Cloned Nigerian Anchor

Author: Caroline Ameh

  • Former Kogi Governor Wada Joins APC; Shettima Hails Party’s Inclusivity

    Former Kogi Governor Wada Joins APC; Shettima Hails Party’s Inclusivity

    Lokoja, Kogi State – Former Kogi Governor Alhaji Idris Wada, along with several prominent politicians, has officially joined the All Progressives Congress (APC), in a move Vice President Kashim Shettima described as a reflection of President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to national unity and inclusivity.

    “This Is Not a Victory of One Ego Over Another”

    Speaking in Lokoja during the formal reception, Shettima said:

    “This is not a victory of one ego over another. What we are witnessing is an alignment with a broader national vision and a platform of stability.”

    He described the APC as a political home where progressives converge to build a renewed Nigeria and urged new members to use the party as a platform for service and development, especially in Kogi State.

    “We shall deepen peace in Kogi. We shall expand development. We shall uphold the promise of a renewed Nigeria,” Shettima added.

    A “Triumph of Reason”

    Shettima hailed the defections as a “triumph of reason” and commended President Tinubu for attracting credible leaders from across the country. Drawing a symbolic connection between Lokoja—the confluence of the Niger and Benue Rivers—and political unity, he emphasized the movement as a step toward stability and national alignment.

    The Vice President also praised Governor Usman Ododo for providing continuity and people-driven governance, and former Governor Yahaya Bello for a dignified democratic transition, calling the cooperation between the two leaders a “reassuring national example of political maturity.”

    Governor Ododo Welcomes New Members

    Governor Ododo described the defectors as “men of value, character, and integrity,” and expressed gratitude to President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima for their support.

    “We are here to receive the decampees into the progressives’ family and to express our appreciation to our leaders who have laid the foundation for continued good governance,” Ododo said.

    APC National Chairman: “Rescue from a Sinking PDP”

    APC National Chairman Prof. Nantawe Yilwatda framed the defections as a lifeline for those disillusioned with the opposition.

    “We are here to provide a platform for those stranded in the sinking ship called PDP. I welcome you to the family of progressives. You have taken a wise choice in your political life,” he said.

    Wada Cites Tinubu’s Performance as Motivation

    Speaking on behalf of the defectors, Wada highlighted the APC’s achievements in infrastructure, economic reforms, and social investment as key reasons for joining.

    “APC is leading Nigeria in the right direction. Fuel prices are dropping, the exchange rate has stabilized, and the naira is appreciating,” he said.

    Notable Attendees

    The reception drew several high-profile dignitaries, including:

    • Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Audu
    • Former Minister of State for FCT, Dr. Ramatu Aliyu
    • Senator Smart Adeyemi
    • Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu

  • Natasha moves to thaw frosty relations with Akpabio

    Natasha moves to thaw frosty relations with Akpabio

    Strong indications appeared, Thursday in Abuja that the frosty relation between Sen Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senate President Godswill Akpabio had thawed.

    This follows an invitation extended to the latter to attend her project commissioning event.

    Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan had scheduled the inauguration of projects executed to the benefit of her constituents in Kogi Central to take place sometime next week and extended an invitation letter to the Senate President and other colleagues.

    The invitation from Natasha to fellow Senators , was contained in a letter personally signed by her and read in plenary by the President of the Senate .

    Natasha in the letter invited the entire Senators to join her in projects commissioning in Ihima Kogi State on Sunday to mark her second year in the Senate .

    ” The letter reads in part : ” In marking my second year anniversary as serving Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria , I wish to invite fellow Distinguished Senators to join me for projects commissioning in Kogi State”

    Meeting point for the event as stated in the letter , is Senator Natasha Akpoti – Uduaghan residence at plot 101 Jimoh Akpoti Street Ihima , Okene Kogi State .

    As announced by the President of the Senate , she added in the letter that for Senators traveling by Air for the event , Obajana Airstrip can be used for landing before proceeding to Ihima by road .

    Apparently pleased with the invitation, Akpabio after reading the letter , congratulated Natasha in advance , saying ” Congratulations in advance ” .

    Recall that the feud between the duo over seat re-allocation in the hallowed chambers of the Senate in February this year , snowballed into wider crisis and suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti – Uduaghan for six months by the Senate on the 6th of March this year .

