2027: Atiku, Yari Hold Closed-Door Meeting in Abuja

2027: Atiku, Yari Hold Closed-Door Meeting in Abuja

Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, on Tuesday held a private meeting with former Zamfara State Governor and Senator representing Zamfara West, Abdulaziz Yari, in Abuja.

The meeting, reportedly held at Atiku’s residence, was conducted behind closed doors, with no access granted to journalists.

According to a report by Daily Trust and eachored by DCL Hausa both political figures declined to speak to the media after the engagement. As of the time of filing this report, no official statement had been issued to clarify the purpose of the meeting.

While details remain undisclosed, political observers suggest the engagement may not be unconnected with ongoing alignments and consultations ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Atiku and Yari are currently not members of the same political party, a development that has further fueled speculation about possible cross-party consultations, particularly within the northern political bloc and in relation to 2027 President .

Petitioners Seek Reconstitution of FCT Area Council Election Tribunal Over Legal Discrepancy

Petitioners Seek Reconstitution of FCT Area Council Election Tribunal Over Legal Discrepancy

ABUJA— A formal application has been submitted to the Chief Judge of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Honourable Justice Baba Yusuf, seeking the urgent reconstitution of the Area Council Election Petition Tribunal. The request highlights a critical legal conflict regarding the tribunal’s current membership and the newly enacted
Electoral Act, 2026.

The application was filed by Chris Kelechi Udeoyibo, Esq. of KEL ATTORNEYS on behalf of Alhaji Usman Yahaya, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the Gwagwalada Chairmanship seat. Yahaya is currently challenging the election victory of Mohammed Kasim of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The core of the petition rests on a timing issue between the old and new electoral frameworks. While the tribunal was originally formed under the Electoral Act, 2022, that law was repealed and replaced by the Electoral Act, 2026, which was signed into law on February 18, 2026—just three days before the Area Council elections.

The petitioner argue that the current panel, consisting of Chief Magistrate Lateef Abolaji (Chairman), Chief Magistrate Fatima Malo Nadoma (Member I), and Charles Abalaka Esq. (Member II), no longer meets the statutory requirements of the extant law.

According to the petition, the shift from the 2022 Act to the 2026 Act introduced significant changes to the qualification of tribunal members.

The petitioners further maintain that the “improper constitution” of the tribunal is a jurisdictional defect. In Nigerian law, jurisdiction is considered the “lifeblood” of adjudication; any proceedings conducted without it, regardless of how thorough they may be, are legally null and void.

Notably, the 1st and 2nd Respondents in the case have also raised similar concerns through separate Notices of Preliminary Objection, questioning the competence of the current tribunal to hear the matter.

Time seem to be of a factor of increasing concern for the legal teams involved. Under Section 135 (7)of the Electoral Act 2026, the tribunal has a strict 90-day window from the date of filing to deliver a judgment.
Petition was filed March 13, 2026
Time Elapsed: 36 days, Time Remaining:54 days .With Pre-Hearing Sessions scheduled to begin on April 24, 2026, the petitioners are urging the Chief Judge to act swiftly. They fear that if the tribunal proceeds as currently constituted, it will set the stage for a lengthy legal process that is destined to be struck out for lack of jurisdiction, thereby compromising the integrity of the democratic process and the pursuit of justice.

The application concludes by requesting the immediate dissolution and reconstitution of the panel to align with the Electoral Act, 2026.

Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi: A Driving Force in the Renewed Hope Ambassadors Team

Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi: A Driving Force in the Renewed Hope Ambassadors Team

In Nigeria’s dynamic political landscape, technocrats who can bridge governance and grassroots mobilization are increasingly valuable.

Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi, Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), has emerged as one of such figures—leveraging his administrative influence and policy visibility to support the political momentum behind Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the broader Renewed Hope agenda.

While Dr. Abdullahi’s primary mandate lies within the energy sector, his role has evolved beyond technical administration into strategic political engagement.

