Flowerbud News

Year: 2026

  • SPEECH BY HIS EXCELLENCY, PRESIDENT BOLA AHMED TINUBU, GCFR, AT THE 4TH ELECTIVE NATIONAL CONVENTION OF THE ALL PROGRESSIVES CONGRESS (APC)

    SPEECH BY HIS EXCELLENCY, PRESIDENT BOLA AHMED TINUBU, GCFR, AT THE 4TH ELECTIVE NATIONAL CONVENTION OF THE ALL PROGRESSIVES CONGRESS (APC)

     

     

    FRIDAY, 27TH MARCH 2026

    EAGLES SQUARE, ABUJA

     

    PROTOCOLS:

    Today, I stand before you with a heart full of gratitude, pride, and hope. Gratitude to God Almighty for His grace upon our nation and our party. Pride in what we have built together as a party since 2013, and optimistic about a bright future for our nation, despite the challenges we face.

     

    2. This 4th Elective National Convention of our great party is not merely a gathering. It is a defining chapter in the story of our democracy and our party. As a party, this Convention offers us the platform to renew our bond, strengthen our resolve, and recommit ourselves to the ideals that brought us together in the first place.

     

    3. We gather under an inspiring and powerful theme, “Unity in Progress: Consolidating the Renewed Hope Agenda. Unity in Progress, as the main theme, is a potent and timely reminder that progress is impossible without unity.

     

    Unity in Progress: Consolidating the Renewed Hope Agenda

     

     

    4. Thirteen years ago, we dared to dream differently and to act boldly when, as patriots, we set aside our political differences and came together for national redemption and to save our country from the economic doldrums into which the then-ruling party had plunged it.

     

    5. We are united around a shared belief: that our country can be greater and better served; that democracy must work for every Nigerian; that leadership must be anchored in vision, discipline, justice, and development.

     

    6. That historic unity gave birth to a movement that changed Nigeria’s political landscape forever. Today, as we reflect, we do so with deep appreciation for the founding fathers, women, youth, and party faithful who built this platform with sweat, courage, and conviction.

     

    7. Let us stand and observe a moment of silence in memory of our first leader and the first elected president produced by our party, President Muhammadu Buhari.

     

    (May Allah continue to keep his soul in Aljana Firdaus).

     

    8. Let us also stand and observe another moment of silence in memory of other leaders and members, with whom we started this journey together and who have passed on to eternal glory:

     

    (May their souls rest in perfect peace).

     

    9. All the departed members and those of us still alive bearing the torch did not build this party for division and selfishness. Together, we have the duty to ensure that the vision of our founding fathers is not diminished. We must deepen it.

     

    10. Let me say this clearly and sincerely: Our greatest strength has never been in our size or numbers, but our unity. Political parties do not fail only through electoral defeats. Often, they falter when ego overrides ideology or when ambition replaces discipline. They fail when individual interests threaten the collective good. We must guard against those tendencies at all costs.

     

    11. Therefore, this Convention must send one clear message to Nigerians and the world: Our party is strong, united, focused and ready for the future.

     

    12. We must also remind ourselves that this party is not merely a vehicle specially built to carry ambitious politicians to electoral victories. It was founded as a vehicle for national transformation, a home for anybody who wants to build a Nigeria where governance works, institutions function, opportunities abound, security reigns, poverty declines, and every Nigerian, regardless of tribe, religion, region or social status, can live with dignity and hope.

     

    13. Let me reiterate, especially to those who often lament and misunderstand us: we do not seek a one-party state. Democracy thrives on vibrant and healthy competition. As a statesman and political leader, I believe in a credible opposition—one that can challenge, question and help refine policies. That is how statecraft improves, and good governance is achieved. That is how nations advance.

     

    14. While we welcome criticism, the constant attacks by opposition groups on the Electoral Act 2026 are a disservice to the Nigerian people. It is public knowledge that the processes leading to the amendment of the 2022 Electoral Act passed through the crucible of legislative scrutiny, including public hearings. The Electoral Act was passed by the National Assembly, elected by the Nigerian people in accordance with the 1999 Constitution.

