Arewa Times

By Abigail Adams

The Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL) has commended the managing director/chief executive officer of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), Engr. Abba Abubakar Aliyu, for what it described as his transformational leadership in expanding rural electrification and renewable energy infrastructure across Nigeria.

The group said the REA under Aliyu’s leadership has demonstrated innovation, competence and strategic direction in tackling energy poverty, particularly in rural and underserved communities.

In a statement issued and signed by its president, Comrade Abdul Danbature, AYAGL noted that the agency’s interventions in renewable energy development were already creating positive socio-economic impacts across several communities nationwide.

The group specifically praised the aggressive expansion of solar mini-grids and off-grid electrification projects being deployed in communities, markets, healthcare facilities, tertiary institutions and economic clusters across the country.

According to the statement, the projects represent more than electricity supply, describing them as instruments of economic empowerment, education, healthcare improvement and sustainable development.

“For decades, several communities in Northern Nigeria suffered severe neglect in terms of access to stable electricity and modern energy infrastructure,” the group stated.

“Businesses collapsed, educational institutions struggled, healthcare services remained limited, and rural economic activities suffered enormously due to inadequate power supply.”

AYAGL, however, said there is growing hope as many communities are now benefiting from sustainable energy solutions through the interventions of the REA.

The group also applauded the implementation of the Distributed Access through Renewable Energy Scale-Up (DARES) programme aimed at expanding electricity access to millions of Nigerians in rural and hard-to-reach areas.

It further commended the Federal Government’s National Public Sector Solarisation Initiative designed to provide solar-powered electricity to federal universities, tertiary institutions and healthcare facilities.

According to the youth group, improved electricity supply would significantly enhance learning, research, healthcare delivery, entrepreneurship and digital innovation in public institutions.

The assembly maintained that access to electricity remains critical to national development, economic growth and social stability.

“A community with electricity experiences improved security, economic growth, educational advancement, business expansion and increased productivity,” the statement added.

The group said young people particularly stand to benefit through entrepreneurship opportunities, employment creation and digital inclusion.

AYAGL further described Engr. Aliyu’s leadership style as professional, accountable and result-oriented, noting that the visible impact of the agency’s programmes reflects purposeful leadership and institutional efficiency.

The youth assembly also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for providing policy support and political will for the implementation of renewable energy and infrastructure projects under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

It added that sustained investment in rural electrification would help reduce poverty, unemployment, insecurity and rural-urban migration, especially in Northern Nigeria.

The group urged residents and community leaders in beneficiary areas to protect the projects and ensure community ownership for sustainability.

AYAGL reaffirmed its support for policies and programmes aimed at promoting economic growth, youth empowerment and improved living standards for Nigerians.

ENDS

A political pressure group has accused a Kaduna-based politician, Yerima Usman Shettima, of allegedly using a fake ambassadorial title in his political campaign materials ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The group, operating under the banner of Concerned Citizens for Democratic Accountability, described the use of the title “Ambassador” on Shettima’s campaign posters as misleading, deceptive and capable of creating false impressions among members of the public.

The group in a press statement signed by the spokesperson, Comrade Ibrahim Musa, challenged Shetima to publicly explain the source and legitimacy of the title he has allegedly adopted in his political activities.

According to the statement, there is no known official record showing that Shetima was ever appointed as an ambassador by the Federal Government of Nigeria or any recognised international body.

“We are demanding clear explanations from Yerima Usman Shettima on how he came about the ambassadorial title he is parading on campaign posters and political materials,” Musa said.

“He was never officially appointed ambassador by the Nigerian government. The use of such a title is misleading and deceitful to the electorate.”

The group maintained that public office seekers, particularly those aspiring to represent the people at the National Assembly, must demonstrate transparency, honesty and integrity in both public and private conduct.

“Someone seeking a highly coveted Senate seat must be a person of proven integrity. Nigerians deserve leaders who are truthful about their identity, qualifications and background,” Musa added.

The group further warned against what it described as the increasing trend of politicians adopting honorary or unofficial titles to gain political advantage and public sympathy.
According to the group, such practices undermine public trust and weaken democratic values.

