Ideas leave a trail.

With a heavy heart, I join millions of Nigerians in mourning the passing of our revered Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi (may Allah have mercy on him). Sheikh Dahiru was not only a towering Islamic scholar and a distinguished Hafiz of the Qur’an, but also a man of peace, and a father figure to many across our nation. His transition is a profound loss to Nigeria and to the entire Ummah. On behalf of my family and the Obidient family, I extend my sincere condolences to his immediate family, the good people of Bauchi State, and the entire Tijjaniya movement. May Allah forgive his shortcomings, grant him Aljannah Firdaus, and grant all of us the fortitude to bear this very painful loss. -PO

Yesterday, I was a Guest Speaker at Imperial College London on the theme “Bridging Worlds: Leadership and the Power to Inspire Change.” At the event, I met talented Nigerian students abroad, who always remind me of the resilience and brilliance that our nation continues to produce. I told them that they live daily as a bridge between two contrasting realities: the Nigeria that nurtured them and the functional systems they now experience abroad. The real question before us is how to take the innovation, discipline, and efficiency they see abroad and channel them meaningfully into rebuilding our nation. For me, leadership begins with character, with who you are when no one is watching. When people ask how we were able to save money or cut waste during my time in office, the answer remains the same: I treated public funds as a sacred trust, because that is what they are. Integrity is not something you switch on when convenient; it is a way of life. Every leader must first build a bridge between their private values and their public actions. Nigeria is a challenging system, but no system transforms simply because we talk about its failures. They change when men and women with competence, courage, and integrity step forward and insist on doing things differently. Real change is not driven by noise; it is driven by example. When you choose to act differently, you shift expectations. When you refuse to cut corners, you raise the standard. You cannot transform a system you have already given up on, transformation begins with demonstrating that better is not only possible, but achievable. Your education here is a privilege, one that millions of Nigerians may never have. The critical question is: What will you do with what you have learned? Whether you return home or contribute from abroad, Nigeria needs your creativity, your discipline, your global exposure, and your belief in what is possible. Functional societies are not accidents; they emerge from deliberate, consistent choices made by people who value progress. “This is how things are done in Nigeria.” Do not accept it. Wrongdoing is not culture. Corruption is not identity. If you lose your values, you lose your power to inspire change. Stand firm. Lead by example. You may be surprised by how many others are waiting for someone, anyone to show that integrity is still possible. You are the bridge between Nigeria’s potential and its present reality; between what you experience here and what you know is achievable back home. And remember: bridges do not argue, they connect. Your task is to connect Nigeria to a brighter future through your ideas, your discipline, your values, and your leadership. I remain confident that Nigeria is always in your heart, but I urge you to carry your values in your actions. That is how nations are rebuilt. A new Nigeria is POssible. -PO

Yesterday, I was in Strasbourg, France, to attend sessions at the European Parliament. While there, I spent the day holding a series of constructive meetings with several members from various committees, from the Committee on Foreign Affairs, to the Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs, to the Members of the Africa-EU Delegation Committee, to the Committee on Transport and Tourism, and Development, amongst others. I appealed to them to strengthen their relationship with Africa, especially Nigeria, which stands as a key frontier for global development. Africa, as I reiterated, is a continent of immense potential, the second-largest in size and population, richly endowed with natural resources, and powered by a vast, youthful demographic. Yet it remains the face of global poverty, largely because of bad leadership and entrenched corruption, a reality clearly reflected in Nigeria. I urged them to support the development of Africa, particularly Nigeria, by advancing good governance. This includes supporting our democratic processes in ways that promote the emergence of competent leaders with the capacity and integrity to transform our nations. I also highlighted how they can support us in addressing insecurity, improving power generation and distribution, strengthening education and healthcare, and lifting our people out of poverty. This is necessary because our success as a nation and the success of Africa have a direct benefit to Europe. I also underscored the need to invest in and support Nigerian youths who have an immense desire and drive for entrepreneurship and productivity, if well supported, but are now facing despair due to limited opportunities. Africa and indeed Nigeria can and must work for all and contribute to global developments. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