⁰As a member of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors Team, he contributes to shaping narratives around governance performance, particularly in areas tied to energy reform and infrastructure development—key pillars of President Tinubu’s administration.

His ability to communicate policy outcomes in relatable terms has positioned him as an effective advocate for continuity in leadership.

A central element of his political relevance is the alignment between energy sector progress and electoral confidence. Under his stewardship, initiatives tied to renewable energy expansion, rural electrification, and energy policy coordination have become part of the administration’s broader performance story.

These efforts, whether directly political or not, serve as tangible indicators that can influence public perception ahead of future elections.

Dr. Abdullahi’s approach reflects a calculated understanding of Nigeria’s political environment, where development outcomes often shape voter sentiment.

By highlighting improvements in energy access and sustainability, he indirectly strengthens the case for a second term for President Tinubu. His engagements—ranging from policy forums to stakeholder meetings—often reinforce the narrative that continuity is essential for consolidating ongoing reforms.

Within the Renewed Hope Ambassadors Team, his role extends to mobilization among professional and policy-oriented audiences. Unlike traditional political actors, Dr. Abdullahi brings a technocratic voice that appeals to intellectuals, industry stakeholders, and young professionals.

This expands the administration’s support base beyond conventional political structures, adding credibility to its reform agenda.

Moreover, his visibility in national discourse contributes to shaping elite opinion—an often overlooked but critical component of electoral success. By maintaining a consistent message around progress, innovation, and long-term planning, Dr. Abdullahi helps anchor the administration’s image as forward-looking and results-driven. This is particularly important in a political climate where public trust must be continuously earned.

Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi stands out as more than a policy administrator; he is a strategic contributor to the political ecosystem surrounding Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Through his role in the Renewed Hope Ambassadors Team, he helps translate governance achievements into political capital, reinforcing the case for continuity and a potential second term.

His influence underscores the growing importance of technocrats in shaping not just policy, but also the narratives that drive electoral success in Nigeria.

Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi contributes to youth and sports development through mentorship, talent identification, and infrastructure development.

He supports grassroots sports, advocates for youth sports policies, and promotes physical activity for health.

His work emphasizes gender inclusivity, community engagement, and collaboration with government and private sectors.

All these has endeared him to the youths and makes convincing the youths to embrace the policies and re-election of President Ahmed Tinubu easy for him, as he has already set the pace for a beautiful relationship with the youths.

Ex Speaker Zailani working against APC in Kaduna State, Group Alleges

Ex Speaker Zailani working against APC in Kaduna State, Group Alleges

…He lost his ward and local Government to PDP in 2023 Elections.

Fresh political tensions are emerging within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kaduna State following allegations that a former Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Yusuf Ibrahim Zailani, is working against the party’s interests ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The claims were made by the Kaduna Progressives Forum (KPF) in a statement signed by its Coordinator, Malam Bala Ibrahim Igabi, who expressed concern over what the group described as Zailani’s “desperate bid” for the Kaduna Central Senatorial seat.

According to the statement, the former Speaker’s political influence has declined significantly, with the group alleging that he failed to deliver his ward and local government area to the APC during the 2023 general elections. The forum argued that this development reflects weakening grassroots support in his political base.

“In several constituencies across Kaduna State, the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) made notable gains, pointing to an increasingly competitive political environment,” the statement noted.

The group also accused Zailani of engaging in actions perceived as detrimental to the unity and electoral strength of the APC in parts of the state. The accusations come amid lingering grievances within the party following the outcome of the 2023 polls.

The 2023 governorship election in Kaduna highlighted the intensity of the contest between the APC and the PDP, with the APC candidate securing victory by a narrow margin of less than one percentage point an outcome widely seen as evidence of a fragile political balance in the state.

Although Zailani won his seat in the State House of Assembly election, concerns persist among party members over internal divisions and the ability of key political figures to effectively mobilise support at the grassroots level.

The KPF further alleged that Zailani recorded minimal achievements during his over two decades in public office and accused him of failing to actively participate in, or support, the party during the Chikun/Kajuru by-election.