    Uon her resumption from the six months suspension on the 24th of last month , Senator Natasha has been interfacing with Akpabio in plenary through contributions to proceedings.

    One of such instance was an additional prayer she made to resolutions adopted on Criminal Code Act ( Amendment) Bill , 2025, considered in the Senate on Tuesday last week ; but her letter to all Senators , read by Akpabio on Thursday, is the closest of all so far .

  • Presidency reacts to Senate’s confirmation of Service Chiefs

    Presidency reacts to Senate’s confirmation of Service Chiefs

    In a gesture akin to parting each other’s back, the Presidency has commended the senate for smooth confirmation of the President Tinubu’s Service Chief nominees.

    Few hours after confirmation of appointments of new Service Chiefs by the Senate on Wednesday , the presidency reacted to it with elation .

    Specifically the Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Senate Matters , Senator Basheer Lado in a personally signed statement, expressed his happiness on the smooth screening and confirmation of appointments of the Service Chiefs by the Senate .

    Senator Lado in the statement said : “As the Special Adviser to the President on Senate Matters, I facilitated this crucial interface to ensure a smooth and coordinated engagement between the Executive and the Legislature, in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to effective governance and national security.

    “The appointment of Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede (Chief of Defence Staff), Major Gen. Waidi Shaibu (Chief of Army Staff), AVM Sunday K. Aneke (Chief of Air Staff), and Rear Admiral Idi Abbas (Chief of Naval Staff) by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represents a strategic step towards strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture and fostering synergy among the Armed Forces for the protection of our nation’s sovereignty and citizens.

    “I extend my profound appreciation to the President of the Senate, the Senate Leadership, and Distinguished Senators for the prompt and thorough consideration that led to the confirmation of the new Service Chiefs.

    “Their commitment underscores the strong collaboration between the Executive and the Legislature in advancing the national interest and ensuring the security and stability of our dear nation”

  • Behold Nigeria’s New Service Chiefs, Senate Commends Choices

    Behold Nigeria’s New Service Chiefs, Senate Commends Choices

    The Nigerian Senate on Wednesday confirmed the appointments of new service chiefs nominated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    The senate arrived at the decision to confirm the president’s nominations following a thorough screening session conducted by the Committee of the Whole.

    Those confirmed comprise of Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede as Chief of Defence Staff, Major General W. Shuaibu as Chief of Army Staff, Rear Admiral I. Abbas as Chief of Naval Staff, and Air Vice Marshal S.K. Aneke as Chief of Air Staff.

    During the plenary, Senate President Godswill Akpabio announced the confirmations after each nominee received unanimous approval from lawmakers through a voice vote.

    READ ALSO: Senate Screens New Service Chiefs as Air Chief Aneke Affirms Super Tucano Jets are Fully Operational

    In his remarks, Akpabio congratulated the newly confirmed service chiefs and commended President Tinubu for what he described as a “careful and strategic selection” of officers with proven experience from various theatres of operation across the country.

    “We believe this will renew the hope of Nigerians regarding efforts to restore security across the nation. Security is everybody’s business, and we have found these nominees fit and capable to deliver,” Akpabio stated.

    He also acknowledged the Senate’s commitment to national security, noting that the chamber suspended all other agenda items to prioritize the screening and confirmation process.

    The new service chiefs replace their predecessors who were relieved of their duties by President Tinubu earlier in October following reported concerns about internal discontent within the armed forces.

    The Senate President prayed for divine guidance for the newly appointed military leaders as they assume responsibility for safeguarding lives and property across the country.

  • Senate Screens New Service Chiefs as Air Chief Aneke Affirms Super Tucanos are Fully Operational

    Senate Screens New Service Chiefs as Air Chief Aneke Affirms Super Tucanos are Fully Operational

    The newly appointed Chief of Air Staff, Air Vice Marshal Kennedy Aneke, has assured Nigerians that the country’s Super Tucano fighter jets are in excellent condition and actively engaged in the ongoing fight against terrorism in the North-East and North-West regions.

    Aneke gave the assurance on Wednesday during his screening before the Senate in Abuja.

    Responding to questions from lawmakers concerning reports that the fighter jets were no longer operational, the Air Chief dismissed the claims as false.

