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By Aviashima Toom, Abuja  The Comptroller General of Customs Adewale Adeniyi MFR has once again reaffirmed his commitment to responsible digital transformation and innovation-driven governance, as he delivered a keynote address at the 4th Biennial International Conference organised by the Faculty of Communication and Information Sciences, University of Ilorin, in collaboration with the Faculty of Philology, RUDN University, Russia. The international conference, themed “Disruptive Technology: Human and Artificial Intelligence in the Digital Economy,” held on Wednesday, 13 May 2026, at the University of Ilorin Main Auditorium, brought together academics, communication scholars, technology experts, researchers, head of sister agencies, and policymakers to examine the growing impact of digital innovation and artificial intelligence on governance, education, trade, and economic development. Speaking during the conference, CGC Adeniyi emphasised the need for insti...

By Aviashima Toom, Abuja  The President of the Customs Officers’ Wives Association (COWA), Mrs Kikelomo Adeniyi, will on Saturday, May 16, 2026, lead a climate advocacy campaign tagged “Walk for a Greener Nigeria” in Abuja, as part of efforts aimed at promoting environmental sustainability and climate awareness across the country. The advocacy walk, scheduled to commence from the Nigeria Customs Service Headquarters in Maitama, Abuja, is expected to attract members of the association, environmental advocates, community leaders, volunteers, and other stakeholders committed to ecological sustainability. The initiative forms part of COWA’s broader Green Borders sustainability programme, designed to encourage grassroots participation in environmental protection through advocacy, public engagement, and community-based interventions. The campaign comes on the heels of the association’s recent nationwide “1,000 Trees in One Hour” exercise, which mobilised participants across d...

By Aviashima Toom, Abuja  The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, has warned aspirants seeking elective positions on the party’s platform to maintain discipline and embrace peaceful conduct ahead of the 2027 party primaries. Yilwatda, in a statement issued through his Special Adviser on Media and Information Strategy, Abimbola Toki in Abuja said the ruling party would not tolerate any act capable of disrupting the primaries, stressing that offenders risk suspension and other disciplinary actions. According to him, aspirants and their supporters must avoid violence, unrest, anti-party activities, and any attempt to undermine the integrity of the process. The APC chairman stated that the party remained committed to conducting transparent, credible, democratic, and peaceful primaries across the country, adding that internal democracy remains central to the party’s growth and national acceptance. He noted that while contests natur...

By Aviashima Toom, Abuja  The Okam Development Forum (ODF), Abuja, has elected a new Executive Committee to steer the affairs of the association, with Chief Joseph O. Obekpa, the Ojema I of Orokam, emerging as Chairman. The election took place during the Forum’s 269th meeting held in Abuja, where members unanimously endorsed the new leadership team for a new tenure in line with the constitution of the association. The immediate past Executive Committee, led by Chief Emmanuel Owoicho Ameh, the Och’Obache I of Orokam, was formally dissolved after successfully completing its four-year tenure. Members of the Forum commended the outgoing leadership for its dedication, unity, and developmental contributions during its time in office. In his inaugural address, Chief Obekpa expressed profound gratitude to members for the confidence reposed in him, describing his emergence as a call to service, responsibility, and collective progress. “It is with deep humility and a profound sen...

By Aviashima Toom, Abuja  The remarks by Abdulrahman Bashir Haske after the screening exercise reveal more than routine optimism; they provide insight into the political calculations, internal dynamics, and strategic messaging currently shaping the build-up to the All Progressives Congress primaries. Screening Exercise as a Legitimacy Test By emphasizing that he had “fulfilled all necessary requirements” and successfully submitted his credentials, Hasky appears focused on projecting legitimacy and preparedness.  In Nigerian party politics, screening exercises are often viewed as the first major hurdle for aspirants, and successfully scaling that stage allows candidates to present themselves as serious contenders. His comments suggest an attempt to reassure supporters that his candidacy remains firmly on course and free from procedural complications that sometimes derail aspirants before voting begins. Balancing Consensus Politics and Democratic Competition, one of ...

