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2027: Reps Launch Three-Week Probe into Political Violence, Attacks on Rallies

By
Shehu Danladi
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…Cites killings, injuries in four states, warns against threats to elections

The House of Representatives has launched a three-week investigation into rising cases of political violence, attacks on rallies and disruption of political activities across the country ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The decision followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by the House Minority Leader, Fred Agbedi, and 16 other lawmakers on Thursday.

Leading the debate, Agbedi warned that increasing attacks on political gatherings, supporters and processions could undermine the country’s democracy and threaten the peaceful conduct of the 2027 elections.

He condemned violence, intimidation, assault and destruction of property associated with political activities, irrespective of the political parties or individuals involved.

“The rising incidents, if left unchecked, may threaten the peaceful conduct of the 2027 general elections and undermine citizens’ confidence in the democratic process,” he warned.

Agbedi reminded lawmakers that Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, guarantees citizens the right to assemble freely and associate with others, including the freedom to form or belong to political parties.

He maintained that government had a constitutional responsibility to protect the lives and welfare of citizens, stressing that Nigerians must be able to participate in political activities without fear of attacks or intimidation.

The Minority Leader urged political parties, candidates and their supporters to exercise restraint, avoid inflammatory statements and cooperate with security agencies to maintain peace.

He also called on the House to invoke its investigative powers under Section 88(1) of the Constitution to examine the reported incidents and scrutinise the conduct of public authorities responsible for enforcing relevant laws.

To underscore the urgency of the matter, Agbedi cited several incidents of political violence recorded in different states.

He recalled the disruption of political meetings in Enugu State on September 12, 2026, during which the police reportedly confirmed that two persons were injured, while one person was allegedly killed.

He also cited an attack on supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) travelling to a rally in Katsina State on October 28, 2026, which reportedly led to the arrest of 14 suspects.

In Nasarawa State, he referenced an attack on an APC rally in Lafia on November 4, 2026, where several people were reportedly injured.

Another incident was the violent confrontation during a political procession in Asaba, Delta State, on November 7, 2026, which the police reportedly said resulted in one death and five injuries.

According to Agbedi, the incidents underscored the need for urgent intervention to prevent political disagreements from escalating into violence.

He warned that continued attacks and intimidation could result in more casualties, discourage citizens from participating in lawful political activities and weaken public confidence in the electoral process.

However, he cautioned against rushing to conclusions on those responsible, insisting that all allegations must be subjected to impartial, thorough and evidence-based investigations.

Following the adoption of the motion, the House constituted a three-week ad hoc committee chaired by the House Leader, Prof. Julius Ihonvbere, to investigate the immediate and remote causes of politically motivated violence and report its findings to the legislature.

The committee comprises the House Leader and Minority Leader, chairmen and deputy chairmen of the House Committees on Police Affairs and National Security and Intelligence, alongside two additional members drawn from the committees.

The investigation comes as political parties and prospective candidates intensify consultations and preparations for the 2027 general elections.

The House is expected to use the outcome of the probe to identify the circumstances surrounding the reported attacks, establish possible institutional failures and recommend measures to prevent further violence.

The findings could also guide legislative interventions aimed at protecting citizens’ constitutional rights and ensuring peaceful political participation as Nigeria approaches the 2027 elections.

Reps Move to Restructure PTDF, Propose Governing Board

By
Shehu Danladi
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…Bill seeks six geopolitical zones’ representation, stronger accountability

The House of Representatives has moved to restructure the governance of the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF), proposing the establishment of a statutory Governing Board to strengthen accountability, transparency and oversight of the agency.

The proposed amendment to the PTDF Act, Cap. P15, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004, was read for the first time on the floor of the House on Thursday.

Sponsored by Olusola Fatoba and Adeyemi Adeniyi, the bill seeks to provide for the composition, functions, powers and tenure of members of the proposed board, as well as strengthen the institutional, administrative and financial supervision of the Fund.

The sponsors said the proposed legislation would address a longstanding gap in the agency’s governance structure and introduce stronger mechanisms for accountability, transparency and equitable representation.

According to the lawmakers, establishing a statutory Governing Board would provide strategic direction and independent oversight for the PTDF, given its critical role in developing technical and professional manpower for Nigeria’s petroleum industry.

The proposed board is also expected to complement the administrative and executive responsibilities of the Executive Secretary while strengthening institutional checks and balances.

