Coping with the systematic collapse of our institutions. When the controversy surrounding the removal of former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Walter Onnoghen, unfolded, I expressed a concern to a friend: that the greatest damage might not be immediate, but the message it sends about the sanctity and independence of our institutions to the world. Strong economies are built on trust. Investors can manage security risks, policy risks, and even market risks. What they fear most is uncertainty in the rule of law and a judiciary that is perceived to be vulnerable to political pressure. Today, many Nigerians have lost confidence in systems that should protect them. Businesses increasingly request that their contracts be governed by foreign jurisdictions because they have greater confidence in those institutions than in our own. That should concern every patriot. We must never sacrifice our sacred institutions on the altar of politics. Nations rise when institutions are stronger than individuals. "The federal High Court Judgement ordering the de-registration of the ADC and other political parties is just one of those activities that further reduces the common man's trust in our legal systems" it should be reversed. I pledge that we will restore the dignity, independence, and integrity of the Judiciary. The common man must have a voice. The business community must be protected from legal uncertainty and intimidation. Justice must be impartial, accessible, and respected by all. To our judges, legal luminaries, senior advocates, and lawyers: this is your moment. Rise, defend the rule of law, take back your country! A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

Sustainable Success Is Built on Competence, Integrity, Discipline and hardworking. On Saturday, I had the privilege of interacting with young entrepreneurs, professionals, business leaders, and members of the emerging generation at the This Generation Conference hosted by Summit Bible Church in Abuja. Our discussion focused on what it takes to thrive in the marketplace despite prevailing economic challenges. I shared insights from my years in business and public service, emphasizing that sustainable success is built on integrity, competence, discipline, and a commitment to creating value for society. I reminded participants that no nation develops by consumption alone. Nations progress when their citizens are productive, innovative, and committed to excellence. Our young people must resist the temptation of shortcuts and instead embrace education, skills acquisition, entrepreneurship, and ethical leadership. The future of Nigeria depends largely on the quality of leadership and enterprise this generation is willing to build. We must move from a culture of sharing poverty to one of creating prosperity through production, innovation, and responsible governance. I left encouraged by the energy, intelligence, and determination of the young people I met. Their questions, ideas, and aspirations reaffirmed my belief that Nigeria’s greatest resource remains her people. Together, through hard work, integrity, and purposeful leadership, we can build the New Nigeria that is POssible. -PO

Dear beloved sports-loving Nigerian youths, After watching the performances of Davido, Burna Boy, and Rema at the opening of the 2026 World Cup—at a time when Nigeria, the giant of Africa, is absent—I felt a measure of consolation. This was reinforced by the fact that many Nigerians playing for clubs worldwide are representing other countries. Felix Nmecha, for instance, set a record by scoring the fastest goal at six minutes for Germany. I write to you therefore, knowing that this country belongs to you, the youth. You are more of stakeholders in Nigeria’s future than I am. I am 64 years old; by God’s grace, much of my journey is behind me, while yours lies ahead. It is therefore imperative that you rise to the challenge by obtaining your PVC, your most powerful tool for driving the change you desire. In the last three years alone, over 15 million Nigerians have turned 18—enough to decide who becomes President, Governor, Senator, Member of the House, or Local Government Chairman. Indeed, enough to shape the nation’s future. I know many of you are sceptical about politics and political parties. I understand why, but scepticism must not become surrender. You do not need to belong to any party or wait for anyone to organise you. Organise yourselves in your streets, campuses, communities, workplaces, churches, mosques, and social groups. Mobilise, debate, demand accountability, and take part in choosing those you wish to entrust with leadership. If you are organised and wish to hear directly from me, invite me. I will come and share my plans for you and our nation. Do not sit on the sidelines while others decide your future. I appeal to you to register and vote. Your vote can shape who becomes the next President of our country. My young friends, this is your country. Take it back. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

