President Tinubu Celebrates Chief Bisi Akande at 87, Praises His Role in Nigeria’s Democracy and APC Success

President Bola Tinubu has paid a special tribute to elder statesman Chief Bisi Akande on his 87th birthday, recognizing his immense contributions to Nigeria’s democracy and the All Progressives Congress (APC). Tinubu highlighted Akande’s journey from accountant to Deputy Governor of old Oyo State, Governor of Osun, and first Interim APC Chairman, praising his leadership in helping unseat an incumbent in 2015. He lauded Akande’s integrity, mentorship, and unwavering support for the Renewed Hope Agenda, describing him as a tireless advocate for democracy, social justice, and good governance even at 87.

Tinubu Hails Abubakar Kyari on Birthday, Praises Food Reforms

President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Agriculture and Food Security Minister, Senator Abubakar Kyari, on his birthday, praising his leadership and reforms in Nigeria’s agriculture sector. Tinubu described Kyari as a seasoned statesman with years of service in the House of Representatives, Senate and APC leadership. He commended his push for mechanisation, stronger value chains and youth participation in farming. According to the president, these efforts have helped stabilise food prices, curb inflation and make agriculture more profitable. Tinubu prayed for Kyari’s strength to achieve food sufficiency.

#Tinubu #AbubakarKyari #FoodSecurity

PRESS RELEASE

Gov. Ododo Mourns Yakubu Mohammed, Co-Founder of Newswatch Magazine

Kogi State, 14 January 2026 – Kogi State Governor Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo has expressed heartfelt condolences to the family of the late Alhaji Yakubu Mohammed, co-founder of Newswatch Magazine, and to the Nigerian Union of Journalists over the passing of the veteran journalist and elder statesman.

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Hon. Ismaila Isah, Governor Ododo described Mohammed as a pioneer of modern investigative journalism in Nigeria and a proud son of Dekina Local Government Area, whose contributions to nation-building went beyond the media space.

“As a co-founder of the iconic Newswatch Magazine, Alhaji Yakubu Mohammed belonged to a rare generation of journalists who redefined courage, professionalism, and integrity in Nigerian journalism. He was a man whose influence shaped public discourse and strengthened accountability in our democracy,” the Governor said.

Governor Ododo highlighted Mohammed’s instrumental role in establishing Newswatch in the mid-1980s alongside Dele Giwa, Ray Ekpu, and Dan Agbese, noting that the magazine marked a turning point in Nigerian media history by setting enduring standards for investigative reporting and editorial independence.

The Governor also acknowledged Mohammed’s distinguished public service record, including his tenure as Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and his invaluable contributions to the development of Kogi State.

“His love for Kogi State was evident in his commitment to its growth and his willingness to serve in different capacities. He was a bridge-builder, a mentor to many, and a voice of conscience in national affairs,” Governor Ododo added.

He prayed that Almighty Allah grants the departed soul eternal rest and comforts his family and all who mourn his loss.

Is Ebonyi Government Threatening Community Land and Mineral Rights? Host Communities Petition Gov. Nwifuru Over Nigercem Dispute

Host communities of the Nigerian Cement Company (Nigercem Plc) in Ebonyi State have petitioned Governor Francis Nwifuru over what they describe as growing threats to their land, mineral resources and legally established rights. The communities, through a petition dated January 7, 2026 and signed by Dr. Sulaiman Usman, SAN, accused unnamed political actors of attempting to undermine existing court judgments and community consents under the pretext of building a new state-owned cement plant.

In the petition addressed to the governor at the Ebonyi State Governor’s Lodge in Abuja, the communities warned that recent developments could “gravely prejudice” their proprietary rights and destabilize the lawful future of Nigercem Plc. They recalled that Ibeto Group lawfully acquired majority shares in Nigercem in 2010, but that the Ebonyi State Government under former Governor Martin Elechi allegedly revoked the company’s mining lease, a move they resisted through litigation.