Some APC members warned that unresolved internal disputes and alleged anti-party activities could undermine the party’s chances in the 2027 elections.

They called on the party leadership in Kaduna State to investigate the allegations and enforce discipline where necessary to maintain cohesion and strengthen its electoral prospects.

A CLARION CALL: LET AVM ADAMU LEAD THE MILITARY PENSIONS BOARD TO RENEWED HOPE FOR VETERANS

A CLARION CALL: LET AVM ADAMU LEAD THE MILITARY PENSIONS BOARD TO RENEWED HOPE FOR VETERANS

Abuja, FCT The Governance and Leadership Reforms Network (GLRN) makes this heartfelt appeal to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to graciously instruct for the immediate implementation of the appointment of Air Vice Marshal Abubakar Idris Adamu (Rtd) as Chairman, Military Pensions Board (MPB).

A Leader Prepared by Service
AVM Adamu (Rtd) is not a stranger to discipline, integrity, or institutional reform. A distinguished senior officer of the Nigerian Air Force, his career reflects decades of meritorious service marked by operational excellence, financial prudence, and uncommon empathy for personnel welfare. In every command he held, he left behind systems that worked and people who were better. That is the pedigree the Military Pensions Board needs today.

The Value He Brings: Competence Meets Compassion
The MPB is more than an administrative office. It is the last bridge between the nation and the men and women who gave it their youth, their strength, and sometimes their health. Under AVM Adamu’s leadership, we are confident the Board will witness a new era defined by:

  1. Prudent Management: Deployment of digital audit trails, transparent payment schedules, and strict adherence to the Standing Operating Procedure to eliminate delays and leakages.
  2. Welfare-Centered Innovation: Introduction of a Veterans Welfare Desk, quarterly town-halls with retirees, and a simplified verification process that respects age and dignity.
  3. Institutional Renovation: Modernization of MPB directorates for the Army, Navy, and Air Force to ensure seamless, data-driven pension administration and rapid response to veterans’ needs.
  4. Trust Restoration: Open-door policy and published service charters to rebuild confidence among retired military personnel and their families.

Why the Delay Hurts Those Who Served
For five months since presidential approval was granted effective December 1, 2025, our veterans have waited. Every day of delay is a day a widow waits for her entitlement, a day an amputee struggles without support, a day the nation appears to forget. AVM Adamu’s appointment was not just an administrative act; it was a promise to those who defended us. That promise must be kept.

Our Clarion Call
We respectfully urge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, whose Renewed Hope Agenda rests on Security and Welfare, to direct the immediate resumption of AVM Abubakar Idris Adamu (Rtd) as Chairman, MPB.

Let this competent, compassionate officer bring his renovations to life. Let the Board become a model of prudent management and good welfare. Let our veterans see that Nigeria remembers, Nigeria cares, and Nigeria rewards sacrifice.

When a nation honors its veterans, it strengthens its future. When it delays their dignity, it weakens its soul.

Signed:
Comrade Ayuba Garba

National Convener
Governance and Leadership Reforms Network (GLRN)

REJOINDER TO THE PRESS STATEMENT BY AREWA YOUTH ASSEMBLY FOR GOOD LEADERSHIP (AYAGL)On Matters Relating to the Military Pensions Board (MPB)


  • REJOINDER TO THE PRESS STATEMENT BY AREWA YOUTH ASSEMBLY FOR GOOD LEADERSHIP (AYAGL)
    On Matters Relating to the Military Pensions Board (MPB)

1. Background & Trigger
Concerned stakeholders, particularly veterans of the Nigerian Armed Forces, have noted the recent press statement by AYAGL on the leadership of the Military Pensions Board. Though AYAGL withdrew its earlier position, its new statement raises fundamental questions of credibility, accountability, and institutional integrity.

2. Questions on AYAGL’s Mandate & Competence
a. What informed AYAGL’s fact-finding mission to the MPB?
b. Who authorized or mandated AYAGL to engage the MPB?
c. What institutional role qualifies AYAGL to inquire into a specialized military pension body?
d. What professional competence does AYAGL possess in military pension administration?
Position:
The MPB is a specialized institution for retired personnel. Engagements must reflect expertise, responsibility, and respect for institutional boundaries.

