NANS Elects New President

May 25, 2026

By Ayodele Oni

Three hundred delegates of the National Association of Nigerian Students(NANS) have elected Akinteye Babatunde, popularly called Babtee, of Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology, (OAUSTECG), as its new national president.

His election took place following the successful conclusion of the association’s 2026 national convention held at the Old Parade Ground, Abuja.

Akinteye, a former NANS Senate President, emerged victorious after a keenly contested election involving five presidential candidates.

He officially succeeds the outgone NANS President, Olushola Oladoja, who completed his tenure leading the association.

The convention, conducted under tight security with the presence of police officers and operatives of the Department of State Services was described by participants as one of the most peaceful in the history of the association.

Speaking shortly on Monday after his emergence, the newly elected NANS President expressed gratitude to delegates and pledged to sustain the achievements of the outgoing administration while promoting unity among Nigerian students.

“The leadership of NANS has conducted our election successfully and the new leadership has emerged. I thank all the delegates for electing me, a student of OAUSTECH, as the new president of NANS,” Akinteye said.

He commended the peaceful atmosphere during the convention, noting that there were no crises, violence, or disputes throughout the process.

“In the history of NANS, this is one of the best conventions we have witnessed. There was no crisis, no gunshot, no fight.

“All the contestants against me have congratulated me already. This shows that NANS is united, and we will continue to work together to keep the association as one,” he added.

Akinteye further assured Nigerian students that his administration would continue the good works of the outgone leadership and reposition the association for greater impact across campuses nationwide.

“Our activities will soon be felt across campuses and the country will know that NANS is active and committed to students’ welfare,” he stated.

In his remarks, outgoing President, Olushola Oladoja described the successful conduct of the election as one of the happiest moments of his tenure.

“I thank God Almighty for giving me the opportunity to conduct a free and fair election in the history of NANS. I am happy that the person who emerged is someone I strongly believe in and trust in terms of capacity,” Oladoja said.

He expressed confidence in the ability of the new president to surpass his achievements in office.

“I wish him well and I pray God grants him wisdom, knowledge, understanding, and strength to lead NANS successfully,” he added.

Earlier, Chairman of the Independent Convention Planning Committee, Omotayo Samuel, disclosed during the accreditation exercise on Sunday night at Kapital Club, Asokoro, that over 300 delegates participated in the convention.

According to him, delegates included Student Union Government presidents, Senate presidents, and other student leaders from tertiary institutions across the country.

The presidential race featured Akinteye Babatunde Afeez of OAUSTECH, Aminu Haruna Maipampo of the Federal University Oye-Ekiti, Awoyinpa Opeoluwa Elijah of the Federal University of Technology Akure, Olumide Odumosu Josiah of Olabisi Onabanjo University, and Opaleye Samuel Oladutun of the Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta

“I Have Decided To Quit Politics Out of Frustration, Will Now Do Islamic Da’wah” – Fmr Minister Adebayo Shittu

Ayodele Oni

May 25, 2026

By Ayodele Oni

Former Minister of Communications, Abdur-Raheem Adebayo Shittu, has revealed that his investment in politics earned him frustration and disappointment.

In view of this, he is no longer interested in active politics, but will rather devote his time and money on religious service and serving humanity.

The former minister cited his recent disappointment within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Speaking during an interview from 17:12 on SYMFONI TV, Shittu stated that he now intends to focus on Islamic Da’wah and religious service.

He explained that his experiences in the political space made him reconsider his priorities, adding that the level of effort and commitment invested in politics could be more rewarding if directed toward serving God and humanity.

According to Shittu, the current state of affairs within the APC left him discouraged and disillusioned about continuing his political journey.

“I mean, I’m no more interested in politics. If you may appreciate, I want to do Islamic Da’wah now because the effort we put into politics, if you put half or a quarter of it into God’s work, one will certainly be better compensated.”

Tinubu: “We Will Not Allow Opposition With No Vision Take Nigeria Backward (Full text of President Bola Tinubu’s, acceptance speech on his nomination as APC Presidential Flagbearer for the 2027 Election delivered Sunday, May 24, 2026)

The Source

May 25, 2026

Protocol:

Today, we celebrate another proud moment in our democratic journey—a history not defined by any individual, but by our collective resolve to build a stable, prosperous, and just nation.

