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20260603
Editorial: Babachir Lawal’s Exit and the Politics of Disillusionment
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| Babachir Lawa, Frm, Secretary to the Government of the Federation |
Editorial: Babachir Lawal’s Exit and the Politics of Disillusionment
Babachir
Lawal’s decision to retire from politics is more than a personal withdrawal; it
is a symbolic indictment of Nigeria’s political establishment.
His
characterization of both Bola Tinubu and Atiku Abubakar as “devils” reflects a
deep frustration with the choices available to Nigerians, a sentiment that
resonates with many citizens who feel trapped between flawed leadership
options.
By
declaring that he will no longer canvass for votes or align with any party,
Lawal positions himself as a disenchanted elder statesman, unwilling to lend
legitimacy to a system he perceives as broken.
This move underscores a broader crisis of confidence in Nigeria’s democracy. When seasoned politicians openly reject the leading figures of the political class, it signals a widening gap between the electorate’s aspirations and the reality of governance.
Babachir Lawal Bows Out, Rejects Tinubu and Atiku as Nigeria’s Political ‘Devil
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Babachir Lawal, Fmr. Secretary to the Government of the Federation
Babachir Lawal Bows Out, Rejects Tinubu and Atiku as Nigeria’s Political ‘Devil
Former
Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Babachir Lawal, has
officially announced his retirement from partisan politics.
In a
recent interview with TVC, Lawal made it clear that he will not be supporting
either President Bola Tinubu or former Vice President Atiku Abubakar in the
upcoming 2027 elections. He expressed his disillusionment with both figures,
describing his political dilemma as being “between the devil and the devil,”
and went further to state that while Tinubu is “bad,” Atiku would make an even
worse president.
Lawal,
who recently left the African Democratic Congress (ADC), emphasized that his
decision to retire means he is no longer canvassing for votes or actively
supporting any candidate.
He
stressed that he has only one vote, which he intends to keep to himself, though
he hinted that he might consider voting for activist Omoyele Sowore when the
time comes.
When asked about the possibility of backing the Peter Obi/Rabiu Kwankwaso ticket in 2027, Lawal reiterated his stance that he is done with partisan politics and will not be campaigning for anyone.
20260602
Abduction of Students and Teachers in Ogbomosho | State of the Nation Address
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| Symbolic Photo |
Abduction of Students and Teachers in Ogbomosho | State of the Nation Address
If I were the president of Nigeria this will be my State of the Nation Address in view of the recent tragic abduction of students and teachers in Ogbomosho, Oyo State.
Fellow Nigerians,
Today, I speak to you with a heavy heart. The recent abduction of innocent students and teachers in Ogbomosho, Oyo State, is not just an attack on families and communities, it is an assault on our nation’s soul.
Education is the bedrock of our future, and those who target our schools seek to shatter the very foundation of Nigeria’s progress.
First, let me assure the families of the victims: the full weight of the Nigerian state is mobilized to secure the safe return of your loved ones. Our security agencies are working tirelessly, and I have directed immediate deployment of specialized rescue units to Oyo State. We will not relent until every child and teacher is brought home safely.
But let me be clear, this is not just about one incident. The insecurity that has plagued our nation, kidnappings, banditry, terrorism, must end. I have ordered the following decisive actions:
National Security Overhaul: A restructuring of our security architecture to improve intelligence gathering, rapid response, and coordination across agencies.
RURAL ROADS, WATER PROJECTS CUTTING INSECURITY IN THE FCT – MINISTER
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FCT Minister, Barr Nyesom Wike (middle) fielding questions from journalists during his monthly media parley in Abuja on Monday
FCTA PRESS RELEASE
RURAL ROADS, WATER PROJECTS CUTTING INSECURITY IN THE FCT - MINISTER
...SAYS OPPOSITION PRIMARIES EXPOSED ‘FAKE MESSIAH’ CLAIMS
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom
Wike, has said that the construction of roads and water projects in satellite
towns and rural communities is significantly reducing insecurity and improving
access to farmlands across the Territory.
Speaking during his monthly live media chat in Abuja on Monday, June 1,
2026, Barr. Wike disclosed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will commission
several major projects in satellite towns as part of activities marking the
administration’s third anniversary.