According to the petition, prolonged court battles ended in 2013 with judgments in favour of Ibeto Group and the host communities. The communities said they supported the investor because earlier plans to site a new cement plant outside their area would have reduced them to mere limestone suppliers without benefiting from the economic and social gains of hosting a functioning cement factory.

While welcoming Governor Nwifuru’s campaign pledge to work with Ibeto Group to revive Nigercem, the communities expressed disappointment that a 15-member committee set up in August 2025 has yet to publicly present its findings. Their concerns deepened after the governor announced plans during the 2026 budget presentation to borrow ₦150 billion to build a new state-owned cement plant, despite the existence of Nigercem Plc.

The petition further alleged that some political office holders from the host clan were pressured on December 31, 2025, to sign a fresh consent letter purportedly revoking earlier agreements with Ibeto Group. The communities described this development as “deeply unsettling,” adding that the proposed site for the new plant lacks commercially viable limestone deposits and would still depend on resources from their land.

They also rejected what they called an “unauthorised and self-appointed committee” allegedly acting in their name, warning that they would resist any attempt to reduce Nigercem to a mere limestone excavation zone or to bypass existing legal rights through political manipulation.

In their appeal, the communities urged Governor Nwifuru to halt any action affecting ownership, mineral rights or control of Nigercem Plc and to convene an inclusive town hall meeting involving traditional rulers, professionals, youth and women groups, religious leaders and other stakeholders to transparently determine the company’s future.

As of the time of filing, the Ebonyi State Government had not issued an official response. However, the communities said they remain open to dialogue, expressing confidence in the governor’s sense of justice and statesmanship.

The unfolding dispute raises critical questions about resource control, investor confidence, community rights, and state-government intervention in Nigeria’s extractive sector. Observers warn that failure to address the grievances transparently could trigger renewed legal battles and social tensions in Ebonyi State.

Governor Mbah Holds Strategic Meeting to Reposition Igbos in Nigeria political space

Governor Peter Mbah has held a strategic closed door meeting, with some prominent Igbo leaders, to discuss the position of Igbos in Nigeria's political arrangements.

Chika Ugwu reports that the meeting which was held in Amechi Awkunanu Enugu, had in attendance, the former Governor of Old Anambra State,Senator Jim Nwobodo and Senator Orji Uzo Kalu.

As political alignments and realignments continue ahead of 2027 general elections,the closed door meeting is part of renewed efforts by leaders in the South East to forge a united front, and reposition Igbos effectively in Nigeria's political equation.

Briefing Journalists at the end of the meeting, Elder Statesman, Jim Nwobodo said the consultative and reflective engagement was driven by the desire to end ambiguity surrounding the place of the Igbos in NATIONAL affairs, stressing thatthe Igbos must have a clearly defined and respected place in the country's power structure.

The Political leaders emphasized the need for unity,identifying internal division as a major weapon that can weaken the region's influence at the National level.

They however noted that the conversation will be expanded to include other leaders to ensure that the Igbos remain relevant and strategically positioned in Nigeria's political space.

Aisha Buhari Reveals Pneumonia as Cause of Late President Buhari’s Death in New Book"

Former First Lady, Aisha Buhari, has disclosed in her newly released book From Soldier to Statesman: The Legacy of Muhammadu Buhari that pneumonia was the immediate cause of her late husband’s death. She dismissed conspiracy theories suggesting poisoning or sabotage, stating that medical professionals clearly informed the family. Aisha Buhari also linked Buhari’s earlier health challenges to exhaustion and dietary imbalance. The book further reflects on governance challenges during his presidency, the DSS controversy, and her post-presidential humanitarian initiatives, including a cardiovascular and medical centre in Kano.

