Author Archives: News All Around

By Our Correspondent, Abuja

The Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi, has hailed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as a reformer per excellence, just as the agency officially launched a landmark ₦220 billion national solarisation initiative.

Abdullahi made the declaration on Tuesday in Abuja during the flag-off ceremony of the ambitious renewable energy project, which aims to deploy solar mini-grids and home systems across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

According to the ECN boss, the President’s ongoing reforms in the energy sector have created the enabling environment for the private-sector-driven project, describing Tinubu’s policies as “bold, transformative, and necessary” for Nigeria’s sustainable future.

“What we are witnessing today is a direct product of Mr. President’s resolve to rethink energy in Nigeria. From the removal of fuel subsidies to the unlocking of private capital in renewables, President Tinubu has proven himself a reformer per excellence,” Abdullahi stated.

The ₦220 billion solarisation drive, being implemented in partnership with global renewable energy developers and local financiers, is expected to:

· Provide electricity to over 5 million unserved and underserved households.
· Create an estimated 250,000 direct and indirect jobs.
· Reduce carbon emissions by 6 million tonnes annually.
· Boost economic activities in rural and peri-urban communities.

The ECN boss further revealed that the project would be rolled out in three phases, with the first phase focusing on 11 high-impact states, including Kaduna, Lagos, Kano, Rivers, and Borno.

“We are not just installing solar panels. We are building a decentralized energy ecosystem that will outlast this administration. Every reform, every policy shift, is aimed at ensuring no Nigerian is left in the dark,” Abdullahi added.

Industry stakeholders at the event, including representatives from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), expressed optimism about the project’s bankability and sustainability.

President Tinubu, who was represented by the Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, commended the ECN for keying into the Renewed Hope Agenda, reiterating the Federal Government’s commitment to clean, affordable, and reliable energy for all Nigerians.

The flag-off ceremony marked the official commencement of procurement and community sensitization, with the first batch of installations scheduled to begin in Q3 2025.

The Arewa Foundation for Peace has condemned what it described as persistent acts of blackmail and character assassination by retired military officer, General Garus Gololo, against respected members of the ruling All Progressives Congress.

In a statement signed by the Coordinator,Alhaji Musa Shehu Gabam , the group expressed concern over what it termed “unfounded allegations and reckless accusations” allegedly being made by Gololo against notable political figures in the country.

The foundation said it was unfortunate that an elder statesman of his standing would allegedly make claims against prominent personalities without providing credible evidence to substantiate such allegations.

“It is very unfortunate that such an elder could raise allegations and issues against important personalities which he cannot back up,” the statement read.
The group further accused the retired general of engaging in actions capable of undermining the unity and collective interests of northern Nigeria, stressing that such conduct runs contrary to the region’s long-standing principles of peace, unity and mutual respect.

According to the foundation, “he has a penchant for blackmail and character assassination, which are counterproductive to the North’s principle of unity and common purpose.”
The organization also distanced itself from the former military officer, declaring that his views and actions do not represent the collective aspirations of northerners committed to peaceful coexistence and political harmony.

“We disassociate ourselves from him as northerners with regard for relationship, political alignment and united front for peaceful coexistence,” the statement added.

The foundation called on respected elders and stakeholders across the northern region to intervene and caution Gololo against making statements capable of creating division between northern and southern Nigerians.
It warned that inflammatory comments and unverified allegations could deepen mistrust and threaten national unity if left unchecked.

“We are calling on elders within the northern region to call him to order before he creates a crack between the North and southern people,” the group stated.

The foundation reiterated its commitment to peace, national unity and constructive political engagement, urging public figures to embrace responsible leadership and avoid utterances capable of heating up the polity.

A group under the aegis of Igabi Youths and Women Forum(IYWF),has outlined what it described as the major factors responsible for the defeat of former Speaker of the Kaduna State House of Assembly, Yusuf Zailani, in the recent All Progressives Congress (APC) senatorial primary election for Kaduna Central.

