Leon Usigbe
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Abuja Bureau Chief @nigeriantribune, ChelseaFC fan
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Articles by Leon Usigbe
FLASHBACK: I will leave no inheritance for my children ― Buhari
President Muhammadu Buhari on Wednesday, July 13, 2022, said that he will leave nothing for his children to inherit and has, therefore, told them that they must acquire the necessary education to succeed on their own. He made the disclosure in Daura, Katsina State, where he implored parents to inculcate right values in children, including deep fear of God, respect for constituted authorities and living a purposeful life through continuous education.
2027: Opposition coalition names chairman, gets party name
Chief Akin A. Ricketts and Abdullahi Musa Elayo have been respectively named the interim Chairman and interim National Secretary of the newly set up coalition party All Democratic Alliance (ADA). The National Opposition Coalition Group which held a meeting in Abuja said the platform had set up a 15-man committee which has come up with a political party name for registration with the Independent National Electoral Commission.
Benue killings: Teargas response to protesters cruel - Atiku
Former Vice President of Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar, has faulted the use of teargas on protesters in Benue State, describing it as an “outright show of cruelty” over the killings of their loved ones. He said the least any government should do was to protect the people instead of the government to unleash more pain on the people of Benue State, who are simply demanding protection from the government.
Defection: Gov Eno on path to lonely political oblivion - PDP Professionals
The defection of the Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) has been described as an unfortunate step toward political oblivion. The Conference of Professionals in the PDP made this assertion in a statement signed by the Protem National Coordinator, Barr. Obinna Nwachukwu.
Tinubu's economic reforms painful but necessary, Presidency replies opposition
The Presidency on Monday, issued a strong rebuttal to recent criticism by a faction of the pan-Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, accusing it of peddling falsehoods and failing to acknowledge the measurable gains made under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
We’re set to shift from cocoa production to processing - Shettima
Vice President Kashim Shettima has reiterated the Tinubu administration’s commitment to transforming Nigeria’s cocoa industry from a raw commodity export model into a robust value-added processing sector, in line with the government’s broader strategy to revamp the agricultural value chain.
Two years of Tinubu’s administration: A mixed bag of bold reforms, economic jitters, unyielding optimism
Two years into President Bola Tinubu’s administration, Nigeria stands at a crossroads. While the government highlights economic reforms, infrastructure gains, and rising investments, many citizens are still burdened by inflation, insecurity, and hardship. State House correspondent LEON USIGBE in this piece examines the progress, the pain, and the path ahead.
Tinubu commissions first phase of Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway
President Bola Tinubu, on Saturday, commissioned the first phase of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and several other strategic road infrastructure projects across Nigeria, reiterating his administration’s commitment to local content, technology transfer, and national development.
Tinubu mourns Kano sports contingent victims
President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the deaths of members of the Kano State contingent who lost their lives in a road accident while returning from the recently concluded National Sports Festival in Ogun State. In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President extended his condolences to the government and people of Kano State, as well as to the families of the deceased. “This is a devastating blow to the nation,” Tinubu said.
Oyo Forum urges Makinde not to sign bill amending Obas Council Law
A prominent socio-cultural group, the Oyo Forum, Abuja, has called on Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde to withhold assent to the controversial Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs (Amendment) Bill, 2025, citing concerns that the proposed law could erode centuries-old Yoruba tradition and incite discord across the state. In a strongly worded press statement signed by Engr.
Second anniversary: Tinubu declares economic reforms working
• Says only alternative to reforms was fiscal collapse • Reaffirms commitment to security, national development • Highlights progress made amid rising cost of living President Bola Tinubu, in a nationwide broadcast to mark his second year in office on Thursday, declared that the economic reforms implemented by his administration have begun yielding positive results.
PDP headquarters remains sealed despite Presidential order
•Party blames Wike for political vendetta The national secretariat of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Abuja remained sealed by security operatives despite a presidential directive for it to be reopened, fueling allegations of political vendetta against the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Ibro Hotel and Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), all contiguous with PDP secretariat, which...
