FCT-Abuja — Hon. Abubakar Umar Abdullahi has formally accepted the call to contest for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Senate seat at the National Assembly.

The decision, announced in a statement released today, follows what his campaign describes as a series of consultations and passionate appeals from stakeholders, youth, women, and residents across the territory.

Hon. Abdullahi expressed deep gratitude to his supporters, stating, “I sincerely appreciate each and every one of you for your trust, confidence, and belief in my leadership.”

He framed his candidacy within a context of divine guidance, saying, “Leadership comes from Almighty Allah, and He grants it to whom He wills. We pray that He makes us the best choice and grants us victory. Ameen.”

The statement concluded with a call for unity: “Together, we can make the FCT greater.”

Hon. Abdullahi has pledged to represent the interests, aspirations, and future of all FCT residents with dedication and integrity if elected.

Further details about his campaign platform and timelines are expected in the coming weeks.

By Gagman Dada

The Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL), alongside the Forum for Youth Development Unity & Peace Initiative and 11 other civil society organisations, has lauded the Chairman of the Military Pensions Board, Air Vice Marshal Mikail Abdulraheem, for what it described as impactful reforms and disciplined leadership in the administration of military pensions.

In a statement issued on Wednesday and made available to journalists, the coalition said the Board under Abdulraheem has distinguished itself as a model of transparency, efficiency, and accountability—particularly in ensuring the timely and consistent payment of entitlements to retired military personnel.

President of AYAGL, Ambassador Abdul Danbature, who signed the statement on behalf of the coalition, noted that the current administration of the Board represents a clear shift from years of delays and administrative setbacks that had long plagued pension management in the military.

“The timely and consistent payment of retired military personnel under his leadership is not just commendable—it is exemplary and transformative,” Danbature stated.

He observed that pension administration within the military had historically been burdened by inefficiencies, but stressed that recent reforms have significantly improved service delivery, restoring confidence among retirees.

According to the coalition, notable strides recorded by the Board include improved operational efficiency, elimination of bureaucratic bottlenecks, and the adoption of a people-oriented approach that places priority on accountability and the welfare of pensioners.

“This remarkable turnaround reflects a clear vision for institutional reform and a commitment to service. This is leadership that delivers and reform that works,” the statement added.

The group also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing Abdulraheem to lead the Board, describing the decision as both strategic and productive. It noted that the results achieved so far demonstrate a broader commitment by the administration to strengthening governance structures and enhancing public sector performance.

While urging the Military Pensions Board to sustain and consolidate the gains made, the coalition called on other government agencies to emulate the Board’s standards of efficiency and service delivery.

AYAGL further reaffirmed its commitment to advancing good governance, transparency, and responsible leadership across Nigeria, emphasizing that effective leadership remains critical to national development.

“When leadership works with integrity, the people benefit. Today, we celebrate such leadership,” the statement concluded.

ENDS

By Abike Ikulu

The Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL) has praised the former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, (NNPCL) Mele Kolo Kyari, describing his tenure as a defining period marked by reforms, transparency and humanitarian impact.

In a press statement issued and signed by its President, Ambassador Abdul Danbature, the group said Kyari’s leadership from 2019 to 2025 repositioned the national oil company and restored public confidence in the petroleum sector.

AYAGL noted that Kyari introduced the Transparency, Accountability and Performance (TAPE) agenda, which it said transformed operational standards within NNPCL. It highlighted the consistent publication of audited financial statements as a major shift from decades of opacity in the sector.

The group also credited him with driving the commercialization of NNPCL in line with the Petroleum Industry Act, alongside improvements in operational efficiency through digitisation and stronger governance structures.

On fuel pricing, AYAGL said Kyari demonstrated strategic leadership during Nigeria’s transition to deregulation. It noted that his approach helped maintain relative stability in fuel supply and pricing despite global market volatility, including during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The statement further acknowledged investments in critical infrastructure under his leadership, including the rehabilitation of refineries in Port Harcourt, Warri and Kaduna, as well as progress on the Ajaokuta–Kaduna–Kano Gas Pipeline Project. It added that enhanced pipeline surveillance contributed to efforts to curb crude oil theft.

AYAGL said Kyari’s “Decade of Gas” initiative laid a foundation for cleaner energy development and industrial growth, while also strengthening Nigeria’s position in global energy diplomacy.

