First Lady Celebrates President Tinubu at 74

First Lady Celebrates President Tinubu at 74

On March 27, 2026, Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, marked the 74th birthday of her husband, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, with a heartfelt tribute.

In her message, she referred to him affectionately as “Akanbi, omo olodo ide”, a phrase that reflects his Yoruba heritage and identity. The celebration was both personal and national, as her words blended love, pride, and prayers for the country’s future.

The First Lady’s message emphasized gratitude to God for the gift of life and the opportunity to witness another year. She prayed for divine health, strength, joy, and peace for the President, expressing confidence in his ability to lead Nigeria toward what she described as its “Eldorado of great wealth and opportunities.”

A MOMENT WITH YOUR LAWMAKER | ABARIBE | LAGUDA | OBASA

A MOMENT WITH YOUR LAWMAKER | ABARIBE | LAGUDA | OBASA

Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe (Abia South, Senate)

Enyinnaya Abaribe has long been one of the most recognizable voices in Nigeria’s Senate. Born in 1955, he first entered public life as Deputy Governor of Abia State before winning election to the Senate in 2007. Over the years, he has built a reputation as a fearless critic of government excesses and a defender of South-East interests.  

Recently, Abaribe has been vocal on Nigeria’s fiscal challenges, calling for deeper restructuring to ensure equity among regions. His tenure as Senate Minority Leader cemented his role as a rallying figure for opposition politics. For many constituents, he embodies the idea that a lawmaker should speak truth to power, even when it is unpopular.  

THE HONOURABLE COMMISSIONER | RUKIYAT | AFOLABI

Federal Commissioner Spotlight

Hon. Rukiyat Aduke Odekunle – Federal Commissioner, Federal Civil Service Commission (representing Kwara & Kogi States)  

Rukiyat Aduke Odekunle was born on December 4, 1965, in Bauchi State, though her roots trace back to Ilorin in Kwara State. Her academic journey is as diverse as it is impressive: she earned both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in International Relations from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, before pursuing law at the University of Lagos and the Nigerian Law School. She later added a Diploma from John Moores University in Liverpool as a Chevening Scholar, and capped her studies with a Master’s in Business Administration. Her career began in academia, where she lectured at ABU Zaria, but she seamlessly combined teaching with legal practice before stepping into public service. 

FEEL MY PULSE | APC’s Abuja Convention — Unity on Stage, Frustration in the Streets

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APC’s Abuja Convention - Unity on Stage, Frustration in the Streets

The All Progressives Congress (APC) convention held at Eagle Square in Abuja was a spectacle of political strength, drawing over 8,400 delegates, governors, and party leaders from across Nigeria.

For the ruling party, it was a moment to showcase unity, reaffirm its agenda, and project confidence in President Tinubu’s economic reforms. Supporters hailed the event as proof of resilience, pointing to subsidy removal and naira float policies as necessary steps toward stabilizing the economy.  

Yet beyond the grandeur of the convention hall, the pulse of the people told a different story. Abuja residents endured paralyzing traffic gridlock, with districts like Wuse, Maitama, and Asokoro brought to a standstill.

NewsRoundUp – 280326

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Newsround Up - Nigeria and the World, March 28, 2026

Nigeria is witnessing political tremors with the resignation of Kano State’s Deputy Governor and the APC National Convention in full swing, while globally, escalating conflict in the Middle East is rattling markets, sending gold prices tumbling and oil costs soaring.  

Nigeria: Political and Economic Developments

The Nigerian political landscape is charged this weekend. Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, Deputy Governor of Kano State, has formally resigned following weeks of impeachment proceedings initiated by the State House of Assembly. His departure underscores the deepening political instability in Kano, where 38 lawmakers had endorsed his removal.  

Meanwhile, in Abuja, the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Convention is underway, drawing President Bola Tinubu, 32 governors, and over 8,000 delegates. The convention is expected to shape the party’s internal dynamics and future electoral strategies.  

Can Communities Survive Amid Banditry, Insurgency, and Kidnappings?

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Communities facing banditry, insurgency, and kidnappings in Nigeria are struggling to survive, but resilience, local adaptation, and coordinated security responses offer cautious hope. While displacement, economic disruption, and fear remain widespread, grassroots solidarity and renewed government strategies are slowly reshaping the narrative. 

Can Communities Survive Amid Banditry, Insurgency, and Kidnappings?