    He explained that Nigerian Air Force pilots continue to deploy the aircraft with precision and intensity in counterterrorism operations. “Our Super Tucanos are fully functional and have been instrumental in recent missions.

    Service Chiefs

    Our pilots are engaging criminal elements with sustained intensity,” he told the lawmakers, addressing Senate President Godswill Akpabio directly.

    The screening also featured other newly appointed service chiefs, including the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede; Chief of Army Staff, Major General Waidi Shaibu; and Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Idi Abbas.

    The session, which held in plenary and later went into a closed-door meeting, was part of the Senate’s confirmation process following President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s nomination of the new military chiefs on Tuesday.

    The new service chiefs were appointed after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu relieved their predecessors of their duties, following intelligence reports and heightened concerns over a possible coup plot within the military.

    The reshuffle was seen as a decisive move to reinforce loyalty, stability, and professionalism within Nigeria’s armed forces.

  • Change of Baton at NPC as Aminu Yusuf replaces Kwarra

    Change of Baton at NPC as Aminu Yusuf replaces Kwarra

    The National Population Commission (NPC) has announced a leadership change as Muhammad Usman Dattijo takes over from Nasir Isa Kwarra as the acting Executive Chairman pending when Aminu Yusuf shall assume duties as the substantive head.

    In a statement issued by Mrs. Samiat Olabimpe Lawal, Director of Public Affairs, following the conclusion of his tenure on October 28, 2025, the Federal Commissioner representing Niger State, Hon. Muhammad Usman Dattijo, has assumed office as Acting Chairman of the National Population Commission.

    Mr. Dattijo will oversee the affairs of the Commission pending the formal swearing-in of Hon. Aminu Yusuf (Talban Wushishi), who has been appointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, as the substantive Chairman of the Commission.

    In the statement, Mrs. Lawal reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to ensuring a smooth leadership transition and sustaining ongoing digital reforms aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s demographic management system.

    The outgoing Chairman was appointed in October 2020 by former President Muhammadu Buhari, and his term was attributed with institutional renewal and technological transformation.

    It was also stated that his tenure was identified by professionalism, strategic focus, and a clear vision that repositioned the Commission as a data-driven institution committed to evidence-based national planning.

    Precisely, the NPC was reported to have made some strides in the areas of census preparedness, digital mapping, and geo-spatial innovation.

    According to the statement, these strides laid the groundwork for Nigeria’s first-ever Digital Population and Housing Census.

    Also attributed to Hon Kwarra’s time in office were the implementation of the Electronic Civil Registration and Vital Statistics (e-CRVS) system and the National Geo-Referenced Infrastructure Geo-Spatial Data Repository, which collectively modernized Nigeria’s demographic data architecture and enhanced data-driven decision-making at all levels of governance.

    Hon. Kwarra also strengthened inter-agency coordination and cultivated partnerships with key international development organizations, including the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), World Bank, United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA).

    The NPC, during his term equally prioritized staff welfare, capacity development, and institutional accountability, promoting a culture of innovation, professionalism, and service excellence within the Commission.

    The appointment of Hon. Aminu Yusuf as Chairman of the Commission, it was stated has been confirmed by the Senate, and his assumption of duty will commence officially upon his inauguration by the President.

  • Senate commends Tinubu, Akpabio, NFIU, Others Over Nigeria’s Removal from FATF Grey List

    Senate commends Tinubu, Akpabio, NFIU, Others Over Nigeria’s Removal from FATF Grey List

    The Nigerian Senate on Tuesday passed a motion commending President Bola Tinubu for their roles in securing Nigeria’s removal from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Grey List.

    The motion was sponsored by Senator Emmanuel Udende (Benue North East) and brought under Matters of Urgent Public Importance pursuant to Orders 41 and 51 of the Senate Standing Orders, 2023 (as amended).

    Senator Udende’s motion was titled, “Need to Commend the Executive, the President of the Senate, the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), and Other Stakeholders for Their Efforts in the Removal of Nigeria’s Name from the FATF Grey List,”

    Others mentioned for commendation in the motion were the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio and key financial and anti-corruption agencies

    Presenting the motion, Senator Udende noted that Nigeria’s delisting by FATF was a major milestone reflecting the country’s success in addressing strategic deficiencies in its Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) framework.

    He said the development demonstrates Nigeria’s renewed commitment to transparency, accountability, and global financial integrity standards.