Beyond policy and infrastructure, the group emphasised Kyari’s humanitarian contributions. It cited NNPCL’s expanded healthcare interventions, educational support programmes, and community development projects, including water supply, school rehabilitation and rural electrification.

It also noted his support for internally displaced persons in the North-East and his commitment to youth empowerment and mentorship within the oil and gas industry.

“Many of his personal philanthropic efforts were carried out quietly, reflecting humility and a genuine desire to impact lives,” the statement said.
AYAGL further commended Kyari for ensuring energy supply stability during election periods and maintaining institutional neutrality, which it said contributed to national stability and democratic continuity.

The group concluded that Kyari’s tenure represents “a legacy of reform, resilience and compassion,” urging future leaders to emulate his commitment to integrity, service and inclusive development.

ENDS

On April 22, dignitaries from across Nigeria’s political, traditional, and socio-economic spectrum converged on Kaduna for an event that was as symbolic as it was historic the commissioning of the state’s newly constructed Banquet Hall.

For the first time since Kaduna State’s creation in 1967, former governors including Ahmed Mohammed Makarfi, Namadi Sambo, and Mukhtar Ramalan Yero,gathered under one roof alongside an array of political leaders, traditional rulers, and stakeholders. The moment was more than ceremonial; it was deeply symbolic of reconciliation and unity.

At the heart of this convergence is a vision championed by Governor Uba Sani to create a space deliberately designed to foster dialogue, partnerships, and investment.

Beyond Steel and Glass
By all appearances, the Banquet Hall is an architectural statement,an imposing structure of steel and glass built with ambition. Yet beyond its physical presence, it represents something far more profound: a renewed civic identity for a state long shaped by diversity and complexity.

The facility, inaugurated by Vice President Kashim Shettima at Sir Kashim Ibrahim House, was not merely unveiled as another public building. It was introduced as a strategic instrument for governance,one designed to bring people together under a shared roof.

Named after Abba Kyari, the state-of-the-art hall boasts a seating capacity of about 1,300 and spans approximately 2.7 hectares. It fills a long-standing infrastructural gap in Kaduna, providing a venue capable of hosting high-level engagements,from diplomatic meetings to cultural exhibitions and investment summits.

A Space for Dialogue in a Complex State
Kaduna has historically held a central role in Nigeria’s political and socio-economic landscape. However, like many states in northern Nigeria, it has also faced challenges, ethno-religious tensions, security concerns, and political divisions.

Against this backdrop, the Banquet Hall emerges as more than a venue; it is a deliberate attempt to create a shared civic space.

Governor Sani emphasized during the commissioning that the project is not just about infrastructure, but about strengthening governance and encouraging meaningful engagement.

“This is a strategic investment in institutional capacity,” he said, underscoring its role in fostering policy dialogue and partnerships.

By hosting events such as the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations Week, intergovernmental forums, and stakeholder engagements, the hall provides a neutral ground where individuals from diverse backgrounds can interact constructively.
Repositioning Kaduna on the Global Stage
Central to Governor Sani’s broader vision is repositioning Kaduna as a hub for national and international engagement. The Banquet Hall is a cornerstone of that ambition.

Designed to meet global standards, the facility is expected to attract conferences, diplomatic missions, and investors,activities that can stimulate economic growth while reshaping perceptions about the state.

Vice President Shettima described the project as a reflection of “purposeful leadership,” noting its potential to strengthen institutions and deepen national cohesion.

Unity Through Shared Experience
Unity is rarely achieved through rhetoric alone,it is built through shared experiences. The Banquet Hall provides precisely that opportunity.

Each event hosted within its walls, whether a policy dialogue, cultural showcase, or regional summit,adds to a growing narrative: that Kaduna is not merely defined by its challenges, but by its capacity to serve as a meeting point of ideas and opportunities.

Stakeholders present at the commissioning described the project as a “magnificent achievement” and a “strategic investment in governance,” highlighting its potential to redefine public engagement in the state.

A Political Statement in Concrete Form
Infrastructure often carries political meaning, and this project is no exception. For Governor Sani, the Banquet Hall signals a shift toward inclusive governance, one rooted in openness, communication, and institutional strength.
It also reflects a deliberate effort to rebuild trust. By investing in a space designed for interaction and accessibility, the administration is making a clear statement: governance must be participatory and visible.

