Author: user user

Lagos had a storied past of water commerce – Ebute-Ero, Ebute-Elefun, Ije, Oja Oyingbo, Ebute Ejinrin, Badagry, the Lagos Marina, etc – all jetties, linked to markets. Boats berthed at these jetties to discharge and convey buyers and sellers, on weekly market days. More than roads, the vast Lagos waterways powered this traffic.

If the proverbial ‘Oja Oyingbo’ was packed to the brim – as the Juju music legend Chief Commander Ebenezer Obey crooned in one of his great numbers – it was the Lagos Lagoon, more than the roads, that ensured that commercial mobility and opportunity.

Now, ‘Omi Eko’, the waterway shuttle project that the Lagos State government just launched, at the Three Cowries Jetty, near Falomo, Ikoyi, Lagos, is set for a glorious encore – but with much more value-added.

It’s an innovative project to further integrate water transportation into the government’s THEMES-plus policy framework. It’s also set to modernise the waterways as choice Lagos commuter hub, thus reducing pressure on the over-flogged roads.

Omi Eko, planned over two phases, is well and truly ambitious. It could alter the Lagos transportation – and economy – for good. Omi Eko, with its smart ferries, could also boost water-driven tourism, now the near-monopoly of the well-heeled. That putative expansion is a win-win for the Lagos economy.

The first phase is an infrastructural-support push: the dredging and adequate marking of a marine track, covering 140 kilometres. That track covers 15 priority ferry routes. Under that phase, 25 ferry jetties and terminals will be put in place, with old ones upgraded – all fitted with electric charging points, for the electric ferries soon to be deployed.

Also attached to jetties/terminals are boat maintenance depots. This phase will also build roads connecting the jetties/terminals to the main arteries linking the final commuter communities and destinations.

Obvious and paramount in this first phase is the all-crucial question of safety, in these days of boat mishaps, in some parts of the country. Safety is critical for commuter confidence; and it’s reassuring that the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA), the implementing agency, is giving safety due attention.

The second phase is the business side: the ‘make-or-mar’ of the dream. It plans to infuse 75 electric ferries, fool-proof and fraud-resistant ticketing, and sound shuttle information management to give a rich travel experience that would keep commuters trooping back for more.

If management makes the difference between failed and thriving ventures, LASWA should develop the capacity to handle the business. Also imbued in the plan is adequate technology transfer to strengthen LASWA’s technical capacity: for prompt maintenance and repairs, as well as forging spare parts.

Aside drawing passenger traffic to some 25, 000 yearly, Omi Eko is projected to cut travel times by some three hours per trip. Funding for the informal boat sector, outside the government-backed ferry services, will also be taken care off. Indeed, building an integrated lagoon economy is logical thinking, as 15 local governments in the state are linked by water. That should provide more jobs for the youth.

Omi Eko came under the EU Gateway Initiative, with the French Development Agency (AFD); and the European Investment Bank (EIB), which provided a ‘subsidised’ pound 360 million, out of a pound 410-million loan. LASWA’s ability to grow a lean-and-mean water transport business is vital. For this upgrade, LASWA should draw inspiration from the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), which already runs the Lagos integrated road and rail services, with the Blue and Red urban rail lines.

So, LASWA should brace itself to make Omi Eko a thriving business, sustainable and profitable to pay off its loan. If that is well done, LASWA should, in no time, sit back as industry regulator, while private sector players, big and small, drive the business.

But there is another aspect that should also be emphasised: marine security. While safety is clear from the infrastructure plan, security is muted. In this era of kidnapping for ransom, security should receive that added attention. As more commuters get drawn to water transport, there is likelihood for opportunistic crimes, targeting the busy commuter channels. Robust marine security should, therefore, form a doughty part of the mix.

With Lagos defined by water – the Lagoon and its mightier cousin, the Atlantic Ocean – not integrating this mass of water into its transport mode is a clear waste. Though Omi Eko is picking up from a storied past, using every resource of the state to boost citizen wellbeing is smart policy thinking.

The National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to prioritise local refining and allocate 100 percent of the nation’s crude oil supply to the Dangote Refinery to enable full-scale production and self-sufficiency in fuel supply.

The students, armed with various placards and banners, made the call during a peaceful protest on Wednesday from the Millennium park to the Unity Fountain, as security agents did not allow the protesters storm the National Assembly as earlier scheduled.

