Flowerbud News

Year: 2026

  • Ex-Niger Delta agitator distances self from plots to disrupt Pro-Tinubu campaigns over pipeline surveillance

    Ex-Niger Delta agitator distances self from plots to disrupt Pro-Tinubu campaigns over pipeline surveillance

     

     

    Niger Delta ex-agitator, self-styled General Endurance Amagbein, on Monday, dismissed reports alleging that he is planning to disrupt pro-Tinubu campaigns in the Niger Delta over delay by the Federal Government in decentralising the pipeline surveillance contract.

    Amagbein, in a statement issued to newsmen in Abuja, described the author of the publication as a “fictitious character allegedly being used by pipeline surveillance contractors to circulate malicious reports against him.”

    The ex-agitator, fondly called “Adaka Boro the Second,” stated that he is a die-hard supporter of President Bola Tinubu and would never engage in any act capable of jeopardising the president’s chances of winning the 2027 election.

    Amagbein described the publication as the handiwork of his adversaries aimed at smearing his reputation, stressing that he has never conceived or supported any such plot.

    According to him, the same group of individuals who allegedly accused him falsely in connection with the Okuama incident to secure the renewal of surveillance contracts have now resorted to spreading unfounded allegations after running out of ideas.

    He said the report was merely a distraction designed to gain favour from the president and once again set state actors against him over matters he knows nothing about.

    Amagbein, however, reiterated his call for the decentralisation of pipeline surveillance contracts, noting that it would promote healthy competition, enhance transparency, boost oil production, and curb crude oil theft, particularly by insiders.

    He maintained that no amount of blackmail would discourage him from speaking the truth and standing for what is right for the people of the Niger Delta.

    The ex-agitator further stated that he mobilised his supporters and associates across the Niger Delta and beyond to support President Tinubu during the 2023 elections, adding that he has no regrets about that decision.

    He emphasised that he remains an ardent supporter of the Renewed Hope Agenda and will deploy the same energy and commitment he demonstrated in 2023 to support President Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027.

    The former freedom fighter urged members of the public to disregard the publication against him, describing it as fabricated to justify false claims.

    Amagbein also called on his supporters to continue backing the Tinubu-led administration, citing numerous developmental projects across the Niger Delta region as evidence of the government’s commitment to the area.

  • DEDSRI calls for sustained enlightenment against human trafficking in Enugu

    DEDSRI calls for sustained enlightenment against human trafficking in Enugu

    DEDSRI calls for sustained enlightenment against human trafficking in Enugu

     

    The Executive Director of Divine Era Development and Social Rights Initiative (DEDSRI), an NGO, Mrs Ogechukwu Enwelum, has called for sustained enlightenment against human trafficking in Enugu State.

     

    Enwelum made the call on Monday in Enugu during a stakeholders’ review meeting on the School Anti-Trafficking Education and Advocacy Project (STEAP).

     

    The project, which is being funded by the Kingdom of Netherlands, is organised by the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD) and the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP).

     

    Enwelum stressed that the project’s guiding message, “End Human Trafficking Now,” reflects a deliberate push to mobilise rural communities from the ground up and get to urban communities to kick against human trafficking.

     

    “We are targeting young people through schools, but the effort cannot succeed without involving their caregivers and the wider community.

     

    “Our approach is to engage existing structures within schools to ensure a comprehensive and lasting response against human trafficking in any form or ramification,” she said.

     

     

    She disclosed that Enugu State was the only state in the South-East selected among five pilot states nationwide, noting that the engagement of 50 schools had already started yielding results.

     

    On her part, the STEAP Project Manager, Mrs Rhoda-Dia Johnson, said the initiative was deliberately structured to equip students with practical knowledge and life skills that make them less susceptible to trafficking networks.

     

    According to her, building confidence and critical thinking among young people is key to dismantling the false promises often used by traffickers.

     

    Johnson further noted that collaboration remained central to the success of the project, with strong partnerships established between schools, community leaders, law enforcement agencies and civil society groups.

     

    “This multi-layered approach ensures that cases of suspected trafficking are promptly identified and addressed, while also creating a protective environment for students both within and outside the school system.

     

    “In fact, the continuous training for teachers and School-Based Management Committees has strengthened early warning mechanisms across participating schools,” the project manager said.

