Category: Daily Trust

Motorists in Nigeria are lamenting the delay associated with the processing of driver’s licence at the various offices of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) nationwide.

Motorists who spoke to Weekend Trust alleged that at times they were extorted when applying for either a new licence or renewal, and described the development as frustrating.

The Nigerian driver’s licence system is overseen by the FRSC, in partnership with licensing authorities at all the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

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Checks by our correspondents showed that applicants are usually required to undergo biometric capturing, after which they are issued a temporary licence valid for 60 days while awaiting the permanent plastic card. Findings showed that many of the motorists were not issued permanent plastic cards, months after registering, a development that makes motorists face harassment from law enforcers on the roads.

Speaking to our correspondent in the FCT, Paul Samson, a motorist who plies Central Area to Mararaba in Nasarawa State, said he had gone to the FRSC office several times because of the card but his efforts were abortive.

Narrating his ordeal, he said, ‘I applied in August 2024, did the capturing in September and was told to return in November. By January and February, it still wasn’t ready.

‘My temporary licence had even expired by then; and it wasn’t until July 2025 that I finally got my permanent licence.’

On his part, Alice Clement, a driver in Niger State, explained that the problem lies not just in delays but in inefficiencies within the system, saying she had a similar experience when her temporary licence expired before the permanent one was issued.

‘Each time I went, they said network was bad. It took nearly 9 months before I collected mine,’ she said, describing the process as very bad.

Mr Ebere Chukwudi, a driver, told our reporter that he had been visiting the Vehicle Inspection Office in Gwagwalada for over three months to acquire his licence but had received no positive response. He claimed that despite paying and having his data captured on the computer after filling a form, the officials were yet to issue the licence.

He explained that FRSC personnel frequently stopped him on the Kubwa expressway to demand his driver’s licence and vehicle papers. ‘Whenever I try to explain the situation, they would book me. I can’t even count the number of times I visited the VIO office to collect my driver’s licence. And they don’t give clear reasons for the delay,’ he said.

Abdullahi Yahaya, another motorist, said he had been making several unsuccessful efforts to renew his driver’s licence, which expired in March 2025. He visited the FRSC office on multiple occasions but was unable to obtain the new licence. And his inquiries to officials for the reason behind the problem have not yielded a satisfactory response.

‘My driver’s licence expired in March 2025 and I have made several attempts at both the FRSC and VIO offices to get a new one, but unfortunately, I couldn’t. Even when I tried to find out why, I didn’t get any convincing response,’ he said.

He claimed that both VIO and FRSC personnel often embarrass him because of the licence issue. He called on the FRSC management to publicly explain the cause of the delay.

Mr Kayode Abdulganiyu, another motorist, echoed the complaints over the non-issuance of licences. He said he visited both the FRSC and VIO offices in Gwagwalada but was unable to obtain the licence.

‘When I inquired from the VIO in their office in Gwagwalada, they could not give me any convincing response. Some of them claimed they were trying to upgrade the driver’s licence and that is why it is being delayed,’ he said.

Abdulganiyu claimed the FRSC personnel along the Zuba axis had arrested and fined him on three different occasions due to lack of a driver’s licence.

However, Evangelist Simon Edifeh, who processes his licence at the Mararaba office in Nassarawa Sate, said he didn’t have difficulties.

According to him, many licences are ready but left uncollected. ‘If you go there, you will see bags of licences waiting for people. Some motorists prefer shortcuts and fake licences, which cause them problems later.

‘I go directly, renew, get captured, and within a week or so, I get mine,’ he said, arguing that the absence of VIOs could weaken roadworthiness checks.

Many hurdles

Agbo Daniel, a commercial motorist, noted that the difficulty in obtaining a driver’s license would start right from the payment level. According to him, it can take up to three days before officials even confirm the transaction.

He said the next trouble had to do with data capturing, adding, ‘By the time you are through with that, you have to wait for about a month to get the temporary licence before the original copy is ready, which will take months.

‘They would take another period just searching for the document when you go to their office to collect it,’ explaining that this process is for renewals.

For obtaining a fresh licence, an applicant is required to attend a driving school and provide a medical report. He also said, ‘Thereafter, you would wait for about three months before being asked to make the official payment and go for data capturing before the document could be ready at a specific time.’

Speaking about his preference between the FRSC and VIO, Daniel confidently said he preferred to register with the FRSC, explaining that VIO’s procedure was more rigorous due to the high volume of applicants and patronage.

Saminu Sani recounted a previous experience where he rushed to apply for renewal upon the expiration of his license. He said, ‘But I was disappointed as it took me so long before getting a new one. There is a lot of corruption attached to the procedure, which I refused to oblige.’

He urged the present government to declare a state of emergency on the issue and carry out the necessary reforms that would fast-track the process.

Possible reasons for the delay

A retired FRSC personnel, Abubakar Shehu, said the challenge with the issuance of driver’s licence might be as a result of the ongoing upgrade of the licence by the FRSC.

‘I think the challenge may be as a result of the upgrading of the driver’s licence. My friend even gave me money to help him process the licence two months ago, but up till this moment, it is not yet ready,’ he said.

A VIO official attributed the delay to bureaucratic processes from the FRSC headquarters in Abuja, noting that the FRSC handles the core licensing process.

‘If you want to get the true picture about the whole matter, I think you should try and reach out to the FCT sector command of the FRSC, who are in a better position to give you details,’ the official advised.

What happened in the past

In 2012, the FRSC introduced the digital driver’s licence scheme, promising faster processing, improved security and reduced forgery.

More than a decade later, however, motorists say little has changed. Complaints of poor data management, network downtime and central printing backlogs remain widespread.

