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The Liberal Progressive and Patriotic Members Congress (LPPMC), a rebranded political movement formerly known as the Labour Party Patriotic Members Congress, has pledged its full support for a national coalition aimed at unseating the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general election.

In a statement issued by Luka Ikechukwu of Pointsman Projects Media, a good governance advocacy group, the LPPMC described the coalition as a convergence of “well-meaning and public-spirited Nigerians” determined to rescue Nigeria from what it termed the “failures of poor governance under the APC.”

Highlighting its active role in galvanising support for the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, the LPPMC said it was redirecting its grassroots energy toward broader national reform.

“Our Congress is ready, willing, able, and committed to deploy its structures across all six geopolitical zones, the 36 states, the FCT, and the 774 local government areas in support of the coalition and in pursuit of responsible and responsive governance,” the statement declared.

The Congress further pledged to leverage its “monstrous followership” and material resources to defend democracy and promote leadership that is genuinely accountable to the Nigerian people.

According to the group, its participation in the coalition was not about political convenience, but about principle.

“This must be different from the current order where leaders have failed in accountability,” the group noted. “We shall mobilise our structures to support the genuine effort of progressives to rescue the nation.”

The National Coordinator of the Congress, Kingsley Okundaye, reiterated the LPPMC’s unwavering commitment to democratic values and nation-building, stating that Nigeria is in dire need of a new political culture.

“Our dear nation, and all those in leadership, whether in government or the opposition must embrace the progressive and patriotic ideals that define LPPMC as a credible vehicle for national rebirth,” he said.

Okundaye also expressed optimism that the coalition’s efforts would result in a “new dawn” for Nigeria, stressing that any alliance must be “people-centered and policy-driven.”

By Mike Odeh James

Leaders of the Unemployed Youths of Nigeria (UYAN) have called on Nigerian authorities to fully disclose the details surrounding the recent seizure of illicit drugs reportedly worth billions of Naira. The drugs were allegedly linked to the younger brother of Chief Ayiri Emami, a prominent Niger Delta businessman and political figure.

In a strongly worded joint statement issued on Tuesday, the National Political Adviser of UYAN, Comrade Chuba Okpuzor, and the Delta State Chairperson of the organisation, Comrade Gbenga Fajoye, expressed deep concern over what they described as an apparent attempt to shroud the case in secrecy.

“We are alarmed and outraged by the disturbing revelations that the younger brother of a well-known figure in the Niger Delta, Chief Ayiri Emami, was apprehended by security operatives in connection with a massive drug seizure,” Comrade Chuba stated. “Even more troubling are reports suggesting that Chief Ayiri or his proxies attempted to bribe security personnel to suppress this investigation.”

The case has sparked outrage across social and political circles in Delta State and beyond, not only for its scale but for what appears to be an effort to downplay the matter, possibly due to the high-profile individuals involved. Security operatives are said to have rejected bribe offers, showing rare integrity that UYAN commended.

“This is a moment where transparency must take precedence over status or connections,” said Comrade Gbenga Fajoye. “The Nigerian youth are the primary victims of this kind of criminality. They are often trapped in cycles of addiction, poverty, and criminal exploitation because of the unchecked activities of drug barons.”

Fajoye added that the issue extends far beyond a single incident, noting that hard drugs have become the silent drivers of widespread insecurity across the country. “We are already battling ritual killings, cybercrime, kidnapping, terrorism, and violent cultism among our youth. Hard drugs are a common factor in most of these vices,” he said.

The youth leaders urged security agencies to release the full details of their investigation to the public and avoid treating the suspect as a “sacred calf” protected by elite interests.

“This is not the time for silence or secrecy. Nigerians deserve to know the facts. The authorities must either confirm or dispel the reports regarding the attempt to bribe officers and the involvement of such a powerful individual’s family in a drug cartel,” Chuba stressed.

He warned that any failure to act decisively could further erode public trust in Nigeria’s justice system, which many already view as compromised by selective enforcement and double standards.

