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The Rosa Luxemburg Foundation West Africa has called for fresh strategies to tackle insecurity in Nigeria saying persistent attacks by kidnappers bandits and other criminal groups have made road travel increasingly dangerous.

The foundation’s representative Angela Odah made the call on Thursday at its conference on Peace and Conflict Resolution in Nigeria themed Rethinking Strategies for Sustainable Peace in Abuja.

She said insecurity had spread across the country’s geopolitical zones with rural communities in Northern Nigeria facing persistent attacks that had displaced many residents into internally displaced persons camps for over a decade.

Odah lamented that Nigerians could no longer enjoy the freedom of travelling by road without fear of abduction and ransom demands.

‘In the last twelve years or more these simple pleasures of life have become a dangerous adventure with kidnappers bandits and all kinds of criminal gangs on the prowl to capture Nigerians and demand ransoms’ she said.

She described sustainable peace as critical to development noting that the foundation had supported research and dialogue to promote democratic participation and peaceful coexistence across communities and countries.

Odah cited a regional conference on political crises in West Africa held in Abidjan Côte d’Ivoire on September 23 and 24 and a Change Makers Programme organised in collaboration with the Johannesburg Holocaust and Genocide Centre and the University of Ghana in Accra from October 5 to 7.

She said the Abuja conference was designed as a national dialogue that would be sustained annually over the next three years to assess Nigeria’s peace and security situation and develop recommendations for lasting peace.

The foundation a German political organisation active in West Africa since 2010 focuses on democratic participation peace and security climate and economic justice migration justice and feminism.

The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has said its nationwide organisational structure extensive presence and approximately 13 million verified members give it an advantage over opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The party’s National Chairman Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda stated this on Sunday while receiving a pre-election fact-finding mission from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) at the APC National Secretariat in Abuja.

Former Sierra Leonean Vice-President Victor Bockarie Foh led the delegation.

Yilwatda said years of deliberate political organisation had positioned the APC to mobilise voters effectively across the country.

He maintained that the party’s membership strength and established structures gave it a solid foundation ahead of the 2027 elections.

A statement issued in Abuja on Sunday by Abimbola Tooki Special Adviser on Media and Information Strategy to the APC National Chairman quoted Yilwatda as making the remarks during the meeting.

‘Our party is the largest political party in Nigeria. In terms of structure organisation and membership no other political party comes close to us. We are approximately three times larger than the next political party in the country’ Yilwatda declared during the meeting.

The party chief revealed that the APC’s 13 million registered members across all local government areas are backed by a verifiable database and membership identity cards linked to National Identification Numbers (NIN) and voter registration details.

He added that the ruling party boasts over 261000 elected executive officers spanning ward local government state and national structures.

Highlighting the party’s elected representation as proof of national acceptance Yilwatda pointed out that the APC holds 31 out of the 36 state governorship seats 88 seats out of 109 in the Senate and 208 out of 360 seats in the House of Representatives in addition to dominating state Houses of Assembly.

The National Chairman noted that the APC’s platform remains the primary vehicle for political aspirants nationwide citing the over 7000 aspirants who contested in its internal primary processes.

He noted that while several unsuccessful aspirants eventually picked tickets in opposition parties such as the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) the APC recorded very few post-primary court cases.

Emphasising candidate readiness Yilwatda revealed that the APC has fielded candidates for all available elective positions inaugurated its campaign council and completed its candidate upload on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) portal.

He urged the electoral body to stick strictly to its published election timetable to ensure a fair transparent and predictable contest for all participants.

‘We believe INEC should stick to its timetable. The rules must apply equally to every political party. The electoral process must be fair transparent and predictable without adjusting deadlines in a manner that gives any party an undue advantage’ he said.

Despite the ruling party’s overwhelming structural advantage Yilwatda assured the visiting ECOWAS delegation that the APC remains committed to democratic principles and will not use its strength to intimidate or suppress opposing voices.

He cited past anti-government demonstrations such as the ‘Tinubu Must Go’ protests as proof that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration fully protects democratic space.

