Nigeria’s digital economy has the potential to transform the nation—creating jobs, boosting revenue, and securing the future—but the youth must lead the charge, experts declared at the 18th national seminar of the Association of Applied Information Management Professionals (AAIMP) held Friday, April 25, 2025, in Karu, Abuja.

Delivering the message of Hon. Gaza Jonathan Gbefwi, Chairman of the House Committee on Solid Minerals, his representative Mr. Emmanuel John Kadiya described digital transformation as “the bridge between today’s challenges and tomorrow’s prosperity.”

“For Nigeria to thrive in the global digital economy, our young people must lead the charge,” Gbefwi stated. “Technology is already closing revenue gaps and upgrading infrastructure. You can build a business worth N250 million with just a smartphone. We must start creating global solutions, not just local products.”

Dr. Peter Olumuji, Secretary of the Command and Control Centre, FCT Administration, delivered the keynote, stressing that the world has shifted from traditional systems to digital economies.

“Nigeria is already on this journey with its National Digital Economy Policy,” he said. “Our youth are naturally equipped to drive this transformation. But we must expand broadband infrastructure to reach every part of the country.”

Prof. Haruna Ayuba, Vice Chancellor of Bingham University, described the seminar as timely, urging a focus on emerging tech like blockchain, cloud computing, and big data. “We must reimagine our education system to match global demands. Bingham University is proud to champion digital innovation through research and partnerships,” he said.

Echoing the need for collaboration, Dr. Adabu Suleiman Usman, Dean, Faculty of Computing, Bingham University, warned against fragmented data systems. “We must harmonize data between NIMC, CAC, and others. Our security depends on who controls our data. A unified digital infrastructure is crucial.”

He encouraged youth to adopt predictive analytics and real-time tools, saying, “Data is power. Use it wisely to secure your place in the global economy.”

Maj. Gen. Chris Olukolade (Rtd), Chairman of the Centre for Crisis Communication, highlighted the importance of structured digital information in security and emergency response. “Information saves lives. Our digital growth depends on how well we manage and use it,” he said.

Welcoming guests, Dr. Omotola Deji Afuye, President of AAIMP, emphasized the association’s mission to build a knowledge-driven economy. “Structured data and timely information are the backbone of productivity. We are creating a legacy of excellence in information management,” he said.

He also announced AAIMP’s 5th National Conference coming up in July 2025 in Lagos, and encouraged members to remain active in national discourse.

The event ended with the induction of new members, who pledged to uphold professional ethics and support Nigeria’s advancement in the global digital space.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Ambassador Gabriel Tanimu Aduda
reaffirmed the Nigerian government’s commitment to enhancing military cooperation with the State of Israel during a recent courtesy visit from Israeli Ambassador to Nigeria, Michael Freeman, at the Ministry’s headquarters in Ship House, Abuja.

This was contained in a statement signed by Sani Datti For :Director Information and Public Relations.

During their meeting, the two officials discussed strategies for bolstering defence cooperation, strengthening mutual security frameworks, and exploring opportunities for enhanced military training and capacity building within the Nigerian Armed Forces.

Ambassador Aduda highlighted the critical need to deepen defence ties in the light of evolving global security challenges. He emphasized the importance of strategic areas such as joint operations, knowledge exchange, and the modernization of defence cooperation. The discussions also included plans to finalize a new bilateral defence agreement aimed at fostering technical collaboration in defence industry development.

“The Ministry will engage in strategic initiatives to replicate successful Israeli military cooperation frameworks in Nigeria, thereby enhancing our national defence architecture,” Ambassador Aduda stated.

In response, Ambassador Michael Freeman expressed gratitude for the audience and underscored the significance of this partnership as a progressive step toward achieving innovative defence solutions. He extended a formal invitation to Ambassador Aduda and his team to visit Israel, with the goal of further strengthening the ties between the two nations.