“When drug barons are shielded because of their social standing or political connections, it sends a dangerous message to the rest of society—that the law is only meant for the poor and powerless,” he said. “We cannot continue to run a society where the rich commit crimes with impunity while young people are jailed or even killed for petty offenses.”

The UYAN leaders linked the prevalence of hard drugs to the alarming spike in insecurity across Nigeria, arguing that substance abuse has become a gateway to other major crimes.

“There is a clear connection between the abuse of hard drugs and the rise in violent crimes such as terrorism, banditry, and ritual killings,” Comrade Fajoye emphasized. “Drug-fueled violence is consuming entire communities, and until we deal with the root—drug importation and trafficking by powerful figures—nothing will change.”

The youth leaders also praised the security operatives involved for their integrity and bravery in rejecting the alleged bribe, calling it a “rare and commendable act of patriotism.” They urged the federal government to reward and publicly acknowledge the officers involved as a way of encouraging such professionalism within the ranks.

“We must institutionalise a culture of accountability and reward officers who do the right thing,” Chuba added. “These officers stood their ground under tremendous pressure. Their courage deserves national recognition.”

UYAN also appealed to civil society organisations, the media, and well-meaning Nigerians to raise their voices and demand full disclosure of the investigation, including the identities of all individuals implicated and the current status of the case.

“Our silence will only embolden the criminals,” said Comrade Fajoye. “If we keep quiet now, tomorrow it could be another youth whose life is destroyed by these drugs. This must not be swept under the rug.”

As public pressure continues to mount, many Nigerians are watching to see how the case unfolds and whether the government will respond with the transparency and decisiveness that this moment demands.

“It’s time to send a message that no one is above the law,” Comrade Chuba concluded. “Let this be the turning point where justice is not just done but seen to be done.”

The drug bust, its links to prominent individuals, and the government’s response—or lack thereof—may prove to be a litmus test for President Bola Tinubu’s administration’s willingness to fight corruption and drug trafficking at all levels, including within elite circles.

As of the time of publication, the relevant security agencies have not issued an official statement confirming or denying the incident. Repeated attempts to reach Chief Ayiri Emami or his representatives were unsuccessful.

By Theresa Alan

Kaduna-based philanthropist, Ambassador Yerima Usman Shettima, has applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for signing into law the landmark tax reform bill, describing it as a major step toward building a more inclusive and self-reliant Nigerian economy.

In a statement issued on Monday in Kaduna and made available to journalists, Shettima hailed the reform as a timely and necessary intervention that simplifies tax administration, broadens the revenue base, and improves the business environment for both local entrepreneurs and international investors.

“There is no doubt that this new law has laid a solid foundation to boost Nigeria’s economy by simplifying tax processes, expanding the tax base, and creating a more business-friendly environment for Nigerians and foreigners alike,” Shettima stated.

He urged stakeholders, particularly the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), to ensure that the implementation of the law is done with full transparency and accountability, warning that the potential gains could be lost without diligence and proper oversight.

Shettima, known for championing economic justice and grassroots empowerment, emphasized that the law is structured to uplift small businesses and low-income earners, while also improving government revenue through fair and streamlined taxation.

“The reform will support small businesses, increase revenue generation, simplify tax payments, and ultimately improve the socio-economic condition of the country,” he noted.

He further highlighted a key component of the bill—its focus on a fairer distribution of Value Added Tax (VAT) revenue among states, which he described as a path to greater fiscal autonomy for sub-national governments.

“This law aims to overhaul the country’s tax collection and administration systems, presenting an opportunity to create a more equitable and efficient taxation model. At the heart of the bill are transformative provisions such as revisions to the VAT revenue-sharing formula and exemptions for small businesses and the average Nigerian,” Shettima said.

However, he also pointed out that the reform brings to light persistent structural inequalities within Nigeria’s federal setup and called for continued dialogue to address the economic imbalances between states and local governments.

