President Bola Tinubu has arrived at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, Nairobi, Kenya, in the early hours of Monday to participate in the Africa/France Summit.
Tinubu’s aircraft touched down at approximately 00:18 a.m. local time. He was received on arrival by the Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, Musalia Mudavadi; the High Commissioner of Kenya in Nigeria, Isaac Parashina; along with senior Kenyan government officials and members of Nigeria’s diplomatic mission in Kenya.
The Africa/France Summit will be co-hosted by William Ruto of Kenya and French President Emmanuel Macron.
Tinubu’s participation, according to the presidential spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, highlights Nigeria’s enduring commitment to advancing African unity, deepening regional economic cooperation, and fostering strategic partnerships to accelerate sustainable development across the continent.
The summit brings together heads of state, policymakers, business leaders, development partners, and key stakeholders from across Africa and beyond to deliberate on innovative pathways for economic transformation, trade expansion, digital innovation, infrastructure development, climate resilience, and collective prosperity for the continent.
During the event, Tinubu is expected to engage in high-level bilateral and multilateral discussions to strengthen Nigeria’s diplomatic and economic relations with fellow African nations while reaffirming Nigeria’s leadership role in shaping the continent’s future.
His attendance reflects the administration’s steadfast dedication to promoting Africa-driven solutions to continental challenges and advancing the Renewed Hope Agenda through strategic international engagement.
The President is accompanied on the trip by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Ojukwu; the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari; the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola; the Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal; the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Jumoke Oduwole; and the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani.
Others are the Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Investment Promotion Council (NIPCO); the Minister of State designate for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye; the Director General of the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC), Omotenioye Majekodunmi; and the Nigerian Ambassador to France, Amb. Ayodele Oke. (Channels)
The National Working Committee (NWC) of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has waived the screening requirement for President Bola Tinubu, declaring him cleared to participate in the party’s primary elections without appearing before a screening committee.
The decision was taken at the NWC’s 188th meeting on Wednesday and announced by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka.
“This decision was made pursuant to the powers conferred on the NWC under Article 13.4 (xiii) and (xiv) of the Constitution of APC to organise and supervise the party’s primaries and, in special circumstances, grant waivers, in the best interest of the party,” Morka said.
The NWC said the decision followed endorsements from key stakeholders, including the Progressive Governors Forum, National Assembly members and other party organs at the APC National Summit of May 22, 2025.
It added that as an incumbent who had already been screened ahead of the 2022 primaries, requiring another appearance would be unnecessary.
APC National Chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, told journalists at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja that the influx of aspirants reflected the party’s strength ahead of 2027.
“As you can see, this place is a beehive of activities… people are here in their numbers, trying to submit their forms,” he said.
He noted that interest cuts across all geopolitical zones, with aspirants contesting various offices, including the presidency.
“We have a sitting President, yet people are buying forms to contest. We allowed it. We opened our party for competition,” he said.
On whether the sale of forms would be extended, he said the timeline remains fixed due to provisions of the Electoral Act.
“We would have loved to extend, but we are time-bound,” he added.
Addressing concerns over tensions surrounding primary modes in some states, Yilwatda acknowledged the issue but said measures were in place to ensure a smooth process.
On the emergence of the New Democrats Coalition (NDC) and recent defections, he downplayed their impact on the party.
“Seventeen out of 459 lawmakers is less than five per cent. Should I be worried? I am not,” he said.
He argued that challenges within opposition ranks were internal, not driven by APC.
“Nigerians are seeing that the contest is not APC versus opposition; it is opposition versus opposition,” he said.
Yilwatda maintained that APC remains united and expressed confidence in the party’s prospects in 2027.
“When you aggregate these numbers, you can be sure that APC will win most of the seats,” he said. (Vanguard)
The 2027 political race in the ruling All Progressives Congress gained some momentum on Tuesday as President Bola Tinubu and other aspirants obtained their nomination forms.
Also, Osifo Stanley from Edo State purchased N100m presidential nomination forms to challenge Tinubu for the APC ticket at the primaries.
This comes as Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, secured the backing of the Governance Advisory Council as the APC consensus candidate in the state.
The Founder of Tinubu Support Groups, lawmaker representing Ikeja Federal Constituency, James Faleke, who picked the N100 million expression of interest and nomination for the President, dismissed concerns over the emerging coalition against Tinubu, insisting they posed no threat to the APC.
