AGP Executive Report

Security Pressure on Tinubu: Nollywood figures Ruth Kadiri and Laide Olabanji renewed calls for action over insecurity, with Kadiri urging Tinubu to either “do something” or allow citizens self-defence as kidnappings and killings spread. Human Rights & Accountability: HURIWA demanded the sack of top security chiefs, rejecting claims that terrorists have no operational base in the South-West, while Equality Now urged stronger African laws and enforcement against sexual violence and women’s rights abuses. Anti-Corruption Follow-Through: EFCC arrested former Power Minister Saleh Mamman in Kaduna a week after a 75-year sentence for diverting funds for hydro projects—aimed at ensuring he serves time. Drugs Crackdown: NDLEA said it dismantled Nigeria’s biggest meth lab in Ogun’s Abidagba forest, seizing drugs and chemicals worth over ₦480bn and arresting Nigerian and Mexican suspects. Elections Integrity: INEC warned Ekiti parties against vote buying/trading ahead of the June 20 governorship poll, stressing arrests and prosecution. Governance Modernisation: Tinubu ordered full digitisation of MDAs, citing 38 ministries already running paperless end-to-end workflows. Politics & 2027: ADC screened aspirants (Atiku, Amaechi, Hayatu-Deen) while NDC cleared Peter Obi for its presidential primary; Kano’s government alleged Kwankwaso is working for Tinubu behind the scenes. Global/Local: Nigeria-US operations reportedly killed 175 IS fighters; meanwhile, Lewandowski confirmed he’ll face the Super Eagles in upcoming friendlies.

Counterterrorism Update: Nigeria and the US say joint airstrikes in the North-East have killed 175 ISIS fighters, including Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, while also hitting checkpoints, weapons caches, logistics hubs and financing networks. Security Pressure at Home: The Oyo school abduction and teacher killing has reignited demands for stronger local security—state police and empowered regional outfits—after panic spread and rescue efforts intensified. Anti-Corruption Clampdown: EFCC has arrested ex-Power Minister Saleh Mamman days after his 75-year conviction, with claims he was hiding in Kaduna. Politics & 2027: PDP screening cleared Goodluck Jonathan as a sole aspirant in a factional setup, while APC governorship primaries are heating up amid internal disputes. Tax Reform Reality Check: Nigeria’s tax take missed the Q1 target by N2.24tn as the new Nigeria Revenue Service regime beds in. Digital Governance: Nigeria Customs launched SCADS to let passengers declare baggage before arrival, aiming to cut airport congestion. Youth & Inclusion: A fresh debate is growing over whether AI will widen opportunity for Nigerian youths—or deepen inequality.

APC Primaries Fallout: Zamfara North aspirant Abdullahi Shinkafi says he’ll challenge his alleged exclusion from APC senatorial primaries in court, accusing party insiders of undermining internal democracy. Anti-Corruption: EFCC arrests convicted ex-Power Minister Saleh Mamman in Kaduna, releases mugshots, and says he was detained after weeks of surveillance over N33.8bn hydropower-linked fraud. Counterterrorism: DHQ reports joint Nigeria–US airstrikes have killed 175 ISIS terrorists in the North-East, including Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, while also stressing no permanent terrorist bases in Nigeria’s South-West after the Oyo school attacks. Health Crisis: DR Congo Ebola figures rise to 131 suspected deaths and 513 suspected cases as Uganda records confirmed cases and the region braces for wider spread. Politics 2027: PDP screening clears Jonathan as sole presidential aspirant with a waiver, while legal fights over eligibility continue. Security & Governance: Delta community protests alleged illegal road blockades and “deve” levies linked to a monarch’s son. Sports: Super Eagles learn AFCON 2027 qualifying group opponents: Madagascar, Tanzania and Guinea-Bissau.

