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Group Hails REA Boss Abba Aliyu as Northern States Record Widespread Electration

By Our Correspondent

The Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL) has declared its solidarity with the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), Abba Aliyu, citing what it described as his impactful leadership and significant strides in expanding rural electrification across Nigeria.

In a world press statement issued in Abuja on Monday, the youth group said its decision followed extensive consultations with Northern elders, youth leaders, and key stakeholders across the region.

According to the Assembly, Aliyu has demonstrated “uncommon commitment, transparency, and a results-driven leadership style” since assuming office, accelerating the implementation of renewable energy and rural electrification projects nationwide.

The group particularly commended the REA’s reported expansion of electricity access to underserved communities, noting that several projects under the current leadership have extended beyond rural households to critical public institutions such as hospitals, universities, and other essential facilities.

These interventions, it said, have contributed to improved healthcare delivery, enhanced educational outcomes, and increased economic productivity.

The Assembly further stated that available records and stakeholder observations indicate that Aliyu is the first head of the Agency to oversee electrification projects across all states in Northern Nigeria while simultaneously expanding implementation nationwide.

“These achievements deserve recognition and continued support,” the statement read, adding that the agency’s efforts align with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, particularly in the areas of energy access, economic inclusion, and national development.

As a youth-driven movement, the group called on Northern youths and young Nigerians across the country, as well as civil society organisations and community leaders, to support ongoing efforts to deepen rural electrification and sustainable energy development.

The Assembly emphasised that energy access remains a critical driver of economic growth and social transformation, urging stakeholders to prioritise unity and constructive engagement in advancing national development goals.

It also reaffirmed its support for the leadership of the Rural Electrification Agency, encouraging Aliyu to remain focused and committed to expanding electricity access to rural communities, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and businesses across Nigeria.

The statement which was signed by the President of the Assembly, Ambassador Abdul Danbature concluded by saying,

“Together, we can light up Nigeria and empower our people.”

Renewed Hope Ambassadors inspect Abuja Secretariat, Governors, Senators and Stakeholders Attend*

The leadership of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, under the guidance of the Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodinma, on Friday carried out a strategic inspection of the group’s Abuja Secretariat.

This marks a significant step in consolidating the nationwide grassroots mobilisation drive recently unveiled by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu under his Renewed Hope Agenda.

The inspection signals the formal activation of the Secretariat as a national coordination hub for the movement’s outreach, stakeholder engagement, and policy communication efforts across the six geopolitical zones.

It comes at a critical time, as the administration intensifies efforts to communicate ongoing reforms and deepen citizen participation in governance.

The visit was coordinated by the Director General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi, whose role in galvanising institutional and political support reflects the growing synergy between government policy drivers and grassroots mobilisation structures.

Dr. Abdullahi emphasised the importance of aligning advocacy, public enlightenment, and stakeholder engagement with the administration’s broader economic transformation objectives.

In attendance were prominent political leaders and influential voices within the ruling party and the national polity, including former Governor of Katsina State, Rt. Hon. Aminu Bello Masari; former Governor of Nasarawa State, Senator Tanko Al-Makura; former Senate President, Senator Pius Anyim; Senator Olubunmi Adetunmbi; Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communications, Mr. Sunday Dare; and Senior Special Assistant to the President on New Media, Mr. Otega Ogra.

Their presence underscored a broad coalition of political experience and strategic communication expertise, reinforcing the Renewed Hope Ambassadors’ mandate to serve as a bridge between government policies and the Nigerian people.

Observers note that the initiative is designed not merely as a political support structure, but as a platform for policy advocacy, citizen feedback, and structured engagement aimed at translating the Renewed Hope Agenda into tangible community-level impact.

Key focus areas include economic recovery, energy transition, youth empowerment, infrastructure development, food security, and digital innovation.

The convergence of governors, senators, presidential media aides, and zonal coordinators highlights the expanding momentum behind the initiative and reflects a coordinated effort to institutionalize grassroots participation in governance.

As the Secretariat becomes fully operational, expectations are high that the Renewed Hope Ambassadors will play a pivotal role in mobilising national consensus, strengthening party cohesion, and sustaining public confidence in the administration’s reform agenda.

