Author Archives: News All Around

Madia Emmanuel

A coalition of northern youth groups has urged the Nigerian Senate to refrain from what it termed a political vendetta against the immediate past Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, over alleged financial irregularities.

Issuing a joint statement in Abuja on Saturday, the coalition—led by the Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL)—condemned the Senate’s decision to summon Kyari over purported discrepancies totaling ₦210 trillion in NNPCL’s audited financial reports.

The statement, signed by the Assembly’s President, Amb. Abdul Danbature, and endorsed by the Forum for Youth Development, Unity and Peace Initiative, along with 21 other civil society bodies, described the summon as part of a disturbing pattern of blackmail against dedicated public servants.

“We deem it necessary to speak out against the rising wave of blackmail, politically driven accusations, and deliberate efforts to tarnish the image of individuals who have rendered selfless service to the nation,” the statement read.

The groups hailed Kyari’s tenure at the helm of NNPCL, emphasizing his pivotal role in modernizing the nation’s oil and gas sector. They highlighted key milestones achieved under his leadership, such as the successful transition of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation into a commercialized limited liability company in compliance with the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA). They also acknowledged his efforts in driving the rehabilitation of the country’s refineries and enhancing transparency in crude oil production monitoring.

According to the coalition, Kyari was instrumental in expanding gas infrastructure projects, bolstering national energy security, and fostering greater local content and youth participation within the industry.

The coalition praised the former NNPCL chief as a committed patriot whose leadership aligned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic vision, particularly the Renewed Hope Agenda. They noted his consistent support for youth empowerment and his role in creating leadership pathways for young Nigerians in strategic economic sectors.

“It is deeply regrettable that after years of unwavering service, a concerted effort is being made to drag his name through the mud with controversies that only serve to disturb the peace of his retirement,” the groups lamented.

While acknowledging the constitutional oversight functions of the Senate, the youth coalition cautioned the legislative body against leveraging its powers for what they described as political persecution and character assassination. They advised the Senate to redirect its focus toward addressing critical national issues, such as the persistent insecurity plaguing northern communities and other regions of the country.

The coalition called on Nigerians to view the allegations against Kyari with circumspection and to resist attempts by certain individuals or factions to manipulate public sentiment for selfish or political ends.

The groups further appealed to relevant state institutions to allow the former NNPCL chief to enjoy his post-service life free from harassment and undue public scrutiny.

“As a nation, we must learn to recognize and honor those who have dedicated their expertise and years to the service of our fatherland,” the statement concluded.

A civic advocacy group, Retirees Dignity Promoters (RDP), has criticised the Nigerian Senate over what it described as an attempt to harass former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, Mele Kyari, despite his record of reforms and transparency in the oil sector.

The group said it was troubling that the Senate committee probing alleged financial issues linked to the national oil company appears determined to overlook the unprecedented openness that characterised Kyari’s tenure.

In a statement signed by its Chairman Moses Epenyoung and issued in Abuja, RDP said Nigerians witnessed a historic shift during Kyari’s leadership when the oil giant began publishing detailed monthly financial and operational reports, openly disclosing revenues, remittances and expenditure — a practice that had never existed before.

“For decades, Nigerians knew virtually nothing about the income, operations and spending of the national oil company. That culture of secrecy changed under Kyari,” the group said.

RDP said it was therefore surprising that lawmakers were now ignoring that transparency legacy while resorting to threats of arrest warrants, a move the group described as politically coloured.

The group also recalled that when the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission invited Kyari last year over industry matters, he voluntarily honoured the invitation shortly after returning from an overseas trip, demonstrating that he had nothing to hide.

According to RDP, the Senate must avoid actions that create the impression of political intimidation, especially as the country gradually approaches another election season.

“Kyari helped open the books of Nigeria’s oil sector. He should be allowed to enjoy his retirement in peace,” the statement added.

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By Blessing Moses

A powerful coalition of youth groups has thrown its weight behind prominent Northern youth leader and politician, Nasiru Danu, praising his unwavering commitment to democratic principles and grassroots development. The Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL), alongside 21 affiliate civil society organisations from across Nigeria, issued a unified statement on Thursday, solidifying their support for Danu amidst what they describe as efforts to undermine his reputation.

In a press conference held in Abuja, the coalition lauded Danu as a “committed patriot” and an “astute grassroots mobiliser” whose work has been instrumental in fostering political participation and community empowerment, particularly among young Nigerians.

