GGAN Lauds President Tinubu, Kyari's Reforms on Food Security *Says Decrease in Prices of Food Commodities Good Sign for a Better Nigeria

The Good Governance Advocates of Nigeria (GGAN) has commended President Bola Tinubu and Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, for their efforts in transforming Nigeria's agricultural sector.

In a statement signed by its national president, Comrade Gideon Unazi, the group hailed the administration's commitment to driving economic growth and positioning Nigeria as a key player in regional and global food markets.

According to Unazi, the country's gradual shift from subsistence farming to a robust agribusiness ecosystem is a significant step towards empowering farmers and fostering private sector-led growth.

He noted that the declaration of a state of emergency on agriculture, temporary suspension of tariffs on imported grains and essential food items and other reforms have yielded positive results. 

Unazi added: "The collaboration with international development institutions such as the African Development Bank, the World Bank, and the Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has also been instrumental in driving growth in the agricultural sector.

"The lifting of the ban on importation of food across land borders, the firming up of the Naira, and the reported pausing of bulk purchase of grains that UN and US agencies distribute to IDP camps have all contributed to the recent decline in food prices.

"The election of Kyari as the Vice Chairman of the Governing Council of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) is a testament to Nigeria's leadership in global agricultural transformation.

"This recognition is a clear indication that the country is on the right path towards achieving food security and sustainable agricultural development. 

"The Ministry's efforts to distribute over 2.1 million bags of fertilizers to farmers and provide food aid to flood-affected communities have been particularly noteworthy. These initiatives have not only improved agricultural productivity but also provided relief to vulnerable populations."

Unazi said the recent decline in food prices is a significant achievement and proof of the Federal Government's efforts, with prices of some grains crashing by as much as 40% in the past month. 

The statement stated: "The recent decline in food prices is a significant achievement, with prices of some grains crashing by as much as 40% in the past few weeks.

"The prices of beans, yam, rice, tomatoes, and garri have all declined, ranging from 10% to 70%. This trend is expected to continue, bringing relief to millions of Nigerians who have been struggling with high food prices.

"According to reports, the prices of major raw food items have declined significantly. Aljazeera reported that the prices of some grains crashed by as much as 40% in the past few weeks.

"BusinessDay highlighted a noticeable fall in the prices of beans, yam, rice, tomatoes, and garri, ranging from a decline of 23% for imported rice to 70% for tomatoes.

"The GGAN wishes to commend President Tinubu and Kyari for their leadership and vision in driving growth in the agricultural sector. We urge the administration to continue its efforts to drive economic growth and reduce poverty.

"We also call on all stakeholders to support the government's initiatives aimed at achieving food security and sustainable agricultural development. With the current trend of declining food prices, we are optimistic that Nigeria is on the path to becoming a food-secure nation."

ERA Applauds Tinubu Over Mele Kyari’s Sack, Calls for Probe Into Fake Refinery Projects*

The Energy Reforms Advocates (ERA) have praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his decision to remove Mele Kyari as the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited.

In a statement on Wednesday, Abdulkadri Isah, president of ERA, described the move as a courageous step toward reforming Nigeria’s oil sector and tackling entrenched corruption. 

He said Kyari’s removal would allow a full investigation into alleged fraudulent refinery projects under former President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration.

“The dismissal of Mele Kyari signals a new dawn in our nation’s commitment to eradicating corruption in the oil and gas sector. We commend President Tinubu for demonstrating the political will to confront these challenges head-on,” Isah said.

He urged the newly appointed leadership of the NNPC to prioritize an audit of past projects and ensure accountability in the sector.

“The probe into fake refinery projects must be swift and thorough. Nigerians deserve to know how billions of dollars were allocated to non-existent or uncompleted projects while the country continued to rely on fuel imports,” he stated.

ERA called on relevant anti-corruption agencies to support the process, warning that failure to expose past mismanagement would hinder any meaningful reform.

“This investigation should not end with a change in leadership. There must be consequences for those who mismanaged funds and deceived Nigerians. The government must set a precedent that corruption will no longer be tolerated,” Isah added.

The group also expressed optimism that under fresh leadership, the NNPC could regain public trust and reposition itself as a driver of economic growth.

“With competent leadership, the NNPC can finally fulfill its mandate. We expect reforms that will boost local refining capacity, attract investment, and ultimately reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported petroleum products,” the statement read.

