Ideas leave a trail.

Today, the Global community marks a very important day - International Anti-Corruption Day, which holds a very important lesson for us in Nigeria, considering how our dear nation has been burdened, over the years, by a sickening level of corruption at all levels of government and across the different arms of government. A few days ago, I read a media report credited to the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), which boldly stated that corruption has brought Nigeria to its knees economically and socially, and I could not agree more. Corruption is, indeed, the bane of our national development. From lack of transparency in budgeting and allocation of funds to misappropriation of public funds through mindless looting and budget padding, to abuse of public office for personal gains and the many layers of contract inflation - all are different manifestations of corruption across different levels of government, not to mention the bribery, favoritism and toll-gating that go on in different offices. Our corruption perception index of 145 out of 180 countries measured shows the high level of corruption in Nigeria, which needs to be fought to a standstill if we must expect any meaningful development. Added to that, we are today ranked among the 11 worst-ruled African nations in the last 10 years. All these have not only continued to discourage good governance but have continued to clog the wheels of our national development. Just recently, I read in the Media how the auditor general of the Federation uncovered financial infractions amounting to N3.403 trillion in some government ministries, departments, and agencies for the financial year ending 31st December 2021. A whooping N3.403 trillion not accounted for in a single year! An amount bigger than 20% of our national budget for the said year. We are today grappling with a very high debt profile, occasioned by the insatiable hunger for more loans by the government, without a commensurate account of all the previous loans already received and piled up for the next generations. There are no visible investments or positive impacts on the economy from these loans, showing that they were likely misappropriated or consumed. All these are different manifestations of the endemic corruption eroding our development efforts. The anti-graft and anti-corruption agencies must step up their fight against corruption and begin to preoccupy themselves with serious issues of national interest. Such corrupt practices like oil theft, budget padding, bribery, collection of large sums of money as bribes for political favors or appointments, and misappropriation of public funds should preoccupy our anti-graft agencies. Those found guilty must face stern justice. A day like this provides us the opportunity to search our consciences as leaders and eschew all forms of corrupt practices that pervade every part of our leadership positions. And to us the followers, we must stand against all forms of corruption in our capacities for our national interest. I remain committed to contributing to the drastic reduction of corruption in our nation. As I have always maintained, in any organization or nation where the leaders are not corrupt, corruption is reduced by over 60%, and fighting the remaining becomes manageable. A New Nigeria is POssible! -PO

Your Excellency, Mr. President-elect John Mahama @JDMahama . I extend my heartfelt congratulations to you on your election victory as the President of the Republic of Ghana. Your victory stands as an example of the democratic values and political maturity our beloved continent so needs. It underscores Ghana's proud tradition of respect for the democratic process and peaceful transitions May your presidency be marked by transformative achievements in the critical areas of development, education, health, pulling Ghanaian people out of poverty, and inspiring progress and unity across Africa. -PO

I have just read the ugly news of the sudden disappearance of the emeritus Archbishop of the Niger Province, Most Rev. Prof. Godwin Okpala, yesterday. The report said the reversed cleric was on his way to a public function in Anambra State, alongside his driver. This deplorable level of insecurity in every part of the nation remains condemned. In almost every part of the nation, our people live in fear and uncertainty, not knowing when the terror will strike. It is even more worrisome how many of our people who are victims of insecurity go unreported. Every Nigerian citizen should be able to move freely for their productive endeavours in any part of the nation without fear of terror or harm. The government, at all levels, must ensure this by ensuring the protection of lives and property of the people. I remain in earnest prayers with the Okpala family and the entire Anglican Communion for the safe return of the Archbishop and that his driver while calling on the security agencies to take urgent actions to unravel the Archbishop's disappearance and ensure their safe return. -PO

