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

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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.

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

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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.

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Musa Reiterates FG’s Commitment To Military’s Welfare

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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.

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FG Remembers Families Of Fallen Heroes, Retired And Serving Personnels

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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.

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2026 Armed Forces Celebrations and Remembrance Day Begins Nationwide

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The 2026 Nigerian Armed Forces Celebrations and Remembrance Day officially commenced today, Friday, 9 January 2026, with special Juma’at prayers held simultaneously at the National Mosque in Abuja, central mosques across the 36 states of the federation, and in all military formations nationwide, marking the formal opening of a week-long programme dedicated to honouring the nation’s military heroes.

The commencement was announced in a press statement issued by the Ministry of Defence on Friday, setting the tone for a series of solemn, reflective and ceremonial activities scheduled to run from 9 to 15 January 2026. The celebrations are being held under the theme, “Valour, Sacrifice, and Unity: Honouring Our Heroes,” a theme deliberately chosen to underscore the critical role, professionalism and sacrifices of the Nigerian Armed Forces in the present dispensation.

At the special Juma’at services held today, prayers were offered for fallen heroes, serving personnel and the peace and unity of the nation, while sermons focused on sacrifice, patriotism and national cohesion.

Dignitaries expected at the opening ceremonies include the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, state Governors, Service Chiefs, senior government officials and veterans, reflecting the national significance attached to the remembrance activities.

According to the programme of events released by the Chairman of the National Planning Committee, Mrs Bosede Olaniyi, who also serves as the Director of the Joint Services Department of the Ministry of Defence, the celebrations will unfold across the country through a carefully structured sequence of religious, humanitarian, intellectual and ceremonial engagements.

Activities continue on Saturday, 10 January 2026, with a Humanitarian Outreach as well as Family and Community Day, scheduled to take place at major military barracks nationwide, including the Mogadishu Cantonment in Abuja, and at the Nigeria Legion Headquarters.

The outreach programme, which begins at 10:00 am, is designed to strengthen civil-military relations and demonstrate the human and compassionate side of the Armed Forces through direct engagement with families, veterans and host communities.

On Sunday, 11 January 2026, attention will shift to Christian worship with a Special Thanksgiving and Interdenominational Church Service holding at the National Christian Centre in Abuja, as well as at military churches and designated churches across the 36 states. The service, scheduled for 2:00 pm, will provide an opportunity for thanksgiving, reflection and prayers for the nation, the Armed Forces and the families of fallen and serving personnel.

The intellectual component of the remembrance week comes up on Monday, 12 January 2026, with a National Symposium and Lecture Series at the National Defence College, Abuja, starting at 10:00 am. The symposium, themed “Securing Nigeria’s Future: The Armed Forces and National Development,” is expected to examine the evolving role of the military in safeguarding national security while contributing to sustainable national development.

Celebrations will take on a ceremonial and social dimension on Tuesday, 13 January 2026, with a Gala and Award Night scheduled for the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa in Abuja. The event will feature a red carpet reception from 5:00 pm, followed by the main programme at 6:00 pm, and is intended to recognise excellence, service and dedication within the Armed Forces and associated institutions.

The week-long activities will culminate on Thursday, 15 January 2026, the Armed Forces Remembrance Day proper, with a National Wreath-Laying Ceremony at the National Arcade in Abuja and simultaneously in all state capitals across the federation.

The ceremony, which begins at 8:00 am, will feature wreath-laying by the President, the Vice-President, the Service Chiefs and members of the Diplomatic Corps. Other highlights include a 21-gun salute, the sounding of the Last Post, a national minute of silence in honour of the fallen, and a ceremonial parade involving the Nigerian Army, Navy, Air Force and Legionnaires.

The Ministry of Defence described the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Week as a period dedicated to celebrating courage, fostering national unity and honouring sacrifice.