Special Birthday Wishes to an Elder Statesman My very dear elder brother, boss, and elder statesman, Your Excellency Atiku Abubakar, GCON, Nigeria’s Vice President (1999 - 2007) and the Waziri Adamawa, I join your numerous admirers in wishing you the very best on your 79th birthday anniversary. May your special day be filled with grandeur befitting your illustrious career. I wish you continued success, prosperity, and an unending stream of accolades. It takes a remarkable kind of fortitude to remain active in public life well into one’s golden years. Your dedication and patriotism remain truly exceptional. May you enjoy a day of quiet reflection on your many years of fruitful service to humanity. It is my prayer that God Almighty grants you many more healthy, fruitful, and fulfilling years ahead, and continues to endow you with wisdom, strength, and the grace to keep contributing to peace and nation-building. Happy Birthday, Your Excellency @atiku . -PO

Rescue Efforts Commendable, But No Room for Complacency It is gratifying to receive some positive news on the rescue of the 38 abducted victims from the Eruku Church attack in Kwara State, as well as the escape of about 50 students from the Catholic Private School in Niger State. I would like to commend the security agencies and all those who played a role in this refreshing development. However, it is important to emphasise that there must be no relenting or relaxing until all the children are reunited with their families, whose situation must have been deeply agonising. There is also a pressing need for both security agencies and school authorities nationwide to remain proactive and ensure that adequate security measures are put in place to frustrate the plans of criminals. -PO

Is Nigeria cursed, or are we the curse? The past 10 days in Nigeria have witnessed unprecedented negative news, a level of chaos, insecurity, and institutional decay that should trouble the conscience of all the leaders. Our country is now going through troubling times, not by fate, but by our collective leadership failures that allow insecurity, lawlessness, and institutional decay to thrive. Each day confronts us with a new tragedy and a new reminder that our beloved country is drifting amid a clear absence of competent, compassionate, responsive and responsible leadership. We have all watched a nation blessed with people of strength and resilience drift into avoidable disorder. We should be asking ourselves: Are we cursed, or are we the curse? The past 10 Days in Nigeria 1.11/11/25 – 6 senior directors from the Ministry of Defence were kidnapped along the Kogi axis, reminding us that even those tasked with securing our nation are no longer safe. 2.15/11/25 – A senior military officer, a Brigadier General, was brutally executed, a grave signal of the danger engulfing both civilians and security personnel. 3.16/11/25 – 64 civilians, including women and children, were abducted in Zamfara, with innocent lives also lost in the attack. 4. 17/11/25 – 25 schoolgirls, young children with dreams and innocence, were abducted in Kebbi and their Vice Principal was killed, adding to the heartbreaking list of attacks on our nation’s future. 5. 18/11/25 – Worshippers praying peacefully in a church in Kwara State were violently disrupted, with some killed and about 38 abducted. A place of worship, meant to be a sanctuary, became a scene of fear. 6. 18/11/25 – A disturbing crisis unfolded at the PDP Wadata Plaza headquarters. Instead of de-escalation, elements within the security agencies worsened the situation and further instigated it. Rather than focusing on protecting citizens, the government watched with amusement, encouraging the destruction of political parties and the weakening of our democracy. 7. 18/11/25 – During the All Nigeria Judges’ Conference, judges who should embody neutrality and integrity were seen standing as the APC partisan song “On Your Mandate We Shall Stand” played ahead of the President’s address. This troubling moment further eroded public trust in institutions expected to protect the rule of law. 8. 19/11/25 – Soldiers heading to rescue the Kebbi State abducted schoolgirls were ambushed, showing once again how undersupported our security forces have become. 9. 21/11/25 – Nigerians awoke to the devastating news that over 300 schoolchildren and 12 teachers were abducted from a Catholic school in Niger State. 10.22/11/25 – Bandits opened fire on farmers in Kaduna killing one of them. 23/11/25- Terrorists Ambush, Gun Down 5 Police Officers, Injure 2 in Sabon Sara, Darazo LGA, Bauchi State November 23, 2025 And just as I was speaking about this, I received yet another devastating report about the abduction of 13 female farmers in Askira-Uba LGA of Borno State today by suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP Terrorists. No serious nation survives on excuses, indifference, or absentee leadership. What we are witnessing is not inevitable, it is the direct consequence of we the leaders not valuing human life. Nigeria is bleeding because those elected to protect the nation have chosen comfort over courage, politics over people, and power over purpose. We the leaders must remember that governance is not a title, it is a duty to protect every child, every community, and every citizen. We need competence, compassion, and a government that shows up when it matters the most. To every Nigerian shaken in these past 10 days, my heart is with you. You deserve safety, you deserve peace. We deserve a government that values our lives above politics. Nigeria must rise again. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

