US Procurement Report: NEFGAD Insists BPP’s Defence is Weak and Deceptive

By: Michael Mike

A leading public procurement advocacy in Nigeria, Network for the Actualization of Social Growth and Viable Development

(NEFGAD), has criticized the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) for offering weak and “deceptive” defense to an honest and highly integrous report of the United States of America alleging corruption and lack of transparency in Nigeria’s public procurement.

NEFGAD made this known in a statement through its Acting Head of Office, Barrister Unekwu Blessing-Ojo and made available to newsmen in Abuja on Tuesday.

He advised the Bureau to stop deceiving the President by owing up to its leadership deficits, which has eroded staff and stakeholders’ confidence in the operations of the Bureau.

In its 2025 fiscal transparency report, the US Department officials found that 61 of 140 government and entities assessed did not meet the minimum transparency requirement of which Nigeria is one of them. The US report is in tandem with our in-house assessment of public procurement transactions within the last one year under the leadership of Dr Adebowale Adedokun, Unekwu said.

Unekwu further averred that Dr Adebowale Adedokun, the current Director General of the BPP is an overrated theorist who lack the requisite capacity and character to deliver on practical organizational promises and or national developmental goals, particularly the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President.

The group warned president Bola Tinubu to be more circumspect on the issue of public procurement in Nigeria, maintaining that the success and failure of any administration largely depends on its public procurement practices, and expresses serious doubt as to the current leadership ability of the BPP to deliver on the renewed hope agenda of the president as urgently required.

In the last one year, there seems to be more of procurement policy formulations and regulations from the BPP aimed at promoting local content participation, service delivery in social sectors, Civil Societies (CSOs) engagements and a promise of a more efficient resource allocations, all these looks more of an Artificial Intelligence (AI) generated contents without corresponding impact on the Nigerian people. Most procurement are still shrouded in secrecy, due process largely disregarded, access to procurement information habitually denied, while the BPP staffers who should assist in the delivery strategy are largely demoralized/demotivated, stakeholders engagement ended at an event venue without necessary follow-ups by the Bureau.

NEFGAD advised the Director General to resign if the office is too big for him to manage and allow Mr President to appoint a more competent person to run the affairs of the office more efficiently and effectively.

US Procurement Report: NEFGAD Insists BPP’s Defence is Weak and Deceptive

US Embassy Appeals to Nigerian to Study in American Universities to Improve their Lot

By: Michael Mike

The United States Embassy has described Nigerians as determined and highly industrious people, appealing to them to consider getting educated in American universities to improve their lot, assuring that numerous opportunities await them.

Speaking at the 2025 Education USA Fair in Abuja, the Public Diplomacy Officer at the US Embassy Abuja, Brian Neubert said numerous opportunities are available for Nigerian students in American universities.

He noted that thousands of Nigerians continue to study in the United States, and the embassy is excited about the growing interest in EducationUSA services across Nigeria.

The Education Fair is theme: “Empowering Future, Discover American Excellence in Education and Innovation.”

Neubert said, “We’ve seen it for decades. It’s really extraordinary. There are exceptional education systems and schools in Nigeria, including up to the university level.”

“What we have seen over the decades is that many thousands of Nigerians take advantage of overseas opportunities. They come back and work in academia, they come back and work as journalists in media, they certainly come back and work in business.”

He noted that popular courses among Nigerian students include engineering, business, law, and medicine.

He said: “We know that Nigerians hustle. The courses of study that are most interesting to Nigerian students are often engineering, business, law, medicine, and many thousands of these students graduate, and then they come back and build this country.”

Neubert outlined the process for applying to American schools, stressing the importance of planning ahead.

“The process for applying to the school of the United States, the first step is coming here today, and also looking at the resources that are available online from EducationUSA,” he advised.

“Plan ahead is critical. It’s absolutely important to plan ahead. If you wait until the last minute, that creates challenges, but if you plan ahead and ask questions, that gives the student the best chance of success.”

On scholarships, Neubert pointed out that exceptional students can access various opportunities.

