Connect with us

society

Advancing National Security and Economic Prosperity: The Case for NATCOM in Nigeria By James Ezema

Published

on

Globally, it is a well-known fact that the proliferation of small arms and light weapons poses a significant threat to national security, stability, and economic development in any country. As Nigeria grapples with rising insecurity, it is crucial to address this menace comprehensively without recourse to personal interest or individuals’ pecuniary gains. Nigeria is bigger than  any individual, no matter office we occupy. Therefore, as a Nigerian, in whatsoever capacity we find ourselves, let us remember that it is the country first.
Today, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s tenure as the chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) provides a unique opportunity to establish National Commission for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NATCOM) in Nigeria as a specialized commission dedicated to controlling the spread of illicit arms. This has become imperative for so many reason, especially because of its potential impact on Nigeria and Nigerian economy so as to be among other member countries that have keyed into the ECOWAS convention.
The ECOWAS Convention on Small Arms and Light Weapons, Their Ammunition, and Other Related Materials is a significant regional initiative aimed at addressing the proliferation and illicit trade of small arms and light weapons within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) region.
Some key points from the convention adopted by the Conference of ECOWAS Heads of State on June 14, 2006 has its primary objectives including to prevent and combat the excessive accumulation of small arms and light weapons (SALWs) within ECOWAS and to control their circulation. The convention also seeks to address the destabilizing impact of SALWs on peace, security, and stability in the region.
In its key provisions, the convention expanded the existing moratorium on SALWs to include “components and ammunition”, established a stringent waiver procedure for member states wishing to import, export, or manufacture firearms and to this end, each member state is required to create a National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons to implement the convention’s resolutions. The national commissions are to play a crucial role in sharing information and experiences related to SALWs.
From the international context, the convention aligns with international efforts to curb the proliferation of SALWs as it considers relevant United Nations instruments, including the UN Protocol on the manufacture and illicit trade in firearms, spare parts, components, and ammunition. Additionally, the convention takes into account other regional and sub-regional initiatives aimed at addressing this issue.
In short, the ECOWAS Convention emphasizes cooperation among member states to control and prevent the spread of small arms and light weapons, contributing to regional peace and security.
In Nigeria, the urgency of addressing small arms and light weapons proliferation cannot be over emphasised, especially when we take patriotic look into the current security challenges in the country.
Small arms and light weapons — such as handguns, rifles, and grenades — have fueled violence, terrorism, and criminal activities across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones without exception. We all feel it daily in the ongoing banditry, kidnapping for ransom, and secessionist agitations threatening lives, disrupting legitimate activities in our local communities, and hindering economic progress amid hunger and poverty in most parts of the country.
Therefore, NATCOM’s establishment would allow a better coordinated efforts to curb the influx of illegal arms within and outside Nigeria’s ungoverned spaces, given by its already established structure and volunteer workforce.
Secondly, looking at NATCOM’s Mandate and ECOWAS Convention, NATCOM’s primary mandate would be to coordinate and control the proliferation of small arms and light weapons. This aligns with the ECOWAS Convention on Small Arms and Light Weapons, Their Ammunition, and Other Related Materials. By ratifying this convention, Nigeria commits to regional cooperation in combating arms trafficking and promoting peace and security.
Looking at the economic gains, job creation is on top of it all as NATCOM’s activities would create employment opportunities for the Nigerian youths, especially at this time when criminality is on the increase due to high rate of job losses and hash economic realities.
From arms control officers to administrative staff, the commission’s workforce would contribute to reducing unemployment rates in the country while training programmes for arms control and border security would enhance skills and employability in the country.
Also key is enhanced security and investment climate in Nigeria as a safer environment attracts foreign direct investment (FDI) and encourages local businesses to expand. Investors seek stability and predictability. Therefore, NATCOM’s efforts would reduce armed conflicts, safeguard critical infrastructure, and protect businesses. This stability would boost economic growth. Today, power infrastructure are daily vandalized, the businesses and homes in darkness due to increasing activities of unemployed young people in the country.
On improving regional trade and integration, an efficient arms control facilitates cross-border trade. NATCOM’s collaboration with neighboring countries would enhance regional integration. Legal arms trade can thrive without endangering security. This benefits Nigeria’s trade relations within ECOWAS.
The economic toll of insecurity — lost productivity, healthcare expenses, and infrastructure damage — is substantial and NATCOM’s preventive measures would drastically reduce these costs, redirecting resources from security responses to development projects that would yield long-term benefits through its grassroots related operations.
