FULL LIST: 2027: ADC Unveils Governorship, Deputy Governorship Candidates in 28 States

  The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has released its list of governorship and deputy governorship candidates for the 2027 general elections across 28 states. The list includes former presidential aide Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour in Lagos, former Kaduna State governorship candidate Isa Ashiru, and former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami. The party also fielded former Delta State governorship candidate Great Ogboru, Senator Ahmad Babba Kaita in Katsina. The candidates were announced in a statement on Friday, with the party saying they would carry its banner and commitment to providing Nigerians with credible leadership and a “real alternative” in the 2027 elections. A release by the party’s spokesperson, Bolaji Abdullahi also shared on X disclosed this. Other notable candidates include Senator Halliru Dauda Jika in Bauchi, former House of Representatives member Herman Iorwase Hembe in Benue, former House of Representatives member Zakari Mohammed in Kwara and former Nigerian Army officer Brigadier General John Sunday Sura in Plateau. The party also fielded candidates in Adamawa, Akwa Ibom, Borno, Cross River, Ebonyi, Enugu, Gombe, Jigawa, Kano, Nasarawa, Niger, Ogun, Oyo, Rivers, Sokoto, Taraba, Yobe and Zamfara. In Lagos, Rhodes-Vivour will contest the governorship with Gbadamosi Babatunde Olalere as his running mate, while Ashiru will fly the party’s ticket in Kaduna alongside Kantiok Irmiya Ishaku. Ogboru is paired with Afiari Gloria in Delta, while Kaita will contest in Katsina with Aminu Yar’adua Ahmed as his running mate. In Kebbi, Malami will contest alongside Zagi Musa Mohammed. The ADC said the candidates represented its commitment to offering Nigerians an alternative ahead of the 2027 elections. ADC unveiled the candidates ahead of the February 6, 2027 governorship elections. Also, governorship campaigns are scheduled to begin on September 9, 2026. Here is the full list: ADC governor & deputy governor candidates Abia: Governor – Kalu Kalu Agu; Deputy Governor – Alozie Ogidimma Darlington. Adamawa: Governor – Modibbo Hammantukur Ribadu; Deputy Governor – Aguwa Kevin Iliya. Akwa Ibom: Governor – Akpanudoedehe John James; Deputy Governor – Nsien Mkpombuk Tommy. Bauchi: Governor – Sen. Halliru Dauda Jika; Deputy Governor – Sama’ila Mohammed Kabir. Benue: Governor – Rt. Hon. Herman Iorwase Hembe; Deputy Governor – Abba John Abba. Borno: Governor – Babagana Buhari; Deputy Governor – Mamman Dauda. Cross River: Governor – Nkoyo Toyo; Deputy Governor – Okwoche Andrew Adagbor. Delta: Governor – Chief Great Ogboru; Deputy Governor – Afiari Gloria. Ebonyi: Governor – Ukpai Mba Udeh; Deputy Governor – Onwe Daniel Ede. Enugu: Governor – Ocho Obodoze Chukwuma; Deputy Governor – Eze Arinze Christopher. Gombe: Governor – Bala Bello; Deputy Governor – Bala Sani Isa. Jigawa: Governor – Sabo Mohammed Nakudu; Deputy Governor – Musa Ya’u Balarabe. Kaduna: Governor – Isa Mohammed Ashiru; Deputy Governor – Kantiok Irmiya Ishaku. Kano: Governor – Ibrahim Ali Amin; Deputy Governor – Shehu Abdulkadir Bari. Kastina: Governor – Sen. Ahmad Babba Kaita; Deputy Governor – Aminu Yar’adua Ahmed. Kebbi: Governor – Abubakar Malami; Deputy Governor – Zagi Musa Mohammed. Kwara: Governor – Zakari Mohammed; Deputy Governor – Olawuyi Julius Olayide. Lagos State: Governor – Gbadebo Rhodes Vivour; Deputy Governor – Gbadamosi Babatunde Olalere. Nasarawa: Nuhu Angbazo — Governor; Ahmed Yusuf — Deputy Governor Niger: Dr. Mohammed Kpautagi — Governor; Musa Mamman — Deputy Governor Ogun: Biodun Collins Ogundipe — Governor; Muraina Oluwaranti Oluyemi — Deputy Governor Oyo: Taofeek Adegboyega Adegoke — Governor; Wahab Adeniyi — Deputy Governor Plateau: Brig. Gen. John Sunday Sura — Governor; Pwajok-Kele Chundung Bitrus — Deputy Governor Rivers: Gabriel Pidomson — Governor; Okumgba David Amapakaye — Deputy Governor Sokoto: Manir Mohammad Daniya — Governor; Isah Bello Ambarura — Deputy Governor Taraba: Abubakar Umar Tutare — Governor; Kwetishe Haruna Kwenyan — Deputy Governor Yobe: Kassim G. Gaidam — Governor; Kori Lawan Mohammed — Deputy Governor Zamfara: Shinkafi Bilyaminu Yusuf — Governor; Muhammad Abdulmuddalib Auwal — Deputy Governor