A driver, Mudi Shuaibu, recalled how he first obtained his licence in August 1988, claiming that the process was ‘more honest than the present days. I can remember how I was interviewed along with other applicants at the VIO office. Thereafter, you would be issued the license immediately once you passed the test.’

Shuaibu alleged that the current process is ‘entirely different’ because a licence can be acquired without necessarily visiting any office. ‘All you need is to transfer the money to an official and send a photo of your choice. And believe me, the document could be ready within a week,’ he said.

For many applicants, the delay is not just an inconvenience but carries real consequences.

Expired temporary licences expose motorists to harassment by security officials, fines and sometimes extortion.

The driver’s licence also doubles as a primary means of identification for banking, voter registration and regional travel within ECOWAS, further compounding the impact of the inefficiencies.

Stakeholders argue that without urgent reforms, including stricter monitoring of licence production, investment in digital infrastructure and a crackdown on middlemen issuing fake documents, the credibility of the licensing system will remain in question.

FRSC gives reasons

Reacting to the delay, the FRSC’s corps public education officer, Assistant Corps Marshal, Olusegun Ogungbemide, noted that the process was an online-real-time, which involves biometric capturing and investigation at the backend.

He said, ‘At the moment, there are some technical challenges the Corps Marshall is currently working on. However, there are about 228,000 licences yet to be picked up in licencing offices nationwide.”

Also reacting, the FCT sector commander of the FRSC, Mr Felix Therman, said over 25,000 processed driver’s licences were uncollected by motorists in the FCT.

Speaking to one of our reporters on telephone, Therman said many applicants refused to come forward to claim their licences despite repeated public calls.

According to him, 17,000 licences are ‘lying fallow’ at the sector command office without any driver, commercial or private bothering to claim them.

‘I want to tell you that we have over 25,000 driver’s licences that are yet to be collected by motorists in the FCT. Even out of this figure, we have 17,000 licences at the sector alone, which have not been collected. So, I wonder how some motorists can complain that they are finding it difficult to acquire a driver’s licence in the FCT,’ he said.

Therman admitted that challenges for some motorists were indeed due to the ongoing upgrade of the licence, which involves changing some features.

‘We just held a meeting with the FRSC Corps Marshal, and by the grace of God, in the next two to three weeks, the driver’s licence will be available,’ he concluded.

Overtime politicians in Nigeria have made their marks in various areas. They have shown that it is not just about delivering on promises made during campaigns, but that style also matters. Sometimes, the actor may not even be aware of the influence his style carries until it is adopted by supporters and other people who may be seeking one form of favour or the other. In recent times, the cap worn by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu appears to have developed a life of its own travelling across cultures and states alike. Aside politicians, some ordinary citizens are also seen adorning the cap. Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on Monday, generated controversy when he issued a directive to members of his cabinet to start adorning President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s cap at every meeting with him.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has since his days as governor of Lagos State, come to be identified with a particular kind of design on his cap which at first glance seems like the figure ‘8’ but at a close range appears like a broken chain.

It has become part of his identity that anywhere the cap with the design is seen, it immediately evokes the image of the president.

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Governor Opkebholo, who won his election last year has been full of gratitude to the president for the support he gave him in defeating the candidate of the then ruling party Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state.

He explained that adorning the same style of cap with the president is a means by which the members of his cabinet would show their support to the number citizen.

‘I will not forgive any commissioner that is not wearing this cap. In our exco meetings, if you are not wearing a suit and you are coming to the meeting without this Asiwaju cap, you will go back, ‘he said.

Since the directive was reported, many have flayed the Edo State governor, saying it is sycophantic for the governor to say so.

The Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State, Dan Osa-Ogbegie, described the governor’s directive as proof that he was installed.

‘Our people have insisted, loudly and consistently, that they voted for Asue Ighodalo. Monday Okpebholo himself has now given public weight to that sentiment. He owes his seat not to Edo, but to the man whose cap he compels others to wear, ‘he said.

The Asiwaju cap

What is now known as the Asiwaju cap according to those in the trade is actually the traditional Yoruba cap which at a time was made popular by the Afenifere, a Yoruba socio-cultural organisation.

Tinubu, according to many, however added a touch to it by designing it with a particular logo on both sides.

The design is unique as people do not recall seeing anyone displaying it before Tinubu and when he advanced in politics, his supporters began to imitate him which made the design popular.

Publicity Secretary of All Progressives Congress (APC), Mogaji Seye Oladejo, in a chat with Weekend Trust said the adornment of President Bola Tinubu signature cap is voluntary and at no time did the president issue a directive that his supporters must adorn the cap.

‘I’m not too sure Asiwaju had a conversation about what it symbolises but we can only guess’, he said.

I am not aware of any directive but people on their own voluntarily decided to underscore their loyalty and commitment to him by wearing a replica of his cap.

Our correspondents learnt that though the president has not openly asked anyone to show solidarity by wearing the cap, some say the fact that he has not spoken against it shows that he doesn’t mind.

‘Ordinarily, most political leaders would be happy seeing their styles being copied so it is possible the president is happy about it,’ said an admirer who does not want to be named.

Oladejo explained that those who don’t wear it are not seen as less loyal because according to him loyalty goes beyond just wearing cap.

‘It’s fundamental, in-depth and more peculiar to be loyal beyond the wearing of a cap. You can actually wear the cap and you are not committed. So, you have to be loyal in words, in deeds, in tongues and in actions,’ he stated.

What the cap symbolises

The origin of the design is said to date back to when Tinubu was the governor of Lagos State. It is of Yoruba origin.

