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CNPP CALLS FOR URGENT CORRECTION IN TINUBU’S ADMINISTRATION TO END PAIN, HARDSHIP, AND INSECURITY IN NIGERIA

The Conference of Nigeria Political Parties (CNPP) has expressed deep concern over the worsening state of the nation under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. In a statement, Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Comrade James Ezema, said the administration’s policies have led to renewed hardship, deepening poverty, and growing insecurity. Comrade James Ezema further stated that the CNPP believes Nigeria has reached a critical juncture and therefore calls for a declaration of a state of emergency on insecurity. “There must be a renewed and better integrated national security strategy that involves the armed forces, police, local communities, and civil society,” James Ezema said. The CNPP also urged the President to end the culture of favoritism in appointments and reinvigorate anti-corruption agencies with fresh leadership and genuine independence. James Ezema said, “Budget transparency must be prioritized, and civil society must be allowed to monitor public spending and procurement processes without obstruction.” Comrade James Ezema further called for a declaration of a state of emergency on unemployment, saying, “A new, coordinated national plan must be created to absorb millions of jobless youths through skill acquisition, agro-industrial projects, digital training, and support for small and medium enterprises.” James Ezema also recommended the launch of a National Youth Empowerment Corps to create jobs across key sectors and rebuild the dignity of work. The CNPP also expressed concern over the state of the electricity sector, education, and healthcare, calling for urgent reforms and increased funding. Comrade James Ezema said, “The current power sector framework must be renegotiated and enforced with performance-based benchmarks. Government should invest in renewable energy solutions to serve off-grid communities and reduce pressure on the national grid.” The CNPP’s call for urgent correction comes as Nigerians continue to struggle with the harsh economic realities and insecurity. The organization’s recommendations aim to realign the government’s priorities with the needs of the Nigerian people.

PRESIDENT TINUBU CONGRATULATES MAURITANIAN PRESIDENT ON ELECTION OF SIDI OULD TAH AS AfDB PRESIDENT

President Bola Tinubu has congratulated President Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani of Mauritania on the election of Dr. Sidi Ould Tah as the ninth President of the African Development Bank (AfDB) Group. In a statement, Special Adviser to the President, Bayo Onanuga, said President Tinubu commended the transparent process that led to Dr. Tah’s emergence. Bayo Onanuga further stated that President Tinubu believed Dr. Tah would bring a wealth of experience to the role, given his track record in former positions. “President Tinubu reaffirmed Nigeria’s strong partnership with the AfDB, emphasizing its status as the institution’s largest shareholder among its member countries,” Bayo Onanuga said. President Tinubu also restated his commitment to working closely with the incoming AfDB president to advance shared priorities, including infrastructure development, agricultural transformation, energy access, and climate resilience. Bayo Onanuga mentioned that Nigeria recently approved a $500 million capital replenishment for the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF) in May 2025, extending the fund’s operations by another 15 years. Bayo Onanuga quoted President Tinubu as pledging Nigeria’s full support for Dr. Tah in implementing his vision for the institution, including strengthening regional financial institutions, promoting Africa’s economic independence, leveraging population growth for development, and building climate-resilient infrastructure. President Tinubu also thanked the outgoing President, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, and wished him success in his future endeavors. Dr. Tah, the former Mauritanian Finance Minister and Director General of the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA), will succeed Dr. Adesina in September after completing two five-year terms.

