By Ibrahim Ammani

Team New Nigeria (TNN) has announced plans to merge into the Social Democratic Party SDP with an aim to form a formidable and unified opposition to dislodged the ruling All Progressive Congress, APC, in the upcoming 2027 elections.

President of TNN Modibbo Yakubun Farakwai disclosed this Thursday in Kano during a conference attended by delegates of the movement from the 36 states and Abuja, as well as the national chairman of SDP Dr. Abubakar Sadiq Gombe, and its 2023 presidential candidate, Adewole Adeboye.

Farakwai, described the resolution as a plan B of the TNN, following what he described as an institutional hurdle to deny the movement registration into political party, by the National Independent Electoral Commission INEC.

The TNN president has commended efforts made by the executive committee of the movement, drawn from the 36 states and the FCT in drafting a proposal about the coalition, and thereafter received by the movement National Executive Committee (NEC) and Board of Trustees (BoT). “Consequently, we have now presented it to the leadership of the SDP. The responsibility now rests with the party to deliberate upon the resolutions for the coalition, he stated.

Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo has congratulated the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, and other members of the party’s National Working Committee (NWC), following their election at the just-concluded National Convention of the party in Abuja.

In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Ismaila Isah, the Governor described the convention as a major milestone that reflects the unity, strength and democratic ideals of the APC.

“The emergence of the new leadership through a peaceful and consensus-driven process brings to the fore the maturity and resilience of our great party and its readiness to consolidate on past achievements.”

Governor Ododo commended party leaders and stakeholders for ensuring a smooth and rancour-free exercise, noting that the election of the new party officials into key positions demonstrates a shared commitment to strengthening the party’s structure, accommodating tendencies within party and consolidating on the Renewed Hope Agenda of the federal government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

He commended President Tinubu on his exemplary performance that has made the party more attractive for more Nigerians who are willing to key into his outstanding achievements in key sectors of economy.

According to the Governor, the administration of President Tinubu has recorded notable progress in economic reforms, infrastructure expansion, fiscal restructuring and renewed efforts toward strengthening national security and food security through all-inclusive national development policies.

Governor Ododo described the removal of fuel subsidy and unification of the foreign exchange system as “courageous but necessary reforms” that are beginning to reposition the country’s economy for long-term stability.

He further commended ongoing investments infrastructure and interventions in education and social investment programmes, noting that they are laying a foundation for inclusive growth despite initial economic challenges.

“I rate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s performance highly for the courage, vision and the determination to take difficult but transformative decisions in the interest of Nigeria,” the Governor stated.

Governor Ododo also praised the President for sustaining unity within the APC by providing strong leadership that continues to stabilize and strengthen the party at all levels.

He urged the newly elected officials to justify the confidence reposed in them by promoting inclusiveness, transparency and dedication to the service of the party and the nation.

He prayed for wisdom, strength and a successful tenure for the new NWC members as they steer the affairs of the party to greater heights.

The Governor reaffirmed his commitment to working with the party leadership at all levels to advance the collective aspirations of all Nigerians.

By Ibrahim Ammani

The Kaduna State Climate Change Accountability Mechanism (KADCCAM) has called on residents across the state to desist from dumping trash, plastics, and other waste materials into waterways, warning that such practices significantly contribute to flooding and environmental degradation.

In a statement made available to the press, the Co-Chairman of KADCCAM, Ibrahima Yakubu, stressed the urgent need for communities to adopt responsible waste disposal habits. He noted that blocked drainage systems and polluted waterways not only increase the risk of flooding but also threaten public health, destroy aquatic life, and contaminate sources of drinking water.

Yakubu further explained that indiscriminate waste disposal has worsened the impact of climate change, particularly during the rainy season when heavy downpours easily overwhelm blocked drainage channels, leading to avoidable loss of property and, in some cases, lives. He urged residents to take proactive steps by properly disposing of waste, reducing the use of single-use plastics, and participating in community sanitation exercises.

Proffering solutions, Yakubu outlined several practical measures to address the growing challenge:

Residents should make use of designated waste collection points and avoid dumping refuse in gutters, rivers, and streams.
Communities are encouraged to organize regular environmental sanitation and drainage clearing exercises.
Households should adopt waste separation practices, especially separating plastics for recycling.
Government and private sector stakeholders should invest in effective waste management systems, recycling facilities, and proper drainage infrastructure.
Strict enforcement of environmental laws and penalties for indiscriminate dumping should be strengthened.
Increased public awareness campaigns through media, schools, and religious institutions to educate citizens on the dangers of water pollution and flooding.
He also called on local authorities and relevant agencies to strengthen waste management systems, enforce environmental laws, and invest in sustainable infrastructure that supports proper drainage and recycling. According to him, collaboration between government, civil society, and citizens is key to building climate-resilient communities.

