Author: Daily Post Nigeria

The International Press Centre, IPC, through its Safety and Protection of Journalists, SPJ, Hub, has condemned the arrest and detention of the Secretary of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Osun State Council, Olalekan Akindoju, by police officers in Osogbo.

In a statement issued by Melody Akinjiyan, its Press Freedom Officer on Friday, the organisation described the incident as unlawful and called on the Nigeria Police Force to apologise officially to the journalist and investigate the circumstances surrounding the arrest.

According to the statement, “Akindoju was arrested at his residence in Osogbo on Thursday, June 11, by police operatives who allegedly arrived at his home in the early hours of the day.”

Speaking in a telephone conversation with the Press Freedom Officer of the IPC-SPJ Hub, Akindoju said the incident occurred at about 6 a.m.

“They invaded my residence this morning around 6a.m, arrested me and seized my phone without any valid explanation. All attempts to identify myself as a journalist failed, as they refused to listen to me or give me opportunity to call anyone,” he said.

Akindoju further stated that he was held for several hours before regaining his freedom following interventions by colleagues and the NUJ.

“I was detained for almost five hours before I was released after the intervention of colleagues and the NUJ. The Police claimed it was a case of mistaken identity,” he added.

Reacting to the development, the Executive Director of IPC, Lanre Arogundade, criticised the conduct of the officers involved and urged security agencies to exercise caution in carrying out arrests.

“This incident is highly condemnable, and the Police must do due diligence in gathering their intelligence and information before initiating arrests, especially as it pertains to journalists,” Arogundade said.

The SPJ Hub reiterated the need to protect press freedom and safeguard journalists from harassment, intimidation and unlawful arrests.

The organisation also called on the Commissioner of Police in Osun State, CP Ibrahim Gotan, to ensure a thorough investigation into the incident and take appropriate action against any officers found culpable.

The statement urged the police authorities to uphold the rights of journalists and guarantee an environment that allows media practitioners to carry out their professional duties without fear of intimidation or unlawful interference.

IPC condemns journalist, Akindoju’s detention, demands police apology

The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has said that attempts to portray Nigerian Muslims as perpetrators of Kidnapping, banditry and other violent crimes is false and misleading, stating that such position is unfair to the overwhelming majority of peace-loving Muslims that contribute to national development across all sectors.

In a statement signed by its spokesperson, Abbas Jimoh to mark Nigeria’s Democracy Day, the council said, “Recent efforts by some individuals and groups to associate Islam and Muslims with criminal activities were unjust and dangerous to national unity.”

The statement recalled recent kidnapping incident in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State and the attempts to link the crime to a particular ethnic or religious group.

It explained that suspects should be identified and prosecuted based on evidence and not identity, saying that criminal acts should not be given ethnic or religious colouration.

The statement further observed with dismay the broader security challenges facing the country such as terrorism, banditry and kidnapping that have continued to claim lives, displace communities and hinder development.

The NSCIA expressed sympathy for victims and their families being affected by criminal activities and condemned all forms of violence, advising those involved to abandon such criminal activities.

It called on the media and opinion leaders not to leave any stone unturned by reporting responsibly and avoid narratives capable of deepening divisions or mistrust among Nigerians.

The council hailed the efforts of the Federal Government and security agencies in tackling insecurity, calling for greater cooperation to restore peace.

Stop giving ethnic, religious colouration to banditry, kidnapping  – Islamic Council 

Ranchers Bees boss, Sadiq Umar, has issued an official notice suspending recognition of all club leadership positions until further notice.

Umar stated this in a letter addressed to the Kaduna-based club Elders forum.

He stated that no individual should be recognised as Chairman, Supporters’ Leader, Fans’ Leader, or any other official leader of the club pending a formal address from his office.

According to the address, the club said that they are working to clarify their leadership structure.

Ranchers Bees will play in the 2026-27 Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL, season after two decades of absence.

The Kaduna club last featured in the NPFL during the 2009-10 season.

NPFL: Sadiq Umar to reposition Rancher Bees after promotion

Senator Adams Oshiomhole, clearly, has an axe to grind with NNPC Ltd. The former labour leader, who was once a junior staffer in a textile mill, now sits in the Senate. From that perch, he has declared the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited “a bunch of criminals and thieves.” To watch the video clip from the 10 June 2026 session of the Senate Public Accounts Committee is to witness a lack of logic and decency. It is remarkable that he now stands before the nation to impugn the integrity of an institution staffed by the very professionals he once claimed to represent as a union leader. Could this be an issue of inferiority complex? 