#AishaBuhari #MuhammaduBuhari #BuhariDeath #Pneumonia #NigeriaPolitics #NigerianPresidency #Governance

Breaking: President Bola Tinubu Congratulates Ex-President Goodluck Jonathan on His 68th Birthday, Praises Humility, Statesmanship, and Democratic Contributions

President Bola Tinubu has extended heartfelt congratulations to former President Goodluck Jonathan on his 68th birthday, celebrating his life, leadership, and contributions to Nigeria’s democracy. In a message reflecting on Jonathan’s humility and diplomatic approach, Tinubu praised the former president’s statesmanship during the 2015 elections, noting how it strengthened democratic institutions and elevated Nigeria’s global standing. He recalled their past collaborations, highlighting Jonathan’s guidance and support that influenced Tinubu’s own political journey. Beyond domestic politics, Tinubu acknowledged Jonathan’s international efforts in promoting democratic values across Africa. The President also offered prayers for Jonathan, his wife Patience, and their family, wishing them continued health and happiness. The message underscores a rare moment of unity and respect between current and former Nigerian leaders, celebrating the legacy of public service and integrity. This tribute, following similar felicitations to other political figures like former Ekiti Governor Peter Ayodele Fayose, reflects Tinubu’s commitment to honoring leadership, resilience, and dedication to nation-building.

PHOTO: President Tinubu at the launch of the book from Soldier to Statesman " The Legacy of Muhammad Buhari" at the Presidential Villa on Monday.

Aisha Buhari Reveals Why Late President Buhari Locked His Room, Debunks Poison Rumours

Former First Lady Aisha Buhari disclosed that her late husband, President Muhammadu Buhari, began locking his room after hearing false rumours that she was plotting to kill him. Speaking in the 600-page biography From Soldier to Statesman: The Legacy of Muhammadu Buhari by Dr. Charles Omole, she clarified that Buhari’s 2017 health challenges were due to disrupted nutrition and missed meals, not mysterious illness or poisoning.

Aisha Buhari explained that she had meticulously managed the former president’s meals and supplements for years, a routine that was disrupted after misinformation circulated within Aso Rock. The disruption led to delayed meals and missed supplements, culminating in Buhari’s 154-day medical leave in the UK, where he received specialised care including blood transfusions.

She refuted conspiracy theories, including claims of a body double, emphasizing that poor communication allowed minor events to spiral into rumours. The biography also highlights the climate of mistrust and surveillance within the presidency, showing how fear and misinformation affected Buhari’s health and personal life.

PRESIDENT TINUBU SALUTES PROFESSOR JERRY GANA AT 80

President Bola Tinubu congratulates statesman, academician, and politician Professor Jerry Gana on his 80th birthday.

A statement by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President Information & Strategy indicates that President Tinubu acknowledges Professor Gana's decades of active service in Nigeria's socio-political landscape. He served as a two-time Minister of Information and Culture/National Orientation under different administrations and as Director of Mass Mobilisation for Social Justice and Economic Recovery (MAMSER) under the Ibrahim Babangida administration.

He was elected to the Senate in the aborted Second Republic.

President Tinubu describes Professor Gana as a fine gentleman, a prolific communicator, a mass mobiliser, and a passionate patriot blessed with the gift of oratory.

The President recalls the former Minister's mass mobilisation and sensitisation efforts for unity, peace, and national development, and commends his contributions to advancing Nigeria's values and ideals.

The President wishes Professor Gana a happy 80th birthday and prays that God Almighty will grant him many more years of good health and a sound mind.

President Bola Tinubu has congratulated former President Goodluck Jonathan on his 68th birthday, praising his humility and statesmanship—especially during the 2015 presidential election, which Tinubu noted helped strengthen Nigeria’s democracy.

Tinubu joined Jonathan’s family, friends, and political associates in celebrating his life, highlighting his contributions to national development. The President also reflected on their past collaborations and offered prayers for Jonathan’s continued health and blessings for his family.

“No Bloodshed!” — Historian Reveals How Gowon’s Final Words During 1975 Coup Showed His True Love for Peace

In a recent interview on the Edmund Obilo Show, historian and author Adebayo Adeolu, who wrote “Sani Abacha: Nigeria’s Most Powerful Defence Minister and Head of State,” revealed a powerful and often-overlooked detail about General Yakubu Gowon’s fall from power in 1975.

