Arewa Times

The Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN) has congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the occasion of his birthday, lauding his leadership and commitment to national development, particularly in the energy sector.

In a statement issued on behalf of the Commission, the Director-General of the ECN, Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi, described the President as a courageous leader whose reform-driven governance has continued to inspire confidence and optimism across the country.

Abdullahi noted that Tinubu’s administration has demonstrated strong resolve in repositioning Nigeria’s energy landscape, with a clear focus on sustainability and innovation. He particularly highlighted the President’s support for solarisation initiatives and the transition to renewable energy, which he said have significantly improved power access in key sectors.

According to him, over 37 health institutions, tertiary institutions, Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), as well as several rural and urban communities, have benefited from solar energy interventions within the last three years.

He further commended the President’s role as Chairman of the ECN Board, noting that his practical commitment to energy reforms is laying a solid foundation for resilience, innovation, and sustainable national development.

“Your courageous leadership, firm resolve, and bold reform-driven governance continue to serve as a springboard for a renewed Nigeria,” Abdullahi stated.

The ECN boss also acknowledged the President’s broader impact across critical sectors, describing his leadership as instrumental in driving national progress.

He prayed for God to grant the President renewed wisdom, good health, and long life to continue steering the country toward greater prosperity.

“Happy Birthday, Mr. President,” the statement added, celebrating Tinubu as a leader committed to the advancement of Nigeria.

Former Kaduna Central Senator, Shehu Sani, has condoled with former Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, over the death of his mother.

In a condolence message issued on Saturday, Sani described the passing as a profound loss not only to the El-Rufai family but also to Kaduna State and the nation at large.

He paid glowing tribute to the deceased, commending her life of service, community leadership, and the enduring legacy of her motherly care and guidance.

“Her death is a great loss to Kaduna State and the nation at large. We appreciate her life, community leadership, and motherly love,” he said.

Sani also prayed for the repose of her soul, asking Allah to forgive her shortcomings and grant her Aljannatul Firdaus. He further prayed for strength and comfort for El-Rufai and his family in this moment of grief.

“May Allah console the heart of our former Governor and his family members,” he added.

Reflecting on a personal connection, the former lawmaker noted that the deceased was also the mother of his late childhood friend, Ibrahim Iro El-Rufai, who died in a tragic road accident in 2014.

He concluded with the Islamic expression, “Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un,” meaning, “Indeed, we belong to Allah, and indeed to Him we shall return.”

By Barrister Aminu Hussaini Sagagi

In moments of political turbulence, leadership is ultimately judged not by loyalty to structures in crises, but by fidelity to the people one serves. The recent ruling of the Apo Judicial Division of the Federal Capital Territory High Court, which recognized the Boniface Aniebonam faction of the NNPP as the legally authentic party and directed INEC accordingly, has brought a decisive clarity to what had long been an increasingly murky and destabilizing internal conflict.

For the Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, this judicial pronouncement does more than settle a factional dispute, it vindicates a decision that, at the time it was made, attracted fierce criticism but was rooted in pragmatic foresight and responsibility.

When the Governor chose to part ways with the faction aligned to Sen. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the dominant narrative pushed by critics was one of betrayal. Yet, with the benefit of unfolding events and now the weight of judicial affirmation, it is increasingly evident that the decision was not about political convenience but about safeguarding the stability of Kano State.

At the heart of the matter lies a simple but propound principle that governance cannot thrive in the shadow of legal uncertainty and factional paralysis. The protracted crisis within the NNPP had already begun to cast a long shadow over its elected officials, raising legitimate concerns about party legitimacy, electoral mandates and the risks of prolonged litigations.

For a sitting Governor, the implications were stark; whether to remain entangled in a party facing existential legal disputes or chart a course that ensures continuity of governance and protects the mandate entrusted by the people. Governor Yusuf chose the latter.
His defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC) must therefore be understood not as an abandonment of political ideals, but as an act of strategic recalibration in the interest of the people. By stepping away from a party embroiled in internal contradictions, now confirmed by the court’s recognition of a rival faction, he effectively insulated Kano from the kind of instability that often accompanies prolonged political and legal crises.

