I was pleased to unveil Dadin Kowa Pharmacy in Sokoto, established by Sheikh Usman Idris, a religious scholar, entrepreneur and African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate for Sokoto South Constituency I in the Sokoto State House of Assembly. I commend Sheikh Idris for this investment in community welfare, particularly his decision to provide free delivery of medicines purchased from the pharmacy to customers anywhere within Sokoto State. This thoughtful initiative will help ease the burden on those who need these essential medicines. At a time when many Nigerians are struggling with the high cost of living, such practical interventions deserve our encouragement and support. Those of us with the capacity to make a difference must continue to find ways to support our communities and assist the less privileged. I also urged our people to participate actively in the democratic process and rally behind the ADC as we approach the 2027 general elections. — AWT

Inna Lillahi Wa Inna Ilaihi Raji’un. Last night, I joined family members, friends and associates at the funeral prayers for our late brother and friend, Alhaji Adamu Abdullahi Romo, who passed away yesterday at a hospital in Abuja and was buried in Sokoto. Alhaji Adamu Romo was a seasoned administrator who retired as a Permanent Secretary in the Sokoto State Civil Service. Throughout his distinguished career, he served in several ministries, departments and agencies, notably as Executive Secretary of the Sokoto State Primary Health Care Development Agency during my administration as Governor of Sokoto State. I pray that Almighty Allah forgives his shortcomings, grants him Aljannatul Firdausi and gives his family, friends and all of us who mourn his passing the strength and fortitude to bear this irreparable loss. — AWT

I received with profound sadness the news of the tragic Nigerian Air Force aircraft crash in Igbokoda, Ondo State, which claimed the lives of personnel and passengers on board. I extend my heartfelt condolences to His Excellency, President @officialABAT, GCFR, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Minister of Defence, the Chief of Defence Staff, the Chief of the Air Staff and the entire Armed Forces of Nigeria over this painful loss. My deepest sympathies go to the families, loved ones and colleagues of all those who lost their lives. Behind each life lost is a family whose world has changed forever. No words can ease the anguish of such a sudden separation, but please know that we share in your grief and stand with you at this difficult time. We honour the service and sacrifice of the fallen personnel and mourn every passenger whose life was cut short. This tragedy is a loss to the entire nation. As investigations proceed, I urge that the bereaved families receive the care and support they need, and that every necessary step be taken to prevent a recurrence. May Almighty God grant eternal rest to the departed, comfort their loved ones and give them the strength to bear this irreparable loss. — AWT

Fellow Compatriots, our dear country marks its 66th Independence Anniversary, I extend my warmest wishes to Nigerians at home and in the diaspora. Sixty-six years after independence, we must be honest with ourselves: Nigeria faces enormous challenges. Across our communities, millions of our people are confronted by economic hardship, insecurity, unemployment and the rising cost of living. For too many Nigerians, the promise of independence has yet to translate into the quality of life, opportunity and security they deserve. But even in the face of these challenges, I remain confident in Nigeria. I am confident in the resilience of our people. I am confident in the strength of our democracy. I am confident in the capacity of Nigerians to come together, rise above our differences and rebuild this country. Nigeria will be rescued. A new Nigeria will emerge. A Nigeria where leadership is accountable to the people. A Nigeria where every child can dream and have a fair opportunity to fulfil that dream. A Nigeria where our diversity becomes our strength rather than a source of division. A Nigeria where security, justice, prosperity and opportunity are not privileges for a few, but the rights of every citizen. Our present difficulties must never become our permanent reality. At 66, this anniversary should therefore be more than a celebration. It should be a moment of reflection and a renewed commitment to the unfinished task of building the Nigeria envisioned by our founding fathers and desired by generations of Nigerians. We must not give up on Nigeria. As we approach the next general elections, I urge every Nigerian to participate fully in our democratic process and to carefully examine those who seek public office, their competence, character, capacity, records and plans for our country. I believe that with responsible leadership, strong institutions and a people united by a common purpose, we can rescue our country and build a nation worthy of the sacrifices of those who came before us and the dreams of those who will come after us. The challenges are enormous, but they are not insurmountable. A better Nigeria is possible. A new Nigeria will emerge. Happy 66th Independence Anniversary, Nigeria. May God bless our people and the Federal Republic of Nigeria. — AWT