The Road Ahead
While a single structure cannot resolve all of Kaduna’s challenges, it can set a tone. The true measure of the Banquet Hall’s impact will lie in how it is utilized, how often it hosts meaningful dialogue, how inclusive those conversations are, and how effectively they translate into tangible outcomes for citizens.

If fully leveraged, the facility could become a cornerstone of Kaduna’s transformation, a place where differences are negotiated, partnerships are forged, and unity is actively practiced.

In a region often defined by its divisions, the Kaduna Banquet Hall offers a different narrative, one of convergence, possibility, and shared purpose.
Sometimes, unity begins with something as simple and as powerful as bringing people together in the same room.

By Uba Sani Continuity Project

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By Markus John

A former Administrator of Jaba Local Government Area of Kaduna State, Hon. (Dr.) Nita Byack George, has formally joined the race for the House of Representatives seat representing Zangon-Kataf/Jaba Federal Constituency in the 2027 general elections.

She will be contesting on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

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Declaration at APC Office in Zonkwa

Speaking during her official declaration at the APC Party Office in Zonkwa, George explained that her decision was not born out of mere ambition but from a deep sense of duty, years of grassroots engagement, and the urgent need to bring practical governance to the people.

“I have not come merely to declare an ambition; I have come to answer a call—one rooted in my record of service, the urgency of our times, and the political moment before us,” she said.

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Nearly Two Decades of Community Impact

George, who has been actively engaged in community work for close to 20 years, pointed to her achievements in peacebuilding, women’s empowerment, and infrastructure development as proof of her readiness for legislative office.

She highlighted several flagship initiatives:

· Farmers/Herders Peace Treaty: A dialogue mechanism that helped reduce communal tensions.
· Sha’ruwa Lafia Project: An initiative that improved access to clean drinking water in rural areas.
· Taimakon Jarin Mata: A programme dedicated to the economic empowerment of women.

According to her, her tenure as local government administrator proved that governance can be “disciplined, accountable, and close to the people.”

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Seizing a Political Opportunity

The aspirant described her declaration as one focused on “execution, not just aspiration.” She noted that the current lawmaker’s decision to run for a Senate seat has created a clear opportunity for tested leadership to emerge.

She also reaffirmed her support for the Reserved Seats Bill, which seeks to improve women’s political representation. However, she stressed that inclusion must begin immediately—through capable candidates who can win elections and deliver tangible results.

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Three Pillars of Her Agenda

George identified major challenges facing the constituency, including deficits in infrastructure, education, healthcare, youth empowerment, and economic growth. She pledged to tackle these through effective legislation and representation.

Her candidacy, she said, is anchored on three core priorities:

1. Supporting existing leadership to succeed.
2. Translating policies into tangible projects.
3. Strengthening democratic representation at all levels.

She aligned her vision with the “Renewed Hope Agenda” of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, particularly in advancing gender and youth inclusion.

“If entrusted with this mandate, I will ensure our voices are heard at the national level and that governance is brought closer to our people,” she promised.

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Championing Security, Economy, and Youth

George further pledged to champion laws that enhance security, expand economic opportunities, and provide structured support for youth and women.

She also addressed young people and persons with disabilities, assuring them that her campaign would prioritise their needs through policies and budgetary provisions that create real opportunities.

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A Call for Unity and Collective Action

Appealing to party stakeholders and constituents, George called for unity and collective action to secure victory for the APC. She urged women to mobilise as partners in governance and encouraged men to embrace inclusion as a strategic necessity.

“I am ready to serve, and with your support, we will achieve greater things together,” she said.

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Campaign Office Commissioned

The declaration event came shortly after the commissioning of her campaign office in Kwoi and the formal inauguration of her campaign structure, including the Team Nita Network (TNN).

George ended her address with a direct appeal to the people of Zangon-Kataf/Jaba to support her candidacy, promising responsive, impactful, and people-centred representation.

By Bello Nasa

A group, Ndigbo for Tinubu 2027 Forum (NDI-ABAT), has cautioned former Anambra State governor, Mr. Peter Obi, over his continued assertion that he won the 2023 presidential election, warning that such remarks could heighten political tensions ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In a statement issued on Tuesday and jointly signed by its National Coordinator, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, and Secretary General, Dr. Ugwuoke Ugwuoke, the group described Mr. Obi’s repeated claims as misleading, saying they risk deepening political divisions if not properly checked.