     

    The Act reflects our collective quest as a nation to strengthen our electoral system and consolidate democratic rule. Therefore, our commitment is to uphold the rule of law, conduct credible elections and protect the integrity of our elections, and continue building a stronger, secure, and united nation.

     

    15. When Nigerians reaffirmed our leadership of the country as the governing party in 2023, we made a solemn promise to chart a new course for national renewal through the Renewed Hope Agenda. That agenda was not conceived as just another campaign slogan. It was conceived as a governing philosophy.

     

    16. We knew the road to reform would be tough. We knew rebuilding Nigeria would require courage, patience, and difficult decisions. But we also knew: no nation rises by hiding from the truth. No economy grows by sustaining wasteful subsidies or dysfunctional priorities. No future is built on perpetual self-denial.

     

    17. That is why we chose the path of reform, And I assure you: The sacrifices of today are laying the foundation for Nigeria’s prosperity tomorrow. Our leaders, party members, and supporters can take pride in the success we have achieved in redirecting our country.

     

    18. Fellow compatriots, since assuming office, our government has remained focused on delivering on its mandate to the Nigerian people. Despite the complex global economic and political environment and the fact that we are currently experiencing another unanticipated blowout arising from the US-Israeli-Iranian War, we have made notable strides. We have made strides in infrastructure development, including the construction of superhighways and concrete-and-steel roads.

     

    19. Apart from roads, we are modernising our seaports and airports. We have begun the implementation of a historic tax and fiscal policy reforms. We are implementing social investment programmes, and have embarked on efforts to strengthen our national security.

     

    20. We have further built up foreign exchange buffers to protect the economy against external shocks. Our stock market is booming, and listed companies are recording mega profits. Our GDP is growing. We have successively recorded trade surpluses. Inflation has declined steadily for eight consecutive months to 14.45%, while food prices are easing, bringing gradual relief to households. Business confidence is returning, with 12 consecutive months of economic activity expansion.

     

    21. Investor confidence has vastly improved. Our oil and gas sector has once more become attractive to foreign investment, following our reforms. Our Eurobond issuance was oversubscribed by 400%, and Nigeria exited the FATF Grey List, marking a decisive return to global financial credibility.

     

    22. Despite these achievements, we continue to face legacy issues such as electricity supply, debts to GENCOs and gas suppliers, and antiquated transmission infrastructure. Recently, we announced plans to address this by establishing the Grid Asset Management Company (GAMCO), which will inject approximately 1,600 megawatts into a new grid corridor.

     

    23. Tonight, you heard testimonies from beneficiaries of some of our programmes. Our programmes are real, visible, feasible, impactful, measurable, and not mere rhetoric, as some opposition elements like to say. We are moving from survival mode to stability and steadily towards an era of prosperity.

     

    24. To the young people of our party and our nation, let me speak directly to you. You are not only the future of Nigeria. You are our hope for a more glorious and assured future. Your creativity, innovation, digital fluency, enterprising spirit, and courage are our greatest national assets. This party must continue to open more doors for youth participation, not as props, but as decision makers. We must nurture a generation of young progressives who are not only politically active but intellectually grounded, morally disciplined, and nationally committed. The future we seek cannot be built without you at its centre.

     

    25. To the women of Nigeria and our party, I say: Your role in our growth and stability is essential. This party must continue to open wider spaces for women to lead, influence policy, and shape Nigeria’s democracy. A party that excludes women weakens itself; a party that empowers women will be stronger and more resilient. We have heard your calls, and we will act to ensure more women occupy leadership roles in party organs and government at all levels.

     

    26. As we continue the programme of this Convention, let us do so with maturity, mutual respect, and fidelity to due process. Conventions are not just observance of periodic party rituals. They are for institutional renewal. They present opportunities to deepen internal democracy, strengthen the party platform, reorganise our structure, and reaffirm our collective direction.

