Welcome

Tag: President Bola Tinubu

  • Tinubu Heads to France, Kenya, Rwanda for Key Economic Summits

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will depart Abuja on Saturday for a three-nation visit to France, Kenya and Rwanda to attend high-level economic and diplomatic engagements.

    Trip begins with France stop

    The development was disclosed in a statement by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

    According to the statement, Tinubu will first visit France before proceeding to Nairobi, Kenya, for the Africa-France Summit.

    Focus on Africa-France partnerships

    The summit, scheduled for May 11 to May 12, will be co-chaired by French President Emmanuel Macron and Kenyan President William Ruto.

    It is expected to focus on energy transition, green industrialisation, digital transformation, global financing reforms, and climate action.

    The event will also provide a platform for discussions on economic growth, infrastructure, youth development, and regional cooperation.

    Next stop: Africa CEO Forum in Rwanda

    Following the Kenya engagement, Tinubu will travel to Kigali, Rwanda, for the Africa CEO Forum scheduled for May 14 to May 15.

    The forum will bring together over 2,000 business leaders, investors, and policymakers to discuss strategies for economic transformation and cross-border investment.

    Held in partnership with the International Finance Corporation (IFC), the event will centre on scaling African businesses and strengthening regional integration.

    Tinubu to engage global leaders

    During the trip, the president is expected to deliver key statements on Nigeria’s economic reforms and investment prospects.

    He will also hold meetings with global and African business leaders to strengthen partnerships.

    Tinubu will be accompanied by senior government officials and is expected to return to Nigeria after the Rwanda summit.

  • Atiku Slams Tinubu Over Hardship, Says Workers’ Day Not for Celebration

    Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticised the administration of President Bola Tinubu, saying worsening economic conditions have made this year’s Workers’ Day a moment of concern rather than celebration.

    Atiku describes May Day as ‘painful reminder’

    In a message shared on Friday via his X handle, Atiku said the 2026 Workers’ Day reflects the growing burden on Nigerian workers.

    “This year’s Workers’ Day is not a moment of joy for millions of Nigerians. It is a painful reminder of broken promises,” he said.

    Criticism of subsidy removal policy

    The former vice president faulted the removal of fuel subsidy, describing it as necessary but poorly executed.

    “Let me be clear: the removal of fuel subsidy was inevitable and long overdue. However, its implementation was hasty and without safeguards,” he stated.

    Rising cost of living hits workers

    Atiku said the policy has triggered a sharp rise in the cost of living, affecting transport fares, food prices, and basic goods.

    He added that wages have remained largely unchanged despite increasing economic pressure on citizens.

    “What we have witnessed is a dramatic surge in the cost of living without any commensurate increase in wages,” he said.

    Concerns over use of savings

    He also questioned how funds saved from subsidy removal are being managed, noting that Nigerians have yet to see tangible benefits.

    “Trillions of naira have reportedly been saved, yet the average Nigerian cannot point to any improvement,” he added.

    Calls for urgent government action

    Atiku urged the Federal Government to implement measures such as wage adjustments, social support programmes, and investments in key sectors.

    “Economic reforms must be people-centred,” he said, calling for policies that directly improve workers’ welfare.

  • Senate Confirms Yuguda as CBN Deputy Governor, Approves Onwu for NDIC Board

    The Senate has confirmed Lamido Yuguda as Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), alongside Peggy Onwu as an independent director on the board of the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC).

    Senate backs committee report

    The confirmations were approved on Wednesday after the Senate Committee on Banking, Insurance, and Other Financial Institutions presented its report in plenary.

    Committee chairman Adetokunbo Abiru submitted the findings, which lawmakers adopted, clearing both nominees for their respective roles.

    Tinubu’s nomination and directive

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had nominated Yuguda in March, urging him to serve with professionalism and a strong commitment to Nigeria’s economic stability.

    In a statement issued at the time, the President called on the appointees to discharge their duties with dedication and support the country’s growth agenda.

    Yuguda’s experience in finance sector

    Yuguda, an economist, previously served as Director-General of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) from 2020 to 2024.

    He is a fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) and a member of the CFA Institute.

    His career spans decades, including roles at the CBN, where he started in 1984, and at the International Monetary Fund (IMF), where he worked between 1997 and 2001.

