Author: Ibrahim Abusadiq
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31 Artillery Brigade wins army fitness competition
By Yahaya IsaThe 31 Artillery Brigade, Minna, on Friday emerged overall winner of the 1 Division Nigerian Army Corporal and Below Combat Fitness Competition.The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports the competition began on Monday at the brigade obstacle course and ended on Friday.Participants were drawn from four formations: 3 Brigade Kano, 18 Brigade Bida, 1 Division Garrison Kaduna, and 31 Artillery Brigade, Minna.Events included drill, weapon handling, swimming, map reading, a 10-kilometre half cross-country race, and obstacle crossing.At the end, 31 Artillery Brigade, Minna, placed first, 3 Brigade Kano second, 1 Division Garrison Kaduna third, and 18 Brigade Bida fourth.The Special Guest of Honour, Maj.-Gen. Peter Malla, commended participants, saying the exercise was not only about trophies but strengthening combat readiness.The Commandant, Training and Doctrine Nigerian Army (TRADOC-NA), represented by Maj.-Gen. Muhammed Abdullahi, said such drills were necessary, especially given the country’s security situation.He urged personnel to apply the skills gained in carrying out their responsibilities.Malla said the competition aligned with the Chief of Army Staff’s philosophy of building a more professional, adaptable, and combat-ready force.He added that persistent security challenges required stronger cohesion and camaraderie among security agencies.Highlights included presentation of trophies to winners and souvenirs to dignitaries present at the event.NAN -

OmoBarca Congratulates David Mark, Rauf Aregbesola, Pledges Loyalty to New ADC Leadership
Flowerbud News/ Hon. Francis Barthlomew Chima, a grassroots politician, popularly known as Omobarca and House of Representative Aspirants for Ajeromi Ifelodun constituency congratulates the newly constitued National Working Committee ( NWC) of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) after the successful conclusion of its National Convention held in Abuja.
In a statement made available to journalists, OmoBarca specifically commended prominent party leaders, including former Senate President David Mark and former Osun State governor Rauf Aregbesola, for their roles in steering the party toward a successful convention and the emergence of a new leadership team.
He described the convention as a significant milestone for the ADC, noting that it reflects the party’s growing internal cohesion and commitment to democratic principles. According to him, the peaceful conduct of the exercise and the emergence of a credible NWC signal a renewed direction for the party ahead of future electoral contests.
OmoBarca pledged his “unalloyed loyalty” to the newly elected leadership, assuring them of his readiness to support their vision and programmes at all levels. He emphasized that as a grassroots politician, he remains committed to mobilising support for the party and strengthening its presence among ordinary Nigerians.
“I am fully aligned with the new leadership and ready to contribute my quota to the growth and success of our great party,” he said. “The ADC represents a credible alternative for Nigerians, and I am confident that under the new NWC, the party will continue to expand its influence nationwide.”
Reaffirming his political ambition, OmoBarca stated that his aspiration to represent the people of Ajeromi Ifelodun Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives remains firmly on course. He described his ambition as a “call to service,” driven by a desire to provide effective representation and bring development closer to the people.
He further stressed that his ambition would be pursued on the platform of the ADC, expressing confidence in the party’s ideology and capacity to deliver good governance.
“My aspiration is rooted in service to the people. I remain committed to contesting under the ADC platform to represent the good people of Ajeromi Ifelodun, and by the grace of God and the support of the people, this vision will be realised,” he added.
OmoBarca also used the opportunity to extend his best wishes to the newly inaugurated NWC, expressing optimism that their tenure would usher in a new era of progress for both the party and the country.
He urged the leadership to remain focused, inclusive, and people oriented in their approach to governance within the party, noting that Nigerians are increasingly looking for credible alternatives capable of addressing the nation’s socio-economic challenges.
“I wish the new NWC a fruitful and successful tenure,” he said. “I believe their leadership will not only strengthen the ADC but also contribute to building a new Nigeria that works for all.”
The ADC National Convention, which attracted party delegates and stakeholders from across the country, is seen as a crucial step in repositioning the party ahead of upcoming political engagements. Analysts say the emergence of a new leadership structure could enhance the party’s competitiveness in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.