The programme, according to the ministry, carefully balances solemn remembrance with expressions of national pride, while showcasing the heroism, professionalism and humanity of Nigeria’s Armed Forces, whose service continues to underpin the nation’s peace, security and collective identity.

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Matawalle: HURIWA Faults Online Smear, Warns Against Politicising National Security

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The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has strongly condemned what it described as a coordinated wave of social media harassment, cyberbullying and politically motivated attacks against the Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Mohammed Matawalle, following the recent circulation of an old video taken out of context.

In a statement issued on Monday and signed by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, HURIWA said the renewed attempts to portray Matawalle as a sympathiser of terrorists were dishonest, malicious and driven by partisan interests rather than any genuine concern for national security or accountability.

HURIWA noted that the video being recycled was recorded in 2021 when Matawalle was Governor of Zamfara State and reflected a policy approach at the time aimed at de-escalating violence and protecting vulnerable communities caught between armed groups and vigilante excesses. According to the rights group, reducing such complex security conversations to simplistic soundbites years later is a deliberate effort to misinform the public and incite hatred.

The association stressed that it is both intellectually lazy and morally reckless to equate efforts at conflict resolution, dialogue or intelligence-led engagement with criminal endorsement. It argued that modern counterinsurgency strategies across the world recognise that understanding the drivers of violence does not amount to justifying it.

HURIWA observed that the timing of the renewed attacks is suspicious, coming shortly after the resignation of the former Minister of Defence on health grounds and the subsequent appointment of General Christopher Musa as Defence Minister. The organisation said it is not coincidental that these narratives resurfaced at a moment of transition within the defence architecture, suggesting a deliberate attempt to sow discord and weaken public confidence in the Tinubu administration.

According to HURIWA, the campaign against Matawalle bears the clear fingerprints of political vendetta, particularly from individuals and groups unsettled by his political relevance, his loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his continued influence in Zamfara State politics. The group said some of the attacks are also rooted in calculations ahead of future electoral contests in Zamfara, where Matawalle remains a formidable political force.

HURIWA maintained that since assuming office as Minister of State for Defence, Matawalle has demonstrated commitment to the collective security agenda of the Tinubu administration, working within established military and intelligence frameworks rather than acting as a lone political actor. The association said attempts to reduce national security challenges to personal scapegoating ignore the institutional nature of defence operations and the shared responsibility of multiple agencies.

The rights group further described the attacks as part of a broader anti-Tinubu campaign by political adversaries who, unable to confront the President directly, have chosen to target some of his most loyal and visible allies. According to HURIWA, Matawalle has become a fallback target for those seeking to undermine the President by proxy, precisely because of his reputation as one of Tinubu’s most steadfast political foot soldiers.

HURIWA warned that normalising cyberbullying, misinformation and character assassination against public officials without evidence poses a serious threat to democratic discourse and national cohesion. It urged Nigerians to distinguish between legitimate criticism and orchestrated disinformation designed to inflame emotions and destabilise governance.

The association also faulted calls for Matawalle’s resignation, describing them as baseless and unjustified. Instead, HURIWA said that an objective assessment of his political service and loyalty to the current administration would warrant recognition rather than vilification.

“Rather than campaigning for Dr Matawalle to be sacked, those who genuinely care about good governance should be demanding that President Tinubu elevate him to a senior ministerial position,” HURIWA stated. “He has shown uncommon dedication, political discipline and loyalty to the President and the ruling party, qualities that are essential for stability in any administration.”

HURIWA concluded by calling on security agencies to remain focused on their constitutional duties and not be distracted by online noise, while urging social media users to exercise restraint and responsibility. The group reaffirmed its commitment to defending democratic institutions, rule of law and fairness, warning that weaponising misinformation against public officials ultimately undermines national security and democracy itself.

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Nigeria Strengthens Global Security Alliances with Saudi Defence MoU

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In a decisive step toward deepening international security collaboration, the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia have formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen defence and military cooperation between both nations.