‘Being the largest political party does not mean that we want to suppress anybody. We want a democratic environment in which every party can organise campaign and seek the support of Nigerians without fear’ Yilwatda stated.

In his remarks the head of the ECOWAS mission Victor Bockarie Foh commended Professor Yilwatda for the detailed presentation clarifying that the delegation’s assessment would rely strictly on scientific data collection observation and verification.

‘Our monitoring is scientific and our decisions on issues are based on scientific observation. We verify information before making any pronouncement and we use a robust data-collection system. Our reports are therefore not arbitrary’ Foh stated

He explained that the mission engaged relevant political stakeholders to gather information and perspectives to support its assessment of Nigeria’s electoral environment ahead of the 2027 general elections.

He said the engagement would meaningfully contribute to the mission’s understanding of the political landscape and the conditions for conducting next year’s elections noting that the session provided valuable insight into Nigeria’s political readiness ahead of the polls.

Nigeria’s ambition to expand local defence production within a year is shaping discussions at the Africa International Defence Exhibition (Afridex) 2026 in Lagos where Nigerian and Turkish industry representatives are examining opportunities for joint manufacturing technology transfer and skills development.

The Strategic Conference programme connects equipment procurement with the industrial partnerships engineering expertise and long-term support needed to strengthen domestic defence capability.

Nigeria’s Minister of Defence General Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd) outlined the government’s production ambitions.

Musa said ‘Within the next year Nigeria will commence large-scale local production of defence hardware to meet domestic requirements and support exports to other African countries.’

The ambition provides the backdrop to ‘From Partnership to Production’ a dedicated Trkiye-Nigeria panel examining joint development manufacturing and investment opportunities.

The published panel programme includes Proforce’s Ade Ogundeyin; Gökhan Uçar Deputy Secretary at Trkiye’s Secretariat of Defence Industries; Bam Ibrahim Garba Chief Executive Officer of DICON Gray Insignia; and Sevket Ünal Vice President at HAVELSAN.

Moderated by Maj. Gen. (rtd) Anthony Mayowa Atolagbe the session focuses on technology transfer local industrial capability and government- industry partnerships that can support long -term defence requirements.

For Nigerian manufacturers and technology businesses the discussions address opportunities to participate in defence supply chains develop specialist expertise and support equipment throughout its operational life. The programme also includes ‘Building Africa’s Defence Capability: From Procurement to Sovereignty’ examining how acquisition decisions can strengthen national readiness while developing sustainable domestic capability.

Speaking at Monday’s opening ceremony Nigeria’s Minister of State for Defence and Chairman of the DICON Board Dr Bello Muhammed Matawalle MON emphasised the importance of developing the workforce required to sustain local manufacturing. Matawalle said ‘A good and trusted partner leaves behind the engineers and the technical crew that will continue to keep the production lines active.

Major General Babatunde Ibrahim Alaya Director General of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) said the exhibition’s value would depend on the capabilities and industrial relationships it helped establish.

Alaya said ‘Ultimately AFRIDEX’s success will be measured not by exhibitors or visitors but by lasting partnerships investments industrial projects and sustainable capabilities.’

The wider international cooperation agenda was reinforced by Major General John Clark CBE Commander of the Integrated Global Defence Network at the UK Ministry of Defence during his keynote on Tuesday 27 October.

Clark said ‘The UK will maintain strong bilateral and regional partnerships across Africa to respond to shared security challenges and support prosperity’ His address ‘From Partnership to Prosperity’ connected security cooperation with long -term stability and economic prosperity highlighting regional coordination information sharing and the ability of armed forces to operate together.

Sustaining capability after equipment enters service is another principal theme. ‘The Day After Delivery’ featuring Henry Fulbrook of Black Star Global and Colonel Dr Aminu Mohammed Shaibu Director of Procurement at Ghana Armed Forces examines the role of training local support and long -term force planning.’

