Ideas leave a trail.

The Niger Tragedy: May Their Souls Rest in Peace I just read the report of yet another mishap in Niger State yesterday, where no fewer than 30 people reportedly lost their lives and about 40 others sustained varying degrees of injury in a tragic tanker explosion that occurred along the Bida–Agaie Road in Katcha Local Government Area of the state. I extend my deepest condolences to the families who lost loved ones, to the affected communities, and to the government of Niger State. It is both sad and painful that poverty continues to drive our people into situations where they must dangerously risk their lives to survive. Even more heartbreaking is that tragedies like this occur almost daily across our nation. The loss of Nigerian lives has become so frequent that it is often met with silence and indifference from those in authority. We cannot continue this way. I appeal once again that we, the leaders, must show greater empathy, compassion, and a deep sense of responsibility. We must remain committed to building a nation that truly values its people—where every life is treated with dignity. These recurring tragedies should awaken us to our collective responsibility to build a Nigeria where no one has to die simply trying to live. May the souls of all who lost their lives rest in peace, and may their families find comfort and strength. Amen. -PO

Yesterday after my events in Lagos, I proceeded to Anambra State via Asaba, where I immediately joined the Labour Party Governorship Candidate, Dr @MoghaluGeorge, at the campaign rally held in Ogbunike, the hometown of our Deputy Governorship Candidate, Mrs Ifeoma Veronica Okaro. The warmth, energy, and genuine enthusiasm we met in Ogbunike were deeply inspiring. During my brief remarks, I expressed my profound gratitude to the community for their unwavering support and for standing firm in the belief that governance must prioritise human development. I emphasised our collective zeal and commitment to improving the quality of life in every community through better education, accessible healthcare, youth empowerment, and job creation. We reaffirmed that the Labour Party’s mission is about transforming lives and restoring faith in leadership. Together, we will build a more inclusive and prosperous Anambra. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

After attending the funeral service of the Rev Sisters in Enugu, I returned to Lagos to attend the launching of the Memorial Leadership Lecture Series in honour of the former Regional Minister, Oduola Osuntokun, held at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), Victoria Island. My DG in the 2023 Presidential Campaign, Prof. Akinjide Osuntokun, delivered an insightful and thought-provoking keynote address. The lecture was a timely reflection on Nigeria’s path into the future, highlighting the need to develop a viable population policy that ensures our population growth does not outpace our food production, while strengthening food security as a foundation for national stability. It also emphasised the importance of national unity, the need for a truly people-oriented framework and the necessity of economic diversification, increased productivity, and a sincere fight against corruption, as essential steps toward restoring Nigeria’s dignity and respect in the global community. It was indeed a rich and thought-provoking lecture. The discussions again reminded us that building a new Nigeria requires sincerity of purpose, visionary leadership, and a commitment to doing things the right way. With the right policies, focused governance, and a united sense of purpose, our nation can overcome its challenges, improve productivity, fight corruption decisively, and regain the respect and dignity it once commanded in the international community. Together, we can get it done. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

Today, I travelled from Lagos this morning to Enugu to attend the burial Mass of two exceptional Reverend Sisters of the Daughters of Divine Love Congregation, Sr. Jane Frances Chioke and Sr. Ann Nwosu, at the Sacred Heart Chapel, Abakpa-Nike, Enugu State. Sr. Jane Frances was a distinguished figure in healthcare, serving in various medical fields within the health sector. She served as the CEO of the Faith-Based Central Medical Foundation and was also a member of the Management Board of the ESUT Teaching Hospital. She spoke and fought against drug abuse and adulterated medicines, making sure medicines are genuine and working tirelessly to make healthcare more compassionate and accessible. She was a great strength to the medical development of our dear nation. Sr. Ann Nwosu was equally remarkable in the field of education. She served as Head Teacher at St. Joseph Nursery and Primary School, Okene, Kogi State, as Head Teacher at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Nursery and Primary School, Makurdi, Head Teacher at Holy Family Nursery and Primary School, Kuje, Abuja; and Principal at Holy Ghost College, Okura, Kogi State. Sr. Ann was known for her humility, thoughtfulness, and the deep love and respect she had for others, especially young children whose lives she helped shape with care and dedication. Both women dedicated their lives to improving two of the most critical areas of national development, health and education. Through their tireless work, they built systems that touched lives, empowered communities, and laid foundations for a healthier and more educated society. Their legacies stand as powerful reminders that true nation-building begins with selfless service to humanity. I pray that their legacies of compassion, service, and faith continue to inspire us all to live with love, humility, and dedication to the common good. May the Almighty God, whom they faithfully served, grant eternal rest to their gentle souls. -PO