The agreement, concluded on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, marks a major milestone in Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to bolster its defence architecture and expand global partnerships.

The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, H.E. Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, MON, represented Nigeria at the signing ceremony, while Saudi Arabia was represented by its Assistant Minister of Defence for Executive Affairs, Dr. Khaled H. Al-Biyari. Both officials signed on behalf of their respective governments after extended technical and diplomatic engagements.Nigeria Strengthens Global Security Alliances with Saudi Defence MoU

Speaking at the event, Dr. Matawalle described the pact as a long-awaited breakthrough. “The signing of this MoU is a significant milestone,” he said. “It has been on the drawing board for some time, and its conclusion will strengthen Nigeria’s defence architecture and enhance the capacity of our armed forces.”

The agreement establishes a comprehensive framework for defence collaboration over an initial five-year period, with the option for review and renewal for an additional five years. It also includes a provision allowing either country to terminate the agreement with at least three months’ written notice through diplomatic channels.

Under the new pact, both nations will cooperate in key strategic areas such as military training, joint exercises, intelligence sharing, technical assistance, logistics, and other mutually agreed defence initiatives. The Ministry of Defence noted that the partnership is expected to significantly enhance Nigeria’s security capabilities.

Among the anticipated benefits are expanded opportunities for capacity building through specialised training exchanges and professional military education; improved operational effectiveness arising from shared doctrines and joint drills; and strengthened counter-terrorism and internal security operations through deeper intelligence collaboration and coordinated efforts against violent extremism and organised crime.

Describing the MoU as both practical and strategic, the Ministry affirmed that the agreement will support Nigeria’s long-term goals in security, defence modernisation, and regional stability.

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Defence Permanent Secretary, Pheelangwa, Hosts Guests at Son’s Wedding in Abuja

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The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Mr. Richard Pheelamilo Pheelangwa, was joined by family members, friends, colleagues, and well-wishers on Saturday, December 6, 2025, to celebrate the wedding of his son, Mubarak, and his bride, Kate, in Abuja. Defence Permanent Secretary, Pheelangwa, Hosts Guests at Son’s Wedding in Abuja

The church wedding ceremony was held at ECWA Goodnews Church, PW, Kubwa, where guests gathered to witness the couple’s union and share in their joy.

Following the church ceremony, a reception was held at the Evelyn’s Hall, Gwarimpa, Abuja. The venue was filled with guests who came together to honour and celebrate the couple’s joyful union.

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Defence Minister Badaru Attends North-West Security Summit in Kaduna

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Nigeria’s Honourable Minister of Defence H.E. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar CON, mni, participated in the North-West Zonal Security Summit held at Umaru Musa Yar’Adua Hall, Kaduna. The event was organized by the Senate Ad-Hoc Committee on National Security to foster dialogue on security challenges and collaborative solutions within the region.

In his keynote goodwill message, Minister Badaru reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR’s unwavering commitment to the Renewed Hope Agenda with national security, unity, and community resilience as core pillars. He highlighted the President’s vision of a harmonious society built on shared prosperity, mutual tolerance, and equal respect for every Nigerian.

Minister Badaru emphasized the critical need for a robust and adaptive national security framework, noting the significant progress made through enhanced synergy among security agencies and stakeholders.

He stressed that national security is a collective responsibility that demands active involvement from citizens, communities, and state governments alike.

Acknowledging the indispensable role of state governors as Chief Security Officers, the Minister praised their provision of logistics support, implementation of early-warning systems, and community engagement initiatives. He further commended traditional rulers for fostering trust and facilitating mediation processes, women and youth groups for their pivotal roles in community vigilance and recovery efforts, as well as religious leaders and civil society organizations for combating misinformation and advancing peace and reintegration efforts.

