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Already, political gladiators across party lines are gearing up – consulting, forging alliances, and testing the waters in Nasarawa State. Our correspondent gathered that no fewer than 28 politicians are currently showing interest in the Nasarawa State governorship race on the platform of the ruling APC. But questions remain about the rush to make a visible impression on the APC governorship scene.

What do they really want? Why such an unwieldy number for one office? Has the governorship become an all-comers affair? Is the motivation truly love for the state, personal aggrandisement, or sheer ambition? How many of these aspirants have the capacity to win a competitive election or manage a state with diverse interests like Nasarawa?

How will the ruling party manage this huge number of hopefuls ready to succeed Governor Abdullahi Sule without triggering a crisis that could even hurt the party? The questions are endless, but the days ahead will tell us as consultations intensify.

Prominent among those angling to succeed Governor Sule on the APC platform are the incumbent Chairman of the Senate Committee on Public Accounts and Senator representing Nasarawa West, Aliyu Ahmed Wadada, and the Nasarawa State Accountant General, Dr Musa Ahmed Mohammed.

Others include the former Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Adamu; former Executive Secretary of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), Dr Faisal Shuaib; and the immediate past Executive Chairman of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), Prof. Mohammed Sani Haruna, among several others.

Factors that shape the contest:

Several factors are expected to shape the emergence of the next Governor of Nasarawa State. Chief among them is the strong agitation for power to shift to the Nasarawa West Senatorial District, the zone many party stakeholders believe should produce the next governor.

The agitation is strong because, in 1999, the state’s first civilian governor, Abdullahi Adamu, from Nasarawa West, governed for eight years. Power then shifted to Nasarawa South, where Aliyu Akwe Doma served for four years, followed by Umaru Tanko Al-Makura, also from the South, who governed for another eight years – making it 12 uninterrupted years for the southern zone.

In 2019, Al-Makura handed over to the incumbent governor, Abdullahi Sule from Nasarawa North, who will complete eight years in 2027. For fairness and balance, many argue that power should return to Nasarawa West in 2027, especially since most aspirants are from that zone.

Another major factor is the influence of former governors Abdullahi Adamu and Umaru Tanko Al-Makura, both of whom remain key stakeholders in the state’s politics and are expected to play crucial roles in determining who clinches the party’s ticket.

The presidency’s influence could also be decisive, potentially tipping the scales in favour of a candidate aligned with its interests.

Lastly, there is the influence of Governor Abdullahi Sule, whose endorsement and behind-the-scenes manoeuvring will likely shape alliances and the eventual outcome of the APC governorship primaries.

Fortunately, both Wadada and the Accountant General are close allies of the governor, and he would be comfortable with either if he decides to back one of them. Both have the capacity, popularity, and statewide support base to win the general election against any opposition candidate from the PDP or ADC.

Our correspondent reliably gathered that the APC governorship ticket is shaping up to be a straight fight between two strong aspirants – Senator Aliyu Ahmed Wadada and Dr Musa Ahmed Mohammed, the Accountant General of the State.

Aliyu Ahmed Wadada:

Having recently resigned from the SDP in preparation to rejoin the APC, Senator Wadada is gaining significant traction. Many political analysts believe the tide is gradually tilting in his favour. A former two-term member of the House of Representatives, Wadada is seen by many as the APC’s best chance to retain power in Nasarawa State.

He enjoys massive grassroots support and is described by many as the heartbeat of Nasarawa politics. Speaking with our correspondent, Wadada said he is confident of becoming the next governor by the special grace of God.

‘I have had the intention to govern the state from birth, and I first declared my intention in 2019. By the grace of God, I’m gunning for the governorship of Nasarawa in 2027 because, based on my record of public service and God’s mercies upon me, I have all it takes to be governor,’ he said.

Wadada commands political gravitas and has a strong record of performance, both as a senator and as a former House of Representatives member. However, some still perceive him as arrogant and overly independent-minded – traits that, while controversial, have arguably enhanced his standing in the race.

He considers this project a lifelong ambition and has made it clear that he won’t back down for anyone. He strongly supported Governor Sule’s elections in both 2019 and 2023, earning a reputation for loyalty and resilience.