     

    27. I call on every delegate, aspirant, leader, and stakeholder to conduct themselves with integrity. Let no contest divide us. Let no outcome embitter us. At the end of this convention, our party must be the victor. We are one family, marching forward with clarity, discipline, and purpose.

     

    28. I extend my heartfelt appreciation to the Convention Planning Committee, led by His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Aminu Bello Masari, CFR, and His Excellency, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim, GCON. Your dedication and excellence have set a new standard for organisation and service.

     

    29. I must take a moment to specially appreciate our Governors for the pivotal roles they played in the organisation of this Convention. I commend Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State, who served as Vice Chairman II; Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State, who served as Secretary; and Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State, who served as Treasurer, for their dedication and leadership.

     

    30. I also wish to recognise Governor Dapo Abiodun, Chairman of the APC National Convention Venue Sub-Committee, for his remarkable commitment, including the funding and delivery of the venue setup.

     

    31. I equally extend my heartfelt appreciation to all our Governors and Ministers whose collective efforts, unity of purpose, and commitment ensured the seamless planning and resounding success of this Convention.

     

    32. To all those who will be elected today: carry this trust with humility, fairness, and unwavering commitment to our party’s ideals. The future of APC, and Nigeria’s democracy, depends on your leadership. Lead with courage, lead with integrity, and lead with vision.

     

    33. May your leadership inspire confidence, strengthen unity, and deliver progress worthy of the faith our members have placed in you.

     

    34. May you continue to win more converts into the party as we have done in the last two years, when an unprecedented number of new members, governors, senators, representatives, old and current, join our party from other political parties.

     

    35. This growth demonstrates the strength of our beliefs and Nigerians’ trust in our Party. My charge to you is to sustain this expansive political structure through credible leadership and transparent party management, anchored in a reliable, verifiable database of our members nationwide.

     

    36. May God bless our great party. May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

     

    Thank you all.

     

    Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR

    President, Commander-in-Chief of The Armed Forces,

    Federal Republic of Nigeria

  • NAPTIP, police seek stronger collaboration against trafficking

    NAPTIP, police seek stronger collaboration against trafficking

     

     

    By Ibironke Ariyo

    Abuja:  The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking In Persons (NAPTIP) and the Police have urged stronger collaboration to combat human trafficking and organised crime.

    They spoke at the unveiling of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crimes (UNODC) Country Programme for Nigeria 2026–2030 on Friday in Abuja.

    NAPTIP Director-General, Binta Adamu-Bello, called for collective action to address organised crime and corruption.

    She said the programme signalled renewed commitment to tackling trafficking, migrant smuggling and crimes undermining human dignity and development

    Adamu-Bello noted the initiative builds on longstanding Nigeria-UNODC partnership and addresses complex, evolving threats.

     

     

    She stressed that trafficking demanded urgent, coordinated and sustained responses from all stakeholders.

     

     

    “Government institutions, civil society, international partners and communities must work collectively to deliver measurable results.

     

     

    “At NAPTIP, we recognise the fight cannot be won in isolation. It requires collaboration, innovation and unwavering dedication,” she said.

     

     

    She said the programme aligned with NAPTIP’s mandate on protecting vulnerable groups, strengthening justice and promoting accountability.

     

     

    Adamu-Bello commended UNODC, describing the programme as vital for addressing emerging criminal threats.

     

     

    “Together, we are building a safer, just and inclusive Nigeria,” she said, linking it to the UN 2030 Agenda.

     

     

    She reaffirmed NAPTIP’s readiness to ensure the programme delivers tangible and lasting impact.

     

     

    “As we embark on this chapter, we remain committed to ensuring real benefits for our people,” she said.

     

     

    Inspector-General of Police, Mr Olatunji Disu, reaffirmed commitment to tackling organised crime, cybercrime and terrorism through partnerships.

     

     

    “Security is a collective responsibility. Effective policing requires support from institutions, partners and the public,” he said.