A major feature of the bill is the provision for equitable representation of the six geopolitical zones in the composition of the proposed board, in line with the federal character principle guiding appointments into federal institutions.

The lawmakers argued that an agency established to serve the collective interests of Nigerians should have a governance structure that reflects the country’s diversity and guarantees broader participation.

Established to develop indigenous expertise and reduce Nigeria’s dependence on foreign technical skills, the PTDF plays a major role in manpower development for the oil and gas industry through scholarships, professional training, research support and technological advancement.

Its programmes include sponsoring Nigerians for postgraduate studies in specialised petroleum-related disciplines and supporting initiatives aimed at strengthening local research capacity and producing skilled professionals for the energy sector.

However, the sponsors believe that the absence of a statutory Governing Board raises concerns about institutional oversight, inclusiveness and the long-term sustainability of the Fund’s administrative framework.

They said the proposed reform would improve transparency in decision-making, strengthen accountability in the management of resources and ensure more effective supervision of the agency’s programmes.

The move comes amid growing calls for Nigeria to deepen local content development, strengthen indigenous technical capacity and reduce dependence on foreign expertise and specialised services in the petroleum industry.

With the global energy industry becoming increasingly technology-driven, the lawmakers believe that strengthening the PTDF’s governance structure is necessary to enable it to deliver more effectively on its mandate.

If passed into law, the amendment would establish a statutory framework for the Fund’s governing structure, clearly define the responsibilities and tenure of board members and provide a formal mechanism for institutional supervision.

The bill is expected to return to the House for debate on its general principles at the second reading stage before proceeding to committee consideration and other legislative processes.

West Africa Moves Towards Regional Power Market as 17 Operators Sign Grid Pact

By
Akeem Adebayo
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West Africa has taken another step towards an integrated regional electricity market after 17 transmission system operators signed an agreement to strengthen electricity exchange across national power grids.

The agreement was signed at the 21st General Assembly of the West African Power Pool (WAPP) in Conakry, Guinea, where regional leaders also discussed plans to launch the second phase of the West African electricity market in early 2027.

The development comes as Guinea’s Prime Minister, Amadou Oury Bah, called on member states to prioritise regional electricity cooperation over national isolation, arguing that countries could achieve greater energy security by sharing resources and strengthening cross-border connections.

Bah made the call while opening the assembly, representing President Mamadi Doumbouya. He urged member states to build a West African energy community founded on shared standards, stronger institutional cooperation and measurable performance.

He described energy as a foundation of national sovereignty, economic competitiveness, social progress and stability, saying the interconnection of the 15 West African countries demonstrated the benefits of collective action.

“The Republic of Guinea, under the leadership of His Excellency the President of the Republic, reaffirms its readiness to support this collective ambition and to contribute actively to the development of a more integrated, efficient, and united West African energy space,” he said.

Regional electricity market set for next phase in 2027

Chairman of the WAPP Executive Board, Engr. Sule Ahmed Abdulaziz, said the second phase of the regional electricity market would be launched in early 2027.

He explained that the next phase would introduce a day-ahead electricity market, allowing prices for electricity traded between countries to be determined by supply and demand within an organised, transparent and non-discriminatory framework.

“This is not merely a technical development, it represents a fundamental step forward,” Abdulaziz said.

He noted that investments in transmission infrastructure, common operating rules and regional institutions over the past two decades must now translate into a functioning electricity market.

According to him, the transition will require market discipline, reliable real-time data exchange, accurate metering, credible settlement arrangements and effective management of transmission congestion and financial risks.

Abdulaziz also disclosed that ongoing institutional reforms would establish an independent system and market operator, separating electricity system operations from market operations to strengthen transparency and fairness in decision-making.

He said the transition must be carefully managed to avoid disruptions and preserve the operational continuity provided by WAPP’s Information and Coordination Centre.

The WAPP chairman also highlighted the proposed Liquidity Enhancement Revolving Fund, which is being studied and structured to strengthen the financial security of electricity transactions.

He urged member states to meet their financial obligations, stressing that statutory contributions were essential to the organisation’s independence and ability to deliver its mandate.

“Statutory contributions are not an administrative formality; they are the foundation of our autonomy and our capacity to act,” he said.

West African power grids target 48-hour synchronisation

WAPP Secretary-General, Abdoulaye Dia, identified the synchronisation of electricity networks across the 15 West African countries as a major achievement in regional energy integration.