TWO YEARS OF PRESIDENT TINUBU: A BUSINESS PERSPECTIVE

By Abdul Samad Rabiu As Nigeria marks two years under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, I believe it is important to reflect, not from the lens of politics, but from the perspective of business, of industry, and of the economy. I speak not only as the Chairman of BUA Group – one of Africa’s largest conglomerates, but also as someone who has lived through the complexity of Nigeria’s reforms. I have seen the cost of dysfunction, the burden of inefficiency, but more importantly, the promise of a level playing field and the dividends of decisive governance. FUEL SUBSIDY REMOVAL The removal of the fuel subsidy is one of the most important decisions taken by this administration. Before that, Nigeria was selling PMS at 200 or 250 Naira per litre, which was about 25 or 30 cents. I doubt there was any country in the world where fuel was being sold at that price. During my trip to Saudi Arabia for the lesser Hajj in February this year, I checked the pump price at one of the petrol stations as we drove from Jeddah to Mecca. When I converted the price to Naira, it was almost 1,500 Naira per litre. That was Saudi Arabia. We could simply not afford the subsidy. It was not just Nigerians who were benefiting from it. We were subsidising the entire region. I remember visiting Niger Republic a few years ago when President Bazoum honoured us. During dinner, he joked and said, “Thank you for the subsidy.” He said 100 percent of all PMS consumed in Niger was coming from Nigeria because it would cost them three times more to import. There was no incentive for them to bring in their own fuel or refine crude at their own refinery. This was the situation across the region. Today, I understand that our fuel consumption has dropped by almost 40 to 50 percent. It is not because Nigerians are consuming less, but because neighbouring countries have stopped tapping into our subsidised fuel. The PMS is still cheaper in Nigeria, even at 800 or 900 Naira per litre, but the logistics no longer support easy access. Countries like Niger and Benin Republic still take fuel from Nigeria, but others have stopped. The removal of subsidies was needed not only to save the economy but to ensure that Nigerians alone benefit from what is imported. Even if there must be subsidy, it should be for Nigerians only. The money saved is now being channelled to infrastructure, to better support for states, and to other developmental priorities. All the states are receiving more money now, and that has made a real difference. I am of firm opinion that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu made the right decision, and he made it boldly. On the first day he took office, he did what everyone knew had to be done but no one dared to do. He acted immediately. Many criticised him, but he did the right thing, and it saved the country. Had we continued under that burden, only God knows where we would be today. I always say, Mr President is probably the only one who had the courage to take such hard and necessary decisions. ON THE UNIFICATION OF THE FOREIGN EXCHANGE REGIME The unification of the foreign exchange market is another critical reform. Before this, many of us in the business community spent most of our time chasing foreign exchange. I personally spent half of my time trying to get FX from the Central Bank of Nigeria. The CBN was the only source of official exchange, offering FX at around 500 Naira when the parallel market was 800 or 900. No business could survive outside the CBN structure. Every two weeks, we would go to Abuja to seek allocations. It was exhausting and inefficient. You had to camp there for three or four days before Allocation Monday, waiting for the CBN to allocate dollars. Today, I have met the new CBN Governor, Mr Cardoso, only once in two years. The reason is simple: I do not need to go to Abuja now to get foreign exchange. The system is open. It is working. This was also a bold move by President Tinubu. It was necessary, and he took that decision as well. We are very glad because today we can focus on our businesses. These reforms are saving the economy. FAIRNESS, SANITY AND STABILITY IN BUSINESS Under this administration, we have seen a return to fairness and stability in business. We no longer worry about arbitrary shutdowns or politically motivated disruptions. Let me give a real example. We started a new business in Port Harcourt four or five years ago under BUA Foods, operating at the Rivers Ports under a concession with the Nigerian Ports Authority. It was going very well. One day, we woke up to a letter stating that the concession had been revoked, the terminal shut down, and the lease agreement terminated. There was no prior warning, no issue, no conflict. Later, we discovered that the Managing Director of NPA at the time decided to close the business simply because our operations were competing with those of her friend. She wanted to impress her friend. That was the only reason. Today, that kind of thing cannot happen. Nobody would dare take such an action under President Tinubu. You can wake up now without fear that your business has been shut down by an agency or politician. That stability is critical. That Port Harcourt plant alone has seen over 500 million dollars in investment and has employed over 4,000 people. The confidence this government has brought is real, and it is helping us plan better. I must also personally acknowledge former President Muhammadu Buhari. When our Port Harcourt plant was unfairly shut down, it was his intervention that saved it. I had the privilege of explaining the situation to him. He agreed it was wrong and acted. He said he would not permit injustice

VP SHETTIMA: INSTITUTIONAL REFORMS WILL SOLVE 80% OF NIGERIA’S BUREAUCRATIC CHALLENGES

Vice President Kashim Shettima has emphasized the need for institutional reforms to address the majority of Nigeria’s public policy challenges. In a statement, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Communications, Stanley Nkwocha, quoted Shettima as saying that strengthening the nation’s institutional frameworks would address 80% of Nigeria’s public policy challenges. Stanley Nkwocha further quoted Shettima as describing the new policy framework as a transformative approach that has been “long overdue” in Nigeria’s governance architecture. “If we get our institutional frameworks right, we will solve 80% of our public policy challenges,” Shettima said. Stanley Nkwocha also mentioned that Shettima called for a national reset in the way public policy is conceived, communicated, and implemented. Shettima commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership, praising his unique blend of public and private sector experience and his readiness to implement bold reforms. “For the first time, we have a leader who understands the dynamics and speaks the language of economics,” Shettima said. Stanley Nkwocha also quoted Shettima as stressing the importance of policy clarity and communication, pointing out that reforms must be clearly understood by the public and consistently implemented across all tiers of government. The Vice President also highlighted the role of e-governance and digitization, advocating for data-driven policy execution and real-time monitoring. “There must be targets and deliverables; if people fail to perform, they should be made to pay the price,” Shettima emphasized. Stanley Nkwocha mentioned that Shettima drew a lesson from former US President Barack Obama, emphasizing the need to build strong institutions over reliance on individual leaders. Special Adviser to the President on Policy and Coordination, Hajiya Hadiza Bala Usman, presented the draft National Public Policy Development and Management Framework. She explained that the framework was conceived due to the lack of a guiding document specifying the process for conceptualizing government policies. Hajiya Usman expressed confidence that the framework would address deep-rooted challenges of policy management and lack of coherence across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies.