Said Oladejo, ‘Every major tribe in Nigeria has their kind of cap. The Yoruba are known for Asiwaju’s kind of cap, nice designs, vintage caps. The Igbos have their red cap, the Hausa also have their own kind of cap. The Tiv have their own cap and the Ibos have their own. Those from the South-South are known for their caps as well. So it is traditional, it’s cultural, it’s vintage. It’s visible.

A close associate explained that Tinubu started using the design as a way of sending a message that whether the opposition likes it or not he was going to spend two terms back then as governor of Lagos State.

He said, ‘When you look at the symbol itself it’s figure 8 but the 8 is not standing straight. It’s standing sideways but it symbolises figure 8. It can also be termed to be an uncommon chain of development or forward-looking progressive politics or an aspiration that cannot be broken no matter the intrigues or conspiracies.

‘And at a time like this too the symbol of that cap would also see us through 2027 which is looking very bright everyday courtesy of the president’s landmark achievements under the Renewed Hope Agenda and the opposition in disarray,’ he said.

Oladejo further stated that everybody has his peculiar style of politics and nobody has the moral right to be critical of the way anyone has chosen to play his politics.

‘If you call it hero worship so be it. But the hero is not the one demanding to be worshipped now. You can see the difference. So if you have chosen to worship the hero, why not? At least I am not aware of any Executive Order that every follower of Asiwaju should wear his cap. But Asiwaju would rather want you to be committed beyond just wearing the cap’, he said.

Other parts of the country

Our correspondents observe that politicians from other parts of country outside the South West are also wearing the cap or wearing other caps with the insignia to show their support for the president.

In the North, the former national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Abdullahi Umar Ganduje is particularly known to carry the design on his cap most of the time even when the cap is different from that of the Yoruba. The pattern is weaved on it.

Governor of Niger State, Mohammed Umar Bago, is also known to be fond of wearing caps with the design.

Our correspondents observed that it is not openly sold on the streets in the other parts of the country outside the South West.

‘Politicians request for it when they have a function and wear it openly, especially at political events,’ said Usman Yusuf, a trader in Abuja.

Politicians of old have used caps as symbols of identity but they were mainly drawn from their cultural backgrounds.

Leaders like Zanna Bukar Dapcharima; Obafemi Awolowo; Nnamdi Azikiwe; Aminu Kano; Waziri Ibrahim; Shehu Shagari and Solomon Lar made political statements with their peculiar caps.

The cap which was worn by Shagari is the typical Hausa cap, but has no sign or logo on it. During the administration of Goodluck Jonathan, the bowler hat of the Niger Delta became popular as his supporters took to wearing it.

This is the first time, however, that it is not just about the cap, but an individual’s symbol is been weaved onto caps from other regions.

Another cap that comes close to that is the Kwankwasiya cap, made popular by former governor of Kano State, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.

His supporters always put it on to show their solidarity. It started when he was governor and has continued till date.

Cap makers take advantage

Weekend Trust reports that some stylists in Lagos State have taken advantage of the popularity of the Tinubu signature cap to expand their frontiers as more people patronize them.

A fashion designer in Ikeja, Ridwan Abdullahi, in a chat with our correspondent explained that the local tailors use embroidery designs to make the cap.

He said he gets orders from time to time from APC members and loyalists of Asiwaju, who come as individuals or in groups requesting them to make the caps.

According to him, those who wear the caps are mainly youths and middle-aged people who are members of the party and subscribe to the president’s political ideology.

He said, ‘I can tell you that most tailors in Lagos have added the cap to the list of their designs. Many of us now make money from it. For instance, I get orders from individuals and bulk orders as well. Sometimes, a group of three, four or five approach me to make the cap for them.

‘Each embroidery design costs N10,000 per cap. People mostly use the traditional Aso Oke for the cap while some people use velvet depending on what they want’.

He stated that a cap could cost N15,000, if he is the one to buy the material for the customer.

‘We are very hopeful that with 2027 approaching, we would get more customers asking us to make the cap for them. But this has become the in-thing among politicians in the state,’ he said.

Analyst speaks

A political analyst, Dr. Kabiru Sufi, has described the rising trend of Nigerian politicians embracing the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s signature cap symbol- often referred to as the Tinubu Curve – as more of a political identity movement. In an interview with Weekend Trust, Dr. Sufi said the ‘cap symbol,’ now widely used by Tinubu’s loyalists and members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has evolved into a mark of allegiance to the president rather than a tool for political mobilisation.

‘He has identified himself with the use of the cap with the infinity symbol. It has been with him for quite a long time. But this time around, coming into the presidential scene, it has been glorified,’ Sufi explained.

According to him, the symbolism gained significant traction during Tinubu’s 2023 presidential campaign, becoming popularised by two northern politicians like former Kano State governor, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, and Ibrahim Masari, both early loyalists of the Tinubu political movement.

‘I think these two started the usage of the cap as an identity of the Tinubu movement even before he clinched the presidential ticket. When he did that, it started gaining more popularity,’ he said.

Sufi noted that after Tinubu’s inauguration as president, Ganduje’s appointment as APC National Chairman further amplified the trend, especially among party loyalists seeking to associate themselves with the president.

However, Dr. Sufi said while the trend may serve as a symbol of solidarity and political branding, it has no tangible effect on Nigeria’s political direction or governance outcomes.

‘I don’t think there is any impact, except that it serves as an identity and gives a kind of clout to the Tinubu movement,’ he said.

The analyst likened the Tinubu Curve to past political symbols used by Nigerian politicians and movements to express loyalty, such as the ‘Red Cup’ and the ‘Black Cap’ eras associated with other political figures.