‘Technical sessions address counter -drone readiness including the selection of appropriate systems and their integration with training and operational doctrine. International industry participation also includes WB Group alongside the exhibition’s wider focus on emerging technologies and operational capability.

Maritime discussions connect defence readiness with the protection of trade. The programme includes Vice Admiral Idi Abbas of the Nigerian Navy and Rear Admiral Manuel António Pereira Semedo of Cabo Verde in a session examining maritime threats naval cooperation and critical sea routes.

Counter -terrorism discussions include Somalia’s Minister of Defence Ahmed Moallim Fiqi Ahmed and General Júlio dos Santos Jane of Mozambique with a focus on evolving threats intelligence sharing and regional coordination.

Further sessions examine strategic autonomy drones artificial intelligence and asymmetric warfare alongside technical discussions on defence innovation resilient infrastructure and multinational cyber exercises.

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has expressed concern over the reported conviction and imprisonment of a Christian woman identified as Lami Samuel Dawa in Borno State.

The association said it was particularly concerned by reports that the case arose from circumstances surrounding the conversion of an adult woman to Christianity.

However it noted that the precise facts and legal basis of the conviction were still being verified.

CAN said an appeal had already been filed adding that it was committed to allowing the judicial process to run its course.

In a statement issued yesterday by its president Archbishop Daniel Okoh the association said the case had raised important questions about the protection of religious freedom and fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

It maintained that every individual had the right to freely choose change or practise their religion or belief without coercion intimidation or unlawful punishment.

The association called on relevant authorities to ensure that the rights of all parties were protected and that justice was served in accordance with the constitution and the law.

CAN also said it would continue to monitor developments in the case and engage relevant authorities through appropriate legal and institutional channels.

The association reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful coexistence among Nigerians of different religious backgrounds and the protection of the fundamental rights and freedoms of every citizen.

December is one of Nigeria’s busiest periods for entertainment tourism and cultural celebrations with festivals concerts and religious gatherings attracting thousands of participants. From the colourful Calabar Carnival to Lagos’ major music events these celebrations showcase the country’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant entertainment industry.

Here are four popular festivals and events to experience in Nigeria this December.

Often described as Africa’s biggest street party the Calabar Carnival is one of Nigeria’s most recognised annual cultural celebrations.

Held throughout December the carnival features colourful costumes competing carnival bands street dancers musical performances and elaborate parades. Its grand celebrations attract visitors from across Nigeria and beyond.

The event also provides a platform to showcase Cross River State’s cultural heritage while promoting tourism hospitality and local businesses.

Lagos becomes a major entertainment destination in December as the annual Detty December season brings together music fashion nightlife and social events.

Among its major attractions is Flytime Fest a music festival known for featuring prominent Afrobeats stars and international performers.

The wider December entertainment calendar also includes concerts beach parties and other live performances attracting music lovers returning Nigerians and international visitors.

The Experience is one of Nigeria’s biggest annual gospel music concerts bringing together thousands of worshippers for an evening of praise and worship.

Held at Tafawa Balewa Square in Lagos the event features performances by renowned Nigerian and international gospel ministers.

The concert attracts large audiences who gather to celebrate their faith through music prayer and worship making it a major event on Nigeria’s December calendar.

The Idoma International Carnival celebrates the cultural identity and heritage of the Idoma people in Benue State.

The annual event showcases traditional music dance colourful costumes masquerades and cultural exhibitions allowing communities to preserve and promote their traditions.

It also brings together indigenes visitors and cultural enthusiasts to celebrate Idoma history and heritage while promoting tourism and cultural exchange.

The Presidency on Sunday warned against attempts to truncate the South’s eight-year tenure in the nation’s rotational presidency arrangement insisting that the North must honour the existing understanding to preserve national unity political stability and mutual trust.

It argued that sacrificing the longstanding power-sharing principle to accommodate any individual’s presidential ambition would undermine the spirit of reciprocity that has helped sustain Nigeria’s democracy since 1999.