Reinforcing the President’s directives, the Minister called for sustained momentum among the Armed Forces and all security agencies to deepen interagency collaboration, enhance intelligence sharing, and bolster protection for schools and rural communities. He also lauded the Senate for convening the summit, underscoring its importance in promoting transparency, national dialogue, and accountability in the security sector.

The Minister concluded by assuring all stakeholders that the Ministry of Defence remains fully committed to collaborating with summit partners to strengthen stability, build community confidence, and advance the Renewed Hope Agenda across the North-West zone.

The summit was well-attended by key figures including Kaduna State Governor Senator Uba Sani, Deputy Governor of Sokoto State, representatives of other state governors, traditional rulers, Ulama, civil society organizations, and other prominent stakeholders.

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Full Text of the Communiqué Of the National Political Summit on Credible Elections and Political Stability of Nigeria

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COMMUNIQUÉ OF THE NATIONAL POLITICAL SUMMIT ON CREDIBLE ELECTIONS AND POLITICAL STABILITY OF NIGERIA, HELD ON TUESDAY, 11TH NOVEMBER, 2025 AT THE CONFERENCE HALL, NICON LUXURY HOTEL, TAFAWA BALEWA WAY, FCT ABUJA

Preamble

The National Political Summit, 2025 was convened by the National Consultative Front (NCFront) in conjunction with the Labour & Civil Society Front (LCSF), under the theme: “Critical & Mandatory Constitutional Amendments for Credible Elections in 2027.” The Summit attracted over 600 participants and delegates representing a broad spectrum of stakeholders from government, the private sector, civil society, academia, political parties, the diaspora, and other interest groups.

Goodwill messages and keynote interventions were received from former President Goodluck Jonathan; former Vice President Prof. Yemi Osinbajo; Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf; former Governor Rotimi Amaechi; former presidential candidate Mr. Peter Obi; Summit LOC Chairman Prof. Pat Utomi; former Minister and Keynote Speaker Dr. Oby Ezekwesili; NLC President Comrade Joe Ajaero; former presidential candidate Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim; Lead Speaker Prince Adewole Adebayo, Esq; former NIDO Chairperson Mrs. Patience Ndidi Key; Senator Shehu Sani; Senator Ikechukwu Obiora; Lead Speaker Prof. Okey Okechukwu, mni; IPAC Chairman Alhaji Mamman Yusuf Dantalle; Dr. Bilikisu Magoro; High Chief Peter Ameh; Veteran Olawale Okunniyi (Secretary, LOC), among others.

Summit Objective

The Pan-Nigerian Summit on Political Reforms 2025 was conceived as a platform for diverse political stakeholders of Nigeria to examine and reach consensus on essential constitutional amendments needed to perfect Nigeria’s electoral framework ahead of the 2027 general elections. It also sought to launch a formidable, citizens-led national movement as an inclusive platform for political stakeholders—including government institutions, the private sector, and citizens—to engage and proffer enduring panacea to Nigeria’s electoral crises and threats to national security.

To this end, Summit Keynote discussions squarely focused the implications of the recent warning of United States President, Donald Trump, concerning Nigeria’s unabated insecurity, and the urgent need for a credible electoral framework as Nigeria approaches the 2027 elections.

Observations and Suggestions

Panelists, delegates, and stakeholders at the summit made several critical observations and far-reaching suggestions with significant potential to enhance national stability and improve the country’s electoral integrity as follows:

  1. Security and Sovereignty:
    The Summit noted that government’s laxity and insensitivity in protecting citizens’ lives have emboldened banditry and terrorism, inadvertently prompting external interventions—such as the one by the United States—since sovereignty is not absolute in international relations.
  2. Political Party Reform:
    Stakeholders emphasized the urgent need for comprehensive political party reforms, alongside efforts to reform INEC, noting that political parties serve as the primary training grounds for political leaders and public officials.
  3. Tackling Election Rigging:
    The Summit called for all stakeholders to intensify efforts to eliminate election rigging—along with its associated practices of inducement, fraud, and manipulation—which continue to undermine Nigeria’s electoral integrity and government legitimacy in Nigeria.