“There are opportunities for scholarships. Exceptional students get to have scholarships. There are a variety of options for scholarships, and international students, students from Nigeria, enrich the experience for the entire community on campus,” he said.

Neubert also addressed concerns about the cost of studying in the US, explaining that the embassy provides resources to help students make informed decisions about financing their education.

“We’re providing resources so that students can make their own decisions of where they want to study and how they want to finance that study,” he explained.

Neubert encouraged students to stay in touch with EducationUSA Nigeria counsellors for support and guidance throughout the application process.

“The US Embassy’s EducationUSA team offers free counseling services to guide students through the application process.

Neubert urged students to responsibly maintain their student visa status, ensuring compliance with all regulations to maximize their time in the United States and bring valuable experiences back to Nigeria.

Neubert noted the long tradition of Nigerian students excelling in US institutions and making significant contributions to their communities and the world.

“As you consider your next steps, know that you are joining a long tradition of Nigerian students who have excelled in U.S. institutions and gone on to make significant contributions to their communities and the world,” he said.

The Public Diplomacy Officer expressed the US government’s pride in partnering with Nigeria to empower the next generation of leaders, innovators, and change-makers.

“The United States is proud to partner with Nigeria in empowering the next generation of leaders, innovators, and change-makers,” Neubert concluded, wishing attendees a successful and inspiring day at the college fair.”

US Embassy Appeals to Nigerian to Study in American Universities to Improve their Lot

APC’s Future in Yobe State: Insights Ahead of the 2027 General Elections and the Case for Baba Mallam Wali as the Next Governor of Yobe State

By: Yahaya Wakili

As the 2027 general elections approach, the political climate in Yobe State is becoming increasingly lively. Analysts and political commentators are closely observing the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its intentions regarding its continued dominance in the state. Since the APC established a firm foothold in Yobe, many believe the party has fostered significant loyalty among its supporters, dubbing the state a stronghold for the APC.

NEWSng reports that APC has been in power in Yobe State since 2015, following years of challenges and changes in leadership. Under the administration of Governor Mai Mala Buni, the APC has implemented various developmental projects aimed at improving the state’s infrastructure, education, and healthcare systems. These efforts have contributed to a perception among many residents that the APC is committed to the progress of Yobe.

However, political analysts are pondering whether the APC can maintain its influence in the face of emerging challenges. One major factor is the increasing dissatisfaction among some citizens regarding specific policies and governance. Issues such as unemployment, poverty, and insufficient access to basic services remain pressing concerns. As these problems persist, some voters may begin to look for alternatives to the APC, which could impact the party’s performance in the elections.

Recent elections in other states have shown that even long-standing party dominance can be challenged. For instance, the emergence of new parties and alliances has shifted traditional voting patterns. Political analysts are keenly aware of these trends and warn that complacency can hinder the APC’s efforts to secure victory in the upcoming elections.

On the other hand, the APC continues to emphasize its unity and strength within Yobe State. Party leaders assert that the ongoing development initiatives and the restoration of peace and security in the state are testament to their commitment. Also, the integration of youth and women into the party’s activities aims to engage the younger generation, whose voices will be critical during the elections.

Yobe State is divided into three senatorial districts: Yobe East Senatorial District, Zone A; Yobe South Senatorial District, Zone B; and Yobe North Senatorial District, Zone C.

Since the return of democracy in Nigeria in 1999, about 26 years ago, Yobe North Senatorial District has never produced the governor or even the deputy governor; the party didn’t give them or allow them that opportunity or chance, which is now calling for a rotation in the governance of the state. Yobe South Senatorial District produced only one governor, the late Governor Mamman B. Ali, and he didn’t even complete his first tenure; he only spent eighteen months in the seat.

Yobe East Senatorial District has been producing governors since then. So the call for APC to balance the equation, and if the party wants to continue getting acceptance from the Yobeans, the rotation formula of the governorship seat needs to be adopted if the party must continue winning without facing any challenges in the next coming elections in 2027. They should shift the governor’s seat to Yobe North Senatorial District, Zone C.