Back and Forth Policy on Mathematics: A Costly Mistake. Following the outcry of concerned Nigerians over removing Mathematics, like the English Language, as a compulsory subject for admission into tertiary institutions, the Federal Ministry of Education has clarified that it will remain a compulsory subject only in school certificate examinations. In my humble view, this clarification changes nothing fundamentally. If Mathematics remains compulsory in school certificate examinations but not for university admission, the effect is practically the same. Students who intend to pursue Arts in tertiary institutions will still not take the subject seriously, knowing they do not need it for admission. The seriousness students attach to any subject is often directly proportional to its relevance to their future academic goals. Across the world, nations are finding innovative ways to strengthen the teaching and learning of subjects whose utility is indispensable in today’s knowledge-driven era - chief among them, Mathematics. I therefore strongly condemn the decision to remove Mathematics as a compulsory requirement for Arts students. Such a policy is a regrettable step backwards in our collective effort to build an enlightened, competent, and globally competitive society. Mathematics is not merely about numbers; it cultivates logic, sharpens critical thinking, and develops problem-solving skills essential for everyday life. Whether one studies the Arts or Sciences, the ability to reason clearly and make sound judgments is indispensable - qualities that Mathematics uniquely nurtures. To suggest that Arts students do not need Mathematics is to imply that they can do without clarity of thought or analytical precision - the very foundations of intellectual maturity. Once students believe they can safely neglect the subject, many will abandon it altogether, leaving them ill-prepared for the demands of modern life, where logic, computation, and structured reasoning underpin almost every human activity. At a time when the world is driven by science, technology, and data, it is disheartening - indeed, dirt to the ears - to hear of such retrogression. We cannot afford to return to a system that sidelines Mathematics. Our education policy must aim to equip every child, regardless of discipline, with the skills and competencies relevant to the twenty-first century. At this juncture, one is constrained to ask the reason behind its removal as a required subject for admission. Does it mean that our tertiary institutions lack enough students because of Mathematics? What, indeed, are the reasons? I therefore urge the relevant authorities to reconsider this decision in the interest of our students and the future of our nation and reinstate it as a core admission subject. Education should move forward, not backwards. -PO

Celebrating a Spiritual Father Today, I joyfully join other well-meaning Nigerians, particularly the clergy, religious, and lay faithful of the Catholic Archdiocese of Onitsha, in celebrating our beloved shepherd, Archbishop Valerian Maduka Okeke who is marking his 72nd birthday today. Your Grace, your exemplary life of humility, selfless service, and unwavering faith remains a beacon of hope to all who encounter you. Through your tireless commitment to the spiritual, educational, and moral formation of the people of God, you have inspired generations to embrace virtue, discipline, and love of neighbour. Your pastoral vision has brought renewal to the Church and the society at large. From your investments in human capital development to your consistent advocacy for moral regeneration, you have continued to demonstrate that true leadership is rooted in service and anchored in faith. On this special day, we thank God for the gift of your life and ministry. May He continue to bless you with robust health, divine wisdom, and the enduring grace to shepherd His people in truth, charity, and peace. Happy Birthday, Your Grace, Most Rev. Valerian Maduka Okeke. May your years ahead be even more fruitful and impactful. -PO

Celebrating the 2025 Ofala Festival of the Obi of Onitsha Yesterday, I had the honour of attending the 2025 Ofala Festival of His Majesty, Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe (Agbogidi), in Onitsha, Anambra State. The Ofala Festival remains one of our most cherished cultural celebrations, and I have had the privilege of attending it often since my secondary school days at Christ the King College, Onitsha. It is a time when the people of Onitsha come together to honour their revered monarch, celebrate unity, showcase rich cultural heritage, and give thanks to God for life and progress. It was truly heartwarming to behold the vibrant display of tradition that has stood the test of time and continues to define the identity of our people. I deeply commend His Majesty, Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe, for his exemplary leadership, wisdom, and commitment to preserving our traditions. His reign continues to inspire a sense of unity and progress among the people. May the Almighty continue to bless him with long life, wisdom, and good health, and may the land of Onitsha continue to flourish in peace, prosperity, and joy. Happy Ofala Festival to all sons and daughters of Onitsha, at home and in the diaspora. May our culture and unity continue to thrive. -PO