Adeolu disclosed that when news of the coup reached Gowon, the then Head of State ordered his aides and security personnel not to resist or spill any blood.

“When Gowon was going to be overthrown, he said, ‘make sure nobody’s killed, we have seen enough of it,’” Adeolu quoted.

According to the historian, Gowon’s reaction reflected his deep weariness with Nigeria’s cycles of violence — particularly after the Nigerian Civil War (1967–1970), which he had led. Instead of clinging to power, Gowon chose peace over conflict, showing a level of restraint rare among military rulers of his time.

“That single moment showed Gowon’s moral strength and his genuine desire for a peaceful Nigeria,” Adeolu said, describing the act as one of the most humane moments in Nigeria’s military history.


Gowon, who was attending the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) Summit in Uganda when he was ousted, quietly accepted his removal and later devoted his life to reconciliation and peacebuilding — cementing his reputation as a statesman of grace and humility.

“A Brother in Struggle and Service” — President Tinubu Celebrates Senator Abu Ibrahim at 80 with Heartfelt Tribute

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has showered praises on his longtime friend and political ally, Senator Abu Ibrahim, as the elder statesman marks his 80th birthday.

In a touching message from the Presidency on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, Tinubu described Senator Ibrahim as “a principled statesman, trusted ally, and patriot whose loyalty and wisdom have inspired generations.”

Reflecting on their decades-long friendship, the President recalled first meeting Senator Ibrahim in the Senate during the Third Republic in 1992, where their shared commitment to democracy and justice forged an unbreakable bond.

“Abu has been more than a friend — he is my brother,” Tinubu said, recounting how they stood together during the struggle against the annulment of the June 12, 1993 election.
“He stood in the line of fire when we reconvened the Senate in Lagos to condemn that criminal annulment. Even when released, he refused to leave until we were all free.”


Tinubu hailed Senator Ibrahim’s exceptional record of public service, including his two-term tenure in the Senate (2003–2019) representing Katsina South, and his key role in the formation of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2013.

“Senator Abu Ibrahim is a man whose integrity, courage, and loyalty remain unshaken,” the President said. “He embodies what Nigeria needs more of — principled leadership and selfless service.”

President Tinubu concluded by praying for long life and good health for the octogenarian, noting that his legacy will continue to inspire future leaders.

#FreeNnamdiKanu: APC Came To Power Through Protests, Now Scared Of Protests – Wabara Fumes.

Former Senate President, Senator Adolphus Wabara, has called for the immediate release of all protesters arrested in Monday’s #FreeNnamdiKanuNow demonstration in Abuja.

Speaking via a statement on Tuesday, Wabara condemned the action of some security operatives who fired teargas canisters at peaceful protesters.

He urged President Bola Tinubu to call the security operatives to order, describing the intimidation and arrest of peaceful protesters as “a serious dent on Nigeria’s global image.”

The elder statesman also frowned at the alleged manhandling of a journalist covering the protest whose camera was reportedly broken by some overzealous security operatives.

According to the former Senate President, the arrest of Kanu’s younger brother, Prince Emmanuel Kanu, and lawyer, Aloy Ejimakor; among others, will only aggravate the already tensed situation in the South East.

Senator Wabara who argued that “it is the fundamental right of citizens to hold peaceful protest”, said the police are required to provide protection for protesters, and not to clamp down on them.

Citing the ongoing ‘No King Protest’ involving about 7 million people in the United States of America, “where there are no incidents of molestation or brutality”, Senator Wabara challenged the Nigeria security operatives to learn from their US counterparts.

The former Senate President accused the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC-led, federal government which he said, “is a product of protests”, of using intimidation and brute force against dissenting voices.

Tinubu Grants Posthumous Pardon to Late Major General Mamman Vatsa

The family of Major General Mamman Vatsa has expressed profound gratitude to President Bola Tinubu following the posthumous pardon of the celebrated poet and senior military officer, nearly 39 years after his execution.