He said the interconnected networks successfully achieved four hours and five minutes of synchronisation on November 8, 2025.

A further test scheduled for November 2026 is targeting 48 hours of continuous synchronisation, a step intended to consolidate the achievement and prepare the networks for permanent synchronisation.

Dia said electricity utilities and member states faced growing expectations regarding service quality, security of supply, competitiveness and access to electricity.

He said WAPP had a responsibility to turn regional interconnection into practical and sustainable cooperation.

The WAPP chief also pointed to progress on the regional electricity tariff framework, including decisions adopted in 2026 by the ECOWAS Regional Electricity Regulatory Authority on transmission tariff methodology, tariff calculation procedures and market fees.

The assembly was held under the theme, “Consolidating the regional electricity market as a lever of transformation and resilience for West Africa.”

Guinea positions itself as regional electricity supplier

Guinea’s Energy Minister, Laye Sékou Camara, said the assembly should produce clear decisions, strengthen governance and translate regional commitments into practical results.

He stressed that expanding electricity access within individual countries should complement, rather than compete with, regional electricity trading.

Camara also warned against confusing installed generation capacity with the actual ability to deliver electricity to consumers, noting that transmission infrastructure and cross-border connections were essential to making power available.

He described regional interconnection as a form of mutual insurance between countries, recalling that Guinea benefited from electricity support from Senegal following the fire at the Coronthie depot in December 2023.

The minister highlighted Guinea’s hydropower assets, including the Kaleta and Souapiti dams, as well as planned projects such as Koukoutamba, Sambangou and Amaria.

He said these projects could strengthen Guinea’s capacity to supply electricity to neighbouring countries and support the country’s ambition under the Simandou 2040 programme.

Camara also called for credible liquidity support mechanisms, stronger institutional capacity, compliance with regional rules and greater participation of women in the electricity sector.

The Director-General of Electricité de Guinée, El Hadji Gando Barry, also emphasised the importance of regional cooperation in combining the energy resources of member states to provide reliable, accessible and sustainable electricity.

The signing of the Inter-grid Operators Agreement by 17 transmission system operators marked a further step towards strengthening coordinated operations across the regional electricity network.

The assembly brought together energy ministers, electricity utility executives and international partners from across the 15 ECOWAS member states, with discussions focused on network synchronisation, electricity trading, market governance and the infrastructure needed to improve regional power supply.

Wike Sets Three Million Vote Target for Tinubu in Rivers, Tasks Campaign Council on Grassroots Mobilisation

By
Toyin Adebayo
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The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has set a three-million-vote target for President Bola Tinubu in Rivers State in the 2027 presidential election, charging members of the newly inaugurated APC/Rainbow Coalition Presidential Campaign Council to intensify grassroots mobilisation.

Wike, who is the Coordinator of the Tinubu Campaign Council and leader of the Rainbow Coalition, gave the directive during the inauguration of the over 700-member Rivers State campaign council in Port Harcourt, where he insisted that the target was achievable through sustained engagement with voters.

He directed every member of the council to mobilise at least five voters daily, arguing that the cumulative efforts of members and their subcommittees would translate into the targeted three million votes.

The former Rivers State governor said the campaign would depart from the conventional approach of organising rallies and instead focus on door-to-door mobilisation, community meetings, markets and engagements with family and age-grade associations.

“We are going to depart from that ceremonial campaign style of converging in one place and saying we are holding a rally. Rather, we are going to go out to communities, family meetings, age-grade meetings and markets to talk to them vigorously. Tell them why Tinubu should be re-elected,” he said.

Wike added: “You must be found working. Take it as a point of duty: every day, I will get at least five voters that will vote for Tinubu and members of the National Assembly.

“If you multiply the number of people you win daily by the members of this council and the subcommittees, that is how we will hit the target.”

He announced that campaign councils would be inaugurated in all local government areas within one week, while the lists of subcommittee chairmen and members would be concluded by Monday.

Addressing complaints by supporters whose names were omitted from the central campaign council, Wike assured them that they would be accommodated in the subcommittees, stressing that the wider campaign structure would provide opportunities for more people to participate.

Defending the Rainbow Coalition, which brings together politicians and supporters from the All Progressives Congress (APC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party (LP), he described the alliance as a broader political platform capable of consolidating support for Tinubu’s re-election.