They called on relevant authorities, including electoral bodies and anti-corruption agencies, to investigate the matter and ensure that politicians do not misrepresent themselves before the electorate.

The claim that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu requires Senator Abdulaziz Yari to secure Zamfara or Northern votes in 2027 does not reflect the political realities on the ground. Electoral support in the North is driven by performance, party structure, and the capacity of leaders to deliver results for their people.

Matawalle’s Track Record in Zamfara and the North

1. Sacrifice for Party Victory in 2023
In the 2023 general elections, then-Governor Bello Mohammed Matawalle prioritized President Tinubu’s national victory over his own re-election bid. He mobilized his political structure across Zamfara to deliver votes for the APC presidential ticket, demonstrating loyalty to the party and the President at a critical moment.

2. Grassroots Acceptance and Human Capital Development
Dr. Matawalle is widely regarded as one of the most accessible and impactful political figures in Zamfara. During and after his tenure as governor, he implemented programs targeting youth empowerment, women’s support, scholarships, and community development. This direct engagement has earned him significant goodwill among youths, women, and traditional institutions in the state.

3. Leadership in National Security
As Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Matawalle has shifted focus to addressing Nigeria’s security challenges through strategic partnerships and industrialization. He is currently engaging international defence manufacturers to attract investment and technology transfer into Nigeria, with emphasis on local production of military hardware. This aligns with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda of building self-reliance in defence and reducing dependence on imports.

4. Party Unity and Reconciliation
Within the APC, Matawalle has been active in reconciliation efforts across Northern states, working to bridge divides among party stakeholders. His approach has been to prioritize party cohesion and the broader interest of the North within the national political framework.

Zamfara and the wider North have multiple political leaders with influence and followership. President Tinubu’s 2023 victory and prospects for 2027 are built on a coalition of party structures, governors, ministers, and grassroots mobilizers across the region. No single individual holds a veto over Northern votes.

The APC remains committed to internal cohesion, and the contributions of all stakeholders who have supported the President and the party will continue to be recognized.

Signed:
Northern Political Communications Network.

A coalition of political support groups and stakeholders within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kaduna State has thrown its weight behind Shehu Sani as the consensus candidate for Kaduna Central Senatorial District ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The coalition, which comprises youth groups, women associations, party mobilizers, grassroots campaign structures and community leaders drawn from the seven local government areas of Kaduna Central, announced its position during a strategic stakeholders’ meeting held in Kaduna.

According to the groups, the endorsement of the former senator followed extensive consultations among party stakeholders and supporters across the zone who considered Sani’s track record, accessibility and constituency projects during his tenure in the National Assembly between 2015 and 2019.

Speaking on behalf of the coalition, the Convener, Comrade Musa Ibrahim, said the decision to support Sani was based on what he described as “visible achievements, courage, and people-oriented representation.”

He noted that during his time in the Senate, Sani facilitated several developmental projects across Kaduna Central, including the construction and equipping of primary healthcare centres, educational support programmes, rural infrastructure and empowerment initiatives targeted at youths and women.

According to him, many residents of the senatorial district still remember the former lawmaker for maintaining close contact with constituents and consistently speaking on issues affecting ordinary Nigerians both at the state and national levels.

“The coalition carefully reviewed the political situation in Kaduna Central and resolved that Senator Shehu Sani remains the most experienced, accepted and credible aspirant capable of uniting the party and delivering victory for the APC in 2027,” Ibrahim said.

He added that the groups were particularly impressed by Sani’s long-standing involvement in human rights advocacy, democratic struggles and grassroots mobilization, describing him as a politician with “deep connection to the masses.”

The coalition further argued that Sani’s return to the Senate would strengthen legislative representation for Kaduna Central due to his experience, national visibility and understanding of the challenges confronting the district.

In an interview,another stakeholder, Hajiya Zainab Mohammed, said women and youth groups across the zone were supporting the former senator because of his inclusive style of leadership and accessibility while in office.

She stated that many beneficiaries of scholarships, empowerment schemes and social intervention programmes initiated during Sani’s tenure still identify with his leadership style.