With renewed commitments from party members like OmoBarca, observers note that the ADC may be positioning itself to play a more prominent role in national politics in the coming years.


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E-procurement initiative underway, says BPP DG
By Olasunkanmi Onifade
The Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) says an electronic procurement system is underway for the country.
The Director-General of BPP, Dr Adebowale Adedokun, disclosed this on Wednesday in Abuja when a News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) delegation paid a courtesy visit to his office.
The delegation was led by the Managing Director of NAN, Malam Ali Muhammad Ali.
Adedokun said the bureau was already working with the National Assembly to amend the Public Procurement Act as part of the process to implement the initiative.
He also said President Bola Tinubu had approved a community-based procurement model proposed by the Federal Ministry of Health and BPP for immediate implementation.
Adedokun said the community- based initiative was to give Nigerians opportunity to bid for contracts without coming to Abuja.
He explained that under the model, Nigerians could bid for “low-hanging contracts” through application of technology.
“What that means is that you can actually bid for a contract as a local on your phone, get your money transferred to you.
“Ciivil society leaders and traditional leaders will confirm that that project has been done before payments will be done,” he said.
Adedokun added that the initiative was designed to keep funds within local economies and reduce security risks associated with travelling to Abuja to seek contracts.
“We no longer want Abuja-based contractors to still go to our local governments and collect what the others can do.”
The director general also said that government now has a debarment policy to sanction non-performing contractors.
“Under this administration and for the first time, we have a debarment policy that says a contractor that does bad jobs should be shamed, published nationally and internationally, and must not get jobs again for a period of time,’’Adedokun said.
Earlier, Ali had expressed concern that many achievements of the administration were not being celebrated because MDAs were not giving them adequate publicity.
According to him, NAN’s credibility makes it the preferred platform for institutions and media-savvy institutions.
“Our clients say if it’s going to NAN, then it’s going to be authentic.
“When you talk to NAN, you are talking to all. Give us your statement, your press release, the rest I assure you that within a few minutes, others like you will get it,” Ali said.
NAN reports that BPP was established by the Public Procurement Act of 2007, succeeding the Budget Monitoring and Price Intelligence Unit (BMPIU), which was created in 2001 to implement reforms for transparency, competition, and value-for-money in government spending.
NAN
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N-HYPPADEC assures Niger Health Ministry of partnership to improve healthcare delivery
By Mohammed Baba Busu
The National Hydroelectric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (N-HYPPADEC) has assured the Niger State Ministry of Health of its readiness to collaborate in improving healthcare delivery in the state.
The Managing Director of N-HYPPADEC, Alhaji Abubakar Sadiq Yelwa, gave the assurance during a courtesy visit by officials of the Niger State Ministry of Health to the commission’s corporate office in Minna.
Yelwa welcomed the ministry’s initiative aimed at expanding medical outreach across the state and commended the team for its efforts in improving healthcare services.
According to him, healthcare services have remained a major component of the commission’s interventions in host communities due to the prevalence of health challenges in those areas.
He noted that collaboration between the commission and the ministry would go a long way in reducing the challenges associated with medical outreach and improving access to healthcare services.
Earlier, the Niger State Commissioner for Health, Dr Murtala Bagana, presented an overview of the state’s health status and expressed the ministry’s readiness to partner with N-HYPPADEC.
Bagana said the collaboration would strengthen health system coordination and governance, improve supply chain planning and service delivery performance, as well as increase community trust, health awareness and service uptake.
He explained that his vision was to reposition the ministry as a beacon of efficiency, integrity and innovation in healthcare service delivery through a strategic six-point agenda tagged THRIVE.
The commissioner also called on N-HYPPADEC to support the implementation of the Niger State Integrated Medical Outreach programme aimed at bridging gaps in healthcare service utilisation.
He further disclosed that the ministry was planning to organise a five-day Integrated Health Medical Outreach across the state later in 2026.
Bagana assured the commission that the ministry would ensure value for money in the implementation of the programme.
