Ideas leave a trail.

I am deeply saddened to hear of the tragic incident in Ridawa village, Ghari LGA, where several hardworking Nigerians lost their lives following a pit collapse at a brick-making site. The news of this tragedy is heartbreaking. While we speak of moving Nigeria from consumption to production, we must never forget that the “producers”—the labourers, brick-makers, and miners—are our greatest national asset. Losing these young men to a preventable industrial accident is a collective loss to the nation. These were citizens in the prime of their lives, engaged in the noble and demanding work of nation-building through manual labour. Their deaths are a stark reminder of the urgent need to prioritise workplace safety, especially in our informal and artisanal sectors. My heart goes out to the families of the victims, the Ghari community in particular, and the Government of Kano State. I also commiserate with my brother, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, and the resilient people of Kano. We remain committed to an economic revival that protects the worker as much as it promotes industry. My prayers are with the bereaved families during this incredibly difficult time. A New Nigeria is Possible. -PO

When a Society Turns Against Its Own Reports from Cross River State this week have brought to light a deeply troubling incident involving young boys who were tied up like animals and brutally treated under the label of “Skolombo boys.” These are not merely disturbing images; they are a stark reminder that we have failed the children of our nation. These young people, often labelled “Skolombo boys” and “Lakasara girls,” are not criminals by birth; they are victims of a system that has neglected them. Children who ought to be in classrooms, learning and building their future, are instead on the streets, struggling to survive. Today, Nigeria has over 20 million out-of-school children, the highest number in the world, which constitutes a national emergency. A society that ties up and beats its children with machetes is one that has lost its moral direction. We cannot claim to be building a future while destroying the very foundation of that future - our children. Even more troubling is the contradiction we now live with. In a country where we speak of rehabilitation and reintegration for “repentant” terrorists, how do we justify brutality against vulnerable children whose only “crime” is poverty and abandonment? We must move from punishment to compassion, from neglect to responsibility. These children must be taken off the streets and given access to education, shelter, and structured rehabilitation. Governments at all levels should seek ways to protect and integrate them into society, rather than criminalise them. This is not just about Cross River; it is about the kind of Nigeria we are choosing to build. We must do better. Our nation must protect the weak and the future of its people. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

Troubling Developments in Our Polity that Must Be Nipped in the Bud. I have just been made aware early this morning that Revered religious leader, Sheikh Ahmad Tijjani Umar has been arrested by authorities shortly after hosting me in Kaduna on Sunday. This development underscores the deeply troubling state of our nation and our democracy, where freedom of speech and movement is increasingly threatened, and where citizens and perceived political opponents face harassment and unnecessary persecution. This cannot be allowed to continue. This country must defend freedom and free speech, which are the hallmarks of every democratic society. Suppression and intimidation of dissent can never stand in a democratic society, and this Nigerian government must understand this fact. I respectfully call on all those bent on undermining our already fragile democracy to please stop and apply the rule of law and tenets of democracy in dealing with citizens. -PO

Yesterday, after visiting Kaduna and Katsina, I travelled to Kano to join my dear elder brother, Dr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, and the Kwankwasiyya movement to celebrate their annual Sallah festivities. I am truly grateful for the warm reception and the spirit of brotherhood that characterized our gathering. At this crucial time in our nation's history, we must continue to unite across all divides—political, ethnic, and religious—to restore hope and rebuild trust in our country. Kano remains a vital pillar in Nigeria’s socio-economic and political landscape. Its rich history of commerce, industry, and human capital serves as a reminder of what is achievable when leadership is guided by vision, competence, and compassion. A new Nigeria is POssible. -PO