But for the sake of decorum, let us simply state the facts: the Senate, as an institution, has formally dissociated itself from Oshiomhole’s outburst. On Thursday, 11 June 2026, the upper legislative chamber, through a motion sponsored by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, condemned the remarks as “an unwarranted attack on the character of public officers”. The Senate declared that the remarks “do not represent the official position, resolution, finding or determination of the Senate as an institution”. High ranking legislators, including Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin and Senate Minority Leader, Abba Moro, cautioned the former Edo State governor against “making defamatory remarks that could undermine the integrity of public institutions.”

Several colleagues demanded that Oshiomhole publicly withdraw his statement. In other words, even Oshiomhole’s colleagues could no longer stomach his conduct. That speaks volumes, not about NNPC, but about the senator’s conduct.

Let us backtrack. The committee had summoned Umar Ajiya, NNPC’s former Chief Financial Officer, a man of impeccable professional standing who retired meritoriously a little over a year ago. In his testimony, Ajiya did not mince words. He put to bed the ludicrous figure of N210 trillion that some senators have been bandying about. According to Ajiya, the total revenue earned by NNPC during the entire period in question (2017 to 2023) was N54.5 trillion. So how can N210 trillion be missing? The figure is mathematically impossible and is not supported by any cash flow records. As Ajiya explained, the alleged “missing” sum is nearly four times the entire revenue earned. He even revealed that the company spent N2.9 billion, not N5.8 billion, to complete its registration with the CAC and FIRS (two government agencies, no third parties). He then threw down a gauntlet: call the EFCC and the NFIU to conduct a forensic investigation, and arrest and jail anyone found guilty. That is not the language of a thief. It is the language of a patriot who has nothing to hide.

Many Nigerians, some garrulous lawmakers among them, prefer sound bites over substance. Rather than intelligently review audit queries, they play to the gallery. The Senate plenary made it abundantly clear that no committee possesses the independent authority to issue or execute an arrest warrant without the express approval of the Senate President. Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele warned: “The power to issue a warrant affecting the liberty of a citizen is an extraordinary statutory power which must be exercised strictly in accordance with the procedure prescribed by law.” He further stated: “The constitutional doctrine of fair hearing and the presumption of innocence require that no person or institution be adjudged guilty except by a court of competent jurisdiction after due process of law”. Senator Mohammed Tahir Monguno described the motion as a necessary intervention to preserve the credibility of the legislature, noting that it would be “contradictory for lawmakers to make laws for national governance while simultaneously violating those same laws”. Senator Abba Moro emphasised: “We should not make statements that seek to impugn the character of public officers or individuals in society”.

But let us talk about glass houses. Those who live in them should not throw stones. Senator Oshiomhole, for all his theatrical outrage, has a public conduct record that would make any reasonable Nigerian cringe. In June 2025, he was embroiled in a public confrontation at Lagos’s Murtala Muhammed Airport. The airline alleged that the senator jumped onto a baggage conveyor belt and obstructed other passengers. Several viral videos showed the senator engaging in a shouting match with airline and airport staff. The Punch newspaper reported that “despite whatever provocation was claimed, Oshiomhole‘s conduct is unbecoming of his status as a senior citizen and ranking politician”. This is the same man who, according to the Air Peace airline, attempted to force his way onto a flight after check in had closed and engaged in disruptive behaviour, including physically assaulting staff and barricading the terminal entrance, which obstructed other passengers and disrupted airport operations. 

On the financial front, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has been called upon repeatedly to investigate corruption allegations against Oshiomhole. In 2018, a Federal High Court in Abuja refused to compel the EFCC to investigate allegations against him, with the anti graft agency admitting that it had received petitions accusing Oshiomhole of complicity in acts of corruption. The EFCC stated that it was not under any obligation to report or give account of its investigations to any individual or within a timeline. In 2019, the court again declined to compel the EFCC to investigate him, with the agency admitting it was in receipt of petitions but declining to act. More recently, in April 2026, the Federal High Court once again refused to compel the EFCC to investigate corruption allegations against him. In 2018, Vanguard newspaper reported that a petitioner had sent a detailed complaint to the EFCC outlining corrupt practices Oshiomhole was alleged to have been involved in. While the courts have not compelled action, the mere existence of multiple petitions and the EFCC‘s refusal to publicly exonerate him leaves a stain that cannot be ignored.

