Abuja

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday decorated Olatunji Disu with his new rank as Acting Inspector-General of Police at the State House, Abuja. The ceremony, held at about 4 p.m. at the President’s office, was attended by the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu; Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila; Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume; and the immediate past Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun. Tinubu personally pinned the new insignia on Disu’s uniform and commended Egbetokun for his service to the nation. Disu’s appointment comes just 48 days before his scheduled retirement on April 13, 2026, when he would have attained the mandatory retirement age of 60. However, under the amended Police Act, which provides for a four-year tenure for Inspectors-General of Police regardless of age, he may remain in office until 2030 if confirmed. Read Also: Meet Nigeria’s New Acting IGP ASUP NILEST Celebrates Retiring Unionist, Demands Settlement of Entitlements Tinubu Pushes State Police, Urges Governors to Focus on Poor, Youths The ceremony followed the resignation of Egbetokun, who submitted his letter to the President on Tuesday, citing family matters requiring his full attention. In a statement issued by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu accepted the resignation and expressed appreciation for Egbetokun’s contributions, while announcing Disu’s appointment. “The IGP resigned in a letter today, citing family issues which require his undivided attention,” the statement read. However, multiple Presidency sources disclosed that Egbetokun was asked to step down during a meeting with the President at the Presidential Villa on Monday evening. Disu will serve in an acting capacity pending confirmation by the Nigeria Police Council, in line with constitutional provisions. According to Onanuga, the President will convene a meeting of the Council to formally consider the appointment, after which his name will be forwarded to the Senate for confirmation. Meanwhile, Disu’s elevation is expected to trigger a wave of retirements within the Nigeria Police Force, in keeping with the tradition that senior officers step aside when a junior colleague becomes Inspector-General. At least nine Deputy Inspectors-General of Police serving at Force Headquarters may be affected, including DIG Adebola Hamzat, DIG Mohammed Gumel, DIG Adebowale Williams, and DIG Frank Mba. Sources within the Police Service Commission indicated that between 15 and 20 senior officers could exit the Force as a result of the transition. The new Acting IGP is expected to formally assume office at the Louis Edet House, Force Headquarters, Abuja, where a handover ceremony and parade of senior officers are scheduled. Born on April 13, 1966, in Lagos State, Disu joined the Nigeria Police Force on May 18, 1992. He has served for over three decades in various operational and leadership capacities across the country, culminating in his appointment as Acting Inspector-General of Police. Photo News:

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged state governors and religious leaders across the country to prioritise the needs of the poor and underprivileged by pursuing policies that directly impact grassroots communities. This was contained in a statement signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy. The President made the call on Monday in Abuja while hosting governors to an interfaith Iftar at the Presidential Villa, noting that the convergence of Ramadan and Lent reflects a shared sense of humanity, discipline, sacrifice, and unity among Nigerians. According to him, both religious observances provide an opportunity for leaders to reflect on the plight of the less privileged and design programmes that improve their living conditions. Read Also: Kano Rolls Out Toll Gates to Track Movement, Strengthen Economy Ganduje Applauds Dan’amu, Cites Tinubu’s Impact Emir Aminu Ado Bayero To Lead National Ramadan Feeding Committee “It is a joy and great honour to be with you again this year to thank the Almighty God for sparing our lives to witness another Ramadan, which coincides with the Christian Lent,” he said. The President stressed that more efforts must be directed toward reducing poverty, empowering the youth, and expanding development opportunities across local communities. He called on leaders to promote tolerance, unity, and inclusion, urging them to build structures that accommodate all citizens, particularly young people. President Tinubu also welcomed Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, to the State House and commended Babagana Zulum for extending Ramadan outreach programmes to both Muslims and Christians. The President reiterated the need for inclusive governance, noting that development must transcend religious, ethnic, and social divides. “To reach the young man who feels forgotten, to lift the woman who carries her family on tired shoulders, and to touch communities at the grassroots where hope sometimes flickers development must not recognise religion, tribe, or status,” he stated. He further assured Nigerians of his administration’s commitment to improving the economy, tackling unemployment, and strengthening national security. “We are determined to rescue this country. The economy is improving, and the best is yet to come for Nigeria,” he said. The President also reaffirmed plans to establish state police as part of efforts to address insecurity, stressing that security remains the foundation for economic growth and national stability. In his remarks, Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, who represented the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, described the simultaneous observance of Ramadan and Lent as a rare and divinely inspired moment for national reflection and unity. He commended the President for fostering collaboration among governors and promoting policies aimed at strengthening national cohesion despite prevailing challenges.