He urged members to focus on issue-based campaigns by highlighting the achievements of the Tinubu administration in Rivers State, rather than allowing themselves to be distracted by opposition provocations.

Wike also dismissed a disclaimer issued by an individual who claimed not to be a member of the campaign council, explaining that the position belonged to another person bearing the same name.

In his remarks, Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, declared his total commitment to the coalition, describing the newly inaugurated campaign council as bigger, broader and better coordinated than the political structure that delivered victory in the 2023 general election.

Fubara expressed confidence that the coalition would secure a stronger electoral performance in 2027, noting that former political adversaries had put their differences aside to work together for the state and Tinubu’s re-election.

“Nothing is impossible. The only thing that is not possible is to revive the dead. If we take this as a serious task that must be achieved, we will come out decisively with a stronger vote than what we did in 2023,” he said.

The governor, however, warned members against double-dealing, urging them to demonstrate genuine commitment to the political project rather than professing loyalty publicly while undermining the coalition behind closed doors.

“I am here, and I say it boldly anywhere, any day, in private and in secret: I have taken this position,” Fubara declared.

He also supported Wike’s assurance that those omitted from the central campaign council would be integrated into the subcommittees to ensure wider participation.

Earlier, the Director of Administration of the campaign council, Ambassador Desmond Akawor, said the council had mobilised its foot soldiers to cover all 6,866 polling units across Rivers State.

Akawor said political leaders and elders in the state had already committed themselves to delivering three million votes for Tinubu, assuring that the campaign machinery would penetrate every community, ward and polling unit across the state.

Nigeria Meets OPEC Quota for Sixth Month as October Oil Output Hits 1.51mbpd

By
Akeem Adebayo
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Nigeria maintained its compliance with its Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) crude oil production quota for the sixth consecutive month in October 2026, despite a 1.7 per cent month-on-month decline in output.

Figures released by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) show that the country produced an average of 1.51 million barrels per day (mbpd) of crude oil in October, representing 101 per cent of its OPEC production target of 1.5mbpd.

The performance extends Nigeria’s run of meeting its assigned quota, which began in May 2026.

The commission’s data showed that crude oil and condensate production combined averaged 1,687,710 barrels per day during the month.

Daily combined production reached a peak of 1.79 million barrels, while the lowest recorded output was 1.60 million barrels per day.

Although Nigeria maintained its quota compliance, October’s crude oil output declined from 1.53mbpd recorded in September.

Nigeria sustains six-month OPEC quota compliance

The NUPRC data showed that Nigeria’s crude oil production, excluding condensates, remained around or above its OPEC target throughout the six-month period.

Production figures were:

  • May: 1.53mbpd
  • June: 1.55mbpd
  • July: 1.51mbpd
  • August: 1.50mbpd
  • September: 1.53mbpd
  • October: 1.51mbpd

The figures indicate that Nigeria maintained production at or above its 1.5mbpd quota throughout the period.

The NUPRC attributed the relatively stable performance to improved operational stability, increased production uptime and more efficient crude oil evacuation.

The commission said the October performance reflected the continued efforts of operators and industry stakeholders to improve operational efficiency, maintain asset integrity and strengthen production reliability across the upstream petroleum sector.

Forcados leads October production by terminal

A breakdown of October’s average daily crude oil and condensate production showed that Forcados Terminal recorded the highest output among the listed terminals, with 318.49 thousand barrels per day (kbpd).

Bonny Terminal followed with 311.02kbpd, while Qua Iboe Terminal recorded 173.97kbpd.

Escravos Oil Terminal produced an average of 134.67kbpd, while Bonga ranked fifth with 106.65kbpd.

The October figures highlight Nigeria’s continued effort to sustain crude oil production and meet its OPEC commitment, although the monthly decline shows that maintaining output growth remains a challenge for the country’s upstream petroleum industry.

The data was released by the NUPRC and signed by its Head of Media and Corporate Communications, Eniola Akinkuotu, on November 11, 2026.

Nigeria Urges UN to Boost ICJ Funding, Expand Access to International Justice

By
Akeem Adebayo
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Nigeria has called on the United Nations to increase support for the International Court of Justice (ICJ), urging member states to strengthen the resources, accessibility and authority of the world’s principal judicial organ.

The country also encouraged states that have not accepted the Court’s compulsory jurisdiction to consider doing so, while calling for greater financial support to help developing countries pursue or defend cases before the international tribunal.

