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His confirmation followed a question-and-answer session during plenary, where senators evaluated him in line with constitutional requirements.

President Bola Tinubu had earlier sent a letter to the Senate requesting that Darma be screened and confirmed for a ministerial role.

The request was presented on the Senate floor by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who then referred it to the Committee of the Whole for review, instructing the panel to report back as quickly as possible.

Lawmakers subsequently accepted the committee’s recommendation, clearing the path for Darma’s confirmation.

Darma previously served as Executive Secretary of the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF).

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He gave the instruction at the end of Thursday’s plenary session, directing the Senate Committee on Health to promptly review the development. The committee, led by Senator Ipalibo Banigo, is tasked with examining the reported case and submitting its report at the next sitting.

This action comes after reports of a single COVID-19 case in Cross River State, sparking concerns about monitoring, testing, and response capabilities. Health officials are reportedly keeping a close watch on the situation, alongside appeals for increased caution and strict compliance with public health measures.

Lawmakers stated that the investigation will evaluate the effectiveness of the public health response, the readiness of healthcare facilities, and the steps required to prevent any possible spread.

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In a resignation letter dated April 22, 2026, addressed to President Bola Tinubu, Adelabu stated that he will officially leave office on April 30, 2026, as he intends to pursue a gubernatorial bid in Oyo State.

He explained that his action complies with the Amended Electoral Act 2026, which prevents current public office holders from participating in elections while still in office.

Bolaji Tunji, his Special Adviser on Strategic Communications and Media Relations, confirmed the resignation. He noted that Adelabu expressed gratitude to the President for the chance to serve, describing his time in office as an honor and an opportunity to support the country’s progress.

Adelabu emphasized the importance of better coordination within the energy sector and recommended creating a Coordinating Minister for Energy to align policies and ensure proper execution across electricity, gas, and related areas.

Reflecting on his time in office, he pointed to several accomplishments, including the rollout of the Electricity Act 2023, which decentralized the power sector and attracted more investment.

He also stated that peak electricity generation rose above 6,000 megawatts, supported by the addition of the Zungeru Hydropower Plant and upgrades to thermal power stations.

Further improvements were recorded in transmission capacity through grid enhancements under the Presidential Power Initiative. Progress was also made in the distribution sector, such as stronger regulatory monitoring, better revenue performance, and steps to cut Aggregate Technical, Commercial, and Collection (ATC&C) losses.

He added that efforts to close the metering gap advanced through the Presidential Metering Initiative and the World Bank-backed Distribution Sector Recovery Programme.

On the financial front, Adelabu said pricing reforms and a ₦4 trillion debt restructuring plan increased market revenues from ₦1 trillion in 2023 to ₦2.3 trillion in 2025, helping rebuild investor trust in the industry.

Despite these improvements, he acknowledged persistent issues, including limited gas supply, damage to infrastructure, and the need to fully commercialize the electricity value chain.

To tackle these challenges, he proposed solutions such as introducing cost-reflective tariffs with targeted subsidies, recapitalizing distribution firms, speeding up nationwide metering, maintaining investment in transmission systems, and strengthening regulatory compliance.

He stressed that establishing a Coordinating Minister for Energy would offer the leadership needed to enhance gas availability for power generation, better utilize hydro resources, and fast-track renewable energy growth.

Adelabu concluded by assuring a seamless transition process and expressing appreciation to the President for his continued support during his tenure.

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In a statement signed by his Special Assistant on Media and Strategy, Mark Chieshe, Dangiwa described his tenure as a privilege and a call to national service, noting that he is honoured to have been entrusted with responsibility for reforms in the housing and urban development sector.

He stated that under President Tinubu’s leadership, the ministry recorded notable progress in repositioning the housing sector as a key pillar for economic growth, employment generation, and social inclusion.

According to him, major achievements during his tenure include the rollout of the Renewed Hope Housing Programme, expanded public-private partnerships in housing delivery, and reforms in land administration and housing finance.

Dangiwa also thanked members of the Federal Executive Council, his colleagues in government, heads of relevant agencies, development partners, and staff of the ministry for their support and cooperation throughout his service.

While acknowledging the directive to complete handover arrangements in line with the President’s decision, he assured of a smooth and orderly transition, reaffirming his commitment to the continued success of the ministry and the broader Renewed Hope Agenda.

He further wished the incoming leadership success, expressing confidence that ongoing reforms would be sustained and accelerated for greater impact in the housing sector.

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He gave the assurance while receiving a delegation from British Airways at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. The team was led by the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr. Richard Montgomery, alongside British Airways’ Commercial Officer, Mr. Colm Lacy.