Having established the some of the gains of establishing NATCOM, it is important to note that it must be established by an Act of the National Assembly and signed into law by President Bola Tinubu to give legal framework that ensures the commission’s authority, funding, and operational autonomy.
NCCSALW Vs NATCOM
The National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW), under the office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), had recently issued a statement that NATFORCE and NATCOM, are not part of Nigeria’s security architecture and have no affiliation with any official security agency, insisting that the outfits are not backed by federal law, lack the authority to recruit, and are not approved to operate as security organizations.
The statement also noted that the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW), remains the National Focal Point on Small Arms and Light Weapons in Nigeria, coordinating with all relevant stakeholders to implement the UN and ECOWAS Plans of Action on the control of small arms and light weapons, adding that in 2021, the office of the NSA directed the dismantling of illegal security outfits involved in extorting and harassing Nigerians.
This development prompted this instigative research on National Commission for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NATCOM), leading to the above exposé on the planned establishment of the Commission and the gains of an Act of the National Assembly, presidential assent, and culminating in an official gazette of the federal government of Nigeria.
Nevertheless, the public was reminded that NATFORCE and NATCOM are not part of Nigeria’s security architecture and have no affiliation with any official security agency.
However, in the course of this investigative research, it was found that the recent statement that was credited to NCCSALW on the activities of NATCOM could be seen in some quarters as an affront on the National Assembly, particularly the 10th Assembly, which listed the recommittal of the NATCOM Bill 2023 on its order paper.
The Media in July 2023 widely reported that the 10th National Assembly has commenced the recommittal process of Bills passed by the 9th Assembly but were neither assented to nor assent withheld by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu before the expiration of the preceding Assembly.
Available records from the office of the Clerk to the National Assembly, according to media reports, showed that Bills that fall into this category, were 44, one of which, is the ECOWAS Convention on Small Arms and Light Weapons, their Ammunition and other Related Materials (Ratification and Enforcement) Bill 2023, otherwise passed as NATCOM Bill 2023, which was earlier transmitted to former President Muhammadu Buhari in April 2023.
Investigations have also revealed that NATCOM inherited a large number of volunteer workforce from NATFORCE and have recruited some of those who have expressed interest.
However, it was found that the volunteers have no terms of service or remunerations attached since NATCOM has not been existing as part of the Nigerian security architecture but as a group of volunteers seeking legal backing to help support the existing national security architecture for a safer country.
These volunteers, it was found, are able bodied Nigerians, including professionals and retirees who have offered their services free of charge and funding their activities from their pockets.
Findings also revealed that the volunteers have patriotically offered themselves to provide intelligence/information on illicit arms and ammunitions in the hands of non-state actors while awaiting presidential assent and official gazetting of the NATCOM Act by President Tinubu — NATCOM has a record of collaboration/complimentary services with the Nigeria Police Force in time past.
In the meantime, the impact of NCCSALW at the office of the NSA, which was established in May 2021 by the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, has not been fully felt, hence the security situation and the number of illegal arms and ammunitions flowing into the hands of non-state actors and into many ungoverned spaces in the country still prevails.
Therefore, NCCSALW should instead find a common ground for collaboration, encouragement, and synergy with NATCOM, which has pursued it’s legislative backing for over 10 years for enabling Act and legal teeth, which was eventually gotten when the 9th Assembly passed the NATCOM bill into law and awaiting Presidents assent and with the recommittal of the bill by the 10th Assembly.
It’s is therefore shocking to read the NCCSALW under the office of the NSA portraying itself as though it is seeking to frustrate the ongoing efforts of both NATCOM and the 10th National Assembly who are determined to address the prevailing issue of insecurity in Nigeria.
NCCSALW should explore possibilities for collaboration with NATCOM volunteers just like the Nigeria Police Force did in time past.
While the NCCSALW serves as a stopgap measure, NATCOM’s establishment by an Act of the National Assembly promises a more robust, sustainable approach to small arms control. And by signing the NATCOM Bill into law, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu would have strengthened Nigeria’s security architecture and contribute to regional stability and prosperity
President Tinubu’s leadership as ECOWAS chairman presents a historic moment for Nigeria hence establishing NATCOM would demonstrate our commitment to regional security, youth empowerment, and economic prosperity. By controlling proliferation of small arms and light weapons will pave the way for a safer more prosperous Nigeria. Let us, therefore, patriotically seize this opportunity and build a resilient future for our country and desist from unnecessary inter-agency rivalry which portend a great danger to national security and advances made thus far.
Comrade James Ezema is a journalist and National Vice President (Investigation), Nigerian Guild of Investigative Journalists (NGIJ) and the National President of the Association of Bloggers and Journalists against Fake News (ABLFN). He writes from Abuja, Nigeria via email: [email protected]