HURIWA SLAMS TINUBU’S $21.5BN LOAN BID AS ECONOMIC ENSLAVEMENT

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has vehemently condemned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s request for legislative approval to secure over $21.5 billion in foreign loans and ₦758 billion in domestic bonds, describing the move as a direct and disastrous attempt to push Nigeria further into a toxic debt trap. In a statement signed by Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, National Coordinator of HURIWA, the group denounced the proposed external borrowing plan and pension bond issuance as the clearest sign yet that the current administration is mortgaging the future of over 200 million Nigerians in a reckless and irresponsible pursuit of unsustainable debt. “This is as bad as it can get. Nigeria is being plunged into another round of unconscionable, destructive, and criminal foreign borrowing spree by a government that has failed in transparency, accountability, and economic vision,” Onwubiko said. HURIWA lambasted the National Assembly, particularly the House of Representatives under Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, for failing to assert legislative independence or protect Nigerians from economic harm. “It is no longer news that the National Assembly has become a glorified department of the Presidency—utterly bereft of willpower to interrogate executive excesses,” Onwubiko added. The group questioned the rationale for seeking loans when Nigeria is bleeding under runaway inflation, widespread insecurity, and a currency crisis that has battered the naira against foreign currencies. “Borrowing is not development. What we have today is the worst form of economic colonialism disguised as financial assistance,” Onwubiko said. HURIWA called on Nigerians to rise in civil resistance and denounce the proposed borrowing plans, warning that silence in the face of this looming catastrophe would amount to national complicity in economic genocide. “This is the time for patriotic Nigerians—students, labour unions, market women, youth groups, the clergy, professional bodies, and civil society—to take a united stand,” Onwubiko urged. The group also urged international financial institutions to halt disbursement of further credit to Nigeria until there is proof of fiscal transparency, accountability, and responsible governance. “Enough is enough. Nigeria cannot continue this cycle of borrow, steal, and suffer. If the National Assembly fails to act, the people must,” Onwubiko concluded.

NIGERIA DECLINES US INVITATION FOR PRESIDENT TINUBU

The Nigerian government has declined an invitation from the White House for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to make a working visit to Washington, D.C. In a statement signed by Special Adviser to the President (Information & Strategy), Bayo Onanuga the government cited critical domestic priorities requiring the President’s immediate attention. Bayo Onanuga explained that the APC administration has respectfully declined the invitation due to pressing domestic issues. “The All Progressives Congress (APC) administration has respectfully declined the invitation, citing critical domestic priorities requiring the President’s immediate attention,” Onanuga said. Onanuga also highlighted logistical constraints, including the unsuitability of the presidential aircraft for long-distance travel, as a contributing factor to the decision. The Nigerian government remains committed to fostering strong bilateral relations with the United States and looks forward to future opportunities for collaboration. Onanuga emphasized the government’s commitment to bilateral relations, saying Nigeria is eager to work with the US in the future. “The Nigerian government remains committed to fostering strong bilateral relations with the United States and looks forward to future opportunities for collaboration,” Onanuga added. The decision to decline the invitation reflects the government’s prioritization of domestic issues and its commitment to maintaining strong international relations. Onanuga’s statement provides insight into the government’s thought process behind the decision.

APC CONFIDENT IN TINUBU’S LEADERSHIP, SAYS KALU

The All Progressives Congress (APC) is not intimidated by emerging political coalitions, according to Senator Orji Uzor Kalu. The former Abia State governor expressed confidence in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership, saying the party is focused on governance and building a prosperous future for Nigeria. “We are passionate about Nigeria and committed to its development,” Kalu said. “Our role is to govern, and we are doing it well. Nigerians will appreciate President Tinubu’s efforts in the coming years.” Kalu defended the President’s economic decisions, including the removal of fuel subsidy and currency reforms, as necessary steps towards long-term recovery. He noted that the benefits of these policies are beginning to show at the macro level. The senator also highlighted the Southeast region’s early endorsement of Tinubu, saying the region had shown support for the President before any other group. He called on Nigerians to pray for President Tinubu’s health and successful completion of his tenure. Kalu emphasized his commitment to service and development in his constituency, saying his foundation steps in where government efforts fall short. “Leadership means lifting people up,” he said, adding that he doesn’t need money to serve and doesn’t even have a bank account. The senator’s comments come as President Tinubu continues to implement his economic reforms, with many Nigerians eagerly awaiting the benefits of these policies. Kalu’s confidence in the APC and President Tinubu’s leadership reflects the party’s optimism about the future of Nigeria.