3. Concerns Over AYAGL’s Reversal
a. Why were facts not verified before AYAGL’s earlier public criticism?
b. What new evidence justified the sudden turnaround?
c. This suggests reactive advocacy, not informed engagement.
d. Who influenced or sponsored AYAGL’s initial position, and what interests were advanced?
e. Having admitted poor verification, were they pressured to retract? If so, by whom and why?

4. Due Process & Jurisdiction
The matter is reportedly before the EFCC and a court of competent jurisdiction. It is not the role of a regional/youth group to mount public defense or prosecution.
Question: On whose behalf is AYAGL attempting to shape public opinion on a matter under due process?

5. Veterans’ Stance: Principles, Not Personalities
a. Veterans are not advocating for any individual. The current MPB Chairman will also become a veteran.
b. The issue is principle, structure, and representation not personalities.
c. Core demand: Affairs of veterans across all services and in the Ministry of Defence should be managed by individuals drawn from the veterans community.
Rationale:
Only those who have served understand retirement transition, delayed entitlements, healthcare challenges, and post-service welfare gaps.
He who wears the shoe knows where it pinches.

6. Global Best Practices Cited
Veteran affairs are best managed by veterans. Examples:
a. USA: Department of Veterans Affairs leadership rooted in military experience.
b. UK: Office for Veterans Affairs veterans’ voices central to policy.
c. Pakistan: Fauji Foundation driven by retired military personnel.
d. South Africa: Department of Military Veterans
strong veteran representation.
e. India & Canada: Veteran ministries rely on former service members.
Conclusion: International practice confirms veterans should manage veterans’ affairs.

7. Message to Serving Personnel
Those dismissing these concerns should note: if global best practices are ignored today, the reality of retirement will bring clarity.
This is foresight, not confrontation.

8. Respect for Presidential Authority
a. Appointment of MPB leadership is the exclusive prerogative of the C-in-C, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, if he so wish may request the advice of HMoD,
b. The President has unquestionable right to appoint based on national interest, competence, and strategy.
c. However, national interest demands appointments reflect stakeholder realities, particularly veterans’.

9. Institutional Precedents
The National Hydrographic Agency of Nigeria shows retired officers can be retained in leadership where continuity and expertise are required.

10. Concerns About AYAGL’s Role & Priorities
a. Many stakeholders are hearing of AYAGL for the first time, now that MPB is involved.
b. Where has AYAGL been on pressing security issues troop deployment, equipment, welfare in theatres of operation?
c. Instead, AYAGL is dabbling in a matter before investigative and judicial authorities, seeking to shape public opinion.

11. Conclusion
a. The issue is not about individuals but principle, representation, and institutional integrity.
b. Veterans advocate for a system that understands and represents them, not for personalities.
c. Public discourse must be responsible, informed, and respectful of due process.
d. Welfare of those who served must remain paramount, guided by experience, dignity, and globally accepted best practices.

Mamman Danjuma for veterans care forum.

ON MATAWALLE’S STRATEGIC ALIGNMENT FOR TINUBU 2027: 

THE NORTH’S RENEWED HOPE

By Comrade Dr. Awwal Abdullahi Aliyu

_Political Analyst,Security Expert & Public Affairs Commentator_  

_April 16, 2026_

There are moments in a nation’s journey when loyalty ceases to be mere political convenience and becomes an act of faith. When standing by a leader is not about position, but about posterity. This is the story of Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, MON, and his unwavering alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of 2027.

*The North Remembers, and the North Decides*  

Since 1999, history has taught us one unshakable truth: no man ascends to the Presidency of Nigeria without the warm embrace of the North. From Obasanjo to Buhari, the path to Aso Rock has always passed through Kano, through Kaduna,through Katsina through kebbi through the vast, beating heart of northern Nigeria. That is not arrogance. It is arithmetic. It is respect for a people whose bloc votes have often spoken with one voice when the nation’s destiny was on the line. We honour that reality, not to divide, but to remind ourselves that unity of purpose still lives here.

