Ideas leave a trail.

Francis Cardinal Arinze: A Living Witness of Faith and Renewal I joyfully felicitate with His Eminence, Francis Cardinal Arinze, the Catholic Archdiocese of Onitsha, and indeed the Universal Church, as he marks his 60th Episcopal Anniversary. Consecrated on 29 August 1965 at the youthful age of 32, Cardinal Arinze entered history as the youngest Catholic bishop in the world, just in time to attend the final session of the historic Second Vatican Council in Rome (1962–1965). Two years later, at only 34, he was elevated to the rank of Archbishop, becoming the youngest prelate and the first African to head the Archdiocese of Onitsha, one of Nigeria’s two oldest Catholic Sees. In 1985, he was created a Cardinal by Pope John Paul II, a recognition that crowned his decades of faithful service. His years at the Vatican—as Prefect of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments, and in other key dicasteries—have left indelible footprints in the history of the Church. As one of the remaining Council Fathers of Vatican II, he stands as a living witness to the Church’s renewal in the modern world. His voice of wisdom and maturity continues to illuminate the path of the Church, while his exemplary life remains an inspiration to younger generations. We remain immensely proud of him and grateful for his enduring life of service, discipline, and faith. May his life continue to be like the tree planted beside flowing waters—still full of sap, still green. Amen. – PO

Farewell to Dr. Ahmed Aliyu Mustapha: A Life of Patriotism and Service With a very heavy heart, I had a truly sad weekend as I lost a senior brother very dear to me, Dr. Ahmed Aliyu Mustapha – a patriotic Nigerian and a man who believed deeply in the future of our country and in the hope of a better Nigeria. He was an exemplary public servant and a distinguished Customs Officer, whose life stands as a testimony that many of us can point to in our lived experiences. I had just visited him at his Maitama residence on Friday, 22 August 2025, where his foremost concern remained Nigeria. He kept urging me to ensure that we, as politicians, work together with sincerity and dedication to truly change things for our nation and secure a better country for us and our children. This is indeed a very sad loss. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, to the Lamido of Adamawa, His Royal Highness Alhaji Muhammadu Barkindo Aliyu Mustapha, to the entire Customs family, and to the government and people of Adamawa State, who have all lost a rare gem. May Allah (SWT), Most Gracious and Most Merciful, forgive his shortcomings, grant him Jannatul Firdaus, and comfort and protect the family he left behind. Ameen. – PO

The obsession of this administration with putting a burden on the populace is becoming legendary and continues to reveal its apparent disconnect with the people and the suffering. The International Passport fees in Nigeria have now skyrocketed to ₦100,000 for a 32-page booklet and ₦200,000 for 64 pages. This is the third increase in just two years. In a country where the new minimum wage is only ₦70,000, the cost of a single passport now exceeds a worker’s monthly salary, probably the only country in the world to achieve this feat. Instead of making life easier, this government keeps shifting the burden onto ordinary Nigerians. It is alarming that the price of the international passport is higher than what workers earn in a month. -PO

Abuja–Kaduna Train Derailment I am deeply saddened by the news of the Abuja- Kaduna train derailment today. My heartfelt prayers are with the injured and all affected. The rail transport system is a critical component of development, and we must continue to embrace it. I urge the authorities to act swiftly to provide adequate medical support to the injured, ensure accountability, and restore confidence in our transport infrastructure. We keep all affected in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. -PO

