to the earlier American television series, Lost in Space, following the adventures of a family of space colonists whose ship veers off course. Well, there’s a new adventure-detective game, especially for Nigerian audiences … Where on Earth is President Tinubu?

President Tinubu departed Abuja on 30 August 2026 for a three-week working vacation in Europe. His first stop was London, but where in London?

He arrived in Paris on 13 September 2026 from London and had a private dinner with President Emmanuel Macron on 17 September 2026 followed by a meeting with Vincent Bolloré on 18 September 2026.

On 21 September, the Presidency announced a short extension of the trip. The extension occurred while Vice President Kashim Shettima was also abroad, standing in for President Tinubu who decided not to attend the UN General Assembly but rather continue his holiday abroad. The episode has generated constitutional debate and political scrutiny, particularly regarding compliance with Section 145 of the 1999 Constitution.

President Tinubu did not transmit a vacation letter to the National Assembly. His absence exceeded 21 days, the threshold at which the legislature may empower the Vice President as Acting President. With both top executives outside the country, concerns emerged about continuity of government and the optics of a potential constitutional vacuum. The Presidency maintained that Tinubu continued to direct government remotely while on holidays in Europe, emphasising that physical location does not impede executive authority.

The extension appears calibrated to prevent the National Assembly from invoking Section 145(2). Elevating Shettima to Acting President could be politically sensitive and may signal internal fragility during a pre-election period. Tinubu issued directives from Europe — notably ordering an investigation into the deaths of 37 detained illegal miners — to reinforce the message that governance remained active and centralised.

Engagements in Paris, including a private dinner with President Emmanuel Macron and a meeting with Vincent Bolloré, provided diplomatic legitimacy for the extended stay and allowed the Presidency to frame the trip as productive statecraft.

But was this a convenient excuse to avoid the UN General Assembly where human rights groups would likely protest at the deaths of 37 youths in custody of the Federal Government of Nigeria? If President Tinubu had attended UNGA he would have faced international press questions, not just Nigerian media, about these shocking deaths. UNGA corridors are unpredictable — journalists can ask about human rights, security abuses, and custodial deaths without pre-screening. These are topics UN journalists routinely raise.

Vice President Kashim Shettima’s address at the UNGA highlighted Nigeria’s commitment to addressing the exploitation of Africa’s mineral wealth. He emphasized the need for African nations to unite and halt the export of raw materials, advocating for local processing, manufacturing, and value addition. But the elephant in the room was the shocking deaths of 37 Nigerian youths held in custody for artisanal mining.

The custodial deaths reflected state failure and security sector negligence. Significantly, the operation was conducted by a joint security task force including the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC). The NSCDC often participates in such multi-agency anti-mining operations. The NSCDC’s Mining Marshals are the enforcement agents of the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development.

The NSCDC arrested and paraded 24 government personnel linked to the deaths in custody and suspended the Niger State NSCDC Commandant. But who gave the orders to clear the mining field? Why the sudden move to clear an area where local people had been quietly scratching out a modest existence for many years? Yes, these local miners were unlicenced because, like most local Nigerian miners, they could not afford the exorbitant increases in fees levied by Minister Alake.

Chairman of the Senate Committee on Interior, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, has called for a thorough, transparent and independent investigation into the deaths of 37 artisanal miners in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, in Niger State. In January 2025 he claimed retired military generals are behind illegal mining across the country. “The ongoing illegal mining across the country is being carried out by retired generals and we know them. Yes, we know them.” He cited reports from a retired general who personally witnessed foreigners extracting Nigeria’s solid minerals with the help of some retired generals.

He alleged criminal groups operating around mining sites have been weaponised by powerful sponsors to protect mining activities and the foreign nationals employed to carry them out. He said some of the weapons allegedly deployed to secure mining operations are later used in other criminal activities. The Senator accused Chinese nationals of illegally extracting Nigeria’s mineral resources and arming bandits and terrorists who guard mining sites rich in gold, lithium and other valuable minerals.

Senator Oshiomhole claimed the operations involve the use of arms and helicopters to extract gold and move it out of Nigeria, generating billions of dollars while depriving the country of revenue from its natural resources. He has previously said security reports have linked the spread of arms in the North-West and North-Central to mining cartels that supply weapons to bandits in exchange for protection of mineral-rich areas. ‎

According to the Senator, these armed groups function as private militias for foreign operators, giving them unfettered access to mining corridors while communities suffer violence, displacement and environmental damage.