    Background within CBN system

    After returning to the apex bank, he served as Director of the Reserve Management Department for six years before retiring in 2016.

    He was later appointed to the CBN’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) in February 2024.

    Broader economic team changes

    His confirmation comes amid ongoing adjustments within Nigeria’s economic management team.

    Recent changes include the appointment of Bala Bello, a former CBN Deputy Governor, as Special Adviser to the President on Political Economy.

  • Tinubu Nominates Tegbe as Power Minister After Adelabu’s Exit

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has nominated Joseph Olasunkanmi Tegbe as the new Minister of Power and forwarded his name to the Senate for confirmation.

    Appointment follows Adelabu’s resignation

    The nomination was announced on April 30, 2026, in a statement issued by presidential aide Bayo Onanuga.

    It comes after the exit of Adebayo Adelabu, who resigned from the position to pursue his governorship ambition in Oyo State.

    In his resignation letter dated April 22, Adelabu said his decision would take effect from April 30.

    Profile of the nominee

    Tegbe, an indigene of Oyo State, brings over three decades of experience in finance, governance, and economic reform.

    He previously served as a senior partner at KPMG Africa, where he handled advisory roles focused on policy development and institutional reforms.

    Current role and international engagement

    Until his nomination, Tegbe served as Director General and Global Liaison for the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership.

    In that role, he coordinated bilateral engagements and supported development initiatives tied to international cooperation between both countries.

    Awaiting Senate confirmation

    His appointment is subject to confirmation by the Senate, in line with constitutional requirements.

    If confirmed, Tegbe will take charge of Nigeria’s power sector at a time when the government continues to push for reforms aimed at improving electricity supply nationwide.

  • Court Hears Details of Alleged Coup Plot Against Tinubu as Army Witness Testifies

    An army officer has told the Federal High Court in Abuja how investigators uncovered an alleged plot to overthrow President Bola Tinubu, detailing financial links, meetings, and operational plans tied to the suspects.

    Witness reveals origin of investigation

    The witness, identified as “AAA,” said he was part of the investigative team set up after the Chief of Army Staff received intelligence about a planned coup involving Colonel M. A. Ma’aji and others.

    He explained that the intelligence report was analysed and confirmed credible before directives were issued to launch a full investigation into the alleged plot.

    According to him, the probe led to the arrest of Col. Ma’aji and the recovery of key items, including a Samsung phone and a jotter containing sensitive information.

    Recovered items expose alleged plans

    The witness told the court that the recovered jotter contained operational details, including names of top government officials and security officers allegedly marked for assassination.

    He added that further forensic analysis of the phone revealed deeper links between the suspects and other individuals standing trial.

    “Inside the jotter, we found plans for political and structural changes after the coup, as well as names of officials to be targeted,” he said.

    Financial trails and transactions uncovered

    The court also heard that investigators traced multiple financial transactions allegedly linked to the coup plot through a company identified as Purple Wave.

    According to the witness, several large sums, including ₦100 million and ₦50 million transfers, were moved across different dates in September and October 2025.

    He stated that although the transactions were labelled for unrelated purposes, investigations suggested they were used to fund the alleged plot.

    “We observed financial trails between some of the defendants and Col. Ma’aji. Monies were paid in pursuit of the coup,” he said.

    Meetings and strategy sessions detailed

    The witness further revealed that meetings were held in locations such as Green Land Apartment and BrookVille Hotel in Abuja, where discussions allegedly centred on regime change.

    He said the plotters mapped out key targets, including military barracks and major roads, and shared roles among themselves ahead of the planned operation.

    “The plotters discussed taking over key infrastructure and even shared appointments for after the coup,” he added.

    Court admits evidence amid objections

    During proceedings, the court admitted several documents, including hotel records and extracts from the recovered phone, despite objections from defence lawyers.

    Justice Joyce Abdulmalik also ruled in favour of the prosecution’s request to shield the identities of certain witnesses, citing the sensitive nature of the case.

    She held that the law permits such measures in cases involving national security and terrorism concerns.

    Charges and next hearing date

    The defendants are facing charges including treason, terrorism, money laundering, and failure to disclose security intelligence.

    They were arraigned on April 22 and pleaded not guilty to the 13-count charge.