“While these changes could potentially revitalize Nigeria’s economy, they also expose critical issues within the country’s federal structure, particularly the economic imbalances among regions,” he explained.

Commending the President, Shettima added: “With the enactment of these transformative tax laws, President Tinubu has once again demonstrated bold leadership and the political will to drive meaningful reforms that promote economic inclusion, reduce inequality, and spur growth.”

He concluded by urging Nigerians to support the law’s full implementation and take ownership of the change it represents.

“President Tinubu has delivered the blueprint; now it is time for all stakeholders to ensure it works for the Nigerian people,” Shettima affirmed.

By Samuel Adogu

In a powerful demonstration of solidarity against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and child marriage, top officials, religious leaders, legal experts, and civil society organizations came together in Kaduna State to sign a landmark public declaration aimed at ending violence against women, girls, and vulnerable populations.

The declaration, signed at the Centre for the Study and Resolution of Domestic Violence (CERSDOV), Rigachikun, Igabi LGA on Saturday, June 28, 2025, signals a firm and united commitment to prevention, justice, and systemic change. It marks a major milestone in Kaduna’s ongoing campaign to end GBV and promote Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR).

Following months of stakeholder engagement and intensive training of community and religious leaders, healthcare workers, security agents, and judicial officers, the declaration emerged as a collective roadmap to action.

Commissioner for Human Services and Social Development, Hajiya Rabi Salisu, represented by her Senior Special Adviser, Hajiya Mariam Muaz’u, signed the document on behalf of the state government. She reaffirmed the administration’s determination to uphold the dignity and rights of all residents.

“The administration of Senator Uba Sani is not joking with peaceful Kaduna State. This is why Mr Governor is working hard to ensure justice for all groups including women, children, and other vulnerable groups,” she stated.

She thanked development partners such as CERSDOV, the Norwegian Government, and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), alongside religious and traditional leaders, civil society, and the media for their unwavering commitment.

Professor Hauwa’u Evelyn Yusuf, Executive Director of CERSDOV, described the declaration as more than symbolic, calling it “a testament to Kaduna’s collective resolve to eradicate sexual and gender-based violence and eliminate harmful traditional practices.”

“We appreciate the long-standing support of the Norwegian Government and UNFPA. CERSDOV remains fully committed to delivering on our mandate,” she affirmed.

Barrister Sarah Peters, a Senior State Counsel at the Ministry of Justice, outlined the legal weight of the declaration.

“Legally, the implication is clear: GBV will no longer be tolerated or handled with indifference. It’s not business as usual. Prosecutors are better equipped than ever to seek justice,” she declared, urging law enforcement to improve collaboration and proactively address cases before they escalate.

Religious leaders lent strong moral backing to the initiative. Reverend Ma’aji Caleb, Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Kaduna Chapter, emphasized that the teachings of the Bible are aligned with non-violence.

“No individual has the right to oppress another, regardless of status or background. We are all created in God’s image,” he said. “Through pastors, deacons, and church women’s groups, we can reshape societal values and restore peace within families and communities.”

Similarly, Ibrahim Issa Kufena, Secretary of Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI), Kaduna Chapter, stated that Islam offers a robust moral and legal foundation against GBV.

“This declaration is consistent with Islamic teachings. Islam forbids oppression, coercion, and violence,” he said, adding that JNI is already mobilizing its grassroots structures through Friday sermons, religious lectures, and community dialogues to spread the message.

With multiple sectors aligned—from government and justice systems to religious bodies and civil society—Kaduna’s historic pact stands as a beacon of hope in the fight to eliminate GBV and secure a safer, more dignified future for its women and children.

BY John Wesley Success

The Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC) is currently investigating an allegations of money laundry, misappropriation and criminal diversion of public funds at the National Steel, Raw Material Exploration Agency (NSRMEA) in Kaduna

Findings revealed that over N105 million was alleged to have been mopped through fake companies, as staff cried over unpaid arrears as approved by government while equipment running into millions of Naira vandalised & stolen.