In a statement issued in Kaduna, the group alleged that Zailani’s strained relationship with party executives, stakeholders and grassroots supporters contributed significantly to his inability to secure the party’s ticket.

According to the statement signed Mal. Mohammed Suleiman Igabi,one of the major issues was the former speaker’s alleged refusal to recognize the newly elected APC executives at the ward and Igabi Local Government levels following their inauguration.

The group claimed that Zailani allegedly distanced himself from party activities and failed to actively participate in campaigns for recent bye-elections, including the Chikun/Kajuru House of Representatives contest and other state legislative elections.

It further alleged that during the 2023 general elections, the former speaker failed to deliver electoral victory for the APC in Igabi Local Government, where the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) reportedly secured victory.

The forum also accused Zailani of maintaining poor relationships with party stakeholders and elected officials from his local government, alleging that many long-time political associates had become disillusioned with his leadership style.

The statement further claimed that the former speaker had been largely absent from party and state functions in Kaduna over the past year, citing his alleged non-attendance at key APC activities and official engagements.

The group also linked public dissatisfaction with the former speaker to his tenure as Speaker during the administration of former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, accusing him of supporting controversial government policies, including demolitions, dismissals of public workers and crackdowns on critics.

Additionally, the forum alleged that Zailani maintained silence over recent political disagreements involving the former governor and the current Kaduna State administration.

In another allegation, the group accused the former speaker of sponsoring political thuggery and empowering youths involved in violence and drug abuse in parts of Igabi Local Government, claims it said affected his support base during the primaries.

The forum also alleged that several APC leaders and stakeholders in Igabi had openly withdrawn support for Zailani’s senatorial ambition, citing differences with local party executives and political figures.

According to the group, Zailani’s two decades in the Kaduna State House of Assembly did not translate into sufficient developmental projects within his constituency, which it described as underdeveloped and facing security challenges.

The forum concluded that the combination of these factors weakened the former speaker’s political standing and ultimately contributed to his defeat at the APC senatorial primary.

The APC primary for Kaduna Central was won by former senator and rights activist, Shehu Sani.

By Musa-Ododo Abdulrahaman.

Nations are not built by political rhetoric alone. They are built by institutions, sustained by vision, and strengthened by men and women who understand that public office is not a platform for personal relevance, but a responsibility to serve.

At critical moments in national history, leadership within strategic public institutions often determines whether countries move toward progress or remain trapped by unrealised potential.

For Nigeria, that moment is now. As the nation confronts the interconnected challenges of energy security, industrial expansion, infrastructure development, technological modernisation, and economic transformation, the quality of leadership within its institutions has become more consequential than ever.

Among those attracting increasing national attention is *Dr Mustapha Abdullahi, Director General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria*, a strategic institution positioned at the heart of Nigeria’s long-term development agenda.

Energy remains the lifeblood of modern civilisation. No nation can industrialise sustainably, compete globally, or secure economic resilience without coherent energy planning and institutional coordination.

This reality makes the Energy Commission a key national priority, especially as global conversations on renewable innovation, energy transition, and industrial competitiveness shape nations’ futures.

Under the administration of *President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR* and the broader Renewed Hope agenda, there has been a growing emphasis on institutional reform, strategic governance, and long-term national planning.

Within this framework, observers have increasingly noted the Energy Commission’s visibility and operational engagement under Dr Abdullahi as evidence of leadership grounded in institutional relevance and developmental purpose.

A true public servant understands that governance is ultimately about stewardship, protecting public trust, strengthening systems, and delivering outcomes that outlive political cycles. Such leaders do not merely occupy offices; they build institutions that function more effectively, think more strategically, and serve more efficiently.

Supporters of Dr Abdullahi argue that his leadership reflects these qualities, marked by policy engagement, strategic coordination, and a commitment to elevating national discourse around energy development.

Yet beyond individual recognition lies a broader national lesson. Nigeria must become more intentional about recognising competence, professionalism, and disciplined service within public institutions.