     

     

    Disu said collaboration with UNODC had strengthened law enforcement capacity against complex threats.

     

     

    He noted the programme provided a framework to deepen action against organised crime, drug trafficking, cybercrime and terrorism.

     

     

    The I-G said it aligned with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda and his vision of a responsive police force.

     

     

    He expressed optimism it would enhance coordination in addressing national security challenges.

     

     

    “We look forward to collaborative efforts to build safer communities and a more prosperous Nigeria,” Disu said.

     

     

    The UNODC programme aims to strengthen capacity to tackle crime, improve justice delivery and enhance governance through partnerships. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

     

  • Kano Deputy Governor, Aminu Gwarzo resigns amid impeachment proceedings

     

    By Aminu Garko
    Kano:  The Kwankwasiyya Movement, on Friday, announced the resignation of Kano State Deputy Governor, Aminu Gwarzo, describing the development as a difficult but necessary decision taken in the interest of governance and stability.
    This is contained in a statement issued by its spokesperson, Dr Habibu Mohammed, in Kano on Friday.
    The group said the resignation would take effect later in the day, bringing an end to the deputy governor’s tenure in office.
    “The Kwankwasiyya Movement wishes to formally inform the general public that the deputy governor of Kano state has tendered his resignation from office, effective later today,” the statement read.
    According to the movement, the decision is influenced by prevailing circumstances that have limited the deputy governor’s ability to fully discharge his responsibilities.
    “This decision, though difficult, has been taken in the overall interest of the people and the stability of governance in Kano state.
    “Recent circumstances have constrained the full realisation of the benefits and responsibilities attached to the office,” the statement said.
    The group, however, dismissed any suggestion that the resignation was an admission of guilt over allegations reportedly raised by the Kano State House of Assembly.
    “For the avoidance of doubt, this resignation does not in any way constitute an admission of the allegations,” the statement said, insisting that the deputy governor “maintains his innocence” and stands by his record in public service.
    It further described the resignation as an act of statesmanship, aimed at reducing political tension and promoting peace within the state’s governance structure.
    “Rather, this step is a demonstration of statesmanship and a commitment to peace, political maturity, and the avoidance of unnecessary tension,” the statement added.
    The movement also revealed that the former deputy governor would now focus on political activities, particularly strengthening the Kwankwasiyya Movement ahead of the 2027 general elections.
    “He has resolved to dedicate more time and energy to strengthening its structures, rebuilding strategies, and engaging in critical political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections,” the statement said.
    The Kwankwasiyya Movement urged its supporters and residents of Kano state to remain calm and law-abiding, assuring that further details regarding the development would be communicated in due course. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
  • APC national convention: Security beefed up as 8,453 delegates elect new NWC members

    APC national convention: Security beefed up as 8,453 delegates elect new NWC members

     

    By Emmanuel Mogbede and Emmanuel Oloniruha

    Abuja:  Security has been beefed up around Eagle Square, Abuja, venue of the All Progressives Congress (APC) national convention, the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports.

    NAN also reports that all the major roads leading to the venue of the convention were manned with security personnel, with patrol vehicles stationed at intervals around the area.

    While the personnel of Nigeria Police, Department of State Services and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps were conspicuous, delegates to the convention were also being subjected to through screening before being allowed access to the main venue.