     

    On sustainability, Johnson said the project goes beyond short-term interventions by building the capacity of School-Based Management Committees (SBMC) to continue the work after donor support stops.

     

     

    Speaking, the South-East Zonal Commander of NAPTIP, Mr Jonathan Ukpai, noted that the initiative had entered its second phase, expanding from an initial pilot schools to an increased number of schools.

     

    Ukpai emphasised the need for targeted communication tools must reflect and explain different dimensions of human trafficking, including child labour, organ harvesting and sexual exploitation.

     

    “Human trafficking is multi-layered which will equally make our messaging to be clear and relatable to communities— showing real-life scenarios that people can easily identify and reject.

     

    “I must add that prosecution is often hindered because people try to shield offenders.

     

    “We are therefore intensifying advocacy to break this cycle of silence and encourage communities to stand for justice,” Ukpai added.

  • NANTA Honours ANJET at 50th Anniversary AGM in Ibadan

    NANTA Honours ANJET at 50th Anniversary AGM in Ibadan

    The National Association of Nigerian Travel Agencies (NANTA) has honoured the Association of Nigerian Journalists and Writers of Tourism (ANJET) with a Special Recognition Award during its 50th anniversary Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in Ibadan.
    NANTA said the award was in recognition of ANJET’s contributions to the growth and development of the association and the wider travel and tourism industry in Nigeria.
    Speaking while receiving the award, ANJET President, Okorie Uguru, expressed appreciation for the honour and congratulated NANTA on its golden jubilee celebration.
    “ANJET and NANTA have come a long way. The relationship spans over 30 years, and we consider ourselves part of the NANTA family,” Uguru said.
    He noted that past and present leaders of ANJET, including Tope-Awe, Frank Meke, Wale Ojo-Lanre, Andrew Okungbowa, Ikechi Uko and Jimoh Babatunde, among others, have played key roles in promoting NANTA’s activities over the years.
    Uguru pledged that ANJET would continue to support NANTA and contribute to the advancement of Nigeria’s travel and tourism sector.
    The three-day anniversary celebration featured a courtesy visit to the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi, presentations on travel and tourism business, and culminated in the election of new national executives and a gala night.

  • Musawa Calls for Enhanced Private Sector Role in Reviving Nigeria’s Cultural Tourism

    The Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Industry, Hannatu Musawa, has issued a rallying cry for a stronger role of the private sector in revitalizing Nigeria’s cultural tourism and enhancing the country’s global image during her address at the 50th anniversary and Annual General Meeting of the National Association of Nigerian Travel Agencies (NANTA).

    Musawa praised the efforts of travel professionals, acknowledging them as unofficial diplomats for Nigeria, who have effectively kept the country’s presence felt on international stages like the World Travel Market in London—often with limited governmental support. “Your dedication is critical to projecting Nigeria’s identity and influence abroad,” she stated.

    Emphasizing the need for collaboration, Musawa pointed out that the tourism sector cannot thrive on government initiatives alone, urging for a united front between the public and private sectors. “Sustainable development in tourism depends on shared responsibility and long-term investment rather than mere government funding,” she said.

    A highlight of the minister’s remarks was her endorsement of NANTA’s initiative to establish a professional training institute. This institute is envisioned as a globally recognized certification hub for travel and tourism professionals. Musawa remarked, “Building human capacity is essential to transforming Nigeria into a competitive destination capable of attracting international visitors while showcasing our rich culture and creative assets.”

    The minister connected the growth of tourism to a shift in the global narrative about Nigeria. She argued that increasing the nation’s visibility will not only counter negative stereotypes but will also amplify its strengths on the world stage. By encouraging diaspora engagement and promoting Nigeria as a cultural and economic powerhouse, Musawa believes the travel industry can play a pivotal role in reshaping perceptions.

    Looking forward, she urged NANTA to take advantage of its golden jubilee as a crucial turning point. “This is an opportunity to transition from national relevance to global leadership,” she asserted. Musawa pledged that her ministry would actively collaborate with industry stakeholders to deliver tangible initiatives by 2027, stating, “With the right strategies, Nigeria’s travel sector can become a major driver of jobs, investment, and international influence over the next fifty years.”