PVC is the bridge to a New Nigeria. -PO https://t.co/IG4ElDkMhb

Still on the worrisome killings in the country. We can't stop bemoaning the unending killing in the country. Despite not being at war, the killing, abduction and banditry incidents in our country continue to be daily and increasing at a worrisome rate. The recent attack in Okigwe, Imo State, that claimed the lives of many, with so many others still missing and feared dead, reflects once again, the alarming insecurity reality in our dear country. Over the weekend, I read in the dailies that Amnesty International warned that the Nigerian government is emboldening bandits through its “stunning failure” to protect citizens. They described the week as a bloody one, recording several deaths across various parts of the country, including the massacre of over 50 worshippers in a mosque in Katsina, the abduction of over 60 people in the same Katsina State, and the killing of over 15 farmers in Mangu, Plateau State, which displaced more than 200 families in just days. All of these in a single week in the country. Amnesty International further revealed that in just two years of this administration, over 10,000 Nigerians have been killed by armed groups in various states across Nigeria. Instead of improving security, insecurity has worsened under this administration and in just 2 years, with new armed gangs emerging Nigeria, which is not even officially at war, has recorded over 10,000 civilian deaths in just two years, a number similar to civilian deaths in Ukraine, which is officially at war. This means that, in just two years, Nigeria’s insecurity crisis has taken almost as many civilian lives as a country under open warfare. We must now wake up as a nation. The first duty of any government is to secure the lives and property of its people. This should concern all of us who claim to be politicians and leaders. We must put Nigerian citizens first, stop the politicking, name-calling, and gossip, and focus on addressing these real issues. The time to act is now. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

Peter Rufai and the Burden of a Nation’s Neglect Today, I paid a condolence visit to the family of our late Green Eagles captain and celebrated goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, in Lagos. He was one of the finest players of his generation - an icon whose heroics in goal brought pride to millions of Nigerians. Reading about the tragedy of most Nigerians, how some of them struggled to cater to their needs when challenged by misfortune, I am strengthened in my belief that we must all work together to create the Nigeria of our dreams, where service and sacrifice are honoured, where our heroes in all spheres of life are not forgotten, and where every citizen can live with dignity and security. In moments like this, we are reminded that a nation’s greatness is also measured by the value it places on those who gave their all for her. Peter Rufai belongs to this league of heroes, and it is our collective duty to ensure that their memories inspire us, and that their sacrifices are never in vain. -PO

The tragic news from Katsina has grown even more devastating, as the search continues with over 50 bodies now recovered. This horrendous act goes beyond an attack on innocent worshippers, it is another painful reminder of the worsening state of insecurity in our nation. Nigerian lives must now have value to us as leaders, we cannot continue to treat these incidents as ordinary statistics. Behind every number is a father, a mother, a child and lives cut short with families shattered. The dignity of human life must be restored as a sacred priority in our country. I repeat that unless we urgently tackle the root causes of insecurity, we will continue to mourn needless losses. My heartfelt condolences once again go to the grieving families, the people and government of Katsina, and all Nigerians who live in fear of such daily tragedies. May we find the courage to rebuild a nation where the security of lives and property is not a privilege, but a right guaranteed to every citizen. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

Prayer remains the bridge connecting human beings with their creator. The grace and mercy we constantly seek from our God will not be easy to come to us without prayer. Today, I had the honour of attending the 15th Anniversary Conference of 'When Women Pray' in Abuja. These outstanding women have, over the years, become a symbol of faith, resilience, and blessings, showing the world, the unwavering strength of women. Women remain the backbone of our families and society, nurturing, praying, building, and holding our nation together, even in the most difficult times. As I joined them in thanksgiving and reflection today, I was reminded of the critical role women continue to play in shaping a better future. Their prayers, strength and sacrifices inspire us to keep striving for a Nigeria built on peace, unity, and justice. I celebrate 'When Women Pray' for 15 years of blessing lives, and I encourage all of us to keep supporting our women, because when women rise, a nation is lifted. -PO

₦ 142 Billion for Bus Terminals: Another Evidence of misplaced Priority The difference between the success and failure of the development in any nation is how you prioritise your scarce resources. The recent announcement that a sum of ₦142 billion has been approved by the Federal Government for the construction of one bus terminal in each of our six geopolitical zones further affirms the lack of competence, lack of focus and poor leadership. In the 2024 budget, which is the operational budget today, the entire budget of all the teaching hospitals across all the federal universities in the country, as well as the federal psychiatric centres, is under ₦100 billion, yet the government has approved ₦142 billion for bus terminals. This is disturbing, considering that Health is one of the most critical areas of development, which is deteriorating and remains grossly underfunded. WHO recently reported that over 20 million Nigerians are living with mental health issues. This is not only a misplaced priority but a tragic irony of our country. This is not governance. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