    The court has adjourned further hearing in the matter to May 4 and 5 as proceedings continue.

  • Atiku Slams Tinubu Over Insecurity Remarks, Says ‘Leadership Must Earn Trust’

    Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent remarks on insecurity, warning that leadership must reflect responsibility as violence persists across Nigeria.

    Atiku reacts to Tinubu’s stance

    Atiku, in a statement issued by his aide Phrank Shaibu, described Tinubu’s comments as troubling and disconnected from realities on ground.

    “It is not political opponents who will judge this administration, it is the blood of innocent Nigerians being shed daily across our land,” he said.

    He added that leadership should be defined by compassion and decisive action, not defiance.

    Rising death toll sparks concern

    The former Vice President claimed that over 10,000 Nigerians have been killed since May 2023, with some estimates placing the figure above 18,000 within two years.

    According to him, the statistics represent devastated communities and families rather than mere numbers.

    He warned that dismissing such losses as political rhetoric undermines the gravity of the crisis.

    Criticism over government response

    Atiku faulted the President for allegedly downplaying the suffering of victims’ families, stating that such remarks trivialise national grief.

    “It is horrifying that the memories of innocent citizens would be reduced to political rhetoric,” he said.

    He also referenced recent attacks, including the reported church invasion in Ekiti State, saying such incidents require urgent and visible leadership response.

    Call for urgent action

    While acknowledging Tinubu’s right to seek re-election, Atiku said declining public confidence stems from the administration’s handling of security and economic challenges.

    He urged the Federal Government to recalibrate its security strategy and prioritise protection of citizens.

    “At a time like this, Nigerians do not need bravado; they need protection,” he stated.

  • Tinubu Appoints Bianca Ojukwu as Foreign Affairs Minister After Tuggar’s Exit

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu as Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs following the resignation of Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, who stepped down to pursue political ambitions ahead of 2027.

    Bianca Ojukwu steps into top diplomatic role

    The appointment was announced in a statement issued by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on Wednesday.

    Odumegwu-Ojukwu previously served as Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, positioning her as a familiar figure within Nigeria’s diplomatic structure before her elevation to the top role.

    Her appointment signals continuity within the ministry at a time Nigeria is seeking to recalibrate its foreign policy direction.

    Tuggar exits to pursue 2027 ambitions

    The reshuffle follows the resignation of Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, who is expected to join the growing list of political actors preparing for the 2027 general elections.

    His exit creates a vacancy at a critical time in Nigeria’s international engagements, prompting the swift appointment by the presidency.

    The move also reflects early political realignments within the federal cabinet as the next election cycle approaches.

    Enikanolaiye nominated as minister of state

    In a related development, President Tinubu nominated Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye as Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, subject to Senate confirmation.

    Before the nomination, Enikanolaiye served as Senior Special Assistant to the President on Foreign Affairs and International Relations.

    He brings decades of diplomatic experience, having previously held key positions within Nigeria’s foreign service.

    Veteran diplomat with global experience

    Enikanolaiye’s career spans over three decades, including roles as Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and postings in Addis Ababa, Belgrade, Ottawa, London, and New Delhi.

    His nomination is seen as part of efforts to strengthen institutional capacity within the ministry.

    The presidency noted that the appointments are aimed at improving efficiency, strategic engagement, and Nigeria’s global diplomatic footprint.

    Focus on foreign policy reset

    According to the statement, the new leadership is expected to advance Nigeria’s national interest, deepen economic diplomacy, and strengthen international partnerships.

    The President also charged the appointees to prioritise the welfare of Nigerians abroad while promoting regional stability.

    The changes come as Nigeria navigates shifting global dynamics and increasing demands on its foreign policy institutions.

  • Tinubu Backs Hamzat as Lagos GAC Picks Consensus Candidate for 2027 Governorship

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has endorsed the adoption of Lagos State Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat as the consensus candidate of the Governance Advisory Council (GAC) for the 2027 governorship election. The decision was affirmed during a meeting held on Wednesday at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

    The move signals early consolidation within the Lagos APC ahead of the next electoral cycle.

    Abuja Meeting Signals Strategic Alignment

    The meeting brought together members of the GAC, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and Hamzat, with discussions centred on party direction and succession planning. The outcome reflects a coordinated effort to maintain internal cohesion.