The senator was widely condemned for mocking Governor Godwin Obaseki and his wife, Betsy, for being childless. Netizens blasted Oshiomhole for calling the Edo governor’s wife barren. This is a man who lectures NNPC staff on morality.

In his defence before the Senate plenary, Oshiomhole claimed that his comments were made under provocation. “I acted under provocation because distinguished members were being attacked without any proof of the allegations being made,” he said. 

“If it is the view of the Senate that I should apologise, I have no problem with that”. He insisted he was merely defending the integrity of the Senate and its members. But his colleagues were not convinced. Senator Adamu Aliero, former Kebbi State Governor, described the statement as “reckless” and argued that it could damage Nigeria’s investment image internationally, noting that, “The NNPC is the cash cow of this country. Such reckless statements could damage Nigeria‘s investment image internationally”. That is the nub of the matter. Senator Aliero was absolutely right.

Beyond public umbrage, however, lies a far more urgent matter. Umar Ajiya himself warned that unverified allegations damage not just individuals but the entire nation. He said that unfounded claims do real damage. International rating agencies use public information to assess countries. When inaccurate figures circulate without verification, it can affect perceptions and even influence financing decisions. He recalled how an unpatriotic Nigerian once wrote a petition to the Chinese government, stalling a USD 2.5 billion loan for the AKK gas pipeline project. That project remains incomplete because of loose tongues.

NNPC Ltd. is now preparing for an Initial Public Offering (IPO), with plans to list on leading international exchanges, including New York and London. As the company moves towards an IPO, foreign investors will scrutinise not only its books but also the media and political environment in which it operates. A word, they say, is enough for the wise. Senator Oshiomhole would do well to remember that every reckless sound bite echoes long after the cameras leave. His grandchildren will have to live with the consequences. So will ours. We will defend NNPC’s honour because their honour is tied to the prosperity of every Nigerian. The senator from Edo North may have forgotten that NNPC is the cash cow of this country. Those who wish to slaughter the cow should not be surprised when there is no milk left for their own children.

Dr. Adeyemi Adegbola is an international energy correspondent. He writes from Abuja.

Adeyemi Adegbola: NNPC: Cheap shots, phantom claims, and a nation in need of foreign investment

Godswill Akpabio FC Chairman, Mrs Ekaette Akpabio, has acknowledged the players dedication in the 2025-26 Nigeria National League, NNL, season.

The Uyo-based club managed to escape relegation in the NNL Conference B.

They finished the campaign in seventh position with 24 pointed from 18 matches.

Mrs Akpabio said that the players showed resilience, sacrifice and belief during the season.

She also expressed the club’s determination to build a team with courage and intelligence.

“Our ambition remains clear. We are committed to building a football club that competes with courage, intelligence and unity while establishing a culture that prioritizes excellence both on and off the pitch,” Mrs Akpabio stated in her end of the season speech.

“Your passion and commitment remain the driving force behind our progress, and we look forward to sharing another exciting journey with you in the new campaign.

“Our ambition remains clear. We are committed to building a football club that competes with courage, intelligence and unity while establishing a culture that prioritizes excellence both on and off the pitch.”

NNL: Godswill FC boss thankful after relegation survival

Barring any last-minute change of formation, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has succeeded in setting up a possible ‘AA’ ticket on the presidential ballot of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) by picking former Transportation Minister, Chibuike Amaechi, as his running mate.

Also, yesterday, he declared that the actions by the Bola Tinubu-led All Progressives Congress (APC) administration contradicted the spirit, sacrifice and legacy of June 12.

Coming after weeks of rigorous negotiations within the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) coalition platform, which was threatened by post-primary recriminations, the choice of Amaechi comes as a bold counter to the OK ticket pairing of Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso on the rival NDC for the January 16, 2027, presidential election.

By settling for Amaechi, Atiku seems to have decided to do what he failed to do in the lead-up to the 2023 election cycle, when he refused to accept former Rivers State governor, Nyesom Wike, who emerged as the first runner-up in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential primary.