NAN
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Hon. Francis Barthlomew Chima (OmoBarca) Felicitates Ajeromi Ifelodun Constituency on Easter Celebration
Hon. Francis Barthlomew Chima aka OmoBarca has extended warm Easter greetings to the people of Ajeromi Ifelodun Constituency, calling on residents to embrace the spirit of renewal, sacrifice, and hope symbolized by the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
In his Easter message, the lawmaker congratulated Christians across the constituency and beyond for witnessing yet another celebration of Easter, a season he described as deeply significant in the Christian faith. According to him, the resurrection of Jesus Christ remains a powerful reminder of victory over adversity, the triumph of light over darkness, and the enduring promise of new beginnings.
Hon. Chima urged constituents to reflect on the core values of the Easter season, including love, unity, forgiveness, and selfless service. He emphasized that these virtues are essential not only in personal lives but also in building a peaceful and progressive society.
“Easter is a time for deep reflection and renewal. It reminds us that no matter the challenges we face, there is always hope for a better tomorrow. The resurrection of Christ teaches us resilience, faith, and the power of sacrifice,” he said.
The lawmaker also used the opportunity to appreciate the people of Ajeromi Ifelodun for their continued support and cooperation, noting that their collective commitment to peace and development has remained a driving force for progress in the constituency.
He reaffirmed his dedication to the welfare and advancement of the people, pledging to continue advocating for policies and initiatives that will improve their standard of living. According to him, leadership is a responsibility that requires empathy, accountability, and a genuine desire to serve.
Hon. Chima further encouraged residents to use the Easter period to strengthen bonds within their families and communities, stressing that unity remains a critical ingredient for sustainable development. He called on youths in particular to remain focused, law-abiding, and committed to positive engagements that will contribute to the growth of the constituency.
While acknowledging the economic and social challenges facing many Nigerians, the lawmaker expressed optimism that with collective effort, determination, and faith, the nation would overcome its difficulties.
“As we celebrate this season, let us remain hopeful and continue to support one another. Together, we can build a stronger, more inclusive, and prosperous Ajeromi Ifelodun,” he added.
Hon. Chima concluded his message by wishing all residents a peaceful and joyful Easter celebration, urging them to stay safe and uphold the values that define the season.
“May this Easter bring renewed strength, abundant blessings, and lasting peace to every home in Ajeromi Ifelodun. Happy Easter to you all,” he said.
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BPP seeks stronger procurement practices to boost national development
Flowerbud News/ The Director-General of the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), Dr Adedokun Adebowale, has urged procurement officers to strictly adhere to rules to drive reforms and national development.
Adebowale made the call on Thursday while presenting a paper titled “Transforming Public Procurement Systems through Reforms and Innovations for Sustainable Development: A Strategic Playbook”.
He spoke at the third capacity-building event of the Association of Public Procurement Practitioners of Nigeria which held in Lagos.
He urged procurement officers to always lead by example, stressing that failure to follow established regulations weakened the system and undermined public trust.
“If procurement officers do not submit to rules, they can not expect others to comply,” he said.
Adebowale described public procurement as the largest component of government expenditure and a key driver of national development outcomes.
He said every procurement decision either strengthened public trust through quality delivery or eroded confidence through compromised processes.
According to him, Nigeria must shift from a legacy system focused on paperwork and narrow compliance to one centred on service delivery, innovation, and measurable impact.
He outlined seven pillars for a sustainable procurement system, namely, transparency, integrity, competition, efficiency, digital transformation, professional capacity, and accountability.
“Transparency through open contracting and public disclosure will reduce corruption and improve trust in government processes,” he said.
He emphasised ntegrity, urging practitioners to avoid conflicts of interest and uphold ethical standards in all procurement activities.
The director-general said that improved efficiency had led to savings of about N1.1 trillion within 11 months, compared to N2.2 trillion saved over two decades.
He attributed the gains to strengthened oversight, price intelligence mechanisms, and direct access to leadership.
Adebowale highlighted digital transformation as critical, noting increased adoption of electronic submission platforms and plans for a full e-procurement system.
He said classification of contractors based on competence would eliminate manipulation and ensure only qualified firms handled specific projects.
He stressed the importance of collaboration between public and private sectors, noting that effective procurement requires both demand and supply sides working together.
Adebowale urged private sector players to train their staff in public procurement processes and align with national reform objectives.
