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Since assuming office on May 29, 2023, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has emerged as one of Nigeria’s most notable performing Governors. His administration’s “MORE Agenda” — Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace And Security — has provided a clear roadmap for governance, translating plans into tangible outcomes across infrastructure, social welfare, and fiscal management.

Delta State under Governor Oborevwori is proving that clear vision and disciplined execution can deliver real change.

In just about every sector and aspect of leadership the protagonist of the M.O.R.E Agenda the Executive Governor of Delta State Chief Sheriff Oborevwori has shown unrivaled competency, unflinching capacity and unwavering clarity of purpose and vision.

Infrastructure Delivery: Roads, Bridges, and Connectivity.

The Oborevwori administration has prioritized large-scale infrastructure development. It might interest my readers to know that over 510 Road and Bridge Projects covering nearly 1,450 km are ongoing, and quite a huge number of these laudable projects have been completed in less than 2 and half years of Governor Oborevwori’s watch.

Need I mention the many major urban interchanges, including PTI Junction, DSC Roundabout, and Enerhen Junction which targets improved urban mobility. Should I include the very profound Projects linking the towns and villages around Asaba with the State Capital, Asaba. There is always more with the M.O.R.E Agenda of Governor Sheriff, as he is fondly called.

Rural and Riverine areas are receiving critical connectivity projects, ensuring equitable development. These initiatives not only enhance commerce and mobility but also improve daily life for Delta State residents.

From Urban Centres to Rural communities, Delta State is seeing roads and bridges that truly connect its people.

Fiscal Discipline and Economic Growth

Delta State has seen remarkable fiscal improvements under Governor Oborevwori. Under his watch, Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) rose from ₦83 billion in 2023 to ₦158 billion in 2024.

The State’s debt dropped from ₦465 billion to ₦249 billion, reflecting fiscal prudence. And Infrastructure development continues without over-reliance on borrowing.

The above figures highlight an administration that manages resources efficiently while delivering large-scale projects.

People-Centered Governance

Oborevwori’s administration emphasizes human capital and social inclusion. It is on record that in the less than 2 years and 6 months of Governor Sheriff’s administration thousands of teaching and non-teaching staff have been recruited across the Local Government Areas of Delta State.

Further to the commitment of the government to education and job creation Governor Sheriff has liberally expanded the scope, size and volume of Student Bursaries as well as the Technical Training and Skill Acquisition Centres across the State.

And remarkably, Social programs like empowerment grants and monthly stipends for vulnerable groups have benefited tens of thousands across the Local Government Areas of the State.

Governor Oborevwori’s policies ensure that no community or citizen is left behind in Delta State’s development journey.

Promoting Peace and Inclusive Governance

Sustainable development requires peace and stability. Such is the fillip that drives Governor Oborevwori’s engagement of Traditional Rulers, Youth Groups, and Community Stakeholders in ensuring a united, peaceful and harmonious Delta State, and the success of this governmental programmatic is halcyon.

It is important to state without equivocation that one of the linchpins of Sheriff’s administration is enforced accountability, and a dogged pledge to remove underperforming officials and punish erring staff.

His pledge to ensure that Delta State under his watch works for all inspires the many extended programs to previously marginalized communities, fostering inclusion. Need I mention the many Urban and Rural projects scattered across the 3 Senatorial Zones of Delta State, or need I tell you how the State has transitioned into a huge construction site under Governor Sheriff? Don’t worry the sequel to this series shall marvel you with figures and statistics.

Recognition and National Credibility

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s achievements have earned him numerous national acclaim amongst which is, The Governor of the Year 2024 by multiple media houses like the Thisday Newspapers and Arise TV Group, the Vanguard Newspapers, the Silverbird Group, the Sun Newspapers, News Telegraph et al.

He has also been named The Most Prolific Governor of the Year 2025 by the Democracy Heroes Award.

He has been generously commended by elder statesmen and civic leaders for tangible achievements in leadership in such a short period, and this underscores the clarity of purpose and vision of Governor Sheriff.