“We believe Senator Shehu Sani has the capacity to effectively represent Kaduna Central again. He is accessible, outspoken and understands the needs of the people. That is why many groups have resolved to support him as consensus candidate,” she said.

The coalition also appealed to other aspirants and party leaders within the APC to work towards unity and avoid actions capable of creating divisions ahead of the elections.

According to the groups, adopting a consensus arrangement would help strengthen the party’s chances and ensure a rancour-free primary process in Kaduna Central.

Political observers believe the endorsement may further boost Sani’s growing political momentum within the APC following recent alignments and consultations among party stakeholders across the state.

Although the APC is yet to officially commence its primary process for the 2027 elections, political activities and consultations have continued to intensify across Kaduna State as aspirants position themselves for key elective offices.

By Abuja Advocates for Equity and Justice Forum

As political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections, a familiar yet increasingly urgent debate has resurfaced in Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory (FCT): the question of equity, fairness, and rotational representation in the senatorial seat.

At the centre of this renewed conversation is a growing call by stakeholders—particularly from the Abuja South axis, comprising Abaji, Gwagwalada, Kuje, and Kwali Area Councils—for what they describe as a long-overdue opportunity to produce the next senator representing the FCT.

Since Nigeria’s return to democratic rule in 1999, the FCT has been represented in the Senate by a mix of indigenous and non-indigenous politicians. Among them are Khairat Abdulrazaq Gwadabe, Isah Maina, Usman Jibrin Wowo, Sidi Ali, Philip Aduda, and the incumbent, Ireti Heebah Kingibe.

A closer look at their tenures reveals a pattern that has now become the basis for agitation. While early representation rotated relatively evenly—with Khairat Gwadabe and Isah Maina serving four years each—later developments altered the balance significantly.

The emergence of Philip Aduda, who represented the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC)/Bwari axis—commonly referred to as Abuja North—marked a turning point. Aduda held the senatorial seat for 12 consecutive years, the longest tenure in the history of FCT representation in the Senate.

In contrast, indigenous representatives from Abuja South, such as Usman Jibrin Wowo and Sidi Ali, served significantly shorter terms—approximately one year and three years respectively. Collectively, their tenure amounts to about four years, a disparity that has become a rallying point for proponents of zoning.

Beyond geography, the debate intersects with the sensitive issue of indigeneity in the FCT. Although the capital is constitutionally designated as a territory belonging to all Nigerians, indigenous communities—largely concentrated in Abuja South—have continued to demand greater inclusion in political representation.

Analysts note that while three of the six senators since 1999 are considered indigenous, their cumulative time in office falls short when compared to their counterparts from Abuja North or non-indigenous backgrounds.

“The issue is not just about who has served, but how long and from where,” a political observer in Abuja noted. “Equity, in this context, is both geographical and cultural.”

The debate has placed the spotlight on the All Progressives Congress (APC), whose internal philosophy emphasizes fairness, justice, and inclusivity.
Supporters of Abuja South’s agitation argue that the party’s credibility will be tested by its willingness to reflect these principles in its candidate selection process. They point to the APC’s broader reliance on zoning and political balancing as a mechanism for managing Nigeria’s diversity.

“There is a moral obligation on the APC to translate into action,” a party chieftain said. “Anything short of that could trigger internal dissent and electoral backlash.”

Complicating the situation is the current political configuration within the FCT. The APC state chairman is widely believed to be from Abuja North, a factor some stakeholders interpret as strengthening the case for micro-zoning the senatorial ticket to the southern axis.

Equally significant is the role of the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, whose influence looms large in the evolving political landscape. Since his appointment, Wike has been credited with accelerating infrastructure development and initiating reforms in traditional institutions across the territory.

While his performance has attracted commendation, political watchers believe his stance could be decisive in shaping the APC’s 2027 strategy in the FCT.

“There is an expectation that the minister, given his emphasis on order and structure, would support a balanced arrangement,” another analyst observed. “Endorsing Abuja South could consolidate political gains and foster unity.”

The FCT remains strategically important—not only as Nigeria’s capital but also as a politically competitive territory. In recent elections, opposition parties have made notable inroads, often capitalizing on internal divisions within dominant parties.