    NAN correspondents who were at the venue also observed restriction of both human and vehicular movements, in line with the announcement made on Thursday by the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs Didi Wilson-Jack.
    Wilson-Jack had, in a circular, directed all the federal workers whose offices are around the Eagle Square to work from home on Friday owing to the party’s national convention holding there.
    NAN also reports that the organisers of the national convention had described the exercise as very critical, as it is expected to produce new National Working Committee (NWC) members who will steer the party’s affairs for the next four years.
    A total of 32 state governors and no fewer than 8,453 delegates from across the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) are expected to elect the new NWC members.
    Hon. Aminu Masari, Chairman of the APC National Convention Central Coordination Committee, had earlier assured of adequate security for all the participants at the convention.
    Masari’s assurance comes amidst reports that some aggrieved members of the party had instituted court cases to stop the convention.
    Masari, however, said that the party had not received any court notice, adding that as a law-abiding organisation, the APC would always abide by the law.
    The former Katsina governor said it was unfortunate that some members did not understand the zoning arrangements of the party’s NWC positions.
    He said that some members left the positions zoned to their geo-political zones and paid for forms meant for other zones, saying this was the reason they were not able to access the nomination forms.
    “We are not aware anybody has gone to court. We have not been served. I am sure you know we are a responsible party. If we are served, we will take notice of that.
    “APC is a responsible party in Nigeria. In line with federal character, all offices are zoned. If you come to buy form, you are buying for the positions zoned to your zone,” Masari said.
    NAN reports that the APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda and some other members of NWC are expected to be returned with affirmative votes, as they are unopposed.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
  • 5 more killed by Iranian missiles as shrapnel falls at Ben Gurion, curbing more flights

    5 more killed by Iranian missiles as shrapnel falls at Ben Gurion, curbing more flights

     

     

    United and Delta canceled their Israel routes through June.

    4 Palestinian women killed in West Bank by debris from projectile
    Civil defense and security forces conduct investigations at a hair salon where four women were killed by an Iranian missile in Beit Awwa in the West Bank, March 19, 2026. (Issam Rimawi/Anadolu via Getty Images)
    Advertisement
    By Philissa Cramer

    Five more people were killed overnight by Iranian missiles aimed at Israel: a man from Thailand in the country’s center, and four Palestinian women who had been preparing to break the Ramadan fast in their West Bank village. One was six months pregnant.

    The deaths come as Iran has increasingly turned to cluster munitions, which break apart and shed smaller bombs along their path — making them much harder for Israel’s air defense systems to intercept.

    Shrapnel from interceptions also fell at Ben Gurion Airport in recent days, damaging private planes and causing the airport authority to extend the cancelation of regular flights and limits on the number of people who can travel on “rescue flights” meant to allow travelers to leave and Israelis abroad to return. Several foreign carriers, including Delta and United, announced the cancellation of flights to and from Israel until at least June.

    Nearly three weeks of fighting, launched jointly by the United States and Israel against Iran, have thrown the Middle East into turmoil and shocked the global economy. Under pressure over rising gas prices, U.S. President Donald Trump distanced himself early Thursday from an Israeli attack on an Iranian oil field, but in a post on Truth Social, he reserved the right to attack the site himself if Iran continued to target energy infrastructure elsewhere in the Middle East.

    The developments come as questions mount about how long Israel can continue to intercept Iran’s ballistic missiles. Semafor reported this week that U.S. officials believe the Israelis are running low on interceptors, but Israeli authorities tamped down those concerns on Wednesday. A combination of increased use of cluster munitions and a shortage of interceptors would put Israelis at increased risk.

     

  • 1000+ Diaspora leaders call for action against ‘Jewish-extremist terror in the West Bank’

    1000+ Diaspora leaders call for action against ‘Jewish-extremist terror in the West Bank’

     

     

     

    The letter, organized by the London Initiative, was directed to Israeli President Isaac Herzog.

    Palestinians inspect a burned-out house following an attack
    Palestinians inspect a burned-out house following an attack by Jewish settlers, in the West Bank, March 23, 2026.
    By Philissa Cramer

    Over 1,000 Diaspora Jews are petitioning Israeli President Isaac Herzog to intervene against settler violence in the West Bank, saying that the settlers are threatening Israeli security.

    “Mr. President, the terror, death and destruction inflicted by Jewish-Israeli extremists against innocent Palestinians across the West Bank is an abomination,” says an open letter published Thursday. “It is not only morally shameful but a strategic threat to the future of Israel. It damages world Jewry and the relationship of future generations with Israel.”