The allegations which is being investigated by the EFCC is against the Director General Mr. Kolawe Michael Ogunbiyi.

The Federal government’s purported agreement with Russia for the revival of the nation’s steel industry and plans to increase the country’s GDP may hit the rock if the provider of the raw materials, National Steel Raw Materials Exploration Agency is not cleansed of allegations of large scale corruption and administrative ineptitude which beclouded the agency since the appointment of Mr. Kolawe Michael Ogunbiyi in 2022.

Allegations of corruption and diversion of public funds running into millions of Naira backed by empirical evidences were contained in a petition sent to the Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC).

Findings however revealed that the EFCC upon receipt of the petition in 2023 swung into action and found the Director General, Mr. Ogunbiyi guilty of all the financial irregularities. How the matter could not be sent to court for prosecution is what is difficult to explain.

Against the above background, Counsel to the petitioners had on 4th March 2025 wrote to the Attorney General and Minister of Justice urging for discreet investigations when it appeared that the EFCC’s findings were being swept under the carpet which give the embattled DG the strength to continue to pilot the affairs of the agency with reckless abandon. The morale of the workforce has been crippled to the lowest ebb leading to collapse of ethics and discipline.

According to available evidence, the mopping of N105, 130, 504.94 (One Hundred and Five Million, One Hundred and Thirty Thousand, Five Hundred and Four and Ninety Four kobo) was executed simultaneously on
December 21st, 2022 as follows:-
Alakrity Global Concept N59, 873, 253.80
Gatplus Dynamic Resources N13, 330, 712.00
Bitcnot Nigeria Ltd N11, 604, 612.00
Teminote Concept N20, 321, 927.14

Similarly, the sum of N1.2billion was said to have been approved by the federal government to pay accumulated arrears of hazard and medical allowances for the period 2009-2017. The Director General Mr. Ogunbiyi chaired the committee for the compilation of the list of the beneficiaries and came up with payment schedule. In the process, heavy deductions were made in each of the beneficiary’s entitlements.

The payments of these arrears were done in four instalments via IPPIS as follows: 25% on the 6th of April 2022, 25% on 11th May, 2022, 25% on 14th June 2022 and the final 25% on June 22nd 2022. There is however concern that some of the beneficiaries were either underpaid or not paid at all.

Most astonishing was the fact that not a single beneficiary was privy to his/her package after the computation, suggesting that some shoddy deals were used in the implementation process. 

Additional findings also revealed that the Senior Staff Association of University Teaching Hospitals, Research and Allied Institutions (SSAUTHRAI) and the NSC Co-operative Society together with the committee orchestrated the plan where millions of Naira meant for the defenceless beneficiaries were diverted. The computation of the arrears was done in outright breach of government’s extant financial regulations and did not pass through the internal audit clearance.

In a related development, a section of the staff has dragged the embattled DG to court over unpaid salaries for two years or more. These are staff who were duly accepted on transfet from sister agencies- Ajaokuta Steel Company Limited, National Metallurgical Development Centre, National Lottery Regulatory Commission as well as some staff of the then Ministry of Mines and Steel development.

Upon assumption of duty, Mr. Ogunbiyi redirected that the staff return to their former agencies after they had finished all the documentation for the transfers. All attempts to make the DG consent for the capture and migrate the affected staff on IPPIS payroll platform were resisted by him. The matter has been in the National Industrial Court.

With the on-going legal battle, there is also the controversy regarding his appointment as the Director General of the National Steel Raw Materials Exploration Agency (NSRMEA).

A federal establishment circular 2011-2019 signed by the then Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha frowns at the way some Ministers continue to process appointments of chief executives without following the clearly defined extant guidelines and the provisions of the enabling laws of such agencies.

