Category: Business Day

Chinedum Ezebuiro, officially known as Chinedum Ezebugwu), is a Nigerian political strategist and the former presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP)in 1992 who now lives in Germany. He attended both Rutgers University (NJ USA) and University of Marine (ME, USA) for his Bachelors and Master’s degree programmes, respectively. In this interview, he said that a Nigerian president must be one who possesses an apt vision and must be practical, people-centred, ideological with positive political mission and vision. He also spoke about Nigeria’s leadership challenges and his vision for Nigeria, the 2027 general election, and why God should interfere in the affairs of the country. EMMANUEL SALAWU brings the excerpts:

What is your view about the country since the return of democracy in 1999?

I have told you on several occasions that no human being can solve the problem of this country, Nigeria; only the Adonai. The Almighty God is the only one that has kept Nigeria till this point because He has His own instrument to fix Nigeria.

Nigeria has spent 27 years in its democratic journey. Can you give us an overview of the country’s journey so far?

Well, you know I told you in many interviews I have had with journalists that Nigeria’s problems will be there until God Almighty takes over because you can see that every aspect of the country’s process for development is suffering acute lack of leadership. If I may ask you, do we have a state refinery in Nigeria that refines crude oil as an oil producing country? The answer is no. From the various reports we received here in Germany, hunger, depression and poverty is at the highest level while Nigerians should have no business with poverty.

In terms of security; in 1992 when I ran for the office of presidency, I toured the whole country with little Police security, about three policemen but now kidnapping, armed robbery have become lucrative businesses in a country that is endowed with various mineral resources that can sustain its citizens with quality living standards but bad leadership has denied us that. That is why I still maintain that it’s only Adonai God that can interfere in the affairs of this nation.

What is your assessment of the All Progressive Congress (APC)-led government in the last three years?

It is part of what I have just told you that until God takes over Nigeria completely, absolutely and totally, problems will always be there and will always be multiplying and increasing on a daily basis.

Insecurity has been ravaging the country for the past 20 years. How do you think Nigeria can tackle this problem head on?

It is very simple, because when God takes over the affairs of men, he has plans already made to sort out those insecurities. I mean, the leaders in the leadership affairs of the country to know when and how to do things right and root out those insecurities anywhere they are in the country. God has put everything already in place because when he takes over, all bad things will turn to good. So, I said it in 1992 until God Almighty takes over the running of Nigeria from the top to the lowest level, Nigeria will always be experiencing problems upon problems because Satan and his kingdom are working hard to make sure that what God has established in Nigeria does not come into physical manifestation, and if not for the grace of God, Nigeria would have been disintegrated long time ago.

Recently, you said Nigeria has no business with poverty. How do you think Nigeria can overcome poverty?

I said Nigeria has no business with poverty, that has been my campaign slogan since 1992. Until God takes over the affairs of this country totally because he gave Nigeria all material instruments not to be poor. However, when he takes over, you will see a systematic change in every area of governance and only those that God has approved to be there will be the ones to be in charge from the beginning to the end. There will be no money politics and also there will be righteousness, justice and the wicked evil people will find it very difficult to operate in Adonai Nigeria.

But do you still believe that God has not done enough for Nigeria to save itself from poverty?

God has not taken over Nigeria, if God has taken over Nigeria you will not be talking about poverty.

In what ways do you think God can save Nigeria from poverty?

It is when God’s own man takes over.

The 2027 election campaign will soon start. What is your take on the forth coming general election in Nigeria?

Well, that is numbers you are giving me. God does not work with numbers and days. He works with his own way. So, we don’t know his ways and he doesn’t work with elections. He will manifest himself at the appropriate time during the election period.

There are three major presidential contenders in the forthcoming election: Peter Obi, Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar. How will you rate them?

I have told you and I am still telling you again that no human being on earth on his or her own can rule Nigeria, it’s only the one that God has chosen to run the affairs of Nigeria that would be able to do it.

You have emphasised so much on God solving Nigeria’s leadership problems. How do you think God can do it after giving us all the human and material resources to live well? You know that God’s ways and his thoughts are totally different from the ways and thoughts of human beings. Are you aware of that?