I congratulate our great party, the African Democratic Congress (ADC), under the able leadership of Distinguished Senator David Mark, GCON, on the thoughtful and inclusive composition of the Presidential Campaign Council. I particularly congratulate H.E. Chief John Odigie Oyegun, Chairman of the Campaign Advisory Board; Alhaji Kashim Ibrahim-Imam, Chairman of the National Campaign Council; Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, Deputy Chairman; and Senator Austin Akobundu, Director-General and Campaign Manager, as well as all those entrusted with various responsibilities in the campaign structure. The composition brings together individuals with diverse experiences in public service, politics, policy, administration and grassroots mobilisation from different parts of our country. Those who have been called upon to serve must recognise that the responsibility before us goes beyond individual appointments or personal recognition. It is a call to service at an important moment in our nation’s democratic journey. As I have consistently maintained, fairness, inclusion and national balance must remain central to our politics. Our actions as a party must demonstrate the values and principles we seek to bring to the governance of our country. The task ahead is enormous. The ADC is determined to present Nigerians with a credible alternative and a clear pathway towards addressing the challenges confronting our nation. We must now close ranks, strengthen our structures, engage Nigerians across every region and community, and take our message to the people. I remain fully committed to our party and our collective effort to rescue Nigeria and build a country that works for all its citizens. I am confident that the Atiku/Amaechi ticket will rescue Nigeria and provide the leadership required to address the challenges confronting our nation. I wish the Campaign Council wisdom, unity and success in the discharge of this important national assignment. – AWT

I received with profound sadness the news of the passing of former Governor of Kogi State, H.E. Alhaji Ibrahim Idris (Ibro), Jekadan Sokoto Alhaji Ibrahim Idris was a respected elder statesman, accomplished businessman and political leader who devoted a significant part of his life to the service of his people and our country. His years as Governor of Kogi State remain an important chapter in the political and developmental history of the state. Beyond public office, he was a man who cultivated relationships across political, ethnic and regional divides, earning the respect of associates and contemporaries across Nigeria. His passing is a great loss not only to his family and the people of Kogi State, but also to the wider political family and our nation. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, the Government and people of Kogi State, and all those who mourn this painful loss. May Almighty Allah forgive his shortcomings, accept his good deeds and grant him Aljannatul Firdaus. May Allah also grant his family and loved ones the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss. — AWT

I received with profound sadness the news of the passing of elder statesman and former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, CON, Tafidan Adamawa. Alhaji Bamanga Tukur belonged to a distinguished generation of Nigerians who devoted the greater part of their lives to the service of our country. His remarkable journey through public service, politics and the private sector saw him serve Nigeria in several important capacities, including as Governor of the old Gongola State, Minister of Industries, Chief Executive of the Nigerian Ports Authority and National Chairman of the PDP. Beyond the offices he occupied, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur was a respected elder, accomplished administrator, businessman and committed pan-Africanist whose contributions to national development and the advancement of African enterprise will remain an important part of his legacy. His passing is a great loss to his family, the people of Adamawa State and Nigeria as a whole. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, the Government and people of Adamawa State, and all those whose lives he touched through his many decades of service. May Almighty Allah forgive his shortcomings, grant him Aljannatul Firdaus and give his family the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss. —AWT