***“You can’t demand integrity from politicians while hiding skeletons in your own closet” — PILL

League (PILL) has called for the immediate resignation of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) President, Mr. Anyiam Osigwe (SAN), and the refund of N300 million allegedly received from suspended Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara.

At a press conference held in Abuja on Thursday, PILL President, Dr. Abdul Mahmud, described the scandal as a “sordid betrayal” of public trust and a stain on the moral standing of the legal profession.

“The NBA collected N300 million from a sitting governor and never disclosed it until they were exposed by an external political appointee. Why hide such a transaction from your own members?” Mahmud questioned, referencing a recent demand by Rivers State Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd.), for the refund of the money.

Mahmud accused NBA President Osigwe and Conference Planning Committee Chairman, Emeka Obegolu (SAN), of gross misconduct and abuse of office. He demanded their resignation and full repayment of the sum, warning, “This scandal is not about money—it is about integrity, principle, and the soul of the Nigerian Bar.”

PILL criticized the NBA’s claim that the money was a “gift,” adding that the decision to relocate the upcoming conference from Rivers to Enugu was arbitrary and undemocratic.

“The NBA cannot posture as a watchdog of public morality while indulging in backdoor transactions and secrecy,” Mahmud declared. “Silence in the face of financial impropriety is complicity. The only redemption is for Osigwe and Obegolu to resign and return the money to the people of Rivers State.”

…Says PDP is a party of “cabals and personal ambition,” hails APC’s ideological revival

Former Deputy Governor of Edo State, Comrade Philip Shaibu, has thrown his weight behind the recent defection of Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to the All Progressives Congress (APC), stating that the crisis rocking the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is a result of the party’s failure to embrace internal democracy and ideological consistency.

Speaking during a media chat in Abuja on Thursday, Shaibu described the PDP as a sinking ship, adding that the party’s collapse was inevitable due to what he called “chronic disregard for its constitution and values.”

“I am not surprised by what is happening in the PDP,” Shaibu said. “From the moment I rejoined, I saw cracks. Within six months, I called out the leadership for being undemocratic. I was told to be quiet, but now, everything I warned about is happening.”

He said the ongoing defections—culminating in the mass exit of the Delta State governor, his deputy, and top political figures—are the natural result of the PDP’s abandonment of its founding vision. “The PDP has lost its soul. It’s now about personality cults, not policy or people,” he said.

Shaibu lauded APC National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, for initiating reforms within the ruling party, including the establishment of a political institute to foster ideological discipline. “This is the way forward,” Shaibu noted. “We must stop building parties around individuals and start investing in political institutions.”

While calling for a new wave of ideological politics in Nigeria, he warned that unless political parties shift from personality-based structures to value-based systems, the country will continue to experience political instability.

“The tragedy of PDP is that a few people’s ambitions have become the entire party’s vision. That is why it is crumbling,” he concluded.

Shaibu’s remarks add to the political tremor shaking Nigeria’s opposition as more PDP heavyweights signal their intention to join the APC ahead of the 2027 elections.

…Minimum Wage, Salary Arrears, Allowances to Be Addressed Before May 13 — Keyamo

Relief came Thursday night as unions in the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET) agreed to suspend their industrial action following a breakthrough meeting with the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, who pledged immediate steps to address their demands.

The strike, which entered its second day, had disrupted key operations across the nation’s aviation sector. But after over four hours of negotiations involving union leaders, ministry officials, NiMET and NCAA management, and the Permanent Secretary, the unions agreed to pause the action until May 13, 2025, pending implementation of resolutions.

Keyamo, addressing journalists after the meeting, acknowledged the unions’ concerns as mostly issues of implementation delays and communication gaps. He promised to personally intervene, including writing the President and Finance Minister to expedite approvals.

“We have agreed that I will immediately write to Mr. President and show the unions the acknowledgement copy by Monday or Tuesday. On the minimum wage, NiMET staff will begin receiving the new wage from their next allowance,” he assured.