Yes! His ways and his thoughts he will bring into Nigeria; he will bring forth the change you are talking about; but how he will do it I don’t know, but I know he is coming to deliver this country one day.

So, how would you compare the three major presidential contenders?

Well, God knows them, I don’t know them. I cannot compare them, because they know themselves.

How do Nigerians outside the country, especially those in Germany see the country now?

You know that many Nigerians in the diaspora want to come back home, but the environment at home is not suitable for them to leave everything here to come back home; not only in Germany but all over the world where Nigerians live. If there is that Nigeria God has created and it is established, many Nigerians will come back home. Nigeria has no business with poverty and Nigeria is incredibly endowed with natural resources, intellectual resources, spiritual resources and others you can think of. Nigeria is endowed with each one of them and all that is required is for the man God has chosen to take over the country and you will see that God will use that man to start Nigeria that will see the foundation of righteousness and justice. As of now, there is no justice and righteousness; so, Satan is doing whatever he can to destroy Nigeria.

You know people are afraid to live and come back to Nigeria because Satan and his children are in charge.

So, when God takes over, you will not see all this rubbish because they will vanish and how God will do it is God’s own secret.

What is your message to Nigerians as 2027 is here with us?

My message to Nigerians is that we have seen that man; the human being by himself and herself can never help realise the Nigeria that will be good for everybody and for the land. The only hope for Nigeria is God Almighty and everybody who can pray; who has a righteous heart should pray because righteous prayer onto Adonai in the name of God is the most powerful prayer.

Sustainability Professionals Institute of Nigeria (SPIN) is putting in place plans to explore practical strategies for building resilience by gathering like minds to discuss future-ready organisations.

This step will be achieved during the inaugural Sustainability Conference 2026, a landmark national gathering that will bring together business leaders, policymakers, regulators, financial institutions, development partners, academics and sustainability professionals.

According to the organisers, some of what these stakeholders will deliberate on Thursday, August 20, 2026, at Eko Hotel and Suites, Lagos, will include exploring practical strategies for building resilient and future-ready organisations.

The hybrid conference, themed ‘The Adaptive Enterprise: Sustainability Strategies for Challenging Times,’ will convene business leaders, policymakers, regulators, financial institutions, development partners, academics and sustainability professionals.

Speaking ahead of the conference, Kenneth Amaeshi, president of the Sustainability Professionals Institute of Nigeria, said the inaugural conference reflects the institute’s commitment to advancing sustainability beyond compliance and positioning it as a core element of organisational leadership.

Amaeshi said that the conference follows the successful induction of 79 new sustainability professionals into the Institute in June 2026, reinforcing SPIN’s position as one of Africa’s fastest-growing professional communities dedicated to sustainability leadership.

The president announced that Aminu Umar Sadiq, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority, will be delivering the keynote address while Olusegun Alebiosu, managing director and chief executive officer of FirstBank Group, will deliver the guest address.

Other distinguished speakers include Biyi Olagbami, executive director, Risk, FirstBank Group, Ibrahim Shelleng, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Climate Finance and Stakeholder Engagement and other distinguished guests.

Participants are expected from the sustainability sector, banking and financial services, manufacturing, energy, telecommunications, consulting, professional services, government institutions, regulatory agencies, development organisations, academia and civil society.

The conference will also provide valuable opportunities for networking, collaboration and knowledge exchange among professionals committed to shaping more resilient organisations and a more sustainable economy.

Lymmy Ogbidi is the Reservoir Engineering Solutions Technical Lead at SLB, Crawley UK. In this interview, Ogbidi emphasises the need for budding and young engineers aiming to get a master’s degree to engage deeply with the global community and faculty expertise to broaden their perspective. Excerpts by JOHN SALAU:

What’s your take on Nigeria’s oil and gas sector?

Nigeria’s oil and gas sector is going through an interesting transformation. We have enormous resources, a strong domestic market and growing indigenous capacity. With the indigenous companies acquiring major assets previously operated by international oil companies and Dangote Refinery significantly expanding local refining capacity, we are seeing more of the industry’s value chain coming under local participation. I believe the opportunity now is to build on that momentum by increasing production, developing our vast gas resources, improving infrastructure and applying technology to make operations more efficient and sustainable. If we get the investment climate and policies right, I believe Nigeria can move beyond being predominantly a crude producer to becoming a much stronger integrated energy and industrial economy.

