Category: PM News

The All Progressives Congress has announced the successful upload of its 471 candidates for the presidential and National Assembly elections to the Independent National Electoral Commission’s Candidate Nomination Portal.

The list also confirmed President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima as the party’s presidential and vice-presidential candidates for the 2027 general election.

The submissions comprise the presidential and vice-presidential ticket, 109 Senate candidates and 360 House of Representatives candidates, completing its nominations for the offices covered by the portal.

The announcement was made by the APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, in a statement on Sunday, a day after the close of INEC’s portal for the submission of presidential and National Assembly candidates.

Yilwatda congratulated the party’s candidates, leaders and members on the completion of the exercise.

‘I congratulate our candidates, leaders, and members of APC on the successful 100% upload of our Presidential, Vice Presidential, Senate, and House of Representatives candidates on the INEC Candidate Nomination Portal (ICNP).

‘With this milestone achieved, our focus now shifts to mobilisation and preparations for a successful campaign and decisive victory at the polls,’ he said.

The development comes after INEC fixed 6 p.m. on Saturday, July 11, as the deadline for political parties to submit the nomination forms of their presidential and National Assembly candidates through its online portal.

According to the commission’s timetable, political parties received access codes to the portal on June 26, while the submission of Forms EC9 and EC9A to EC9E commenced on June 27 in line with Section 29(1) of the Electoral Act, 2026.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has rejected calls for an extension of the deadline for political parties to submit their presidential and National Assembly candidates for the 2027 general elections.

INEC insisted that Saturday, July 11, remained the final day for submissions and warned that its automated nomination portal would close once the deadline expired.

The agency’s National Commissioner Mohammed Haruna said parties had until midnight to upload their candidates, stressing that the commission would not move the deadline.

Fourteen political parties had submitted at least some candidates as of Saturday, including the APC, PDP, Labour Party, ADC, SDP, APGA and YPP.

However, only nine parties had uploaded the names of their presidential candidates and running mates at the time of the update.

Haruna said the APC had submitted its presidential candidate and retained Kashim Shettima as running mate but had yet to complete its National Assembly submissions.

The PDP had also not uploaded its presidential and vice-presidential candidates as of about 8 p.m. on Saturday.

INEC had earlier warned parties to complete the process ahead of time because the nomination portal was fully automated and deadlines would be strictly enforced.

The commission said candidates whose names differed from those produced through primaries monitored by INEC would be rejected.

Haruna, however, explained that parties facing legitimate problems could seek candidate substitution under the electoral timetable.

He said failure to complete an upload would not automatically end a party’s participation, but any proposed replacement would be scrutinised to ensure compliance with the law.

Meanwhile, the Young Progressives Party called for an extension, blaming technical and administrative problems on INEC’s portal.

The party said similar challenges affected several political parties and warned that qualified candidates should not be denied participation because of system failures.

INEC’s timetable also provides a window for the withdrawal and replacement of presidential and National Assembly candidates before the final lists are published.

A governorship aspirant on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kwara State, Engr. Femi Sanni, popularly known as Araba, has expressed confidence in the electoral prospects of the ruling party, saying its internal disagreements have not diminished its political strength ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Sanni, who contested in the recent party primaries, spoke on Saturday at during a meeting with the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) leadership at the Bishop’s Court of the Anglican Diocese of Kwara in Ilorin.

He said the level of political activities within the party suggests it remains the dominant political platform in the state despite divisions that emerged over the last governorship primaries.

According to him, the turnout recorded at separate political rallies organised by different tendencies within the party reflects the APC’s grassroots support rather than weakness.

‘When you look at the massive crowds that attended the rallies organised by the different camps and do the math, it tells you that our lead would be unassailable at the polls once all issues are resolved amicably ,’ he said.

Sanni also appealed to fellow aspirants and party stakeholders to remain calm, stating that he has implicit trust in APC’s internal conflict resolution mechanisms at the national level.

‘There is absolutely no need to go into the general election divided.