Comrade Aba Ocheme, National Secretary of NUATE, and Comrade Alale Adedayo, National President of ANAP, confirmed the union’s decision to suspend the strike out of respect for the minister’s sincerity and commitment to resolving their grievances.

The union’s demands included the implementation of the 2019 and 2024 consequential adjustments, immediate payment to 30 staff previously omitted, salary relativity, hardship allowances

…Sole Administrator Threatens Clampdown Over Continued Demonstrations for Fubara’s Reinstatement

Rivers State Sole Administrator, Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, has issued a stern warning to protesters demanding the reinstatement of suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara, declaring that he will not hesitate to wield the “sweeping powers” granted to him under the emergency rule if the demonstrations persist.

In a statement released Thursday by his Senior Special Adviser on Media, Hector Igbikiowubo, Ibas expressed concern over what he described as “intermittent protests” that threaten public order, warning that his patience should not be mistaken for weakness.

“The fact that people are able to protest speaks to the administrator’s level of tolerance,” the statement read. “If you check the gazette declaring emergency rule, you will see that it grants the administrator sweeping powers. But fortunately for Rivers residents, the administrator has exercised restraint.”

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had declared a state of emergency in Rivers on March 18, suspending Governor Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and the State House of Assembly, citing political instability and security threats. Ibas was appointed Sole Administrator for an initial six-month period, a move that sparked nationwide debate and repeated protests in Port Harcourt and beyond.

While asserting his authority, Ibas urged residents to embrace dialogue and unity. “Peace and restoration of democratic institutions in the state will not be achieved through protests, harassment, or attempts to intimidate the administrator,” he said, adding that he remains committed to a peaceful resolution.

He disclosed that he has begun engaging stakeholders to chart a path forward, including a recent meeting with the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the state. “They had lengthy discussions, and the CAN leadership provided advice on the way forward and the things they would like to see done,” Igbikiowubo said.

As tensions continue to simmer, the administrator’s latest warning appears to signal a readiness to escalate enforcement—should protesters ignore his call for restraint.

***Says coalition will offer credible alternative, not just defeat APC

The Atiku Abubakar-led 2027 National Coalition has said it will not be distracted by the recent wave of defections by opposition governors and political leaders to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), including Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.

Reacting to the defections on Thursday, a key figure in the coalition and former Director General of the Progressive Governors Forum (PGF), Malam Salihu Moh Lukman, confirmed that more governors are expected to cross over to the APC, but emphasized that the coalition is focused on building a credible alternative for Nigerians in 2027.

“We have gone far, and what has happened in terms of some governors and leaders moving into APC will not distract us,” Lukman said. “Not long from now, the full details of the coalition will be unveiled to Nigerians, including its structure and strategy for the 2027 election.”

Lukman admitted that the PDP has lost steam and that several of its leaders may be working for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s interests. “When PDP governors issued statements against the coalition, we said many of them were aligned with Asiwaju. Now you’re seeing that play out. And more are coming,” he added.

He stressed that the goal of the coalition is not just to unseat Tinubu or the APC, but to correct systemic failures dating back to the Buhari administration.

“We want to restore the aspiration of Nigerians for a stronger country and produce leaders they can be proud of,” Lukman stated. “We are building a political force that understands the failures of the past and will not repeat them. This is about accountability, unity, and responsible leadership—not power for its own sake.”

He concluded by assuring Nigerians that the new coalition will prioritize inclusive leadership and national unity, saying, “We are not building another set of emperors. We’re building a Nigeria for all.”

…Says APC’s 2027 Victory ‘A Done Deal’

As the political temperature begins to rise ahead of the 2027 general elections, National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has confidently declared that more governors from opposition parties will soon defect to the ruling party.

Ganduje made the revelation on Thursday in Abuja while formally receiving key leaders of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) from Kano State into the APC fold, including Senator Kawu Ismaila, who represents Kano South in the National Assembly.