    As the nation seeks to diversify its economy away from oil reliance, Musawa’s vision for a robust partnership between the government and the private sector in the tourism industry could serve as a catalyst for significant economic growth and cultural promotion in Nigeria.

    Minister of Tourism, Hannatu Musawa, being welcomed to NANTA AGM in Ibadan weekend.

  • Bauchi 2027: Groups endorse Senator Shehu Buba Umar’s governorship bid

    Bauchi 2027: Groups endorse Senator Shehu Buba Umar’s governorship bid

     

    Two intellectual groups have endorsed Senator Shehu Buba Umar’s aspiration to vie for Bauchi State’s governorship election on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) come 2027.

    The groups; The Think-Tank for the Dream Bauchi Project, led by its Chairman, Prof. Musa M. Kirfi, and Lawyers for the Cause of Bauchi State, led by its Deputy Co-ordinator, Mahmood M. Maidoki Esq. (Bencher), gave the endorsement in a joint statement on Monday in Abuja.

    The groups, in the statement titled: “Our Stand on Issues of the Moment in Bauchi State,” said having assessed the situation on the ground in terms of the numerous aspirants to the governor’s office across party lines, they firmly believe Senator Umar’s performance so far in the senate,

    They also said that Umar is the best among all the aspirants considering his educational background as a doctoral research fellow, his age bracket, experience in national and local politics and above all, uncommon commitment to the development of Bauchi State and its people.

    “As bodies of men and women that have for long been involved in the struggle for a better leadership, governance framework and fortunes-changing leadership in Bauchi State, we are adding our voice in support of the governorship aspiration of the Distinguished Senator Shehu Buba Umar.

    “We are supporting his aspiration for these reasons and we are confident that only Shehu Buba candidature will guarantee victory for the APC in Bauchi State.

    “The electoral appeal of the masses which is necessary for victory in any election, especially in a state like Bauchi, coupled with the fact that even card-carrying members of other political parties have resolved to vote for him, makes it wise that the party field him for the office of the Governor,” the groups said.

    They described the decision by Bauchi State Governor, Bala Abdulkadir Muhammed, and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state to jettison their plan of defecting to APC as “welcoming.”

    “Politically speaking, Bauchi State needs a new break from the old and narrow arrangement which the Bauchi PDP represents.

    “With the 2027 elections a matter of months away, it is certainly not in the best interest of the state to narrow the conversation to APC, PDP.

    “If the truth is to be told, Bauchi State is grappling with many serious issues at the moment such that the focus of the leadership should be directed to providing solutions to these problems rather than dissipating energy on issue of defection.

    “Afterall, the people of Bauchi are wiser politically that changing platform by the PDP structure in the state will not earn them any leverage politically.

    “May we further add that what the APC in Bauchi need now are political leaders with quintessential qualities and value addition but not those whose career is confined to the law of diminishing returns,” they added.

    The groups, therefore, thanked President Bola Tinubu and the leadership of the party, including APC’s National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, for listening to the concerns of party members who voiced opposition to Governor Muhammed’s joining the party.

    “For standing by the truth and justice on this issue, you have made the party more popular in the state.

    “The people of Bauchi State are highly socialised and matured politically so when the time comes, we shall say thank you.

    “All we are asking for is let the momentum be sustained and victory is assured by God’s grace,” they said.

    According to them, Distinguished Shehu Buba Umar is a legitimate politics personified, the very reason Bauchi State people see him as a symbol of unity, progress, and inclusive development.

    “As intellectuals and groups that are guided by facts, verifiable information and commitment to the collective progress of Bauchi State, we shall continue to partner with Senator Buba and other politicians of goodwill towards delivering the forthcoming mandate at the governorship and other levels.

    “To take Bauchi to the desired level of progress and development, all hands have to be on deck,” they concluded.

  • Hon. Khalil Mustapha Adegboyega (Repete) Celebrates Senator Sarafadeen Alli at Birthday Milestone

    Hon. Khalil Mustapha Adegboyega (Repete) Celebrates Senator Sarafadeen Alli at Birthday Milestone

    In a vibrant display of political synergy and mutual respect, leading Ibadan North Federal Constituency hopeful, Hon. Khalil Mustapha Adegboyega, popularly known as “Repete,”has joined the ranks of eminent Nigerians to celebrate the birthday of a titan of Oyo politics, High Chief, Senator Sarafadeen Alli, the Ekarun Olubadan of Ibadanland, PhD.

