The Progressives Forum (TPF) has congratulated its National Leader, Barr. Ismaeel Ahmed, on his appointment as Executive Chairman of the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGi) by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing it as a fitting reward for years of dedicated service to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Nigeria’s young progressives.
In a statement jointly signed by the TPF Interim National Chairman, Abuh Andrew, and Interim National Secretary, Segun Tomori, the forum praised Barr. Ahmed’s track record, recalling his pivotal role in founding the All Progressives Youth Forum (APYF), which later grew into The Progressives Forum — a platform that galvanized millions of young people into mainstream politics.
They highlighted Ahmed’s achievements as former Senior Special Assistant to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari on the National Social Investment Programme (NSIP) and his tenure as National Youth Representative on the APC National Caretaker Committee, noting that he championed youth-focused ideas and policies that strengthened the party’s base nationwide.
TPF commended President Tinubu for recognizing proven leadership and pledged full support for Ahmed as he takes charge of the PCNGi mandate, expressing confidence that he would deliver results that align with the Renewed Hope Agenda.
“Congratulations, Leader! We are proud of you and wish you resounding success,” the statement read.
As the world marks the 2025 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking today, the World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a strong call for decisive, collective action to confront the growing public health emergency posed by substance use disorders.
Speaking from Cairo, Egypt, the WHO emphasized that drug use is not only a legal or security issue, but a major health challenge that threatens development, stability, and lives across the globe.
“Drug use disorders are costing countries up to 2% of their GDP through health expenses, crime, and lost productivity. Yet, despite the enormous health impact, the response has largely focused on punitive actions, reinforcing stigma and neglecting treatment,” the WHO stated.
In 2022, an estimated 292 million people globally 5.6% of those aged 15–64 used drugs. Of this number, 64 million were living with drug use disorders. The situation is especially dire in the Eastern Mediterranean Region, where 6.7% of the population in the same age group used drugs and over 3.4 million suffered from addiction.
Worryingly, only 1 in 11 people globally and 1 in 13 in the region recived treatment in 2022, despite evidence showing that every dollar invested in treatment yields a return of $4 to $12 in societal benefits.
In response, WHO’s Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean launched the “Regional Flagship Initiative on Accelerating Public Health Action on Substance Use” in October 2024. The initiative seeks to reframe drug policy around health rather than punishment.
“The initiative aims to prevent drug use through life skills education in schools and workplaces, and to embed evidence-based treatments in universal health coverage packages,” WHO explained.
To accelerate progress, WHO has also established a Regional Strategic and Technical Advisory Group on Mental Health and Substance Use, along with a Regional Coalition of Civil Society Organizations, to support community-led responses and amplify the voices of people with lived experience.
“The path forward demands bold investments in sustainable, evidence-based solutions,” the organization urged. “Now, more than ever, we must align our strategies and act together to do more with less.”
WHO is calling on governments, health institutions, and communities worldwide to unite behind health-based drug policies that prioritize treatment, harm reduction, and human dignity.
“Together, we can build a healthier, more stable future one that ensures every individual has access to the care and support they need,” the WHO concluded.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declined to sign the National Assembly Library Trust Fund (Establishment) Amendment Bill, 2025 into law, citing constitutional violations, financial implications, and potential policy conflicts.
In a formal letter addressed to Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, and read during Tuesday’s plenary, President Tinubu acknowledged the bill’s intent to strengthen legislative research infrastructure but warned that several of its provisions pose serious risks to governance and fiscal stability.
“While the bill seeks to achieve commendable goals, some of its provisions are inconsistent with existing laws and federal government policies,” the President stated.
Among his key concerns were the proposed funding model for institutions tied to the National Assembly, taxation of federal bodies, discrepancies in public sector remuneration, and contentious clauses on age and tenure limits.
Tinubu stressed that passing the bill in its current form could create “an unsustainable precedent” and open the door to wider challenges in institutional governance and fiscal discipline.
Although the President’s letter did not spell out specific sections of the bill deemed problematic, he made it clear that implementation would conflict with established legal and budgetary frameworks.
He urged the National Assembly to revisit and revise the bill to ensure alignment with Nigeria’s Constitution and financial guidelines.
“I trust that the House will consider the observations raised and take appropriate action to address them,” Tinubu added.