I condemn in the strongest possible terms the treatment meted out to the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), H.E. Peter Obi, in Makurdi, Benue State, today. The reported obstruction of his movement by a group of youths is unacceptable, undemocratic and completely inconsistent with the kind of politics we should be practising in Nigeria. Mr Peter Obi is a Nigerian citizen, a former Governor and the presidential candidate of a duly recognised political party. Like every Nigerian, he has the constitutional right to move freely throughout the country and undertake lawful activities without intimidation, harassment or obstruction. More importantly, with political campaigns now underway, every candidate must be allowed to travel freely across Nigeria, meet with citizens, canvass for support and conduct legitimate political activities without fear. Our democracy cannot descend into a situation where political actors or their supporters determine who may enter a state, community or any part of the country. No individual, group or political interest has the authority to deny another Nigerian access to any part of our country. Political differences must never become an excuse for intimidation, violence or brigandage. We must compete on the strength of our ideas, programmes and policies and, ultimately, allow Nigerians to make their choices freely at the ballot box. I therefore call on the Inspector-General of Police and all relevant security and law-enforcement authorities to investigate the circumstances surrounding this incident and ensure that those responsible are identified and held accountable in accordance with the law. This kind of rascality must not be tolerated, irrespective of who is involved or which political party is affected. Today, it may be Peter Obi; tomorrow, it could be another candidate. Nigeria belongs to all of us, and every Nigerian must be free to move and participate in our democratic process without fear or intimidation. — AWT

I was in Gumel, Jigawa State, to commiserate with the royal family, the Gumel Emirate Council and the people of the Emirate over the passing of His Royal Highness, Alhaji Dr. Ahmed Muhammad Sani II, CON, the 16th Emir of Gumel. For nearly 46 years on the throne, the late Emir provided exemplary leadership to his people and became one of the most respected and longest-serving traditional rulers in Northern Nigeria. His reign was marked by a commitment to peace, education, community development and the preservation of the rich traditions and heritage of the Gumel Emirate. His passing is undoubtedly a great loss, not only to the royal family and the people of Gumel, but also to Jigawa State and Nigeria’s traditional institution. His wisdom, long years of service and contributions to the development of his people will remain an enduring part of his legacy. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, the Gumel Emirate Council, the Government and people of Jigawa State, and all those mourning this great loss. May Almighty Allah (SWT) forgive his shortcomings, accept his good deeds and grant him Aljannatul Firdaus. May Allah grant his family and the entire Gumel Emirate the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss. — AWT

Your Excellency, Vice President Senator @KashimSM, GCON, I warmly celebrate you, my dear brother and friend, on your 60th birthday. Your journey of public service has been marked by courage, resilience and an unwavering commitment to the unity and progress of our country. From your service as Governor of Borno State, through the Senate, and now as Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, you have continued to demonstrate purposeful leadership and a deep belief in the promise and potential of our people. As you mark another year, I pray that Almighty Allah (SWT) grants you good health, greater wisdom and renewed strength as you continue to serve our nation. May He guide your steps, grant you peace, and crown your efforts towards economic renewal, national security and the wellbeing of Nigerians with greater success. Happy 60th birthday, Your Excellency. I wish you many more years of impactful service to our country. — AWT

I warmly congratulate Distinguished Senator Brigadier General Jonathan Tunde Ogbeha (Rtd.), CON, the Lakpini of Lokoja, on the occasion of his birthday. General Ogbeha’s life has been defined by distinguished service, courage, discipline and an abiding commitment to our country. From his years in the Nigerian Army to his service as a Military Governor, diplomat and Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, he has consistently answered the call of duty with remarkable dedication. I have also had the privilege of benefiting personally from his wealth of experience, wisdom and political insight. In 2022, when I sought the presidential nomination of our party, I entrusted him with the responsibility of chairing my Presidential Campaign Council. He discharged that responsibility with characteristic commitment, candour and strategic depth, providing invaluable leadership and counsel throughout that journey. Beyond the offices he has occupied, General Ogbeha is a respected statesman, mentor and bridge-builder whose courage of conviction and wealth of experience continue to enrich our national discourse. His contributions to leadership, governance and nation-building remain worthy of recognition and appreciation. As he marks another year today, I celebrate a gentleman soldier, patriot and statesman whose journey reminds us that the true measure of leadership lies not merely in the positions we occupy, but in the lives we touch and the service we render. I pray that Almighty God grants him many more years in good health, strength, wisdom and fulfilment, and continues to bless and preserve him and his family. Happy birthday, Distinguished Senator Brigadier General Jonathan Tunde Ogbeha (Rtd.). — AWT