“Nasiru Danu represents the very best of what youth leadership should be in our country,” said Amb. Abdul Danbature, President of AYAGL, while reading the joint statement. “He is vocal, energetic, and, most importantly, loyal to the democratic process and the welfare of the common man. His dedication to uplifting communities at the grassroots level is not just rhetoric; it is evident in his actions.”

The coalition specifically highlighted Danu’s steadfast support for the ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’ of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. They noted that his political activities and community engagements are consistently aligned with the national development goals of the current government.

The groups also took the opportunity to commend the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN), for his foresight in partnering with credible young leaders. They described Keyamo’s recognition of figures like Danu as a strategic move that strengthens the administration’s connection with the youth demographic and advances its core agenda.

“Mr. Keyamo has demonstrated what it means to build an inclusive system by working with capable young people like Nasiru Danu,” the statement continued. “This is the kind of synergy that will drive the Renewed Hope Agenda forward.”

The show of solidarity comes amid what the AYAGL and its partners perceive as targeted attempts to malign Danu’s character through political maneuvering and misinformation. The coalition issued a strong warning, vowing to resist any such efforts.

“As an organisation built on integrity and truth, we refuse to be used as a tool against Nasiru Danu or any leader who has genuinely demonstrated a commitment to the people,” Amb. Danbature asserted. “We will not stand by while political manipulation seeks to silence a voice that has consistently championed the cause of the youth and the grassroots.”

Describing Danu as a loyal and dedicated member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), the coalition stated that his contributions are vital to the stability and growth of both the party and the nation’s democracy. They portrayed him as a symbol of hope for youth inclusion, proving that dedication and hard work can translate into meaningful political influence.

In their final remarks, the AYAGL and the 21 CSOs called on all Nigerians, especially the youth, to remain vigilant and continue to support leaders who prioritise national development and democratic values over personal gain.

“We call on our fellow youths across the country to stand with leaders like Nasiru Danu who have shown, time and again, that their loyalty is to the people and to the progress of our dear nation,” the statement concluded.

By Gracey Odey

Nigeria is taking a significant step toward strengthening its indigenous defence manufacturing capacity as the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria–D7G (DICON-D7G) moves forward with plans to build the country’s first Military Jetty near Tin Can Island Port in Lagos.

The Chief Executive Officer of DICON-D7G, Mr. Osman Chennar, on Tuesday led members of the corporation’s Board of Directors on an inspection of the proposed project site, describing the initiative as a “strategic game changer” for Nigeria’s defence logistics and local arms production.

The jetty, which is expected to be officially launched in June 2026, is designed to serve as a dedicated maritime logistics facility supporting the importation of components, raw materials and specialised equipment needed for the local manufacturing of military hardware.

Speaking with journalists during the inspection visit, Chennar said the facility would play a critical role in strengthening Nigeria’s defence supply chain while accelerating the country’s push toward military self-reliance.

“This Military Jetty is a strategic enabler. It will significantly enhance our inbound logistics by allowing seamless importation of Completely Knocked Down (CKD) and Semi-Knocked Down (SKD) components, raw materials and other essential supplies required for local assembly and full-scale production,” he said.

According to him, the jetty will reduce cargo turnaround time, cut transportation costs and streamline logistics operations for defence manufacturing.

The project site, located close to Tin Can Island Port—one of West Africa’s busiest maritime corridors—is expected to provide direct maritime access for defence-related cargo entering Nigeria.

Officials say the strategic location will allow DICON-D7G to efficiently receive specialised equipment and materials used in the production and assembly of military hardware.

Chennar disclosed that the jetty would support the local production of a wide range of defence systems, including small and medium arms, ammunition, tactical drones, anti-jamming drone systems and armoured vehicles such as 4×4 and 6×6 Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles.

He also revealed that DICON-D7G has already commenced production of DG103 rifles at its manufacturing facility in Kaduna, with plans to supply the Nigerian Armed Forces and export to other African countries.

“At full capacity, the jetty project will create employment for over 2,000 retired military personnel and about 5,000 skilled civilian workers,” Chennar said.

“Beyond job creation, it will enable us to produce thousands of military-grade weapons and ammunition to sufficiently equip the Armed Forces of Nigeria and also export to friendly African nations.”

