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New AI Platform Gives Early Warning On Floods To Sabon Gari Farmers

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By Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna

In three farming communities in Sabon Gari Local Government Area, young people are now using artificial intelligence to warn neighbours about floods and deteriorating soil, months before the damage becomes severe.

The effort is led by Nest Africa AI Innovation Lab, which recently trained 20 young farmers as AI Climate Youth Ambassadors. The one-day workshop held in Zaria brought together participants from Jushi, Jama’a and Zabi wards.

They were chosen not because they had tech degrees, but because they already understand the land. Organisers said that lived experience of seasonal risks in Northern Nigeria could not be taught in a classroom.

This is contained in a statement signed by Muhammed Sani Kabir, Communications Lead, he said the tool at the centre of the project is AyéMọlẹ AI. The climate intelligence platform, built by Nest Africa, turns complex weather and environmental data into simple, local language guidance that works on basic mobile phones.

For many Nigerians, AI still means a chatbot that answers homework questions. But in Kaduna, the Lab is trying to change that perception by connecting AI directly to the problems farmers face every season.

The connection is urgent. According to ReliefWeb, floods in 2022 affected more than 3 million people in Nigeria and destroyed over 500,000 hectares of farmland. In many northern communities, soil degradation has been cutting yields quietly year after year.

The project, titled “Demystifying AI in Practice: Community Awareness and Climate Intelligence in Kaduna,” is supported by the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development under the Nigeria AI Collective.

The Collective was set up by the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy and is led by Data Science Nigeria, Lagos Business School and CJID. Nest Africa was one of seven civil society groups selected to translate the national AI mandate into community action.

What makes AyéMọlẹ AI different is its design for rural realities. It does not require constant internet or technical English. Instead of just saying “it will rain,” it tells a farmer what that rain means for planting, grazing, or moving livestock out of a floodplain.

During the training, facilitators mixed lessons on AI basics, climate change and land degradation with role-play and ward breakout sessions. Participants tested the platform using real problems from their own farms.

The results were clear. Average knowledge scores rose from 74.3 percent before the training to 94.5 percent after. The biggest gain was on land degradation. Only 38.1 percent could define it correctly at the start. By the end, 95 percent could, and 100 percent knew how to reduce it.

“Awareness gaps are often about vocabulary and framing rather than a lack of lived knowledge,” said Abubakar Isa Abubakar, one of the facilitators. “That is why community-level sensitization with farmers and land users matters so much.”

Each ambassador left with a commitment to train at least 25 more farmers in their ward. The cascade model is designed to extend the reach to 150 or more additional people, well beyond the original 20.

The team has already taken the platform back to the three communities. Through awareness sessions and live demos, an estimated 100 to 150 residents, including farmers, interacted with AyéMọlẹ AI directly and gave feedback to the technical team.

The conversations also went beyond climate. Many residents began asking what else AI could be used for, a sign that the project is shifting how people see the technology, from novelty to practical problem-solving.

Nest Africa has also started talks with policymakers. Initial discussions have been held with the Kaduna State Emergency Management Agency. Further engagement is planned with the Ministries of Agriculture and Environment, and local government authorities. A policy brief is being prepared ahead of a stakeholder roundtable.

With youth making up more than 60 percent of Nigeria’s population and northern states facing growing climate risk, the Kaduna pilot offers a model that other states could copy. It is low-cost, mobile-first, and relies on trust and peer learning rather than top-down campaigns.

Nest Africa AI Innovation Lab is a Kaduna-based organisation building practical AI tools for underserved communities. It was selected by CJID for an advocacy grant under the Nigeria AI Collective.

Borno: Zulum Invests N15.29bn in Scholarships, Approves Fresh Support for Overseas Students

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By Abdullahi Alhassan

Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has disclosed that his administration has invested N15.29 billion in scholarship programs for indigenes of the state since 2023, with more than N8.61 billion dedicated to overseas studies.

Governor Zulum made the disclosure on Wednesday at the homecoming ceremony for 294 Borno State beneficiaries of foreign scholarship schemes at universities in China, India, Egypt and Malaysia, where he congratulated graduates returning after completing their programs overseas.

According to the governor, the total allocation of N12.64 billion covers foreign scholarships, local scholarships and administrative support for the program.

Governor Zulum also announced the approval of N2.65 billion to settle the 2026 foreign scholarship obligations of 158 students pursuing studies in China, Malaysia, India and Egypt as submitted by the Ministry of Education.

