The National Press Newspaper cover for Wednesday April 22, 2026
Tinubu sacks Finance Minister, Dangiwa
Oloyede takes over, Dangiwa resigns, nominates Darma
https://the-national-press-newspaper.co.uk/tinubu-approves-minor-cabinet-reshuffle-as-edun-dangiwa-leave-fec/
*Elevates Taiwo Oyedele to Finance Minister; Nominates Darma for Senate approval
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu yesterday sacked the Minister of Finance and Cordination minister of Economy, Mr. Wale Edun. Also sacked was the Minister for Housing Hamed Dangiwa.
In a press release signed by office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume it stated that: “The President has approved a minor cabinet reshuffle in the membership of the Federal Executive Council.
According to a memo signed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, two cabinet members, Mr. Wale Edun and Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa are to leave the cabinet while their replacements have been named.
Edun, until the latest development, was the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister for the Economy. He has been directed to hand over to Mr. Taiwo Oyedele who is now to take over as Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy. Oyedele was formerly a Minister of State in the ministry.
Also Mr. Muttaqha Rabe Darma (PhD .) has been named as the ministerial nominee and minister designate for the Housing and Urban Development Ministry.
The memo also directed Dangiwa to hand over to the Minister of State in the ministry.
The memo stated that “all handing over and taking over processes should be completed on or before close of business on Thursday 23rd April, 2026.”
Explaining the President’s decision, Akume said: “These changes are aimed at strengthening cohesion, synergy in governance as well as achieving more impactful delivery on the economy to Nigerians, through the Renewed Hope Agenda.”
He said the President, in approving the cabinet reshuffle, has fully exercised his powers as conferred on him by Sections 147 and 148 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (1999, as amended).
The President thanked the outgoing ministers for their services to the nation while wishing them the best in all their future endeavours.
The President, Akume noted, equally assured all cabinet members that “the process of reinvigoration shall be continuous.”
Communicate our reforms and policies to the public in a manner that would foster confidence and trust says VP Kashim Shettima at NIPC Week
https://the-national-press-newspaper.co.uk/communicate-our-reforms-and-policies-to-the-public-in-a-manner-that-would-foster-confidence-and-trust-says-vp-kashim-shettima-at-nipc-week/
Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima yesterday charged all Public Relations practitioners in Nigeria to concisely and clearly communicate government reforms and policies to the public in a manner that would foster confidence and trust.
Alhaji Shettima stated this in Kaduna at the 3rd Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, NIPR, Week CROC City 2026.
The Vice President, Senator charged Public Relations (PR) practitioners in Nigeria to concisely and clearly communicate government reforms and policies to the public in a manner that would foster confidence and trust.
Specifically, he noted that policies and reforms, such as those being undertaken by the administration of President Bola Tinubu can only succeed if citizens understand how they serve the public good.
Senator Shettima gave the charge on yesterday in Kaduna during the 3rd Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) Week, CROC City 2026, being hosted by the State Governor, Senator Uba Sanni.
VP with Kaduna State governor, Uba Sanni also commissioned the newly built Brigadier Abba Kyari Banquet Hall at the Sir Kashim Ibrahim House (Government House), Kaduna.
Speaking at the NIPR Week 2026, organised by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations the Vice President underscored the indispensability of public relations to communicating government policies, observing that policies and reforms that are poorly explained often lead to public distrust and resistance.
“As a government, we regard public relations as a strategic function of governance. It is integral to building trust, managing uncertainty, and sustaining reform. We must communicate not only what we are doing, but why we are doing it, how it serves the public good, and what place the citizen occupies in the success of that effort.”
Saudi
Saudi Arabia seeks partnership with FCT on security, green city development
https://the-national-press-newspaper.co.uk/saudi-arabia-seeks-partnership-with-fct-on-security-green-city-development/
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has sought a partnership with the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in areas of security, economy, and green city development.
Yousef bin Mohammed Al-Balawi, Saudi Arabia’s ambassador to Nigeria, made the proposal during a visit to Nyesom Wike, FCT minister, Nyesom Wike yesterday in Abuja.
lawyers
1,067 candidates fail 2025 bar finals as pass rate drops to 79.1%
https://the-national-press-newspaper.co.uk/1067-candidates-fail-2025-bar-finals-as-pass-rate-drops-to-79-1/
About 1,067 candidates have failed the 2025 bar final examination, according to results announced by the Council of Legal Education (CLE) on Monday.
A statement signed by the secretary to the council and director of administration, said a total of 7,602 candidates sat for the examinations held in December 2025.
disu
IGP, Disu visits Nigeria Immigration Service, deepens border security and intelligence cooperation
https://the-national-press-newspaper.co.uk/igp-disu-visits-nigeria-immigration-service-deepens-border-security-and-intelligence-cooperation/
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, psc(+), NPM, yesterday, 21st April 2026, paid a courtesy visit to the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) Headquarters, Abuja, as part of efforts to strengthen inter-agency collaboration in border security management and intelligence sharing.