Nigeria made the recommendations during a plenary debate on the ICJ’s report at the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York on October 29, 2026.

The country’s position was delivered by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Dunoma Umar Ahmed, who reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to international law, peaceful settlement of disputes and compliance with the Court’s judgments and orders.

In its statement, Nigeria commended the ICJ’s work, noting that its report covered 16 orders, one judgment, two advisory opinions and 24 cases on its General List.

The country said adequate resources were necessary to enable the Court to manage its growing caseload and effectively discharge its mandate.

Nigeria seeks stronger funding and access to ICJ

Nigeria urged the UN General Assembly to ensure that the Court’s resources matched its workload, including support for its proposed 2027 budget and the development of an improved case-management system.

The proposed system would support electronic filing, processing and management of case materials.

Nigeria also called on countries that have not accepted the Court’s compulsory jurisdiction to consider making declarations under Article 36, paragraph 2, of the ICJ Statute.

It further encouraged member states to contribute to the Secretary-General’s Trust Fund to Assist States in the Settlement of Disputes through the ICJ.

According to Nigeria, adequate funding would help developing countries access the Court and pursue or defend legal claims regardless of their financial circumstances.

The country also called for stronger cooperation between the ICJ and national judiciaries, particularly in Africa, to improve understanding of international law and the Court’s decisions.

It urged member states to support the ICJ Judicial Fellowship Programme, which provides young lawyers, especially those from developing countries, with practical experience at the Court.

Nigeria cites Cameroon boundary dispute as example

Reflecting on its relationship with the ICJ, Nigeria recalled the Court’s October 10, 2002 judgment in the Land and Maritime Boundary between Cameroon and Nigeria case.

The judgment was subsequently implemented through the 2006 Greentree Agreement, which provided a framework for the peaceful transfer of authority in the Bakassi Peninsula and the resolution of related boundary issues.

Nigeria said the experience demonstrated how international adjudication, supported by political will and constructive engagement, could help resolve complex territorial disputes peacefully.

The country also recalled its acceptance of the ICJ’s compulsory jurisdiction under Article 36, paragraph 2, of the Court’s Statute.

It highlighted the contributions of Nigerian jurists to international jurisprudence, particularly the late Judge Taslim Olawale Elias, who served as President of the ICJ.

Nigeria further welcomed the Court’s engagement with the Nigerian Judiciary, including visits by Supreme Court justices on August 13, 2025, and another Nigerian judicial delegation on July 16, 2026.

Nigeria welcomes greater transparency in ICJ orders

The country also welcomed the amendment to Article 78 of the ICJ Rules of Court, which took effect on February 2, 2026.

The amendment provides for public disclosure of reports on compliance with provisional measures ordered by the Court.

Nigeria described the development as an important step towards improving transparency and accountability in the implementation of the Court’s orders.

It concluded by stressing that compliance with ICJ judgments and orders was essential to preserving the Court’s authority, upholding the rule of law and strengthening confidence in the international legal system.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Nigeria remained committed to the principles of the United Nations Charter and the peaceful settlement of international disputes in accordance with international law.

The statement was signed by the ministry’s spokesperson, Oluwafemi Adeniyi, on Wednesday, November 11, 2026.

Nigeria, India Sign Human Rights Pact, Address Welfare of Nigerians in Custody

By
Akeem Adebayo
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Nigeria and India have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation on human rights protection, institutional capacity development and the handling of complaints, as Nigeria raised concerns over the welfare of its citizens held in custodial centres in India.

The agreement was signed between the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) of Nigeria and its Indian counterpart, marking a new phase of institutional cooperation between the two countries.

The development was highlighted on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, during a meeting between Foreign Affairs Minister, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, and a joint delegation of the two commissions at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abuja.

The delegation was jointly led by the Executive Secretary of Nigeria’s NHRC, Chief Anthony Ojukwu, and the Chairperson of India’s National Human Rights Commission, Justice V. Ramasubramanian.

Speaking during the meeting, Odumegwu-Ojukwu described the agreement as a timely step towards translating the longstanding diplomatic relationship between Nigeria and India into practical cooperation on human rights.

She said the partnership offered opportunities to improve access to justice, strengthen complaint-handling mechanisms and protect people in vulnerable circumstances.

