Cost of healthy diet stands at N1,541 in March- NBS

THE National Average Cost of a Healthy Diet (CoHD) per adult a day stood at N1, 541 as at March 2026, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) has said.

The NBS revealed this in its CoHD report for March 2026 released in Abuja on Monday.

The bureau said the CoHD in March increased by 1.89 per cent compared to the N1,513 recorded in February 2026.

It said the increase was driven by the rise in prices across all food groups.

The NBS said the CoHD was the least expensive combination of locally available items that met globally consistent food-based dietary guidelines.

It said it was used as a measure of physical and economic access to healthy diets.

“This is a lower bound (or floor) of the cost per adult per day excluding the cost of transportation and meal preparation.”

The NBS also said that in March, the average CoHD was highest in the South-East at N1,899 per adult per day, followed by the South- West at N1,801 per day.

It said the lowest average CoHD was recorded in the North-East at N1,233 per adult per day.

The NBS further said that at the state level, Ekiti, Imo and Abia recorded the highest CoHD at N2,091, N2,052, and N1,970, respectively.

The bureau said Adamawa, FCT, and Taraba recorded the lowest CoHD at N1,004, N1,113 and N1,149, respectively.

The NBS said CoHD had steadily increased over the past year.

It said that as of March 2026, the CoHD was 4.38 per cent higher than what was recorded in March 2025, increasing from N1,477 to N1,541.

“While the price of starchy staples and vegetables decreased, all other food groups experienced price increases.”

The report added that animal-source foods were the most expensive food group recommendation to meet in March, accounting for 39 per cent of the total CoHD to provide 13 per cent of the total calories.

It noted that fruits and vegetables were the most expensive food groups in terms of price per calorie.

“They accounted for 16 per cent and 14 per cent, respectively, of the total CoHD while providing only seven per cent and five per cent of total calories in the Healthy Diet Basket.

“Legumes, nuts and seeds were the least-expensive food group on average, at seven per cent of the total cost.’’

The NBS said the policy implications of these results would foster collaboration among a wide range of stakeholders, such as policymakers, researchers and civil society actors who focus on food security.

“These stakeholders will devise strategies that tackle access, availability, and affordability of a healthy diet effectively.

“Also, future research incorporating income can also be used to determine the proportion and number of the population that are unable to afford a healthy diet,” the report said. (NAN)

Tinubu must go protest erupts in Port Harcourt, demonstrators decry hardship

Hundreds of residents took to the streets of Port Harcourt on Monday in a peaceful demonstration against the administration of President Bola Tinubu, citing worsening economic conditions, insecurity, and rising hardship across the country.

The protesters, many carrying placards with various messages of dissatisfaction, marched through major parts of the Rivers State capital while repeatedly chanting calls for change in government leadership.

The procession began around the popular UTC Junction and moved through sections of Aba Road, including the area around Abali Park, before heading towards Garrison Junction. Participants maintained an orderly conduct throughout the demonstration, attracting attention from commuters, traders, and other residents.

Many of the protesters expressed frustration over the rising cost of living, unemployment, and security challenges, arguing that ordinary Nigerians continue to face increasing difficulties despite government assurances of economic reforms.

Several demonstrators said the current situation has placed immense pressure on households, with many families struggling to cope with inflation and the high prices of essential goods and services.

Observers noted that the rally appeared to have no visible leadership structure, with participants marching collectively without publicly identified organizers. Security personnel were also not immediately visible along parts of the protest route as the crowd advanced through the city.

The demonstration drew mixed reactions from residents. While some watched from the sidelines, others, including commercial drivers and business operators, openly cheered the protesters as they passed through different locations.

The protest adds to a growing wave of public expressions of concern over economic and security issues in various parts of the country, reflecting increasing pressure on authorities to address citizens’ grievances.

As of the time of filing this report, no official statement had been issued by government authorities regarding the demonstration.The report concerns a protest held in Port Harcourt against the administration of Bola Tinubu in Rivers State. Starnews.

Gender Commission takes SGBV, trafficking sensitisation to metro buses in Plateau

The Plateau State Gender and Equal Opportunities Commission has launched a Metro Bus Awareness Campaign in the Jos-Bukuru metropolis to sensitise residents on sexual and gender-based violence, human trafficking and other vices.

Chairperson of the Commission, Olivia Dazyam, while flagging off the exercise said, “this Commission is mandated to create awareness, and we thought that one way that we can meet the people of Plateau State is to be in the buses with them.”

She also appreciated governor Caleb Mutfwang for the idea behind the metro buses.