Prioritising leaders' greed over Basic Welfare The recent proposal by the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) to increase the salaries of Political Leaders is causing widespread anger and bitterness among Nigerians, and we share the concerns of many Nigerians who question the necessity and timing of this proposal. Such thinking in the face of faster-eroding living standards of the people not only portrays the insensitivity of leaders but also exposes their greed. The RMAFC’s reckless haste in prioritising the greed of Politicians over the desperate needs of the masses is not only provocative but scandalous. It’s a shameless grab for more at the expense of Nigeria’s struggling majority! The proposed over 100% salary increase for political office holders is totally unjustifiable considering the economic realities facing our country. We believe that political office is a service to the nation, and not a means to accumulate wealth. It is very disturbing that the RMAFC is prioritising the welfare of political office holders over that of security personnel, particularly police officers who are grossly underpaid and overworked. We urge the government to redirect its focus towards improving the living conditions of public workers, who are the backbone of our country. We call on the RMAFC to prioritise the welfare of Nigerians, particularly those in the public service, who have been neglected for far too long. A new Nigeria is POssible. -PO

What Empty Nigeria booths in TICAD9 mean The empty Nigerian booths in the ongoing Ninth Tokyo International Conference, TICAD9, in Japan do not just define the empty promises of this government for the past two years, they also reflect the consistent emptiness Nigerians have been fed at home by this government. Even the defence being put forward by the government, that they only wanted to have more “strategic engagements” is the same tired excuse we have heard over and over again. This government has mastered the art of throwing around wrong statistics and misleading statements, not to provide real solutions, but to camouflage the emptiness of its performance and the suffering it has inflicted on Nigerians. The empty booths at TICAD are not just about a diplomatic embarrassment, they are a clear symbol of the hollow promises and empty governance that our citizens have endured. Just as those booths stood empty in Japan, so too have the lives of millions of Nigerians been left empty, with empty hope, empty relief and empty of the progress they were promised. The truth is unavoidable, the empty booths abroad are a physical reminder of the empty promises at home. We must do better as a nation. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

Yet Another Needless Bloodletting Rising from the euphoria of the recent improved performance of our security operatives—which led to the arrest of critical terrorist elements and attracted commendation both from me and internationally—ugly and deplorable news has now emerged from Katsina State: the brutal killing of 13 worshippers in a mosque. The killing of innocent souls is unacceptable, even more so when it involves people who had gone to worship their Creator. This incident highlights, once again, the extent to which human life has been debased in our society. So long as we fail to address crucial social challenges such as unemployment, and so long as we continue to operate a system that drives more people into multidimensional poverty, we will continue to experience these ugly consequences. My condolences go to the immediate families of those killed at the mosque, and to the entire worshipping community of Unguwan Mantau in Mulumfasi Local Government Area of Katsina State. -PO

A Cry for Justice Against Barbarism in Anambra I just read from “https://t.co/kmhkOKgv6w” with deep concern about the inhumane treatment meted out to a young lady in Anambra State. As an Anambrian myself, I feel not only ashamed but also deeply heartbroken that such cruelty could happen in 2025, in a society that ought to have advanced beyond such barbarous acts. I strongly condemn this act of primitive wickedness and savagery. No society should ever tolerate the abuse, humiliation, and dehumanization of its citizens, least of all the vulnerable and women. What happened is not only a violation of law and morality, but also a direct assault on our collective humanity. That young girl could have been anyone’s daughter, sister, or even mine. We must awaken our conscience and work collectively to build a society where justice is swift, compassion is active, and the dignity of every human being - especially the young and vulnerable - is inviolable. To do anything less is to endanger the very fabric of civilisation. I call on the relevant authorities to ensure that those responsible are not only apprehended and prosecuted, but also made examples to deter future acts of savagery. More than that, let this tragedy compel us to institute stronger safeguards, policies, and communal values that protect the weak and restrain the powerful. Our humanity must always come first. Without it, we are nothing but a people adrift in cruelty. -PO