Critically, this move also positioned the state to benefit from stronger alignment with the federal government. In Nigeria’s political economy, access matters. Federal collaboration can accelerate infrastructure development, enhance security coordination and unlock economic opportunities that might otherwise remain out of reach. In this regard, the governor’s decision reflects a clear prioritization of outcomes over optics and of tangible progress over partisan rigidity.

It is also worth noting that leadership sometimes requires the courage to endure temporary misunderstanding in pursuit of long-term stability. The initial backlash that greeted the governor’s move was, in many ways, inevitable in a political environment deeply shaped by loyalty to personalities and movements. However, as the internal contradictions within the NNPP have now been laid bare through judicial intervention, the logic underpinning Governor AKY’s decision becomes increasingly difficult to dispute.

This is not to suggest that political realignments are without consequence or controversy. They are, by nature, disruptive. But disruption, when guided by a clear commitment to public interest, can be a necessary prelude to stability and progress.
The unfolding reality, therefore, invites a reaffirming of the narrative. Rather than viewing the governor’s defection through the narrow lens of partisan allegiance, it should be seen within the broader context of responsible governance. Faced with a party in disarray and risk of legal and political uncertainty, Abba Kabir Yusuf chose a path that prioritized Kano first, its stability, its development and its future.

In the final analysis, history tends to be kinder to decisions that place people above politics. The recent court ruling does not merely resolve a party dispute, it underscores a deeper truth that in times of crisis, decisive leadership anchored in the public good will always find its justification.
Kano deserves stability; Kano deserves progress and above all, Kano deserves leadership that is willing to make difficult choices.

Barrister Hussaini is the Special Adviser to Governor AKY on Justice/Constitutional Matters.

By Abdullahi Sabiu

Fresh from a defining moment on the global stage in Japan, where he secured a prestigious international maritime leadership role, Abubakar Dantsoho clocks 57 with his profile not just rising at home, but commanding recognition across the world’s maritime corridors.

It is a fitting milestone for a man whose steady hand is fast redefining Nigeria’s port ecosystem.

At the helm of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dantsoho has emerged as a quiet reformer with global relevance—bridging local execution with international credibility. His recent recognition abroad is more than ceremonial; it is a validation of reforms taking root within Nigeria’s once-troubled port system.

Since assuming office, he has steered the NPA away from chronic inefficiencies toward a culture of discipline, coordination, and forward planning. Congestion is being confronted, processes are being streamlined, and the long-overdue march toward port digitisation is gaining traction. The result is a system gradually shedding its old image and embracing operational clarity.

Dantsoho’s leadership is defined by resolve rather than rhetoric. He understands that ports are not just terminals—they are economic lifelines.

Under his watch, every improvement in cargo clearance, every reduction in turnaround time, and every increase in transparency feeds directly into national productivity and investor confidence.

What sets him apart is his ability to navigate a complex web of stakeholders without losing focus. The maritime sector, long burdened by entrenched interests, is yielding—slowly but surely—to a new order driven by accountability and shared purpose.

Now, with global recognition reinforcing his local reforms, Dantsoho stands at a unique intersection: a technocrat with both domestic impact and international voice.

His growing influence signals that Nigeria is no longer content with being a passive player in global maritime affairs.

At 57, his journey reflects discipline, depth, and direction. Not loud, not flamboyant—but effective, strategic, and increasingly impossible to ignore.

As Nigeria pushes to unlock the vast potential of its blue economy, one thing is becoming clear: the momentum is real—and Dantsoho is firmly at its centre.

Complete Story:

The Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN) and the Nigerian Air Force have initiated a strategic partnership to enhance energy security and support anti-terrorism operations through renewable energy solutions. This development follows a courtesy visit by a delegation from the Nigerian Air Force, led by the Chief of Civil-Military Relations, Air Vice Marshal E. K. Gabkwet, and the Chief of Logistics, AVM A. I. Sambo, to the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja.