In response the NSCDC has disclosed that its Mining Marshals have arrested over 600 suspected illegal miners, recovered more than 100 illegal mining sites and commenced prosecution of over 500 suspects since the specialised unit was established in March 2024.

However, invariably those arrested are the poor individual miners who are scratching out a day-to-day existence, like the 37 who died in NSCDC custody. None of the cartel leaders or retired military generals have been arrested.

Former Vice President Atiku argues that 37 Nigerian youths were taken into Federal Government custody alive and left as corpses. He directly places responsibility on President Tinubu, the Minister of Interior supervising NSCDC and the Minister of Solid Minerals overseeing mining enforcement, Dele Alake.

The Mining Marshals were formally launched by the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, with operational creation and deployment carried out by the NSCDC Commandant-General. This policy direction came from the Federal Government and the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development.

The Minister for Solid Minerals has remained invisible during this outrageous and heinous deaths in custody. Where is Minister Alake? He has been in New York chairing a meeting of the Africa Mining Strategy Group on the sidelines of the UNGA. This meeting was to be chaired by President Tinubu who withdrew at the last moment in favour of continuing his holiday abroad leaving Alake to explain these shocking deaths to his fellow Mining Ministers from various African nations.

Biliyaminu Suraj is a public affairs commentator and mining entrepreneur.

Hayab Laments Disunity, Insecurity at 66, Demands Electoral Reform

Hayab Urges Nigerians to Invest, Fix Electoral System, Unite Against Insecurity

Chairman of the Northern Christian Association, Rev. Joseph John Hayab, has called on Nigerians, particularly Northerners and other economically disadvantaged citizens, to embrace long-term investment, especially through share ownership, as a way of building financial security and creating opportunities for future generations.

Hayab made the call on Saturday while addressing journalists at his residence in Kaduna on the state of the nation and Nigeria’s development trajectory as the country prepares to mark its 66th Independence Anniversary.

The cleric said Nigerians should begin to look beyond immediate consumption and consider investments capable of generating wealth over time.

He urged people who currently have limited economic opportunities to invest whatever they could afford, stressing that the benefits of such investments might not be immediate but could become significant in the future.

According to him, there was “no juju” or mystery behind the success of families whose children have greater economic advantages today, arguing that deliberate investments and planning by previous generations often provide a foundation for the next generation.

Hayab said Nigerians must therefore develop a culture of savings, investment and inter-generational wealth creation.
‘Nigeria Still Struggling With Unity at 66’
Reflecting on Nigeria’s 66 years of independence, Hayab lamented that the country had yet to fully overcome divisions along religious, ethnic and tribal lines.

He said the divisions had continued to undermine national development and cohesion, arguing that Nigerians must begin to see themselves primarily as citizens of one country rather than through narrow ethnic or religious identities.

His comments come as the Federal Government prepares for the 66th Independence Anniversary on October 1, 2026. The government has described the anniversary as an opportunity to reflect on Nigeria’s journey since independence and its continuing socio-economic and security challenges.

Hayab also expressed concern about Nigeria’s history of military interventions and what he described as the persistent failure to build institutions capable of guaranteeing political stability and democratic development.

The NCA chairman identified electoral reform as one of the critical areas requiring urgent attention.He argued that Nigeria could make significant progress if citizens were able to consistently elect leaders through transparent and credible electoral processes.

“What we need to improve is our electoral process,” he said, arguing that leaders who emerge through questionable processes could have difficulty securing the legitimacy required to undertake fundamental reforms.

Hayab’s call comes ahead of the 2027 general elections, for which the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has already released the timetable. INEC has fixed February 20, 2027, for the presidential and National Assembly elections and March 6, 2027, for governorship and State Assembly elections. The commission has also said it intends to strengthen technology deployment, voter registration and electoral transparency.

Hayab described insecurity as one of the country’s most serious problems, alongside poverty, corruption and economic backwardness.

He said after 66 years of independence, Nigerians should be discussing sustained progress and improved living standards rather than continued fear, displacement and attacks.

He called on the government to ensure that Nigerians could “go to bed with their two eyes closed,” stressing that the primary responsibility for maintaining security rests with the state.

According to him, the government must not allow non-state actors to gradually assume control of territories or exercise authority through violence.

He cited the activities and public statements attributed to notorious armed groups and bandit leaders, including Boko Haram founder Abubakar Shekau and Bello Turji, as examples of the danger posed when armed non-state actors operate with little fear of state authority.

