Author Archives: News All Around

Ada Sandra Ukeresi

Abuja, Nigeria – April 16, 2026 — A coalition of Nigerian socio-political groups has strongly condemned a United States lawmaker’s demand for the redeployment of Nigeria’s Minister of State for Defence, Mohammed Bello Matawalle, labelling the intervention as a brazen violation of the country’s sovereignty.

The Nigerian Muslim Congress, Northern Elders Political Development Group, and Youths Vanguard for Peaceful Co-existence of Nigeria issued a joint statement on Wednesday rejecting Congresswoman Kimberly Daniels’ position, which they described as “inappropriate and troubling.”

The coalition insisted that Nigeria’s security architecture remains exclusively within the purview of the Nigerian government.

“Decisions relating to security appointments and operational strategies fall under the authority of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and must be guided by national interest, local intelligence, and on-ground realities,” the statement read.

The groups cautioned that external opinions, “regardless of intent, should not override the authority of officials directly accountable to Nigerians.”

Matawalle’s Track Record Defended

The coalition pointed to Matawalle’s tenure as former governor of Zamfara State—one of the regions hardest hit by banditry and insurgency—as evidence of his value to Nigeria’s security efforts. They argued that his firsthand understanding of the crisis makes him a critical asset.

“Banditry, insurgency, and communal conflicts are deeply rooted and cannot be resolved through simplistic or external assessments,” the groups stated.

Accusations of Foreign Overreach

The coalition further accused some foreign actors of promoting negative narratives about Nigeria, alleging that such positions often undermine the country’s collective interest. They noted that reports developed outside Nigeria’s official security framework frequently lack the full context and operational intelligence required for informed conclusions.

While acknowledging that progress may not be immediate, the groups cited improvements from sustained military operations in the North-West, particularly in Zamfara, Sokoto, Kebbi, and Katsina states.

Call for Sovereignty and Unity

The coalition warned against attempts to circulate media narratives aimed at discrediting President Tinubu’s administration, saying such actions could undermine national unity and ongoing security operations.

They urged both local and international stakeholders to respect Nigeria’s sovereignty and support efforts to address insecurity through constructive engagement.

The statement was jointly signed by Abdullahi Usman Sarki and Yusuf Abubakar on behalf of the coalition, who maintained that Matawalle should be allowed to continue his role “without undue interference or politicisation of national security matters.”

A northern-based political support group, Talakawa Forum, has announced plans to commence regional consultations and grassroots mobilisation ahead of the 2027 general elections, with the aim of securing a landslide victory for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The group said its decision was driven by what it described as “erroneous propaganda” from some northern elements who, it claimed, have failed to acknowledge ongoing reforms and efforts toward sustainable growth and development across the country.

In a press statement signed by its coordinator, Comrade Bala Isah Mohammed, the forum expressed strong support for President Tinubu’s administration, insisting that he should be allowed to complete a second term in office.
According to the statement, the group believes there is an existing understanding on power rotation between the North and the South, noting that the South should be allowed to complete its turn just as the North did under the late former President Muhammadu Buhari.

“We believe there is a gentleman agreement between the North and South for rotation of power. It is based on this understanding that we have resolved to engage and sensitise the masses, particularly the talakawa, to support and vote massively for President Tinubu in 2027,” the statement read.

The group expressed confidence in Tinubu’s leadership capacity, stating that his administration has the potential to address key challenges in the North, including poverty, insecurity, and educational backwardness.

It further argued that supporting Tinubu’s re-election could pave the way for future northern political opportunities, expressing optimism that he would, in turn, support a northern successor.

The Talakawa Forum outlined its core objectives to include reactivating its support base, mobilising women and grassroots communities, promoting the achievements of the Federal Government since 2023, and encouraging national unity.

The group also pledged to sensitise the public on the need for peaceful, credible, and transparent elections as part of its mobilisation efforts.

In the intricate landscape of Nigeria’s governance and security architecture, certain leaders distinguish themselves not merely by the offices they occupy, but by the depth of their engagement, the clarity of their vision, and their commitment to national unity. The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammad Matawalle, continues to exemplify this rare blend of leadership.