Challenges and the Road Ahead

While performance is evident, challenges remain, and the ebullient Governor of Delta State Chief Sheriff Oborevwori is not unmindful of this fact. He is therefore committed to sustaining the quality of large-scale projects in the State. He is also committed to ensuring that more jobs are created and greater rural economic development is achieved. And he is committed to strengthening transparency and citizen engagement.

I shall talk about the bold and daring foray into fixing Federal Roads that directly impact the lives of Deltans in the sequel to this effort. Are you aware that very recently he flagged-off the Construction of the Benin-Sapele Road (a Federal Road), do not salivate just yet, I promise you more details and data in the sequel.

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has proven that purpose-driven governance produces results. Delta State’s transformation under his leadership is manifestly cast-in-iron. And with Governor Sheriff M.O.R.E is Assured.

Dr. Emmanuel Ashikodi
Concerned Professionals For Good Governance. (A Good Governance Advocacy Group).

By Mike Odeh James

The Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Reverend John Joseph Hayab, has described the persistent killings of Christians in Northern Nigeria as genocide, insisting that continued denial of the reality constitutes a grave injustice to the victims and their families.

Speaking during an interview on ARISE News Morning show on Wednesday, Reverend Hayab said it was time for Nigerians to confront the truth about religiously motivated violence, which he noted predates the Boko Haram insurgency. He maintained that the failure to acknowledge the targeted attacks against Christians had made genuine reconciliation and national unity difficult.

“Can I consider what has been happening as genocide against Christians? My straightforward answer is yes – Y-E-S, Yes,” Reverend Hayab declared. “The violence did not start with Boko Haram; it has existed for decades. We have buried too many for anyone to pretend otherwise.”

According to him, repeated attempts to explain the killings as mere farmers-herders clashes were not only misleading but also disrespectful to those who had lost their lives and loved ones because of their faith.

“Anybody who says there is no Christian genocide is not being fair to the Christians of Northern Nigeria,” he said. “Some of us have buried victims in large numbers. We can name the dates and locations. These are not imaginations; they are lived experiences.”

Reverend Hayab recalled that long before the Boko Haram insurgency, several crises specifically targeted Christians, including the 2000 Sharia riots in Kaduna and the 2002 Miss World riots, which left hundreds dead and churches destroyed.

“I personally took part in some of the burials,” he said. “Pastors were killed, churches were burnt, and entire families were displaced simply because of their faith.”

Beyond the killings, the Northern CAN Chairman expressed concern over what he called institutional discrimination against Christians in education and public institutions.
“Our children are denied admission into certain universities, not because they are not qualified, but because they are Christians,” he alleged. “In many public schools, Christian students have no chapels and are forced to worship in classrooms.”

He urged the government and citizens to first acknowledge that something had gone wrong before efforts at reconciliation could be meaningful.

“If we admit that Christians have been killed and indeed we have buried many, then we can begin to heal,” he said. “But as long as we keep denying it, we will continue to deceive ourselves.”

Tracing the roots of religious extremism in Northern Nigeria, Reverend Hayab noted that such intolerance did not begin with Boko Haram. He cited the Maitatsine uprisings of the late 1970s and early 1980s as an early sign of violent ideology that has since evolved into terrorism.

“Back then, the term ‘terrorism’ wasn’t common, but what Maitatsine did was exactly terrorism,” he explained. “Boko Haram only made the ideology more official; that anyone who does not share their belief is an infidel.”

He also blamed some religious teachings in the 1980s for deepening divisions that still influence Nigeria’s politics and social relations today.

“One prominent cleric once said publicly that, according to his faith, a Christian could not lead him, and he also could not be led by a woman,” Hayab recalled. “That kind of thinking has continued to shape how people relate with others of different faiths.”

Reverend Hayab, who also serves as the Country Director of the Global Peace Foundation Nigeria (GPFN), said lasting peace can only be achieved when truth, justice, and mutual respect are prioritized.