Remembering Somtochukwu Maduagwu Yesterday, I returned from the United Kingdom, where I had several engagements, including a meeting with the Commonwealth Secretary-General. Upon my arrival in Nigeria, I travelled to Agulu, Anambra State, to attend the burial Mass and interment of Miss Somtochukwu Maduagwu, the “Arise News” journalist whose life was tragically cut short in Abuja after an unfortunate encounter with armed robbers in her own home. It was a deeply painful experience to witness such a promising future abruptly ended. Somtochukwu was a shining example of youthful resourcefulness and dedication. Her passion for truth and commitment to her work reflected the immense possibilities that abound when our young people are given the right environment to thrive. Losing such a bright talent to insecurity is not only a personal tragedy but also a national loss. Her warmth, kindness, and gentle spirit touched everyone who knew her. My thoughts and prayers are with her parents, her siblings, and all who mourn this irreparable loss. May God, in His infinite mercy, console her family, strengthen their hearts, and grant them the grace to bear this pain. May the gentle soul of Somtochukwu Maduagwu rest peacefully in the bosom of the Lord, and may perpetual light shine upon her. Amen. -PO

As the world marks the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, it is a solemn reminder for our nation that poverty is now a daily reality for millions of people, especially when our nation remains the country in the world, with the highest number of people living in poverty. According to recent World Bank reports, over 139 million Nigerians now live in poverty, a figure that shockingly represents more than half of our total population, reflecting not only deep economic hardship but also years of failed leadership, misplaced priorities, systemic corruption, policy failures, and an absence of compassionate governance. I call on leaders at all levels to make poverty eradication the core of our governance priorities. We must invest in human capital, through education, healthcare, job creation, and small businesses, which would provide a sustainable effort to lift our people out of poverty. We must now, more than ever, restore productivity, reduce waste, and cut the cost of governance if we are truly committed to the fight against poverty. Let us remember, a nation cannot be truly great when the majority of its citizens live in poverty. Together, we can make poverty history and restore hope to millions who have been left in despair. True progress is measured not by the wealth of the few, but by the well-being of all. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

'Restoring the Dignity of Man': My Address at the UNN Alumni Conference in Birmingham After a fruitful visit to Birmingham, during which I gained additional insight into how universities function and promote inclusive excellence, I joined the University of Nigeria Alumni Association, UK, at their 8th Annual Conference on the theme “Restoring the Dignity of Man through Building an Equitable, Inclusive, and Compassionate Society.” In my keynote address at the event, I emphasised that leadership failure remains the greatest threat to human dignity and national progress in Nigeria. Our Human Development Index, a critical measure of development, is in decline. We are ranked very low in most indices of human development—security of life and property, rule of law, and basic education—with about 20 million out-of-school children. The situation in healthcare is equally dire: our critical health workforce is depleted, hospitals are under-equipped, and basic medical treatment is beyond the reach of the poor. Our poverty rate is increasing at a worrisome level, with the latest World Bank report stating that we now have 139 million people living in poverty, a huge rise from just two years ago. Nigeria is now counted among the hungriest nations, with millions unsure of where their next meal will come from. To restore the dignity of Nigerians and build an equitable, inclusive, and compassionate nation demands collective responsibility. Leaders must eschew corruption and govern with integrity, transparency, and empathy—investing deliberately in critical areas of human development. Our citizens must also review the leadership selection process to ensure that only qualified individuals with character, competence, and compassion are entrusted with public office. Together, we can build a new Nigeria where opportunities match skills; where the security of life and property is guaranteed; and where every citizen can live with pride, dignity, and purpose. This is the Nigeria we deserve — and it is POssible. -PO

Visit to Birmingham City University Yesterday, October 17th, I visited Birmingham City University, where I met with the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. David Mbah. Prof. Mbah is one of only two Black Vice-Chancellors among over 160 universities in the United Kingdom — and, coincidentally, both are Nigerians. The prestigious Birmingham City University, established in 1843, boasts about 31,000 students from over 120 countries and a workforce of nearly 5,000 staff. In a commendable effort to promote education, I was delighted to learn that, as part of its policy, the University extends varying degrees of scholarships to indigent students. During our interaction, Prof. Mbah shared how he remains committed to upholding the flag of excellence at the University by delivering practical, skills-based education to students. Beyond providing diverse opportunities for success in life, he revealed that Birmingham City University stands as one of the leading institutions supporting minorities in the UK. Remarkably, more than half of the students at BCU are the first in their families to attend university — a reflection of the institution’s deep commitment to inclusive education. I congratulated Prof. Mbah and his team of dedicated staff—especially the Nigerians among them—whose passion for excellence continues to propel the University forward. I reminded them that they are ambassadors of our dear nation and encouraged them to keep contributing meaningfully to Nigeria’s development. -PO

