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Abuja, National, Politics

Why Tinubu Needs Ganduje To Win 2027

By Umar Idris Shuaibu, Kano Former Kano State Governor and immediate past National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, is increasingly being recognized as a key political figure whose experience and influence could be critical to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027. Observers believe that Dr. Ganduje’s depth of political experience, strategic foresight, and extensive network across Nigeria position him as one of the strongest assets within the ruling party. “Ganduje is a man who understands Nigerian politics at every level,” a political analyst said. “He navigates challenges with foresight and strategy, turning potential crises into opportunities for party growth and unity. If the APC truly wants to retain power in 2027, the President cannot afford to underestimate the value Ganduje brings.” During Ganduje’s tenure as APC National Chairman, the party witnessed a notable wave of defections that strengthened its national presence. Many influential politicians from opposition parties joined the APC under his leadership, reshaping political alignments in several states. Related: Inside Ganduje’s Political Blueprint That Keeps Strengthening APC Nationwide One of the most remarkable defections was that of Abdulmumin Jibrin Kofa, a close ally of former Kano State Governor Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso and a leading figure in the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP). His return to the APC was widely seen as a major realignment in Kano politics, attributed to Ganduje’s persuasive political skills and strategic outreach. “Ganduje played a central role in persuading key opposition figures to cross over,” said another source familiar with the development. “These moves were not just symbolic—they brought tangible political strength and structure to the APC across the country.” Dr. Ganduje’s political journey has been marked by consistency and strategic depth. He served as Deputy Governor under Engr. Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, later became Governor of Kano State (2015–2023), and subsequently held the position of APC National Chairman. This combination of executive governance and party leadership experience gives him a unique political edge. “Few leaders possess Ganduje’s mix of experience, political wisdom, and strategic insight,” a political commentator noted. “He knows how to read the political terrain and position the party for maximum advantage.” Read Also: Ganduje’s Achievements Still Define Kano, Despite NNPP’s Attempts to Erase Them In Kano, most major political stakeholders have now aligned with the APC, effectively consolidating the state’s political base under Ganduje’s influence. Analysts suggest this consolidation has broader implications for the 2027 elections, strengthening APC’s prospects both in Kano and nationally. “The alignment of Kano’s political heavyweights into the APC sends a strong message,” one analyst explained. “It demonstrates Ganduje’s continued relevance and his ability to shape politics beyond his immediate sphere.” As preparations intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections, political observers believe Ganduje’s political acumen and nationwide influence could play a decisive role in securing APC’s continued dominance. “His network across states, understanding of internal party dynamics, and ability to manage opposition challenges make him indispensable to the 2027 strategy,” said one commentator. “He has the capacity to unite factions, bring key stakeholders together, and ensure the APC remains cohesive and strong.” Ganduje’s experience, they argue, could make the crucial difference between a divided party and a united front ready for victory. “He understands that elections are not won by chance—they require planning, coordination, and execution. His counsel to President Tinubu could be the factor that transforms strategy into success,” another observer added. As the APC continues to chart its path toward 2027, Dr. Ganduje stands out not just as a former governor or ex-party chairman, but as a statesman and strategist whose experience, influence, and leadership remain vital to the ruling party’s future. “President Tinubu’s 2027 victory will depend on unity, strong alliances, and strategic foresight,” an analyst reiterated. “And Ganduje has consistently proven he can deliver all three.” Umar Idris Shuaibu is a public commentator and political analyst based on Kano. shuaibuumaridris@gmail.com

News, Politics

INEC Declares Governor Soludo Winner of 2025 Anambra Governorship Election

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) as the winner of the 2025 Anambra State governorship election. Announcing the final results in Awka, the State Returning Officer stated that Soludo’s APGA secured a total of 422,664 votes, defeating other political parties by a wide margin. According to INEC, out of 2,788,864 registered voters, 598,229 were accredited across the 21 local government areas of the state. The election recorded 584,054 valid votes, 11,244 rejected votes, bringing the total votes cast to 595,298. Read Also: Tinubu Strengthens Kano Ties With Appointment of Salihu Sagir Takai Other results include: APC – 99,445 votes, PDP – 1,401 votes, LP – 10,576 votes, and YPP – 37,753 votes. Smaller parties shared the remaining votes. With this victory, Governor Soludo has been re-elected to continue his administration under the platform of APGA, maintaining the party’s dominance in Anambra politics.