“Only government has the legitimate power of violence,” he said, warning that allowing non-state actors to dictate security conditions could further weaken the state.

The Federal Government itself has acknowledged that significant security challenges remain, although it says its reforms and security operations have produced progress in some areas.

The cleric, however, blamed corruption for many of Nigeria’s development challenges. Hayab argued that corruption had prevented the country from effectively translating its abundant human and natural resources into sustainable development.

He cited agriculture as an example, recalling how farmers from Malaysia were said to have obtained palm kernel seeds from Nigeria and developed the crop into a major economic resource, while Nigeria had failed to maximise similar opportunities.

He said the experience should compel policymakers to examine how other countries had transformed resources available to Nigeria into wealth and employment.

“Government is put in place to benefit a nation and its people,” he said, stressing that public investment in roads, schools, hospitals and other infrastructure should ultimately translate into improved quality of life.

Hayab also spoke about the challenges of achieving equitable development in a country as diverse as Nigeria, acknowledged the sensitivity surrounding federal character and the need to balance opportunities among the country’s various regions and groups, but maintained that national development should remain the overriding objective.

Meanwhile, he urged government at all levels to invest in infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture and other productive sectors that can improve the lives of citizens regardless of their ethnic or religious backgrounds.

On the controversial Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket, Hayab said the decision by President Bola Tinubu to select a Muslim running mate was initially a source of concern to some Christians. He, however, said subsequent political developments had led some observers to view the decision principally through the lens of electoral strategy rather than religion.

He recalled that some Christians initially feared the implications of a same-faith ticket, but said the political calculation surrounding elections should also be understood.

His comments add to the continuing national debate over the place of religion in Nigerian politics and the balance between electoral strategy, representation and national inclusion.

Hayab ultimately urged Nigerians to move beyond religious and ethnic divisions and concentrate on building institutions capable of delivering security, credible elections, economic opportunity and accountable governance.

He said the future of the country depended not only on government but also on citizens developing the discipline to invest, participate in democratic processes and demand responsible leadership.

The Federal Government, meanwhile, has framed the 66th anniversary as an opportunity to reflect on Nigeria’s achievements and challenges while renewing efforts toward a more prosperous, secure and united country.

NAD: Uzodinma Represents Voice of the People, Blasts Wike

National Action for Democracy Says Uzodinma Represents Voice of People, Blasts Wike

The National Action for Democracy (NAD) has expressed support for the Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum (PGF) and Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodinma, describing his position on emerging political developments ahead of the 2027 general elections as reflective of the interests of the people and the need to strengthen democratic institutions.

The group, in a statement made available to journalists, criticised recent comments by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, against Uzodinma, arguing that the Imo governor was acting within the responsibilities of his office as chairman of the forum of governors elected on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The statement signed by Garbadeen Mohammed,comes amid an ongoing political disagreement involving Wike and some APC governors over the minister’s proposed “Rainbow Coalition”, a cross-party political arrangement which Wike has presented as part of efforts to mobilise support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

NAD said Uzodinma’s position should not be construed as opposition to President Tinubu, noting that the PGF chairman had reaffirmed the commitment of APC governors to the President’s re-election and the success of the party’s candidates at other levels of government.

The organisation therefore faulted Wike’s criticism of Uzodinma, urging political actors to resolve disagreements through dialogue, consultation and democratic engagement rather than personal attacks.
Wike had accused Uzodinma and Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, of working against his political activities, while maintaining that his support for Tinubu was principally directed at the President’s re-election and did not necessarily translate into support for every APC candidate.

The FCT minister has also alleged that some APC governors are opposed to the proposed Rainbow Coalition because of concerns over possible attempts to influence the emergence of the leadership of the National Assembly after the 2027 elections.

NAD, however, maintained that Uzodinma’s position was consistent with his responsibilities as an APC governor and chairman of the PGF, particularly as political parties intensify preparations for the 2027 elections.

According to the organisation, the disagreement has highlighted a broader political debate over the relationship between support for a presidential candidate and loyalty to political parties and their candidates contesting governorship and legislative elections.

The group urged political actors to shift attention towards issues affecting Nigerians, including governance, economic development, security and democratic accountability, rather than allowing personal disagreements to dominate political discourse.

NAD said political differences were a normal feature of democratic practice, but stressed that such differences should be managed in a manner that protects the integrity of political institutions and respects the electorate.