The question of survival in the face of relentless insecurity is not abstract, it is lived daily in places like Kaduna, Zamfara, and Borno. Banditry, insurgency, and kidnappings have become defining features of Nigeria’s security landscape, eroding trust, displacing families, and destabilizing economies. Yet, amid this turmoil, communities continue to adapt, resist, and rebuild.

The Human Cost

Banditry and insurgency have inflicted mass displacement, with thousands forced into internally displaced persons (IDP) camps. Kidnappings for ransom drain household savings and weaken local economies, while fear of attacks disrupts farming, schooling, and trade. The psychological toll is immense, as communities live under constant threat, eroding social cohesion and trust.

EDITORIAL: Tinubu’s Call for Unity and Renewal at the APC Convention

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu

Tinubu’s Call for Unity and Renewal at the APC Convention

At the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Convention held last night at Eagle Square in Abuja, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu delivered a speech that was both a reflection on the party’s journey and a roadmap for Nigeria’s future.

His address was steeped in gratitude, pride, and optimism, underscoring the theme of the convention: “Unity in Progress: Consolidating the Renewed Hope Agenda.”

Tinubu began by paying homage to the founding fathers of the APC, recalling the bold decision thirteen years ago to unite across political divides for national redemption. He honored the memory of past leaders, including former President Muhammadu Buhari, and emphasized that the party’s strength lies not in numbers but in unity.

APC Convention: Full Speech By President Tinubu at Eagle Square

Nigeria's President Bola Ahmed Tinubu

APC Convention – President Tinubu’s Full Speech at Eagle Square

At the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Convention held at Eagle Square in Abuja, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu delivered a comprehensive and impassioned speech that underscored themes of unity, reform, and national renewal.

His address was both a reflection on the party’s journey since its founding in 2013 and a roadmap for Nigeria’s future under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

President Tinubu began with gratitude to God and pride in the achievements of the APC, emphasizing that the convention was not merely a ritual but a defining chapter in Nigeria’s democratic story.

Yilwatda, Basiru Return as APC Chairman, Secretary

Yilwatda, Basiru Return as APC Chairman, Secretary

At the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Convention held at Eagle Square, Abuja, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda was formally returned as the National Chairman of the party, while Surajudeen Basiru emerged as the National Secretary.

The convention, which took place on Friday night, was attended by President Bola Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, members of the National Assembly, governors, and other party stakeholders.

Prof. Yilwatda, a former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, first assumed the role of APC National Chairman in 2025 after extensive consultations with party stakeholders across Nigeria’s geo-political zones. His nomination was put forward by Hope Uzodimma,

Tinubu Defends Reforms, Calls For Unity At APC Convention

Tinubu Defends Reforms, Calls for Unity at APC Convention

At the 4th Elective National Convention of the All Progressives Congress (APC) held in Abuja, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu delivered a defining address that underscored both his administration’s reform agenda and the need for unity within the ruling party.

The convention, which he described as a pivotal moment for Nigeria’s democracy, was framed around consolidating the “Renewed Hope Agenda” and strengthening the APC’s role as a vehicle for national transformation.

Tinubu reflected on the origins of the APC in 2013, recalling how its founding members set aside political differences to rescue Nigeria from economic decline. He paid tribute to former President Muhammadu Buhari and other deceased party stalwarts, urging current leaders to uphold the vision of the party’s founders and resist divisions driven by personal ambition. He emphasized that the APC was never intended merely as a platform for political ambition, but as an instrument for governance reform, institutional strengthening, and economic opportunity.

The Nigeria - UK State Visit of March 2026 | A Peep Into The Essentials

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The Nigeria–UK State Visit of March 2026–A Peep Into the Essentials

The Nigeria–UK State Visit of March 2026 marked a historic diplomatic milestone, being the first inward state visit by a Nigerian president in 37 years. Hosted by King Charles III and Queen Camilla at Windsor Castle, the visit underscored a renewed strategic partnership between both nations, with consensus around deepening cooperation in trade, security, and migration. The last line of action emerging from the visit is a commitment to operationalize the 2024 Nigeria–UK Strategic Partnership framework into tangible economic and security initiatives.

Background

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, accompanied by First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, paid a two-day state visit to the United Kingdom from 18–19 March 2026. This was the first time a Nigerian leader was hosted at Windsor Castle, as previous visits had taken place at Buckingham Palace. The visit carried symbolic weight: it was the first inward state visit by a Nigerian president since 1989, highlighting the importance of Nigeria’s role in the Commonwealth and its growing global influence. King Charles III himself has a long history of engagement with Nigeria, having visited four times as Prince of Wales, most recently in 2018.