The KADCCAM Co-Chairman emphasized the importance of environmental education, especially among young people, noting that creating awareness at the grassroots level will help instill long-term behavioral change. He encouraged schools, religious institutions, and community groups to actively promote cleanliness, environmental protection, and respect for natural resources.

Marking the 2026 World Water Day, KADCCAM reiterated its commitment to advocating for climate accountability, sustainable water management, and environmental protection. The organization also used the occasion to call for unity, collective responsibility, and peaceful coexistence among residents, stressing that a cleaner and safer environment benefits everyone.

KADCCAM therefore urged all residents to see the protection of waterways not just as a duty, but as a vital step toward securing a healthier, flood-free, and more sustainable future for Kaduna State and beyond.

Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has handed over the contract for the proposed Zariagi International Airport to China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation and Gamji Nigeria Limited.

The brief ceremony took place on Wednesday at the Government House in Lokoja, with key stakeholders and international partners in attendance.

Governor Ododo described the airport as a “legacy initiative” that reflects his administration’s commitment to economic transformation and improved regional connectivity.

He noted that the contractors emerged after a rigorous procurement process and assured them of the state government’s full support in delivering a world-class aviation facility.

The governor also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Federal Government for granting approval for the project stressing that Kogi State occupies a special place in Nigeria’s aviation history, noting that one of the earliest aircraft landings in the country occurred in the state, making the absence of a functional airport a long-standing gap.

According to him, the proposed airport will serve as a strategic alternative to the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, helping to ease congestion while improving access for travelers and investors.

He added that Kogi’s strategic location linking northern and southern Nigeria and connecting major commercial hubs positions the state as an ideal location for world class aviation facility.

Governor Ododo emphasized that the project would unlock vast economic opportunities in solid minerals, agriculture, and trade, while also generating employment for residents across the state.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Transportation, Victor Atuluku, disclosed that the airport project underwent extensive planning and design phases within the 2025 fiscal year.

He explained that the development would cover major components, including landside infrastructure, the terminal building, and airside facilities.

He further revealed that CCECC would handle the core technical aspects of the airport, including the terminal building and runway systems, while Gamji Nigeria Limited would oversee perimeter fencing.

Atuluku noted that the airport would feature a 3.6-kilometre runway capable of accommodating large aircraft, including heavy cargo planes, and would sit on approximately 4,000 hectares of land with provisions for future expansion.

“The facility is also expected to support cargo operations with dedicated warehouses and a cargo terminal, positioning Kogi as a regional logistics hub, with projected passenger traffic of about 250,000 annually”.

In their separate remarks, representatives of the contracting firms pledged to deliver the project in line with international best practices.

A representative of CCECC, Jun Don Pin, expressed appreciation for the opportunity and assured of timely and quality project delivery, while Salau Mutalib of Gamji International commended the state government’s vision and pledged strict adherence to stipulated standards in carrying out the project.

END

By BASHIR, Adamu Jalingo

Academic and administrative activities at Taraba State University (TSU), Jalingo, are expected to resume shortly following a breakthrough in negotiations between the state government and the institution’s staff unions. The unions have officially accepted a ₦500 million offer aimed at resolving the lingering industrial crisis.

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and its non-academic counterparts reached the decision to halt their strike after considering the financial commitment made by Governor Agbu Kefas. This development marks a significant turning point for the state-owned institution, which has been shut down over welfare and salary grievances.
Confirming the resolution on Monday, the ASUU Chairman for the University, Joshua Garba Mbave, stated that while the ₦500 million offer has been accepted, it remains a conditional agreement. He emphasized that the unions are exercising caution to ensure the government’s promises are fully realized.

According to Mbave, the formal suspension of the strike is contingent upon the signing of an official Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). “We have accepted the offer by Governor Agbu Kefas, but with the condition that an agreement must be signed so we are assured the promises will be honoured,” he explained to reporters.

The ongoing industrial action has previously paralyzed the university, bringing all academic work to a standstill. Thousands of students were left stranded as lecturers and support staff vacated their posts to demand better conditions of service and the payment of outstanding salary-related arrears.

With the signing of the agreement expected to take place imminently, union leaders have assured that the gates of the university will be reopened immediately after the paperwork is finalized. This move is expected to bring much-needed relief to the student body and the entire Jalingo academic community.

