News
2019: Northen Elite Move Against Buhari
Seventeen months to the expiration of President Muhammadu Buhari’s tenure, some politicians within the All Progressives Congress (APC) have already begun move to furstrate his seeking a fresh mandate.
To this extent, the All Progressives Congress renagades, majority of whom are from the North-East, alongside the opposition have started holding clandestine meetings to scuttle Buhari’s perceived move with his inner caucus to retain the party’s candidacy come 2019.
Sources in Abuja told The Tide yesterday that the Northern elite were not comfortable with the President’s quest for power as “Aso Rock,” the seat of power cannot be inhabited by “an unhealthy president”.
Apparently uncomfortable with the desire of the President, to stage a comeback, the Northern elite, The Tide learnt have begun a subtle campaign that would rescue the suffering masses from hunger and starvation caused by the Buhari- led self centered government.
An APC chieftain and member, House of Representatives who does not want his name in print, while responding to questions at the Murtala Muhammed Airport (MMA), Lagos, yesterday, said, if Mr. President emerges as a consensus candidate at the party’s convention, they would challenge the process in court.
Already, various interest groups in the party were said to be working out strategies to stop President Buhari from contesting the 2019 presidential election based on Mr. President’s health condition, broken promises, dictatorship, unemployment, economic stagnation and self-centeredness.
However, The Tide learnt that Buhari’s supporters and followers are ever prepared to go the extra mile to ensure that the President continues in power till death to enable them protect their interest and remain relevant in the political arena as power brokers.
Besides, Buhari is said to be enjoying the support of the party chairman and some former governors from the South – South some of whom have insisted that he has the right to seek and contest for a second term in office.
Investigations by our correspondent revealed that many Northern elite, and those from the Western region of the ruling party, including the common man on the streets are not comfortable with President Muhammadu Buhari, and have vowed to work against him.
Amidst the discontent, controversies and counter-claims over the 2019 presidential election, currently engulfing the APC, President Buhari is yet to make any statement. The unabating security challenges, particularly in the North East, Mainagate and many other issues bordering on corruption allegations levelled against members of his kitchen cabinet are occupying his mind and attention, an inside source told our correspondent.
The 2025 annual general meeting (AGM) and conference of the Rivers/Bayelsa states chapter of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has come to a close with a strong call for both states to drive the blue economy.
The communique just issued after the AGM pointed to what it called emerging prospects in fish processing, seaweed cultivation, ship repair, and marine technology.
The communique which also mentioned human capital gaps that must be filled through technical and vocational training that are aligned with modern industrial needs, said the blue economy represents a viable pathway for Nigeria’s industrialisation.
It said MAN and Arican Marine Environment Sustainability Initiative (AFMESI) have the capacity to unlock Nigeria’s blue economy sustainably and inclusively, but said the region required dedicated infrastructure upgrades, including roads, waterways, and power.
The communique was signed by Vincent Okuku (Chairman of Rivers/Bayelsa States Branch); Michael Nosa Agana (Branch Vice Chairman/Chairman AGM planning Committee); and Chibuzor Eze (Executive Secretary, Rivers/Bayelsa States Branch).
The resolutions said the future of the Niger Delta economy lies in diversification rather than dependence on extractive industries. “Technology and innovation, value addition and local processing, strategic infrastructure, and a skilled workforce are essential pillars for the future of manufacturing in the region.
“Governments in the region must intensify support for manufacturing activities. Various forms of collaboration across sectors should be actively encouraged.”
It specifically advised Bayelsa and Rivers States to fully develop and harness the blue economy as strategic gateways for sustainable growth; and called for cross-border partnerships with neighbouring states to enhance trade, security, and environmental management.”
The Rivers/Bayelsa States branch of MAN held its first (41st) AGM outside Port Harcourt for the first time, hosted by Bayelsa State Government at the Chief D.S.P. Alamieyeseigha Memorial Banquet Hall, with the theme: ‘Trade, Technology, and the Future of Manufacturing in the Niger Delta.’
In his welcome address, the chairman of the branch, Okuku, commended the Bayelsa State Government under the leadership of Gov Douye Diri for its efforts in industrial development, investment promotion, and strong partnership with the private sector.
He also acknowledged the Rivers State Government for its commitment to rehabilitating industrial clusters, improving access roads, and delivering key infrastructure.
He, however, expressed concern over persistent challenges such as high energy costs, unreliable electricity supply, weak transport systems, rising logistics expenses, multiple taxes and levies, inconsistent regulatory frameworks, and pressure from host communities, which continue to hinder manufacturing growth in both states.
The President of MAN, Francis Meshioye, noted that the Niger Delta, with its abundant resources and strategic location, holds vast potential for industrial expansion. He called for policy frameworks that promote local manufacturing, enhance trade, and attract investments to the region.
Goodwill messages were delivered by the Minister of the Federal Ministry of Regional Development, Abubakar Momoh, represented by Wasa Festus, Director of Community Development and Education. Another goodwill message was also presented by the Bayelsa State Commissioner for Trade, Industry and Investment, Ebieri Jones.
In his remarks, Gov Diri praised MAN for its contributions to Nigeria’s manufacturing sector, noting its resilience, innovation, and strategic role in national development. He stated that the conference theme aligns with his administration’s mantra of “Assured Prosperity.”
Gov Diri offered 24-hour service to manufacturers wishing to relocate to the state, and highlighted the State’s ongoing transformation through deliberate investment in infrastructure, security, and human capital aimed at positioning Bayelsa State as a hub for industrial growth, particularly in the blue economy, agriculture, and manufacturing.
He further noted that hosting the 41st AGM fulfilled a long-desired aspiration of the State following the successful 2024 MAN event in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. He officially declared the exhibition open.
The Nigerian Education Loan Fund has alerted the public to a fraudulent message circulating online, claiming that the NELFUND Student Loan Registration Portal is open.
The message directs applicants to a third-party link (http://gvly.xyz/Nelfund-Student-Loan, which NELFUND confirms is unauthorised and fraudulent.
In a post obtained from its X handle, yesterday, NELFUND urged students and the general public not to click on the link or provide any personal information, emphasising that the official loan registration portal is only accessible through the Fund’s verified channels.
The agency reminded applicants to exercise caution online and to report any suspicious links or communications claiming to be from NELFUND.
“Applicants are encouraged to always verify official announcements via NELFUND’s official website and social media channels,” NELFUND said.
This advisory comes as part of NELFUND’s ongoing efforts to safeguard students and ensure the integrity of the student loan application process.
-
Sports5 days ago
Neglect, Mismangement Responsible For 2026 W’Cup Mishap – Barr Green
-
Sports5 days ago
“Rangers No More Chasing NPFL Title Ambition”
-
Ict/Telecom5 days ago
NIGCOMSAT Expands Nigeria’s Digital Broadcast Subsector By 35%
-
Business5 days agoKeyamo Lists Aviation Investment Opportunities For Investors
-
Rivers5 days ago
New Year Festival: Dokubo Urges Citizens’ Reorientation In Cultural Values
-
Sports5 days ago
Corruption, Impunity Bane Of Nigerian Football – Dalung
-
Sports5 days ago
Insurance Beat Pillars In A Dramatic Way
-
Ict/Telecom5 days ago
Expert Tasks Nigerians On AI