    The celebration marks more than just a birth anniversary; it serves as a powerful testament to the enduring alliance between the seasoned legislative prowess of Senator Alli and the rising, youthful energy of Hon. Adegboyega within the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    A Bridge Between Tradition and Progress

    In a heartfelt tribute, Hon. Adegboyega described Senator Alli as a “Visionary Leader” whose dual mastery of academic excellence and traditional heritage has provided a steady compass for the people of Oyo State.

    “The Senator is not just a leader; he is a school of thought,” Hon. Adegboyega stated. “His commitment to the progress, unity, and prosperity of Ibadan remains the blueprint for those of us aspiring to serve. We are celebrating a man who has successfully bridged the gap between the sanctity of the Olubadan throne and the complexities of modern governance at the National Assembly.”

    The “Repete” Vision: Progress for Ibadan North

    The alignment between these two figures has sent a clear message of stability to the electorate in Ibadan North Federal Constituency. As Hon. Khalil Mustapha Adegboyega (Repete) gears up his campaign, his public celebration of the Senator highlights his own core values:

    Loyalty, Excellence, and Strategic Development .

    Repete’s vision for the Federal Constituency—centered on empowerment, legislative advocacy, and grassroots inclusion—mirrors the high standards set by the Ekarun Olubadan. Political observers note that this “Master-Protégé” dynamic reinforces the APC’s readiness to deliver quality representation to the people of Ibadan North.

    Building a Prosperous Future

    The birthday celebration has ignited a wave of optimism across Ibadan, with supporters of both leaders hailing the partnership as a “winning formula” for the upcoming political cycle.
    As Senator Sarafadeen Alli marks another year of impact, the momentum continues to build for Hon. Khalil Mustapha Adegboyega. With the Senator’s legacy of service as a guide, Repete is rapidly becoming the definitive choice for a constituency hungry for progress, unity, and a representative who truly understands the pulse of the people.

    Signed:
    The Repete Media Office
    For: Hon. Khalil Mustapha Adegboyega (Repete)
    Hopeful Candidate, Ibadan North Federal Constituency

  • Mothers’ Day: Oji River LG Chairman Hails ‘Quiet Strength’ of Mothers

    Mothers’ Day: Oji River LG Chairman Hails ‘Quiet Strength’ of Mothers

    Mothers’ Day: Oji River LG Chairman Hails ‘Quiet Strength’ of Mothers

     

    The Chairman, Oji River Local Government Area, Mr Greg Anyaegbudike, has commended mothers for their “quiet strength” that holds millions of homes together.

     

    In a congratulatory message to newsmen in Enugu on Sunday, Anyaegbudike felicitated Christian mothers marking Mothering Sunday in some denominations worldwide.

     

    “‎As we mark Mothering Sunday, I extend warm greetings to all mothers on behalf of the Government and people of Oji River Local Government Area, especially our Catholic Church mothers in Oji River and beyond who celebrate today.

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    “‎Your love, care, and selfless sacrifice hold our families, the Church, and the society together,” he said

     

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    The chairman noted that a mother’s impact is beyond measure and that his administration values their daily contributions to the council area.

     

    “For the homes you manage, we are grateful. We see your love.

     

    “We see the quiet strength, the late nights, the prayers, and the sacrifices you make, from raising families to building the moral and social foundations of our society,” he said.
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    He consequently, prayed that  God bless and strengthen all mothers, as their love builds the world.

  • Osun 2026: Between Performance and Packaging

    Osun 2026: Between Performance and Packaging

    By Akano Kolobo
    As the countdown to the 2026 governorship election in Osun State gathers momentum, the political atmosphere is becoming saturated with familiar patterns—carefully crafted narratives, selective projections, and the age-old attempt to sell “newness” as a substitute for tested leadership.

    In recent weeks, attention has been drawn to the emerging profile of Bola Oyebamiji, a technocrat whose supporters have worked tirelessly to frame as the face of competence and fiscal discipline.

    On paper, it is an attractive proposition. In practice, however, governance is rarely a spreadsheet exercise.