By Aviashima Toom  A leading aspirant for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Senate seat under the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Amina Zanna Mina Ibrahim, has called on the leadership of the party to reserve the FCT senatorial ticket for a female candidate in the 2027 general elections. Ibrahim made the appeal on Monday in Abuja while formally declaring her ambition at the APC secretariat, where she said her aspiration was anchored on service, inclusive development, and effective representation for residents of the FCT. Addressing Journalists, she stated that her vision for the FCT was centred on “people, prosperity, and progress.” “Today, I formally declare my aspiration to contest for the office of Senator representing the FCT under the APC in the 2027 election. My ambition is driven by commitment to service, inclusive development, and effective representation,” she said. “I respectfully seek the support of the party leadership, stakeholders, delegates, and me...

By Aviashima Toom, Abuja  Commander YilchiniJan Bida (Rtd), an All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship aspirant in Plateau State, has expressed confidence in emerging as the party’s flagbearer ahead of the 2027 gubernatorial election. Speaking shortly after his screening by the party, Bida described the process as transparent and democratic, commending the APC for providing equal opportunities for all aspirants. “The process went well. It shows that APC is a party that believes in internal democracy. They want to create an open field and a level playing ground for anybody who feels he has something to offer to his state to participate in the election,” he said. The retired commander stated that he remains optimistic about securing the party’s ticket, stressing that the people of Plateau State are solidly behind his ambition. “I am very confident that there is going to be a direct primary. They have handed over the power to the people to decide who becomes the gover...

.    Dr. Nura Manu By Aviashima Toom  Governorship aspirant in Bauchi State, Dr. Nura Manu, has described his screening experience as productive and interactive, saying members of the committee asked extensive questions which he answered satisfactorily. Speaking shortly after the screening exercise, Manu said the engagement provided an opportunity for him to present his plans and vision for the state. “The committee engagement has been interactive. They asked a lot of questions and we gave answers as far as we could,” he said. Clarifying reports surrounding his proposed N100 billion initiative, the aspirant explained that the fund is not intended for security operations, but rather for economic development. According to him, the proposed N100 billion fund is aimed at supporting the commercialisation of agriculture and promoting small-scale enterprises across the state. “The N100 billion I am talking about is not for security. It is a fund I am planning to brin...

     Yusuf Maitama Tuggar By Aviashima Toom  Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, Minister of Foreign Affairs and a leading governorship aspirant in Bauchi State, has urged the All Progressives Congress (APC) to guard against what he described as “fraudulent” consensus arrangements ahead of the party’s governorship primary. Tuggar spoke with journalists shortly after undergoing screening by the APC National Working Committee, describing the exercise as a routine verification of credentials. According to him, his political history as a founding member of the APC, as well as the defunct CPC and ANPP, makes his records well known to the party leadership. The minister, however, expressed concern over what he called a sudden influx of aspirants who reportedly obtained nomination forms barely 24 hours before the screening exercise. He warned that some late entrants could be part of a strategy to manufacture an artificial consensus in favour of a preferred candidate. “It is un...

By Aviashima Toom  Dr. Nura Manu Zoro, a leading aspirant in the 2027 Bauchi State governorship race, has formally submitted his Expression of Interest and Nomination forms, outlining a development-focused agenda centered on education, agriculture, and security. Speaking with journalists in Abuja after filing the documents, the former gubernatorial aide said Bauchi State needs purposeful leadership and practical governance rather than political drama. “Bauchi is not a state for noise-making; it is a ground where the unexpected happens,” he said. “We have been working on the ground to help people. It is about delivery, not the volume of the campaign.” Dr. Manu, who served in the state government’s team in 2019, stated that his experience in governance and understanding of the state’s political structure place him in a strong position to lead Bauchi effectively if elected. According to him, his administration would focus on a three-point agenda aimed at improving the soci...