The IGP emphasised the importance of robust inter-agency cooperation in addressing cross-border crimes, noting that effective border control and intelligence integration remain critical to national security.
He further stressed the need for enhanced coordination mechanisms, joint training, and real-time intelligence exchange, reaffirming the readiness of the Nigeria Police Force to deepen collaboration with the NIS to strengthen national border security architecture and improve overall operational effectiveness.
In her response, the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service, Kemi Nanna Nandap, mni, expressed appreciation to the IGP for the visit, noting that it reflects a strong commitment to inter-agency collaboration and national security coordination. She further highlighted the Service’s ongoing active collaboration with the INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB) in Nigeria, particularly in the areas of border security management, transnational crime control, and intelligence sharing.
The Nigeria Police Force reiterates its commitment to strengthening inter-agency synergy in advancing national security.
DCP ANTHONY OKON PLACID psc(+) mni
Force Public Relations Officer
Force Headquarters, Abuja
21st April, 2026
davido
Davido announces joint album with Chris Brown
https://the-national-press-newspaper.co.uk/davido-announces-joint-album-with-chris-brown/
Davido the Afrobeats star, has announced his forthcoming joint album with American R&B icon Chris Brown, targeted for release in 2027.
The Grammy-nominated music star broke the news during a recent interview on ‘Swift Conversations’ podcast.
While cautioning that plans could shift, Davido expressed optimism about the long-gestating project.
enugu
Enugu political leaders pledge support for President Tinubu in 2007
https://the-national-press-newspaper.co.uk/enugu-political-leaders-pledge-support-for-president-tinubu-in-2007/
Political leaders from Enugu State yesterday, Tuesday pledged unalloyed support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election in 2027.
The leaders, representing the state’s seven million citizens, made this pledge when Governor Peter Mbah led them to a meeting with President Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
The high-powered delegation included Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh, Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, former Senate President, Sen. Ken Nnamani, former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, former Governors of Enugu State, Sullivan Chime and Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, former Governor of old Anambra State, Jim Nwobodo.
Others on the delegation were members of the National Assembly, former ministers, traditional and religious leaders, and academics. Some of the leaders came with their spouses.
President Tinubu thanked the delegation for their support. He noted that the testimonies of growth and infrastructural development from many states further validate the impact of his administration’s economic reforms.
The President commended governors for effectively utilising resources released to sub-nationals, resulting in meaningful improvements in health, education, infrastructure, and citizens’ welfare.
He observed that the political realignment favouring the governing APC has been largely driven by the outcome of economic reforms, adding that Governor Mbah aligned with the APC following sustained federal support for Enugu State.
“You have been a transformative leader, and we genuinely appreciate what is evolving in Enugu today in a manner that we are witnessing a rapid development of the state.
“The results you are outlining, like security, infrastructure, education and health care, are not abstract. They are the evidence that reform is working, that difficult decisions are yielding real outcomes and that Nigeria is moving forward.
“I can assure you we will continue to work together, think together and build together a nation that will be a pride of place for all our citizens.
“On the matter, you’ve raised the railway line from Port-Harcourt court to Enugu, the power sector reforms and the infrastructure—this is the backbone of economic development. We will do more,’’ he said.
President Tinubu said the previous challenge of funding long-term projects with short-term funds had been overcome with the release of additional funds to states to plan and implement developmental goals.
He expressed appreciation for governors from other political parties who have acknowledged the healthy and rewarding partnership with the federal government, with many now identifying with the governing party.
“With a leader like you, who is so committed and visionary, Nigeria is on the right trajectory to becoming a very successful leading African nation.
“When you look at the instances around African growth and economic opportunity today, it is with the contributions of people like you that are making it so.
“It’s not a one-person show. It’s a collective effort at the subnational and local government levels. Please do more for the local government,’’ the President stated.
The President commended Governor Mbah for working tirelessly to tame insecurity in the state and to improve healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
“And the declaration of support, I’ve noted, and I appreciate. It is very inspiring. You were in the other party. I don’t want to give them credit by naming them, but you are a member of the progressive family today. I am proud of that.
“We will do everything to ensure that the Nigerian dream is realised. The hope you enunciated in your remarks is not a pipe dream. It’s real and achievable, and we’ll achieve it together.
“Democracy will survive despite all intimidation. Ignore the naysayers. Stay focused. When you succeed, and they are angry, let them be. I do not lose sleep over criticism because we are committed to building a nation of bright hope for our children,” President Tinubu said.
“These are leaders who had privatised electricity, which is not working. They gave us darkness, and we are trying to get through it. To build a nation of bright hope and joyful people and leave our children with a life worthy of pride,’’ President Tinubu said.
