Politics
Health
Tinubu Mocks Atiku, Calls Opposition Coalition a “Gang-Up of Failures” Ahead of 2027 Poll
President Bola Tinubu has taken a swipe at former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, describing the opposition coalition seeking to unseat him in the 2027 general election as a “coalition of failures,” during a political engagement at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
What happened
Tinubu made the remarks on Thursday, April 16, 2026, while addressing the leadership and coordinators of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors.
The president accused opposition figures, including Atiku, of ganging up against his administration, while questioning their past records in governance and economic reforms.
He specifically referenced Atiku’s role in Nigeria’s privatisation programme, suggesting it contributed to failed national assets.
Tinubu’s criticism of Atiku
In his speech, Tinubu mocked the opposition’s track record, pointing to stalled projects such as Ajaokuta Steel Company and other privatised assets.
“The head was the chairman of the Privatisation Council of Nigeria… they privatised the steel industry in Delta. Is it working today? No,” he said.
He added that Nigerians should judge political actors based on results rather than promises, insisting his administration is focused on correcting past failures.
Defence of his administration
The president maintained that he inherited a struggling economy but chose to confront the challenges head-on.
“I didn’t have to look back because the truth is, I took over from myself,” Tinubu said, referencing his role in the transition from former President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration.
He assured supporters that ongoing reforms would eventually deliver visible results in infrastructure, education, and the economy.
Message to supporters
Tinubu also praised members of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, describing them as part of a national movement committed to economic recovery and social renewal.
He urged them to remain committed to his administration’s agenda, promising not to abandon them midway.
“You are in good company… all I can promise is that I won’t give up,” he said.
What it means
The comments reflect rising political tensions ahead of the 2027 elections, with early campaigns and rivalries beginning to shape public discourse around governance and opposition unity.
President Tinubu mocked Atiku on privatization:
No one among them (coalition leaders) is without history, the head (Atiku) was the chairman of the privatization council of Nigeria at one time. They privatized the steel industry in Delta, is it working today? They privatized… pic.twitter.com/95oOk9jGfb
— Imran Muhammad (@Imranmuhdz) April 16, 2026
Economy
Saudi PIF Sells 70% of Al-Hilal to Kingdom Holding in $373m Deal
Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) has signed a binding agreement to sell its 70 per cent stake in Al-Hilal Saudi Club to Kingdom Holding Company, marking a major shift in the ownership structure of one of Asia’s most successful football teams.
Deal details emerge
The transaction, reported by the Saudi Press Agency, values the Riyadh-based club at about 1.4 billion Saudi riyals.
Kingdom Holding, chaired by billionaire Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, will pay 840 million riyals to acquire the controlling stake, with funding sourced internally.
The remaining 30 per cent stake is expected to be held by the Al-Hilal Non-Profit Foundation.
Shift in Saudi sports model
The deal makes Al-Hilal the first of Saudi Arabia’s “Big Four” clubs to move from state-backed ownership under PIF to private sector control.
Analysts say the move aligns with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 strategy aimed at reducing government ownership and expanding private investment in the sports sector.
Prince Alwaleed speaks
Prince Alwaleed, a longtime supporter and honorary member of the club, said the acquisition is focused on unlocking commercial opportunities while preserving the club’s legacy.
He noted that Al-Hilal’s identity and history remain central to the new ownership direction.
What happens next
The deal is still subject to regulatory approval from the General Authority for Competition.
However, preparations for administrative and commercial transition are expected to begin immediately ahead of the new football season.
What it means
Industry watchers say the move could set the tone for similar ownership changes involving other top Saudi clubs like Al-Nassr, Al-Ittihad, and Al-Ahli, which are still under PIF control.