In the circular, the President has directed that requests for such appointments should always be channelled to His Excellency through the Secretary to the Government of the Federation who will process them for approval to the appropriate supervising Ministers.

Contrary to the aforementioned circular, the then Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Mr. Olamilekon Adegbite directly conveyed approval for Ogunbiyi’s appointment to him from the office of the then Chief of Staff to the President, Professor Ibrahim Gambari.

There are also reports of some staff who absconded from their duty post for years living abroad and are still on the payroll of the agency. These staff are said to be enjoying the cover of the DG.

Allegations of mass stealing of equipment and accessories which rendered the agency incapacitated to carry out its mandates effectively have also reached an alarming proportion.

According to reports, a senior staff was caught red handed stealing electrical cable which was swiftly covered because of his closeness to the Chief Executive.  This recent theft is the high point of series of stealing of the agency’s property running into millions of Naira.

“Only a forensic audit of the agency can determine the level at which things have deteriorated”, an aggrieved staff who spoke on condition of anonymity said

Against the forgoing, the need for the Federal government to beam its search light on the activities of the NSRMEA under the leadership of the incumbent director general with the view to right the wrongs and bring the guilty to book is imperative.

ENDS

*Governor BAO, Fayemi, Adebayo, SGF’s wife, others to honour Ekiti-born celebrant

*Speaks on her regrets, visions for Nigeria

It would be a celebration galore this weekend as former Special Adviser on former Governor Kayode Fayemi on Development Partnerships and SDGs, Dr. Margaret Fagboyo, roll out drums in celebration of her 50th birthday, taking place at at BMO Event Arena, Abuja.

Ekiti State Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO), will lead his predecessors, former Governors Kayode Fayemi and Otunba Niyi Adedayo, including the wife of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Regina Akume, to celebrate the 50th birthday of an Ekiti-born development expert, Dr. (Mrs.) Margaret Fagboyo, in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

The event billed to take place at BMO Event Arena, Inside RiverPlate Park, will also have other prominent personalities such as Ondo State First Lady, Seun Aiyedatiwa, Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, Senator representing Ekiti South, Yemi Adaramodu, Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Adeoye Aribasoye, many House of Representatives members, top government officials, top CSO leaders, development experts and many other diplomats.

Born on the 23rd of June, 1975, to the respected family of Pa Cyril Akanbi Bello and Mrs. Mary Olanike Bello from Oke-Emo Quarters, Ilawe-Ekiti, Dr. Fagboyo is a multi-disciplinary development practitioner whose work has made meaningful impacts across Nigeria and beyond. With over two decades of professional experience, she has carved a niche in international development, gender advocacy, and institutional partnerships. She currently serves as the Director of Development at the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy & Development (Centre LSD), one of Nigeria’s leading think tanks dedicated to strategic leadership and sustainable development.

The celebrant was a key member of the Ekiti State Executive Council from 2019 to 2023 serving under Governor Kayode Fayemi as the Special Adviser to the Governor on Development Partnerships and SDGs.

Prior to her public service, she spent a remarkable chapter of her career with the UK’s Department for International Development (DFID), rising through the ranks to become Regional Coordinator and Acting Head of Office, leading programs in the South West, South South, and South East regions.

Her leadership in promoting social inclusion and gender mainstreaming remains a reference point in development work.

Speaking with newsmen Wednesday in Abuja, on her expectations for Nigeria ahead of Saturday’s event, Dr. Fagboyo said she envisioned a country where institutions work, where justice is blind, where leadership is driven by integrity, accountability, and a genuine desire to serve.

According to her, as a passionate Nigerian who believes in the immense potential of our nation, my vision for Nigeria is one of hope, transformation, and inclusive growth.

“I long to see a Nigeria where leadership is driven by integrity, accountability, and a genuine desire to serve – not self. A Nigeria where our diversity becomes our strength, not our division.

“I envision a country where institutions work – where justice is blind, opportunities are accessible, and every citizen feels seen, heard and valued. A land where young people can dream boldly and achieve greatly without having to look beynd our borders. Where women, men, and all marginalized groups are fully included in governance and development.