*A Lone Voice, Then a Chorus*  

Yet today, as 2027 draws near, the political air in the North feels different from 2023. The chants are softer. The drums are muted. Many who once shouted “Sai Tinubu” now whisper. Many who dined at the table of appointment have forgotten the fire that cooked the meal.

But in this quiet, one man has refused to be silent. Dr. Bello Matawalle, Honourable Minister of State for Defence, has chosen the harder road: the road of the grassroots. He walks the markets of Gusau and speaks in the squares of Sokoto. He reconciles factions in the APC family and tells the story not with slogans, but with substance. He does not sell a man; he showcases a record. That is leadership by example. That is loyalty with its sleeves rolled up.

*A Record That Heals*  

Let us remember where we were. President Tinubu inherited a nation gasping for breath an economy battered by reckless “Ways and Means” borrowing, a subsidy regime that fed corruption more than it fed people. He did not blink. He acted.

Today, inflation is being pruned branch by branch. Our external reserves are rising. A $10 billion forex backlog that choked investors has been cleared. The corrupt oil subsidy is gone, and for the first time in decades, states receive allocations that can actually build roads and pay salaries. Local governments breathe again with financial autonomy. Our children dream again because NELFUND has opened the doors of the classroom. Workers stand taller with a new minimum wage. These are not promises. These are footprints in the sand. And Matawalle is making sure the North sees them.

*A Call to Conscience*  

We salute the five APC governors of the North Central  Nasarawa, Kwara, Benue, Niger, and Kogi  who have stood up to be counted. Their endorsement is courage. But courage must be contagious. 

To every other northern leader, every appointee holding office by Tinubu’s grace: the time for cautious silence is over. The President gave you a platform. Use it to give him back the people. Match your appointment with action. Take these facts to every ward, every hamlet, every gathering. The North listens to its own. Speak.

*2027: The Verdict of Performance*  

President Tinubu is not campaigning on tribe or tongue. He is campaigning on Security, on Economy, on Infrastructure. He is asking for four more years not to start, but to finish to consolidate reforms that were never meant to be easy, only necessary.

As Matawalle reminds us, Tinubu deserves another term to consolidate the reforms he courageously started.” This is not about sentiment. It is about sense. The North, Nigeria’s largest vote vault, has always been wise. It will not be swayed by propaganda. It will judge by roads built, by children fed, by salaries paid, by peace returned.

*In Closing*  

In the story of 2027, let it be written that when the music went low, Matawalle turned up the volume. That when others hesitated, he advanced. That he believed in a President, and he brought his people with him.

That is how hope is renewed. Not by chance, but by choice. Not by noise, but by work.

The North remains decisive. And with men like Matawalle, it remains devoted.

ON MATAWALLE’S STRATEGIC ALIGNMENT FOR TINUBU 2027:

THE NORTH’S RENEWED HOPE

By Comrade Dr. Awwal Abdullahi Aliyu
Political Analyst,Security Expert & Public Affairs Commentator
April 16, 2026

There are moments in a nation’s journey when loyalty ceases to be mere political convenience and becomes an act of faith. When standing by a leader is not about position, but about posterity. This is the story of Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, MON, and his unwavering alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of 2027.

The North Remembers, and the North Decides
Since 1999, history has taught us one unshakable truth: no man ascends to the Presidency of Nigeria without the warm embrace of the North. From Obasanjo to Buhari, the path to Aso Rock has always passed through Kano, through Kaduna,through Katsina through kebbi through the vast, beating heart of northern Nigeria. That is not arrogance. It is arithmetic. It is respect for a people whose bloc votes have often spoken with one voice when the nation’s destiny was on the line. We honour that reality, not to divide, but to remind ourselves that unity of purpose still lives here.