Security analysts say the project reflects Nigeria’s growing determination to reduce its dependence on foreign defence suppliers while building a sustainable domestic military industrial base.

For decades, Nigeria has relied heavily on imported weapons systems and equipment, often facing delays, procurement bottlenecks and foreign exchange constraints.

By expanding local production capacity, the government hopes to improve operational readiness for the military while strengthening the country’s defence economy.

A member of the DICON-D7G Board of Directors, Major General Mainasara Abdul Masanawa (Rtd), said the jetty would serve not only as a logistics hub but also as an export gateway for Nigerian-made defence products.

“This project reinforces Nigeria’s position as a regional defence manufacturing hub,” Masanawa said.

“It will deepen cooperation with allied African countries while reducing our reliance on foreign sources for defence equipment.”

He noted that the initiative aligns with the broader objective of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which places emphasis on defence industrial self-reliance and national security.

Masanawa added that expanding domestic manufacturing will also reduce the pressure on Nigeria’s foreign exchange reserves by lowering the country’s dependence on imported military hardware.

“By strengthening local production capacity, we will reduce foreign exchange expenditure on defence imports, build local technical expertise, stimulate technology transfer and enhance national security through sustainable, homegrown solutions,” he said.

Industry observers say the proposed jetty could become a critical component of Nigeria’s emerging defence industrial ecosystem, linking maritime logistics directly with manufacturing facilities across the country.

If successfully completed, the facility is expected to improve the efficiency of defence supply chains while positioning Nigeria as a potential exporter of military equipment within Africa.

With the project scheduled for launch in mid-2026, defence stakeholders say the development could mark the beginning of a new phase in Nigeria’s effort to build a resilient and self-sustaining defence industry.

By Agaba Odunsi

Nigeria is taking a significant step toward strengthening its indigenous defence manufacturing capacity as the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria–D7G (DICON-D7G) moves forward with plans to build the country’s first Military Jetty near Tin Can Island Port in Lagos.

The Chief Executive Officer of DICON-D7G, Mr. Osman Chennar, on Tuesday led members of the corporation’s Board of Directors on an inspection of the proposed project site, describing the initiative as a “strategic game changer” for Nigeria’s defence logistics and local arms production.

The jetty, which is expected to be officially launched in June 2026, is designed to serve as a dedicated maritime logistics facility supporting the importation of components, raw materials and specialised equipment needed for the local manufacturing of military hardware.

Speaking with journalists during the inspection visit, Chennar said the facility would play a critical role in strengthening Nigeria’s defence supply chain while accelerating the country’s push toward military self-reliance.

“This Military Jetty is a strategic enabler. It will significantly enhance our inbound logistics by allowing seamless importation of Completely Knocked Down (CKD) and Semi-Knocked Down (SKD) components, raw materials and other essential supplies required for local assembly and full-scale production,” he said.

According to him, the jetty will reduce cargo turnaround time, cut transportation costs and streamline logistics operations for defence manufacturing.

The project site, located close to Tin Can Island Port—one of West Africa’s busiest maritime corridors—is expected to provide direct maritime access for defence-related cargo entering Nigeria.

Officials say the strategic location will allow DICON-D7G to efficiently receive specialised equipment and materials used in the production and assembly of military hardware.

Chennar disclosed that the jetty would support the local production of a wide range of defence systems, including small and medium arms, ammunition, tactical drones, anti-jamming drone systems and armoured vehicles such as 4×4 and 6×6 Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles.

He also revealed that DICON-D7G has already commenced production of DG103 rifles at its manufacturing facility in Kaduna, with plans to supply the Nigerian Armed Forces and export to other African countries.

“At full capacity, the jetty project will create employment for over 2,000 retired military personnel and about 5,000 skilled civilian workers,” Chennar said.

“Beyond job creation, it will enable us to produce thousands of military-grade weapons and ammunition to sufficiently equip the Armed Forces of Nigeria and also export to friendly African nations.”

Security analysts say the project reflects Nigeria’s growing determination to reduce its dependence on foreign defence suppliers while building a sustainable domestic military industrial base.

For decades, Nigeria has relied heavily on imported weapons systems and equipment, often facing delays, procurement bottlenecks and foreign exchange constraints.

By expanding local production capacity, the government hopes to improve operational readiness for the military while strengthening the country’s defence economy.