By Aviashima Toom  Governorship aspirant, Dr. Jamil Isyaku Gwamna, has formally declared his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election in Gombe State, pledging to consolidate and expand the state’s ongoing development efforts. Jamil made the declaration shortly after submitting his expression of interest and nomination forms at Treasure Suites on Thursday. Speaking with journalists after the submission, the aspirant said his decision to join the race was driven by the need to sustain the progress achieved by successive administrations in the state. “I’m here to formally submit my nomination form to the Secretariat,” he said, officially confirming his participation in the governorship contest. He described Gombe State as fortunate to have experienced quality leadership over the years, while commending the current administration for what he called remarkable developmental achievements. According to him, the present government has elevated the state’s profile nat...

By Aviashima Toom  The Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, has charged troops of the 2 National Mission Force Brigade to intensify efforts in tackling terrorism, kidnapping, cattle rustling, and other security threats in Southern Kaduna and surrounding areas. General Oluyede gave the charge during an operational visit to the Brigade stationed in Samaru Kataf, where he assessed the combat readiness of troops and reviewed operational challenges facing the formation. The visit, according to military authorities, was aimed at evaluating the Brigade’s preparedness and identifying areas requiring support to strengthen ongoing operations within its Joint Operations Area (JOA). Addressing the troops, the CDS commended their level of alertness and professionalism, urging them to remain committed and proactive in confronting criminal elements. “You must keep out-witting criminals by anticipating their actions and evolving effective countermeasures. We will continue t...

By Our Reporter  A member of the National Association of Women Journalists, Dr. Jophia Nanker Gupar, has declared her intention to contest for the House of Representatives seat representing Pankshin, Kanke, Kanam (PKK) Federal Constituency, promising inclusive leadership and grassroots-driven development. Dr. Gupar made the declaration shortly after submitting her nomination form, saying her ambition is aimed at reshaping the political narrative and encouraging more women to actively participate in leadership and governance. According to her, societal barriers and fear have continued to discourage many women from venturing into politics, stressing that her candidacy represents a new direction focused on service and value addition. “We are here to change the narrative. We are not in competition with men, nor are we here to condemn them; we are here to add value,” she said. The aspirant, who described herself as a grassroots “developer,” outlined her priorities to include...

By Aviashima Toom  A governorship aspirant in the 2027 Adamawa State election, Abdurrahman Haske, has formally submitted his nomination forms and unveiled his development agenda ahead of the party primaries. Speaking to journalists shortly after completing the submission process, Haske dismissed concerns about his age, insisting that competence, experience, and capacity to deliver should remain the major criteria for leadership. “Judging me by my age alone is actually not fair,” he said. “I have served this country diligently across different sectors — from oil and gas to agriculture and telecommunications. All of this is well documented in my CV.” The aspirant disclosed that he had fulfilled all requirements stipulated under the Electoral Act and submitted the necessary documents for screening ahead of the primaries. “I have done all the necessary requirements. I have submitted my documents, and we will allow the process to take shape and guide us on the next steps,” h...

By Aviashima Toom  The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has reinforced its commitment to combating illicit financial flows and terrorism financing through a sensitisation programme on Anti-Money Laundering and Combating the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT), held at its Headquarters in Maitama, Abuja. The engagement, held on Monday, 4 May 2026, formed part of the Service’s first-quarter operational review meeting and training for officers of the AML/CFT Unit, focusing on enhancing capacity, promoting ethical standards and strengthening inter-agency collaboration. Speaking during the session, the Assistant Comptroller-General in charge of Headquarters, ACG Muhammad Shuaibu, said the initiative reflects the growing importance of AML/CFT operations within the Service and Nigeria’s broader financial and security framework. He noted that the impact of the Unit extends beyond seaports, airports and border stations, adding that its achievements over the past year have ...