Addressing newsmen, President of NAPS, Comrade Eshiofune Oghayan described the Dangote Refinery as ‘a root that has given life to a decaying tree,’ symbolising hope for Nigeria’s long-awaited industrial revival.

According to him, Dangote Refinery was a symbol of Africa’s industrial power and a cornerstone for Nigeria’s ambition to become the refining hub of the continent.

He said: ‘For decades, our nation lived under the shadow of dependency, we were exporters of crude and importers of survival. But today, we have found pride again in an African-built refinery, one that can restore Nigeria’s economic independence.’

Reaffirming their confidence in the Tinubu led administration, the students while praising the President’s investments in education and youth empowerment initiatives, noted that Tinubu ‘understands the suffering of the common man and the Nigerian student, that is why we believe he will listen to our appeal.

‘The Nigerian government should please approve 100% crude oil allocation to Dangote refinery let us refine our destiny at home. When we feed this refinery fully, it will produce more barrel, flood the market supply, decrease the price of fuel and stabilize our economy.

‘We are appealing to the federal government and relevant agencies to prioritize local refined products. Nigerians, we want you to be reassured, Dangote has come to help you and the people that are coming to sabotage this effort are feeding fat on our national failure.’

While commending Dangote for his bold investment in the energy sector, the students urged President Tinubu to take decisive action including the scrapping of anti-development elements within the oil and gas sector who they claim were frustrating national progress.

‘For over 30 years, the nation’s refineries in Kaduna, Port Harcourt, and Warri were dead. These same groups did nothing. But now that one man has chosen to rebuild our dream, they have risen against him.’

The students called on their peers across universities, polytechnics, and colleges of technology to defend and promote homegrown innovation.

‘The soul of a nation is not measured by the size of its GDP, but by the strength of its will. When the youth rise to defend productivity, the nation itself will stand tall.’

The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Vice Marshal (AVM)Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has said air power pressure would be on terrorists such that they won’t have the time to plan attacks.

Aneke said the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) under his watch would keep the insurgents running without time to think or plan, assuring that he would lead a versatile, disciplined, and lethal service.

‘I use the word lethal in a professional sense because a man running from you will not have the time to plan to hurt you,’ he said.

A statement Wednesday by the Director of Public Relations and Information (DOPRI), Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the CAS gave the assurances during his confirmation before the National Assembly.

Ejodame said the Air Chief stressed that his leadership would be anchored on training, technology, safety, and strategic innovation, emphasising that ‘true military power is not measured by brute force but by superior intellect and adaptability.’

‘The new CAS vowed to build an Air Force that responds swiftly, strikes precisely, and acts intelligently across all spectrums of military operations, a force defined not only by strength, but by precision, professionalism, and purpose,’ said the DOPRI.

Aneke’s confirmation followed his nomination by President Bola Tinubu in accordance with Section 18(1) of the Armed Forces Act, Cap A20, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004.With this confirmation, he legally succeeds Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, joining other Service Chiefs as a member of the Armed Forces Council.

Lawmakers at the confirmation session praised AVM Aneke’s depth of experience, operational leadership, and intellectual grounding.

They particularly commended his tenure as Air Officer Commanding, Mobility Command, where he improved strategic airlift capability, strengthened joint operations, and enhanced the

NAF’s responsiveness in complex security environments. His leadership in intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations was also lauded for its critical role in shaping Nigeria’s counter-insurgency efforts and internal security outcomes.

Beyond the individual merit of his appointment, AVM Aneke’s confirmation carries constitutional and strategic significance. Constitutionally, it reinforces the principle of civilian oversight in military leadership and underscores the National Assembly’s role in ensuring transparency and democratic accountability within the Armed Forces. Strategically, it marks continuity and confidence in a leadership transition aimed at consolidating NAF’s modernisation drive, expanding airpower projection, and deepening civil-military trust.

A scholar and strategist, AVM Aneke is a graduate of the United States Air War College, Montgomery, Alabama, and holds multiple advanced degrees, including Master’s degrees in Strategic Studies, International Affairs and Diplomacy, and Political Economy and Development Studies. With more than 4,300 flight hours across several aircraft types, he stands among Nigeria’s most accomplished pilots and forward-looking airpower professionals.

The confirmation session was witnessed by key dignitaries, including the Honourable Minister of Defence, Dr Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, and the Special Adviser to the President on Senate Matters, Senator Basheer Lado. As he assumes office, AVM Aneke’s message to Nigerians is clear: the Nigerian Air Force under his command will be swift in action, precise in strike, and intelligent in execution, a force built not merely for power, but for purpose, protection, and progress.