He added that the more Tinubu consolidates power as president, the more politicians are likely to adopt the symbol as a way to align themselves with his administration and political structure.

All Progressives Congress (APC) is the ruling party at the national level, and opposition party in Kano state. Before 2023 general elections in Kano, the party was under the ‘mercy’ and influence of the leadership. While party ‘elders’ were described and seen as political messiah, to the then political realities.

Both categories did their best to the party, in approaches they thought were suitable and fit for the survival of the party, after election period of 2023. Actions and inactions from both leadership and followership standpoints gave birth to new normals, new realities and new understanding of life in post election period.

The disfigured nature of APC in Kano, its mutilated and diluted structure forced party members and party supporters to describe some experiences, as children of necessity. While some positions taken by leadership and elders, in pre-election, during election and post-election periods were seen as self-styled decisions. This is just an impression of some observers.

In pre-election period, people like Senator Abdurrahman Kawu Sumaila, Hon Kabiru Alhassan Rurum and Barrister Haruna Isa Dederi, among others, stand a better position to give clearer and vivid account for that scenario. Whether the treatment and design then were dicey or not, only these gentlemen and few others can explain with perfect precision. They were more or less victims of the situation then.

His Excellency the then Deputy Governor, and 2023 Gubernatorial candidate, His Excellency Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna and his running mate His Excellency Murtala Sule Garo, stand a better position to give good account of what transpired amongst leaders and elders during election period. Including some aspects of pre-election engagement.

Especially when they cast their mind back and observe what role did the then Governor of Kaduna state played, during proper election period. Up to the time when election result was announced. Including other attending circumstances.

During post-election period some decisions taken by both the leadership and followership, could better be swapped with indecision. Looking at the consequences erupted from within. When leadership and elders are busy singing party cohesion and commitment, followers are always busy chanting songs of praises and condemnation against each other within the same APC in the state.

Without the support, either directly or indirectly, of some sections of the leadership and elders, such divided stances against each other wouldn’t have been so pronounced and entrenched within the fabric of the party. In clearer terms, some of the leaders and elders, have never been genuine and honest in their call for a united party.

Part of the reasons that prompted genuine party people like Hon Sabi’u Barista Baburi, to come up in clearer terms and condemn the actions of some of our leaders and elders.

What is more fascinating is the fact that some prominent leaders within the higher part of the ladder, are always up and doing in directing their followers, genuine and pretenders, that united party should always be the key. Let me give an example with three gentlemen who excel in this area. I mean the area of making sure that, the party waxes stronger and united.

The names are presented here in accordance with the alphabetical arrangement. These are His Excellency Distinguished Senator Barau I Jibrin, Deputy Senate President, His Excellency Murtala Sule Garo, former Deputy Gubernatorial candidate in 2023 election and His Excellency Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna, former Gubernatorial candidate in 2023 election.

For each one of them, I have concrete examples that none of them wants to see to the disintegration of the party. They love the party and always work in the direction of their conviction.

To call a spade a spade, I’m yet to meet one single person who says Senator Barau gave a marching order for his people to go and castigate any party member, either leader or follower. The same thing applies to both Garo and Gawuna. All the trio are reserved, humble, receptive, strategic and too much believe in the party hegemony.

Many at times when trouble makers report any ploy against Barau, either true or false, to his ears, he is pond of saying ‘Don’t mind, these are all political engagement. Just go and work for the party. We don’t have time to waste.’ In fact some people around him, blame him for being too lenient to his detractors. This is my honest understanding of him.

For Garo, after dismissing such backbiting behaviors, he will tell you to your face, ‘Malam go and work for the survival of the party. What binds us all is the party. So please go and concentrate on party activities.’

I still remember vividly clear, when an association was floated within the party and such move was reported to Garo, at the formative stage of the group, informing him that, so so group was in place not for the integration of the party. But for campaigning in favour of so so person, against 2027. He outrightly discouraged and dismissed the rumor mongers with this simple statement ‘Since they are working for the party, there is no point in rejecting their efforts. No matter what.’

In pre-election period, in one of the stakeholders meeting that was held in Africa House, Government House, Kano, Gawuna said to the faces of all that time, including the then Governor, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, ‘ There are people coming to tell me many things about others in this great party. I’m warning for the last time, if they didn’t stop I will start exposing them one after the other immediately.’ It is obvious that Gawuna was faced with such divide-and-get-influence style, may be, from some sections of the leadership or elders or followership or even a mixture of all.

It was so glaring in pre-election period, when Gawuna-Garo ticket was the talk of town, there were supporters of both sides of the coin, I mean from Gawuna side and Garo side, I said some of their supporters, were busy castigating each other’s boss, as if the political marriage was forced on them all.

It was very easy for Gawuna supporters (some of them), either as kitchen cabinet or mere well wishers, to see them condemning Garo for reasons best known to them. The same thing applied to Garo side. But what was interesting at the time was, none of the candidates, Gawuna and Gawo, was seen clearly supporting such erring and derailing supporters.

What put such people to shame was, the kind of respect and consideration, Garo shows to Gawuna. From day one to date. Some people, from the party, went to the extent that, they were happy that APC didn’t make it at the Supreme Court. Their reason? Had it been APC emerged victorious at the Supreme Court in 2023, Garo would have been sidelined since by now. This is their understanding of it. To me this is hallucinations in its best form. It is even very pathetic and annoying to think in this direction.

To me, Senator Barau’s domineering influence and exposure in national politics, call for his relevance at the national level come 2027. This is just my personal opinion. Let APC, not Kano APC alone, work for Barau, lobby on his behalf, for a position closer to the corridor of power, at the higher level, not state. It should be an elective position, anyway. His pedigree, expertise in governance, experience and knowledge of global political arrangement, set him above his contemporaries.

