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Niger Delta Ethnic Groups Hail Appointment of Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan as NUPRC CEO

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Ethnic groups from the Niger Delta have welcomed the appointment of Mrs Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), describing it as well deserved and timely. The Itsekiri Liberation Frontiers, Ijaw Liberation Frontiers and Urhobo Liberation Frontiers said the appointment reflects Eyesan’s proven competence, dedication and long-standing contributions to Nigeria’s oil and gas industry. In a joint statement issued on Wednesday, the groups expressed satisfaction with the decision, noting that it aligns with the expectations and aspirations of stakeholders in the Niger Delta. The statement was jointly signed by prominent traditional and community leaders, including the Bolowie of Gbaramatu Ijaw, Chief Dr W.O. Okirika (CON); Suru Popo Itsekiri; Enyiagho Besidone; Chief E.O. Okotie (JP) of the Urhobo; and the Ovie of Origin Kingdom, HRH A.K. Osawota. They thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what they described as his readiness to listen to calls from the region on the need to re-engage Eyesan in the oil and gas sector. “We are thrilled to see Mrs Eyesan’s talents recognised and rewarded. Her dedication, expertise and commitment to excellence make her an asset to any organisation,” the statement said. The groups expressed confidence that her wealth of experience would further strengthen regulation in the upstream petroleum sector and boost confidence among industry operators. They also urged Nigerians, especially stakeholders in the oil and gas industry, to support Eyesan as she takes on her new role. According to them, the new NUPRC chief has the capacity to justify the trust placed in her and deliver a tenure that will positively impact the industry and the nation.

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Shettima Vows Justice as FG Intensifies Security After Maiduguri Mosque Bombing

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Vice President Kashim Shettima has strongly condemned the Christmas Eve bomb explosion at a mosque in Gamboru Market, Maiduguri, Borno State, vowing that those behind the attack will be tracked down and made to face the full consequences of their actions. The explosion, which claimed five lives and left several others injured, was described by the Vice President as a cruel and senseless assault on innocent citizens and the peace of the nation. He revealed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered an immediate security operations across Borno State in response to the incident. In a statement issued on Thursday, Shettima said the Federal Government has deployed additional tactical security teams to the affected area to hunt down the perpetrators and prevent further attacks. “The Federal Government will not tolerate any attempt to undermine the peace and security of our nation. Our security agencies are working round the clock to ensure that the perpetrators of this heinous crime are brought to justice,” he said. The Vice President expressed confidence in the nation’s security architecture, noting that ongoing operations would not only lead to the arrest of those responsible but also uncover the full circumstances surrounding the explosion. He also extended condolences to the Borno State Government, residents of Maiduguri, and families who lost loved ones in the attack. “We sympathise deeply with the people of Borno State and the families affected by this tragedy. The Federal Government remains confident that those responsible for this despicable act of terrorism will face the full weight of the law,” Shettima said. Reaffirming the Tinubu administration’s stance on national security, the Vice President stressed that protecting lives and property remains a constitutional responsibility the government will not relent on. “Since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu assumed office in 2023, this administration has consistently demonstrated its unwavering commitment to the security, unity, and stability of Nigeria. This resolve remains firm under God and the Constitution,” he stated. Shettima added that the Federal Government is working closely with state governments and local security agencies to strengthen the protection of vulnerable communities and critical infrastructure, particularly across the North-East and other high-risk areas.

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ADC Gains Momentum in Taraba as 45,000 New Members Register Across Four LGAs

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The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has recorded a major boost in Taraba State, with no fewer than 45,000 eligible voters registering as new members across four local government areas. A member of the party’s Membership Mobilisation, Revalidation and Registration (MMRR) committee, Hon. Iliya Ezekiel, disclosed this in a telephone interview in Jalingo, describing the development as a strong signal of growing public trust in the party. According to Ezekiel, the latest wave of registrations came from Donga, Takum and Ussa Local Government Areas, while more than 10,000 people had earlier defected to the party in Gassol Local Government Area. “Today, we received and registered additional members from Donga, Takum and Ussa LGAs who have chosen to join the African Democratic Congress movement,” he said. Ezekiel noted that the surge in membership reflects increasing confidence in the ADC’s commitment to transparency, inclusiveness and grassroots development. He added that the party’s leadership in Taraba State remains united and non-partisan, creating room for people from different political backgrounds to feel welcome. “As leaders of this great party, we are open to all. Anyone who wishes to join us is welcome. The ADC is ready to accommodate those committed to bringing positive change to Taraba State and Nigeria as a whole,” he said. He stressed that the ongoing membership drive is targeted at Nigerians who are dissatisfied with their current political platforms and are seeking a credible alternative. Ezekiel further described the current growth as unprecedented, assuring that the party would sustain its mobilisation and registration efforts across the state. He attributed the increasing acceptance of the ADC to effective grassroots engagement and inclusive leadership, while assuring new members that the party would continue to promote unity, fairness and internal democracy.

