Category: Nigerian Tribune

As Nigerians celebrate the 65th year of our dear country, Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri has granted amnesty to six prisoners serving various jail terms in Adamawa State.

The Governor, who granted the amnesty in his speech at the march past ceremony by the police and other paramilitary organisations at the Ribadu Square, said, ‘Nigeria stands at the proud threshold of sixty-five years of independence, a moment not just for celebration, but for deep reflection. On 1 October 1960, the chains of colonial rule were broken, and our people took their destiny into their own hands. That day was filled with promises, the dream of a Nigeria united in vision, rich in justice, and rising in prosperity.’

But he noted that ‘sixty-five years later, we must ask ourselves with courage and honesty, how far have we travelled on that journey? As a nation, we have walked through fire, we weathered the storms of civil war, endured the shadows of dictatorship, and stood firm through waves of poverty and insecurity. Yet, we endured, not by luck, but by the unwavering spirit of our people.’

‘Still, we must acknowledge a truth: survival is not success, independence without progress is only a symbol, but the real freedom is measured by how it transforms everyday lives.’

‘In Adamawa, we strive to turn that truth into action. We believe independence means a child in Michika learning under a proper roof and not a crumbling structure, it means a farmer in Demsa reaching the market on a safe, motorable road. It means a mother in Guyuk receiving health care close to home. It means the youth of Yola finding hope through opportunity, not hopelessness through crime,’ the Governor noted.

‘For us in Adamawa, we have rebuilt classrooms and reimagined education, we have revitalised healthcare because a healthy society is a strong one. We have also connected communities with roads and bridges, and pursued peace as a precondition for growth. Are we perfect? No.’

Fintiri also announced that 12,000 qualified candidates are currently undergoing processes for recruitment into the Adamawa State Civil Service.

‘This includes 5,000 positions in MDAs, 5,000 in post-primary education, and 2,000 in the health sector. This is not just a job drive; it is an investment in efficiency, public service, and the future of our youth.

‘Today, through fiscal discipline, digital reforms, and accountability, our IGR has grown to ?16.2 billion, nearly tripling in just five years. Nigeria’s freedom also demands responsibility. Governance must be anchored on justice, fairness, and transparency. And citizens must stand on pillars of discipline, truth, and hard work.’

‘Our greatest treasure is our unity. In Adamawa, we are a vibrant mosaic of cultures, languages, and faiths. That diversity must never be our weakness; it must be our strength. Like rivers that flow into one mighty stream, our differences must flow into one shared destiny.

‘Our administration will stay the course, expanding infrastructure, deepening healthcare, empowering education, and securing every corner of our state. We will lead with justice and humility, always mindful that power is not privilege, but a sacred trust before God and humanity.’

The Kano State Shura Council has suspended Sheikh Lawan Triumph from conducting preaching sessions in the state, pending the outcome of an investigation.

It will be recalled that the Kano State Government had, on 26 September 2025, directed that all petitions and counter-petitions concerning controversial remarks made by Sheikh Lawan Triumph be referred to the Kano State Shura Council for detailed review and advice.

According to the petitions, the remarks are considered blasphemous and offensive to the Prophet Muhammad, a figure held in the highest esteem by Muslims worldwide.

The Secretary of the Council, Alhaji Shehu Sagagi, who is also the State Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, made this known on Wednesday while speaking with journalists on the outcome of the Council’s second meeting.

According to him, ‘The Council had also resolved to invite Sheikh Triumph in order to defend himself on several petitions and counter-petitions made against him concerning the controversial remarks he made during some preaching sessions.’

He noted that ‘Following the resolution reached by the Council to invite Sheikh Lawan Triumph to defend himself, the Council has set up a committee to invite him.’

Sagagi then emphasised that ‘the Council had also received reports on the video clips of Sheikh Triumph’s preaching sessions and analysed them, adding that he (Sheikh Triumph) will soon be invited to defend himself.’

‘The committee will soon write and invite him to come and defend himself. The committee will inform him where and when to present himself,’ Sagagi said.

He, therefore, assured residents of the state that the Council would ensure justice and fairness to all parties, as no individual or group would influence its decision.

He also assured the people of the state that the outcome of the meetings with Sheikh Triumph would be made public.

He, however, advised politicians and Islamic scholars to avoid acts or comments that could tarnish their image.

He attended Ibadan Boys High School (1958-1963) and Olivet Baptist High School (1964-1965). He studied at the University of Liège, Belgium (1966-1972) where he earned a degree in chemical engineering.