Musa Ahmed Mohammed:

The Nasarawa State Accountant-General and two-term former Speaker of the State House of Assembly has kept his ambition close to his chest but is quietly building strong momentum through high-powered consultations across the state.

Dr Musa’s credentials are impressive. A PhD holder and seasoned accountant, he is widely described as a diligent, resourceful, and prudent public administrator. Having served as Accountant General for about three years under Governor Sule, he is deeply familiar with the workings of government and is considered part of Sule’s success story.

If Governor Sule wants continuity of his administration’s legacies, Dr Musa Ahmed Mohammed appears to be he ideal candidate. His emergence would ensure stability and sustain the progressive governance trajectory the state has witnessed over the past 16 years.

He brings credibility, experience, and maturity, having previously served as Speaker and now as Accountant General. A close ally of Governor Sule, Dr Musa combines deep financial expertise with legislative experience and is seen as capable of consolidating Sule’s achievements.

He has also been rallying former Assembly members and enjoys significant goodwill across the political spectrum.

The hurdles:

The biggest obstacle for these two leading aspirants is whether the two former governors – Senators Abdullahi Adamu and Umaru Tanko Al-Makura – will support them.

Between 2011 and 2015, during Al-Makura’s tenure, Dr Musa was Speaker under the PDP and spearheaded an impeachment move against him. It took divine intervention for Al-Makura to survive the attempt. Years later, Dr Musa publicly apologised to Al-Makura for the episode, expressing regret that the crisis slowed down development and disrupted peace in the state.

Whether Senator Al-Makura will now fully support someone who once tried to remove him as governor remains uncertain.

Senator Wadada, on the other hand, has a long history of political disagreement with former Governor Abdullahi Adamu. Their feud peaked in 2015 when Wadada, then a PDP senatorial candidate, contested against Adamu of the APC. Though he reportedly won, Wadada withdrew his case after family intervention.

Adamu has since been accused of frustrating Wadada’s political ambitions – most notably in 2023 when, as APC national chairman, he denied Wadada the senatorial ticket, prompting Wadada to defect to the SDP, where he eventually won.

As the 2027 APC governorship primary approaches, there is still no clear sign that Senator Abdullahi Adamu will support Wadada’s bid.

Nonetheless, many political watchers believe both Adamu and Al-Makura – who wield enormous influence – may eventually set aside past rivalries and support either Wadada or the Accountant General if Governor Sule throws his weight behind one of them.

Mohammed Sani Haruna:

The former NASENI boss has declared his intention to run for governor but has yet to attract significant attention. Known more as a technocrat than a politician, his ambition currently lacks the momentum and structure of the leading contenders.

Faisal Shuaib:

The former NPHCDA executive secretary is also in the race, though his aspiration appears weak. He has a poor reputation for accessibility and failed to deliver his local government (Toto) to Governor Sule in 2023 – a development many see as proof of his limited political influence. His campaign has yet to gain meaningful traction.

Mohammed Adamu:

The former Inspector General of Police is another APC aspirant, though his ambition remains hard to read. His strength appears concentrated only in Lafia LGA, and he faces the challenge of zoning, which does not favour his district. Despite ongoing consultations, it remains uncertain how much support he can gather from key stakeholders.

The indigene factor:

One lingering challenge facing most of the APC aspirants – including Senator Wadada, Dr Musa Ahmed, Dr Faisal Shuaib, and Mohammed Adamu – is the growing sentiment that none are ‘core indigenes’ of Nasarawa State. This factor may become decisive, especially as calls intensify for a true indigene to emerge as governor in 2027.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has charged the newly appointed Service Chiefs to deepen professionalism, vigilance, and unity within the Armed Forces as they serve the nation with honour and dedication.

The President gave the charge in a post on his verified X handle, @officialABAT, on Thursday, while announcing changes in the hierarchy of the nation’s security leadership.

He said the new appointments were part of ongoing efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s national security architecture and enhance operational effectiveness.

‘I have approved changes in the hierarchy of our Armed Forces to further strengthen Nigeria’s national security architecture. I charge the new Service Chiefs to deepen professionalism, vigilance, and unity within our Armed Forces as they serve our nation with honour,’ the President wrote.

