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Enugu Air will spur rapid economic prosperity – Ohanaeze youths

The youth wing of Ohanaeze Ndigbo socio-cultural organisation, has hailed the unveiling of Enugu Air by the Governor Peter Mbah administration, stating that it will unlock more economic opportunities for the people of the South-East.

National President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide, Mazi Okwu Nnabuike, in a statement made available to journalists yesterday, said the Governor had taken innovation and governance to another level.

Okwu said it was testament to prudent management of the economy of Enugu State by the Mbah administration.

He said the milestone achievement “will open doors for more economic boom in the state.

“This the first of its kind in the South-East, and just second in the country after Akwa Ibom, an oil rich state. It speaks volumes.

“It is a milestone achievement and should be commended by all men of goodwill in the South-East and beyond.

“We are even more delighted that one of the captains is a youth from Enugu State, which is another indication that the Enugu Air will provide more jobs for the youths, advance the economic prosperity of the state, and indeed the South-East.”

Okwu urged continued support to Mbah’s government by the entire people of the state regardless of their political parties, stressing that “he is showing governance and it is time for everyone to support the government fully.”

He expressed optimism that Enugu Air will soon obtain its Air Operator Certificate (AOC).

“We are glad that the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has already approved the commencement of domestic flight operations by Enugu Air, just about 24 hours after the airline was launched.

“It is cheering, and we expect that while they resume operation through XEJET as its operational partner, very soon, it will receive Air Operator Certificate (AOC),” Okwu declared.

INEC opens window for new registration in Anambra

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) said it has opened window for citizens that turned 18 years to register and be eligible to elect leaders of their choice during elections.

The Anambra Commissioner for Information, Dr Law Mefor, made this known during a chat with journalists yesterday in Awka.

He described the exercise as timely, saying the process would ensure inclusive participation of the young adults in the Nov. 8 governorship election in Anambra.

He said it also showed the commission’s efforts to strengthen democracy and future elections in the country.

Mefor called on all eligible citizens yet to obtain the voting power to take advantage of the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise as announced by INEC which had commenced nationwide on Tuesday, July 8.

He urged the affected citizens to take time and be part of the exercise to avoid excluding themselves from performing their civic duties as the exercise, he said, would end on July 17.

The commissioner said the exercise provided an opportunity for young people, who have recently turned 18 years and are now eligible to vote, to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).

He noted that only citizens who have relocated to Anambra from other parts of the country and wish to transfer their voting rights and those who have lost or defaced their voter cards and need to replace them are allowed under the law to do so.

Mefor urged anyone who fell within the mentioned categories to visit their nearest registration center and complete the registration process.

He added that the exercise was a crucial step in ensuring that the nation’s democracy remains vibrant and representative of the will of the people.

He advised the people to avoid double registration but support INEC in its efforts to provide a free, fair, credible and transparent election in the country.

2027: We don’t owe you Nigeria’s presidency — Sowunmi shades Atiku

Former governorship candidate in Ogun State, Segun Sowunmi, has slammed his former principal, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, for contesting for president since 1992.

Sowunmi, who appeared on Channels Television’s ‘LunchTime Politics’ yesterday, alleged that Atiku destabilises the country with the politics he plays to actualise his presidential ambition.

According to him, despite Atiku’s perennial presidential ambition, he has never shared inspirational ideas on how to govern the country.

He maintained that Nigeria’s presidency is not Atiku’s birthright, adding that Nigerians need to do away with the politicians who have been in Nigeria’s political scene since 1992.

“With your petty politics, you’re destabilising the country, you’re instigating the people, and you’re not even allowing the people that have the day-to-day work of running government the sense and the stability to run government. And we’ve not heard anything from you that is inspirational enough that we will be able to say wow you bring something.

“What are you bringing? Haven’t we tried you before, haven’t we tested you before, we don’t owe the presidency of Nigeria and if at all we are going to the north in 2027 you better go and find us a younger, sharper and a more agile northerner. We can then say we are done with the 1992 guys,” Sowunmi said.

Sowunmi also slammed coalition opposition leaders, saying Peter Obi, the Presidential candidate of the Labour Party, is the only politician energising the coalition.

He said if Obi had not performed well in the last election, the coalition would not have been formed.