NDI-ABAT warned that inflammatory political narratives, particularly in a pre-election period, could destabilise the polity, urging political actors to exercise restraint and responsibility in their public engagements.

“The persistent assertion of victory in the 2023 presidential election, despite the declared outcome, risks fuelling unnecessary political tension and public distrust in the democratic process. If not managed responsibly, such narratives may become a source of avoidable unrest in the build-up to 2027”.

The group also urged Mr. Obi to be mindful of the influence of his statements on his supporters, stressing the need for caution in political communication to preserve national stability.

The group further referenced his tenure as governor of Anambra State, alleging shortcomings in governance, including the non-conduct of local government elections during his administration and what it described as limited visible infrastructural development in key sectors.

NDI-ABAT expressed concern that continued disputes over the 2023 election outcome could overshadow national development discussions if political actors fail to moderate their rhetoric.

Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, the forum reiterated its support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, while calling for peaceful political engagement and strict adherence to democratic principles.

The forum urged politicians to avoid statements capable of escalating tensions, insisting that national unity and stability must remain a priority.

By Ada Sandra Ukeresi

A Muslim advocacy group, the Muslim League Unity Group, has cautioned against what it described as attempts by foreign-based actors to inflame religious tensions in Nigeria through misinformation and politically motivated narratives.

In a statement jointly signed by Professor Ahmed Umar Daudu and Dr. Yunusa Bala Maikafi, the group alleged that certain international Christian organisations, particularly from the United States, are circulating what it called “doctored reports” about the alleged mistreatment of Christians under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The group maintained that Nigerians of different faiths have historically coexisted peacefully and warned that such narratives risk creating unnecessary divisions and distrust among citizens.

According to the statement, some of the organisations behind the reports are relatively unknown groups that have been spreading claims of targeted violence against specific religious communities, a development the group described as “dangerous and capable of plunging the country into chaos,” particularly as the 2027 general elections approach.

The group also criticised recent remarks attributed to U.S. Senator Ted Cruz, which it said alleged attacks on Christian schools and places of worship by Muslims in Nigeria. It described the comments as part of a broader agenda to incite division and promote religious intolerance.

Similarly, the statement took issue with allegations reportedly linked to Kimberly Daniels, accusing her of calling for the dismissal of Nigeria’s Minister of State for Defence, Mohammed Bello Matawalle. The group dismissed the claims as unfounded and politically motivated.

It argued that while public officials, including Matawalle and the Chief of Defence Staff, Christopher Musa, should be held accountable, such scrutiny must be based on verifiable evidence and due process rather than “external pressure or religious bias.”

The group further alleged a pattern in what it described as foreign-driven accusations against prominent Nigerian figures, including the Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar, former Kano State governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, and President Tinubu.

Defending Matawalle’s record, the group stated that no court conviction, official indictment, or audit report has directly implicated him in wrongdoing, either during his tenure as Zamfara State governor or in his current role.

The statement expressed confidence in Matawalle’s capacity to serve effectively and contribute to national security efforts.

It also questioned attempts to link the Federal Government or its officials to extremist activities, asking critics to provide credible evidence for such claims.

While acknowledging security challenges globally, including in the United States, the group urged both domestic and international stakeholders to avoid narratives that could deepen religious divisions in Nigeria.

The statement concluded by calling for restraint, mutual respect, and a commitment to preserving Nigeria’s long-standing culture of religious coexistence.

Former Vice President of Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar, held a private meeting with former Governor of Zamfara State and Senator representing Zamfara West, Abdulaziz Yari, in Abuja.

The newspaper Daily Trust reported that the meeting took place at Atiku Abubakar’s residence in Abuja and was conducted behind closed doors without the presence of journalists.

After the meeting, neither of them spoke to the press, and as of the time of filing the report, no official statement had been released explaining the purpose of the meeting.

However, the meeting might not be unconnected with the political calculations surrounding the 2027 presidential elections.

In Nigeria’s dynamic political landscape, technocrats who can bridge governance and grassroots mobilization are increasingly valuable.

Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi, Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), has emerged as one of such figures—leveraging his administrative influence and policy visibility to support the political momentum behind Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the broader Renewed Hope agenda.