The private refinery (Dangote) plans to go public with an initial IPO in October; what does that mean for the oil and gas sector?

It would be a very significant development for Nigeria’s oil and gas sector. Taking a refinery of that scale public opens the opportunity for broader participation in what is one of the country’s most important energy assets. Beyond raising capital, an IPO can bring greater transparency, stronger corporate governance and market discipline. It also sends a positive signal to both local and international investors about the growing maturity of Nigeria’s energy sector. More importantly, I believe it reinforces the shift we are already seeing towards greater private-sector and indigenous participation across the industry. If successful, it could encourage more energy companies to access the capital market and ultimately deepen investment across Nigeria’s entire energy value chain.

What would you say inspired you to pursue an MSc in Petroleum Engineering and how did your academic interests develop leading up to this decision?

My decision to pursue an MSc in Petroleum Engineering at Heriot-Watt was driven by two key factors: a passion for the energy industry and a desire to deepen my technical expertise in reservoir engineering. Before this, I had developed a good foundation in engineering during my bachelor’s degree and worked on projects that highlighted the complexity of subsurface challenges. I realized that advanced skills in reservoir simulation, enhanced oil recovery, and production optimization were critical for solving real-world problems, especially in regions like West Africa where efficiency and sustainability are key. Heriot-Watt stood out for its industry-focused curriculum and strong research reputation, which aligned perfectly with my goal of bridging theory and practical application. Ultimately, this decision was about positioning myself to lead innovation in an industry that’s evolving rapidly with advanced technology.

During your time at Heriot-Watt, what experience would you describe as pivotal that shaped your approach to reservoir engineering and problem-solving within the oil and gas industry?

One pivotal moment at Heriot-Watt was during a group project on reservoir simulation for a complex North Sea offshore field. We had limited data and conflicting interpretations to quantify the asset, which forced us to think beyond textbook solutions. I led the team during the initial phase of the project, stepping into the role of geological subsurface modeller ahead of my core reservoir engineering responsibilities. In this capacity, I applied probabilistic modelling and sensitivity analysis to quantify subsurface uncertainty while incorporating economic considerations into key technical decisions. This experience shaped my approach to reservoir engineering by combining rigorous data analysis with practical business judgment and collaborative problem-solving. It taught me that in real-world scenarios, adaptability and clear communication are just as critical as technical expertise

How did your MSc research contribute to your expertise and understanding of the industry’s evolving needs?

My MSc research focused on subsurface injection of Monoethylene Glycol (MEG) for underground gas storage in depleted reservoirs. This work gave me deep insight into flow assurance, hydrate prevention, and chemical interactions under high-pressure conditions which is critical for safe and efficient gas storage. It shaped my understanding of how reservoir engineering must evolve to support energy transition goals, such as seasonal gas storage and carbon capture. I learned to integrate thermodynamic modeling with operational constraints, which strengthened my ability to design solutions that balance technical feasibility, safety, and economics. Ultimately, this research reinforced the importance of innovation and adaptability in meeting the industry’s future needs.

In what ways has your educational training supported your industry practice?

My education at Heriot-Watt differentiated me because of its strong integration of theory, practical application, and cutting-edge research. The program emphasized advanced reservoir simulation, flow assurance, and energy transition strategies, which gave me a holistic view of subsurface challenges. Unlike many traditional programs, Heriot-Watt’s industry-focused curriculum and exposure to real-world case studies taught me to combine technical rigor with business judgment and sustainability considerations. This approach shaped me into not just a technical expert, but a strategic thinker who can lead innovation and adapt to evolving industry needs which are skills that set me apart as an emerging leader in reservoir engineering. The rigorous curriculum at Heriot-Watt prepared me exceptionally well for the technical challenges I have faced over 15 years in the industry. Working with industry standard reservoir engineering software like ECLIPSE and Petrel, and analysing real field data, taught me how to handle complex reservoir simulations and uncertainty modelling under real-world conditions. This hands-on exposure built my confidence in integrating theory with practice – whether optimizing production strategies, designing EOR projects, or managing high-risk deepwater operations. It also instilled a mindset of precision and adaptability, which has been critical in navigating technological disruptions and regulatory changes throughout my career.