Four years ago, I stood before you as an aspirant to the highest office in our country, seeking your mandate alongside many distinguished compatriots and fellow aspirants, driven by conviction and patriotism. I recall with gratitude how I sat that night at Eagle Square, beside my friend, ally, and predecessor, President Muhammadu Buhari, of blessed memory. With your support, I emerged as our party’s candidate and, months later, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Today, I return as your incumbent President—humbled by your enduring support, encouraged by your continued confidence, and imbued with renewed passion for the tasks ahead.

In 2022, our task was to chart a new direction for our party and nation. Today, our task is to affirm that continuity is essential—to consolidate reform, secure progress, and strengthen the foundation of a modern Nigeria.

I accept, with humility and profound gratitude, the nomination of our great party, the All Progressives Congress, to stand again as its Presidential candidate in the 2027 election.

I thank the party leadership, our governors, the National Working Committee, members of the National Assembly, and loyal party members and stakeholders who have contributed to the unity and strength of this party. I also acknowledge the steadfast support and sacrifices of Nigerians across all walks of life who continue to believe in the difficult but necessary path of reform we have chosen to rebuild our nation.

Since that night in June 2022, a lot has changed. The political landscape has evolved. Electoral reforms have strengthened the credibility of our democratic process. Voting patterns and expectations are shifting. Our economy has undergone significant structural reform, supported by new tax laws and fiscal policies that have boosted revenue collection for the federation.

We promised to remove the financial barriers to higher education for our youth. Today, we have established the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, with over N282 billion disbursed and over 1.5 million beneficiaries.

We promised an improved power supply and an end to estimated billing. In the past three years, we have closed the metering gap by supplying 2.5 million meters via the Presidential Metering Initiative. We have established a N4 trillion bond programme to settle verified legacy debts owed to GENCOs and GASCOs. Under our administration, power generation sometimes peaked at 6000MW, 50 per cent higher than we had inherited. Our strategy is focused on redesigning the power sector into a bankable, investable, and capable sector that delivers power to homes and industries.

We moved away from wasteful fuel subsidies, unstable exchange rates, and weak infrastructure. Today, we are witnessing a turnaround: the naira is strengthening, foreign reserves are rising, and our economic outlook is positive despite the inflationary disruption caused by the war in Iran and the geopolitical crisis in the Middle East. We have strengthened macroeconomic stability through improved revenue performance, financial management, and better fiscal coordination.

We have prioritised infrastructure across transportation, power, digital connectivity, housing, and irrigation as engines for inclusive growth. We are building concrete, durable roads and superhighways along the coast and on the Sokoto-Badagry route that will last for over 100 years. We are improving our airports and seaports after decades of neglect. We have reformed the oil and gas sector and are attracting billions of dollars in fresh investment in a sector that was almost comatose.

Our social investment and human capital programmes target vulnerable households, youth, women, and small businesses. In addition, we are reclaiming our national values and ethos anchored on unity and the unbroken bond of togetherness. While our founding and now revived national anthem recognises our diversity, it reminds us of the work we need to do to forge a stronger and more perfect union. “Though tribe and tongue may differ, in brotherhood, we stand”: As Nigerians, we must continue to stand together for our country against all forces that seek to divide us.

Yet, challenges remain. Many Nigerians still struggle with rising costs and economic adjustment. We do not dismiss these concerns; we understand them and govern not in comfort, but in reality—with honesty and action.

I also acknowledge the security challenges still confronting parts of our beloved nation. I assure you that I take seriously the responsibility to safeguard the lives and property of every Nigerian. Our government has intensified efforts to strengthen our security architecture, support our brave armed forces and the police, and forge stronger partnerships with local communities. We have invested in intelligence, surveillance, and modern equipment, and we are addressing the root causes of insecurity. We also expect the National Assembly to amend the Constitution to allow the creation of State police as a matter of national emergency.