During the visit, Air Vice Marshal Gabkwet expressed appreciation to the Director General of ECN, Dr. Abdullahi, for granting the audience and conveyed the goodwill of the Chief of the Air Staff. He emphasized the importance of collaboration in developing renewable energy solutions to support anti-terrorism operations. He also requested technical training support from ECN for Air Force personnel and pledged the Air Force’s assistance in logistics, transportation, and other operational areas.

In his remarks, Dr. Abdullahi described the engagement as historic, noting that it is the first of its kind between the ECN and the military. He reiterated the Commission’s mandate to ensure national energy security and highlighted key policy frameworks, including the National Energy Policy (NEP) and the National Energy Master Plan (NEMP).

The Director-General further outlined ongoing solarisation projects in healthcare facilities and tertiary institutions, assuring the delegation that similar initiatives would be extended to the Nigerian Air Force. He also announced the immediate deployment of solar-powered lighting solutions to support Air Force operations.

Copies of the NEP and NEMP were presented to the delegation, and both parties affirmed that the partnership marks the beginning of sustained collaboration aimed at advancing national development and security.

The meeting was attended by ECN directors and members of the Air Force delegation, including AVM C. E. Akpa, Air Commodore L. O. Wabriboko, Air Commodore A. T. Adejimi, I. O. Akpasa, Squadron Leader A. B. Gambo, and Flight Lieutenant A. M. Aondoakaa.

Abdul Abdulahi

KADUNA – A wave of anticipation swept through the legal community in Kaduna on Wednesday as the Court of Appeal commenced hearings in a landmark case that could redefine the work and school week for millions of residents in Kaduna State.

The appeal, brought by legal practitioner Gloria Mabeiam Ballason, challenges the constitutionality of the four-day work and schooling week introduced by former Governor Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai. The policy, which took effect on December 1, 2021, has remained in place, sparking a significant legal debate about its impact on productivity and education.

In what legal observers are calling a pivotal moment for administrative law in the state, a seasoned panel of justices presided over the case. The Coram comprised Hon. Justice Onyekachi Aja Otisi, Hon. Justice Abimbola Osarugue Obaseki-Adejumo, and Hon. Justice Sybil Onyeji Nwaka-Gbagi, signalling the weight the appellate court places on the matter.

The courtroom was charged with intellectual rigor as Ballason, representing herself, adopted her brief of argument. She passionately urged the justices to allow the appeal, contending that the executive order oversteps constitutional bounds and has adversely affected workforce productivity and the academic calendar of school children.

On the other side, the legal machinery of the state government was in full force. The Attorney General of Kaduna State, Dr. J.A. Kanyip, led a formidable legal team—including A.A. Aku, S.M. Gamaliel, M.P. Danjuma, and Koni Tauna—to defend the policy. They adopted their brief and urged the court to uphold the ruling of the lower court and dismiss the appeal. Notably, the Minister of Interior, listed as the 4th Respondent, was unrepresented despite proof of service.

After a thorough session where all sides presented their arguments, the presiding justices reserved judgment, leaving the state’s workforce, parents, and students in eager anticipation of a ruling that could either validate a unique approach to governance or steer the state back to the traditional five-day structure.

The judgment, once delivered, is expected to have far-reaching implications for the rhythm of life in Kaduna State.

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By Mike Makawa Abuja

A former Administrator of Jaba Local Government Area in Kaduna State, women’s rights advocate, and filmmaker, Nita Byack George, has praised Governor Uba Sani for fostering a political environment that actively supports the push for the Reserved Seats for Women Bill, currently before the National Assembly.

Byack made the commendation on Sunday while marking International Women’s Day, spotlighting Kaduna State’s increasing prominence as a strategic centre for initiatives aimed at boosting female political representation, particularly in Northern Nigeria.

She noted that the state has recently hosted several pivotal engagements that have significantly advanced national advocacy for the bill. According to Byack, one of the earliest major initiatives took place on December 5, 2025, during the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. On that day, Kaduna convened its first State Advocacy Power Table, a forum dedicated entirely to discussions on the proposed legislation.