Advocates of zoning warn that ignoring the equity argument could deepen fractures within the APC and create openings for rivals. Conversely, conceding the ticket to Abuja South, they argue, could galvanize grassroots support and improve the party’s electoral prospects in 2027.

Ultimately, the debate over who produces the next FCT senator reflects a broader tension in Nigerian politics—the delicate balance between merit, inclusivity, and political pragmatism.

Adding another layer to the conversation is the current distribution of federal appointments, which critics argue is skewed toward Abuja North, including the ministerial position.

Although the Nigerian Constitution does not mandate zoning, the practice has evolved into an unwritten principle for managing the country’s complex diversity. In the FCT—where questions of identity, ownership, and belonging remain deeply rooted—the stakes are particularly high.

As 2027 approaches, the decision before political actors, especially within the APC, goes beyond candidate selection. It is a defining moment that will test their commitment to fairness, equity, and justice.

For many in Abuja South, the message is unequivocal: the time for inclusion is now. Whether that demand translates into political reality remains to be seen.

By Abuja Advocates for Equity and Justice Forum

As political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections, a familiar yet increasingly urgent debate has resurfaced in Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory (FCT): the question of equity, fairness, and rotational representation in the senatorial seat.

At the centre of this renewed conversation is a growing call by stakeholders—particularly from the Abuja South axis, comprising Abaji, Gwagwalada, Kuje, and Kwali Area Councils—for what they describe as a long-overdue opportunity to produce the next senator representing the FCT.

Since Nigeria’s return to democratic rule in 1999, the FCT has been represented in the Senate by a mix of indigenous and non-indigenous politicians. Among them are Khairat Abdulrazaq Gwadabe, Isah Maina, Usman Jibrin Wowo, Sidi Ali, Philip Aduda, and the incumbent, Ireti Heebah Kingibe.

A closer look at their tenures reveals a pattern that has now become the basis for agitation. While early representation rotated relatively evenly—with Khairat Gwadabe and Isah Maina serving four years each—later developments altered the balance significantly.

The emergence of Philip Aduda, who represented the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC)/Bwari axis—commonly referred to as Abuja North—marked a turning point. Aduda held the senatorial seat for 12 consecutive years, the longest tenure in the history of FCT representation in the Senate.

In contrast, indigenous representatives from Abuja South, such as Usman Jibrin Wowo and Sidi Ali, served significantly shorter terms—approximately one year and three years respectively. Collectively, their tenure amounts to about four years, a disparity that has become a rallying point for proponents of zoning.

Beyond geography, the debate intersects with the sensitive issue of indigeneity in the FCT. Although the capital is constitutionally designated as a territory belonging to all Nigerians, indigenous communities—largely concentrated in Abuja South—have continued to demand greater inclusion in political representation.

Analysts note that while three of the six senators since 1999 are considered indigenous, their cumulative time in office falls short when compared to their counterparts from Abuja North or non-indigenous backgrounds.

“The issue is not just about who has served, but how long and from where,” a political observer in Abuja noted. “Equity, in this context, is both geographical and cultural.”

The debate has placed the spotlight on the All Progressives Congress (APC), whose internal philosophy emphasizes fairness, justice, and inclusivity.
Supporters of Abuja South’s agitation argue that the party’s credibility will be tested by its willingness to reflect these principles in its candidate selection process. They point to the APC’s broader reliance on zoning and political balancing as a mechanism for managing Nigeria’s diversity.

“There is a moral obligation on the APC to translate into action,” a party chieftain said. “Anything short of that could trigger internal dissent and electoral backlash.”

Complicating the situation is the current political configuration within the FCT. The APC state chairman is widely believed to be from Abuja North, a factor some stakeholders interpret as strengthening the case for micro-zoning the senatorial ticket to the southern axis.

Equally significant is the role of the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, whose influence looms large in the evolving political landscape. Since his appointment, Wike has been credited with accelerating infrastructure development and initiating reforms in traditional institutions across the territory.