We will not rest until we restore peace and stability to every corner of our country. Our resolve is unwavering, and our goal is clear: a Nigeria where every citizen can live, work, and aspire without fear. As leaders and members of this great party, we should all be proud of what we have achieved for our country since our party took over governance in 2015, and of the outstanding economic progress we have recorded in the last three years of my administration. However, the work we began is unfinished.

In accepting this nomination, I renew my commitment to serve our nation with even greater determination.

With another four years of disciplined focus and national cooperation, we will firmly place Nigeria on an irreversible path of economic expansion, industrialisation, energy security, infrastructure development, food sufficiency, and democratic consolidation.

Our mission remains clear: To build a Nigeria where every life, including property, is secure, where enterprise thrives, where workers earn with dignity, where young people find opportunity, and where farmers prosper. And where every Nigerian, regardless of background, can dream big and succeed.

To those who may disagree with us politically, we extend a hand of partnership in nation-building. To those who differ with our philosophy, we offer dialogue and engagement, confident that the sincerity of our purpose and the results of our work will speak for themselves.

Democracy is sustained not by uniformity, but by diversity, by a shared belief in the nation and the blending of ideas.

Let us come together as Nigerians, from north to south, east to west, to consolidate our gains, tackle our challenges, and seize the promise of a greater tomorrow. The task ahead requires patriotism and collective effort.

This next election must not merely be a contest of parties or ideas, but a reaffirmation of Nigeria’s democratic maturity. As a government, we have taken giant steps forward. Let’s not give in to complacency by allowing politicians with no clear alternative vision to take our country backwards.

With faith in God, confidence in our people, and hope in our future, I accept this nomination with a renewed resolve to serve our people. I thank all our party members for bestowing on me the honour of being our torchbearer and candidate in the January 2027 election.

Together, and with the help of God Almighty, we shall build a more secure, united, and prosperous Nigeria for generations to come. I pledge to build an even more inclusive government, one that listens, learns, and leads with the best interests of all Nigerians at heart.

May our democracy continue to flourish. May God bless the All Progressives Congress. May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Thank you.

Are, Rtd Army Colonel, Fmr. DG, DSS, Presents Credentials To Trump, Resumes As Nigeria’s Ambassador To The US

Adesina Soyooye

May 25, 2026

By Adesina Soyooye

Kayode Are, a retired Army Colonel and a former Director General of State Security Services, now popular as Department of State Services, assumed duties as the Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, to the United States of America, USA.

Ambassador Are assumed duties on Thursday after he presented his Letter of Credence to Donald Trump, President of the United States of America, USA.

The presentation ceremony took place at the White House where there was, also, a guard of honour by the armed forces and officers of the State Department and the staff of the National Security Council.

Are presented his letter of credence alongside eleven other ambassadors who, also, presented their Letters President Trump.

The other Ambassadors include those of South Africa, Chad, Chile, Yemen, Australia, and Kyrgyzstan.

Are was approved as Nigeria’s Ambassador to the USA by President Bola Tinubu in January 2026, after his confirmation by the Senate in December 2025.

A brilliant intelligence security officer, Are was

born in 1955 and built a distinguished career spanning more than three decades in military intelligence and national security administration.

Are was a member of the Regular Combatant Course 12 of the Nigerian Defence Academy where he

graduated among the top 10 cadets. He was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Nigerian Army in December 1974.

Are is a proud holder of a First Class Honours degree in Psychology from the University of Ibadan, and was the University’s best student, winning the University Senate Prize, Faculty of Social Sciences Prize, and Department of Psychology Prize.

He is, also, a Master’s Degree holder in International Law and Diplomacy from the University of Lagos in 1987.

He was, on retirement appointed Director General of the State Security Service in May 1999 by President Olusegun Obasanjo. He was removed from the position in August 2007. He had, also, served as Deputy National Security Adviser to the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Kogi Varsity Graduate, Killed Body Dumped In Canal In Abuja

Tosin Olatokunbo

May 25, 2026

Who Killed 29yr Old Blessing In Abuja, the nation’s capital, is the big question that policemen in the Federal Capital Territory, FCT are trying to unravel, few days after the Sociology graduate of the Kogi State University, was brutally murdered and her body dumped in a canal in one of the city’s suburb, Jikwoyi.