The Abuja inspection therefore represents more than a routine visit — it signals the operational take-off of a nationwide movement structured to drive engagement, amplify government achievements, and consolidate support for President Tinubu’s vision of inclusive growth and national renewal.

“Reform Police or Fail the People”: Kaduna Stakeholders Demand Action on Insecurity and Accountability

Grace Musa

Stakeholders in Kaduna State have called for measurable police reforms, stronger accountability mechanisms and full compliance with criminal justice standards as part of efforts to address growing insecurity in the state.

The call was made during a two-day Citizens’ Engagement on Community Policing Practice and Reform Agenda organised by the CLEEN Foundation in Kaduna.

Rebuilding Trust Between Citizens and Police

Speaking at the event, the Executive Director of CLEEN Foundation, Peter Maduoma, said effective policing cannot succeed without rebuilding trust between citizens and law enforcement agencies.

Maduoma who spoke through the Senior Program Officer at the Foundation, Bernard Ekoboy, noted that although the Police Act 2020 provides a framework for reform, security realities in states such as Kaduna remain complex, with persistent cases of banditry, communal clashes, farmer–herder tensions and urban crime.

According to him, weak communication channels and ineffective feedback mechanisms have deepened mistrust between communities and the police.

“Our goal is to move beyond complaints to actionable solutions,” Maduoma said, adding that the forum was structured to generate a Charter of Demands outlining expectations for police professionalism and defining community oversight responsibilities.

He urged officers of the Nigeria Police Force to view citizens’ feedback as constructive input for institutional improvement, while encouraging civil society groups to promote responsible engagement and discourage the spread of misinformation.

Human Rights and Justice Standards

In his remarks, Dr Terngu Gwar, Kaduna State Coordinator of the National Human Rights Commission and Chairman of the Kaduna Administration of Criminal Justice Law (ACJL) State Level Working Group, emphasised that security and human rights must be mutually reinforcing.

He stressed the importance of implementing the Administration of Criminal Justice Law, noting that it sets standards for lawful arrests, detention procedures, bail conditions, access to legal representation and protection of vulnerable persons.

Gwar said adherence to these safeguards would strengthen public confidence in the justice system, while violations such as unlawful detention and torture undermine legitimacy and cooperation.

He also acknowledged operational challenges facing the police, including personnel shortages, funding constraints, welfare concerns and increasingly sophisticated criminal networks.

Police Commit to Joint Effort

Receiving the charter of demand on Police-Community Relations on behalf of the Kaduna State Police Command, Assistant Commissioner of Police in charge of Administration and Finance, Abdulkadir Yahaya, described policing as a joint effort.

He urged the community to see the police as one of them and help them to make society safer by providing them with authentic information.

Chairman of the Police-Community Relations Committee in the State, Sanusi Muhammed, called for regular community dialogue to strengthen the existing relationship with the Police.

He was particularly concerned that inadequate information from the police to the members of the society hinders community policing.

“A situation whereby an arrested criminal suspect finds his way back into the society without information on why that happened further pitch the Police against the people,” he said.

Call for Funding, Intelligence and Capacity Building

Earlier, Chairperson of the Federation of Women Lawyers, Barrister Funke Bamikole, harped on improved funding, intelligence gathering and regular capacity building for men and officers of the Nigerian Police.

Priority Areas for Reform

Participants at the engagement which include representatives of the Nigerian Police Force, Nigerian Bar Association, Federation of Women Lawyers, Media, Civil Society among others identified restoring public trust, strengthening accountability systems and deepening civic responsibility as priority areas for reform.

Operation 19 Million Votes Commends Appointment of Uba Sani as Deputy DG,

…Says Move Boosts National Mobilisation and Renewed Hope Agenda

A prominent political advocacy group, Operation 19 Million Votes, has warmly welcomed the recent appointment of Uba Sani, Governor of Kaduna State, as Deputy Director-General and Renewed Hope Ambassador in the All Progressives Congress (APC) mobilisation structure, saying the development is set to strengthen national confidence, deepen youth engagement and galvanise support for the party’s agenda ahead of the 2027 general elections.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as National Leader of the APC, on February 17, 2026, appointed Governor Sani to serve as Deputy Director-General (Deputy DG) of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors,a strategic outreach, engagement and mobilisation arm of the ruling party, in recognition of his “leadership and organisational abilities.” The appointment took effect immediately.