The minister also called for appropriate attention to the welfare, dignity and fundamental rights of Nigerian citizens serving in custodial centres in India.

Nigeria, India to strengthen human rights institutions

Earlier, Nigeria’s NHRC Executive Secretary, Anthony Ojukwu, said the agreement would provide a framework for technical exchanges and stronger institutional collaboration between the two commissions.

He identified key areas of cooperation as improved complaint-management systems, human rights compliance in security sector governance and joint research on international law, human rights implementation and emerging issues.

Ojukwu also stressed the importance of working with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to integrate international human rights standards into Nigeria’s treaty obligations and diplomatic engagements.

India’s NHRC Chairperson, Justice Ramasubramanian, described the agreement as an important step towards institutional learning and capacity development.

He noted the historical and diplomatic ties between both countries, highlighting similarities in their population sizes, ethnic and religious diversity, cultural heritage and democratic aspirations.

According to him, exchanging experiences and best practices would help both institutions strengthen their capacity to promote and protect human rights.

Nigeria reaffirms commitment to UN Human Rights Council

The Foreign Affairs Minister also expressed appreciation to United Nations member states for supporting Nigeria’s election to the UN Human Rights Council for the 2027–2028 term.

She reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to fulfilling its obligations under the United Nations Charter and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Odumegwu-Ojukwu said the country would be guided by the principles of objectivity, non-selectivity and constructive international engagement in its participation in the council.

She further said Nigeria and India, as members of the Global South, could contribute to a more inclusive international human rights framework.

The meeting ended with both countries reaffirming their commitment to deeper cooperation on fundamental freedoms, human rights diplomacy and international engagement.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced the development in a statement signed by its spokesperson, Oluwafemi Adeniyi, on Wednesday, November 11, 2026.

Tribune senior reporter wins first prize in Nigeria AMR Media Awards

By
Toyin Adebayo
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Kazeem Biriowo- Abuja.

 

Senior Reporter of the Nigerian Tribune, Kazeem Biriowo, has emerged winner of the first prize in the inaugural Nigeria AMR Media Awards (NAMA), in recognition of his outstanding reporting on antimicrobial resistance (AMR).

Biriowo clinched the top position ahead of Julian Adetinuyo of News Scope Africa, who won the second prize, and Mariam Ile-yemi of Premium Times, who emerged third in the awards organised by the Nigeria AMR Media Alliance (NAMA).

The winners were announced on Wednesday, at the 6th Global Media Forum on Antimicrobial Resistance, alongside recipients of the Global AMR Media Awards (GAMA), which recognise journalists contributing to public awareness and action against the growing threat of drug-resistant infections.

The inaugural NAMA Awards mark a significant step towards strengthening specialised health and science journalism in Nigeria, particularly reporting on antimicrobial resistance and its implications for human, animal and environmental health.

Nigeria recorded an impressive performance in the awards, accounting for 96 entries, representing about one-quarter of the total submissions received for the GAMA and inaugural NAMA awards.

Other Nigerian journalists recognised in the NAMA special mention category include Folashade Akpan of the News Agency of Nigeria, Chioma Obinna of Vanguard, Helen Oji Emmanuel of Blueprint, Fatima Saka of DistinctNews, Chinyere Okorafor of Nigeria Health Times, Laide Akinboade of Daily Asset and Odimmegwa John Peter of New Africa Horizon.

The first-, second- and third-prize winners will receive certificates and cash prizes, with the financial rewards supported by the Art for Health Initiative, a non-profit organisation.

In other categories of the Global AMR Media Awards, Nigerian journalists also recorded notable successes.

In the Reporting on the 5th High-Level Ministerial Conference on AMR category, Annabel Nwachukwu of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN) won first prize, while Edward Samuel Ikpete of Voice of Nigeria (VON) came second and Doris Obinna of The Sun won third prize.

For the People’s Reporting category, Isioma Appiah-Yeboah of Clean Beat Radio emerged first prize winner and Racheal Abujah, the Senior Public Health Correspondent of the News Agency of Nigeria clinged the second prize winner, while Princess Ekwi-Ajide of Anambra Radio Corporation, Smith Nwokocha of Port Harcourt WakaWaka and Chioma Vivian James received special mentions.

Patience Ihejirika of Leadership newspaper and Benedict Ifeanyi Chukwu of Kaftan TV also received special mentions in the Africa category of the GAMA awards.