The FCT Police Command spokesperson, SP Josephine, confirmed the incident, said operatives from the command have already swung into action, with a view to arresting the assailants.

Some family members and neighbours of the deceased are currently assisting the police in its investigations to find the killer, and bring them to justice, Daily Trust reports.

Speaking with Abuja Metro yesterday, a sister of the deceased, Abigail Moshood, said Blessing left their home around 8pm that day after speaking with someone on the phone.

She said the deceased later called about an hour afterwards, saying she would return home briefly to pick up her phone charger, which she had forgotten.

Abigail said the family became worried after they did not hear from Blessing again and she failed to return home the following day.

“We later heard people talking about the body of a woman discovered inside a canal, and someone described the type of hairstyle the deceased had on, which matched my sister’s,” she said.

“My mother started crying, and we also learnt that policemen from the Jikwoyi Police Station had evacuated the corpse, which was found half-naked with only a top on, to a mortuary in Mararaba, Nasarawa State.”

Abigail said she later visited the Jikwoyi Police Station to inquire about the incident and was shown photographs of the deceased, which confirmed it was her sister.
A neighbour, Margaret, described the late Blessing as an intelligent and friendly person.
“I learnt she graduated with a Second Class Upper in Sociology, and whenever she spoke, you could hardly fault her English,” she said.
“She was also very friendly in this neighbourhood and will be greatly missed by all of us, especially the children who have been crying since they learnt of her death.”

Another neighbour, Abdullahi Musa, appealed to the police to deploy crack detectives to areas around Jikwoyi Medical Centre to apprehend criminals involved in phone snatching and related crimes.

NDC Disowns Anih, Says He ’s Neither Enugu State Chair, Nor Representative Of The Party

The Source

May 25, 2026

The National Working Committee (NWC) and the Leadership of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) have disclaimed John Paul Anih, and emphasised that he is neither the Chairman of its Enugu State Chapter nor does he represent the Party in any capacity.

This disclaimer became necessary, according to a statement signed by Osa Director, its National Publicity Secretary, because of what the Party described as Anih’s nefarious activities. Anih, the statement said, falsely purports to be the Enugu State Chairman of NDC, and thus, impersonates the authentic and legally recognised Chairman, Engr. Ibuchukwu Obeta.

The statement added:

“Apart from impersonating our state Chairman, the said Mr. John Paul Anih, we learnt also conducted a kangaroo state Congress where he allegedly installed himself as state chairman. He has also approached a court in Enugu, seeking to compel NDC to recognise him as our state Chairman for Enugu State.

“Mr. John Paul Anih did not stop at that. While his case is yet to be heard, he went ahead to forge and reproduce copies of the NDC Expression of Interest Forms which he sold to unsuspecting prospects.

The NDC hereby warns unsuspecting members of the public that Mr. John Paul Anih does not represent the NDC in any category whatsoever, and whoever transacts any business with him on behalf of the NDC does so at his/her own risk.

“Earlier, we learnt that John Paul Anih has also seized the opportunity of the ongoing screening of aspirants by the party and set up what he called an aspirant screening Committee for Enugu State, which he is using to further defraud and extort some gullible politicians.

For the avoidance of doubt, the National leadership of the NDC has set up screening committees to screen aspirants for the state houses of assembly across the 36 states of the Federation. The three-man team for Enugu State comprises the following:

Hon. Sylvester O. Nwankwo – Chairman
Barr. Ifeanyi Emmanuel Agbom- Secretary
Ngene Helen Funmilola – Member

“Any other person outside of the above mentioned, purporting to be a member of the Enugu State House of Assembly aspirants screening Committee is a fraud and should be treated as such.

“We reiterate that John Paul Anih is a fraud, does not represent the NDC, and is not by any stretch of the imagination, the Enugu State Chairman of NDC.”

“I Was Misled Into Withdrawing From Oyo Gov Contest” – Fmr. Minister, Shittu

Ayodele Oni

May 25, 2026

By Ayodele Oni

Former Minister of Communications and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, (APC), Adebayo Shittu, has narrated how fake directive allegedly from President Bola Tinubu forced him out of the Oyo state governorship race.