James Ezema is a Digital Marketing Executive, human rights campaigner, veteran journalist and political scientist.

He can be reached via +2348035823617 (WhatsApp/Calls/SMS).

society

Ajadi Unveils Ambitious 17-point Plan To Drive Jobs, Security, Growth

Published

on

Ajadi Unveils Ambitious 17-point Plan To Drive Jobs, Security, Growth

 

A governorship aspirant of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, has unveiled a comprehensive 17-point agenda outlining his policy direction ahead of the 2027 gubernatorial election.

Ajadi, who described leadership as a “relay race,” said his proposed administration would focus on continuity, consolidation, and innovation, building on existing development initiatives while introducing fresh ideas aimed at strengthening public trust and delivering measurable impact under what he termed the “Omituntun 3.0” framework.

The PDP chieftain said his manifesto prioritises industrial growth, agricultural expansion, security enhancement, infrastructure development, youth empowerment, and improved welfare for civil servants and pensioners, among other key sectors.

According to him, the agenda is designed to reposition Oyo State for sustainable economic growth, job creation, and improved quality of life for residents, while deepening grassroots democracy and inclusive governance.

He added that his vision centres on proactive governance that anticipates challenges and leverages strategic partnerships, technology, and policy stability to drive long-term development across the state.

Ajadi also pledged to strengthen public service delivery and ensure transparent, participatory governance that reflects the aspirations of the people of Oyo State.

Below is the full statement of the agenda released by Amb. Ajadi.

Oyo State 2027 Governorship Aspirant Ambassador Ajadi Unveils 17-Point Agenda

…Ajadi Reveals His Manifesto for the Good People of Oyo State

If I become the governor of Oyo State, my approach will be guided by continuity, consolidation, and innovation. Leadership is a relay race, and my commitment is to carry the baton forward—building on good works and introducing fresh ideas that deepen public trust and deliver measurable impact under the Omituntun 3.0 initiative.

My Core Priorities Include:

ENSURE CONTINUITY OF PROGRESS AND GOOD GOVERNANCE

I will strengthen existing development frameworks, promote policy stability, and introduce innovative solutions where gaps exist. Governance is a continuum, and sustainable progress requires building on tested foundations rather than dismantling them.

INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION AND ECONOMIC DIVERSIFICATION

To reduce overdependence on federal allocation, my administration will pursue a deliberate industrial revolution through Public-Private Partnerships (PPP). We will revive and expand industrial zones, attract local and foreign investors, and provide incentives such as tax holidays, infrastructure support, and land access. This will stimulate local production, job creation, and economic resilience.

AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD SECURITY

We will reposition agriculture as one of the major economic drivers by supporting farmers with inputs, mechanisation, credit facilities, and market access. Large-scale farming of cassava, rice, cocoa, cotton, maize, and other crops will be encouraged, alongside agro-processing and export. Our goal is to make Oyo State food-secure within our first term.

Ajadi Unveils Ambitious 17-point Plan To Drive Jobs, Security, Growth

RURAL DEVELOPMENT AND STRENGTHENING LOCAL GOVERNMENTS

Rural development will be prioritised through road construction, ultramodern markets, water supply, electrification, and healthcare.

ROAD INFRASTRUCTURE AND TRANSPORTATION

We will implement Operation “No Single Pothole” policy on our major roads and some inner roads to ensure consistent road maintenance across urban and rural areas. Strategic partnerships with construction firms will be explored for major industrial and border roads, with mutually beneficial tolling arrangements where necessary.

