Author: Lukman Laleye Babalola

The Federal Government has reaffirmed that West Africa remained the cornerstone of Nigeria’s foreign policy, as newly appointed Ambassadors and High Commissioners-designate to countries in the sub-region were tasked with promoting democratic governance, regional security, economic integration and citizen diplomacy. The charge was delivered at a strategic retreat for Nigeria’s Ambassadors and High Commissioners-designate to West African countries held on Saturday in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. Speaking at the opening of the retreat, the Honourable Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, described the gathering as a critical…

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Zone D (North Central), has condemned the arrest and detention of the Editor of Kogi Reports, Mr. Opeyemi Owoeye, by operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Kogi State, described the action as a threat to press freedom and democratic governance. In a statement issued by the Vice President of NUJ Zone D, Alhaji Adeiza Momohjimoh, the union expressed deep concern over the circumstances surrounding the journalist’s arrest, saying the development raises serious questions about the conduct of security agencies…

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has expressed deep sorrow over the death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, who reportedly died while in captivity after being abducted by suspected terrorists. In a statement issued on Saturday by the Director Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) described the late senior officer as a dedicated patriot whose contributions to national security and military professionalism left an enduring legacy. According to the statement, Major General Abubakar served the country with distinction in several strategic roles, including as Director…

The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has urged Muslims in Osun State to be vigilant ahead of the 2026 governorship election, warned them against what it described as allowing Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State to “mock them a second time.” In a press statement issued on Saturday, 13 June 2026, the Executive Director of MURIC, Professor Ishaq Akintola, called on Muslim voters in the state to critically evaluate the governor’s leadership record, particularly on issues relating to governance, political appointments, and religious representation. According to the group, Governor Adeleke’s administration…

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has said Nigeria’s June 12 generation secured democracy, while the present administration must now focus on delivering economic prosperity for citizens. Speaking during his Democracy Day address, he said Nigeria has recorded 27 years of uninterrupted civilian rule since 1999, describing it as a milestone that must be protected and strengthened. Tinubu stressed that democracy must translate into tangible economic benefits, insisting that “democracy must be felt in the pocket” through jobs, improved livelihoods, and expanded opportunities. He highlighted ongoing reforms in fiscal management, infrastructure development,…

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has honoured 33 Nigerians for their contributions to the country’s pro-democracy struggle while reaffirming his administration’s hardline stance against terrorism and insecurity. In his 2026 Democracy Day address, Tinubu said the honourees drawn from journalism, activism, academia, civil society, and public service endured persecution, imprisonment, exile, and intimidation during the struggle for democratic governance in Nigeria. He said their sacrifices must be permanently recognised as part of the nation’s democratic history, adding that a formal honours list will be released in the coming days. Full List…

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN) Commission have formalised a strategic partnership aimed at accelerating digital literacy, innovation development, and economic growth across the six states of Southwest Nigeria. The collaboration was sealed through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Abuja, with both organisations pledging to strengthen digital skills development, support innovation ecosystems, and expand economic opportunities across the region. Speaking at the ceremony, the Director General of National Information Technology Development Agency, Kashifu Inuwa, described the agreement…