    The fundamental question before the people of Osun is not who has the most polished résumé, but who has demonstrated the capacity to govern in real time, under real pressures, and with real consequences for ordinary citizens.

    Governor Ademola Adeleke may not fit the conventional mould of a technocratic administrator, but politics—especially at the subnational level—is not an abstract theory. It is about roads that are built, salaries that are paid, pensions that are cleared, and communities that feel seen.

    There is a growing tendency among sections of the political elite to underestimate the intelligence of voters by assuming that governance can be reduced to jargon—“fiscal discipline,” “institutional efficiency,” “data-driven systems.” These are important, no doubt, but they are tools, not ends in themselves..

    The renewed attempt to repackage opposition figures within the All Progressives Congress as technocratic saviours must therefore be interrogated. Where were these ideas when they had the opportunity to shape policy outcomes? What measurable difference did they make when entrusted with public responsibility?

    Elections are ultimately about trust. And trust is not built in conference rooms or policy seminars; it is earned in the daily interaction between leaders and the led.
    Much has also been made of the governor’s political realignment with the Accord Party.

    Critics see this as a vulnerability. I see it differently. In a political system often defined by rigid party lines, the ability to build coalitions across divides may well prove to be a strategic advantage.
    Let us be clear: Osun does not need a contest between “noise” and “numbers,” as some would frame it. What it needs is a sober evaluation of continuity versus experimentation.
    Continuity, in this context, is not about stagnation. It is about consolidating gains, refining policies, and deepening impact. Experimentation, on the other hand, carries risks—especially when it is driven more by perception than by proven capacity.
    As the campaigns intensify, voters must resist the temptation to be swayed by glossy projections and instead focus on verifiable outcomes.

    The future of Osun State cannot be outsourced to promises alone.
    In the end, democracy offers a simple but profound choice: do you retain a leadership that has delivered within the limits of its mandate, or do you gamble on potential wrapped in presentation?
    For me, the answer lies not in packaging, but in performance.

    (Akano Kolobo
    Writes in from Apena Compound
    Ede, Osun State.)

  • Political Realignment in Jigawa:Senator Nakudu Expands Influence ….. Secures Keys Grassroots Support.

    By Tunde Akano

    The governorship ambition of Senator Sabo Mohammed Nakudu, CON, in Jigawa State received a significant boost on Sunday following the declaration of loyalty by the political structure of Alhaji Shehu Mohammed Sanusi, Dan’iyan Dutse, to his movement under the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

    The event, held in Dutse, the Jigawa State capital, attracted thousands of supporters, mainly from Dutse Local Government Area, as well as representatives from seven local government areas within the Dutse Emirate, underscoring strong grassroots support.

    Prominent party stakeholders attended the occasion, including the ADC Chairman of Dutse LGA, Alhaji Mu’azu Dodo; the Local Government Women Leader; former Chairmen of Dutse and Sule Tankarkar LGAs, Alhaji Zubairu Abaya and Alhaji Sale Ahmed Danzomo; and the ADC Peace Ambassador, Alhaji Nuradeen Jidawa, among others.

    In his address, Senator Nakudu expressed gratitude for the development, describing it as a major step in strengthening the party structure. He pledged to lead with fairness, honesty, and inclusiveness, assuring supporters of a united approach toward achieving collective goals under the ADC platform.

    He also called on youths and women to actively participate in the political process, emphasizing the role of youths in safeguarding electoral integrity and urging them to remain calm and patient while awaiting election results.

    Addressing women, Nakudu described them as the backbone of electoral success and urged them to remain vigilant, alleging attempts by opposition elements to influence voters through financial inducements. He, however, expressed confidence in divine support despite limited financial resources compared to opponents.

    Nakudu reaffirmed his commitment to delivering meaningful development that would benefit the people of Jigawa State.

    Earlier, the convener of the meeting, Alhaji Shehu Mohammed Sanusi, said the gathering was organized to formally present his political structure to the senator. He confirmed that the structure had been fully integrated into Nakudu’s governorship movement under the ADC, expressing optimism that the alliance would advance the senator’s ambition.

    The development marks a notable political realignment in Jigawa State as preparations intensify ahead of the 2026 governorship election.