Under the new arrangement, former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Olufemi Oluyede, becomes the Chief of Defence Staff; Major-General W. Shaibu is the Chief of Army Staff; Air Vice Marshal S.K. Aneke is appointed Chief of Air Staff; and Rear Admiral I. Abbas is named the Chief of Naval Staff.

Major-General E.A.P. Undiendeye retains his position as Chief of Defence Intelligence.

PTinubu also expressed appreciation to the outgoing Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and other former Service Chiefs for their ‘selfless service and dedicated leadership,’ assuring that the new appointments reflect his administration’s resolve to ensure a secure and stable Nigeria.

The Presidency furtherclarified that President Tinubu’s appointment of new Service Chiefs was a routine administrative exercise carried out in line with his constitutional powers as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.

Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, Mr. Sunday Dare, stated this while reacting to media reports suggesting that the leadership changes signaled internal discord within the administration.

He described the appointments as part of the President’s ongoing efforts to recalibrate and strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture for greater efficiency and effectiveness.

He emphasised that appointments and reappointments in the security sector remain the exclusive preserve of the President, guided by his duty to safeguard national security and ensure effective leadership within the Armed Forces.

‘It is a routine. The President, as the Grand Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic, can make such appointments just as he changed ministers a few months ago,’ he added.

The latest changes mark another strategic recalibration of the country’s security leadership under President Tinubu’s watch, aimed at consolidating gains in the fight against terrorism, banditry, and other threats to national peace.

Not less than N100 billion out of the recovered over N566 billion loot by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), in the last two years has been pumped into the Student Loan Scheme and Consumer Credit Policy.

The two programmes are key electoral promises of the Bola Tinubu Administration, which are being fulfilled.

Besides, some of the recovered properties have been given to government agencies for use as offices.

EFCC Director of Media and Publicity, Mr. Wilson Uwujaren made these known yesterday while giving the two-year scorecard of the commission’s Chairman Mr. Ola Olukoyede in Abuja.

Uwujaren said: ‘Part of the funds recovered by the commission in the last two years was invested in critical social investment programmes: the Student Loan Scheme and the Consumer Credit Scheme. A total of N100billion of funds recovered by the commission was invested in these two schemes.

‘Also agencies of government, including the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria, AMCON, the Federal Inland Revenue Service, FIRS, and the National Health Insurance Authority, are beneficiaries of funds recovered by the Commission.

‘A number of property recovered by the Commission have been allocated to some agencies of government for use as offices.

Apart from the recoveries, Uwujaren said the commission has done its best to stimulate the economy.

‘The EFCC Chairman upon his appointment set up a Task Force on Naira Abuse and Dollarisation of the Economy, with presence across all our Zonal Directorates.

‘ The Task Force went after currency racketeers and speculators, with the arrest and prosecution of some culprits. While the offensive against naira abuse improved public consciousness on proper handling of the naira, it may have also reduced the cost of currency management by the Central Bank of Nigeria.

‘By the same token, the campaign against currency racketeering and criminal speculation, including the clampdown on rogue cryptocurrency exchanges helped to reduce the pressure on the naira, a situation that bolstered the CBN’s efforts to stabilise the Naira.

‘One area where the Commission under Olukoyede has made great strides is in the fight against cybercrime. Apart from stepping up the Commission’s enforcement activities, the EFCC Chairman also ramped up public education and sensitisation activities intended to discourage the youths from engaging in cybercrime’, he said.

On discipline, Uwujaren said 55 officers of the EFCC have been dismissed in two years because Olukoyede has zero tolerance for unethical behaviours.

He said: ‘In 2024, the Commission announced the dismissal of 27 officers for various acts of misconduct. That number has since increased. A total of 55 personnel have been dismissed in the last two years for different acts of misconduct. Among them is a former officer in the Kaduna Zonal Directorate who tampered with items in the Exhibit Room. He was not only dismissed but is currently being prosecuted.’

He added that the commission received 19, 318 petitions and recovered over N566.9b and $411m in two years.

It also said the total forfeited real estate assets in two years were 1,502 properties.