Shittu claimed that he was misled into withdrawing from the race after being told that PresidentTinubu had issued a directive concerning his political ambition.

Explaining circumstances that led to his exit from the governorship contest,

Shittu, who spoke during an interview on SYMFONI TV stated that the directive also stopped him from paying the mandatory N50 million fee associated with the race.

According to him, the situation unfolded when a senator he highly respected contacted him during the tense build-up to the primaries.

The senator allegedly informed him that a message had come from President Tinubu, advising that he should not resign from his position as pro-chancellor of a federal university.

Shittu said he interpreted the message to mean that there was an alternative political arrangement in place within the APC, possibly indicating that another candidate had been endorsed for the governorship ticket.

Trusting the information and the source, he said he stepped aside from the race without further confirmation.

However, he stated that he later discovered the communication was not genuine and that he had been misled into withdrawing from the contest.

“Because I believed in the man I obeyed, it was much later that I discovered that it was set up. I was deceived,” he said

DHQ: Boko Haram Planning Attacks During Eid-el-Kabir; Avoid Large Prayer Grounds

Tosin Olatokunbo

May 25, 2026

General Christopher Musa - Swears in — General Christopher Musa

The Nigerian Defence Headquarters, DHQ, has warned that some Boko Haram Terrorists are trying to attack some ‘isolated’ areas in the country, particularly in the North East during the Eid-el-Kabir celebrations slated for Wednesday this week, calling on Nigerians to be cautious.

The DHQ said it has received credible “intelligence” that the insurgents, who are remnants of the Boko Haram terrorists, BHT, and Islamic State West Africa Province, SWAP, are planning to exploit the festive period to carry out attacks against civilian targets using suicide bombers and improvised explosive devices (IEDs), particularly in highly populated areas.

The DHQ gave the warning in a statement made available to journalists in Abuja, the nation’s capital by the Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, Lt Col Sani Uba.

“The Theatre Command wishes to assure the public that these threats have been thoroughly anticipated. Ahead of Wednesday’s celebrations, troops have been forward-deployed to critical and vulnerable locations across all sectors of the theatre, surveillance and ISR assets have been fully activated, patrols have been intensified, and security forces are operating in close coordination with sister agencies, the CJTF, and community vigilance groups to forestall any threat and guarantee a secure festive period for all residents,” DHQ said.

What should Nigerians and other residents do to assist security agencies, according to DHQ?

• Conduct Eid prayers and festivities as close to homes and familiar localities as possible, and avoid large open gatherings where practicable.
• Exercise heightened vigilance in crowded public spaces such as markets, motor parks, banking halls, and prayer grounds.
• Report any suspicious persons, unattended objects, or unusual movements to the nearest military checkpoint, police station, or civil-military liaison point immediately.
• Cooperate fully with security personnel during patrols and screening operations.
• Avoid unnecessary movement, particularly at night or in areas with limited security presence.
• Refrain from spreading unverified information or rumours capable of causing public panic. Rely only on official information from verified government and security channels.

Malicious Falsehood About Obi And The North: This Is Unacceptable Level Of Political Manipulation

The Source

May 25, 2026

Peter Obi’s Media Office has noted the ongoing, baseless, and wholly malicious claims aimed at misrepresenting the governance record of Mr. Peter Obi, the former Governor of Anambra State, particularly concerning his interactions with individuals from Northern Nigeria during his time in office. It is regrettable, yet unsurprising, that political opponents—unable to confront Mr. Obi’s unmatched record of accountability, fiscal responsibility, and developmental progress—have once again resorted to the outdated and harmful tactics of ethnic and regional division. To clarify for the sake of informed Nigerians, we emphatically state: The recurring myth that Mr. Obi “repatriated” Northerners or specifically targeted Northern traders and beggars during his governorship is utterly unfounded. In truth, during Obi’s leadership, there was a compassionate social welfare initiative focused on assisting destitute individuals and unaccompanied minors from various states who faced severe vulnerability in Awka and Onitsha. There was never any form of “expulsion” or ethnic cleansing; instead, a structured social rehabilitation program benefitted individuals from across the nation.