    The letter continues, “Sadly, based on events and on the statements of the most extreme coalition partners it can be concluded that the violence now engulfing the West Bank is not only condoned by the government but is in fact policy.”

    The letter was organized by the The London Initiative, a liberal Zionist network founded earlier last year to “strengthen Israeli democracy, advance a fairer shared future for all citizens of Israel, revive hope in the prospects of achieving secure peace, and improve relations between all Israelis and world Jewry.” The number of signatories is growing as the letter circulates.

    It comes as violence against Palestinians in the West Bank — often unpunished by Israeli authorities — has reached new heights, with settlers allegedly killing seven Palestinians in the last month, including one on Thursday, and driving others from their homes.

    The situation has grown so extreme that the Israeli army this week took the unprecedented step of diverting soldiers from Lebanon, where Israel is battling Hezbollah, to the West Bank. Both the chief of staff of the Israeli Defense Forces and the Central Command chief have warned in recent days that conditions in the West Bank are contributing to a dire manpower shortage in the army.

    The issue has also ignited concern from the United States, and from Israel’s U.S. ambassador, Rabbi Yechiel Leiter, who told Ynet that he believed the situation was deterring some in Washington from supporting Israel. He called on the rabbis of the West Bank to constrain their disciples.

    “I’m so angry about the issue of Jewish riots in Judea and Samaria,” Leiter said. “It’s a handful of a few hundred people who are staining an entire enterprise — and everyone is silent.”

    The new letter signed by Diaspora Jews calls on Herzog to advocate for change with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his far-right ministers who have not interceded to stop the violence. The signatories include prominent philanthropists including Charles Bronfman; liberal rabbis from multiple countries; and former British and Canadian ambassadors to Israel.

    “Mr. President, Pesach is upon us. As we have for millennia, Jews everywhere will reflect on the promise of freedom and responsibilities of power,” the letter says. “We call on you to use your position to implore the government to put an end to the abomination of Jewish-extremist terror and the era of impunity for its perpetrators.”

  • Election should not be a trigger of conflicts, says NOA

    Election should not be a trigger of conflicts, says NOA

    NOA Kwara Director, Alhaji Abdulganiy Dare at the sensitization programme on ‘Election without bitterness’

    By Bushrah Yusuf-Badmus

     

    The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has said that electoral participation in Nigeria should be a means of promoting national peace, and not a trigger for conflicts.

    The State Director, NOA in Kwara, Mr Abdulganiy Dare, stated this on Thursday in Ilorin during a sensitisation workshop with concerned stakeholders on ”Election without bitterness”.

    Dare said “as we anticipate the 2027 General Elections, it is imperative that we begin to lay the groundwork for peace now.

    The NOA director said the gathering of stakeholders was to make commitment and take a proactive stand toward having a rancour free election in Kwara.

    “The moment we allow bitterness to take roots in our political engagements, we lose the moral high ground to call ourselves a civilized society.

    ”A responsible state is built when political actors stop seeing opponents as enemy, but as partners in the quest for a better world.

    ”In the past, elections have sometimes been viewed as a do or die affair, creating deep seated divisions within our communities.

    ”However, we must realize that a peaceful election is not a miracle.

    “It is a choice made by the political office seekers who choose this world over weapon and by the voters who chooses peace over provocation.

    ”We must embrace tolerance and moral high ground, because the strength of our democracy is found in our diversity of opinion, not in our ability to silence those who disagree with us,” he said.

    According to him, the agency is committed to engaging every corner of the state through town hall meetings, media advocacy, and grassroots dialogue to ensure that every citizen understand their role in maintaining order.

    Also, the INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner in Kwara, Dr Gabriel Longpet said that the communities are in need of growth, jobs, infrastructure, and hope and not endless quarrels.

    Longpet said when bitterness is allowed to dominate the political space, ordinary people become the greatest victims.

    ”In every society, politics is meant to serve as a tool for progress, unity, and the advancement of common good.