Oyo PDP Guber Aspirant, Debo Akande Unveils Ibadan Hall Of Fame Project, Targets Preservation Of City’s Legacy

  A governorship aspirant on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State, Dr. Debo Akande, has unveiled plans to establish an Ibadan Historical Library and Hall of Fame as part of efforts to preserve the city’s rich cultural heritage. Akande, who currently serves as the Director-General of the Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency (OYSADA) and Executive Adviser to Governor Seyi Makinde, disclosed this during a foundation-laying and groundbreaking ceremony held at Bode Amoo Hall, Ibadan House, Oke-Aremo, under the auspices of the 2026 Historical Tour Committee. Speaking at the event, Debo Akande described the initiative as a long-term vision aimed at creating a lasting legacy for Ibadan and ensuring that its history is preserved for future generations. “This is something that has been very paramount in my mind for a long time. It is not just about today; it is about creating a legacy that will stand the test of time,” he said. He expressed concern over what he termed a growing disconnect between younger generations and the history of Ibadan, noting that many youths lack awareness of the city’s significant contributions to Yoruba culture and national development. “If you ask a young person today about key figures in Ibadan’s history, many may not be able to provide answers. Yet, Ibadan has produced individuals who have made remarkable contributions across different sectors, both locally and internationally,” he added. Akande explained that the proposed Hall of Fame would function as both a museum and a knowledge hub, documenting and showcasing the achievements of past rulers, warriors, professionals, and other distinguished indigenes. “Where is this history documented? Where can people go to see what our heroes have done and when they did it? This project is about answering those questions and preserving our identity as a people,” he said. In his remarks, the President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Chief (Barr.) Sulaiman Ajewole, said the project was conceived to immortalise the legacies of Ibadan’s heroes and heroines. Ajewole explained that the Hall of Fame idea originated from a historical subcommittee within the council, and would serve as a platform to honour past rulers, warriors, philanthropists, politicians, and community leaders. “This is how we preserve our history. By documenting and celebrating those who have contributed to the growth of Ibadan, we are ensuring that their names are not forgotten,” he said. He commended Akande for championing the initiative, describing him as a worthy ambassador of Ibadanland, and expressed optimism that the project would be completed within a short time. According to him, the Ibadan Historical Library and Hall of Fame will stand as a major cultural landmark in the city upon completion.

Dangote Unveils 10-day Credit Facility for Petrol Station Owners

  The Dangote Group has announced a 10-day credit facility backed by a bank guarantee for petrol station owners and dealers, alongside free direct delivery and other incentives, as part of a new supply arrangement. The company disclosed this in a statement posted on its official X handle on Tuesday, inviting petrol station operators across the country to register to benefit from the offer. According to the statement, participating dealers will enjoy “a 10-day credit facility backed by a bank guarantee,” with a minimum order requirement of 5,000 litres. “Our free direct delivery service will commence soon,” the group said, adding that the offer is open to “all petrol station owners and dealers.” The Dangote Group further called on operators to register their stations to access the supply arrangement. “Register your petrol stations today to benefit from our competitive gantry price,” the statement read. The company also disclosed that petrol supplied under the arrangement will be sold at a gantry price of ₦699 per litre. For enquiries, the group provided the following contact numbers: 0802-347-0470, 0809-324-7070, 0809-324-7071 and 0203. The announcement follows a recent petrol price adjustment by the Dangote Petroleum Refinery. The refinery reduced its ex-depot petrol price from ₦828 to ₦699 per litre, representing a ₦129 cut or a 15.58 per cent reduction. An official of the refinery, who spoke to PUNCH Online on condition of anonymity, confirmed the adjustment, saying, “The refinery has reduced petrol gantry price to ₦699 per litre.” The new price reportedly took effect on December 11, 2025, marking the 20th petrol price adjustment announced by the refinery this year.  