“We cannot keep denying reality and expect peace,” he warned. “The first step toward healing this nation is to tell ourselves the truth and ensure justice for all victims.”

A heated exchange ensued on Monday in Abuja between former Minister of Transportation, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, and former Kaduna Central Senator, Shehu Sani, during the National Electoral Reforms Summit 2025, as both clashed over the performance of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

Amaechi, in his remarks at the summit organized by the Movement for Electoral Reform, took a swipe at the current administration, describing it as “insensitive to the yearnings of Nigerians.” He lamented the worsening hardship across the country, accusing the government of failing to deliver good governance and protect citizens from economic suffering.

“People are suffering, yet there is no ASUU, no NLC, no NANS to mount pressure on the government. Nigerians are quiet when they should be demanding accountability,” Amaechi said, warning that Tinubu’s government is “defeatable” through democratic means.

However, his comments immediately drew a strong reaction from Senator Sani, who accused Amaechi of hypocrisy, reminding him of his own record in public service.

“You were part of governance from the state to the centre for many years, with little or no remarkable achievement,” Sani fired back. “You are now attacking Nigerians for not protesting, but you yourself never led any protest when you were in power.”

The former lawmaker argued that many of the challenges now blamed on Tinubu’s administration were created by previous leaders — including those who served under both the PDP and APC governments since 1999.

“All that he is pointing out as bad were problems created by leaders like him. It is ironic that after two years out of power, he has suddenly become a critic,” Sani added.

The National Electoral Reforms Summit 2025, held in Abuja, brought together politicians, civil society leaders, and electoral experts to deliberate on strengthening Nigeria’s democratic institutions ahead of future elections.

Other notable participants included Dr. Usman Bugaje, IPAC Chairman Peter Ameh, former SDP presidential candidate Prince Adewole Adebayo, Dr. Yunusa Tanko, Dr. Oby Ezekwesili, and Senator Eyinnaya Abaribe.

The fiery Amaechi–Sani exchange became the highlight of the summit, drawing mixed reactions from attendees who described it as a reflection of the growing ideological and moral divides within Nigeria’s political elites.

Abuja, Nigeria — Former Kaduna Central Senator and human rights activist Shehu Sani has issued a strong rebuttal to former U.S. President Donald Trump’s remarks on Nigeria, accusing him of relying on “anarchists and propagandists” who deliberately distort the country’s security situation for political ends.

In an interview with the Washington Post, Sani said Trump had been “misinformed and misled by anarchists and propagandists” spreading half-truths about Nigeria’s war against terrorism and internal security challenges.

“Trump’s views about Nigeria and its leadership were shaped by people who thrive in chaos and division,” Sani stated. “They present a one-sided picture of insecurity and ignore the courage and resilience of Nigerians confronting terrorism daily.”

The former senator, who served in the 8th National Assembly and is known for his outspoken activism, acknowledged that while Nigeria continues to face grave threats from insurgents, bandits, and extremist groups, the country remains steadfast in its determination to restore peace.

“Nigeria will defeat terrorism. It may take time and sacrifice, but the people have refused to surrender to fear,” Sani said. “Our diversity and democracy remain stronger than the hate and violence of extremists.”

He called on the international community, particularly the United States, to adopt a more balanced and fact-based approach in assessing Nigeria’s internal challenges. According to Sani, foreign leaders should focus on supporting Nigeria through intelligence sharing, humanitarian aid, and fair diplomacy, rather than amplifying politically motivated narratives.

“Western countries must not allow bias or misinformation to shape their policy towards Africa,” he cautioned. “The weaponization of falsehoods against nations like Nigeria only fuels division and weakens the fight against terror.”

Sani further stressed that Nigeria’s security battle cannot be won through military means alone. He advocated for a comprehensive approach that tackles the root causes of extremism — including poverty, unemployment, and corruption.

“The fight against terrorism requires both force and fairness,” he explained. “Without justice and inclusion, we risk perpetuating the same cycle of violence we seek to end.”