“Going forward, I expect Nigeria to rise beyond the grip of corruption, insecurity, and poverty. I expect us to prioritize education, invest in healthcare, secure our streets, and harness our vast resources – both human and natural for the common good.

“The road may be long, but I believe in the resilience and brilliance of Nigerians. Together, with vision, courage, and collective action, we can build the Nigeria we all desire – a nation that works, not just for a few, but for all.”

When asked whether she had any regret in the last 50 years of her age, the proud mother of three wonderful children and loving wife said life has been good to her.

“At 50, I choose gratitude over regret. Life has been good to me at 50 though I experience some challenges too, but every high and low has shaped the woman I am today – stronger, wiser and more grounded.

“If there is any regret, it would only be moments I doubted myself, delayed my dreams, or dimmed my light to make others comfortable. But even those moments taught me valuable lessons. So, no deep regrets – Just reflections, lessons, and a deeper resolve to live the rest of my life with more intention, joy, and courage. I’m embracing this new chapter with open arms and a heart full of purpose.”

A youth group known as Omenuko Ndigbo United has raised concerns about how Mr. Peter Obi, the Labour Party presidential candidate in 2023, is behaving in the current plans to unite opposition parties for the 2027 elections.

In a statement released on Thursday in Owerri, signed by the group’s President, Comrade Benjamin Madu, said Mr. Obi is not showing real interest in working with other opposition leaders to challenge the ruling APC.

“We are not happy with Peter Obi. Instead of joining hands with others to rescue Nigeria, he seems to be focused only on himself. This is not the time for selfish politics,” the group said.

They accused Obi of repeating what he did in 2023, when his actions helped divide the opposition and made it easy for APC to win.

According to the group, the 2027 election is very important for Igbo people, and they must not make any mistake this time.

“The current president is from the South. This is the best time for Ndigbo to push for the presidency. But we need unity. If Obi leaves the coalition, it will be harder for an Igbo person to become president in 2027 or even in 2031,” they warned.

They also questioned whether Obi might secretly be working to help APC and President Tinubu, saying his silence and lack of involvement in the coalition are suspicious.

“Obi is not fully part of the plans, and it’s starting to look like he is playing another game. We need to know what he really wants,” they said.

They added that recent attacks on Obi by APC supporters like Reno Omokri remind them of similar tricks used in the last election to create confusion. They also mentioned that journalist David Hundeyin had warned the opposition not to repeat past mistakes.

The group asked Peter Obi to come out and say clearly if he wants to join the coalition or not.

“Nigerians deserve honesty. Peter Obi should stop pretending and tell us where he stands. We will not allow what happened in 2023 to happen again, especially if it will hurt the Igbo cause,” they concluded.

Special Report

*Joy, Healing, Inclusion as Zaria Hosted Special Children’s Play Therapy Event*



It was a moving scene of joy, laughter, and emotional healing as the Nurture Special Education Needs Foundation (NSENF) hosted a remarkable Children’s Day Play Therapy Event at JPEC Chimel Academy in Zaria on Saturday, May 31, 2025. The event, dedicated to children with neurological and psychosocial disabilities alongside their peers, turned into a colourful celebration of inclusion, empathy, and community resilience.

Designed to create a safe and expressive space for children with special needs, the event featured a range of play therapy activities that captivated both participants and observers. From the Sensory Play Corner to the Creative Arts Zone, Music & Movement sessions, and puppet-led storytelling, the programme was both therapeutic and uplifting.

The “I Am a Star” recognition ceremony drew cheers as every participating child was celebrated for their uniqueness and courage. A special highlight was the expert-led dialogue with parents and caregivers on managing children with developmental challenges—a moment that many described as deeply affirming.