The Minister said his administration deliberately shifted focus to
neglected rural communities after extensive consultations with traditional
rulers, youths, women, and other stakeholders who identified poor road
infrastructure as a major driver of insecurity.
“What we did was to go to the rural areas and interact with the
stakeholders — the chiefs, the youths, the women and other leaders”, Barr. Wike
said. “What I found very interesting is that they know their terrain. They told
us most of the roads were not passable at all and that even when attacks
occurred, security operatives could not effectively respond because the roads
were bad. So, we took on the task and built the roads they themselves
nominated”.
He said the intervention has yielded positive results,
particularly in Kuje Area Council, where several road projects have been
completed. “Those roads have been built, and it really helps in terms of
reducing insecurity and in terms of having access to their farmland”, he stated.
Barr. Wike stressed that unlike previous administrations that announced policies without implementation, the current FCT Administration is focused on delivering tangible results. “Whatever policies we make, by the grace of God, we will implement them. That is how people are going to see the impact of governance, particularly in the rural areas”, he said.
The FCT Minister further disclosed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is
scheduled to commission extensive water projects in satellite towns,
specifically targeting Karu and Bwari, following recent execution of city
centre water projects. “We can't concentrate only on the city. We must also
move to the satellite towns and provide them with critical infrastructure”, the
Minister declared.
He revealed that water schemes in Kuje, Orozo, Gwagwalada which are also set to be executed this year will further improve access to potable water in underserved communities.
PICTURE: FCT MINISTER'S MEDIA PARLEY
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FCT
Minister, Barr.Ezenwo Nyesom Wike fielding questions from journalists during
his June media parley in Abuja on Monday |
Abdul Mahmud: Championing Human Rights And Legal Reforms In Nigeria
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| Abdul Mahmud |
Abdul Mahmud: Championing Human Rights And Legal Reforms In Nigeria
Abdul
Mahmud stands out as one of Nigeria’s most respected voices in public interest
law, human rights advocacy, and civic accountability. His career reflects a
deep commitment to democratic governance and the protection of civil liberties,
blending professional legal practice with public intellectual engagement to
advance reforms in Nigeria’s justice system.
Born on
November 20, 1968, in Bauchi, North-eastern Nigeria, Mahmud pursued his
education at the Federal School of Arts and Science in Ondo State before
earning his Bachelor of Laws (LL.B Honours) at the University of Jos, Plateau
State.
He later
attended the Nigeria Law School, where he obtained his Master of Laws (LL.M)
idxidxidx. His academic journey laid the foundation for a career oriented
toward public interest law rather than purely commercial practice.
Mahmud’s professional trajectory has been defined by his association with initiatives that strengthen democratic institutions and expand access to justice for ordinary citizens.
Within the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), he has played active roles in committees dedicated to public interest and development law, shaping conversations around legal ethics, governance, and institutional reform.
Ogun Emerges Nigeria’s 2nd Best Performing State in pSPI 2025 Ranking
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| Dapo Abiodun, Executive Governor, Ogun State |
Ogun
State has been recognized as the second best-performing state in Nigeria in the
2025 State Performance Index (pSPI), a ranking compiled by Phillips Consulting.
This
achievement places Ogun just behind Lagos State, highlighting the effectiveness
of its governance and development strategies under Governor Dapo Abiodun’s
ISEYA agenda.
The pSPI is an annual assessment that evaluates all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) using a methodology that blends 70 percent objective performance data with 30 percent citizen perception surveys.
The objective component measures fiscal management, infrastructure development, education, healthcare delivery, and economic performance, while the perception survey captures residents’ views on governance and public service delivery.
Nigeria, China Explore Tech Partnership Through Youth Exchange
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| (L-R) CHINA - NIGERIA FLAG |
Nigeria, China Explore Tech Partnership Through Youth Exchange
Nigeria
and China are deepening their cooperation in technology and innovation through
youth exchange programmes designed to foster skills transfer, digital
development, and stronger bilateral relations.
This
initiative was highlighted during the China-Nigeria Youth Exchange Seminar on China-Africa
Community with a Shared Future, held in Abuja and organized by the China
Cultural Centre in Nigeria.
The
seminar brought together government officials, diplomats, students, and members
of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to discuss expanding collaboration
in education, technology, and cultural exchange.