In a statement released by Operation 19 Million Votes today, the group described the appointment as timely and visionary, stating that Governor Sani’s political experience and grassroots appeal will be invaluable in strengthening the party’s footprint across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.

According to the group’s national spokesperson, Comrade Haruna Musa Mohammed,the Renewed Hope Ambassadors initiative, which is charged with promoting the APC’s policy achievements and engaging citizens nationwide , requires leaders with broad national appeal, strategic insight, and credibility among diverse constituencies.

The appointment of Sani, who hails from the North West and enjoys bipartisan respect, was said to reflect a commitment to inclusive leadership. The elders and youth wings of the organisation further noted that Gov. Sani’s mobilisational capacities particularly among young voters and traditional leaders will be an asset in shaping favourable perceptions of governance programmes under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

The statement further stated,”Operation 19 Million Votes emphasised that the renewed Hope Ambassadors structure must focus on substantive engagements on governance impact, job creation, security dialogue, and voter education, particularly at the grassroots and community levels , areas the group believes will determine electoral outcomes in 2027.

“We believe that the appointment of Governor Uba Sani is not just symbolic but strategic. His role as Deputy Director-General and Renewed Hope Ambassador places him at the centre of public assurance, enabling constructive dialogue between government policies and citizens’ daily realities.”

President Tinubu, in a congratulatory letter to Governor Sani, tasked him with galvanising, promoting and disseminating the party’s programmes, policies, milestones and achievements nationwide, with the goal of strengthening public confidence and reinforcing the Renewed Hope message across the country.

According to the statement,the appointment is also part of broader party efforts to position the APC effectively ahead of the 2027 elections, underscoring the importance of unity and coordinated outreach strategies among key party stakeholders.

Governor Sani ,who was elected Governor of Kaduna State in 2023 , has been involved in national party affairs over time and is seen by supporters as a consensus builder who can bridge divides among party structures and regional interests.

The advocacy group’s endorsement of his appointment signals early support from key civil society actors, highlighting the growing intersection between organised civic action and mainstream political mobilisation in Nigeria’s evolving democratic landscape.

Renewed Hope Initiatives: President Ahmed Tinubu and the Solarization Drive in Nigeria’s Energy Sector

Since assuming office in May 2023, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has positioned energy reform as a cornerstone of his administration’s economic transformation agenda. Among the most consequential initiatives is the accelerated push toward solarization—the large-scale deployment of solar energy systems across public institutions, rural communities, and critical infrastructure. In a country long challenged by unreliable grid electricity, high diesel costs, and energy poverty, the solarization project represents both an economic and social intervention with far-reaching gains.

In actualizing these gains, the Renewed Hope Agenda, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu saw the need to appoint someone with the right capacity, knowledge and verve to lead the sectors drive towards solarization of the nation, for a more focused sector that will ensure steady energy supply to all Nigerians. The President, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu was therefore, applauded for his choice of Engineer Abdullahi Mustapha as Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the Energy Commission of Nigeria, ECN and, the choice of appointment has not failed in the task assigned him.

Expanding Energy Access and Reducing Energy Poverty
Nigeria has historically struggled with inadequate electricity generation and distribution, with millions of citizens lacking reliable access to power. The solarization initiative, supported through federal programs and partnerships with development finance institutions, aims to bridge this gap by:

. Deploying off-grid and mini-grid solar systems in rural and underserved communities
. Installing solar panels in schools, primary healthcare centers, and government facilities
. Supporting decentralized renewable energy solutions where grid extension is impractical
By prioritizing solar in rural electrification, the Tinubu administration has strengthened Nigeria’s progress toward universal energy access. Solar mini-grids have empowered small businesses, improved healthcare delivery (through reliable cold storage for vaccines and lighting for surgeries), and enabled students to study after dark.
The shift to decentralized solar solutions reduces overreliance on the national grid, which remains constrained by aging infrastructure and transmission bottlenecks.