‘We should all remain patient with the leadership of the party the President and the National Working Committee. ‘This is what progressive politics is all about’. he said.

Speaking on the purpose of his visit to see CAN leadership, Sanni said he was seeking prayers for Kwara State, the APC and the country, adding that religious leaders have a vital role to play in promoting peace and national cohesion.

‘We are going to be needing our religious leaders to be the moderating voice,’ he said.

The APC has, in recent months, witnessed a surge in activities ahead of the 2027 governorship race, with various aspirants and support groups holding consultations and rallies as the party’s reconciliation committee continues efforts to unite aggrieved stakeholders.

The Allied Peoples Movement (APM) Senatorial Candidate for Oyo Central Senatorial District, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, has extended warm congratulations to his Personal Assistant, Hon. Kilamuwaye Badmus, as he marks his 40th birthday on Sunday, July 12, 2026.

In a heartfelt birthday message made available to journalists, Ambassador Ajadi described Badmus as a loyal, hardworking, dependable and committed associate whose dedication and selfless service have contributed immensely to the success of his political, and humanitarian engagements.

Ajadi praised the celebrant for his unwavering loyalty, humility and professionalism, noting that Badmus has remained a reliable partner who consistently demonstrates integrity and excellence in every assignment entrusted to him.

According to the APM senatorial candidate, attaining the age of 40 is a significant milestone that deserves gratitude to Almighty God for His faithfulness, mercy and abundant blessings.

‘Today, I join your family, friends, associates and well-wishers in celebrating a remarkable personality, Hon. Kilamuwaye Badmus, as he clocks 40. Your dedication, loyalty, sincerity and passion for service have remained exceptional over the years. I sincerely appreciate your invaluable contributions and commitment,’ Ajadi said.

He added that Badmus has continued to distinguish himself through diligence and a strong sense of responsibility, qualities that have earned him the admiration and respect of those who have worked closely with him.

‘As you celebrate this special day, I pray that Almighty God grants you many more years in good health, divine wisdom, abundant prosperity and greater accomplishments. May He continue to guide your steps, strengthen you for greater responsibilities and bless all that concerns you,’ he stated.

Ajadi further wished the celebrant continued success in all his future endeavours, expressing confidence that the years ahead would usher in greater opportunities, fulfilment and outstanding achievements.

‘May this new chapter of your life bring renewed joy, peace, favour and endless testimonies. Thank you for your unwavering commitment, sacrifices and invaluable support. I wish you a memorable 40th birthday celebration filled with happiness, love and God’s overflowing blessings. Happy Birthday, Hon. Kilamuwaye Badmus.’

Hon. Kilamuwaye Badmus is widely recognised as one of Ambassador Ajadi’s trusted aides and has played an active role in supporting the politician’s public engagements, community development initiatives and grassroots mobilisation efforts across Oyo State. Colleagues and associates respect him for his dedication to service, organisational ability and commitment to advancing the ideals of responsible leadership.

Political stalwarts, party chieftains and community leaders across Oyo State have joined Ambassador Ajadi, members of Badmus’ family, friends, political associates and well-wishers in celebrating the celebrant and wishing him many more years of impactful service, sound health and fulfilment.

Deputy Spokesperson of the House of Representatives, Philip Agbese, has praised President Bola Tinubu and the nation’s security chiefs over the rescue of all teachers and pupils abducted from schools in Oriire LGA of Oyo state, describing the operation as a defining moment in Nigeria’s campaign against insecurity.

Addressing journalists in Abuja on Sunday, the Labour Party lawmaker said the successful rescue had restored public confidence in the country’s security architecture and sent a strong message that terrorists, kidnappers and other criminal groups would no longer dictate the nation’s security narrative.

Agbese congratulated President Tinubu, the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, service chiefs, the police, the Department of State Services (DSS), and other security agencies for an outstanding display of professionalism, intelligence and inter-agency coordination.

He said the operation reflected the growing effectiveness of the administration’s security strategy and the determination of the armed forces to pursue criminal elements wherever they operate.