His recent travel to Kano State marks the commencement of a deliberate political and strategic engagement, not as an isolated intervention, but as part of a broader, well-coordinated effort that is expected to extend across other Northern states and, indeed, the nation as a whole. It is a forward-looking initiative aimed at strengthening peace, fostering harmony, reinforcing security structures, and promoting the overall well-being of citizens. In a region as politically and socially significant as Kano, such an engagement carries both immediate and long-term national implications.

As the saying goes, “peace is not an accident, it is the product of deliberate effort and sustained engagement.” Dr. Matawalle’s approach reflects this philosophy. His presence in Kano is anchored on consultation, trust-building, and strategic alignment with key stakeholders, ensuring that the foundations of stability are not only built but sustained over time.

Over the years, Dr. Matawalle has proven himself to be a disciplined administrator, a thoughtful strategist, and a consummate political bridge-builder. His understanding of Nigeria’s complex political terrain, often described as that of a “political encyclopedia,” positions him uniquely to navigate sensitive issues with wisdom, patience, and foresight. He recognises that enduring peace is achieved not solely through force, but through inclusion, dialogue, and cooperation among diverse interests.

At the heart of his engagements is a deep and unwavering loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Dr. Matawalle stands out as a staunch supporter of the President and a committed driver of the Renewed Hope Agenda. His actions consistently reflect a determination to translate the President’s vision into tangible outcomes, particularly in the critical areas of security, unity, and national stability.

In the political landscape of the North-West, where grassroots influence often determines electoral outcomes, the role of engagement cannot be overstated. It is widely understood that “a structure built from the ground stands longer than one imposed from above.” In this regard, Dr. Matawalle’s presence in Kano also reflects a subtle but deliberate effort to strengthen the grassroots foundations of the All Progressives Congress (APC). His engagements bring together party stakeholders, community leaders, Business community and mobilisers in a manner that reinforces unity within the party while aligning political structures with broader national objectives.

Indeed, his approach demonstrates that political consolidation and national stability are not mutually exclusive pursuits. By weaving grassroots political engagement for the APC into his broader strategic mission for peace, security, and unity, Dr. Matawalle exemplifies a model where governance and politics operate in synergy. His efforts are not about rhetoric, but about building trust, restoring confidence, and ensuring that the party remains connected to the aspirations of the people at the community level. As the saying goes; when a foundation is built on collective support, even the fiercest winds cannot bring it down.

Furthermore, within the evolving dynamics of the APC, such engagements are critical in sustaining cohesion and preventing fragmentation. Kano, as a political stronghold, requires continuous dialogue, reconciliation, and strategic alignment among party actors. Dr. Matawalle’s interventions are therefore seen as part of a broader effort to ensure that the party speaks with one voice, strengthens its internal unity, and positions itself effectively for future political contests. In politics, as often said, “those who gather early, command the direction of the crowd.” His ongoing efforts reflect this understanding.

It is often said in Hausa tradition, “Idan aka hada kai, komai yana yiwuwa”—when there is unity, everything becomes possible. This principle is evident in his method of engagement, which prioritises collaboration across political, security, and community structures. By fostering unity and building consensus, he contributes meaningfully to the strengthening of Nigeria’s internal cohesion.

Kano remains a critical hub in Nigeria’s political and socio-economic framework, and engagements within such a space must be both strategic and inclusive. However, what is even more significant is that this initiative is not confined to Kano alone. It represents the beginning of a wider national effort, one that will be replicated across other states to ensure that peace, stability, and security are entrenched at all levels of society.

In conclusion,

Dr. Bello Matawalle’s ongoing efforts reflect a clear understanding that national stability is a continuous process that requires vision, dedication, and coordinated action. His loyalty to President Tinubu, his commitment to the Renewed Hope Agenda, and his strategic engagements across the country position him as a key contributor to Nigeria’s journey toward lasting peace and sustainable development.

Indeed, as Nigeria continues to navigate its path toward greater stability and progress, leaders who combine loyalty with strategy, and vision with action, will remain indispensable to the realization of a more secure and united nation.