PDP labels Tinubu’s two years a 'nightmare'
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has described President Bola Tinubu’s two years in office as a “massive disappointment”, accusing his administration of inflicting hardship on Nigerians through poor economic decisions, worsening insecurity, and unchecked corruption.
PDP crisis: In new twist, Anyanwu blasts governors, party leaders
The National Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Samuel Anyanwu, has accused certain governors and other party leaders of orchestrating a personal vendetta to remove him from office, describing the ongoing crisis within the party as “man-made, ego-driven, and politically wicked.” Speaking during an interactive session with the PDP Press Corps in Abuja on Wednesday, Senator Anyanwu delivered a passionate defence of his position, rebuking governors and stakeholders whom he...
Tinubu appoints new governing councils for UNIABUJA, UNN, NAU
President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of new members to the governing councils of three federal universities — the University of Abuja (UNIABUJA), University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), and Nnamdi Azikiwe University (NAU), Awka.
APC plotting one-party rule out of fear of 2027 defeat - PDP NEC
In a hard-hitting communique issued at the end of the 99th session of the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and read by the party’s acting National Chairman, Ambassador Iliya Damagum, the main opposition has accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) of orchestrating a “sinister plot” to destroy Nigeria’s multiparty democracy and entrench authoritarian rule.
APC plotting one-party rule out of fear of 2027 defeat - PDP NEC
In a hard-hitting communique issued at the end of the 99th session of the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and read by the party’s acting National Chairman, Ambassador Iliya Damagum, the main opposition has accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) of orchestrating a “sinister plot” to destroy Nigeria’s multiparty democracy and entrench authoritarian rule.
PDP slams Tinubu's govt over secretariat sealing
… says democracy under attack The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has condemned the sealing of its national secretariat in Abuja by officials of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), describing the action as a deliberate and dangerous attempt by the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led federal government to undermine Nigeria’s democracy.
Tinubu heads to Lagos for ECOWAS at 50, to commission major infrastructure projects
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will, on Tuesday, depart Abuja for Lagos to participate in the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), as the regional bloc marks a major milestone in its integration journey. The Lagos leg of the golden jubilee celebration, which was flagged off in Accra, Ghana, last month, will bring together regional leaders and key stakeholders.
PDP Caucus, BoT hold meetings ahead of Tuesday’s NEC session
Key organs of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are holding strategic meetings in Abuja today, ahead of the highly anticipated session of the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) scheduled for Tuesday. The National Caucus is convening at the Bauchi State Government Lodge in Asokoro, while the Board of Trustees (BoT) is meeting at the PDP National Secretariat. Both bodies are expected to deliberate on critical issues in preparation for the NEC meeting.
24 hours to crucial NEC meeting: Fresh crack in PDP
• Wike withdraws from peace accords • Blames Makinde • Vows to fight on till justice is served • Claims credit for most PDP governors’ election • Controversy rages over national secretary About 24 hours to a make-or-break National Executive Committee (NEC), a fresh crisis has hit the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike blowing open cracks in the G5.
Atiku, Obi, Amaechi, Aregbesola, others in closed-door meeting with National Political Consultative Group in Abuja
• Tensions flare at talks as Jigawa delegates disrupt proceedings Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Mr. Peter Obi, former governor of Rivers and Osun states, Rotimi Amaechi and Mr. Rauf Aregbesola, respectively, along with other political leaders, held a closed-door dialogue on Sunday with the National Political Consultative Group (North) in Abuja.
Tensions flare at Abuja coalition talks as Jigawa delegates disrupt proceedings
A strategic coalition meeting involving several high-profile political figures – including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s Peter Obi, and former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi – was briefly disrupted on Sunday after a dispute broke out over state representation among delegates from Jigawa State.
Fears grow over PDP NEC as Wike moves to reclaim Party secretariat, 4,793 other properties
With just days to a pivotal National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) faces a fresh political storm as the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), under Minister Nyesom Wike, prepares to take possession of its national secretariat in Abuja over decades-long ground rent defaults.