The interview comes amid heightened global scrutiny of Nigeria’s human rights record and its ongoing war against terror groups such as Boko Haram and Islamic State in West Africa Province (ISWAP). Several recent foreign commentaries — including those from U.S. and European analysts — have accused the Nigerian government of mishandling security crises and ignoring civilian suffering.

Sani, however, warned that outsiders often overlook local resilience and reform efforts while magnifying negative narratives. He described such portrayals as harmful to Nigeria’s democratic image and counterproductive to peacebuilding efforts.

“Nigeria’s story should be told by Nigerians, not by those who profit from its pain,” he declared.

The former senator concluded by expressing optimism that, despite current hardships, Nigeria’s unity, diversity, and democratic values would ultimately triumph over extremism and misinformation.

The Forum for Growth and Development of Nigeria (FGDN) has urged the European Union (EU), the United Kingdom (UK), the People’s Republic of China, and Canada to impose visa restrictions on individuals engaging in what it described as “coordinated social media attacks” against the organization and its leadership.

In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Dr. Adams Shaiza Musa, and made available to journalists in Kaduna, the group expressed deep concern over what it termed an increasing wave of “malicious and unhealthy” online campaigns targeted at both local and international organizations.

According to the statement, FGDN—known for its advocacy for national unity, good governance, and youth empowerment—said it has recently noticed some “unwarranted and orchestrated online assaults” aimed at discrediting international organizations.

“We are disturbed by the level of hate speech and false narratives being peddled on social media against several organizations. These attacks are not only defamatory, but also capable of inciting divisions and discouraging civic engagement between patriotic Nigerians and international communities,” the statement read.

While reaffirming support for the constitutional right to freedom of expression, the group stressed that such freedom must be exercised responsibly and within the bounds of truth and decency. It warned that the abuse of digital platforms to spread misinformation and launch personal attacks poses a threat to national unity and social cohesion.

“We call on the embassies of the EU member states, China, the United Kingdom, and Canada to take note of individuals who habitually use the internet to malign others. They should be denied visas and international privileges until they desist from such unethical conduct,” FGDN stated.

The group also called on relevant Nigerian agencies, including the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), to strengthen regulatory measures governing online communication in order to curb misinformation and cyberbullying.

However, it reaffirmed FGDN’s commitment to promoting development-oriented dialogue, civic education, and initiatives that foster peace and social progress across Nigeria.

“FGDN remains focused on its mission to contribute positively to national development. We will not support those who seek attention through baseless accusations. Our objective is to unite Nigerians with international communities around ideas that can move the nation forward,” he said.

The statement concluded with an appeal to media practitioners and social commentators to verify information before publishing or sharing it online, urging them to uphold ethics and professionalism in their work.

In a nation where economic hardship continues to test the resilience of its people, the Department of State Services (DSS) under the visionary leadership of Director General Mr. Adeola Oluwafemi Ajayi, has once again demonstrated that true security transcends the barrel of the gun. The recent announcement of a N50,000 one-time cash assistance to 7,774 carefully selected vulnerable Nigerians, 10 from each of the 774 local government areas stands as a landmark achievement in the annals of non-kinetic security operations in Nigeria.

This initiative, totaling approximately N388 million, is not merely a welfare gesture, it is a masterstroke in nation-building, social inclusion and sustainable peace.

The Nineteen Seventeen Northern Consensus Movement for Peace, Unity, Empowerment and Development Initiative (NSNCM) wholeheartedly commends the DSS and its Director General for this people-centered intervention. By deliberately targeting the “poorest of the poor”, widows, the elderly, persons with disabilities, the unemployed, and those burdened by medical challenges. It recognizes that hunger, despair and exclusion are fertile grounds for unrest, radicalization and criminality. In providing direct financial relief, the DSS is not only alleviating immediate suffering but is also fortifying the social fabric of our beloved country.