FEC APPROVES MANAGEMENT CONTRACT FOR ABUJA BUS TERMINALS

FCT Minister Barr Nyesom Wike, MD, Arab Contractors, Engr. Mohammed Eledarous . M.D Arab Contractors, the Director Engineering Services FCDA, Engr. Emmanuel Chukwuma during the Minister's inspection of arterial road N1 connecting Wuye, Dakibiyu and Mbora districts in Abuja on Friday

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FEC APPROVES MANAGEMENT CONTRACT FOR ABUJA BUS TERMINALS

…OPERATIONS TO COMMENCE WITHIN THREE WEEKS, SAYS FCT MINISTER

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, has revealed that the Federal Executive Council (FEC) has officially approved the management contract for the operation of the newly constructed Abuja bus terminals.

The FCT Minister shared this update, while briefing journalists during an extensive routine inspection of ongoing infrastructure projects across the city on Friday, March 27, 2026.

Addressing the readiness of the transport hubs, Barr. Wike explained that the commencement of operations was put on hold due to the contract value exceeding ministerial approval limits. He said with the FEC’s green light, the transition to full service is now imminent.

Tinubu Meets Trump At White House AI Summit

Tinubu Meets Trump at White House AI Summit

On March 25, 2026, the White House in Washington, D.C., became the stage for a landmark gathering focused on artificial intelligence, digital safety, and education.

The event, titled the Fostering the Future Together Summit, was hosted by United States First Lady Melania Trump and brought together First Ladies from 44 nations, including Nigeria’s Oluremi Tinubu and France’s Brigitte Macron.

The Nigerian First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, joined her global counterparts in discussions centered on expanding access to educational tools and strengthening safeguards for children navigating increasingly complex digital environments.

According to her media aide, Busola Kukoyi, Tinubu’s participation underscored Nigeria’s commitment to preparing its youth for the challenges and opportunities of the digital age.

FCT MINISTER FULFILLS PROMISES TO FCT INDIGENOUS PEOPLE AS HE GRANTS LAND TITLES TO FCT CHIEFS

FCT Minister Barr Nyesom Wike (3rd right) the Chairman FCT Council of Chiefs and Ona of Abaji HRH Adamu Baba Yunusa (4th right) and other FCT during the presentation of title documents to members of the Council of Chiefs by the Minister on Friday

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FCT MINISTER FULFILLS PROMISES TO FCT INDIGENOUS PEOPLE AS HE GRANTS LAND TITLES TO FCT CHIEFS

…WAIVES STATUTORY FEES ON THE TITLE DOCUMENTS

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, has granted land allocation documents to members of the FCT Council of Chiefs, waiving all statutory fees for the land titles on the instructions of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

This landmark move aims to strengthen the relationship between the government and indigenous authorities, recognizing the historical presence of indigenous people in the FCT.

In a meeting with traditional rulers held on Friday March 27, 2026, Barr. Wike emphasized the administration's commitment to supporting those who contribute to peace and development in the territory. "We cannot deny the fact that there are indigenous people who were here before the creation of the FCT", he said.

The Anioma Dream — A Timeline of Struggle and Endorsement

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Editorial Feature: The Anioma Dream - A Timeline of Struggle and Endorsement

The recent endorsement by Senate President Godswill Akpabio for the creation of Anioma State, with Asaba as its capital, marks a pivotal moment in a decades-long quest for recognition and autonomy by the Anioma people.

This editorial traces the historical journey of the Anioma State movement, highlighting key milestones that have shaped its evolution.

1976: The Seeds of Aspiration

The idea of Anioma State first emerged during the post-civil war restructuring of Nigeria. As new states were carved out to promote national unity, leaders from the Delta North region began advocating for a distinct state to represent the Igbo-speaking communities west of the Niger River.  

Senate President Akpabio endorses creation of Anioma State, names Asaba as capital

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Senate President Akpabio Endorses Creation of Anioma State, Names Asaba as Capital

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has officially endorsed the creation of Anioma State, proposing Asaba as its capital.

This move, if actualized, would increase Nigeria’s states from 36 to 37 and restructure Delta State with Warri serving as the capital of the remaining portion.  

The agitation for Anioma State has been ongoing for decades, primarily championed by leaders from Delta North Senatorial District. The proposal seeks to address issues of representation, equity, and administrative efficiency within Nigeria’s federal structure.

Is Corruption Too Deeply Rooted to Be Defeated?

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Is Corruption Too Deeply Rooted to Be Defeated?