The Commendable Act of Nigerian Artists at the World Cup Nigeria’s absence from the World Cup, as I previously stated, stems not from a lack of talent but from a conspicuous deficiency in political leadership that has failed to create an enabling environment for talent development. This assertion is underscored by two notable occurrences during the tournament: the vibrant participation and impressive performances of Nigerian artists, and the presence of numerous Nigerians representing other nations on the field. These observations present a significant imperative for Nigeria’s political leaders to actively foster an environment in which the nation’s youth can fully realize their potential. Furthermore, Davido’s impactful gesture in drawing global attention to Nigeria’s security challenges warrants commendation. He prominently displayed the names of schoolchildren who had been held captive for an extended period, advocating for their safe return. By utilizing his international platform, Davido effectively highlighted Nigeria’s security crisis, transcending mere entertainment. He appeared in a custom black leather jacket emblazoned with the message “BRING THEM HOME,” accented with green buttons bearing the names of 39 schoolchildren and 7 teachers recently abducted by bandits in the Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State. The pervasive insecurity in Nigeria merits international scrutiny, particularly given the government’s apparent inability to effectively address the situation. Nevertheless, the prospect of a revitalized Nigeria remains achievable. -PO

Insecurity: Nigeria Cannot Continue Like This I received with deep shock and sadness the tragic death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, who reportedly died while in the custody of kidnappers. Earlier, before this heartbreaking news, I also received disturbing reports of renewed bandit attacks in Sokoto and Kwara States. The armed bandits reportedly blocked a market route in Sokoto and abducted traders, while terrorists invaded communities in Kwara State, kidnapping scores of citizens and killing innocent people, are heartbreaking and alarming. These incidents are not isolated tragedies; they are clear manifestations of the deepening security crisis confronting our nation. But particularly painful is the reported death of Major General Rabe Abubakar, a distinguished military officer who dedicated a significant part of his life to defending Nigeria and protecting its citizens. It is tragic that a man who served his fatherland with honour, rose through the ranks of the Nigerian Armed Forces, and retired after years of meritorious service, would meet such a heartbreaking end at the hands of criminal elements. His death is a national tragedy and a sobering indictment of the insecurity that has engulfed our country. When traders can no longer travel safely to markets, farmers cannot access their farms, communities live under constant fear, and even retired senior military officers are not spared from the menace of kidnapping and violent crime, it becomes evident that our nation is facing a grave security emergency. Security remains the foremost responsibility of any government. Every life lost, every citizen abducted, and every community displaced represent a painful failure of our collective duty to protect the Nigerian people. The recurring attacks in Sokoto, Kwara, and many other parts of the country demonstrate that insecurity is not only persisting but spreading in both scope and intensity. I once again urge the Federal Government and our security agencies to move beyond rhetoric and adopt a more proactive, intelligence-driven, technology-based, and coordinated approach to tackling insecurity. We must strengthen our security architecture, improve intelligence gathering, secure our borders, equip and motivate our security personnel, and ensure that those responsible for these heinous crimes are apprehended and brought to justice. A nation where citizens live in fear cannot prosper. A nation where economic activities are disrupted daily by criminal elements cannot attract investment, create jobs, or guarantee a better future for its people. We must urgently reclaim every part of our country from terrorists, bandits, kidnappers, and all criminal gangs threatening our collective existence. My heartfelt condolences go to the family of Major General Rabe Abubakar, his former colleagues in the Armed Forces, and all Nigerians who have lost loved ones to insecurity. I also sympathise with the families of those killed, those abducted, and the affected communities in Sokoto, Kwara, and across the nation. The recurring tragedies and embarrassing security failures we continue to witness make the quest for a New Nigeria not only necessary but inevitable. We must build a nation where every citizen can live, work, travel, and pursue legitimate economic activities without fear. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

Today, I am honoured to join distinguished Nigerians in celebrating a statesman and elder of our nation, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, GCFR, on the occasion of his 84th birthday and the public presentation of books documenting his remarkable life, service, and contributions to Nigeria and Africa. General Abdulsalami occupies a unique place in our national history. At a critical moment in Nigeria's journey, he demonstrated uncommon courage, patriotism, and selflessness by guiding our nation through a peaceful transition to democratic governance. His actions helped lay the foundation for the democratic dispensation that Nigeria continues to build upon today. As we celebrate General Abdulsalami today, we are reminded that true leadership is measured not by the accumulation of power, but by the positive impact one leaves on people and institutions. His life continues to demonstrate that service to the nation must always be guided by responsibility and a commitment to the common good. May Almighty God continue to grant him good health, wisdom, and strength to keep serving humanity and our nation. Thank you, and God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria. -PO