The selection process itself deserves special praise. Unlike many top-down interventions that often bypass the most deserving, the DSS adopted a grassroots, consultative approach. Security heads, traditional rulers, religious leaders, local government officials, and community stakeholders were all involved in identifying beneficiaries. This ensures transparency, fairness, and cultural relevance. When an 80-year-old grandfather like Pa Segun in the Southwest receives his N50,000 with tears of gratitude, it is not just money changing hands, it is dignity being restored, hope being rekindled, and loyalty to the state being reinforced.

For the beneficiaries, this N50,000 is far more than a cash transfer, it is a lifeline with transformative potential. In rural communities where daily income barely exceeds N500, this sum can cover three months of basic food needs for a family of five. A widow in Sokoto can now purchase grains, cooking oil, and medicine without begging. An unemployed youth in Ebonyi can use the funds to start a small poultry or vegetable farm, generating sustainable income. A disabled artisan in Kano can acquire tools to resume his trade. These are not abstract possibilities, they are real pathways out of poverty, made possible by the DSS’s foresight.

Moreover, this initiative aligns perfectly with global best practices in countering violent extremism. Research from the United Nations and the Institute for Economics and Peace consistently shows that economic empowerment reduces vulnerability to recruitment by criminal or terrorist groups. When citizens feel seen, supported, and valued by state institutions, they become active defenders of peace. The DSS, through this program, is building a human security firewall and deserve our commendation for that. We particularly applaud the DG’s emphasis on “winning hearts and minds.” This is leadership with empathy.

In a time when security agencies are often criticized for heavy-handedness, Mr. Ajayi has shown that strength also lies in compassion. By investing nearly N400 million of its resources into direct citizen support, the DSS is setting a powerful example for other agencies and tiers of government. We call on state governors, local government chairmen, and federal ministries to emulate this model. Imagine the impact if every security outfit in Nigeria allocated just 1% of its budget to similar empowerment schemes.

As the National President of the Nineteen Seventeen Northern Consensus Movement, I urge the DSS to sustain and expand this initiative. Future phases could include skills training, micro-credit follow-ups, and digital literacy programs to ensure long-term self-reliance. We also recommend the establishment of a public monitoring framework, perhaps through civil society partnerships to track outcomes and share success stories nationwide.

In conclusion, the DSS N50,000 cash assistance program is without doubt a beacon of hope in Nigeria’s development journey. It proves that security is not just about intelligence and enforcement but about justice, equity and human dignity.

On behalf of the Nineteen Seventeen Northern Consensus Movement for Peace, Unity, Empowerment and Development Initiative (NSNCM), I extend our deepest gratitude to Director General Adeola Ajayi and the entire DSS family. May this initiative inspire a new era of inclusive governance where no Nigerian is left behind.

Dr Awwal Abdullahi Aliyu
Sarkin Yakin Kanya Babba,
National President
Nineteen Seventeen Northern Consensus Movement For Peace, Unity, Empowerment and Development Initiative (NSNCM)

Samson Baruwa

Abuja,

– The Southern and Middle Belt Leaders Forum (SMBLF) has expressed serious concern over the recent designation of Nigeria by United States President Donald Trump as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) due to alleged widespread persecution of Christians, even as it opposed any form of foreign military intervention in the country.

In a communiqué issued at the end of its National Caucus meeting held on Saturday, November 2, 2025, the Forum described Trump’s designation as a “wake-up call” to the Federal Government to act decisively in halting what it called “the ongoing mayhem and killings” across the country.

The meeting, which brought together leaders of the four major socio-cultural and political blocs—Afenifere, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the Middle Belt Forum, and PANDEF—was convened to discuss matters of urgent national importance, particularly the US designation, insecurity, and the political direction of Nigeria ahead of the 2027 general elections.

According to the communiqué signed by HRM Oba Oladipo Olaitan, Leader of Afenifere; Dr. Bitrus Pogu, President of the Middle Belt Forum; Senator John Azuta-Mbata, President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide; and H.E. Ambassador Godknows Igali, National Chairman of PANDEF, the Forum noted that while Nigeria must reject external interference, it must equally confront internal threats that have destroyed lives and displaced communities.