Dr. Awwal Abdullahi Aliyu

Spokesperson, Ministry of Defence Ministerial Standing Committee on Military Veterans Welfare

· Director General, Initiative for Military Veterans & Family Support Foundation
· Deputy National Coordinator, Retired Members of Nigerian Armed Forces (REMENAF)
· General Secretary, Coalition of Concerned Military Veterans – North (CCV)
· Secretary General, Veterans Federation of Nigeria (VFN)
· National President, Nineteen Seventeen Northern Consensus Movement for Peace Unity Empowerment and Development Initiative NSNCM
· An Amalgamation of 598 registered associations of northern from the Nineteen northern states and associations of northern community resident in the Seventeen southern states and FCT.

Former Kaduna Central senator, Shehu Sani, has strongly criticised the recent protest spearheaded by former Senate President, David Mark, under the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), describing it as insincere and driven by personal political ambitions.

Reacting to the development, Sani dismissed the protest as a gathering of “old hyenas in the garb of new tigers,” accusing its leaders of lacking the credibility to champion the cause of ordinary Nigerians.

According to him, many of those now presenting themselves as opposition figures had previously occupied positions of authority but failed to deliver meaningful progress during their time in office.

“They have been in power and achieved nothing,” Sani stated, adding that such actors now masquerade as agents of change despite being part of the system they currently criticise.

The outspoken activist further described the group as “retrogressive forces camouflaging as opposition,” insisting that their actions are not motivated by genuine concern for Nigerians but by personal political interests.

“If they are messiahs or magicians, Nigeria wouldn’t have been like this,” he said, questioning what he termed their sudden transformation into advocates of reform.

Sani also alleged that many of the leaders involved were instrumental in shaping what he described as Nigeria’s flawed political structure.

“They are the architects and structural engineers who built the faulty system in our country,” he added.

He further argued that none of the key figures within the ADC leadership demonstrated strong democratic credentials while in office, casting doubt on their current posture as champions of democracy.

In a metaphorical remark, Sani likened the party’s internal struggles to mechanical failure, stating that “the ADC leaders bought a used vehicle and are now battling with engine problems.”

He suggested that if the group desired a crisis-free platform, they should have registered a new political party rather than aligning under an existing structure.

The comments come amid growing political realignments and heightened activities among opposition parties ahead of future electoral contests, as analysts continue to monitor shifting alliances within Nigeria’s political landscape.

By Mike Abu , Kaduna

In a significant step toward closing Nigeria’s healthcare access gap, the Northern Christian Association (NCA)—formerly the Northern chapter of CAN—has entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Equity Health Group and partners Doktorconnect and United International HMO. The agreement will see 1,000 containerised clinics deployed across the country, with priority given to hard-to-reach communities, especially in Northern Nigeria where quality healthcare remains scarce.

In a statement personally signed and released to journalists in Kaduna on Friday, NCA Chairman Rev. Joseph John Hayab explained that the agreement—signed alongside Dr. Princess Ibe at Equity Hospital in Lekki, Lagos—marks a strategic partnership between the Christian body and private health stakeholders.

Rev. Hayab underscored the role of faith-based organisations in grassroots development, noting that the NCA’s widespread network would be crucial for reaching vulnerable populations. He said the initiative would help fill the gap in regional clinics across the north, complementing government and private healthcare delivery for millions of Nigerians, particularly those in rural and insecure areas.

Each containerised clinic, he added, will provide basic medical consultations, maternal and child healthcare, vaccinations, diagnostic services, and telemedicine-enabled consultations.

Dr. Princess Ibe of Equity Health Group described the project as a reflection of her organisation’s commitment to innovative healthcare delivery. She said blending physical clinics with digital health tools and insurance coverage would help build a more inclusive and sustainable system.

Northern Nigeria remains a priority due to its low doctor-to-patient ratios and severe healthcare infrastructure deficits. The containerised model allows rapid deployment even in areas with poor infrastructure or security challenges, offering both flexibility and scalability.

The rollout of 1,000 clinics is expected to improve primary healthcare outcomes significantly while creating jobs for health professionals and support staff. The project will proceed in phases, beginning with the highest-need regions, especially across the north.

