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Equity or Explosion: Kadarko Resolution Tests APC’s Unity in Wase Ahead of 2027

A significant political development has emerged in Wase Federal Constituency of Plateau State, as members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kadarko District have unanimously endorsed the principle of zoning and leadership rotation ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The resolution was reached during a peaceful yet highly attended stakeholders’ meeting held on April 19, 2026, in Kadarko. The gathering brought together a broad coalition of party faithful and community influencers, including elders, women leaders, youth representatives, and critical stakeholders within the district.

The meeting was led by Hon. Shuaibu Ibrahim Shuaibu (Ambassador), who presided over deliberations that culminated in a unified position on the future of political representation in the constituency.

According to a press statement issued and signed by Wase Concerned Patriots for Zoning, the stakeholders, after extensive and robust deliberations, resolved that zoning remains “the most equitable and inclusive pathway to deepen unity, promote fairness, and ensure every district within Wase Federal Constituency feels a genuine sense of belonging and opportunity to produce leadership.”

The group emphasized that their position was not borne out of opposition to any individual or dissatisfaction with past representation. Instead, they described the call for zoning as “a forward-looking step aimed at sustaining the collective confidence and harmony that Wase Federal Constituency has always enjoyed.”

In a strongly worded declaration delivered on behalf of the meeting, stakeholders noted that the constituency has witnessed nearly two decades of representation by a single individual from one section. While acknowledging the contributions made during that period, they stressed that the time had come for what they termed “a dignified and peaceful transition” that would strengthen internal cohesion within the APC and reposition the constituency for broader participation and development.

“The essence of democracy is inclusivity,” the statement noted, underscoring that leadership rotation is a tested mechanism for balancing competing interests in plural societies. “After nearly two decades of representation by one person from one section of the constituency, the time has come for a dignified and peaceful transition that strengthens the APC family and positions the constituency for even greater progress.”

The meeting also served as a platform for appreciation, as participants expressed gratitude for developmental projects and interventions attracted to Wase Federal Constituency over the years. However, they maintained that sustaining progress requires a more inclusive leadership structure that reflects the diversity of the constituency.

In a call for broader consensus, the Kadarko APC members urged other districts within Wase Federal Constituency, as well as party stakeholders across the board, to engage constructively in dialogue around zoning. They stressed that such engagement must be guided by the long-term interests of unity, peace, and sustainable political development.

“The people of Kadarko District remain committed to the unity of Wase,” the statement affirmed, adding that zoning should not be seen as divisive but rather as a strategic tool for strengthening solidarity. “Wase Federal Constituency belongs to all of us. Fairness and equity today will guarantee a stronger and more united Wase tomorrow.”

Political observers note that this endorsement could significantly shape the dynamics within the APC in Wase ahead of the 2027 elections, especially as conversations around power rotation gain momentum across various constituencies in Plateau State and beyond.

The position taken by Kadarko District stakeholders signals a growing consensus within segments of the APC that structured power-sharing arrangements may be necessary to maintain party cohesion, prevent internal fractures, and enhance electoral competitiveness in the coming political cycle.

2027 Countdown: Lamba Bloc Intensifies Push for Power Rotation in Wase Constituency

With political alignments gradually taking shape ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections, fresh fault lines are emerging within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Wase Local Government Area as influential stakeholders from Lamba District escalate their demand for the adoption of rotational leadership in the Wase Federal Constituency.

The renewed agitation, which observers say could significantly shape candidate selection and party cohesion in the run-up to 2027, was formalized during a district-wide congress convened by the Concerned Lamba District Elite. The gathering, which brought together political actors, professionals, and grassroots representatives from the four wards of Lamba, ended with a unanimous resolution endorsing zoning as the only credible framework for ensuring fairness, inclusion, and sustainable democratic practice in the constituency.

Presided over by Comrade Aminu Gyambar, with Barrister Yunus Abubakar Gongki serving as secretary, the congress adopted a strongly worded communiqué rejecting what it described as nearly two decades of uninterrupted control of the House of Representatives seat by a single district. The group warned that such prolonged dominance is incompatible with democratic norms and risks undermining the legitimacy of the political process.