UAE imposes fresh travel conditions on Nigerians, bans transit visa, others

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has introduced more stringent entry restrictions for Nigerians, including a ban on transit visa applications and new limitations on tourist visas.

The latest directives communicated to Nigerian travel agents yesterday as confirmed by our correspondent sparked concern within the travel and tourism sector.

In a major policy shift expected to significantly reduce travel from Nigeria to Dubai—one of the UAE’s top destinations for business and leisure—the authorities now restrict Nigerians between the ages of 18 and 45 from obtaining tourist visas unless they are accompanied.

This development came nearly a year after the UAE lifted a two-year visa ban on Nigerians, a move that was initially welcomed but accompanied by tight entry conditions.

Travel agents who spoke with our reporter confirmed that the situation is worsening with the latest visa process review.

According to the notification from Dubai immigration shared with travel agencies, transit visa applications will no longer be processed for Nigerian nationals.

The directive further stated, “For Nigeria nationals, please bear in mind that an applicant aged 18 to 45 years travelling alone is not eligible for TOURIST VISA CATEGORY.”

“An applicant who is 45yrs or above must provide a Single Nigerian personal bank statement for a period of last six months, with each month’s end balance reflecting a minimum ending balance of USD 10,000 or its naira equivalent.

“Kindly note that the above points must be taken into consideration before sending your applications with other existing documents such as hotel reservation, data page, etc.”

New UAE Visa Conditions for Nigerians

Transit visa applications are no longer allowed for Nigerian nationals.

Nigerians aged 18 to 45 years are ineligible for tourist visas if traveling alone.

Applicants aged 45 years and above must provide:

A personal bank statement from a Nigerian bank for the last six months.

Each month’s statement must show an ending balance of at least $10,000 or its naira equivalent.

All existing requirements such as hotel reservations and passport data pages must still be submitted with applications.

We’re not in Senate to make money – Akpabio

Godswill Akpabio

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has said that lawmakers are not in the Senate to make money but to make sacrifices for future generations.

Akpabio stated this on the floor of the Senate during debate on the general principles of the Bill for an Act to amend the Electricity Act, 2023.

The bill will address emerging issues in the Nigerian electric power sector, enhance policy and regulatory coordination, strengthen sectoral financing, protect critical electricity infrastructure, foster industrial relations in the sector, clarify transitional arrangements, redefine host community engagements by licensees operating in the Nigerian electricity supply industry; and for related matters, 2025 (SB. 862).

The bill was sponsored by the Chairman of Senate Committee on Power, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe (APGA, Abia South).

In his remarks, Akpabio noted that without electricity, there will be no way for industrial growth in the country. He said that everyone is looking forward to a total overhaul of the electricity sector.

“People think we are here in the Senate to make money, not knowing that we are here to sacrifice for future generations,” he added at plenary yesterday.

When amended, passed and signed into law, it would help clarify ongoing transitional provisions for the transfer of intrastate electricity matters from the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to state governments, especially matters having bearing on the operation of the national grid system and other overlapping issues.

The bill scaled second reading in the Senate, prompting Akpabio to refer it to the Committee on Power for further legislative action. The committee is to report back at plenary in six weeks.

Earlier in his lead debate on the general principles of the bill, Senator Abaribe who disclosed that the Electricity Act  (Amendment) Bill, 2025 was read the first time on Wednesday 25 June 2025, said, “the primary objective of this Bill is to address critical issues that have emerged since the Implementation of the EA, 2023. Specifically, the Bill seeks to introduce provisions that will enhance policy and regulatory coordination between national and sub national governments to avoid legal disputes and inconsistencies; Strengthen sectoral financing in the face of crippling sector debt crisis:

“Criminalise critical electricity infrastructure vandalism in the face of the rising wave of recurrent sabotage by vandals; foster industrial relations in the sector by balancing labour rights in the context of essential services as recognized by domestic and International best labour practices and Instruments;

“Clarify ongoing transitional provisions for the transfer of intrastate electricity matters from the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to State Governments especially matters having bearing on the operation of the national grid system and other overlapping issues;

“Clarify the framework for the operationalization of the Power Consumer Assistance Fund to address subsidies to vital social services and underprivileged consumers as a paradigm shift from the current subsidy arrangement that has left government with huge trillions of Naira in deficit of subsidy payments.