Together Towards the New Nigeria That Is Possible On this June 12, Democracy Day, I had useful meetings with my partners in the building of the New Nigeria that is Possible: our great party’s National Leader, H.E. Senator Seriake Dickson, and our party’s Vice Presidential candidate, H.E. Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso. The NDC, as a party that is barely four months old, despite the challenges, remains the party of the future, and the fruitful discussions at the meetings clearly underscore this fact. The leaders and members of a committed political family must be willing to make sacrifices and show tolerance and accommodation, even in difficult circumstances. This shared understanding is essential for building trust, strengthening unity, and sustaining the vision we collectively hold for national transformation. We are all committed to this goal. The NDC remains the vehicle that will convey Nigeria through purposeful, compassionate leadership, with firm commitment to productivity and democratic ideals towards the New Nigeria that is POssible. -PO

What June 12 Should Mean to Us Nigerians Today, we observe a day that should mean a great deal to us as a people who cherish democratic principles. Every year on June 12, the conversation inevitably turns to a critical assessment of the state of our nation. It serves as an annual benchmark for asking important questions: Are our elections today as transparent as they were in 1993? Is the social contract being honoured? Are the institutions of governance truly serving the people? Ultimately, June 12 is a powerful blend of reflection and aspiration. It honours a fractured past while serving as a constant and foundational reminder of the immense power inherent in the collective democratic will of the Nigerian people. For us in Nigeria, June 12 is not merely a date on the calendar; it is the emotional and structural bedrock of our modern democratic identity. Officially recognised as Democracy Day, June 12 carries deep historical, political, and social significance, representing both a monumental tragedy and the ultimate triumph of the collective will of the people. To understand what June 12 means to Nigeria, one must examine its history, its evolution, and its enduring symbolism. A new era of true democracy is POssible. -PO

As the World Cup Begins Without Nigeria As the World Cup begins today across three nations, I identify with our teeming football followers and urge them not to be despondent that Nigeria is not participating, despite the abundant talent in our land. Our failure to participate on the global stage is not due to a deficit of talent; it is a direct consequence of a deficit in leadership, planning, and institutional support. The task of building a better Nigeria rests primarily on the shoulders of the younger generation. Do not watch the World Cup with despair; rather, see it as a reminder of where Nigeria ought to be. We must move our country from being a nation of mere consumers of global entertainment to a nation of proud producers and competitors. A new Nigeria is POssible. -PO

Despite Three Years of Tinubu's Food Emergency, Nigeria hungriest ranking index declined to among the worst nations globally. In celebrating his supposed successful three years in office, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu listed some achievements in the agricultural sector, firstly, his declaration of emergency on food security in July 2023, followed by the acquisition of 2,000 tractors and 9,000 farming implements, stated as Nigeria's largest agricultural mechanisation programme. Yet the outcome of this has been the opposite. Nigeria's hunger index has worsened significantly. Nigeria's hunger index ranking was 103rd out of 123 countries surveyed in 2022/2023, and this figure had since worsened to 115th out of 123 countries surveyed in 2025/2026. Consequently, Nigeria is now classified among the world's most hungry or food-insecure nations in the world, with the World Bank forecasting that 33 million Nigerians could experience severe hunger. In fact, Nigeria has the highest number of hungry people in the world. I have always maintained that Nigeria have no reason to be seen among the hungriest nations in the world when we have fast, uncultivated land in the north, which is our greatest asset today. We must transparently invest in Agricultural production, which will guarantee food security, but create huge employment. A new Nigeria is POssible. -PO