“The SMBLF notes with very serious concern the designation by the US President Donald Trump of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern over religious persecution against Christians,” the communiqué stated.

The leaders affirmed their opposition to any “unsolicited foreign military intervention in Nigeria over any matter.” However, they described the CPC designation as a serious warning to the authorities in Abuja to take full responsibility for restoring order, justice, and equity in the handling of national security.

“We consider the designation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern a wake-up call to the Federal Government to pursue with a sense of urgency and responsibility halting the ongoing mayhem and killings,” the communiqué read.

The Forum specifically called on the government to confront and dismantle the various militias, killer herdsmen, and Islamist terrorist groups that have been blamed for massacres and land seizures in parts of the country. It urged the administration to “restore occupied lands to their rightful owners of all faiths and ethnic nationalities,” naming Benue, Plateau, Southern Kaduna, Taraba, Gombe, Southern Borno, and Southern Kebbi as areas most affected by the violence.

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Call for Security Sector Reforms

While acknowledging the recent reshuffling of the nation’s Service Chiefs, the SMBLF said the move was welcome but insufficient. The Forum called on the President to extend the reform process to other key defence and security institutions, particularly the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), the Minister of Defence, and the Minister of State for Defence.

According to the Forum, these strategic positions “are presently occupied by persons from one section of the country,” a situation that does not reflect Nigeria’s ethnic and regional diversity.

“This will not only ensure a comprehensive overhaul of the national defence architecture but also reflect the diversity of the country,” the communiqué declared.

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Nnamdi Kanu’s Continued Detention

On the issue of detained IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu, the SMBLF reaffirmed its commitment to Nigeria’s unity but criticized what it described as the excessive military response by previous administrations to peaceful agitations.

“SMBLF restates its commitment to the unity and continued coexistence of the Nigerian Federation wherein every citizen and constituent ethnic nationality will be equally respected and have genuine sense of belonging,” the statement read.

The Forum recalled that Kanu’s agitation began peacefully but was “radicalised by ill-advised and excessive military responses codenamed operations ‘Crocodile Smile’ and ‘Python Dance’ by the erstwhile Buhari administration.” These military campaigns, the group argued, forced Kanu into exile, leading to his arrest in Kenya, rendition to Nigeria in 2021, and ongoing prosecution since then.

Without prejudice

When we first red the words of President Donald Trump on social media over the weekend that he may send U.S troops into Nigeria over what he described as “Christian killings” in this country, we felt more than surprise. We felt the sharp pang of a violation, not only of facts, but of our dignity as a sovereign nation.

We are saying this as plainly as possible: yes, Nigeria suffers insecurity. But no, we do not live under a campaign of targeted genocide against Christians. Violence in Nigeria is not shaped by faith alone. It is shaped by geography, by poverty, by criminal networks, and by terror groups who kill indiscriminately both Christians and Muslims, infact more Muslims have been killed by these groups than Christians.

When a foreign power threatens invasion or military action on behalf of one religious group, we must see it not as defence, but as interference. It risks dividing us further, weakening our national resolve, and eroding the principle that no external actor takes orders from a sovereign that will not give them. In that moment, we must remind ourselves: we are Nigerians first. United in diversity. Bound by shared citizenship.

President Trump has claimed there are “record numbers of Christians being killed in Nigeria,” suggesting U.S. military action could follow unless those “killings” stop. He even placed Nigeria once more on the so-called “Countries of Particular Concern” list, citing alleged religious freedom violations. When violence occurs in northern or central Nigeria, it may strike Christian communities, especially in mixed-religion zones, but the pattern is not one of religious extermination. It is instead a pattern of insecurity that fails us all. It undermines farmers, destroys villages, displaces families and leaves both Christians and Muslims reeling in pain and anguish.