By: Yunusa Hamza (Tafidan Farin Dutse)
At sixty-three, Governor Umar Namadi stands not merely as a public office holder, but as a compelling symbol of purposeful leadership, moral clarity, and people-centred governance.

His life journey was rooted in discipline, shaped by service, and guided by integrity which offers both inspiration and instruction in an era where leadership is often tested by complexity and competing expectations, especially in a multi geo and diverse communities like Jigawa State
Governor Umar Namadi’s formative years were defined by resilience, humility, modest and a deep appreciation for community values. His professional ascension, particularly in the financial and administrative sectors, was marked by diligence and an unwavering commitment to transparency. As a Fellow Chartered Accountant (FCA), he cultivated a reputation for prudence, accountability and an embodiment of good governance, a trait that later become the cornerstone of his public service ethos.
Governor Umar Namdi’s transition into politics was not driven by ambition alone, but by a sense of duty to contribute meaningfully to societal progress, rising through the ranks, he served with distinction both within the private and the Public notably as a Commissioner of Finance to Deputy Governor, Governor Umar Namdi demonstrated loyalty, competence, and a collaborative spirit. These qualities prepared him for the greater responsibility he now bears as the Executive Governor of Jigawa State.

Governor Namadi’s leadership exemplifies inclusivity in both vision and execution. He governs with a deliberate openness, ensuring that policies reflect the needs and aspirations of diverse communities be it urban and rural, young and old, privileged and underserved. His administration has consistently emphasized participatory governance, recognizing that sustainable development is anchored in collective ownership.

Equally defining is his honesty, an attribute that has earned him public trust and institutional credibility. In a political climate often clouded by scepticism, Governor Umar Namadi’s integrity stands out as a refreshing constant. He leads not with rhetoric, but with results, not with grandstanding, but with grounded action. His financial discipline and transparent governance have fostered confidence among citizens and stakeholders alike.

Above all, Governor Umar Namadi embodies commitment of purpose. His developmental agenda is not episodic but strategic focused on long-term impact rather than short-term applause, from strengthening education and healthcare systems to advancing agricultural productivity and infrastructural growth, his policies reflect a coherent vision for a prosperous and self-reliant Jigawa State.

At 63, the life of Governor Umar Namadi is a testament to the power of consistency, character, and conviction. He reminds us that leadership is not merely about occupying office, but about uplifting lives, building institutions, and leaving behind a legacy of hope, in fact it is worth noting that ‘’Sixty-three teaches that strength is not loud—it is steady.”

In celebrating Governor Umar Namadi this season, we celebrate more than a birthday rather, we celebrate a life devoted to service, a leader defined by inclusivity, honesty, and unwavering commitment to purpose.

On a final note, as a celebrant @63rd we all believe and agree that it is not a milestone of aging, but a celebration of significance and a clear testament to a life that has gathered meaning, shaped others, and it will in sha Allah continues to inspire, as the saying goes, “Sixty-three is not the sunset of life rather it is the golden hour where everything glows with purpose.”

This piece is written and submitted by Yunusa Hamza (Tafidan Farin Dutse) of Gwaram Local Government Jigawa State. Can be reached via yunusafarindutse@gmail.com +234-080 34 44 5493

Mairiga Tanimu

What was once dismissed as a rural crisis has arrived in Nigeria’s towns and cities — and a powerful coalition of southern and Middle Belt leaders says the federal government’s policies are directly to blame.

The Southern and Middle Belt Leaders’ Forum (SMBLF) sounded the alarm Thursday as a pattern emerged from two weeks of near-continuous violence: attacks that once targeted remote farming villages are now striking urban neighbourhoods, including Jos metropolis, the capital of Plateau State.

No fewer than 40 people were killed when gunmen struck Unguwan Rukuba — inside Jos — on Palm Sunday, alongside a simultaneous attack on Kahir Village in Kagarko County, Kaduna State. The following week, violence hit Gwer community in Benue State, killing at least 17; Nyago Gyel in Plateau State, leaving 3 dead; and Akyawa and Udege Kasa in Nasarawa State, where 11 were killed. Before those strikes, Boko Haram sacked Ngoshe town in southern Borno and detonated bombs in three locations across Maiduguri town. Kautikari, near Chibok, lost at least 12 residents to an Islamist terrorist raid. Nuku and Woro communities in Kwara State were attacked, with 170 people reported killed.