By the Executive Order 9 of 2026 Secretariat

The article authored by Mr. Eze Onyekpere and published in Blueprint Newspaper on 9 March 2026 questioning the legality of Executive Order 9 of 2026 (EO9) presents its conclusions with striking certainty.

However, while the tone suggests a settled constitutional verdict, the legal reasoning offered does not sustain such a conclusion. What appears in the article is less a rigorous constitutional critique than a confident assertion built on a fundamental analytical misunderstanding.

At the centre of the argument lies the claim that the existence of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), 2021 effectively disables the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria from issuing directives touching on petroleum revenue administration. That proposition is neither supported by constitutional doctrine nor by the structure of executive authority under Nigeria’s constitutional framework.

The first weakness in the argument is its failure to identify, with precision, what Executive Order 9 is alleged to have unlawfully done. EO9 has not repealed the PIA. It has not amended any provision of the Act.

It has not suspended statutory obligations established by the National Assembly. Nor has it attempted to legislate in place of the legislature. These distinctions are critical.

For any allegation of illegality to stand, it must be demonstrated that the executive instrument in question has displaced or altered statutory rights, duties, or institutional structures created by law. No such demonstration has been made.

Instead, the critique rests on a broader but legally unsustainable assertion: that once a sector is regulated by statute, the President is precluded from issuing executive directives affecting its administration. That interpretation misunderstands the nature of executive authority under Section 5 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended). The Constitution vests the executive powers of the Federation in the President and charges the office with the execution and maintenance of the Constitution and laws enacted by the National Assembly.

The President, therefore, is not a passive observer of statutory administration. As the head of the executive branch, he bears the constitutional responsibility to ensure that laws are implemented faithfully, coherently, and in a manner consistent with the broader constitutional framework. Executive orders are among the recognised administrative instruments through which such coordination and supervision occur.

The mere presence of legislation does not extinguish executive authority. Nearly every major sector of governance operates within statutory frameworks, yet their implementation necessarily involves executive direction, policy coordination, and institutional oversight. An executive order becomes unlawful only where it contradicts existing law, nullifies statutory provisions, or exceeds constitutional limits. None of these conditions has been established in relation to EO9.

A further difficulty in the critique is the conflation of two separate propositions. The first, that the Petroleum Industry Act establishes an operational and fiscal structure for the petroleum sector, is correct. The second, that every administrative practice undertaken under that framework is automatically constitutional and immune from executive correction, is not. Statutes establish structures, but they do not sanctify every interpretation subsequently advanced under them, nor every administrative practice that evolves in their implementation.

In constitutional governance, statutes remain subordinate to the Constitution. Where statutory interpretation or administrative practice raises questions regarding compliance with constitutional provisions
particularly those relating to revenues accruing to the Federation, the executive has both the authority and the responsibility to ensure that implementation remains constitutionally sound.

This is the central issue that the critique fails to address. The debate surrounding EO9 is not merely about sectoral administration; it concerns the integrity of the Federation Account, which occupies a central place in Nigeria’s fiscal architecture. The Federation Account represents the constitutional mechanism through which revenues accruing to the Federation are brought into public custody and distributed across the three tiers of government. Its integrity directly affects national budgeting, fiscal transparency, and macroeconomic stability.

Any administrative practice or statutory interpretation that potentially weakens the constitutional flow of revenues into the Federation Account inevitably raises issues of constitutional significance. In such circumstances, the President is not required to remain passive while awaiting judicial determination or legislative amendment.

The executive branch retains the authority to issue administrative directives aimed at ensuring more faithful compliance with constitutional fiscal requirements while broader institutional processes remain available.

To argue otherwise would effectively reduce the executive office to administrative inertia, an outcome neither contemplated nor supported by the Constitution.

It is also important to clarify that decisive executive action does not automatically amount to constitutional overreach. The Constitution prohibits executive action without legal foundation; it does not prohibit executive leadership in safeguarding public revenue administration.

Executive Order 9 is grounded precisely in the President’s constitutional responsibility to oversee the execution of laws and preserve the integrity of Nigeria’s public finance system.
Concerns have also been raised that measures such as EO9 could undermine investor confidence.

Such fears are misplaced. Investors are not attracted to opacity, ambiguous revenue arrangements, or uncertain fiscal oversight. On the contrary, investment thrives in environments characterised by transparency, legal certainty, and institutional clarity.

Strengthening remittance discipline and reinforcing constitutional revenue processes ultimately enhance, rather than weaken, the credibility of Nigeria’s fiscal governance.

None of this suggests that EO9 is beyond debate. In a democratic society, policy instruments and administrative directives must remain open to scrutiny and discussion.