“Re-define and make provision for a sector-wide framework to guide host community engagements by licensees operating in the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NEST) across the power value chain; remove inherent ambiguities in a few provisions of the Principal Act to allow for darity, elegance and smooth implementation; and fortify existing institutional and legal frameworks of the NESI etc.”

Stakeholders bemoan 53% cement price increase amid Tinubu govt’s reforms

Nigerians are lamenting the rise in the price of cement across the country despite the commitment by Dangote cement and other manufacturers to reduce the price of the commodity.

This comes as  the Statesman gathered that the price of various brands of cement in Nigeria has remained high, between N12,000 and N9,500, across various locations.

It would be recalled that in March 2025, cement price reduced to as low as N7,800 per 50-kilogramme bag from as high as N15,000 on February 16, 2024.

In a more recent development in May 2025, the cement manufacturers in Nigeria, such as BUA and Dangote Cement, had vowed to slash the product to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s renewed hope housing initiative.

However, the price of cement has remained high, affecting Nigeria’s building sector.

It was reported  that cement prices, whether for Dangote, BUA, or Lafarge, have increased between 28 percent and 53 percent in Abuja and other locations in Nigeria.

A situation that has worsened the cost of house rent and properties across the country.

Reacting, Benjamin Udoka, a stakeholder, lamented why the likes of Dangote have not replicated the reduction in petrol price in the cement industry.

“It is painful that Dangote did not replicate his supposed fuel reduction strategy in the cement sector.

“In some parts of Abuja, a 50 kg bag of cement goes for as much as N11,000. It is pathetic.

“The federal government needs to do something about price control in the cement industry; Nigerians can no longer bear the exorbitant house rents”,” he stated.

Maryam Abubakar, a resident of Dawaki, also re-echoed Udoka’s position.

the Past National President and member of the Board of Trustees of the Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria (REDAN), Aliyu Wamakko, blamed the the development on lack of effective price control by the federal government, demand, and lack of engagement between the FG and cement manufacturers.

As a solution, he urged that the federal government should engage cement manufacturers in Nigeria as it did in March 2025 to reduce the price of the product and soften the economic hardship on Nigerians nationwide.

“The usage of cement in Nigeria is more now compared to before. This is because there is more demand in the market.

“The basic economics showed that as long as demand exceeds supply, the price of the product is bound to rise.

“The challenge is that cement is supposed to be cheaper, as 70 percent of its raw materials are found in Nigeria.

“The other issue is that the government has started using cement to do roads, further worsening the demand challenge.

“Cement constitutes the primary target of any building as far as Nigeria is concerned.

“Two, there is no price control imposed by the government despite the Renewed Hope Agenda in housing.

“There is a need for the government to engage cement manufacturers as was done the other time when it was brought down to N7,000 per bag.

“Due to non-engagement by the government, Dangote Cement, BUA, Lafarge, and other products are now sold around N10,000, and some are N11,000 to 12,000 per 50-kilogramme bag in other places.

“This is the reason for the high cost of house rent and properties. It is simple arithmetic.

“As long as the cost of building materials is high, the cost of rent and properties will remain on the high side. I urge the government to engage manufacturers of cement.

“I think cement should be used solely for the building of houses, not roads in Nigeria to cut down its demand; the natural resources from refinery waste should be used.

“The government needs to revive its price control so that the country can move forward,” he said.

When contacted the spokesman of Dangote Group, Anthony Chijiena, he said he was indisposed to comment on the matter.

Similarly, efforts to contact the spokesman of the Federal Competition & Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), Ondaje Ijagwu, were also unsuccessful.

The National Bureau of Statistics, NBS, in May said Nigeria’s headline inflation dropped to 22.97 percent.

Similarly, NBS noted that food inflation is on the decline.

Meanwhile, house rent has remained on the high side.

In Abuja, for instance, a self-contained property rose to around N1.5 million per annum in Gwarimpa from around N700,000.

The Tinubu government’s 3,112-unit housing project, anchored by the Housing Minister, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, which began in February last year, is yet to see the light of day.

This is also as the Nigerian Senate’s proposed probe of the cement price hike since 2024 has not yielded any result, leaving citizens in their dilemma.

Loan exposure: CBN directs banks to submit recovery plan

THE Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has directed banks with unresolved ‘forbearance exposures’ to submit a Capital Restoration Plan as part of a regulatory measure.