For Gawuna – Garo ticket, it can still be maintained and it can try frontside-backside switchover, depending on the situation and circumstance. The way I see it is, there are people disguising as genuine in the chemistry of APC in Kano, but they are nothing but fake, fake and fake!

The way I see it is this, at the instance of leadership failure to mend fences within the party, I suggest other groups should wade in, in earnest and save the situation. Groups like past local government chairmen of the APC, under the aegis of their association, Association of Local Governments of Nigeria ( ALGON). They are still in touch with the grassroot.

We have a pool of legal luminaries, among them are Senior Advocates of Nigeria, retired Judges and Magistrates, etc, let’s leverage on that and put things in proper perspective. If all-politicians strategy is sending the party to ditches, let’s try a mixture of politicians and professionals to reach the promised land.

What is more attractive and fragile is the issue of who becomes what in the forthcoming 2027 elections. Especially that of gubernatorial candidate. Yes concensus is allowed in politics. But race is also a significant pillar in politics. Whatever concensus the party is interested in, it must be honest, patriotic with full fledged integrity. There is no harm in conducting primary elections of all positions.

It is also the sole responsibility of the party and logic to either go my way of thinking, in terms of gubernatorial and deputy gubernatorial candidature come 2027, or another workable and feasible arrangement can come up and play magic. Among Barau, Gawuna and Garo, they may have things or features in common. And each one of them has his peculiarities. This is my firm belief and conviction. And I don’t blame anybody for anything if he or she has a counter position.

My advice also to leaders is, let us not witness the same situation as when Senator Kawu Sumaila, Rep Kabiru Rurum, and others, were forced out of the party in the name of concensus or party arrangement. Whatever arrangement or concensus is opted for, it should be with honesty, integrity, absolute commitment to truth and maturity. Anything below this, is negation to party survival and enhancement process.

What is more disheartening is this, that among leaders and elders of the party, keeping the party in disarray is more profitable to them than peaceful assembly. Very disheartening and ridiculous!

For instance, what is the benefit and importance of forwarding arguments of who is APC leader in Kano? When late President Muhammadu Buhari was alive and in control as the President, still at that time, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu was seen, regarded and accepted as the Leader of the party. What position in our constitution that is above being President? So even President then was not regarded as the Leader. It was Tinubu who was regarded as such.

What then is the problem in this needless argument of between Ganduje and Barau who is the leader of APC in Kano? If Tinubu could be leader above Buhari, then what is the problem of Ganduje being a leader above Barau? This unnecessary and needless argument, is not doing any good for the party. This, is just standing logic on its head.

For Barau, Ganduje is still a leader in Kano APC. Can’t you see the kind of respect accorded to Ganduje by Barau whenever they meet, either in private or in the public? So of what benefit is the argument searching for who is a leader between the duo? Is very unnecessary, crafty and ill-intentioned.

Attention should not be restricted to who is the leader and who is the follower. If we are genuine, honest and committed, this sort of debate is waste of time and energy. What we are after now is, who does what in repositioning the party in Kano?

If politics is an art then Barau is one of the finest artists. But this is not our concern now. Our concern is how do we reposition the party in Kano. When issues are not handle properly, we will be left with the confusion of not knowing who is home and dry among all.

Attention to detail is my last statement.

The recent policy proposal to abolish Mathematics as a compulsory subject in Nigerian secondary schools has raised deep concern among educators, parents, and well-meaning citizens. One cannot help but wonder what exactly our education policy makers are thinking. This policy appears to contradict the very essence of education in the 21st century, an era defined by science, technology, innovation, and data driven decision making, all of which are rooted in mathematical reasoning.

Mathematics is not merely about numbers, formulas, and equations; it is the foundation of logical and analytical thinking. The subject trains the mind to observe patterns, interpret data, and solve problems with precision. Through mathematics, students develop a disciplined way of thinking that transcends academic boundaries. Whether one becomes an engineer, economist, journalist, or even a political analyst, the ability to think critically and reason logically often traces back to mathematical training.

By removing mathematics as a compulsory subject, policymakers risk weakening the intellectual fabric of future generations. Students would be deprived of one of the most powerful tools for developing rationality and structured thought. A nation that aims to compete globally cannot afford to produce citizens who lack numerical literacy or analytical competence. This policy, if implemented, would create an educational gap that could take decades to repair.

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Education is not just about producing certificate holders; it is about equipping individuals with cognitive tools to understand and engage with the world effectively. Mathematics cultivates perseverance, attention to detail, and the ability to break complex problems into manageable parts. These are skills needed not just in classrooms but in everyday life budgeting, decision making, and critical evaluation of information. Without this foundation, students may find themselves ill-prepared for higher education or professional challenges.

Moreover, the 21st century is marked by rapid technological advancements. From artificial intelligence to data science, from robotics to fintech, every emerging field is deeply anchored in mathematics. How then can a nation aspiring to be technologically relevant abandon the very discipline that powers innovation? Our policymakers should be aligning educational reforms with global trends, not reversing progress by weakening STEM education at the secondary level.

It is crucial for education stakeholders to revisit this decision and conduct a comprehensive impact assessment. Rather than abolishing mathematics as compulsory, efforts should be directed toward making its teaching more engaging and practical.

Mathematics remains the backbone of intellectual development and national progress. To abolish it as a compulsory subject is to undermine the very foundation of critical and analytical thinking among young Nigerians. Our policymakers must think in tandem with the realities of the modern world and protect the integrity of our education system. A nation that neglects mathematics is a nation that risks intellectual decline in a knowledge driven age.