Nigeria’s Potential Lies in Leadership and Institutions Today, after the Redeemer's Drug Rehabilitation Initiative (TREDR) event, I attended and spoke at the 2025 Leadership Forum Conference in UNEC Enugu, organized by the Medical Research and Humanitarian Society (MEDRHUS), on the theme: “Rethinking Leadership: Uniting a Divided People.” I highlighted that Nigeria is blessed with fertile land, abundant minerals, and a favourable climate—more naturally endowed than most of comparable nations, yet we lag behind because we have not built strong institutions or cultivated a culture of competent, and compassionate leadership. I observed that our challenges—ethnic and religious tensions, poor healthcare, low life expectancy, and rising infant mortality—reflect leadership failure, not the people. I emphasised that education and human development must be our top priority for real progress. I noted that countries comparable nations like the Indonesian, India & others thrived by investing in people and institutions. I urged that we must do the same. I encouraged young Nigerians to seek opportunities globally, but to remain committed to building a better Nigeria. I concluded that strong institutions, rule of law, and competent leadership are the keys to unlocking our nation’s potential. A new Nigeria is POssible. -PO

Drug Rehabilitation: The Need for Church–Government Collaboration. I arrived in Enugu this Saturday morning for a series of events, beginning with The Redeemer’s Drug Rehabilitation Initiative (TREDRI). A model prototype of a standard rehabilitation centre for the South East was presented. I commended TREDRI for seeking to provide structured care and hope for young people struggling with addiction, showing how faith-based organisations can restore lives and strengthen families. I highlighted the alarming prevalence of drug abuse across Nigeria. Nigeria's drug abuse prevalence is among the highest in the world, over 14% as against the global average of 5.5%. Drug Addiction destroys families, erodes social cohesion, and limits opportunities for our youth. Tackling this crisis requires addressing both the medical needs of addicts and the socio-economic factors, such as poverty and unemployment, that drive substance abuse. I stressed that the church must move beyond the pulpit to engage directly with communities. However, this cannot succeed alone; a strong church–government partnership is essential, alongside serious investment in education, healthcare, and social welfare programmes. Finally, I encouraged initiatives like TREDRI to continue their work. I shared my experience from Indonesia, where almost everyone eligible works, and street beggars are absent. Nigeria can achieve similar results by lifting people out of poverty, creating opportunities for youth, and building systems that empower productive citizens. A new Nigeria is POssible - PO