Analysts in Yobe North Senatorial District, also referred to as Zone C, have expressed their belief that Baba Mallam Wali, the current Secretary to the State Government, stands out as the most suitable candidate for the governorship of Yobe State in 2027. They argue that Wali possesses the necessary qualifications, competencies, and credibility that are vital for effective governance.

“Baba Mallam Wali has a wealth of experience that makes him a formidable candidate. As the Secretary to the State Government, he is already familiar with the workings of government and has built a strong network within the political framework of Yobe State. His current role involves overseeing various government functions, which equips him with the knowledge and skills needed to address the pressing issues facing the state,” Kabiru Umar said.

Analysts argue that this experience could lead to more efficient administration and quicker resolution of challenges, such as infrastructure development and educational reform. They also pointed out that credibility is an essential trait for any leader. Wali is viewed as a person of integrity and has gained the trust of many citizens in Yobe State. This trust is necessary for a governor who will need the support of the public to implement policies effectively.

“Baba Mallam Wali is the longest-serving SSG since the creation of Yobe State. If APC wants to win the election in 2027, let them give the governorship seat to Yobe North and pick Baba Mallam Wali mni as its candidate; the party will win one hundred percent (100%) without any challenge. This is because Baba Mallam Wali mni has the capacity and the vast experience in administration, and everybody in Yobe State knows that Baba Mallam Wali mni is capable of handling and governing the state in 2027. I know if the mandate is given to him, definitely APC will win the seat easily in the 2027 general elections, inshallah,” Abubakar Imam, a political analyst, observed.

In recent years, the importance of integrity in leadership has been highlighted across Nigeria, as communities yearn for leaders who will prioritize their needs above personal gain. Wali’s reputation positions him as a candidate who can work for the people’s best interests, making him a viable option for the position.

Additionally, Wali’s commitment to community development has not gone unnoticed. He has been involved in various initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for residents in Yobe State. He has demonstrated a deep understanding of the challenges that local populations face. His vision for the future of Yobe State aligns with the aspirations of many citizens who are looking for transformative leadership that prioritizes social welfare.

The arguments put forth by analysts regarding Baba Mallam Wali’s candidacy for the governorship of Yobe State in 2027 highlight his qualifications, credibility, and commitment to community development. As the state continues to navigate various challenges, it is crucial to have a leader who is prepared and capable of making informed decisions.

” The current Secretary to the State Government, Baba Mallam Wali mni work with His Excellency, the Honourable Minister of Police Affairs, Senator Ibrahim Geidam for almost good eight years, they take Yobe state to the greater height and they bring a lot of developmental projects in Yobe state and now he is the current Secretary to the State Government of His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Yobe state, Hon. Dr Mai Mala Buni CON, COMN, Chiroman Gujba and everybody has witnessed the rapid development they bring to Yobe state and see how they turn Yobe state to a semi London and all these gigantic development which executed by the government of His Excellency, the Executive Governor, Hon. Dr Mai Mala Buni CON, COMN Chiroman Gujba with the support and cooperation of Baba Mallam Wali.” Ibrahim Hassan said.

“Therefore, with these great developments that Yobe State has witnessed under Senator Ibrahim Geidam’s administration and the current governor, His Excellency, the Executive Governor, Hon. Dr. Mai Mala Buni CON, COMN, Chiroman Gujba, Yobe State needs people like Baba Mallam Wali mni to replace Governor Hon. Dr. Mai Mala Buni CON, COMN, Chiroman Gujba in 2027, because of his competence and capacity as well as his long experience, his credibility, his honesty, and his dedication to work. Baba Mallam Wali MNI extends his heartfelt congratulations to their Excellencies, the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Kashim Shettima GCON, and Minister of Police Affairs, Senator Ibrahim Geidam, on their birthday anniversaries.” He added

NEWSng reports that Baba Wali’s experience as the secretary to the state government and his dedication to serving the people of Yobe State position him as a strong candidate worthy of leadership in the upcoming elections in 2027.

APC’s Future in Yobe State: Insights Ahead of the 2027 General Elections and the Case for Baba Mallam Wali as the Next Governor of Yobe State