Afrobeats: Purified Entertainment Unveils Visually Impaired Rapper “Starboiszn”, Seeks More Support

A fast-rising record label, Purified Entertainment, has officially unveiled its newest signee, a visually impaired rapper known by his stage name “Starboiszn”, calling on the public and music lovers to support his inspiring journey in the Afrobeats industry. Speaking during an exclusive interview with journalists in Ibadan on Saturday the Chief Executive Officer of Purified Entertainment Company Limited, Babawale Segun Agboola, has described Starboiszn as a rare talent whose determination and creativity transcend physical limitations. “When you meet an OG (Old Gee), you immediately recognize the fire and passion in him. That’s exactly what I saw in Starboy Zee, a level of dedication and energy I’ve rarely seen in anyone else,” Agboola said. “He’s passionate about his music, very free-spirited, jovial, and humble.” Agboola revealed that since joining Purified Entertainment, Starboiszn has released a single and a feature, with two new tracks, Pasa Pasa and Don’t Dull Me scheduled for release on all streaming platforms on October 21. The CEO expressed optimism about the artiste’s future and the label’s vision, saying: “With the plans we have in motion and the kind of determination he has, I see us both growing massively. Starboiszn has the talent, the discipline, and the heart. Purified Entertainment is committed to pushing him to the top.” In a separate interview, Starboiszn, whose real name is Adediran Olumide David, recounted his life story and how he turned his disability into a source of strength. “I wasn’t born visually impaired; it happened suddenly after secondary school,” he explained. “Losing your sight forces you to restrategize your life. It’s a phase I never expected, but it has made me think more deeply and creatively. What could have been a setback became a source of motivation.” The Ibadan-born artiste described himself as a hip-hop rapper who blends English and Yoruba to create a sound that resonates with both the streets and educated audiences. “At first, I used to rap in English, but I realized the importance of versatility. Now, I infuse Yoruba into my music so everyone can connect. For me, it’s about balance and connection,” he said. Starboiszn praised Purified Entertainment for redefining his musical journey and providing a structure that has helped him grow both professionally and personally. “Before joining Purified, I had released a few singles independently. But meeting the team changed everything. They gave me a clear path and surrounded me with people who believe in growth,” he said. He also shared an inspiring message for people living with disabilities, “Losing your sight or facing any disability is not the end of life. You still have great potential, you just need to discover and develop it. Don’t let your condition weigh you down; turn it into a stepping stone. If I can do it, you can too.” Looking ahead, the rapper expressed confidence in his global prospects, saying, “In five years, I see myself making a global impact through my music, inspiring millions, and proving to the world that talent has no limits.”