The organisation called on Nigerians to carefully examine the positions, records, programmes and commitments of political actors ahead of the 2027 general elections and make their own informed decisions.

NAD also commended Uzodinma for what it described as his defence of the institutional interests of the APC and the Progressive Governors’ Forum, while urging all political stakeholders to uphold democratic dialogue, tolerance and respect for divergent views.

North-East Forum Supports Uzodinma, Commends Role in APC Mobilisation

North-East Forum Supports Uzodinma, Commends Role in APC Mobilisation

A group identified as the North-East Forum has expressed support for the Imo State Governor and Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum (PGF), Senator Hope Uzodinma, describing his role in the affairs of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as important to the party’s mobilisation ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The forum, in a statement made available to journalists, said Uzodinma had demonstrated commitment to strengthening cooperation among APC stakeholders and promoting the party’s programmes across the country.

In the statement signed by Secretary of the Forum, Alhaji Mala Suleiman ,the development comes amid renewed political activities ahead of the 2027 elections and recent exchanges involving Uzodinma and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.

Wike recently accused Uzodinma and Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of working against him politically. Wike said he had differences with the two governors over political developments and his efforts to mobilise support for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election.

The North-East Forum, however, said its support for Uzodinma was based on what it described as his contribution to political engagement, party cohesion and the mobilisation of stakeholders.

Uzodinma currently chairs the PGF, the platform through which APC governors coordinate on issues affecting the party and governance. The forum’s leadership status was reaffirmed earlier this year after reports circulated claiming that he had been removed. The PGF subsequently described the report as false and stated that Uzodinma remained its chairman.

The Imo governor has also assumed a prominent role in the APC’s 2027 mobilisation structure. In August, the APC Presidential Campaign Council announced former Zamfara State Governor Abdulaziz Yari as Director-General, with Uzodinma named Secretary of the council.

The North-East Forum said Uzodinma’s involvement in national political coordination demonstrated the importance of building bridges across Nigeria’s geopolitical zones.

It urged APC stakeholders in the North-East to remain focused on issues of development, security, economic opportunities and political stability rather than allowing disagreements among individual politicians to distract from broader national objectives.

The forum also called for constructive political engagement among leaders, saying disagreements were part of democratic politics but should not undermine national cohesion.

Uzodinma has in recent months participated in several APC mobilisation activities. At a South-South Strategic Communications and Mobilisation Summit in Asaba, he called for unity of purpose, a common message and coordinated grassroots mobilisation. He argued that government policies and reforms needed to be communicated effectively to citizens at the grassroots.

The governor has also defended the Tinubu administration’s economic reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidy and foreign-exchange reforms, arguing that the measures were intended to address longstanding structural problems in the Nigerian economy.

While the forum’s intervention comes against the backdrop of political disagreements within and around the APC, it said its position should be viewed as an expression of support for Uzodinma’s political engagement and not as a call for confrontation with any individual or group.

It appealed to political leaders across the country to prioritise dialogue and issue-based engagement as preparations for the 2027 elections intensify.

Renewed Hope Coordinator Abba Girei Rallies Support For Tinubu, Tijjani says they Can’t Vote A Small Boy With Only NYSC Cert as Gov

Renewed Hope Coordinator Abba Girei Rallies Support For Tinubu, Tijjani says they Can’t Vote A Small Boy With Only NYSC Cert as Gov

Umar Aliyu Girei

There was thunderous endorsement in Girei on Tuesday as the State Coordinator Renewed Hope 2027, Hon. Salisu Abba Girei, addressed hundreds of APC supporters in Girei Local Government Area of Adamawa State.

The mammoth crowd which converged to hear the Coordinator turned the meeting into a carnival of endorsement for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s second term mission.

Abba Girei told the supporters that President Tinubu has piled up many good things for Adamawa, especially for the people of Girei, and called on them to vote massively for him in 2027.

According to him, the President will bring a lot of progress to many communities in Adamawa and Girei will be a major beneficiary.

“Be a little patient with Tinubu’s administration, there are serious ongoing reforms. At the end of the day, Nigerians will all smile,” he pleaded.

In a major revelation that drew wild jubilation, Hon. Abba Girei disclosed that President Tinubu has earmarked five thousand appointments for Adamawa State, and at least hundreds will come to the people of Girei alone.