‘The rescue of every pupil and teacher abducted in Oriire is far more than the successful conclusion of a security operation. It is a powerful statement that Nigeria is rising above those who seek to define us by violence and fear,’ Agbese said.

‘President Bola Tinubu, our security chiefs and the gallant men and women of our armed forces have restored our glory before the world by proving that no Nigerian life is expendable and that our nation has both the capacity and the resolve to confront criminality head-on.’

The lawmaker noted that the rescue came amid a series of successful military operations across different theatres of operation, saying the cumulative achievements demonstrate that the country’s security forces have continued to gain the upper hand against terrorists and bandits.

‘Only recently, troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA foiled coordinated terrorist attacks in Zamfara and Katsina States, neutralised the notorious terrorist commander, recovered assault rifles, ammunition and operational equipment, and, through coordinated air operations, intercepted and successfully engaged about 300 terrorists advancing on motorcycles before they could unleash mayhem on innocent communities. These are not isolated victories; they are clear evidence of a military that has seized the initiative and is relentlessly taking the battle to the enemies of our country,’ he declared.

Agbese emphasised that recent operations by the armed forces have resulted in the rescue of numerous kidnapped victims, the dismantling of terrorist camps, the elimination of high-profile commanders and the recovery of weapons used to terrorise communities.

According to him, the consistency of these successes should reassure Nigerians that the country’s security institutions remain committed to protecting lives and restoring peace across every region.

‘What we are witnessing today is an uncommon masterclass in intelligence-driven security operations. From rescuing captives and preventing coordinated attacks to dismantling criminal enclaves and denying terrorists freedom of movement, our armed forces and security agencies have continued to exceed expectations. They have demonstrated beyond doubt that Nigeria will never again be taken for granted by those who thrive on violence,’ he stressed.

The lawmaker urged Nigerians to continue supporting the military and other security agencies by volunteering credible and timely intelligence capable of preventing attacks and facilitating ongoing operations.

He also appealed to communities across the country to remain vigilant and cooperate closely with security agencies to sustain the gains already recorded.

‘To every insurgent, bandit and terrorist still hiding in forests and remote enclaves across our country, my message is simple: surrender now before it is too late. The operational momentum is no longer in your favour. Every successful rescue, every terrorist commander neutralised and every criminal network dismantled brings Nigeria closer to lasting peace. Those who refuse to surrender should be prepared to face the overwhelming might of our gallant troops,’ he announced.

Agbese expressed confidence that with sustained political support for the armed forces and continued collaboration among security agencies, Nigeria would record even greater successes in the fight against terrorism, banditry and kidnapping, while restoring lasting peace and stability across the federation.

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has expressed gratitude to God and security agencies for the safe rescue of pupils and teachers abducted from schools in the Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State after 56 days in captivity.

?In a statement signed on Sunday by its National President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, the association described the safe return of the victims as a day of profound gratitude for the affected families and the nation.

?Okoh commended President Bola Tinubu, the National Security Adviser, the Armed Forces, intelligence agencies, the Nigeria Police, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Amotekun Corps, and local vigilantes for their roles in the successful operation.

?’The reports that the operation was guided by patience, credible intelligence, and a determination to protect innocent lives are reassuring and deserve recognition. Every successful rescue reminds us that when our security institutions work together with resolve and professionalism, hope can triumph over fear,’ he said.

The CAN President also applauded Gov. Seyi Makinde of Oyo State for his steadfast support to the affected families and his administration’s commitment to rehabilitating the rescued victims.

?Okoh, however, noted that while the rescue in Oyo brought joy, it was difficult to celebrate fully without remembering other Nigerian families whose children were still held by terrorists and bandits in states like Borno and Niger.

He emphasised that compassion must not be selective, urging the Federal Government and security forces to use the success in Oyo to strengthen their determination to free all remaining captives across the country.

?’Today, parents in Oriire will hold their children again after weeks of anxious waiting. We rejoice with them. But there are mothers and fathers in Borno, Niger, and other parts of our country who will still go to bed praying that the next knock on the door will bring news that their own children are coming home. Their pain is no less real because it attracts fewer headlines. Their tears are no less bitter because the cameras have moved elsewhere,’ Okoh said.