Forbearance exposure refers to the temporary postponement of loan payments. Lenders and other creditors grant forbearance as an alternative to forcing a property into foreclosure or leaving the borrower to default.

The apex bank gave the order in a circular signed by its Director of Banking Supervision, Olubukola Akinwunmi, released on Monday, July 7.

The Capital Restoration Plan is to complement CBN’s measures, including termination of forbearance exposure and Single Obligor Limits waivers, suspension of payment of dividends, bonuses, and investment in foreign subsidiaries for affected banks.

“To complement the above measures and ensure forward-looking capital planning, all affected banks are required to prepare and submit a comprehensive Capital Restoration Plan to the CBN on or before the 10th working day following the end of the quarter, with effect from June 30, 2025.

“The plan should detail the management’s proposed strategies to restore full regulatory compliance, including (but not limited to) cost optimisation initiatives, risk asset reduction, significant risk transfers, and necessary business model adaptations,” it stated.

A check by The ICIR shows that a Capital Restoration Plan is a formal roadmap that outlines how a bank plans to return to full financial health, specifically, how it intends to meet all regulatory capital and asset quality requirements.

The apex bank had, in a notice on June 13, instructed all the banks with unresolved forbearance exposures to halt dividend payments, defer executive bonuses, and suspend all new investments in offshore subsidiaries, The ICIR reported.

The directive is aimed at strengthening capital buffers and ensuring adequate provisioning against impaired loans, especially those that risk breaching the regulatory Single Obligor Limit (SOL).

It is to remain in place until affected banks have fully provisioned for their forbearance exposures and phased them out entirely.

‘CBN’s proposed bank’s recapitalisation timely to save depositors’

‘Nigerians indirectly paying for CBN’s unregulated lending to FG through high inflation’

43 non-eligible items remain banned from forex, CBN insists [List included]

According to the CBN, the recovery plan must cover the entire period until full normalisation of capital and asset quality indicators is achieved.

“Plans submitted will be subject to regulatory review and approval, and will form the basis for continuous supervisory monitoring and engagement throughout the transition,” it said.

The apex bank also directed the banks to submit quarterly disclosures on key metrics to aid regulatory transparency and support supervisory oversight.

It said effective June 30, 2025, banks are to disclose “detailed provisioning status and reconciliation of affected credit exposures. CAR [cash reserve ratio] calculations with and without transitional reliefs. Classification migration data for restructured or impacted loan facilities and comprehensive disclosure of AT1 [additional tier 1] instruments, including issuance terms, usage, and related conditions.”

“The measures represent a firm but supportive framework for the final phase of exiting the regulatory forbearance regime, and reflect the CBN’s focus on macro-financial stability, responsible banking practices, and standards,” the CBN added.

NAFDAC seizes N1.7bn expired, toxic chemicals in Lagos

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, (NAFDAC), has uncovered expired and toxic chemicals worth over N1 billion in Lagos.

The agency uncovered these during a sting operation at Folarin Olawale Cole Close at Alapere-Ketu area of Lagos.

The agency described the seizure as one of the largest and most dangerous in recent years, saying they posed serious threats to public health and national security.

Speaking after the raid, NAFDAC’s Director of Investigation and Enforcement and Chairman, Federal Task Force on Fake and Substandard Products, Dr. Martins Iluyomade, said the raid was a massive and unprecedented discovery.

According to Iluyomade, the three warehouses raided were stocked with prohibited, expired, and highly toxic chemicals, many of which were meant for food and pharmaceutical use.

“What we saw here is shocking. All expired. Some marked ‘Not for Sale.’ These are chemicals that should only be in government custody, not in the hands of private individuals,” he stated.

Iluyomade asserted that chemicals of this nature in the wrong hands could fuel insecurity.

“Chemicals in the wrong hands are dangerous. They can be used to make bombs or other dangerous items. This is not just a public health issue, it is a national security threat,” he averred.

He further explained that NAFDAC is expanding its enforcement efforts to include raw materials, not just finished products. “If you use the wrong raw materials, the finished product is already wrong. We are taking a holistic approach from production inputs to final products to protect Nigerians,” he said.

“This case is mind-boggling. One person owns all three warehouses and several outlets. He is not just selling expired chemicals, he is supplying others. It’s a supply chain of danger,” Iluyomade added.