According to the stakeholders, the Wase Federal Constituency—comprising Wase, Lamba, Kadarko, and Bashar—must reflect its multi-district composition in the distribution of political power. They argued that continued concentration of representation in one district has created a structural imbalance that excludes other areas from meaningful participation and fosters a perception of political entitlement.

Framing the issue within the broader context of the 2027 elections, the Lamba bloc stressed that failure to implement rotational leadership ahead of the polls could deepen internal divisions within the APC and weaken the party’s electoral prospects in the constituency. They maintained that zoning is not merely a political concession but a strategic necessity to maintain unity and credibility within the party’s ranks.

The communiqué emphasized that rotational leadership would open up the political space to a wider pool of aspirants, particularly from underrepresented districts, thereby strengthening democratic competition and enhancing the legitimacy of eventual candidates. It also argued that such a framework would restore confidence among voters who may feel alienated by what they perceive as a closed and exclusionary system.

The group further warned that the persistence of the current arrangement could have destabilizing consequences, including voter apathy, heightened political tension, and potential fragmentation within the party structure. Describing the situation as unsustainable, the stakeholders called for immediate corrective action to prevent a deeper crisis as the 2027 election cycle approaches.

In a direct appeal to the leadership of the APC, the Lamba elite urged swift intervention to address what they termed ongoing political manipulation within the constituency. They specifically called on the National Chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, the Plateau State APC Chairman, Rufus Bature, and the Wase LGA APC Chairman, Shagari, alongside other party stakeholders, to institutionalize a transparent and enforceable rotation framework.

The appeal, which was also copied to the APC National Secretariat, the Plateau State APC Secretariat, and the Governor of Plateau State, reflects the group’s determination to escalate the matter beyond local party structures if necessary.

Political analysts note that zoning arrangements often play a decisive role in Nigeria’s electoral politics, particularly in heterogeneous constituencies where competing interests must be balanced to maintain stability. In this context, the unfolding developments in Wase may prove critical in determining not only candidate emergence but also the broader electoral dynamics within the constituency.

For the Concerned Lamba District Elite, however, the demand transcends immediate electoral considerations. It is framed as a fundamental call for justice, equity, and the restoration of democratic balance in a system they believe has been skewed for too long. As momentum builds and attention shifts toward 2027, the response of APC leadership at both state and national levels is expected to shape the trajectory of the unfolding contest.

With political stakes rising and expectations hardening, Wase Federal Constituency now stands at a pivotal moment—one that could redefine its internal power structure and set the tone for its participation in the next general elections.

“One Seat, 20 Years, Zero Access”: Concerned APC Members in Wase Push for Rotation

WASE, PLATEAU STATE — Growing discontent within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Wase Local Government Area has reached a critical point, as a coalition of party members under the banner of “Concerned APC Stakeholders” has intensified calls for the institutionalisation of zoning and power rotation, decrying what they describe as a two-decade political monopoly that has stifled inclusion, fairness, and internal democracy.

In a strongly worded statement circulated to the press, the group lamented that a single political bloc has dominated a key elective position in the area for nearly 20 years, effectively shutting out other qualified party members and communities from meaningful participation in governance. The stakeholders framed their agitation not merely as a political demand, but as a moral and democratic imperative necessary to restore equity and cohesion within the party.

According to the statement, the prolonged occupation of the seat by one individual or faction has created a culture of exclusion that contradicts the founding principles of the APC, particularly its commitment to justice, fairness, and equal opportunity. The group argued that the absence of a structured zoning arrangement has entrenched a system where political access is restricted to a privileged few, leaving a vast majority of loyal party members politically marginalised.

The stakeholders noted that Wase, with its diverse communities and political wards, cannot afford to continue under what they described as a “closed system of representation,” warning that the long-term consequences of such imbalance could weaken party unity and erode grassroots support ahead of future elections. They stressed that rotation of power is not a novel concept in Nigerian politics but a tested mechanism for managing diversity and ensuring inclusiveness in multi-ethnic and politically complex societies.