Nigeria’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying journey has been a tale of soaring hopes, heavy stumbles and late redemption – a campaign that tested the country’s patience and pride in equal measure.

Across 12 intense months that began on November 16, 2023, the Super Eagles lived through chaos and catharsis: three coaches, too many missed chances and one final surge that kept their World Cup dream flickering into the playoffs.

The drums of the Akwa Ibom faithful echoed as Nigeria opened their qualifying campaign against Lesotho. On paper, it was supposed to be routine; in reality, it was a jarring wake-up call.

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The Super Eagles dominated possession but lacked any real bite, their movements laboured and predictable. When Lesotho snatched a surprise lead midway through the second half, a hush fell over the stands. Semi Ajayi’s header salvaged a 1-1 draw, but the optimism of kicking off the campaign on a winning note turned to quiet frustration across the country.

Three days later, the story repeated itself. In a game played on neutral ground in Rwanda, Nigeria again stumbled to a 1-1 draw, this time against Zimbabwe. Two matches, two points, no rhythm. The early swagger José Peseiro had promised his side was missing, replaced by doubt and disconnection. His tenure – two games, two points – ended soon after as the federation sought new direction before the campaign slipped further away.

By June 2024, former assistant and 1990s legend Finidi George stepped up to take charge, carrying the weight of both nostalgia and national expectation. But his short reign mirrored the turbulence he inherited. In his first match, Nigeria fought South Africa to yet another 1-1 draw in Uyo, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru’s strike cancelling out Percy Tau’s opener.

Days later in Abidjan, the team suffered a 2-1 defeat to Benin Republic – a painful loss made worse by its symbolic sting as Benin were managed by former Super Eagles boss, Gernot Rohr. Two games under Finidi, one point and Nigeria’s campaign stood on the brink.

Then came a surprise twist. In January 2025, the Nigeria Football Federation appointed Éric Sékou Chelle, the Malian-born tactician who had impressed with his disciplined, no-nonsense methods. His arrival was met with cautious curiosity. Chelle wasn’t a name with glittering fame, but he brought what Nigeria desperately lacked: clarity, composure and tactical balance.

Chelle’s first big test arrived that March in Kigali against Rwanda. The stakes were immense; defeat could have ended Nigeria’s hopes. Instead, the Eagles delivered their most complete performance of the campaign. Osimhen returned from injury and looked reborn, scoring twice in a 2-0 win that reignited belief. The goals were clinical, the pressing intense, the unity visible.

For the first time in months, Nigeria looked like Nigeria again. But old habits die hard. Just four days later in Uyo, Zimbabwe held them to another 1-1 draw, courtesy of a late equaliser that silenced the crowd.

Still, the momentum slowly shifted. By September 2025, Nigeria had clawed their way back into contention. They edged Rwanda 1-0 in Uyo – Tolu Arokodare’s towering header sealing a vital win before travelling to Johannesburg for a showdown with South Africa. It was a chance to reclaim control of the group. But fate, once again, had other plans.

Osimhen, so often the heartbeat of the attack, was sidelined with another knock. Without him, Nigeria lacked incision. They fought bravely, battled through 90 tense minutes and emerged with a 1-1 draw. It was creditable but insufficient. South Africa held the upper hand; Nigeria needed perfection from here.

And so, to October – the final chapter of a turbulent saga. On October 10, Nigeria beat Lesotho 2-1 away – a hard-fought victory that set up a decisive finale. Four days later, back home in Uyo came the last dance: Nigeria versus Benin Republic. The arithmetic was simple – win and hope South Africa falter.

From the first whistle, Nigeria attacked with ferocity, and Osimhen, finally fit, played as if possessed. His first goal, a deft finish after a clever through-ball, unleashed a roar that shook the stands. His second, a poacher’s strike, made it 2-0. By the time he completed his hat-trick early in the second half, belief had turned to euphoria. In stoppage time, Frank Onyeka’s volley capped a 4-0 rout – the performance of the campaign.

But even as the cheers rang out in Uyo, news filtered through from Johannesburg: South Africa had beaten Rwanda 3-0. The math was merciless. Despite finishing with 17 points and a superior goal difference to Benin, Nigeria trailed South Africa by a single point. Their revival had come too late for automatic qualification.

The playoff route awaited – a longer, riskier road to America, Mexico and Canada 2026.

When the dust settled on the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, Nigeria’s Super Eagles stood on the brink – not soaring high enough for automatic qualification, but not grounded either. Their turbulent campaign had been a tale of resilience and frustration, yet they had done just enough, finishing among the four best runners-up to secure a lifeline: a place in the CAF play-offs in Morocco from November 13 to 16, 2025.

‘We are quite happy to have that opportunity. It is a long route but it is a route after all. We would have loved to get the automatic ticket but it didn’t happen and we take what we have. We will remain strong and tough and ready to confront every challenge on our way as we search for the ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

‘It was a wonderful team effort on Tuesday evening. Everyone contributed; each person played their part. If the other match had gone in favour, we would be with the automatic ticket now. But that’s life. You take what you get and run with it and make the best of it,’ said Captain Ekong after the game against Benin Republic.

It wasn’t the route they envisioned, but it was still a road to redemption – four matches now separating them from the world’s grandest stage. First comes a semi-final against Gabon, a tricky opponent with the pace and grit to test their mettle. Victory would set up a decisive clash with either Cameroon or DR Congo, where a single win could propel Nigeria into the FIFA Intercontinental Play-Offs in the United States next March.

There, they would face teams from Asia, South America, Oceania or CONCACAF – two wins away from the Promised Land.