According to the party’s 2027 schedule of activities, the sale of forms was scheduled to begin on Saturday, April 25, and end on Saturday, May 2, 2026. However, the process commenced three days later than planned. Party officials clarified that despite this brief delay, the overall deadline for form submission and aspirant eligibility remains unchanged, and all scheduled activities will still proceed as planned. This assurance is intended to help aspirants and stakeholders plan accordingly and reduce any uncertainty caused by the shift in timing.
Our reporter, who visited the designated venue, Abuja Continental Hotel, observed that the Ladi Kwali Hall, ballroom 2, was filled with APC aspirants.
Inside the hall, Senate and House of Representatives aspirants were seen collecting their forms from the zonal desk. The desk for governorship aspirants was positioned separately from the others.
The Independent National Electoral Commission had fixed the Presidential and National Assembly elections for Saturday, January 16, 2027, while Governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections are scheduled for Saturday, February 6, 2027.
The commission also disclosed that party primaries, including the resolution of related disputes, will take place from April 23, 2026, to May 30, 2026.
INEC further announced that campaigns for the Presidential and National Assembly elections will commence on August 19, 2026, while those for Governorship and State Assembly elections will begin on September 9, 2026.
With the commencement of nomination form sales, political realignments across the six geopolitical zones and fresh succession calculations have been set in motion as the lawmaker representing Ogun West Senatorial District, Senator Solomon Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, picked up the APC governorship nomination form for the 2027 Ogun State election.
Similarly, Senator Shehu Buba of Bauchi State and Senator Isah Jibrin (Wadada) of Nasarawa State picked up their governorship expression of interest and nomination forms as they seek to succeed Governors Bala Mohammed and Abdullahi Sule, respectively.
Speaking to journalists after obtaining President Tinubu’s re-election bid forms, Faleke maintained that the APC remains “strategically positioned and unaffected by opposition alignments,” stressing that the party’s internal cohesion and electoral machinery remain strong. He cited examples such as APC’s ongoing grassroots mobilisation campaigns, targeted voter outreach, and the strengthening of local party offices as concrete ways the party is securing its advantage heading into 2027. According to Faleke, these preparations are backed by intensive member training and the deployment of sophisticated data tools to enhance campaign effectiveness at both state and national levels.
“So, for all support groups who have made efforts, who have contributed money to purchase the form, I have done so on their behalf, on behalf of Nigerians. There is no one particular person who has done this. It is on behalf of all Nigerians.
“Just as we did before the 2023 election, I was also privileged, with some leaders, to buy the form. Here again, I am privileged to buy the form on behalf of all Nigerians, for our President, for our performing President.”
He added, “And by the grace of God, 2027 will be a reality. By the grace of God, he will contest, and he will win the election. At the same time, I am also privileged, with my friend here, Honourable Ajala, to pick the form for the incoming governor of Lagos, Dr Kadiri Obafemi Hamzat.
“And let me also say that those of us who contributed money to buy this form are more than 1,000 in Lagos. It is not just one person. None of us can come here and pick the form. Only representatives are sent. And I am also lucky to be one of those who have been sent to pick the form. At the same time, I picked my own form to return to the House of Reps. You can see the form with me.”
He added, “I am also waiting to get the receipt for our incumbent Senator Idiat Adebule from my West Senatorial District. This is just to let you know that everything is intact and God is in charge.”
He noted that the recent political movements and coalition talks are part of normal democratic competition and would not disrupt the ruling party’s preparation for 2027. (Punch)
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, yes-terday, endorsed his Deputy, Dr. Obafemi Kadri Hamzat, for the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship ticket in Lagos, even as no other indi-vidual has openly indicated any desire to compete for coveted position ahead of the party primary.
Interestingly, it was the first time since the return to civil rule in 1999, that a sitting governor of Lagos State would endorse his deputy to succeed him.
The development also signalled continuity in the re-al sense, but more than anything else, it appeared the result of the work chemistry between the two, which had seen them cooperate seamlessly in the last seven and half years.
Sanwo-Olu’s endorsement followed series of consultations by Hamzat, who recently met with the Chief of Staff to the President, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila; former Minister of Finance, Olawale Edun; and the Senator for Lagos East, Tokunbo Abiru.