Renowned Islamic scholar and cybersecurity expert, Professor Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami, has issued a strong call to the Northern Muslim community to prioritise strategic investment in the media industry, warning that decades of underinvestment have created what he described as a “dangerous communication deficit.” Pantami made the call during a lecture at the International Centre for Islamic Culture and Education (ICICE) Al-Noor Mosque in Abuja, where he emphasised the urgent need for the region to own and control platforms that shape public narratives. He argued that while Northern Nigeria and the Muslim community frequently dominate national conversations, they rarely control the platforms that define those narratives, leaving the region vulnerable to misrepresentation and external framing. Highlighting what he described as a structural imbalance in Nigeria’s broadcast ecosystem, Pantami observed that most major privately owned television networks are headquartered in Southern Nigeria. He noted that reliance on federal presence through the Nigerian Television Authority alone is insufficient to project diverse regional perspectives. Read Also: Pantami, Bugaje Call for Skills Reform, Energy Solutions at BUK Engineering Conference Nigeria Must Integrate Innovation, Policy, and Research for Growth — Bindir Ganduje Applauds Dan’amu, Cites Tinubu’s Impact “He who owns the platform often sets the agenda,” Pantami stated, stressing that ownership of credible and far-reaching media institutions is not merely a commercial venture but a strategic necessity. While acknowledging the existence of numerous radio and television stations in the North, he pointed out that many operate on a local scale and broadcast predominantly in Hausa, limiting their influence on national and global discourse. Pantami also criticised what he described as the misdirection of some regional media outlets. Rather than focusing on critical developmental issues such as insecurity, education reform, industrial revitalisation, entrepreneurship, and trade, he said some platforms have drifted into partisan conflicts, sectarian debates, and sensational content with limited long-term value. He warned that such practices weaken credibility and squander opportunities to reshape public perception. Drawing inspiration from international broadcasters such as Al Jazeera, Pantami proposed the establishment of a professionally run, globally competitive media institution capable of broadcasting in English, French, and other major languages. He emphasised that such an outlet must adhere strictly to principles of fairness, justice, and professionalism. “Islam is fundamentally a religion of justice,” he said, adding that any faith-affiliated media platform must avoid propaganda, promote balanced reporting, amplify marginalised voices, and uphold ethical standards. In what many observers described as a striking part of his address, Pantami challenged wealthy individuals and philanthropists in Northern Nigeria to reconsider their spending priorities. He argued that while the construction of places of worship remains important, excessive duplication without strategic planning could divert resources from equally critical investments such as media infrastructure, education, and innovation. “If we do not invest in telling our own story with credibility and professionalism, others will continue to define us,” he warned. Pantami cautioned that failure to address the communication gap could lead to persistent mischaracterisation of the region on the global stage. He reiterated the need for veteran journalists, media entrepreneurs, academics, and business leaders across Northern Nigeria to collaborate in building a credible, well-funded, and technologically advanced media institution capable of competing globally. “This is not merely a recommendation,” he said. “It is a necessity for any community that seeks to shape its future rather than be defined by others.”

The National Assembly is set to resume plenary sessions on Tuesday, February 17, amid strong indications that the long-anticipated Electoral Act Amendment Bill 2026 may be considered for passage. In a statement issued on Sunday, the Clerk to the National Assembly, Kamoru Ogunlana, notified lawmakers that both chambers would reconvene at 11:00 a.m., urging full attendance in view of critical national deliberations. “The Senate and the House of Representatives will reconvene plenary sessions at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, 17th February 2026,” the statement read, adding that “both Chambers are expected to deliberate and take crucial decisions during the session.” Although the official agenda was not explicitly stated, developments suggest that lawmakers may prioritise consideration of the Electoral Act Amendment Bill, widely regarded as key to preparations for the 2027 general elections. A separate notice from the Clerk of the Senate, Emmanuel Odo, indicated that the directive followed instructions from the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio. Read Also: Tinubu Hails Argungu Festival, Promises Support For Agriculture “All Distinguished Senators are kindly requested to note and reschedule their engagements accordingly to enable them attend, as very crucial decisions will be taken on national issues during the session,” the notice stated. Similarly, the House of Representatives confirmed its resumption through its spokesman, Akin Rotimi, noting that the emergency sitting was necessitated by the recent release of the 2027 general election timetable by the Independent National Electoral Commission. According to the House, the session will focus on legislative matters arising from the announcement, citing the constitutional importance of timely intervention by lawmakers. “The House of Representatives will reconvene for an emergency sitting on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, to review matters arising from the recent announcement of the 2027 General Election timetable,” the statement noted, stressing that deliberations would align with its constitutional responsibilities. Originally, the Senate had scheduled its resumption for February 24 after a short recess for oversight on the 2026 budget, while the House planned to return on February 17. However, the coordinated resumption underscores the urgency of addressing electoral reforms ahead of the next electoral cycle. Reports further indicate that the conference committee on the Electoral Act Amendment Bill may convene on Monday to harmonise positions from both chambers. Earlier, Senate President Akpabio disclosed that the National Assembly was working within a tight timeframe to transmit the harmonised bill to Bola Tinubu for assent. He reiterated that lawmakers are committed to concluding work on the legislation promptly to allow sufficient time for presidential consideration before the build-up to the 2027 general elections.

