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2027: ‘Forget Rivers If It’s Not Tinubu’ — Wike Declares State Off-Limits to Opposition

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2027: ‘Forget Rivers If It’s Not Tinubu’ — Wike Declares State Off-Limits to Opposition

ABUJA — Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike has declared that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is the only presidential candidate capable of winning Rivers State in the 2027 general election, insisting that anyone making electoral calculations should rule out the state unless they are counting votes for the President.

Speaking during his monthly media chat in Abuja on Tuesday, Wike said a broad political coalition comprising members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the All Progressives Congress (APC), the Labour Party (LP), the Action Alliance (AA), and other political groups had united behind Tinubu’s second-term ambition.

“If anybody is counting Rivers, go now and cancel it. The only person that can count Rivers is Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu. I’m not talking because I want to talk; I’m talking as a political realist because I know my people,” Wike said.

The former Rivers State governor explained that the coalition was intentionally designed to rise above party lines by supporting candidates considered most capable of protecting and advancing the interests of Rivers State, irrespective of their political affiliation.

According to him, candidates for the National Assembly and State House of Assembly would be backed based on acceptability rather than party loyalty.

“Today, we have PDP, APC, Labour Party, AA all together. We have candidates across different political parties for the House of Assembly and National Assembly. We will support the candidate who is most acceptable. Whoever emerges should not be seen as APC or PDP; the person should be seen as the coalition’s candidate,” he stated.

Wike further revealed that the alliance continues to gain momentum across Rivers State, describing its expansion as rapid and inclusive.

“All we are doing is for one purpose—to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. It is all-inclusive and it is spreading like wildfire,” he added.

The minister dismissed suggestions that the coalition was formed to strengthen any particular political party, insisting that its primary objective is to attract more federal projects, development, and opportunities to Rivers State.

“For me, what matters is Rivers State. If Rivers State is relevant because projects are coming and people are benefiting from government, then I am satisfied. It is not about personal ambition; it is about the interest of the state,” he said.

Reflecting on his political career, Wike said his experience—from serving as a local government chairman to governor and now FCT minister—has given him a thorough understanding of Nigeria’s political dynamics.

“I have been in politics since 1999. Nobody can teach me politics or tell me how to navigate it. Politics is about leadership and understanding the interests of your people,” he said.

The former governor also revisited the 2019 Rivers State governorship election, alleging that significant federal force, including military personnel, was deployed against him, yet he emerged victorious.

“I saw what federal might means. Military personnel came with battalions as if Rivers State was at war. We survived it by the grace of God and fought back,” Wike stated.

He maintained that his enduring political influence in Rivers State is rooted in the confidence and trust the people have placed in his leadership.

“Once the people trust you, they believe that what you tell them will happen. Leadership is about carrying the people along, and that is what we have continued to do,” he concluded.

Sowore Warns Tinubu Against Rushing State Police Before 2027 Elections

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Sowore Warns Tinubu Against Rushing State Police Before 2027 Elections

Human rights activist and African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu  to suspend plans for the creation of state police until after the 2027 general elections, warning that the move could threaten Nigeria’s democratic process.

Speaking during an interview on Channels Television on Tuesday, Sowore said although he supports the decentralisation of policing, state police should only be introduced as part of a comprehensive restructuring of Nigeria into a genuine federal system.

He argued that the ongoing constitutional amendment process is being rushed without adequate public consultation, institutional safeguards, or clear mechanisms to prevent abuse.

According to Sowore, placing armed security outfits under the control of state governors ahead of a major election could create opportunities for political intimidation and electoral manipulation.

He therefore called on the National Assembly to halt the proposed legislation until after the 2027 elections, stressing that such a significant security reform requires broad national consensus rather than political urgency.

Sowore also criticised the Tinubu administration over what he described as poor performance in critical sectors, including security, electricity, education, healthcare, food security, and the economy.

He maintained that the success of any government should be measured by tangible improvements in the lives of ordinary Nigerians, rather than macroeconomic statistics or international recognition received by public institutions.