Drumming support for APC candidates from top to bottom, Abba Girei said an historic opportunity has come for Adamawa Central Senatorial District to produce the next Governor in the person of Tijjani Ahmed Galadima, the APC Governorship candidate.

He described Tijjani as far better than any other person contesting, an experienced leader with the capacity to lead Adamawa.

“We should not support someone who is young and whose only experience is NYSC certificate. According to Abba Girei, we can’t vote for a small boy that has never worked and doesn’t have financial management skills. He will only plunder the state into leadership crisis. His brother has been the one sponsoring him. We will never accept that,” Abba Girei declared.

He also drummed support for other APC candidates, assuring that Comrade Mustapha Salihu will be among the first ten best performing Senators in the National Assembly and will do well as Senator.

On the House of Representatives race, Abba Girei said Ahmad Salihijo is the man to beat and will perform better than the current lawmaker, Hon. Abubakar Babazango whom he described as a sleeping lawmaker.

He therefore called on the people to vote for the APC State House of Assembly candidate for Girei.

On his own political ambition, Hon. Abba Girei who also bought form and was given clean bill of record after successful screening by security agencies to be free from all criminal offences to go for the primary, said he decided to step down for Ahmad Salihijo in the interest of party cohesion and unity.

He noted that his decision to contest in the 2027 election is an indication that the law and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has allowed him and he is free from all legal or constitutional encumbrances.

Abba Girei further revealed that he recently obtained a court judgment that freed him from all criminal indictments and the earlier ruling compelling him to pay five million naira as damages.

He said he has set a clear agenda to ensure APC wins from top to bottom in Adamawa come 2027 as he remains the Coordinator of Renewed Hope.

From Youth Candidate To Women’s Choice of a deputy Gov : How Haske’s Ticket Became The Most Balanced

From Youth Candidate To Women’s Choice of a deputy Gov : How Haske’s Ticket Became The Most Balanced

By Tom Garba,Yola

The Adamawa Governorship race has just taken a dramatic turn, and the man at the centre of it is Haske.

With the unveiling of Engr. Safriel Judson Glah, FNSE as his Deputy Governorship candidate, Haske has done what no other frontline Governorship candidate in Adamawa has done – put a woman on the ticket as Deputy Governor-to-be. In a state where elections are won on narrow margins, that single masterstroke may be the final straw that breaks the camel’s back.

Here is the analysis and the true state of the reality on ground for the 2027 Adamawa state governorship election:

The Numbers Don’t Lie: Women Are The Election

In Adamawa, women constitute over 50% of registered voters and historically over 60% of actual voter turnout. From the rural polling units in Hong, Gombi, Guyuk, Madagali to the markets in Jimeta and Yola Town, women vote in bulk. They mobilize in groups – Zumunta Mata, FOMWAN, women cooperatives, market associations.

By picking a woman, Haske has directly spoken to this massive voting bloc. The message is simple: “You are not just voters, you are part of government.” This creates an emotional connection that male-male tickets cannot match. Every woman who feels marginalized now sees herself on the ballot.

He Has Captured Two Majorities At Once: Women + Youth

Haske’s political base has always been the YOUTHS – energetic, social media savvy, and frustrated with the old order. The youths form the largest demographic in Adamawa.

Now, add WOMEN to that.

Women + Youths = Over 70% of the voting population in Adamawa. No other candidate has locked down these two demographics so clearly. His opponents are still sharing the traditional male-dominated political structure votes, while Haske has created a new coalition: The Women-Youth Alliance.

The Sympathy and Novelty Factor

Adamawa politics is used to seeing all-male tickets. A female deputy is a novelty. It will dominate discussions on radio, in markets, in places of worship and on social media for weeks. In politics, novelty is free publicity.

Engr. Safriel Glah is not just any woman – she is a FNSE – Fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers.That title neutralizes the usual propaganda of “token woman.” She is accomplished, professional, and respected in a male-dominated field. This appeals to educated voters, the middle class, and the growing population of female professionals who want representation with competence.

Strategic Balance: Christian, Competent, Grassroots Woman

Adamawa requires careful balancing – North/South, Muslim/Christian, Young/Old. Engr. Glah, as a woman professional with grassroots appeal from the northern zone, gives the ticket that balance without making it look like a desperate religious calculation. It looks like a merit-based, inclusive choice.

