
Former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi has challenged President Bola Tinubu to demonstrate confidence for the 2027 elections by instructing National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu to cease alleged interference with the judiciary and the Independent National Electoral Commission. Amaechi made these remarks during a Channels TV interview, responding to reports that President Tinubu was unconcerned by opposition mobilization around the African Democratic Congress ADC. Amaechi, who previously managed President Muhammadu Buhari鈥檚 presidential campaigns, has now aligned with the ADC. He also dismissed the INEC chairman鈥檚 interpretation of a Court of Appeal ruling regarding the ADC鈥檚 leadership. These comments come amidst an ongoing leadership crisis within the ADC, where INEC derecognized the party鈥檚 national chairman, David Mark, and national secretary, Rauf Aregbesola, citing a Court of Appeal order. The ADC, however, rejected INEC鈥檚 interpretation, arguing that the status quo to be maintained was when Mark was the recognized chairman. A party spokesman accused the ruling All Progressives Congress of sponsoring the internal crisis. The ADC has recently attracted prominent figures like former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso, positioning itself as a potential presidential platform for 2027.
Free daily or weekly digest of the most important stories from across 18 African countries. No spam, unsubscribe any time.
This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
Must ReadThe Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Olayemi Cardoso, announced that the country鈥檚 net foreign exchange reserves have risen from approximately $3 billion at the start of economic reforms to about $40 billion. This increase, disclosed at the BusinessDay CEO Forum in Lagos, signifies improved external liquidity and growing investor confidence. Cardoso noted that Nigeria's gross external reserves reached around $52 billion as of Wednesday. He highlighted that the recovery in net reserves demonstrates progress in stabilizing the foreign exchange market and is a result of reforms aimed at restoring economic confidence and strengthening Nigeria's external position. The CBN Governor urged business leaders to capitalize on the improved macroeconomic environment, emphasizing that stability creates a foundation for attracting investment, stimulating growth, and fostering prosperity. He expressed optimism that this progress would encourage greater capital commitment to the Nigerian economy.

The Delta State Government announced it will receive 50 Compressed Natural Gas CNG buses within the next four to five months to establish a mass transit system. Mr. Onoriode Agofure, the Commissioner for Transport, stated that the procurement process has begun following Governor Sheriff Oborevwori鈥檚 approval. These buses aim to provide cheaper, safer, and more comfortable transportation for residents on inter-city routes and within the Asaba metropolis. The government has identified operational routes and considers this an initial phase, with plans for more buses if successful. Modern bus terminals are under construction in Asaba and Warri to support the scheme, and legal frameworks are being developed for sustainability. The initiative is expected to create jobs and boost economic activities, with future plans to extend services to riverine areas. Engr. Vincent Ehiwario, Director of Vehicle Inspection Services, commended the Governor and Commissioner for transport sector reforms, including automated inspections and road safety campaigns.

Pastor Enoch Adeboye, General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, called on scholars, church leaders, and policymakers to move beyond academic discussions and create practical solutions for Nigeria's escalating insecurity. Speaking through his Special Adviser on Administration, Prof. Dele Balogun, at the 2026 International Conference on African Pentecostalism, Adeboye highlighted kidnapping, insurgency, farmer-herder conflicts, and communal violence as major threats. He expressed optimism that Nigeria would fulfill its destiny despite current challenges, emphasizing that African Pentecostalism plays a significant role in the nation's life. The conference, themed "African Pentecostalism and the Politics of Insecurity in Nigeria," was organized by the Redeemed Christian Theological College in collaboration with the University of Ibadan and Redeemer鈥檚 University. National Overseer of RCCG, Pastor Sunday Akande, represented by Dr. Josiah Bolarinwa, noted that insecurity has been politicized, hindering resolution. Akande urged Pentecostals to engage in community development and support security forces. Dr. Alaba Oti, Provost of the college, stressed the need for thoughtful, ethical, and practical responses from religious leaders and scholars. Prof. Afe Adogame of Princeton Theological Seminary challenged churches and faith-based organizations to complement prayers with practical action, addressing root causes like poverty, unemployment, and corruption. Adogame critic