NSCDC Delta Assures ONSA of Full Readiness Ahead of First-Ever Crisis Response Exercise in State

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NSCDC Delta Assures ONSA of Full Readiness Ahead of First-Ever Crisis Response Exercise in State

The Delta State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has reaffirmed its readiness to actively participate in and support the forthcoming Crisis Response Exercise organised by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) in Delta State.

The assurance was given by the Delta State Commandant, Chinedu F. Igbo, during a courtesy visit by Rear Admiral A. O. Ayo-Vaughan, Head of the Presidential Command and Control Centre under ONSA, and his advance team ahead of the exercise.

Rear Admiral Ayo-Vaughan disclosed that the exercise marks the first time the national security simulation will be held outside the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), describing it as a major step toward strengthening emergency preparedness across the country.

According to him, the exercise is designed to assess the readiness of security agencies to respond effectively to crises and emergencies while also evaluating the level of synergy and inter-agency collaboration among security organisations operating in Delta State.

He explained that the advance visit was aimed at briefing service commanders on ONSA’s expectations and making the necessary preparations before the commencement of the exercise.

Responding, Commandant Chinedu Igbo reaffirmed the commitment of the NSCDC Delta State Command to the successful execution of the exercise, pledging the Corps’ full cooperation and support throughout the programme.

The Crisis Response Exercise is expected to enhance operational coordination, improve emergency response capabilities, and strengthen collaboration among security agencies in safeguarding lives and critical national assets.

Source: DSC Anthony Uchenna, CDPRO, NSCDC Delta State Command.

Lagos Steps Up Preparations as CAF Inspects Facilities for 2026 CAF Awards

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Lagos Steps Up Preparations as CAF Inspects Facilities for 2026 CAF Awards

Lagos State has taken another major step in its preparations to host the 2026 CAF Awards following an inspection visit by officials from the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

The CAF delegation toured the proposed event venue and other key facilities across the state to assess infrastructure, logistics, security arrangements and operational readiness for the prestigious football awards ceremony.

Officials of the Lagos State Sports Commission described the inspection as productive, noting that valuable feedback was received from the CAF team. They reaffirmed the state’s commitment to meeting all of CAF’s hosting requirements ahead of the event.

According to the commission, preparations are already in full swing, with extensive planning and coordination ongoing to ensure a successful and memorable ceremony.

Hosting the CAF Awards is expected to further boost Lagos’ profile as one of Africa’s leading destinations for international sporting events, tourism and entertainment. The event is also expected to attract football legends, top players, coaches, club officials, administrators, media representatives and other dignitaries from across the continent.

The CAF Awards is the Confederation of African Football’s annual ceremony that recognises outstanding achievements in African football. Winners are honoured in several categories, including African Player of the Year, Women’s Player of the Year, Coach of the Year, Club of the Year and National Team of the Year.

If successfully hosted, the 2026 edition will add to Lagos’ growing reputation for staging major international events and further strengthen Nigeria’s position on the African football calendar.

Wike: Okada, Keke Not Banned in Abuja, Operations to Be Restricted in Selected Areas

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Wike: Okada, Keke Not Banned in Abuja, Operations to Be Restricted in Selected Areas

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has clarified that the Federal Capital Territory Administration has not imposed a total ban on commercial motorcycles, popularly known as Okada, and tricycles, known as Keke, in Abuja.

Speaking on Sunday, Wike explained that the government would only restrict their operations in selected parts of the city as part of efforts to improve security and reduce traffic congestion.

According to him, the decision is not a complete prohibition but a targeted measure aimed at maintaining order in areas where security and traffic concerns are more pronounced.

He stated that the FCT Administration has directed security agencies to identify the specific locations where the restrictions will be enforced.

Wike further noted that commercial motorcycles remain prohibited from operating in some central districts of Abuja, while services will continue in other approved areas.

The clarification comes amid concerns among commercial motorcycle and tricycle operators over reports suggesting that the FCT Administration was planning a total ban that could affect their means of livelihood.