A nation that celebrates controversy but ignores diligence risks weakening the very foundations of good governance.

History shows that the strongest nations were built not only by elected leaders, but by disciplined public servants who understood the gravity of national responsibility.

Strong institutions outlive political transitions. They preserve continuity, sustain reforms, and protect developmental momentum.

As Nigeria moves through a defining period, energy, innovation, and infrastructure institutions must stay focused on competence, accountability, and strategic vision.

Public scrutiny will always accompany leadership, and accountability remains essential in any democratic system. But accountability must be balanced with fairness, due process, and responsible national discourse.

Ultimately, the true measure of leadership is not found in titles, publicity, or political visibility. It is found in institutional impact, national contribution, administrative discipline, and the legacy one leaves in service to society.

Musa-Ododo Abdulrahaman is the Founder of the Initiative for Discovery of Nigeria Heritage and Endowment (IDNHE). and Chairman, National Policy Dialogue – a Dialogue with Wisdom.

The Vice-Chancellor, National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), Prof. Uduma Oji Uduma, has revealed that over 65 percent of nurses with first degrees in Nigeria were trained by the university.

The Vice-Chancellor stated this on Tuesday, May 19, 2026 when he launched the NOUN Emergency Health Centre at the Model Study Centre, Dutse-Alhaji, Abuja.

The ceremony marked the commencement of the centres’ at the 39 study centres of the university nationwide, which Prof. Uduma said it was the first phase of the initiative.

The NOUN VC explained that the university will continue to open access to Nigerians, which now transcend to the health aspect.

He said the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria had confirmed that by stating that NOUN has trained 65% of nurses with first degrees in Nigeria.

“It is an ongoing process. All study centres will get these facilities for the students benefits because their lives are highly valued.

“I am happy that the Red Cross is training our staff, ” he said.

Prof. Uduma added that the university management has approved the engagement of some of the nurses as volunteers.

He said the era of students struggling with health issues during examination periods is over, as the facilities will serve the first aid purposes.

He said the Emergency Health Centres will not take over the work of HMOs, but would first ensure the stabilisation of patients before their referrals to the main medical facilities.

Prof. Uduma assured that by August, the number of centres with the facility would double, saying that the university will ensure that all NOUN centres will have it.

He said by doing so, NOUN was fulfilling the federal government’s mandate of taking care of students health, hoping that more students will have additional confidence to join the university.

Earlier, the Head of Clinic of the university, Dr. Hassan Mohamed, explained that the centres will be treating normal cases of patients.

Dr. Mohammed, who said staff are already being trained to handle such emergencies, added that the first aiders are billed to go for more series of trainings in the future.

The emergency health centres, he added, will transfer the cases to the medical centres after their initial treatments.

Dr. Mohammed showed the Vice-Chancellor and his each item and its usage, ranging from medications such as ORS, PCM, Heart related machine, equipment to handle trauma, fridge to store medicine, and the likes.

The Vice-Chancellor was flanked at the launch of the centres by his deputies, Prof. Shehu Adamu and Prof. Christine Ofulue, the Registrar, Mr. Oladipo Ajayi, the bursar, Mal. Nasiru Marafa, the Librarian, Prof. Angela Okpala, the Centre Director, Abuja Model Study Centre, Prof. Nebath Tanglang and other senior university officials.

Former lawmaker and human rights activist, Shehu Sani, has emerged victorious in the primary election for the Kaduna Central Senatorial District, defeating former Speaker of the Kaduna State House of Assembly, Yusuf Zailani, and another aspirant, Shettima.

The results, announced on Monday by the Returning Officer, Barrister Sameera Ibrahim, showed that Shehu Sani polled 9,105 votes to secure victory in the keenly contested exercise.

According to the results declared, Zailani garnered 1,021 votes, while Shettima secured 1,253 votes.