Today, I honored a long-planned commitment to attend the convocation ceremony at Dominican University, Samonda, Ibadan, Oyo State. where I have served as Pro-Chancellor since its inception nearly a decade ago. My commitment to its growth and development remains steadfast. The event provided an opportunity to reflect on the transformative power of education and the resilience of the human spirit in overcoming challenges. The highlight of my speech was the inspiring story I shared with the graduating students about a young man I met this week, Mr. Johnathan Luke Wood, President of the University of California, Sacramento. His life journey is a remarkable testament to determination against all odds. Born into adversity, he faced unimaginable challenges, including having his mother imprisoned, being adopted, and being suspended from school 42 times for truancy. Despite these setbacks, he refused to let his circumstances define him. Instead, he rewrote his story, rising above his struggles to become the youngest president of an American university, the University of California, Sacramento. His story serves as a powerful reminder of the boundless heights we can attain through hard work, resilience and determination. I urged the students to appreciate the innovative knowledge and values instilled in them at Dominican University. I emphasized that success is not measured by what one takes from society but by what one contributes to it. I encouraged them to work diligently to transform our nation from a culture of consumption to one of production. As part of my commitment to supporting education, I donated the sum of 50 million naira to Dominican University, reaffirming my belief in education as a cornerstone for societal progress. I remain dedicated to initiatives that inspire hope, empower minds for a new Nigeria that is truly POssible! -PO

On behalf of my family and the Obidient movement, I sincerely commiserate with the family of Sheikh Muyideen Bello, a renowned Muslim scholar and preacher, who passed away today. From what I have read about him, Sheikh Muyideen Bello lived a remarkable life, leaving behind an enduring legacy. A distinguished Islamic scholar, educator, and community leader, his tireless dedication to the pursuit of knowledge, spiritual growth, and humanitarian service has left an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of all who knew him. I also extend my heartfelt sympathies to the entire Muslim community over the loss of one of their revered figures, who significantly impacted many lives positively through his profound Islamic knowledge and teachings. Sheikh Muyideen Bello was not only a scholar with a deep understanding of Islam but also a man who exemplified its teachings through his tireless commitment to love, peace, and unity. May Almighty Allah grant his family, the Muslim community, and all of us the fortitude to bear this loss. May He forgive Sheikh Muyideen Bello’s sins, grant him Al-Jannah Firdaus, and continue to protect and bless his family. -PO

The handling of the case involving human rights lawyer @DeleFarotomi runs foul of every Democratic norm that guarantees freedom of expression and innocence until found guilty before a law court. It's curious that the Nigeria Police, who are struggling with a barrage of crimes all over the place, now indulge in civil cases on half complaints and rush to court at the speed of light. Hearing that Dele Farotimi has been remanded in prison over an allegation of defamation is very disturbing. This development raises serious concerns about the state of justice and freedom of expression in our country, particularly when viewed against the backdrop of the alarming rise in criminal activities across the nation. At a time when national efforts should be directed toward addressing pressing issues such as insecurity, corruption, and economic challenges, it is disheartening to see the focus shifted to cases that appear to stifle critical voices. Matters of defamation are civil and should be treated as such, not turned into a tool for intimidation or the erosion of fundamental rights. The strength of any democracy lies in its ability to tolerate differing opinions and uphold the rule of law without bias. I once again call on the authorities to ensure that justice is served impartially and to prioritize the urgent task of combating the real threats plaguing our nation. -PO

I just learned of the arrest of @DeleFarotimi, a respected human rights lawyer and advocate, over an allegation of defamation. This action is a gross misuse of police powers and a grave assault on the principles of democracy and justice in Nigeria. I condemn this action in totality. It represents not only an attempt to intimidate opposing voices from questioning authority . It is also a worrying signal to every Nigerian who loves and values freedom of expression and dares to demand accountability and transparency. The Nigeria Police Force exists to protect the rights of citizens, not to suppress them. Defamation, by its nature, is a civil matter that should be addressed in court through due legal process in line with the dictates of the rule of law in a democracy. As a private citizen, former governor, and even today, I am frequently defamed, insulted, and lied about and against. Yet, I have never resorted to using the Nigerian police or filing reports to silence others. Those who feel otherwise should seek redress through the proper legal channels, not by weaponizing the police or abusing their access to authority or state power. The resort to police action, in this case, reeks of abuse of power and raises serious concerns about the independence and professionalism of the police as a civil force. I hereby request that Dele Farotimi should be released immediately and unconditionally. The police must recognize that their allegiance is to the Constitution and the people of Nigeria, not to narrow interests at the behest of those in power. A new more Just and fair Nigeria is possible! -PO

