…We’re undeterred by opposition’s criticism – Yilwatda 

…Govs endorse President Tinubu for 2027

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has warned state governors that he may be compelled to issue an Executive Order to enforce direct allocation of funds to local governments if states fail to comply with a recent Supreme Court judgment granting financial autonomy to the third tier of government.

The warning was issued on Friday during the 15th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) at the State House Conference Centre, Abuja.

The Supreme Court, in a landmark judgment delivered on July 11, 2024, ruled in favour of the Federal Government’s suit seeking to enforce financial independence for the 774 local government councils in the country.

In a unanimous decision by a seven-member panel, the apex court declared it unconstitutional for state governments to retain or manage funds meant for local councils. 

The court ordered that allocations from the Federation Account be paid directly to local governments, in line with Section 162 (5–8) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), a provision widely flouted by many states through the operation of joint accounts.

Expressing concern over reports that some governors were still refusing to release statutory allocations to local councils, President Tinubu warned party chieftains that continued non-compliance could force him to take decisive action through the Federation Account Allocation Committee.

“The Supreme Court has capped it for you again, saying, ‘give them their money directly,’” the President said. “If you wait for my Executive Order, because I have the knife, I have the yam, I will cut it.”

“I’m just being very respectful and understanding with my governors. Otherwise, if you don’t start to implement it, fact after fact, you will see.”

The President stressed the need for governors to comply, warning that further violations could warrant a federal intervention. 

“The ultimate goal is our Supreme Court. We have to comply. We have to respect the judgment,” he insisted.

The meeting which started at 6:05 pm had President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, members of the party’s National Working Committee (NWC), National Assembly leadership, alongside top party leaders and stakeholders. 

Declaring the meeting open, the National Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda dismissed criticisms from opposition parties as “shallow.”

He noted that the party is gaining ground nationwide despite the attacks by the opposition.

Yilwatda maintained that despite efforts by the opposition to throw spanner on the wheel of the party’s progress, it has continued grow, adding that the success story of the party has continued to make the opposition uncomfortable. 

“Our objectives remain that we want to strengthen and galvanize the party structures at all level, and we are enhancing our structural and strategic preparedness ahead of the next election cycle.

“We are not deterred by the few shallow criticism of the opposition. They have become increasingly uncomfortable with our deliberate and principled effort to build a truly pan Nigerian political party rooted in progressive politics,” he said.

The chairman noted that the party’s mobilisation drive is aimed at ensuring victory for the party in future elections.

On the recent defections by governors and their structures, Yilwatda said the development has further made the party “more formidable and better prepared,” making everybody want to be a member of APC.

The chairman also praised the party’s dominance in the National Assembly, crediting its leadership for “effective party evangelism” that lured opposition lawmakers. “We have a commanding majority in both the Senate and the House of Representatives,” he noted.

He also said the electronic membership registration system is designed to boost transparency, accuracy, and internal democracy. Saying, “This will enhance efficiency and data-driven decision-making,” he said.

Earlier, the governor of Gombe State, Inuwa Yahaya moved a compsite motion for the commencement and completion of the e-membership registration being embarked upon; for the conduct of congresses at the ward, local government, state and zonal levels of the party; and election of national officers and other associated members. 

The motion was seconded by Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, and unanimously adopted by members in attendance.

Eulogising the President Tinubu for the modest achievements made despite the global economic downturn, the Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum (PDF) and Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzordinma moved a motion for the endorsement of the President for the second term.

The motion was seconded by the governor of Kaduna State, Senator Una Sani, and received unanimous adoption of NEC members.

Goodwill messages by the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the President of the Senate .

In attendance were Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, Deputy Senate President, Senator Jibrin Barau, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Ry. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas and other principal officers of the National Assembly.

All the state governors elected under the platform of the party. 

The six newly defected governors from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) were also in attendance. 

They are Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri, Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno, and Taraba State Governor Agbu Kefas.