The outcome marks a major political comeback for Shehu Sani, who previously represented Kaduna Central Senatorial District in the National Assembly and is widely known for his activism and outspoken views on governance, democracy and social justice.

Political observers described the victory as a significant development ahead of the forthcoming general elections, considering the calibre of contenders involved in the primary contest.

Supporters of the former senator celebrated the outcome shortly after the announcement of the results, expressing confidence in his chances at the general election.

Supporters of former Kaduna Central senator, Shehu Sani, on Monday turned out in large numbers across the seven local government areas of the senatorial district despite alleged intimidation, political thuggery and destruction of campaign posters in parts of Rigasa and other communities within the zone.

The supporters, who trooped out in Chikun, Kajuru, Kaduna North, Kaduna South, Birnin Gwari and Giwa local government areas, said they remained resolute in supporting the former lawmaker because of his grassroots appeal, political experience and track record while in office.

Several voters interviewed during the exercise described Shehu Sani as a compassionate politician who has consistently identified with ordinary people and defended the rights of the oppressed.

According to them, the former senator distinguished himself during his time in the National Assembly through outspoken representation and advocacy on issues affecting the masses.

“We heard his voice loudly when he was in the Senate and the people felt the impact of his representation,” one of the supporters said.

The voters also maintained that the former senator remains accessible to the people and has continued to champion causes affecting vulnerable citizens without fear or intimidation.

They argued that his return to the Senate would strengthen representation for Kaduna Central and ensure that the concerns of the people receive adequate attention at the national level.

The exercise, however, witnessed pockets of tension in some areas following reports of destruction of campaign posters and alleged acts of intimidation by suspected political thugs.

Despite the challenges, supporters of the former lawmaker insisted that the incidents would not deter them from exercising their democratic rights and supporting their preferred candidate.

The recent media reports alleging the arrest of the Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria, Dr Mustapha Abdullahi, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission over an alleged N500 billion fraud have exposed what appears to be a calculated smear campaign aimed at tarnishing the image of a rising public figure known for his loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his growing grassroots influence among Nigerian youths.

Contrary to sensational reports circulating across some media platforms, Dr Abdullahi was neither arrested nor detained by the EFCC. Multiple reports confirmed that he merely honoured an invitation by the anti-graft agency in line with due process and respect for constituted authority.

A statement issued by his media team clarified that the ECN boss voluntarily responded to the EFCC’s invitation and was not arrested as falsely portrayed in several publications.

However, despite this clarification, sections of the media rushed to publish alarming headlines suggesting guilt even before any formal findings or charges had been made public.

Observers say the development bears the familiar signs of politically motivated blackmail often deployed against public officials who command growing popularity and political relevance ahead of major electoral cycles.

In recent months, Dr Abdullahi has emerged as one of the prominent voices mobilising young Nigerians in support of the Renewed Hope Agenda and the possible second-term bid of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. His youth engagement efforts and expanding political network across several states have reportedly unsettled certain interests uncomfortable with his rising profile.

Supporters of the ECN boss insist that responding to an invitation by a law enforcement agency should not be twisted into a media conviction or used to destroy reputations through coordinated misinformation.

They argue that anti-corruption institutions must be allowed to carry out investigations professionally without political actors and sensational headlines weaponising routine procedures for propaganda purposes.

The situation has also sparked concerns about the growing trend of trial-by-media in Nigeria, where public officials are declared guilty in headlines long before investigations are concluded or any court pronouncement is made.

Political analysts note that in a democratic society governed by the rule of law, invitations for questioning are not equivalent to convictions, adding that public discourse must remain guided by facts, fairness, and due process.

For many of Dr Abdullahi’s supporters, the question remains: why the desperation to criminalise a man whose only visible political offence appears to be his vocal support for President Tinubu and his growing acceptance among young Nigerians?

The Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to deepen defence cooperation and enhance intelligence sharing between both countries.