STRENGTHENING SECURITY ARCHITECTURE

Security of lives and property remains fundamental. My administration will strengthen community policing, energise community watch structures, deploy technology for crime monitoring, and improve coordination among security agencies. Increased support for the Security Trust Fund and collaboration with private security operators will ensure safer communities.

Oyo State will continue to develop a modern, safe, and sustainable urban transportation system by introducing electric and hybrid cars and buses equipped with smart technologies such as GPS tracking, digital displays, CCTV, collision-avoidance systems, and cashless payments to reduce congestion, emissions, and operating costs.

The transport system will be inclusive and people-centred, featuring low-floor buses, ramps, wheelchair spaces, and audio-visual announcements to ensure safe and comfortable mobility for all residents, including persons with disabilities, the elderly, and children.

Through sleek modern designs based on the existing built terminals, strong safety standards, and transparent governance, urban transportation will drive economic growth, job creation, and improved quality of life across Oyo State.

This initiative will be achieved in partnership with the existing transport management body in Oyo State.

PUBLIC UTILITIES, WATER, AND WASTE MANAGEMENT

Provision of public waterworks through proper funding, infrastructure maintenance, and effective management. On waste management, modern legislation, private sector participation, recycling initiatives, and environmental sanitation will be pursued to create jobs and improve public health.

PARTY UNITY AND GRASSROOTS DEMOCRACY

Party unity, internal democracy, and grassroots engagement will be strengthened. A united PDP is essential for peace, cohesion, and collective progress.

Ultimately, my goal is to continue the trust in leadership by delivering a government that truly serves the people—one that listens, acts, and remains accountable. I am ready to carry the baton forward with loyalty, competence, and renewed energy for a better and more prosperous Oyo State.

EDUCATION: BUILDING A FUTURE-READY GENERATION

Education will be the backbone of Oyo State’s development, modelled after systems in developed countries where education drives innovation and economic growth.

Key Reforms:

Free and compulsory basic education with strong enforcement and incentives for school attendance.

Teacher retraining and continuous welfare upgrades, including continuous professional development, competitive salaries, and performance-based rewards.

Digital classrooms and smart schools, equipped with broadband internet, tablets, and a conducive environment for students across the state.

Technical and vocational education (TVET) aligned with industry needs, which will fall under the dual education system.

University–industry partnerships to promote research, innovation, and job placement for graduates.

Education loans and scholarship schemes for indigent but brilliant students.

Outcome:
A globally competitive workforce equipped with practical skills, innovation capacity, and strong civic values.

YOUTH, SPORTS AND ENTERTAINMENT: ECONOMIC GROWTH THROUGH TALENTS

As part of my commitment to youth development, my administration will prioritise youth participation in sports as a strategic tool for building a healthy, disciplined, and productive generation. We will invest in grassroots sports to improve physical and mental well-being, nurture talent, and instil values such as discipline, resilience, teamwork, and respect for fair play. Through sports, we will keep our youths positively engaged, reduce crime and social vices, and open pathways to education, employment, and professional careers. This agenda will also strengthen social inclusion, community cohesion, and collective pride, positioning sports as a pillar of sustainable development.

Drawing inspiration from developed countries that value talent, sports and entertainment will be positioned as part of projecting our talents who are looking for international sports participation and scouting.

Through a strengthened Ministry of Sports and Entertainment:

Grassroots sports development in schools and local communities to discover and nurture talent early.

World-class sports infrastructure, including mini stadiums in all schools, training academies, and community sports centres.

Sports scholarships and talent scouting programmes, connecting Oyo athletes to international clubs and competitions.

Creative industry hubs for music, film, fashion, and digital content creation.

Entertainment grants and low-interest loans for young creatives.

Annual international festivals to attract tourism, investors, and global attention.

Outcome:
Thousands of jobs created, global recognition for Oyo State talents.

EMPOWER YOUTHS AND WOMEN

Youth and women empowerment will be central to our agenda through skills acquisition programmes, entrepreneurship support, provision of access to soft loans, and funding for micro, small, and medium enterprises through partnership with financial institutions. Empowering these groups is key to reducing unemployment, poverty, and social unrest.

HEALTHCARE: A MODERN, ACCESSIBLE, AND PEOPLE-CENTRED SYSTEM

Healthcare will be built on multiple levels to ensure access, affordability, and quality.

Key Initiatives:

Universal health insurance coverage for all residents, especially the vulnerable.