While the duo of the 2023 Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, Obi, and his New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) counterpart, Kwankwaso, joined the ADC, speculations were rife that the party had a predetermined plan to have Atiku run with the former transportation minister to achieve a North-East/South-South balance on the party’s presidential ballot.

But contrary to those conjectures, Amaechi, shortly after he filled and returned his N90 million presidential nomination form, said he was not positioning himself for a VP slot.

Further, pushing back on the reports of a possible pairing with Atiku after Obi and Kwankwaso left ADC for the NDC, Amaechi, on May 20, ruled out the possibility of a consensus rather than a direct primary.

Speaking on how the former Transportation Minister finally succumbed to pressures and entreaties from highly placed political leaders from both the North-West and South-South, a very close ally of Amaechi said Atiku assured that the “VP nominee would have extensive roles to play in the campaigns and government”.

Before the latest development, ADC chieftain, Eze Chukwuemeka Eze, had dismissed comments credited to party stalwart, Dele Momodu, suggesting that Amaechi had rejected the party’s VP slot ahead of the 2027 general election.

In a statement posted on his verified social media accounts yesterday, Eze described Momodu’s remarks as personal opinion capable of creating unnecessary tension, mistrust and misunderstanding within the party.

According to him, Amaechi’s previous comments after the ADC presidential primaries had only indicated that no one had approached him regarding a VP position.

ATIKU, in a statement which he personally signed and released to commemorate another Democracy Day on June 12, urged citizens to stand up against bad governance, reject the politics of intimidation, and resist every manifestation of democratic backsliding.

He stressed that Nigerians must, once again, summon the courage of those who marched, protested, resisted, suffered and sacrificed for freedom for June 12 to retain its meaning.

The Adamawa politician said, over the past three years, Nigerians had witnessed a deliberate and coordinated effort to weaken, fragment and neutralise opposition political parties ahead of the 2027 general elections.

He added that through manufactured leadership crises, orchestrated defections, political intimidation and the abuse of state institutions, every credible opposition platform had come under sustained attack.

The former VP said institutions that ought to serve the Nigerian people impartially had increasingly been transformed into instruments of partisan warfare, adding that anti-graft agencies, the police, the National Assembly, and even segments of the judiciary had been deployed to harass, intimidate, and coerce opposition voices into submission or defection.

A former police officer who swore to protect children has been convicted for using his badge to prey on one.

Sinmi Asomuyide, 33, a Nigerian immigrant and ex-officer in Kokomo, Indiana, was found guilty by a federal jury after a five-day trial for sexually assaulting a 14-year-old runaway girl while on duty in June 2024.

Instead of helping a missing child, Asomuyide exploited her.

Assigned to follow up on the missing 14-year-old, he picked her up and took her to a youth center. He stopped in a parking lot to ask her inappropriate sexual questions, then dropped her at home and exchanged phone numbers.

He tracked her phone location, showed up at her home unannounced, handcuffed her, and forced her into his marked squad car while still on duty.

He drove her to an abandoned parking lot and sexually assaulted her. The victim told investigators she repeatedly begged him to stop. He refused.

After the assault, he told her not to tell anyone or it would “be on her.” He then lied to Indiana State Police, denied sexual contact, and claimed there was no reason his semen would be in the patrol car. Forensic evidence proved otherwise. He also deleted a messaging app used to contact her.

He was found guilty on two federal counts: deprivation of rights under color of law – covering the kidnapping and sexual assault and witness tampering/obstruction.

Related state charges in Howard County were dismissed once the federal case proceeded. Asomuyide now faces up to life in prison at sentencing.

This case shatters public trust. A uniform, a squad car, and authority were weaponized against a vulnerable child. When those sworn to serve become predators, the damage extends far beyond one victim.

The Nigerian Navy has recorded another significant breakthrough in its ongoing operations against militancy and criminality within the Calabar waterways with the handover of a suspected militant collaborator to the Department of State Services, DSS, Calabar Command.

A statement signed by Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, Director, Naval Information, said that the suspect, identified as Mr Ubong Clement, was arrested by personnel of Nigerian Navy Ship, NNS, Victory deployed at the Forward Security Outpost on Dayspring Island, Akpabuyo Local Government Area of Cross River State. 