Before meeting with the trio separately two days ago, Hamzat had also met with the leaders of the Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC), including its chairman, Alhaji Tajudeen Olusi; Alhaji Busura Alebiosu as well as traditional rulers in the state.
But the meeting with Sanwo-Olu, seemed like a grand finale of sort, an event expected to be capped soon by President Bola Tinubu before the official affirmation at the proposed APC primary elections in the coming days.
Sanwo-Olu, who received Hamzat and members of the GAC in consultation visit, openly threw his weight behind his deputy’s aspiration to run for governor.
The consultation meeting came immediately after the State’s Executive Council meeting at the State House, Marina, where members of the cabinet and APC leaders in Lagos Central joined the governor to receive Hamzat’s entourage.
The governor and his deputy shared an emotional moment, reflecting on their political journey over the past seven years and how their paths had crossed during their public service experience under the tutelage of President Tinubu.
Sanwo-Olu recalled that he and Hamzat used to sit next to each other in ex-governor Babatunde Fashola’s cabinet, recollecting that no cabinet memo would scale through without their input and two others sitting in their row.
“Mr. Deputy Governor has created a personal relationship with me since way back before we’re joined together on a ticket. His family and my family have been close; our relationship was built on mutual respect, trust and dignity,” he said.
Sanwo-Olu said when he picked his governorship eight years ago, he never severed his relationship with Hamzat, who picked his own governorship form two days earlier.
The governor recalled how both of them forged a merger and ran on a joint ticket. After their 2019 electoral victory, Sanwo-Olu famously said Lagosians were getting price of two for one, referring to his deputy as a potential Governor.
“After the merger meeting, our father and leader, who today is ordained by God to be President of Nigeria, told both of us that he saw 16 years journey for Lagos.
“A lot of governors always look for weak deputies, but that was not for me. From day one in my governorship journey, I wanted the best partner to join the journey to build Greater Lagos.
“There was no meeting I could have attended that Mr. Deputy Governor is not fit and proper to attend. He possesses the skills, temperament and temerity to attend.
“Some of my governor colleagues privately confided in me, saying ‘your Deputy is highly intelligent’ after noticing the intellectual skills Dr. Hamzat brought to discussions at NGF level.
“For this, we will continue to be indebted to our leader and father, Mr. President, the man who God continues to use to shape the political trajectory and destiny of Lagos. People said we have turned Lagos to irreversible construction site since Asiwaju’s era.
“If a competent man like Dr. Hamzat comes in, he will hit the ground running immediately. We are not going to hand over Lagos to charlatans, who are coming to test their luck. Dr. Hamzat is tried and tested; he knows every nook and cranny of Lagos. Mr Deputy is the best man for the job.”
Reflecting on their relationship, Hamzat said: “By some stroke of coincidence, it was (Governor) Sanwo-Olu who took me round the Ministries when I was first appointed as Commissioner in 2005 by our father and leader, President Tinubu, who was then the Governor of Lagos State.
“I had never met Governor Sanwo-Olu before my appointment into the government. I never knew our relationship would grow to this extent.
“Most people refer to deputy governors as spare tyres. Deputising Governor Sanwo-Olu in the last seven years, I have never felt or been treated as a spare tyre.
“The Governor did well in carrying me along as a partner on this journey to build Greater Lagos. The governor passionately loves Lagos and always fights for the state at every level, to the extent that other governors are jealous of Lagos.
“Lagos is very important to the well-being of our country. God forbid, if anything happens to Lagos, this country will collapse. We must not allow Lagos to be drawn back from the progressive path it has been taken.
“Mr. Governor has worked assiduously to ensure that Lagos continues to progress. Therefore, the progress needs to be sustained.
“One of the things that has fundamentally stabilised the growth of Lagos is the rancour-free succession process adopted by our progressive party.
“As Lagosians, we must be ready to fight any battle and endure any hardship to protect this state from people who don’t mean well. This is my pledge to our leaders and party faithful.”
He said the experience and knowledge he had garnered deputising Sanwo-Olu in the last seven years could not be quantified, thanking the governor for allowing him to function in the position as a partner.
After the meeting, Sanwo-Olu and others present, presented Hamzat to the State House correspondents in a unanimous pledge to support his aspiration. (ThisDay)
President Bola Tinubu has welcomed Nigeria’s latest 91.45 per cent aviation safety rating from the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), describing it as a major boost to the country’s global aviation credibility and investment outlook.