Upgrading primary healthcare centres to operate 24/7 with modern equipment and trained personnel.

Specialist hospitals and diagnostic centres across the zones of the state.

Medical tourism within Oyo State, reducing the need for foreign treatment.

Public-private partnerships (PPP) in healthcare delivery.

Incentives to attract and retain doctors and nurses, including housing and career development opportunities.

Outcome:
A healthier population, reduced medical expenses abroad, and increased life expectancy.

HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT: MODERN CITIES, DECENT LIVING

Inspired by urban planning models in developed countries, Oyo State will undergo a visible transformation.

Key Policies:

Development of high-rise and low-cost modern housing estates in Oyo State.

Affordable housing schemes for civil servants, artisans, business owners, and low-income earners.

Smart city planning, including green spaces, reliable power, water supply, and efficient waste management.

Urban renewal programmes to redevelop slums and ageing neighbourhoods.

Mortgage and rent-to-home-ownership schemes in partnership with financial institutions.

Existing home ownership will be censored and integrated into the existing Oyo State map planning.

Outcome:
A cleaner, modern, and visually attractive Oyo State that supports economic growth and improved quality of life.

SECURITY: SAFE COMMUNITIES, STRONG INSTITUTIONS

Security will be approached using global best practices from community policing models in some developed countries.

Security Strategy:

Technology-driven security, including CCTV cameras, drones, and smart surveillance systems, will be integrated into the existing security system.

Strengthened community policing, working closely with traditional rulers and local leaders.

Rapid response units across all the local government areas of Oyo State.

Youth engagement and employment programmes to address the root causes of crime.

Improved welfare and training for security personnel.

Outcome:
Safer communities, protected investments, and renewed confidence among residents and investors.

RELIABLE AND AFFORDABLE ELECTRICITY:

We will deliver reliable and affordable electricity by investing in independent power projects, renewable energy, and modern distribution systems to guarantee steady power for homes, industries, hospitals, schools, and investors. This will attract foreign investors to choose Oyo State as their investment base and also eradicate dark environments.

Dedicated power supply will be provided to industrial clusters, healthcare facilities, and educational institutions to boost productivity and service delivery. Stable electricity will reduce dependence on generators, lower business costs, strengthen security infrastructure, and accelerate sustainable economic growth in Oyo State.

FAIR WAGES AND TIMELY CAREER PROGRESSION FOR SERVING CIVIL SERVANTS

Under Omituntun 3.0, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo pledges fair wages and entitlements that factor in prevailing economic realities for the workforce.
As a responsible and conscientious government, the Ajadi political ideology has gone ahead to provide a policy hedge for this, prioritising civil servants’ conditions of service.
By this, their salaries will continue to be paid regularly and promptly in line with established civil service rules.
In addition, merit-based promotions will be conducted as and when due, and there will be no issue of administrative delays or bureaucratic bottlenecks denying civil servants merited career progression.

Why will an Ajadi-led government keep faith with regular salary payment and promotion?
First, it is scriptural that a worker is worthy of his wages. In other words, anyone who has laboured to serve the state deserves decent wages for such labour.
Besides, regular payment of salaries is a sure way of sustaining workers’ morale, and my administration will not toy with it, knowing that the service is the engine room of productivity in any state economy.

Through these, therefore, an Ajadi-led government will sustain morale within the civil service, strengthen institutional efficiency, and guarantee that workers retire with dignity.

PENSIONERS AND RETIRED CIVIL SERVANTS: HONOURING SERVICE, SECURING DIGNITY

An Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo-led government would be run on equity and compassion, especially when it comes to pensions for retirees.
From the outset, the administration would put in place a robust pension payment framework that will not allow backlogs, but will instead be calculated upfront and paid as and when due.
This will enable retirees to plan their daily sustenance and also free government from running helter-skelter when it is time to pay.
Pensioners have served with their energy and time and should not be subjected to a beggarly status or have their lives endangered while seeking to receive what is both legally and morally theirs.

In connection with the above, our starting point is to seek to clear all verified outstanding pension and gratuity backlogs.
The modality for a transparent process has already been worked out and would go into operation upon the inauguration of the administration.
One of such modalities is the institution of a sustainable Pension Funding Framework aimed at ensuring uninterrupted and stress-free pension payment on a regular basis.