“We are not asking for disruption; we are demanding fairness,” the statement read in part. “For 20 years, access to this seat has remained effectively closed to a broad segment of our party. This is neither sustainable nor justifiable in a democratic setting.”

The group further called on the state and national leadership of the APC to intervene by establishing clear zoning guidelines that would guarantee equitable distribution of political opportunities across the various districts and interest groups within Wase. They argued that without such intervention, the party risks internal fragmentation and possible electoral backlash from aggrieved members.

In a pointed critique of the status quo, the stakeholders questioned the rationale behind allowing a single political stream to dominate for such an extended period, noting that many capable individuals have been denied the opportunity to serve despite their competence and loyalty to the party. They warned that continued resistance to rotation could be interpreted as an attempt to institutionalise political exclusion.

The statement also underscored the importance of internal democracy, urging party leaders to prioritise transparent processes in candidate selection and to resist any attempts at imposition. According to the group, the credibility of the APC in Wase depends largely on its ability to demonstrate fairness in how it allocates political power among its members.

Political observers in Plateau State say the agitation reflects a broader trend across Nigeria, where intra-party tensions often arise from perceived imbalances in power-sharing arrangements. Analysts note that zoning, though informal in many cases, has become a critical stabilising tool in managing political competition within parties.

Despite the strong tone of their demands, the Concerned APC Stakeholders maintained that their intention is not to weaken the party but to strengthen it through inclusivity and justice. They reaffirmed their loyalty to the APC while insisting that loyalty must not be mistaken for silence in the face of perceived injustice.

As the 2027 election cycle gradually comes into focus, the situation in Wase is expected to test the APC’s capacity to manage internal dissent and reconcile competing interests. Whether party leadership will heed the call for zoning and rotation remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the debate over access, equity, and political inclusion in Wase has moved from quiet murmurs to a full-fledged demand for structural reform.

From Consumption to Production: DLA Charts New Economic and Political Path for Nigeria

A newly registered political party, the Democratic Leadership Alliance (DLA), has formally entered Nigeria’s political landscape with a bold declaration to reshape governance through ideology, innovation, and leadership reform.

At a world press conference held in Abuja, the National Chairman of the party, Barrister Samuel Memeh, presented what he described as a “defining moment” in the nation’s history, declaring that the party’s emergence signals a deliberate departure from conventional political culture.

Flanked by the National Publicity Secretary of the party, Professor Chris Mustapha Nwaokobia Jnr, and the party’s National Financial Secretary, Obekpa Grace, the party’s national chairman said, “The Democratic Leadership Alliance was founded not as just another political party, but as a movement of purpose, built on a clear ideological foundation—anchored in Pan-Africanism, ethical leadership, scientific advancement, and people-centered governance.”

He emphasized that the formation of the DLA is a direct response to what he termed Nigeria’s “systemic failure, economic stagnation, and insecurity,” adding emphatically:
“Nigeria must rise again, and it will.”

Vision Anchored on Innovation and Production

Outlining the party’s policy direction, Barr. Memeh said the DLA is committed to transforming Nigeria into a science-driven and industrialized nation where innovation drives economic growth and institutions function effectively.

“We envision a Nigeria driven by science, technology, and industrialization—a nation where innovation fuels economic growth, where institutions work, and where leadership is accountable to the people,” he said.

He detailed a shift in economic philosophy away from consumption toward productivity:

“Our economic policy is clear: transition from a consumption-based economy to a production and innovation-driven economy; promote industrialization and local manufacturing; invest heavily in technology, research, and youth-driven enterprise; and build a sustainable system that empowers Nigerians to create wealth and opportunity.”

Security and Agricultural Protection at the Core

On national security and food systems, the DLA chairman took a firm stance on the protection of farmers and regulation of livestock movement across the country.

“The security of lives and property remains non-negotiable. The continuous destruction of farmlands and displacement of farming communities across the country is unacceptable,” he declared.