In his keynote address, Zhou Hongyou, Chinese Minister Counsellor, emphasized that China and Africa, including Nigeria, are committed to strengthening cooperation through practical engagement and people-to-people relations. He noted that this year marks 55 years of diplomatic relations between Nigeria and China, alongside 70 years of China-Africa relations.
Nigeria’s Electricity Crisis Declared a Human Rights Issue by IHRC
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| Electric Grid |
Nigeria’s Electricity Crisis Declared a Human Rights Issue by IHRC
The International
Human Rights Commission-Relief Fund Trust (IHRC-RFT), Nigeria Chapter, has
raised alarm over the country’s persistent electricity crisis, declaring it a
matter of human rights rather than just a technical or economic challenge.
Ambassador
Abdullahi Bakoji Adamu, the Country Director of IHRC-RFT, emphasized in a
statement that access to stable electricity is directly tied to the dignity,
well-being, and development of citizens.
Adamu
argued that Nigeria’s power problems have escalated beyond inconvenience, now
threatening fundamental rights and national progress. He cited global human
rights standards, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which
affirm the necessity of basic services for a decent standard of living.
He
stressed that essential sectors such as healthcare, education, and small
businesses cannot function effectively without reliable electricity.
The IHRC statement also highlighted troubling disparities, noting reports that the Presidential residence has shifted away from the national grid to alternative sources. Adamu questioned what this means for ordinary Nigerians if the highest office in the land no longer relies on public infrastructure.
20260601
Nigeria-US Intelligence-Led Strike in Borno: A Major Blow to ISWAP
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| Nigeria-US Intelligence-Led Strike in Borno: A Major Blow to ISWAP |
Nigeria-US Intelligence-Led Strike in Borno: A Major Blow to ISWAP
A joint
Nigeria-United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) operation has delivered a
significant setback to the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP),
eliminating 21 fighters in Arege, Borno State.
Among
those neutralized were three mid-level commanders who had orchestrated attacks
in Monguno, Damasak, and other northern Borno communities.
The
strike was the result of actionable intelligence gathered through surveillance
and reconnaissance assets, which detected unusual terrorist activity in Arege, a
strategic hub along ISWAP’s logistics corridor linking Nigeria, Niger, and
Chad. Intelligence fusion between Nigerian forces and AFRICOM, including
satellite imagery and signals intelligence, confirmed the presence of armed
terrorists, leading to the precision strike.
Retired
Colonel Timothy Antigha, a counterterrorism specialist, emphasized that this
operation reflects the evolution of Nigeria-US security cooperation. What began
as training and equipment support has now matured into real-time, intelligence-driven
operations. He highlighted that the absence of civilian casualties underscored
improved targeting and coordination, marking a shift toward precision rather
than volume in counterterrorism efforts.
Arege’s strategic importance cannot be overstated. It serves as a transit point for fuel, food, weapons, and ammunition destined for ISWAP cells in Sambisa Forest and Mandara Mountains. It has also functioned as a recruitment hub and a command-and-control location for ISWAP operations across the Lake Chad region.
YANGOJI RESIDENTS TROOP OUT EN-MASSE TO RECEIVE FCT MINISTER DURING PROJECT INSPECTION
FCT Minister Barr Nyesom Wike addressing a mammoth crowd who came to welcome during his inspection of Gomani - Yangoji road in Kwali area council, on Monday
FCTA PRESS RELEASE
YANGOJI RESIDENTS TROOP OUT EN-MASSE TO RECEIVE FCT MINISTER DURING
PROJECT INSPECTION
- MINISTER SAYS GOVERNMENT HAS COME TO CHANGE THE LIVES OF RURAL DWELLERS
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, was welcomed by
a swarming crowd at Yangoji, Kwali Area Council, while on an inspection visit
to the Yangoji - Gomani Road on Monday, June 1, 2026.
Addressing Journalists after an inspection tour of road projects in
Gbazago in Bwari Area Council and Yangoji in Kwali Area Council, Barrister Wike
attributed the joyful reception to improvement in the lives of the people who
had never had any impact from government for many years.
“We can see how happy the natives here are. You can see the people are
happy. We are also happy too”, he added.
Responding to journalists on the implication of the high turn out of
people, the FCT Minister said the people were not even aware he was visiting
Yangoji because he had not informed them of his visit. He rather attributed the
rousing welcome from them as an acknowledgement of the changes they had seen in
their community.