The True Cost of Selling and Buying Votes Vote-buying is one of the greatest dangers confronting our democracy. It is never an act of kindness; it is a calculated investment in corruption. Those who buy votes do so with only one intention—to gain access to public funds. By bribing voters today, they are purchasing a licence to plunder tomorrow. And when they get into office, the money meant for schools, hospitals, roads, and jobs is diverted into private pockets. Such people are not leaders—they are looters. Their actions rob our society of dignity, development, and even life itself. But those who sell their votes are not innocent either. When you exchange your ballot for money or material gain, you are not just selling a vote—you are selling your future. You are selling away the schools your children should attend, the hospitals that should save lives, and the jobs that should lift families out of poverty. In truth, you mortgage your tomorrow for a token that can not sustain you today. The reality is simple: looters can only loot when we hand them the key. If your vote had no value, nobody would be desperate to buy it. The fact that millions are spent on vote-buying shows that your ballot is priceless. The real power does not lie in their money. It lies in your conscience, your courage, and your vote. The choice is ours. We either keep selling our votes and remain trapped in poverty and bad governance, or we rise above temporary gain and reclaim the future of our nation. Every Nigerian must take responsibility. Let us reject the politics of bribery and embrace the politics of service. Let us elect leaders who will build, not loot. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

Sustaining the Gains Against Terrorism and Banditry I commend the Nigerian security agencies for their recent achievements in the fight against terrorism, kidnappings, and banditry. This is indeed a remarkable feat and a step in the right direction in our collective struggle against insecurity and in restoring peace to our dear country. Our gallant officers and men in uniform have shown courage, often under very difficult conditions. Their sacrifices remind us that Nigeria can—and must—be safe for all its citizens. I salute their professionalism and urge that they be better equipped, trained, and motivated to sustain these gains. However, beyond arrests, we must remain vigilant. Terrorism and violent criminality thrive when justice is not served, when those arrested are recycled back into society without accountability. Justice must take its full course so that impunity is not encouraged. Let this victory remind us that security is the foundation of every meaningful development. A secure Nigeria is possible, and together we must support our security agencies with the right leadership, resources, and political will to end the reign of terror in our land. A New Nigeria is Possible. — PO

With a heavy heart, I join the people of Nasarawa State, Kebbi State, and all Nigerians in mourning the passing of Alhaji Isyaku Ibrahim, a distinguished business tycoon, politician, and philanthropist, and HRH Major General Muhammad Sani Sami, the Emir of Zuru. Alhaji Isyaku Ibrahim passed away in Abuja at 88, while the Emir died in London at 81. Both men were trailblazers in their fields. Alhaji Isyaku Ibrahim’s contributions to Nigerian politics, business, and sports, through founding Mighty Jets FC, were immense. The Emir was a revered military officer and traditional ruler whose leadership, wisdom, and dedication to his people earned him respect across Kebbi State and beyond. Their legacies of service, integrity, patriotism, and generosity will continue to inspire us. I extend my deepest condolences to their families, the people of Mangar, Wamba LGA, Zuru Emirate, and all who were touched by their remarkable lives. May Allah grant them eternal rest. As we reflect on their contributions, let us honor their memories by fostering unity, peace, and progress in our nation. My thoughts and prayers are with their loved ones and communities during this time of grief. Rest in peace, Alhaji Isyaku Ibrahim and HRH Major General Muhammad Sani Sami. May the Almighty Allah grant them Aljannatul Firdaus. – PO