Yesterday, I had the honor of attending the unveiling of BOLD LEAP, a remarkable book authored by Senator Chris Anyanwu, MFR. Her journey from journalism to politics embodies resilience and a resolute commitment to democracy, human rights, and social justice. It was inspiring to celebrate her multifaceted contributions with esteemed guests and dignitaries while reflecting on her legacy, which continues to inspire future generations of leaders. Later, I had a productive meeting with President Wood, Dr. Mrs. Wood, and the Sacramento State team, where we discussed education and inclusion and shared strategies for progress. President Wood, the youngest leader since the inception of California State University, Sacramento, has demonstrated exceptional leadership in promoting inclusion, fostering internationalization, and advancing peace and conflict resolution. Education remains a cornerstone of my vision for Nigeria’s growth and development. My experience as Governor has shown the transformative power of prioritizing education, and I believe collaborations like this can reshape Nigeria’s educational landscape, thereby ensuring our nation assumes its rightful place globally. With partnerships like these, we can build a stronger, more inclusive Nigeria equipped to meet future challenges. A new Nigeria is becoming increasingly POssible! -PO

Tax reform is a critical issue, and there is nothing wrong with pursuing it. However, such reform must be subject to robust and informed public debate. A public hearing on tax reform is essential, allowing Nigerians from all walks of life to engage meaningfully. This is how we build public trust and ensure inclusivity in policymaking. Matters of this magnitude require extensive deliberation and careful consideration—they should never be rushed. Public hearings must be conducted to allow for diverse opinions and inputs. Such public hearing would also enable the broadest spectrum of public opinion to be reflected in public policy. When considering tax reforms and similar issues, it is insufficient to focus solely on the benefits to the government, particularly in terms of increasing revenue collection. We must also take into account the overall impact on the nation and the sustainability of all its regions. Furthermore, the government must sensitize the people and secure their buy-in for any policy changes. Trust and legitimacy are the foundation of effective governance, and without them, even the best-intended reforms may fail. Let us prioritize transparency, deliberation, and public engagement in charting the path forward. This is how we build a truly participatory democracy. A new Nigeria is POssible! -PO

After my speaking engagement at the weekend in Yola, Adamawa state, I also visited Kaduna to honor an invitation to the Kaduna Girl-Child Conference/Award 2024, an initiative by the Creative Think Tank Group in collaboration with the Bounty Food Bank. Although I arrived late and missed the occasion due to my prior engagement in Yola, I was deeply moved by the evident passion and dedication of everyone advocating for the rights and development of the girl-child. The girl-child is indispensable to the future of our country . Empowering her through education, healthcare, and equal opportunities is not only a moral obligation but a strategic imperative and investment in national progress. By dismantling barriers and fostering a safe, inclusive environment, we can unlock her potential and build a foundation for sustainable development and a more equitable future. Following this, I visited the Womanhood College of Health Sciences and Technology, Kaduna, an institution dedicated to training women in healthcare. I extend my gratitude to the proprietor and staff for their unwavering commitment to shaping future leaders in this critical sector. In support of their remarkable work, I donated ₦5 million and pledged to continue visiting and supporting institutions like this, which are vital to societal growth. I also intended to visit Saint Gerard’s Nursing School, where I made a ₦10 million donation earlier this year. Unfortunately, heavy traffic prevented me from reaching the school. However, I spoke with the management, apologized for my inability to be present physically, and further supported their efforts with an additional ₦5 million. These initiatives underscore the urgent need to prioritize education and healthcare if we are to catch up with other nations. Supporting these sectors is not just an investment in individual lives but a step towards building a stronger and better Nigeria. A new Nigeria is now very POssible!!! -PO

Yesterday, after visiting the Almajiri school in Yola, I met with the students of Saint Augustine College, Mayo-Belwa, Adamawa state and provided them with learning equipment in the form of 10 laptops and a printer to enhance their literacy in computer science and information technology. Supporting education by equipping students with the right tools and resources is not just a responsibility but a necessity for building a better future. Their enthusiasm for learning was both encouraging and inspiring. I am convinced that initiatives like this are vital for empowering the next generation, bridging the digital divide, and fostering innovation and excellence in our schools. This is the type of commitment we need for sustainable growth and the advancement of our society. A new Nigeria is indeed POssible!!! -PO

After my speech yesterday at the American University of Nigeria (AUN), Yola, in Adamawa state, I took time to visit the Almajiri children participating in the Feed and Read Program. I spent time engaging with them to better understand what they are learning, and it was truly inspiring to see their progress. From our interactions, it became evident that the program is transforming their lives—not just by improving their literacy and numeracy skills but also by boosting their confidence and reigniting their passion for education. Programs like this highlight the crucial role of inclusive education in addressing societal inequalities and unlocking the potential of every child, regardless of their background or circumstances. Such initiatives serve as a powerful reminder of the impact we can make when we prioritize education as a tool for empowerment, growth and national development. By harnessing every hidden potential, we make the future in a new Nigeria even more possible. -PO