While his performance has attracted commendation, political watchers believe his stance could be decisive in shaping the APC’s 2027 strategy in the FCT.

“There is an expectation that the minister, given his emphasis on order and structure, would support a balanced arrangement,” another analyst observed. “Endorsing Abuja South could consolidate political gains and foster unity.”

The FCT remains strategically important—not only as Nigeria’s capital but also as a politically competitive territory. In recent elections, opposition parties have made notable inroads, often capitalizing on internal divisions within dominant parties.

Advocates of zoning warn that ignoring the equity argument could deepen fractures within the APC and create openings for rivals. Conversely, conceding the ticket to Abuja South, they argue, could galvanize grassroots support and improve the party’s electoral prospects in 2027.

Ultimately, the debate over who produces the next FCT senator reflects a broader tension in Nigerian politics—the delicate balance between merit, inclusivity, and political pragmatism.

Adding another layer to the conversation is the current distribution of federal appointments, which critics argue is skewed toward Abuja North, including the ministerial position.

Although the Nigerian Constitution does not mandate zoning, the practice has evolved into an unwritten principle for managing the country’s complex diversity. In the FCT—where questions of identity, ownership, and belonging remain deeply rooted—the stakes are particularly high.

As 2027 approaches, the decision before political actors, especially within the APC, goes beyond candidate selection. It is a defining moment that will test their commitment to fairness, equity, and justice.

For many in Abuja South, the message is unequivocal: the time for inclusion is now. Whether that demand translates into political reality remains to be seen.

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By Luka Sabo

Abuja — In a significant development, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) has ordered the immediate withdrawal of what civil society organisations (CSOs) have described as “malicious and baseless charges” against the Chairman of EFAB Properties, directing a thorough and impartial reinvestigation into the entire case.

The directive, which effectively halts all pending prosecutorial actions linked to the disputed charges, has been widely praised by rights advocates who had raised the alarm over alleged manipulation of the legal process by operatives of the Police Special Tactical Squad (STS).

Reinvestigation Mandated

Sources within the Force Headquarters confirmed that the IGP ordered the case file to be retrieved from the previous prosecuting team and reassigned to a fresh, independent unit for a comprehensive evidence-driven review. No further legal steps are to be taken against the EFAB chairman until the reinvestigation is concluded and a new legal opinion is issued.

The CSOs had earlier accused the police of attempting to subvert justice, alleging that “a known serial land grabber was deceitfully presented as a victim, while the actual victim was maliciously framed as a suspect.”

CSOs Raise Alarm Over STS Conduct

Addressing journalists in Abuja, Professor Barika Dominic Saro Laka of The Mighty One Empowerment Foundation, who spoke on behalf of the coalition, leveled serious allegations against the STS. He claimed that the tactical squad was acting on the instructions of an impostor—an individual who had already been separately charged for the same offences by both the regular police and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

“Justice cannot be auctioned to the highest bidder,” Professor Laka declared. He questioned how two different agencies of the same government could be investigating and prosecuting identical allegations simultaneously, describing the situation as “an absurdity that only serves the interest of wealthy criminals.”

The coalition further alleged that the STS obtained a Direct Criminal Investigation (DCI) order to arraign one Mr. Nworah without conducting any meaningful due diligence or forensic examination of the facts, calling the move “premature, dishonest, and a classic example of institutional overreach.”

In a strongly worded statement, the coalition likened the recent conduct of the STS to a “dangerous and rogue enforcement culture,” warning that such unprofessional behavior, if not urgently checked, would severely damage public trust in the entire Nigeria Police Force.

Media Cautioned Against Unverified Reporting

The CSOs also appealed to media organizations to exercise restraint and avoid publishing unverified claims that could prejudice ongoing investigations.

“No accused person and their hired surrogates should be allowed to use media propaganda to silence legitimate criminal allegations,” the coalition’s statement read. They emphasized that responsible, factual, and balanced journalism remains indispensable to the protection of justice and the rule of law in Nigeria.

“A Victory for Due Process”

Describing the IGP’s withdrawal of the charges as “a resounding victory for due process over impunity,” the coalition’s spokesperson, Pastor Oka, expressed confidence that truth would ultimately prevail.