Personal Assistant to the President on Radio and Broadcast Office of the Vice President Hajya Rahma Abdulmajid made the statement on Sunday about the Grand Inauguration and Strategic Media Awards Ceremony of Matan Arewa 4 Tinubu Again (MATA) in Kano.

Abdulmajid who made a veiled reference to former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar maintained that the North’s political interests would be better protected by respecting the rotational arrangement than pursuing an immediate return to power.

She described the North-South power-sharing understanding as a reciprocal political compact designed to guarantee fairness inclusion and national stability.

According to her the agreement reached by political leaders during the transition from military rule in 1998 helped address the divisions created by the annulment of the June 12 1993 presidential election.

She recalled that prominent Northern and Southern leaders including Chief Sunday Awoniyi Dr Chuba Okadigbo Alhaji Abubakar Rimi Dr Alex Ekwueme and Dr Okwesilieze Nwodo participated in the discussions that shaped the understanding.

Abdulmajid also claimed that Atiku attended the historic Kaduna meeting a position she said the Secretary to the Government of the Federation Senator George Akume had corroborated.

‘In 1999 when the guns of military rule finally fell silent this nation did not just switch governments-we made a sacred promise.

‘Our founding patriots gathered in Kaduna with one urgent defining question echo-chambered in their minds: How do we keep Nigeria one?

‘And from that sacred deliberation came a compact: not a sectional concession but a reciprocal agreement’ she said.

Tracing the country’s leadership transitions Abdulmajid noted that former President Olusegun Obasanjo governed from 1999 to 2007 before power shifted North with the election of Umaru Musa Yar’Adua.

She explained that Yar’Adua’s death in 2010 interrupted the North’s tenure with his Southern deputy Goodluck Jonathan completing the administration and subsequently winning the 2011 presidential election.

According to her the North’s demand for power to return in 2015 was eventually realised through the election of Muhammadu Buhari who served two terms between 2015 and 2023.

She maintained that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s emergence in 2023 restored the rotational sequence making his re-election in 2027 consistent with the same principle Northern political leaders previously defended.

‘The agreement is reciprocal; it is a two-way street. The North has already taken its full benefit after eight solid years under Buhari. You cannot eat your cake and still demand another man’s cake’ she declared.

Abdulmajid recalled Tinubu’s role in mobilising support for Buhari’s election in 2015 arguing that the same commitment to political fairness should now guide Northern leaders in supporting his second-term ambition.

She accused Atiku of applying different standards to the zoning arrangement depending on whether it favoured his presidential aspirations.

‘Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar tells us zoning is ‘self-defeating.’ But he participated in and benefited from zoned arrangements in 2015 and 2019 when they favoured his ambition!

‘When rotation opened the door for him it was acceptable. When it stands in his way it becomes ‘intellectually dishonest” she said.

Questioning the justification for abandoning the arrangement she added: ‘Shall we sacrifice Nigeria’s stability for one man’s ambition? The North’s genuine interest is not served by that; the North’s interest is stable inclusion.

‘The guarantee that power will return to you only lives if we honour the compact today’.

She urged Northern voters to regard Tinubu’s re-election as a matter of political honour and national stability rather than sectional competition.

‘This is for our honour. This is for reciprocity. This is for the enduring stability and peaceful coexistence of our great nation.

‘That is exactly what the re-election of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term stands for’ she said.

Also speaking Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf warned that reversing the existing power rotation arrangement would portray the North as unwilling to respect political agreements.

The governor represented by his Director-General of Media and Publicity Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa maintained that fairness inclusivity and mutual respect remained indispensable to Nigeria’s unity.

He urged Northern political stakeholders to uphold the existing understanding by supporting Tinubu’s re-election in 2027.

Former Jigawa State Governor and immediate past Minister of Defence Mohammad Abubakar Badaru also backed the President’s second-term bid arguing that the North had benefited substantially from the administration’s infrastructure investments.

Badaru maintained that the Tinubu administration had delivered more development projects to the North than to any other region.

He cited completed road projects including the 88-kilometre Zuba-Jere and 81-kilometre Abuja-Kaduna sections of the Abuja-Kaduna-Kano Highway commissioned in October 2026.