For cases in court, it secured 7,503 convictions out of 10, 525 cases filed in court.

He said: ‘For most law enforcement organisations performance is frequently benchmarked on two critical scores: Records of convictions and recovery of proceeds of crime. On these two scores, the performance of the Olukoyede-led EFCC in the last two years is most inspiring.

‘ The numbers speak for themselves on petitions, investigations and convictions. Between October 2023 and September 2025, EFCC received 19, 318+ petitions, investigated 29, 240 cases, filed 10,525 cases in court and obtained 7,503 convictions.

‘From October to December 2023, EFCC received 3,594 petitions, investigated 3,747 cases, filed 2,064 in court and secured 826 convictions.

‘As from January to December 2024, it was in receipt of 15,724 petitions, investigated 12,924 cases, filed 5, 081 cases in court and secured 4,111 convictions.

‘Between January and September this year, EFCC carried out 12,569 investigations, filed 3, 380 cases in court and secured 2, 566 convictions. ‘

Uwujaren listed high-profile prosecutions in the last two years by Olukoyede administration.

He said: ‘Some of the notable arrests and prosecution for alleged corruption include former governors Willie Obiano of Anambra State, Abdulfatha Ahmed of Kwara State, Dairus Ishiaku of Taraba State, Theodore Orji of Abia State and Yahaya Bello of Kogi State. Others are former ministers: Olu Agunloye, former minister of Power, Mamman Saleh, former minister of Power, HadiSirika, former minister of Aviation, Charles Ugwu, former minister of Industry and Godwin Emefiele, former Governor of the CBN.

‘ Another notable arrest and prosecution was the case of 792 investment and cryptocurrency fraud suspects apprehended in a sting operation in Lagos in December 2024. The syndicate included 192 foreigners, who have since been prosecuted for cyber-terrorism and cryptocurrency fraud and deported. This development conveys the message that Nigeria will not tolerate foreigners turning it to a safe haven for cybercrimes.’

‘ Another interesting development in the prosecution of corruption cases under Olukoyede, is that cases thought to have been abandoned were reviewed and prosecutions revived. Among them are the cases of Fred Ajudua, former PDP Chairman, Haliru Bello Mohammed, former NSA, Sambo Dasuki, and former managing Director of NSITF, Ngozi Olojeme, among others.’

Regarding the recovery of proceeds of crime, Uwujaren said the commission has made substantial progress.

He said: ‘The EFCC in two years under Olukoyede recorded the following monetary recoveries: ?N566,319,820,343.40

?US $411,566,192.32

?British Pound £71,306.25

?Euro pound 182,877.10

?CAD $5,510.00

?Australian Dollar (AUD) AUD $740.00

?Chinese Yuan (¥) ¥89,859.00

?Indian Rupee (?) ?1,300.00

?CFA Franc (CFA) CFA 8,381,375.00

?UAE Dirham (AED) AED 70.00

?Saudi Riyal (SAR) SAR 310,265.00

?Ghanaian Cedi (GH?) GH? 225.00

? South African Rand (R) R 50.00

? South Korean Won (?) ?73,000.00

‘The total forfeited real estate assets in two years is 1,502 properties, comprising 402 in 2023, 975 in 2024 and 125 so far this year.

‘The recovered properties include two notable landmarks: the final forfeiture of 753 units of duplexes in Lokogoma, Abuja and the forfeiture of Nok University, now Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia, Kaduna State.’

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid glowing tributes to business magnate and philanthropist, Chief Kessington Adebukunola Adebutu, on his 90th birthday, describing him as a national icon, cultural pride, and a silent giver whose life embodies hard work, humility, and enduring service to humanity.

In a statement personally signed by the President on Friday, Chief Adebutu was celebrated as ‘one of Nigeria’s most outstanding entrepreneurs,’ whose remarkable achievements in business, philanthropy, and culture have left indelible footprints across generations.

‘From a humble background in the serene town of Iperu-Iremo, where his life’s journey began, Chief Adebutu rose to national prominence as a businessman, philanthropist, and cultural icon who embodies the virtues of hard work, honour, and compassion,’ the President said.

