Tag: APC

  • Top 10 Nigerian News Updates You Should Know Today

    1. US Withdraws Most Troops from Nigeria After Joint Anti-ISIS Mission

    The United States has withdrawn most of its troops deployed to Nigeria following the completion of a joint counterterrorism operation targeting Islamic State (ISIS) militants in the Lake Chad Basin. Announcing the drawdown, AFRICOM Commander General Dagvin Anderson said the mission achieved its primary objectives, including the elimination of key ISIS leaders, while reaffirming Washington’s commitment to continued intelligence sharing and security cooperation with Nigerian authorities.

    The deployment, which began earlier this year, supported Nigerian forces in degrading ISIS capabilities across parts of northern Nigeria. Nigerian officials described the collaboration as a major success that strengthened local counterterrorism operations. Although the troop presence has been reduced, analysts believe both countries will continue working closely through intelligence sharing and other non-kinetic support as security agencies sustain pressure on insurgent groups.

    2. Explosion Rocks Apapa Tank Farm as Emergency Agencies Move to Contain Incident

    An explosion has occurred at a tank farm in Apapa, Lagos, triggering an emergency response from the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), and other rescue teams. Officials said emergency responders quickly moved to contain the situation and prevent the fire or any environmental hazards from spreading within the busy petroleum storage and distribution hub.

    Authorities have commenced investigations into the cause of the explosion while assuring residents and businesses that efforts are ongoing to minimise damage. The incident has renewed concerns about safety standards at critical oil and gas facilities, with stakeholders awaiting further updates on casualties, the extent of damage, and measures to prevent similar occurrences.

    3. Troops Rescue Kidnap Victims, Kill Terrorist in Nationwide Operations

    The Defence Headquarters says Nigerian troops rescued 10 kidnapped victims, arrested seven suspected criminals, and neutralised one terrorist during coordinated military operations carried out across different theatres of operation over the past week. The operations form part of ongoing efforts to combat terrorism, banditry, and other violent crimes across the country.

    Military authorities also confirmed the recovery of arms, ammunition, and other items during the operations, describing the results as another indication of sustained pressure on criminal groups. Security officials said operations will continue in affected communities, while urging residents to support the military with credible intelligence to consolidate recent gains.

    4. Naira Appreciates to N1,395 Against Dollar in Parallel Market

    The naira recorded another gain in the parallel foreign exchange market, appreciating to N1,395 against the US dollar as recent interventions continued to influence market activities. The improvement reflects ongoing efforts to stabilise Nigeria’s foreign exchange market amid broader economic reforms.

    Economists say increased forex supply and policy measures introduced by the Central Bank of Nigeria have contributed to the currency’s recent performance. While the development offers some optimism for businesses and consumers, analysts note that sustained stability will depend on stronger foreign exchange inflows, improved reserves, and consistent monetary policies.

    5. APC Chairmen Meet in Lagos Ahead of 2027 General Elections

    Chairmen of the All Progressives Congress (APC) from the 36 states are meeting in Lagos for a three-day strategic session aimed at strengthening the party’s grassroots structure ahead of the 2027 general elections. The gathering also reaffirmed support for President Bola Tinubu and focused on building party unity across the country.

    Participants discussed mobilisation strategies, internal cohesion, and preparations for future elections as political activities gradually gather momentum. The meeting comes at a time opposition parties are also realigning, with observers expecting more political consultations and policy directions to emerge in the months ahead.

    6. World Bank Says Nigeria’s Bigger Challenge Is Revenue, Not Debt

    A World Bank official has said Nigeria’s major fiscal challenge is not excessive borrowing but weak revenue generation, stressing the need for stronger domestic income to support development. The remarks were made during discussions on the country’s ongoing economic reforms and fiscal outlook.

    The comments have added to conversations around taxation, economic diversification, and public spending efficiency. Policymakers are expected to continue pursuing reforms aimed at improving government revenue while ensuring resources are managed more effectively to support economic growth.