Others he said included the 77-kilometre Kaduna-Pambeguwa road the Yakasai-Badume-Damargu-Marken Zalli roads in Kano and the Jimeta Bridge in Yola.

On healthcare the former minister listed the completed Gadon Kaya Primary Healthcare Centre in Kano three polio emergency centres in Katsina Kano and Sokoto and a pharmacy laboratory at Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital Zaria.

He also mentioned the 50-bed mental health centre at the University of Maiduguri an infertility centre at Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital Bauchi and ongoing improvements at Bichi General Hospital.

Badaru further identified the deployment of 79 Compressed Natural Gas-powered ambulances as part of the administration’s efforts to strengthen healthcare delivery.

He maintained that the projects demonstrated the administration’s commitment to Northern development and provided additional justification for the region to support Tinubu’s second-term ambition.

Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State on Sunday inaugurated President Bola Tinubu’s presidential re-election campaign structure in the State.

Speaking during the inauguration at the International Convention Centre (ICC) the governor said the grand political coalition formed across key parties in the State represented a battle for the soul of Nigeria Ndigbo and Anambra State.

Soludo Anambra State Coordinator for President Tinubu’s re-election declared that the era of opposition and protest politics practised since 2015 must end in favour of active participation in central governance.

He described the upcoming poll as a battle between emotion and reason emphasising that emotional politics can only dominate temporarily before yielding to strategic calculation.

According to him the primary reason for the gathering of cross-party leaders was to secure Tinubu’s re-election.

Addressing candidates contesting other electoral offices across various political platforms the Governor assured that a level playing field exists for everyone.

He however reiterated that the strategic alliance’s unified focus remains re-electing the President.

Citing historical foundation for the move Soludo recalled that eminent politicians from the state including Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe Dr Alex Ekwueme Dr Chuba Okadigbo among others consistently played politics at the central national level.

He noted that Ndigbo cannot afford to separate themselves or become insular in national political dynamics.

‘The All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) recognised this imperative and resolved to align with the central administration.

‘APGA and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) share a common progressive ideology anchored on federalism and shared prosperity.

‘President Tinubu understands that true progressives must unite to foster national growth’ he stated.

While advising Ndigbo to evaluate their long-term interests carefully the governor argued that state revenues alone are insufficient to develop major infrastructure assets like federal rail lines and gas pipelines without strong strategic partnerships at the centre.

Governor Soludo noted that despite President Tinubu polling over 5000 votes in Anambra during the 2023 elections the administration has extended significant support to the state.

He questioned what even greater developments the state would attract if the electorate mobilises en masse for him in the upcoming election.

Addressing political realities the Governor remarked that nowhere in world history has a strong incumbent been defeated by a fractured opposition noting his personal record of accurately predicting every presidential election outcome in Nigeria since 1983.

He explained that after the South’s second term presidential power is expected to return to the North before returning to the South around 2039 making it imperative for Ndigbo to be positioned within the central political structure today.

On local politics Soludo said that while he maintains close personal and familiar ties with political rivals differences remain limited to political strategy and ideology.

He also commended ongoing federal fiscal interventions aimed at improving foreign exchange availability for importers acknowledging that while significant progress has been made substantial work remains.

Outlining the operational roadmap the Governor announced that campaign structures across the state will be streamlined before the end of the upcoming week.

He asserted that elections are won strictly at the polling booths and ward levels. He urged supporters to remain steadfast against opposition attacks and online verbal abuse.

He charged them to stay anchored on the truth adding that his decisions are driven by a commitment to secure the future of coming generations.

The inauguration drew widespread representation across party lines including the state leadership of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Accord Party and APGA signifying a broad political realignment behind the President in the forthcoming presidential election in Anambra State.

Speaking at the event State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Senator Emmanuel Anosike admitted to initial scepticism before attending the meeting. Still he expressed deep appreciation for the visible developmental strides taking place in Anambra State.

He said the coalition’s core purpose is to ensure the state participates directly at the centre of national governance.