APC Primaries Under Fire: Edo’s APC primary reportedly produced two different winners and tallies, while Ondo descended into chaos as thugs allegedly stormed the secretariat mid-announcement—another sign of factional warfare and weak process control ahead of 2027. Tax Governance: FG unveiled the Tax Ombud platforms (website, toll-free line, case system) to resolve tax disputes free of charge, and also pushed tax professionalisation with a circular reaffirming CIPM’s statutory role for HR certification in federal service. Accountability Push: CSOs renewed pressure on Tinubu to assent to the Audit Service Bill, arguing it will plug audit and revenue-leakage gaps. Security & Schools: Fresh waves of school abductions and killings in Oyo and beyond kept the spotlight on state failure to protect children. Terror Fight: AFRICOM confirmed new US-Nigeria airstrikes targeting ISIS in the North-East, as DHQ said additional fighters were neutralised. Politics & 2027: ADC screened 70+ governorship aspirants, while Atiku’s reported illness and PDP/ADC internal wrangling added more uncertainty to candidate timelines. Health & Care Economy: FG plans to scale caregiver training and certification, while UNICEF warned Nigeria records extremely high maternal deaths.

School Kidnappings in Oyo: Gunmen abducted at least 39 pupils and seven teachers in Oyo State, killing one teacher and injuring security operatives during a disrupted rescue attempt after explosives were found; six suspects were arrested as Tinubu vowed federal support to rescue all victims and urged lawmakers to review laws enabling state police. Counterterrorism: In the northeast, Nigeria and the US carried out fresh airstrikes on ISIS/ISWAP targets in Borno, killing 20+ militants, as attacks on schools and kidnappings keep spreading. Health Sector Under Pressure: NARD warned of escalating assaults on doctors and demanded urgent action, threatening industrial action if government fails to act. Anti-Corruption in Court: In London, Diezani Alison-Madueke’s bribery trial nears a verdict as the jury deliberates after months of “life of luxury” allegations. 2027 Politics in Court: A Federal High Court set May 26 to rule on a suit challenging Goodluck Jonathan’s eligibility, with the AGF and Jonathan seeking dismissal. Governance & Accountability: CSOs renewed pressure on Tinubu to sign the Federal Audit Service Bill, warning delays could weaken Nigeria’s anti-corruption push.

School Security Crisis: Militants struck again, with fresh reports of over 80 children missing after attacks on schools in Borno and Oyo, including the Oriire abductions where videos from captivity sparked Senate and Yoruba leaders to demand action. Counter-Terror Update: Nigeria’s military says no U.S. troops fought on the ground in the operation that killed ISIS leader Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, adding the U.S. role was intelligence and support—while Trump and Tinubu both confirmed the killing. Public Safety & Health: HEDA and NIHSA kick off nationwide flood sensitisation ahead of the rainy season, and Nigeria reports Ebola surveillance tightened as Congo’s outbreak worsens. Governance & Economy: FG moves to stop unapproved contract variations via new BPP guidelines, while CBN says 63% of Nigerians want interest rates cut ahead of the MPC. Power & Finance: NDPHC plans +1,500MW for Lagos, and BOI secures a $200m AfDB facility to expand SME lending. Politics: APC primaries remain volatile, with violence reported in Lagos and ongoing disputes over electoral rules and 2027 tickets.

Counterterrorism Update: Nigeria and the US say they eliminated ISIS/ISWAP commander Abu-Bilal al-Minuki in a Lake Chad operation, even as some Nigerians question the claims and Defence HQ/Presidency push back on “conflicting statements” from earlier years. Security & Schools: Osun orders an immediate Safe School security boost after Oyo school abductions, while Oyo’s principal pleads for rescue of abducted teachers and pupils. Elections & Party Politics: CSOs in Kosofe warn against violence after an APC House primary dispute; across the country, APC primaries keep throwing up surprises—incumbents losing return tickets and new consensus candidates emerging. Governance & Economy: CPPE cautions the CBN against further monetary tightening ahead of the MPC; meanwhile, the Federal Government explains delays in budget reports by pointing to a legally defined fiscal year. Public Health: NCDC steps up Ebola surveillance after DRC outbreak and an imported case in Uganda. Human Rights: Botswana moves to repeal anti-LGBTQ laws after court battles, marking a rare rights win in the region.

Security & Diplomacy: The US and Nigeria confirmed the killing of Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, ISIS’s global second-in-command, in a joint Lake Chad Basin operation, with Trump calling it a “flawless” mission and Tinubu praising “effective collaboration,” even as lawyers and analysts warn that one strike won’t end the war. Human Security: Nigeria’s school and road tragedies keep stacking up—Amnesty flags fresh mass abductions across Borno and Oyo, while NBS road data shows 1,347 deaths and 8,575 injuries in Q1 2026, turning highways into a parallel crisis. Governance & Accountability: The Union Bank dispute is reigniting questions about CBN regulatory process and investor protection, while criticism grows over the federal habit of dismissing global reports that don’t flatter government narratives. Economy & Trade: FX volatility and hidden liabilities are blamed for debt alarmism, and oil earnings fell sharply in March despite higher crude prices; ports also face renewed friction over National Single Window delays. Politics: ADC postponed screenings to May 18 amid security concerns, while 2027 primaries continue to trigger violence and legal fights. Health: Congo’s Ebola outbreak has been declared a public health emergency of international concern, raising cross-border spillover fears.