Yesterday, after my engagement in Kaduna, I traveled to Katsina, where I met with key stakeholders of our party and movement, including Dr. Mustapha M. Inuwa, Lawal Musa Daura, mni, and others. While in Katsina, I expressed my condolences to the people of the state over the recent tragic killings. The loss of innocent lives is a painful reminder of the urgent need to prioritize security and protect every Nigerian life. A nation that fails to safeguard its citizens cannot truly progress. In our discussions, I emphasized our commitment to the future of our democracy and the urgent need to build a nation where the lives and welfare of the people remain paramount. We must invest deliberately in our women and youth, empowering them with the skills, opportunities, and support needed to contribute meaningfully to national development. I conveyed a simple but urgent message: the Nigeria of our dreams will not emerge by chance; it requires deliberate effort. We must move away from politics driven by sentiments of tribe, religion, and entitlement, and embrace a system where merit, integrity, and capability define leadership. The challenges we face are significant, but they are not insurmountable if we choose to do the right things. We all need to continue playing our part quietly, diligently, and with unwavering commitment to the ideals that will make a new Nigeria POssible. -PO

Today, as part of my nationwide consultations, I visited Kaduna State, where I met with our party stakeholders and members, including Dr. Alhaji Ahmed Tijjani, a gubernatorial hopeful, and Senator Lawal Adamu, who represents Kaduna Central. What I observed in them was not just political ambition but a sincere desire to serve the people and contribute to the rebuilding of our country. Kaduna remains a very strategic state in Nigeria. It was once a symbol of our unity and coexistence, a major hub for industry, agriculture, and commerce, and it still holds that potential. With disciplined, competent, and people-oriented leadership, we can restore that lost glory for the benefit of all. Equally important is the need to rekindle the spirit of unity and coexistence for which Kaduna was once known. A divided society cannot progress, but a united, just, and inclusive one will always find a path to peace and development. During my interactions, I emphasized the need for our leaders to move away from the politics of money and to embrace the politics of competence, character, and measurable results. This visit has strengthened my belief that with the right leadership and collective effort, we can build a Nigeria that works—one where every citizen, regardless of background, has a sense of belonging and opportunity. I leave Kaduna feeling encouraged and hopeful that a New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

A Breakdown of Governance and Humanity. What we are witnessing in Borgaja and other communities in Sokoto State, and indeed across our country, is tragic. It reflects a complete breakdown of governance and humanity. Reports that terrorists can issue orders for citizens to flee their ancestral homes without consequence are both heartbreaking and unacceptable. It means that in parts of our country today, non-state actors have assumed the authority of the state—deciding who lives where and under what conditions. This is not how a nation should function. How did we get to a point where Nigerians are taking instructions from terrorists instead of their government? I have consistently maintained that no nation can progress when its people live in fear. This is no longer just a security issue; it is a national emergency. The primary responsibility of any government is the protection of lives and property. Nigerians deserve to live in peace, not at the mercy of terror. A new Nigeria is POssible. -PO

Channelling Our Women to Critical Areas of Development While the rest of the nations of the world are investing in critical areas of development such as human capital, we lag behind. Instead of ensuring that our women—the vital segment of our population—are educated and meaningfully integrated into leadership and management structures, where they have consistently proven to contribute significantly to development, we fall short. This is evident in countries like the Scandinavian nations and even in developing economies. In Indonesia, for instance, women own over 50% of SMEs, which provide about 98% of jobs. Similarly, in Bangladesh, women make up about 60% of the workforce in the garment industry, the country’s largest export sector, generating about $50 billion—far more than what Nigeria earns annually from crude oil exports. Rather than emulating these nations by investing in our women—who constitute more than 50% of our population—and harnessing their productivity, our focus drifts toward trivialities such as the Ozoro festival, a development that reflects poorly on our national priorities. This is a profound misplacement of values. Greater effort should be directed toward meaningful development, including policies and initiatives that empower women and integrate them into the economic mainstream. If we redirect our priorities, invest in our people, and harness the potential of our women in critical sectors, we can rebuild our nation on a foundation of productivity and inclusion—transforming from a now disgraced country into one of pride. With the right priorities and actions, a new Nigeria is POssible. -PO

My dear Muslim brothers and sisters, I rejoice with you on this blessed Eid al-Fitr, marking the successful completion of Ramadan, a month of faith, sacrifice, discipline, and compassion. May the lessons of Ramadan; love, humility, generosity, and unity continue to guide us. In these trying times for Nigeria, let us carry forward the spirit of kindness, extend help to the vulnerable, and work together for peace, justice, and progress in our nation. I pray Almighty Allah accepts your ibadah, forgives our shortcomings, and grants you and our country abundant blessings, security, and prosperity. Eid Mubarak! Eid Sa'id -PO