The Boost to the Haske Campaign Trend

Before now, Haske was seen as a youth candidate. With this choice:

His campaign now trends organically among women groups who will adopt him as “Our Own”
NGOs, women-focused donor agencies and advocacy groups will naturally sympathize with the only gender-sensitive ticket
It disarms attacks – it is hard to paint a ticket with a respected female engineer as violent or exclusionary
It gives his media team a powerful narrative: Haske is the Future, Inclusive and Different.

The Final Verdict: The Candidate to Beat

In the last three election cycles in Adamawa, the margin of victory was less than 50,000 votes. The women vote alone can swing more than 200,000 votes if properly mobilized.

By picking Engr. Safriel Judson Glah, Haske has not just picked a running mate; he has picked an entire voting army. While other candidates are still negotiating with male political godfathers, Haske has gone directly to the real godmothers of the election – the women of Adamawa.

If he sustains this momentum and empowers his new deputy to truly lead the women mobilization across the 21 LGAs, Haske may have just broken the camel’s back.

The 2027 Adamawa Governorship may well be decided by this one bold choice.

Matawalle Leads Delegation to Czech Republic, Seeks Ammunition Production Line for DICON

Matawalle Leads Delegation to Czech Republic, Seeks Ammunition Production Line for DICON

The Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, has led a Nigerian delegation to the Czech Republic as part of efforts to deepen defence industrial cooperation between both countries and strengthen Nigeria’s local capacity to produce military hardware.

Matawalle, who is on a three-day official working visit to the Czech Republic, led senior officials from the Ministry of Defence, the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) and the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI).

During the visit, the delegation attended the Czech Air Force Day, Air Show and Defence Exhibition in Ostrava, where a range of modern defence equipment manufactured by the Czech defence industry was showcased.

On the sidelines of the exhibition, Matawalle held a bilateral meeting with his Czech counterpart, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the Czech Republic, Lt. Gen. Jaromír Zuna (Rtd).

The discussions focused on strengthening the existing strategic partnership between Nigeria and the Czech Republic, particularly in the area of defence manufacturing and technology development.

Matawalle specifically called for greater collaboration between the Czech defence industry and DICON to enhance Nigeria’s capacity for local production of military equipment.

He also advocated the establishment of an ammunition production line in Nigeria through partnership between the Czech Republic and DICON.

The Nigerian delegation further discussed technology transfer, particularly in the development and production of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and other military hardware.

According to the Ministry, the proposed cooperation is expected to contribute to Nigeria’s efforts to expand its domestic defence manufacturing capabilities and reduce dependence on imported military equipment.

Responding, the Czech Minister of Defence expressed delight at Matawalle’s visit and assured the Nigerian delegation of the Czech Republic’s readiness to collaborate with Nigeria in strengthening DICON’s defence production capabilities.

He also expressed willingness to support the transfer of relevant technologies to Nigeria as part of the proposed defence industrial cooperation.

As part of the visit, Matawalle and his delegation are scheduled to tour a number of defence and security industrial complexes across the Czech Republic to gain further insight into the country’s defence manufacturing capabilities and explore areas of possible cooperation.

The visit is part of ongoing efforts by the Federal Government to strengthen Nigeria’s defence industrial base and promote greater local participation in the production of military hardware.

NIGERIA FORWARD (NF) URGES NORTH TO MAINTAIN POWER ROTATION ARRANGEMENT, ALLOW TINUBU TO COMPLETE 8 YEAR TENURE

NIGERIA FORWARD (NF) URGES NORTH TO MAINTAIN POWER ROTATION ARRANGEMENT, ALLOW TINUBU TO COMPLETE 8 YEAR TENURE

As the 2027 electioneering campaign kicks off across the country, Nigeria Forward (NF) a socio-politcal group has emerged with a call on the Northern part of Nigeria to respect Nigeria’s gentleman power shifting arrangements between the North and South.

The call by the group was made known by the Co-Convener of the group who doubles as the Kano State Commissioner of Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya at the formal unveiling of the Nigeria Forward (lNF) which held at Barcelona Hotel, Abuja on Friday.

Comrade Waiya explained that the NF which draws membership across Nigeria is of the view that since Nigeria’s return to democratic governance in 1999, the North- South power rotation has been maintained between the two regions with a view to fostering national unity and even development across the country.

The group therefore urged political stakeholders in Northern Nigeria to respect the principle of power rotation and support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, from the South, to complete the eight-year presidential tenure before the North seeks to reclaim power.

