A faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) aligned with FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has re-elected Abdulrahman Mohammed and Samuel Anyanwu as national chairman and secretary, respectively.

The duo secured their positions by consensus on Sunday during the faction’s elective national convention held at the Velodrome of Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja.

The affirmed officers include Aaron Chukwuemeka (Deputy National Chairman, South), Yusufu Nya Akirikwen (SAN) (Deputy National Chairman, North), Kolawale Olabisi (Deputy National Secretary), Odeyemei Mackson Oladiran (National Treasurer), and Lado Dan Marke (Deputy National Treasurer), among others.

Also listed are Eyim Donatus Henry, Dr Grema Kyari, Umar Mohammed Bature, Efere Augustine, Jungudo Haruna Mohammed, Egwu Goodluck Chidiebere, Kamaldeen Ajibade (SAN), Barr. Aloysius Chinemelu U. Uba, Osuoha Okechukwu Donatus, Dr Adaba Yatu, Ibrahim Bala Aboki, and Momoh Dejih Eugene Bashir, while Professor Ogunshe Adedayo and Hauwa Ahmed Shinge serve as National Women Leader and Deputy National Women Leader, respectively.

President Bola Tinubu has celebrated his 74th birthday in a low key in line with his tradition of marking the day based on the mood of the country.

In a special birthday message issued on Sunday morning to mark his birthday, the President emphasised that “consistent with my tradition of marking my birthday in line with the mood of the nation, I resolved to observe this year’s birthday low-key.”

Tinubu, while expressing gratitude for the opportunity given him to serve the nation thanked Nigerians for their show of love and prayers on his birthday.

The President assured that his administration will build a brighter future for Nigerians and generations yet unborn.

He also vowed to overcome challenges facing the nation with continued support of the Nigerian people.

The 11-paragraph special birthday message stated as follows:

“My dear fellow Nigerians,

“Today, as I clock another year on the journey of life, I’m filled with joy and gratitude for the opportunity to serve this great nation. I want to take this moment to thank Nigerians for their messages, show of love and prayers on the occasion of my 74th birthday. I thank all our citizens for their patriotism, solidarity and support for our administration.

“To those who have taken space in newspapers or paid for air time on radio and television to wish me well, I thank you immensely.

“I must thank my wife, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, for her kind and loving words. I also thank Vice President Kashim Shettima for all he said about me.

“Consistent with my tradition of marking my birthday in line with the mood of the nation, I resolved to observe this year’s birthday low-key.

“As I mark this special day, I am reminded of the challenges we’ve faced since we initiated our reforms. I’m glad that our sacrifices have not been in vain, as we can see a glimmer of light at the end of the tunnel, despite the temporary setback caused by the ongoing Middle East crisis.

“The credit for the positive outcomes we have achieved does not belong solely to me, our Renewed Hope team, or our government. We achieved the gains together.

“As we march towards the third anniversary of our administration, it is my deepest conviction that we shall succeed in building a brighter future for our citizens and future generations.

“We are determined to confront some of the challenges we face today, and with your continued support, we shall overcome.

“Let us continue to work together to build a stronger, prosperous and more resilient nation that will make Nigeria the pride of Africa.

“Thank you all, and happy 74th birthday to me!”

By Ruth Akpan

The Aristos Band has unveiled an ambitious lineup of projects for 2026, including international tours, a major album release, and the second edition of its flagship concert, “Life of the Party,” scheduled for December 17.

The announcement was made on Tuesday, February 11, 2026, during a media parley held in Lagos, where the band engaged journalists and stakeholders on its growth trajectory and future direction.

Speaking at the event, bandleader and Chief Executive Officer, Sammy Sodeke, said the new vision reflects the group’s commitment to expanding its global footprint and enhancing live music experiences for diverse audiences.

“We are focused on delivering bigger sounds, bigger shows, and bigger celebrations this year,” Sodeke said. “Our next concert will be significantly larger, and we are also working on projects that will connect us more with our fans both locally and internationally.”

Founded in 2006 and officially launched in 2008, Aristos Band has grown into one of Nigeria’s prominent live music groups, known for its dynamic performances across corporate events, weddings, and major social gatherings. The band has also performed internationally, with shows in the United Kingdom and Canada, while plans are underway to tour the United States.

Sodeke attributed the band’s success to its distinctive sound, which blends strong percussion elements with contemporary Nigerian music styles, allowing it to appeal to a wide demographic.
“Our strength lies in our ability to understand our audience and deliver exactly what they want, whether it’s a corporate event or a social celebration,” he said.

The band also highlighted its pioneering role in hosting a live-band concert, “Life of the Party,” which gained widespread recognition and later drew the attention of the All Africa Music Awards.

Addressing challenges faced over the years, Sodeke noted that building and maintaining a live band requires consistency, discipline, and strategic planning, especially in a competitive and evolving entertainment industry. He also referenced the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, during which the band adapted by producing recorded performances that sustained audience engagement.
“We didn’t stop creating music during COVID. That period pushed us to innovate, and it helped us reach even more people,” he said.

On upcoming projects, Sodeke confirmed that the band is currently working on a full album expected to be released in conjunction with its December concert. He added that a series of pre-event activities and tours would precede the show to build anticipation among fans.

The Aristos Band currently operates with a structure of over 35 members, including performers, technical crew, and administrative staff, enabling it to deliver large-scale productions while remaining flexible for smaller events.

Despite economic challenges, Sodeke emphasized that the band remains committed to balancing quality with accessibility.

“We are a premium band, but we also understand the need to be flexible while maintaining our standards,” he said.

He expressed appreciation to fans for their continued support, assuring them of more innovative performances in the year ahead.