Corruption has long been described as a cancer eating away at the fabric of societies. It undermines trust in institutions, distorts economic growth, and erodes the moral compass of nations.

The question of whether corruption is too deeply rooted to be defeated is not merely rhetorical, it is a pressing dilemma that confronts governments, citizens, and global organizations alike.

At its core, corruption thrives where accountability is weak and impunity is strong. In many countries, it is woven into the daily operations of politics, business, and even social interactions.

Can Leadership Rise Above Ethnic and Religious Divides?

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Can Leadership Rise Above Ethnic and Religious Divides?

Leadership, at its core, is about vision, unity, and the capacity to inspire collective progress. Yet, in societies where ethnic and religious identities are deeply entrenched, leadership often finds itself entangled in the web of division.

The question of whether leadership can rise above these divides is not only timely but essential for the survival of pluralistic democracies and the flourishing of diverse communities.

Ethnic and religious identities are powerful markers of belonging. They provide individuals with a sense of heritage, culture, and moral grounding. However, when manipulated for political gain, these identities can become instruments of exclusion and conflict.

Why Do Elections in Nigeria Still Struggle with Credibility?

Nigeria’s elections continue to struggle with credibility due to a mix of institutional weaknesses, political interference, security concerns, and voter distrust. Despite reforms such as electronic accreditation and new guidelines, systemic flaws in implementation and governance undermine public confidence.

Why Do Elections in Nigeria Still Struggle with Credibility?

The credibility of elections in Nigeria remains a contested issue, even as the country approaches its 2027 general elections. While democracy has deepened since 1999, recurring problems persist, raising doubts about whether electoral reforms can truly deliver free and fair polls.

Institutional Weaknesses

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is at the center of Nigeria’s electoral process, but its credibility is often questioned. New guidelines introduced in 2026 have been criticized by civil society and political parties as overregulated, impractical, and exclusionary, potentially alienating grassroots voters and stifling smaller parties. Moreover, INEC’s operational inefficiencies, such as delays in uploading results into the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), have undermined trust in technology meant to enhance transparency.

FCT MINISTER WELCOMES CLOSER PARTNERSHIP WITH THE EU

FCT Minister Barr Nyesom Wike (2nd right) in a handshake with the European Union Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Gautier Mignot (2nd left) while the Deputy Ambassador and Head of Political, Press and Information, Mr Zissimos Vergos (right) and the Head, Democracy Governance and Migration sector, Mr Ruben Alba Aguilera (left) look on during a courtesy visit by the Ambassador to the FCTA on Thursday

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FCT MINISTER WELCOMES CLOSER PARTNERSHIP WITH THE EU

…HINTS AT THE REOPENING OF IBB GOLF COURSE SOON

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barr Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, CON, has expressed Nigeria’s commitment to closer partnership with the European Union.

Barr. Wike who stated this in Abuja on Thursday March 26, when he hosted a delegation of the European Union led by European Union Ambassador to Nigeria, H.E. Gautier Mignot on a courtesy visit to his office, said the Federal Government would sustain engagement with EU member states to consolidate existing partnerships.

In the words of the Minister, "The European Union is the highest partner as far as Nigeria is concerned, I've had a very long relationship with the EU. And I do know the high respect Mr. President's has as far as the EU is concerned. We will make sure that we keep to that tempo to continue to relate with EU member countries in order to further strengthen the relationship that exists between EU countries and Nigeria".

FCT MINISTER INSPECTS JUDICIARY PROJECTS, REMODELED ABUJA CITY GATE

[L-R) Executive Secretary FCDA Engr Richard Yunana Dauda, MD/CEO DETAILS 2 DOT Development Company Nig. Ltd, Arc Akor Adapoyi, FCT Minister Barr Nyesom Wike and his sons Joaquin and Jordan Wike during the inspection of ongoing construction of houses for Heads of Courts on Thursday

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AHEAD OF THE PRESIDENT’S THIRD YEAR ANNIVERSARY: FCT MINISTER INSPECTS JUDICIARY PROJECTS, REMODELED ABUJA CITY GATE

…DESCRIBES ALLEGATIONS OF JUDICIAL COMPROMISE AS MERE DISTRACTIONS

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, on Thursday, March 26, 2026, conducted a comprehensive inspection of key judicial infrastructure and urban aesthetic projects across the Abuja city centre.

The Minister’s tour included the new Court of Appeal complex in Dakibiyu, the expansive Judges’ Quarters in Katampe, the residential quarters for Heads of Court in Asokoro, and the ongoing remodeling of the Abuja City Gate.

