The Historica Nigeria

2025

International, National, News

Tinubu Hands over ECOWAS Leadership to Sierra Leone’s President Bio

There was a symbolic change of guard at the ECOWAS Secretariat on Sunday, as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu formally handed over the chairmanship of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone. The handover ceremony marked the highpoint of the 67th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, held in Abuja. In his farewell remarks, President Tinubu expressed deep appreciation for the opportunity to serve the regional bloc. He described his tenure as a profound honour and privilege, adding that he was humbled by the trust and support extended to him during his leadership. Read Also: Nigeria Pushes Blue Economy Agenda with Seabed Mapping, Hydrography Initiatives “As I now hand over the mantle of leadership to my great friend and dear brother, His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone, the new Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, I do so with a deep sense of fulfilment and optimism for the future of West Africa,” Tinubu said. He reaffirmed his belief in the continued cooperation of member states and expressed confidence that ECOWAS would achieve greater heights in its mission to ensure peace, security, and prosperity across the region. President Maada Bio’s assumption of the ECOWAS chairmanship comes at a critical time for the regional bloc, as it continues to navigate pressing political and security challenges while pursuing economic integration and development.  

Business, National, News

Nigeria Pushes Blue Economy Agenda with Seabed Mapping, Hydrography Initiatives

The Hydrographer of the Federation and CEO of the National Hydrography Agency (NHA), Rear Admiral Ayo Olugbode, has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to advancing the blue economy and maritime safety through improved hydrographic data. Speaking at the World Hydrography Day and West Africa Hydrographic Summit in Abuja, themed “Seabed Mapping – Enabling Ocean Action,” Olugbode emphasized the agency’s role in promoting safe navigation, trade, and regional competitiveness. Olugbode highlighted Nigeria’s contribution of over 85,000 square kilometers to the global seabed mapping initiative and outlined efforts to tap into the $90 billion global Electronic Navigational Chart market, targeting an annual revenue of $12 million. He noted the NHA’s expanded charting capabilities, partnerships with academia, private sector, and the Nigerian Navy, and collaboration with international bodies such as the IC-ENC and IBS. He stressed that hydrography is key not only to navigation and safety but also to coastal planning, marine conservation, disaster risk reduction, and sustainable fisheries. Read Also: Tinubu Hosts ECOWAS Leaders at 67th Ordinary Session Amid Push for Regional Unity Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, represented by Deputy Governor Peter Odey, praised the NHA’s recent Bakassi Deep Seaport survey, calling it a milestone for national and regional trade enhancement. The Obong of Calabar, Ekpo Okon Abasi-Otu V, urged greater investment in ocean literacy and an inclusive blue economy, emphasizing the cultural and economic significance of Nigeria’s coastal waters. Rear Admiral Luigi Sinapi of the International Hydrographic Organisation (IHO) described the summit as proof of Africa’s growing influence in global hydrography, highlighting its role in climate resilience, offshore energy, and sustainable marine development.

Kaduna, National, News, Plateau, Security

Tinubu condemns killing of wedding travelers in Plateau, orders arrest of perpetrators

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has strongly condemned the killing of 12 citizens from Kaduna State in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State, describing the act as “heinous, unacceptable, and barbaric.” The victims, who were among 31 passengers traveling in an 18-seater bus owned by Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, were reportedly attacked by a mob while en route from Zaria to Jos for a wedding ceremony. Several others were injured in the incident. In a statement released by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President directed the Nigerian Police Force to collaborate with other security and intelligence agencies to ensure that those responsible for the attack are arrested and brought to justice. Read Also: Tinubu orders security chiefs to hunt down perpetrators of Benue killings He emphasized that the Plateau State Government must take decisive and proactive steps to end the cycle of violence, stating that “the government of Plateau State must work closely with security agents to get to the root of this incident and ensure that it serves as a deterrent to future attacks.” President Tinubu reaffirmed that the right to free movement is a fundamental freedom that must be protected. “We will not tolerate any attempt by individuals or groups to curtail this right through violence and intimidation,” he said. He extended his condolences to the families of the victims, as well as the people and government of Kaduna State.

International, National, News

Tinubu Hosts ECOWAS Leaders at 67th Ordinary Session Amid Push for Regional Unity