Reasonable observers may hold differing views regarding aspects of implementation, scope, or long-term legislative harmonisation. However, such debate must begin with an accurate representation of the legal issues involved.

Executive Order 9 does not nullify the Petroleum Industry Act. Rather, it seeks to ensure that the implementation of the Act does not evolve in ways that undermine the constitutional framework governing the Federation’s revenues.
The distinction is fundamental.

In the final analysis, the claim of illegality advanced against EO9 remains unsubstantiated. The critique does not demonstrate that the Order repeals or amends existing legislation. It does not establish that the President lacks constitutional authority to direct executive institutions in the administration of public revenues. Nor does it show that practices defended under the PIA are insulated from constitutional scrutiny.

Until such burdens are met, the allegation of illegality remains not a legal conclusion but a polemical assertion.

Executive Order 9 of 2026 is therefore not a constitutional violation. It is a constitutional corrective designed to reinforce the integrity of Nigeria’s public revenue administration.

Signed:
Tanimu Yakubu
Secretary
Executive Order 9 of 2026 Implementation Committee Secretariat

By Ahmed Hassan

A prominent figure in the APC party, Ambassador Yerima Usman Shettima, organized a special iftar gathering for Muslim and Christian religious leaders to strengthen unity and peace among the communities in the state during the holy month of Ramadan.

The event brought together senior religious leaders from both Islam and Christianity, alongside notable politicians and community leaders from various parts of the state, and took place at his residence in Kaduna.

While addressing the gathering, Shettima, who is vying for the Kaduna Central Senatorial seat, stated that the event was organized to foster closer ties and unity among the state’s residents without regard to religious or ethnic differences. He emphasized that this initiative is part of efforts to support the policies of the Kaduna state government under the leadership of Governor Uba Sani, aimed at ensuring peace and unity across Kaduna.

According to him, the coming together of religious leaders and community heads in one place helps to enhance mutual understanding and build sustainable peace. “We organized this gathering to further strengthen unity and mutual understanding among the residents of Kaduna, as peace is the cornerstone of the development of any community,” Shettima said.

In his remarks, prominent Islamic cleric Dr. Ahmad Gumi commended Shettima for this initiative, stating that such actions contribute to improving peace and mutual understanding within the community. Gumi added that the gathering of religious leaders and community heads at such a time is crucial for fostering peace within society.

On his part, the chairman of the Christian Association of Northern Nigeria, Reverend John Joseph Hayab, noted that the event came at a time when both Muslims and Christians are observing fasting simultaneously.

He stated that this occurrence is a sign of strengthened bonds and peace between the two faith communities. Hayab further mentioned that such gatherings help to reduce misunderstandings and enhance peace among the people of Kaduna state.

The event was conducted in an atmosphere of mutual understanding and camaraderie, with attendees reaffirming the need to continue organizing such initiatives to further promote peace and unity among the communities in the state.

By Ahmed Ilallah

The case of Walida has become one of the most trending issues across Nigerian media platforms. The young girl, reportedly underage, was allegedly abducted from her hometown of Hadejia, with suspicion pointing to a staff member of the Department of State Services (DSS).

The development quickly attracted nationwide attention, generating reactions from Muslim and Christian groups, human rights activists, civil society organisations, and political leaders. The matter, now before a competent court in Jigawa State, saw the court ordering that the girl be returned to her parents and that the suspect be handed over to the police for proper investigation.

However, the alleged initial non-compliance with the court order by the DSS reportedly on the grounds of conducting an internal investigation further intensified public debate. The situation escalated, drawing the interest of various associations, media organisations, and even international observers.

Amidst the growing tension, the government of Jigawa State under the leadership of Governor Umar Namadi (popularly known as Danmodi) faced criticism from some quarters over perceived silence on the issue. However, many observers argued that such a sensitive matter required careful, holistic handling rather than impulsive public commentary.

The press statement issued by Malam Hamisu Gumel, Press Secretary to the Governor, a day before Governor Namadi received Walida from DSS custody, helped to calm rising tensions. The Governor’s measured and strategic approach to the situation demonstrated intellectual depth, administrative tact, and a commitment to due process.

Governor Namadi has long been recognised for his humanitarian disposition, even before assuming political office. His intervention in the Walida case, and his assurance that she would be treated as his own daughter and as a daughter of Jigawa State, further reinforced public confidence in his leadership.

With all stakeholders now actively engaged and the legal process underway, there is renewed hope that justice will be served and that Walida’s rights and dignity will be fully protected under the law.