Despite facing challenges such as limited funding, overstimulation among children, and a last-minute change of venue, the event recorded strong attendance: 17 children with special needs, 5 neurotypical children, 13 parents and caregivers, and several professionals from the media, education, and humanitarian sectors.

The event was powered by an impressive team of volunteers, with support from key partners including the Centre for Girls Education (CGE), FAM Initiative, and Quatech Photography, among others. Special recognition was given to Hajiya Habiba Mohammed of CGE and Jecinta Egbim of FAM Initiative for their donations and tireless coordination efforts.

Speaking at the close of the event, NSENF Executive Director Aisha Ibrahim Ahmad reaffirmed the foundation’s commitment to championing inclusive development. “This is more than a celebration; it is a movement for empathy, awareness, and sustained support for our children,” she said.

The Children’s Day Play Therapy Event, though modest in scale, left an indelible impact on participants and further underscored the power of inclusive play in fostering healing and community connection.

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By ibrahim H. Tinja

In the heart of Paris, where Europe’s oldest academic institutions stand as monuments to centuries of learning, a Nigerian professor has inscribed a new chapter in Africa’s educational history.

On Friday, June 13, Professor Adamu Abubakar Gwarzo, founder of the MAAUN Group of Universities and President of the Association of African Private Universities (AAPU), received the Award of Excellence from the prestigious Cité Internationale Universitaire de Paris—a landmark recognition for his role in reshaping higher education across Africa.

The award was conferred during the university’s 100th anniversary—a celebration attended by global dignitaries, academics, and education policymakers. It marked a defining moment not just for the professor, but for African academia.

From Northern Nigeria to Global Spotlight

Prof. Gwarzo’s story reads like a modern academic epic. A native of Kano State and trained partly in France, he returned to the continent not to replicate foreign systems, but to design a new one: one rooted in African priorities, values, and aspirations.

His MAAUN institutions—now active across West Africa—offer an innovative blend of international standards and local relevance. They have attracted thousands of students seeking affordable, high-quality education without leaving the continent.

Presenting the award, Senator Jean Mac Sauve, President of the Cité Universitaire, was emphatic:

“Prof. Gwarzo has redefined what one man can do with a vision. He is a global bridge—linking Africa to the world and lifting his people through education.”

A National Honor, A Continental Symbol

Nigeria’s Ambassador and Permanent Delegate to UNESCO, Dr. Hajo Sani, described the award as a collective honour for Nigeria and Africa.

“This recognition is a validation of African excellence. My own children have benefitted from his institutions. What Prof. Gwarzo has built is not just a university system—it is a movement.”

Across campuses in Kano, Maradi, and beyond, his model has empowered students from modest backgrounds to dream bigger, learn deeper, and lead boldly.

A Call to Africa’s Diaspora

Taking the podium, Prof. Gwarzo expressed gratitude to France for nurturing his academic foundation—but quickly turned to a larger theme.

“Africa is ready,” he said. “What we need is for her sons and daughters to return—not just physically, but with purpose. Let’s invest our minds where our roots lie. Let’s build institutions that last beyond us.”

He vowed to expand the MAAUN Group into a globally competitive academic network that would serve African needs while meeting international benchmarks.

Building the Future with African Hands

At a time when many African scholars still look outward for validation, Prof. Gwarzo represents a powerful alternative: the builder who stayed—and created something exceptional.

His work has not only challenged the status quo; it has offered a viable blueprint for others to follow—one that blends local ownership, global relevance, and a fierce commitment to youth empowerment.

As the night drew to a close beneath the Parisian sky, delegates agreed that this honour symbolized more than just one man’s achievements. It was, as one French official put it,

“A sign that Africa’s intellectual century has begun.”

And leading that charge is a quiet, determined man from Kano whose dream is already changing the world.

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Would you like this version translated into Hausa or French for broader regional or diplomatic audiences? Or would you like a sidebar with “5 Things to Know About Prof. Gwarzo” for a print layout or social media?