He also advocated localisation policies, including prioritising Nigerian-made goods and services to boost domestic industries and employment.
The director-general said affirmative procurement would allocate 30 per cent of contracts to vulnerable groups, including women, youths, and persons with disabilities.
He said that community-based procurement would enable local participation in projects across the country’s 774 local government areas.
Adebowale called for stronger oversight and early detection mechanisms, including publication of procurement data and regular audits.
He said enforcement would involve collaboration with anti-corruption agencies to investigate and prosecute infractions.
According to him, procurement officers must embrace continuous learning, ethical conduct, and professionalism to sustain reforms.
“Procurement is not paperwork; it is nation building,” he said.
Adebowale said a strong procurement system would enhance economic growth, reduce poverty, attract investment, and promote fairness across society.
He urged practitioners to choose integrity and transparency, noting that their decisions would determine whether public confidence is strengthened or eroded.
Also making a presentation, the Director-General, Lagos State Public Procurement Agency, Mr Fatai Onafowote, called for stronger procurement systems to drive sustainable development.
Onafowote urged practitioners to uphold professionalism and embrace transparency, accountability, and value for money.
He described procurement as a strategic process that supports government service delivery and influences economic, social, and environmental outcomes.
Onafowote stressed the need for digital transformation through e-procurement to improve efficiency and reduce corruption.
He also advocated support for local industries, SMEs, and vulnerable groups through inclusive and competitive procurement practices.
The director-general highlighted Lagos state’s progress in e-procurement and environmental sustainability initiatives.
He said a strong procurement system would boost economic growth, promote inclusion, and improve citizens’ quality of life.
NAN
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My desire is to take Niger State to zenith of dev’t, says Ndarani, SAN
By Mohammed Baba Busu
A renowned legal luminary, Barrister Mohammed Ndarani, SAN, says his senatorial aspiration is to galvanise national development.
Ndarani also declared that as a Senator representing Niger South (Zone A) Senatorial District, Niger state would witness the zenith of development.
“I am aspiring to contest the coveted seat to bolster the even socio-economic development of the zone, Niger State and Nigeria in general.
“We are in the party to support our indefatigable farmer Governor, Umaru Mohammed Bago, to consolidate the development of the state,” he added.
Ndarani spoke on (Sunday/Tuesday?) when him and his team visited the State Headquarters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to declare his intent to contest for Niger South Senatorial Seat in 2027.
The epochal visit of the legal silk to the APC secretariat was for him to declare his intention to contest the Niger South Senatorial Seat come 2027.
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He applauded Gov. Bago for his uncommon commitment to the development of the state, saying “we are also fully committed to complementing his laudable efforts in this direction.“We are also fully committed to supporting his vision and mission of taking Niger State to greater heights.
“We are also committed to further facilitating the good works he has started and he has achieved 95 per cent in this direction”.
Ndarani recalled that he has been a founding member of the APC since its formation in 2015, commending the ancestors of the state for their utmost and invaluable contributions to its development.
The legal icon further lauded the governor for ensuring the conduct of successful congresses across the state and at all levels.
“I will do everything humanly possible to ensure that APC waxes stronger and in utmost unity.
“We have immense confidence in our governor and the current set of leaders of the party in the state.
“We are ready to support our great party for it to clinch all positions at all levels during the forthcoming 2027 general elections.”
Responding, the State Chairman of the party, Alhaji Aminu Bobi, who was visibly elated, described the APC in Zone “A” as strong and united.
Bobi, who threw his weight behind the aspiration of Ndarani, described him as a major and critical stakeholder of the party in the area and the state .
He also congratulated Zone “A” for having an unassuming and consummate personality like Ndarani and cautioned them against repeating the horrible mistakes of the past
The APC chairman, therefore, urged them to produce quality candidates who have 100 per cent support base like Ndarani, who enjoys massive support from the members, leaders and stakeholders of the party.
Bobi also described Ndarani as a truly loyal and committed card-carrying member of APC, warning them against double standards and any form of anti-party activity.
According to him, APC direly needs people like Ndarani, saying “APC welcomes him and we will support him.”
