By Samson Adeyanju 

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) on Saturday issued a strong rebuttal, dismissing as false and provocative claims that the Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar was invited to serve as “Royal Father of the Day” at the proposed Ecumenical Chapel foundation ceremony at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport.

In a press statement, CAN said it viewed the circulating reports and social media posts with serious concern, stressing that no such invitation was ever extended to the Sultan.

“We state, firmly and without equivocation, that no such invitation was extended to the Sultan by CAN. This claim is false,” the association said.

The body clarified that the controversial material did not originate from its office but was released by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, distancing itself completely from the narrative.

Beyond denying the claim, CAN accused unnamed actors of deliberately twisting facts to inflame religious sensitivities and stir unnecessary tension.

“Beyond its inaccuracy, the narrative appears deliberately framed to provoke religious sensitivities and manufacture controversy where none exists. Such distortions are reckless and unacceptable,” the statement added.

The association reaffirmed its commitment to both the sanctity of Christian worship and peaceful coexistence among Nigeria’s diverse religious groups, warning that misinformation must not be allowed to undermine national unity.

“Truth must never be sacrificed on the altar of sensationalism,” CAN said, insisting that any suggestion linking the Sultan to the ceremonial role was entirely unfounded.

It urged the media and the public to act responsibly by verifying information before dissemination.

“Verify before amplifying, question before believing, and prioritise facts over virality,” the statement advised.

Reiterating its position, CAN maintained that the report was the handiwork of mischief makers and should be disregarded in its entirety.

By Emmanuel Eko

The Concerned Nigerian Network in Diaspora (CNND), and the Rebuild Nigeria Movement Worldwide (RNMW), have announced plans to carry out thorough consultations and assessments before endorsing any political party or candidate for the 2027 general elections.

Speaking on behalf of both organizations, former president and founder, Ambassador James Erebuoye, emphasized the need for caution and strategic decision-making following the experiences of the 2023 elections.

According to Erebuoye, several errors made by platform administrators and coordinators during the last electoral cycle nearly fractured the network, which he noted took over two decades to build across Nigeria and the diaspora.

“We will undertake proper diligence before deciding which political party or candidate to support in 2027, and we will also guide our eligible voters accordingly,” he stated.

He called on coordinators within both organizations to prioritize unity, peace, and discipline among members, warning against the dangers of religious intolerance and tribal divisions.

“This is about our one and only country, Nigeria. We must not allow religious bigotry or tribalism to derail our collective mission,” Erebuoye said.

Looking ahead to the 2027 elections, he described the process as a critical national assignment, urging members at home and abroad to remain committed and organized.

“Our goal is to mobilize not less than 20 million votes for the right presidential candidate we collectively decide to support,” he added.

Erebuoye also stressed the importance of defending Nigeria’s democracy, describing it as a serious responsibility that requires the active involvement of all members. He further called for intensified efforts to combat corruption, which he said has hindered the nation’s development for decades.

Addressing national security concerns, the CNND and RNMW founder urged the Federal Government to take stronger and more decisive action against terrorism and banditry.

“No amount of condolences can bring back those who have lost their lives. The priority of government now must be to secure citizens and put an end to these attacks,” he said.

He outlined a three-point priority for the government: tackling insecurity, eliminating entrenched corruption networks, and then focusing on economic recovery.

Erebuoye noted that improving security would naturally enhance economic growth, attract investment, and boost tourism.

“No foreign investor or tourist will be attracted to a country plagued by insecurity. Fixing the economy will be much easier once the security challenges are addressed,” he concluded.

The statement reflects growing political mobilization among diaspora networks as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections.

By Samson Adeyanju

Governor of Benue State, Hyacinth Alia, has called for deeper strategic collaboration with the United Nations to tackle the state’s humanitarian, agricultural and climate challenges, stressing that his administration remains committed to building long-term resilience.

Speaking Friday at Government House, Makurdi, during the visit of the UN Deputy Secretary-General, Amina Mohammed, the governor said Benue’s development trajectory depends on global partnerships that integrate food security, climate resilience and human dignity.

Alia emphasised that the state is not seeking charity but sustainable collaboration capable of delivering lasting transformation.

“What we seek is not charity, but collaboration. Not isolated projects, but integrated systems. Not temporary relief, but lasting transformation,” he said.

Describing Benue as Nigeria’s “Food Basket of the Nation,” the governor noted that despite its strategic role in national and regional food systems, the state continues to grapple with farmer-herder conflicts, climate-related vulnerabilities and a humanitarian crisis involving over 500,000 internally displaced persons.

He explained that since assuming office in 2023, his administration has pursued an integrated development agenda aimed at rebuilding institutions, restoring dignity and unlocking economic opportunities.

“We are not waiting for change, but building structures that enable change,” Alia added.

Highlighting key achievements, the governor disclosed that over 375 public schools have been rehabilitated, with 9,700 teachers recruited at the basic education level, alongside the introduction of free education policies and establishment of new technical institutions.

In the health sector, he cited the rehabilitation of 104 rural health centres, revitalisation of the Benue State University Teaching Hospital and expansion of maternal and child healthcare services.

On infrastructure, Alia said ongoing road and transport projects are connecting rural and urban economies, while more than 10,000 youths have been trained in digital skills through ICT empowerment programmes.

He reiterated that humanitarian response remains a core priority, particularly in conflict-affected communities, noting that interventions such as shelter provision, farmland allocation and livelihood restoration are designed to transition displaced persons to stable living conditions.

“These are not just interventions; they are pathways from displacement to dignity,” he said.

The governor also sought UN collaboration in key areas including climate resilience and restoration of River Benue, agro-industrial mechanisation, human capital development, community stabilisation and the establishment of a Benue SDG Transition and Resilience Financing Facility.

Reaffirming his administration’s vision, Alia said the state is ready to serve as a model of sub-national transformation.

“Benue is ready to lead, to partner and to deliver results that matter, not just for the Benue people, but as a model for Nigeria and the global community,” he stated.