He said N8. 61 billion was spent on foreign scholarships, while N3.83 billion went to local scholarship beneficiaries.

“It is in pursuit of this vision that, since 2023, this administration has invested a total of N12,644,034,368.96 in scholarships for the sons and daughters of Borno State. Of this sum, N8,611,846,007.60 has gone into foreign scholarships, N3,835,880,614.32 into local scholarships, and N196,307,747.04 into administrative support for the scheme,” Zulum said.

The Governor described the expenditure as one of the state’s most significant investments in education, stressing that developing young people’s capacity remained the most reliable route out of poverty and conflict.

“Our administration’s 25-Year Development Plan is anchored on building an equitable society in which every citizen, regardless of background or circumstance, has access to quality education and essential services,” he stated.

The proposed funding, he said, would also cover 54 beneficiaries under the state’s aviation scholarship program, which is currently under review.

He reiterated that the scholarship program would remain merit-based, noting that beneficiaries had recorded impressive academic performances in their respective institutions abroad.

The Governor further directed the Borno State Scholarship Board to open applications for 220 academic staff of the University of Maiduguri for local and foreign postgraduate scholarships.

He also announced that requests for sponsorship from professionals in the Humanities and Arts were receiving government attention, while reaffirming that the state had fully sponsored indigenous law graduates through law schools across Nigeria.

Zulum, while addressing the returning graduates, urged them to regard the scholarship as a public investment that must be repaid through service and meaningful contributions to their communities.

He pledged his administration’s continued commitment to human capital development, saying Borno would continue to build an environment that rewards excellence, promotes learning and prepares young people for leadership and development roles.

Meanwhile, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has announced a 100 percent increase in local scholarships for indigenes of the state. He directed the Commissioner of Education and Scholarship Board to ensure immediate implementation.

Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology and Investment, Engr. Lawan Abba Wakilbe said the foreign scholarship covers 294 indigenous students studying medicine, engineering and other science, technology, engineering and mathematics-related courses in Asia and North Africa.

He said the investment, amounting to over N8 billion from 2023 to date, covered tuition fees, accommodation, feeding, monthly stipends, airfares, travel documentation, and other academic-related expenses.

According to the Commissioner, 171 postgraduate scholars were trained in two universities in India and five universities in Malaysia, with the state spending N3.233 billion on their education. Noting that the beneficiaries are expected to take up academic roles in local tertiary institutions in the state.

Engr. Wakilbe added that 16 of the postgraduate scholars graduated with distinctions and other academic honors. He also presented 104 undergraduate students comprising 53 medical students and 51 engineering students currently studying in six institutions in China,

The students, he said, are expected to form part of the professional workforce for the state’s healthcare and infrastructure sectors, including the newly established state-of-the-art Kashim Ibrahim teaching hospital

The Commissioner further stated that beneficiaries had received their fees and monthly stipends, ranging from $150 to $200, promptly and in advance since 2023.

Executive Secretary of the Borno State Scholarship Board, Dr. Bala Isa, explained that the program began with 301 scholars. Regrettably, he said, one passed away, two withdrew due to ill health, one transferred, and three withdrew from the program, bringing the total number to 294.

Zulum Pledges Stronger UMTH, Partners’ Collaboration to Transform Borno Healthcare

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By Sunday Apah 

Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has promised to deepen collaboration with the Federal Government and development partners to improve healthcare services in the state.

The Governor made the pledge on Tuesday during the opening of the Association of Radiologists of Nigeria (ARIN) 9th Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference, Book Launch and Commissioning of projects at the UMTH in Maiduguri.

He said the event marked another milestone in the collective pursuit of stronger healthcare delivery, medical education, research and specialist services for the people of Borno State and the North-East.

Governor Zulum re-stated his administration’s commitment to continue supporting the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH) within available resources, alongside other federal health institutions in the state.

“As a State Government, we will continue to support the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital and other healthcare institutions within our capacity, while strengthening collaboration with the Federal Government and other partners,” Zulum stated.

The Governor noted that UMTH had remained steadfast in saving lives, training medical professionals and providing essential specialist services throughout the difficult years of insurgency and flooding in the state.

He commended the hospital’s Chief Medical Director, Professor Ahmed Ahidjo, for what he described as exemplary leadership and significant contributions to the institution’s growth.

According to Zulum, the hospital has recorded notable progress in infrastructure development, specialist services, medical training, research and professional development under Professor Ahidjo’s leadership.