?He further called on governments, faith communities, and humanitarian organisations to collaborate in providing necessary psychiatric counseling, medical care, and emotional support to the rescued pupils and teachers to aid their reintegration into society.

?The association reiterated that schools must be secured to remain places of learning rather than intimidation, stressing that no parent should have to choose between educating a child and keeping them alive.

?Okoh added that the national celebration against insecurity would only be complete when all captives are released and Nigerians can move freely without fear of abduction.

The Lagos State Environmental and Special Offences (Enforcement) Unit has confiscated 309 commercial motorcycles for operating on prohibited routes during an extensive enforcement operation across parts of the state.

The exercise also saw officials remove numerous illegal structures, including shanties, kiosks, makeshift shops and roadside trading stalls that authorities said had become sources of traffic obstruction and environmental degradation.

The operation covered several locations along the ECOWAS Road corridor and adjoining communities, including Orile-Iganmu Bus Stop, Suuru-Alaba Bus Stop, Mile 2 Underbridge, Mazamaza Bus Stop, Festac First Gate, Iyana-Ira, Abule-Ado, Alakija Bus Stop, Iyana-Iba, Alaba Rago, Old Ojo Road and Okoko Bus Stop.

Addressing journalists after the weekend exercise, Chairman of the Taskforce, Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Adetayo Akerele, said the scale of illegal activities discovered during the operation was disturbing.

He explained that the enforcement exercise was conducted jointly with the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, while the Lagos State Police Command provided security support.

According to Akerele, the operation was designed to eliminate illegal activities and locations that could provide cover for criminals masquerading as legitimate traders or commercial operators.

He said the initiative also supports the Lagos State Government’s THEMES Plus Agenda and complements the security strategy of the Commissioner of Police, Fatai Tijani, aimed at tackling emerging threats such as kidnapping and other forms of crime.

‘At the conclusion of the operation, 309 commercial motorcycles were impounded,’ Akerele said.

He disclosed that enforcement officers equally removed illegal kiosks, makeshift stalls, unauthorised wooden structures, abandoned household items, improperly displayed building materials and other obstructions encroaching on public roads.

According to him, the exercise was intended to restore sanity to the affected areas, ease traffic movement and ensure compliance with environmental regulations.

Akerele added that all confiscated motorcycles would undergo legal forfeiture proceedings in accordance with the provisions of the Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law, 2018, before becoming the property of the Lagos State Government.

He reiterated that the agency would continue similar operations across the state until there is full compliance with extant laws.

The Taskforce chairman also blamed illegal ticketing, roadside trading and persistent violations by commercial motorcycle operators for worsening insecurity, traffic congestion and environmental pollution.

‘We will continue to enforce the law without fear or favour to guarantee a safer, cleaner and more orderly Lagos for all residents,’ he said.

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has appealed to some of the country’s biggest music stars, including Davido, Burna Boy and Asake, to channel part of their wealth into charitable initiatives aimed at supporting poor and vulnerable Nigerians.

Speaking on the need for greater private-sector and individual support for social welfare, Tinubu said wealthy entertainers could make a significant impact by establishing foundations dedicated to empowering struggling citizens, even as they enjoy the rewards of their success.

She stressed that philanthropy should go hand in hand with affluence, noting that luxury lifestyles should not overshadow the responsibility to uplift others.

‘I want to appeal to our young people in this country. Burna Boy, Asake and Davido, we want to see you come together under one foundation to help the poor with your money,’ she said.

‘The Maybachs and Rolls-Royces are good, but you can still help. The burden on the government is huge.’

To underscore the impact of targeted intervention, Tinubu recounted the story of a university graduate who turned to selling akara in Abuja after failing to secure formal employment.

According to her, she quietly facilitated support for the young entrepreneur without revealing her identity, enabling him to expand his business.