Kyari’s removal was part of a broader shake-up of NNPC’s board, with former Shell executive Bashir Bayo Ojulari appointed as the new GCEO and Ahmadu Musa Kida as non-executive chairman. 

The restructuring aligns with the government’s vision of revitalising the oil sector and increasing Nigeria’s crude oil production and refining capacity.

Coalition of Nigerians Write African Union Over State of Emergency in Rivers*

A coalition of Nigerians has expressed dismay and disappointment over President Bola Tinubu's declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, describing it as a gross abuse of power and a blatant disregard for the Constitution, democratic principles, and the rule of law. 

In a letter to the African Union Commission, the coalition urged the commission to take immediate action to address the situation and ensure that democratic principles are upheld.

See full letter below:

*COALITION OF NIGERIANS*

No. 24 Seriki Street, Off Odunsi Street, Bariga Shomolu Lagos, Nigeria.

March 26, 2025

His Excellency, Alhaji Mahmoud Ali Youssouf,

The Chairperson, African Union Commission,

P. O. Box 3243, Roosevelt Street W21K19,

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Your Excellency,

UNCONSTITUTIONAL DECLARATION OF STATE OF EMERGENCY IN RIVERS STATE: A THREAT TO DEMOCRACY IN NIGERIA AND AFRICA

We are writing to express our utmost dismay, disappointment, and disillusionment over the recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu. This decision is not only a gross abuse of power but also a blatant disregard for the Constitution, democratic principles, and the rule of law.

With President Tinubu as the Chairman of ECOWAS, Nigeria is expected to be a shining example of democratic governance in Africa. Unfortunately, President Tinubu's actions have fallen woefully short of this expectation. His decision to suspend the democratically elected Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminilayi Fubara, and the State House of Assembly, is a clear violation of the Constitution and an affront to democratic principles.

Section 305 of the Constitution, which the President cited as the basis for his action, does not grant him the power to suspend or remove elected officials. The Constitution is clear on the grounds for removing a governor, which is explicitly stated in Section 188. The President's action is a blatant disregard for the Constitution and the democratic process.

This action is not only a threat to democracy in Nigeria but also sets a dangerous precedent for the suppression of democratic institutions and the rule of law in Africa. It is imperative that the African Union Commission takes immediate action to address this situation and ensure that democratic principles are upheld.

The implications of this action are far-reaching, and if left unchecked, could lead to a breakdown in law and order, undermine the legitimacy of democratic institutions, and damage Nigeria's reputation as a beacon of democracy in Africa. Furthermore, this action raises serious concerns about the President's commitment to democracy and the rule of law. It is worrisome that the President would resort to such draconian measures, rather than exploring democratic solutions to the challenges facing Rivers State.

We are also concerned about the potential consequences of this action on the stability of Nigeria and the African region. The suspension of democratic institutions and the imposition of emergency rule could lead to widespread unrest, violence, and instability. In addition, this action undermines the principles of federalism and the autonomy of states in Nigeria. The President's decision to suspend the Governor and the State House of Assembly is a clear infringement on the powers of the state government and a violation of the principle of separation of powers.

We urge you to prevail upon President Tinubu to immediately lift the State of Emergency in Rivers State and restore the democratically elected government. We request that the African Union Commission take concrete steps to ensure that Nigeria, as a member state, upholds the principles of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. We also request that the African Union Commission take the following steps:

*Condemns the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State and the suspension of the democratically elected Governor and State House of Assembly.

*Calls on President Tinubu to immediately lift the State of Emergency and restore the democratically elected government.

*Sends a fact-finding mission to Rivers State to investigate the circumstances surrounding the declaration of a state of emergency and the suspension of democratic institutions.

*Takes concrete steps to ensure that Nigeria, as a member state, upholds the principles of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.

We look forward to your prompt response and action.

Signed;

Professor Senator Opeyemi Ola

Professor Adah George 

Rt. Hon Dr James Oloko

Dr. Mrs Evelyn E. Ogolime

GOVERNOR UMAR NAMADI AGRICULTURE-ECONOMY REVOLUTION IN JIGAWA STATE

In the face of Nigeria’s pressing food security challenges and economic hardships, the narrative seems poised for change with Governor Umar Namadi affectionately stepping into agriculture revolution in the saddle.

H.E. Umar Namadi
Executive Governor Jigawa State.

He is currently spearheading initiatives to revolutionize agriculture and propel Jigawa State into a pivotal role in Nigeria’s quest for sustainable food security especially in the production of rice which is currently making the state to be contesting the number one rice producing state in Nigeria.