He is a Nigerian monarch. He is the 44th Olubadan of Ibadan. Before ascending the throne, Ladoja was a chief and politician who served as the governor of Oyo State from 2003 to 2006 on the PDP platform; and from 2006 to 2007.

He was elected to the Senate of Nigeria in 1993 during the short-lived Nigerian Third Republic, he was a member of the United Nigeria Congress Party (UNCP) during the Abacha Political Transition. By 2000, Ladoja had become a director of Standard Trust Bank Limited.

He attended Ibadan Boys High School (1958-1963) and Olivet Baptist High School (1964-1965). He studied at the University of Liège, Belgium (1966-1972) where he earned a degree in chemical engineering.

He is a Nigerian monarch. He is the 44th Olubadan of Ibadan. Before ascending the throne, Ladoja was a chief and politician who served as the governor of Oyo State from 2003 to 2006 on the PDP platform; and from 2006 to 2007.

He was elected to the Senate of Nigeria in 1993 during the short-lived Nigerian Third Republic, he was a member of the United Nigeria Congress Party (UNCP) during the Abacha Political Transition. By 2000, Ladoja had become a director of Standard Trust Bank Limited.

Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, has urged Nigerians to hold fast to optimism and unity in the face of present challenges, assuring that the economic policies of the President Bola Tinubu Administration and citizens’ huge sacrifices would ultimately pay off if the nation stayed the course.

Mbah said that while the anniversary may understandably be low-key, it did not obviate Nigeria’s giant strides as an independent nation.

These were contained in his message to Nigerians in the early hours of Wednesday to mark the nation’s 65th independence anniversary. In the message, which he personally signed, the governor congratulated the citizens for ‘the proud milestone.’

‘At 65, our independence is a reminder of what we can achieve as a people when we are united. It is also a reminder that progress demands sacrifice, and that tomorrow is shaped by the choices we make today.

‘The commemoration of our 65th independence anniversary may understandably be low-key, but the significance of the strides we have made as a nation is by no means underwhelming.

‘Those strides are manifest in the remarkable achievements we have recorded across key sectors. They reflect as well in the bold reforms of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu that have brought stability to the Nigerian economy. The sacrifices may be huge today, but there is no doubt that the end will vindicate the decisions if we stay the course.

‘As we raise our flags today, let us renew our covenant to Nigeria; let us embrace the spirit of unity, and let us uphold the optimism that has carried us this far,’ he stated.

Mbah, while also recommitting to his administration’s inclusive development model that leaves no one behind, maintained that Enugu State, under his watch, was on the path of turnaround and exponential economic growth.

‘In Enugu State, this Independence Day is a fitting occasion to recommit to our pledge to make inclusion the cornerstone of government policy; to create wealth and deploy it for the benefit of everyone in Enugu State. We are staying the course. And no one will be left behind.

‘From moribund assets roaring back to life, to Ndi Enugu enjoying a resounding sense of security of lives and property, our children transitioning to 260 Smart Green Schools, our rural communities accessing modern healthcare courtesy of our completed or ongoing 260 Type 2 Primary Healthcare Centres, Ndi Enugu commuting conveniently and affordably via our modern transport system and infrastructure, Enugu State is no doubt on the pathway to assured turnaround and exponential economic growth,’ he added.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has issued a heartfelt appeal to Nigerians (both home and abroad) to renew their confidence in the country, urging them to ‘Bet on Nigeria’ despite current challenges.

Speaking in a recent national address posted on his verified X handle, the President emphasised that the nation’s journey, though difficult, is far from over – and its success is still within reach.

His words; ‘Nigeria will succeed. Lift Nigeria. Believe in Nigeria. Put Nigeria First. Bet on Nigeria’.

Nigeria will succeed.

Lift Nigeria.

Believe in Nigeria.

Put Nigeria First.

Bet on Nigeria.https://t.co/DGFWsrw1sY

– Bola Ahmed Tinubu (@officialABAT) October 1, 2025

In related development, Tinubu also proposed that Nigeria should be a nation of producers rather than just being consumers.

He stated this in his Independence Day address to Nigerians on Wednesday, saying that it was time for the country to shift from being a consuming nation to a producing one.

‘Let us be a nation of producers, not just consumers. Let us farm our land and build factories to process our produce. Let us patronise Made-in-Nigeria goods. I say Nigeria first,’ Tinubu declared.

The president explained that reforms like removing fuel subsidies and unifying foreign exchange rates were tough but necessary to reset the economy.

The African Tax Administration Forum (ATAF) has thrown its weight behind Nigeria’s tax reforms which culminated in the new tax laws, describing them as necessary for economic growth and development.