Members of the National Working Committee (NWC), party State Chairmen, former National Chairmen, Chief Bisi Akande, Senator Adams Aliyu Oshiomole, former governor of Ogun state, Akogun Segun Osoba and hosts of others.

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By Joseph Erunke, Abuja

The North-Central All Progressives Congress (APC) Forum has commended Plateau State Governor, Caleb Muftwang, for joining the ruling party, describing his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as a strategic and historic development for the region.

Muftwang’s defection was officially confirmed on Thursday night by the APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, during the party’s 14th National Caucus meeting held at the State House Conference Centre, Abuja.

In a statement issued on Friday, Chairman of the North-Central APC Forum, Alhaji Saleh Zazzaga, welcomed the Plateau governor into the party and assured him of full support.

He disclosed that the Forum had consistently canvassed Muftwang’s defection since April 2024, citing his performance in office and the need for political stability in Plateau State.

According to the statement, the governor has also directed his aides to defect with him to the APC.

The Forum described Muftwang’s decision as both “historic” and “strategic,” noting that the North-Central has now become the only geopolitical zone in the country with all six states governed by APC governors.

“We are pleased to announce the successful outcome of our sustained advocacy for Governor Caleb Muftwang to join the APC,” the Forum said.

“Our call was motivated by our commitment to the development of Plateau State and the entire North-Central, as well as our belief in the governor’s capacity to deliver even more on a stable political platform such as the APC.”

The Forum added that the defection would enhance collaboration with President Bola Tinubu’s administration and improve the delivery of democratic dividends to the people of Plateau State.

“With this development, the North-Central has achieved a major political milestone, as all six states in the zone are now governed by the APC,” the statement added.

“This aligns with our long-held vision of consolidating the party’s strength in the region.”

The Forum also reaffirmed its commitment to mobilising six million votes from the North-Central in support of President Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027, noting that the target was upgraded from an initial four million votes set in April 2025.

“Our pledge to deliver six million votes for Mr President remains on course, especially now that all states in the zone are under the APC,” it said.

The group also commended President Tinubu for providing what it described as a leadership environment that facilitated Muftwang’s defection.

The Forum recalled that it formally invited the governor to join the APC in April 2024, shortly after the Supreme Court affirmed his election.

It also disclosed that consultations were held with party leaders and stakeholders in Plateau State as part of efforts to persuade the governor to defect.

Although rumours of Muftwang’s defection emerged in late 2024, the governor at the time denied the reports and reaffirmed his PDP membership. However, the Forum said it sustained engagement with him, particularly in view of internal challenges within the PDP.

The defection had earlier attracted opposition from some APC leaders in Plateau State, who, at a stakeholders’ meeting in Jos in October 2025, adopted a motion opposing Muftwang’s admission into the party.

Reacting to the opposition, the Forum said resistance to the governor’s defection was driven by personal interests rather than the collective interest of the party, stressing that the decision to admit Muftwang rests with APC officials at his ward level in Mangu Local Government Area.

The Forum urged party members and stakeholders to close ranks and work together to strengthen the APC and advance development across Plateau State and the wider North-Central region.

If you want this sharpened further for a specific newspaper house style or cut down for space, I’ve got you.

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The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) high command on Friday reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the rule of law, public safety and judicial authority in handling the enforcement of the Motor Vehicle Tinted Glass Permit Policy, due to commence from January 2 next year.

This was contained in a statement made available to newsmen in Abuja by the Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO), CSP Benjamin Hundeyin.

The statement noted that the Force had observed recent public commentary attributed to the President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Mazi Afam Osigwe, concerning the implementation of the policy, and insisted that the policy was being implemented in the interest of members of the public.

According to it, “In the overriding interest of public order, institutional clarity and national security, the Force finds it necessary to place the facts on record, correct material misrepresentations and reaffirm its unwavering commitment to the rule of law, public safety and judicial authority.