‘There was once I read an article about a young graduate who said he didn’t get a job. He said he sells akara because he couldn’t get a job. We approached him, but I didn’t put my name to it. We equipped him more. He now has 12 workers working under him, and he’s doing very, very well,’ she said.

Tinubu said the success story demonstrates how relatively small interventions can create jobs and improve livelihoods.

She also cited Senegalese-American music star Akon as an example of a celebrity who has invested significantly in charitable causes across Africa, urging Nigerian entertainers to emulate such efforts.

‘I will use Akon, a music icon, who does a lot of great charity work. Then the Burna Boys of this world, Asake, all of them, Davido. We want to see you with one foundation or the other, helping the poor with your money,’ she added.

Tinubu further encouraged Nigerians to embrace entrepreneurship, saying there is dignity in every legitimate business, including petty trading.

‘There are pepper sellers, vegetable sellers, okra sellers, melon sellers, akara and kuli-kuli sellers. Akara is delicious, I can tell you that,’ she remarked.

Kano State has been ranked as the top sub-national government in West Africa for spending on education, according to the 2026 Sub-National Education Spending Index released by the University of Paris.

The report assessed 209 states, regions, districts and municipalities across the 15 member countries of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

Kano scored 87.21 points on the index, placing it first overall. It ranked ahead of Dakar and Saint-Louis in Senegal. Lagos State was the second highest-ranked state in Nigeria and placed 16th overall.

The ranking measured how much governments invest in education and how effectively they manage education budgets. Factors considered included actual education spending, spending per student, budget implementation, priority given to education, transparency and the use of evidence in reporting.

According to the report, Kano’s strong performance was largely due to its high level of education funding and efficient execution of its education budget.

The recognition comes after the Kano State Government declared a state of emergency in the education sector to tackle long-standing challenges such as poor infrastructure and limited access to quality education.

As part of its education reforms, the state government has invested in building and renovating schools, hiring teachers, providing learning materials and expanding educational opportunities for students.

The Kano State Accountability Forum on Education said the ranking reflects the government’s efforts to improve school infrastructure, planning and budget management.

Governor Abba Yusuf allocated 29.5 per cent of the state’s 2024 budget to education and increased the allocation to 30 per cent in 2025. These are among the highest education budget allocations in Nigeria.

The state government also developed an education recovery plan with support from international development partners to improve learning outcomes and strengthen human capital development.

The report highlights Kano’s commitment to improving education and its growing reputation as a leader in educational investment and reform across West Africa.

The collapse of a section of the New Gombe State House of Assembly Complex under construction has left one worker dead and seven others sustaining varying degrees of injuries.

Mr Danladi Adamu, the Permanent Secretary, Gombe State Ministry of Works, Housing and Transportation confirmed the incident to newsmen in a press statement issued in Gombe on Friday.

Adamu, who described the incident as unfortunate said that it occurred earlier on Friday and affected a section of the cantilevered entrance canopy under construction.

‘The incident involved eight workers where seven sustained injuries and were immediately evacuated for medical attention at the hospital.

‘Five are receiving treatment at the Gombe State Specialist Hospital, while two others are being treated at the Federal Teaching Hospital, Gombe.

‘Regrettably, one life was lost,’ he said.

Danladi further stated that Gov Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State has been briefed on the incident and that Yahaya expressed heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased.

He said that the governor directed that all injured workers receive comprehensive medical care at government’s expense.

The permanent secretary said that the governor also directed his Ministry alongside other relevant emergency, regulatory and technical agencies, to immediately commence safety and accountability procedures.

He said Yahaya further directed that the contractor and the project consultant should submit a Formal Incident Report (FIR) within 24 hours.

He also said that the FIR should be followed by a Preliminary Investigation Report and, subsequently, a comprehensive technical report with findings and recommendations.

Danladi quoted Yahaya to have said that appropriate measures would be taken in line with the outcome of the investigation and applicable standards.

He reiterated the state government’s commitment to ensuring strict compliance with safety, quality and engineering standards in the execution of all public infrastructure projects