What role did the university’s alumni network play in shaping your career trajectory and approach to international projects?

The global community at Heriot-Watt, combined with faculty expertise and a strong alumni network, had a huge influence on my career trajectory. Working with peers from different countries exposed me to diverse approaches to problem-solving, which shaped my ability to lead international projects. Faculty members brought real-world insights from global energy operations, and their support helped me understand how technical decisions align with business and regulatory contexts worldwide. The alumni network provided access to industry leaders and opportunities for collaboration, which expanded my perspective beyond local challenges. Surprisingly, I have met and worked with numerous industry leaders who did their post graduate degrees in Heriot Watt University. This experience taught me that success in reservoir engineering isn’t just technical, it’s about cultural awareness, global collaboration, and leveraging networks to drive innovation.

What advice do you have for young engineers considering a master’s degree at Heriot-Watt, particularly in terms of industry leadership and lifelong learning?

I would advise young engineers considering a master’s at Heriot-Watt to view it as more than an academic qualification. It’s a launchpad for industry leadership and lifelong learning. The program’s rigorous approach and use of real-world data will challenge you to think critically, make informed decisions, and adapt quickly to the demands of today’s energy sector. Engaging deeply with the global community and faculty expertise will broaden your perspective and help you build networks that matter for professional leadership. Most importantly, embrace continuous learning beyond graduation. The industry is evolving with digitalization and energy transition, so staying curious and proactive will set you apart as a future leader.

On a final note, can you tell us something about your personal philosophy?

Yes, I would like to add something that reflects my personal philosophy. In life, I believe you should take every opportunity that comes your way; give it your absolute best and embrace every experience you can. These moments, whether big or small, do shape your skills, resilience, and character. Over time, all that hard work behind the scenes becomes visible in the results you achieve and the leader you become. That mindset has guided me through my MSc program and my career, and it’s something I continue to live by every day.

A new book, Courage to Succeed, has launched to spotlight the resilience of Nigerian entrepreneurship.

Authored by Yinka Padonu, creative director of Smartbrands Innovative Media Services, the book profiles 14 founders who built thriving businesses despite major challenges.

The book tells the stories of entrepreneurs including Chidi Ajaere of GIG Group, Cosmas Maduka of Coscharis Group, Odunayo Eweniyi of PiggyVest, and Tunde Onakoya of Chess in Slums Africa.

It also features Grace Ibhakomu of Lifecard Int’l Investment Ltd, Sola Adesakin of Smart Stewards Financial Academy, Wisdom Ezekiel of Pertinence Group, Kemi Fajana of Fajana Group, Tara Fela-Durotoye of House of Tara International, Olumide Adeniji of Ao Electricals and other leaders across transport, finance, and social impact sectors.

According to Padonu, Courage to Succeed is designed to document the vision, grit, and enterprise behind Nigeria’s growing business class, while offering lessons for aspiring founders across West Africa.

In a statement, he explained that the legacy book project documents their early beginnings, the obstacles they encountered, and the principles that guided their growth.

He noted that the book was written to preserve authentic Nigerian business stories and to provide a practical reference for students, young professionals and aspiring founders.

‘I authored this book to put on record the experiences of Nigerians who dared to start. These are not theories. These are real stories of risk, failure, learning and eventual success,’ Padonu stated. ‘If one young person reads this and decides to start, then the purpose is served.’

According to Padonu, the 14 entrepreneurs featured in the book represent diverse sectors and backgrounds.

Each chapter explores how they identified opportunities, mobilized limited resources, built teams, and stayed consistent through economic fluctuations.

He added that the book also examines the mindset required to succeed as a business owner in Nigeria.

‘Entrepreneurship in Nigeria demands courage, patience and adaptability. The people in this book did not wait for perfect conditions. They started where they were, with what they had,’ he said.

He said the book is positioned to contribute to national conversations on job creation, self-reliance and the importance of documenting indigenous business models.

The book further highlights mentorship, community support, and policy as key factors influencing enterprise growth.