Tinubu, who described Chief Adebutu as a dependable friend and loyal brother, praised his integrity, humility, and resilience, noting that their relationship has been built over the years on mutual respect and admiration.

‘Through his admirable personality, business acumen, resilience, and benevolent spirit, Chief Adebutu distinguished himself as one of Nigeria’s most outstanding entrepreneurs. His remarkable contributions to business, philanthropy, culture, and national development are footprints that will endure across generations,’ Tinubu stated.

The President highlighted Chief Adebutu’s pioneering role in Nigeria’s modern lotto business, which he said created jobs, sustained families, and inspired young Nigerians to pursue enterprise with integrity.

Beyond his business exploits, Tinubu extolled Adebutu’s philanthropic impact through the Kessington Adebukunola Adebutu Foundation, which has provided scholarships to indigent students and supported community development, youth empowerment, and sports.

‘He has remained a silent giver, touching lives without fanfare. Chief Adebutu’s generosity and commitment to the common good distinguish him among our country’s wealthy individuals,’ the President remarked.

Tinubu also acknowledged Adebutu’s contributions to democratic consolidation, peacebuilding, and cultural preservation, noting that his numerous traditional titles – including the revered Odole Oodua – are fitting honours for his lifelong service to the Yoruba people and Nigeria as a whole.

‘On this special anniversary of his 90th birthday, I thank Chief Adebutu on behalf of the nation for bringing joy, opportunities, and livelihoods to countless families through his businesses and philanthropy,’ Tinubu said.

He wished the celebrant many more years of good health, happiness, and continued contributions to national progress.

Women for Women International (WfWI) has announced appointment of Thelma Ekiyor as its new Global Chief Executive Officer.

Ms. Ekiyor brings 25 years of experience in international development to the role and a career dedicated to women’s economic power and social entrepreneurship.

Board chair, Nunu Ntshingila, said; ‘Among a shortlist of brilliant candidates, Thelma Ekiyor’s experience, talent and leadership shone brightly. Her commitment to investing in women and supporting them to transform lives and communities was clear. We are grateful to our board for taking part in an extensive interview process and to our colleague, Marie Clarke, who has led the organisation as acting CEO for the last nine months.’

Prior to joining WfWI, Ms. Ekiyor led innovative organisations, including chairperson of Nigeria Office for Philanthropy and Impact Investing, domicilled in Office of the Vice President, SME.NG, where she co-founded all-women’s accelerator in Nigeria, Afrigrants, which provided financing for women’s micro-businesses, TY Danjuma Foundation, and West African Civil Society Institute in Ghana.

Throughout her career, Ekiyor has worked with private sector, governments, civil society, media, philanthropists, and investors, fostering innovation and building successful coalitions.

As a Nigerian, based in the UK, she has been the driving force behind various cross-sector networks and international partnerships. Ms. Ekiyor served on the International Advisory Board of the Global Centre on Responsibility to Protect (R2P) based in New York and she is the co-founder and co-chair of Women in Philanthropy and Impact (WIPIA), supporting African women’s leadership in philanthropy and impact across the world.

Reacting, Ekiyor said: ‘I am passionate about investing in women and creating opportunities that drive investment in social good. Women for Women International’s mission supporting women survivors of war and women-led enterprises is very close to my heart and I am excited to be part of a team that is working to ensure every woman realises her power and reaches her full potential.’

Ms. Ekiyor takes the helm at a time of immense change and uncertainty in the global development sector. Her wealth of skills and experience will be invaluable as she leads the organisation into the next chapter.

The Mandate Secretary of Health, Human and Environment Services, Adedolapo Fasawe, on Friday disclosed that the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Executive Council has ratified a contract for the purchase of 12 new emergency ambulances at the cost of N1.74 billion to aid emergency responses.

Fasawe said this after a meeting of the FCT Executive Council at the FCT Minister’s official residence.

The contract ratification comes months after the Secretary, in July, announced the planned purchase of the ambulances, as well as the digitization of emergency response units across FCT hospitals.

Speaking during a Community First Responders Training organised by the Health Emergency Initiative and the FCT Primary Health Care Board, Fasawe said, ‘I’m happy to announce that we will soon commission about 12 ambulances here.