The ICAO, a United Nations specialised agency responsible for setting standards for international air navigation, evaluates member states through its Universal Safety Oversight Audit Programme (USOAP) to determine compliance with global aviation safety requirements.
This was contained in a statement by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on Thursday, April 23.
According to the audit team’s recent debriefing at the headquarters of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) in Abuja, Nigeria recorded an Effective Implementation (EI) score of 91.45 per cent, its highest ever since the programme began in 1999.
The score places Nigeria significantly above the West African regional average of 61.1 per cent and the global average of 70.4 per cent, a development authorities say strengthens confidence in the country’s airspace and aviation systems.
Reacting to the development, President Tinubu said the achievement reflects ongoing reforms in the aviation sector under his administration’s renewed focus on infrastructure and transportation as key drivers of economic growth.
Since assuming office, Tinubu had prioritised the development of a safe, secure, and efficient aviation industry aimed at positioning Nigeria as a regional aviation hub aligned with international best practices.
The statement partly reads: “Upon the assumption of office, President Tinubu redefined the priority areas of his administration to include enhancing infrastructure and transportation as enablers of growth, and to establish the air transport sector as a major driver for economic prosperity by building a safe, secured and efficient aviation industry focused on making Nigeria a hub that meets international standards and best practices beyond even the African continent.
“To align with this priority area, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo SAN, outlined a five-point agenda to grow the Nigerian aviation value chain.”
The President commended the ministry and aviation agencies for the milestone, noting that the improved rating would enhance investor confidence in aviation infrastructure, maintenance facilities, and airline operations in Nigeria.
“President Tinubu urges the Ministry not to relent but to review and implement every recommendation that the ICAO auditors made during this mission to ensure that Nigeria not only maintains, but goes even further on the rating,” the statement concluded. (TVCNews)
President Bola Tinubu has approved a minor cabinet reshuffle in the Federal Executive Council, which led to the exit of the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Wale Edun and the Minister of Housing and Urban Development Ministry, Ahmed Dangiwa.
According to a statement from the Special Adviser, Media and Publicity to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Yomi Odunuga, on Tuesday, the memo signed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, indicated that two cabinet members, Mr. Wale Edun and Architect Ahmed Dangiwa are to leave the cabinet while their replacements have been named.
Edun, until the latest development, was the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister for the Economy. He has been directed to hand over to Mr Taiwo Oyedele, who is now to take over as Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy. Oyedele was formerly a Minister of State in the ministry.
Also, Mr Muttaqha Rabe Darma (PhD) has been named as the ministerial nominee and minister designate for the Housing and Urban Development Ministry.
The memo stated that “all handing over and taking over processes should be completed on or before the close of business on Thursday, 23rd April, 2026.”
Explaining the President’s decision, Akume said: “These changes are aimed at strengthening cohesion, synergy in governance as well as achieving more impactful delivery on the economy to Nigerians, through the Renewed Hope Agenda.”
He said the President, in approving the cabinet reshuffle, has fully exercised his powers as conferred on him by Sections 147 and 148 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (1999, as amended).
The President thanked the outgoing ministers for their services to the nation while wishing them the best in all their future endeavours.
The President, Akume, noted, equally assured all cabinet members that “the process of reinvigoration shall be continuous.” (TVCNews)
President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday commissioned the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS) headquarters in Abuja, declaring that no serious nation could attain lasting prosperity with a weak and fragmented revenue system.
Speaking at the official event, Tinubu said the commissioning went beyond the physical unveiling of the building, marking a pivotal step in the administration’s fiscal reforms aimed at restoring public trust and building an economy rooted in discipline and equity.
“No serious nation can achieve lasting prosperity on a weak and fragmented revenue system. No government can demand trust from its citizens when taxation is opaque, inefficient or unjust,” Tinubu declared.
He said his administration had taken bold steps to overhaul the tax system, simplifying processes, eliminating distortions, and fostering a transparent, investment-friendly environment.
“That is why this administration took the bold decision to embark on far-reaching tax and fiscal reforms, reforms designed to simplify our system, eliminate distortions and create a fair, transparent and investment-friendly environment,” the president said.
Tinubu said the early outcomes of these reforms were already evident, including improved fiscal stability and stronger investor confidence.