He, however, pledged that the agency would pursue everyone connected to the illegal operation. “This is just the beginning. We will ensure this serves as a deterrent to others poisoning the public for profit.”

For his part, NAFDAC’s Director of Chemical Evaluation and Research, Dr. Leonardo Omopariola, revealed that the operation was initiated after the agency received anonymous intelligence.

“We launched an internal investigation based on a tip-off. Once we confirmed the location, we moved in swiftly this morning,” he said.

He described the conditions inside the warehouses and the environment as a disaster zone.

Omopariola expressed concern that some of the expired substances were food-grade chemicals. “These are chemicals used in producing what people eat. Once expired, their composition is altered, and what they’re manufacturing is no longer food. It’s poison,” he warned.

He added that some items found were marked as donations and not for sale. “There were boxes labelled ‘Donated  Not for Sale.’ How did they end up here? Someone is diverting products meant to help the public,” he said.

He put the economic value of the seizure items between N700million and N1 billion. “And they’re all expired. That tells you the magnitude of this operation,” he said.

He stressed that some of the substances, including caustic soda are controlled chemicals. “You need NAFDAC approval to store or distribute these. This individual has no such permit from us. The fact that everything is expired suggests they were illegally sourced.”

Two suspects were also arrested in connection with the seizures as Omopariola vowed that the agency would track down every individual involved.

NAFDAC also called on the public to assist the agency in curbing such criminal acts, “We have a whistleblower policy. If you suspect anyone is selling expired or hazardous products, report to us.

“You don’t have to give your name. Your identity will be protected, and there’s even a reward. This is about saving lives and safeguarding our environment,” Omopariola assured.

Coalition: Atiku demands open primaries, rejects calls to step down for a southern candidate

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has strongly rejected mounting calls from political leaders and stakeholders in Southern Nigeria urging him to step aside in favour of a Southern presidential candidate.

The demand, which has gained traction among members of the coalition, is anchored on the principle of equity, justice, and rotation of power, with many arguing that the South deserves to complete its turn at the presidency.

In a statement released after a closed-door meeting with leaders of ADC, the former Vice President declared that he would not bow to pressure, and called on the coalition to uphold democracy by allowing open and transparent primaries.

“I will not be pressured into abandoning my constitutional right to aspire. Let every qualified member test their popularity through a credible primary. Zoning must not be used to silence competence,” Atiku stated emphatically.

However, this declaration appears to have rattled the fragile coalition, triggering a fierce backlash from members of the Obidient Movement, who insist that Peter Obi remains the only acceptable candidate. Across social media platforms, Obidients have declared that “it’s either Obi or we pull out,” they are threatening to pull out of the coalition if Atiku insists on contesting.

What began as a strategic alliance against the ruling party now faces serious cracks, with party insiders warning that the coalition may collapse before it even begins. While Atiku’s camp argues for merit-based contest, Obidients accuse him of attempting to hijack the structure and sabotage the collective dream.

Political watchers say the coalition is on the brink, as both sides refuse to shift ground. If not quickly addressed, this friction may derail efforts to build a united front ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Tinubu, Osinbajo, others, to grace event as COREN holds 33rd Assembly in Abuja

By Sunday Abah, Abuja

Raising the standard of engineering practice in Nigeria to align with international best practices, reintroduction of engineering residency, and renumeration for residents and practitioners of the various engineering cadres will be on the front burner during the forthcoming 33rd COREN Engineering Assembly in Abuja.

President, Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), Prof. Sadiq Abubakar, made this known during a press briefing on the event, themed “Advancing Quality Engineering Services and Businesses” in his office in Abuja on Monday, calling on all stakeholders to be in attendance.

COREN Engineering Assembly is an annual event designed to provide a forum for practitioners and other stakeholders to evaluate matters of mutual interest relating to the engineering profession, discuss the dynamics in relationships between the different engineering cadres, operators, regulators among others with a view to coming up with resolutions that would propel the profession to greater height for the much desired national development.

According to Prof. Abubakar, this year’s Assembly which will have over 10,000 dignitaries, professionals, and other stakeholders from within and beyond the shores of Nigeria expected to be physically attending, has President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the Special Guest of Honour, the immediate past Vice President of the country, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo (SAN) as the Keynote Speaker, to be supported by 3 eminent personalities drawn from industry, government, academia, etc discussing the corresponding sub-themes.