He outlined specific policy measures the party intends to pursue:

“Immediate legislative and policy framework to end the destruction of farmlands; effective regulation of movement of cattle across Nigeria; and cattle owners must operate within designated and regulated ranching systems, taking full responsibility for their business operations.”

According to him, the issue transcends security concerns:
“This is not just about security—it is about food sovereignty, economic stability, and national survival.”

Memeh added that the party would prioritize agricultural modernization and youth participation:
“Young Nigerians must be encouraged and empowered to embrace agricultural entrepreneurship, supported by modern technology and structured systems.”

Call for National Reorientation and Participation

Positioning the DLA as an inclusive political platform, Memeh urged Nigerians to embrace a new political culture rooted in values and shared responsibility.

“The Democratic Leadership Alliance stands today as the first and only ideologically grounded political party in Nigeria, committed to long-term transformation, not short-term political gains,” he said.

He insisted that Nigeria’s future remains within the control of its citizens:
“Nigeria is not a captured state, and it will never be… no night is so dark that it can stop the coming of the day.”

Calling for collective action, he added:
“The responsibility to rebuild Nigeria does not lie with a few—it lies with all of us.”

He invited Nigerians across divides to join the movement:
“We urge you to register and join us in the great drive to berth a New Day, a New Dawn, and a New Republic for the masses of our people”, giving the party’s website as https://www.dlanigeria.org and urged Nigerians to register online.

Memeh further called for a rejection of entrenched negative political practices:

“We must reject corruption, political opportunism, ethnic and religious division—and embrace unity, discipline, innovation, and purpose-driven leadership.”

“Not About 2027, But the Next Generation” — Prof. Nwaokobia Jnr

Responding to questions from journalists, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Professor Chris Mustapha Nwaokobia Jnr, stressed that the DLA’s focus goes beyond electoral cycles.

“We are not just about the next elections. There is a popular cliché that says that politicians are concerned about the next elections, whereas statesmen are concerned about the next generation,” he said.

He explained that the party’s mission centers on addressing Nigeria’s leadership deficit:
“For us it’s not just about 2027 elections. For us it’s about fixing the national leadership deficit. We are interested in building a generation of thinkers who will fix the challenges with our country.”

Prof. Nwaokobia highlighted the symbolism embedded in the party’s identity:
“If you look at the logo of the party, you will see that DLA has a golden pen—the power of information, the power of knowledge, the power of training and grooming.”

He warned that without deliberate leadership development, national decline would persist:
“Our country will continue to rot… if you don’t train leaders who will take responsibility for whatever they do in leadership.”

Screening Political Actors, Rejecting Opportunism

The DLA spokesperson also addressed concerns about the influx of political actors ahead of future elections, noting that the party would be selective in its engagements.

“The Nigerian political space is some kind of a confused arena where people are looking for multipurpose vehicles… But what we’re doing is sifting those that we’re engaging with.”

He emphasized due diligence and value alignment:
“We’re talking with them, we’re looking into their antecedents… because if we do not change the way we perceive politics… then our search for the new republic… will be distant.”

“A Departure from the Old Order”

Describing the DLA as a transformational platform, Nwaokobia reiterated its ideological positioning:
“DLA is simply a departure from the old order… this is the first ideologically centred political party in our history.”

He argued that leadership failure lies at the heart of Nigeria’s challenges:
“At the core of our problem as a nation and as a people is the failure of leadership.”

Drawing a contrast with past political experiences, he concluded:
“DLA has come in to fix that gap and become the solution to our leadership issues and challenges… leaders must show the way. Unfortunately… they have not shown the way thus far.”

A New Political Proposition

With its formal unveiling, the Democratic Leadership Alliance enters Nigeria’s political arena positioning itself as a reform-driven movement aimed at redefining governance, rebuilding institutions, and fostering a new generation of leaders.

As Barr. Memeh concluded:
“The time has come to rewrite the story of our nation… Together, through courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment, we can secure our future. Nigeria will rise again.”