While Dr. Abdullahi’s primary mandate lies within the energy sector, his role has evolved beyond technical administration into strategic political engagement.

⁰As a member of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors Team, he contributes to shaping narratives around governance performance, particularly in areas tied to energy reform and infrastructure development—key pillars of President Tinubu’s administration.

His ability to communicate policy outcomes in relatable terms has positioned him as an effective advocate for continuity in leadership.

A central element of his political relevance is the alignment between energy sector progress and electoral confidence. Under his stewardship, initiatives tied to renewable energy expansion, rural electrification, and energy policy coordination have become part of the administration’s broader performance story.

These efforts, whether directly political or not, serve as tangible indicators that can influence public perception ahead of future elections.

Dr. Abdullahi’s approach reflects a calculated understanding of Nigeria’s political environment, where development outcomes often shape voter sentiment.

By highlighting improvements in energy access and sustainability, he indirectly strengthens the case for a second term for President Tinubu. His engagements—ranging from policy forums to stakeholder meetings—often reinforce the narrative that continuity is essential for consolidating ongoing reforms.

Within the Renewed Hope Ambassadors Team, his role extends to mobilization among professional and policy-oriented audiences. Unlike traditional political actors, Dr. Abdullahi brings a technocratic voice that appeals to intellectuals, industry stakeholders, and young professionals.

This expands the administration’s support base beyond conventional political structures, adding credibility to its reform agenda.

Moreover, his visibility in national discourse contributes to shaping elite opinion—an often overlooked but critical component of electoral success. By maintaining a consistent message around progress, innovation, and long-term planning, Dr. Abdullahi helps anchor the administration’s image as forward-looking and results-driven. This is particularly important in a political climate where public trust must be continuously earned.

Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi stands out as more than a policy administrator; he is a strategic contributor to the political ecosystem surrounding Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Through his role in the Renewed Hope Ambassadors Team, he helps translate governance achievements into political capital, reinforcing the case for continuity and a potential second term.

His influence underscores the growing importance of technocrats in shaping not just policy, but also the narratives that drive electoral success in Nigeria.

Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi contributes to youth and sports development through mentorship, talent identification, and infrastructure development.

He supports grassroots sports, advocates for youth sports policies, and promotes physical activity for health.

His work emphasizes gender inclusivity, community engagement, and collaboration with government and private sectors.

All these has endeared him to the youths and makes convincing the youths to embrace the policies and re-election of President Ahmed Tinubu easy for him, as he has already set the pace for a beautiful relationship with the youths.

…He lost his ward and local Government to PDP in 2023 Elections.

Fresh political tensions are emerging within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kaduna State following allegations that a former Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Yusuf Ibrahim Zailani, is working against the party’s interests ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The claims were made by the Kaduna Progressives Forum (KPF) in a statement signed by its Coordinator, Malam Bala Ibrahim Igabi, who expressed concern over what the group described as Zailani’s “desperate bid” for the Kaduna Central Senatorial seat.

According to the statement, the former Speaker’s political influence has declined significantly, with the group alleging that he failed to deliver his ward and local government area to the APC during the 2023 general elections. The forum argued that this development reflects weakening grassroots support in his political base.

“In several constituencies across Kaduna State, the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) made notable gains, pointing to an increasingly competitive political environment,” the statement noted.

The group also accused Zailani of engaging in actions perceived as detrimental to the unity and electoral strength of the APC in parts of the state. The accusations come amid lingering grievances within the party following the outcome of the 2023 polls.

The 2023 governorship election in Kaduna highlighted the intensity of the contest between the APC and the PDP, with the APC candidate securing victory by a narrow margin of less than one percentage point an outcome widely seen as evidence of a fragile political balance in the state.

Although Zailani won his seat in the State House of Assembly election, concerns persist among party members over internal divisions and the ability of key political figures to effectively mobilise support at the grassroots level.

The KPF further alleged that Zailani recorded minimal achievements during his over two decades in public office and accused him of failing to actively participate in, or support, the party during the Chikun/Kajuru by-election.

Some APC members warned that unresolved internal disputes and alleged anti-party activities could undermine the party’s chances in the 2027 elections.

They called on the party leadership in Kaduna State to investigate the allegations and enforce discipline where necessary to maintain cohesion and strengthen its electoral prospects.