The recently-inaugurated Executive Secretary of the continental body, Ms Mary Baine, made the support known during a visit to the chairman, Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Zacch Adedeji, in Abuja, on Tuesday.

A statement by Dare Adekanmbi, Special Adviser on Media to the FIRS chairman said ATAF stands by Nigeria in reforming its fiscal landscape and pledged the readiness of the body to give technical support in areas that would help in realising the gains of the reforms.

She referenced how the organization had helped Zambia to build capacity in the area of raising revenue from mining, promising to offer support to Nigeria in the same area.

According to her, ATAF is willing to leverage Nigeria’s continental and global influence to mobilise member-countries to strengthen the organisation.

‘When you look at the strategic vision of FIRS, we see the things you are doing and the way you’re changing the tax system, the kind of reforms and the time that it has taken and of course the movement forward.

‘So, we applaud you, and I wanted to say that ATAF is here to say that we stand with you, we applaud you, and we’re ready to provide whatever support that could lead to its success.

‘In terms of your strategic vision- people, technology and data, we find that this is something that is really critical for the rest of the continent and that it is an area where ATAF will be happy to support as well,’ she said.

The FIRS chairman, while welcoming the visitors, expressed confidence in the capacity of the Executive Secretary to lead ATAF to glory.

He charged Africans to look inwards for homegrown solutions to challenges, stressing that salvation cannot come from the Western world.

‘My belief has always been that solutions to Africa’s challenges can only come from Africa. There is no free lunch anywhere. I have said that I don’t believe in aids; I believe in cooperation.

‘There is a saying that when you are not on the table, you are definitely on the menu. So, Africa must be on the table and that is it. We should stop being on the menu. That is my charge to you.

‘So, the expectation from us as a continent is also to bring what we can contribute to the work, most especially in tax matters. For us, we have to evolve our own fiscal policies which is what Nigeria has done with the new tax laws.

‘Before now, we had tax laws that were colonial relics. We had the Stamp Duties Act of 1939 which was enacted when there was no internet,’ he said.

Former Ekiti State Governor, Chief Ayodele Fayose has showered encomiums on his longtime associate and political ally, Lere Olayinka, describing him as a ‘man of wisdom, loyalty and relevance’ in a heartfelt birthday tribute.

In a voice note made public in a WhatsApp group on Wednesday, Fayose praised Olayinka’s journey from modest beginnings in Okemesi to becoming a respected public figure and household name in Nigerian politics and media.

‘To a great man; young, diligent, submissive and determined whom God has raised from Okemesi. A man of stature and relevance. A man of wisdom who knows his onions,’ Fayose said.

The former governor, known for his outspoken political style, described Olayinka as a loyal aide and dependable defender who has consistently stood tall in the face of challenges.

‘From humble beginnings, you have expanded your coast, protected your name and risen to become a respected figure, all to the glory of God,’ he added. ‘There is no regret in working with you.’

Fayose also highlighted Olayinka’s role as a shining representative of the Osoko Political Family, acknowledging his service, resilience and faithfulness.

‘Your name has become a household name in Nigeria and there is no going back,’ he said. ‘This is only the beginning. The future is indeed bright.’

He concluded the message with a personal and symbolic endorsement, referring to Olayinka as ‘my boy, my son, my follower, my brother, my defender,’ and extended warm birthday wishes on behalf of the entire Osoko Political Family Worldwide.

‘Happy birthday and many happy returns,’ Fayose said.

Lere Olayinka currently serves as the Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication and Social Media to the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike. He has long been a prominent media figure and political strategist, both in Ekiti State and across Nigeria’s political landscape.

Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike has described the nation’s capital, Abuja, as one of the most peaceful places to reside in Nigeria, citing both security measures and residents’ intolerance for insecurity.

This was contained in his Independence Day anniversary message to residents on Wednesday. Wike used the occasion to reflect on the nation’s journey, celebrate its unity, and catalogue his administration’s achievements in line with President Bola Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’.

The Minister, who emphasised the FCT’s symbolic role, describing it as Nigeria’s symbol of unity and nationhood, urged residents to continue to embody the faith that they are greater together and to ensure that the labour of the nation’s founding fathers is not in vain.

Wike noted that the anniversary was a time for sober reflection and stock-taking, necessary to look ahead with renewed hope towards a better future.

The Minister expressed gratitude for residents’ support for the President’s agenda, which centres on economic growth, national security, food security, sustainable development and infrastructure development.

He used the opportunity to lay bare his vision and the progress the FCT Administration had been able to make on several fronts under his watch.