In continuation of my quest to deepen knowledge and impact positively on our society, yesterday June 10th, in London, I held a series of important engagements, including a fruitful meeting with Alex Vines, Director of the Africa Programme at the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR). Our discussions focused on strengthening strategic relationships and fostering a deeper understanding of Africa’s evolving role in global affairs. It was emphasized that Africa must no longer be viewed merely through the prism of statistics or humanitarian concern, but as a serious and equal partner in shaping the future global order, much like India, Indonesia, and other emerging centres of influence. During our engagement, it became increasingly clear that Africa, and Nigeria in particular, must be placed at the centre of international conversations on partnership, trade, governance, innovation, and sustainable development. Constructive dialogue and mutual respect remain essential to building meaningful cooperation between Africa and the international community. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

Sad: Our Children Are Now Pawns in a Deadly Ransom Economy It’s heartbreaking to report yet another bandit attack on a school, barely three weeks after over 40 schoolchildren and their teachers were abducted and are still languishing in the forest. The security situation in Kogi State has taken another tragic turn with a brutal bandit attack on Government Secondary School, Iluke, in Kabba-Bunu LGA. Armed bandits disguised in military uniforms invaded the school during an ongoing WAEC examination, killed the Vice Principal, Mr. Gani Anifowose, and attempted a mass abduction of students. Reports from the scene indicate that local security personnel and vigilantes actively resisted the attackers and frustrated their abduction attempt. Making educational institutions soft targets is a direct assault on the nation’s future. It creates a psychological barrier to school enrolment and worsens Nigeria’s out-of-school children crisis, disproportionately forcing young girls out of formal education due to fear. There is nothing more heartbreaking for a nation than being unable to protect its children. My heartfelt condolences go to the family of the Vice Principal, who lost his life while gallantly defending the children entrusted to his care. May God grant his soul eternal repose.-PO

Exponential increase in revenue with excessive borrowing: Yet more hardship for Nigerians! In celebrating three years of his administration, President Bola Tinubu included, among his achievements, an increase in revenue from N16.8 trillion in 2022 to N35 trillion in 2025. An increase of over 100%. Shockingly, while Nigerians expected a reduction in borrowing with the exponential increase in revenue, the opposite is the case. In just three years, President Bola Tinubu’s government seems to be obsessed with excessive and imprudent borrowing, with our total debt currently about N200 trillion—a deeply disturbing increase of over N100 trillion. In addition to the exponential increases in both revenue and debt, it is also important to note that Nigeria has earned far more than the budget revenue targets due to global and regional geoeconomic and political tensions. Alarmingly, even with the astronomical increase in both revenue and debt, almost all key socio-economic and governance indicators are worse than in 2023. Multi-dimensional poverty has increased from 87 million people in 2023 to over 140 million people in 2025. Rapidly increasing unemployment and a decline in GDP per capita from $1,597 in 2023 to $1,223 in 2025, and the list goes on. Just more and more hardship for Nigerians! The question Nigerians and even the international community are asking is, “Where did all the money go?” Nigerians deserve a detailed and transparent explanation of what happened to our economy and financial resources since 2023, and a stop to the imprudent, unaccountable, and opaque management of our common patrimony. A new and productive Nigeria is POssible, and Nigeria will be OK! -PO

I just received the sad news of the train derailment along the Warri–Itakpe rail corridor in Delta State. My heartfelt sympathy goes out to the families who lost their loved ones in this unfortunate mishap, and I pray for the quick recovery of those injured. I urge the relevant authorities to investigate the immediate and remote causes of this derailment swiftly, ensure full accountability, and implement measures to restore public confidence in our rail systems. -PO