Engr. Dagachi Mohammed Etsugaie, the Director General (DG), Ndarani SAN Senatorial Organization (NDASSO) presented him as the candidate for the Zone A youth, saying they were on a “rescue mission” to bring development to the district.
In his remarks, Bar. Mohammed Liman Nku, who spoke on behalf of other lawyers from Zone A’ supported Ndarani Mohammed’s candidacy, saying it’s time for Zone A to enjoy democracy dividends after years of neglect.
A cross section of other speakers at the historic visit, underscored the desirability of the aspiration of Ndarani in the 2027 general elections to ramp up the growth and development of the state in general and the zone in particular.
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Ndarani SAN congratulates newly affirmed Niger APC EXCO
By Mohammed Baba Busu
A legal luminary in Niger, Alhaji Mohammed Ndarani SAN, has congratulated the newly affirmed Executive Committee of the party in the state.
This followed the successful conduct of the party’s emergency stakeholders’ consensus process that produced the new leadership.
Ndarani, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), described the affirmation of the state officials as a reflection of unity, political maturity and shared commitment among party leaders and stakeholders in the state.
In a statement issued on Tuesday in Minna, he said the consensus arrangement demonstrated that the leadership and members of the APC in Niger had resolved to place the collective interest of the party above individual ambitions.
According to him, the development signals a renewed sense of cohesion and readiness to reposition the party for greater responsibilities ahead.
“The rancour-free affirmation of the State Executive Committee is a testament to the wisdom of our elders and the spirit of cooperation among stakeholders.
“It shows that the APC in Niger State remains focused, united and forward-looking,” he said.
However, Ndarani urged the newly affirmed executives to justify the confidence reposed in them by providing inclusive, transparent and result-oriented leadership.
He called on them to strengthen party structures across the 25 local government areas of the state and deepen engagement with youths, women and grassroots supporters.
The learned silk also emphasised the need for reconciliation and internal harmony, noting that sustained unity will be critical to the party’s continued growth and electoral success.
The APC chieftain reaffirmed his loyalty and commitment to the party and pledged his support to the new leadership in advancing the ideals of progressivism and good governance in the state.
Besides, Ndarani advised the officials to provide inclusive and transparent leadership, strengthen grassroots structures across the 25 local government areas, and prioritise reconciliation to further consolidate the party’s dominance in Niger.
The senior advocate also commended the Gov. Mohammed Umaru Bago, popularly known as the “Farmer Governor,” for his visionary and transformational leadership.
He noted that the governor’s strong focus on agricultural revolution, infrastructural renewal and youth empowerment had repositioned Niger as a strategic hub for food security and sustainable development in Nigeria.
Ndarani stated that Bago’s commitment to large-scale mechanised farming and rural development had not only boosted economic activities but also inspired confidence among party members and residents of the state.
According to him, the governor’s performance has strengthened the APC’s standing and credibility at the grassroots.
He reaffirmed his loyalty to the party and pledged continued support to both the newly affirmed state executive and the Bago administration in advancing the ideals of progressivism, unity and good governance in the state.
The senior lawyer prayed for divine wisdom, courage and guidance for the new party leaders as they assumed duty.
NAN
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Zone B Women, Youths endorse Ndarani, SAN for Niger South Senate, Pledge Cross-Zone mobilisation
By Mohammed Baba Busu
A coalition of Women and Youth groups from Niger East (Zone B) Senatorial District on Sunday staged a massive solidarity gathering in Minna to formally declare their unwavering support for the senatorial ambition of Alhaji Mohammed Ndarani (SAN), for Niger South (Zone A) in the 2027 general elections.
The colourful event, held at the UK Bello in Minna, attracted participants from all the nine local government areas of Zone B, namely, Bosso, Chanchaga, Munya, Paikoro, Shiroro, Rafi, Gurara, Tafa and Suleja.
They turned out in large numbers to express confidence in the capacity, character, competence and philanthropic record of the Senior Advocate of Nigeria.
The rally, which cut across religious, ethnic and political affiliations, was marked by songs of solidarity, testimonials and goodwill messages, all underscoring what speakers described as Ndarani’s consistent commitment to humanity, justice and grassroots development.