Alhaji Ghali By Aviashima Toom  Alhaji Muhammed M. Ghali has formally declared his intention to contest for the House of Representatives seat representing Bauchi Federal Constituency, pledging inclusive leadership with a strong emphasis on empowering youths, women, and children. Speaking to journalists during his declaration, Ghali said his ambition is driven by a desire to address what he described as the persistent marginalization of young people in governance and decision-making processes. He noted that Bauchi Federal Constituency, which comprises two local government areas, deserves purposeful representation that prioritises development and encourages broad-based participation. “This is not the first time I have shown interest, but by the grace of Allah, this will be the last, because I am determined to win and serve my people,” he said. Ghali criticised the performance of the incumbent lawmaker, alleging inadequate efforts to improve the welfare and living conditio...

Chief (Hon) Dr. Obiuwevbi Ominimini By Aviashima Toom  The The declaration by Dr. Christopher Ominimini to contest for the House of Representatives seat representing Ughelli North/Ughelli South/Udu Federal Constituency is more than a routine political move—it reflects deepening frustrations in Nigeria’s oil-producing regions over representation, development, and access to national resources. Ominimini, also known as Olorogun Sir Obijwevbi C. E. Ominimini, brings a strong blend of academic and professional credentials into the race, including a B.Sc, M.Sc, MBA, and Ph.D, alongside fellowships such as FIMC, FCILRM, and PHF. Beyond academia, his role as National Publicity Secretary and spokesman of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) places him at the center of regional advocacy—an influence likely to shape both his campaign messaging and voter expectations. By aligning with the All Progressives Congress (APC) and formally obtaining and submitting his nomination forms in Ab...

By Aviashima Toom  As Russia prepares to commemorate the 8l1st anniversary of victory in World War Ion May 9, officials have emphasized the importance of preserving what they describe as the “historical truth” of the conflict and its aftermath. Known in Russia as Victory Day, the annual event marks the defeat of Nazi Germany in 1945 and remains one of the country’s most significant national observances. The Ambassador of the Russian Federation to Nigeria, Mr. Andrey Podelyshev, while briefing diplomatic correspondents in Abuja, said that for many Russians, the date carries both national and personal significance.  Millions of families have connections to those who fought on the front lines, worked on the home front, or lived through occupation and wartime hardship. The Soviet Union lost an estimated 27 million people during the war—a scale of loss that continues to shape public memory and national identity. Russian authorities say the significance of Victory Day ex...

By Aviashima Toom  A governorship aspirant on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Benue State, Mathias Byuan, has declared that he will not step down for the incumbent governor, Hyacinth Alia, ahead of the 2027 general elections. Byuan made the declaration on Monday in Abuja shortly after submitting his expression of interest and nomination forms to the party’s leadership. He reaffirmed his determination to contest the APC governorship ticket against Alia, whom he also faced during the party’s 2023 primaries. His position comes amid ongoing reconciliation efforts within the Benue APC, where party leaders have reportedly pushed for the endorsement of all incumbent officeholders seeking re-election. The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, had earlier suggested that elected officials from the State Assembly to the National Assembly—should be supported to return alongside the governor. However, Byuan dismissed the idea of an autom...

By Aviashima Toom  The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nentawe Yilwatda, has reiterated that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is making deliberate investments aimed at transforming Northern Nigeria into a major economic hub in Africa. In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Information Strategy, Abimbola Tooki, Yilwatda said the scale and coordination of ongoing federal projects reflect a clear commitment to repositioning the region for productivity, trade, and infrastructure-driven growth. He noted that Northern Nigeria’s geographic location gives it a strategic advantage as a gateway to neighbouring countries such as Niger, Chad, Cameroon, and Benin, adding that current investments are expected to strengthen cross-border trade and regional integration. Yilwatda highlighted key infrastructure initiatives, including the rehabilitation and expansion of major road networks linking Northern states to commercial c...