Kanu’s Conviction: At a Time Like This. The news of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s conviction should compel every well-meaning Nigerian to pause and reflect. This is coming at a time when our beloved nation is facing severe economic hardship, insecurity, and the consequences of poor governance. Rather than reducing tension, this unfortunate development may well only aggravate it. I have always maintained that Mazi Kanu should never have been arrested. His arrest, detention, and now conviction represent a failure of leadership and a misunderstanding of the issues at stake. For years, I have consistently argued that dialogue, constructive engagement, and inclusive governance offer the path to lasting peace. Coercion becomes necessary only when reason has been exhausted. In this case, I submit that the reason was not only not exhausted, but was probably not explored at all, or not fully explored. The concerns Kanu raised were not unheard of. The issues for which he demanded solutions were not insoluble. It only required wisdom, empathy, and a willingness to listen. In any functional society, such grievances are met with dialogue and reforms aimed at strengthening unity. The government’s approach has only deepened mistrust and created an avoidable distraction at a time when citizens are overwhelmed by harsh economic realities and insecurity. While some may insist that “the law has taken its course,” leadership often demands more than a strict, mechanical application of the law. Nations around the world resort to political solutions, negotiated settlements, and even amnesty when legal processes alone cannot serve the broader interest of peace and stability. Nigeria is not an exception. The handling of Kanu’s case mirrors the government as a man trapped in a hole but who, instead of looking for a way out, keeps digging deeper. It worsens not only the government’s predicament but also the nation's collective condition. If we truly desire a new Nigeria - a united, peaceful, and progressive one, our leaders must choose healing over hostility, reconciliation over retaliation, and dialogue over division. Only by addressing grievances with justice, fairness, and compassion can we move towards a future where every Nigerian feels heard, valued, and safe. My ultimate call at this time, without prejudice to how anyone feels about the decision of the court, is for us to be optimistic for peace and reconciliation which will come in the end. I am also saying, thereby, that the Presidency, the Council of State and credible statesmen who love this country and who are interested in cohesion and inclusivity, should rise to the occasion, for a lasting solution. -PO

Strengthening Education for National Transformation Yesterday, at the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS) International Conference in Umuahia, I emphasised that no nation can rise above the quality of education it gives its children. Our continued neglect of education and healthcare remains a major reason for our economic and social decline. I commended private school proprietors for their resilience. They are now carrying responsibilities the government ought to shoulder, and their role in shaping over 60% of Nigeria’s basic education sector cannot be overstated. I called for stronger teacher training, modernised curricula, technology-driven learning, and policies that make quality education affordable for all. I was honoured to receive the NAPPS National Role Model Award, presented as an encouragement to millions of students across the country. I also reflected on my time as Governor, when we supported both public and private schools with buses, computers, generators, and essential learning tools. Education must become Nigeria’s top priority—not merely in speeches, but in budgetary commitment, planning, and execution. It remains the most reliable path to national transformation. -PO

Today, I join millions of Nigerians in celebrating my very dear elder brother, His Excellency Dr Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR, as he marks his 68th birthday. His years of statesmanship, calm disposition in leadership, outstanding patriotism and exemplary respect for democracy continue to stand as a reference point for our nation and our continent. On this special day, I pray that God Almighty grants him more healthy, fruitful and happy years. Also, grant him more wisdom, strength, continued contributions to peace, and nation-building, inspiring generations to come. Happy Birthday Your Excellency @GEJonathan . -PO

My Visit to Godfrey Okoye University and the Need to Invest More in Education Today, I visited the College of Medical and Nursing Sciences at Godfrey Okoye University. I was delighted to see the remarkable transformation the institution has recorded since my last visit — the power of dedication, vision, and purposeful leadership. To support the ongoing infrastructural development, I made a contribution of ₦15 million. This is part of my continued commitment to strengthening our educational and healthcare systems, which remain the most critical foundations for a productive and progressive nation. I told the students that they are not just learners; they are global citizens who will shape the future of our healthcare sector and represent Nigeria proudly across the world. We must give them the tools, environment, and moral grounding needed to excel. A new Nigeria is POssible. -PO

Remembering Sen. Ezea: A Friend, Confidant, and Brother I have just received one of the most devastating pieces of news of my life: the death of someone I truly considered a very dear brother, a confidant, and a politician of commitment and character — Sen. Okey Ezea. What can I say about him? He was my Senator, my confidant, my friend, and my brother. Sen. Ezea was a man of remarkable integrity, a man who did not betray friendship, and a man of deep compassion for his people. His presence inspired confidence, and his counsel was always wise and measured. His passing leaves a huge personal void that cannot easily be filled. Okey would always remind one of the need to do things for his people. May the Almighty God, who has called him home, grant him eternal rest; and may his family, together with the good people of Enugu State, find strength and consolation at this difficult time. -PO