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, and leaders of organised labour unions have reached a midnight truce, leading to the suspension of the ongoing strike and the immediate resumption of work by affected employees. The agreement came after more than three hours of intensive negotiations that stretched into the early hours of Tuesday, concluding at approximately 3:50 a.m. The talks were chaired by Senator Mohammed Bomoi, Chairman of the Senate Committee on the FCT, with representatives from the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) in attendance. Briefing journalists following the meeting, the Acting General Secretary of the NLC, Comrade Benson Upah, alongside the TUC General Secretary, Dr. Nuhu Toro, confirmed that several key resolutions were reached to restore industrial peace. Read Also: FCTA Workers Demand Wike’s Removal as Strike Escalates in Abuja Upah explained that the agreements included assurances that no worker would face victimisation for participating in the strike, the immediate withdrawal of all cases filed at the National Industrial Court, and a commitment by Minister Wike to maintain mutual respect and sustained dialogue with organised labour. “All complaints presented by members of the Joint Unions Action Committee were addressed one by one and fully resolved,” Upah said. He further noted that the Minister assured continued engagement with labour unions going forward. As a result, workers under the Joint Unions Action Committee (JUAC), as well as affiliates of the NLC and TUC within the FCT Administration, were directed to resume work immediately. “All JUAC members and all TUC and NLC affiliates working in the FCT Ministry are hereby directed to resume work with immediate effect,” Upah stated. “Affiliates are urged to comply strictly with this directive in the interest of industrial peace and harmony.” The dispute arose from unresolved labour issues within the FCT Administration, prompting the NLC and TUC to embark on industrial action and threaten mass protests despite security concerns raised by the FCT Police Command and a restraining order from the National Industrial Court. The strike had disrupted activities in the nation’s capital for several days before the intervention of the Senate Committee led to the resolution.

Umar Idris Shuaibu The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has launched zero-emission electric transit services at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (NAIA), Abuja, marking a major step in its drive towards renewable energy adoption and reduced carbon emissions. The initiative, developed in partnership with Possible Electric Mobility and Zeut Energies, introduces electric buses and sedans to provide seamless mobility for passengers and airport staff, while significantly cutting down greenhouse gas emissions. The project positions FAAN as a pace-setter in sustainable aviation infrastructure in Nigeria. The electric transit services were commissioned by the immediate past National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Chairperson of the Board of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), His Excellency Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, alongside the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of FAAN, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku. Also present at the event were directors, general managers, heads of departments, development partners, and other key stakeholders. Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Dr. Ganduje commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his leadership and policy direction in the aviation sector, as well as the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, the FAAN management, and development partners for their support in driving sustainable initiatives within the aviation industry. Read Also: Ganduje Describes Abba Yusuf’s Defection to APC as New Era for Kano He described the project as a practical demonstration of FAAN’s commitment to environmental responsibility, energy efficiency, and alignment with global best practices in green transportation. In her remarks, Mrs. Kuku said the introduction of electric transit services forms part of broader reforms aimed at optimising energy use across FAAN’s operations. She disclosed that the Authority has implemented several measures, including the installation of energy-efficient lighting systems, deployment of solar-powered lighting within airport terminals, and improved waste recycling processes to reduce dependence on fossil fuels. The FAAN Managing Director reaffirmed the Authority’s dedication to a gradual but deliberate transition to green energy solutions, noting that sustainability remains central to its operational strategy. She expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Minister of Aviation, the FAAN Board, airport management at NAIA, development partners, and stakeholders for their consistent support. The event concluded with Dr. Ganduje and Mrs. Kuku inspecting the newly deployed electric buses and sedans, as they examined the vehicles’ advanced features and operational capacity.