A member of the DICON-D7G Board of Directors, Major General Mainasara Abdul Masanawa (Rtd), said the jetty would serve not only as a logistics hub but also as an export gateway for Nigerian-made defence products.

“This project reinforces Nigeria’s position as a regional defence manufacturing hub,” Masanawa said.

“It will deepen cooperation with allied African countries while reducing our reliance on foreign sources for defence equipment.”

He noted that the initiative aligns with the broader objective of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which places emphasis on defence industrial self-reliance and national security.

Masanawa added that expanding domestic manufacturing will also reduce the pressure on Nigeria’s foreign exchange reserves by lowering the country’s dependence on imported military hardware.

“By strengthening local production capacity, we will reduce foreign exchange expenditure on defence imports, build local technical expertise, stimulate technology transfer and enhance national security through sustainable, homegrown solutions,” he said.

Industry observers say the proposed jetty could become a critical component of Nigeria’s emerging defence industrial ecosystem, linking maritime logistics directly with manufacturing facilities across the country.

If successfully completed, the facility is expected to improve the efficiency of defence supply chains while positioning Nigeria as a potential exporter of military equipment within Africa.

With the project scheduled for launch in mid-2026, defence stakeholders say the development could mark the beginning of a new phase in Nigeria’s effort to build a resilient and self-sustaining defence industry.

By Chime Nnamdi

The Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL) has thrown its weight behind the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), Abba Aliyu, praising his leadership style and what it described as historic achievements in expanding electricity to rural Nigeria.

In a world press statement issued in Abuja on Monday, the youth group said its declaration of solidarity 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. The group noted that he has accelerated 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. It highlighted 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, the Assembly stated, have directly contributed to improved healthcare delivery, enhanced educational outcomes, and increased economic productivity in previously dark communities.

In a significant claim, 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 perfectly 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 emphasized that energy access remains a critical driver of economic growth and social transformation, urging stakeholders to prioritize 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 with a unifying call to action:

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

By Gerardia Odeh

A coalition of 21 Northern Nigeria youth organisations under the aegis of the Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL) has commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for adjusting the timetable for the 2027 General Elections from February to January 2027.

In a press statement issued on Thursday and signed by its President, Amb. Abdul Garba Danbature, the group described the decision as a “statesmanlike gesture” that strengthens democratic inclusion and national cohesion.

The youths said the adjustment, reportedly made in consideration of the proximity of the earlier February date to the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, demonstrates administrative foresight and sensitivity to Nigeria’s religious diversity.

According to the statement, the initial schedule could have posed logistical and participatory challenges for Muslim faithful observing the fasting period. “By revising the timetable, INEC has shown commitment to inclusivity and ensured that no segment of the population is inadvertently disadvantaged in exercising its constitutional rights,” the group stated.

The coalition noted that the decision followed appeals by several stakeholders, including the Sultan of Sokoto and the leadership of the Supreme Council for Sharia in Nigeria, as well as civic organisations across the country. It said the Commission’s responsiveness underscores the importance of constructive public engagement in a democratic system.

The group also defended the leadership of INEC Chairman, Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan, saying the timetable adjustment reflects a balance between firmness in upholding the law and flexibility in accommodating legitimate concerns.

It called on Nigerians who may have expressed reservations about the INEC chairman’s appointment to reconsider their stance and support the Commission’s efforts to deliver credible and peaceful elections in 2027.

The statement further urged political actors and citizens alike to prioritise peace and unity, drawing inspiration from former Head of State, Abdulsalami Abubakar, whose advocacy for peaceful democratic transitions was described as enduring.

The youths also referenced the legacy of the late Premier of Northern Nigeria, Ahmadu Bello, noting his commitment to unity and cross-cultural engagement across religious and ethnic lines.

They stressed that peaceful coexistence and dialogue remain essential pillars for Nigeria’s democratic consolidation, urging stakeholders — including political parties, civil society organisations, religious institutions and youth groups — to focus on issue-based campaigns and lawful mobilisation ahead of the polls.

“The adjustment of the 2027 election timetable is not a concession to sectional interests but a reinforcement of national equity,” the statement added.

The coalition reaffirmed its confidence in INEC’s leadership and called on Nigerians to prepare for what it described as a peaceful, inclusive and credible electoral process.

ENDS

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.

Ada Sandra

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

…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.