PVC is the bridge to a New Nigeria Today, I want to plead with every Nigerian, young and old to heed this call to action. The future of our dear nation is in your hands. The greatest strength of democracy is in the voter’s card. Your PVC is the voice of the voiceless, the shield of the weak, and the weapon of the poor for a better life, against injustice and bad leadership. I appeal to every Nigerian: Get Organised and Make Election Rigging Difficult. Go out, register, collect your PVC, and hold it firmly as your bridge to a new Nigeria. Let us know this: those who buy votes are not offering you charity; they only invest in their own corruption. They buy votes so that they can buy their way into our treasury to steal public money. When they get into that office, they will loot the funds that should have been used to build schools, hospitals or provide good jobs. Such people are not leaders, they are criminals in disguise. They are no better than killers, armed robbers, and kidnappers, because they commit the same crime of destruction. To those who sell their votes, you are not just selling an election, you are selling the very opportunities that would have lifted you and your family out of poverty. You are selling the schools that your children should have attended, the hospitals that should save your loved ones and the jobs that would have given you dignity and a better life. Those who buy your vote are only buying it to make a profit from the seat of power, not to serve you. The power to change this country is in your hands, the looters will only loot when we give them the opportunity. Your vote counts, if it doesn’t, they would not be desperately buying that vote. Every Nigerian must rise and take responsibility for building the nation we dream of. Our democracy is at stake. That is why I urge every eligible Nigerian to register, collect, and safeguard your PVC, and when the time comes, use it wisely. Vote for leaders of competence, character, capacity, and compassion. Leaders who will put you first. Do not be intimidated, do not be deceived, and do not be bought. Let us stand together and prove that Nigeria belongs to the people, not to those who trade our future for their selfish gain. Register to vote, because a new Nigeria starts with you. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

Ending a busy weekend After celebrating the 75th birthday of the great industrialist, Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa, in Umuahia, Abia State yesterday, I journeyed to Asaba, Delta State, to commission a restaurant - a modest but inspiring micro-business that I was very happy to be part of. A year ago, the twin sisters who work with Air Peace at Asaba Airport and usually greet me whenever I pass through, told me they were planning to start a small restaurant. They prayed it would succeed, and I encouraged them. I reminded them that starting a business in Nigeria is never easy, but with focus and the right practices, they could thrive. About three months ago, they sent me a message saying they had finally begun. They admitted it was difficult, but they were coping, and things were looking promising. They then informed me that after one year, they would like to unveil their restaurant formally, and it would be their greatest joy if I could be part of the event and commission it. I promised them I would, to support and encourage their endeavour. To my surprise and delight, shortly before the commissioning yesterday, I discovered that they now employ over twelve people. What began as a dream in the hearts of two determined sisters has blossomed into a source of livelihood for many others. What I witnessed is a clear testimony to what production and enterprise can do for a nation. Imagine if we had one million such small businesses, each employing ten people - that alone would provide ten million jobs. Small businesses remain the greatest employers of labour in every economy - from the largest, such as the USA and China, to the fastest-developing ones like India, Indonesia, and Vietnam. Nigeria, too, can multiply such success stories if only we create the right environment and support micro and small businesses. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

Sam Ohuabunwa at 75: Legacy of Vision and Leadership From bidding farewell to the great world sports giant, Christian Chukwu at Enugu, I moved to celebrating another colossus - this time in the health and pharmaceutical industry- Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa, on the occasion of his 75th birthday and book launch in Umuahia, Abia State. After graduating from the University of Ife, Ohuabunwa began his career humbly as a salesperson with Pfizer. Through sheer diligence, vision, and discipline, he rose to become CEO of the company. He later spearheaded the historic management buyout that transformed Pfizer into Neimeth, a deal valued at about $300 million. This singular act stands today as one of the most remarkable feats of corporate leadership in Nigeria’s pharmaceutical industry. Mazi Ohuabunwa distinguished himself not only as a boardroom success story but also as a patriot committed to the idea of a more productive Nigeria. His leadership, marked by integrity and innovation, earned him numerous national honours and professional merit awards. Deeply concerned by Nigeria’s decline from a culture of productivity to one of consumption, he ventured into politics, convinced that only bold ideas, moral courage, and visionary leadership could rescue the nation. He encountered the harsh reality of a transactional political environment where vested interests and transactions triumph over ideas. He, however, remained consistent and persistent in what Nigeria could achieve if men of character and competence were given room to lead. As he marks his 75th birthday, I celebrate Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa not only for his past achievements but also for the enduring example he offers to younger generations. I wish him continued good health, wisdom, and fulfilment in the years ahead. More importantly, I pray that his vision for a just, productive, and prosperous Nigeria will find fuller expression in the new Nigeria that is possible. -PO