Celebrating Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie: A Beacon of Excellence I heartily congratulate our globally celebrated literary icon, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, for once again bringing immense pride to our nation through her recent international recognitions — including the prestigious Mermaid Award in Sweden, the Felix Jud Prize in Germany, and the Women’s Prize for Fiction – Winner of Winners in the United Kingdom for the most outstanding book. Through your voice, words, and brilliance, you continue to inspire millions across the world — especially the younger generation — to believe in their dreams, reminding us that excellence, integrity, and hard work remain the true measures of success. I wish you continued success and strength as you keep representing our nation with grace, intellect, and truth. Congratulations, Odeluwa — we are proud of you. -PO

Our Meeting with the Commonwealth Chief on Youth Empowerment, Education, and Democracy Yesterday Thursday 16th October, my dearest wife and I met with the Commonwealth Secretary-General, Hon. Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, at the Commonwealth Headquarters in London. Our discussions centred on promoting democracy, deepening the rule of law, expanding access to education, and empowering young people across Commonwealth nations. With over 2.5 billion of the Commonwealth’s population under the age of 30, young people remain the organisation’s greatest asset and hope for the future. I emphasised that for Nigeria, a nation richly endowed with human and natural resources, meaningful investment in education, innovation, and entrepreneurship is key to unlocking the vast potential of our youth. When properly equipped, our young people will not only drive national development but also contribute significantly to global progress. I further noted that youth unemployment remains one of the most pressing challenges of our time. Addressing it requires intentional and practical action — through skills development, access to quality education, and the creation of an enabling environment for small and medium-scale enterprises to thrive. Hon. Botchwey, the first African woman to lead the 56-member Commonwealth, reaffirmed that her top priorities include education, youth engagement, and employment creation. She spoke passionately about the need to build inclusive societies that promote democracy, good governance, justice, and equal opportunity for all. Her visionary, reform-minded leadership continues to amplify the voices of developing nations within the Commonwealth and inspire greater cooperation among member states. She also stressed that empowering young people is not only vital to sustaining democracy but also indispensable to shaping a stable, peaceful, and prosperous future for all Commonwealth citizens. Her commitment to youth inclusion, education, and institutional reform reflects the enduring values of the Commonwealth. I commended Hon. Botchwey for her dynamic and inspiring leadership, describing her as a trailblazer whose dedication to education, youth empowerment, and democratic ideals strengthens the global Commonwealth community. I remain confident that with leaders like her, the Commonwealth will continue to serve as a beacon of unity, hope, and shared progress for its member nations. -PO

Following our earlier visit to Tungan Nasara LEA Primary School, in Abuja, the ADC Chairmanship candidate for Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) in the February 2026 local council election, Dr Moses Paul, agreed with me that as he continues his tour around communities, I will often go with him to some dilapidated schools and healthcare facilities. On Tuesday, while in Anambra State, I received a call from Dr Paul of a public primary school in his constituency that was in a deplorable condition, and he wanted us to visit the school together on Wednesday, 15th October 2025, which I obliged. We visited LEA Nursery and Primary School, Kapwa, a community on the outskirts of Abuja. What we saw was not conducive to learning. The school without chairs for teachers, without toilet facilities for pupils and with classroom furniture in a completely dilapidated state. Education remains the bedrock of every progressive society. It is deeply troubling that a school with over 200 children operates under such poor and inhumane conditions. I assured the school community that I would personally support efforts to give the school a facelift. The most important investment any nation can make is in its children. When we invest in basic education, we invest in the foundation of our national development and collective future. I commend Dr Moses Paul (@Drmopaul) for taking the initiative to go around his communities, engaging directly with the people and experiencing their realities. That is what leadership should be. I have always believed that leadership begins with presence, empathy, and responsibility. Dr Moses Paul is demonstrating that same spirit. A new Nigeria is POssible. -PO

Yesterday, after my commissioning event at Awka North & South Federal Constituency, I joined the Labour Party Anambra Governorship Candidate, Dr George Moghalu, on his campaign community tour to Achalla town, Anambra State. It was heartwarming to see that Dr Moghalu’s message resonated deeply with the people because it is rooted in the same values I have always stood for: service, accountability, competence and compassion for humanity. I have no doubt that Dr @MoghaluGeorge will lead the people of Anambra with a sincere heart, prioritising the welfare of our people, particularly in critical areas such as education, healthcare, and care for the poor and elderly. Together, we must continue to support leaders who embody these values. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