The chairman of the occasion is the chairman, Geometric Power Group and former Minister of Power, Prof. Bartholomew Nnaji.

While the Minister of Works Engr David Umahi and his Federal Capital Territory (FCT) counter-part will be the Chief Host and the host at the occasion, respectively.

Highlighting key areas of focus during the 2025 Assembly which is slated for 15 to 17th July in Abuja, the COREN President “disclosed that NBTE and COREN were finalising modalities to commence accreditation of Technical Colleges in Nigeria this coming academic session.

Continuing, he said, “Gentlemen of the press, “In response to the goals of the current administration, the Council approved the resuscitation of Supervised Industrial Training Scheme in Engineering (SITSIE) under a new name of Engineering Residency Programme (ERP) and planned to engage the National Assembly to seek legislative backing for its sustainable funding in line with the existing COREN law.”

This means that all graduates of engineering from Nigerian universities must serve as engineering residents (post graduate trainees) for one year in addition to the extant National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), one year mandatory service to the nation, making the duration for emerging as a full-fledged professional 7 years, since engineering programmes normally take 5 years to complete at the university.

The COREN boss however noted that negotiations were ongoing with relevant authorities, especially the National Assembly to ensure legislative backing for sustainable funding of the ERM, adding that the Council, with the support of relevant agencies, had constituted a task force on ERP which will be inaugurated on Wednesday 16th July during the Engineering Family Forum in the course of the Assembly.

Another issue he disclosed was the enforcement of renewal of practicing license for all the cadres of engineering practitioners on the attainment/earning of CPDU, which COREN had concluded arrangement with the professional bodies to commence the implementation.

Speaking further, Prof. Abubakar said, “Aligning with the current FGN administration renewed hope agenda, I am happy to report that COREN has commenced the implementation of the assessment, certification, registration and licensing of the Artisans involve in engineering practice across Nigeria.

“Additional register for the cadre of Engineering Artisans was created and already in use. The new NSQ levels 1-6 under the NSQF included in the Scheme of Services of Nigeria has given the required recognition and backing to the holders of the NSQ levels to progress in their cadre without any hitch.”

He said in a bid to ensure effective engagement down to the grassroots and promote sanity in the practice of engineering for a more positive impacts in Nigeria, the operations of COREN had been decentralised, with seven (7) regional offices established in Lagos, Enugu, P/Harcourt, Kano, Ibadan, FCT, and Gombe, respectively are now functional.

He also hinted on efforts being made to address the disturbing cases of building collapse and other infrastructure failures.

He said, “In response to the call on COREN to rise to the occasion to check the incessant failures of engineering infrastructure, specially building collapse across the country, specialised training and licensing of Engineering Infrastructure Failure and Forensic Investigators is commencing under the tripartite collaboration of COREN, NBRRI and CIFCFIN.

“Other similar training and certification are also underway for EP evaluators, PEI Examiners, ERM&E Inspectors, C&S Developers, Whistle blowers, etc.

Prof. Abubakar equally hinted that in line with the resolve to foster synergy and collaboration in regulation activities across the economic sectors, COREN had signed several MOUs with a number of regulators in different sectors.

“This allows COREN to expand its the regulatory activities to cover the sectors of Oil & Gas, Power, Mining, Communication, Construction, Maritime, Aviation& aerospace, Agro-Allied, Manufacturing and Transportation. This initiative seeks to achieve this goal of shared prosperity.

“To support these noble changes, COREN intend to submit to the legislature request for amendment of the Engineers (Registration, etc.) (Amendment) Act No. 3, 2018. This will deepen the power for enforcement and enhance the ability of COREN to lead in this critical national assignment in a sustainable manner.

“The implementation of ERP, Admission quota, insurance of buildings, compensation to victims of infrastructure failure, punishment of persons found culpable, etc are key target areas.

He however made a passionate appeal to the federal government and the Industry to continue to support COREN in strategic areas to empower it discharge its mandate to Nigerians, urging the government reconsider its position and return the Council into funding regime for the benefit of the citizenry and the nation.

Anxiety mounts in Ondo over missing AAUA undergraduates

— They’ve been missing for two weeks, say colleagues

— Case under investigation, police confirm

Tension is rising in Ondo State over the mysterious disappearance of two undergraduates from Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA), who have been missing for over two weeks.