2027: Katsina APC NASS members endorse Gov Radda for second term
In a unanimous show of support that signals early political consolidation ahead of the 2027 general elections, all National Assembly members from Katsina State have endorsed Governor Umar Dikko Radda for a second term in office. The endorsement – delivered under the banner of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) – was made during a joint meeting of Katsina federal lawmakers on Friday.
Tinubu inaugurates NNPC board, tasks members on boosting oil output
President Bola Tinubu on Thursday officially inaugurated the newly appointed Board and Executive Management Team of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), with a strong directive to prioritize increased oil and gas production. The inauguration, which took place at the Presidential Villa in Abuja shortly before the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Summit, marked a pivotal moment for Nigeria’s oil industry as the administration moves to revamp the country’s energy sector.
2027: APC adopts Tinubu as sole presidential candidate
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has formally adopted President Bola Tinubu as its sole presidential candidate for the 2027 general elections. The decision was announced on Thursday during the APC National Summit held at the State House Banquet Hall, Abuja.
2027: APC adopts Tinubu as sole presidential candidate
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has formally adopted President Bola Tinubu as its sole presidential candidate for the 2027 general elections. The decision was announced on Thursday during the APC National Summit held at the State House Banquet Hall, Abuja.
Shettima touts Nigeria as top investment destination
… lauds Citibank’s support for economic reforms Vice President, Kashim Shettima has declared Nigeria a premier destination for global investment, citing sweeping economic reforms by the Bola Tinubu administration that have stabilised the currency, improved fiscal discipline, and opened new opportunities for both local and international investors.
APC governors endorse Tinubu for second term
The Progressive Governors Forum (PGF) has formally endorsed President Bola Tinubu as the party’s sole candidate for the 2027 presidential election – an emphatic show of internal solidarity amid growing opposition realignment ahead of the next general polls.
2027: ADC meets today, may ratify coalition
•Set to receive reports of negotiating teams •Opposition heavyweights settle on ADC as coalition platform •Committees set up to finalise framework ahead of formal announcement LEADERS of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) are to hold a crucial meeting in Abuja today following its choice by the promoters of the Coalition of Political leaders to challenge President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 presidency.
Tolling begins December as Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway nears milestone - Umahi
…says all South-East governors support Tinubu Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, has announced that Section 1 of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway will be tolled starting December 2025, marking a critical turning point in the project’s phased completion and a bold move to recoup investment on one of Nigeria’s most ambitious infrastructure undertakings.
National Assembly not at war with Executive - Akpabio
…says Legislature focused on pro-Nigerian Legislation Senate President Godswill Akpabio has said that lawmakers were elected to work collaboratively with the Executive to advance national development—not to engage in confrontation. According to a statement from Bayo Onanuga Special Adviser to the President (Information and Strategy), Akpabio made this assertion in a forthcoming feature documentary marking the second anniversary of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Shadow government: DSS acted within bounds - Legal expert
Legal and political figures have reacted strongly to the recent unveiling of a “shadow government” by former presidential candidate and professor of political economy, Pat Utomi, with some warning that the initiative may be unconstitutional and subversive.
Nigeria’s digital economy attracts $191m FDI in Q1 - Bosun Tijani
…says $2bn fibre infrastructure rollout set for Q4 Nigeria’s digital economy is experiencing unprecedented growth under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, with foreign direct investment (FDI) in the sector surging ninefold to $191 million in the first quarter of 2024 – up from $22 million in the same period last year.
Tinubu meets Catholic Bishops in Rome, calls for unity through diversity
President Bola Tinubu has urged Nigerians to embrace the country’s diversity as a foundation for national stability and accelerated development, rather than a source of division. Speaking on Sunday in Rome during a meeting with members of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, President Tinubu highlighted the importance of inclusive leadership and collective responsibility across all sectors of governance.
