FG prepares to welcome deported Nigerians from us
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has announced the Federal Government’s readiness to welcome Nigerians deported from the United States. Abdur-Rahman Balogun, NiDCOM’s Director of Media and Corporate Affairs, stated that an inter-agency committee, comprising the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, NiDCOM, the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, and the Office of the National Security Adviser, has been established to manage the potential mass deportation. Read more
Athena commentary: Nigeria’s proactive approach in preparing for the possible deportation of its citizens from the US is commendable. Establishing an inter-agency framework ensures a coordinated response. However, beyond immediate reception, the government must prioritise reintegration strategies that address social, economic, and psychological challenges deportees may face. Lessons can be drawn from countries with robust repatriation and rehabilitation programmes to ensure a humane and comprehensive response.
Nigeria aims for universal electricity access by 2030 with $23bn plan
President Bola Tinubu, attending the Mission 300 Africa Energy Summit in Tanzania, reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to achieving universal electricity access by 2030. Alongside 11 other African nations, Nigeria endorsed the Dar es Salaam Declaration, which sets the ambitious target of providing electricity to 300 million people across the continent. Tinubu highlighted the nation’s $23 billion plan as part of this energy transformation and praised development partners like the African Development Bank and the World Bank Group for supporting the initiative. Read more
Athena commentary: Addressing Africa’s energy challenges is a significant step toward inclusive development. Nigeria’s ambitious $23 billion plan is commendable, but achieving universal electricity access by 2030 will require efficient project execution, transparent resource management, and leveraging clean energy solutions. Drawing lessons from countries with successful rural electrification programmes can ensure sustainable and impactful progress. Coordination across African nations will be crucial for regional energy stability and growth.
APC criticises Atiku for blaming judiciary, alleging opposition bribery
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has criticised former Vice President Atiku Abubakar for alleging that President Bola Tinubu was paying N50 million to opposition leaders to destabilise their parties. Atiku made these claims at a recent conference in Abuja, where he also expressed concerns over judicial involvement in electoral matters. In response, APC National Publicity Secretary Felix Morka accused Atiku of hypocrisy, citing his extensive history of litigating election outcomes. Read more
Athena commentary: The debate over judicial involvement in Nigeria’s electoral process is about the tension between political actors and democratic institutions. While Atiku’s concerns about electoral integrity may warrant discussion, undermining the judiciary’s constitutional role is counterproductive. Strengthening Nigeria’s democracy requires trust in institutions and adherence to legal processes rather than a blame game that distracts from meaningful reforms. Political parties must prioritise credible governance over partisan disputes.
Compiled by Kesiena Jaspar EVAGBERIEN