According to her, “It afforded us such an opportunity to meet the people of Plateau State and to share with them our responsibilities, and to call on the people to arise to their responsibilities.

Dazyam listed, “child protection”, as a key focus, noting that, “we are beginning to understand a lot of human rights violations of our children.

“Our children are being exposed to child labour, child abuse, human trafficking, withdrawing them from school and sending them to go and serve as house helps.

“Some of them end up being trafficked within and outside the country. Some that have been exposed to human trafficking have ended up as prostitutes, and so we thought that, you know, the kinds of cases we receive at Plateau State Gender and Equal Opportunities Commission.

“We shouldn’t keep quiet with them; we should come out, meet the people of Plateau State, and tell them that these are the things that are already happening”, she maintained.

She said the Commission, went to meet the general manager of the Plateau Express Services Limited, engaged with him.

“We told him that we would require to use the opportunity of the metro buses, so that we can share with the people of Plateau State. And I bet you, such a huge audience in the buses this morning, as we kick started.

“It will continue, we have an itinerary that will go virtually every other day in order to share with the people that we meet, in the buses what we encounter”, she explained.

Dazyam said the campaign began “from Zawan to Terminus, with another group that is already taking the Zawan to Gada biyu-Farin Gada route, sharing the same message to the people of Plateau, that there’s a call of duty upon us.

“His Excellency would want all of us in Plateau State to be available to be active in taking care of our children, we can no longer afford to expose our children, to the different challenges that they go through.

“Our children need to go to school; we need to protect them, let them learn before they earn. They cannot start earning at the wrong time. Let them go to school, stay in school until they acquire certificates that can empower them to get jobs and begin to do something.

She cited a case where a girl who was about to write her SSCE was withdrawn from school.

“In fact, the mother struggled to register her for the exam. They removed her, took her to Ghana. As it is now, we are still looking for her.”

The Chairperson also spoke on sexual abuse within homes: “We’ve spoken to them about sexual abuses, sexual molestation of our young children around, finding such sexual abuses in the home environment, even as mothers, we have always spoken to them, and we say be very watchful, because your husband may be sleeping with your daughter. These are some of the cases that we have.

Dazyam called on residents to act, saying “the message through the agency from His Excellency is that we need to be on duty, taking care of our families.

She noted that, “There is a law that upholds parental irresponsibility by virtue of section 17 of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Law. It is a crime, and once you are arrested and prosecuted, it attracts three years imprisonment.

“And I want to use this opportunity to call on the people of Plateau; nobody needs to tell you to take care of your children, but His Excellency has said, go ahead, tell the people. There are so many people that do not mean well for us around, even in our neighborhoods.

“There are people who serve as agents, to withdraw such children and be taking them to places that they are not supposed to be taken to.

She added: “Challenges of prostitution he wants us to say no to these things that are happening in our environment and our slogan is, ‘see something, say something, do something sorted’.” Authority.

ADC Primaries: Hayatu-Deen drops court action, calls for united opposition

Frontline Presidential aspirant of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) Dr. Mohammed Hayatu-Deen, has ruled out challenging the outcome of the party’s May 25, 2026 presidential primary in court despite expressing concerns over alleged irregularities and procedural lapses during the exercise.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, winner of the presidential primary, met with Hayatu-Deen behind closed doors at his Lagos residence where it was believed that Atiku took steps to pacify him.

In a statement titled, “My Campaign, The Silent Majority, and the Future of Our Democracy,” on Monday , Hayatu-Deen said that he took the decision after a careful reflection on the outcome of the primary and the future of opposition politics in Nigeria.

The former presidential hopeful said that while he remained disappointed by aspects of the conduct of the primary election, the imperative of building a strong, credible and united opposition outweighed personal political ambitions.

“I have decided, after careful reflection and wide consultation, that I will not challenge the outcome in court. Nigeria urgently requires a strong, credible and united opposition. That objective must always remain larger than individual ambition or temporary political disappointment,” he stated.

Hayatu-Deen recalled that on May 26, before the official announcement of the primary results, he had publicly raised concerns about reports of widespread vote manipulation and procedural shortcomings during the exercise.

At the time, he questioned what he described as an apparent contradiction between the ADC’s criticism of electoral malpractice by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and alleged shortcomings within the party’s own processes.

Providing further context to his earlier remarks, the aspirant said his decision to join the ADC was informed by his belief that the party offered an opportunity to build a credible opposition movement founded on ideology, integrity, internal democracy and national renewal.