We must state clearly: Nigeria is a sovereign state. We do not take orders from another sovereign, whether in rhetoric or in action. If any foreign leader believes that military operations can simply be imposed on Nigeria because of alleged human rights violations, then that undermines our constitutional independence. If the U.S. has concerns about religious freedom or violence, there are diplomatic channels, partnership frameworks, multilateral mechanisms. But they do not extend to invading a country under the banner of defence of one religious group. That is dangerous. It could set a precedent not just for Nigeria, but for all nations.

We also must remember: the United States itself faces severe internal challenges. Gun violence, domestic terrorism, civil unrest, fracturing communities etc. These are real issues within its own borders. It is somewhat ironic to issue threats of military intervention abroad while your own soil is grappling with violence. Perhaps America should look inward and address its challenges before brandishing threats against another country.

That said, we cannot dismiss the reality: Nigeria does face a ravaging insecurity crisis. Boko Haram, ISWAP, bandits, kidnappers, ethno-communal violence etc. These are real and they harm people, regardless of faith. We must acknowledge that the government, security forces, civil society and citizens are striving every day to curb the carnage.
There are efforts under way: military operations in the northeast, patrols in rural communities, peace-building dialogues, policing reforms, attempts at disarmament, investment in local conflict resolution mechanisms and coordination with international partners who support not through threats, but through capacity-building.

We must support that. We must urge it. Because while external threats of invasion are misguided, internal reform is both necessary and urgent. Our leaders must be held accountable. Our security architecture must be improved. Our communities must heal.

In this moment of tension, Nigerians must resist the temptation to divide along religious lines. We must reject false narratives that places Christians against Muslims or one region against another. Such division plays into the hands of violent actors which are the terrorists, the extremists, the opportunists, who thrive in fragmentation.

Let us instead remind ourselves of who we are: a country of over 200 million people, with many faiths and ethnicities, united by a shared aspiration for peace, security and development. When we say “security for all,” we mean every Nigerian, regardless of faith or tribe.

When foreign voices threaten intervention in the name of one group, we should see that as a call not to turn inward in anger alone, but to stand outward in solidarity. We must also call on our leaders to continue to fight insurgency, modernise our security forces, ensure justice for victims, invest in community protection and reform local governance. Let our security strategy be shaped by Nigerians first, with Nigerian consent, not by pressure applied from beyond our borders.

Conclusively, let us not celebrate the absurd idea that an American leader might invade our land for alleged failures that do not reflect the full picture. That kind of rhetoric divides more than it heals.
Instead, let us affirm our unity. Let us work harder to build a security architecture that protects all Nigerians. Let us demand good governance, efficient security service, and genuine justice. Let us resist external coercion, and stand tall under our own flag.

May we remain one people, one nation, committed to peace, justice and greater destiny under God Almighty.

Dr. Awwal Abdullahi Aliyu, President, Northern Consensus Movement for peace unity empowerment and Development initiative. NSNCM.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda is the overarching philosophy guiding his administration’s policies, which focus on restoring confidence, attracting investments, and empowering citizens through various initiatives.

“Renewed hope” means a revived or re-established sense of optimism and belief in a positive future, often after a period of difficulty or disappointment. It signifies regaining hope and confidence, whether through personal effort, external programs, or spiritual means, to overcome challenges and strive for a better life.

For Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi, Director General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), his devotion and dedication to attracting investments in the energy sector and striving to put the sector on the global map is highly commendable.

As a dedicated believer in the Renewed Hope Agenda and its benefits to Nigerians, he has made remarkable progress in repositioning the energy sector.

Recently, Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi recorded a great feat and landmark achievement as he finalized a partnership between Nigeria and the world’s largest solar panel production company, LONGi, at its headquarters in Xi’an, Shaanxi, China.

Nigeria, through the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), concluded this strategic partnership with LONGi, the world’s leading solar technology manufacturer. The Nigerian delegation, led by Dr. Abdullahi, was received by President Boshen Zhong and Vice President Li Wenxue of LONGi, who took them on a tour of one of the world’s largest solar cell production facilities.

The visit followed the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between ECN and LONGi in London earlier this year. During the visit, Dr. Abdullahi advanced discussions on establishing a 500–1000 MW solar panel production factory in Nigeria — a move set to significantly boost the nation’s renewable energy capacity.