The meeting, organised by Byack—widely known as “the Administrator”—in collaboration with the Nigerian League of Women Voters (NILOWV) and the Women’s Rights Advancement and Protection Alternative (WRAPA), brought together lawmakers, women leaders, civil society organisations, students, and development partners. Participants lauded the session as a crucial step, moving the campaign beyond public awareness into structured legislative dialogue at both state and federal levels.

Byack further highlighted a landmark event on January 29, 2026, when Kaduna hosted the Northwest Regional Advocacy Forum on the Reserved Seats for Women Bill. The forum was led by the Majority Leader of the Kaduna State House of Assembly, Munirat Sulieman Tanimu, and united women leaders and political stakeholders from across the region.

The presence of top government officials underscored the state’s commitment. Governor Uba Sani attended the forum alongside his deputy, Dr. Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe; the governor’s wife, Hafsatu Uba Sani; and the National Woman Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Mary Alile. Byack stated that this high-level participation demonstrated tangible political will and reassured advocates that the Kaduna State Government is a firm ally in the fight for gender-inclusive reforms.

Beyond direct political advocacy, Byack noted that cultural platforms are also playing a role. The Arewa International Film Festival, founded by actress Rahama Sadau and hosted in Kaduna, provided an additional avenue to amplify discussions on women in leadership, proving that dialogue on inclusive governance can thrive across various sectors.

Byack asserted that the Kaduna State Government’s support for political, legislative, and cultural platforms has been instrumental in creating safe spaces for women to organise, engage policymakers, and shape national conversations on constitutional reform.

She expressed strong optimism that as the Reserved Seats for Women Bill approaches decisive stages in the National Assembly, Kaduna will continue to serve as a model for how subnational governments can champion women’s political participation.

“The sustained backing from Governor Uba Sani is not just encouraging for us in Kaduna; it sends a powerful signal to legislators and stakeholders nationwide,” Byack said. She added that this visible political commitment could be the catalyst that increases the bill’s chances of eventual passage, paving the way for a more inclusive democracy in Nigeria.

By Yunusa Hamza (Farin Dutse)

Leadership in its truest sense transcends the mere occupation of public office. It is defined not simply by authority, but by the character, discipline and sense of purpose that leaders bring to governance. In Nigeria’s evolving democratic landscape, the question of leadership quality remains central to national discourse. Citizens increasingly seek leaders whose actions reflect integrity, accountability and a genuine commitment to public service.

Within this context, two contemporary public figures stand out for the clarity of their convictions and the strength of their leadership identities. The National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, and the Governor of Jigawa State, Mallam Umar Namadi, represent distinctive yet complementary approaches to leadership and governance. Although they operate in different spheres of responsibility, one at the national level and the other within the subnational space, their leadership styles demonstrate how personality and character shape policy direction and governance outcomes.

Nuhu Ribadu’s public identity has for decades been closely associated with courage, reformist zeal and an uncompromising stance on accountability. His rise to national prominence began during his tenure in the anti corruption fight, where he earned a reputation as a principled reformer determined to challenge entrenched systems of abuse and impunity.
Today, as National Security Adviser, Ribadu occupies one of the most strategic positions within Nigeria’s governance architecture. In this role, his leadership style continues to reflect the same attributes that defined his earlier public service. Discipline, institutional thinking and strategic focus remain central to his approach.