    7. Tinubu Charges Team Nigeria Ahead of Commonwealth Games

    President Bola Tinubu has urged Team Nigeria to compete with honour, discipline, and integrity as the country’s athletes prepare for the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland. The President gave the charge during a send-off ceremony attended by athletes and sports officials representing Nigeria in 10 sporting events.

    Government officials expressed confidence in the team’s preparation and encouraged the athletes to make the country proud on the international stage. Strong performances at the Games are expected to inspire young athletes and further promote sports development across Nigeria.

    8. D’Tigers Defeat Guinea to Reach Next Round of FIBA Qualifiers

    Nigeria’s senior men’s basketball team, D’Tigers, defeated Guinea in a crucial match to advance to the next stage of the 2026 FIBA Basketball World Cup qualifiers. The victory highlighted the team’s determination and growing confidence under the current coaching crew.

    The result has boosted Nigeria’s hopes of qualifying for the global tournament and generated excitement among basketball supporters. Sports stakeholders have also renewed calls for sustained investment in the game as D’Tigers prepare for more challenging fixtures in the qualification campaign.

    9. EFCC Arraigns Siblings Over Alleged Land Fraud in Lagos

    The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned two siblings before a Lagos court over their alleged involvement in a land fraud case involving disputed properties and financial transactions. The prosecution said the matter forms part of the commission’s ongoing crackdown on real estate-related crimes.

    After hearing preliminary arguments, the court granted the defendants bail under specified conditions and adjourned the matter for further proceedings. The case has again drawn attention to the increasing number of land scams in major cities and the need for stronger safeguards for property buyers.

    10. Governor Peter Mbah Urges Transparency Among Public Officers

    Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah has called on public officials to uphold transparency, accountability, and traceability in the discharge of their duties, saying every naira lost through corruption denies citizens the benefits of development. He made the remarks during an engagement with senior government officials in the state.

    The governor said his administration remains committed to prudent management of public resources and improved service delivery. His message aligns with broader efforts to strengthen accountability in governance, with observers describing it as part of ongoing reforms aimed at improving public confidence in government institutions.

     

  • “To Start Akara Business Doesn’t Take Much,” Oluremi Tinubu Tells Nigerians

    Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has defended the Federal Government’s empowerment programmes, saying grants provided to small business owners are designed to give Nigerians hope amid the country’s economic challenges.

    Speaking during a recent engagement, the First Lady said the administration had chosen to provide grants rather than loans to support petty traders and vulnerable citizens.

    ‘We Are Giving Hope’

    Sen. Tinubu said starting small businesses such as frying akara or roasting corn requires limited capital and can provide a pathway to financial independence.

    “We’re trying to give hope. To start akara business doesn’t take much; to start roasting corn doesn’t take much. We didn’t give them a loan; we gave it to them as a grant,” she said.

    She added that the government had continued to support Nigerians through initiatives within its capacity.

    “What is within our hands, I have given, and I keep giving,” she said.

    Renewed Hope Empowerment Programme

    The First Lady’s remarks come under the Renewed Hope Initiative, which has distributed grants to women and small business owners in several states.

    Recent interventions include financial support for women in Benue, Ekiti and Kaduna states, where beneficiaries received grants to strengthen their small businesses without repayment obligations.

    The programme focuses on women, petty traders and other vulnerable groups engaged in micro-enterprises.

    Mixed Public Reactions

    The comments have generated mixed reactions on social media.

    Supporters described the grants as meaningful support for grassroots entrepreneurs struggling with the high cost of living.

    Critics, however, argued that the assistance is insufficient given rising inflation, high fuel prices and the broader economic pressures facing many households and businesses.

    Some questioned whether small-scale grants alone can adequately address Nigeria’s current economic challenges.

    Government Defends Reform Agenda

    The Tinubu administration has consistently maintained that its economic reforms, including fuel subsidy removal and exchange rate adjustments, are necessary for long-term economic stability despite the short-term hardship experienced by many Nigerians.