While appealing for unity among political brethren during this period of national change Anosike clarified that candidates contesting on various party tickets are free to demonstrate their individual capacity. Still all stakeholders must work collectively for the President’s success.

Delivering a message of solidarity APGA National Chairman Barrister Sly Ezeokenwa described the gathering as an unprecedented coalition united under the single mandate of Tinubu’s re-election.

He commended Soludo for his leadership in facilitating the historic alignment and reaffirmed the party’s readiness to execute campaign instructions and deliver victory at the polls.

Two suspected Ebola cases in Adamawa State have tested negative after two rounds of laboratory testing the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has said.

The agency also emphasised that Nigeria currently has no confirmed Ebola case following the evacuation of the index patient to Switzerland for further treatment after her condition improved.

The NCDC Director-General Dr Jide Idris disclosed this in a statement on Saturday night adding that the individuals were isolated after presenting symptoms suggestive of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) in Yola.

According to Idris the Adamawa State Public Health Emergency Operations Centre received the report in the early hours of October 30 prompting investigations and the activation of appropriate public health measures.

He said the NCDC was working with the Adamawa State Government through the Ministry of Health and Human Services to investigate the cases and provide technical support for the response.

Idris commended the state Commissioner for Health and his team for their proactive response stressing that Adamawa currently had no laboratory-confirmed Ebola case.

He added that the index case previously confirmed in the Federal Capital Territory remained Nigeria’s only confirmed case.

The NCDC urged the public to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information advising Nigerians to rely on official government and public health communication channels for updates.

It also advised anyone experiencing symptoms such as fever severe weakness headache muscle pain vomiting diarrhoea or unexplained bleeding particularly after a possible exposure to seek immediate medical attention and disclose relevant travel or contact history to healthcare workers.

The agency cautioned against self-medication and urged the public to follow professional medical advice noting that Ebola requires prompt identification appropriate clinical management and effective infection prevention and control measures.

Idris said the NCDC Adamawa State Government and other stakeholders would continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as verified information became available.

Kano State Governor Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf has declared Kano as home to all Nigerians and urged Yoruba Ebira Igala and other non-indigenous communities in the state to massively support the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and all APC candidates in 2027.

Governor Yusuf stated this in Kano at the weekend while speaking as Special Guest of Honour at the N600 million empowerment programme organised by the Leke Abejide Foundation for widows and vulnerable persons.

The governor described the gathering as a celebration of unity progress and empowerment noting that the initiative aligns perfectly with his administration’s vision of community engagement peaceful coexistence and inclusive development for all residents regardless of ethnic religious or cultural background.

In his words ‘It gives me great privilege and joy to stand before you today at this grand gathering of unity progress and empowerment of our people. I am here in person to give my full backing to this initiative one that aligns with our administration’s vision of peaceful coexistence and development for all residents of Kano State.’

Governor Yusuf specifically commended the convener Hon. Leke Joseph Abejide Chairman House Committee on Customs and Excise for demonstrating foresight humanitarian concern and political leadership through his foundation.

He said Abejide’s story moved him recalling that the lawmaker came to Kano as a young man schooled in Kano raised his first capital in Kano and ventured into business and politics from Kano.

‘Despite reaching the peak of his political career he has not forgotten his roots. For us his roots are in Kano.

‘He has not forgotten those who have been with him all these years. He has decided to come back to assist them. The good people of Kano remain ever grateful to you’ the governor said.

He also thanked Abejide’s wife for supporting her husband’s humanitarian interventions.

Governor Yusuf reiterated that Kano remains a home for all stressing that his administration believes every resident who contributes to the state’s social and economic vitality deserves respect representation and support.

‘To demonstrate our commitment to inclusive governance we have made strategic appointments to ensure representation of major non-indigenous communities. This includes the appointment of Special Advisers on Yoruba Affairs Igbo Affairs and Northern Minorities.’

He assured that following the large turnout of Ebira and Igala communities his government will in due course extend such appointments to members of the Ebira and Igala communities living in Kano.