“We can never hope to arrive at justice by walking the crooked path of injustice,” Pastor Oka stated. He called for full accountability within the police force and a thorough cleansing of units that have allegedly been compromised by powerful interests seeking to weaponize state institutions.

The coalition expressed hope that after the reinvestigation, all individuals found culpable—including any police officers who knowingly filed false charges or acted on behalf of the suspected land grabber—would be held fully accountable “in the interest of justice, the integrity of the system, and the protection of innocent citizens from persecution.”

They concluded by commending the IGP for what they described as a “courageous and corrective intervention,” adding that the police chief has “raised the bar for leadership, accountability, and respect for the rule of law in Nigeria’s law enforcement architecture.”

By Fr. Joshua Yima Achir

The deepening crisis confronting Nigeria has compelled this open appeal to Catholics in positions of authority, with the hope that conscience, faith and responsibility will converge at a time the nation stands at a critical crossroads.
From rising insecurity to worsening economic hardship and entrenched corruption, the realities on ground have become too urgent to ignore. Across the country, lives are lost daily, families are thrown into mourning, and communities are gripped by fear. Hunger continues to spread, hope is fading among young people, and public trust in institutions is steadily eroding. These are not distant concerns but human tragedies unfolding in real time.
What confronts the nation today is not merely a political or economic challenge, but a profound moral test. It is a moment that demands more than policy responses; it demands conscience, courage and a return to the values that uphold human dignity and the common good.

A Moral Burden Of Leadership

As Catholics entrusted with public office, your responsibility goes beyond governance; it is a call to witness, to bring the light of faith into the realities of public life. Your positions are not separate from your beliefs; rather, they are a direct expression of them.
Catholic Social Teaching reminds us that every human life is sacred and must be protected. The persistent loss of lives and the inability to guarantee security reflect not just a governance failure but a grave moral crisis. Silence or indifference in the face of such suffering cannot be justified. Every Nigerian life, regardless of status, religion or region, carries equal dignity and worth.
The principle of the common good demands that leadership must serve all, not a privileged few. Governance must create conditions where every citizen can live, grow and thrive. Policies and decisions must be measured by their impact on the most vulnerable, not by political advantage or personal gain. At a time when millions struggle to survive, leadership must be reoriented towards justice, inclusion and human dignity.
Solidarity calls for more than distant concern. It requires leaders to stand with the people, to feel their pain, hear their cries and respond with urgency. True leadership cannot afford to be detached or indifferent while citizens struggle to survive. When leaders become distant, suffering deepens and trust erodes.
The preferential option for the poor further underscores the need to prioritise those most affected by hardship. Hunger, unemployment and displacement are not secondary issues; they are central moral concerns that demand immediate attention. The suffering masses must not remain on the margins of decision-making but at its very centre.
Subsidiarity also demands that governance be close to the people, responsive, accountable and rooted in their realities. When authority becomes too distant from those it serves, it loses both effectiveness and legitimacy.

Security As A Sacred Duty

The protection of human life remains the first responsibility of government. Yet, from rural communities to urban centres, Nigerians continue to live under the threat of terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and communal violence.
Each life lost is more than a statistic; it is a profound violation of human dignity and a blow to the nation’s conscience. Behind every number is a name, a family, and a future cut short. The continued loss of lives represents not only a security challenge but a moral emergency that demands urgent attention.
The persistence of these attacks signals an urgent need for decisive, coordinated and transparent action. Security must not be reduced to political rhetoric or routine statements. It is a sacred duty that requires genuine commitment.
As leaders, you are called to ensure that every Nigerian can live without fear. This requires strengthening institutions, equipping security agencies with integrity and accountability, addressing the root causes of violence, and restoring public confidence in the system. To delay is to endanger more lives; to ignore is to risk complicity.