The amendment sought to update the National Assembly Library Trust Fund Act by expanding its scope and revising its funding structure. With the President’s refusal, the bill will now return to the legislature for possible revision or an override attempt though a two-thirds majority in both chambers would be required to pass it without presidential assent.
The House of Representatives has launched a comprehensive investigation into the neglect and underutilisation of more than 30 Industrial Development Centres (IDCs) across Nigeria—facilities once designed to drive small and medium enterprise (SME) growth and industrialisation.
Following a motion presented at plenary by Hon. Emeka Idu, who represents Onitsha North/Onitsha South Federal Constituency of Anambra State, the House on Tuesday mandated its Committee on Industry to identify reasons for the abandonment and recommend strategies for their effective revival. The committee is expected to report back within four weeks for further legislative action.
Hon. Idu recalled that the IDCs were established as far back as the 1970s to support local entrepreneurs with vital infrastructure, machinery, and technical training. Four major zonal centres—located in Osogbo, Owerri, Zaria, and Maiduguri—were equipped to serve as hubs of industrial capacity-building, reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imports, and create jobs for the youth.
“Unfortunately, these centres have failed to fulfil their mandate,” Idu said. “The machinery has become obsolete, staff are redundant, and in most cases, the facilities are in states of total disrepair.”
He further pointed out that although the Federal Government later placed the IDCs under the supervision of the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), little has been done to reposition the centres for their original purpose.
> “Without urgent intervention, Nigeria risks permanently losing a valuable component of its industrial development framework,” he warned. “The neglect of these centres undermines efforts to promote inclusive economic growth and self-reliance.”
The motion received overwhelming support from lawmakers, many of whom lamented the lost opportunities for job creation and local manufacturing that the IDCs represent.
The House resolution signals a renewed legislative interest in strengthening Nigeria’s industrial base as part of broader efforts to diversify the economy under the Renewed Hope Agenda of the current administration.
The Arewa Empowerment Coalition (AEC) has fiercely rejected the proposed All Democratic Alliance (ADA) reportedly being championed by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, describing it as a “desperate and opportunistic move” by a group of discredited politicians seeking relevance.
In a strongly worded statement issued on Tuesday, AEC National Coordinator, Sulaiman Yusuf Sani, dismissed the planned alliance involving Atiku and political heavyweights such as former governors Nasir El-Rufai and Rotimi Amaechi, and ex-Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, as “a misguided political misadventure driven by personal ambition, not national interest.”
> “This so-called alliance is nothing but a gathering of disgruntled opportunists attempting to hijack Nigeria’s democratic process for their own selfish ends,” Sani said.
He warned that the North and indeed the entire country would not be deceived by what he termed “political theater masked as coalition-building,” asserting that the coalition reflects a deep misunderstanding of the political climate and growing demands for credible leadership.
> “Atiku Abubakar’s repeated political miscalculations are well documented. This new move is no different. It underestimates the intelligence of Nigerians who now demand substance, not recycled alliances built on fading political legacies,” he added.
The AEC said the involvement of controversial figures like El-Rufai, Amaechi, and Lawal “only reinforces the belief that the ADA lacks moral compass and political credibility,” citing unresolved issues from their time in public office.
Sani accused the alliance leaders of being out of touch with the realities of ordinary Nigerians, saying their attempt to rebrand through coalition politics is unlikely to gain traction.
“These are politicians who have lost touch with the grassroots. Having failed to inspire or connect with the people, they now hide behind the veil of a new alliance. Nigerians won’t fall for it,” he said.
He further stated that true leadership requires vision, credibility, and people-centered policies — not “last-minute power plays designed to salvage fading careers.”
“This alliance, if it ever materializes, is doomed to fail. It’s not built on principle or purpose but pure political desperation.”
The AEC urged Nigerians, particularly northern youths, to remain vigilant and reject political arrangements that are not rooted in integrity, inclusivity, and national development.
“Our democracy is not a chessboard for failed politicians to experiment with. We call on Nigerians to be discerning and resist alliances that do not align with their aspirations or reflect genuine commitment to public service.”
Sani concluded with a stern message to Atiku and his allies:
“If you truly care about the future of Nigeria, engage in honest dialogue with the people. Step away from outdated political schemes and show leadership that puts citizens first not selfish ambition.”
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has accused President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of misleading Nigerians over his academic past, demanding full disclosure following Tinubu’s recent claim that a Belarusian businessman, widely believed to be Alex Zingman, was his classmate at Chicago State University (CSU).
