Author Archives: News All Around

The Yari Roundtable for Inter-Religious Harmony has convened a major interfaith summit in Abuja, bringing together leading Christian and Muslim clerics to develop practical strategies for addressing the persistent insecurity troubling Northern Nigeria.

The high-level meeting drew religious figures, dignitaries, and community representatives from across the 19 northern states—all committed to forging a united front for peace, stability, and social cohesion in the region.

Speaking at the opening session, former Senator Shehu Sani said the worsening violence in the North made such a gathering both timely and necessary. He stressed that leaders must confront the root causes of terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and other violent crimes if the region is to reclaim peace.

According to Sani, the Roundtable was designed to listen directly to clerics and community voices, gather grounded insights, and produce a harmonised report that relevant authorities can act upon.

“We must stop being reactive as leaders,” he said. “The bold step we are taking today is driven by a bottom-up approach. The North cannot develop under the weight of insecurity. We must confront the issues honestly and find lasting solutions once and for all.”

He also urged clerics to use their places of worship to amplify messages of peace, harmony, and mutual respect. Expressing satisfaction with what he described as “robust and enriching discussions,” Sani said the testimonies shared by participants reflected the lived realities of communities across the region.

According to him, the Yari Roundtable seeks to create a collaborative space where Christian and Muslim leaders can jointly explore pathways to peace and collectively combat the terrorism that continues to destabilise Nigeria.

Participants unanimously agreed that terrorism and banditry pose a shared threat to all communities, regardless of faith, and therefore require a united, coordinated response.

Religious leaders at the event commended Senator Abdul Aziz Yari—former Zamfara State governor and founder of the Roundtable—for initiating what they described as a courageous and timely interfaith intervention. They emphasised the critical role of clerics in shaping public opinion, bridging divides, and discouraging radicalisation within their congregations.

The leaders expressed optimism that the discussions held during the summit had identified key drivers of insecurity. They stressed that if the recommendations generated are implemented by federal, state, and local authorities, Northern Nigeria could witness significant progress in reducing insurgency and banditry.

They further called on political leaders, security agencies, and citizens to embrace interfaith collaboration and sustain such engagements as an enduring pathway to peace and development.

Among the prominent religious leaders in attendance were Archbishop James Mafita, Sheikh Salisu Abdullahi Maibarota, Rev. Gideon Mutum, Dr. Umar Zaria, Dr. Sadiq Doka, Bishop Salisu Bala (JP), Bishop Livingston Achili, Bishop Obadiah Gideon Bako, and Sheikh Adam Binani, among others.

Senator Abdul Aziz Yari founded the Yari Roundtable for Inter-Religious Harmony to create a platform that promotes unity, peace, and understanding across the 19 northern states—a mission the summit reaffirmed with renewed energy and commitment.

Nigeria’s participation at the ongoing COP30 in Belēm, Brazil, witnessed a tremendous boost when Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi, Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), delivered a keynote address at the High-Level Buildings and Cooling Pavilion Side Event.

The DG ECN used the platform provided to highlight Nigeria’s commitment to a smarter, energy-efficient cooling transition aligned with global climate goals.

Dr. Mustapha, alongside global partners which included Daikin Industries, UNEP-U4E, and the International Energy Agency, explored practical solutions to expand access to cooling while minimizing environmental impact.

At the global event, discussions emphasized the role of Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) and modern cooling technologies in reducing emissions across emerging economies, with side discussions held with staff of the NNPC on how this initiative can be further promoted by the Government of Nigeria.

The ECN Director-General, an avowed and committed believer in the country’s solarization project, reaffirmed Nigeria’s readiness to harmonize standards, deepen collaboration, and accelerate sustainable cooling innovations under the Global Cooling Pledge.

He told listeners that “ECN remains focused on advancing technologies and policies that enhance comfort, boost productivity, and protect the environment”.

Similarly, the ECN DG engaged with Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Energy and Climate Change, to discuss fostering a just and equitable energy transition for developing nations.

The conversation focused on responsibly harnessing natural resources to accelerate sustainable growth, reflecting a shared commitment to collaboration, innovation, and a future where energy development benefits people while protecting the planet.