According to him, his campaign exposed him to what he described as Nigeria’s “silent majority”—citizens who may not dominate public discourse but who continue to believe in principled leadership, competence, fairness and national progress.

“Everywhere I went, I encountered what I have come to describe as the silent majority. These are Nigerians who may not always dominate public discourse or social media conversations, but who carry within them a quiet and enduring hope for a better country,” he said.

The businessman and politician noted that although the outcome of the primary failed to meet his expectations, he had chosen to communicate his concerns directly and privately to the leadership of the party.

He expressed confidence that the issues raised would be reviewed in the spirit of strengthening the party’s internal democratic processes.

“Any party that aspires to lead Nigeria must first demonstrate democratic discipline and integrity within its own walls,” he said.

Hayatu-Deen, who previously sought the presidential ticket of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ahead of the 2023 general election, said his experience in partisan politics had reinforced his conviction that Nigeria’s future depends on leadership driven by service, competence and accountability.

He thanked supporters, volunteers, women groups, professionals, students, artisans, donors and party faithful across the country for their commitment to his campaign, describing their support as evidence that many Nigerians still believe politics can be guided by principles and integrity.

He urged Nigerians not to lose hope despite prevailing challenges, insisting that the quest for a better nation remains achievable.

“Please do not stop believing. Do not surrender your hope to cynicism. Do not accept dysfunction as normal. And do not stop believing in the possibility of a better nation,” he said.

According to him, although the primary contest has ended, the broader mission of building a stronger, fairer and more prosperous Nigeria remains ongoing.

“This campaign may have come to an end, but the larger task of building a stronger, fairer and more prosperous Nigeria continues. And that cause remains worthy of our collective effort,” Hayatu-Deen added.

His decision not to pursue legal action is expected to ease tensions within the ADC following a fiercely contested presidential primary, as party leaders seek to consolidate support ahead of the 2027 general election.

For the Records: Peter Obi’s acceptance speech

*ACCEPTANCE SPEECH BY MR. PETER OBI FOLLOWING HIS NOMINATION AS THE PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE OF THE NIGERIA DEMOCRATIC CONGRESS (NDC) – MAY 30, 2026*

Protocols,

Esteemed citizens of Nigeria,

It is with deep humility that I accept the role of presidential candidate for our party.

I express my profound gratitude to the leaders of our party. His Excellency Seriake Dickson, the National Chairman, National Secretary and the National Working Committee, NWC members and members of our relentless supporters, and the Nigerian populace who have steadfastly kept the spirit of hope alive. I commend those who have made the journey from every region of our nation to convene here in Abuja.

I wish to assert unequivocally: a New Nigeria is Possible. This conviction has united us; it must serve as our compass on the challenging road ahead and sustain us through all trials we may face. This pivotal moment transcends the individual ambitions of Peter Obi; it concerns the essence of our nation and the future of our children. It is about rekindling hope for millions who have faced adversity yet remain committed to Nigeria.

Today, our nation finds itself at a crucial juncture, enveloped in uncertainty. Families are anxious about their safety; parents are concerned for their children’s futures; and talented youth increasingly question their prospects in their homeland.

Businesses are struggling, communities are suffering, and an alarming number of citizens have lost faith in the very concept of governance. Yet, I stand before you filled with optimism and strong faith in the resilience of our people, for I firmly believe that a New Nigeria is possible.

*UNITY*

To realise this New Nigeria, we must first mend the foundational elements essential for the success of any nation.

Nigeria cannot advance while fragmented by ethnic, religious, regional, or narrow political divides. We may communicate in different languages and practise diverse faiths, but we share a singular destiny under one flag. Our diversity should not be a source of division; rather, it is among our greatest strengths.

We should build bridges where others erect barriers, replace mistrust with confidence, division with understanding, and resentment with a collective purpose. A united Nigeria is indispensable. As Will Durant wisely pointed out, “A great civilisation is not conquered from without until it has destroyed itself from within.” We must never self-destruct. We must heal, unify, and progress together.

*INSECURITY*

In terms of security, the situation in Nigeria has considerably worsened. The global terrorism impact assessments ranked Nigeria as the 8th most affected nation in 2022, 6th in 2024, and 4th in 2026.

Yet, for many years, Nigeria garnered global recognition as a reliable contributor to peacekeeping, regional stabilisation, and conflict resolution. Our troops have not only displayed bravery but have also shown professionalism, discipline, resilience, and empathy in the most challenging operational contexts. Our officers and personnel have successfully commanded multiple international forthe ces, safeguarded vulnerable civilian populations, monitored ceasefires, reinstated constitutional order, and contributed to rebuilding efforts.