“Our direction is clear: a revenue system that rewards enterprise, supports growth and ensures that every contribution to the national purse is matched by feasible value for people. The early results are encouraging, fantastic,” he said, thanking NRS Executive Chairman Zacch Adedeji for his role.
He described the new headquarters as a symbol of professionalism and accountability. “The building is more than concrete and steel; it is a symbol of a new standard of professionalism, transparency, efficiency and service. It reflects our result that institutions must rise to meet the demand of reforms and the expectations of the Nigerian people,” Tinubu said.
The president urged the NRS to prioritise trust-building and fairness.
“We must thank Nigerian people for enduring and persevering, for their resilience to date and to the Nigerian Revenue Service, you must embody this new ethos. It must not only collect revenue, it must build trust, it must ensure fairness,” he said.
Tinubu reaffirmed his inaugural pledge as a covenant with Nigerians. “On my inauguration day, I made a solemn pledge that we would move Nigeria from the dimness of uncertainty into the clear light of renewed hope. I committed that, that we will confront structural weaknesses, restore fairness and build an economy anchored on discipline, equity and opportunity. Today, I stand before you to reaffirm that these words were not rhetoric. They were a covenant with the Nigerian people,” he said.
He concluded by commissioning the building, saying, “We are facing reform, we have chosen discipline, we have chosen progress, we have chosen development, prosperity and inclusiveness, and we will stay this course, steadfast and focused, until promise of Nigeria is matched by the performance of its institutions and the prosperity of its people. To the glory of God Almighty and to the benefit of Nigerians at home and abroad, I hereby declare this building and the God blessed public of Nigeria and the tax collector,” Tinubu said.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio, in his goodwill message, described the event as a testament to divine favour and visionary governance.
He celebrated the transformation of Nigeria’s revenue system under Tinubu in Lagos, from monthly collections of N4 billion to over N69 billion, attributing it to the president’s foresight.
“This is wonderful in the sight of God and this is wonderful in the sight of man. And of course, they say, whatever is done on earth, is also done in heaven. I’m very sure that this is the case. It’s also being celebrated in heaven,” Akpabio began.
He recalled his endorsement during the primaries, emphasising Tinubu’s unique vision.
“Your Excellency the President, when we were coming into office, during the primaries and the convention, I made a statement that We’re going to elect a candidate who has good sight and vision. And that sight and that vision enabled him to take the revenue service in legal sense from N4 billion a month in Lagos. So what we are having today is over N69 billion. And of course, I said can we do the same for Nigeria? If elected. Thank God, Nigerians believed me and elected you,” Akpabio said.
The Senate President highlighted state-level progress and Tinubu’s commitment to true federalism.
“Today, Mr President, you have sent me to commission many projects in states of the Federation. And one of those that we first commissioned was the lithium factory in Nasarawa State… Consistently you’ve shown that you do not only believe in democracy, but you believe in true federalism. That every money that goes into the Federation account, has a shine in our constitution,” he stated.
Akpabio celebrated NRS gains amid global oil disruptions and commended Tinubu’s personnel choices.
“Nigeria today even with the closure of the Hormuz Strait… we have not had 2, 3, 4, 5 kilometers of fuel line… You have a knack for picking good people… Dr Zacch, congratulations.”
Akpabio envisioned the NRS as a symbol of self-reliance. “Imagine this edifice, rising in the heart of our nation’s capital… No nation can endure if it depends only on what is given to it… The National Assembly must continue to stand firmly behind this president… Let us not say that you came to open a door that will work only through your administration, but you have opened a chapter that will bring total responsibility.”
Akpabio urged fiscal prudence on inherited debts.
“I get worried when I read that you have made numerous debts, including ways and means of worth N33 trillion… In the future of Nigeria, we cannot ignore others’ past mistakes.”
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, in his goodwill message, said the NRS headquarters symbolised Nigeria’s commitment to institutional discipline.
“Institutions reveal themselves not only through laws or leadership but also through the systems they sustain over time. This building invites a different kind of reflection. It is not simply about scale or design. It is about whether Nigeria now possesses the institutional discipline to convert authority into consistent outcomes,” Abbas said.
He praised the Tinubu administration’s fiscal reforms for their courage and clarity.