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Christmas: AbdulRazaq Urges Kwarans to Embrace Peace, Unity and Vigilance

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Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has called on Nigerians, particularly residents of the state, to continue living in peace, harmony and mutual understanding as they celebrate Christmas. In his Christmas message to the people of Kwara on Thursday, the governor extended warm greetings to the Christian community, describing the season as one that reflects the core values of love, peace and grace symbolised by the birth of Jesus Christ. “I extend my heartfelt felicitations to the Christian community in Kwara State on the occasion of Christmas,” AbdulRazaq said. “I pray that this season brings joy, peace, and God’s abiding grace and guidance to everyone the very essence of Jesus Christ, who is the reason for the season.” The governor expressed appreciation to Christians in the state for their continued support, understanding and commitment to peaceful coexistence, noting that their contributions have helped sustain harmony across Kwara. He urged residents to strengthen bonds of brotherhood and work together towards building a safer and more prosperous state and nation. “At this time and always, I call for continuous harmony, brotherhood and a shared commitment to the peace and development of Kwara State and Nigeria,” he said. Acknowledging current security challenges, AbdulRazaq also appealed to citizens to remain vigilant, patriotic and supportive of ongoing efforts by security agencies to safeguard lives and property across the state. He concluded by wishing residents a joyful Christmas celebration and a more fulfilling New Year.

ASUU
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FG, ASUU Finally Seal Deal, End 16-Year Standoff Over University Reforms

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After more than a decade and a half of negotiations, strikes and strained relations, the Federal Government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) have finally reached an agreement on the long-contested 2009 FGN–ASUU pact. Confirming the breakthrough, ASUU President, Professor Chris Piwuna, told LEADERSHIP on Wednesday that the renegotiated agreement was concluded on December 23, 2025, following intense engagements between both sides. The new deal is set to take effect from January 1, 2026, and will be reviewed after three years. Professor Piwuna described the development as a major victory for Nigeria’s university system, ending a crisis that has dragged on for over 16 years. Key highlights of the agreement include a 40 per cent salary increase for academic staff and significantly improved pension conditions. Under the new pension arrangement, professors will retire at 70 years with pensions equivalent to their full annual salaries a long-standing demand of the union. The agreement also introduces a new funding framework for universities, with clear and dedicated allocations for research, libraries, laboratories, equipment and staff development. A major reform proposal is the establishment of a National Research Council, which will fund research with no less than one per cent of Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), aimed at boosting innovation and strengthening research capacity. In addition, the deal strengthens university autonomy and academic freedom, promoting merit-based governance and democratic leadership. Deans and provosts, including heads of postgraduate schools, will now be elected, with only professors eligible to contest for such positions. Importantly, the agreement guarantees that no ASUU member will be victimised for participating in the prolonged struggle that led to the renegotiation. “Recall that the 2009 agreement was due for review in 2012, but that never happened despite repeated negotiations, strikes and threats of action,” Piwuna said. “After years of persistence, the efforts of our past and present leadership and members have finally paid off.” He explained that the renegotiated agreement focuses on improving conditions of service, addressing chronic underfunding, enhancing autonomy and academic freedom, and implementing reforms aimed at reversing decay, curbing brain drain and repositioning Nigerian universities for national development. Piwuna expressed optimism that the Federal Government would move quickly to implement the agreement, praising the renegotiation team led by Mallam Yayale Ahmed (CFR) and commending the Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, for providing the final push that led to the deal. He also called on the government to expedite negotiations with other university-based unions SSANU, NASU and NAAT to ensure smooth and fair operations across the university system. The ASUU president concluded by thanking the Nigerian Labour Congress for its solidarity and applauding union members nationwide for their patience and perseverance throughout the long struggle.