Fiscal Savings and Reduced Diesel Dependence
One of the most significant gains of the solarization project is cost reduction in public sector energy consumption. Federal ministries, departments, and agencies have traditionally relied heavily on diesel generators due to inconsistent grid supply. This has led to:
. recurrent fuel expenditure
. Maintenance costs for generators
. Exposure to fluctuating diesel prices
Solar installations under the Tinubu administration are gradually lowering these operational costs. By replacing diesel generators with photovoltaic systems and battery storage, government institutions reduce long-term energy spending. These savings can be redirected toward social services, infrastructure, and economic development.
Additionally, reduced diesel use lowers Nigeria’s demand for imported refined petroleum products, supporting broader macroeconomic stability and foreign exchange conservation.
Boosting Economic Productivity and MSMEs
Solarization contributes directly to economic productivity, especially among micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). In markets and commercial clusters where power outages are frequent, solar-powered solutions provide:
Reliable lighting for extended business hours
Power for refrigeration, welding, tailoring, and agro-processing
Reduced operational costs compared to generator use
Lower energy costs increase profitability for small businesses and improve job retention. This aligns with President Tinubu’s broader economic reform agenda, which emphasizes private-sector growth and industrial competitiveness.
In agricultural communities, solar-powered irrigation systems and cold storage facilities enhance food preservation and reduce post-harvest losses—an important contribution to food security.
Environmental and Climate Benefits
Nigeria is a signatory to international climate agreements and has committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The solarization project strengthens Nigeria’s transition toward cleaner energy sources by:
Lowering carbon emissions from diesel generators
Reducing air pollution in densely populated areas
Supporting sustainable development goals
Solar power, as a renewable and low-emission source, aligns with global energy transition trends. Under Tinubu’s leadership, renewable energy deployment sends a signal to investors that Nigeria is open to green finance and climate-aligned investments.
The environmental gains also translate into public health benefits, as reduced generator fumes mean lower exposure to particulate pollution in homes, offices, and markets.
Strengthening Energy Security and Diversification
Nigeria’s energy paradox—being an oil-producing nation with persistent electricity shortages—has long hindered economic growth. The solarization project contributes to energy diversification, reducing dependence on gas-fired power plants and vulnerable transmission infrastructure.
Solar systems distributed across regions create a more resilient energy ecosystem. Unlike centralized power plants that can disrupt large areas if they fail, decentralized solar installations:
Limit systemic blackouts
Improve localized energy reliability
Enhance disaster resilience
This diversification strengthens national energy security and supports long-term stability in the power sector.
Attraction of Investment and Private Sector Participation
The administration’s emphasis on renewable energy has encouraged investor interest in Nigeria’s solar market. Through policy reforms, regulatory clarity, and partnerships with international development agencies, the government has:
Facilitated financing for solar mini-grids
Encouraged public-private partnerships
Promoted local assembly and manufacturing of solar components
Increased investor confidence is critical in a capital-intensive sector like energy. By creating an enabling environment, the solarization drive helps unlock domestic and foreign investment, fostering innovation and competition.
Job Creation and Skills Development
The expansion of solar infrastructure generates employment across multiple segments:
Solar panel installation technicians
Engineers and project managers
Maintenance personnel
Local manufacturing and assembly workers
Training programs associated with solar deployment help build technical capacity among Nigerian youth. This not only reduces unemployment but also cultivates a workforce equipped for the global green economy.
The renewable energy sector’s growth diversifies Nigeria’s labor market beyond oil and gas, making the economy more adaptable to global shifts.
Support for Public Institutions and Social Infrastructure
Under President Tinubu’s broader reform agenda, solarization has been integrated into national development priorities, including education and healthcare. Solar-powered public institutions benefit from:
Uninterrupted lighting in hospitals and clinics
Reliable electricity for diagnostic equipment
Digital learning tools in schools
These improvements enhance service delivery, especially in rural communities where grid power may be unreliable or nonexistent. Stable electricity enables digital governance, improves administrative efficiency, and supports modern public service systems.
Long-Term Structural Reform of the Power Sector
Solarization complements ongoing structural reforms in Nigeria’s power sector. By encouraging decentralized energy solutions, the administration reduces pressure on a grid that has struggled with transmission capacity constraints and distribution inefficiencies.
Furthermore, renewable expansion fosters competition and innovation, challenging traditional power supply models. Over time, this diversification may contribute to:
Improved electricity reliability
More cost-reflective tariffs
Increased consumer choice
The solarization project, therefore, is not merely an environmental initiative but part of a broader restructuring of Nigeria’s electricity landscape.
Conclusion
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s solarization initiative marks a strategic shift in Nigeria’s energy policy—one that prioritizes renewable energy, fiscal efficiency, and decentralized access. The gains are multidimensional:
Expanded energy access in underserved communities
Reduced diesel dependence and fiscal savings
Improved productivity for small businesses
Environmental sustainability and climate alignment
Enhanced energy security and diversification
Increased investment and job creation
While challenges remain—including financing scale, maintenance capacity, and regulatory coordination—the solarization project represents a significant step toward a more reliable, inclusive, and sustainable energy future for Nigeria.
In positioning solar energy as a central pillar of national development, the Tinubu administration underscores the transformative potential of renewables in addressing long-standing power sector deficiencies. If sustained and effectively implemented, the solarization drive could become one of the defining energy reforms of his presidency.
Stakeholders within the energy sector have continued to commend the DG/CEO of ECN for his commendable strides since his assumption into office especially with the solarization drive and renewable energy for all Nigerians.