Speaking after the announcement, the Founding Chairperson of NAMA, Ojoma Akor, congratulated the winners, describing the inaugural awards as an important milestone in strengthening the quality and impact of health and science journalism in Nigeria.

Akor said antimicrobial resistance had not received adequate attention in newsrooms despite its serious implications for public health, healthcare delivery, food security and national development.

She said the awards were not merely intended to celebrate individual journalists but also to demonstrate the role of journalism in making complex public health threats understandable, amplifying the experiences of affected communities and holding institutions accountable.

According to her, Nigerian journalists have a critical responsibility to shape public understanding and strengthen the country’s response to antimicrobial resistance through investigative and solutions-oriented reporting.

“As an alliance, we remain committed to building the capacity of journalists, encouraging investigative and solutions-oriented reporting, and ensuring that AMR receives the sustained attention it deserves,” she said.

Also speaking, the Founder of Art for Health Initiative, Chidera Rosecamille Aneke, said the organisation supported the NAMA awards because of its commitment to using innovative storytelling to improve public understanding of antimicrobial resistance.

She said the initiative operated at the intersection of storytelling, media and the arts to promote awareness and action on critical health issues.

Aneke added that the support was aimed at recognising impactful and solutions-driven journalism capable of communicating complex health issues in ways audiences could understand.

Similarly, the Chairperson of the Global AMR Media Alliance, Shobha Shukla, congratulated Nigerian journalists for their contributions to the third edition of the GAMA Media Awards.

Shukla commended Akor for establishing the Nigerian chapter and strengthening media engagement on antimicrobial resistance.

She described AMR as more than a medical or scientific challenge, noting that it also had wider social and development implications requiring coordinated action from governments, communities and stakeholders across human, animal and environmental health.

According to her, the media has an indispensable role in connecting scientific evidence with public understanding, amplifying affected communities’ voices and promoting responsible antimicrobial use.

She urged journalists to move beyond treating AMR as a specialised health reporting issue and help build a broader public movement for stronger health systems and responsible use of medicines.

Antimicrobial resistance occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites develop the ability to withstand medicines designed to eliminate them or stop their spread, making infections increasingly difficult to treat.

The development threatens the effectiveness of essential medicines and increases the risks associated with routine medical procedures, surgeries and other healthcare interventions.

Nigeria has continued efforts to address the challenge through the implementation of its National Action Plan on AMR, surveillance activities, antimicrobial stewardship, infection prevention and control, and collaboration among stakeholders under the One Health approach.

However, sustained public awareness, stronger policy implementation, adequate financing, research and effective communication remain critical to containing the threat.

NAMA said journalists had a strategic role in bridging the gap between scientific knowledge, government policies and public understanding.

The alliance pledged to continue working with government institutions, development partners, research organisations, professional associations and media organisations to improve the capacity of Nigerian journalists to report on antimicrobial resistance.

Akor also urged government agencies, development partners, health professionals, researchers and civil society organisations to strengthen their engagement with journalists and support independent, evidence-based reporting on AMR.

She congratulated all winners, nominees and participating journalists the alliance’s commitment to making antimicrobial resistance a sustained priority in Nigeria’s media and public health conversations.

2027: SDP’s Adewole Adebayo Warns Against Political Intimidation, Demands Fair Campaign Space

By
Toyin Adebayo
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Presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Prince Adewole Adebayo, has called for a level playing field for all political parties ahead of the 2027 general elections, insisting that democracy cannot thrive where political opponents are intimidated or denied the freedom to promote their candidates and programmes.

Adebayo, who spoke at the unveiling of the SDP National Campaign Council in Abuja, said every political party must be allowed to freely sell its ideas to Nigerians without interference, intimidation or harassment.

He urged political actors to respect the rights of others to participate in the democratic process, warning that any attempt to suppress opposing voices was a threat to democratic values.

The SDP presidential candidate also directed his supporters to remove campaign posters, flyers and billboards belonging to other political parties, insisting that no party should be prevented from reaching voters with its message.

“Every flyer, every poster, every billboard that does not belong to SDP is to be removed. It doesn’t matter whose poster it is. This is not something that we can take lightly,” he said.

Adebayo added: “When you see signs like this, those are signs of intimidation. So it’s very important that everyone is allowed to sell their idea.”

He also commended the party’s commitment to gender balance, saying its leadership and campaign structures were designed to give women equal opportunities to participate in decision-making.