Defence Ministry Permanent Secretary Applauds MoD-HIP on HIV/AIDS, COVID-19 Response, Pledges Stronger Support

The Permanent Secretary of Nigeria’s Ministry of Defence, Mr. Richard Pheelangwah, has lauded the leadership and staff of the Ministry of Defence Health Implementation Programme (MoD-HIP) for their sustained dedication and professionalism in combating HIV/AIDS and other public health challenges, particularly among Armed Forces families.

Pheelangwah gave the commendation during a familiarisation visit to the Programme Office in Abuja, where he underscored the critical role of family health in enhancing the operational effectiveness of the military.

He noted that the well-being of Armed Forces families remains a strategic priority, adding that a healthy support system directly contributes to improved performance and readiness within the military.

The Permanent Secretary reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to strengthening the governance framework of the MoD’s health initiatives to ensure effective implementation and scalability, with the potential to extend benefits beyond military communities to the wider Nigerian population.

While acknowledging the Programme’s remarkable progress within a relatively short period, he urged the management to deepen strategic partnerships and prioritise investment in digital health solutions to further improve service delivery.

In his remarks, the Director-General of MoD-HIP, Brigadier-General Babatunde Solebo, described the visit as a demonstration of purposeful leadership, noting that the Programme was honoured to receive the Permanent Secretary.

Solebo, who earlier presented an overview of the Programme’s activities, explained that MoD-HIP operates across 18 states, including the Federal Capital Territory, focusing on public health preparedness. He stated that while the Programme initially targeted HIV/AIDS interventions, its scope has expanded to include COVID-19 response and mental health care services.

He added that MoD-HIP is also actively engaged in research and maintains strategic collaborations with key institutions, including the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), the Nigeria Customs Service, and the United States Embassy, among others.

The Director-General further highlighted the Programme’s role in preventing mother-to-child transmission of HIV/AIDS, as well as its support initiatives for vulnerable children, particularly within military families, through scholarships and skill acquisition programmes.

To enhance sustainability, Solebo identified key priorities such as the absorption of 300 Health Implementation staff, the establishment of a stable budgetary framework, infrastructural upgrades, and the creation of an Armed Forces College of Medicine.

Earlier in her welcome address, the Country Director of the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research Africa (WRAIR-Africa Nigeria), Mrs. Helina Meri, commended the strong collaboration between the United States and MoD-HIP. She noted that the partnership spans both administrative and technical domains, contributing significantly to the success of the Programme.

The event was attended by directors from the Ministry of Defence, officials of MoD-HIP headquarters, and other staff members.

Defence Ministry Pledges Enhanced Support For Nigerian Navy And Stronger Civil – Military collaboration

The Permanent Secretary, Nigeria’s Ministry of Defence, Mr. Richard Pheelangwah has reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to strengthening the operational capacity of the Nigerian Navy through enhanced support, improved readiness, and stronger Civil-Military collaboration.

Mr Pheelangwah made this known during a familiarization visit to the Naval Headquarters on 17th March, 2026, where he commended the leadership and personnel of the Nigerian Navy for their professionalism, dedication, and critical role in safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime domain.

He noted that the visit was aimed at deepening strategic alignment between the Ministry and the Nigerian Navy, as well as gaining firsthand insight into the Service’s operational priorities, challenges, and ongoing initiatives.

Mr Pheelangwah emphasized the need to strengthen civil-military synergy, stressing that effective collaboration between the Ministry of Defence and the Armed Forces remains vital to achieving sustainable national security objectives. He further assured of the Ministry’s readiness to support the Nigerian Navy in critical areas, including force readiness, budgetary compliance, and improved welfare for officers and personnel.

According to him, prioritizing human capital development and welfare remains central to enhancing operational efficiency and morale. He added that it is important Nigeria’s defence industrial base is strengthened, as a way of encouraging greater focus on local content and partnerships that will boost indigenous capacity and contribute to national economic development.