Governor Umar Namadi has launched an ambitious food security and farm mechanization programme to enhance food production and security. This initiative includes the procurement of tractors and the distribution of essential inputs such as rice millers, threshers, hammer mills, and fertilizers to farmers across the state.

A particularly noteworthy innovation is the government’s plan to allocate hectares of land to farmers, aiming to produce million tons of food, while providing them with farm inputs.

Additionally, the state has a larger plan to establish Agricultural Development Fund to not only encourage youth participation in agriculture but also address economic and social essentials.

Jigawa state’s renewed focus on agriculture is not only timely but resonates well with the overall drive towards repositioning Nigeria for sustainable food security and economic growth. There is no contesting the fact that Nigeria is facing what can mildly be described as economic turbulence and addressing this requires concerted efforts to support agricultural development. And since agriculture remains the low-hanging fruit in turning the nation’s fortune, governments at all levels must accord top priority to this all-important sector.

According to Special Assistant On Investment, Abubakar Muhammad Sani said, "there has been, justifiably so, persistent calls on the government to support agriculture. To fully appreciate this call, we must note that as global food demands continue to rise, with the World Bank forecasting a 70% increase by 2050, the agriculture sector will require $80bn in global investments every year. Food demand in Africa is projected to grow more rapidly, with the World Bank estimating that the total size of the market will approach $1trn by 2030". 

Abubakar Sanni also commend His Excellency, Governor Umar Namadi for his giant step to protect the students of the state against any insecurity by employing 9,974 safe school guards, saying the process is already yielding results.

Special Assistant On Investments Abubarka Sanni

Also a friend of the government in Jigawa State , Lawan Haruna explained further that good enough, transformative agenda extends beyond agriculture. Encapsulated in his “New Jigawa” policy which prioritizes other critical sectors like security, education, science and technology, agriculture, commerce, tourism, civil service, health, infrastructure/urban renewal, local government and traditional Institutions, revenue generation, women and youth development, the agenda reflects his commitment to holistic development".

"Truth be told, Governor Umar Namadi commitment to education is evident in actions such as prompt payment of teachers salaries and allowances" Lawan said.

As it is often said, roads are the arteries through which the economy pulses. It helps link producers to markets, workers to jobs, the sick to hospital and students to schools. Obviously aware of this, Governor Umar Namadi is focusing on road construction and work on the existing ones and creating new roads for a better network.

His Excellency , Umar Namadi has served as Commissioner for Finance of the State. He served as the deputy governor of Jigawa State between May 2019 and May 2023. He was elected as the governor of Jigawa State in 2023 under the platform of All Progressive Congress. Less than two years, he has succeeded in proving to the electorate who massively voted for him that they couldn’t have made a better choice.

OYO LAWMAKER, ADEBISI CONDONES LATE ABISOLA AJIMOBI FAMILY, SAYS HER DEATH IS A LOSS TO THE YOUTH COMMUNITY

Chairman House committee on Youth and Sports, Hon. Yusuf Adebisi has commiserated with the family of the late former Governor of Oyo State, Senator Abiola Ajimobi and Mrs Florence Ajimobi over the demise of their daughter, Abisola Ajimobi. He described the death of the 42-year-old daughter of former first lady of Oyo State, Chief Mrs. Florence Ajimobi.

He said it was a rude shock hearing such news about a young lady looking so promising for the future of not only for Oyo state but Nigeria at large. Adebisi pray for the entire family of Ajimobi to take solace in Almighty Allah who knows the best for all His creatures on earth.

Bisola succumbed to a brief illness while in the United Kingdom. At the age of 44, Abisola was said to have battled breast cancer for several years.

Abiola’s demise re-echoes the words of English poet and playwright Williams Shakespeare, who described the world as a stage where each person plays his part and then leaves.

Adebisi says he was aware of the deceased unwavering kindness and love for the people as he says, "Abisola touched lives and impacted communities through her philanthropic deeds and was active in various charitable causes. I am aware She founded the AKD Foundation and the AKD Kids Foundation to care for orphans and homeless children in Nigeria and also a patron of the ABC Foundation, a charitable organization founded by her mother in Ibadan.