Nigeria became one of the leading contributors of troops from Africa to UN peacekeeping missions and earned widespread admiration for operational effectiveness and leadership in various countries, including Rwanda, Sudan, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Mali, Western Sahara, Congo, Lebanon, Cambodia, Haiti, and Kuwait. At one pointin a Nigeria, Lt. General Isaac Obiakor (rtd) even led global peacekeeping initiatives.

We must address insecurity with resolve and urgency, for no nation can thrive while its citizens live in trepidation. The primary responsibility of the government is to ensure the safeguarding of lives and property. Farmers must be able to return to their fields securely; students must be able to learn without fear; communities must be able to rest peacefully; and investors must regain their confidence in Nigeria.

Our strategy will be intelligence-driven, technology-enhanced, proactive, and community-focused. We will fortify our security institutions, enhance operational coordination, support our courageous personnel, and tackle the underlying causes of insecurity—name, ly poverty, unemployment, and marginalisation.

*HEALTHCARE*

Regarding health, Nigeria is currently ranked 157th globally, placing it in the lower echelon of healthcare worldwide. Primary healthcare, the cornerstone of our medical system, remains severely underfunctioning, al with only 10% to 20% of approximately 30,000 primary healthcare centres operational.

As a result, Nigeria suffers from one of the highest infant mortality rates in the world. Furthermore, health insurance coverage in Nigeria hovers around a mere 10%, in stark contrast to countries like Indonesia, which boast over 90% coverage. This situation is regrettable.

I pledge that within four years, our health insurance coverage will more than double to over 20%.

Within these four years, we will increase our healthcare budget to a minimum of 10% of our GDP, up from the current level of below 5%. We will invest heavily in and support our healthcare institutions to ensure the massive training of our healthcare workers, including nurses and other professionals. We shall also adequately staff our medical facilities.

In four years, there will be a fully functional and properly managed primary healthcare centre in all 8,809 wards across the nation. By the conclusion of our term, Nigeria will ensure that at least 50% of its 30,000 primary healthcare centres are fully functional, properly manned, and dedicated to serving the populace.

*EDUCATION*

Education will remain at the forefront of our national revival, as no country can grow beyond its educational system. Nations that have transformed successfully have done so through sustained investment in human capital. Our children are not burdens; they represent our most valuable assets. We will invest heavily in schools, teachers, technology, and vocational training, ensuring that education equips our youth not only to seek employment but also to generate it. We must pivot Nigeria from a cycle of shared poverty to one of collective prosperity through knowledge, innovation, and productivity.

*HUNGER AND AGRICULTURE*

In 2023, when the present government took office, Nigeria ranked 109 out of 150 nations on the Global Hunger Index.

And by 2025, our ranking further plunged to 115th, placing us among the hungriest nations globally. Currently, the World Food Programme estimates that over 35 million Nigerians will face acute hunger and food insecurity this year. This is unconscionable, given our vast expanses of uncultivated land.

Rice remains the most consumed food in Nigeria. To illustrate our level of unproductivity, let us compare our capabilities with those of leading rice-producing nations. India is the largest producer of rice, yielding approximately 200 million tonnes of unmilled rice.

Bangladesh is the third largest producer, producing around 60 million tonnes of unskilled Rice, while Vietnam is the 5thproducinges about 42 million tonnes. Let us consider the land-to-population ratios:

India has a landmass of 3,287,263 square kilometres. Distributed across its population of 1.4 billion people, this equals roughly 2. 34 Square meter per person.

Bangladesh, with a landmass of around 148,460 square kilometres and a population of 170 million, has less than 1 square metres per person.

Vietnam’s landmass covers 331,000 square kilometres. Divided by a population of 102 million, it yields about 3.25 square metres per person.

Nigeria has a massive landmass of 923,768 square kilometres. Divided by our population of approximately 230 million, this results in about 4.00 square metres per person. The foregoing clearly illustrates that we have absolutely no justification for being among the world’s hungriest nations.

Transitioning our nation from a state of consumption to one of production, through significant investments in agriculture, is the sole dependable strategy to escape the current depths of hunger and poverty. As I often emphasise, the uncultivated lands in our northern region represent our most substantial tangible assets. Transforming this sector is our direct pathway to prosperity.

