Vice President Kashim Shettima has explained that President Bola Tinubu intentionally kept his decision to end the petrol subsidy a secret, omitting it from his inaugural speech to avoid being dissuaded from the action.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

• • A Strategic Silence: During a recent visit by state governors to the President’s Lagos residence for Eid el-Kabir and the administration’s third anniversary, Shettima noted that the decision was not impulsive but rather a deliberate choice kept private to ensure it would be carried out.

  • Defining Leadership: Shettima characterized this move as an act of courageous leadership, describing it as the “audacity of hope” and the determination to look toward the future.

  • National Re-engineering: Defending the administration’s economic policies over the past three years, Shettima argued that the President inherited a fundamentally compromised nation that needed serious structural changes.

  • Facing Difficult Realities: Shettima emphasized that rather than ignoring the country’s deep-rooted issues, President Tinubu chose to confront long-standing contradictions that have hindered the nation for five decades. He further described the administration’s work as a necessary “re-engineering” of the country, framing it as a challenging commitment to the future rather than a comfortable tenure.

Rufai Sani Hanga, the senator representing Kano Central, has clarified that his decision to step aside from the senatorial race in favor of Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna was a strategic move to foster unity within the Kwankwasiyya Movement and the National Democratic Congress.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

• Strategic Consolidation: Speaking to DC Hausa, Hanga explained that the move followed extensive consultations designed to bolster the party’s electoral prospects ahead of the 2027 polls.

• Recognizing Political Weight: Hanga noted that Gawuna’s inclusion was driven by his significant political influence, dedicated supporter base, and past contributions. He emphasized that the primary goal is victory, stating that the party could not prioritize individual ambition over the best chance to win.

• A Fair Process: The senator maintained that the selection process was transparent and equitable, involving thorough consultations with all groups and party leadership, including himself. He confirmed that Gawuna’s candidacy was secured with his full approval.

• Enduring Loyalty to Kwankwaso: Hanga reaffirmed his commitment to the Kwankwasiyya Movement and its leader, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, stating he would continue to support the movement’s efforts for the betterment of the common people and the development of Kano State.

AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) and Governor of Kwara State, recently shared insights regarding the aftermath of the 2023 fuel subsidy removal, highlighting both initial anxieties and subsequent economic improvements.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

• Initial Panic and Security Concerns: Upon learning of the policy while on a trip to China, governors initially feared widespread unrest. In response, they initiated emergency security meetings and deployed security personnel nationwide; however, these anticipated protests ultimately did not materialize.

• The Tense Presidential Dinner: Governors, including those present in China like Babajide Sanwo-Olu, had originally intended to meet with President Bola Tinubu to argue against the policy’s implementation. When they were eventually invited to dinner at the President’s residence, the atmosphere was so charged that the governors felt unable to broach the topic of the subsidy.

• Fiscal Transformation: Reflecting on the economic impact, AbdulRazaq noted that many states were previously struggling, often left with only ₦100 million to ₦200 million after salary obligations—an amount insufficient for significant infrastructure projects. He contrasted this with the current situation, where states are now actively reducing debt burdens rather than relying on new loans or bonds.

• Minimum Wage: Highlighting the benefits of the current fiscal environment, the Chairman noted that many states are already paying near ₦100,000 in wages and encouraged President Tinubu to collaborate with governors to establish a ₦100,000 national minimum wage.