Dr. Mustapha at the global event who comes to an end today, joined other distinguished Nigerians at the Nigeria Pavilion to celebrate Nigeria Day at the ongoing COP30 in Brazil, where a brief remark was delivered.

The delegation included the Minister for Regional Development, Engr. Abubakar Momoh; the Minister of Livestock and Fisheries Development, Alhaji Idi Mukhtar Maiha; and the Chairman of the House Committee on Science and Technology, Hon. Adelegbe Emmanuel Oluwatimehin.

Several other eminent Nigerian representatives were also present, demonstrating the nation’s strong commitment to climate action and sustainable development on the global stage.

David Onyilokwu

Nigeria’s Middle Belt politics exploded on Thursday after the Middle Belt Forum (MBF) issued a blistering attack on Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, accusing him of “dancing on the graves” of thousands killed in years of terror attacks across the state.

In one of its strongest statements yet, the influential regional body said Governor Alia’s recent claim that no religious genocide was taking place in Benue was not just false but “a crude insult to the dead” and “an affront to survivors who live every day under the shadow of slaughter.”

The MBF pointedly reminded the governor of his own viral video from April 20, 2025, where he declared that Benue was under “well targeted, well planned and religiously executed” attacks. “How does a man contradict himself so spectacularly?” the Forum asked. “Who benefits from his sudden amnesia?”

“This is genocide — and everyone knows it”

The Forum invoked the UN Genocide Convention, arguing that the pattern of killings, mass burnings, and forced displacement in Benue mirrors every element of a religiously targeted campaign against predominantly Christian farming communities.

“What is happening in Benue is not a ‘clash’,” the Forum said. “It is organised, systematic destruction carried out by Fulani Ethnic Militia (FEM). Calling it a clash is the propaganda of perpetrators — and the comfort of politicians too timid to confront them.”

Accuses Alia of undermining U.S. scrutiny

The MBF hinted at a darker motive behind the governor’s remarks, alleging that Alia may be playing a role in efforts to blunt growing international pressure on Nigeria. The attack comes just as the U.S. House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Africa holds hearings on President Donald Trump’s redesignation of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” over Christian genocide.

“Governor Alia’s statements are too conveniently timed,” the MBF said, warning that his denial could be used to confuse Washington and weaken global action.

“The numbers alone prove the governor wrong”

The Forum laid out figures it says the governor cannot wish away:

5,138 people killed in Benue between 2015 and March 2023, according to state emergency authorities.

Hundreds more massacred in repeated attacks in 2024–2025.

Over 500,000 Benue residents displaced by late 2024, with humanitarian agencies reporting even higher numbers through 2025.


“Every one of these numbers is a story of a burnt village, a widowed woman, a mutilated child,” the statement noted. “Denying this reality is not just immoral — it is outrageous.”

“Faith is not a shield for failure”

The MBF also hit back at Alia’s invocation of his priesthood. “Being a priest does not absolve him from political duty,” the Forum said. “Faith is not a cloak for denial.”

They accused the governor of sanitising mass murder, shielding perpetrators with soft language, and abandoning communities that trusted him to bring moral clarity to governance.

Four demands to the governor

The Forum called on Governor Alia to:

1. Stop trivialising mass killings with euphemisms.


2. Invite independent investigators to determine whether international crimes are being committed.


3. Demand stronger humanitarian protection for Benue’s displaced.


4. Cease making statements that “mislead Nigerians and deceive the world.”



“History is watching,” the MBF warned. “And it will not be kind to those who use the pulpit to hide political cowardice.”