Renewed Hope Initiatives: President Ahmed Tinubu and the Solarization Drive in Nigeria’s Energy Sector

Expanding Energy Access and Reducing Energy Poverty
Nigeria has historically struggled with inadequate electricity generation and distribution, with millions of citizens lacking reliable access to power. The solarization initiative, supported through federal programs and partnerships with development finance institutions, aims to bridge this gap by:

Fiscal Savings and Reduced Diesel Dependence
One of the most significant gains of the solarization project is cost reduction in public sector energy consumption. Federal ministries, departments, and agencies have traditionally relied heavily on diesel generators due to inconsistent grid supply. This has led to:
. recurrent fuel expenditure
. Maintenance costs for generators
. Exposure to fluctuating diesel prices
Solar installations under the Tinubu administration are gradually lowering these operational costs. By replacing diesel generators with photovoltaic systems and battery storage, government institutions reduce long-term energy spending. These savings can be redirected toward social services, infrastructure, and economic development.
Additionally, reduced diesel use lowers Nigeria’s demand for imported refined petroleum products, supporting broader macroeconomic stability and foreign exchange conservation.
Boosting Economic Productivity and MSMEs
Solarization contributes directly to economic productivity, especially among micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). In markets and commercial clusters where power outages are frequent, solar-powered solutions provide:
Reliable lighting for extended business hours
Power for refrigeration, welding, tailoring, and agro-processing
Reduced operational costs compared to generator use
Lower energy costs increase profitability for small businesses and improve job retention. This aligns with President Tinubu’s broader economic reform agenda, which emphasizes private-sector growth and industrial competitiveness.
In agricultural communities, solar-powered irrigation systems and cold storage facilities enhance food preservation and reduce post-harvest losses—an important contribution to food security.
Environmental and Climate Benefits
Nigeria is a signatory to international climate agreements and has committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The solarization project strengthens Nigeria’s transition toward cleaner energy sources by:
Lowering carbon emissions from diesel generators
Reducing air pollution in densely populated areas
Supporting sustainable development goals
Solar power, as a renewable and low-emission source, aligns with global energy transition trends. Under Tinubu’s leadership, renewable energy deployment sends a signal to investors that Nigeria is open to green finance and climate-aligned investments.
The environmental gains also translate into public health benefits, as reduced generator fumes mean lower exposure to particulate pollution in homes, offices, and markets.
Strengthening Energy Security and Diversification
Nigeria’s energy paradox—being an oil-producing nation with persistent electricity shortages—has long hindered economic growth. The solarization project contributes to energy diversification, reducing dependence on gas-fired power plants and vulnerable transmission infrastructure.
Solar systems distributed across regions create a more resilient energy ecosystem. Unlike centralized power plants that can disrupt large areas if they fail, decentralized solar installations:
Limit systemic blackouts
Improve localized energy reliability
Enhance disaster resilience
This diversification strengthens national energy security and supports long-term stability in the power sector.
Attraction of Investment and Private Sector Participation
The administration’s emphasis on renewable energy has encouraged investor interest in Nigeria’s solar market. Through policy reforms, regulatory clarity, and partnerships with international development agencies, the government has:
Facilitated financing for solar mini-grids
Encouraged public-private partnerships
Promoted local assembly and manufacturing of solar components
Increased investor confidence is critical in a capital-intensive sector like energy. By creating an enabling environment, the solarization drive helps unlock domestic and foreign investment, fostering innovation and competition.
Job Creation and Skills Development
The expansion of solar infrastructure generates employment across multiple segments:
Solar panel installation technicians
Engineers and project managers
Maintenance personnel
Local manufacturing and assembly workers
Training programs associated with solar deployment help build technical capacity among Nigerian youth. This not only reduces unemployment but also cultivates a workforce equipped for the global green economy.
The renewable energy sector’s growth diversifies Nigeria’s labor market beyond oil and gas, making the economy more adaptable to global shifts.
Support for Public Institutions and Social Infrastructure
Under President Tinubu’s broader reform agenda, solarization has been integrated into national development priorities, including education and healthcare. Solar-powered public institutions benefit from:
Uninterrupted lighting in hospitals and clinics
Reliable electricity for diagnostic equipment
Digital learning tools in schools
These improvements enhance service delivery, especially in rural communities where grid power may be unreliable or nonexistent. Stable electricity enables digital governance, improves administrative efficiency, and supports modern public service systems.
Long-Term Structural Reform of the Power Sector
Solarization complements ongoing structural reforms in Nigeria’s power sector. By encouraging decentralized energy solutions, the administration reduces pressure on a grid that has struggled with transmission capacity constraints and distribution inefficiencies.
Furthermore, renewable expansion fosters competition and innovation, challenging traditional power supply models. Over time, this diversification may contribute to:
Improved electricity reliability
More cost-reflective tariffs
Increased consumer choice
The solarization project, therefore, is not merely an environmental initiative but part of a broader restructuring of Nigeria’s electricity landscape.
Conclusion
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s solarization initiative marks a strategic shift in Nigeria’s energy policy—one that prioritizes renewable energy, fiscal efficiency, and decentralized access. The gains are multidimensional:
Expanded energy access in underserved communities
Reduced diesel dependence and fiscal savings
Improved productivity for small businesses
Environmental sustainability and climate alignment
Enhanced energy security and diversification
Increased investment and job creation
While challenges remain—including financing scale, maintenance capacity, and regulatory coordination—the solarization project represents a significant step toward a more reliable, inclusive, and sustainable energy future for Nigeria.
In positioning solar energy as a central pillar of national development, the Tinubu administration underscores the transformative potential of renewables in addressing long-standing power sector deficiencies. If sustained and effectively implemented, the solarization drive could become one of the defining energy reforms of his presidency.
Stakeholders within the energy sector have continued to commend the DG/CEO of ECN for his commendable strides since his assumption into office especially with the solarization drive and renewable energy for all Nigerians.

Kaduna Christian Forum Hails Governor Uba Sani for Resuming Pilgrimage, Slams El-Rufai’s Past Policies

A faith-based advocacy group, Christian Forum for Peaceful and United Kaduna, has commended Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, for reinstating the Christian pilgrimage scheme in the state, describing the move as bold, inclusive and a step toward rebuilding trust between government and the Christian community.

The group, in a statement issued in Kaduna, applauded the governor for approving the 2025 Christian pilgrimage and facilitating an orientation programme for 50 intending pilgrims held on February 17, 2026.

In the statement signed by the Secretary , Reverend Ishaya Bulus ,the group said, “The development marks the return of the programme after it was suspended in 2015 by former Governor Nasir El-Rufai, whose administration also scrapped the Christian Pilgrims Welfare Agency.

According to the forum, the reinstatement signals a renewed commitment to fairness and religious harmony in the state.

“We commend Governor Uba Sani for taking a courageous and just decision to reinstate the Christian pilgrimage scheme. This is a testament to inclusivity, equity and a genuine desire to strengthen unity among the diverse religious communities in Kaduna State,” the statement read.

The group recalled that it had strongly criticised the suspension of the scheme under the previous administration, arguing that it denied Christians in the state the opportunity to undertake pilgrimage to the Holy Land and offer prayers for peace and progress in Nigeria.