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in his capacity as Chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), is currently hosting regional leaders at the 67th Ordinary Session of the Authority of Heads of State and Government. The high-level summit is taking place at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja, Nigeria. The session, held on Saturday, June 21, 2025, also featured the inaugural West African Economic Summit (WAES), which brought together nine of the 12 sitting ECOWAS Presidents. Attending leaders include President John Mahama (Ghana), President Joseph Boakai (Liberia), President Julius Maada Bio (Sierra Leone), President Bassirou Diomaye Faye (Senegal), President Adama Barrow (The Gambia), President Patrice Talon (Benin), President Jean Lucien de Tové (Togo), and President Umaro Sissoco Embaló (Guinea-Bissau). The summit is taking place at a time of significant political and economic shifts in the region, particularly with the formal exit of Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali from ECOWAS. The three countries, which experienced military coups in recent years, announced their withdrawal earlier this year and have since formed the Alliance of Sahel States (AES). Read Also: Tinubu, Governors Join Ganduje to Receive Governor Eno into APC Despite their exit, ECOWAS leaders, under President Tinubu’s leadership, remain hopeful of reintegration. The bloc has emphasized its readiness for continued dialogue and reconciliation. The official withdrawal date for the AES countries is set for July 29, 2025, marking the end of a six-month transition period granted by ECOWAS. Liberian President Joseph Boakai, speaking during the inaugural WAES, urged regional leaders to keep diplomatic channels open with the AES bloc. “The door to ECOWAS must remain open,” he said, calling for inclusive cooperation and reconciliation. President Tinubu, who is currently serving his second term as ECOWAS Chairman, was first elected in July 2023 in Guinea-Bissau and re-elected in July 2024 in Abuja. His re-election was based on a consensus by member states to ensure leadership continuity in driving peace, security, and regional integration efforts. This year’s session is particularly symbolic as ECOWAS marked its 50th anniversary in May 2025, with commemorative events held in Lagos, Nigeria. The regional body now consists of 12 active member states, representing over 400 million people and a combined GDP of more than $800 billion. The election of a new chairperson is also on the agenda at the 67th Ordinary Session, alongside discussions on strategies to reinvigorate economic cooperation and maintain regional stability.

Kano, News

Two die after falling into pit toilet in Kano while retrieving phone

Tragedy struck in Bazabe Quarters, Albasu Local Government Area of Kano State, as two men lost their lives after falling into a pit toilet while attempting to retrieve a mobile phone. The incident, which occurred on Saturday, was confirmed in a statement issued on Sunday by the Public Relations Officer of the Kano State Fire Service, Assistant Controller of Fire Operations (ACFO) Saminu Yusuf Abdullahi. According to the statement, the service received a distress call at about 11:16 a.m. from Inspector Auwalu, alerting them that two individuals had fallen into a toilet pit. The rescue team from Takai Local Government Area was immediately dispatched to the scene. Read Also: Gunmen Abduct Village Head’s Wife and Son in Kaduna Midnight Attack The first victim, identified as Usman Muhd, 40, had entered the pit to recover his mobile phone, after it accidentally slipped in. Unable to come out, a second man, Ibrahim Inuwa, also aged about 40, entered the pit to assist him. He successfully tied a rope around Usman in an attempt to pull him out, but he too lost consciousness during the effort. “Our personnel responded swiftly and managed to rescue both men from the pit. Unfortunately, they were both unconscious upon rescue and were later confirmed dead,” the statement read. The bodies of the deceased were handed over to the Divisional Police Officer of Albasu LGA, Kabiru Magawata, for necessary action.

Entertainment, Kaduna, News

Rahama Sadau’s Father, Alhaji Ibrahim Sadau, Passes Away

Kannywood actress Rahama Sadau has announced the passing of her father, Alhaji Ibrahim Sadau. The actress shared the sad news on Sunday via her verified Facebook page, writing in Hausa: “ALLAH YAYI WA MAHAIFINA RASUWA…. I lost my father.” Although she did not disclose the cause of death or details about funeral arrangements, the announcement has drawn an outpouring of condolences from colleagues in the entertainment industry and fans across social media platforms. Read Also: Eight Family Members Killed in Tragic Kaduna-Zaria Highway Crash Rahama Sadau is a prominent figure in the Hausa-language film industry, popularly known as Kannywood, and has also featured in several Nollywood productions.

Abuja, Kano, News

NUJ Honours Gov. Yusuf with Media Supportive Award at 70th Anniversary Gala

The Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has been honoured with the prestigious Media Supportive Award by the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) during its 70th Anniversary Awards and Gala Night held in Abuja. The award was received on behalf of the Governor by the Deputy Governor of Kano State, Comrade Aminu Abdulsalam Gwarzo, and presented by the Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Muhammad Idris. According to NUJ National President, Comrade Alhassan Yahaya, Governor Yusuf was selected in recognition of his consistent support for the media profession, his unwavering commitment to national development, and his role in promoting good governance, press freedom, and journalistic advancement in Nigeria. He further commended the Governor’s exemplary leadership, transparency, and dedication to public service. Read Also: Tinubu, Governors Join Ganduje to Receive Governor Eno into APC In his remarks at the ceremony, Deputy Governor Aminu Gwarzo congratulated Governor Yusuf on the well-deserved recognition and expressed gratitude to the NUJ for acknowledging the Governor’s contributions to the growth of the media and the promotion of democratic values. He also conveyed the Governor’s congratulations to the NUJ on its 70th anniversary, commending the Union for fostering professionalism and unity among journalists across the country. “On behalf of the Government and the good people of Kano State, we extend our profound appreciation to the Nigerian Union of Journalists and reaffirm our steadfast commitment to press freedom, transparency, and responsible governance,” the Deputy Governor said. In a further show of support, Comrade Gwarzo announced that Kano State will proudly host the next National Executive Council (NEC) meeting of the NUJ. Signed: Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya Honourable Commissioner Ministry of Information and Internal Affairs 21st June, 2025