A Lone Voice, Then a Chorus
Yet today, as 2027 draws near, the political air in the North feels different from 2023. The chants are softer. The drums are muted. Many who once shouted “Sai Tinubu” now whisper. Many who dined at the table of appointment have forgotten the fire that cooked the meal.

But in this quiet, one man has refused to be silent. Dr. Bello Matawalle, Honourable Minister of State for Defence, has chosen the harder road: the road of the grassroots. He walks the markets of Gusau and speaks in the squares of Sokoto. He reconciles factions in the APC family and tells the story not with slogans, but with substance. He does not sell a man; he showcases a record. That is leadership by example. That is loyalty with its sleeves rolled up.

A Record That Heals
Let us remember where we were. President Tinubu inherited a nation gasping for breath an economy battered by reckless “Ways and Means” borrowing, a subsidy regime that fed corruption more than it fed people. He did not blink. He acted.

Today, inflation is being pruned branch by branch. Our external reserves are rising. A $10 billion forex backlog that choked investors has been cleared. The corrupt oil subsidy is gone, and for the first time in decades, states receive allocations that can actually build roads and pay salaries. Local governments breathe again with financial autonomy. Our children dream again because NELFUND has opened the doors of the classroom. Workers stand taller with a new minimum wage. These are not promises. These are footprints in the sand. And Matawalle is making sure the North sees them.

A Call to Conscience
We salute the five APC governors of the North Central Nasarawa, Kwara, Benue, Niger, and Kogi who have stood up to be counted. Their endorsement is courage. But courage must be contagious.

To every other northern leader, every appointee holding office by Tinubu’s grace: the time for cautious silence is over. The President gave you a platform. Use it to give him back the people. Match your appointment with action. Take these facts to every ward, every hamlet, every gathering. The North listens to its own. Speak.

2027: The Verdict of Performance
President Tinubu is not campaigning on tribe or tongue. He is campaigning on Security, on Economy, on Infrastructure. He is asking for four more years not to start, but to finish to consolidate reforms that were never meant to be easy, only necessary.

As Matawalle reminds us, Tinubu deserves another term to consolidate the reforms he courageously started.” This is not about sentiment. It is about sense. The North, Nigeria’s largest vote vault, has always been wise. It will not be swayed by propaganda. It will judge by roads built, by children fed, by salaries paid, by peace returned.

In Closing
In the story of 2027, let it be written that when the music went low, Matawalle turned up the volume. That when others hesitated, he advanced. That he believed in a President, and he brought his people with him.

That is how hope is renewed. Not by chance, but by choice. Not by noise, but by work.

The North remains decisive. And with men like Matawalle, it remains devoted.

Northern Pro-Tinubu Group Begins Consultations, Mobilisation for 2027 Elections

Northern Pro-Tinubu Group Begins Consultations, Mobilisation for 2027 Elections

A northern-based political support group, Talakawa Forum, has announced plans to commence regional consultations and grassroots mobilisation ahead of the 2027 general elections, with the aim of securing a landslide victory for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The group said its decision was driven by what it described as “erroneous propaganda” from some northern elements who, it claimed, have failed to acknowledge ongoing reforms and efforts toward sustainable growth and development across the country.

In a press statement signed by its coordinator, Comrade Bala Isah Mohammed, the forum expressed strong support for President Tinubu’s administration, insisting that he should be allowed to complete a second term in office.
According to the statement, the group believes there is an existing understanding on power rotation between the North and the South, noting that the South should be allowed to complete its turn just as the North did under the late former President Muhammadu Buhari.

“We believe there is a gentleman agreement between the North and South for rotation of power. It is based on this understanding that we have resolved to engage and sensitise the masses, particularly the talakawa, to support and vote massively for President Tinubu in 2027,” the statement read.

The group expressed confidence in Tinubu’s leadership capacity, stating that his administration has the potential to address key challenges in the North, including poverty, insecurity, and educational backwardness.

It further argued that supporting Tinubu’s re-election could pave the way for future northern political opportunities, expressing optimism that he would, in turn, support a northern successor.