‘Mr Wike purchased new ambulances for us. And we don’t only want ambulances, we want ambulance services, where we will have a station, we will have pilots, and all our nurses are first responders.

‘Very soon, all our hospitals, we will be able to access all our hospitals online. You will be able to know when there is a bed, when there is no bed, and which hospital is closest to you. Technology is very important,’ she said.

Speaking during the briefing on Friday, the Health Secretary stated that the buses were 12 units of Toyota Hiace, 2023/2024 models, purchased for a total sum of N1.74 billion, adding that the ambulances had been received and will be commissioned very soon.

‘Today at the Executive Council Meeting, a contract has been ratified, and I am very pleased to say that for the first time in nine years, the FCT will get 12 brand new special ambulances. These ambulances are according to international standards and technical specifications. They have been delivered and will be commissioned soon.

‘There are 12 units of Toyota Hiace Hiroof 2023/2024 model, five-speed manual, keyless entry, airbag, six-cylinder, Bluetooth system, central locking, in fact, a state-of-the-art ambulance.

‘Twelve of them were purchased for the sum of N1,741,500,000 only, with a completion period of four weeks. We have received the ambulances, and they will be commissioned soon,’ she stated.

Fasawe further explained that the Secretariat had partnered with the National Communications Commission to ensure that residents could dial the 112 toll-free line in cases of emergency, from where they would then be patched to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the National Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance System, and the FCT Health Insurance Scheme.

She further said the FCT had zero tolerance for carrying dead bodies with the ambulances, adding that the administration was looking into buying hearses in the next budget.

Fasawe said: ‘The good news is we are in direct communication with the NCC. The 112 number, if you try it right now, is functional. Once we build our ambulance system and operations, we are going to have our own radio base where 112 will be patched directly.

‘To the citizens of Abuja, call 112, and they will be patched to the nearest ambulance, from FEMA to NEMSAS, to FCT HIS. On carrying corpses in the FCT, we have zero tolerance for an ambulance carrying a corpse.

‘It is not ethical because a living person will lie on that stretcher without decontamination. So, we are also looking into buying hearses in the next budget, specifically to carry dead bodies’.

The prestigious Elizabeth Wuraola Ojo Toyota Golf Tournament is expected to hold between November 7 and 8 at the world-class Smokin Hills Golf Resort, Ilara-Mokin, Ondo State.

After a five-year break due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the tournament returns with renewed vigour and exciting enhancements.

Staged consistently by Toyota (Nigeria) Limited since its inception, the tournament is held in honour of the late Chief (Mrs.) Elizabeth Wuraola Ojo, a woman of remarkable virtue whose legacy continues to inspire excellence especially among women in sports.

‘The Elizabeth Wuraola Ojo Toyota Golf Tournament is more than a sporting event – it is a celebration of legacy, integrity, and enduring values,’ said Kunle Ade-Ojo, Managing Director of Toyota (Nigeria) Limited. ‘This year’s edition promises an unforgettable experience for all participants and guests.’

In a major highlight for 2025, the Hole-in-One prize money has been doubled from ?5 million to ?10 million, reflecting Toyota’s commitment to raising the stakes and enhancing the prestige of the tournament.

The event will adopt the Shotgun Start format as in previous editions, offering a dynamic and synchronized start to the invitational tournament.

The tournament schedule would see Professional golfers from across Nigeria taking on the challenging Smokin Hills course from 7:00 AM on November 7 while the amateur men and women golfers would showcase their skills on November 8 starting at 7:00 AM.

The event will conclude with a gala night on November 8 where there would be prize presentation and celebration of winners along with other dignitaries.

In keeping with tradition, Toyota (Nigeria) Limited will showcase a selection of its latest vehicle models at the event, offering guests a first-hand experience of Toyota’s innovation and craftsmanship

A key moment during the Gala Night will be the presentation of the ‘Amiable Woman of the Tournament’ award – a special recognition created to honour the memory of Chief (Mrs.) Elizabeth Wuraola Ojo and promote the spirit of excellence among women golfers.

‘This award is symbolic of the values she stood for and serves to encourage more women to participate in and contribute to the game of golf,’ added Mr. Ade-Ojo.