‘The FCT Administration, with your unflinching support, will continue to work to provide first-class infrastructure and public utilities as demonstrated in the completion and commissioning of strategic roads.

‘It is our firm belief that no city can be said to be a city without a good network of roads, hence our focus on road construction.

‘We have reconstructed most of our schools and hospitals and provided much-needed equipment and personnel,’ he said.

He also pointed to support for farmers and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) as part of efforts to empower the nation’s youths and women and reinvigorate the economy.

The Minister further addressed the upcoming Area Council elections in February 2026, marking the formal start of the country’s electioneering process.

‘I implore residents to go about campaigning for candidates of their choice in a peaceful and orderly manner and to vote for leaders who evidently have their interest at heart; leaders who have vision and capacity to attract development and prosperity to the people,’ he stated.

He assured residents of the Administration’s partnership with law enforcement to ensure security, law and order in the FCT at all times, while appealing to citizens to be watchful over their neighbourhoods and to report all suspicious movements to security agents.

The Minister praised President Tinubu as a leader who is intentional about prioritising the well-being of the citizens and called for continued collective effort to ensure that the ‘FCT’s potentials and our collective aspirations are realised to the fullest.’

‘Amidst the various challenges we face as a nation, we are very optimistic that the future is brighter,’ he said.

The people of Anni, Egbetua, Ikpena and Udurebho communities in Ososo, Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of Edo State have called on Governor Monday Okpebholo to intervene in the leadership crisis rocking the clan.

They specifically asked the governor to set up an administrative panel to look into the headship crisis, with specific reference to the leadership of the Olososo over the other communities in the clan.

The leaders of the communities made the call after an emergency meeting where they accused the Olososo, Chief Bamidele Obaitan, of not being the recognised ruler, as they said the five communities, with Okhe being the fifth one, that make up Ososo have their various chiefs.

They accused him of highhandedness and that he was interested in businesses and harassment of the people in the face of insecurity and kidnappings in the area.

After the meeting, one of the elders, Chief Aiyero Omokhojie, stated that Ososo customs and traditions ‘are older than anyone alive, and they are handed to successive generations in their pristine forms.’

He said the issue of chieftaincy conferment remained strictly a matter for the kindred, as no central authority had power to confer such titles.

Chief Peter Iduoremeh, on his part, asserted that each community in Ososo reserved the right to their lands ‘because right from time immemorial, each community is vested with the right to administer its land. This position was further confirmed by a federal high court judgment in May 2004.’

A youth who spoke on the condition of anonymity said insecurity had become pervasive in Ososo as different cult gangs continued to unleash terror on hapless residents.

When contacted, Obaitan dismissed the claim that the clan has no central authority headed by the Olososo.

‘Those people are not telling the truth. Ososo is made up of quarters that have chiefs and that form the Ososo Council of Traditional Rulers. I am the gazette paramount ruler of Ososo.

‘These are trouble makers, as every quarter has their chiefs, but I am the paramount ruler. It has always been like that from. There is no autonomous community; these people have been causing problems, and some of them are having issues with the EFCC,’ Obaitan reiterated.

As Nigeria commemorates 65 years of independence, Keem Abdul’s Scorched Earth: Anatomy of the Buhari Years (2015-2023) offers a timely reflection on the life and presidency of Muhammadu Buhari, the former Head of State and President who left an enduring mark on the nation’s political history. The book examines Buhari’s journey from military ruler to elected leader, and the challenges he faced in office. It traces how his reputation for integrity shaped his political rise, and how his presidency navigated issues of governance, security, the economy, and national unity.

Abdul writes: ‘The story of Buhari is the story of a man who became the symbol of integrity in Nigeria, but whose government eventually became a byword for competence tested by enormous national challenges.’ (p. 9)

He later adds: ‘The Buhari years will be remembered not only for the change they promised, but for the lessons they leave behind for a country still seeking its democratic balance.’ (p. 313)

Through chapters such as ‘Baba Go-Slow,’ ‘A Giant with Feet of Clay,’ and ‘The Winter of Our Discontent,’ Abdul offers a thoughtful account of Buhari’s leadership. The book reflects on both his enduring reputation for honesty and the difficulties of governing a complex nation, presenting his presidency as part of the larger story of Nigeria’s democratic journey.

Keem Abdul, the author, is a Nigerian writer who focuses on politics, governance, and society. His work aims to encourage readers to reflect, not only on leaders themselves, but on the institutions and citizens that shape Nigeria’s path.

Scorched Earth is available on Mainstack and Selar.