The Talakawa Forum outlined its core objectives to include reactivating its support base, mobilising women and grassroots communities, promoting the achievements of the Federal Government since 2023, and encouraging national unity.

The group also pledged to sensitise the public on the need for peaceful, credible, and transparent elections as part of its mobilisation efforts.

Group Seeks Presidential Intervention Over Delay in Military Pensions Board Appointment

Group Seeks Presidential Intervention Over Delay in Military Pensions Board Appointment

Abuja, Nigeria The Servant Leadership and Good Governance Coalition has called on His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to urgently intervene in the delayed implementation of the appointment of Air Vice Marshal Abubakar Idris Adamu (Rtd) as Chairman of the Military Pensions Board (MPB).

In a statement issued on Friday and signed by its National Chairman, Comrade Mohammed Umar, the Coalition expressed deep concern that five months after presidential approval was granted, AVM Adamu (Rtd) is yet to assume office. The group described the delay as “unexplained and worrisome.”

The Coalition noted that AVM Adamu (Rtd) was appointed with effect from December 1, 2025, with a mandate to enhance transparency and efficiency in the administration of pensions for retired military personnel. It lamented that the continued delay in his resumption raises serious questions about possible obstruction of a presidential directive.

“Why is AVM Adamu (Rtd) being deliberately prevented from resuming his statutory role?” the statement queried.

Providing historical context, the Coalition recalled that the Military Pensions Board was established in 1975 as the Directorate of Military Pensions before undergoing successive restructurings to become the MPB in 2003. It noted that, historically, both serving military officers and civilians have been appointed to lead the Board, and implementation of presidential approvals has always been swift.

The group emphasized that the MPB plays a critical role in managing pensions for retired personnel of the Nigerian Army, Navy, and Air Force through its specialized directorates, all guided by an established Standing Operating Procedure.

According to the statement, further delay in implementing the appointment risks undermining confidence in the system and adversely affecting the welfare of military veterans who depend on the Board for timely pension administration.

The Coalition therefore urged President Tinubu to “reinforce his directive” by ensuring the immediate implementation of AVM Adamu’s appointment. It added that swift action would uphold the integrity of presidential decisions, strengthen good governance, and reassure retired military personnel of the government’s commitment to their welfare.

“Resolving this issue promptly will restore public trust in the administration of military pensions and affirm the sanctity of presidential appointments,” the statement concluded.

Signed:
Comrade Mohammed Umar
National Chairman
The Servant Leadership and Good Governance Coalition

A SPECIAL APPEAL FOR PRESIDENTIAL INTERVENTION: REINFORCEMENT OF THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE APPOINTMENT OF AVM A.I. ADAMU (RTD) AS CHAIRMAN, MILITARY PENSIONS BOARD

A SPECIAL APPEAL FOR PRESIDENTIAL INTERVENTION: REINFORCEMENT OF THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE APPOINTMENT OF AVM A.I. ADAMU (RTD) AS CHAIRMAN, MILITARY PENSIONS BOARD

Submitted by
Good Governance and Sustainable Democratic Forum

1. BACKGROUND MILITARY PENSIONS BOARD (MPB)

The Military Pensions Board was established in 1975 as the Directorate of Military Pensions (DPM). Prior to 1974, payment of pensions and other benefits to military retirees was handled by the Federal Ministry of Establishments.

Following massive retirements after the Civil War, the body was renamed the Military Pensions Assessments Board (MPAB). Further restructuring in 2003 led to its current name, the Military Pensions Board (MPB), with the designation Director replaced by Chairman.

Structure:
To effectively discharge its statutory responsibilities, the MPB is organized into four directorates

  • Directorate of Army Pensions
  • Directorate of Navy Pensions
  • Directorate of Air Force Pensions
  • Directorate of Finance and Accounts (DFA), headed by a Director seconded from the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation.

Operations are guided by a Standing Operating Procedure (SOP) which stipulates job descriptions, regulations, and procedures for all duties and services within the Board.