Nigeria’s Worrisome Terrorism status The latest Global Terrorism Index report ranks Nigeria among the most terrorized nations in the world, showing one of the highest increases in deaths from terrorism. This is a painful indictment of failed leadership. While many countries are seeing a decline in terrorism, Nigeria is moving in the opposite direction. This trend is a direct result of misplaced priorities, weak governance, corruption, a lack of rule of law, and the persistent neglect of security, which is the government's most fundamental duty. From the insurgency of Boko Haram to the growing threat posed by the Islamic State West Africa Province, the crisis of kidnapping, and unchecked violence in our rural communities by heavily armed bandits, Nigerians are dying daily while those in power continue to feast. What is the purpose of government if it cannot protect lives? Why are we normalizing tragedy while other nations make progress? This is not the Nigeria we should accept. We cannot continue down this path. It is time to move from excuses to action, and from failure to measurable progress. A safe and secure Nigeria is not too much to ask; it is the right of every citizen, and it must be delivered. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

I congratulate Prof. Charles Soludo on his swearing-in for a second tenure. As always, I wish him success in serving the people, and I hope this term brings greater progress and development. May God Almighty bless the good people of Anambra State and Nigeria. -PO https://t.co/Lv9Pxk0ylg

A Nation Under Siege The nation is once again engulfed in grief and outrage following the horrific explosions in Maiduguri, Borno State, yesterday. These tragic events serve as a painful reminder of how far we have strayed from the fundamental duty of governance: the protection of lives and property. The fact that several innocent Nigerians can be killed in multiple coordinated attacks, with over a hundred others injured in vulnerable places like markets and near hospitals, highlights a troubling reality. The silence from our nation in response to such atrocities indicates a disturbing normalization of insecurity rather than a decisive confrontation with the issue. In light of recent attacks in Kwara, Nasarawa, Kogi, Plateau, Sokoto, Benue, and even within the Federal Capital Territory, the pattern of insecurity is deeply concerning. In some regions, such as Katsina, there are alarming reports of communities being coerced into paying a "Peace Tax" to armed groups just to avoid further attacks and ensure their survival. These moments test not only our security architecture but also the very essence of leadership. Such a grave national emergency requires immediate presence, attention, and action. It is crucial to cancel any planned trips to visit affected communities in favor of prioritizing efforts to safeguard lives. During this time of grief, my thoughts and prayers are with the families who have lost loved ones, as well as those who are injured and fighting to recover. May God grant eternal rest to the departed, comfort the bereaved, and provide strength and healing to all affected. We cannot continue down this path. Our nation must rise to protect its citizens with urgency, responsibility, and compassion. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

Disturbing Report on Our Growing Poverty. Recent reports should deeply concern every responsible leader and citizen in Nigeria. A new policy study released by Agora Policy, with support from the Nigeria Economic Stability and Transformation Programme and the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, has shown that the poverty rate in our country has climbed from about 40% before the current reforms to over 63% today under this administration. Explicitly showing that the economic reforms of this administration have pushed more Nigerians into poverty than ever experienced in our dear nation. For a country whose population is estimated at over 220 million people, this means that well above 140 million Nigerians now live in poverty. Families nationwide can no longer afford basic necessities such as food, transportation, rent, or healthcare. Across the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria, families report painful coping strategies, reducing food consumption, trekking instead of using public transport, having no electricity to use, and borrowing simply to survive. Small businesses, which are the backbone of our economy are shutting down. An economy cannot be said to be improving when the majority of its people are becoming poorer. What makes this situation even more troubling is the contrast between the growing hardship faced by ordinary Nigerians and the continued pattern of lavish and insensitive spending by those in power. At a time when citizens are tightening their belts, struggling to eat, and watching their businesses collapse, the politicians continue to spend huge budgets on their comfort and other non-essential extravagances. Leadership must lead by example, especially during difficult times. You cannot ask the citizens to fast while you feast. Sacrifice must begin from the top. True economic reform must be people-centred. It must protect the most vulnerable while pursuing fiscal sustainability. Reforms that deepen poverty, widen inequality, and crush small businesses cannot be described as successful. Nigeria is blessed with immense human and natural resources. What we require is leadership that prioritises prudence, compassion, and accountability, leadership that measures success not by elite comfort but by the well-being of the ordinary Nigerian. Nigeria must urgently and strictly implement policies that support development, expand production, small businesses, and protect vulnerable households. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