The controversy began on Monday during the launch of the Renewed Hope Agricultural Mechanisation Programme in Abuja, where Tinubu introduced “Alex” as a former neighbour and fellow CSU student.
“Alex was my very good neighbour and went to the same school with me in Chicago,” Tinubu had said during the live event.
But Atiku, citing publicly available information, pointed out a major inconsistency: Zingman was born in 1966, making him just 13 years old in 1979 — the year Tinubu claims to have graduated from CSU with a degree in Business Administration.
“Nigerians deserve to know why a man born in 1966 is being paraded as your classmate who graduated in 1979,” Atiku said in a statement on Tuesday.
“Were you in the same classroom or in different decades? This inconsistency raises deeply troubling questions.”
Beyond the age mismatch, Atiku raised red flags about Zingman’s alleged links to arms trafficking and shadowy business activities across Africa, stating that Tinubu’s association with such a figure “undermines the integrity of the presidency.”
“This is not just about an academic certificate, but about the character and company of the man who leads 200 million people,” he said.
“The presidency is not a place for secrets or shady associations. Nigerians demand facts, not fiction.”
Tinubu’s academic history has long been a source of public debate, with questions swirling around conflicting school records, missing transcripts, and altered certificates. While Chicago State University has confirmed Tinubu’s attendance and graduation in past correspondence, critics — including Atiku — continue to press for full disclosure of his academic documents.
Tinubu has previously fought off legal attempts to subpoena his academic records, further fueling suspicion.
Atiku’s latest salvo is seen as a continuation of the political rivalry between the two men, who were once allies but faced off bitterly during the 2023 presidential election. The former vice president’s demand comes at a time when public confidence in political transparency remains fragile.
“This is about truth and leadership,” Atiku concluded. “And the truth must not be delayed any longer.”
The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) on Tuesday strengthened its grip on the National Assembly as two federal lawmakers—one from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and another from the Labour Party (LP)announced their defection to the party.
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, read the defection letters of Hon. Peter Akpanke and Hon. Paul Nnamchi during plenary, drawing loud applause from APC members.
Akpanke, who represents Obanliku/Obudu/Bekwara Federal Constituency of Cross River State, was elected on the platform of the PDP, while Nnamchi, representing Enugu East/Isi Uzo Federal Constituency of Enugu State, was elected under the Labour Party.
In their letters, both lawmakers cited deepening internal crises and lack of direction in their former parties as reasons for their defection. They also expressed readiness to support the policies and development agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s APC-led government.
With these defections, the APC continues to consolidate its majority in the House of Representatives.
The House of Representatives on Tuesday ordered a sweeping investigation into the persistent failures of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) and its affiliated Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs), citing poor service delivery, corruption, and inadequate access to care for Nigerians.
This decision followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance by Hon. Dr. Billy Osawaru, who decried the dismal performance of the NHIA despite reforms introduced through the NHIA Act of 2022.
> “Only about five percent of Nigerians are enrolled in the scheme—this is unacceptable,” Osawaru said. “Enrollees are routinely denied access to life-saving procedures like cesarean sections and appendectomies, while providers go unpaid for months.”
He accused HMOs of frustrating the goals of universal health coverage through delays in payments, limited access to essential drugs, and rising out-of-pocket costs that leave vulnerable Nigerians in despair.
The House subsequently mandated the Director-General of the NHIA to work with its Committee on Healthcare Services to examine the system’s failures and propose reforms. The Committees on Healthcare Services and Health Institutions were also directed to investigate the NHIA and report back in four weeks.
Meanwhile, the House condemned the brutal killing of 13 unarmed travellers from Unguwan Rimi in Sabon Gari LGA of Kaduna State, who were ambushed and murdered in Mangu LGA of Plateau State on June 20, while en route to a wedding.
Raising the motion, Rep. Sadiq Ango Abdullahi described the massacre as a “heinous, senseless act” and blamed worsening inter-state insecurity for the tragedy.
“These were innocent Nigerians on a peaceful journey, yet they became victims of growing criminality and unchecked violence,” he said.
Lawmakers observed a minute’s silence for the slain victims and demanded immediate action from the Inspector-General of Police, the DSS Director-General, and the Chief of Army Staff to investigate and bring the perpetrators to justice.