Barrister Aminu Hussaini – Examines How Triple Threats of Money, Might, and Chaotic Litigations Sets Nigeria’s Democracy at Risk

As Nigeria moves steadily toward the 2027 general elections, a familiar and troubling pattern is resurfacing: our democracy is being contested long before citizens approach the polling booths. Increasingly, political battles are fought not in town halls, rallies or debates, but in courtrooms, party secretariats, private villas and the shadows of unchecked financial influence.
When democracy goes to court before the voter arrives, the heart of electoral legitimacy is compromised; unless we confront this drift, 2027 risks becoming another election decided by judicial technicalities, power blocs and influence peddlers—not the will of the Nigerian people.
The Courtroom Is Not a Campaign Ground
Certainly, there is no democracy without an independent judiciary; but there is also no healthy democracy when litigation replaces voter persuasion and legal technicalities overshadow voter decisions. In this dispensation, pre-election court cases have mushroomed to unprecedented levels. Instead of focusing on policies, candidates invest in legal teams to disqualify opponents, overturn primaries or secure favorable interpretations of party rules, electoral law and election guidelines.
While the courts play a vital role in resolving disputes, their increasing involvement before and after elections weakens the mandate that should come from the electorate. When judges determine who appears on the ballot and who occupies position more than voters do, democracy becomes distorted.
Money: The Invisible Voter
Financial influence has become one of the most determining factors of Nigerian electoral process and outcomes. The monetization of the political process—from party forms that cost millions, to delegates’ primaries drenched in cash, to open vote-buying on election day—has made public office obviously purchasable.
In the buildup to 2027, there is already evidence of an arms race of money. But democracy should not and cannot be an auction. When the candidate with the deepest pockets surpasses the candidate with the best ideas and pedigree, the entire nation pays the price.
Might and Intimidation: The Dark Edge of Nigerian Politics
Nigeria’s elections are often marred by a subtle but powerful coercive force: the deployment of political thugs, the misuse of security agencies and the intimidation of both voters and electoral officials. If citizens cannot cast their votes freely, without fear of intimidation or manipulation of their votes, then we do not have elections—what we have are simply rituals of staged participation. As 2027 approaches, Nigerians must insist that the ballot paper not the bully or manipulation, remains the instrument of choice. Stakeholders’ manipulative tendencies must be resisted and totally rejected. We must understand and believe that our destiny would not be served on a platter of gold. True freedom is always wrested not given!
Manipulation From Within
Manipulation does not only occur at polling units. It often begins much earlier—through compromised party primaries, doctored delegate lists, parallel congresses and last-minute candidate substitutions. These internal manipulations set the stage for disputed outcomes and post-election chaos.
Regrettably, when the foundations are shaky, the entire democratic structure trembles.
Why the Popular Vote Must Be Supreme in 2027
For Nigeria to move forward, the legitimacy of leaders must come from the people—not from court rulings, kingmakers or financial powerhouses. The 2027 season provide a crucial opportunity to reinforce the principles of free, fair and credible elections which require transparent and technology-backed electoral processes that prioritize voters over power brokers; political finance reforms to curb the corrupting force of money; internal party democracy that is credible, inclusive, and free from manipulation; judicial restraint and speedy processes ensuring courts do not become substitutes for elections as well as security neutrality to guarantee voter safety and trust.
To succeed, we must believe in being strong even when it seems to be impossible. It is said that if you really want to eat, keep climbing; the fruits are on the top of the tree; stretch your hands and keep stretching them; success is on the top. One cannot score a goal when sitting on the bench; to do so, one has to dress up and enter the game. Yes, WE CAN DO IT by securing our PVCs and getting set and determine to change the impossible with it! Democracy thrives when the ballot box speaks louder than any court order or political godfather.
2027: A Defining Moment
Nigeria is at a decisive crossroads.
Citizens are increasingly aware, vocal and determined to reclaim their democratic power. But the system must make space for their voices to matter. If the results of the 2027 elections are to enjoy national and international respect, they must reflect the true will of the Nigerian people—not the interests of a privileged minority.
Our democracy must not go to court before the voter arrives. This cherished democracy must go to the polling booth—where it truly belongs. The power to shape Nigeria’s future lies with its citizens. In 2027, the popular vote must not merely be counted; it MUST be respected, protected and allowed to decide.

This opinion was contributed by Barrister Aminu Hussaini Sagagi, Special Adviser to the Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, on Justice & Constitutional Matters.

Mike Odeh James

CLEEN Foundation has launched a three-day Women, Peace and Security (WPS) Stakeholder Inception Training and commenced the formal inauguration of State Multi-Stakeholder Implementation and Monitoring Committees (SMIMCs) across five project states—Kaduna, Nasarawa, Imo, Plateau, and Benue.