The official launch of the book is scheduled for Thursday, 3rd September 2026 at the Faculty of Communication and Media Studies (FCMS) Conference Hall, University of Lagos, Akoka, Lagos.

‘Your presence will honour this milestone and celebrate the spirit of enterprise and impact in Nigeria,’ Padonu said.

The launch will feature a keynote address, a panel discussion, and a book signing. Members of the media, academia, the business community and the general public are invited to attend. Copies of the book will be available at the venue.

Padonu is an author and creative director at Smartbrands Innovative Media Services, Lagos.

He is a media and brand strategist focused on storytelling, visibility and enterprise development. Through his work, he helps businesses, public figures and institutions communicate with clarity and purpose.

Courage to Succeed is his latest book and reflects his commitment to documenting and amplifying Nigerian entrepreneurial journeys.

The presidential candidate of the Allied People’s Movement (APM) and Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, has said the task ahead of the 2027 general election goes beyond winning political power, stressing the need to give Nigerians a credible choice for the future.

Makinde stated this on Thursday at the APM National Convention held at the Rilwanu Suleiman Adamu Square in Bauchi State.

He described the emergence of the APM as timely, saying a credible opposition remains essential to the survival and growth of democracy.

According to him, political parties must move beyond the politics of opposition for its own sake and instead present Nigerians with credible alternatives capable of improving their lives.

Makinde urged the newly-elected leaders of the party to collaborate with other opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general election, emphasising the need for a political system built on trust, accountability and measurable results.

He described Bauchi as ‘the heart beat not only of the North-Eastern part of Nigeria but the entire northern Nigeria, and indeed the entire country,’ noting the state’s historical significance as the home of Nigeria’s first Prime Minister at independence.

‘The next political system must restore something that has steadily disappeared from our politics, and that thing is trust,’ Makinde said.

‘Nigerians must believe that when leaders make comments, those comments and their commitment must mean something,’ he further said.

The APM presidential candidate outlined three principles he said should guide the party’s approach to politics.

He said political disagreements should not turn opponents into enemies; opposition parties should focus on presenting a ‘credible and demonstrably better alternative.’

Rather than merely seeking to remove those in power, political parties with differences should still be able to agree that ‘Nigeria must work better for its people.’

Makinde said the 2027 election should therefore, be a contest of ideas, urging political parties to debate evidence, compare records and present clear, measurable plans to the electorate.

‘The task before 2027 is bigger than winning an election. It is to give Nigerians a real choice about the future of their country,’ he said.

He challenged politicians seeking the trust of Nigerians to answer a fundamental question: How will the lives of Nigerians be better because we were given the opportunity to lead?’

Also speaking at the convention, the National Chairman of the APM, Yusuf Dantalle, said the party was prepared to offer Nigerians a new political direction.

Dantalle said Nigerians were tired of what he described as lies, deception and political intrigue, adding that the country needed leadership focused on tangible and measurable results.

He expressed concern over the continued killings and displacement of Nigerians across the country’s geopolitical zones, stressing the urgent need for practical solutions to the challenges confronting citizens.

The party chairman also highlighted the importance of access to education and healthcare, arguing that Nigerians in the past enjoyed better access to essential social services.

Dantalle further criticised the treatment of Nigerians in some foreign countries, arguing that Nigeria had historically contributed significantly to the development of some of those countries.

He urged APM supporters to take the party’s message to Nigerians ‘from person to person, house to house,’ as the party begins its mobilisation ahead of the 2027 general election.

When Governor Mai Mala Buni appointed Babagana Mohammed Adam as Special Adviser on Food Security, he placed a corporate turnaround specialist at the helm of what is arguably Yobe State’s most critical economic challenge.

The appointment is notable not merely for Adam’s veterinary and public health credentials, but for his track record as a business builder who has demonstrated the capacity to transform distressed assets into profitable enterprises.

With the Nigeria Food Corporation (NFC) already under his leadership and a new oversight mandate covering the state’s entire food security architecture, the question is whether business discipline can succeed where conventional agricultural policy has struggled.

Adam’s profile aligns with a deliberate shift toward private-sector thinking in public agricultural policy. His corporate journey began at Fulus Group, where, as the Group Managing Director, he led the conglomerate’s expansion into a multi-billion-naira enterprise with interests spanning investment management, agriculture, and facility management, and founded Fulus Capital Limited, a Securities and Exchange Commission-licensed fund management and venture capital firm.