“Things were bad. Things are getting better. We have come to change their lives. They have been hearing, “government, government” but now they can see what government means. They never believed that this could happen. They never felt any impact of the government before. They are happy. It makes us happy too. This is the evidence of the Renewed Hope Agenda - to make people believe that things can come back to what they are supposed to be”, the Minister stated.
He further promised to continue to do what will make the people happy by
improving on their lives, and by continuing to do better, and to bring more
dividends of democracy to them.
Speaking on the project he inspected, from the Abuja Lokoja Expressway
to Dafa, Yangoji then Gomani in Kwali Area Council, being constructed by Messrs
Zeberced, the Minister said the project was virtually completed with just the
fitting of streetlights and a few drainages left. He further commended Zeberced
for their timeliness, ability to keep to terms, and adherence to project
timelines.
“They have kept to terms, and I want to recognize Zeberced for a job well done”.
FCTA PICTURE
FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike (Right) in a handshake with the Rivers State APC Governorship candidate, Kingsley Chinda while the Governorship candidate of AA, Ben Eke (1st Left), others watch during a luncheon organised by the Rivers State Rainbow Coalition held in Port Harcourt on Saturday, in honour of candidates participating in the forthcoming Governorship, National Assembly and State Assembly elections in Rivers State.
We're using 31 days to commission projects in FCT to mark Tinubu’s 3rd year anniversary - FCT Minister
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| Nyesom Wike, Hon. Minister of Nigeria's Federal Capital Territory (F.C.T) |
FCTA
PRESS RELEASE
We're using 31 days to commission projects in FCT to mark Tinubu’s
3rd year anniversary - FCT Minister
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has announced an unprecedented 31-day marathon project commissionings across the nation’s capital to celebrate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s third anniversary in office.
Speaking at a political luncheon in Port Harcourt on Saturday, May 30, 2026, the Minister showcased the administrative landmark achievements under his watch, attributing the massive infrastructural development to the strategic backing and vision of the President.
Barr. Wike said, the month-long commissioning circuit will feature major road networks, public utilities, and massive urban renewal projects designed to completely reshape the nation’s capital.
Brushing aside critics, the Minister issued a direct challenge regarding the scale and quality of his administration's output in the FCT.
"This third year of Mr. President alone..., we are taking 31 days for commissioning of projects in Abuja. I'm not talking about boreholes. I challenge anybody to contradict this" the Minister stated.
Adebayo vs. Morka: Clash Over Tinubu’s Governance
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| Adewole Adebayo, former presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) |
Adebayo vs. Morka: Clash Over Tinubu’s Governance
Adewole Adebayo, former presidential candidate of the Social Democratic
Party (SDP), has sharply criticized President Bola Tinubu’s administration,
declaring that “no one is better off” under his government.
APC spokesperson Felix Morka, however, strongly disagreed, defending
Tinubu’s policies as necessary reforms.
Adewole Adebayo has consistently argued that President Tinubu’s policies
have worsened the economic and social conditions of Nigerians since he assumed
office in May 2023.
Appearing on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, Adebayo stated that
ordinary Nigerians have not experienced any improvement in their living
standards, with hardship and insecurity persisting.
He emphasized that only those in government circles seem to benefit from
current policies.
Adebayo specifically described Tinubu’s decision to announce the removal of fuel subsidy during his inauguration as a fundamental economic error, arguing that there was no actual subsidy to remove, only a price hike.
World Milk Day 2026: Nourishing Lives, Empowering Economies, and Celebrating Women Farmers
World Milk Day 2026: Nourishing Lives, Empowering Economies, and Celebrating Women Farmers
World Milk Day 2026, celebrated globally on June 1st, carries the theme “Sustainability in the Dairy Sector.”
This year’s observance is not merely a tribute to milk as a universal food but a reflection on how dairy continues to shape nutrition, economies, and gender empowerment across continents.
Milk remains one of nature’s most complete foods, offering a balanced blend of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals essential for human health. It is rich in calcium, which strengthens bones and teeth, and vitamin D, which aids calcium absorption. The B-complex vitamins in milk support energy metabolism, while vitamin A enhances vision and immunity.
For children, milk is a cornerstone of growth; for adults, it helps maintain muscle mass and bone density.