“At all times, the Nigeria Police Force remains a law-abiding institution operating strictly within the framework of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, extant statutes and valid orders of courts of competent jurisdiction.

“Under the leadership of the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, PhD, NPM, the Force has neither acted nor intends to act in contempt of court. Respect for the judiciary and adherence to due process remain non-negotiable pillars of police governance and command responsibility.

“The regulation of vehicle-tinted glass is not a discretionary or arbitrary policy as erroneously portrayed by the President of the NBA. It is firmly grounded in law. The Motor Vehicles (Prohibition of Tinted Glass) Act, Laws of the Federation (LFN) 2004, is an Act of the National Assembly and not a military decree, as misrepresented by the NBA President.

“Section 2(3)(a) of the Act vests the Inspector-General of Police with statutory authority to issue permits, while Section 1(2) of the same Act requires applicants to establish legitimate security- or health-related justification.

“This framework exists primarily to address public safety concerns, particularly the use of obscured vehicles in the commission of crimes such as kidnapping, armed robbery, terrorism and other violent crimes.”

The statement pointed out that it was therefore incorrect and misleading to portray the policy as a revenue-driven initiative.

According to it, “The Nigeria Police Force is not a revenue-generating organisation. Nonetheless, the Force is empowered by law to receive funds that accrue incidentally in the discharge of its statutory functions.

“Section 26(1)(f) of the Police Act, 2020 (as amended), expressly recognises this authority. This legal position is neither novel nor controversial.”

The statement further explained that, in balancing accessibility for legitimate applicants with the imperatives of national security and operational sustainability, the Federal Government approved the Police Specialised Services Automation Project, which received the approval of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) in July 2022.

According to it, “The project is implemented under a lawful Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement authorised by the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC) Act, with the Nigeria Police Force partnering a licensed information technology infrastructure provider.

“Under this automated framework, applications for tinted glass permits are processed online, subjected to security vetting and approved strictly in accordance with the law.

“Administrative fees paid by applicants are applied solely towards sustaining the technology infrastructure, data security systems and workflow architecture supporting the process. They do not constitute revenue generation by the Nigeria Police Force.”

The statement clarified that the allegation by the NBA President, Mazi Afam Osigwe, that payments were made into a “private account” operated by Parkway Projects was entirely false and betrayed either a lack of understanding of payment processing systems or outright mischief calculated to mislead members of the public.

“Parkway Projects Limited is a Central Bank of Nigeria-licensed payment services provider, engaged by the Federal Government as a payment collection channel for the Vehicle Tint Permit Project, in the same manner as platforms such as Remita.

“The reference number cited as a bank account number of Parkway Projects by the NBA President is not a bank account but a unique transaction identifier used for reconciliation and settlement into designated government channels.”

It further explained that while some motorists may desire tinted glass for privacy, aesthetics or protection from sunlight, the indiscriminate use of heavily tinted vehicles had demonstrably undermined traffic surveillance, facilitated criminal concealment and impeded intelligence-led policing.

“The enhanced Tint Permit System was therefore introduced to standardise applications nationwide, improve vetting and integrate security innovations previously absent from the process, while eliminating bottlenecks and tendencies for extortion associated with the former process. This is part of a series of innovations recently introduced to modernise policing in Nigeria under the current Inspector-General of Police.”

The statement recalled that enforcement of the policy was earlier voluntarily suspended following engagements with NBA leadership and in response to public appeals.

According to it, “This decision was an exercise of institutional restraint and goodwill, not the result of any judicial restraint. The Force remains fully cognisant of pending matters before the courts, including Suit No: FHC/ABJ/CS/1821/2025, in which judgment has been reserved, and will not take any step capable of pre-empting or undermining judicial outcomes.

“The recent communication regarding enforcement was intended to provide advance public notice on operational planning, subject always to compliance with subsisting court directives and further guidance from the courts.

“Where any aspect of such communication is capable of misinterpretation, the Nigeria Police Force is open to constructive engagement to ensure clarity, harmony and strict adherence to the law.