He subsequently served as Group Managing Director of Thinklab Group, a diversified conglomerate with interests in development, agriculture, and finance, where he successfully scaled the company’s portfolio to $400 million, demonstrating his capacity to manage complex, multi-sectoral businesses.

He also co-founded Rayyan Microfinance Bank, extending financial services to rural farmers and small businesses across the region. As Managing Director of the Nigeria Food Corporation, he has overseen the consolidation of six distressed agro-industrial assets into a single holding company: the Nigerian Food Company Limited, Nguru Oil Mills Limited, Yobe Flour and Feeds Mills Company Limited, Wheat Flour Global Mills Company Limited, Yobe State Fertiliser Blending Company, and the Damaturu Modern Abattoir.

This restructuring, executed through a Public-Private Partnership framework, aims to apply corporate governance principles to state-owned enterprises that had long been underperforming.

His recent strategic engagement with Chinese manufacturers, including FAW Trucks and Hongdefa Machinery, focused not merely on equipment procurement but on technology transfer and local production capacity, with the emphasis on establishing production workshops in Nigeria signalling an understanding that sustainable food security requires industrial capacity, not just humanitarian assistance. This is a business approach to a development problem.

The data underlying this appointment is sobering from a business perspective. Yobe produces enough sesame to meet domestic commercial demand and supply export markets in Asia, the Middle East and Europe. Yet, for decades most of it left the state as raw produce, with real profits, jobs and skills created elsewhere.

This structural gap kept farmers poor and the local economy dependent on subsistence agriculture and federal allocations. The newly constructed sesame processing factories in Machina, Potiskum, Damaturu, and Nguru are designed to capture value that previously leaked out of the state’s economy.

Beyond sesame, rice processing in Yobe is profitable, with processors earning an average net income of N9,632 per 75kg bag and a return of 34 per cent per naira. Yet, processors struggle with multiple taxation, unreliable electricity, and inconsistent raw material supply. The business case for intervention is clear: fixing these constraints could unlock significant economic value.

The Yobe State Agency for Public-Private Partnership and Investment Promotion has reported that more than 50 local and foreign investors have expressed interest in key sectors of the state’s economy, with discussions progressing to due diligence and negotiation of commercial terms.

The agency has developed a PPP Policy, manual, implementation guidelines, and fiscal commitments framework designed to provide investors with confidence in the state’s partnership processes. Yobe’s improving business climate is reflected in its ranking as the ninth best-performing state in Nigeria’s Subnational Ease of Doing Business Index.

This institutional groundwork, combined with the tangible asset base of the Nigeria Food Corporation, creates a platform for attracting private capital that previous administrations lacked.

No single appointment can resolve Yobe’s food security challenges, as the factors driving food insecurity-climate variability, insecurity, rising input costs, and inflation-are largely beyond the control of any state-level official. However, Adam’s mandate to coordinate the Yobe State Mega Agricultural Empowerment Programme, the Community Revolving Funds under ACReSAL, the Livestock Development Programme, and the Nutrition 774 Initiative, while serving as primary liaison with FAO, WFP, UNICEF, IFAD, and the World Bank, places him in a position to ensure that scarce resources are deployed where they deliver the greatest economic return.

The business case for Yobe’s food security transformation is compelling, as processing sesame locally can increase its value by 30-50 per cent, depending on grade and destination. Revitalised mills mean jobs, functional fertiliser plants mean improved yields, and efficient transport fleets mean reduced post-harvest losses. Each intervention connects policy with livelihood and with economic sustainability.

Governor Buni’s appointment of Babagana Mohammed Adam as Special Adviser on Food Security represents a calculated bet that business discipline, corporate governance, and private-sector partnerships can achieve what conventional agricultural programmes have not.

The appointment leverages his dual role as Managing Director of the Nigeria Food Corporation, aligning institutional policy formulation with operational execution. Whether this translates into measurable improvements in food security will depend on sustained political will, adequate funding, improved security, and international partners’ cooperation.

For the investors assessing Yobe’s agro-industrial potential, the next twelve months will determine whether the state can move beyond subsistence to sustainable economic growth.