Counter-Terrorism: The U.S. and Nigeria say they killed Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, ISIS’s global second-in-command, in a joint strike in Nigeria’s Lake Chad Basin. Local Security: Nigeria’s military and President Tinubu framed it as “effective collaboration,” while critics like Femi Falana urged Tinubu to rely on Defence HQ briefings after earlier claims of the same man’s death. Maritime Economy: The Nigerian Navy dismantled an illegal refined petroleum depot in Rivers, seizing 410 drums (about 123,000 litres) of suspected AGO. Migration Policy: Sierra Leone agreed to receive hundreds of West Africans deported from the U.S., with the first flight due May 20. Governance & Procurement: BPP issued new guidelines on contract variations and final designs, tightening how scope and cost changes get approved. Education Accountability: In Abuja’s FCT, pupils reportedly still study under collapsing roofs despite ₦30.9bn school rehabilitation claims. Politics 2027: APC primaries keep moving—Yusuf Buhari won big in Daura/Sandamu/Mai’adua, while Senate leadership denied a viral claim about threats to northerners.

Counterterrorism: US President Donald Trump says US and Nigerian forces killed Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, described as ISIS’s global “second-in-command,” in a joint operation in Nigeria, calling it a major blow to the group’s Africa operations. Economic Diplomacy: Tinubu tells the Africa CEO Forum in Kigali he’ll deepen reforms if re-elected, while S&P upgrades Nigeria’s rating from B- to B, citing improving macro conditions. Governance & Accountability: ADC vows a 2027 election framework that ties candidates to measurable manifesto commitments; NBA and CIFCFIN team up to fight forgery ahead of 2027. Local Governance: Benue local government workers begin a two-week strike over unpaid salaries and stalled promotions. Mobility & Trade: Nigeria starts a 30-day visa-free entry for Rwandans, and OECD pledges support for Nigeria’s reform agenda. Human Development: UNICEF warns a woman dies every seven minutes in childbirth, pushing WASH and infection-prevention support in Borno.

Extractives Under Siege: NEITI and ANEEJ warn illegal mining is draining Nigeria’s solid minerals through undervaluation, shell-company trading, corruption and cross-border smuggling—foreign buyers, especially Chinese actors, are accused of driving pricing and export channels, while the sector still contributes just 0.72% to GDP (2023). Judiciary Reset: Citizens’ Gavel applauds the NJC’s 111th meeting actions—queries for 256 judicial officers and suspensions over misconduct—plus tighter eligibility rules for judicial appointments. Courtroom Showdown: Dangote Refinery files a fresh suit to stop fuel import licences, arguing they breach court orders and laws despite Nigeria’s refining capacity. Economy Pressure: Inflation edges up to 15.69% in April; food inflation hits 16.06%. Security Flashpoint: Suspected militants abduct students in Borno, while drug raids in Ebonyi net 130.98kg of illicit drugs and 170 suspects. Governance & Rights: HURIWA demands probe of World Bank “first-line charges” diverting over ₦34.53trn; NAICOM launches a policyholders’ protection fund. People & Jobs: OECD pledges support for Nigeria’s reforms; IFC plans an investment mission on livestock, housing and energy.

Fiscal Stability in Kaduna: Governor Uba Sani’s “prudence over panic” narrative is back in focus after coverage highlighted how Kaduna slid toward a fiscal brink on inherited debts and salary pressure, then avoided deeper borrowing through tighter discipline. Security & Governance: The IGP, Olatunji Disu, says Nigeria needs 3,000 new police stations (and more prisons) to protect investors and citizens, while Arewa Youth urges Nigerians to share intelligence to sustain gains. Rule of Law: A coalition condemned a mob attack on a doctor in Ibadan, warning against jungle justice. Elections & Democracy: CBN’s MPC warns election spending could reignite inflation, as political parties keep screening aspirants for 2027. Economy & Partnerships: Nigeria and Germany signed a €365m partnership, and APM Terminals pledged $600m for maritime upgrades. Industry & Society: NFVCB cleared 304 films in four months; NEITI warns illicit mining is draining mineral wealth.