The Attack on Democracy in Bakassi What occurred at the ADC office in Bakassi, Cross River State, is not merely an attack on a political party; it is an attack on democracy itself. When thugs can storm a party office and destroy property without facing arrest, it reflects how dangerously low our democratic standards have fallen. In the current state of Nigeria, what can we expect when leadership standards have plummeted to the extent that qualification, certification, and credibility are no longer deemed necessary for public office? The ability for individuals to present forged certificates for election sends a troubling message to our society. If we continue down this path, violence may become the future of our democracy. We must recognize that fraud and violence cannot create true leadership; they will only result in chaos. This chaos will ultimately affect us and our children. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

Celebrating our family pillars on Mother’s Day Today, we celebrate you, the pillars of faith, love, and wisdom in our families and communities. Your tireless dedication, nurturing hearts, and guidance shape not only the lives of your children but also the moral and spiritual fabric of our society. Every sacrifice you make, every lesson you teach, and every prayer you offer leaves a lasting impact across generations. As you are honoured today, may God continue to bless you abundantly, grant you strength in every challenge, joy in every moment, and peace in every season of life. Your role in shaping the future is invaluable, and your love remains the foundation upon which our communities thrive. With your continued sound motherhood and prayers, a new Nigeria is POssible. -PO

My Visit to Western Academy, Umueze-Anam In continuation of my support for educational facilities, yesterday, Friday the 13th, I visited a school in a rural community, Western Academy, Umueze Anam, in Anambra West. The school, which commenced about three years ago, currently uses local church facilities as classrooms. They welcomed me warmly and shared their dreams and ambitions. During the visit, and in support of efforts to improve learning facilities, I donated ₦10 million towards the school’s planned infrastructure development, covering both its primary and secondary arms. My hope is that this contribution will help create a better environment for teaching and learning, and enable the students to thrive. I encouraged the students to take their studies seriously, reminding them that education opens the door to limitless opportunities. With hard work and determination, they can compete with anyone, anywhere, and go on to become successful in life. Reflecting on my own journey, I shared that part of my primary education was at St. Augustine Primary School, Umuoba Anam. I urged the students not to be limited by their environment, but to remain disciplined, focused, and committed to their dreams. Greatness can come from anywhere when opportunity is combined with determination. With students like those I met at Western Academy, my faith is renewed in a New Nigeria that is POssible. -PO

Nigeria is facing a troubling contradiction. What type of country are we trying to bequeath for our children? The same lawmakers who have proposed a fine of ₦10 million and up to two years in prison for dual political party membership have simultaneously removed certificate forgery, age falsification, and false declarations as grounds for challenging an election in a tribunal. This is in direct contradiction to the provisions of the Constitution of Nigeria (1999, as amended). This situation raises a fundamental question about the priorities of our political system. In any serious democracy, the gravest offense in public life is deceiving the people to gain power. Submitting false documents, falsifying one’s age, forging certificates, and making dishonest declarations to electoral authorities are among the most serious offenses in any democracy. Such actions not only lead to automatic disqualification but also warrant criminal prosecution. Yet today, our electoral system seems more focused on protecting political structures than on upholding the truth. There is no justification for prioritizing punishment for party alignment over punishing false certificates, forgery, and other forms of deception in the pursuit of public office. Laws should strengthen democracy, not weaken it. They should promote ethical leadership rather than lower standards for those who aspire to govern. A nation cannot rise above the integrity of its leaders. If we truly want a better Nigeria, our laws must defend truth, character, competence, and accountability. We cannot continue to tolerate criminal behavior. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