Siminalayi Fubara, Rivers State governor, is set to begin commissioning a tranche of ‘people-oriented’ projects meant to transform grassroots living standards and position the oil-rich state for economic growth.

Dagogo Wokoma, Secretary to the State Government, said on Friday at Government House that the commissioning will run from August 17 to August 28 and will cover projects across several local government areas.

Juliana Masi, Head of the Information and Public Relations Unit, said in a release that the list of projects includes roads, bridges, healthcare facilities, educational infrastructure and other public amenities.

Wokoma stressed that the projects are tangible evidence of Fubara’s commitment to transforming communities and addressing the developmental needs of residents across the state.

He said the commissioning would commence on August 17 with the Buguma-Degema-Abonnema Road, which links communities in Asari-Toru, Degema and Akuku-Toru local government areas.

The Egwi-Afara-Mba Road in Etche Local Government Area will be commissioned on August 18, followed by the Capt. Elechi Poly Entrepreneurship Centre/Engineering Faculty Building on August 19.

On August 20, the governor will commission the Elele-Egbeda-Omoku dual carriageway in Ikwerre, Emohua and ONELGA local government areas, while the new Omoku Zonal Hospital in Omoku (ONELGA) will be commissioned on August 21.

The commissioning will resume on August 24 with the Omademe internal roads in Ikwerre LGA. Attention will shift to Port Harcourt LGA on August 25 for the commissioning of the new Air Force Base runway.

Wokoma said attention will be drawn to Emohua LGA for the commissioning of the Agba Ndele Road and bridge, while two major health facilities – the Neuropsychiatric Hospital and the new General Hospital, Rumuigbo, both in Obio/Akpor – are scheduled for commissioning on August 27.

The 10-day programme will end on August 28 with the commissioning of Bonny National Grammar School in Bonny Local Government Area.

Wokoma said the projects reflect the administration’s determination to ensure that government policies and programmes positively affect citizens.

‘These projects scheduled for commissioning are tangible evidence of His Excellency’s unwavering dedication to transform our communities and address the developmental needs of our people,’ he said.

He added that the projects underscore the administration’s commitment to ensuring that governance produces ‘meaningful and measurable benefits for every citizen across the 23 local government areas of the state.’

Wokoma also acknowledged the contributions of government officials, contractors, host communities and other stakeholders to the completion of the projects, and he urged Rivers’ people to participate in the commissioning activities and continue to support the administration in its pursuit of peace and development.

‘We invite all Rivers people to join in celebrating these milestones and to continue supporting the administration of Governor Siminalayi Fubara as it advances peace, development, progress and prosperity,’ he said.

The Reality Organisation, one of the biggest political structures in Abia State, has threatened to establish a parallel structure within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, accusing the party’s current state leadership of high-handedness, political intolerance, and actions capable of deepening internal divisions.

The group, in a statement issued Thursday and signed by Dimgba Okereke, said that its position followed a communiqué purportedly issued by the APC State Working Committee (SWC) against Orji Uzor-Kalu, a senator representing Abia North Senatorial Zone, and Chris Nkwonta, member, representing Ukwa East/Ukwa West federal constituency in the House of Representatives.

The organisation specifically faulted the alleged disciplinary action against Uzor-Kalu over comments made during a television interview concerning the 2027 election.

According to the group, Uzor-Kalu was asked whether President Bola Ahmed Tinubu would win the 2027 presidential election and he answered in the affirmative. It said that he was also asked whether Governor Alex Otti, would win the Abia governorship election, to which he also answered yes.

The organisation argued that Uzor-Kalu’s response did not amount to an endorsement of Governor Otti, stressing that he reportedly answered ‘no’ when asked whether the APC was in an alliance with the governor.

‘Where, therefore, is the endorsement? Is a prediction now synonymous with an endorsement?’ the group asked, arguing that political analysis should not be interpreted as anti-party activity.

The Reality Organisation accused the Abia APC leadership, particularly Chijioke Chukwu and his associates, of applying different standards to members perceived as political allies and opponents.