Enugu, National, News, Politics

Senate Approves Dr. Udeh’s Appointment as Federal Minister

The Senate has officially confirmed Dr. Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh, a distinguished Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) from Enugu State, as a Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Dr. Udeh’s confirmation took place on Thursday after he appeared before the upper legislative chamber for his ministerial screening. During the session, he answered questions from lawmakers and outlined his vision and commitment to national development. He was ushered into the Senate chamber at exactly 12:15 p.m. by the Special Adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on National Assembly (Senate) Matters, marking a key step in the final phase of his appointment process. Read Also: Tinubu Strengthens Kano Ties With Appointment of Salihu Sagir Takai President Tinubu had, on Tuesday, written to the Senate seeking Udeh’s screening and confirmation. The request was read during plenary by the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio. Tinubu stated that the nomination was made pursuant to Section 147(2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and expressed confidence that the Senate would give the nominee expeditious consideration. Udeh’s nomination comes after the resignation of the former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, the sole minister previously representing Enugu State in the Federal Executive Council. Nnaji resigned last month following controversies relating to his academic and NYSC credentials. Udeh is currently the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice in Enugu State and was recently elevated to the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria. After reading the President’s request, Senator Akpabio referred the nomination to the Committee of the Whole, which subsequently confirmed Udeh as minister.

Kano, News, Politics

Tinubu Strengthens Kano Ties With Appointment of Salihu Sagir Takai

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s appointment of Malam Salihu Sagir Takai as Kano State Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Agenda has been described as a strategic move to deepen federal presence in Kano and uplift the lives of the state’s impoverished population. Takai, a former gubernatorial candidate under the All Nigeria People’s Party (ANPP), has held several key public offices, including Local Government Chairman and Commissioner in Kano State. His appointment was reportedly facilitated by the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin. Reacting to the development, Musa Illiyasu Kwankwaso, Director of Finance at Hadejia Jama’are River Basin Development Authority, commended both Senator Barau and President Tinubu for what he called “a decision that reflects commitment to grassroots development.” Read Also: Meet Rear Admiral Idi Abbas From Kano, Nigeria’s New Chief of Naval Staff “Senator Barau deserves commendation for convincing the President to take action that truly benefits Kano’s poverty-stricken citizens. President Tinubu’s decision to appoint Takai reflects his commitment to inclusive growth and empowerment,” Kwankwaso said in a statement. He praised Senator Barau’s consistency in facilitating federal appointments for Kano indigenes and promoting the state’s interests at the national level. “Barau’s dedication shows he is the right person to lead Kano come 2027,” Kwankwaso added. Describing Takai as a man of integrity, faith, and discipline, Kwankwaso recalled that former Governor Ibrahim Shekarau once endorsed him as ANPP’s sole gubernatorial candidate, adding that “in every office Takai has held, he has served with distinction and left without blemish.” He further expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for his foresight, noting that the appointment would strengthen Kano’s political alignment with the federal government. “This appointment will surely endear Kano people to the President and earn him massive support in the next general election,” he said. Kwankwaso, who also serves under a federal appointment, reaffirmed Kano’s loyalty to the Tinubu administration, stating: “We assure President Tinubu that Kano stands firmly behind him. The people will support his re-election in 2027 because of the good he is doing for them.”

International, News, Politics

Chad Closes Border With Nigeria Over Security Concerns, Cites U.S. Military Movements in West Africa

The Government of Chad has announced the immediate closure of its border with Nigeria, citing heightened security concerns following reports of possible U.S. military movements in the West African region. Military sources in N’Djamena confirmed on Monday that President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno ordered a full military lockdown along the Nigerian frontier after intelligence indicated that armed groups in northern Nigeria were attempting to cross into Chadian territory. According to the sources, the Chadian Armed Forces have been placed on high alert, with troops and armoured vehicles deployed across key border points linking the two countries. Read Also: Navy Chief Abbas Reshuffles 65 Senior Officers in Strategic Leadership Overhaul President Déby, in a statement, vowed that no armed group or foreign military presence would be allowed to enter Chadian territory under any guise, stressing that the move was purely preventive. “The safety and sovereignty of our nation are paramount. No armed group or foreign force will be permitted to enter Chadian territory under any pretext,” he said. The decision comes amid heightened regional tension and growing speculation over the potential redeployment of U.S. troops in parts of West Africa following recent security developments in Niger and Mali. Security analysts say Chad’s move is aimed at safeguarding its territorial integrity and forestalling possible infiltration by terrorist groups exploiting instability in the region. They described the border closure as a precautionary but necessary step, given the fluid security situation in the Sahel and Lake Chad Basin.

Bayelsa, News, Politics

Gawuna Joins APC National Chairman in Bayelsa to Celebrate Governor Diri’s Defection

Former Kano State governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna, has joined the party’s National Chairman, Dr. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, on a trip to Bayelsa State to celebrate the defection of Governor Douye Diri from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC. Dr. Yilwatda revealed this in a post on his official X (formerly Twitter) handle on Monday, saying, “On our way to Bayelsa State, to celebrate the coming of His Excellency, Governor Douye Diri.” Read Also: Governor Douye Diri Defects to APC, Sparks Massive Celebration in Bayelsa The defection, which has continued to dominate political discussions across the country, has generated excitement in Bayelsa, where APC supporters are preparing to officially receive Governor Diri into the ruling party. Party insiders say the development marks a significant political shift in the South-South region and strengthens the APC’s influence ahead of the 2027 general elections.