“You are not only managing a Teaching Hospital; you are building a legacy that will benefit generations to come,” the Governor said.

“Professor Ahidjo has demonstrated that effective leadership is about building strong institutions, developing people and leaving a lasting legacy. Under his leadership, the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital has continued to make significant progress in infrastructure, specialist services, medical training, research and professional development.”

He expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continued support to the state, particularly in healthcare infrastructure, human capital development and institutional strengthening.

Governor Zulum also commended NEDC for its intervention in the hospital and other development institutions in the region.

He said the ARIN Conference, book launch and inaugural lecture underscored the importance of research, knowledge-sharing and continuous professional development in addressing healthcare challenges.

Governor Zulum congratulated UMTH management and staff on the achievements. He expressed optimism that the newly commissioned projects would enhance the quality of healthcare services and further consolidate the hospital’s position as a centre of excellence.

Similarly, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has donated the sum of N100 million on behalf of the government of Borno State for the book “Duty and Courage: The Story of Professor Ahmed Ahidjo 2018-2026 written by Dr. James Bwala, which chronicles his achievements as the Chief Medical Director of UMTH.

The high point of the event was the commissioning of the Fertility Care Center and En-Suite Maternity Complex constructed by the North East Development Commission and the public presentation of the Book.

The event was attended by Borno State Deputy Governor, Hon. Umar Usman Kadafur; Shehu of Borno, Dr Abubakar Garbai Elkanemi; Senator representing Borno South, Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume; members of House of Representives; Minister of Livestock Development, Hon. Idi Mukhtar Maiha; Minister of State for Regional Development, Hon. Uba Maigari Ahmodu; representative of the minister of Health and Social Welfare, Deputy Speaker Borno State House of Assembly and other members of the state assembly; Commissioners; traditional rulers; MD North East Development Commission and other dignitries.

Funkekeme Urged APC Members to be Committed to Defend Party’s Programmes, Achievements at All Levels

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By Rejoice Ighoviroro 

 

 

 

The Delta State Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, Hon. Solomon Funkekeme has urged members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to remain committed to the party and defend its programmes and achievements at all levels of government.

Funkekeme who made this known during stakeholders engagement of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors at Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State, highlighted what he described as key achievements of the Tinubu administration, including the student loan scheme, increased financial autonomy for local governments and the removal of fuel subsidy.

Funkekeme cited the administration’s proposed establishment of state police as part of efforts to strengthen security across the country.

He urged members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to remain committed to the party and defend its programmes and achievements at all levels of government.

He charged party faithful to be firm and courageous in promoting the ideals and policies of the APC, urging them to take the message of the party to communities across the country.

Earlier, Chairman of Ughelli North Local Government Council and Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors in the area, Olorogun Jaro Egbo, welcomed the leadership of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, with stakeholders reaffirming their support for the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori.

Egbo commended the achievements of President Tinubu and Governor Oborevwori, particularly in the area of grassroots development.

Egbo stated that resources allocated to the local government were being judiciously utilised for the benefit of the people.

He also disclosed that the council would empower 200 beneficiaries in each of the political wards as part of efforts to improve the economic wellbeing of residents.

Udu’s Own Son Rises: Why Ator Okolosi Is the Clear Choice for September 19 Bye-Election

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By Sunday Apah

As the September 19, 2026 bye-election for the Delta State House of Assembly seat representing Udu Constituency draws near, a familiar and trusted name from the heart of Orhuwhorun is generating powerful momentum across Udu Local Government Area.

Comrade Ator Okolosi, a grassroots leader born and bred in the prestigious Okolosi sub-family of the Uterhi family in Ekrekun Quarters, is being widely hailed as the aspirant who truly understands the pulse of the people.

Born on 1 May 1982, Okolosi’s journey reflects the classic story of local determination and steady public service.

He began his education at Baba-Ido Primary School, Okwagbe (1986–1991), proceeded to Ewu Grammar School, Ewu-Urhobo, where he earned his NECO certificate (1997–2003), obtained a National Diploma from Delta State Polytechnic, Ozoro (2005/2006–2008/2009), and furthered his studies at the Institute of Management and Technology (IMT), Enugu (2010–2012).

His professional path started with hands-on experience as a Welder-Mate at Daewoo E&C Nigeria Limited (2008–2010), followed by national service under the NYSC programme in the 2012/2013 service year. Yet it is his deep and consistent engagement in community and political life that has positioned him as a natural representative for Udu.