    Udende recalled that Nigeria’s previous inclusion on the Grey List had exposed the nation to increased international monitoring, reputational risks, and reduced investor confidence.

    He attributed the recent delisting to “extensive reforms and coordinated policy actions” implemented by the Executive, National Assembly, and regulatory agencies.

    The Senate, in its resolution, commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, the NFIU and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC)

    Others are the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), and other stakeholders for their “tireless efforts” in strengthening Nigeria’s financial governance systems.

    Lawmakers expressed delight that the delisting has already boosted investor confidence and enhanced Nigeria’s credibility in the global financial community.

    They noted that Nigerian financial institutions would now enjoy smoother cross-border operations, improved remittance inflows, and reduced compliance costs.

    The Senate further observed that the development would have long-term economic benefits, including increased foreign direct investment, stronger regulatory stability, job creation, and enhanced trade competitiveness.

    In its resolutions, the upper chamber urged all relevant financial and law enforcement agencies to sustain the momentum by maintaining full compliance with international standards and preventing a relapse into the FATF Grey List.

    The Senate also mandated its Committee on Anti-Corruption and Financial Crimes to intensify legislative oversight and policy reviews to further strengthen Nigeria’s anti-money laundering framework.

  • Anambra Guber: INEC Boss Warns Against Vote-Buying, Extends PVC Collection

    Anambra Guber: INEC Boss Warns Against Vote-Buying, Extends PVC Collection

    The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has issued a stern warning against vote-buying ahead of the November 8 governorship election in Anambra State.

    INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, gave the warning on Tuesday during a meeting of the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES) held to review preparedness for the upcoming polls.

    Amupitan reaffirmed his commitment to conducting free, fair, and credible elections that genuinely reflect the will of the people, noting that the Commission had completed a week-long readiness assessment across Anambra State.

    “Our mandate is to conduct credible elections, and we are determined that no eligible voter should be disenfranchised,” he stated.

    He, however, disclosed that INEC encountered network issues during a recent Mock Accreditation Exercise conducted in 12 polling units across six Local Government Areas using the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS).


    He assured that necessary steps are being taken to ensure a seamless voting process on election day.

    Providing further updates, the INEC Chairman said results of the election would be collated at 326 ward centres, 21 local government centres, and finally at the State Collation Centre in Awka.

    Following a report that only 63.9 percent of registered voters had collected their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), Amupitan announced an extension of PVC collection in Anambra State.


    The exercise, he said, will continue from Wednesday, October 29, to Sunday, November 2, 2025, to allow more voters to obtain their cards.

    “Our mission remains ensuring that every logistical, security, and operational element required for the Anambra election is perfectly in place,” Amupitan added.

    He also emphasized the importance of synergy among security agencies, describing it as “non-negotiable” in the effort to safeguard the integrity of the polls.


    The Commission, according to him, has concluded arrangements with transport unions, including the National Association of Transport Owners (NATO), the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), and the Maritime Union Workers of Nigeria (MUWN), hiring 200 buses and 83 boats for the smooth movement of electoral materials and personnel.

    The INEC boss warned political actors and stakeholders against any form of inducement or vote trading, stressing that security agencies must ensure a zero-tolerance environment for vote buyers.

    “We must join hands to combat the menace of vote buying.


    Security agents cannot afford to create an environment that allows vote buyers to operate during the Anambra election.


    Together, let us uphold the values of democracy and work relentlessly for the credibility of our elections,” Amupitan said.

  • NNPC Ltd Committed to Developing a Robust Downstream

    NNPC Ltd Committed to Developing a Robust Downstream

    Says, competition alone was no longer enough to drive efficiency, adding that operators must embrace collaboration, sustainability, and resilience as the new benchmarks for success.

    Renown energy expert and Head of Nigeria’s National Petroleum Company Ltd (NNPCL), Bayo Ojulari says his leadership is currently preoccupied with revamping facilities in the nation’s oil and gas  downstream sector.

    He emphasised that such a move was required to enhance collaboration and drive efficiency in the sector.

    The NNPCL Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO), stated this at the opening ceremony of the 2025 OTL Africa Downstream Energy Week in Lagos on Monday.

    Engr Ojulari made the disclosure while speaking in alignment with the conference’s theme “Energy Sustainability: Beyond Boundaries & Competition.”