“What was reduced to mostly rural violence some years back is now creeping back into cities,” the SMBLF warned.

The forum, comprising the Middle Belt Forum, Afenifere, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, and PANDEF, said the geographic expansion of violence was not accidental — it was the predictable consequence of a federal security policy that has consistently rewarded perpetrators and abandoned victims.

At the centre of that critique is Operation Open Corridor, a government program that spends billions of naira rehabilitating disengaged terrorists — feeding, clothing, training, and reintegrating them into society. The SMBLF called for its immediate abolition, arguing the program sends a clear signal to active terrorists that violence carries no lasting consequence.

That signal, the forum said, has been reinforced from the top. Chief of Defence Staff Lt. Gen. Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede recently referred to terrorists as “prodigal sons” to be welcomed back. National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu described bandits and terrorists as “our brothers that we must live with.” The SMBLF said these statements reflect a broader institutional tolerance for mass violence that has allowed the crisis to metastasize from forests and rural communities into urban centres.

While terrorists are rehabilitated, their victims are warehoused. Displaced persons from attacks across the Northeast and Middle Belt remain in overcrowded IDP camps with no adequate food, shelter, healthcare, or security — a situation the forum described as both unjust and deliberately overlooked by the government.

The SMBLF also condemned state-level amnesty and pardon grants to bandits, saying there was no evidence any such measure had reduced violence. The pardons, the coalition argued, have consistently been read by criminal networks as institutional weakness, accelerating rather than deterring further attacks.

The forum is demanding a full overhaul of Nigeria’s security architecture, with clear accountability frameworks, stronger intelligence infrastructure, and properly equipped and motivated security forces. It is also calling for the regulated liberalization of civilian access to legal firearms — urging controlled distribution to responsible citizens and community-based security groups as an immediate stopgap where federal forces have proven unable to respond in time.

“Nigeria stands at a dangerous crossroads,” the statement concluded. “The current approach is failing, and time is running out.”

The statement was signed by HRM Oba Oladipo Olaitan, leader of SMBLF and Afenifere; Dr. Bitrus Pogu, president of the Middle Belt Forum; Senator John Azuta-Mbata, president-general of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide; and Ambassador Godknows Igali, national chairman of PANDEF.

BY James Luka

Kaduna

The Ndigbo for Tinubu 2027 Forum (NDI-ABAT) has apologised to Channels Television anchor, Seun Okinbaloye, over a controversial remark allegedly made by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.

In a statement issued on Monday and jointly signed by its National Coordinator, Okechukwu Isiguzoro, and Secretary General, Ugwuoke Ugwuoke, the group described the comment as a joke that had been widely misinterpreted.

NDI-ABAT said it was offering an unreserved apology to Okinbaloye, noting that the remark, made during a recent media parley in Abuja, had generated backlash and controversy.

The group explained that Wike’s comment was intended as a light-hearted expression and not a threat, adding that the situation had been taken out of context by some political actors, including members of the opposition coalition.

“We believe it is both prudent and patriotic to intervene and clarify that the statement was made in jest,” the forum said.

According to the group, Okinbaloye had since confirmed that Wike personally reached out to him after the incident to explain his remarks, and that both parties had resolved the issue amicably.

NDI-ABAT, however, clarified that it was not speaking on behalf of the FCT minister but acted out of what it described as civic responsibility, citing Wike’s support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The group also urged opposition figures, particularly within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), not to politicise the matter further.

“It is unnecessary to inflame an issue that has already been resolved between the individuals concerned,” the statement added.

The forum expressed hope that the clarification would calm tensions on social media and encourage more responsible public discourse.

Adamu Adamu

Abuja — Step Up Nigeria, in partnership with the Platform to Protect Whistleblowers in Africa, has launched the 2026 World Whistleblower Day Art and Media Competition, calling on young Nigerians to use creative expression to promote transparency and accountability.