Okolosi first tested the political waters in 2008 as a PDP councillorship candidate. Though he fell short that year, the experience only strengthened his resolve.

In June 2014, Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan appointed him to the Youth Development Committee. In 2018, under Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, he was named Community Peace Ambassador.

He later served as Special Assistant to the Governor of Delta State from 1 January to 29 May 2023. Since 5 August 2024, he has continued to serve the people directly as Personal Assistant to the Executive Chairman of Udu Local Government Council, a role he holds until January 2026.

Throughout these years, Okolosi has remained firmly rooted in community development, peace-building, and public service.

Supporters across Udu now argue that his combination of local roots, practical experience, and proven loyalty to the constituency makes him the candidate best prepared to deliver results in the State House of Assembly.

With the bye-election just weeks away, the call from many quarters is clear: the people of Udu should rally behind one of their own.

Ator Okolosi’s record of quiet service and unbroken commitment positions him as the candidate ready to carry Udu’s voice to Asaba with authenticity and determination.

Zulum Approves Promotion Benefits, Leave Grants For Borno Civil Servants

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By Abdullahi Alhassan

Borno State Governor, Professor. Babagana Umara Zulum, has approved the immediate implementation of promotion benefits and the payment of leave grants for civil servants across the state.

The approvals were announced after a closed-door meeting with leaders of the Nigerian Labour Congress, NLC, Trade Union Congress, TUC, and the National Union of Local Government Employees, NULGE, held at the Government House in Maiduguri.

This was contained in a statement signed by the Honourable Commissioner for Information and Internal Security, Professor. Usman Tar.

According to the statement, the directive followed the submission of a service proposal by the Directorate of Establishment in the Office of the Head of Service. The proposal provided analysis and recommendations on the state-wide implementation of the national minimum wage policy across different cadres of the state public service.

After consultations with labour leaders, Governor Zulum approved three key measures to ensure efficient and sustainable implementation of the wage reform.

The approvals include Immediate implementation of promotional benefits for all civil servants for the 2023/2024 and 2024/2025 sessions.

Also Immediate payment of leave grants for all entitled civil servants for the 2025 session. A further review of salary arrears for staff of secondary and tertiary institutions, with a view to implementing payment by September 2026.

In a move to extend the wage adjustment to the local government level, the governor also constituted a task force to work out modalities for the new salary structure.

The task force will be headed by the Commissioner for Local Government and Emirate Affairs, Hon. Sugun Mai Mele. It is mandated to consult widely with stakeholders, review existing regulations, examine the current local government workforce, and propose viable and sustainable options for a full-scale implementation of the enhanced salary and gratuity scheme for local government staff.

Governor Zulum directed the committee to submit its report within two weeks for prompt consideration by the state government.

In addition, the governor directed the Directorate of Establishment to develop a blueprint for fresh employment and recruitment into the civil service. The plan is expected to be based on an internal review of the existing workforce, gap analysis, and needs assessment, with focus on critical professions and expertise depleted by retirement and capacity flight.

The labour meeting was part of ongoing engagements by the Borno State Government to align with the national minimum wage policy while addressing welfare issues affecting workers in the state.

FMC Ovwian Clarifies Recruitment Status, Warns Public Against Fraudsters

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By Success Ukuchemiyan

The Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Ovwian, Udu, Delta State, has clarified that no recruitment or employment exercise is currently ongoing at the medical facility, warning members of the public against fraudulent recruitment claims circulating on social media.

Speaking in a chat with our reporter, the Chief Medical Director of the Centre, Dr Kingsley Akaba, stated that the hospital is not currently conducting any employment exercise.

According to him, members of the public should disregard social media posts or messages claiming that the Centre is recruiting.

He also cautioned job seekers against falling victim to fraudsters who may exploit the fake recruitment information to demand money or obtain sensitive personal details.

In a public disclaimer, the Centre advised anyone interested in employment opportunities to rely only on official announcements issued through its verified communication channels.

“Any information circulating on social media claiming that the Centre is currently recruiting is false and should be disregarded,” the management stated.

The Centre further advised members of the public not to pay money or provide personal information to anyone claiming to be recruiting on its behalf.

Management urged the public to share the disclaimer widely to help protect unsuspecting job seekers from being misled or defrauded.

For enquiries, complaints or further clarification, members of the public can contact the Centre on 08100789757, 09132806203, 08162945257 or 08160161044, or via FederalMedicalCentreOvwian@gmail.com.