    Sen. Tinubu has repeatedly urged citizens to remain patient while the government continues implementing programmes aimed at reducing poverty and promoting economic inclusion.

  • Iyabo Obasanjo Quits APC, Cites Rejection Over Ogun Governorship Process

    Former senator and governorship aspirant, Iyabo Obasanjo, has resigned from the All Progressives Congress (APC), citing what she described as persistent rejection, disrespect and unfair treatment by the party’s leadership in Ogun State.

    The former lawmaker announced her resignation in a letter dated May 31 and addressed to the Ogun State APC Chairman, Chief Yemi Sanusi.

    Obasanjo Faults Candidate Selection Process

    Obasanjo criticised the process that produced Solomon Adeola as the party’s preferred governorship candidate, arguing that the consensus arrangement did not follow APC guidelines.

    She said she had committed to supporting any candidate that emerged through a genuine consensus process but was not consulted before Adeola was announced.

    According to her, some of her supporters were denied access to the venue where the candidate was unveiled and were allegedly intimidated during the exercise.

    “I committed myself to supporting any candidate that emerged through a consensus arrangement, but I was not consulted before Senator Adeola was announced,” she stated.

    Claims of Continued Disrespect

    Despite her reservations, Obasanjo said she accepted the outcome in the interest of party unity and publicly congratulated Adeola after his emergence.

    She disclosed that the senator later met with her supporters, who presented three demands during the meeting.

    However, she claimed that although a response was promised within a week, more than two months had passed without any feedback.

    According to her, the silence reinforced what she described as a pattern of disregard and lack of appreciation for her contributions to the party.

    Return to Politics Ends With Exit

    Obasanjo expressed appreciation to Bola Tinubu, the Ogun APC leadership and party stakeholders for their support during her time in the party.

    The former senator returned to active politics earlier this year after registering as an APC member in Ifo Local Government Area of Ogun State.

    She previously served as Ogun State Commissioner for Health between 2003 and 2007 before representing Ogun Central Senatorial District in the Senate from 2007 to 2011.

    After largely staying away from politics for several years, she signalled a return to public life in late 2025 when campaign billboards promoting her governorship ambition appeared across parts of Ogun State.

  • Oluremi Tinubu Promises Cars to APC Women Leaders Amid Rising Insecurity

    Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, on Wednesday inaugurated the Tinubu Torchbearers (TTB), a grassroots mobilisation group aimed at strengthening women’s participation in the ruling All Progressives Congress ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    The event took place at the State House Banquet Hall in the Presidential Villa, Abuja, and attracted APC women leaders and stakeholders from across the country.

    Eight Buses Donated to New Group

    During the inauguration, the First Lady donated eight coaster buses to support the group’s mobilisation and outreach activities in promoting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

    The programme was organised under the leadership of APC National Women Leader, Mary Alile Idele, and was attended by the wife of Vice President Kashim Shettima, alongside other party leaders.

    Vehicles Promised to APC Women Leaders

    Oluremi Tinubu also announced that brand-new vehicles would be provided to APC women leaders in Abia, Anambra, Bauchi, Osun and Oyo states.

    She stated that the vehicles would be registered in the names of the beneficiaries, making them their personal property.

    The First Lady urged party women leaders to actively engage with communities and promote the achievements of the current administration from the grassroots level.

    Call for Grassroots Mobilisation

    Addressing participants, she encouraged women to strengthen the party’s presence across wards and polling units nationwide while supporting efforts to expand women’s involvement in politics and governance.

    According to her, grassroots mobilisation remains critical to sustaining the administration’s programmes and connecting government policies with local communities.

    Mixed Reactions Trail Launch

    The inauguration has generated reactions on social media, with some critics questioning the timing of the initiative amid ongoing concerns over insecurity and recent school abductions in parts of the country.

    Supporters, however, described the programme as an empowerment initiative designed to strengthen women’s political participation and improve party structures ahead of future elections.

    The APC said the Tinubu Torchbearers platform would focus on national development, political mobilisation and increasing women’s representation in the political process.