Recognition Beyond Senatorial Boundaries
Speakers at the event emphasized that although Barrister Ndarani hails from Niger South (Zone A), his humanitarian footprint has significantly impacted communities in Zone B.They cited several instances of his interventions in Niger East, including financial assistance to women and youth groups, scholarships to indigent students across tertiary institutions, empowerment of small-scale entrepreneurs, support for graduates seeking employment opportunities, and direct aid to widows, vulnerable persons and victims of hardship.
According to the coalition, many beneficiaries of his philanthropy in Zone B had no prior political or personal relationship with him, yet received assistance purely on humanitarian grounds.
Comrade Umar Mohammed Kuta, a leading member of the coalition, said the gathering became necessary to publicly appreciate and reciprocate Ndarani’s generosity and inclusive leadership style.
“We are not from his senatorial district, yet we have benefited immensely from his kindness and interventions. Leadership is about service and impact, not just geography.
Barrister Ndarani has demonstrated that he belongs to the entire Niger State,” Kuta stated.
He added that the endorsement was a voluntary show of gratitude and confidence in a man they believe has the experience and network to deliver quality representation at the National Assembly.
Mohammed Kuta further stressed that their decision to endorse Barrister Ndarani was also informed by his remarkable response to humanitarian emergencies.
He recalled that when flood ravaged parts of Mokwa, the Senior Advocate of Nigeria reportedly donated the sum of N30 million to support victims, describing the gesture as timely, sacrificial and deeply compassionate.
According to Mohammed Kuta, such an intervention demonstrated not only financial capacity but a genuine sense of responsibility toward the suffering of fellow citizens.
He added that beyond large-scale interventions, Ndarani has continued to provide targeted support to empower young people and women. “We are aware that he recently donated one hundred million naira to support students’ loan initiatives and women empowerment efforts.
Mohammed Kuta emphasized that what makes these acts even more commendable is that they are drawn from Ndarani’s personal, hard-earned resources as a legal practitioner, not from public office or government allocations.
“He is not occupying any elective position, yet he continues to give. That tells you the kind of heart he has. If he can do this as a private citizen, imagine what he will do with the mandate and platform of the Senate.
That is why we believe he deserves the support of Zone A and indeed the entire state,” he concluded.
Also speaking, Junaidu Yahaya from Paikoro Local Government Area described Ndarani as a dependable and accessible leader whose interventions have positively affected many families in Zone B.
“We have seen him pay school fees for students from our communities. We have seen him empower young people to start small businesses. We have seen him respond to appeals without discrimination.
That is the kind of Senator Niger South deserves,” Yahaya said.
In her remarks, Mrs. Mary Bitrus stressed that the endorsement transcended religious and ethnic considerations.
“His support has never been selective. He has assisted widows, women groups, Muslim and Christian communities alike.
Compassion has no religion, and that is why we are here to stand by him,” she noted.
Other speakers highlighted his quiet but consistent interventions during periods of economic hardship, noting that his contributions have complemented government efforts and brought relief to struggling families across Niger East.
The coalition assured that beyond the solidarity rally, members would actively mobilise their friends, relatives and political associates who are members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Zone A to rally behind Ndarani’s aspiration.
They announced plans to embark on strategic grassroots consultations, advocacy visits and stakeholder engagements aimed at strengthening support for his candidature ahead of party primaries and the general elections.
According to them, their resolve is anchored on gratitude and conviction that his emergence would foster stronger collaboration between Niger South and Niger East for the overall progress of the state.
The groups described Ndarani as a bridge-builder whose philanthropic outreach already reflects the kind of inclusive representation they expect at the Senate.
They urged the people of Zone A to support “a tested and trusted servant-leader” who, even before holding elective office, has shown capacity, compassion and commitment to the welfare of citizens beyond his immediate constituency.
The gathering concluded with special prayers for peace, unity and successful political outcomes in 2027, as well as chants of solidarity for the success of Barrister Mohammed Ndarani Mohammed (SAN)’s senatorial bid.
The coalition reaffirmed its determination to sustain the mobilisation drive in the months ahead, expressing optimism that with collective effort, cross-zonal cooperation and party unity, Ndarani would emerge victorious and provide impactful representation for Niger South in the National Assembly.