Excessive Borrowing Without Accountability: Further Affirmation of Imprudent Governance. President Bola Tinubu's administration has engaged in remarkably imprudent borrowing, escalating Nigeria's total debt to approximately N200 trillion. This represents an increase of over N100 trillion within a mere three years, a stark contrast to the roughly N49 trillion accumulated during President Muhammadu Buhari's eight-year tenure, which would have projected to around N80 trillion. As millions of Nigerians grapple with the shock of this unsustainable debt accumulation, the situation is exacerbated by the government's reckless approach to borrowing and a profound absence of accountability and transparency in the utilisation of these funds. For instance, data from the Federation's Budget Office reveals that the Bola Tinubu government borrowed N11.89 trillion in the first three quarters of 2025 (January to September), exceeding the planned borrowing target of N10.34 trillion by approximately N1.54 trillion. Under a responsible and accountable government, such an overshoot would necessitate rigorous scrutiny and explanation from relevant governmental bodies. Regrettably, this is not the reality under the current administration. Compounding this issue, only N3.10 trillion of the borrowed funds was allocated to capital expenditure during the same January-September 2025 period. This constitutes a mere 17.66% of the N17.58 trillion earmarked for capital projects, leaving a deficit of roughly N14.48 trillion, or 82.34% of planned capital expenditure unfunded. The most disturbing aspect of the financial management fiasco under Bola Tinubu is that there is no explanation or information regarding how the balance was utilised or deployed. The question that Nigerians are rightly asking and deserve an answer to is what happened to the balance? Was it deployed for recurrent expenditure/ consumption, for the entertainment of guests to Aso Rock or transferred to the Renewed Hope Agenda 2027 Election Campaign Fund? Nigerians deserve an answer on how our economy and resources are most unpatriotically managed. A New and Productive Nigeria is POssible, and Nigeria will be OK! -PO

Media Framing of Crime Along Ethnic Lines: Divisive. As an Igbo man, I have endured stereotypes, judgment, and labelling solely based on my ethnic origins. This is not an isolated Igbo experience. Most Nigerians have, at some point, been reduced to their ethnicity rather than recognised for their true character. I understand the pain of the ordinary Fulani man today, often unfairly judged by the actions of criminals he does not support, has never met, and who are not representative of his people. Even in America, such unjust labelling fueled the civil rights movement and prompted Martin Luther King Jr. to declare that people should be judged by the content of their character, not the colour of their skin. Every Nigerian ethnic group is known for its unique traditions, occupations, skills, and strengths. Crime, however, has no ethnicity. A thief is a thief. A terrorist is a terrorist. A kidnapper is a kidnapper. They are bad actors, not representatives of any people. They must be identified, arrested, and punished according to the law. We must decisively abandon the dangerous practice of blaming entire ethnic groups for the actions of a few criminals. It is unjust, it breeds hatred, and it damages our national unity. Let us proudly celebrate our diverse cultures, talents, and contributions, rather than falling prey to stereotypes and prejudices that politicians and divisive interests exploit for their gain. A new Nigeria must emerge—one where no citizen is condemned because of tribe, religion, or birthplace. We can cherish our cultural roots while standing united by justice, mutual respect, and hope for a better future. We are capable of this. A new Nigeria is within our reach. -PO

I extend my deepest sympathies to the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC). The relentless increase in insecurity nationwide continues to inflict severe hardship on frontline workers. Regrettably, this alarming lapse in governance is being eclipsed by prevailing political machinations. I wish to express my condolences to the FRSC operatives in Kebbi State following the heinous murder of their colleagues. Furthermore, I unequivocally condemn this act, which exacerbates the profound and unacceptable threats to our nation's stability. We must elevate the sanctity of human life to a paramount position within our national agenda. -PO

My dearest sister Ngozi @NOIweala , It is with profound sorrow that I received the sad news of the demise of Prince Ikechukwu Okonjo, your younger brother. The loss of a younger sibling is an arduous and grievous experience. Please accept my sincerest sympathies, extended to you, the esteemed royal family of the Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom, and all individuals who held Prince Ikechukwu in their affections. May God Almighty who called him home grant him eternal rest in His kingdom, and grant your family the fortitude to bear his irreplaceable loss. God Almighty bless your family always. -PO

A Faithful Father in the Faith at 85 On behalf of my family, I join millions of believers and well-wishers across the world in celebrating your 85th birthday, Papa Kumuyi. For decades, you have exemplified integrity, humility, discipline, and unwavering commitment to the Gospel. Through your teachings, leadership, and personal example, you have inspired and transformed countless lives across generations and nations. As you mark this milestone, I pray that Almighty God grants you continued good health, renewed strength, and greater wisdom to keep impacting lives and advancing His Kingdom. Happy 85th Birthday, Papa Kumuyi. May your light continue to shine brightly. -PO