    ”However, experience has shown that when politics is driven by bitterness, grudges, and unhealthy rivalry, it loses its true purpose and becomes a stumbling block to development.

    ”My conviction is that leadership should be about inclusivity, tolerance, and open-mindedness.

    ”We may not always agree on ideas, but disagreement must never breed enmity and constructive criticism should replace destructive attacks, and dialogue should replace hostility,” he said.

    The Convener of the Coalition of Civil Society Organizations in Kwara, Abdulrahman Ayuba said the media should not be partisan in reportage as this would not allow them perform their watchdog role in the society.

    He also urged citizens to be cautious of posts that could cause problems and always verify information before putting them out in the social media.

    Chairman of SDP in Kwara Mr Ibrahim Saheed appealed to INEC to maintain neutrality, as it is very important to achieve politics or election without violence.

    He said a political party must not be seen as a favorite of the INEC.

    Other stakeholders at the programme include representatives of the NPF, NSCDC, EFCC,LP and others.

  • Aggrieved APC aspirant, Fubara Dagogo, dismisses report of his alleged suspension

    Aggrieved APC aspirant, Fubara Dagogo, dismisses report of his alleged suspension

     

    Amb. Fubara Dagogo, an aggrieved aspirant in the scheduled All Progressives Congress (APC) national convention, on Friday, dismissed the report of his alleged suspension by his ward executive vommittee in Rivers.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) observes that Dagogo was reportedly suspended by members and the Ward 4 Executive Committee of APC in Bonny Local Government Area in Rivers following his legal action against the party.

    (From Left: Amb. Fubara Dagogo, an aggrieved aspirant in the APC’s National Convention, and his lawyer, Chief Ogochukwu Onyema, at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Friday.)

    The committee had accused him of gross misconduct and anti-party activities.

    The decision was said to have been conveyed by the Ward Chairman, Richard Ibani, who said the resolution followed a meeting of the committee held on March 16.

    NAN earlier reported that Dagogo, in the suit, prayed Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court in Abuja to nullify the outcome of any APC’s national congress for the position of National Vice Chairman, South South, without his physical participation

    The plaintiff had alleged that he was unlawfully excluded from contesting the position of National Vice-Chairman, South-South, despite paying ₦5.1 million for the expression of interest and nomination forms.

    Dagogo, who was at the court on Friday with his lawyer, described his suspension from the party as “untrue.”

    Reacting in an interview, the aggrieved aspirant queried the information.

    “How do you react to the issue of your suspension by your party,” the Journalists asked.

    “Which party,” Dagogo asked.

    “The All Progreseives Congress (APC),” the journalists responded.

    “You mean my party? Suspended who? I am sorry, they are not talking to me.

    ” I believe those people that carried out that suspension need to be properly guided.

    “Because I know very well that, that purported action was not for me and whatever action is being carried out, it is expected that they exhaust the constitutional provisions,” he said.

    According to him, I strongly believe that these are people that have just newly come into the party.

    “This is a party that His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has tutored us right from Action Congress of Nigeria, on how to explore internal party mechanisms before taking resolutions.

    “I believe if an executive is to take resolution, they must exhaust all the party’s mechanisms in accordance with the constitution of the party and ensure that suspending someone complies with the law.

    “But at the moment, that suspension is not for me because we have so many Fubaras and Dagogos.

    ” Some people will say I am related to Dagogo Jack, some will say I am related to Siminalayi Fubara, but I strongly believe that, that exercise is not for me.

    “So I still remain a bonafide, founding member of APC. I still remain a critical stakeholder of this party.

    “I still remain a renewed hope founding associate of Mr President and a legacy ally of this party,” he said.

    Dagogo debunked the allegation that he failed to explore internal mechanisms of the party in resolving the issue of his aspiration.

    He said he had exhausted all the processses before approaching the court.

    He, however, said that he was fully in support of the candidature of President Tinubu as party’s presidential flagbearer; Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda as APC’s national chairman, and in support of other aspirants vying for other offices.