The NF Co-coverner said returning the presidency to the North after only one term would undermine the principle of power rotation and risk reopening sectional tensions that have historically shaped Nigeria’s presidential politics.

Waiya argued that the North should not seek to claim presidency in 2027 after only four years of the current administration, insisting that allowing Tinubu to complete the eight years would provide political continuity and give his government time to consolidate its policies, programmes and projects initiated for the overall progress and developmentof Nigeria. .

He urged Northern political stakeholders to place the broader principle of national balance above immediate electoral calculations, saying Nigerians should focus on governance and development rather than allowing the 2027 contest to revive sectional divisions.

According to Waiya, the Tinubu administration inherited enormous economic and security challenges in 2023 and had since introduced measures which, were putting the country on a different trajectory.

He cited local government autonomy, increased financial resources accruing to sub-national governments and moves towards establishing state police structures as reforms that could strengthen governance and security.

Waiya disclosed that Kano State had already established a state police implementation committee, which he said could contribute to job creation and improved security when fully implemented.

He nevertheless cautioned against reducing the challenges of Northern Nigeria to presidential politics, arguing that tackling poverty required the participation of citizens, state and local governments and other stakeholders. “Democracy is a social contract” he said.

Waiya described “Nigeria Forward ” as a bridge between policy and people as well as a platform for bottom to top citizens engagement insisting that the NF was not owned by any particular political party but has been dedicated to all Nigerians. He called on citizens to rally around the national interest and preserve national unity.

Also speaking at the event, the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology and co-convener of the movement, Dr Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh, said the Federal Government’s reforms were designed to move Nigeria from infrastructure and connectivity to production, jobs and prosperity.

Udeh said Nigeria Forward would bridge the gap between government policies and citizens by providing more information on projects, investments, opportunities and the impact of government programmes in communities.

He said Nigeria’s development story, particularly in the North, should not be reduced to political slogans, urging citizens to examine what was being built, where projects were located, the problems they were solving and who stood to benefit.

The minister said infrastructure should be judged by its practical impact, noting that roads should connect farmers to markets while railways should reduce the cost of transporting goods. He also identified energy and digital connectivity as important to expanding opportunities for young Nigerians.

Udeh described the administration’s development trajectory as “reform to infrastructure, infrastructure to connectivity, connectivity to production, production to jobs and jobs to prosperity,” and called on Nigerians to support Tinubu’s re-election in 2027 to consolidate the reforms.

He urged Nigeria Forward members to make evidence, inclusiveness, innovation and national unity the foundation of their activities, saying the platform’s message of “Together We Move Nigeria Forward” should translate into a commitment to service, citizenship and national development.

Days After Defecting From APC, Haske Gets Major Christian Youth Endorsement

The Adamawa State Youth Christian Movement for Change (ADSYCMC) has endorsed Abdulrahman Bashir Haske, the governorship candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), for the 2027 Adamawa State governorship election.

The group announced its endorsement during a press conference in Adamawa State, saying its decision followed consultations, prayers and assessment of aspirants seeking to govern the state in 2027.

The development comes days after Haske formally resigned from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and joined the APM, where he emerged as the party’s governorship candidate for the 2027 election.

Addressing journalists, Chairman of ADSYCMC, Comrade Yakuba Maigari, said the movement comprised Christian youths drawn from churches and Christian communities across the 21 local government areas of the state.

Maigari said the group’s decision to support Haske was based on what it described as his record in business, youth empowerment, philanthropy and humanitarian services.

“Our decision was not based on sentiment, but rather on track records, capacity and character,” he said.

According to him, the group had followed Haske’s political activities and contributions to society, particularly his involvement in grassroots mobilisation and initiatives aimed at supporting young people and vulnerable members of society.

The group also described Haske as a leader who, in its view, promotes inclusion irrespective of ethnic or religious background.

“Adamawa needs a healer, not a divider. We have found in Haske a lover of humanity, a compassionate leader with a heart of gold and willing to sacrifice all in the interest of humanity,” Maigari said.

The movement said it believed the state needed leadership focused on development, job creation, security and empowerment of young people and women.

It further pledged to mobilise support for Haske across the state, including through Christian communities and worship centres in the 226 wards.

“We will canvas votes for Abdulrahman Bashir Haske in all nooks and crannies of Adamawa State,” the group said.

The group also called on Christian youths, women, men and other residents who support its stated development agenda to join the movement ahead of the 2027 election.