Today, I traveled to Yola, the Adamawa state capital, where I was a guest and keynote Speaker at the American University of Nigeria (AUN). This engagement was in continuation of my tradition of sharing my thoughts by speaking at various Ivory Towers across the globe. This trend has taken me to various educational institutions worldwide, including Cambridge University, Oxford University, Harvard University, Yale University, the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, and the University for Peace, among others. At today’s event, I expressed my gratitude to the university's founder, H.E. @atiku Abubakar, GCON, Wazirin Adamawa, who is both my leader and elder brother, for his immense sacrifice and visionary commitment to society, particularly in advancing education and human development. I commended the students of the American University of Nigeria for their resilience and dedication to staying in Nigeria to study and learn, rather than joining the trend of “Japa”—a reality now prevalent among many young people in our land. During my address, I emphasized the critical role of leadership in national development , underlining the need for competence, compassion, and capacity to transform our nation from consumption to production. I highlighted the importance of foresight and vision, citing countries such as Indonesia, Singapore, India, Vietnam, and the Philippines as examples of nations that have followed the global measurements of development and have significantly improved their Human Development Indices, GDP, especially GDP per Capita within a decade, to prove what determined and enlightened leadership can achieve. It was indeed a great pleasure to address such an audience of mostly young Nigerians. A new Nigeria is indeed POssible! -PO

Amidst the very busy activities of the day, I still had to contend with the sad news of a fire outbreak at the famous spare parts market in Idumota, Lagos state. Such unpleasant news came while still mourning the loss of lives in the boat accident that occurred in River Niger, plus a very troubling report of another boat mishap in Kogi State, where many lives were also lost. While I appreciate our emergency response teams who arrived at the scene of the inferno to prevent further escalation of the fire, I also commiserate with the victims of this tragic incident. According to reports, goods worth hundreds of millions of Naira were destroyed in the inferno. These were people's means of livelihood, going up in flames in these hard times. It is really sad. I sincerely commiserate with the victims of the fire incident and the families of those who died in the Kogi boat accident. I also extend my sympathies to the Lagos and Kogi State governments and people, over these sad occurrences. May God give them all, and all of us, the fortitude to bear the loss and grant eternal rest to the dead. By supporting one another in these very challenging times, we shall emerge stronger. -PO

Today, while travelling to Yola in Adamawa state to deliver the keynote address at the 16th Founder’s Day Lecture, commemorating the 20th anniversary of the American University of Nigeria (AUN), I received the very sad news of a tragic boat mishap. The incident occurred yesterday along the Dambo-Ebuchi section of the River Niger, resulting in the loss of many lives. Reports indicate that the boat was carrying approximately 200 individuals, mainly market women and local farmers, transporting their produce to the market. My heart goes out to the families affected by this tragedy. These are already challenging times, and the loss of loved ones only deepens the pain. My sincere prayers are with you all. I also extend my deepest condolences to the government and people of Niger State. May God grant you, and all of us, the strength to endure this profound loss, and may He grant eternal rest to the departed souls. - PO

I am sincerely delighted at the reappointment of my very dear elder sister, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, as the Director-General of the World Trade Organisation for a second term, effective from 1 September 2025. The very heartwarming news was just announced by the General Council of the organization. Iweala's admirable character, impressive resume, and litany of achievements in public office stand her out as a competent leader for such a noble organization. With her very visible contributions to our national development and the global community, she remains one of Nigeria's most valuable human capital exports to the world, a symbol of hard work and excellence, and a beacon of hope and inspiration for the younger generation. As she is set to continue to pilot the affairs of this global organization for another 4-year tenure, I wish her more health, strength, and wisdom to continue to stand for what is right. Her rise to greatness through productive contribution to societal development stands as a lesson to us in Nigeria; first, as leaders, who must understand that leadership is a responsibility to care for the people; and then as a people, who must understand that our leadership recruitment process must be based on character, competence, capability and integrity. Congratulations once again to you @NOIweala A New Nigeria remains POssible. -PO