Digital and Seamless Pension Administration

Knowing very well how bureaucracy can affect genuinely thought-out government policies, the administration of Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo has gone ahead to plan for the introduction and expansion of e-payment systems and digital verification platforms.
This will both checkmate fraud and fast-track pension payment for all entitled Oyo retirees.

Health and Social Support for Retirees

Retired civil servants will be integrated into affordable healthcare schemes, while welfare support programmes will be designed to assist elderly pensioners in managing their health conditions.
The policy, already formulated, will, however, accommodate the input of pensioners’ unions in implementation.

Our Watchword

Under Omituntun 3.0, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo pledges that retirement will not mean rejection and that years of service will never be rewarded with neglect. Pensioners will be treated as partners in development and accorded the same respect and priority as serving workers.

An Ajadi administration will protect earned benefits, preserve dignity, and guarantee peace of mind for every retired civil servant in Oyo State.

TRANSPARENT, INCLUSIVE, AND PARTICIPATORY GOVERNANCE

I hereby sign an undertaking to be held accountable and prosecuted in a court of law for failing to fulfil the electoral promises that I hereby make to the citizens of Oyo State.
Anti-corruption measures will be institutionalised, public service delivery digitised, and citizen feedback will be encouraged. Women, youths, and marginalised groups will be actively included in political and leadership spaces to ensure equity and shared ownership of governance.

Continue Reading

society

Dishonouring Fathers Pollutes Your Source and Limits Destiny — Dr. Chris Okafor

Published

on

Dishonouring Fathers Pollutes Your Source and Limits Destiny — Dr. Chris Okafor

“A father’s blessing is tied to your breakthrough and can change life’s patterns.”

Dishonouring one’s father—whether biological or spiritual—can disrupt the source of a person’s blessings and hinder progress in life. According to the Generational Prophet of God and Senior Pastor of Grace Nation Global, Christopher Okafor, honouring one’s father is a spiritual principle that preserves destiny and unlocks divine favour.

Dr. Okafor made this statement during the Sunday Divine Intervention and Breakthrough Service held on March 15, 2026, at the international headquarters of Grace Nation Worldwide in Ojodu Berger, Lagos, Nigeria.

The Power of a Father’s Blessing

In his teaching, the cleric described a father as a spiritual source.
According to him, when individuals respect and honour their source, they create a pathway for blessings, stability, and the fulfillment of their inheritance in life.

“One of the most dangerous practices for a believer is dishonouring a father,” he said.

“When the source is honoured, life flows well and destiny is preserved.”

He warned that when a father releases a negative declaration, it can become difficult for a person to experience lasting success, regardless of their level of hard work or skill.

“You may be hardworking,” he noted, “but if the source is polluted, progress can become difficult.”
Patterns Passed Through Families
Continuing his sermon in the series “Patterns – Part 2,” Dr. Okafor explained that many individuals struggle with recurring challenges within their families.

He suggested that hostility, blackmail, or disrespect toward authority figures may sometimes reflect deeper unresolved patterns within family lineages.

According to him, such patterns can affect a person’s progress until they are consciously addressed.

Breaking Negative Patterns

The preacher emphasized that the blessing of a father can interrupt negative family cycles.

Regardless of the patterns affecting a family, he said, a sincere blessing from a father figure has the spiritual authority to shift circumstances and open new paths for success.

He further advised believers to live responsibly, follow divine instructions, and remain prayerful.
“When you honour your fathers and walk in obedience,” he said, “God releases guidance and answers prayers speedily.”

Service Announcement

Meanwhile, Grace Nation Worldwide has announced that its annual flagship family liberation conference, “Harvest of Babies 2026,” will hold in the last week of March at the church’s international headquarters in Ojodu Berger, Lagos.

According to church officials, the conference is designed for couples and individuals trusting God for the fruit of the womb. The event is expected to attract participants from different parts of the world seeking spiritual support and prayer for miracle children.

Dr. Okafor encouraged expectant parents and families believing for children to participate in the prophetic gathering, expressing faith that God will bring transformation and testimonies to many lives.