It said the arrest forms part of sustained intelligence-driven operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks and their support structures within the area.

It said that preliminary investigations established that the suspect allegedly maintained regular contact with members of militant groups operating within the Dayspring Island axis and was involved in activities that compromised ongoing security operations. Intelligence further linked the suspect to a notorious militant identified as Steven Joseph, alias “Juju,” who has been associated with criminal activities within the waterways.

The statement said that further findings revealed that the suspect allegedly acted as a conduit for the disposal of goods stolen from market boats intercepted by militants operating in the area. Investigations indicated that proceeds from the sale of such items were remitted to the militant network, thereby providing financial and logistical support for their operations.

Following the conclusion of preliminary investigations, the navy said that the suspect was handed over to the Department of State Services for further investigation and possible prosecution in accordance with extant laws.

It added, “The handover underscores the Nigerian Navy’s determination to not only target criminal elements directly involved in militancy but also dismantle the support networks that sustain their activities. 

“By disrupting these local facilitators, security forces continue to degrade the operational capability of criminal groups operating within the maritime environment.”

The Nigerian Navy said it remained committed to sustaining intelligence-led operations, community engagement, and targeted security actions to ensure lasting peace and security within the Calabar waterways and adjoining communities.

Nigerian Navy hands over another suspected militant collaborator to DSS in Cross River

Former Super Eagles goalkeeper, Daniel Akpeyi has recommended that South Africa’s head coach, Hugo Broos, revert to the team’s traditional style of play as they gear up for a pivotal 2026 FIFA World Cup Group A match against the Czech Republic.

Akpeyi shared this advice during his post-match analysis on SuperSport following Bafana Bafana’s 2-0 loss to Mexico in their opening tournament match.

The retired Nigerian international recognized that Broos has put together a youthful squad but emphasized the necessity for the team to leverage its strengths to rejuvenate its campaign.

“First of all, you would agree it is a young team that the coach has tried to put together,” Akpeyi stated.

“With the tactical approach of the coach, he didn’t want to lose and concede that much.

“But unfortunately, it turns out to be a situation where the team has to concede with a lot of red cards.”

Nevertheless, Akpeyi encouraged the Bafana Bafana coach to contemplate a tactical shift by embracing a style that more accurately reflects the team’s strengths, identity, and footballing culture.

“Now, it is to go back to the drawing board and see if we can play South African football against Czech to see how far that the team can be able to go,” he added.

He further stated that achieving a positive outcome against the Czech Republic would enhance confidence and sustain South Africa’s aspirations of advancing to the knockout stages.

He said, “Because, like this, you don’t want to spoil the record that you have made earlier on in 2010 against Mexico and you just want to leave the tournament like this.

“So, you want to try as much as possible to at least get a result with Czech to help give you confidence and see if you can sustain the group.”

Bafana Bafana currently find themselves at the bottom of Group A and must secure favorable results against the Czech Republic and South Korea to progress.

World Cup 2026: Akpeyi advises South Africa on style of play

 

TEXT OF PRESIDENT BOLA AHMED TINUBU’S DEMOCRACY DAY ADDRESS ON FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2026

Fellow Nigerians

Today, we celebrate democracy and the enduring Nigerian spirit. For 27 unbroken years, since May 29, 1999, Nigerians have chosen their leaders through the ballot, witnessed peaceful transitions of power, and resolved disagreements in courtrooms and legislative chambers—not through violence. We have experienced the longest stretch of civilian rule in our history. Our democracy is not perfect, but it is ours, and we must continue to defend and strengthen it.

In the coming days, Ekiti and Osun States will hold elections. I urge INEC, security agencies, and all parties to ensure these polls are peaceful and credible. Democracy fails when citizens doubt the process. To our National Assembly, Judiciary, the Press, and Civil Society: you are the guardrails of our republic. Criticise me, disagree with me, but never stop believing in Nigeria.

To our young people: Nigeria is your home and your future. Build here, code here, work here, and vote here. Every great nation was built by those who stayed to solve problems, not by those who abandoned ship.

To our armed forces, police, and intelligence services: Nigeria salutes your sacrifice. To our traditional rulers, faith leaders, and community heads: thank you for your support of peace and reconciliation. The government cannot do it alone.