While reiterating the Ministry’s commitment to addressing operational and administrative challenges facing the Nigerian Navy, he called for a unified approach to national defence through enhanced cooperation among the Services. Pheelangwah expressed optimism that with sustained support and collaboration, the Nigerian Navy will continue to play a pivotal role in securing Nigeria’s maritime environment and protecting critical national asset.

In his response, the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas commended the leadership of the Ministry of Defence for the current cordial working relationship with the entire Services. He highlighted areas of need to boost naval personnel’s performance such as; equipment procurements , improved procurement process, infrastructural deficits such as adequate accommodation for naval personnel, especially, as the strength of service expands by the day; increase in staff strength via the employment of Medical staff and funds for completion of all projects started by his predecessor’s. Vice Admiral Idi Abbas pleaded for the Ministry’s supports to be able to achieve those targets.

Present at the event are the Directors from the Ministry and the Principal Staff Officers of the Naval headquarters.

2027 Elections Timetable: Northern Youths Urge Support for INEC After Date Adjustment

A coalition of 21 Northern Nigeria youth organisations led by the Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership has called on Nigerians to support the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) following the adjustment of the timetable for the 2027 general elections, describing the decision as a responsible move aimed at strengthening democratic participation and national cohesion.

In a press statement signed by the President of the Assembly, Abdul Garba Danbature, the groups commended the electoral body under the chairmanship of Joash Ojo Amupitan for shifting the election date from February 2027 to January 2027, noting that the move reflected sensitivity to Nigeria’s religious diversity, particularly the proximity of the earlier date to the Ramadan fasting period.

“We wish to commend the Independent National Electoral Commission under the chairmanship of Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan for its thoughtful and responsive adjustment of the 2027 General Election timetable from February 2027 to January 2027,” the statement read.

“This strategic recalibration, necessitated by the proximity of the earlier schedule to the holy month of Ramadan, reflects not only administrative foresight but also a deep sensitivity to Nigeria’s religious diversity and plural character.”

The coalition said the earlier February timetable could have created participation challenges for millions of Muslim voters, adding that the decision to review the schedule demonstrated INEC’s commitment to inclusivity.

“The earlier February date posed potential logistical and participatory challenges for millions of Muslim faithful who observe the sacred fasting period with devotion and solemnity,” the statement said.

“By revising the timetable, INEC has demonstrated a commendable commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that no segment of the Nigerian populace feels inadvertently disadvantaged in the exercise of their constitutional franchise.”

According to the youth groups, the decision followed appeals by religious and civic leaders who urged the Commission to reconsider the election date in the interest of wider participation.

“It is instructive to note that this adjustment followed earnest appeals by concerned Nigerians, including respected religious and community leaders such as the Sultan of Sokoto and the leadership of the Supreme Council for Sharia in Nigeria, alongside our organization and other civic stakeholders,” the statement noted.

“The Commission’s decision to listen, deliberate and act reinforces the principle that democratic institutions must remain attentive to constructive public engagement.”

The coalition urged Nigerians to set aside doubts about the Commission’s leadership, insisting that the timetable change shows that INEC is committed to credible and peaceful elections.

“Widely misunderstood in some quarters, this development is in fact further evidence that Professor Amupitan is a responsible and responsive Nigerian, committed to conducting elections that are credible, peaceful and reflective of the will of the people,” the groups said.

“Leadership, particularly in sensitive national institutions, demands both firmness and flexibility — firmness in upholding the law and flexibility in accommodating legitimate concerns that enhance democratic participation. INEC’s action embodies this delicate balance.”

They further called on citizens and political actors to embrace the adjustment as a positive development rather than politicising the issue ahead of the 2027 polls.

“We call upon all Nigerians, especially those who may have previously harboured reservations about Professor Amupitan’s appointment, to sheath their swords and embrace this positive signal of inclusive governance,” the statement said.

“The adjustment of the timetable is not a concession to sectional interest, but a reinforcement of national equity. From all available indications, the Commission is positioning itself to conduct one of the most credible elections in Nigeria’s democratic history.”