“That notwithstanding, the Nigeria Police Force will not expend valuable time responding to ignorant and mischievous claims, especially by persons who have chosen to use malicious attacks on the Police as a launch pad to limelight and fame under the guise of being defenders of the masses.”

The statement added that the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, reassured Nigerians of the Force’s unyielding commitment to professionalism, transparency, accountability and the protection of fundamental rights, stressing that the Nigeria Police Force remains steadfast in its constitutional mandate to safeguard lives and property and will continue to act lawfully, decisively and independently in the best interest of the Nigerian people.

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Medical and dental graduates of the College of Medicine, University of Lagos (CMUL), Class of 2004, have launched a week-long programme to commemorate 20 years after graduation, unveiling a ₦30 million legacy project aimed at strengthening medical education and mentoring future healthcare professionals.

At a press briefing to kick off the anniversary, the Chairman of the reunion and a consultant physician, Dr Dipo Ayedun, said the celebration—coming 21 years after their graduation—was an opportunity to reflect on the class’ professional journey and renew its commitment to service.

The anniversary is themed “20 Years Strong: Reflecting on Our Journey, Inspiring the Future.”

Ayedun described the event as more than a social reunion, stressing that it represents a deliberate effort to give back to the institution that shaped the careers of the class.

“We are proud products of the College of Medicine, University of Lagos. Beyond celebrating how far we have come, we recognise our responsibility to inspire and support the next generation of doctors and dentists,” he said.

He welcomed classmates returning from across Nigeria and the diaspora, including Africa, the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada and Australia, noting that for many, it was their first physical reunion in nearly two decades.

Central to the anniversary is the renovation of the 200-Level Lecture Hall, popularly known as the Platform Class. The Class of 2004 invested over ₦30 million to refurbish the hall, which plays a critical role in undergraduate medical training at the CMUL.

The upgraded facility now features smart televisions, improved lighting, enhanced power supply and a modern learning environment designed to meet international standards.

According to Ayedun, the give-back initiative rests on three pillars: infrastructure development, teaching and training, and mentorship.

He noted that several members of the class currently serve as lecturers at CMUL, while others are actively involved in mentoring students and young doctors through structured engagements.

“Through our symposium, we are exposing students to diverse career paths, both within Nigeria and in the diaspora, showing that excellence is possible in multiple contexts,” he said.

The anniversary programme includes courtesy visits to the Provost of CMUL and the Chief Medical Director of the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), a scientific conference and symposium with keynote speakers largely drawn from the Class of 2004, social bonding activities, and a grand finale dinner and awards night celebrating excellence among members.

Addressing concerns about brain drain in the health sector, Ayedun said the trend reflects broader structural challenges such as poor funding, welfare, remuneration and gaps in residency training.

He urged the government to improve budgetary allocation and sustain engagement with healthcare professionals. He added that migration could also result in “brain gain” when diaspora professionals contribute skills, knowledge and resources back home.

On artificial intelligence in medicine, Ayedun said AI should complement, not replace, clinical expertise, particularly in improving access to care in underserved areas. He disclosed that CMUL has developed an AI usage policy and deployed tools to detect unethical use by students, underscoring the need for strong ethical standards.

Earlier, the Chairperson of the reunion, Dr Olayemi Dawodu, described the anniversary as a celebration of purpose, resilience and recommitment to the ideals of medicine.

She said the class’ enduring legacy would be its commitment to mentorship and uplifting future generations, pledging continued support for improved learning facilities, clinical training and research at CMUL.

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Ahead of the 2027 general elections, the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) will on Saturday hold its National Convention to usher in new leaders of the party.

The National Chairman, Dr Ajuji Ahmed, stated this at the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the party held on Friday in Abuja.

The Chairman commended the outcome of the state congresses of the party, charging the newly elected chairmen to raise the party.