G4EP Unveils Free Figital Training For Nigerian Girls

    Gender Education, Engagement, Empowerment, and Entrepreneurship Programme has unveiled a training initiative for young girls across Nigeria, noting that the move is a step toward empowering the girl-child through education, entrepreneurship, and digital innovation. In a statement made available to PUNCH Online on Tuesday, G4EP said the initiative falls under its flagship project called Renewed Hope for Inclusion, Support, and Empowerment, and aligns with the Federal Government’s renewed hope agenda. “By providing access to in-demand creative and digital skills, the programme is designed to foster inclusion and create real opportunities for girls to thrive in today’s tech-driven world, ensuring that no one is left behind. “The programme will focus on Photography, Web Design, Cinematography, and Graphic Design—four powerful areas in today’s creative and digital economy. “By equipping young girls with these in-demand skills, G4EP seeks not only to bridge the gender gap in technology and media but also to empower participants to become creators, innovators, and leaders in their chosen fields. “In today’s world, digital literacy and creativity open doors to limitless opportunities. “Whether through photography that tells compelling stories, websites that shape businesses, graphics that communicate powerful messages, or films that inspire, young people are rewriting narratives and shaping society. Unfortunately, many girls are often left behind due to a lack of access, mentorship, or financial support. “A key highlight of the initiative is that registration and training are completely free of charge. This ensures that every girl, regardless of financial background, has equal access to world-class training and mentorship. With the free training commencing on September 8th, 2025, G4EP has removed barriers that often limit the girl child. This is the true spirit of Renewed Hope—giving every girl a fair chance to learn, grow, and shine,” said the organisers. According to the Chairman, G4EP, Judith Ogbara, the RISE project is about inclusion, empowerment, and creating pathways for the girl child to rise above limitations, maintaining that through the training, it is preparing girls to compete globally in technology, creativity, and entrepreneurship. “With this initiative, G4EP continues to demonstrate its unwavering commitment to the empowerment of girls in Nigeria. By equipping them with creative and digital skills, the program is shaping a new generation of storytellers, innovators, and entrepreneurs who will leave their mark on the world. “Interested applicants can register through the official G4EP training portal, and selected participants will receive mentorship, practical sessions, and access to industry-standard resources throughout the programme,”the chairman averred. Punch

Abiodun Mustapha Unveils Foodbank App, Highlights E-commerce As Solution To Food Sufficiency And Farmer Prosperity

  The Chief Executive Officer of Sovereign Technology And Innovation Limited, Mr Abiodun Mustapha, who is a member of Lives Amplified, a global institution of world leaders, who also doubles as the founder of FoodBank App, in this interview with Citybuzznews speaks about the newly launched App designed to connect farmers with consumers, ease of shopping for food items at a regulated price, effective delivery, logistics and some challenges facing young entrepreneur among others. Excerpt.   Can you share your experience as an Agro-Tech Expert with us and what are the potentials of your newly launched App Foodbank? Absolutely. FoodBank is a product of Sovereign Technology. I’m a trained software engineer with over five years of experience in building and optimizing software solutions. I studied advanced Human Resources Management at the University of Lagos, and Software Engineering at NIIT Lagos. During my trip to Dubai I met Doctor Steve and my second time meeting Anmol Goel, I met him first time during my trip to Lisbon Portugal and he has been my night star during the journey, with their amazing supports I became a member of Lives Amplified. A global institution of world leaders, so, I will say this experience and exposure has prepared me well for this laudable innovation called FoodBank. So, I am proud to say that Foodbank App is an innovative, tech-driven e-commerce platform that I and my team developed to address the growing problem of food insecurity in Nigeria, particularly in the south west part of the country, and being