News
Sen Kalu rejects NYLF’s call to run for president, reaffirms support for Tinubu
Chairman of the Senate Committee on the South East Development Commission (SEDC) and Senator representing Abia North, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, has rejected calls from the Northern Youth Leaders Forum (NYLF) urging him to run for president in 2027.
The NYLF, a coalition of 40 groups, made the request after a courtesy visit to former President Olusegun Obasanjo in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
The group’s President, Comrade Eliot Afiyo, named Obasanjo as its patron and listed Kalu and Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, as their preferred contenders for the 2027 presidency.
The group also suggested that the Governors of Zamfara and Adamawa States, Dauda Lawal and Umar Fintiri, serve as running mates.
However, in a statement issued on Thursday by his media office and signed by George Maduka, Senator Kalu firmly dissociated himself from any presidential ambition, reiterating his commitment to supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election in 2027.
Kalu emphasized that there is no division within the All Progressives Congress (APC) regarding the party’s 2027 presidential candidate and urged the opposition to refrain from using his name for political distractions.
The statement read in part: “Nigerian politics operates within a framework of a federal and presidential system, allowing citizens the right to vote and be voted for.
Senator Kalu has the right to decide what position he should be considered for, and the presidency in 2027 is not one of them.
He has publicly endorsed President Tinubu for re-election and remains committed to the work required to support him.”
Kalu further expressed confidence in Tinubu’s economic reforms, stating that achieving long-term stability, inclusivity, and adaptability requires the President to serve a full eight-year tenure.
“Since Nigeria’s return to democracy, no leader has shown the courage to reform the dwindling economy as Tinubu has.
Kalu believes the best Nigerians can do is to support and re-elect the President in 2027 to complete the good work he has started.”
The former Abia State Governor also highlighted his long-standing friendship with Tinubu, dating back to their time as governors in 1999, and reaffirmed his unwavering support for the President’s progressive economic policies.
News
JUST IN: El-Rufai Leaves State High Court for Federal High Court in Kaduna
Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has concluded proceedings at the State High Court in Kaduna and is now proceeding to the Federal High Court for the continuation of another suit.
El-Rufai, who was earlier present at the State High Court for the continuation of his trial, left the premises after the sitting ended.
He is expected to appear before the Federal High Court in Kaduna for further proceedings related to another case.
Security presence remained visible around both court premises as proceedings attracted attention from observers and supporters.
Details of the proceedings at the Federal High Court are expected to emerge as the matter continues.
News
El-Rufai Appear in State High Court, after Mother’s death, as Trial Continues
The former Kaduna State Governor, Nasiru El-Rufai, on Tuesday morning arrived at the Kaduna State High Court for the trial, and there after he is expected to proceed to the Federal High Courtfor continuation of his proceedings.
The former governor arrived at the Kaduna State High Court amid tight security presence, as legal teams from both sides prepare to continue hearing in the matter. El-Rufai is also scheduled to appear before the Federal High Court for continuation of related legal processes.
The case continues to attract significant public attention, with observers closely monitoring developments across both courts.
Details of the matters to be addressed in both courts have not been fully disclosed, but outcomes from the hearings are expected to influence the direction of the trial.
News
Nigeria Welcomes African Games Bid Evaluation Committee
Nigeria officially welcomed the African Games Bid Evaluation Committee on Monday, marking a significant step in the nation’s quest to host the 2031 African Games.
The delegation, led by Dr. Decius Chipande, was received by top officials of the National Sports Commission (NSC) and treated to a comprehensive and compelling presentation showcasing Nigeria’s readiness, capacity, and vision to host a memorable Games.
Chairman of the NSC, Mallam Shehu Dikko, in his remarks, reaffirmed the solid support of the Federal Government for the bid.
He emphasized that hosting the African Games remains a national priority, backed by strong political will and a commitment to deliver world-class infrastructure, seamless organization, and a lasting legacy for African sports.
Director General of the Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade, presented Nigeria’s strategic sponsorship and marketing framework, outlining innovative approaches to funding and commercial partnerships.
He noted that Nigeria’s large market, vibrant sports culture, and growing private sector interest provide a solid foundation for a financially successful Games.
Providing further depth to the bid, ace broadcaster and Bid Coordinator, Mainasara Ilo, delivered an engaging presentation on legacy, highlighting how the Games would catalyze youth development, infrastructure expansion, and community impact across the country.
On the technical front, former Director of Medicine at the Commission, Dr. Paul Onyedo, detailed Nigeria’s preparedness in sports medicine and its scientific approach to anti-doping, testing, and athlete health management, aligning with international best practices.
In addition, Dr. Emmanuel Igbinosa presented the country’s comprehensive welfare framework, assuring the Committee of Nigeria’s readiness to provide a safe, secure, and athlete-centered environment throughout the Games.
The Evaluation Committee commended Nigeria’s presentation, noting the clarity of vision, depth of planning, and strong alignment between government and private sector stakeholders.
The Committee commenced inspection of key facilities on Monday, with further assessments on Tuesday.
Nigeria remains confident that its compelling bid, backed by experience, infrastructure, and national commitment, positions the country strongly to host a historic and impactful African Games.
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