Today, we honour the resilience of Nigerians who refused to surrender their faith in freedom, and the courage of those who stood firm against intimidation. We pay tribute to patriots who endured persecution, imprisonment, exile, and even death so that future generations could enjoy democracy. I salute labour leaders, journalists, activists, students, women, professionals, political leaders, and soldiers—both those who have passed and those still with us—for their patriotic contributions.

Though this year’s mood is dampened by the abduction of our children in Oyo and Borno, we remain hopeful for their safe return. Democracy without security is not solid enough. That is why this administration declared a security emergency and approved the recruitment of more than 50,000 new police officers and thousands of military recruits. Our 2026 budget commits N5.41 trillion—our largest ever—to defence and security. Our administration is ever ready to do much more to secure our people.

We have moved from training with our allies, the United States, France and other European countries, to precision targeting. In Arege, Borno State, we degraded ISWAP’s command centre. Terror-related deaths are down by 81% since 2015. Over 13,000 terrorists have been neutralised in the past year. But we also keep the door of surrender open. Over 124,000 fighters and dependents have laid down their arms since 2023 through Operation Safe Corridor. 

To bandits, kidnappers, and sponsors of terror: Surrender or face the full force of the Nigerian State. These windows of surrender will not remain open forever. No mercy will be shown to those who trade in the blood of Nigerians.

At a time like this, let us not assign blame or point fingers. Crime has no ethnicity. We must stand united and be assured that the enemies of our nation shall soon be history. We will triumph over terror and continue to build a more prosperous nation.

June 12 occupies a sacred place in our national memory. It represents more than an election; it is a defining chapter in our story. We remember Chief M.K.O. Abiola, who won a pan-Nigerian mandate transcending ethnicity and religion. We remember Alhaja Kudirat Abiola.

We also remember Chief Gani Fawehinmi, Chief Bola Ige, Chief Alfred Rewane, Pa Abraham Adesanya, Chief Anthony Enahoro, Alhaji Balarabe Musa, Commodore Dan Suleiman, Dr Beko Ransome-Kuti, Frank Kokori, Arthur Nwankwo, Chima Ubani, Shehu Musa Yar’Adua, and the many other heroes and heroines of democracy whose sacrifices helped secure the freedoms we enjoy today.

As beneficiaries of their struggle, we have a duty to strengthen and deepen the democratic institutions for which they fought. The greatest tribute we can pay is to build a Nigeria where freedom is protected, justice is upheld, opportunity is expanded, and government is accountable.

June 12, 1993, revealed the possibility of a true Nigerian nation. The heroes of June 12 secured political freedom. Our challenge is to secure economic freedom. Democracy must be felt in the quality of people’s lives—in opportunities for youth, in prosperous farmers, successful entrepreneurs, and the dignity of our workers.

The reforms we are undertaking were not chosen for ease, but for necessity. Three years ago, our public finances were under severe strain, investment was discouraged, and economic uncertainty threatened our future. We chose to act, embracing reforms to advance Nigeria’s economic freedom.

Since 2023, our reforms have restored stability and credibility to economic management. Federation revenues have risen, providing states and local governments with more resources for infrastructure, education, healthcare, and security. Fiscal transparency has improved, leakage has been reduced, and public funds are better directed to national priorities. Investor confidence has returned, with investments in agriculture, energy, manufacturing, technology, mining, transportation, and the creative industries growing.

Domestic refining capacity has increased, strengthening energy security and reducing our reliance on imported petroleum products. 

By 2023, when we came on board, the electricity sector was characterised by chronic generation shortfalls, an unreliable gas supply, and transmission infrastructure so fragile that it could not evacuate available power. Distribution companies were burdened by massive losses and a metering deficit of over four million. Worst of all, the value chain was drowning in legacy debt. The result was a sector that generated less than the 13,500 Megawatts installed capacity, a sector that transmitted less than it generated, distributed less than it transmitted and collected revenue far below what it needed to sustain itself.

To address the problems besetting the sector, I signed the Electricity Act, which grants states authority to generate, transmit, and distribute power. The Presidential Power Sector Task Force is working hard to reduce the metering deficit. It has also been authorised to raise N4 trillion bond to settle verified legacy debts. The Rural Electrification Agency, supported by the World Bank and the African Development Bank, has deployed off-grid and mini-grid power to underserved communities, universities, markets, and hospitals. Electricity is a democratic dividend we owe every Nigerian. We intend to deliver it.   