ECN’s presentation to LONGi highlighted Africa’s growing market and the increasing demand for solar mini-grids. It also emphasized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Solarisation Policy, which seeks to accelerate access to clean and affordable energy across Nigeria.

LONGi expressed strong interest in investing in Nigeria and demonstrated readiness to advance concrete plans for the construction of the factory. This partnership marks a historic milestone for the Nigerian renewable energy landscape and aligns with national efforts to expand local solar manufacturing capacity.

The ECN, under Dr. Abdullahi’s visionary leadership, is working assiduously to ensure that Nigerians enjoy improved electricity supply. His management team is delivering on the Renewed Hope Initiative of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, particularly its policy on solarisation. The Commission looks forward to working closely with LONGi and the Federal Government to realize this transformative initiative, which will create jobs, enhance energy security, and drive sustainable development across the country.

In another positive development and in constant pursuit of delivering the benefits of the Renewed Hope Agenda to Nigerians, the Energy Commission of Nigeria, through its DG Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi, signed a Memorandum of Understanding with UNIDACO Limited, London, for an initial €100 million investment in Nigeria’s energy sector.

Speaking on the development, Dr. Abdullahi stated, “The signing, held at the House of Lords, London, during the Renewed Hope Global Dialogue (UK Edition), marks a major milestone in advancing Nigeria’s clean energy transition.”

According to him, “This partnership underscores our commitment to expanding renewable energy access, driving innovation, and strengthening Nigeria’s capacity to harness clean technologies. Moreover, it aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly on sustainable energy solutions as a catalyst for economic growth and development.”

He added that the distinctive MoU was signed in the presence of dignitaries and investors of repute from Nigeria and across the world. “Overall, this milestone reaffirms our resolve to deepen global partnerships that will accelerate Nigeria’s energy transformation. Together, we are charting a new course toward an inclusive, energy-secure, and prosperous nation built on innovation and collaboration,” Dr. Abdullahi concluded.

With ardent adherents of the Renewed Hope Agenda like Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi, Director General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria, the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is truly walking the talk of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

The Kaduna State chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has dismissed as null and void the purported expulsion of its Acting Chairman, Hon. Ahmed Tijjani Mustapha, and several other key party officials in the state.

In a statement issued on Monday, October 27, 2025, and signed by the State Publicity Secretary, Engr. Idris Musa, the party described the alleged expulsion as a desperate move by individuals who, according to the ADC, are not bona fide members of the party.

Engr. Musa stated that the individuals behind the purported expulsion are members of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in Kaduna State but have been parading themselves as ADC members with the aim of hijacking the party’s structure in the state and across the North-West zone.

“We wish to inform all well-meaning and duly registered members of the ADC in Kaduna State to disregard the said expulsion, as it is considered null and void,” the statement said.

“The action appears to be a desperate attempt by individuals who are not members of the ADC but are struggling to take over the party under the guise of coalition partners. It’s either you are in the ADC or you are out,” the party added.

The statement further linked the alleged expulsion to a pending legal case — Suit No. FCT/HC/GAR/CV/383/2025 — filed at the FCT High Court in Abuja. The case reportedly challenges the dual membership status of former Kaduna State Governor Malam Nasir El-Rufai and others.

Engr. Musa noted that the move against the state leadership, including Hon. Ahmed Tijjani Mustapha, Engr. Idris Musa, Alhaji Suleiman Abdulkadir, and Barr. Danlami Dabai, was a “fight-back” by those affected by the legal action.

The statement urged ADC members across Kaduna State to remain calm and law-abiding while the matter is before the court.

“We will not join issues with these individuals, especially in view of the pending case at the FCT High Court in Abuja. Our party will continue to operate in accordance with its Constitution and principles, and we will not be swayed by the antics of desperate politicians,” it stated.

The ADC reaffirmed its commitment to internal democracy, rule of law, and the unity of its members in Kaduna State and beyond.