If you’ve ever wanted to buy a new phone but couldn’t pay the full price upfront, here’s some good news. You can now walk into a store, pick up the new VIVO Y21d smartphone, and take it home after paying only 20% of the price through a new partnership between VIVO and Credit Direct Checkout.

The offer is the first of its kind from Credit Direct, giving more Nigerians the chance to upgrade their devices without financial strain.

Meet the New VIVO Y21d

The VIVO Y21d is one of the most impressive new phones in Nigeria’s mid-range category. It combines style, power, and affordability.

Key features include:

A 6.68-inch 120Hz display with dual stereo speakers for smooth visuals and clear sound

A 50MP Ultra HD AI camera for detailed and vibrant photos

A 6500mAh battery with 44W FlashCharge, offering fast charging and long battery life

Two colors, Coral Red and Jade Green, both sleek and eye-catching

The phone is available in three variants to fit different budgets:

4GB RAM + 128GB storage – ?199,800

6GB RAM + 128GB storage – ?219,800

6GB RAM + 256GB storage – ?239,800

With these options, you can find the perfect balance between performance and price.

How to Get Your VIVO Y21d with Just 20% Downpayment

Credit Direct Checkout has made the process straightforward and stress-free. Here’s how to get started:

Check Your Credit Limit: Visit the Credit Direct Checkout website to see how much financing you qualify for.

Shop Your Way: You can either

Visit an authorized store such as SLOT, POINTEK, FINET, or 3C HUB, or

Go directly to a partner vendor’s website and select Credit Direct Checkout as your payment option at checkout.

Choose Your Device: Pick your preferred VIVO Y21d model and color.

Complete Your Payment:

In stores or via social media pages, you’ll receive a secure payment link to pay your 20 percent downpayment and select your repayment plan.

On partner websites, you simply choose Credit Direct at checkout and pay directly – no link required.

Get Your Phone: Take home your brand-new device or have it delivered and pay the balance in convenient monthly installments.

For example, the VIVO Y21d (4GB RAM + 128GB) priced at ?199,800 can be yours with just ?39,960 upfront. The remaining ?159,840 is spread across flexible repayment options.

Why Nigerians Are Excited About This Offer

The biggest advantage of this offer is flexibility. Instead of saving for months or borrowing at high interest rates, you can now buy your phone immediately and pay gradually.

There is no collateral, no hidden fees, and no complicated paperwork. Everything happens digitally, right at the point of purchase.

For many working Nigerians who manage tight monthly budgets, this offer makes owning a modern smartphone easier and more realistic.

A Smarter Way to Buy Tech

Beyond affordability, the partnership between VIVO and Credit Direct shows how technology and finance can work together to improve lives. By lowering the downpayment requirement to 20%, Credit Direct is helping people access the latest devices while encouraging disciplined, structured payment habits.

This approach, often called Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL), is becoming more common in Nigeria. It is especially useful for young professionals and entrepreneurs who rely on smartphones for work, education, and communication.

Final Word

The VIVO × Credit Direct Checkout offer is not just about buying a phone. It’s about giving people the freedom to own the technology they need without financial stress.

If you’ve been thinking about upgrading your device, this is a great opportunity. Visit the Credit Direct Checkout website to check your eligibility and locate a participating store.

With only 20% downpayment, you can walk away with a new, powerful VIVO Y21d and pay the rest over time – simply and affordably.

Stakeholders in the education sector have urged teachers in the country to embrace artificial intelligence (AI) for future-ready education system.

They made the call during the Train the Trainer-Teacher’s summit 2025 at the weekend in Abuja.

Speaking at the summit, gender advocate, Hansatu Adegbite, underscored the need for teachers to integrate technology into their teaching practices to maintain relevance in a rapidly evolving educational landscape.

She noted that the future of education depended on how effectively educators adapt to technological advancements and leverage them to enhance learning outcomes.

The keynote speaker noted that AI tools can help teachers personalise instruction, automate administrative tasks, and foster creativity among students, thereby creating a more engaging and efficient learning environment.

Adegbite, who is also the Executive Director, Women in Management, Business and Public Service (WIMBIZ), urged teachers to view AI not as a threat but as an enabler that can empower them to deliver better results.