Vatsa, executed in 1986 after being convicted by a secret military tribunal for allegedly plotting a coup against then Head of State, General Ibrahim Babangida, was finally cleared through the exercise of presidential clemency, alongside Herbert Macaulay and other notable figures.

In a statement from Minna, Niger State, Jonathan Vatsa, family spokesperson and former state Commissioner for Information, described the pardon as “the greatest moment of relief since the general’s death.”

He said:

“Today is the happiest moment in the life of the family after 39 years of sorrow and sadness following the killing of our late father, brother and uncle. Though nothing can bring him back to life, the family is consoled by this display of statesmanship by our dear president. He has written his name in gold, and history will forever remember him.”


Jonathan emphasized that the family has long maintained Vatsa’s innocence, calling the coup charge a “frame-up” and the trial a “stage-managed process” fueled by envy and hatred. He added:

“Justice can never be denied but can only be delayed. The family is convinced that the late Vatsa must be happy in his grave today by this singular act of compassion by President Tinubu. This goes to show that truth doesn’t expire.”


He also recalled that General Domkat Bali, a member of the military council at the time, had publicly questioned the evidence against Vatsa and whether execution was justified.

While some of Vatsa’s closest relatives, including his wife and several children, are no longer alive to witness the pardon, the surviving family members celebrated being part of this historic moment.

“The family still maintains that the late General Vatsa was innocent of the coup. But we thank President Tinubu for his magnanimity in granting him the state pardon,” Jonathan concluded.

Presidency Issues Warning Over Planned Protest for Nnamdi Kanu’s Release.

The Presidency has issued a stern warning to rights activist and politician, Omoyele Sowore, over his plan to lead a protest in Abuja demanding the release of detained IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu.

Sowore, who was the presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC) in the 2023 elections, had announced that the march tagged #FreeNnamdiKanuNow would hold on October 20 at 7 a.m.

He described it as a “historic” rally aimed at compelling the government to free Kanu.

Reacting to the development, presidential aide Bayo Onanuga accused Sowore of trying to create chaos under the disguise of activism.

Writing on his verified X handle, @aonanuga1956, Onanuga said, “You are nothing more than an anarchist masquerading as a rights activist. You very well know that Nnamdi Kanu is facing trial for treason, and yet you want to cause a breakdown of law and order by mobilising for a protest. Is this the kind of revolution you envisage for Nigeria, where the rule of law will be violated and your idea of justice would be the law of the jungle?”

The presidential spokesman also criticised former Vice President Atiku Abubakar for supporting the planned protest, describing his position as reckless and unbecoming of a statesman. According to him, issues before the court cannot be settled through street actions.

He further stated that although the legal process may seem slow, the administration is committed to ensuring justice through the right channels.

“While the wheel of justice can sometimes be grindingly slow, partly caused by Kanu’s lawyers, Nnamdi Kanu will eventually get the justice he deserves for his alleged transgressions,” Onanuga added.

Sowore, known for his bold activism, has since maintained that the demonstration would proceed as planned.
He urged Nigerians to join him in demanding fairness for the detained IPOB leader.

Renowned broadcaster Christopher Kolade Passes On at 92.

Renowned broadcaster and elder statesman, Dr. Christopher Kolade, has passed away at the age of 92.

His family announced his de@th in a statement on Thursday, revealing that he d+ed peacefully on Wednesday, October 8, 2025.

“We are grateful for his remarkable life of faith and service and for God’s abundant blessings,” the family said.

Born on December 28, 1932, Dr. Kolade enjoyed a distinguished career as a broadcaster, diplomat, academic, and a strong advocate for integrity and corporate governance.

Kano Politician Blasts President Tinubu for Ignoring Insecurity Victims, Says “He Prefers Weddings Over Condolence Visits”


Alhaji Ibrahim Ali Amin, popularly known as Ibrahim Little — a former Kano governorship candidate and chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) — has taken a swipe at President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over what he described as the president’s lack of empathy for victims of insecurity across Nigeria.

Speaking in an interview reported by Daily Post on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, Little expressed disappointment that Tinubu has failed to visit communities devastated by terrorist attacks, banditry, and communal clashes since assuming office.