It is very saddening and heartbreaking that the wave of insecurity has continued to sweep through every part of the country with no end in sight. The situation is even added to the harrowing hardship the people are going through yet they cannot even sleep with their two eyes closed. More heartbreaking is the fact that our critical infrastructure is often targeted by these merchants of terror who have no regard for human lives. Just a few days ago, I read a harrowing report about the killing of about 30 persons by terrorists, in separate attacks on communities in two Local Government Areas of Benue State. Yesterday, I was shocked by the reports of the unfortunate terror attack on the motorcycle showroom of Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing in Nnewi, Anambra State, where about 3 members of the staff were also kidnapped. One very pertinent question that has continued to bother every well-meaning Nigerian is: "Where are we headed as a nation with this level of insecurity?It is even more worrisome and discouraging that, in the face of the severe economic hardship facing our nation, our productive business facilities are attacked. This is a time when foreign investors are leaving the country in their numbers; our few resilient local investors still have to face a frightening level of insecurity and other challenges for them to remain in business. We must not continue to allow this mindless waste of human lives and attack on our businesses and critical infrastructure, across the country. We must end this monster of insecurity before we are all consumed. I sincerely commiserate with all the victims of the terror attack in Benue, and every part of our nation. I also sympathize with Chief Innoson Chukwuma over the attack on his business facility. I urge the security agents to do their best in rescuing the kidnapped workers. Again, we must end insecurity in our nation before it ends us. -PO

Yesterday, I made a very solemn trip to Uyo, the Akwa Ibom state capital, to personally pay my last respects to the beloved wife of the Governor and First Lady of the state, Pastor Mrs. Patience Eno. I also used the occasion to offer my condolences to the Governor of the State, His Excellency @_PastorUmoEno, over the heartbreaking loss of his beloved wife. In moments of grief like this, words often fail us , but I hope the governor, his family, and the people of Akwa Ibom would find solace in the outpouring of love and support from all who share in their sorrow. On behalf of my wife, Margaret, and the entire Obidient family, I extended our heartfelt sympathies to His Excellency, his family, and the people of Akwa Ibom State. ‘We stand with you in prayer, trusting that God will grant you the strength and fortitude to navigate these difficult times' -PO

I wish to congratulate the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) for fulfilling the long-standing promise of revamping the old Port Harcourt refinery. The refinery, which comes on stream today boasts an installed production capacity of 60,000 barrels of crude oil per day. Approximately 200 trucks are expected to load products daily from the refinery. Nigerians now await the corresponding impact and benefits on pump prices and the overall economy. Additionally, news of the Kaduna refinery's revival is promising, as it is expected to boost productivity, improve transportation, and alleviate economic burdens across the country. While we acknowledge these achievements as a step in the right direction, it is crucial to emphasize the importance of transparency in the operations of the NNPC. Nigerians deserve clarity and accountability regarding the management of the nation's vital oil resources, ensuring that the benefits of increased refining capacity reach every Nigerian and that the gains are used to support long-term development. A new Nigeria is POssible! -PO

Just yesterday, I congratulated a young Nigerian, Ugo Ugochukwu, who made a historic achievement at the 2024 FIA World Cup. Today, I am pleased again to celebrate two other Nigerians whose reports of their achievements are inspiring. I recently read the heartwarming reports of Sister Francisca Ngozi Uti, who was awarded the 2024 Opus Prize - a $1.2 million honor in recognition of her extraordinary humanitarian efforts worldwide. The Opus Prize is awarded annually to celebrate and encourage the humanitarian efforts of the recipient and to inspire others to pursue lives of service for societal development and better humanity. As the founder and executive director of the Centre for Women Studies and Intervention (CWSI) in Abuja, Nigeria, Sister Ngozi champions the cause for women's empowerment by giving them access to education and exposing women to viable economic opportunities that will help them become economically independent. Through her works, she has continued to inspire countless numbers of girls and women to be socially responsible and contribute productively to the nation. The next inspiring story is that of Matthew Ayorinde, a professor of Physical Chemistry at the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), who, according to reports, was awarded the NAS Gold Medal by the Nigerian Academy of Science (NAS). The award recognizes Prof Ayorinde's contribution to science through his diverse academic research in materials science and applied chemistry. Through their various painstaking efforts, both Sister Ngozi and Prof Ayorinde have distinguished themselves and today stand as beacons of hard work, dedication to duty, and excellence. I congratulate them, once again, for their various awards, while encouraging them to leverage their new recognition to contribute more to society. A New Nigeria is surely POssible. -PO