The meeting was attended by the National leader of the party, former governor of Kano State, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwakwanso, Deputy governor of Kano State, Aminu Abdulssalam Gwarzo, Speaker, Kano State House of Assembly, Board of Trustees members, National Working Committee (NWC) members, Members of National Assembly, State Assembly members, state party chairmen and other party stalwarts.

Addressing the party members, the National Chairman said, “I congratulate the newly elected officers of the party at Ward, Local Government, State and Zonal levels. I urge them to justify the confidence and trust party members reposed in them.

A membership drive is key to the growth of a political party. We should intensify efforts in the mass mobilisation of citizens. NNPP is big enough to accommodate millions of fellow compatriots who desire and deserve a new Nigeria where peace and prosperity are guaranteed.

“Esteemed Delegates of our great Party will at this National Convention exercise their democratic right of electing National Officers of NNPP following the expiration of their tenures, which commenced in the 2022 National Convention in Abuja.

“NNPP is known for its strict compliance with internal democracy. This will be showcased in this elective National Convention that will usher in new leaders who will pilot the affairs of our great party for the next four years. We have learned from the 2023 general election and will work harder for the 2027 general election.

“Citizens look up to NNPP to chart the way forward for our dear nation. We must live up to their expectations. Together we will restore genuine democracy in Nigeria.”

Further speaking, the chairman said, “The NNPP’s flag must fly higher and higher at every nook and corner of Nigeria to reassure citizens that a new, better, greater and prosperous Nigeria is possible as obtainable in Kano State that has witnessed tremendous transformation and
dividends of democracy in the NNPP-led Government of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf. This is what citizens need and will have in the upcoming general election.

“NNPP has been repositioned, restructured and strengthened as a major stakeholder in the nation’s democratic process. All eyes are on our great party to point the way forward for sustainable democracy and development in Nigeria.

“Our country deserves a fresh start, and citizens deserve a fresh new deal, which only NNPP is capable of offering.

In view of this, we have concluded Congresses at Ward, Local Government, State and Zonal levels where new leaders emerged. Reports of these rancour-free Congresses were submitted to the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting on Thursday, 19th December 2025, which considered them and approved accordingly.”

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A Nigerian Air Force (NAF) C-130 aircraft and its crew have arrived at the Air Force Base in Accra, Ghana, en route to Portugal for a scheduled flight maintenance mission.

The aircraft departed Bobo-Dioulasso in Burkina Faso earlier on Friday and is expected to proceed to Portugal on Saturday, according to official sources.

On arrival in Accra, the NAF crew and aircraft were warmly received by officials of the Ghana Air Force, alongside representatives of the Nigerian Embassy in Ghana.

A defence source told Zagazola Makama, a security analyst that the reception underscored the cordial military-to-military cooperation and longstanding diplomatic relations between Nigeria and Ghana.

“We in Nigeria deeply appreciate the Ghanaian government and diplomatic officials for the warm reception and the support extended to the Nigerian Air Force crew,” the source said.

The stopover further highlights the strong defence and diplomatic collaboration between both West African nations.

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Nigeria’s old national anthem was briefly played during the opening formalities of the All Progressives Congress (APC) national caucus meeting held at the State House, Abuja, on Thursday night.

The unusual incident occurred as dignitaries were ushered into the villa’s banquet hall and the national anthem was about to be rendered.

Instead of the newly reinstated anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” the band initially played an instrumental version of the former anthem, “Arise, O Compatriots.”

President Bola Tinubu, Vice‑President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, among other leaders, stood in mild confusion for a few seconds before the musicians realised the mistake and switched to the correct anthem midway through the rendition.

On May 29, President Tinubu signed a bill replacing the national anthem, reintroducing “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” which was originally adopted at independence in 1960 and used until 1988.

The version in place from 1978 to early 2024, titled “Arise, O Compatriots,” was momentarily played in error at the caucus meeting.