The initiative, implemented in collaboration with state-level partners, is designed to strengthen the domestication and execution of Nigeria’s National Action Plan (NAP) on Women, Peace and Security. It seeks to tackle the persistent gendered impacts of conflict, insecurity, and governance gaps that continue to disproportionately affect women and girls, particularly in the North-Central and South-East regions.

Speaking during day one of the training in Kaduna State, the Executive Director of CLEEN Foundation, Peter Maduoma—represented by Programme Manager, Chigozirim Okoro—said that despite Nigeria’s national commitments to the WPS agenda, implementation at the sub-national level remains weak, fragmented, and poorly coordinated.

“Several states either lack functional State Action Plans or have inactive implementation structures, resulting in minimal progress on key WPS pillars, including participation, protection, prevention, relief, and recovery,” he said.

The newly inaugurated SMIMCs are expected to serve as inclusive coordination platforms that bring together government institutions, security agencies, civil society organisations, traditional and religious leaders, women mediators, youth groups, and the media. Their responsibilities include planning, overseeing, and monitoring WPS interventions in their respective states. Each committee is also tasked with ensuring that state-level actions align with national frameworks while adapting approaches to local realities.

CLEEN Foundation noted that these committees will track state-level commitments through the Security Accountability Project (SAP), strengthen collaboration among institutions, and promote gender-sensitive decision-making within peace and security processes.

The ongoing workshops focus on building the technical capacity of committee members on WPS principles, monitoring tools, reporting frameworks, and coordination mechanisms. Participants will also develop state-specific implementation roadmaps to guide the operationalization of WPS commitments.

Each state training is expected to host at least 30 participants drawn from the Ministries of Women Affairs, Justice, and Internal Security; gender committees of State Houses of Assembly; security agencies including the Police, DSS, Civil Defence, Correctional Service, and the military; faith-based organisations; traditional institutions; media stakeholders; and members of the WPS network, He4She ambassadors, and SIC networks.

The inception workshops took place in Imo, Nasarawa, and Benue States from November 11–13 and are ongoing in Plateau and Kaduna States from November 18–20, 2025.

Across the five project states, CLEEN Foundation anticipates strengthened coordination, improved accountability, increased visibility of WPS commitments, and enhanced engagement of women and youth in peace and security decision-making processes.

Christian and Muslim organisations under the umbrella of the Coalition for Peace and Justice have concluded plans to convene a National Mega Peace Summit aimed at promoting unity and strengthening the fight against insecurity across Nigeria.

The interfaith summit, scheduled to hold next week Saturday in Kaduna and Abuja, is expected to attract grassroots religious leaders from across the country, particularly from the northern region.

In a press statement jointly signed by the Chairman and Secretary, Dr. Othman Musa Idris and Pastor John Simon Jita, the coalition reaffirmed that unity, mutual understanding and collective action remain essential to overcoming the forces threatening the nation’s peace and development.

According to the organisers, the summit will provide a strategic platform for Christian and Muslim leaders to engage in dialogue, exchange perspectives and develop joint approaches to tackling the rising threats of terrorism, banditry and violent extremism.

They noted that faith leaders play a critical role in shaping public attitudes and influencing community responses to security challenges. The gathering, therefore, seeks to harness their influence in mobilising communities toward peacebuilding, conflict resolution and improved security cooperation.

Discussions at the summit will also focus on practical steps to end violence, foster peaceful coexistence and reinforce the shared commitment of both religions to safeguarding lives and restoring stability in affected communities.

At the end of the deliberations, a joint communiqué is expected, outlining agreed positions, recommendations and a coordinated framework to support national security efforts and advance sustainable peace across the country.

The International Peace Advocacy Forum (IPAF) has commended Senator Abdul Aziz Yari for what it described as his exceptional and consistent contributions toward promoting peace, unity, and religious tolerance across Northern Nigeria.