ENERGY SECTOR

Nigeria today is the nation with the highest number of citizens lacking access to electricity globally. We currently generate and distribute a mere 4,000 megawatts (MW) of electricity for a population exceeding 200 million. In contrast, comparable nations worldwide – including several African peers such as South Africa and Egypt – each generate and distribute over 40,000 MW, despite both countries having less than half of our population. This considerable power shortfall continues to cripple businesses, choke industries, and stall overall economic growth.

Over the next four years, I commit to ensuring a minimum of 10,000 Mof W power

increase generation and distribution.

*UNEMPLOYMENT AND UNDEREMPLOYMENT*

Our large pool of talented youth remains largely unemployed. The current official unemployment rate of 4% grossly misrepresents the true situation; actual underemployment and unemployment in Nigeria exceeds 30%, with youth unemployment sitting at over 40% – among the highest globally, necessitating urgent intervention. We will address this by aggressively supporting the growth of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) through targeted tax incentives, special interest rates, and accessible funding in sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, entertainment, sports, and distribution. These improvements will be both measurable and verifiable.

C *ORRUPTION AND GOVERNANCE COSTS*

Nigerians will witness a tangible and verifiable reduction in corruption and the baseline costs associated with governance. Public resources will be managed with absolute transparency, prudence, and accountability to ensure that every naira spent yields demonstrable value for the citizenry.

RULE OF LAW*

The rule of law will be fiercely upheld, and adherence to it will be sacrosanct for both government officials and citizens alike, strictly in accordance with our constitutional frameworks.

DEMOCRACY

Our democracy will exemplify true governance of the people, by the people, and for the people, completely free from interference by the ruling party. Instead, we will institutionalise deep respect for opposition parties and foster constructive engagement in governance.

Under my leadership, democracy will be pursued with integrity, fairness, and transparency.

Following this I will make democracy work and the Vice president will be partner not a spare tyre. I hereby accept my affirmation and nominate Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso as my Vice President.

May God bless you all, and may God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

PSG retain champions league title after penalty shootout victory over Arsenal

Paris Saint-Germain successfully defended their UEFA Champions League title on Saturday night, defeating Arsenal on penalties after a dramatic 1-1 draw in the final at the Puskás Aréna in Budapest, Hungary.

The French giants held their nerve from the spot after 120 minutes failed to separate both sides, securing back-to-back Champions League triumphs and further cementing their status among Europe’s elite clubs.

The highly anticipated final lived up to expectations as both teams battled fiercely throughout regulation time and extra time, with neither side able to find a decisive winner after the match ended 1-1.

With the contest heading into a penalty shootout, PSG displayed greater composure, converting their spot-kicks to deny Arsenal a first Champions League title and retain the prestigious trophy.

The victory marks another historic achievement for the Paris-based club, who became one of the few teams in recent years to successfully defend the European crown.

For Arsenal, the defeat ends an impressive Champions League campaign in heartbreak, with Mikel Arteta’s side coming within touching distance of European glory before falling at the final hurdle. Franktalknow.

ADC NEC approves primaries, extends NWC tenure, demands El-Rufai’s release

The National Executive Committee (NEC) of the African Democratic Congress has approved the results of its recently conducted primaries for governorship, National Assembly, State Houses of Assembly, and presidential elections ahead of the 2027 general elections, while extending the tenure of the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) by 12 months.

The decisions were taken at the party’s 101st NEC meeting held in Abuja on Saturday, where National Chairman David Mark urged members to remain united and focused on building a credible political alternative for Nigerians.

Addressing party leaders and stakeholders, Mark said the meeting was taking place at a critical period in Nigeria’s democratic journey, noting that the country was grappling with worsening insecurity, economic hardship, unemployment, and declining purchasing power.

“Nigeria today faces profound challenges. Insecurity continues to threaten lives and livelihoods across many parts of our country. Communities are displaced, farmers are unable to cultivate their lands freely, businesses struggle under difficult economic conditions, and millions of families face hardship and uncertainty,” he said.

The ADC chairman stressed that the opposition party would not seek political advantage from the suffering of Nigerians but would continue to support genuine efforts aimed at restoring security, economic stability, and national unity.

“As a responsible opposition party, the ADC does not celebrate the difficulties confronting our nation, nor do we seek political advantage from the pain of our people. Rather, we stand firmly in support of every sincere effort aimed at restoring peace, security, economic stability and national cohesion,” Mark stated.

He called on governments at all levels to intensify efforts to tackle insecurity and implement policies that would improve the living conditions of citizens.

Turning to internal party matters, Mark emphasized the need for unity and discipline as the ADC prepares for future electoral contests, particularly the 2027 general elections.