Haske, who previously sought the APC governorship ticket, formally joined the APM in September and was presented as the party’s candidate. He has said his political agenda would focus on areas including agriculture, infrastructure, education, healthcare, economic empowerment, security and accountable governance.

The endorsement by ADSYCMC adds to a series of public declarations of support that have emerged around Haske since he began his 2027 governorship campaign.

2027: Kaduna ADC Chieftain Demands Fairness, Inclusiveness in Campaign Structure

2027: Kaduna ADC Chieftain Demands Fairness, Inclusiveness in Campaign Structure

A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Kaduna State, Distinguished Senator Musa Bello, has called for the protection of the party’s elected structures at the state, local government and ward levels, while demanding greater consultation, fairness and inclusiveness in the distribution of political responsibilities ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Bello made the call at a stakeholders’ meeting of Zones I and II held on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, at Kuciano Hotel, Kaduna.

The meeting came as the Kaduna ADC intensifies preparations for the 2027 governorship election, with former House of Representatives member Isa Ashiru as the party’s governorship candidate. Ashiru won the ADC governorship primary in May 2026 and subsequently selected former Kaduna State lawmaker Irmiya Kantiok as his running mate.

In a statement issued by the party’s Kaduna State Publicity Secretary, Engr. Idris Musa, Bello reaffirmed the commitment of the stakeholders to the success of the ADC and the Ashiru/Kantiok ticket.

The senator, however, said longstanding members who had contributed to the growth of the party should not be sidelined in the allocation of campaign responsibilities and other strategic positions.

According to him, many of the stakeholders had been members of the ADC for almost two years, long before the recent influx of prominent political figures into the party, and had participated actively in building its structures and supporting the emergence of Ashiru as the party’s governorship candidate.

He argued that their contributions, sacrifices and political capital should be taken into consideration in the composition of the campaign council and any future government emerging from the party.

Bello expressed concern over what he described as the concentration of strategic positions in one political tendency, citing the emergence of Hajiya Hafsat M. Baba as North-West Zonal Chairperson, the choice of a deputy governorship candidate and reported appointments within the campaign structure.

He specifically called for a review of the positions of campaign chairman and secretary, stressing that such positions were too sensitive to be determined without broad consultation among stakeholders.

“The issue of the Campaign Chairman and Secretary must be revisited. This is not a matter we are prepared to simply let go. We have legitimate interests, and those interests must be respected.

“We are not saying that anyone should be excluded, but there must be fairness and proper consultation. Going forward, no other strategic appointment should be made without carrying the stakeholders along,” he said.

Bello further stated that stakeholders who had remained with the ADC before the arrival of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, Ashiru and their respective supporters should not be ignored in the distribution of responsibilities.

“We have been in the ADC for almost two years, long before the arrival of former Governor Nasir El-Rufai, Rt. Hon. Isah Ashiru, and their respective supporters.
“We cannot fold our arms and watch as critical positions are allocated without due consideration for those who have built and sustained the party from the beginning,” he said.

The ADC chieftain warned that the concentration of sensitive positions within one bloc could generate feelings of exclusion and undermine the cohesion required to build a strong campaign organisation.

He therefore appealed to Ashiru to provide inclusive leadership and ensure that longstanding party members were meaningfully represented in the campaign council and any future government.

Bello also urged the governorship candidate to convene broad-based consultations on power-sharing, campaign responsibilities, mobilisation and other issues affecting the party’s internal cohesion.

He stressed that the objective should not be to create winners and losers within the ADC, but to build a broad coalition in which stakeholders felt respected and adequately represented.

The call comes against the backdrop of recent efforts to strengthen unity within the Kaduna ADC. In July, Ashiru brought rival factions of the state chapter together in a reconciliation meeting, with party leaders saying the move had resolved the factional leadership disputes.

The party subsequently unveiled key members of Ashiru’s campaign council, including Dr. John Markus Ayuba as Director-General, Bashir Ibrahim Sakadadi as Deputy Director-General (Operations), and Mukhtar Baloni as Secretary.

At the conclusion of the September 15 stakeholders’ meeting, participants reaffirmed their commitment to the leadership of Senator Musa Bello and to the success of the ADC and its governorship candidate.

They also called for greater unity, dialogue and strategic coordination among party stakeholders as the ADC prepares for the 2027 electoral contest in Kaduna State.

— Engr. Idris Musa
Publicity Secretary, African Democratic Congress (ADC), Kaduna State Chapter