Presidential race heats up: Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has submitted his African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential nomination forms in Abuja, framing it as a “national movement” to restore prosperity. Opposition realignment: Oyo Governor Seyi Makinde has also formally declared for 2027 on the PDP–APM alliance platform, while FCT Minister Nyesom Wike dismisses the PDP–APM claim as “419,” insisting there is no such alliance. Party process clarity: APC says its 2027 primary election dates remain unchanged, pushing back on reports of schedule shifts. Governance and rights flashpoints: Nurses condemn EFCC’s teargas use during a Uyo hospital raid as a “national disgrace,” and a civil society coalition demands public hearings before any state police move. Security tech push: Defence Minister Christopher Musa says Nigeria will integrate AI and anti-drone tools into military operations. Economy and debt pressure: ADC attacks Tinubu’s borrowing spree as a “Ponzi economy,” as debt and cost-of-living concerns keep rising.

Election Finance Allegations: Atiku Abubakar and ADC are accusing APC governors and federal actors of diverting Federation Account funds into a “war chest” for Tinubu’s 2027 campaign, as public anger rises amid IMF warnings that budgets across Sub-Saharan Africa are built on unrealistic revenue assumptions. Human Rights Under Fire: UN rights chief Volker Türk is demanding independent probes into Nigerian and Chadian airstrikes after reports of mass civilian deaths in Zamfara, while Nigeria denies civilian casualties. Courtroom Accountability: Ex-Power Minister Saleh Mamman was sentenced to 75 years for ₦33.8bn fraud and money laundering tied to hydro projects. Energy & Economy: Nigeria hit its highest 2026 oil output so far, Tinubu pushed France ties into “execution,” and a $188m solar push targets 191MW. Governance & Services: NUC and the World Bank plan $65m to train universities on procurement and standards for 24,000 Nigerians; NIMC launches WhatsApp and live chat support for NIN enquiries.

Digital Governance & Security: NCC moves to tighten telecom cyber response, requiring operators to report cyberattacks to the regulator within four hours and update every four hours until contained—effective Feb 2027. Police Reform Push: IGP Disu seeks stronger international support to fast-track a modern, intelligence-led, rights-respecting Nigeria Police. Broadcast Upgrade: FG sets June 17 for commissioning Nigeria’s digital switchover facilities, promising better TV quality and spectrum release. Debt Pressure: Tinubu warns debt servicing will gulp $11.6bn in 2026, starving investment in industry and jobs. Courts & Anti-Corruption: A court orders final forfeiture of ex-Accountant-General Nwabuoku’s multi-billion-naira assets, while another remands Delta activist “Wong Box” over alleged cyberstalking/defamation. Politics & 2027: Enugu NDC threatens legal action over delayed ratification of congresses; NDC sets presidential form at N60m with primaries scheduled for late May. Regional Diplomacy: Tinubu meets Rwanda’s Kagame in Kigali as Nigeria markets reforms at the Africa CEO Forum.

Election Politics: The NDC has released its 2027 primaries timetable and set presidential form fees at ₦60m, with sales starting May 13 and the presidential primary fixed for May 29 in Abuja. Information Integrity: ECOWAS is pushing stronger digital governance ahead of 2027, training journalists to fight misinformation and deepfakes. Security & Crime: EFCC chairman Olanipekun Olukoyede renewed alarm over cybercrime, claiming many undergraduates are involved in “Yahoo Yahoo,” while the UK’s NCAA-style dispute over Air Peace passengers in London is met with an NCAA rebuttal. Governance & Institutions: Nigeria’s judiciary and regulators keep moving—NDIC and NJI held a Court of Appeal seminar on bank liquidation and depositor protection, and NIMC launched WhatsApp and live chat support for NIN enquiries. Economy & Public Services: Lagos backs tougher action on estimated electricity billing as smart metering rolls out; Shettima says tax reforms helped cut debt-service burden to 68% in 2025. Environment: Nigeria launched a marine litter policy brief with PROTEGO, targeting plastic waste entering waterways.