“The fiscal reform programme initiated under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu required not only technical clarity but political courage. It required a willingness to confront structural weaknesses that had accumulated over time and to make decisions whose benefits would not be immediate but whose necessity was clear,” the Speaker said.
Abbas highlighted the challenges of the old system and the impact of the 2025 Tax Reform Acts. (Sun)
President Bola Tinubu has signed the 2026 Appropriation Bill into law, authorising an aggregate expenditure of ₦68.32 trillion for the current fiscal year.
He also signed a separate bill extending the implementation period of the 2025 budget from March 31 to June 30, 2026.
The budget allocates ₦4.799 trillion for statutory transfers and ₦15.8 trillion for debt service.
It further sets aside ₦15.4 trillion for recurrent expenditure and ₦32.2 trillion for capital expenditure through the Development Fund.
The presidency made the disclosure in a statement signed by Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga on Friday.
The statement read, “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has assented to the 2026 Appropriation Bill, which provides for an aggregate expenditure of ₦68.32 trillion. He has also signed the bill extending the implementation period for the 2025 budget from March 31, 2026, to June 30, 2026.
“The N68.32 trillion budget for this year earmarks N4.799 trillion for statutory transfers and N15.8 trillion for debt service. It allocates N15.4 trillion to recurrent expenditure and N32.2 trillion to the Development Fund for Capital Expenditure.
“With capital expenditure accounting for about 50 per cent, the 2026 budget underscores the administration’s continued commitment to economic stability, national security, infrastructure development, and inclusive growth.
“The allocations reflect a strategic balance between statutory obligations, debt servicing, recurrent expenditure, and capital investments critical to driving productivity and improving the quality of life for Nigerians,” it added.
The 2026 Appropriation Act took effect on April 1, with the Federal Government commencing full implementation in line with what the presidency describes as the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Tinubu also assented to the Appropriation (Repeal and Enactment) (Amendment) Bill, 2026, which extends the capital component of the 2025 Appropriation Act by three months to June 30.
The presidency said the extension would ensure the full utilisation of appropriated funds, particularly for critical infrastructure projects at advanced stages of implementation.
“The extension will ensure the full and effective utilisation of appropriated funds, particularly for critical infrastructure and development projects that are at advanced stages of implementation across the country.
“It will enable Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to consolidate ongoing works, enhance project completion rates, and maximise value for public expenditure,” the statement read.
Tinubu directed MDAs to ensure disciplined, transparent, and efficient utilisation of allocated resources, with strong emphasis on value for money and timely project delivery.
He commended the leadership and members of the National Assembly for what the presidency described as their “diligence, cooperation, and patriotism in expeditiously considering and passing the budget.”
“The President reaffirmed the importance of sustained collaboration between the Executive and Legislative arms of government in advancing national development objectives,” the statement noted.
Tinubu also assured Nigerians of his administration’s resolve to deepen fiscal reforms and boost revenue generation.
“He further assured Nigerians of his administration’s resolve to deepen fiscal reforms, enhance revenue generation, and prioritise investments that will stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and strengthen social protection mechanisms,” the statement read.
The budget, titled “The Budget of Consolidation, Renewed Resilience and Shared Prosperity,” was originally presented to a joint session of the National Assembly on December 19, 2025, at a proposed sum of ₦58.47 trillion.
It passed second reading in the House of Representatives on January 29, 2026, before going through further legislative scrutiny and emerging at ₦68.32 trillion at the point of assent.
During the second reading debate in January, House Leader Julius Ihonvbere had urged lawmakers to support the proposal, pointing to a projected 3.98 per cent economic growth rate for 2026, a projected drop in inflation to 14.45 per cent, improved revenues, and foreign direct investment growth.
He also cited a stabilisation of the naira at around ₦1,400 to the dollar and a rise in Nigeria’s external reserves to a seven-year high of approximately $47 billion.
When Tinubu presented the bill to lawmakers in December, he described it as a defining moment in Nigeria’s reform journey, acknowledging the pressures the process had placed on households and businesses while insisting the sacrifices were necessary.
“The path of reform is seldom smooth, but it is the surest route to lasting stability and shared prosperity,” he told the joint session. (Punch)
President Bola Tinubu has reassured Nigerians that the country will ultimately overcome banditry and terrorism despite current challenges.
He made the remarks while delivering a speech at the commissioning of the state-owned Gateway International Airport and Ogun State’s aircrafts in Iperu, Ikenne Local Government Area.
