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Umahi Pays Tribute To Senator Mpigi, Celebrates Legacy Of Integrity, National Infrastructure Development

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Former Governors Forum

Umahi Pays Tribute To Senator Mpigi, Celebrates Legacy Of Integrity, National Infrastructure Development

The Honourable Minister of Works, Sen. Engr. David Umahi, CON, FNSE, FNATE has paid a heartfelt tribute to the late Chairman of the Senate Committee on Works, Senator Mpigi Barinada Barry, describing his passing as a profound loss to the nation and the infrastructure sector. The memorial event drew an array of prominent dignitaries and personalities, including prominent politicians, APC and PDP chieftains, and traditional leaders from Ogoniland, among others.

Engr. Umahi delivered a Goodwill Message during the Night of Tribute held on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre in Abuja, expressing deep sorrow over the demise of Senator Barinada and noting that his death remains painful and difficult to accept, given his invaluable contributions to national development.

Reflecting on their relationship, the Minister recalled that his closeness with the late Senator was strengthened through the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, which allowed him to observe Senator Mpigi’s character firsthand.

He described the late lawmaker, who represented Rivers South-East Senatorial District, as a man of impeccable integrity, whose word was his bond, emphasising that such consistency is rare in politics.

The Minister praised the late Senator’s dedication, loyalty, and reputation as a bridge-builder who brought his colleagues together, across party divisions, in the national interest, referencing his key role in the emergence of Godswill Akpabio as the Senate President. According to him, Senator Mpigi distinguished himself as a national figure, who demonstrated uncommon commitment to projects beyond his immediate constituency, advocating vigorously for infrastructure development across the country, including Lagos, Ogun, Sokoto, Kebbi, and Kano States, just to name a few.

Engr. Umahi emphasised that, as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Works, the late Senator Mpigi’s leadership greatly strengthened legislative oversight and fostered close collaboration between the National Assembly and the Federal Ministry of Works, ensuring the successful delivery of key infrastructure projects.

He particularly cited Senator Mpigi’s role in resolving critical challenges on major road projects, including the Bodo-Bonny Road and the rehabilitation of the Eleme–Onne section of the East-West Road in Rivers State. He noted that the Senator’s calm disposition, humility, and selfless approach to public service, combined with his strategic intervention and commitment, were instrumental in ensuring the successful continuation and delivery of these projects.

The Minister also revealed that, in recognition of Senator Mpigi’s selfless service and dedication, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has approved the rerouting of a section of the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway to pass through Ogoniland – an enduring testament to the late lawmaker’s legacy.

He expressed deep regret that Senator Mpigi would not witness the commissioning of several landmark projects he contributed to, including the Bodo-Bonny Road, the redesigned Eleme–Onne Road, and sections of the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway.

Former Governors Forum

Umahi Pays Tribute To Senator Mpigi,

Engr. Umahi assured the bereaved family of the Federal Government’s continued support, pledging that the Ministry of Works, in collaboration with relevant stakeholders, would sustain and actualise the developmental vision championed by the late Senator.

“We will not forget his family, his community, and his good intentions for Nigeria. His legacy of integrity, patriotism, and service will continue to inspire the nation and guide ongoing infrastructure development efforts,” he said.

He prayed for the repose of the soul of the departed and urged Nigerians to take solace in his impactful life and enduring contributions to national development.

Mohammed A. Ahmed,
Director, Information and Public Relations.
9 April, 2026.

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Government Rolls Out 20 Electric Buses To Cushion Fuel Price Hike In Borno

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Electric Buses

Electric Buses

Rolls Out 20 Electric Buses To Cushion Fuel Price Hike In Borno

The Borno government has deployed 20 electric buses for public transportation as part of measures to cushion the impact of rising petrol prices on residents.

The Borno government has deployed 20 electric buses for public transportation as part of measures to cushion the impact of rising petrol prices on residents.

This was announced in a statement by Dauda Illiya, the spokesperson for Governor Babagana Zulum on Thursday.

Mr Illiya said the initiative formed part of a broader intervention inaugurated earlier by President Bola Tinubu on December 20, 2025, which also included 3,000 electric bicycles, 500 electric tricycles and 100 electric vehicles to improve transportation services across the state.