Isaac Eshor: Delta Bleeding Despite ₦4.2 Trillion Budgets, Economic Summit a Misplaced Priority

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Isaac Eshor: Delta Bleeding Despite ₦4.2 Trillion Budgets, Economic Summit a Misplaced Priority

The governorship candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC) in Delta State, Engr. Isaac Eshor, has criticized the ongoing Delta State Economic and Investment Summit 2026 in Asaba, describing it as a misplaced priority and a political spectacle that fails to address the pressing challenges confronting residents.

Eshor stated that despite Delta State’s enormous financial resources and status as one of Nigeria’s highest revenue-generating states, many communities continue to grapple with poor road networks, inadequate infrastructure, and limited economic opportunities.

According to him, the state received substantial budgetary allocations amounting to about ₦809.4 billion in 2023, ₦725 billion in 2024, ₦936 billion in 2025, and ₦1.729 trillion in 2026, bringing the cumulative approved budgets within the period to over ₦4.199 trillion.

He argued that the huge resources available to the state should have translated into visible development across communities rather than being expended on high-profile summits.

Delta State is richly blessed with enormous resources and receives substantial allocations, yet many communities remain inaccessible because of deplorable roads and poor infrastructure. Instead of investing in projects that directly impact the lives of the people, the government is engaging in expensive summits and political showmanship, Eshor said.

The AAC candidate referenced previous remarks by the Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, who described Delta as a wealthy neighbouring state, noting that such observations should challenge Delta leaders to convert the state’s wealth into tangible development outcomes.

Questioning the rationale behind hosting a major investment summit amid infrastructure deficits, Eshor said investors would be reluctant to commit resources to communities lacking basic amenities and accessible roads.

Before attracting investors, government must first create an enabling environment that supports business growth and economic activities, he stated.

Eshor also reacted to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s announcement of a $100 million Viability Guarantee Fund aimed at reducing investment risks and attracting businesses, as well as plans to dedicate over 12,000 hectares of farmland for agricultural development.

While acknowledging the importance of investment promotion initiatives, he questioned why such measures were only being aggressively pursued after nearly three years in office.

For almost three years, Delta State has not witnessed a clear and aggressive investment-driven agenda. It is surprising that government is now presenting these initiatives as major breakthroughs. Deltans deserve a government that plans strategically, manages resources prudently, and delivers sustainable economic growth,he said.

The governorship hopeful further maintained that Delta State possesses enormous untapped opportunities in the maritime and blue economy sectors, lamenting that successive administrations have failed to fully harness the state’s strategic coastal advantage.

Delta is blessed with vast maritime resources that can create jobs, boost revenue, and stimulate industrial growth. Unfortunately, this potential remains largely untapped,” he said, while expressing satisfaction that the state government was beginning to pay attention to the blue economy sector after coping from his blue print on maritime.

Eshor called on Deltans to demand greater accountability from political leaders and support what he described as a new vision for the state.

I am offering myself for service because I have built and managed successful private-sector ventures and understand the principles of investment, productivity, and economic growth. Delta needs prudent managers of resources and visionary leadership capable of transforming the state’s vast potential into prosperity for all, he said.

He stressed that infrastructure renewal, economic diversification, and people-oriented development should take precedence over what he termed “wasteful government jamborees,” urging the state government to focus on projects that directly improve the lives of ordinary citizens.

 

 

Austin Ndinwa Celebrates Birthday, Receives Accolades for Community Service and Youth Development

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Austin Ndinwa Celebrates Birthday, Receives Accolades for Community Service and Youth Development

Warm felicitations have continued to pour in for Chief Austin Ndinwa, popularly known as Okemili Igbuzo, as he celebrates another year of life and service to humanity.

Ndinwa, who serves as the Special Assistant to the Delta State Governor on Youth Mobilisation for Ward 8 in Oshimili North Local Government Area, is widely regarded as a dedicated grassroots leader, philanthropist, and accomplished businessman whose contributions have positively impacted many lives within and beyond his community.