The APC caucus session was the first to be presided over by Nentawe Yilwatda, the party’s national chairman.

Governors Peter Mbah of Enugu, Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers, Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta, Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom, Agbu Kefas of Taraba, and Douye Diri of Bayelsa attended their first caucus meeting of the ruling party following their defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC.

Other party leaders present include former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, members of the national working committee, APC governors, and principal officers of the national assembly.

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President Bola Tinubu has described his journey to the presidency as a challenging path marked by numerous obstacles, attributing his success to perseverance and divine guidance.

Speaking at the 15th National Executive Committee meeting of the All Progressives Congress in Abuja on Friday, Tinubu reflected on the difficulties faced by both his campaign and the nation in the period leading up to the 2023 general election.

He noted that Nigerians endured severe economic and social strains, including food shortages, the currency redesign initiative and widespread fuel scarcity, which resulted in long queues at petrol stations.

“I faced obstacles on my path to the presidency,” Tinubu said, recalling that many citizens struggled to afford even a single meal each day.

Despite these setbacks, he credited God for his rise to leadership. “God brought us here. I am a symbol of that God because, without Him, I wouldn’t be here,” he stated.

Emphasising the importance of faith and gratitude, Tinubu encouraged Nigerians to remain patient and thankful amid difficulties.

He also called for unity, tolerance and resilience to safeguard Nigeria’s democracy, warning, “We must continue to be resolute that this democracy we have taken into our hands must not fail.”

Highlighting inclusive leadership, Tinubu urged both leaders and citizens to show compassion and create space for others.

He cautioned against the forceful imposition of one’s will in governance and reaffirmed his belief that ultimate leadership is determined by God: “God creates the opportunity for individuals, and if God says you will be there, you will be there.”

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President Bola Tinubu has issued a stern warning to state governors that he may be compelled to issue an Executive Order to enforce direct allocations to local governments if they fail to comply with a recent Supreme Court ruling affirming financial autonomy for Nigeria’s third tier of government.

Tinubu spoke on Friday during the 15th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the All Progressives Congress (APC) at the State House Conference Centre, Abuja.

In a veiled but pointed message to governors accused of withholding statutory allocations meant for local councils, Tinubu warned that non‑compliance could force him to directly allocate local council funds from the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC).

Addressing NEC members, including governors, National Working Committee members, and other party leaders, the President said, “The Supreme Court has capped it for you again, saying, ‘give them their money directly.’ If you wait for my Executive Order, because I have the knife, I have the yam, I will cut it.”

He added, “I’m just being very respectful and understanding with my governors. Otherwise, if you don’t start to implement it, fact after fact, you will see.”

Tinubu’s remarks follow the July 11, 2024 landmark judgment by the Supreme Court, which upheld the Federal Government’s suit seeking to enforce financial independence for local governments.

In a unanimous decision, a seven‑member panel of the apex court declared that it is unconstitutional for state governments to retain or manage funds meant for local councils.

The court ordered that allocations from the Federation Account be paid directly to local governments, as provided in Section 162(5–8) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). However, many states have continued to channel the funds through joint accounts.

In his speech, Tinubu reiterated the necessity for governors to abide by the apex court’s directive, warning that further violations could invite federal intervention.

“The ultimate goal is our Supreme Court. We have to comply. We have to respect the judgment,” he insisted.

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…As Tinubu ignores NASS appeal to review police aides’ withdrawal

The President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, on Friday, asserted that great nations are not built by perfect conditions, but by leaders who make hard choices together.

Akpabio made this assertion in his speech, titled “Planting The Future Together” which he read during the presentation of the N58.18 2026 budget to the joint session of the National Assembly by President Bola Tinubu.

This was as President Tinubu ignored the appeal made by the National Assembly, seeking a reversal to the withdrawal of police aides attached to members of the apex parliament.

He observed that many Nigerians view the patriotic collaborative work between the National Assembly and the Executive Arm as a sell-out by the Parliament, stressing that nations advance when the Executive and the Legislature work in concert, and they falter when the two become locked in hostility.