In a statement signed by its Chairman, Dr. Emmanuel Haruna, the forum praised the former Zamfara State Governor for demonstrating exemplary leadership through deliberate and sustained engagements with both Christian and Muslim communities aimed at building trust and fostering harmony.

According to the group, Senator Yari’s continued outreach to churches, victims of banditry, and survivors of insurgency attacks reflects his deep compassion and unwavering commitment to the welfare of all Nigerians regardless of religious or ethnic background.

“As a former governor and now a serving senator, Senator Yari has shown courage and empathy in defending vulnerable communities. His efforts to protect Christian populations during periods of heightened insecurity remain commendable and worthy of national recognition,” the statement read.

IPAF noted that Yari’s interventions over the years have helped calm tensions in several affected communities, encouraging dialogue, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence at a time when the region faces complex security challenges.

The forum urged political, religious, and community leaders across the country to emulate Senator Yari’s inclusive leadership style, which it described as essential for strengthening national unity.

It further reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with stakeholders to advance peace-building initiatives and enhance social harmony across Nigeria.

Since assuming office on May 29, 2023, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has emerged as one of Nigeria’s most notable performing governors. His administration’s “MORE Agenda” — Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security — has provided a clear governance roadmap, translating vision into tangible outcomes across infrastructure, social welfare, and fiscal management.

Delta State under Governor Oborevwori is proving that clear vision and disciplined execution can deliver real, measurable change.

In virtually every sector, the protagonist of the M.O.R.E. Agenda, Chief Sheriff Oborevwori, has demonstrated unrivaled competency, unflinching capacity, and unwavering clarity of purpose.

Infrastructure Delivery: Roads, Bridges, Connectivity

The Oborevwori administration has prioritized large-scale infrastructure expansion. Over 510 road and bridge projects, covering nearly 1,450 km, are ongoing. A significant number have already been completed in less than two and a half years of his tenure.

Major urban interchanges — PTI Junction, DSC Roundabout, Enerhen Junction — are being transformed to improve mobility. Similarly, critical projects are linking Asaba communities to the State Capital, deepening inter-community access.

Rural and riverine communities are also receiving long-neglected connectivity upgrades, enhancing commerce, mobility, and daily life. From urban centres to remote villages, Delta State is witnessing infrastructure that truly connects its people.

Fiscal Discipline and Economic Growth

Delta State has recorded remarkable fiscal gains under Governor Oborevwori. Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) rose from ₦83 billion in 2023 to ₦158 billion in 2024.

The state’s debt stock dropped from ₦465 billion to ₦249 billion, reflecting fiscal prudence — even as infrastructure development continues without excessive borrowing.

These figures underscore an administration that manages public resources efficiently while delivering large-scale projects.

People-Centred Governance

Human capital and social inclusion remain central to the administration. Within two years and six months, thousands of teaching and non-teaching staff have been recruited across Delta’s LGAs.

Governor Oborevwori has also expanded bursaries, technical training programmes, and skill acquisition centres. Empowerment grants and monthly stipends for vulnerable groups now reach tens of thousands of beneficiaries statewide.

No community or citizen is being left behind in Delta’s development journey.

Promoting Peace and Inclusive Governance

Sustainable growth requires peace. Governor Oborevwori’s administration has actively engaged traditional rulers, youth groups, and community stakeholders to maintain unity and stability across the state.

Accountability is a cornerstone of his leadership — with strict measures against underperforming officials and erring staff. His push for inclusion has expanded development to previously marginalized communities, with projects scattered across the three senatorial zones, transforming Delta into a sprawling construction hub.

Recognition and National Credibility

Governor Oborevwori’s achievements have drawn nationwide recognition. He was named Governor of the Year 2024 by several major media organizations — including ThisDay Newspapers/Arise TV Group, Vanguard Newspapers, Silverbird Group, The Sun Newspapers, and News Telegraph.

In 2025, the Democracy Heroes Award named him The Most Prolific Governor of the Year.

Commendations from elder statesmen and civic leaders further validate his clarity of purpose and demonstrable impact.

Challenges and the Road Ahead

Despite the strong performance, Governor Oborevwori acknowledges that challenges remain. He is committed to sustaining the quality of ongoing projects, accelerating job creation, boosting rural economies, and strengthening transparency and citizen engagement.