Over the weekend, I had the pleasure of attending the graduation ceremony of Aminu Mohammed, my former Chief Security Officer (CSO), from Course 34 of the National Defence College (NDC). Aminu served with me for over 12 years, and throughout that period, I had the opportunity to witness firsthand his professionalism, discipline, loyalty and unwavering commitment to duty. He carried out his responsibilities with diligence and a strong sense of service. His successful completion of the prestigious National Defence College programme is another important milestone in a career defined by dedication and continuous professional development. I congratulate Aminu on this well-deserved achievement and wish him even greater success as he continues to serve our country. — AWT

I am deeply saddened by the passing of Hon. Justice Umaru Atu Kalgo (Rtd.), JSC, CON, former Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria and one of our nation's distinguished jurists. Justice Kalgo's passing is a profound loss, not only to his family and the people of Kebbi State, but also to the Nigerian judiciary and the entire legal profession. His was a remarkable life devoted to the pursuit of justice, the rule of law and service to our country. From his call to the Nigerian Bar in 1965, Justice Kalgo rose through the ranks of the legal and judicial profession with distinction. He served as State Counsel, Deputy Solicitor-General, High Court Judge and Chief Judge of Sokoto State before his elevation to the Court of Appeal in 1988 and, subsequently, to the Supreme Court of Nigeria in 1998. Until his retirement in 2007, he contributed immensely to the development of Nigerian jurisprudence through his judgments and interventions across constitutional, civil and criminal law. Beyond the Bench, Justice Kalgo also answered the call to national service at important moments in our history, contributing to constitutional and legal reforms through his membership of the Constitution Review Committee, the Constituent Assembly and the Law Revision Committee for the Laws of the Federation. He belonged to a generation of jurists whose careers were defined by scholarship, discipline, integrity and an abiding commitment to the administration of justice. His distinguished record of service and contributions to the development of our legal institutions will remain an enduring part of his legacy. At this difficult moment, my thoughts and prayers are with his family, the government and people of Kebbi State, the Nigerian judiciary, the legal fraternity and all those who had the privilege of knowing and working with him. May Almighty Allah forgive his shortcomings, accept his good deeds and grant him Al-Jannatul Firdaus. May He also grant his family and loved ones the strength and fortitude to bear this irreparable loss. – AWT

On the occasion of Eid-el-Maulud, I extend my warm greetings and felicitations to the Muslim Ummah in Nigeria and across the world as we commemorate the birth of Prophet Muhammad (SAW). This sacred occasion provides us with another opportunity to reflect on the life and teachings of the Holy Prophet and the enduring values of peace, compassion, tolerance, honesty, justice, selflessness and unity that he exemplified. The birth of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) marked a defining moment in human history and brought a message of hope and guidance to humanity. In the same spirit, I urge Nigerians to use this year’s Maulud Nabiyyi as a moment of renewal — to strengthen the bonds that unite us, rise above our differences and recommit ourselves to building a peaceful and prosperous nation. At a time when our country continues to confront various challenges, the Prophet’s example reminds us that progress is possible when we embrace justice and equity, show compassion towards one another and place the collective good above personal interests. As families, friends and communities come together in celebration, let us remember our beloved country in our prayers and seek Allah’s continued guidance, protection and blessings upon Nigeria and its people. May this Eid-el-Maulud bring lasting peace and unity to our homes, communities and to our dear nation. Eid-el-Maulud Mubarak. — AWT