President Tinubu described the long-standing relationship between Nigeria and the United Kingdom as valuable and productive, noting that Nigeria places high importance on its strategic partnership with Britain.

Reflecting on his recent visit to the United Kingdom, the President said he was warmly received by the British Royal Family, adding that he deeply cherishes the experience.

He assured the delegation that both countries would continue to strengthen cooperation aimed at expanding investment opportunities, economic growth, and shared prosperity.

“It is a great pleasure to engage with you this afternoon. The transformation and strengthening of our relationship over the past 90 years is worth celebrating,” Tinubu said.

“I still cherish my recent visit to Great Britain and the warm reception from His Majesty King Charles III. I will always remember that moment.

“We also value our relationship with His Majesty and his commitment to sustainability and the Commonwealth. Our cooperation must continue in line with our national priorities.”

The President commended British Airways for its long-standing role in connecting Nigeria to the global economy, adding that ongoing reforms in Nigeria’s aviation sector are aimed at meeting international standards.

“Nigeria is undergoing reforms across the aviation sector and the wider economy. We must align with global standards while encouraging stronger people-to-people and trade relations,” he said.

Tinubu also expressed appreciation to the British government for its sustained investment and business support in Nigeria over the years, noting that British Airways is celebrating 90 years of operations in the country.

He further disclosed that his administration had resolved outstanding financial obligations owed to international airlines, a move aimed at restoring confidence in the sector.

“Since I assumed office, we have addressed outstanding liabilities affecting airlines through the Central Bank of Nigeria, and we will continue to strengthen this progress,” he said.

In his remarks, Mr. Colm Lacy said British Airways has maintained a strong presence in Nigeria since 1936, describing the country as one of its most important markets globally.

“Nigeria is not just a destination for us; it is a valued partner with whom we share deep business, cultural, and educational ties,” he said.

He added that the airline’s operations continue to support Nigerian businesses, students, families, and tourists, facilitating trade and investment between both countries.

Lacy also commended the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, as well as aviation agencies for reforms that have improved safety and efficiency in the sector. He further praised the Central Bank of Nigeria for efforts to resolve foreign exchange issues affecting foreign airlines.

Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, noted that British Airways now operates modern aircraft on the London–Nigeria route and has complied with government policies supporting local catering services on outbound international flights.

The British High Commissioner, Dr. Richard Montgomery, also expressed satisfaction with the 90-year partnership between Nigeria and British Airways, thanking President Tinubu for his recent visit to the UK.

He said the visit resulted in major investment agreements, including plans to support the rehabilitation of Lagos ports with UK financing and participation.

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This update was outlined in a schedule endorsed by the party’s National Organising Secretary from one faction, Umar Bature.

The notice states that the presidential nomination form is priced at ₦51 million, while the governorship form costs ₦21 million. It also indicates that the party will forward its membership register to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on April 21, 2026, and inform the commission of its primaries a day later.

According to the outlined plan, the expression-of-interest form for every position is pegged at ₦1 million, though the nomination charges differ by office. Candidates aiming for State Houses of Assembly are to pay ₦2 million; House of Representatives aspirants ₦3 million; Senate hopefuls ₦5 million; governorship contenders ₦20 million; and those seeking the presidency ₦50 million.

The sale of these forms is set to commence on April 27 and end on May 4, while completed documents must be submitted by May 9. Screening for State Assembly, National Assembly, and governorship aspirants is slated for May 11, with presidential screening following on May 12.

The presidential primary election is scheduled for May 18, while governorship primaries will take place on May 27. House of Representatives primaries are fixed for May 21, Senate contests for May 23, and State Assembly primaries will run from May 21 to May 24. All appeals are expected to be resolved by May 30, 2026.

Bature noted that female aspirants are only required to pay the expression-of-interest fee for the offices they seek. The primaries will be supervised by INEC, which has officially acknowledged the leadership aligned with Nyesom Wike.

The party continues to face internal disagreements, with a faction led by Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, backed by Seyi Makinde and Bala Mohammed, seeking a court ruling to validate the 2025 Ibadan convention.

Earlier reports indicated that the Supreme Court of Nigeria has reserved judgment in an appeal brought by the Turaki-led group, contesting the nullification of the convention.

On Wednesday, a five-member panel headed by Lawal Garba said the date for the ruling would be communicated after counsel for all sides adopted their final written submissions.

The faction is asking the apex court to overturn the March 9 decision of the Court of Appeal, which upheld earlier rulings voiding the party’s convention held in Ibadan on November 15 and 16, 2025. At the Supreme Court, the group maintained that the matter concerns internal party issues and should not be subject to judicial review, insisting that proper procedures were followed in organising the gathering.