The president emphasised that Nigeria is on a path of development and greatness, driven by ongoing reforms in critical sectors of the economy, which have restored investor confidence.
“We will win over banditry and terrorism. I gave you the assurance that we will invest more in our people. Thank God for our youths, they are committed, brilliant and working hard. Nigeria, our country, is resolved to be great and is on the path to greatness once again,” Tinubu said.
The President added, “I sincerely appreciate the opportunity we have today to celebrate the remarkable vision of a governor and his predecessors. Today, we commission the economic nerve centre of our corridor.”
“In less than seven years, you, Dapo Abiodun, have demonstrated commitment, vision, and patriotism to grow Nigeria. We celebrate your contribution to national development. I have no regrets for whatever we have done with you.
“As your President, I am pleased to see that the increase in federal allocations is being effectively and judiciously used to build our country. I congratulate the people of this great state for supporting a government that is delivering measurable progress, and I thank you for your continued faith in our nation.”
Highlighting the people-centered nature of his administration’s investments, Tinubu said, “The Lord is liberating Nigeria from past mismanagement. We are back as a nation, well respected and highly recognized.”
He noted that the Gateway Airport is connected to investments in gas and energy and praised Governor Abiodun’s broader development projects, saying they reflect a commitment to progress that must “touch every level.”
Tinubu also commended Abiodun’s agricultural initiatives and the rollout of 1,000 electric bikes, describing them as “a smart response to modern transportation needs.”
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who also attended the ceremony, thanked Tinubu for making the effort to participate and called the event a significant milestone in Ogun State’s history.
He commended Governor Abiodun for building the airport, noting that it is a landmark project.
“I’ve landed here from Abuja, and it took me 45 minutes to reach my home — at least 25 minutes shorter than if I had landed in Lagos. I want to thank our governor for doing us proud. I am happy to witness this historic occasion,” Obasanjo said.
He also recalled being part of the “conspiracy” to create Ogun State 50 years ago and noted that the level of development achieved under Abiodun is beyond what anyone could have imagined.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio lauded Tinubu for reforms that have, in his view, relieved states of salary arrears and other financial burdens. He also commended Governor Abiodun for constructing the Gateway Airport and for the judicious use of increased federal allocations.
Governor Abiodun, visibly elated by the president’s presence, described it as deeply symbolic. He praised Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda,” saying it has positioned Nigeria as a competitive investment destination and inspired confidence among local and international investors.
He highlighted that when he assumed office, he realized that for Ogun State to maximize its proximity to Lagos, the administration had to close the infrastructure gap.
Over the last seven years, Abiodun said, his government has enhanced trade mobility, expanded infrastructure, and positioned Ogun as one of the fastest-growing economies in Nigeria through deliberate policies that promote economic development.
Abiodun also highlighted accomplishments in transportation, housing, healthcare, energy, agriculture, security, and environmental sustainability.
He noted the construction of over 1,600 kilometers of roads, including the Epe-Ijebu Ode Expressway, Sango-Abeokuta Expressway, Ilishan-Iperu Road, and the Sagamu–Iperu–Ode Remo–Sapade Expressway, now renamed the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Expressway, which serves as a bypass to the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.
The state has also developed the Muhammadu Buhari Estate, offering 100 semi-detached and fully detached housing units, and over 7,000 affordable homes.
In healthcare, Abiodun pointed to 140 completed and equipped primary healthcare centers and the 200-bed Gateway Medical Centre of Excellence, now affiliated with the Abuja Medical Centre of Excellence, which he said reduces the need for medical travel and positions Ogun as a hub for medical tourism. Energy projects, including the 34.1-megawatt Onijanganjangan Independent Power Project, are supporting industrial growth and economic expansion, while mechanized farming initiatives are strengthening food security across the state.
The administration has also deployed 100 pickup vehicles and other infrastructure to support law enforcement, and introduced electric bikes to promote sustainable urban transportation and mitigate the impact of rising fuel prices.