a member Lives Amplified, a global institution of world leaders, we see it as our duty to come up with ideas, and innovation that will be a tech-driven, we are committed to solving societal issues, such as ease of shopping, connecting our indigenous farmers to the final consumers, thereby making it more easier for them to sell their produces, get more profits and as well assisting the lower income earners in the society. What led to creation of Foodbank App? We observed that rising inflation and economic challenges have made it difficult for many Nigerians to access basic food items. Our platform ensures access to affordable food items without the burden of immediate financial pressure. It’s simple and convenient, you download the FoodBank app, place your order, schedule your delivery, and your food stuffs gets delivered to your doorstep. So, I can say, I was inspired by a trip to Dubai, where I was privileged to had a meeting with several stakeholders, including the Princess of Dubai, So we are hoping that government will call us for partnership deal, collaborate with us by bringing subsidized food items to doorsteps of Nigerians through our app, this will ease the burden of taking loans at high interest rates just to get something to eat. Foodbank App is an hub where you can shop for your food items. We discovered that many busy professionals struggle with food purchases due to inflated prices and lack of trust in middlemen. FoodBank brings transparency to the process. Once you input your details and make an order, every transaction is tracked and recorded. Nothing can be tampered with. We’ve built a system that ensures accountability and efficiency. How do you handle perishable items like tomatoes? We source our perishable items directly from trusted wholesalers and only buy based on demand. This way, the produce stays fresh, healthy, and there’s no spoilage. So far, we haven’t had any complaints, and we’re confident the government will continue to see the potential in our work. Do you sell food items or already prepared meals? We are currently focusing on essential food items like rice, vegetable oil, crayfish, and other market staples. If you want to stock your kitchen, simply download our app and place your order. We sell at regulated and affordable prices. We’ve already onboarded over 5,000 customers, including civil servants from different ministries at the Oyo State Secretariat. During the last Ileya festival, we received a large volume of orders, and we’re proud to say we delivered without complaints. We operate with diligence, efficiency, and integrity. Are you thinking of any partnerships deal to enhance your efficiency? Yes, we’ve secured a partnership deal with Oyo State Government through the Ministry of Trade and Investment. This has opened doors for collaborations with several ministries. They’ve been impressed with our model and operations. Our app is user-friendly, you won’t need to scroll endlessly. Even users without a tech background can navigate it easily. Who are your target audience? Our primary audience includes low- and middle-income earners, high-income professionals, and busy individuals who may not have time to visit the market. We also offer a “Buy Now, Pay Later” feature exclusively for Oyo State civil servants. However, we plan to extend this feature to the general public soon. What makes FoodBank unique in the e-commerce space? We’re not just an e-commerce platform, we’re building a food accessibility ecosystem. We know what it feels like to go hungry or not be able to afford a meal. Our goal is to make food both affordable and accessible to all, regardless of income level. Currently, food inflation makes it difficult for people to plan their meals. About 70 out of 100 families are affected. We’re stepping in to stabilize prices and handle logistics end-to-end, ensuring users don’t have to break the bank to eat. Despite the cost of fuel and delivery, we’re keeping our prices affordable. As a young entrepreneur and an tech innovator what are the challenges that posed as a threat to your growth, do you think government policy are very okay for businesses? Policy isn’t much of a challenge. The real challenge has been funding. I’ve personally bootstrapped this venture. However, the partnership with the Oyo State Government has been a major step forward. We believe more government support will bring even bigger impact and excitement to the public. How do you cater to market women and traders who may not be tech-savvy? We have a … Read more