Ribadu embodies a leadership persona grounded in firmness and clarity of purpose. His approach prioritises strong institutions, coordinated security structures and long term national stability. Rather than seeking personal acclaim, his leadership reflects a technocratic orientation driven by systems, procedures and institutional discipline.
In times of national uncertainty, particularly within the complex terrain of security management, such traits inspire confidence. Ribadu’s public persona communicates seriousness of purpose and a commitment to confronting threats to national stability with resolve and strategic coordination. His leadership reminds observers that effective governance often requires leaders who are willing to confront difficult realities while strengthening the institutional frameworks that sustain the state.
While Ribadu’s leadership operates within the high stakes arena of national security, Governor Umar Namadi represents a different yet equally significant model of leadership at the state level. His governance approach reflects humility, accessibility and a deep commitment to grassroots engagement.
Governor Namadi has placed considerable emphasis on dialogue between government and citizens. One of the most notable initiatives under his administration is the Citizens Engagement Programme popularly known as Gwamnati da Jama’a. Through this initiative, citizens across Jigawa State’s twenty seven local government areas are provided with a platform to directly express their needs, concerns and expectations to government officials.

The programme also allows government to communicate its ongoing projects and policy priorities to the public. In doing so, it has strengthened transparency, accountability and citizen participation in governance. By opening channels of communication between leaders and the people, the initiative reinforces democratic values and strengthens public trust in government institutions.
Governor Namadi’s leadership identity is also distinguished by what may be described as developmental pragmatism. His administration has focused on practical governance outcomes, including infrastructure development, institutional strengthening and policies aimed at improving the socio economic wellbeing of citizens.
Rather than relying on political slogans, personality driven politics or inherited partisan loyalty, the governor has built his political relevance around governance performance. This approach has contributed to a governance narrative that emphasises steady progress, responsible management of public resources and the pursuit of sustainable development.

In a political environment where rhetoric often overshadows implementation, the emphasis on measurable outcomes represents a refreshing shift. By prioritising delivery over declaration, Governor Namadi has demonstrated that performance in governance can serve as a powerful instrument of political legitimacy.

Equally important is the political dimension of his leadership. At the level of party politics, Governor Namadi has demonstrated calculated political organisation through the consolidation of party structures and grassroots mobilisation. These efforts have strengthened political stability while reinforcing the influence of the All Progressives Congress within the state.
Notably, this consolidation has been achieved largely through governance driven legitimacy rather than coercive political tactics. Development initiatives and social programmes have simultaneously served as instruments of public service and sources of political credibility. In this sense, governance outcomes have become central to sustaining public support.

When viewed together, the leadership trajectories of Nuhu Ribadu and Umar Namadi illustrate two complementary dimensions of governance in Nigeria. Ribadu symbolises national vigilance, reform oriented thinking and institutional discipline within the country’s security architecture. Namadi represents grassroots engagement, stability and pragmatic development within the framework of subnational governance.

While Ribadu operates within the strategic theatre of national security management, Namadi functions within the practical laboratory of state administration. Yet despite these differences, both leaders share common attributes that define effective leadership. Discipline, commitment to reform and a clear departure from empty political rhetoric are among the traits that connect their approaches.

Their contrasting styles also illustrate an important truth about leadership. Governance is multidimensional. At certain moments, leadership requires firmness and the courage to confront systemic threats. At other times, it demands patience, dialogue and the steady construction of development frameworks that improve the lives of citizens.

Ribadu’s leadership energy is largely directed toward confronting threats and strengthening institutional resilience. Namadi’s leadership focuses on building structures that promote social progress and economic stability. Together, these approaches highlight the different but equally important roles that leadership can play within a functioning democracy.
Ultimately, the examples of Nuhu Ribadu and Umar Namadi underscore a fundamental lesson for Nigeria’s leadership culture. Leadership that is anchored in character often proves more enduring than leadership driven solely by charisma. Institutions grow stronger where leaders choose structure over spectacle and governance over personal acclaim.

As Nigeria continues to navigate complex governance challenges, the importance of disciplined and purposeful leadership cannot be overstated. The experiences of Ribadu and Namadi demonstrate that effective leadership does not always announce itself loudly. Sometimes it appears in decisive action to protect national stability. At other times it emerges through patient engagement with citizens and the steady pursuit of development.
In both cases, the defining factor remains the same. Leadership is most impactful when it is authentic, disciplined and aligned with the responsibilities of public office. In a democratic society striving for stronger institutions and accountable governance, such leadership remains not only desirable but essential.