Today, I join the Muslim Ummah, the people of Sokoto State, and millions of Nigerians in celebrating His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, CFR, mni, the Sultan of Sokoto, as he marks his 70th birthday. Seventy years is an important milestone, but in the life of His Eminence, it represents much more than the passage of time. It is a celebration of a remarkable journey defined by service, discipline, wisdom, faith and an abiding commitment to the peace and unity of our country. From a distinguished career in the Nigerian Army to almost two decades on the revered throne of the Sokoto Caliphate, His Eminence has consistently demonstrated that true leadership is ultimately about service to humanity. As Sultan, he has carried the enormous responsibilities of the throne with dignity, humility and uncommon wisdom. At critical moments in our national life, his voice has remained one of moderation, dialogue and peaceful coexistence. His commitment to interfaith harmony and his ability to build bridges across religious, ethnic and regional divides have made him not only a father to the Muslim Ummah, but also a respected father and statesman to Nigerians of every persuasion. For us in Sokoto, His Eminence represents something even deeper. The Sultanate is part of our history, our identity and our collective heritage. We therefore take particular pride in the manner in which he has preserved the dignity of this historic institution while deploying its influence in the service of peace, education, development and national unity. At 70, His Eminence stands as a reminder that leadership does not always require the loudest voice. Sometimes, its greatest power lies in wisdom, restraint, moral authority and the courage to speak for peace when division appears easier. On this special occasion, I pray that Almighty Allah (SWT) continues to grant His Eminence good health, strength, wisdom and many more years of impactful service to the Muslim Ummah, Sokoto State and the Federal Republic of Nigeria. May Allah continue to preserve the revered institution of the Sultanate and grant His Eminence the grace to continue providing wise counsel and leadership for generations to come. Happy 70th birthday, Your Eminence. — AWT

Earlier, I visited the Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (rtd.), alongside Hon. Abdussamad Dasuki, Member representing Kebbe/Tambuwal Federal Constituency and Deputy Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, to discuss the persistent security challenges in Sokoto State, particularly the situation in Kebbe Local Government Area and Kaya community in Tambuwal Local Government Area. We conveyed the concerns of our people and stressed the urgent need for increased security presence, additional operational resources and sustained action to protect lives and property, and enable our people to pursue their livelihoods without fear. The Honourable Minister assured us of the Federal Government's commitment to addressing the situation and pledged additional resources and operational support to strengthen security operations in the affected areas. We appreciate these assurances and look forward to their swift translation into action on the ground. The security and wellbeing of our people remain paramount. We will continue to engage all relevant authorities and pursue every necessary intervention until lasting peace and security are restored to our communities. — AWT

I am deeply saddened by the tragic boat mishap that occurred earlier today in Gorau community, Goronyo Local Government Area of Sokoto State, which claimed the lives of 41 people, while 11 others were rescued, according to the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA). I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased, their loved ones, and the people of Gorau community and Goronyo Local Government Area over this devastating loss. The loss of so many lives in a single incident is deeply painful and heartbreaking. My thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by this tragedy. I commend the rescuers and all those who participated in the emergency response for their efforts to save lives and provide assistance to the victims. I also call on the relevant authorities to urgently investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident and strengthen safety measures on our waterways to prevent a recurrence of such a tragedy. May Almighty Allah forgive the shortcomings of those who lost their lives, grant them Aljannatul Firdausi, and give their families the strength and fortitude to bear this irreparable loss. — AWT