In regions where malnutrition persists, milk serves as a vital source of affordable nutrition, bridging dietary gaps and improving public health outcomes.
World Milk Day 2026: An Editorial
World Milk Day 2026 is being celebrated today, June 1st, with the global theme “Sustainability in the Dairy Sector.” This year’s focus highlights the role of milk and dairy in nutrition, economic resilience, and sustainable farming, while also honoring women farmers and the billions of people whose livelihoods depend on dairy.
World Milk Day 2026: An Editorial
World Milk Day was established in 2001 by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations to recognize milk as a universal food and to promote its consumption worldwide.
Since then, it has grown into a global movement observed annually on June 1st, uniting communities, schools, businesses, and governments in celebrating the nutritional, economic, and cultural importance of dairy.
Theme for 2026The theme “Sustainability in the Dairy Sector” underscores the urgent need to balance dairy production with environmental responsibility. It emphasizes safe, hygienic, and eco-friendly practices while acknowledging the sector’s contribution to food security and rural livelihoods.
This year also shines a spotlight on women farmers, recognizing their critical role in dairy production and community development. Nutritional
Milk remains a staple in households worldwide, valued for its calcium, protein, and vitamins (A, B-complex, D, and K). A single cup contains about 8 grams of protein, making it essential for bone health, growth, and immune function. For children, milk is a cornerstone of healthy development, while for adults it supports long-term wellness.
20260528
Achebe’s Reflections: Leadership and Lost Promise
Achebe’s Reflections: Leadership and Lost Promise
In There Was a Country (2012), Chinua Achebe offered a searing indictment of Nigeria’s trajectory. He traced the nation’s decline from independence optimism to corruption, ethnic strife, and civil war.
Achebe’s most enduring phrase, “The trouble with Nigeria is simply and squarely a failure of leadership”, crystallizes his belief that insecurity and dysfunction stem not from ordinary citizens but from elites who abandoned principles of justice and merit.
He warned that tribalism, opportunism, and oil-fueled corruption had hollowed out the Nigerian dream, leaving behind poverty, violence, and disillusionment.
Achebe’s reflections remain relevant today, as terrorism, banditry, and kidnappings mirror the systemic failures he described.
Wole Soyinka, Nigeria’s Nobel laureate, has consistently challenged governments over insecurity. He cautions against foreign intervention, arguing that external involvement could worsen Nigeria’s crises.
More importantly, Soyinka insists that insecurity is not fundamentally religious but driven by extremists who exploit faith for political and economic gain. He highlights incidents like the killing of Deborah.
Editorial Analysis: I Weep for Nigeria: Ogbomosho on My Mind
Editorial Analysis: I Weep for Nigeria: Ogbomosho on My Mind
Ambassador AndersonOsiebe’s essay is a heartfelt lamentation on the state of Nigeria, framed through the lens of personal experience and national concern. His narrative blends autobiography, cultural reflection, and political critique, creating a powerful editorial that resonates with both emotion and urgency.
At its core, the piece juxtaposes nostalgia with disillusionment. Osiebe begins by recounting his upbringing in Northern Nigeria, painting a vivid picture of a region once defined by hospitality, unity, and peaceful coexistence.
This personal testimony establishes credibility and emotional weight: he is not an outsider criticizing from afar, but someone who lived and thrived in the North for decades. His recollections of harmony serve as a stark contrast to the present reality of insecurity, banditry, and terrorism.
The rhetorical question, “What exactly is happening to Northern Nigeria today?”, captures the bewilderment of many Nigerians who feel alienated by the rapid decline in safety and trust.The editorial then broadens its scope, moving from the North to the entire nation.
By invoking places from Ogbomosho to Maiduguri, Osiebe underscores that insecurity is not a regional affliction but a national crisis.
His emphasis on Nigeria’s diversity, with references to his own multi-ethnic family tie, reinforces the idea that ethnic and religious divisions should not define the country’s destiny. Instead, he argues that diversity was meant to be Nigeria’s strength, a theme that echoes the founding ideals of the nation but now feels betrayed by current realities.
A central strength of the piece lies in its moral urgency. Osiebe insists that Nigerians must rise above politics, tribe, and religion to demand accountability and justice. His tone is both accusatory and motivational: accusatory toward a government that appears complacent in the face of crisis, and motivational toward citizens who must reclaim their agency.
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