“Everything we do is 50/50. That’s five men, five women; ten men, ten women. So it’s up to the women to lead,” he said.

The presidential candidate, who disclosed that he joined the SDP in 1991 at the age of 19, recalled that his first assignment in the party was pasting campaign posters across Niger State.

He said the SDP was building a political platform anchored on purposeful leadership, national unity, truth, public service and the welfare of Nigerians.

Earlier, the National Chairman of the party, Prof. Sadiq Gombe, said the National Campaign Council was designed to strengthen mobilisation and coordination across all levels of the party, from the national leadership to polling units.

He said the council would integrate the party’s structures with the presidential campaign organisation to ensure effective coordination across the six geopolitical zones, states, local government areas and wards.

Gombe said the SDP was committed to issue-based campaigns and would not encourage violence, intimidation or electoral malpractice.

He disclosed that the party had developed a comprehensive manifesto translated into major Nigerian languages, with audio versions made available across the 109 senatorial districts to enable more Nigerians to understand its policy proposals.

He added that the party was engaging progressive opposition parties and other democratic stakeholders to promote credible, free and fair elections.

The Deputy National Chairman, Ugochukwu Uba, described the party’s 117-page manifesto as a blueprint for building a new Nigeria, saying it addressed poverty, insecurity, unemployment, economic hardship and governance challenges.

He urged party candidates to study and understand the document, stressing that it represented a covenant with Nigerians and should guide their campaigns and public commitments.

Uba also cautioned party members against placing personal ambitions above collective interests, saying the success of the SDP would depend on discipline, unity and commitment to its vision.

Similarly, former Inspector-General of Police and SDP governorship candidate in Nasarawa State, Abubakar Adamu, urged the party to make security, agriculture, employment, healthcare, education and affordable electricity central to its campaign.

“Our number one priority should be security, the security of lives and property. After that, we should think of agriculture. Then we think of employment. How do we generate employment for the teeming population of Nigerians, especially the youth and women?” he said.

Adamu also called for policies that would reduce the financial burden on parents, improve access to healthcare and make electricity affordable for small businesses.

He urged the party to place the welfare of ordinary Nigerians at the centre of its programmes, insisting that the masses must remain the priority of any government seeking public support.

 

FCT rolls out 3,530 textbooks, 357 digital devices to boost learning in 35 schools

By
Toyin Adebayo
-

 

…Targets over 10,000 pupils under EIDU programme

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has distributed 3,530 literacy textbooks and 357 digital learning devices to 35 public primary schools to improve pupils’ reading skills and access to technology-based education.

The initiative, under the EIDU Digital Learning Programme, was flagged off on Wednesday at Government Secondary School, Life Camp, Abuja.

Speaking at the event, the FCT Mandate Secretary for Education, Dr Danlami Hayo, said the intervention would strengthen foundational literacy and numeracy while preparing children for a digital future.

He disclosed that the programme currently supports more than 10,000 learners, with 357 digital devices already delivered to participating schools.

Hayo said the distribution went beyond providing books and electronic devices, describing it as an investment in children’s confidence, knowledge and lifelong learning.

“These figures represent more than the distribution of books and digital devices. They represent opportunities for children to improve their reading abilities, develop confidence, acquire essential knowledge, and build a stronger foundation for lifelong learning,” he said.

The mandate secretary described the programme as a commendable partnership aimed at tackling some of the challenges confronting the education sector.

He stressed that children who develop good reading and comprehension skills early in life are better equipped to understand other subjects, communicate effectively and think critically.

However, Hayo warned that distributing textbooks and digital devices would not automatically improve learning outcomes without proper utilisation.

He urged teachers and school administrators to integrate the materials into classroom activities and ensure that every pupil benefits from the intervention.

The official also charged school administrators to keep proper records of the textbooks and devices, protect them and ensure they are put to effective use.

He called on teachers to embrace digital learning, improve their teaching methods and make reading a regular classroom activity.

Hayo urged parents and guardians to encourage their children to read at home and maintain close contact with their teachers, while advising pupils to take full advantage of the learning resources provided.

He commended EIDU and other development partners for supporting the FCT’s efforts to improve education, noting that government could not achieve quality education without collaboration.

According to him, sustained cooperation among government, development partners, teachers, parents and communities remains critical to building an inclusive and technology-driven education system.

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