A notable highlight is his bold intervention in federal road repairs. Only recently, he flagged off the construction of the Benin–Sapele Road, a federal road that directly affects Delta residents.

Conclusion

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has proven that purpose-driven governance delivers results. Delta State’s transformation under his leadership is clear, measurable, and resilient. With Governor Sheriff, M.O.R.E. is truly assured.

Dr. Emmanuel Ashikodi
Concerned Professionals For Good Governance (A Good Governance Advocacy Group)


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In the wake of the United States’ Allegation of Christian Genocide and the Designation of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern”, Your Excellency, Sir, there is an urgent need to convene Council of State meeting to address the matter.

May peace, wisdom and divine guidance continue to be upon you as you steer the affairs of our great nation at this critical moment in history.

I humbly write this open letter, Your Excellency, not out of disregard for established channels of communication, but out of necessity and duty.

“Convening the Council of State will project confidence to both domestic and international observers – a clear demonstration that Nigeria’s leadership is united, alert and proactive in defending its sovereignty.”

My current position and limited access to the Presidency make it difficult for me to reach you directly. However, the gravity of recent international developments compel me, as a legal practitioner and public servant deeply committed to Nigeria’s sovereignty and unity, to raise this urgent matter through this open medium.

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The Urgent Context

Your Excellency, the recent action of the United States Government – designating Nigeria a “country of particular concern” (CPC) over alleged religious persecution, coupled with open statements from some US officials and political figures hinting at possible sanctions and even military intervention – has sent shockwaves through the diplomatic, legal and security corridors of our dear nation.

These allegations of a so-called “Christian Genocide” in Nigeria are extremely grave. Whether rooted in misinformation, incomplete data or misrepresentation of our complex internal security realities, they carry the potential to damage our sovereignty, national image and international standing.

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Why the Council of State Needs to Be Convened

The Nigerian Council of State, as established under Section 153 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), exists precisely to advise the President on matters of national importance. The present crisis undoubtedly falls within this purview.

“A Council session will enable the Federal Government to coordinate a well-grounded diplomatic and legal response to the US designation, including the preparation of a verifiable data on religious freedom, human rights and counterterrorism efforts in Nigeria.”

I most humbly urge Your Excellency to summon an emergency session of the Council of State for the following reasons:

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1. To Defend National Sovereignty and Unity

The mention of possible foreign military action constitutes a direct challenge to Nigeria’s sovereignty. Bringing together former Heads of State, serving State Governors, the Chief Justice and other constitutional members will send a powerful message of national unity – that Nigerians, regardless of region, religion or political persuasion, stand together in defence of our territorial integrity and constitutional order.

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2. To Formulate a Coherent Diplomatic Response

A Council session will enable the Federal Government to coordinate a well-grounded diplomatic and legal response to the US designation, including the preparation of verifiable data on religious freedom, human rights and counterterrorism efforts in Nigeria.

“By convening the Council of State now, Your Excellency, you will not only reaffirm our democratic institutions but also strengthen your administration’s legacy as a bridge-builder in turbulent times.”

It will also provide an opportunity to design a proactive engagement strategy with Washington, United Nations, ECOWAS and African Union.

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3. To Reassess Domestic Security and Humanitarian Realities

While refuting exaggerated claims, we must also seize this opportunity to reassess our internal security operations. The Council can review updated reports from the military, police and intelligence agencies; examine patterns of violence in affected regions and recommend comprehensive measures to prevent further civilian casualties – Christian and Muslim alike.

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4. To Reinforce National Cohesion and Prevent Religious Polarization

The allegation of a “Christian Genocide” risks inflaming sectarian tensions within Nigeria. An open, unified communication strategy emanating from the Council of State – representing all regions and faiths – will help dispel fear, correct misinformation and prevent opportunistic elements from exploiting religious sentiments.

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5. To Address Legal and International Risks

As a lawyer, I must respectfully emphasize that any talk of foreign military intervention without Nigeria’s consent violates the United Nations Charter and International Law. Nevertheless, the threat alone can have destabilizing diplomatic and economic consequences. The Council of State can thus deliberate on the appropriate legal, diplomatic and political instruments to safeguard Nigeria’s interest under the International Law.