    Doubling down on NNPCL’s current growth and rebranding focus under his leadership, Mr.  Ojulari said competition alone was no longer enough to drive efficiency, adding that operators must embrace collaboration, sustainability, and resilience as the new benchmarks for success.

    “At NNPC, we are committed to deploying additional infrastructure across the oil

    and gas value chain while revamping our existing downstream infrastructure

    nationwide.

    These assets will be accessible to partners seeking to store and

    transport products, supporting strategic alliances and collaboration in the

    downstream sector,” the GCEO said.

    Excerpts of Mr. Ojulari’s presentation was made available to Nigerian Anchor in a statement under the signature of NNPCL Chief Communication Officer (CCCO), Mr. Andrew Odeh.

    In the statement, Mr. Ojulari was reported to have disclosed that a cocktail of factors ranging from strategic policies and fiscal incentives to transparent and well-structured regulatory frameworks exemplified by the PIA have engendered expansion and growth in the sector requiring new skill sets and further investments in new lines of business such as Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), and mini-LNG projects.

    The GCEO also urged participants at the conference to discuss challenges and align on opportunities “to redefine energy systems in ways that are both profitable and

    sustainable, to forge cross-sector partnerships that transcend traditional

    competition, and to explore innovative business models and technologies that

    support decarbonization while driving economic value”.

    Nigerian Anchor reports that the OTL Africa Downstream Energy Week is the continent’s leading downstream and midstream energy event for international organizations, policy makers, and regulators.

    It is also focused to benefit development organisations, operators, service providers., and consumers in the downstream energy value-chain.

  • I Won’t Negotiate Election Integrity, My Coming to INEC is Divine – Amupitan

    I Won’t Negotiate Election Integrity, My Coming to INEC is Divine – Amupitan

    …Says ‘Eyes of the nation are upon us’ as he assumes office as INEC Chairman

    Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, who formally assumed office at the Commission’s headquarters, Thursday, in Abuja has described his appointment as a divine call to service.

    Consequently, he pledged to uphold integrity and transparency in Nigeria’s electoral process.

    Amupitan, who has been sworn in by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu took over from May Agbamuche-Mbu, who had been serving as Acting Chairman of the Commission following the exit of Prof. Mahmood Yakubu.

    Speaking during an interactive meeting with INEC directors shortly after taking over, the new chairman expressed gratitude to God for what he described as a “divine assignment,” vowing that election integrity would not be compromised under his watch.

    “I am here for a purpose. Maybe if I had a choice, I would have said I would not come here. But from all indications, I can see that God is moving this country, and my coming is divine. With God saying go, who am I to say no? I am here because I have a role to play to ensure that a new Nigeria is birthed,” Amupitan said.

    He stressed that the integrity of elections is not negotiable, adding that every Nigerian voter must trust that their vote will count.

    “Our mandate is very clear, to deliver free, fair, and credible elections that reflect the will of the people. Every voter must feel confident that their vote counts,” he said.

    Amupitan, who was accompanied by his wife, children, and the Vice Chancellor of the University of Jos, Prof. Tanko Ishaya, along with other officials from the institution where he previously served, assured INEC staff that his administration would prioritize their welfare and professional development.

    He emphasized the importance of teamwork, accountability, and synergy among departments, noting that the success of the Commission depends on collective effort.

    “For me, staff welfare is going to be a priority. We will expect a lot from you, and because of that, you also deserve to be well equipped and supported to deliver. We will work assiduously to ensure that your working conditions are conducive and that you have the necessary resources to excel,” he said.

    The new INEC boss acknowledged the challenges ahead, particularly the forthcoming Anambra governorship election, which he said would serve as a litmus test for the Commission’s commitment to credible polls.

    “Together, let us uphold the values of democracy and work tirelessly for the credibility of our elections. The task may be challenging, but if we stand united, there is nothing we cannot achieve. The eyes of the nation are upon us. We must rise to the occasion and demonstrate that we are capable of conducting elections that meet the expectations of Nigerians,” he declared.

    Amupitan also commended Agbamuche-Mbu for her leadership during the transition period and thanked INEC staff for their continued dedication to duty.

    He urged them to work in unity, break silos, and commit to strengthening democratic values through credible elections.