Former Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola, urged Nigerian youths to resist the influence of individuals promoting division and exclusion. Speaking at the 2025 Lagos State Leadership Summit, themed “Transformative Leadership: Development-Responsive, Adaptive and Inclusive Models,” Fashola emphasized the importance of shared values in countering the growing tide of identity politics.

Delivering a keynote address titled “The Inclusion Imperative: Why No One Wins When Leadership Leaves People Behind,” Fashola highlighted the provisions within the 1999 Nigerian Constitution that promote national cohesion and inclusiveness. He stressed the need for leaders across all levels to collaborate in bringing these constitutional ideals to life, ensuring that no one is left behind due to ethnic, religious, or political differences[

Fashola’s message resonated deeply with the audience, as he underscored the role of authentic leadership in fostering unity and inclusivity. He called on Nigerian youths to reject divisive narratives and focus on building a future anchored on collective values and inclusive governance[

The summit, organized by the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy, also featured Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu as the chief host. Sanwo-Olu reiterated his administration’s commitment to good governance and transformative leadership. He encouraged citizens to pursue education and excellence, emphasizing the importance of resilience and innovation in leadership

The event drew attention to the pressing need for leaders who prioritize inclusion and unity, with speakers advocating for a collaborative approach to addressing the challenges posed by identity politics. The summit served as a platform for fostering dialogue and inspiring action towards building a stronger, more united Nigeria

The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kano State, Alhaji Abdullahi Abbas, has issued a strong statement regarding the potential return of political figures to the party. Speaking to journalists in Kano, Abbas emphasized that the APC would not provide refuge to individuals currently under investigation by anti-corruption agencies such as the EFCC and ICPC.

This declaration comes amidst rumors that members of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), particularly those aligned with the Kwankwasiyya faction, are considering a return to the APC. Abbas made it clear that anyone seeking to rejoin the party must first apologize to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, and APC National Chairman Abdullahi Umar Ganduje for past derogatory remarks made against them and the party.

Political analysts believe Abbas’s comments are a veiled reference to the leader of the Kwankwasiyya movement, Engr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, who has been at the center of speculation regarding a possible defection. The Kano APC chairman’s remarks have sparked discussions about the conditions under which political reconciliation and realignment might occur within Nigeria’s political landscape.

By Ismai’l Yusuf Makwarari

The Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) Sheikh Abdullahi Sale, has vowed that the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage will mark a historic departure from past challenges.

He promised Nigerian pilgrims a hitch free pilgrimage full of comfort, safety, and spiritual fulfillment.

Sheik Sale made the declaration during a live interview on Africa TV3 in Kano, moderated by the station’s Director General, Dr. Tijjani, as part of a special program highlighting preparations for the 2025 Hajj season.

Sheikh Sale emphasized that his leadership is committed to resolving long standing issues such as accommodation shortages, inadequate feeding, and healthcare gaps.

Reflecting on his tenure as Kano State Hajj Commission Chairman, he stated, “My goal is to ensure Nigerian pilgrims perform Hajj with ease, joy, and dignity, free from the logistical hurdles of the past.”

To address accommodation concerns, NAHCON has secured over 52,000 premium housing units across Nigerian states, with an additional 20,000 units reserved for pilgrims using private tour operators. Sheikh Sale confirmed partnerships with Saudi authorities to ensure quality lodging, proper room allocations, and nutritious meals. “We have left no stone unturned in collaborating with stakeholders to guarantee comfort,” he said.

In a bid to ease financial burdens, the commission announced a landmark subsidy of ₦54 billion for 2025 pilgrims, mitigating the impact of rising global exchange rates. Sheikh Sale described the move as “a divine intervention” to ensure affordability despite economic pressures.

Healthcare remains a priority, with NAHCON partnering with the Federal Ministry of Health to deploy medical personnel, ambulances, and heatwave advisories. Free medications will be provided, and pilgrims will receive guidance on managing extreme temperatures. “We are prepared for all scenarios to safeguard our pilgrims’ health,” he assured.

The chairman also addressed misinformation circulating about Hajj preparations, urging media outlets to verify reports directly with NAHCON. “While we welcome constructive criticism, unverified claims only hinder progress. We are open to dialogue and transparency,” he emphasized.

Sheikh Sale extended gratitude to state governments for their role in securing accommodations and catering services, declaring, No pilgrim will have grounds for complaint.

He also praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima for their unwavering support in ensuring the success of the 2025 pilgrimage.

Concluding the interview, he reaffirmed his commitment: “With Allah’s grace and collective effort, the 2025 Hajj will set a new benchmark for excellence.

Our pilgrims deserve nothing less than a seamless and spiritually uplifting journey.”