Known for his humility, diligence, and commitment to excellence, Chief Ndinwa has earned a reputation as a man who consistently strives to make a meaningful difference wherever he finds himself. Associates and admirers describe him as selfless, hardworking, practical, and result-oriented, noting that his passion for service has endeared him to people from all walks of life.

Over the years, the Igbuzo-born community leader has distinguished himself through various humanitarian and empowerment initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of youths and vulnerable members of society. His dedication to community development and youth engagement has made him a respected figure in Oshimili North and across Delta State.

Friends, political associates, business partners, and community leaders have described him as a true patriot and iconic personality whose life exemplifies service, integrity, and compassion.

As Chief Austin Ndinwa marks his birthday, many have joined in celebrating his achievements and praying for greater wisdom, good health, divine protection, and continued success in all his endeavours.

The celebrations underscore the high regard in which he is held, as admirers commend his unwavering commitment to humanity and his enduring contributions to the growth and development of his community.

Happy Birthday to Chief Austin Ndinwa (Okemili Igbuzo), a distinguished son of Anioma and a shining example of purposeful leadership and service.

 

 

From Dreams to Determination: Erugo Precious Celebrates a New Year of Purpose, Grace, Growth and Endless Possibilities

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From Dreams to Determination: Erugo Precious Celebrates a New Year of Purpose, Grace, Growth and Endless Possibilities

Today marks a special milestone as Erugo Precious celebrates another year of life, reflecting on a journey defined by faith, resilience, growth, and an unwavering determination to pursue purpose.

Birthdays often serve as a moment of reflection, and for Precious, this new chapter is an opportunity to express heartfelt gratitude to God for His unfailing love, protection, and guidance through every season of life.

Looking ahead, she embraces the future with renewed hope, believing that every new year brings fresh opportunities to dream bigger, grow stronger, and make a meaningful impact. With a heart anchored in faith, she remains optimistic about the possibilities that lie ahead.

Speaking on the occasion, Precious said:

“Today, I celebrate not just another year of life, but God’s faithfulness throughout my journey. Every challenge has shaped me, every victory has strengthened me, and every experience has reminded me that His grace is sufficient. As I begin this new chapter, I pray for wisdom, good health, divine favour, and the courage to walk confidently in the purpose God has prepared for me.”

As family, friends, and well-wishers join in celebrating the occasion, the birthday serves as a reminder that every new year is a gift—an opportunity to grow, inspire others, and embrace life’s endless possibilities with gratitude and determination.

Happy Birthday to Precious Erugo.

Economic Summit: Delta’s Commitment to Diversification Key to Future Growth — Shettima

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Economic Summit: Delta’s Commitment to Diversification Key to Future Growth — Shettima

Vice President Kashim Shettima has described Delta State’s deliberate commitment to economic diversification as its greatest strength, urging local and foreign investors to take advantage of the state’s vast economic opportunities and Nigeria’s improving investment climate.

Speaking at the opening of the Delta State Economic and Investment Summit 2026 in Asaba on Monday, Shettima said the economic reforms introduced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration had strengthened macroeconomic stability, restored investor confidence and positioned Nigeria as an attractive destination for long-term investment.

The Vice President said the Federal Government’s ongoing fiscal reforms had increased allocations to states, enabling sub-national governments to pursue ambitious development programmes. He also cited recent upgrades by international rating agencies as evidence of growing global confidence in Nigeria’s economy.

“Every state possesses immense promise with its unique history, geography, people and comparative advantage. This is the race we must welcome, a race in which states compete to create employment, prosperity and human dignity,” Shettima said.

He noted that Delta State stands out as a premier investment destination, not only because of its oil wealth but also because of its deliberate efforts to diversify its economy. He highlighted the state’s coastline, ports, natural gas resources, refining assets, agricultural potential, blue economy opportunities and solid mineral deposits as key assets capable of driving industrial and commercial growth.