The MoU was signed on Sunday, 10th May 2026, in Amman, Jordan, by Nigeria’s Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, MON, and Major General Yousef A. Alhnaity, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff of the Jordanian Armed Forces.

The agreement establishes a framework for collaboration in intelligence exchange, defence capacity building, counter-terrorism, peacekeeping, and regional security. Key areas of cooperation include:

· Joint military training and exchange of defence expertise
· Intelligence cooperation and counter-terrorism operations
· Defence research, technology transfer, and industrial collaboration
· Mutual support for regional and global peace and security initiatives

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Dr. Matawalle described the MoU as a significant milestone in Nigeria-Jordan relations and a strategic step toward addressing contemporary security challenges.

“Nigeria and Jordan share a common commitment to peace, stability, and security. This partnership will deepen our collaboration and create practical pathways for technology transfer, including the establishment of a defence production line in Nigeria in line with the provisions of the DICON Act,” he said.

The MoU reflects the mutual resolve of both nations to strengthen trust, enhance interoperability, and pursue joint actions that contribute to stability within their regions and beyond.

Signed:
Ahmed Dan Wudil SA New Media

Office of the Honourable Minister of State for Defence
Federal Ministry of Defence, Abuja

By Shehu Musa

ABUJA 

Leaders of the Southern and Middle-Belt Leaders Forum (SMBLF) have insisted that Nigeria’s presidency should remain in the South in 2027, arguing that preserving the existing zoning arrangement is necessary for political balance and national stability.

The position was contained in a communique issued after an emergency meeting of the forum held in Abuja on Saturday.

The SMBLF, an umbrella body comprising Afenifere, Middle Belt Forum, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, and PANDEF, urged political parties to zone their presidential tickets to Southern Nigeria ahead of the 2027 general elections.

According to the communique, rotational presidency has remained part of Nigeria’s democratic tradition since 1999 and should be respected in the interest of fairness and national cohesion.

“Political parties are strongly advised to zone and elect their presidential candidates from Southern Nigeria during their congresses and conventions,” the forum stated.

The group also called on the Independent National Electoral Commission to remain impartial and uphold its constitutional responsibility in the management of elections and political party affairs. The leaders expressed concern over controversies surrounding sections of the Electoral Act, warning that unresolved disputes could threaten electoral credibility and increase political tension.

On insecurity, the forum passed a vote of confidence in the Nigerian military but maintained that security agencies remain overstretched due to inadequate manpower relative to the country’s population and territorial size.

The leaders criticized what they described as preferential treatment for “repentant terrorists” under government-backed amnesty programmes, while many victims of violence continue to live in displacement camps without adequate support or prospects of returning home.

Addressing the debate over state policing, the SMBLF rejected the proposal reportedly advanced by the Inspector General of Police for a 60-month timeline to establish state police structures across the country.

The forum described the timeline as excessively long and unsuitable given the scale of insecurity facing Nigeria.

The leaders also opposed proposals suggesting that 60 percent of federal police personnel should automatically be absorbed into state police structures based on their states of origin, arguing that such a framework would be ineffective and counterproductive.

According to the communique, state police should be established as an independent constitutional institution rather than an extension of the federal policing system.

The forum further called on the federal government to protect Nigerians living abroad following renewed xenophobic attacks in South Africa. It urged authorities to assist Nigerians willing to return home while also appealing to youths against retaliatory attacks on South African businesses or citizens in Nigeria.

Reaffirming its long-standing position on restructuring, the SMBLF advocated greater autonomy for states and federating ethnic nationalities in line with the principles of true federalism.

The leaders also urged the federal government to intensify measures aimed at easing economic hardship, including stronger support for local crude oil refineries and policies designed to end the continued importation of refined petroleum products.

The communique was signed by HRH Oba Oladipo Olaitan, leader of Afenifere and Chairman of SMBLF; Dr. Bitrus Pogu, President of the Middle Belt Forum; Senator John Azuta-Mbata of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide; and Ambassador Godknows Igali, Chairman of PANDEF.