2. CHRONICLE OF LEADERSHIP MILITARY PENSIONS BOARD (1975 – Present)
S/N Rank Name Designation From To
1 .Mr J.A. Awosika Chairman 1975 1976
2 .Mr Onoche Chairman 1976 1977
3 .Mr Fakumoju Chairman 1977 1978
4 .Mr D. Usman Chairman 1978 1979
5 .Lt Col D. Oraka Chairman 1979 1980
6 .Lt Col P.O. Onyekweli Director Aug 1981 31 Aug 1983
7 .Lt Col O.I. Ejumabone Director 1 Sep 1983 10 Apr 1984
8 .Lt Col P.O. Onyekweli Director 19 Apr 1984 9 Aug 1984
9 .Lt Col E.O. Usiade Director 9 Aug 1984 14 Oct 1987
10 .Col E.O. Usiade Director 14 Oct 1987 31 Dec 1988
11 .Col A.I. Fayemiwo Director 31 Dec 1988 20 Oct 1991
12 .Col H. Aduku Director 20 Oct 1991 31 Jan 1992
13 .Col O.B. Adoga Director 31 Jan 1992 22 Mar 1995
14 .Col J.I. Mbanefo Director 22 Mar 1995 23 Jan 1997
15 .Brig Gen J.I. Mbanefo Director 23 Jan 1997 3 Aug 1999
16 .Brig Gen V.D. Lot Director 3 Aug 1999 Mar 2000

  1. Mrs A.O. Adeleye Director Mar 2000 Feb 2003
    18 .R/Adm M.C.O. Onah Chairman Feb 2003 Nov 2003
  2. Gp Capt A.B. Kachiro Chairman Nov 2003 21 Dec 2006
  3. Brig Gen B.V.T. Kwaji Chairman 21 Dec 2006 01 Jan 2010
    21.Maj Gen B.V.T. Kwaji Chairman 01 Jan 2010 14 Feb 2011
  4. R/Adm B.M. Mshelia Chairman 14 Feb 2011 10 Feb 2013
  5. Cdre D.S. Audu Chairman 01 Feb 2013 14 Feb 2014
  6. Air Cdre M.R. Dabo Chairman 14 Feb 2014 5 Nov 2014
    25 .AVM M.R. Dabo Chairman 6 Nov 2014 9 Jun 2017
  7. Brig Gen A.A. Adesope Chairman 9 Jun 2017 6 Aug 2018
  8. Maj Gen A.B. Adamu Chairman 6 Aug 2018 18 Sep 2019
    28 .Cdre S.A. Lawal Chairman 18 Sep 2019 19 Sep 2019
  9. R/Adm S.A. Lawal Chairman 19 Sep 2019 19 Sep 2024
  10. AVM I.P. Irumheson Chairman 19 Sep 2023

3. PLEA FOR PRESIDENTIAL INTERVENTION

Air Vice Marshal Abubakar Idris Adamu (Rtd) was appointed Chairman of the Military Pensions Board by His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, with effect from December 1, 2025, to drive transparency and efficiency in pension administration for our esteemed veterans.

Historical precedent shows that both serving military officers and civilians have previously led the Board. Once presidential approval was granted, implementation was always swift, without controversy over the appointee’s status.

However, five months after his appointment, AVM A.I. Adamu (Rtd) is yet to assume duty as Chairman of the Board. This unexplained delay raises grave concerns.

Our Questions:

  1. Who is obstructing the directive of the President and Commander-in-Chief?
  2. Why is a duly appointed Chairman being deliberately prevented from resuming his statutory role?

Our Prayer:
We respectfully call on His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to intervene and reinforce his presidential directive by ensuring the immediate implementation of the appointment of AVM A.I. Adamu (Rtd) as Chairman, Military Pensions Board.

Prompt action will uphold the integrity of presidential appointments, restore confidence among military veterans, and strengthen good governance.

E-Signed,
Comrade Kabiru Sani
National Coordinator Good Governance and Sustainable Democratic Forum.

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