It cited an earlier article allegedly published by the camp of Benjamin Kalu, deputy speaker of the House of Representatives, predicting political hurdles for Uzor-Kalu ahead of the National Assembly primaries, questioning why similar disciplinary concerns were not raised at the time.

The group maintained that if the APC leadership disagrees with Uzor-Kalu’s assessment of the 2027 political landscape, it should focus on strengthening the party, reconciling aggrieved members, mobilising supporters, and producing a candidate capable of winning at the polls.

It further warned that no individual or group owns the APC in Abia State, arguing that the party belongs to all members, who have contributed to its growth and electoral activities.

The organisation said that continued ‘segregation, intimidation, high-handedness and impunity’ could compel what it described, as genuine and patriotic APC members to establish a dedicated State Working Committee, to provide what it considers more inclusive leadership.

‘Nobody should mistake restraint for weakness,’ the statement warned.

The Reality Organisation called on the APC leadership to treat Uzor-Kalu’s prediction, as an opportunity for introspection rather than persecution, insisting that the party’s response to the 2027 political contest, should be based on organisation, reconciliation, credible leadership, mobilisation, and engagement with the electorate.

It concluded by declaring: ‘Enough is enough.’

Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has reaffirmed his support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

Adeleke made the declaration on Sunday, August 16, 2026, shortly after he was declared winner of the August 15 governorship election in the state.

The governor commended President Tinubu for ensuring a free and fair poll in Osun, describing him as a ‘son of Osun State.’

‘At this point, I must deeply appreciate Mr President, His Excellency Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his strong support for a free and fair election,’ Adeleke said.

‘Mr President is a son of Osun State, and I hereby reaffirm my earlier endorsement of him for a second term in the 2027 presidential election.’

Adeleke had earlier endorsed Tinubu in May and June, saying his decision was driven by the interest of Osun State and the Yoruba people.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared Adeleke, candidate of the Accord Party, winner of the governorship election with 511,067 votes. He defeated his closest rival, Bola Oyebamiji of the All Progressives Congress (APC), who polled 444,815 votes.

Speaking on his victory, Adeleke promised to use his renewed mandate to consolidate his administration’s achievements, address shortcomings and accelerate development across the state.

He said his government would pursue its renewed five-point agenda with emphasis on development, good governance and improved opportunities for the people of Osun.

With the declaration, Adeleke joins the list of political figures outside the APC who have publicly endorsed President Tinubu for a second term in 2027.

The Yoruba Youth Council (YYC) has congratulated the Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Jackson Adeleke, on his victory in the August 15, 2026 governorship election, describing the outcome as a strong affirmation of the people’s democratic choice.

In a statement signed by the President of the Yoruba Youth Council, Alawode Rahmon Akintunde, the organisation commended the people of Osun State for turning out to exercise their constitutional right and for demonstrating their commitment to democratic governance.

The Council also applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what it described as his commitment to democratic principles and respect for the will of the electorate.

According to the YYC President, the Osun election has provided another opportunity to demonstrate that Nigeria’s democracy is capable of producing outcomes that reflect the wishes of the people.

‘The victory of Governor Ademola Adeleke is a victory for democracy and a clear demonstration that the people’s votes can determine the direction of governance when the electoral process is allowed to function effectively.

‘We commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for providing the political environment for a credible electoral process. His commitment to democratic principles and respect for the people’s choice will, in our view, strengthen his standing among Nigerians and could significantly enhance his prospects ahead of the 2027 presidential election.’

The Council noted that President Tinubu’s democratic approach, particularly the willingness to allow the electorate to freely express its choice, should be sustained as the country moves towards the 2027 general elections.

The YYC further congratulated Governor Adeleke for securing another mandate from the people of Osun State, urging him to see the victory as a renewed responsibility to deliver inclusive development, good governance and people-oriented leadership.

The organisation also commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies for their roles in the conduct of the election.

The Council said the peaceful conduct of the poll and the eventual declaration of the result demonstrated the importance of professional electoral administration and effective security arrangements in strengthening public confidence in democracy.

The YYC therefore called on all political actors, regardless of party affiliation, to respect the outcome of the election and pursue any grievances through lawful and constitutional channels.

The Council urged Governor Adeleke to use his renewed mandate to unite the people of Osun State and continue working for the development and prosperity of the state.