Recommendations

The Summit adopted the following key recommendations:

a. Financial Autonomy for INEC:
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) should be equipped and empowered to enjoy full financial autonomy by receiving its allocation directly from the Federation Account, in full and on schedule, without interference from any arm of government.

b. Open Budget Framework:
INEC should operate an open budget system and work closely with the organized civil society to enhance transparency and accountability in its operations.

c. Prosecution Powers:
INEC should be constitutionally empowered to prosecute electoral offenders independently, rather than relying solely on the Police or the Attorney-General of the Federation.

d. Early, Diaspora, and Electronic Voting:
Early voting, diaspora voting, electronic voting, and real-time electronic transmission of results should be made legally mandatory to reduce or eradicate manipulation and circumvention of election results.

e. Structural & Governance Reforms of INEC:
INEC’s recruitment processes should be insulated from the Executive. The appointment of INEC national and state leadership should be handled by broad mix of established stakeholders and not the Executive.

f. Ending Judicial Determination of Elections:
Strong reforms should be pursued to eliminate the current aberration, where electoral outcomes are effectively determined in courts rather than at polling units.

g. Special Seats for Women and Vulnerable Groups in Government:
The National Assembly should be compelled to provide for special seats for women and other vulnerable groups in the constitution to be elected and participate in governance.

h. Burden of Proof:
The constitution should be amended to remove the burden of proof from candidates and political parties in election petitions, placing it appropriately on INEC.

Conclusion

In conclusion, keynote speakers, panelists, and stakeholders reached a general consensus on the urgent need to pursue comprehensive reforms of Nigeria’s flawed electoral laws ahead of the 2027 elections. The Summit further agreed on the necessity to unbundle INEC to improve electoral administration, and to create constitutionally guaranteed special seats for women and other vulnerable groups.

The Summit also advised that Nigeria should engage the United States diplomatically on the basis of mutual respect and openness

Finally, the Summit formally launched the Movement for Credible Elections (MCE)—a new citizens’ mass movement ahead of the 2027 elections—with an Interim Steering Leadership constituted to mobilize Nigerians to end election rigging and manipulation in Nigeria once and for all.

Members of the Steering Council of the Movement for Credible Elections (MCE) are listed as follows:

  1. Prof. Pat Utomi – Chairman
  2. Comrade Ayuba Wabba – Co-Chair
  3. Hon. Dr. Usman Bugaje – Deputy Chairman (North)
  4. Amb. Nkoyo Toyo – Deputy Chairman (South)
  5. Barr. Femi Falana, SAN – Legal Counsel
  6. Senator Shehu Sani – Member
  7. Dr. Bilikisu Magoro – Member
  8. Comrade Ene Obi – Member
  9. High Chief Peter Ameh – Member
  10. Comrade Alex Adum – Member
  11. Lady Ankio Briggs – Member
  12. Comrade Promise Adewusi, mni – Director of Administration
  13. Comrade Chris Uyot – Director of Mobilization
  14. Mallam Hamisu San Turaki – Director of Mobilization
  15. Deacon Chris Iyovwaye – Director of Finance
  16. Prince Chris Azor – Director of Mobilization
  17. Comrade Mark Adebayo – Director of Mobilization
  18. Prof. Chris Mustapha Nwaokobia, Jnr. – Director of Communications
  19. Peter Randy Akah – Director of Publicity
  20. Comrade James Ezema – Media Coordinator
  21. Comrade Kamal Yusuf Ahmed – Youth Coordinator
  22. Comrade Hauwa Mustapha – Deputy Head of Secretariat
  23. Veteran Olawale Okunniyi – Head of Secretariat

Signed:
Comrade James Ezema,
Media Coordinator,
Steering Council,
Movement for Credible Elections (MCE).
+234 8035823617