Kano state Government
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Kano in Mourning as Governor Yusuf Grieves Loss of Two Assembly Members

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Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has expressed deep sadness over the death of two serving members of the Kano State House of Assembly, describing their near-simultaneous passing as a painful and heartbreaking moment for the state. In a condolence message issued through his spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, the governor said the loss has plunged the government and people of Kano into collective grief. The deceased lawmakers are Hon. Sarki Aliyu Daneji, who represented Kano Municipal Local Government Area and chaired the House Committee on Pilgrims, and Hon. Aminu Sa’adu, the lawmaker for Ungoggo Local Government Area and Chairman of the House Committee on Appropriation. Governor Yusuf described both men as committed public servants who worked tirelessly to represent their constituents and advance grassroots development. “Kano State has lost two dedicated sons who gave their lives to public service. Their sudden departure has left a painful void in the House of Assembly and in their communities,” the governor said, adding that the tragedy is one that words can hardly capture. He extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased, the Speaker and members of the Kano State House of Assembly, as well as the people of Kano Municipal and Ungoggo local government areas. The governor prayed that Allah (SWT) forgive the shortcomings of the late lawmakers, grant them Aljannatul Firdaus, and give their families and the entire state the strength to bear the loss. He also urged residents to remain calm, united and prayerful, describing the incident as a test of faith and collective resilience. Hon. Aminu Sa’adu has since been laid to rest at the Ungoggo Cemetery, while funeral prayers for Hon. Sarki Aliyu Daneji are scheduled for Thursday. “On behalf of the government and the good people of Kano State, we extend our sincere condolences to the Kano State House of Assembly, under the leadership of the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Jibrin Ismail Falgore, and the bereaved families. May Aljannatul Firdaus be their final abode,” the statement concluded.

Governor Seyi Makinde
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Christmas: Makinde Urges Oyo Residents to Live in Love, Stay Security-Conscious

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Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, has extended warm Christmas greetings to Christians in the state and across the country, urging them to embrace love, peace and harmony as they celebrate the season. In his Christmas message to the people of Oyo State, the governor described Christmas as a season rooted in love, with the birth of Jesus Christ at its core. He encouraged Christians to reflect the values of Christ by showing kindness to one another and living peacefully with their neighbours. Governor Makinde also reminded residents to remain mindful of their surroundings during the festivities, stressing that keeping the state safe is a shared responsibility between the government and the people. He called on citizens to stay alert and promptly report any suspicious activities to security agencies using the Citizen Emergency Number, 615. According to him, the guiding principle of “If you see something, say something” remains crucial to sustaining peace and security across the state, especially during the festive period.

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Local Government Autonomy Will Fast-Track Grassroots Development — Onuigbo

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A member of the Governing Board of the North East Development Commission (NEDC) representing the South-East, Rt. Hon. Sam Onuigbo, has said President Bola Tinubu’s firm stance on the full implementation of local government autonomy will unlock faster development at the grassroots. In a statement on Tuesday, Onuigbo described the President’s intervention as timely, bold and critical to strengthening local governance and national stability. He said Tinubu’s recent comments at the National Executive Committee and National Caucus meetings of the All Progressives Congress (APC) clearly showed his commitment to improving the lives of ordinary Nigerians. According to Onuigbo, state governors have allegedly withheld more than ₦4.5 trillion meant for local government councils, despite a Supreme Court judgment delivered in July 2024 that ordered direct payment of council allocations from the Federation Account. The landmark ruling declared the joint state–local government account unconstitutional and barred states from acting as intermediaries for funds meant for councils. Onuigbo praised President Tinubu for initiating the legal process that led to the judgment and for backing it up with decisive administrative action. “I want to publicly commend Mr President for remaining firm on this issue,” Onuigbo said. “Supreme Court rulings are final and binding, not optional. By insisting that local government funds go directly to councils, the President has shown uncommon political will.” He stressed that when Tinubu raised the issue at party meetings, he spoke not just as a party leader but as a statesman who understands that national development begins at the grassroots. Onuigbo argued that delays in implementing local government autonomy are mainly due to resistance from state governors. “The federal government has done its part legally, administratively and politically. The bottleneck is clearly with the governors. What remains is for states to respect the Constitution and obey the Supreme Court judgment,” he said. Reflecting on past experience, Onuigbo noted that local governments performed better in the early years of the Fourth Republic, when councils had greater financial independence. “At that time, chairmen could build rural roads, provide electricity, develop markets and run youth empowerment programmes. When local governments are allowed to function properly, they deliver because they understand their communities,” he said. He warned that withholding council funds weakens governance at the grassroots and worsens insecurity, youth unemployment and rural neglect. “When councils are financially empowered, they can address local security issues, engage youths productively and reduce social unrest,” Onuigbo added. While acknowledging constitutional challenges, particularly those linked to Section 162 on joint accounts, he expressed confidence that the federal government’s committee would find lawful and practical ways to enforce the Supreme Court judgment. Onuigbo also urged Nigerians to demand transparency and accountability from both local government chairmen and state governors. “In a democracy, the citizen is the most important office holder. People must ask questions how much came to their local government and how was it spent? That pressure will end impunity and promote accountability,” he said. He further commended President Tinubu’s broader reform efforts, citing fuel pricing reforms, easing inflation and signs of economic recovery. With most governors now in the ruling party, Onuigbo expressed optimism that the President’s call would be heeded and that long-standing obstacles to local government autonomy would finally be removed.