 Across the country, infrastructure projects are connecting producers to markets and creating opportunities for enterprise and employment. The National Agricultural Development Fund is deploying 10,000 tractors over five years. Over 1,000 SMEs have been certified for export. Non-oil exports grew by 21% last year.

Yet, many Nigerians still face economic hardship. We remain focused on reducing inflation, expanding food production, creating jobs, improving living standards, rebuilding confidence in our economy, and creating conditions for sustainable prosperity.

We are moving from uncertainty to stability. The next phase is about accelerating growth and ensuring the benefits are felt in every home, every community, and every region. We believe that Democracy must be felt in the pocket.

Recognising that democracy is undermined when people do not feel its impact, my administration has sought financial autonomy for our 774 local councils. A fundamental challenge to our nation’s advancement has been ineffective local government administration. The insecurity we are addressing is partly due to the collapse of grassroots governance. The Renewed Hope Agenda is about ensuring that all Nigerians benefit from governance.

Every generation has a defining responsibility. The generation of our founding fathers secured independence—the generation of June 12 secured democracy. Our generation must secure prosperity.

Let us move forward together—rejecting division, cynicism, and despair; embracing unity, hope, and confidence. Let us build a Nigeria united by a common purpose, strengthened by diversity, where justice is accessible, liberty is secure, and opportunity is abundant.

Among the architects of modern democratic Nigeria, we honour General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua for his vision of national partnership. In recognition of his contributions, the Federal Government has approved the revitalisation and renaming of the completed Institute of Petroleum Studies, Kaduna, as the General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua University of Geological Sciences and Engineering Technology.

I am also pleased to announce national awards to the following Nigerians, who suffered persecution, endured indignities, exile, incarceration, and, at times, solitary confinement, so that we have democracy today. 

Barrister Ayoka Lawani

Tunde Fagbenle

Oladele Alake

Olatunji Bello

Louis Odion

Segun Babatope

Sam Omatseye

Sir Ademola Osinubi

Bola Bolawole

Lade Bonuola

Femi Kusa

Debo Adeniran

Chief Ayo Opadokun

Chief Ralph Obiora 

Ose Osayande

Barrister Osa Director

Prof. Sylvester Odion-Akhaine

Dr Arthur Nwankwo (Posthumous)

Dr Osagie Obayuwana 

Dr Joe Okei-Odumakin 

Barrister Titus Mann 

Joe Igbokwe

Richard Akinnola

Ben Charles-Obi (Posthumous)

George Mbah

Dr Niran Malaolu

Major-General Ishola Williams (rtd)

Femi Aborisade

Jenkins Alumona

Gbemiga Ogunleye

Muyiwa Adekeye

Babajide Kolade-Otitoju

Ike Okonta

We also recognise the soldier-democrats of the June 12 struggle: 

Major General MA Garba

Brigadier General Lawal Jaafaru Isa 

Col Umar Farouk Ahmed; 

Col Sambo Dasuki; 

Col Lawan Gwadabe; 

Brigadier Jonathan Ndam Temlong

Col Musa Shehu; 

Major General Chris Eze; 

Major General Harris Dzarma; 

Col Isa Jibrin; 

Maj. General Joseph Oshanupin; 

Col Olusegun Oloruntoba, Olugbede of Gbede Kingdom)

Lieutenant Colonel Happy Kefas Bulus

Col J Okai; 

Col Emmanuel Ndubueze; 

Lt Col Yakubu Muazu

Brigadier Yahaya Abubakar, the Current Etsu Nupe, who is already the holder of the CFR title.

The honours list will be released in the next few days.

Fellow Nigerians, 27 years ago, many doubted democracy would survive here because of our diversity. Today, our diversity sustains our democracy. The road ahead is steep. But June 12 reminds us: Nigerians do not break. We bend, we bleed, but we do not break.

Let us renew our covenant: That the labours of our heroes past shall never be in vain, and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from this land.

May God bless the heroes of our democracy. May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria. May God continue to bless us all.

Happy Democracy Day.

BOLA AHMED TINUBU, GCFR

President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces

Federal Republic of Nigeria