Economic Hardship And Human Dignity

Nigeria’s economic realities have reached a point where survival itself has become a daily struggle for many. Rising inflation, unemployment and deepening poverty have placed immense pressure on families, stripping many of the dignity that comes with honest living.
This hardship is not merely an economic issue; it is a moral crisis. When families cannot afford basic needs, when young people lose hope, and when honest work no longer guarantees a decent life, the dignity of the human person is under assault.
An economy must serve people, not the other way round. Policies must be designed to create opportunities, ensure fairness and provide social protection for the most vulnerable. Leadership must prioritise job creation, equitable distribution of resources and sustainable development.
The concentration of wealth in the hands of a few, while the majority struggle, raises fundamental moral questions. Economic decisions must reflect equity, justice and a genuine commitment to the wellbeing of all citizens. The true measure of leadership lies not in economic statistics alone, but in whether ordinary Nigerians can live with dignity, hope and a sense of possibility.

Confronting Corruption

Corruption remains one of the most damaging obstacles to Nigeria’s progress. It is not merely a legal issue but a moral failure that robs citizens of basic services, weakens institutions and deepens inequality.
Every act of corruption carries human consequences, denying children access to education, limiting healthcare, weakening infrastructure and perpetuating poverty. It is a betrayal of public trust and a direct assault on the common good.
Combating corruption requires more than public declarations; it demands integrity, transparency and the courage to hold individuals accountable. Public office must never be a platform for personal gain but a trust for service.
As Catholics, you are called to a higher standard. Integrity is not optional; it is essential. To tolerate corruption is to betray the people; to confront it is to serve truth and justice.

A Call To Conscience

Catholic teaching is not abstract theory; it is a call to action, especially for those engaged in public life. The Church teaches that the laity are called to shape the social, political and economic order according to moral principles. Your role in governance is therefore not separate from your faith; it is a direct expression of it.
You cannot profess faith and remain unmoved while people suffer. You cannot participate in sacred worship and ignore the brokenness of the society entrusted to your care. Faith must find expression in action.
This is a defining moment. Speak when silence is easier. Act when the cost is high. Stand firmly where justice demands. On security, act with urgency to protect lives. On the economy, place human dignity above all interests. On corruption, embrace zero tolerance and lead by example.
Choose courage over convenience, truth over silence and service over self-interest. Return to the moral teachings that guide both faith and responsibility, and allow them to shape decisions that affect millions.
History will record this moment. The people will remember the choices made. And ultimately, accountability will extend beyond human judgment.
Nigeria still holds on to hope. It is a hope that must find expression in leadership that is guided by conscience, strengthened by courage and committed to the common good. May that hope not be betrayed.

Abdullahi’s Youth-Driven Playbook for National Mobilisation

In a political era where connection with young people increasingly defines influence, few public officials have blended governance and grassroots engagement as effectively as Dr Mustapha Abdullahi. As Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN) and Director of Youth for the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, Abdullahi has emerged as a compelling figure whose cap, quite fittingly, rests on both policy leadership and youth mobilisation.

At just under a decade into national prominence, Abdullahi represents a new generation of technocrats redefining public service. Appointed in 2023, he has not only overseen critical energy reforms but has also stepped beyond his technical mandate to energise a politically conscious youth base.

His role within the Renewed Hope Ambassadors has placed him at the intersection of governance and political communication. Rather than relying on traditional mobilization tactics, Abdullahi has adopted a more strategic approach—translating government policies into relatable narratives that resonate with young Nigerians. His engagements across forums, policy discussions, and youth-focused platforms have helped position governance achievements as tangible, everyday realities.

Central to his influence is his ability to connect policy with people. Under his leadership at ECN, initiatives around renewable energy, rural electrification, and sustainable development have not only advanced national goals but also created talking points that energise youth participation. These projects, while technical on the surface, serve as powerful tools for mobilising young Nigerians around the broader vision of development and continuity.

Beyond policy advocacy, Abdullahi has actively contributed to youth development through mentorship and community engagement. His involvement in grassroots sports promotion, talent development, and youth-inclusive programmes reflects a broader understanding that mobilisation goes beyond politics—it requires building trust, opportunity, and visibility for young people.

As Director of Youth in the Renewed Hope structure, his influence extends into shaping elite and professional youth opinion—an often overlooked but critical demographic. By engaging young professionals, academics, and industry stakeholders, Abdullahi has helped expand the movement’s appeal beyond conventional political bases, reinforcing credibility and intellectual backing for its agenda.