At Pope Leo’s inauguration, Tinubu says Nigeria’s unity in diversity a ‘work in progress’
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Sunday joined other world leaders at St. Peter’s Square in the Vatican for the solemn inauguration of Pope Leo XIV, the newly elected leader of the Roman Catholic Church. The ceremony, marking the official beginning of Pope Leo XIV’s pontificate, followed his election by the College of Cardinals 27 days after the passing of Pope Francis. The new pontiff, formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, is now the 267th Bishop of Rome.
Tinubu arrives Rome for Pope Leo XIV’s inauguration
President Bola 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. A statement by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President (Information and Strategy) noted that the installation mass will take place on Sunday, May 18.
Terrorists from outside pushing into Nigeria
•CDS says military working hard amid rising Sahel threats The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, on Friday assured Nigerians that the country’s security forces are working with renewed momentum to combat insecurity, following a high-level meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
Tinubu hosts Alaafin Owoade, seeks greater role of traditional rulers in national devt
…says Nigeria’s prosperity needs collective effort, not one-man task President Bola Tinubu on Friday reaffirmed the crucial role of traditional institutions in Nigeria’s development and governance, calling for deeper collaboration between the government and royal fathers to implement policies that improve citizens’ lives. The President made this call while receiving the newly installed 46th Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Abdulhakeem Owoade I, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
FG denies moving ministerial media briefing to London
The Federal Government on Friday firmly dismissed viral reports suggesting that its ongoing Ministerial Press Briefing sessions were being relocated from Abuja to London, describing the claim as false, misleading, and designed to stir public discontent.
Tinubu committed to inclusive leadership - Presidency
…as Charismatic Bishops raise alarm over Benue, Plateau killing The Special Adviser to the President on Policy and Communication, Daniel Bwala has stated that President Bola Tinubu remains committed to inclusive leadership, governance, national security, and development across Nigeria.
Shettima calls for EU-Africa collaboration to deliver transformative impact
Vice President Kashim Shettima has urged the European Union (EU) and African nations to deepen their strategic partnership and harness their collective potential for transformative development across the continent.
Dangote, BUA to freeze cement price for government projects
… as Rabiu credits duty waivers for lowering rice prices Chairman of BUA Group, Abdul Samad Rabiu, on Thursday announced that the company has agreed to freeze the price of cement for all contractors engaged in projects under the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope agenda, as part of efforts to support President Bola Tinubu’s economic recovery strategy.
Tinubu to attend Pope Leo XIV inauguration
President Bola Tinubu will depart Abuja for Rome, Italy, on Saturday to attend Pope Leo XIV inauguration A statement issued on Thursday by presidential spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, noted that, accompanied by top Catholic leaders, President Tinubu will attend a 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.
Tinubu reaffirms support for Mali’s democratic transition
…seeks stronger regional unity President Bola Tinubu has reiterated Nigeria’s unwavering support for Mali’s democratic transition and called for stronger economic and political ties among West African nations, declaring that unity remains the region’s greatest strength. The President made these remarks on Thursday in Abuja while receiving the Letter of Credence from Mali’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Cheick Oumar Coulibaly.
Petrobras mulls return to Nigeria's oil sector
Petrobras, the state oil company of Brazil, is seeking to re-enter Nigeria’s oil sector, with a specific interest in frontier deepwater acreage, according to a Presidency statement. According to Stanley Nkwocha, spokesman to Vice President Kashim Shettima, this is as the economic reforms of the administration of President Bola Tinubu take root.
Tinubu making courageous decisions to fix Nigeria’s economy - Shettima
Vice President Kashim Shettima on Wednesday assured that the difficult but very crucial decisions taken by the administration of President Bola Tinubu are targeted at engineering an economy that works for the Nigerian people.
PDP management, staff back Koshoedo as acting national secretary
In a bold declaration aimed at resolving the lingering leadership dispute within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the management and staff of the party’s National Secretariat have thrown their weight behind Arch. Setonji Koshoedo as the Acting National Secretary.
Minister hails economic turnaround under Tinubu
Nigeria’s economy is undergoing a significant revival, driven by bold reforms and improved coordination under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, has declared.
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