Former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Timi Frank, has lauded Senator Henry Seriake Dickson on speaking truth to power by condemning the anti-democratic actions of the President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

Dickson had shortly after President Tinubu delivered his State of the Nation Address before a joint session of the National Assembly to commemorate 26 years of uninterrupted democratic governance in the country, kicked against the anti-democratic posture of the present administration.

Addressing the press at the National Assembly, Dickson who represents Bayelsa West on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 10th Senate slammed Tinubu for not mentioning the state of emergency he imposed on Rivers State and the arbitrary suspension of including Governor Siminalayi Fubara and all members of the State House of Assembly for six months.

He also accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of suppression for not allowing his point of order earlier in the Senate Chamber before the joint sitting session where he moved to complain about letters from the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, seeking Senate’s confirmation of nominees for appointment into the State Electoral Commission as well as Civil and Local Government Service Commissions of Rivers State.

He commended Dickson for his patriotism and courage in pointing out the irony in the Democracy Day celebration with fanfare by the executive and legislature while a state in the country is under military rule.

He described Dickson as a hero and present day defender of democracy in the country by courageously opposing the democratic aberration in Rivers state imposed by Tinubu.

Frank said: “Senator Dickson played the role of a true opposition by speaking the minds of ordinary Nigerians. He did not just make me proud as a citizen of Nigeria, he has made me proud as an Ijaw son.

“He has made me proud as a Bayelsan. He has made me proud as a Niger Delta son and he has made the entire country proud by speaking truth to power against those destroying our democracy and the country.

“He spoke the truth at a time when so many politicians cutting across party divides in Nigeria have become political cowards and sycophants, he came out boldly to speak the truth.

“Posterity will remember him for his principled stance in condemning undemocratic tendencies of he of the Tinubu administration.

“History will never forget him because when Nigerians expected leaders especially those in government to speak the truth, he’s the only one who has confronted the truth and the true position of our democracy.”

He lamented that the ruling APC and Tinubu’s Government don’t believe in democracy and the rule of law. They believe in impunity, dictatorship and one party state.

He added: “What Dickson has done is akin to what lawmakers often do in foreign countries where democracy is being practiced like the United States and the United Kingdom and even South Africa where you see lawmakers confronting the president with the truth and expectation of the people.

“It might look like he is alone, but we want to let him know that the Nigerian masses are with him.

“Even if his colleagues across party lines may not support him due to cowardice in his bid to save our democracy, Nigerians and the world are with him, and we are encouraging him to do more by being fearless as usual.”

He noted that other members of the National Assembly during the joint session knew that the president’s speech was highly laced with propaganda and deceit but because of sycophancy they kept singing the praises of the President.

He added: “We know that with what Dickson has done there might be plans to suspend him the way the Senate did to other senators who have stood up for the truth in the past but let him not be perturbed because God and Nigerians will fight for him.

“For it is better for him to be with God and the people who are in the majority than to take sides with the evil and satanic leaders who are working to destroy democracy in Nigeria.”

According to him, “It is shameful that the minority caucus in the Senate has been totally compromised because if there was a strong opposition, the minority leader of the Senate is supposed to have taken the action that Dickson took.

“Unfortunately, we have a compromised minority leader who is only doing the bidding of the ruling party. Since Abba Moro became the minority leader, he has not been able to condemn or criticize the anti-democratic and unconstitutional policies of government.

“Were Nigeria a country practicing true democracy, someone like Senator Dickson would have been the minority leader of the Senate in this political dispensation.”

According to him, a government that is doing well is not supposed to be forcing or intimidating people to join their political party but this is what we are witnessing in Nigeria where harassment and intimidation of the opposition has become the new state policy.

He condemned politicians who have sold their conscience, history will judge them harshly someday because they see the suffering in the land but have turned their faces away from the people because they want to be in the good books of the ruling party.

“But whether now or later, this government will go and Nigeria will remain and they too would remain to face the consequences of their action and inaction,” Frank said.