National, News, Politics

Governor Douye Diri Defects to APC, Sparks Massive Celebration in Bayelsa

Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, has officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), ending weeks of speculation and marking a major political realignment in the South-South region. The defection, which took place on Saturday, triggered widespread jubilation across Yenagoa as thousands of residents and APC supporters poured into the streets in a carnival-like celebration to welcome the governor into the party. Supporters from all eight local government areas of the state defied an early morning downpour to attend the event, donning white T-shirts, party caps, and colourful traditional attires. By 10 a.m., the Samson Siasia Sports Complex, venue of the rally, was filled beyond capacity, prompting security operatives to restrict entry to prevent overcrowding. Read Also: Political Realignment: Taraba’s Kefas Eyes APC for Greater Federal Inclusion Crowds waved APC flags, sang victory songs, and danced in celebration of what many described as a “historic political moment” for Bayelsa State. Governor Diri, who resigned from the PDP two weeks earlier, officially declared his defection to the APC before a crowd of political leaders, traditional rulers, and dignitaries at the Ecumenical Centre in Igbogene, Yenagoa, during the 14th Bayelsa Thanksgiving Day to mark the state’s creation anniversary. “Somebody had to take the decision, and I took it on behalf of the state. I did it in the best interest of Bayelsa,” Diri stated, noting that the move was driven by his commitment to peace, unity, and development. He emphasized that politics should be a platform for progress, not division. “Politics is for development, not for destroying one another. The peace and security we are enjoying today are reasons to thank God,” he added. The event attracted top political figures including Akwa Ibom State Governor Pastor Umo Eno, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, former Delta Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, former Edo Governor Adams Oshiomhole, and Minister of Regional Development Abubakar Momoh. With Diri’s defection, the APC now controls four of the five South-South states previously held by the PDP — Delta, Akwa Ibom, Enugu, and Bayelsa — consolidating the party’s influence ahead of the 2027 general elections. Diri becomes the 25th governor under the APC and the fourth to defect from the PDP this year, in what analysts describe as a significant political boost for President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

Feature, National, Politics

APC Needs Unity, Not Division — Kano Analyst Defends Chairman Yilwatda

A public affairs analyst from Kano, Umar Idris Shuaibu, has defended the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, following recent calls by a youth faction demanding his resignation. The analyst described the two-week ultimatum reportedly issued by the APC Youth Solidarity Network (APC-YSN) as “misplaced, unnecessary, and potentially divisive,” warning that such internal agitation could weaken the party’s stability at a time when unity is most needed. Shuaibu, speaking to journalists in Kano, said Prof. Yilwatda has shown strong leadership qualities since assuming office, emphasizing inclusiveness, reorganization, and internal reconciliation within the party. Read Also: Inside Ganduje’s Political Blueprint That Keeps Strengthening APC Nationwide Political Realignment: Taraba’s Kefas Eyes APC for Greater Federal Inclusion APC Consolidates Strength Across Nigeria Ahead of 2027 Elections “This is a leader who has barely spent three months in office yet has already begun uniting party structures, engaging critical stakeholders across the states, and restoring confidence in the APC — much like Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje did during his time as National Chairman. What the party needs now is support, not distractions,” he said. He added that the current National Chairman has demonstrated administrative discipline by delegating authority to the National Secretary during his absence — a practice that aligns with democratic norms and organizational efficiency. “If anything, that shows institutional maturity and respect for due process, not weakness,” Shuaibu stated. The analyst further noted that under Prof. Yilwatda’s short tenure, the APC has been actively re-engaging its grassroots members while attracting new entrants across the geopolitical zones. He urged the youth wing and other stakeholders to rally behind the Chairman, assuring that the ongoing reforms would strengthen the party ahead of future elections. “The National Chairman has keyed into the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. His efforts must be encouraged, not frustrated. The focus should be on building, not breaking,” he reiterated. Shuaibu, who described the APC as the largest political movement in Africa, called for patience and collective responsibility in consolidating its democratic gains, stressing that leadership takes time to yield visible transformation. “Political progress is not achieved through pressure or division but through collaboration and consistency. What Prof. Yilwatda needs now is our trust and teamwork,” he reiterated.