The Need for the Church to Move from the Pulpit to the People Upon my return from overseas yesterday, I attended the Fourth Enugu Diocesan Synod, where I spoke on “The Role of the Church in Youth Empowerment and Community Development.” I emphasised that the Church needs to move from pulpit to people by taking a more practical role in rebuilding societal values, empowering our youths, and strengthening community structures. Our nation cannot progress when moral decay and a declining sense of responsibility continue to spread unchecked. Nigeria is confronted with alarming levels of valuelessness, moral decay, rising rascality, and a diminishing sense of responsibility. These challenges persist not because we lack knowledge, but because we have allowed our values to collapse. In today’s society, shortcuts are celebrated, dishonesty is rewarded, and integrity is sidelined. Even among the highly educated, including professors, the erosion of ethical standards is increasingly evident. This is where the Church must reclaim its mission. As the moral compass of society, it must lead the urgent task of rebuilding values. Through deliberate and practical initiatives—skills training, youth mentorship, sustainable community projects, and consistent engagement—the Church can transform faith into opportunities that uplift communities. Such efforts will help young people rediscover discipline, hard work, and the understanding that character, not corruption, is the true foundation for progress. I reminded the Synod that Nigeria’s problems do not stem from ignorance, but from our persistent refusal to embrace the right values and development-driven practices. If we are to build a nation where integrity is rewarded and responsibility is cherished, the Church and other serious religious groups must take the lead in shaping ethical behaviour and strengthening societal character. By moving from the pulpit to the people, the Church can inspire a new generation and play a decisive role in Nigeria’s values, morals, and social renewal. -PO

“Now Disgraced Nation” A few weeks ago, when President Trump described our country as “now disgraced,” many were outraged. Yet, how can we dispute it when, within a single week, 25 people were kidnapped, and one of our generals along with other officers was killed? Today, we witness another troubling terror attack in Kwara State. Rather than uniting in this critical moment, we are consumed by internal wrangling, party squabbles, and distractions. Look closely at what is happening in the PDP, the Labour Party, SDP, and other political formations—crises deliberately orchestrated by a government that should be embracing everyone so we can unite in this troubling period. I am reminded of a pivotal moment under President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua. During an internal crisis in my then-political party, he instructed the INEC Chairman, Professor Maurice Iwu, that the stability of every political party—not just the ruling party—was essential for democracy. No party was to be undermined; all were to function within the law. What we witness today is the opposite. The current government seems more intent on weakening parties than strengthening our democracy—seeking to fragment the PDP, Labour Party, SDP, and others. In democratic nations, opposition is respected, elections reflect the will of the people, and governance involves carrying everyone along for peace and prosperity. A New Nigeria is Possible – PO

A Tribute to Our Fallen Heroes I returned to Nigeria this morning only to be confronted with the heartbreaking news of the brutal murder of Brigadier-General M. Uba, among others who are courageously fighting terrorists to protect the rest of us. I am deeply saddened by this tragic development. At this moment of national grief, I extend my profound sympathies to the families of the fallen officers and to the entire military community. I also use this opportunity to salute the gallantry of all our military personnel who, day after day, make enormous sacrifices — including the ultimate sacrifice — in the service of our nation. While I pray that their sacrifices will never be in vain, I call on the Federal Government to strengthen security architecture across the country; to provide our armed forces with the equipment, intelligence support, welfare, and motivation they urgently require; and to ensure that those who attack the Nigerian state are swiftly apprehended and brought to justice. Nigeria must honour its heroes not only with words, but by building a nation where their labour and sacrifices contribute to lasting peace, safety, and national renewal. May the souls of Brigadier-General M. Uba and all the faithful departed rest in perfect peace. -PO