  • APC Demands Rescue of Adelabu’s Sister, Faults Makinde Over Rising Insecurity in Oyo

    The Oyo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has condemned the abduction of Mrs. Busayo Adelabu John-Paul, younger sister of former Minister of Power, Bayo Adelabu, and her twin sons in Ibadan.

    The party called on Governor Seyi Makinde to work closely with security agencies and relevant stakeholders to address the growing security challenges across the state.

    APC Raises Concern Over Insecurity

    In a statement issued on Wednesday by the party’s Publicity Secretary, Olawale Sadare, the APC described the incident as alarming, especially as several kidnapping cases in the state remain unresolved.

    The party noted that the abduction occurred amid ongoing concerns over the fate of schoolchildren and teachers kidnapped in Oriire Local Government Area, as well as two staff members of the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN) in Oluyole Local Government Area.

    According to reports, Mrs. John-Paul and her 12-year-old twin sons were abducted by gunmen at Elewura-Challenge in Ibadan South-West Local Government Area.

    Call for Immediate Rescue

    APC urged authorities at all levels of government to review and strengthen the state’s security architecture to better protect residents.

    “We demand immediate rescue of all Oriire school abductees, two CRIN staff, Mrs. Busayo John-Paul and her children, as well as others who are in captivity at the moment,” the statement said.

    The party also called for coordinated efforts between government and security agencies to curb the increasing cases of kidnapping and violent attacks in Oyo State.

    Criticism of State Government

    Sadare argued that residents were living in fear due to the worsening security situation and urged Governor Makinde to seek additional support where necessary.

    “No citizen deserves to live in perpetual fear and anxiety as is the situation with the residents of Oyo at the moment,” he said.

    He added that insecurity had reached an unprecedented level in the state and warned that urgent intervention was needed to prevent further deterioration.

    Police Investigation Ongoing

    The Oyo State Police Command had earlier confirmed that investigations were underway into the abduction of Mrs. John-Paul and her children.

    Police spokesperson DSP Olayinka Ayanlade said security operatives had launched efforts to rescue the victims and apprehend those responsible.

  • APC Tells Makinde to Resign Over Security Comments, Says Governor Has Failed Oyo

    The Oyo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress has criticised Governor Seyi Makinde over his recent comments on insecurity, accusing him of failing in his responsibility to protect lives and property in the state.

    The opposition party also called on the governor to resign and allow his deputy complete the remaining year of the administration.

    APC Rejects Makinde’s Position

    In a statement issued in Ibadan by the party’s Publicity Secretary, Olawale Sadare, the APC faulted Makinde’s remarks that governors have limited control over security agencies because they are under federal authority.

    The party described the governor’s position as an attempt to shift responsibility amid growing concerns over insecurity, particularly following the abduction of students and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area.

    According to the APC, Makinde’s comments reflected what it described as a lack of leadership at a critical time for the state.

    Security Debate Deepens

    Makinde recently renewed his call for the establishment of state police, arguing that governors often bear responsibility for security challenges without having direct control over security agencies.

    The governor made the remarks while addressing members of the Allied Peoples Movement during its primary election in Ibadan.

    He maintained that empowering states to establish and manage their own police structures would improve responses to security threats across the country.

    APC Cites Previous Administrations

    The opposition party argued that previous governors operated under the same constitutional framework without facing the level of insecurity currently affecting parts of Oyo State.

    The APC specifically referenced former governors including the late Lam Adesina, Rasheed Ladoja, the late Adebayo Alao-Akala and the late Abiola Ajimobi.

    According to the party, Ajimobi strengthened security through the establishment of a security trust fund and collaboration with relevant stakeholders.

    Calls for Resignation

    APC further claimed that Makinde’s presidential ambition was distracting him from governance and alleged that his handling of security issues had exposed weaknesses in his administration.

    The party insisted that if the governor believes he lacks the authority to effectively tackle insecurity, he should step aside.

    “Makinde has failed to demonstrate the leadership qualities required at this critical period and should resign from office immediately,” the statement said.

    State Police Remains Key Issue

    The exchange highlights the growing debate over state policing in Nigeria, with supporters arguing that decentralised policing would improve security, while critics remain concerned about potential political abuse and constitutional implications.

    The discussion has gained renewed attention following recent kidnappings involving teachers and students in parts of Oyo State.

  • Iyaloja-General Threatens Protest Over APC Lagos Primaries Dispute

    The Iyaloja-General of Nigeria, Mrs Folashade Tinubu-Ojo, has threatened a protest over the outcome of the All Progressives Congress (APC) primaries in Lagos State, alleging irregularities and factional bias in the process.

    The warning was issued on Wednesday during a meeting with market leaders in Alausa, Ikeja, where she accused party stakeholders of manipulating the process in favour of a particular bloc.

    Iyaloja-General Rejects Lagos APC Primary Results

    Tinubu-Ojo specifically faulted the outcome of the APC primaries in Mushin Federal Constituency 2, Agege Constituency 2 and Ojokoro constituencies, insisting that the results did not reflect the true outcome of the contests.

    She alleged that the exercise was influenced by internal party divisions, particularly between the Justice Forum and Mandate Group within the Lagos APC structure.

    The Lagos State APC had earlier released its list of candidates for the House of Representatives and Lagos State House of Assembly elections, with 24 House of Reps candidates and 40 Assembly candidates emerging from the primaries.

    Calls for Urgent Party Review

    Tinubu-Ojo urged APC leadership at both state and national levels to investigate the disputed primaries before final ratification of the results.

    She warned that failure to address the grievances could worsen internal tensions and deepen divisions within the ruling party in Lagos State.

    According to her, “We are ready to protest because of Seye Oladejo of Mushin Federal Constituency 02, Mutiu Olaide Oladeebo of Agege 2 constituency, Olotu Ojo of Ojokoro constituency, because we know they won this election. Their mandate should not be given to somebody else.”

    She added that rising factional influence within the party was undermining unity ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    Factional Politics in APC Lagos

    Tinubu-Ojo also criticised what she described as increasing alignment of party members with the Justice Forum due to perceived political advantage, warning that such developments could weaken internal democracy.

    She said, “We have to cry out now. Let APC cancel Justice and Mandate Forums. We are one family. We are for APC.”

    She further stressed that leadership must ensure fairness across all factions, noting that political office holders must carry all stakeholders along once elected.

    Market Women Reaffirm Support

    The Iyaloja-General reaffirmed the support of market women across Lagos for APC candidates while insisting that traders deserve greater recognition and inclusion in governance and political appointments.

    The dispute adds to ongoing tensions within the Lagos APC over primaries and factional loyalty ahead of the 2027 elections.

  • Ex-IGP Mohammed Adamu Dumps APC After Losing Nasarawa Governorship Primary

    Former Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Abubakar Adamu, has resigned from the All Progressives Congress (APC) following his defeat in the party’s Nasarawa State governorship primary election.

    Adamu announced his resignation on Monday in a letter submitted to APC executives in Makama Ward, Lafia.

    Adamu Blames APC Primary Process

    The former police boss said recent developments within the ruling party, especially the conduct of the governorship primary election in Nasarawa State, forced him to leave the APC.

    Adamu lost the APC governorship ticket to Senator Aliyu Wadada.

    According to him, the events surrounding the primary election weakened his confidence in the party’s leadership and internal processes.

    “This decision was not taken lightly however, recent developments within the party especially the conduct of the governorship primary election processes in Nasarawa State have made it difficult for me to continue with my political activities under the platform of the party,” he stated.

    Claims Lack of Internal Democracy

    Adamu accused the APC of failing to uphold fairness, transparency, justice, and equal opportunity for aspirants and party members.

    He maintained that democratic principles should guide political parties, especially parties seeking to govern.

    “I strongly think that internal democracy, fairness, openness, and equal chance for aspirants and members should govern the business of any democratic political organization,” he said.

