
Loyalists of former Kano State governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso, and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar have announced their support for former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, for the 2027 general election. This endorsement was made during a coalition meeting in Abuja on Friday, attended by members of the Obidient Movement, Kwankwasiyya Movement, and the Coalition of Atiku Support Groups Initiative. Habibu Muhammed, spokesman for the Kwankwasiyya Movement, stated that the movement aligned with Obi due to his proven leadership and commitment to national development, emphasizing that 2027 would bring a "political revolution" where the common man would determine leaders like Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso. Muhammed highlighted leadership as a matter of proven performance and track record, citing Kwankwaso's achievements in education and governance. He added that the Kwankwasiyya Movement accepted the need to support another region for national balance and unity, concluding that Peter Obi is an exceptional leader they wish to follow. Obinna Okorie, National Coordinator of the Coalition of Atiku Support Groups Initiative, appealed to Atiku Abubakar to support Obi's presidential ambition, explaining that the decision followed a review of Nigeria's political dynamics and Obi's national appeal. Yunusa Tanko, National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement Worldwide, welcomed the growing opposition alliance, asserting that efforts to divide the coalition had failed. These
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.

President Bola Tinubu has appointed Professor Oluwatoyin Ogundipe, former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, as the new Chairman of the Governing Board of the National Universities Commission. The appointment, announced by the President鈥檚 Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, aims to enhance quality, access, and integrity in the education sector. Professor Ogundipe succeeds Emeritus Professor Olufemi Aina, who resigned less than a year after his appointment. In his new role, Professor Ogundipe will focus on funding, global competitiveness, and academic stability within Nigeria's university system, aligning with the Renewed Hope Agenda. Professor Ogundipe, a professor of Botany with a PhD from Obafemi Awolowo University and an MBA from the University of Lagos, served as Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos from 2017 to 2022. He is currently the Pro-Chancellor of Redeemer鈥檚 University and a fellow of several professional bodies, including the Nigerian Academy of Science.
Must ReadThe Arewa Consultative Forum ACF and the Northern Elders Forum NEF have cautioned that Nigeria risks descending into anarchy if the Federal Government does not address the actions of Yoruba Nation agitator Sunday Adeyemo, also known as Sunday Igboho. This warning follows Igboho's reported ultimatum to Fulani leaders in Oyo State after the abduction of a pregnant woman and her relatives. Both groups, along with several Fulani associations, accused Igboho of ethnic profiling, stating that blaming an entire ethnic group for the actions of suspected criminals could escalate tensions, provoke retaliation, and undermine national unity. Igboho, however, defended his actions, asserting that his advocacy for improved security in the South-West targets criminal elements responsible for abductions, killings, and banditry, not any specific ethnic group. He emphasized that his focus is on protecting innocent lives and preserving peace, security, and justice, and that criminals should be prosecuted regardless of their ethnicity. The Oyo State police command and the Oorelope Local Government chairman dismissed reports that the abducted woman, Mrs. Kuburat Omowumi, and her relatives had been freed, confirming they remain in captivity and rescue efforts are ongoing. The controversy stems from a viral video where Igboho allegedly gave a two-hour ultimatum to Fulani leaders in the Igboho community, accusing unnamed Fulani men of kidnappings. The National Publicity Secretary of the ACF, Professo
Must ReadThe Nigerian Communications Commission has initiated consultations on a proposal to provide free internet access to approved educational platforms for millions of Nigerian students. This initiative, known as the Zero-Rated Data Access Project, aims to address digital exclusion by removing the affordability barrier for internet access in learning. The consultation, running from June 19 to July 9, 2026, seeks public input on a framework for this project, following President Bola Tinubu's call for unhindered connectivity to educational institutions. The committee is considering two main implementation options: a single mobile-friendly portal for one-click access to approved resources, or telecommunications operators whitelisting approved educational websites. Eligibility for the program is also under discussion, with options ranging from restricting access to senior secondary and tertiary students, to extending it to all students and teachers in both public and private schools, or a phased approach. The committee emphasizes the need for sustainability and is seeking financing options from stakeholders. Content eligible for free access would include structured digital materials supporting teaching, learning, skills development, and academic assessment, while excluding social media and entertainment platforms. Funding options include the Universal Service Provision Fund, government subsidies, development partners, public-private partnerships, and cost-sharing. The program might in