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He said the rollout, which commenced on April 3, comprised 17 buses with a seating capacity of 49, two 37-seaters, and one 28-seater.

According to him, the buses are currently being deployed across major routes within Maiduguri metropolis and its environs to ease transportation challenges faced by commuters.

Mr Illiya said the fully air-conditioned and energy-efficient vehicles could cover over 400km on a single charge.

“To ensure seamless operations, the governor has also established the largest electric vehicle charging terminal in the country, with the capacity to charge up to 50 vehicles at a time,” he said.

He added that the governor directed the Borno Express Transport Service to maintain a subsidised fare of N50 per trip to shield residents from the effects of rising fuel costs.

He said commuters had commended the initiative, describing it as timely and impactful.

According to him, the deployment is part of the state government’s efforts to promote green energy, modernise the transportation system and provide relief to the vulnerable.

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NAF Boosts Elite Warfighting Capacity, Inaugurates 129 Trainees For Special Forces Course In Bauchi

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NAF Boosts Elite Warfighting Capacity, Inaugurates 129 Trainees For Special Forces Course In Bauchi

Elite warfighting. The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has taken another decisive step in strengthening its elite warfighting capability with the inauguration of 129 trainees for Special Forces Course 13/2026 at the Special Operations Command (SOC), Bauchi.

The initiative underscores the Service’s deliberate investment in developing highly skilled personnel to support ongoing counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations across various theatres, while advancing broader national security objectives. The training also reflects the command philosophy of the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, which prioritises mission-oriented force development, operational readiness, and joint combat effectiveness in addressing Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.

In his remarks, the Special Guest of Honour, the Air Officer Commanding Ground Training Command, Air Vice Marshal AG Kehinde, represented by Air Commodore Yahaya Bashir, Commander 251 Base Services Group Bauchi, emphasised the strategic importance of Special Forces training in sustaining combat readiness.

He noted that modern military operations increasingly require adaptable and highly trained personnel who can operate effectively in harsh and unpredictable environments, particularly in support of ongoing counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism missions. Describing Special Forces personnel as the elite cadre of any military organisation, he charged the trainees to prepare for a demanding but rewarding experience that will directly contribute to operational success in the field.

NAF

NAF

Earlier, the Commandant of the Regiment Training Centre Annex Bauchi, Squadron Leader Lawrence Akpan, described the training as a critical component of the NAF’s drive to build a resilient, agile, and mission-ready force. He noted that Special Forces training remains central to enhancing operational effectiveness, particularly against complex asymmetric threats posed by insurgents and terrorists.

The ceremony, which marked the formal commencement of the course, was attended by commanders of collocated units in Bauchi as well as Principal Staff Officers from Headquarters Special Operations Command, further underscoring the institutional commitment to force generation in support of national security imperatives.

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IGP Disu Receives PCRC Delegation On Courtesy Visit, Reaffirms Commitment To Fruitful Partnership

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IGP Disu Receives PCRC Delegation

IGP Disu Receives PCRC Delegation On Courtesy Visit, Reaffirms Commitment To Fruitful Partnership

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, psc(+), NPM, received a delegation from the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) on a courtesy visit at the Force Headquarters, Abuja.
The PCRC delegation, led by the National Chairman, Alhaji Mogaji Ibraheem Olaniyan, comprised key members of the National Executive Committee and representatives from various regional commands.

In his remarks, Alhaji Mogaji Ibraheem Olaniyan congratulated IGP Olatunji Disu on his appointment and reaffirmed the PCRC’s loyalty and steadfast support for the Nigeria Police Force. He commended the Inspector-General for his consistent recognition of the PCRC’s strategic contributions to national security.

Responding, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu expressed profound appreciation for the PCRC’s sustained support to the Force. He assured the delegation of the Force’s full cooperation, charging PCRC leadership to maintain strict oversight and ensure that PCRC identification is used exclusively for legitimate purposes and intelligence gathering. The Inspector-General emphasized that members should remain exemplary citizens to preserve the integrity of the partnership.

IGP Disu Receives PCRC Delegation

IGP Disu Receives PCRC Delegation

This engagement underscores the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to fostering strong community relations and collaborative security efforts nationwide.

DCP ANTHONY OKON PLACID psc(+) mni
Force Public Relations Officer
Force Headquarters, Abuja
9th April, 2026

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