Speaking on the theme, ‘Deconstruct the old, define the new’, the gender advocate challenged educators to rethink traditional teaching methods and embrace innovative strategies that align with the realities of the digital age.

She highlighted the critical role of AI and technology in the future of education and the need for teachers to learn and adapt to these changes.

She noted that deconstructing old models of education does not mean discarding foundational values but rather reimagining how those values can be expressed through modern tools and approaches.

The Convener, Train the Trainer Teachers Summit, Dr Onyekachi Onwudike-Jumbo noted the collective responsibility of teachers, parents, and schools in educating children.

She emphasised the importance of a standardised education system that provides equal opportunities for all students.

Onwudike-Jumbo encouraged participants to take action and collaborate to improve the educational system.

Executive Secretary of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), Aisha Garba underscored the need for educators to leave a lasting impact and celebrates the ongoing efforts to improve education.

Represented by the Director, Social Mobilisation, UBEC, Dr. Ossom Ossom, the executive secretary highlighted ongoing reforms introduced by the commission, including sharing best practices, and empowering teachers to improve learning outcomes.

She announced plans to train 875,000 teachers and introduce digital pedagogy in learning environments.

‘This initiative aims to equip teachers with the necessary skills to enhance classroom learning and ensure they can add value to the educational process,’ the executive secretary added.

Lasaco Assurance Plc has compensated policyholders who suffered mishaps on their insured risks in 2024 to the tune of N13.1billion.

The claimants were paid, after they suffered disasters on their insured assets and lives respectively, in a move by the insurer to return the policyholders back to the financial positions they were prior to the mishaps.

The N13.1billion claims paid represents over 50 per cent out the N22. 82billion generated from insurance revenue in its 2024 financial year.

This payment, is however, an improvement over N6.54 billion paid in its 2023 financial year, an indication that it pays crucial attention to payment of genuine claims as and when due.

Meanwhile, the insurer has also raised additional N11.1billion in a move to meet the July 2026 recapitalisation exercise for the insurance industry.

Speaking during the 45th Annual General Meeting (AGM) at the company’s headquarters in Lagos, the Chairman, Mrs. Teju Phillips, disclosed to shareholders that the firm’s insurance revenue rose to N22.82billion, representing a 25 per cent increase from N18.29 billion in 2023.

She attributed this growth to market penetration and enhanced customer engagement.

She said: ‘Profit after Tax (PAT) leaped to N1. 54billion, reflecting an 18 per cent increase from N1.31billion within the period under review. This achievement underscores the company’s discipline, cost optimisation and operational efficiency’.

However, in a bid to strengthen the company, she said, Lasaco Assurance raised N11.1billion through a private placement, adding an additional 9.25 million shares to its existing shares, to enable it perform and compete better in the insurance industry.

Assuring that the underwriting firm is driving digital transformation and innovation by investing in various software and omnichannel customer engagement to enhance efficiently and accessibility, she noted that, the company remains committed to sustainability by expanding retail insurance solutions, through targeted policy offerings. Market expansion efforts focus on strengthening current market deepening and leveraging strategic partnership to deepen reach.’

To ensure long-term competitiveness, she said the company is upskilling its workforce even as risk management and governance framework are being enhanced through robust stress-testing measures to mitigate currency volatility regulatory shifts and geopolitical uncertainties.

‘Furthermore, we are actively exploring strategic alliances to co-create embedded insurance products, alligning with Nigeria’s expanding digital economy, ‘ she pointed out.

Responding to the shareholders’ questions on recapitalisation, the Managing Director/CEO, Mr. Razzaq Abiodun assured that the insurer is on the right track to recapitalise both its Life and Non-life businesses.

He said shareholders’ fund of the company is now in excess of N21.4billion, adding that, additional N11.1billion fresh capital raised is also a move in this direction.

‘So, we are doing everything possible to meet the deadline. The company will continue to operate with both life and non-life licenses. The recapitalisation plans submitted to the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) exceeded the regulatory capital benchmark, a sign that the company is moving in the right direction.

‘The process of recapitalisation is currently ongoing and we believe we will conclude all the necessary processes and documentation before the deadline slated for next year’, he added.

The Federal Government has concluded plans to partner with the World Bank, research institutions, and coastal communities to promote innovation, ensure environmental sustainability, and enhance data-driven planning for fisheries and aquaculture development.

Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr Adegboyega Oyetola who disclosed this in Lagos, said efforts are also being directed towards strengthening the cold chain system, promoting value addition through fish processing and packaging, improving access to quality feed and seed, developing functional hatcheries, expanding extension services, and facilitating access to finance for fish farmers and entrepreneurs.

In his keynote during a one-day interactive seminar between Stakeholders and Regulatory Authorities involved in Stockfish and Seafood Import and Export Trade in Nigeria organized by the Norwegian Seafood Council and the Norwegian government in Lagos, he said the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy recognizes the importance of seafood trade not only as an economic activity but also as a source of animal protein and a driver of industrial linkages.

‘The seafood sector connects production, processing, storage, transportation, and marketing, thereby creating a comprehensive value chain that sustains livelihoods and supports national economic objectives.

‘The Ministry is partnering with development partners such as World Bank, research institutions, and coastal communities to promote innovation, ensure environmental sustainability, and enhance data-driven planning for fisheries and aquaculture development. In addition, the Ministry is also working to ensure that fish is affordable and available for the ordinary Nigerian.

‘The Ministry is equally working towards streamlining seafood import and export processes, thereby reducing administrative bottlenecks, and ensuring regulatory harmony through collaboration with relevant agencies such as NAFDAC, SON, the Nigeria Customs Service, and the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, as well as through the National Single Window platform and the digitalization of the entire fisheries and aquaculture processes,’ he said.

Under the Blue Economy framework, government he said is implementing measures to strengthen monitoring, control, and surveillance systems to address Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing; promote private sector investment in aquaculture and fisheries infrastructure; upgrade fish handling, processing, and certification systems to meet international export standards; and enhance collaboration with international partners on research, innovation, and digitalization of fisheries management.

Oyetola acknowledged the fact that the government alone cannot achieve all the goals, underscoring the need for partnership. ‘Stakeholders must continue to cooperate with regulatory authorities, comply with established standards, and support the implementation of government policies and programmes. I encourage all stakeholders to freely express their concerns and share practical suggestions that will enable Government to address existing challenges and strengthen the regulatory environment.

‘I reaffirm the commitment of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy to the development of a sustainable, efficient, and inclusive seafood value chain that will contribute to national food security, employment generation, and economic growth. Working together, we can transform Nigeria’s fisheries and aquaculture sector into a globally competitive industry that not only feeds our people but also advances the national Blue Economy,’ he said.

Royal Norwegian Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Svien Baera, renewed the call for the inclusion of stockfish and its head in the list of goods with zero import duty to make it affordable in the country.

Baera urged President Bola Tinubu to intervene in the sustainability of the sector through the zero import duties on stockfish due to the low quota of cod (the primary fish for stockfish) and its subsequent price increase fundamentally due to the forces and demand and supply.

The Norwegian envoy said Nigeria remained one of its largest markets in the world, adding that government intervention would help drive affordability among the large consuming population.

‘Nigeria is consistently one of the largest importers of Norwegian stockfish in the world. It is an important part of the Nigerian kitchen.

‘What started as a trade relationship many decades ago has now grown into something mutually beneficial. This is not just a story of commerce; it is a story of cultural exchange.

‘Both our nations share a strong commitment to sustainability to ensure that our oceans continue to provide for generations to come.

‘As part of this responsible approach, we have in recent years seen a reduction in cod quotas, reflecting the need to protect fish stocks and support long-term marine health.

‘Unfortunately, this necessary reduction has led to increased prices for both stockfish and stockfish heads, impacting both producers and consumers.

‘Hence, we respectfully appeal once again for zero import duty on stockfish heads as a meaningful step towards ensuring continued accessibility and affordability for Nigerian consumers,’ Baera said.

Also speaking on the occasion, both the Director of Africa, Norwegian Seafood Council, Mr Johnny Haaberg, and Fisheries Consultant to Norwegian Seafood Council, Ms. Abiodun Oritsjemine Cheke also supported the envoy’s call for zero-duty on the importation of fish head to promote the health of Nigerians.

‘We try to share our knowledge about aquaculture and management of fisheries, also with Nigeria, and we have been doing that for many years, and we think the cooperation is very good.

‘We have been raising the issue of zero duties for stockfish imports because we think the Nigerian consumers deserve better access to cheaper stockfish heads.

‘Actually, we would wish to have more stockfish heads and stockfish at a good price to offer to the Nigerian market.