    Dagogo said he had instructed his supporters to back Tinubu and Yilwatda, among others in the convention.

    According to him, President Tinubu’s candidature is undisputed because he is our leader.

  • World Theatre Day: Industry Players Push for Revival of Nigerian Theatre.

    World Theatre Day: Industry Players Push for Revival of Nigerian Theatre.

    World Theatre Day: Industry Players Push for Revival of Nigerian Theatre.

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    ‎By Oluwaseyi Oduneye-Ogunwomoju.
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    ‎A Nollywood actor, Babatunde Ojobaro, popularly known as Mister Rain, has said Nigeria’s theatre industry is yet to reach its full potential.
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    ‎Ojobaro made this known while commemorating World Theatre Day, observed annually on March 27.
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    ‎The day celebrates theatre arts and their impact on society, highlighting the role of stage performance in storytelling, cultural expression and social change.
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    ‎According to Ojobaro, although Nigeria boasts immense talent, compelling stories and willing audiences, the sector still lacks the structures required to thrive.
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    ‎He identified key challenges as inadequate performance spaces, limited funding and weak audience development.
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    ‎“The major challenges include few functional performance spaces, poor funding and sponsorship structures, as well as weak audience development from schools and communities.
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    ‎“In addition, theatre is not yet treated as an economic sector, and many practitioners migrate to other industries or abroad.
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    ‎“In short, we have the creativity but not enough infrastructure,” he said.
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    ‎Ojobaro stressed the need for deliberate efforts to grow the sector, including the establishment of community theatre hubs, reintroduction of theatre in schools and stronger collaboration among practitioners.
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    ‎He also called for improved digital visibility and proper positioning of theatre within the creative economy.
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    ‎“These steps will strengthen the ecosystem and accelerate growth,” he added.
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    ‎The actor further urged government at all levels to play active roles by providing accessible venues, creating production grants and reviving school theatre festivals.
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    ‎“Supporting technical theatre training for youth employment and partnering with existing organisations are equally important,” he said.
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    ‎He described theatre as a powerful tool for education, employment, cultural preservation and national storytelling.
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    ‎Similarly, a 300-level Theatre Arts student at the University of Ibadan, Odama Bakari, described theatre as a dynamic and immersive art form that connects people.
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    ‎“It is the magic of the stage, where raw emotions meet action. Whether it’s fantasy or realistic drama, theatre brings stories to life.
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    ‎“It is a total art form involving script, movement and set design, all working together to build a world before an actor speaks,” he said.
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    ‎Bakari noted that in Nigeria, theatre also serves as a bridge to cultural roots, transforming oral traditions and proverbs into modern expressions.
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    ‎He added that World Theatre Day serves as a source of motivation for aspiring practitioners.
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    ‎“As a student and aspiring actor, the day validates our commitment to the craft and reminds us of its global relevance,” he said.
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    ‎While acknowledging improvements in technology and production quality, Bakari said more investment in infrastructure and creative spaces was needed.
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    ‎“We need more functional theatres across cities to reduce the burden of centralisation, especially in Lagos,” he said.
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    ‎He also emphasised the importance of strengthening links between academic institutions and the professional industry to make theatre a viable career path.
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    ‎“When students see clear pathways to paid opportunities, the quality of output will improve,” he added.
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    ‎Also speaking, a 400-level student, Awah Mfonobong, described theatre as a collaborative art that blends acting, directing, music, costumes, lighting and set design.
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    ‎She said World Theatre Day offers practitioners a rare moment of recognition.
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    ‎“Theatre is often misunderstood and underappreciated, but this day reminds us that our work matters,” she said.
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    ‎Mfonobong called on policymakers to improve funding and infrastructure to make theatre more accessible and inclusive.
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    ‎“If properly supported, theatre will not be limited to certain social classes but open to everyone,” she said.
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    ‎World Theatre Day was established in 1961 by the International Theatre Institute (ITI) and first celebrated in 1962.
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