Kaduna State has launched a massive vaccination drive aimed at immunizing 4.2 million children against measles and rubella, in a bold step to protect the next generation from deadly but preventable diseases.

The campaign, which began on October 18, 2025, is part of a nationwide effort and involves strong collaboration between the state government, the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, and other development partners.

Held at the Primary Health Care Centre in Badarawa, the flag-off ceremony attracted hundreds of parents, children, and stakeholders, including traditional and religious leaders. The initiative targets children aged 9 months to 14 years across all 23 local government areas of Kaduna.

Dr. Hamza Ibrahim Ikara, Director of Disease Control and Immunization in the state, revealed the gravity of the challenge Kaduna faces with ‘zero-dose’ children those who have never received any form of immunization.

‘Nigeria has 100 Local Government Areas affected by the zero-dose challenge, and Kaduna accounts for 10 of them, representing nearly 10% of the national total,’ he stated. ‘For this Measles and Rubella vaccination campaign, we are targeting 4.2 million children across the 23 LGAs of Kaduna State.’

Dr. Ikara highlighted that the number of zero-dose children is on the decline thanks to the active partnership between the government and key health organizations.

Speaking from the federal level, Yusuf Yusufari, Deputy Director of Immunization and Disease Control at the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to Nigeria’s immunization programs.

‘Nigeria has become a global example of what can be achieved in protecting children and women from preventable diseases. Our goal is that no child or woman in Nigeria should die from diseases that vaccines can prevent,’ he said.

Yusufari emphasized that this goal aligns with the vision of Mr. Bill Gates, who pledged $200 billion over the next 20 years to support global health initiatives.

He praised Nigeria’s resilience and described the country’s wild polio-free certification as a global success story.

‘Our goal is that no child or woman in Nigeria should die from diseases that vaccines can prevent,’ Yusufari said, adding that the foundation, inspired by Bill Gates’ $200 billion global health pledge, remains a steadfast partner in Nigeria’s health success stories.

The World Health Organization’s Kaduna Field Office also emphasized the urgency and importance of the campaign. Mallam Suleiman Mohammed, WHO Data Officer, described the initiative as a ‘golden opportunity’ to combat the rise in reported measles cases across the state.

‘As we all know, measles is a deadly disease, and many cases are being reported across the state and other parts of the region. This campaign gives us a chance to change that narrative,’ he said. Mohammed added that over 2,000 supervisors had been deployed across the state to monitor the campaign and ensure real-time intervention when necessary.

Abdullahi Musa, the State Incident Manager at the Kaduna State Primary Health Care Board, explained, that the state is very well prepared because they have been planning for this Measles and Rubella campaign for the past three months, adding that the coordination is being managed from the Emergency Operations Centre.

Muhammad Gambo, Chairman of Kaduna North LGA, said, the Local Government is in full support of the exercise, adding that they have provided 50 vaccine carriers and additional vaccination teams across wards such as Maiburuji, Kawo, Hayin Banki, Ungwar Shanu, and Ungwar Rimi.’

Alhaji Ashiru Mohammed Wada, representing the District Head of Kawo, said they have educated residents about the importance of this vaccination, urging parents to bring their children out to be vaccinated and help keep the communities healthy.

It was commendations galore for members of the House of Representatives Committee on Petroleum Downstream, who, with their chairman, Ikenga Ikeagwuonu, launched what stands as another of Nigeria’s public fora for thinking about the country’s energy future. That was the recently held ‘2025 Inaugural Annual Downstream Petroleum Week’ (Monday and Tuesday, October 13 and 14, 2025), at the National Assembly. With its theme as ‘Celebrating Our Successes, Confronting our Challenges and Finding Solutions for The Petroleum Downstream Sector,’ it was a forum that brought together as many stakeholders in the industry as could be covered. These comprised policymakers, legislators, regulators, diplomats, unions, investors, civil societies and the media.

This was just as the discussion areas ranged from the ongoing transformation of the country’s energy sector to energy security and market stability, review of the landmark Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021, and the apparent ‘elephant in the room’ – the advent in 2023 of the humongous 650,000 b/d refinery by Dangote Industries Limited, as well as the associated monopoly fears. With its humongous capacity, it not only dwarfs the combined capacities of all the other refineries in Nigeria put together, but also fulfills the country’s long desired energy sufficiency, as the country had depended on importation of refined petroleum products since 1975.

It is easily recalled that Dangote Refinery had a recent faceoff with the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association (PENGASSAN) over union politics by its workers, which led to a near asphyxiation of the country’s economy as the union tried to stop the refinery from operating until it met their terms. Needless to state that the rapid response of the country to that emerging contingency amply highlights, among other realities, the strategic position of the Dangote Refinery in the country’s energy calculus. Indeed, courtesy of that refinery’s value to Nigeria as a mitigator of fuel importation, whoever touches Dangote henceforth rubs the country on the wrong side. And that is official!

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To the credit of the committee, whereas the forum could as well have been a mere reconciliation session for parties in the industrial action, which featured between Dangote Refinery and PENGASSAN, its elevation to address some of the lingering, deep-seated burning issues in the petroleum downstream of the country’s energy sector, earns them a thumb up. After all, there are as many issues as there are operators and consumers of fuel, as well as other petroleum products in the country.

Seen in perspective, the forum could not have come at a better time than now, given its relevance to the country’s rapidly transforming energy sector. In Nigeria’s history of energy economics, the period from 2021 to 2025 must be the most defining, even if it is for the reason of the positive responses to the challenges of emerging realities during its course.