The House called on the Federal Government to strengthen inter-state security frameworks to protect travellers and urged the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to provide urgent humanitarian assistance to the victims’ families.
An ad-hoc committee was set up to investigate the recurring violence on that route and report back within two weeks, while relevant committees on security were tasked with ensuring compliance with all resolutions.
“The security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government,” the House reaffirmed, citing Section 14(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution.
Tensions within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) escalated on Tuesday as former party spokespersons and senior members condemned Acting National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Damagum, for disowning a statement made by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Debo Ologunagba.
Ologunagba had, during a media parley on Sunday, reiterated the party’s stance that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) could not stop the PDP’s 100th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting scheduled for June 30. However, in a surprise move, Damagum issued a statement on Monday distancing the party from Ologunagba’s remarks, claiming the spokesman acted without authorization from the National Working Committee (NWC).
“The comment by Hon. Debo Ologunagba was made without the authority or approval of the NWC,” Damagum said in the statement.
The fallout drew sharp reactions from prominent PDP figures, including former National Publicity Secretaries, Kola Ologbondiyan and Olisa Metuh, who described Damagum’s action as an affront to party leadership structures and a threat to internal cohesion.
> “Damagum came after Ologunagba for re-echoing the unanimous resolution of our NEC. This is completely unacceptable and a major affront to the authority of NEC, the NWC, and the sensibility of all PDP members,” Ologbondiyan wrote on Facebook.
He warned that the Acting Chairman’s statement undermines the party’s constitution and could damage its credibility. He urged PDP leaders to act quickly to prevent further internal sabotage.
Olisa Metuh, who also took to social media, said the development was deeply troubling and could erode public trust in the party’s communication channels.
> “I hope this is fake news. Otherwise, it’s an act capable of bringing the party into great disrepute. This is a cardinal offence against the party’s constitution,” Metuh stated.
He expressed concern for the future of the PDP, recalling his 17 years of dedicated service to the party.
“How can the public believe future statements from the National Publicity Secretary if the leadership openly discredits him?” he queried.
The National Ex-Officio Members of the PDP also weighed in, backing Ologunagba and expressing shock at Damagum’s response. In a statement jointly signed by Hon. Chief Faboyede Clement and Hon. Comfort Yassan, they said Ologunagba acted within his constitutional role as party spokesman.
“The media interaction was in line with his duty to communicate the resolutions and activities of the party. We reaffirm our confidence in him and express our full support,” the Ex-Officio members stated.
They further reminded Damagum that as Acting Chairman, he is expected to uphold the party’s constitution and implement decisions made by its organs.
With the 100th NEC meeting approaching, the public fallout signals a growing internal struggle for control and direction within Nigeria’s main opposition party. Observers say how the PDP manages this controversy could shape its image and unity ahead of the 2027 elections.
Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau I. Jibrin, has firmly distanced himself from calls by some northern groups urging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to consider him as a potential running mate in the 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ismail Mudashir, on Tuesday, Senator Barau warned against such premature political campaigns, particularly those led by the Northern Nigeria Progressive Youth Assembly (NNPYA), describing them as misplaced and counterproductive.
“My attention has been drawn to various posts on social media and in some national dailies by groups including the Northern Nigeria Progressive Youth Assembly (NNPYA), urging President Tinubu to pick me as his running mate in 2027. This is out of place and not in our collective best interest at this moment,” Barau said.
The Kano-born lawmaker, who also serves as the First Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, appealed to his supporters and political groups to direct their energy toward supporting the current administration’s efforts to address Nigeria’s numerous challenges.
> “If you are truly my supporters, please desist from this unnecessary clamour and join the train to restore the glorious days of our country under the able leadership of President Tinubu. Let us rally around him to continue delivering on his lofty programmes under the Renewed Hope Agenda,” he added.
Barau reiterated his unwavering commitment to the success of President Tinubu’s administration, urging Nigerians to focus on national progress rather than political positioning.
> “This is not the time for such political distractions. What should be paramount to all of us now is the success of the President. He is genuinely committed to turning around our country’s fortunes positively,” the statement read.
The Deputy Senate President emphasized that the policies of the Tinubu administration were beginning to bear fruit and called on all Nigerians to be part of the effort to restore the country’s prosperity.
“Let us support the President in continuing his programmes and policies. Together, we can build a better Nigeria,” he said.