Today, I join millions of Nigerians in celebrating a distinguished elder statesman and former Head of State, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, GCFR, as he marks his 85th birthday. General Babangida occupies an important place in Nigeria's history. His years of service were marked by bold decisions, far-reaching reforms and an enduring emphasis on institution building. Among the defining legacies of his administration was the actualisation of Abuja as Nigeria's Federal Capital, culminating in the historic relocation of the seat of government from Lagos to Abuja. Beyond giving Nigeria a purpose-built capital, Abuja became an important symbol of our unity and shared national identity. His administration was also associated with the establishment and development of institutions that have become integral parts of our national architecture, including the Federal Road Safety Corps, National Directorate of Employment, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Corporate Affairs Commission and National Broadcasting Commission, as well as significant reforms to Nigeria's security and intelligence institutions. Whatever perspectives history may hold about different periods of our national journey, General Babangida's imprint on Nigeria's political, economic and institutional development remains undeniable. At 85, he remains a repository of experience and an important voice in our national life. His continued engagement with issues of peace, unity and national development reflects the responsibility of statesmanship beyond public office. On behalf of my family, I warmly congratulate General Babangida on this remarkable milestone and pray that Almighty Allah continues to bless him with good health, peace, strength and many more fulfilling years. Happy 85th Birthday, General IBB. — AWT

I warmly congratulate His Excellency, Governor @AAdeleke_01, on his re-election as Governor of Osun State. This victory is not only a personal triumph for Governor Adeleke; it is a victory for democracy and, above all, a victory for the people of Osun State, who have once again exercised their constitutional right to determine who leads them. The ballot remains the most powerful expression of the will of the people in a democracy. When citizens freely make their choice and that choice is respected, our democratic institutions are strengthened and public confidence in the electoral process is deepened. I commend the people of Osun State for their participation and commitment to the democratic process. I also congratulate Governor Adeleke for earning their confidence for another term. As he prepares to continue the work of governance, I urge him to see this renewed mandate as an even greater responsibility to serve all the people of Osun State, irrespective of political affiliation. I wish my brother, Governor Adeleke, wisdom, strength and success as he continues to serve the good people of Osun State. Congratulations, Your Excellency. Congratulations to the people of Osun State. Democracy has won. — AWT

I received with profound sadness the news of the passing of Dr. Adamu Mohammed Fika, former Clerk to the National Assembly (CNA) and former Chairman of the National Assembly Service Commission. Dr. Fika was a distinguished public servant, seasoned administrator and respected elder statesman whose life was defined by service, integrity and an unwavering commitment to strengthening our national institutions. His contributions to the development and professionalisation of the National Assembly bureaucracy remain an important part of Nigeria’s democratic and institutional history. Through decades of dedicated service, he earned the respect of colleagues and successive generations of public servants who benefited from his experience, wisdom and exemplary leadership. My relationship with Dr. Fika dates back to 1992, when, as Clerk to the National Assembly, he facilitated, through our brothers, the late Alhaji Yusuf Tambuwal, who served as his Personal Assistant, and Hon. Abdullahi Waziri Tambuwal, a member of the then House of Representatives, the employment of Alhaji Sani Magaji, Alhaji Yusuf Tambuwal and Alhaji Atiku Ibrahim Tambuwal into the service of the National Assembly. Over the years, these individuals rose through the ranks of the institution: Alhaji Sani Magaji eventually became Clerk to the National Assembly; Alhaji Yusuf Tambuwal is now a Director (Legislative Aides) in the National Assembly; while Alhaji Atiku Ibrahim Tambuwal currently serves as Secretary, Finance and Accounts. As posterity would have it, when the chairmanship of the National Assembly Service Commission became vacant, I had the privilege, as Speaker of the House of Representatives, of recommending Dr. Fika for the position and supporting his appointment as Chairman of the Commission. In many ways, therefore, our relationship came full circle—from the opportunities he helped create for people from my community to the opportunity I later had to support his return to the service of the institution he had served so diligently. His passing is, therefore, deeply personal to me. It is not only a loss to his immediate family and the Fika Emirate, but also to the people of my community in Tambuwal, the National Assembly community, Yobe State and Nigeria as a whole. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, the Fika Emirate Council, the Government and people of Yobe State, as well as the leadership and entire management of the National Assembly. May Almighty Allah forgive his shortcomings, reward his lifetime of service, grant him Aljannatul Firdaus, and give his family and loved ones the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss. — AWT