In 2021, the PIA was enacted rather belatedly after spending as many as 14 years in the legislative mill to come and introduce order in an otherwise disorderly industry, where although professional practice codes comprised the driving wheel, much of the operations and procedures were governed by laws that dated back to the long past colonial era.

Placed in historical context, the Nigerian oil and gas industry, which drives the country’s energy endowments, is one of the most profound legacies of the British colonial administration, which, with the cessation of colonial rule in 1960, did not automatically transmute into a Nigerian oil and gas industry except in name. For over half of a century after Nigeria attained independence, the sector still retained much of its operational expedients, which were rooted in the industrial culture of the colonial master. For anyone who is familiar with the British and their mercantilist proclivities of ‘British first’, the fact remains clear – the country does not vacate a once-conquered territory without leaving behind ways and means of continuously syphoning nectar from there, even if, and when the sweetness dries up.

That was the lot of Nigeria’s oil and gas sector while under the vicious grip of colonial era laws until the coming of the PIA. In fact, so ingrained have the colonial era laws been in the mental construct of our industry operators and even governments and host communities that even several years after the coming of the PIA, its implementation is still seen as a pie in the sky for the simple fact that it awarded to the oil and gas host communities statutorily, equitable reliefs that are not based on the whims and caprices of the companies. Hence all through the country’s oil and gas bearing communities, the matter of the PIA is discussed with mixed feelings of paradisiac expectations by the communities on one hand, and on the other hand, apocalyptic trepidation by some of the oil and gas companies operating in the region.

In the final analysis, courtesy of the forum, there is now a rethinking of the country’s energy future, with more areas of the industry now gaining attention. With the committee’s realisation of the need to revisit the problem areas of the industry from its vantage legislative viewpoint, Nigerians will look forward to more proactiveness by the government in respect of addressing emerging challenges in the sector.

Sheikh Kabiru Ibrahim Babban Malami Madabo, an Islamic scholar and member of the Kano Emirate Council, has been described as ‘a respected community leader and philanthropist who dedicated his life to the service of humanity and upliftment of the less privileged.’

The deputy governor of Kano State, Dr Aminu Abdulssalam Gwarzo said this when he paid a courtesy visit to the families of the late Sheikh and that of a late veteran journalist, Abubakar Aliyu Getso, who all passed away recently.

Similarly, the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, led the funeral prayer of the famous teacher, who also ministered at the palace.

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Members of the Muslim community also shared their views on the social media, while praying for the forgiveness and repose of the soul of the deceased teacher.

According to Sheikh Madabo, his son, the cleric passed away at his residence at Madabo Quarters, Kano after a brief illness at the age of 85.

Before his death, the Sheikh was a permanent member of the Kano Emirate Council, whose main function was serving as an adviser to the emir and the emirate on Islamic jurisprudence known as fiqh, as well as application of Islamic law in daily life, dealing with matters related to Islamic worship, moral and social legislation based on the teachings of the Holy Quran and Hadith of Prophet Muhammad (SAW).

Kaduna State Government has successfully commissioned a solar-powered borehole at the NYSC Orientation Camp in Kaduna.

The facility, located at the female corps members’ dormitory, was executed through the State’s Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (RUWASSA).

The commissioning ceremony, held at the NYSC camp, was marked by deep appreciation from the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Kaduna State, which lauded Governor Uba Sani for his proactive leadership and consistent support to the Corps community in the state.

Speaking at the event, the NYSC State Coordinator, Mrs. Efeke Murna Dadaza, commended Governor Uba Sani for responding promptly to their request and for creating an enabling environment for corps members serving in Kaduna.

She pledged that the NYSC would ensure the solar-powered borehole is well-maintained and used efficiently to improve the living conditions of corps members, especially female participants.

Director General of RUWASSA, Engr. Mubarak Shehu Ladan, explained that the project aligns with the agency’s mandate to provide clean and sustainable water solutions across rural communities and key institutions.

He emphasized that the solar-powered borehole reflects the Governor’s broader vision for improved access to potable water and his administration’s focus on infrastructure development that directly impacts lives.

‘Since assuming office on May 29, 2023, Governor Uba Sani has been unwavering in his support for RUWASSA’s mission,’ Engr. Ladan noted. ‘This project is yet another step towards fulfilling his promise of prioritizing people-centered development, especially in underserved areas.’

The NYSC community expressed heartfelt gratitude to both the State Government and His Royal Highness, Malam Nuhu Bamalli (CFR), for their steadfast commitment to the safety and welfare of youth corps members.

They also pledged to support the government’s efforts in sustaining this and other similar initiatives across the state.

The Gombe State Government has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Rano Air Limited for the commencement of scheduled commercial flights between Abuja and Gombe.

The agreement followed a meeting between Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya and top management officials of Rano Air at the Governor’s Lodge in Abuja, where both parties finalised plans for the new service.

Under the MoU, Rano Air will deploy an Embraer 145 aircraft with a 50-passenger capacity to operate four weekly flights on the Abuja-Gombe-Abuja route specifically on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays.

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The document was signed on behalf of the Gombe State Government by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Professor Ibrahim Abubakar Njodi, while Abah Godwin, general manager (operations), signed for Rano Air.

The signing was witnessed by Suleiman Daniel Musa, an engineer and sole administrator of Brig Zakari Maimalari International Airport, Gombe and Mr Auwal Sulaiman Ubale of Rano Air.

The airline management assured Governor Yahaya of reliable and efficient services designed to ease business travel and stimulate economic activities in Gombe and the wider North-East region.

Governor Yahaya, in his remarks, described the partnership as another milestone in the state’s economic advancement, saying it reflects Gombe’s growing reputation as a safe, stable and business-friendly destination.