Health, Humanitarian, Katsina

Mangal spends N80m to sponsor urology surgery for 3,000 vulnerable

A philanthropist in Katsina, Alhaji Dahiru Mangal, has spent more than N80 million to sponsor urology surgery and treatment for vulnerable patients in the state. A board of trustees member of Mangal Foundation, Mr Husaini Kabir, said this in Katsina on Saturday, at the launch of this quarter’s exercise. Kabir said that since the commencement of exercise, no fewer than 3,000 vulnerable patients have benefited in about 10 exercises conducted previously. He explained that during this second quarter of the year, more than N20 million has been earmarked to sponsor the urology surgery for more than 100 patients. Read Also: Tinubu, Governors Join Ganduje to Receive Governor Eno into APC The board of trustees’ member added that those patients who do not require surgery, would be checked and provided with free drugs. Kabir noted that the gesture, which is part of their social corporate responsibility, aimed towards giving back to the society, especially the less privileged. According to him, people from different villages within the state, neighboring states and also from Niger Republic, are also benefiting from the gesture. Kabir said that their main objective was to alleviate the burden of healthcare costs on the most vulnerable people, as many of them struggle to meet basic needs. He stated that the screening for the outreach is ongoing at the Amadi Rimi Autopaedic hospital, in Batagarawa Local Government Area of the state. “The foundation has engaged the best medical team and procured high quality drugs and medical equipment for the surgery,” he said. Kabir added that the foundation is exclusively for empowerment, development, educational, charitable purposes and supporting the poor and vulnerable in the area of healthcare and economic skill. He further revealed that the foundation, initiated in 2016, had also sponsored eye, hernia, and hydrocele surgical operations for thousands of vulnerable patients. One of the beneficiaries, a staff of the state polytechnic, Malam Adamu Aliyu, commended the sponsor, saying that he has been looking for such an opportunity. According to him, his little salary can not afford him to go for the surgery, because the expenses are too much, praying to Almighty Allah to reward the sponsor. Other beneficiaries also commended the gesture, and called on the government, private organisations, and other wealthy individuals to also emulate.

National, News, Politics

Tinubu, Governors Join Ganduje to Receive Governor Eno into APC

In a significant political realignment, Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno has officially defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC), marking what many observers consider a major breakthrough for the ruling party in the South-South region.The landmark event, held at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, drew a crowd of supporters and political heavyweights from across the country. It was presided over by the National Chairman of the APC, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, CON, with Vice President Kashim Shettima, GCON, representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR. Speaking at the occasion, Dr. Ganduje described Governor Eno’s defection as a transition “from national political isolation to political relevance.” He noted that the movement of South-South governors into the APC signaled widespread acceptance of President Tinubu’s policies and a growing belief in the inclusive nature of his leadership. Related: APC’s Rising Star: The Woman Ganduje Trusted with the Future “This movement reflects the expanding embrace of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which is clearly resonating across regions,” Ganduje declared. The Vice President echoed this sentiment, saying, “We welcome Governor Umo Eno with open arms. His decision to join the APC speaks volumes about the confidence Nigerians have in the current leadership and the progressive vision of our party.” Governor Eno, addressing the gathering, said his defection was driven by the desire to align with a government that prioritizes national development and genuine federal collaboration. “I am committed to bringing Akwa Ibom closer to the center. I believe this move will unlock greater opportunities for our people,” he said. Read Also: APC: Tinubu’s 2027 running mate to be decided after party convention – National Secretary On hand to welcome Eno were key national figures, including the leadership of the National Assembly led by Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Also in attendance were no fewer than 24 APC governors, including those of Cross River, Imo, Kwara, Kogi, Jigawa, Delta, Edo, Ebonyi, Lagos, Ogun, Sokoto, and Ondo States. Party Secretary Senator Ajibola Basiru, National Working Committee members, and other prominent APC stakeholders were also present, adding to the weight of the occasion. Governor Eno’s defection is being seen as a strategic gain for the APC in a region traditionally dominated by the opposition. With this move, the ruling party not only expands its influence but also positions itself for broader national consolidation ahead of the 2027 general elections. Photo News:

Kano, News

How a Suspected Bomb from Yobe Caused Death and Panic in Kano

Explosion at a mechanic workshop in Kano on Saturday has claimed the lives of five people and left at least 15 others injured. According to preliminary investigations, the blast is suspected to have been triggered by a military-grade mortar bomb. Kano State Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, who visited the scene, stated that the explosive device may have originated from a shipment traced to Yobe State. Read Also: Fresh attacks claim 15 lives in Plateau communities Emergency response teams promptly evacuated the injured to nearby hospitals for medical attention. As of the time of filing this report, authorities have not confirmed who was responsible for transporting or storing the explosive device at the location. Commissioner Bakori urged residents to remain calm as security agencies continue their investigation to determine the cause, origin, and accountability for the deadly explosion. He assured the public that further details would be released as the inquiry progresses.

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