FCT GOVERNMENT GRANTS 14-DAY GRACE PERIOD FOR PROPERTY OWNERS TO PAY GROUND RENT

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Administration has commenced enforcement on 4,794 properties revoked for non-payment of Ground Rent, ranging from 10 to 43 years. However, following the intervention of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, property holders have been given a 14-day grace period to settle their outstanding Ground Rents with associated penalties. In a statement signed by Chijioke Nwankwoeze, Director of Land Administration, FCT, property owners in the Central Area are expected to pay a penalty of N5 million in addition to the Ground Rent owed. Those in Maitama, Asokoro, Wuse II, and Guzape Districts will pay N3 million, while defaulters in Wuse I, Garki I, and Garki II will pay N2 million as penalty. Nwankwoeze stated that the FCT Administration is committed to carrying out its functions without fear or favour. “The Federal Capital Territory Administration’s commitment to carrying out its functions without fear or favour,” Nwankwoeze said, highlighting the administration’s stance. The Director of Land Administration also urged property owners to take advantage of the grace period to settle their outstanding bills. “Going forward, the Minister has advised property owners in the FCT to ensure that they pay all necessary bills and charges on their properties as at and when due,” Nwankwoeze added. Nwankwoeze further emphasized that property holders who have purchased properties but are yet to register their interests have 14 days to obtain the mandatory Minister’s Consent and register their Deeds of Assignment at the FCT Department of Land Administration. The Minister of the FCT, Barrister Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, has granted the 14-day grace period to all property holders in the FCT to pay up their Right of Occupancy/Certificate of Occupancy bills, or risk revocation of those titles.

FEDERAL GOVERNMENT STARTS PAYMENT OF N35,000 WAGE AWARD ARREARS TO CIVIL SERVANTS

The Federal Government has commenced payment of the long-awaited N35,000 wage award arrears to civil servants, a move aimed at cushioning the effects of economic hardship on workers. According to the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation (OAGF), the arrears will be paid in five monthly installments, amounting to a total of N175,000 per worker. Many employees have already received the first tranche of the payment, while others are expected to follow suit shortly. The OAGF has urged workers still awaiting payment to remain patient, assuring them that their entitlements are being processed. The wage award is a palliative measure introduced by the government following the removal of fuel subsidy. It will remain in effect pending the conclusion of a new national minimum wage agreement. The government has reiterated its commitment to fulfilling promises made to organized labour. The OAGF has also debunked reports claiming that the wage award was excluded from the 2025 Budget, stating that the Accountant General, Mr. Babatunde Ogunjimi, never made such a statement. The government remains committed to supporting its workers during this period of economic challenge.

PRESIDENT TINUBU TO MARK ECOWAS 50TH ANNIVERSARY IN LAGOS

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will depart for Lagos on Tuesday to join other leaders in celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). The golden jubilee celebration was flagged off in Accra last month, and the Lagos events will include reenacting the 1975 declaration at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs in Victoria Island. At the Eko Hotels and Suites event, President Tinubu, who is the Chairman of ECOWAS, will highlight the economic bloc’s milestones. The Chairman of the NIIA and former Minister of External Affairs, Prof. Bolaji Akinyemi, will review the bloc’s 50-year journey, which will be analyzed by panellists at the NIIA. The only surviving Head of State who signed the ECOWAS declaration, Gen. Yakubu Gowon (Rtd), will participate in all the ceremonies and deliver a speech at the Eko Hotels. Dr. Omar Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission, will deliver the welcome address. While in Lagos, President Tinubu will commission several projects, including Section I of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, Lekki Deep Sea Port Tax Credit Concrete Road, and flag off Section II of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and the 7th Axial Road. The President will also virtually commission Kano-Kanwar-Danja-Hadejiya Section II Road and Yakasai-Zalli Road and flag off the Kano Northern By-pass, Zaria-Hunkuyi-Dabai Section I, Dabai-Kafur Malumfashi, and Malumfashi-Dayi-Yashe-Gidan Mutum Daya Section III. Before returning to Abuja, President Tinubu will observe the Eid-el-Kabir prayers at the State House, Dodan Barracks.