In contrast to the harmful narrative being propagated by those peddling discord in the political arena, Mr. Obi’s administration fostered an exceptionally strong, brotherly relationship with the Northern and Muslim communities in Anambra State. Records from his eight-year tenure demonstrate that even during times of significant national ethno-religious strife, Mr. Obi served as a protector for the Northern community, particularly in regions like the Onitsha Hausa Quarter (Ama Awusa). He worked diligently to prevent any retaliatory attacks on Anambra territory, earning considerable respect from local Northern leaders. Additionally, the Obi administration, which has been unjustly criticized, actively supported and sponsored Muslim residents in Anambra for their pilgrimage to Mecca, ensuring they received the same level of respect and governmental support as the Christian majority. Under Obi’s stewardship, Northern traders and livestock merchants in markets such as Amansea were provided with safe environments to operate, free from government-backed harassment or extortion. These accounts can be verified by anyone willing to fact-check, including those who challenge this narrative. The Hausa Fulani community in Onitsha and Awka can corroborate these facts.

We understand the motivations behind this continued smear campaign; it relates to Obi’s transformative vision for the North as Nigeria’s key economic driver. Those attempting to create discord between Mr. Obi and the Northern populace are evidently threatened by his message of national productivity that aims to elevate those in poverty. Mr. Obi has consistently and openly asserted that Nigeria’s future lies in the untapped, fertile lands of Northern Nigeria. His vision focuses on shifting Nigeria from a consumption-driven economy to one of production, turning the North into Africa’s food hub and an agricultural powerhouse. It is ironic that a leader who perceives the North as Nigeria’s most significant economic resource is being mischaracterized as its enemy by individuals who only engage with the region during election cycles. The Peter Obi media office does not intend to overlook this, even though the falsehood is apparent and the facts speak for themselves. As Joseph Goebbels once remarked, “A lie told once remains a lie, but a lie told a thousand times becomes the truth.” This falsehood will not endure, as Peter Obi possesses a vision for the geopolitical North that no other current Nigerian leader can match.

ADC Urges Aspirants To Ensure Peaceful Conduct As Party Picks Presidential Candidate Today

Tosin Olatokunbo

May 25, 2026

Bolaji Abdullahi, the National Publicity Secretary of the ADC has described today as a defining moment in Nigeria’s history, saying whatever played out at the party’s Presidential primary will determine whether Nigerians can trust the party ahead the 2027 election.

The ADC spokesman made the remark in a statement issued on Sunday, few hours after the party’s Presidential primary slated for Monday May 25.

ADC delegates across the country will gather in Abuja, the nation’s capital today to pick its presidential candidate for next year’s election.

Among the chieftains of the party seeking the sole presidential ticket, include Atiku Abubakar, a former vice President, Rotimi Amaechi, a former governor of Rivers state and Minister of Transportation under the Muhammadu Buhari’s administration, among others.

Already, there is serious tension in one of Nigeria’s major opposition political parties ahead the primary, particularly as it’s still embattled due to its current leadership crisis.

Abdullahi, however, said the outcome of the primary and the manner aspirants conduct themselves during and after will determine whether the party will be taken serious by Nigerians, who are searching for a credible leaders ahead the presidential election next year.

He urged the aspirants to conduct themselves “peacefully and responsibly” adding that the primary election must prove to Nigerians what the party stands for, including “transparency, internal democracy, national unity, and the rule of law.”

“We therefore urge all aspirants, their supporters, delegates, and party faithful to conduct themselves peacefully, responsibly, and with dignity throughout the process. This election must reflect the values we claim to represent as a party committed to transparency, internal democracy, national unity, and the rule of law,” Abdullahi said.

Adding that“At the end of this exercise, there will be no winners or losers within the ADC family. The ultimate objective is to emerge stronger, more united, and fully prepared to offer Nigerians the competent and credible leadership they deserve.

“History will judge us not merely by who emerges as candidate, but by how we conduct ourselves in this defining moment. We call on every member of our great party to rise to the occasion.”

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