His speech reads in part: “Mr President, your presence before Parliament today underscores a fundamental truth of democratic governance: that progress is forged when institutions work in concert; when authority is exercised with accountability; and when leadership listens, engages, and leads with courage and clarity of purpose.

“Many in our country view the patriotic collaborative work between the National Assembly and the Executive Arm as a sell-out by the Parliament.

“But history is unambiguous on one enduring lesson: nations advance when the Executive and the Legislature work in concert, and they falter when the two become locked in hostility.

Akpabio insisted that nations make more progress when the different arms of government work in collaboration rather than in confrontation with one another.

“Across history and continents, the pattern remains consistent: when the organs of state treat each other as adversaries, the nation pays the price; but when they act as partners under the constitution, stability deepens, reforms take root, and progress becomes possible. It is within this spirit of constitutional partnership—not rivalry or servility—that great national decisions (like budgeting) acquire meaning and momentum.

“Budgets tell a story. Show me a nation’s budget, and I will tell you its priorities, its fears, and its hopes. They reveal what a nation truly values, expose what it is prepared to confront, and chart the future it seeks to build.

“The 2026 Appropriation Bill you are about to present is therefore far more than a compilation of figures. It should be a statement of intent—a reflection of priorities, a record of difficult choices, and a roadmap for the next phase of Nigeria’s national renewal.

“Over the past year, our country has navigated a period of significant transition in the midst of challenges. Families have felt the strain of rising costs. Businesses have adjusted to a changing economic environment.

“Young Nigerians have asked hard and legitimate questions about opportunity, fairness, and their place in the nation’s future. Insecurity has tested our collective resolve and reminded us that peace is not a gift we inherit, but a responsibility we must constantly defend.

“Yet history teaches us something enduring: Nigeria does not retreat in the face of difficulty—we confront it. We confront it with resilience forged in adversity, with faith in our shared destiny, and with an unyielding belief that tomorrow can be better than today.

“From one generation to the next, this nation has survived storms not by surrendering to despair, but by standing together, reforming what must be reformed, and renewing our commitment to justice, inclusivity, and progress.

“This is not a season for cynicism. It is a season for optimism. Not a moment for resignation, but a call to responsibility—by government, by institutions, and by citizens alike.

“For every challenge before us is also an invitation: to build a more equitable economy, to secure our communities, to restore trust in public life, and to ensure that the promise of Nigeria is not postponed, but delivered.

“The 2025 Budget was introduced at a moment that demanded uncommon courage. It required confronting structural weaknesses long postponed. And it is important to place on record that the progress we are now witnessing has been achieved despite persistent scepticism, relentless criticism, and the loud objections of naysayers and traducers who doubted both the necessity and the resolve of reform.

“These were difficult decisions—yet necessary ones—and they reflect a leadership willing to choose long-term national interest over short-term comfort.

“As a result, we are now witnesses to measurable gains. Government revenues are improving. Public finance is being managed with greater discipline and transparency. Strategic investments in infrastructure, energy, agriculture, and human capital are laying a firmer foundation for sustainable growth. Nigeria is regaining confidence—within its borders and in the eyes of the international community.

“Nation-building is not the work of one man or one institution. It is a collective endeavour that requires patience, sacrifice, and unity of purpose. I enjoin all Nigerians to continue to support the patriotic efforts of our President.

“Also, assure Nigerians that we will continue to serve them with heart and might and represent them with all our strength,” he said.

Meanwhile, President Tinubu ignored the appeal made by the National Assembly, seeking a reversal to the withdrawal of police aides attached to members of the apex parliament.

The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, while reading his address of welcome, appealed to the President to passionately consider the request by the two chambers, calling on him to reverse his earlier decision to withdraw police aides attached to the member.

However, the President concluded his budget presentation without mentioning the issue until he departed the legislative complex.

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