The commissioning ceremony was attended by governors of Zamfara, Bayelsa, Taraba, Ekiti, Ondo, Niger, and Lagos states, as well as the deputy governors of Oyo and Lagos. Former Ogun State governors Senators Gbenga Daniel and Ibikunle Amosun, Chief Olusegun Osoba, Dr. Olatokunbo Awolowo-Dosumu, Ambassador Femi Pedro, Minister of Culture and Creative Economy Hannatu Musawa, CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso, Minister of Aviation Festus Keyamo, chairmen of Dangote and BUA Groups, Femi Otedola, Inspector-General of Police Tunji Disu, CEO of Zenith Bank, and Comptroller-General of Customs Bashir Adeniyi were also in attendance. (Channels)
President Bola Tinubu in his Easter message yesterday, urged Nigerians, particularly political leaders to embrace restraint, responsibility and civic maturity ahead of the 2027 general elections, while also assuring citizens of his administration’s commitment to building a safer and more secure nation through intensified efforts to tackle terrorism, banditry, and other security threats.
Also yesterday, the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, canvassed for care of the needy and less privileged in society, while Governors and other political leaders charged Nigerians to leverage on the spirit of the season to show love and tolerance for one another.
In his Easter message, addressed to Nigerians at home and abroad, the President acknowledged that, despite the sacrifices of the Armed Forces and other security agencies, challenges to national security have persisted.
Ahead of the 2027 general elections, Tinubu called for political responsibility, restraint, and civic maturity, stressing that the Election Act must guide the conduct of political parties and actors to safeguard democracy, peace, and national stability.
His words: “As the nation gradually approaches another electoral cycle, this season also serves as a call to civic duty and maturity. The Electoral Act must guide the conduct of our political parties and political actors. Let our choices be guided by a shared commitment to peace, continuity, stability, and the long-term good of our country. Democracy flourishes where responsibility, restraint, and informed participation prevail.”
The President expressed optimism that the country is on the path to recovery, citing improving economic indicators as evidence that the right choices are being made.
He, therefore, urged Nigerians to keep faith with the administration’s vision of a safer, stronger and more prosperous nation.
“Fellow Nigerians, you have been very supportive of my administration because you trust our ability to make our nation better. I will continue to serve to retain your trust. I enjoin you to keep the faith and never cease to contribute to the progress and greater future we seek, each in our own way, to the emergence of a democratically stronger, more prosperous, and safer nation,” Tinubu further said.
According to him, the government was making available the necessary resources and strengthening foreign partnerships to enable security agencies to deal decisive blows to terrorists, bandits and other criminal elements.
His words: “Despite the good efforts of the administration and the gallant efforts of our men and women of the Armed Forces who leave behind their families to confront the evil actors in our land, challenges to our security have remained. However, my administration continues to make resources available and forge foreign partnerships to enable us to deal decisive blows to the agents of terror and banditry.”
Tinubu noted that following his condolence visit to Jos, Plateau State, where he commiserated with victims of the recent deadly attack, security chiefs had given strong assurances of progress, while international support was also mobilised to reinforce Nigeria’s response.
He added: “On Thursday, I was in Jos to commiserate with people of Plateau State, share in their grief, and offer reassurances of better days to come. The leaders of the nation’s security institutions have given strong assurances of progress. We have also sought and are receiving assistance from outside our shores.”
He further assured residents of other parts of the country facing one form of insecurity or another that concerted government actions are beginning to produce results, urging citizens to support lawful efforts, remain united, and reject forces that threaten the country’s collective peace and stability.
“I am reassured that the citizens appreciate our efforts. I will continue to remind us of the imperative of unity and oneness. No nation can thrive where fear prevails, and no progress can be sustained without peace.”
The President said no nation can make meaningful progress where fear prevails, assuring communities affected by violence that better days lie ahead.
Tinubu said Easter season symbolises sacrifice, resilience, and the triumph of light over darkness, noting that its message resonates strongly with Nigeria’s present realities as the nation navigates economic stress and security challenges.
Also, wife of the President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, charged Nigerians to remember the needy in society and extend necessary support to them.
In her Easter message, the First Lady in a four-paragraph release titled ‘The Blessed Hope in Christ’s Resurrection,’ stated, inter alia: “Easter is a reminder of the enduring power of love and the selfless sacrifice of Jesus Christ and the hope His resurrection brings to all humanity.
“As we celebrate Easter with our loved ones, friends, neighbours and communities, let us remember those in need and extend compassion and support wherever we can.
“May the spirit of Easter inspire us to uplift the vulnerable, love one another, make sacrifices when necessary and work together to build a peaceful and prosperous nation for all.” (ThisDay)
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