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This was made known in a statement issued on Wednesday by the ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa. The ministry stated that Lele passed away in the early hours of April 19, 2026, in Ankara, Türkiye, following a long-term illness. He was described as a committed public servant who represented the nation with excellence.

The statement read: “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs regrets to announce, with deep sadness and a heavy sense of loss, the death of Ambassador Mohammed Mahmud Lele, which occurred in the early hours of April 19, 2026, in Ankara, Türkiye.”

Until his passing, Ambassador Lele served as Director overseeing the Middle East and Gulf Division of the ministry. The statement further noted that he was a career diplomat who had recently been named ambassador-designate to Algeria by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, after his nomination was approved by the Nigerian Senate.

Born in 1976 in Gamawa, located in Bauchi State, he earned a degree in Economics from Bayero University, Kano, and joined Nigeria’s Foreign Service in 2001. Over the course of his career, he was recognized as a diligent, thorough, and outstanding diplomat who served with unwavering dedication. He also held postings in Nigerian missions in Berlin, Lomé, and Riyadh.

The ministry highlighted his sharp intellect, strong strategic thinking, and unwavering commitment to advancing Nigeria’s foreign policy goals.

His death was described as a significant loss not only to his family but also to the entire diplomatic community and the country as a whole.

The Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Ambassador Dunoma Umar Ahmed, who was present at the international wing of Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja alongside other senior officials to receive his remains from Türkiye, paid tribute to him as a hardworking, modest, and admirable officer whose absence will be deeply felt.

Ambassador Lele was laid to rest on April 22, 2026, in Kano State in accordance with Islamic traditions.

The ministry expressed its sincere condolences to his family, friends, colleagues, and the people and government of Bauchi State, while offering prayers for his eternal rest and strength for those mourning his loss.

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The students’ union leaders led by their National President, Comrade Sola Oladoja, made the commitment on Tuesday 21st April 2026 when they paid a courtesy visit to the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd) at the Agency’s headquarters in Abuja where they equally reaffirmed their support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and his re-election in 2027.

During the visit, Oladoja commended Marwa for his dynamic leadership and the Agency’s relentless successes against drug cartels. He specifically lauded his commitment to safeguarding the lives of Nigerian students through the War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) social advocacy initiative, which has been instrumental in raising awareness across tertiary institutions.

Reaffirming the association’s support for the NDLEA and the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu, Oladoja stated that the students’ backing of the current administration is rooted in tangible pro-youth achievements. These, he noted, include the successful implementation of student loans, the resolution of industrial strikes in tertiary institutions, and various youth empowerment schemes.

In his response, Marwa expressed his long-standing pride in the Nigerian student body, noting that his relationship with them has remained strong due to their consistent support across his various national assignments.

According to him, “As a critical sector of the Nigerian polity, what you said about your appreciation of the gains of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and your commitment to support his re-election in 2027 gladdens my heart.”

Addressing the specific challenge of drug prevalence in schools, the NDLEA boss emphasized the need for a collaborative front to sanitize the academic environment. “We need to work with you on our efforts to rid our campuses of drug abuse because of the consequences to students’ health, their aspirations, and even their families, as well as the society at large,” Marwa added.

Speaking on the recently introduced Federal Government Drug Integrity Test Policy for students, Marwa explained that the measure is strictly protective rather than punitive. He stated that the policy is designed in the best interest of the youth, as early detection of drug use makes treatment and rehabilitation far more effective.

The visit ended with a mutual commitment to deepen the partnership between NDLEA and NANS in the ongoing crusade against substance abuse on Nigerian campuses.

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The session, currently taking place at the Force Headquarters in Abuja, is part of continued measures to boost internal oversight, enforce discipline, and maintain professional standards within the organization.

The Force Disciplinary Committee, which serves as an internal adjudicatory body, handles the review of matters concerning officers from the rank of Assistant Superintendent of Police and above. Its procedure is designed to ensure a detailed, fair, and transparent assessment of each case in line with existing legal frameworks, with final recommendations forwarded to the Police Service Commission.

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, restated the Force’s dedication to orderliness, ethical conduct, and professionalism, stressing that any officer proven guilty of wrongdoing will face appropriate disciplinary action without interference.

He further noted that these hearings are part of wider reforms intended to strengthen internal accountability systems, encourage proper conduct, and improve public trust in the Police Force.

The Nigeria Police Force has also reiterated its commitment to high standards of responsibility and service delivery, insisting that all personnel must adhere strictly to the core principles guiding the profession.

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