The Centre also encouraged the public to follow its verified YouTube and Facebook platforms for authentic information about its activities and future employment opportunities.

APC Forges Formidable Unity in Delta South as Ejele Drops Legal Challenge Against Senator Joel-Onowakpo

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By Sunday Apah
A decisive breakthrough has been achieved in the sustained drive to fortify cohesion within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State. Hon. Prince Michael Diden, widely known as Ejele, has formally discontinued the lawsuit he filed against Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas and has declared his unequivocal support for the Senator and the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
This development emerged after a high-stakes reconciliation meeting between Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, who represents the Delta South Senatorial District, and Hon. Diden at the latter’s residence.
The encounter has been widely hailed as a pivotal advance toward lasting peace, internal solidarity and revitalised unity within the APC ranks in Delta South.
A formidable delegation attended the meeting, including the Delta South Senatorial Chairman of the APC, Prince Emmam Amgbaduba; the Chief of Staff to the Delta State Government, Hon. Prince Johnson Erijo; the chairmen of the eight local government areas that constitute Delta South; and other influential party leaders and stakeholders.
Marked by an atmosphere of celebration, mutual warmth and genuine camaraderie, the gathering was deliberately convened to entrench durable harmony, reinforce organisational cohesion and consolidate the party’s support base in preparation for the 2027 polls.
At the conclusion of the discussions, Hon. Diden publicly announced the withdrawal of his legal action against Senator Joel-Onowakpo.
He further pledged that he and his followers would work resolutely alongside the Senator to deliver an emphatic victory for the APC across Delta South and the entire state.
Observers anticipate that this reconciliation will significantly fortify the party’s political architecture in the senatorial district and sharpen its readiness for the approaching presidential, national and state elections.
Responding to the breakthrough, Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas conveyed deep gratitude to the leaders and stakeholders who facilitated the rapprochement.
He stressed that the restored unity would invigorate the APC and equip the party to secure overwhelming victories for all its candidates.
The Senator specifically lauded the Delta State Governor and APC leader in the state, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, for what he characterised as exceptional leadership, sagacity and an unwavering commitment to party unity.
He stated: “First, I want to give special and heartfelt appreciation to our leader in Delta State, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, the Executive Governor of Delta State.
“His Excellency has demonstrated uncommon leadership, wisdom and large-heartedness in uniting the APC family in Delta State. This peace we have achieved today is a reflection of his fatherly role and his genuine desire to build one strong, united APC that will deliver for all our candidates.”
Senator Joel-Onowakpo also commended Hon. Diden for his sportsmanship, maturity and dedication to the party’s advancement, describing the decision to prioritise the collective interest of the APC over personal considerations as profoundly admirable.
“I assure him that he and his supporters will be fully integrated and respected. Together as one formidable family, we will work to deliver all our candidates in the forthcoming elections,” the Senator added.

Agbowhiame Political Leaders, Electorates Endorse Tinubu, Oborevwori, Dafinone, Others (Videos & Photos)

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By Sunday Apah

In a demonstration of total loyalty to the party, the political leaders and electorate of Agbowhiame community have formally endorsed the re-election of the candidates of the All Progressives Congress (APC): Alhaji Bola Ahmed Tinubu for President; Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori for Governor of Delta State; Senator Ede Dafinone for the Delta Central Senatorial District; Rt. Hon. Francis Ejiroghene Waive for the House of Representatives, Ughelli North/Ughelli South/Udu Federal Constituency; and Hon. Festus Utuama for the Delta State House of Assembly, Ughelli South Constituency I.

The endorsement, grounded in the candidates’ exemplary performance and impressive scorecards, was proclaimed during a unity meeting of both longstanding and newly enrolled members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) held at Agbowhiame on 16th August, 2026.

The gathering, characterised by an atmosphere of purposeful consensus, brought together traditional stakeholders, party executives and grassroots mobilisers who affirmed that the aforementioned leaders had demonstrably justified continued public confidence through tangible developmental interventions and responsive governance.

Participants maintained that the incumbents’ records of delivery rendered them eminently deserving of renewed mandates at their respective levels of political responsibility.

Moving the motion for the collective endorsement, the Political Leader of the community, Olorogun Johnson Boro, meticulously enumerated the manifold achievements attributable to the candidates under consideration.

He underscored the transformative impact of federal, state and legislative initiatives that had improved infrastructure, enhanced security architecture, stimulated economic opportunities and elevated the general welfare of constituents across Agbowhiame and its environs.