Why Nigeria Remains Africa’s Greatest Investment Frontier Yesterday, Monday, 17th November, I was in Monaco as a guest speaker at the 4th Africa Day event, organised by the Club des Entrepreneurs Monégasques en Afrique (CEMA). I spoke on the future of Africa, especially Nigeria, by 2050. In my presentation, I reemphasised the fact that Africa remains the continent of tomorrow, blessed with enormous resources, particularly its youthful population—60% of whom are young people who will drive innovation and productivity. By 2050, Nigeria is projected to have a population of about 320 million, with roughly 200 million youths in their productive age. With competent leadership—leadership with capacity, compassion, character, and commitment—to faithfully and simultaneously implement the right developmental policies, while drastically reducing waste and corruption, Nigeria can achieve remarkable progress. With a firm commitment to invest strictly in critical areas of development: security, health, education, and poverty alleviation, Nigeria will be able to grow from 2030 to 2050, reaching an economy of about $2 trillion and approximately $7,000 per capita. By sustaining this growth trajectory, Nigeria can meet the Goldman Sachs projection of about $13 trillion GDP and $30,000 per capita by 2075. I passionately urged all attendees to the event to invest in Africa, especially Nigeria, as their gateway into the continent, in view of the immense opportunities ahead. I reassured them of a new Nigeria that is Possible and indeed a new Africa that is also POssible. -PO

Kebbi and Zamfara Attacks: Our Nation Cannot Continue Like This My heart is heavy in faraway Monaco as I receive the heartbreaking news from Kebbi State about the attack on Maga Comprehensive Girls’ Secondary School, which led to the abduction of several young female students and the killing of a staff member. Sadly, similar acts of violence continue elsewhere. In Zamfara State, bandits reportedly killed three persons and abducted about 64 others in Fegin Baza village, Tsafe LGA. These are devastating and unacceptable losses. My deepest sympathies go to the government and people of Kebbi and Zamfara States, the parents and families of the abducted girls, and all those affected by this tragedy. Entire communities are living in fear; schools—safe havens for learning—are now vulnerable targets. Families are being torn apart, and innocent lives are being destroyed. This is not the Nigeria we should accept. At this difficult time, we must strengthen our resolve to secure every part of our nation. I call on the government at all levels to urgently intensify security efforts, overhaul our security architecture, ensure the safe rescue of the abducted girls, and prevent further attacks on our schools and communities. Our children must never be left at the mercy of terrorists. May the soul of the staff member who lost his life rest in peace, and may God comfort the bereaved families and grant them the strength to bear these unimaginable losses. I pray for the safe return of the abducted girls and for healing and protection for every affected family. May God guide our security agencies as they work tirelessly to bring them home. Nigeria must do better. Our children deserve safety, and our people deserve peace. -PO

Dan Agbese: A Life Dedicated to Journalism and a Better Nigeria I am deeply saddened by the passing of Mr Dan Agbese, a consummate columnist, a remarkable journalist, and a passionate advocate for a better Nigeria. Throughout his life, he tirelessly worked to highlight the challenges facing our nation and inspired many with his vision for progress and good governance. He also contributed immensely to journalism through robust engagements and the mentoring of younger colleagues. Mr Dan stood by me during the electioneering period, lending his voice and pen in support of my efforts to serve the people. His commitment to truth, integrity, and the development of Nigeria will be sorely missed. May his soul rest in perfect peace, and may God grant comfort and strength to his family, colleagues, and all who were touched by his work. -PO

Our dear Super Eagles, I know how deeply yesterday’s outcome weighs on each of you. When you wear the green and white, you carry the heartbeat of the whole nation, and I acknowledge the hard work, sacrifice, and commitment you put into every match. But let this moment not break your spirit. Great teams are defined by their response to adversity. What matters now is how we stand, regroup, and rebuild with even greater discipline, focus, and preparedness. I am confident you can rise stronger. Do not let today overshadow the greatness of tomorrow. The Eagle never bows its head, it lifts its wings. Keep your heads high and stay committed. Nigeria believes in you, and together, we will soar again. Keep soaring Super Eagles. -PO