It noted that the return of the programme represents what it described as a departure from an atmosphere it perceived as unfavourable to Christians during the last administration.

“Today, a milestone has been achieved. The return of the pilgrimage programme demonstrates that government policies can be reviewed in the interest of justice and unity. It restores confidence among Christian faithful who felt marginalised,” the forum added.

“We are happy that Governor Sani’s administration has framed the reinstatement as part of broader efforts to promote religious harmony, inclusiveness and fairness in governance. We are also glad that the government has also emphasised the need to rebuild relationships with faith-based organisations across the state.

However, the Christian Forum further linked the development to what it described as improved security in Southern Kaduna, noting that the relative calm being experienced in recent months stands in contrast to the insecurity and tensions witnessed in previous years.

The group which condemned the decision of the former Governor, Mal Nasir Elrufai to suspend the pilgrimage scheme, urged the Governor Uba Sani to sustain policies that promote peace, equity and mutual respect among Kaduna’s diverse ethnic and religious groups.

Elrufai marginalized Christians in Kaduna and planted seed of discord and hatred amongst the two main religions. But we thank God ,Uba Sani has uprooted all those trees that hitherto created the cracks .

“Kaduna State, known for its complex religious and ethnic composition, has in the past grappled with sectarian tensions, it against this background that we say initiatives aimed at fostering inclusion and interfaith cooperation remain critical to consolidating peace and stability in the state.” It stated .

Shehu Sani Defends Ribadu,Dismisses Elrufai’s claims

Former Senator representing Kaduna Central, Shehu Sani, has defended the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, dismissing allegations made against him by former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, as diversionary and unfounded.

Sani, in a statement via his X handle @shehusani on Sunday, said the former governor should concentrate on addressing allegations reportedly raised against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission rather than making what he described as “phantom claims” against the National Security Adviser.

“The ex-governor of Kaduna State should focus on the allegations before him and clear his name instead of diverting attention with his purported and phantom claims against the NSA,” Sani said.

He questioned the timing of the allegations, asking why such sensitive information was not made public earlier.
“Why the delay in disclosing such sensitive information to the public until when he was invited? His antics and deceptions should be ignored,” he added.
Sani, a long-time critic of the former governor, further accused him of attempting to whip up public sentiment to deflect from accountability.

He said leaders who have held public office must be prepared to answer for their stewardship rather than seek to shift focus.

Reflecting on his personal experiences during El-Rufai’s tenure, Sani alleged that he and others were subjected to harassment and intimidation but maintained that such experiences did not break their resolve.

“For those of us whom he once traumatised, framed and dragged to the police and the courts in Kaduna, we forgive him, but urge him to learn to handle his karma with maturity, decorum and faith. We have been to prisons, police cells, DSS cells and even military underground cells, but never lost our sense of reasoning,” he said.

The former lawmaker warned that shielding former public office holders from scrutiny sends a dangerous signal to those currently in power.

“If our society continues to pamper and protect past leaders who should be held accountable for their actions while in power, it is giving a life and unconditional guarantee to those in power today that they will also be protected after power,” he stated.

EFCC Invitation: Group Accuses El-Rufai of Diversionary Tactics, Urges Him to Face Charges

A northern advocacy group, the Northern Progressives Forum for Development (NPFD), has asked former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, to “face the charges against him with the courage he claims to possess” rather than allegedly attempting to divert public attention with accusations against the National Security Adviser.

The group’s position follows reports that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has invited El-Rufai over allegations bordering on corruption and mismanagement of public funds during his tenure as governor between 2015 and 2023.

In a statement signed by Mal Musa Mohammed Sule and made available to journalists , the NPFD said it was concerned about what it described as “a pattern of diversionary narratives” coming from the former governor at a time he is expected to respond to anti-graft inquiries.

El-Rufai had, in a letter dated January 30, 2026 and reportedly received on February 11, 2026, written to the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) seeking clarification over the alleged procurement of about 10 kilograms of Thallium Sulphate, a toxic chemical substance, purportedly sourced from a supplier in Poland.

The letter, titled “Request for Clarification on the Procurement of Thallium Sulphate,” stated that he was acting “as a concerned citizen” and requested details on the purpose of the acquisition, regulatory compliance, and safety protocols surrounding the substance.