According to him, the president’s absence from crisis-hit regions sends a troubling message to citizens who have lost loved ones, homes, and livelihoods. He accused the president of prioritizing attendance at weddings and funerals of political elites instead of consoling grieving Nigerians.

“In the time since Tinubu took office, he has never travelled to any region affected by Boko Haram or banditry. On the other hand, he was in Kaduna for the wedding of a senator and in Plateau for a burial,” Little said.

He added that Nigerians expect their leader to demonstrate compassion and leadership by visiting affected areas to provide moral support and renew public trust in government’s commitment to tackling insecurity.

Little maintained that the president’s approach makes it appear as though the government is detached from the suffering of ordinary citizens. He urged Tinubu to show true statesmanship by reaching out to victims of violence, insisting that such visits would go a long way in rebuilding national confidence.

FENRAD Urges South-East Leaders to Secure Nnamdi Kanu’s Release Over Worsening Health

The Foundation for Environmental Rights, Advocacy and Development (FENRAD) has called on South-East governors and federal lawmakers from the region to urgently intervene in the case of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, citing concerns over his deteriorating health in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS).

In a statement issued on Thursday, the group appealed to South-East leaders to make a passionate plea to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for Kanu’s release, warning that any delay could come at a “huge cost.”

This call comes just ahead of Friday’s ruling on Kanu’s no-case submission in the terrorism trial filed against him by the Federal Government.

The Executive Director of FENRAD, Comrade Nelson Nnanna Nwafor, stressed that the life and well-being of every Nigerian citizen must be protected under the law, regardless of political or ideological differences.

“His right to life and health must be respected. Reports from DSS custody indicate that Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s health has significantly worsened, raising fears of a possible medical emergency if urgent action is not taken,” the statement read.


FENRAD warned that medical neglect could put Kanu’s life at risk, reminding the government of its moral and constitutional duty to ensure his safety while in custody.

The group urged the five South-East governors and federal lawmakers to set aside political differences and take bold steps toward securing Kanu’s release on health and humanitarian grounds. It further reminded the government of previous court orders granting Kanu bail, which are yet to be enforced.

Calling directly on President Tinubu, FENRAD appealed for statesmanship, urging him to instruct the Attorney General of the Federation and relevant judicial authorities to review Kanu’s case.

“President Tinubu has a golden opportunity to demonstrate commitment to national healing, unity, and justice. Releasing Kanu under strict legal conditions would not only reduce tensions in the South-East but also pave the way for peace and dialogue,” it added.


The group also cautioned South-East legislators against silence, warning that inaction could be interpreted as complicity. It stressed that true representation requires defending the rights and welfare of constituents, even in politically sensitive matters.

Former FCT minister of state, Ewuga is dead.

Senator Solomon Akku Ewuga, a prominent politician and elder statesman from Nasarawa State, has died.

Sources close to the family in Akwanga and Nasarawa-Eggon confirmed the development to Daily Trust yesterday.

Ewuga, a lawyer, rose to prominence in Nasarawa politics in 1999 when he contested against Abdullahi Adamu, former National Chairman of the APC, for the governorship ticket. After Adamu won the highly contested PDP primary election, Ewuga was picked as his deputy.

Following their victory in the governorship election, Governor Adamu nominated him as minister from Nasarawa State, and in June 1999, President Olusegun Obasanjo appointed him Minister of State for the FCT. He held the position for two years before being removed in a cabinet reshuffle.

Upon returning home, Ewuga again contested for governor in 2003 and 2007. He later defected to the ANPP and subsequently to the CPC, where he joined forces with Tanko Al-Makura to defeat then-Governor Aliyu Akwe Doma in 2011.

While Al-Makura was elected governor on the CPC platform, Ewuga won a Senate seat to represent Nasarawa North in the 7th Assembly.

After serving one term, he made another attempt at the governorship but lost in the primaries.

A veteran journalist, Ewuga once served as managing director of the Nigerian Standard Newspaper.