Yunusa Hamza (Tafidan Farin Dutse)
Gwaram Local Government Area
Jigawa State
08034445493
yunusafarindutse@gmail.com

Amina Salisu

A coalition of northern youth groups has urged the Nigerian Senate to refrain from what it termed a political vendetta against the immediate past Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, over alleged financial irregularities.

Issuing a joint statement in Abuja on Saturday, the coalition—led by the Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL)—condemned the Senate’s decision to summon Kyari over purported discrepancies totaling ₦210 trillion in NNPCL’s audited financial reports.

The statement, signed by the Assembly’s President, Amb. Abdul Danbature, and endorsed by the Forum for Youth Development, Unity and Peace Initiative, along with 21 other civil society bodies, described the summon as part of a disturbing pattern of blackmail against dedicated public servants.

“We deem it necessary to speak out against the rising wave of blackmail, politically driven accusations, and deliberate efforts to tarnish the image of individuals who have rendered selfless service to the nation,” the statement read.

The groups hailed Kyari’s tenure at the helm of NNPCL, emphasizing his pivotal role in modernizing the nation’s oil and gas sector. They highlighted key milestones achieved under his leadership, such as the successful transition of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation into a commercialized limited liability company in compliance with the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA). They also acknowledged his efforts in driving the rehabilitation of the country’s refineries and enhancing transparency in crude oil production monitoring.

According to the coalition, Kyari was instrumental in expanding gas infrastructure projects, bolstering national energy security, and fostering greater local content and youth participation within the industry.

The coalition praised the former NNPCL chief as a committed patriot whose leadership aligned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic vision, particularly the Renewed Hope Agenda. They noted his consistent support for youth empowerment and his role in creating leadership pathways for young Nigerians in strategic economic sectors.

“It is deeply regrettable that after years of unwavering service, a concerted effort is being made to drag his name through the mud with controversies that only serve to disturb the peace of his retirement,” the groups lamented.

While acknowledging the constitutional oversight functions of the Senate, the youth coalition cautioned the legislative body against leveraging its powers for what they described as political persecution and character assassination. They advised the Senate to redirect its focus toward addressing critical national issues, such as the persistent insecurity plaguing northern communities and other regions of the country.

The coalition called on Nigerians to view the allegations against Kyari with circumspection and to resist attempts by certain individuals or factions to manipulate public sentiment for selfish or political ends.

The groups further appealed to relevant state institutions to allow the former NNPCL chief to enjoy his post-service life free from harassment and undue public scrutiny.

“As a nation, we must learn to recognize and honor those who have dedicated their expertise and years to the service of our fatherland,” the statement concluded.

A civic advocacy group, Retirees Dignity Promoters (RDP), has criticised the Nigerian Senate over what it described as an attempt to harass former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, Mele Kyari, despite his record of reforms and transparency in the oil sector.

The group said it was troubling that the Senate committee probing alleged financial issues linked to the national oil company appears determined to overlook the unprecedented openness that characterised Kyari’s tenure.

In a statement signed by its Chairman Moses Epenyoung and issued in Abuja, RDP said Nigerians witnessed a historic shift during Kyari’s leadership when the oil giant began publishing detailed monthly financial and operational reports, openly disclosing revenues, remittances and expenditure — a practice that had never existed before.

“For decades, Nigerians knew virtually nothing about the income, operations and spending of the national oil company. That culture of secrecy changed under Kyari,” the group said.

RDP said it was therefore surprising that lawmakers were now ignoring that transparency legacy while resorting to threats of arrest warrants, a move the group described as politically coloured.

The group also recalled that when the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission invited Kyari last year over industry matters, he voluntarily honoured the invitation shortly after returning from an overseas trip, demonstrating that he had nothing to hide.

According to RDP, the Senate must avoid actions that create the impression of political intimidation, especially as the country gradually approaches another election season.

“Kyari helped open the books of Nigeria’s oil sector. He should be allowed to enjoy his retirement in peace,” the statement added.