Olorogun Boro further contended that the continuity of experienced and result-oriented leadership was indispensable to consolidating the gains already recorded.

He urged the assemblage to transcend factional considerations and present a united front in support of the endorsed candidates, emphasising that political stability and developmental acceleration were inextricably linked to such cohesion.

Seconding the motion with equal conviction, Olorogun Kakor Ese, Director General of Local Content, and Olorogun Sunday Apah, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Media, spoke in harmonious affirmation.

Both leaders reinforced the argument that the candidates’ high scorecards constituted irrefutable evidence of competence, integrity and unwavering commitment to the aspirations of the people.

The seconders particularly highlighted the synergistic relationship between federal policies under President Tinubu, the progressive governance of Governor Oborevwori and the legislative advocacy of Senator Dafinone, Rt. Hon. Waive and Hon. Utuama.

They asserted that this multi-tiered alignment had produced measurable dividends for Agbowhiame and the broader Ughelli South Local Government Area.

Adding their voices of endorsement; Mr. Emmanuel Osieta, President General of Agbowhiame Community, Mr. Nelson Ogbodudu, APC Assistant Secretary of Ughelli South Local Government Area, and Mr. Emuobor Wini, Youth Leader of APC Jeremi Ward 2, each articulated strong support for the motion.

Their interventions underscored the critical role of youth engagement and community-level ownership in sustaining political momentum.

Mrs. Rita Collins, Assistant Publicity Secretary of APC Jeremi Ward 2, Pa Joseph Gokeme, Mrs. Agness Irhobo, APC Assistant Women Leader of Jeremi Ward 2, and other prominent party members similarly expressed unreserved concurrence.

The unity meeting itself was widely regarded as a strategic platform for reconciling erstwhile differences between old and new members of the party.

Speakers repeatedly affirmed that internal cohesion within the APC in Agbowhiame would translate into formidable electoral strength and an unassailable mandate for the endorsed leaders.

TMG Commends INEC, Osun Voters, Urges Protection of Mandate Ahead of 2027

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By Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna

The Transition Monitoring Group (TMG) has commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the largely smooth conduct of the August 15, 2026 Osun State Governorship Election.

In a statement issued in Kaduna, TMG noted the absence of major technical glitches in most polling units and the real-time uploading of results on the INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV) as key improvements.

The commendation was signed by TMG Chairman and Executive Director of CISLAC, Auwal Musa Rafsanjani.

While applauding INEC, the group also called on the judiciary to safeguard mandates freely given by voters and to ensure electoral litigation does not become a tool for overturning the people’s will through technicalities.

TMG equally praised the people of Osun State for their peaceful participation and resilience, despite reported cases of vote buying, intimidation, harassment and other attempts to suppress turnout.

According to the group, the Osun poll provides an opportunity for Nigerians to acknowledge progress in the electoral process while continuing to demand greater transparency, accountability and professionalism from INEC.

TMG said the timely electronic transmission of results showed that under the leadership of Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan, INEC can deliver a more credible process when its systems work as intended.

The group stressed that INEC should not be blamed for every electoral malpractice, arguing that vote buying, thuggery and intimidation are largely driven by political actors and their supporters.

TMG cited recent governorship elections in Anambra, Ondo, Edo and Ekiti as further evidence that peaceful polls are possible when processes are credible and the voters’ will is respected.

The group added that the absence of significant post-election violence in these states should boost public confidence in democracy and encourage politicians to accept outcomes or seek redress through legal channels.

It urged all candidates and parties in the Osun election to demonstrate political maturity by accepting the results and pursuing grievances through established mechanisms.

TMG also called on political parties to move away from politics of violence, vote buying, and ethnic or religious mobilization, and instead compete on character, competence and credible programmes.

Looking to the 2027 General Elections, the group urged Nigerians to take greater responsibility by obtaining their Permanent Voter Cards, getting accredited early, and turning out to vote without selling their votes.

Voters were cautioned against choosing candidates based solely on religion, ethnicity, region or party loyalty, and were advised to interrogate candidates’ records, teams and policy plans.

TMG urged INEC to build on the gains in Osun by strengthening its technology, logistics, accreditation, results transmission and public communication ahead of 2027.

The group also tasked security agencies and anti-corruption institutions to intensify the crackdown on vote buying, intimidation and other electoral offences.

Reaffirming its commitment to election monitoring, TMG said the Osun experience should strengthen confidence that credible elections are possible, and that every vote and mandate must be protected.

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