    Tinubu’s backing adds weight to the council’s position and clarifies the emerging power structure.

    GAC Reasserts Influence in Lagos Politics

    The Governance Advisory Council has historically played a decisive role in shaping leadership choices within the Lagos APC. Its adoption of Hamzat reinforces its continued influence in determining the party’s direction.

    The latest decision aligns with the council’s tradition of consensus-driven candidate selection.

    Hamzat Gains Early Momentum in 2027 Race

    With support from both the GAC and the President, Hamzat’s position strengthens significantly within the party. His role as deputy governor places him within the core of the state’s political machinery.

    The endorsement is likely to shape calculations among other potential aspirants.

  • “I Will Run Again” — Tinubu Declares 2027 Bid, Says Insecurity Won’t Push Him Out

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has confirmed he will seek re-election in 2027, insisting that rising insecurity across parts of the country will not force him out of office. He made the declaration while hosting Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang and other stakeholders in Abuja.

    His remarks come amid sustained public concern over security challenges nationwide.

    Tinubu Links Security Criticism to Political Opposition

    The President suggested that ongoing criticisms of his administration’s handling of insecurity could be exploited by political opponents. He warned that narratives around violence and instability may be used to weaken his position.

    “You are playing to the hand of agents, including my own enemies,” he said, referring to those highlighting security failures.

    President Signals Firm Resolve Ahead of 2027

    Tinubu stated that he remains determined to continue in office despite pressure and public scrutiny. He described himself as politically resilient and committed to seeking a second term.

    “I’m a very stubborn politician. I just refuse to go. And I will campaign for my second term,” he said.

    Rising Insecurity Remains National Concern

    The declaration comes against the backdrop of continued attacks, kidnappings, and killings reported in several parts of Nigeria. The situation has prompted calls from opposition figures and civil society groups for more decisive action.

    Security remains a central issue shaping public discourse ahead of the next election cycle.

    Government Maintains Efforts to Address Threats

    The President has consistently defended his administration’s approach, stating that security agencies are receiving the necessary support to combat threats. Officials say efforts are ongoing to restore stability and improve safety across affected regions.

  • “Borrowing Is Not a Disease” — Tinubu Defends Rising Debt Amid Fresh Loan Plans

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has defended Nigeria’s growing debt profile, saying borrowing is a necessary tool for development and should not be seen as a negative. He made the remarks on Tuesday at the Presidential Villa in Abuja during a meeting with Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang and other stakeholders.

    His comments come amid renewed scrutiny over the country’s increasing reliance on loans.

    Tinubu Insists Borrowing Key to Development Goals

    The President said the focus should be on how borrowed funds are used and repaid, not the act of borrowing itself. He maintained that strategic financing remains essential for infrastructure growth and economic expansion.

    “If we have to borrow money, we will, because borrowing is not leprosy; we just have to work hard to be able to repay it,” he said.

    Fresh Loans Linked to Major Infrastructure Push

    The defence follows the National Assembly’s approval of a $516.3 million loan for the Sokoto–Badagry superhighway project. The planned 1,000-kilometre corridor is expected to link key states across the North-West and South-West.

    Government officials say the project will improve connectivity, ease movement, and unlock economic opportunities along the route.

    Nigeria’s Debt Profile Continues to Climb

    Concerns have grown over Nigeria’s rising debt burden, with figures from the Debt Management Office showing total public debt reached about ₦159.28 trillion as of December 2025. The increase has been driven by fresh borrowing and exchange rate pressures.

    If additional loan requests exceeding $6 billion are approved, projections suggest the country’s total debt could approach ₦195 trillion.

    Criticism Mounts Over Borrowing Strategy

    The administration has faced criticism from opposition figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who questioned the pace and transparency of new borrowing. He warned that excessive debt without clear repayment plans could pose long-term risks.

    Critics have called for stronger accountability, detailed cost-benefit analysis, and strict adherence to procurement processes.

    President Calls for Shift in Public Narrative

    Tinubu argued that borrowing should be viewed within the context of economic productivity and long-term growth. He said many advanced economies rely on debt financing to achieve major development milestones.

    The President added that his administration is focused on building infrastructure and strengthening the economy to ensure debts are sustainably managed.