    “Unfortunately the events surrounding the primary election did not reflect this principle and have led to a loss of confidence in the party’s leadership and the processes in the state.”

    Hints At Next Political Move

    The former IGP disclosed that his decision followed consultations with supporters, political associates, and family members.

    He also hinted at pursuing his political ambition on another platform.

    Despite his exit, Adamu appreciated APC members at ward, local government, and state levels for the support and relationships built during his time in the party.

    His resignation adds to the growing political tension and realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.

  • Full List Of Tinubu’s Nearly 11 Million Votes In APC Presidential Primary Across States

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has recorded a sweeping nationwide victory in the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential primary, amassing nearly 11 million votes across the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory.

    The results, collated from ward-level voting across the country, show a wide margin of dominance for the president, reinforcing his stronghold within the ruling party.

    Below is the full breakdown of votes across states:

    1. Lagos – 814,988
    2. Adamawa – 644,149
    3. Kaduna – 618,914
    4. Imo – 582,960
    5. Kano – 500,852
    6. Katsina – 467,003
    7. Gombe – 450,517
    8. Borno – 414,988
    9. Delta – 407,646
    10. Akwa Ibom – 389,197
    11. Enugu – 383,382
    12. Benue – 374,787
    13. Ogun – 322,485
    14. Zamfara – 321,579
    15. Kwara – 310,990
    16. Sokoto – 301,000
    17. Kebbi – 292,972
    18. Nasarawa – 285,436
    19. Rivers – 280,082
    20. Yobe – 253,804
    21. Plateau – 241,720
    22. Bayelsa – 227,192
    23. Ebonyi – 207,579
    24. Jigawa – 206,520
    25. Kogi – 197,370
    26. Taraba – 183,698
    27. Ondo – 181,996
    28. Niger – 175,487
    29. Abia – 161,005
    30. Bauchi – 156,541
    31. Oyo – 142,754
    32. Edo – 121,098
    33. Cross River – 113,911
    34. Osun – 100,888
    35. Ekiti – 85,340
    36. Anambra – 43,034
    37. FCT – 36,103

    The exercise, according to party officials, reflects a strong endorsement of Tinubu’s leadership and the Renewed Hope agenda ahead of future electoral contests.

  • “If You’ve Lost Weight, I’ve Lost Some Too” — Tinubu Speaks On Hardship After APC Primary Victory

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has admitted that he personally feels the hardship caused by the economic reforms introduced by his administration since taking office in May 2023.

    The president made the remarks in Abuja after emerging victorious in the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential primary election held nationwide on Saturday.

    “I’ve Lost Sleep Too”

    Speaking after the exercise, Tinubu acknowledged the difficult realities Nigerians are facing while insisting that rebuilding the country requires sacrifice and painful decisions.

    “I know what it takes to reform this nation we met in tatters,” he said.

    “If you lost sleep, I’ve lost some too. If you’ve lost weight, I’ve lost some too. But I’ve always remembered one thing: in 2022, I asked for this job. You all supported me and I got it. So I must do it,” the president added.

    His comments have since generated widespread reactions online as Nigerians continue to debate the impact of subsidy removal, inflation, and rising living costs across the country.

    Tinubu Secures Massive Victory

    Tinubu recorded an overwhelming victory in the APC presidential primary, polling 10,999,162 votes.

    His sole challenger, Stanley Osifo, reportedly secured 16,503 votes in the direct primary conducted across the country’s 774 local government areas and 8,809 wards.

    Party leaders and supporters described the outcome as a strong endorsement of Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda ahead of the 2027 general election.

    Mixed Reactions Trail Statement

    While some APC supporters praised the president for acknowledging citizens’ struggles, critics argued that many Nigerians are experiencing deeper hardship due to inflation and the rising cost of living.

    Since the removal of fuel subsidy in 2023, economic conditions have remained a major topic of national discussion, with labour unions, opposition figures and civil society groups repeatedly calling for stronger relief measures.