However, reacting swiftly, the NPFD alleged that the move was calculated to shift focus from the EFCC’s invitation.
“It is unfortunate that at a time when he is expected to answer serious allegations raised by the EFCC, Malam El-Rufai is seeking to introduce unrelated matters into public discourse,” the group said.

“We observed that he development comes amid claims attributed to El-Rufai that the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, had ordered his arrest — an allegation that reportedly led to tension at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in recent days.

” El-Rufai was also quoted as alleging that an unnamed individual had tapped the NSA’s phone and confirmed Ribadu’s alleged involvement in plans to detain him. ” The group stated .

The NPFD described the claims as “serious and weighty,” urging the former governor to provide credible evidence to security agencies rather than making public accusations.

“It is disheartening that someone who has served as governor and minister would resort to what appears to be blackmail and rabble-rousing in the face of lawful investigation,” the group stated.

The forum insisted that the EFCC, as a statutory anti-corruption agency, should be allowed to carry out its mandate without interference or politicisation.

“We expect Malam El-Rufai to respect the institutions of state and submit himself to due process. If he believes he is innocent, the proper place to prove that is before investigators and, if necessary, in a court of law — not in the media,” the statement added.

Kano’s Power Shift: How the ‘City Boy’ Youth Surge is Redefining 2027

By Barrister Aminu Hussaini

In politics, timing is everything. In Kano, the timing could not be more decisive.

With the formal movement of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf into the All Progressives Congress (APC), the conversation about “possible alignment” between Kano and the federal government is no longer speculative. It has happened. The real question now is not whether Kano will realign—but how profoundly that realignment will reshape 2027.

For a state long considered the strategic heartbeat of northern politics, this development is seismic. Kano is not just numerically significant; it is symbolically powerful. It has birthed movements, defined oppositions and influenced presidential trajectories. Any shift in its political center of gravity sends ripples across the federation.

In 2023, the dominance of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) under the formidable influence of Sen. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso appeared to signal a durable restructuring of Kano’s loyalty map. But politics in Kano has always been dynamic rather than permanent. Structures hold—until they don’t.
The Governor’s shift fundamentally alters the architecture of power in the state.

In Nigeria’s federal system, alignment between a state government and the presidency is not merely symbolic; it is structural. It affects project delivery, fiscal coordination, political patronage networks and most importantly, public perception.
When voters see synergy rather than rivalry between Kano and Abuja, it changes the psychology of governance. Federal presence becomes more visible; infrastructure collaboration accelerates and political messaging becomes unified rather than combative. In a state where performance increasingly shapes voter behavior, this matters.
The alignment also supercharges an already growing youth mobilisation wave around President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The “City Boy Movement”, once dismissed by critics as branding theatrics, now operates within a dramatically altered terrain. Youth-driven digital messaging combined with institutional state backing is a far more potent formula than online enthusiasm alone.

Kano is demographically young. Its streets, campuses, markets and online spaces are politically alive. Youth identity and aspirational politics are becoming central drivers of loyalty. When that demographic energy aligns with both the state and the federal factor, it creates a consolidation effect that opposition forces will find difficult to fracture.

More provocatively, the Governor’s move forces a recalculation within opposition ranks. Political narratives built around resistance lose potency when governance delivery improves under alignment.
The argument of marginalisation becomes harder to sustain if federal-state cooperation produces visible results.
It is true, none of these guarantee 2027. Economic pressures have remained real and misinformation about ongoing reforms exist. Likewise, voter volatility is a permanent feature of Nigeria’s democracy and Kano’s political culture has never been short of surprises.

But what cannot be ignored is this: the electoral battlefield has shifted. What was once a competitive triangle is steadily consolidating into a power bloc. The APC no longer approaches Kano as an external contender—it now operates from within the state’s executive core.
Kano has made a move. Governor AKY has made a move. And with federal alignment now an established reality rather than a theoretical possibility, the game of thrones in 2027 has not merely evolved – it has been irrevocably rewritten. For Nigeria, the game has changed.
In a country where electoral arithmetic is often decided by strategic states, Kano’s latest chapter will not just influence the next election; it will define it.

Barrister Aminu Hussaini – is the Special Adviser to the Governor of Kano State-AKY on Justice/Constitutional Matters