The initiative was unveiled at a press briefing in Abuja, where the organisation highlighted the need to strengthen youth participation in the fight against corruption.

Speaking at the event, the Communications Manager of Step Up Nigeria, Dr. Shekwogaza Kure, said the competition is designed to give young Nigerians a platform to engage actively in governance issues through storytelling and the arts.

Also speaking, the Director of Programmes, Step Up Nigeria, Oluwaferanmi Iyanda, described the competition as an opportunity for youths to showcase their creativity and passion for transparency, accountability, and whistleblower protection.

“This is more than a competition. It is a call for young Nigerians to lend their voices to the fight against corruption and to stand for what is right,” he said.

The competition is open to Nigerians between the ages of 15 and 35, with entries accepted in multiple formats including artwork, short skits, songs, spoken word, articles, and short stories.

Organisers said participants are expected to focus on key issues such as the role of whistleblowers in exposing corruption, the importance of accountability in governance, and the risks faced by individuals who speak out without adequate legal protection.

They added that the initiative aims to change public perception about whistleblowing, presenting it as an act of courage and civic responsibility rather than betrayal.

The programme aligns with Article 33 of the United Nations Convention against Corruption, which encourages countries to establish measures to protect individuals who report corruption in good faith.

To encourage wider participation, the organisers announced that the submission deadline has been extended to Sunday, 12 April 2026.

Participation is free, and winners will receive cash prizes and recognition, with selected entries also featured in educational podcasts. However, the organisers stressed that all submissions must be original and not generated using artificial intelligence.

Further details on eligibility and submission guidelines are available on the organisation’s website.

The event also drew participation from key government and anti-corruption agencies, reflecting growing institutional support for whistleblower protection in Nigeria.

Among those present were Alhaji Mohammed S. Wase of the National Orientation Agency (NOA) and Dele Oyewale, spokesperson for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Their presence, organisers said, underscores the importance of collaboration between civil society and public institutions in promoting accountability.

As the deadline approaches, Step Up Nigeria urged young Nigerians across the country to take advantage of the opportunity to use their creativity as a tool for change.

Key stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kaduna State on Wednesday met with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, to reaffirm their commitment to delivering the state for the ruling party in the 2027 general elections.

The delegation, drawn from the three senatorial zones of Kaduna State, included the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, alongside Senators Marshall Katung and Shehu Sani.

Speaking to journalists after the meeting, Abbas said the visit was aimed at briefing the President on the progress made by the APC in Kaduna and the level of preparedness ahead of the next election cycle.

“We are here to brief Mr President on the progress of the APC in Kaduna State and to assure him that the party has a 100 per cent advantage and is well-positioned for a landslide victory in the 2027 elections,” he said.

The Speaker acknowledged that the party had previously faced challenges in expanding its acceptance across the state but noted that recent political developments had strengthened its foothold.

“In the past, APC’s acceptance was largely limited to Zones One and Two, but through the efforts and leadership of Governor Uba Sani, the party has successfully penetrated Zone Three, which was predominantly controlled by the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Today, APC is dominant across the three senatorial zones,” Abbas stated.

He added that the delegation’s visit was also to reassure the President that Kaduna was fully mobilised and “battle-ready” to deliver victories for the APC at all levels.

Similarly, Senators Katung and Sani said the stakeholders used the meeting to inform the President that necessary groundwork had been completed across the state to ensure electoral success for the party.

They noted that, for the first time since 1999, there was growing political unity among Christian communities in Southern Kaduna in support of the APC, attributing the development to the inclusive governance style and developmental strides of the current administration.

According to them, achievements in key sectors such as health, education and infrastructure, as well as the inclusive approach of the state government, have contributed to increased support for both the President and the APC in Kaduna.

“The people of Kaduna State are now more united and prepared to reciprocate the efforts of the President and the governor with their votes,” the lawmakers said.

They added that the visit served as a reassurance of the state’s readiness to leverage ongoing projects and political cohesion to secure victory for the APC in the 2027 general elections.