 

Dishonouring Fathers Pollutes Your Source and Limits Destiny — Dr. Chris Okafor

Continue Reading

society

ADC Unveils Opposition Strategy as Obi, Atiku, Amaechi Move to Challenge Tinubu in 2027

Published

on

ADC Unveils Opposition Strategy as Obi, Atiku, Amaechi Move to Challenge Tinubu in 2027

By George Omagbemi Sylvester

“Opposition heavyweights explore coalition strategy under the African Democratic Congress as political analysts debate whether a united front can realistically challenge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election.”

Peter Obi, Atiku Abubakar, and Rotimi Amaechi are working together under the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as part of a coordinated political effort aimed at defeating Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 Nigerian presidential election, according to party insiders who revealed the strategy in Abuja in March 2026.

https://www.stanbicibtcbank.com/nigeriabank/personal/products-and-services/all-loans/stanbic-ibtc-mreif-home-loans

https://www.stanbicibtcbank.com/nigeriabank/personal/products-and-services/all-loans/stanbic-ibtc-mreif-home-loans

The ADC leadership disclosed that the three prominent political figures (each of whom commands significant national followership) are currently holding consultations, building a broad opposition coalition, and harmonising political structures across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. The objective, according to the party, is to create a unified opposition front capable of challenging the electoral dominance of the APC, which has controlled Nigeria’s presidency since 2015.

Party officials said the collaboration represents a deliberate attempt to replicate the successful coalition strategy that defeated the then-ruling party in 2015, when several opposition blocs merged to form the APC and ultimately removed the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) from power after sixteen years. Analysts say the ADC coalition hopes to reverse that historical pattern by bringing together major opposition figures under a single political platform before the 2027 elections.

According to political insiders, the discussions among Obi, Atiku and Amaechi revolve around three key pillars: coalition building, electoral strategy, and national policy alternatives designed to appeal to voters dissatisfied with Nigeria’s economic direction and governance challenges. The ADC reportedly believes that combining Obi’s youth-driven support base, Atiku’s political networks across northern Nigeria, and Amaechi’s organisational influence within the political establishment could create a formidable opposition alliance.

Political scientist Prof. Pat Utomi argued that coalition politics may be the only realistic path for opposition forces seeking to defeat an incumbent government in Nigeria. According to him, “Opposition fragmentation has always been the ruling party’s greatest advantage. A coalition changes the arithmetic of Nigerian politics.”

Similarly, constitutional lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) observed that the emerging alliance reflects a broader democratic pattern. “In many democracies, opposition parties must cooperate to challenge incumbents effectively. What matters is whether such cooperation produces credible alternatives for voters,” Falana said in a recent public lecture on electoral reform.

However, not all analysts believe the coalition will automatically translate into electoral victory. Political commentator Dr. Jide Ojo noted that Nigeria’s electoral politics is shaped by regional balancing, party structures, and grassroots mobilisation, factors that may complicate the opposition’s strategy. “Coalitions are powerful, but they only work when ideological differences are managed and when leadership ambitions are carefully negotiated,” he explained.

The question of who will eventually emerge as the coalition’s presidential candidate remains one of the most sensitive issues. Both Obi and Atiku previously contested the presidency in the 2023 election, while Amaechi (former governor of Rivers State and former Minister of Transportation) also ran in the APC presidential primaries that produced Tinubu as candidate. Negotiations over the presidential ticket are therefore expected to become a central issue as coalition talks progress.

Political historian Dr. Sam Amadi, former chairman of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, believes the coalition’s success will depend on whether it can present a clear national vision rather than merely an anti-Tinubu agenda. According to him, “Nigerians are not only interested in defeating incumbents; they want to know what comes after. A coalition must offer policy credibility.”

Meanwhile, supporters of the ruling APC dismiss the coalition as politically exaggerated. Some party leaders argue that the opposition alliance lacks cohesion and may eventually collapse under internal rivalry. They maintain that President Tinubu still commands strong political structures nationwide and remains well-positioned ahead of the 2027 race.

Despite the skepticism, the emerging ADC coalition has already intensified political discussions across the country. For many observers, the alliance represents the first serious attempt to reshape Nigeria’s opposition landscape since the 2023 general election.

Whether the collaboration between Obi, Atiku and Amaechi will ultimately succeed in unseating Tinubu remains uncertain. What is clear, however, is that the battle for Nigeria’s 2027 presidency has quietly begun, with coalition politics once again emerging as a decisive factor in the nation’s democratic trajectory..

 

Continue Reading

Cover Of The Week

Trending