When Countries Fail to Plan Many people wonder why any adverse development in the global economy quickly impacts Nigeria. A recent example is the tension involving Iran, which led to an increase in global oil prices and, subsequently, a rise in petroleum prices in Nigeria. A few weeks ago, petrol was selling for less than ₦1,000 per litre, but today it costs over ₦1,200 per litre. Diesel, which was also priced below ₦1,000 per litre, is now over ₦1,500 per litre. These rapid increases illustrate how quickly external shocks can affect the Nigerian economy. The reason for this is straightforward: most countries, whether they are oil-producing or non-oil-producing, maintain strategic petroleum reserves to cushion against supply or price shocks. This means that when there is a disruption in the global oil market, they can release part of these reserves to stabilize supply. However, Nigeria lacks such a buffer, so the impact is felt almost immediately. The underlying issue is a lack of planning. Countries that engage in planning create buffers against shocks, while those that do not remain vulnerable to them. The old maxim remains true: when a country fails to plan, it has already planned to fail. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

Today in Banjul, following my engagement at the REFELA National Conference, I had the honour of also joining the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Community of Practice for Governance and Peacebuilding Conference, themed “Digital Governance for Inclusive, Transparent, and Accountable Societies.” In my brief interaction with them, I sincerely appreciated the UNDP for the invaluable work of supporting governments across Africa. Many African States and sub-nations have benefited directly from UNDP’s expertise and support, and I can gladly count Anambra State during my administration as one of them. Dr. David Omozuafoh, the Head of Regional Governance and Rule of Law of the UNDP told the conferees of the challenging moment of my first meeting with them when I was Governor of Anambra State. He narrated to the stakeholders how the UNDP had earlier left Anambra because resources they had provided were mismanaged by a previous administration, and how they initially declined working with me due to this bad experience when I first approached them. However, after I sought an audience, we had a thorough and candid meeting where I transparently explained why Anambra needed assistance, why we were committed to reform, and how the stronger governance systems we put in place would ensure that every intervention would be used for the public good. I made them understand that our people deserved better, and that we were ready to be held accountable for results. I firmly promised that any support they provided would be transparently managed for the benefit of the people of Anambra, especially in the critical areas of development, education, health, and lifting people out of poverty. After those discussions, the UNDP agreed to return and work with Anambra State. The moderator then noted that the outcome of that partnership was remarkable. He informed the conferees that Anambra eventually became the best-performing state in Nigeria in the implementation of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) particularly in health and education. He added that Anambra State was then cited by the UNDP as a model for other sub-national governments, which led to my being invited to New York City to share and present our approach. I encouraged them that we must continue to work together, governments, civil society, and international partners, to build societies where accountability, justice, and shared economic growth are the foundation upon which we build the future we want for our children and generations to come. I still believe that a New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

Yesterday, 10th March, in Banjul, The Gambia, at the REFELA National Conference, themed 'Accelerating Representation, Safeguarding, and Strengthening Women’s Rights,' I had the honour and privilege to address the august gathering as both the Guest Speaker and Chief Guest of the occasion. Focusing on this year’s International Women’s Day theme, “Give to Gain,” I emphasised that the prosperity of nations is directly tied to how seriously they invest in their people, particularly women. I reiterated a fundamental truth that nations that deliberately invest in human capital eventually gain stronger economies and more stable societies. When women are given equal access to education, finance, and leadership opportunities, they become not just participants but critical drivers of national development. As Nobel Laureate in Economics, Amartya Sen, famously argued, billions of women are “missing” from economic transactions, and this exclusion is holding back the prospects of development in Africa and other developing economies. For nations seeking lasting prosperity, particularly Nigeria, The Gambia and other African countries, the path forward must be aggressive, deliberate, and strategic investment in human capital. Prioritising education, healthcare, skills development, and economic inclusion for women and youth is the foundation for sustainable growth and development of any nation. On this International Women’s Day, I thank the Mayor of Banjul, Hon Rohey Malick Lowe for the honour of inviting me, for the warm reception and for graciously hosting my team and me. I extend my sincere appreciation to the Nigerian community in The Gambia for the useful interaction we had. I join all men and women of goodwill in celebrating women across the world, recognising their crucial and complementary roles in society. Now more than ever, women must step into public service and leadership roles. By empowering women, fostering accountability, and prioritising education and skills development, Africa can transform potential into tangible progress, building shared opportunity for all. This is 'development as freedom'. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO