Tinubu Departs for Lagos to Mark 50th ECOWAS Anniversary

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will leave Abuja on Tuesday for Lagos to celebrate, along with other leaders, the 50th anniversary of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). The ECOWAS golden jubilee was flagged off in Accra last month. In a statement signed by the Special Adviser on Information & Strategy to the President, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, on Monday the Lagos events will include reenacting the 1975 declaration at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs in Victoria Island. At the Eko Hotels and Suites event, President Tinubu, the Chairman of ECOWAS, will highlight the economic bloc’s milestones. The Chairman of the NIIA and former Minister of External Affairs, Prof. Bolaji Akinyemi, will review the bloc’s 50-year journey, which panellists at the NIIA will later analyse. The only surviving Head of State who signed the ECOWAS declaration, Gen. Yakubu Gowon (Rtd), will participate in all the ceremonies and deliver a speech at the Eko Hotels. Dr Omar Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission, will deliver the welcome address. While in Lagos, President Tinubu will, on Saturday, May 31, commission some projects of the administration. Among them are Section I of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, Lekki Deep Sea Port Tax Credit Concrete Road, the flag-off of Section II of the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway, and the 7th Axial Road. The President will virtually commission Kano-Kanwar-Danja-Hadejiya Section II Road and Yakasai-Zalli Road and flag off the Kano Northern By-pass, Zaria-Hunkuyi-Dabai Section I, Dabai-Kafur Malumfashi, and Malumfashi-Dayi-Yashe-Gidan Mutum Daya Section III. President Tinubu will observe the Eid-el-Kabir prayers at the State House, Dodan Barracks, before returning to Abuja.

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Tinubu Arrives Rome For Pope’s First Mass

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu arrived in Rome, Italy, on Saturday to join other world leaders at the solemn mass marking the beginning of the Pontificate of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV, the 267th Bishop of Rome and the new leader of the Roman Catholic Church. The installation mass will take place on Sunday, May 18. President Tinubu was received at the Mario De Bernardo Military Airport by Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, and officials from Vatican City and the Nigerian Embassy after the plane touched down at 6 pm local time. President Tinubu is in Rome to honour the new Pope’s invitation, conveyed by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State. The Papal invitation underscored the need for President Tinubu’s physical presence “at this moment of particular importance for the Catholic Church and the world afflicted by many tensions and conflicts.” “Your great nation is particularly dear to me as I worked in the Apostolic Nunciature in Lagos during the 1980s,” Pope Leo XIV further said in the invitation. President Tinubu’s entourage includes the Archbishop of Owerri and President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, Archbishop Lucius Ugorji, Archbishop Ignatius Kaigama of Abuja, and Alfred Martins of Lagos. Mathew Hassan Kukah, the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, is also in the president’s entourage.

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In a significant political development, the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) has officially endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as its candidate for the 2027 presidential election. The announcement was made by Anambra State Governor Charles Soludo during President Tinubu's working visit to the state on May 8, 2025. Speaking at a reception held at Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka, Governor Soludo emphasized the shared progressive ideals between APGA and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). He stated, "Our party (APGA) started endorsing the president at the centre from 2011 before I joined, and will continue to align and support the government at the centre. President Tinubu, who was sworn in on May 29, 2023, is expected to complete his first term in May 2027. The endorsement by APGA, a prominent party in the South-East, is seen as a strategic alliance aimed at fostering national unity and collaboration. During his visit, President Tinubu commissioned several projects, including the state's first-ever Government House, marking a historic milestone for Anambra State. He also received a chieftaincy title, 'Dike Si Mba' (Hero from another land), conferred by traditional rulers in recognition of his contributions to the state. The endorsement has sparked discussions within political circles, with some viewing it as a move to strengthen progressive politics in Nigeria. As the 2027 elections approach, such alliances may play a crucial role in shaping the country's political landscape.

APGA Endorses President Tinubu for 2027 Backs Alliance with APC

In a significant political development, the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) has officially endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as its candidate for the 2027 presidential election. The announcement was made by Anambra State Governor Charles Soludo during President Tinubu’s working visit to the state on May 8, 2025. Speaking at a reception held at Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka, Governor Soludo emphasized the shared progressive ideals between APGA and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). He stated, “Our party (APGA) started endorsing the president at the centre from 2011 before I joined, and will continue to align and support the government at the centre. President Tinubu, who was sworn in on May 29, 2023, is expected to complete his first term in May 2027. The endorsement by APGA, a prominent party in the South-East, is seen as a strategic alliance aimed at fostering national unity and collaboration. During his visit, President Tinubu commissioned several projects, including the state’s first-ever Government House, marking a historic milestone for Anambra State. He also received a chieftaincy title, ‘Dike Si Mba’ (Hero from another land), conferred by traditional rulers in recognition of his contributions to the state. The endorsement has sparked discussions within political circles, with some viewing it as a move to strengthen progressive politics in Nigeria. As the 2027 elections approach, such alliances may play a crucial role in shaping the country’s political landscape.

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Tinubu Congratulates Canadian Prime Minister Joseph Carney

President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Mr Mark Joseph Carney on the Liberal Party’s victory in the recent Canadian parliamentary elections and his election as the 24th Prime Minister. President Tinubu acknowledged the significance of the hard-fought electoral triumph at a time when the country needs a leader with a wealth of experience. Carney, a seasoned economist, was Governor of the Bank of Canada (2008-2013) and the Bank of England (2013-2020). The President hopes that Carney’s banking and governance experience will guide the country at this crucial moment in its history. Tinubu expressed Nigeria’s commitment to deepening relations between the two nations, particularly in education, climate change, and migration. The President looked forward to establishing a dynamic and forward-looking partnership with Prime Minister Carney’s government, building on the goodwill and cooperation established under former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

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Tompolo Backs Tinubu for Two-Term Presidency, Calls for Political Stability

Tompolo Backs Tinubu for Two-Term Presidency Calls for Political Stability

High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, has voiced strong support for President Bola Tinubu to serve two full constitutional terms, totaling eight years, before Nigeria elects a new leader in 2031. Speaking during an interview on Arise Television, the Ibe-Ebidouwei of the Ijaw Nation and Grand Patron of the PBAT Door-2-Door Movement 2027, described Tinubu as a seasoned leader capable of taking Nigeria to greater heights.“Tinubu is a good person. He has the experience to do everything and carry this country to a higher level,” Tompolo said, emphasizing that the president’s four-year mandate, with the possibility of re-election, should be respected. He drew parallels with former President Muhammadu Buhari’s eight-year tenure, urging against any actions that could cause political instability. “We don’t want anybody to cause problems. He should be allowed to complete his two constitutional terms, then we will vote for another person to take over in 2031,” he added. Tompolo also revealed plans to launch a nationwide campaign, including visits to northern states, to rally support for Tinubu’s second-term bid.“We will do our part, even go beyond our boundaries to the northern part of Nigeria to talk to our brothers and compatriots so that he will get a second tenure,” he said. He noted that traditional rulers across the region have already endorsed Tinubu’s re-election, expressing confidence that national support would ensure the president’s continued leadership. Addressing concerns over possible unrest, Tompolo dismissed claims that any group could monopolize violence, calling on all Nigerians to back Tinubu’s administration.“We are appealing to everybody, and by the grace of God, everybody will support us,” he stated. On the Rivers State Political Crisis Commenting on the political tensions in Rivers State, Tompolo expressed optimism about the resolution of the dispute between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike.Describing their relationship as that of a “boy and Oga,” he predicted a peaceful resolution, affirming, “The duly elected governor of Rivers State is coming back.” Tompolo disclosed plans to travel to Abuja soon to meet with President Tinubu and Wike to mediate in the ongoing crisis.“Our president is someone who has been protecting democracy for a very long time. There is no way he will truncate it,” he said, highlighting Tinubu’s longstanding commitment to democratic values. Tompolo’s comments come amid rising political activity as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections, positioning him as a key advocate for Tinubu’s continued leadership and for fostering stability, particularly in Rivers State.

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President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep concern over the growing trend of unconstitutional changes of government in West Africa, warning that such actions threaten the democratic progress and stability the region has painstakingly achieved. Speaking at the official launch of the ECOWAS Golden Jubilee in Accra, Ghana, on Tuesday, Tinubu—represented by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Ojukwu—reaffirmed Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to democratic principles, good governance, and regional unity. He emphasized that the resurgence of military coups, which have gripped parts of the region since 2021, undermines the fundamental values of democracy, rule of law, and peace. Between 2020 and 2024, West and Central Africa witnessed nine coup attempts, with Mali, Guinea, Burkina Faso, and Niger falling under military rule. ECOWAS responded by suspending the affected countries and imposing sanctions in a bid to restore civilian governance, but tensions eventually led to the withdrawal of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso from the bloc. Despite the strain, President Tinubu used the occasion to advocate for reconciliation and reintegration of the estranged member states. He stressed that this milestone anniversary should be a time to renew unity and shared responsibility. “It is a time to strengthen the bonds that tie us together through shared values, collective responsibility, and a common vision for a prosperous region,” he said. Calling for constructive engagement, Tinubu urged ECOWAS to remain open to dialogue with the junta-led countries while implementing sweeping reforms to enhance the bloc’s credibility and institutional strength. “There is an urgent need to implement bold, comprehensive reforms that will enhance our institutions’ effectiveness, relevance, and credibility to meet the challenges of today and the future,” he concluded.

Tinubu Warns Against Coup Resurgence in West Africa Calls for Reconciliation

President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep concern over the growing trend of unconstitutional changes of government in West Africa, warning that such actions threaten the democratic progress and stability the region has painstakingly achieved. Speaking at the official launch of the ECOWAS Golden Jubilee in Accra, Ghana, on Tuesday, Tinubu—represented by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Ojukwu—reaffirmed Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to democratic principles, good governance, and regional unity. He emphasized that the resurgence of military coups, which have gripped parts of the region since 2021, undermines the fundamental values of democracy, rule of law, and peace. Between 2020 and 2024, West and Central Africa witnessed nine coup attempts, with Mali, Guinea, Burkina Faso, and Niger falling under military rule. ECOWAS responded by suspending the affected countries and imposing sanctions in a bid to restore civilian governance, but tensions eventually led to the withdrawal of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso from the bloc. Despite the strain, President Tinubu used the occasion to advocate for reconciliation and reintegration of the estranged member states. He stressed that this milestone anniversary should be a time to renew unity and shared responsibility. “It is a time to strengthen the bonds that tie us together through shared values, collective responsibility, and a common vision for a prosperous region,” he said. Calling for constructive engagement, Tinubu urged ECOWAS to remain open to dialogue with the junta-led countries while implementing sweeping reforms to enhance the bloc’s credibility and institutional strength. “There is an urgent need to implement bold, comprehensive reforms that will enhance our institutions’ effectiveness, relevance, and credibility to meet the challenges of today and the future,” he concluded.

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NSA Ribadu: Tinubu Inherited ‘Extremely Bad Government’, Urges Support Amid Benue Killings

NSA Ribadu: Tinubu Inherited Extremely Bad Government Urges Support Amid Benue Killings

The National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, has said that President Bola Tinubu’s administration inherited a deeply troubled government, especially in terms of insecurity. Ribadu made the remarks on Tuesday during a visit to Benue State, where he sympathized with the government and people following the recent killings of over 72 individuals by suspected herdsmen. Condemning the attacks, Ribadu urged residents of Benue to support the Tinubu administration and avoid politicizing the crisis, noting that cooperation would enable the federal government to restore peace in the region. “Our Armed Forces are doing well, but it’s impossible to deploy soldiers or police to every hamlet,” he said. “We inherited an extremely bad government. Things have improved, and we’re working to address these lingering issues. Give us a chance and stop politicizing the killings.” In response, Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, described the situation as tragic, saying the state has suffered continuous attacks and devastating loss of lives since 2011. According to reports, Benue and Plateau States have witnessed a surge in deadly violence in recent weeks. In the latest attack, gunmen stormed Afia community in Ukum LGA on Tuesday, killing 11 people and injuring many others.

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Atiku Slams Tinubu Over Insecurity Accuses President of Indifference Amid Rising Violence

Atiku Slams Tinubu Over Insecurity Accuses President of Indifference Amid Rising Violence

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has issued a scathing criticism of President Bola Tinubu over the escalating insecurity in Nigeria, describing the current administration as “utterly incapable” and lacking the competence to address the country’s security crisis. In a statement posted on his verified Facebook page, Atiku expressed deep concern over the federal government’s perceived indifference to the ongoing violence, particularly in the Logo and Gbagir communities of Ukum Local Government Area in Benue State. According to Atiku, the rising insecurity has become a daily tragedy for many Nigerians, yet the Tinubu administration continues to show no urgency or empathy. He accused the president of being absent during a time of national trauma, saying that Nigerians are left to suffer and mourn without leadership or meaningful response from the federal government. “Leadership demands presence,” he wrote, criticizing Tinubu for prioritizing foreign trips over the lives of citizens at home. To support his point, Atiku referenced international examples of responsive leadership, including former U.S. President Barack Obama, who cut short a diplomatic visit in response to a domestic crisis, and South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa, who returned home during an electricity emergency. He also recalled how former President Goodluck Jonathan returned from abroad following a deadly bomb blast in Abuja, highlighting that responsible leaders prioritize national emergencies. Atiku condemned what he described as Tinubu’s “governing in absentia” and said that even if the administration cannot solve the security challenges, it should at least show empathy. “If Tinubu cannot deliver safety and dignity to Nigerians, the very least he can do is pretend to care — regardless of ethnicity, religion, or political affiliation,” he stated. His comments reflect growing frustration not only from the opposition but also, he claimed, from members within the ruling party who privately admit their concerns. He concluded by offering condolences to the government and people of Benue State, pledging to continue speaking out against the government’s failures. “Nigeria is bleeding. Nigerians are dying. The president is nowhere to be found,” Atiku said, urging all Nigerians to hold the government accountable for the safety and well-being of its citizens.

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