Addressing journalists shortly after the inspection, the Minister expressed overall satisfaction with the quality of work across the project sites and the commitment of the contractors to meeting the established timelines.

Is the Nigerian State Losing Monopoly of Violence?

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The Nigerian state is seemingly and increasingly losing its monopoly of violence, as non-state actors, bandits, insurgents, and ethnic militias, challenge its authority, eroding the state’s ability to enforce law and order. This trend threatens Nigeria’s sovereignty and risks pushing the country closer to failed statehood.

Is the Nigerian State Losing Monopoly of Violence?

The concept of the monopoly of violence originates from Max Weber’s definition of the modern state: the entity that successfully claims the legitimate use of physical force within its territory.

In Nigeria today, this principle is under severe strain. The state’s inability to control violence across its territory has allowed non-state actors to emerge as competing centers of coercive power.

Insurgency in the Northeast, Boko Haram and ISWAP continue to operate, despite years of military campaigns. Their ability to tax communities, enforce rules, and conduct attacks shows they wield coercive power rivaling the state.

How Can Nigeria Balance Oil Dependency with Diversified Growth?

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Nigeria can balance its oil dependency with diversified growth by investing in agriculture, technology, manufacturing, and solid minerals while ensuring policy stability, infrastructure development, and fiscal discipline. The key lies in reducing vulnerability to oil price shocks and building resilient non-oil sectors that can sustain long-term economic growth.

How Can Nigeria Balance Oil Dependency with Diversified Growth?

Nigeria, Africa’s largest economy, has long relied on oil as its primary source of revenue. Oil exports account for over 90% of Nigeria’s total export earnings, making the economy highly vulnerable to global oil price fluctuations. This dependency has created cycles of boom and bust, often leading to recessions and fiscal instability. To achieve sustainable growth, Nigeria must strategically diversify its economy while managing its oil resources responsibly.

The Pitfalls of Oil Dependency

Oil dependency has several negative consequences:

- Revenue volatility: Oil prices are subject to global market shocks, which directly affect Nigeria’s fiscal stability.

- Debt risks: Reliance on oil-backed loans, such as the proposed $5 billion deal with Saudi Aramco, exposes Nigeria to financial uncertainty when oil prices fall.

- Neglect of other sectors: Heavy focus on oil has stunted the growth of agriculture, manufacturing, and technology.

- Long-term stagnation: Research shows that oil dependency hampers Nigeria’s long-term GDP growth, as it discourages innovation and diversification.

FCT MINISTER ATTRIBUTES INFRASTRUCTURE SUCCESS TO PRUDENT FUNDING, PRESIDENTIAL SUPPORT

( L-R) Executive Secretary FCDA Engr Richard Yunana Dauda, FCT Minister Barr Nyesom Wike and the Managing Director, Infiouest Construction Company, Mr. Joseph Abujaoude during the inspection of the Arterial road S1 from RRII to the FCT Fire Service Station in Kaura district, Abuja on Wednesday

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FCT MINISTER ATTRIBUTES INFRASTRUCTURE SUCCESS TO PRUDENT FUNDING, PRESIDENTIAL SUPPORT

…AS HE INSPECTS NIGERIAN LAW SCHOOL HOSTEL PROJECTS AND CITY ROAD NETWORKS

…SAYS NO FACTION IN THE PDP

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, has attributed the rapid pace of development in the nation’s capital to the administration's fiscal discipline and the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The Minister stated this on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, while addressing journalists, shortly after he conducted a comprehensive inspection of some completed and ongoing high-priority projects spanning the Abuja city centre and the Bwari satellite town.

Projects inspected include the Arterial Road S1 in Kaura District, the completed Arterial Road N5 (Obafemi Awolowo Way) from Life Camp junction to Ring Road III and the extensive new housing and hostel facilities at the Nigerian Law School, Abuja Campus in Bwari.

National Single Window Will Transform Trade, Boost Economy - Edun

Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun

National Single Window Will Transform Trade, Boost Economy - Edun

The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially launched the National Single Window (NSW) platform, a landmark digital trade initiative designed to revolutionize cargo clearance, streamline trade processes, and strengthen Nigeria’s competitiveness in global markets.

The unveiling ceremony, held in Lagos, was led by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, who described the platform as a “game changer” for the nation’s trade ecosystem.

He emphasized that the NSW would drastically reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks, improve efficiency, and enhance the ease of doing business in Nigeria.