In his remarks, the governor said the delegation was at the State House to express their solidarity and support for the President’s vision to build a solid foundation for Nigeria’s economic prosperity.
“This visit is symbolic because it speaks to our shared future and a commitment to progress. We have come to express our deepest gratitude for your engagement and investment in the people of Enugu State.
“We do not take all these for granted. If it were possible, just as the former Senate President alluded to, Your Excellency, the entire Enugu State population would have converged here at the villa to express our gratitude.
“The delegation here represents the excited and grateful voices of over 7 million sons and daughters of Enugu. We state boldly and without ambiguity that this relationship has earned our trust and support. On that basis, Your Excellency, we will stand proudly with you on election day in January 2027,” he said.
Mbah listed some landmark projects inaugurated by the President during his January visit to the state, saying they helped boost the state’s socio-economic development.
He also appreciated the President for his magnanimity and fatherly disposition.
“Mr President, you are a true friend of Enugu State. This was evident in your January 4, 2025, visit to Enugu. You broke a long-standing political distance between this region and the federal government, crossing party lines, at a time when the Enugu electorate did not favour your party.
“Yet you choose to invest in our state because you recognised what we were building. I remember very clearly. You and I stood side by side at the ceremonial ribbon cutting of several projects,’’ he noted.
In his remarks, former Senate President, Ken Nnamani, said the Enugu leaders were in the Presidential Villa to thank the President for his support for the State, and the South East, with many interventions in infrastructure like roads, railways, aviation and others.
“We have a leader in Enugu State. We have a leader, and we have confidence in him. He is leading us right.
“We have come to say thank you. The great achievements under his leadership would not have been possible without your support. He is making excellent use of your support.
“The entire population of Enugu State, of more than seven million people, would have loved to come here to say a big thank you, Mr President. You will benefit tremendously from the support,’’ the former Senate President added.
Nnamani affirmed that Enugu State will support President Tinubu for re-election in 2027.
tinubu
More ministers will go says Tinubu
Cabinet reshuffle will be continuous to strengthen governance
https://the-national-press-newspaper.co.uk/more-ministers-will-go-says-tinubu/
President Bola Tinubu says cabinet reshuffle will be a “continuous” process to strengthen governance in the country.
In a statement on Tuesday, Yomi Odunuga, special adviser on media and publicity to George Akume, secretary to the government of the federation (SGF), said Tinubu approved a minor cabinet reshuffle in the membership of the federal executive council (FEC).
kwara
Kwara Gov. AbdulRazaq Visits Injured Soldiers, Pays Tribute To Fallen Troops
https://the-national-press-newspaper.co.uk/kwara-gov-abdulrazaq-visits-injured-soldiers-pays-tribute-to-fallen-troops/
Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has visited six soldiers who were injured in a recent counterterrorism operation in Kaiama, Kaiama Local Government Area, commending them for their gallantry and resilience.
Three soldiers reportedly paid the supreme price during the fierce encounter, while several terrorists were neutralised.
During the visit, the Governor announced N20 million support for each of the families of the fallen soldiers and N5 million each for the injured personnel, describing the sacrifices of security operatives as priceless.
He was received at the Kwara State University Teaching Hospital (KWASUTH), Ilorin, by the Executive Secretary of the Kwara State Hospitals Management Board, Dr Malik Abdulraheem; the Chief Medical Director of KWASUTH, Dr Bola Ahmed AbdulKadir; and some security officials.
“We are here to see the soldiers that got injured in the recent attack. It was a deliberate attack on the checkpoint facilities. It was a surprise attack and a very sad incident,” the Governor told reporters during the visit.
“Soldiers and other security forces are cooperating, and the government will continue to give the right support to our security agencies as they do their jobs. We are proud of their service and will continue to do the needful for them.
“This recent attack was not on civilians and there was no kidnapping; it was a frontal attack against the military, and that shows they are getting desperate and want the military to vacate the area. The area has been uncomfortable for them.”
Governor AbdulRazaq said the Army and other security agencies have been able to subdue most attacks through intelligence gathering and neutralisation of threats.
He said the attackers are mostly from Niger State, who often cross over to launch attacks and return to their base.
“The Army has mostly secured our axis here. The borders are wide and porous. The Kainji Forest Reserve is nearly twice the size of Lagos State. It is difficult to patrol and manage with the size of forces deployed there at the moment,” he said.
“We are confident that with Operation Savannah Shield, we will hold ground and they would be eliminated from that axis.”
The Governor also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support to security agencies, noting that requests for assistance have not been turned down, especially in Kwara State.
“It is for us to better coordinate ourselves on all fronts and overcome this challenge,” he added, while expressing concern over informants aiding criminal elements