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6. Economic and Reputational Considerations

The CPC designation, if left unaddressed, could discourage foreign investment, strain bilateral relations and lead to sanctions that affect development aid and security cooperation. Convening the Council of State will project confidence to both domestic and international observers – a clear demonstration that Nigeria’s leadership is united, alert and proactive in defending its sovereignty.

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A Call For Strategic Statesmanship

Your Excellency, Nigeria has weathered many storms – from civil war to insurgency to international pressure – and has always emerged stronger through wise, inclusive and timely leadership.

By convening the Council of State now, you will not only reaffirm our democratic institutions but also strengthen your administration’s legacy as a bridge-builder in turbulent times.

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Conclusion

Mr. President, Sir, I trust that you will receive this letter in the spirit of patriotism and constructive counsel in which it is offered. History will remember that at a moment of heightened international tension, the Nigerian President listened to reasoned advice and rallied the nation’s leaders – past and present – to speak with one voice for unity, justice and peace.

May God Almighty continue to guide Your Excellency with wisdom and courage as you lead our nation forward.

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Respectfully submitted,
Barrister Aminu Hussaini
Special Adviser to the Executive Governor of Kano State on Justice/Constitutional Matters
Kano, Nigeria
📧 aminuhussaini173@gmail.com

Dated: November 7, 2025

Abuja, Nigeria — Former Kaduna Central Senator and human rights activist Shehu Sani has issued a strong rebuttal to former U.S. President Donald Trump’s remarks on Nigeria, accusing him of relying on “anarchists and propagandists” who deliberately distort the country’s security situation for political ends.

In an interview with the Washington Post, Sani said Trump had been “misinformed and misled by anarchists and propagandists” spreading half-truths about Nigeria’s war against terrorism and internal security challenges.

“Trump’s views about Nigeria and its leadership were shaped by people who thrive in chaos and division,” Sani stated. “They present a one-sided picture of insecurity and ignore the courage and resilience of Nigerians confronting terrorism daily.”

The former senator, who served in the 8th National Assembly and is known for his outspoken activism, acknowledged that while Nigeria continues to face grave threats from insurgents, bandits, and extremist groups, the country remains steadfast in its determination to restore peace.

“Nigeria will defeat terrorism. It may take time and sacrifice, but the people have refused to surrender to fear,” Sani said. “Our diversity and democracy remain stronger than the hate and violence of extremists.”

He called on the international community, particularly the United States, to adopt a more balanced and fact-based approach in assessing Nigeria’s internal challenges. According to Sani, foreign leaders should focus on supporting Nigeria through intelligence sharing, humanitarian aid, and fair diplomacy, rather than amplifying politically motivated narratives.

“Western countries must not allow bias or misinformation to shape their policy towards Africa,” he cautioned. “The weaponization of falsehoods against nations like Nigeria only fuels division and weakens the fight against terror.”

Sani further stressed that Nigeria’s security battle cannot be won through military means alone. He advocated for a comprehensive approach that tackles the root causes of extremism — including poverty, unemployment, and corruption.

“The fight against terrorism requires both force and fairness,” he explained. “Without justice and inclusion, we risk perpetuating the same cycle of violence we seek to end.”

The interview comes amid heightened global scrutiny of Nigeria’s human rights record and its ongoing war against terror groups such as Boko Haram and Islamic State in West Africa Province (ISWAP). Several recent foreign commentaries — including those from U.S. and European analysts — have accused the Nigerian government of mishandling security crises and ignoring civilian suffering.

Sani, however, warned that outsiders often overlook local resilience and reform efforts while magnifying negative narratives. He described such portrayals as harmful to Nigeria’s democratic image and counterproductive to peacebuilding efforts.

“Nigeria’s story should be told by Nigerians, not by those who profit from its pain,” he declared.

The former senator concluded by expressing optimism that, despite current hardships, Nigeria’s unity, diversity, and democratic values would ultimately triumph over extremism and misinformation.