“Our strength lies not in division but in unity. We must resist every tendency capable of weakening our collective resolve. Personal ambition must never supersede party interest,” he said.

The former Senate President also assured party members that complaints and petitions arising from the party’s primaries would be handled fairly and transparently.

“I wish to assure all members that the National Working Committee will critically review the recommendations submitted by the various appeal committees and take informed, fair and responsible decisions in the overall interest of justice, equity and party unity,” he added.

At the conclusion of the meeting, NEC approved the results of all recently conducted primaries for State Houses of Assembly, National Assembly, governorship, and presidential elections, except those with pending appeals as of May 29, 2026, and contests yet to be concluded.

The committee also approved the extension of the tenure of the current National Working Committee for a period of 12 months upon the expiration of its current mandate.

In addition, NEC approved the constitution of caretaker committees at the zonal, state, local government, and ward levels, also for a period of 12 months.

The party further passed a resolution describing former Nasir El-Rufai governor as a “prisoner of conscience” and called for his immediate release.

The resolutions were announced in a communiqué issued after the meeting by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi.

Mark concluded his address by urging party leaders and members across the country to close ranks, strengthen grassroots structures, expand membership, and offer practical solutions to Nigeria’s challenges.

“Many citizens are increasingly searching for a credible political platform. The ADC must not fail them,” he said.

Authority.

Nigeria enveloped in uncertainty -Peter Obi in his acceptance speech, outlines his action plan

By Okey Muogbo

Presidential candidate of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) in the forthcoming general election, Mr Peter Obi has accepted his election as the flag bearer of the NDC, lamenting that Nigeria has been enveloped in negative uncertainties.

In his acceptance speech, the Presidential Candidate outlined clear and comprehensive details of how he would solved major governance challenges confronting Nigeria.

Said he: “Today, our nation finds itself at a crucial juncture, enveloped in uncertainty.

“Families are anxious about their safety; parents are concerned for their children’s futures; and talented youth increasingly question their prospects in their homeland.

“Businesses are struggling, communities are suffering, and an alarming number of citizens have lost faith in the very concept of governance.

“Yet, I stand before you filled with optimism and strong faith in the resilience of our people, for I firmly believe that a New Nigeria is possible,” he assured.

Below is the full text of his speech:

*ACCEPTANCE SPEECH BY MR. PETER OBI FOLLOWING HIS NOMINATION AS THE PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE OF THE NIGERIAN DEMOCRATIC COALITION (NDC) – MAY 30, 2026*

Protocols,

Esteemed citizens of Nigeria,

It is with deep humility that I accept the role of presidential candidate for our party.

*UNITY*

To realise this New Nigeria, we must first mend the foundational elements essential for the success of any nation.

*INSECURITY*

In terms of security, the situation in Nigeria has considerably worsened. The global terrorism impact assessments ranked Nigeria as the 8th most affected nation in 2022, 6th in 2024, and 4th in 2026.

Yet, for many years, Nigeria garnered global recognition as a reliable contributor to peacekeeping, regional stabilisation, and conflict resolution. Our troops have not only displayed bravery but have also shown professionalism, discipline, resilience, and empathy in the most challenging operational contexts. Our officers and personnel have successfully commanded multiple international forces, safeguarded vulnerable civilian populations, monitored ceasefires, reinstated constitutional order, and contributed to rebuilding efforts.

Nigeria became one of the leading contributors of troops from Africa to UN peacekeeping missions and earned widespread admiration for operational effectiveness and leadership in various countries, including Rwanda, Sudan, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Mali, Western Sahara, Congo, Lebanon, Cambodia, Haiti, and Kuwait. At one point, a Nigeria, Lt. General Isaac Obiakor (rtd) even led global peacekeeping initiatives.

We must address insecurity with resolve and urgency, for no nation can thrive while its citizens live in trepidation. The primary responsibility of government is to ensure the safeguarding of lives and property. Farmers must be able to return to their fields securely; students must be able to learn without fear; communities must be able to rest peacefully; and investors must regain their confidence in Nigeria.

*HEALTHCARE*

Regarding health, Nigeria is currently ranked 157th globally, placing it in the lower echelon of healthcare worldwide. Primary healthcare, the cornerstone of our medical system, remains severely not functional with only 10% to 20% of approximately 30,000 primary healthcare centres operational.

I pledge that within four years, our health insurance coverage will more than double to over 20%.

*EDUCATION*

*HUNGER AND AGRICULTURE*

In 2023, when the present government took office, Nigeria ranked 109 out of 150 nations on the Global Hunger Index.