The Elizabeth Wuraola Ojo Toyota Golf Tournament continues to be a landmark event, bringing together Nigeria’s golfing elite, dignitaries, and corporate leaders in a celebration of sport, legacy and community.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, has congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on what he described as a ‘historic diplomatic success’ recorded by Nigeria at the 27th Ministerial Meeting of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF) held in Doha, Qatar.

At the high-level gathering, Dr Philip Mshelbila, Managing Director of the Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG), was elected Secretary-General of the GECF, while Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, emerged President of the 2026 GECF Ministerial Meeting.

According to a statement by his office,

Ambassador Tuggar hailed the twin achievements as ‘clear testaments to President Tinubu’s proactive foreign policy engagements and his strategic vision to restore Nigeria’s influence in global energy diplomacy under the Renewed Hope Agenda.’

He disclosed that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs played a pivotal role in supporting Nigeria’s successful candidature through coordinated diplomatic outreach via Nigeria’s missions to all GECF member states, formal campaign launches, and sustained engagement with African counterparts to secure unified continental backing.

According to the minister, the diplomatic drive was reinforced by Nigeria’s bilateral engagements at major global summits, including the BRICS Summit in Brazil and the African Union 7th Mid-Year Coordination Meeting in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea, with strong political support from the Presidency ensuring the country’s wide acceptance.

Tuggar commended Mshelbila and Ekpo for bringing ‘stellar credentials and experience’ to their new international positions, describing their elections as ‘victories not only for Nigeria but for Africa’s collective voice in global energy governance.’

He expressed confidence that their leadership would strengthen the GECF’s role in shaping the global energy transition, promoting equitable resource management, and advancing sustainable development.

Reaffirming his ministry’s commitment to sustaining Nigeria’s rising diplomatic profile, Tuggar said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs would continue to align its engagements with President Tinubu’s vision of a reformed, respected, and economically vibrant Nigeria whose foreign policy delivers tangible benefits to its citizens.

The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) will on November 17 in Lausanne, Switzerland, hear the eligibility case filed by the Guinean Football Federation (FEGUIFOOT) against Tanzania over their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier.

According to FEGUIFOOT, both sides have already exchanged written arguments, paving the way for a decisive hearing expected to determine the final Group H standings.

The Guinean federation is represented by the Belgium-based law firm Eleven and Law, renowned for handling complex international sports disputes.

The case centres on Guinea’s allegation that Tanzania fielded an ineligible player during their final group game, which ended 1-0 in favour of the Taifa Stars. The player, reportedly wearing jersey number 26 and introduced in the 73rd minute, was not listed in the official CAF match squad, and his jersey bore no visible name.

Guinea, who finished third in the group with nine points-one behind second-placed Tanzania and two adrift of leaders DR Congo-lodged a formal protest to the Confederation of African Football (CAF), claiming a breach of eligibility rules.

In a statement, FEGUIFOOT reaffirmed its commitment to fairness and integrity in African football, expressing confidence in a just outcome as the CAS ruling draws near.

The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has commissioned a Digital Learning Center (DLC) at Ujabhole Grammar School, Irrua, Esan Central Local Government Area, Edo State.

The building of the centre was to bridge the digital divide and promote digital inclusion across the country.

Senator Tinubu, who virtually commissioned the project, said it was part of her Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI).

Represented by Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, the First Lady said 296 digital learning centers have been established across the country.

She said plans were on to build additional 148 centres this year, with a view to build 592 centers by 2027.

Coordinator, Office of the First Lady, Edo State, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, described the Digital Learning Center as a testament to the renewed hope initiative and the SHINE agenda Senator of Governor Monday Okpebholo.

Anani stated that Governor Okpebholo has shown dedication to revolutionising education in Edo State.

She said it was pertinent to equip students with cutting-edge technology, e-learning resources, and interactive tools, to enhance their skills and enable them compete and excel in the 21st-century knowledge economy.

Principal of Ujabhole Grammar School, Mr. Asemote Wisdom, thanked Senator Tinubu for the initiative and expressed optimism that it would enhance the technological skills of teachers and students.