By Ibrahim Ammani

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kaduna State, Ambassador Yerima Usman Shettima, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the new Electoral Act, describing it as a significant step toward strengthening Nigeria’s democratic process.

Shettima, who is also an aspirant for Senatorial seat for Kaduna central constituency, made the commendation in a statement issued to journalists in Kaduna Friday.

According to him, the approval of the new Electoral Act demonstrates the President’s commitment to deepening democracy, promoting transparency, and ensuring credible elections across the country.

He said “The assent to the new Electoral Act is a bold and historic move that will enhance electoral transparency, accountability, and public confidence in our democratic institutions,”

He noted that the reforms embedded in the Act would help address challenges witnessed in previous elections in the country.

The APC stalwart further said the new legal framework would strengthen the independence of electoral bodies and create a more level playing field for political actors, thereby consolidating Nigeria’s democratic gains.

Shettima urged members of the APC in Kaduna State and across the country to take advantage of the party’s ongoing membership registration and revalidation exercise by obtaining their membership cards.

He emphasized that active participation at the grassroots level remains vital for the growth and stability of the party.

“As we prepare for future electoral contests, it is important for all loyal party members to formalize their membership and contribute meaningfully to the progress of our great party,” he said.

He expressed confidence that the APC would continue to record victories in future elections, stressing that unity, discipline, and adherence to democratic principles would remain key to the party’s success.

Shettima also called on Nigerians to support the administration of President Tinubu and Governor Uba Sani, adding that sustained reforms and inclusive governance would pave the way for national development and political stability.

He reaffirmed his commitment to serving the people of his constituency if given the mandate, pledging to prioritize youth empowerment, infrastructural development, and effective representation at the National Assembly.

The APC chieftain urging stakeholders to work collectively to safeguard Nigeria’s democracy and ensure peaceful electoral processes in the years ahead.

By Ibrahim Ammani

A wildlife and environmental journalist has called on the Kaduna State House of Assembly to urgently address the persistent killing of international migratory bats in the gardens surrounding the Assembly complex.

Speaking during a weekend survey of the bats alongside other scientists, Ibrahima Yakubu, Head of Communication and Strategies at African Climate Reporters (ACR), expressed concern over the increasing attacks on the bats, which migrate annually to the historic garden to give birth.

According to him, millions of migratory bats travel long distances to Kaduna due to the garden’s cool climate and tall trees, which provide a safe and suitable environment for breeding. However, he described it as unfortunate that every year the bats face attacks from bushmeat hunters and illegal wildlife traders.

He explained that hunters use catapults and storns to kill the bats, selling each for between ₦200 and ₦300 depending on size.

Investigations revealed that some hunters arrive with bags, kill large numbers of bats,sometimes up to 50 or 60 per day, and transport them to undisclosed locations for sale as bushmeat.

Yakubu noted that the continuous killing of the bats is leading to a significant reduction in their population, with many injured bats unable to complete their return migration.

He warned that this poses a serious threat not only to the species but also to the ecological balance of the area.

One hunter, Mr. Denial Auta, admitted to killing and roasting bats for sale, stating that the business supports his family and helps him pay his children’s school fees.

He also revealed that hunters are aware of the specific months the bats migrate to the Kaduna Assembly garden, making it easier to target them for sale to undisclosed market

Further findings showed that bat hunters frequently gather along the street behind the Assembly garden in the evenings to carry out the killings.

A horticulture vendor operating near the garden, who requested anonymity, complained that the activities of the hunters are damaging plants and flowers in the area.

The vendor called on the state government to intervene and halt the destruction.

Yakubu emphasized that stopping the attacks on migratory bats requires a multi-faceted approach, including public education to dispel myths about bats, enforcement of wildlife protection laws, and habitat conservation.

He highlighted the ecological benefits of bats, particularly their role in pest control and maintaining environmental balance.

He urged the Kaduna State Government, the Kaduna State Police Command, wildlife conservation groups, and other civil society organisations to take immediate action.

Specifically, he called for the deployment of security personnel around the garden to prevent further killings and the arrest of those involved in illegal hunting.

He also advocated for sustained awareness campaigns, both online and offline, to educate the public on the importance of protecting migratory species.

The situation in Kaduna reflects a broader global concern. In 2022, the United Nations warned that nearly one million plant and animal species worldwide are at risk of extinction due to climate change, pollution, and human activities.

Yakubu stressed that immediate and collective action is necessary to protect vulnerable species like the migratory bats in Kaduna.

By prioritizing education, enforcement, and conservation, he said, communities can coexist peacefully with wildlife while safeguarding biodiversity for future generations.