Speaking after a closed-door meeting with the new members, Ganduje said the defections are part of a calculated political strategy under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda” to consolidate national support ahead of 2027.

“More governors are coming into APC, I assure you,” Ganduje stated. “We are expanding across the country. With what we’ve seen in Edo and now Delta, APC 2027 is a done deal. We’re not just growing; we’re becoming unstoppable.”

Joining Senator Kawu in the defection were other prominent NNPP figures, including former House of Representatives members, former commissioners, and top party officials in Kano State. Notable names include Rt. Hon. Kabiru Alhasan Rurum, Dr. A. B. Baffa Bichi, Hon. Abbas S. Abbas, and Hon. Sha’aban Ibrahim Lawal, among others.

Speaking on behalf of the decampees, Senator Kawu described their movement as a “coming together of like minds,” and emphasized that their influence would significantly shift political dynamics in Kano. “If you check the 2023 election results, especially from our polling units where we contested against Kwankwaso, the facts speak for themselves,” he said.

The latest wave of defections follows the recent defection of Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and his cabinet to the APC, which Ganduje hailed as a testament to Tinubu’s unifying leadership.

With strategic alignments and mass defections already in motion, the APC appears to be positioning itself for a sweeping victory in the next electoral cycle.

Tensions flared at the National Assembly on Wednesday as members of the House of Representatives Committee on Rivers State Oversight staged a dramatic walkout following the repeated absence of Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd.), the Sole Administrator of Rivers State.

The committee, chaired by Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, had summoned Ibas to appear before it to provide crucial insights into the ongoing state of emergency in Rivers and governance developments under his watch. However, for the second time in a week, Ibas failed to honor the invitation.

Originally scheduled for April 17, the meeting was postponed at Ibas’s request and rescheduled for April 24. But when lawmakers convened in Committee Room 301 at 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, the seat reserved for the embattled administrator remained glaringly vacant.

Ibas’s no-show sparked visible outrage among committee members. After a tense few minutes of waiting, lawmakers began walking out in protest, some shaking their heads in disbelief, others muttering in frustration. Committee Chairman Hon. Ihonvbere offered no lengthy remarks, saying only, “No words. I will issue a statement later in the day.”

The snub is seen as a deepening of the standoff between the legislative arm and the Rivers State administration under emergency rule. It also raises questions about transparency and accountability in the state’s interim governance amid heightened political and security concerns.

***Says Tinubu can’t outplay God, vows immediate takeover of Delta structure

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has described as “very sad and unfortunate” the defection of Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, to the All Progressives Congress (APC), vowing to reclaim the party’s political structure in the state immediately.

Speaking at the presentation of Certificate of Return to Chief Jude Ezenwafor, the PDP’s governorship candidate for Anambra State, Acting National Chairman of the PDP, Ambassador Umar Damagum, said the party was blindsided by Oborevwori’s move, especially given the massive support he and his predecessor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, received from the PDP.

“It’s very sad and unfortunate, because if there is any state that shouldn’t think of abandoning the party, it is Delta,” Damagum said. “The PDP gave them everything. From the emergence of the governor to his predecessor, who was our Vice Presidential candidate, we expected loyalty.”

While refraining from naming names, Damagum made a veiled reference to President Bola Tinubu, suggesting that political maneuvers may work temporarily but cannot triumph over divine will. “You may have your tactics, but you cannot outplay God,” he said.

Damagum vowed that the PDP would take swift action to restore its grip in Delta, beginning with the immediate constitution of a caretaker committee. He urged Nigerians to prepare for 2027, declaring it “not APC versus governors, but APC versus Nigerians,” and called for unity across the country to end the hardship inflicted by the current administration.

Meanwhile, Chief Jude Ezenwafor, upon receiving his Certificate of Return, promised to lead the PDP to victory in the upcoming Anambra election. “The result will surprise the world. PDP is Anambra and Anambra is PDP,” he said confidently.