Trump Unveils Website For $5m US Residency Visa

  President Donald Trump touted a new website for his planned $5 million US residency permit on Wednesday, saying the waiting list for the golden visa has opened on TrumpCard.gov. “Thousands have been calling and asking how they can sign up to ride a beautiful road in gaining access to the Greatest Country and Market anywhere in the World,” Trump wrote in a social media post. Trump unveiled the first such visa aboard Air Force One in April, holding a golden prototype that bore his face and promising the special permit would probably be available “in less than two weeks.” The visas are not available yet, but the website announced Wednesday allows interested parties to submit their name, desired visa and email address under a header that says “The Trump Card is Coming.” Trump previously said the new visa, a high-price version of the traditional green card, would bring in job creators and could be used to reduce the US national deficit. The announcement comes as deportation raids are being ramped up across the country, prompting protests, and as Trump’s administration faces ongoing lawsuits and accusations of rights violations over its anti-immigration blitz. Trump has said the new card would be a route to highly prized US citizenship. He said in February that his administration hoped to sell “maybe a million” of the cards and did not rule out that Russian oligarchs may be eligible. AFP

Trump Unveils $1,000 Investment Accounts For Newborn Americans

  US President Donald Trump has unveiled a policy proposal under his new legislative push—a $1,000 investment account for every American child born between 2025 and 2028. According to Daily Mail, the initiative, dubbed “Trump Accounts,” will be given to every US citizen born after December 31, 2024, and before January 1, 2029. Republicans reportedly changed the name of the programme from ‘MAGA accounts’ to ‘Trump accounts’ before the bill passed the House last month. The government’s $1,000 contribution would reportedly be placed in an index fund tied to the stock market and managed by the child’s legal guardians. Speaking at the White House on Monday, the president said the accounts “will make it possible for countless American children to have a strong start in life at no cost to the American taxpayer, absolutely no cost. It’s going to have a huge impact.” Trump called the accounts a “pro-family” initiative as he works to rally senators to support his proposed legislation. “It is a pro family initiative that will help millions of Americans harness the strength of our economy to lift up the next generation, and they’ll really be getting a big jump on life, especially if we get a little bit lucky with some of the numbers and the economies,” he noted. The accounts will reportedly be accessible for additional financial contributions throughout the child’s life from family, friends, parents, employers, or other entities, while the recipient of the account could access some of the money when they turn 18 for things like education, training or a first-time home purchase, with full access granted at age 30. The Trump accounts will reportedly be funded by contributions from private businesses and the heads of Dell, Uber, Altimeter Capital, ARM Corp, Salesforce, ServiceNow, Robinhood and Goldman Sachs were said to have joined the president for the announcement. Michael Dell, the CEO of Dell Technologies said his company would “match the government’s contributions, dollar for dollar for every child born to a Dell team member.” “This is investment in our people, their families, our communities and America’s future, and it embodies our core belief that opportunity should begin at birth,” Dell was quoted as saying. Democrats are reportedly critical of the legislation, which they say will remove millions from Medicaid and add billions to the federal deficit. Some Republican senators, especially those who represent states with large rural areas, also have expressed concern about the cuts to Medicaid. The Senate can still amend the bill, which, if that happens, it would need to be re-approved by the House before it could go to Trump for his signature, the report noted. The president has also stated his hopes to have the bill on his desk by July 4. Punch

OONI @ 50: Palace Unveils Programme Of Events

  The Ile-Oodua Palace of The Ooni Of Ife, Ile-Ife has on Tuesday unveiled the final programme of the events celebrating and commemorating the 50th birthday anniversary of the Arole Oduduwa Olofin Adimula, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II, The Ooni Of Ife. This second phase of the Ooni’s 50th birthday anniversary programme is contained in a statement signed by the Director of Media & Public Affairs to the Ooni, on behalf of the palace and the planning committee. According to the statement, the second phase and final activities will kickstart on Wednesday, October 16, 2024, with a charity support programme organised by the Birthday Planning Committee at the Solid Rock Orphanage Home, Ibadan Road, Ile-Ife by 1pm. Thursday, October 17th, 2024, will witness the birthday grand finale when His Imperial Majesty will be host top dignitaries including fellow traditional rulers, guests, family members and other personalities at the Ojaja Arena, Ife Grand Resort, Ile-Ife by 2pm. The birthday activities will be rounded off with a Special Jumu’ah Prayer at the Ife Central Mosque Enuwa, Ile-Ife by 1pm. on Friday, October 18, 2024 as well as a Thanksgiving Service, at the St. paul’s Anglican Church, Aiyegbaju, Ile-Ife by 10am. on Sunday, October 20, 2024. It will be recalled the 50th birthday anniversary of the Ooni had started a week ago with special traditional prayers (IWURE) offered by a league of over 30 traditional chief priests led by the Araba Agbaye and Obadio of Ife at the Ooni’s palace, this was followed by commissioning of The 2..7 kilometer road, equipped with solar-powered streetlights which Ooni Ogunwusi named after the Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi TINUBU and donated to the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife. Also same day, a standard hostel complex OJAJA HOSTEL constructed by the Ooni was unveiled by the visiting wife of the President who was also double honoured by the Ooni with a Pavilion named Oluremi Tinubu Pavilion within the hostel complex on Thursday, October 10, 2024. There have been series of activities of the first phase of the Ooni’s 50th birthday anniversary including the Maiden Convocation ceremonies of OJAJA University, Eyenkorin, Kwara state attended by top government functionaries including Governor Hope Uzodima of Imo state, eminent academic scholars, captains of industries and top Nigerian traditional rulers including Sultan Sa’ad Abubakar of Sokoto, Emir Zulu Gambari of Ilorin, Soun of Ogbomosho, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Laoye, Ajero of Ijero Ekiti, Oba Joseph Adewole and a host of others where Ooni Ogunwusi as Chancellor and proprietor of the university called for a holistic review of education policies to meet up with contemporary challenges of Nigeria.