The youth organisations stressed that peaceful conduct remains essential to democratic consolidation, citing the peace advocacy of former Head of State, Abdulsalami Abubakar, as a guiding example for political leaders and citizens.

“As a nation, we must remember that peace remains the cornerstone of democratic consolidation. The enduring peace advocacy championed by General Abdulsalami Abubakar continues to remind us that nation-building has no viable alternative to dialogue, tolerance and mutual respect,” the statement said.

They also invoked the legacy of the late Northern Nigerian leader, Ahmadu Bello, urging Nigerians to emulate his spirit of unity and moderation.

“The late Sardauna was renowned for fostering peaceful coexistence among Northerners of diverse faiths and ethnic backgrounds. His cordial relationships across religious and regional lines demonstrated that leadership is best measured not by rhetoric, but by the ability to unite rather than divide,” the coalition stated.

The groups urged political parties, civil society organisations, religious institutions and voters to see the timetable adjustment as a collective democratic gain and focus on peaceful participation in the forthcoming elections.

“The Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership therefore urges all stakeholders — political actors, civil society organizations, religious institutions, youth groups, and the electorate at large — to embrace this development as a collective victory for participatory democracy,” the statement concluded.

“In conclusion, the adjustment of the 2027 election timetable stands as a reassuring affirmation that Nigeria’s democratic institutions are capable of reflection, consultation, and responsible action… Together, in unity and good faith, we can strengthen the foundations of our democracy and advance the cause of national cohesion.”

Synergy Between Ministries of Defence and Interior Critical to the Nation’s Security — Defence Minister Musa

Nigeria’s Honourable Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd), has asserted that strong bond and shared responsibility between the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Ministry of Defence, and the Ministry of Interior is critical to the nation’s security, safety, and development. He made the assertion during a courtesy visit to the Ministry of Interior on Friday 16th January, 2026 in Abuja

The Minister emphasized that the Ministries of Defence and Interior represent two sides of the same coin as both handles the external and internal security of the country and whose roles are increasingly intertwined due to contemporary threats such as terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and cross-border crimes noting that without security, sustainable national development cannot be achieved.

Speaking further, Gen Musa emphasized the importance of seamless collaboration, intelligence sharing, joint operations, and coordinated responses among the Armed Forces, Immigration Service, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Nigerian Correctional Service, and other security agencies acknowledging that no single institution can effectively address Nigeria’s complex security challenges in isolation, hence the need for a collaborative approach.

He disclosed that efforts are ongoing to strengthen border management, protect critical national assets and infrastructure, and institutionalise structured cooperation through inter-ministerial and inter-agency frameworks.

He informed that enhanced capacity building, joint training, and the use of technology for real-time situational awareness remain key priorities, while reaffirming his commitment by assuring Nigerians that the Defence establishment will continue to work closely with the Ministry of Interior and all relevant stakeholders, to build a stronger, more responsive, and unified national security architecture in the interest of peace, stability, and public confidence.

Responding, the Honourable Minister of Interior Dr.Olatunji Ojo said that security is a combination of both internal and external. If the internal security agencies are up to the task, the military will be able to face what they need to do. According to him, “our national security architecture stands on the tripod of intelligence, internal security and the military”, adding that intelligence is key and describing ministries of Defence and Interior like siamese twins as a result must work together.

He stated that a safe border is a safe nation, noting that no country can guarantee the safety of its people if it is unable to effectively protect its borders.

He stressed that enhanced border management remains central to national security, peace, and stability, and requires sustained collaboration between internal security agencies and the Ministry of Defence to succeed.

Ojo congratulated the Honourable Minister of Defence on his appointment and pledged to work together with him to strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture and expressed optimism that both ministries will work very well.

Musa Reiterates FG’s Commitment To Military’s Welfare

Nigeria’s Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, (Rtd) has reiterated the Federal Government’s resolve to ensuring that the Military, as well as their families are well taken care of, so as to diligently carry on with their national task of securing the nation.

The Minister opined this during an Inter-denominational Service held on Sunday, 11th January, 2026 in Abuja, as part of the activities marking the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day .

