NIGERIANS GREETED ON NEW YEAR BY LEADERS AND GROUP
Former President Goodluck Jonathan, former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Afenifere, former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi, Governors Chukwuma Soludo (Anambra), Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta), and Peter Mbah (Enugu) have extended New Year greetings to Nigerians as the country enters 2026.
Jonathan urges patriotism matched with duty
Jonathan called on Nigerians and leaders to combine patriotism with renewed sense of duty. He emphasized that shared responsibility, mutual respect, and dedication to national interest are essential for stability and inclusive development. He noted that 2025 brought economic pressures and insecurity, testing resilience, but highlighted the enduring courage and solidarity of Nigerians. Jonathan urged leadership anchored in service, humility, integrity, and commitment to citizens’ welfare.
Atiku criticizes government policies
Atiku Abubakar described 2025 as “one of the most punishing years,” criticizing President Bola Tinubu for “incompetence, economic suffocation, political recklessness, and governance without empathy.” He accused the administration of weakening democratic foundations, mismanaging finances, and failing to address insecurity, kidnapping, and abductions, adding that anti-corruption efforts were selective and politically motivated.
Ohanaeze calls for focus and lawfulness
Senator Azuta Mbata, President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, urged Ndigbo to remain focused, law-abiding, and peaceful, highlighting inclusivity, unity, and responsible citizenship as keys to progress. He commended the resilience, industry, and entrepreneurship of the Igbo people.
Afenifere expresses optimism
Pan-Yoruba leader Reuben Fasoranti, through spokesman Jare Ajayi, expressed hope for a bright future in 2026, noting improved security and economic indices at the close of 2025. He expressed confidence that positive impacts of government policies would continue to be felt.
Amaechi emphasizes accountable leadership
Rotimi Amaechi called on Nigerians to demand responsible, transparent, and people-oriented leadership. He stressed collective action to achieve peace, unity, security, and economic stability.
Governors outline plans and commitments
Governor Chukwuma Soludo highlighted that 2026 presents opportunities to build on achievements in infrastructure, security, education, and sustainable development. Governor Sheriff Oborevwori reaffirmed a focus on good governance, job creation, youth empowerment, and inclusive economic growth in line with his MORE agenda. Governor Peter Mbah promised accelerated consolidation of past gains in Enugu, focusing on urban roads, water schemes, smart schools, primary healthcare centers, airport expansion, security infrastructure, industrial revival, and support for small and medium enterprises.
Olukoyede calls for zero tolerance for corruption
In the New Year, calls were also made for continued anti-corruption vigilance and accountability across all levels of government.
These leaders and groups collectively stressed resilience, unity, and commitment to national progress as Nigeria enters 2026.