Yesterday, Tuesday, 14th October, for the third time, I was delighted to honour the 3rd invitation to commission projects attracted by Honourable Lilian Orogbu, member representing Awka North and Awka South Federal Constituency, who continues to demonstrate what purposeful representation truly means. The 1st was the commissioning of 7 new classroom blocks at a Secondary School in Achalla, and thereafter 6 classroom blocks at Okpuno, both in Awka North, to foster education in the State. Education remains the most vital investment any society can make. I have always maintained that the most certain way to lift people out of poverty and build a productive nation is through investment in education and human capital development. Nations that have prioritised education are those that have achieved lasting growth and stability. We must continue to empower our young people through learning, creating opportunities, and building communities with knowledge. I commend Hon. Prof. @Oby_Orogbu for her outstanding work and her dedication to the growth and development of her constituency. This is the kind of leadership we must continue to encourage, one that puts people first and places education at the heart of national progress. A new is POssible. -PO

Congratulations to our Super Eagles Today, my day started very early at 6am, and after a very hectic day of participating in 5 different events of commissioning and campaigning in Anambra State, I had to watch the Super Eagles game. I watched with so much confidence and pride, and it was such a brilliant and sweet victory against the Benin Republic. The performance was really Super showing that it's Possible. You showed true Nigerian spirit, strength, dominance, and unity on the field. This is the power of perseverance and teamwork. Well done, Super Eagles. Congratulations. -PO

APC Government Policies and style have impoverished Several million Nigerians in Just Two Years. The World Bank report, released on October 8, 2025, shows that a staggering 139 million Nigerians are now living in poverty, an alarming increase from the 87 million Nigerians living below the poverty line reported in 2023, when Tinubu was sworn in as President. What this means is that in two years under the watch of the APC regime, over 50 million Nigerians were sent into poverty. This is a heartbreaking reflection of how deeply our nation is failing its citizens. What is even more concerning is that this devastating revelation has not led to an emergency and national discussion on how to effectively pull millions of our people out of poverty, but instead caused a rebuttal from the government, when the news already reflects the daily struggles of the ordinary Nigerian. The World Bank also revealed that despite the many celebrated reforms, the number of Nigerians living in poverty is rising, worsening Nigeria's position as the most poverty-stricken nation in the world. The reasons these reforms are not working are due to the lack of a clear plan and a lack of determination to channel the supposed gains into feasible and productive areas that will benefit the people and improve overall growth. Reforms must be deliberate and strictly followed by people-focused policies that prioritise production over consumption, support small businesses and farmers, invest in education and healthcare, and ensure that government spending directly impacts the lives of Nigerians by pulling them out of poverty. No nation can truly rise when the majority of its people are trapped in poverty. With the right leadership, we can make Nigeria work for every Nigerian. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

A trailblazer Exits. I have received with profound sadness the news of the passing of a dear elder sister, Prof. U. Joy Ogwu, Nigeria's former foreign minister, as well as former permanent representative of Nigeria to the United Nations. Prof. Ogwu was a cosmopolitan. An unassuming trailblazer and lady of firsts, she was the first female Director-General of Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA); the first Nigerian female Foreign Minister in 2006; the first female Permanent Representative of Nigeria to the United Nations, in 2008, and in that vein, the first Nigerian female to preside over the UN Security Council (in July 2010 and in October 2011). A renowned academic and researcher, she is the author of several books on foreign policy, disarmament, and the United Nations. Prof. Ogwu was an expert on security and disarmament issues and a strong advocate for women's development and human rights. Her demise is a great loss to her family, those close to her, Delta State and Nigeria. In consoling those she left behind, I pray that God will grant her family, and all of us the fortitude to bear this huge loss and grant her soul peaceful repose. -PO

Farewell to a Great Evangelist: Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai I have just received with deep sadness the news of the passing on to glory of one of Nigeria’s most revered clerics, Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, Founder and President of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association. My heartfelt condolences go to his family, friends, and the entire congregation of his ministry. May God’s peace and comfort be with them during this difficult time. Dr. Uma Ukpai devoted his life to preaching the Gospel, healing, and uplifting souls across Nigeria and beyond. Through the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, he organised large-scale crusades, healing services, and leadership conferences that brought hope and transformation to countless lives. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones. -PO