Bangladesh is the third largest producer, produces around 60 million tonnes of unskilled Rice, while Vietnam is the 5th, produces about 42 million tonnes. Let us consider the land-to-population ratios:

India has a landmass of 3,287,263 square kilometres. Distributed across its population of 1.4 billion people, this equals roughly 2. 34 Square meter per person.

Bangladesh, with a landmass of around 148,460 square kilometres and a population of 170 million, has less than 1 square metres per person.

Vietnam’s landmass covers 331,000 square kilometres. Divided by a population of 102 million, it yields about 3.25 square metres per person.

ENERGY SECTOR

Over the next four years, I commit to ensuring a minimum of 10,000 MW power

increase generation and distribution.

*UNEMPLOYMENT AND UNDEREMPLOYMENT*

CORRUPTION AND GOVERNANCE COSTS*

RULE OF LAW*

The rule of law will be fiercely upheld, and adherence to it will be sacrosanct for both government officials and citizens alike, strictly in accordance with our constitutional frameworks.

DEMOCRACY

Under my leadership, democracy will be pursued with integrity, fairness, and transparency.

May God bless you all, and may God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Turaki-Led PDP affirms Jonathan its presidential candidate despite thugs’ attack, security barricade

A faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) led by former Minister of Special Duties, Tanimu Turaki (SAN), on Saturday defied security restrictions and the barricading of its planned convention venue in Abuja to affirm former President Goodluck Jonathan as the party’s presidential candidate for the 2027 election.

Despite the disruption, the group relocated its activities to its operational office in Area 10, Garki, where it concluded the convention proceedings and presented a Certificate of Return to Jonathan. The certificate was received on the former president’s behalf by former lawmaker, Hon. Fred Agbedi.

The faction also witnessed a heavy invasion and attacks by thugs while they were expressing displeasure and rounding off the events at the frontage of venue of the party’s Special National Convention at the A-Class Event Centre in Wuse 2, Abuja.

The convention came amid an escalating leadership crisis within the PDP, with rival factions laying claim to the party’s structure and authority.

Addressing delegates at the barricaded convention venue, Turaki accused unnamed political actors of attempting to undermine democracy through intimidation and abuse of power.

“No matter how highly opinionated they may be about themselves, or no matter how they think that they can use their positions to thwart democracy, we want to tell them that Nigeria is bigger than anybody and any group of persons,” he declared.

Turaki urged supporters to remain peaceful despite the provocation, insisting that political battles should be settled through elections rather than violence.

“We will not fight. The time of fighting will come when we meet at the polls. We will meet you there, we’ll fight you there, we’ll defeat you there, and then we will pin you down on the ground,” he said.

Turaki went further to defend the actions of the faction even as they were not recognized by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). He argued that they were acting in accordance with judicial pronouncements and the PDP constitution.

“What we are doing today is in line with the judgment of the Supreme Court, which affirmed the judgment of the Court of Appeal Abuja Division,” he said.

According to him, the party’s Board of Trustees stepped in to fill leadership gaps created by the court decisions, while members of the National Executive Committee convened a meeting that produced an Interim National Working Committee.

“As far as we are concerned, it’s a process. INEC has been duly informed. INEC is aware of the convocation of the NEC meeting by members of the party,” Turaki stated.

He expressed confidence that the electoral commission would eventually recognize the process, noting that the INEC Chairman, being a legal scholar, understood the implications of the various court judgments affecting the party.

Also speaking, Chairman of the Special National Convention and PDP founding member, Prof. Jerry Gana, described the events surrounding the convention as a sad commentary on the state of Nigeria’s democracy.

“It is with great pain that I see this situation, that so many years after democracy we are still being reduced to this,” Gana lamented.

The elder statesman recalled the role played by PDP leaders during Nigeria’s transition from military rule in 1998, stressing that one of their key demands was the establishment of an independent electoral commission.

“We insisted that we must have an Independent National Electoral Commission. Unfortunately, after so many years of development, is INEC now independent? No,” he said.

Gana further criticized the security presence that prevented delegates from accessing the convention venue, describing it as a threat to democratic freedoms.

“We’re supposed to be having a special convention in a very well-organized place. Now the police have taken over the whole place. Are we back into military rule?

“This is a disgrace. Let the whole world know that Nigerian democracy is challenged because people cannot meet freely” he said.

The convention subsequently moved to the business of ratifying Jonathan’s candidature.

Chairman of the PDP State Chairmen Forum and Edo State PDP Chairman, Dr. Tony Aziegbemi, moved a motion for the adoption of Jonathan as the party’s sole presidential candidate.