‘But because of the lowering of our quotas, the exporters that are here, they sell everything they have, and they are not able to access more,’ Haaberg said.

Ms. Cheke said Norway is ready to increase the training of local fish farmers in the country to increase local export opportunities.

‘In the coming year, we will embark on the training of fish farmers and government officers in fisheries in the sustainability aspect and the documentation aspect of the trade.

‘Nigeria’s product is banned from international trade simply because of documentation, sustainability and quality assurance.

‘So, with this, we intend to leverage it to complement the last training we did for the fish farmers and fisheries officers.

‘And we are also appealing to the federal government that stockfish, especially the heads, is for everybody and is about the cheapest protein in Nigeria.

‘Stockfish heads should be placed on zero per cent import duties for a 150-day period, like the other staple foods. We are also praying for our appeal on zero per cent to be heard and for stockfish heads,’ Cheke said.

Club World Cup champions Chelsea have entered the race to sign highly rated Nigerian winger Sani Suleiman, joining a host of European clubs monitoring the AS Trencin sensation, as reported by Tribalfootball.

Suleiman, 19, has been in outstanding form since returning to his Slovak club after representing Nigeria at the U20 World Cup. His recent assist against Skalica earned Trencin a valuable draw and saw him named in the Nike Liga Team of the Week.

Chelsea’s scouting team have reportedly requested updated information on the young winger, who is attracting growing attention across Europe. Suleiman’s contract runs until June 2026, with Trencin holding a two-year extension option, effectively securing his services until 2028 – a clause that strengthens the club’s hand in any transfer talks.

The Nigerian’s impressive displays have also drawn interest from Tottenham Hotspur, Rangers, and Bayer Leverkusen, alongside several Italian clubs making preliminary enquiries.

According to the CIES Football Observatory, Suleiman was recently rated the most complete U21 winger in the world, based on seven key performance metrics, and ranked among the top 200 U20 outfield players globally.

With his meteoric rise and increasing demand, this season could mark Suleiman’s final campaign at Trencin, as Europe’s elite continue to circle one of Africa’s brightest young talents.

Kiddwaya, son of billionaire Terry Waya and reality star, has opened up about why he avoids dating women who are financially unstable.

In a podcast appearance on Off The Record, he stated that women from lower-income backgrounds often develop a sense of entitlement when exposed to his affluent lifestyle.

The billionaire heir said they may be humble and appreciative, but over time, they start comparing themselves to others and expecting luxury items and experiences.

Kiddwaya noted that this shift in attitude can lead to relationship issues, with entitlement sometimes manifesting as rudeness.

He further opined that bringing someone from a lower financial background into his world can be challenging, and he’s learned to prioritise relationships with individuals who share similar values and energy.

He said: ‘At first, they’re thankful everything feels new and exciting. But after a few months, they start comparing themselves to others.

‘They want the same bags, the same trips, and soon, what was once special becomes expected. The entitlement sets in and sometimes turns into rudeness. That’s been my biggest issue dating someone from a lower class and bringing them into my lifestyle.’

Tension has reportedly heightened in Zamfara State following a new wave of defections from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), raising concerns within Governor Dauda Lawal’s political camp ahead of the 2027 general elections.

It was learnt that Governor Dauda Lawal is expected to visit President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the State House on Wednesday to discuss ongoing political developments in the state.

On Tuesday, Hon. Maharazu Salisu, representing Maradun II Constituency in the Zamfara State House of Assembly, formally announced his defection from the PDP to the APC at the party’s state secretariat in Gusau.

His move, along with that of several ward leaders, reflects the increasing realignments among political actors in the state as different parties prepare for upcoming elections.

The APC currently holds a majority in the Zamfara State House of Assembly, while some PDP lawmakers are said to be reviewing their political options.

Governor Lawal has continued to engage stakeholders and political leaders across the state in efforts to strengthen democratic participation and promote unity among political groups.

Meanwhile, the Northern APC Stakeholders Forum has rejected any attempt to allow Lawal to defect to the APC.

In a statement signed by its national coordinator, Alhaji Mubarak Liman, the forum said, ‘Any attempt to welcome him into the APC will spell doom for the party in Zamfara and the North-West at large.’

The forum further noted that the steady stream of defections by lawmakers and grassroots leaders was proof of the governor’s growing unpopularity.

Observers believe the governor’s scheduled visit to President Tinubu may focus on consultations regarding political stability and ongoing development projects in the state.