In a Vote of Thanks, Musa acknowledged the commitment and sacrifices of the Nigerian Military and their families, those who have died while serving the nation and those still putting in their best to salvage the nation.
“We honour with deep reverence the brave men and women who paid the supreme price in service to our country. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten.”

He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his leadership in securing the welfare of the military and urged Nigerians to work together with the government in order to achieve victory over the nation’s challenging situations of terrorism, kidnapping, banditry amongst others ‘we shall overcome them ’ he insisted.

Giving the sermon at the event, Most Rev. Uche Okafor of Presbyterian Church, Abuja anchored his speech from 2 Chronicles, chapter 32 verses 5 through 8 with caption ‘Gratitude, Encouragement and Spiritual Security’. He thanked the military for their sacrifices to the nation and the encouragement they offer the citizens of this country. According to him, when there is danger, soldiers are sent, when all run away from danger, soldiers confront danger’.

While urging Nigerian military not to be discouraged, he called on all Nigerians to encourage and support them maintaining that ‘they are not just serving Nigeria, they are serving Almighty God and humanity’. He equally prayed God to grant the Military spiritual security and protection, be strong and courageous, do not be afraid, he admonished.

Rev. Okafor further assured Nigerians that this country shall be better and that Nigerian soldiers will conquer the enemies of Nigeria. He as well cautioned the military to remain neutral and patriotic, as 2027 draws near.

Present at the event were; the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Mr Richard Pheelangwah, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oloyede; Chief of Army staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shuaibu, Chief of Naval staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas represented , Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke represented, Chief of Defence Intelligence Lieutenant General Emmanuel Udieandeye, representative of the Senate President, Deputy speaker House of Representatives, members of the Diplomatic Corps, Heads of Ministries and Paratatals, Directors and the media.

FG Remembers Families Of Fallen Heroes, Retired And Serving Personnels

As part of the activities marking the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Celebration, the Federal Government of Nigeria through the Ministry of Defence, has organized a well-packaged programme for the families of serving, retired and fallen Officers in the three Services of the Nigerian Military. One of the event took place today Saturday, 10th January, 2026 in Mogadishu Cantonement, Abuja.

The wife of the Honourable Minister of Defence , Mrs. Oghogho Lilian Christopher Musa, who was the Special Guest of Honour at the event remarked that Humanitarian Family and Community Day provided a profitable Platform, where we express love, care, and solidarity with the families of Nigeria’s fallen heroes and serving personnels.

She said that the Family and Community Day goes beyond ceremonial observances, as it is intentionally designed to recognise, appreciate, and uplift the families and children of officers who paid the ultimate price in defence of the nation, as well as those whose loved ones are currently deployed to the battlefront.

Mrs Musa, emphasized that behind every gallant officer is a family whose strength, patience, and sacrifice contribute significantly to national security. She urged all and sundry to see support to military families as both moral and national obligation.

In her Welcome Address, the wife of the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Mrs. Hassana Pheelangwah, who was a Special Guest at the event noted that the day was specially marked out for fun and fellowship with the families of the nation’s military personnels and more importantly, to show heartfelt appreciation for the sacrifices, courage, and dedication of our soldiers.

Mrs Pheelangwah highlighted that the theme for the day’s event, which is “Celebrating the Strength Behind Our Soldiers,” is very important, as it reminds everyone that while the courage of our Armed Forces is visible on the battlefield, the real backbone of that courage is often hidden at home in the patience of spouses, the determination of children, and the guidance of families.

According to her, ‘behind every soldier who serves the nation with courage is a spouse who patiently waits, a child who learns to cope with absence, and a family who continues to nurture and care, even under the most challenging circumstances’.

The event featured games and activities aimed at fostering unity, healing, and encouragement among military families such as Family Honour parade, Tug of War, Egg race, bouncing castles, mini-games, dancing competitions and lots more.

The Family and Community Day remains an integral part of the Armed Forces Remembrance Day, reinforcing national appreciation for the Armed Forces and strengthening the bond between the military, their families, and the wider community.