His recent activities further underline this dual role. From facilitating international partnerships aimed at boosting Nigeria’s renewable energy capacity to championing initiatives that promise job creation and innovation, Abdullahi continues to align national development with youth aspirations. Notably, discussions around establishing solar manufacturing capacity and attracting foreign investment into Nigeria’s energy sector reflect a forward-looking agenda that speaks directly to employment and economic inclusion.

In many ways, Abdullahi embodies a shift in Nigeria’s political ecosystem—where technocrats are no longer confined to boardrooms but are active players in shaping public sentiment. His ability to bridge policy outcomes with youth engagement makes him not just an administrator, but a mobiliser in the truest sense.

When the cap fits, it is worn with purpose. For Dr Mustapha Abdullahi, that cap represents a rare blend of intellect, influence, and youth connection—qualities that continue to define his growing relevance on Nigeria’s national stage.

ABUJA 

In a move that has sent shockwaves through the political landscape of Kaduna State, former Senator and acclaimed human rights icon, Shehu Sani, has officially picked up his Expression of Interest and Nomination forms to contest for the Kaduna Central Senatorial District seat under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The political titan, known for his courageous voice and unwavering defense of the common man, collected the documents at the APC national secretariat on Wednesday. This bold declaration marks the return of a political juggernaut who many describe as the “people’s lion.”

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A Fearless Champion Steps Forward

Senator Sani is not just another politician; he is a movement. A former political prisoner turned senator, Sani represented Kaduna Central from 2015 to 2019 with a rare blend of intellectual firepower and street-level activism. He earned a reputation as the “Conscience of the Senate” for standing alone against powerful forces, including his own party, to defend the rights of the oppressed.

His decision to re-enter the race under the APC banner is being celebrated by supporters as the homecoming of a legend.

“Shehu Sani is the only senator in recent history who turned his constituency office into a shelter for the vulnerable. He fights without fear or favour,” said a jubilant supporter in Kaduna.

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Why Kaduna Central Is Shaking

Political analysts say Sani’s entry into the race has immediately raised the stakes. Here is why the ground is shifting:

· Grassroots Dominance: Unlike many career politicians, Sani walks the streets of Kaduna, listens to market women, and amplifies the voices of the voiceless. His connection to the common citizen is unmatched.

· The Voice of the Voiceless: In the Senate, he was the first to blow the whistle on corruption, human rights abuses, and bad governance—even when it meant sacrificing his own comfort.

· National Stature: As a global rights activist who once hosted Nelson Mandela’s foundation in Nigeria, Sani brings international attention and respect to Kaduna Central.

“Sani is not a typical politician begging for votes. He is a statesman who has already paid his dues with his freedom. That is the kind of leader we need,” said a youth leader in Kaduna North.

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Sani Speaks: “I Am Coming to Restore Dignity”

After picking up the forms, an energized Senator Shehu Sani addressed journalists and a crowd of cheering supporters. True to form, he did not hold back.

“Some thought they had buried the lion. But you cannot silence the truth forever. I am not returning to settle scores. I am returning to restore the dignity of Kaduna Central.”

“Under my watch, we will fight for education, healthcare, and justice. I will not be a ‘Yes Sir’ senator. I will remain the one voice that says ‘No’ when the people are being crushed.”

He added that his mission is to bridge the gap between the elite and the masses, insisting that true representation is about service, not self-enrichment.

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A Race for the Ages

With Shehu Sani now officially in the APC primary race, the contest for Kaduna Central has been elevated to a battle of heavyweights. His popularity cuts across party lines, and many political observers believe he is the man to beat.

Supporters have already taken to social media, flooding timelines with the hashtag #BackToSenateWithSani and #LionOfKaduna.

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The Road Ahead

Senator Sani will now face the party’s screening and primary election. But if history is any guide, counting him out is a fool’s errand. Whether inside the Senate chamber or on the streets, Shehu Sani remains a force that can never be ignored.

Kaduna Central, prepare for the return of the Lion.