Abuja, Feature, National, Politics

Inside Ganduje’s Political Blueprint That Keeps Strengthening APC Nationwide

Nigeria’s current political landscape is witnessing a remarkable shift — one that analysts say bears the unmistakable imprint of Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, the immediate past National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Chairperson of the Board of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN). The recent declaration by Taraba State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, to defect from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling APC has stirred national debate. But beyond the headlines lies a deeper narrative — one tied to the strategic groundwork Ganduje laid during his tenure as the APC’s helmsman. Under Ganduje’s leadership, the APC experienced one of its most stable and strategic organizational phases. He did not merely lead a political party — he built a political machinery grounded in policy, ideological clarity, and institutional discipline. Related: Political Realignment: Taraba’s Kefas Eyes APC for Greater Federal Inclusion Ganduje rebuilt APC from crisis to dominance APC Consolidates Strength Across Nigeria Ahead of 2027 Elections During his time as National Chairman, Ganduje consolidated the party’s internal unity, oversaw the resolution of lingering intra-party crises, and strengthened relationships between national and subnational leaders. This renewed cohesion, experts argue, is what has now positioned the APC as the dominant force attracting governors, legislators, and party stalwarts from the opposition. Dr. Ganduje’s tenure also recorded significant electoral victories across key states. His ability to bridge divides among stakeholders and sustain dialogue between federal and state party structures contributed immensely to the APC’s successes in off-season and by-elections. It was a tenure marked by strategic negotiation, inclusivity, and political foresight. Perhaps his most enduring contribution to Nigeria’s political space was the establishment of the Progressive Institute — a think tank envisioned as the party’s policy, research, and ideological center. The institute was designed not only to strengthen the APC’s internal policy framework but also to serve as a national policy incubation hub, focusing on governance, public administration, and development strategy. According to political observers, the Progressive Institute has become a quiet powerhouse, producing policy recommendations, conducting political risk assessments, and providing intellectual depth to party reforms. “It is one of Ganduje’s most transformative legacies,” noted a senior party insider, “because it ensures that the APC’s political agenda is backed by research and evidence.” This long-term institutional thinking explains why, today, the APC remains the natural destination for defecting governors and influential politicians. The party’s dominance, structure, and strategic stability — all nurtured under Ganduje’s leadership — have created a gravitational pull too strong for many to resist. Even as he left office as National Chairman, Ganduje’s imprint remains visible in the party’s growing influence. His philosophy of “progressivism with discipline” continues to guide internal decisions, while his diplomatic approach to inter-party dialogue still shapes the tone of Nigeria’s political engagement. Governor Agbu Kefas’s defection, and similar moves from other state leaders, reflect the continuing legacy of Ganduje’s groundwork — a legacy rooted in inclusiveness, strategy, and ideological conviction. As Nigeria inches closer to the next electoral cycle, one thing remains clear: the Ganduje effect is far from over. The structures he built, the alliances he nurtured, and the policies he institutionalized have redefined Nigeria’s political map and strengthened the APC’s position as the party of national cohesion. In the words of a Kano-based political analyst, “What Ganduje did for the APC was not just to lead it — he engineered a system. And that system is now producing results long after he has left the stage.”

News, Politics, Taraba

Political Realignment: Taraba’s Kefas Eyes APC for Greater Federal Inclusion

Taraba State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, is reportedly on the verge of defecting from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), in what has been described as a strategic political realignment to enhance the state’s inclusion in national development programs. The development was confirmed by the governor’s Special Adviser on Political Matters and Special Duties, Josiah Kente, in a statement made available to journalists. According to Kente, Governor Kefas’s planned defection to the ruling APC is not motivated by personal ambition but by the “collective interest of the people of Taraba State.” Read Also: APC Consolidates Strength Across Nigeria Ahead of 2027 Elections “The governor’s decision is driven by the desire to ensure Taraba’s full participation in federal initiatives and access to national development opportunities,” Kente said. He added that Governor Kefas’s impressive record in healthcare, education, and infrastructure development requires greater synergy and federal support for sustainability. Kente further emphasized that the move should not be seen as partisan, but as “a collective aspiration of the people of Taraba for sustainable progress, transformational infrastructure, and active involvement in national affairs.” He explained that joining the APC at the national level would open the door to more development opportunities for the state, including federal projects, enhanced security collaboration, and access to donor-funded programs. The development comes amid reports that several PDP governors are planning to defect to the APC — a move that could significantly weaken the opposition party’s presence, particularly in northern Nigeria. Sources have hinted that governors from Plateau (Caleb Mutfwang), Zamfara (Dauda Lawal), and Adamawa (Ahmadu Fintiri) may also be considering switching allegiance to the ruling party. The PDP, which once governed Nigeria for 16 years after the return of democracy in 1999, currently controls just eight of the 36 states in the federation. Political analysts warn that the increasing wave of defections could push the country closer to becoming a de facto one-party state, as the ruling APC continues to consolidate its dominance across regions.

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