“Having adopted President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan as our sole presidential candidate, I hereby move that this special convention do ratify the motion,” Aziegbemi said.

The motion was seconded by Senator Mohammed Sanusi Dagash, former Minister of Aviation who said party members across the country remained committed to the PDP despite the challenges confronting it.

“We stand confidently here, representing the PDP network nationwide,” Dagash said. “I second the motion in adopting Goodluck Ebele Jonathan as our presidential candidate.”

The motion was subsequently adopted by voice vote amid cheers from delegates who came out in their numbers and from different states to witness the event.

Bandits abduct Major General Rabe Abubakar, wife in Katsina

Suspected armed bandits have abducted a former Director of Defence Information (DDI), Major General Rabe Abubakar (rtd), and his wife in Katsina State, in what security sources described as a daring attack along a major route in the State.

PRNigeria gathered that the retired senior military officer and his wife were travelling through Matazu Local Government Area (LGA) on Saturday morning when their vehicle was ambushed by heavily armed gunmen.

A security source familiar with the incident disclosed that the attackers intercepted the couple’s vehicle and whisked them away to an unknown destination.

According to the source, the driver of the vehicle managed to escape despite sustaining a gunshot wound during the attack.

“The former Director of Defence Information and his wife were travelling in a red Peugeot 504 saloon car when they were waylaid by armed men along the route. The driver escaped with gunshot injuries and is currently receiving medical attention,” the source said.

The source added that relevant security agencies had been alerted and that coordinated efforts were underway to secure the safe rescue of the victims.

“Security forces have already activated search-and-rescue operations, while intelligence assets have been deployed to track the abductors and ensure the victims’ safe return,” the source added.

Efforts to obtain official confirmation from military authorities and security agencies were ongoing as of the time of filing this report.

The abduction adds to growing concerns over persistent insecurity in parts of Katsina State, despite sustained military operations targeting criminal groups across the North-West region.

The incident also recalls previous attacks involving military and security personnel in the state. In recent years, several serving and retired security officers have either been targeted by bandits or fallen victim to kidnappings and ambushes along major highways linking Katsina to neighbouring states.

PRNigeria reports that criminal groups operating in the region increasingly view high-profile individuals, including military officers, as lucrative targets.

Major General Rabe Abubakar, who served as Director of Defence Information, was one of the military’s most prominent Spokespersons and played a key role in communicating the Armed Forces’ counterinsurgency and national security operations during his years in service.

The latest abduction is expected to intensify calls for enhanced security measures on major highways and rural communities in Katsina State, where residents continue to grapple with the threats of banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes.

By PRNigeria

Nigerian Catholic priest convicted of sexual assault in US

A Nigerian-born Roman Catholic priest, Anthony Odiong, has been convicted by a jury in Texas, United States, for sexually assaulting women under his spiritual care, The Guardian reports.

Odiong, 57, was found guilty on one count of first-degree sexual assault and two counts of second-degree sexual assault after a trial in Waco, Texas.

The jury, made up of eight women and four men, delivered its verdict after about two hours of deliberation on Friday.

The court heard testimony from two women who said Odiong used his role as a priest to manipulate and pressure them into sexual relationships.

He was accused of exploiting his position as a Catholic priest to pursue sexual relationships with women he was providing spiritual direction.

Odiong, who pleaded not guilty, could face life imprisonment on the first-degree charge when sentencing begins on Monday.

Prosecutors said the offences involved two women who testified in court that the priest abused his clerical authority during periods of emotional vulnerability.

One of the women, identified in court documents as Mary Doe, told the jury that Odiong began a sexual relationship with her while providing spiritual counselling during a difficult divorce. She also testified that her son once walked in on her and Odiong during intercourse at her home.

Another woman, Jane Doe, testified that he pressured her into sexual acts under the guise of spiritual guidance.

The case followed a 2024 report by The Guardian, which first documented allegations of sexual misconduct and coercion against the priest during his ministry in Texas and Louisiana.

Prosecutors said that report prompted one of the victims to come forward to police with further allegations.

Investigators later gathered additional evidence, including DNA linked to a child fathered by Odiong during his time in Louisiana.

Odiong, a naturalised US citizen, was ordained in Nigeria in 1993 and later served in Catholic parishes in Texas and Louisiana.

Authorities said he was suspended from the ministry in 2019 following earlier allegations of misconduct.

His lawyers argued during the trial that the relationships were consensual, but prosecutors maintained that he abused his position of authority as a clergy member. Punch