 All these attributes of our dear sister, Abisola was a legacy that will the test of time. i pray for her soul to rest peacefully

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

OYO GOVERNMENT TO PARTNER WITH NIGERIAN NAVY SCHOOL OGBOMOSHO ON PROVISION OF ADEQUATE EDUCATIONAL INFRASTRUCTURE

Oyo education commissioner, Professor Salihu Waheed Adelabu has shown deep concerned for the Nigerian Navy School Iresa Apa, Ogbomosho when the school Commandant, Evelyn Egwurube was explaining to the commissioner in his office.

Commander Evelyn was on courtesy call to the Honourable Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology to share her plight and seek collaboration with the state government of Oyo in the area of infrastructural development and other education support.

Evelyn Egwurube explained that the NNSS Iresa-Apa in Ogbomosho need government attention in the area of infrastructure and other education support. She further explained that the school as it is had 98% of indigenes of Oyo and most of the academic staffs are from Ogbomosho

She also mentions the last ICAN competition held among schools in Ogbomosho zone where NNSS came first and they will repsenting the state at the national ICAN competition coming up shortly in Abuja. Therefore, she appeal to the commissioner to see to their demands.

Nigerian Navy Secondary School Ogbomoso Commander, Commandant Evelyn Egwurube, revealed that since the establishment of the school they have many abandoned projects that are directly meant for education impact on the students. Projects like library building, Assembly Hall which can also serve as events hall for various social event in the school, administrative building, internal road networks and dining hall structure with different departments of a world class dining hall of a boarding school while the school bus and ambulance meant for the school health facility is in pitiful condition.

In his response the honourable commissioner for education, science and gtechnology, Prof. Saliu Waheed Adelabu , appreciate the vision and courage of the commandant of the Nigerian Navy Secondary School, Ogbomosho for the hands of fellowship she extends to the ministry and the government of Oyo State , stating that the ministry will  do everything in her capacity to see to their needs in either facilitating those that can be of help and also facilitate State government interventions for the College.

Prof. Adelabu also promised to get one Omi-Tuntun bus to be on that road for staffs, students and prospective residence of Iresa-Apa of Ogbomosho for easy access to the school and off the college at the closing.

He also noted that he will brief His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde and see other areas the government will intervene.

Professor Saliu Adelabu  promised to come and do on the spot assessment to the college at a fix date which will not long again.

 Among the dignitaries at the courtesy visit are top officials of the ministry of education and the school commandant assistants.

Commander Evelyn Egwurube on the same day visited the Majority Leader of the Oyo House of Assembly, Hon. Sanjo Adedoyin at the assembly complex.

The Leader of the House also promise to visit the school and see where legislation in the state could aid some infrastructural development for Nigerian Navy Secondary School, Iresa Apa, Ogbomoso.

HONOURABLE ADEBISI PROFFERS LASTING SOLUTION TO FRAUDULENT ACTIVITIES IN REAL ESTATE AND HOUSE AGENTS

Regulating fraudulent activities in the real estate sector is crucial for protecting consumers and maintaining the integrity of the market. Speaking on the floor of the House of Assembly, Deputy Chief Whip Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Yusuf Adebisi frowned at the fraudulent activities of the house agents and real estate practitioners have become a serious issue that has created health challenges to tenants.

Lending his view on the motion raised by Hon. Abiodun Babalola and other colleagues on the floor of the Assembly, saying many houses now have two to three agents without the consent of the owners, the agency fee is even higher than the usual house rent fee and a lot terminologies are used by these agents to defend their fraudulent activities. 

Hon. Adebisi now advised that there should be a strict licensing requirement for real estate agents, brokers, and developers to ensure that only qualified individuals operate in the market mandate continuing sensitization to keep professionals updated on laws and practices.

Their need to promulgate laws to Strengthen consumer protection specific to real estate transactions and tenants allowing for easy reporting and resolution of fraud-related complaints.

Also, he explained further that there should be full cooperation between government agencies (e.g., real estate commissions, consumer protection agencies, law enforcement) to coordinate efforts in detecting and responding to real estate fraud and share information and best practices across jurisdictions to tackle cross the state fraud schemes.

“We need to establish or empower regulatory bodies responsible for overseeing real estate transactions and enforcing compliance with laws, conduct regular audits and inspections of real estate practices, particularly for developers and property management companies, to ensure compliance with regulations and create accessible and efficient channels for consumers to report suspected fraud and seek redress”.

Lastly Honourable Adebisi said, “there is need to maintain public databases that track real estate agents, brokers, and developers, including any history of fraud or misconduct”.