Seyi Makinde
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Makinde: We Empower People to Escape Poverty, Not Through Handouts

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Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has said his administration is more focused on creating opportunities that help people lift themselves out of poverty, rather than relying on handouts and cash giveaways. The governor made this known during a media chat with journalists at the Government House in Ibadan, where he explained the thinking behind his government’s social and economic policies. “For us in Oyo State, we don’t believe in handouts,” Makinde said. “Our focus is to create a conducive environment where people can access opportunities and, through their own efforts, move themselves out of poverty.” He argued that cash transfers and welfare handouts often provide only short-term relief and rarely lead to lasting change. Recalling an experience from earlier in his career, Makinde said he once witnessed how well-intended resettlement efforts failed over time. “I was at the Shell Bonny Terminal during the Nigerian LNG project. Fishermen were relocated and decent houses were built for them. In less than five years, the area had turned into a shanty town again,” he said. According to the governor, that experience shaped his views on poverty alleviation and explains why he disagrees with some development partners on strategy. “I’ve had this argument with the World Bank,” Makinde revealed. “Their preference is conditional cash transfers  give people money. But I said no.” Instead, he said Oyo State chose a different path by supporting people’s ability to work, earn and remain productive. “When the country hit economic headwinds, many states focused on palliatives sharing food and relief items. We did that too, but we went further,” he explained. Makinde said the state introduced the SEFA programme Sustainable Action for Economic Recovery to provide structured, long-term support rather than temporary relief. One of SEFA’s key interventions, he said, is in public transportation. The state-owned Pacesetter Transport Service, which carries about 20,000 passengers daily, offers discounted fares to vulnerable groups. “For students, the elderly and people with disabilities, fares are reduced by 50 per cent,” Makinde said. He disclosed that the state spends about ₦100 million every month on the transport subsidy, describing it as an investment in productivity, not a giveaway. “That ₦100 million is not just spent; it’s invested in productivity,” he said. The governor stressed that the goal is not to encourage unnecessary travel, but to help people get to places where they can earn a living or improve their wellbeing. “You’re not entering the bus just for a ride because it’s cheaper,” he said. “You’re going somewhere important somewhere that can lead to something productive.” Makinde said the approach reflects his administration’s commitment to sustainable development and building long-term economic resilience in Oyo State, rather than quick fixes that fade with time.

Governor Seyi Makinde
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Makinde Rules Out Backing Tinubu in 2027, Says Wike Offered to ‘Hold PDP’ Without Consultation

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Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has made it clear that he will not support President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election, while also revealing fresh details about his political fallout with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. Speaking during a media chat at the Government House in Ibadan on Tuesday, Makinde said his decision was firm and personal, stressing that he has already made up his mind ahead of the next general elections. “I have my own choice as well, and I will never support the president for 2027,” the governor stated bluntly. Makinde traced the origin of his rift with Wike to a meeting attended by President Tinubu, Wike, the President’s Chief of Staff, and other senior officials. According to him, it was during that meeting that Wike made a shocking declaration about the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). “The real issue was that I was in a meeting with the president and Wike and the president’s chief of staff, and a few others were there. Wike told the president that he would hold the PDP for him in 2027. I was in shock,” Makinde said. He explained that Wike’s statement came as a surprise because there had been no prior discussion or agreement among PDP stakeholders. “When we got to the venue, I asked Wike, ‘Did we agree on this?’ Wike may want to support the president for 2027, and that is his personal choice. The president did not even ask him. He volunteered on his own,” Makinde added. The Oyo governor was careful to note that his disagreement with Wike is political, not personal. “I don’t beef anybody,” he said, emphasising that there is no personal animosity between them. Makinde revealed that he initially chose to watch how events would unfold, hoping Wike might rethink his position. “I even told a mutual friend, let’s just observe and see if he backs off, but he didn’t,” he said. The governor’s comments shed more light on the growing divisions within the PDP and underline his clear stance ahead of the 2027 presidential race.

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