The Vice President commended Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for organising the summit and assured investors of the Federal Government’s commitment to working with states to remove barriers to enterprise and attract credible investments.

Earlier, Governor Oborevwori announced that the Delta State Government had earmarked 100 million US dollars as Viability Gap Funding to support and de-risk strategic private sector investments.

He said the summit was designed to move beyond discussions and attract measurable investments capable of accelerating industrialisation, economic diversification and job creation across the state.

According to the governor, Delta’s economy is valued at approximately ₦17 trillion, making it one of Nigeria’s most attractive investment destinations due to its abundant natural resources, improving infrastructure, prudent fiscal management and investor-friendly policies.

Oborevwori disclosed that the state had introduced several incentives, including tax waivers and exemptions from certain levies for up to five years, while establishing an Ease of Doing Business Council to simplify investment procedures.

He further revealed that more than 12,000 hectares of land had been designated for commercial agriculture and pointed to the state’s 163-kilometre coastline as a major asset for blue economy development. He also highlighted investment opportunities in gas-fired power plants, renewable energy, solar farms and mini-grid infrastructure.

The governor assured investors that Delta remained financially stable, secure and debt-free, noting that the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources recognised the state as Nigeria’s safest destination for oil and gas investments in 2024.

Delivering the keynote address, Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, described herself as “a Delta State optimist” and urged the state to leverage global supply chain shifts, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and Nigeria’s economic reforms to emerge as a major industrial hub.

She said Delta’s natural gas reserves, seaports, rail connectivity, fertile agricultural land, skilled workforce and fiscal discipline provided a strong foundation for sustained economic growth.

Okonjo-Iweala advised the state to focus on strategic sectors such as the Delta Special Economic Zone, agro-processing, the blue economy, oil and gas value addition, marine logistics and digital infrastructure, while investing in artificial intelligence and digital connectivity to prepare young people for future opportunities.

Also speaking, the Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, said Nigeria’s macroeconomic fundamentals had improved significantly and called for stronger economic collaboration between Delta and Anambra States. He urged governments to make investment promotion a continuous process rather than a one-off event.

Renowned Pan-Africanist, Prof. Patrick Lumumba, challenged African governments and investors to have greater confidence in the continent’s economic potential, emphasising that Africa possesses the resources and talent required for sustainable development.

Other speakers at the summit included Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, Dr Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman of Transcorp Power Holdings, Tony Elumelu, Chief Executive Officer of Mosra Energy, Ramos Olukayode, and Chief Executive Officer of UTM Gas Limited, Julius Rone.

Rone disclosed that Delta State’s ₦42 billion investment for an eight per cent equity stake in UTM Gas in 2022 is now valued at approximately ₦200 billion. He also announced plans by the company to establish its corporate headquarters in Warri when full operations commence in 2030, further strengthening Delta’s position as a major energy investment destination.

The summit brought together government officials, investors, business leaders and development partners to explore strategies for unlocking Delta State’s vast economic potential and positioning it as a leading investment hub in Nigeria and across Africa.

Love Wins: TikTok Stars Peller and Jarvis Officially Tie the Knot in Grand Traditional Wedding

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Love Wins: TikTok Stars Peller and Jarvis Officially Tie the Knot in Grand Traditional Wedding

Popular Nigerian social media personalities, Peller and Jarvis, have officially tied the knot in a colourful traditional wedding ceremony, bringing excitement to fans and well-wishers across the country.

The couple dazzled in matching traditional royal attire as they celebrated their union in a ceremony filled with culture, elegance, music, and joyous festivities. Family members, friends, celebrities, and content creators joined the couple to witness the memorable occasion.

Photos and videos from the event quickly went viral across social media, with thousands of fans congratulating the newlyweds and praising the beauty of the ceremony.

The wedding marks a new chapter in the couple’s relationship, which has attracted widespread attention and support from followers online.

Congratulations have continued to pour in as fans wish Peller and Jarvis a happy, peaceful, and successful married life together.

 

More Photos below:

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