On politics Governor Yusuf said mobilising over one million Yoruba residents in Kano for political participation ahead of the 2027 general elections was timely and strategic.

‘The Yoruba community the Igalas and the Ebiras in Kano have always been known for their industriousness political maturity and peaceful disposition. Mobilising this vibrant population to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR and all APC candidates in Kano is crucial to securing national stability economic renewal and continued development’ he said.

He said he would not dwell much on President Tinubu’s achievements as former Governor Yahaya Bello had already enumerated them. Still he noted that Kano today is different from Kano in 2023.

‘In 2023 we were in the opposition. Today by the grace of Allah the governor elected in 2023 is now a full member of the ruling party the APC with the President as leader. Today 24 out of 27 members of the State House of Assembly are in APC. 9 out of 14 House of Representatives members are in APC. Two out of three Senators are in APC. All 44 Local Government Chairmen all 484 Councillors plus commissioners and advisers are all in APC working round the clock to ensure 100 per cent success for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.’

He expressed optimism that the Yoruba Igala Ebira and other ethnic communities alone will deliver more than 1.5 million votes for the President.

‘Kano is your home. Kano is your home. Kano is your home. For me you have no other place but Kano. You must take Kano as your first home. That is why we are making Kano comfortable and secure for you’ he declared.

On the proposed Oba of Yoruba palace Governor Yusuf directed the organisers to stop the plan to purchase land saying the state government will provide land free of charge.

‘I don’t think it is fair for me to allow you to purchase land in Kano when the governor is the chief custodian of all lands. Withdraw that money and channel it elsewhere. I want to see the design and the Bill of Quantities. Thereafter Kano State Government will key into the full construction of the palace’ he announced.

The governor also announced a personal donation of N100 million to support the empowerment programme and other logistics.

He urged beneficiaries especially widows and indigent persons to use the resources wisely to become self-reliant.

‘Let us carry this momentum into our communities structure our strength and vote massively for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and all APC candidates’ he concluded.

The newly appointed National General Secretary of the Iyaloja-General Movement for Renewed Hope Alliance (IGM) Obiageli Okwubanego has pledged to strengthen the group’s nationwide structures and mobilise grassroots support for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election in 2027.

Okwubanego made the commitment following her appointment by the Iyaloja-General of Nigeria Chief Dr Mujidat Folasade Tinubu-Ojo on Thursday pledging to strengthen the national secretariat improve communication across the group’s structures and enhance coordination among members at the national state and grassroots levels.

She said the mobilisation drive would involve engagement with market leaders traders women groups and community stakeholders to expand the movement’s reach and encourage participation in the democratic process.

Okwubanego also called on Nigerians particularly women and grassroots stakeholders to engage constructively with political issues ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Describing her appointment as a demonstration of confidence in her leadership capacity administrative experience and commitment to service the new General Secretary pledged to work with the IGM National Director-General Dr Nasiru Ladan members of the National Working Committee state coordinators and other stakeholders to build a cohesive and effective organisation.

Okwubanego is a businesswoman and real estate developer who serves as Senior Special Assistant to Anambra State Governor Prof. Chukwuma Soludo on Tax and Investment Mobilisation.

In that role she facilitates engagement between investors and the state government with a focus on investment promotion diaspora investment and economic development.

She has also participated in international business engagements to promote investment opportunities in Anambra State.

Reaffirming her commitment to the new role Okwubanego urged members of the movement market leaders and state coordinators to work together to strengthen its organisational capacity and grassroots presence in pursuit of its stated objective of mobilising support for Tinubu’s second-term bid.

Expressing gratitude to Tinubu-Ojo for the appointment she pledged to justify the confidence reposed in her and urged members of the National Working Committee state coordinators market leaders and other stakeholders to embrace unity and work collectively to build a strong well-organised national platform.

She assured that her tenure would be guided by accountability inclusiveness and effective service delivery with emphasis on expanding the movement’s grassroots presence and improving its administrative and mobilisation capacity.