The missing students have been identified as Andrel Eloho Okah, a 200-level student in the Department of History and International Studies (Faculty of Arts), and John Friday Abba, a 200-level student of Economics in the Faculty of Agriculture.

A fellow student, who identified himself as Ajibola, told journalists that efforts to reach the missing duo via phone have been unsuccessful, adding that their absence from academic activities has caused serious concern among students.

“For over two weeks now, the two of them have been missing from school and classes. We have searched everywhere, but we can’t find them. We don’t know if this is a case of kidnapping or something else,” he said.

Ajibola explained that both students were known to be close friends, and their sudden disappearance without a trace has left the student community anxious.

“We’ve reported the matter to the school management and the police, but the response so far has been unsatisfactory. They keep telling us to calm down, with suggestions that the students may have traveled on vacation. But we are seriously worried,” he added.

Efforts to reach the institution’s spokesperson, Mr. Victor Akinpelumi, were unsuccessful.

However, a senior management official who spoke on condition of anonymity confirmed that the incident has been reported to the police.

“The university is aware of the matter and has notified the police. There are several possible factors we are examining, given certain behaviors among students on campus. Investigations are ongoing to determine what may have happened,” the official said.

When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer for Ondo State Command, AyanladeOlayinka, confirmed the development and stated that the case is under active investigation.

“Yes, the matter has been reported, and the police are investigating,” Olayinka said.

The disappearance has continued to stir fear and agitation among students, as calls grow for intensified efforts to locate the missing undergraduates.

Two-year-old boy reportedly drown in River

Godwin Kumfa, a 2-year-old boy, lost his life, when he drowned in Meme river, phase 11 area of Lokoja, capital of Kogi state.

The incident was said to have happened at about 7:30 a.m on Monday, according to a source.

The father of the victim, MrMamtipKumfa, a security guard at a private school in Lokoja was said to have received a call from neighbours in the morning that the boy was missing, he quickly returned home to find his wife searching for his boy.

His wife, MrsLovinaKumfa, explained to him that she left the deceased sitting by the river bank while she was collecting sand from the river but when she returned, she could not find him.

According to the wife, “When herself and the husband started looking for the boy, they later found one of his shoes near Arigbede, about 15km downstream from our house.”

She lamented that she is lost as Godwin is her only son and cried uncontrollably, pleading for help and divine intervention.

She sobbed, “I left him just for a while. When I came back, he was gone and do not know where he is. Please God, help me find my child.”

Also, a family friend, who confirmed the incident, explained that they searched the river, but could only find the boy’s shoes, with no trace of him or his corpse.

The state police command’s spokesman, SP William Aya, had yet to confirm the incident.

Pregnant UNIPORT student burns boyfriend to death, Police launch investigation

A pregnant 300-level student of the University of Port Harcourt, identified as Cynthia Chukwundah, has allegedly set ablaze her 32-year-old boyfriend, the father of her unborn child, Sunny Amadi.

The tragedy has put the residents of the university community, Choba, Rivers State, in a mourning mood.

Police spokesperson in Rivers State, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, confirmed the incident in a statement yesterday.

Though the actual circumstances that led to the incident are sketchy, some eyewitnesses in the neighbourhood suggested that it could be as a result of an argument between the two lovers.

According to residents, Cynthia, who fled the scene immediately after committing the crime, was later arrested by police.

The deceased, Amadi, died shortly after he was rushed by the residents to the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, (UPTH), for treatment.

Explaining the details of the tragic incident, Iringe-Koko said, “The Rivers State Police Command is aware of and deeply concerned about the report depicting a fire incident that occurred at No. 11B Okoro Street, Choba, Port Harcourt.

“The probable cause of the fire incident is yet to be ascertained, and a thorough investigation has been launched to unravel the circumstances surrounding the incident. Further developments will be made public as more information becomes available.”

Bandits ambush, kill over 70 vigilante members

At least 70 members of a vigilante group were on Monday, killed after bandits ambushed them at the Kukawa and Bunyun communities of Kanam Local Government Area of Plateau State.

Chairman of the vigilante group in Kukawa, AliyuBaffa, who confirmed the incident to our correspondent, said the surprise attack on his team happened when a combined team of vigilantes from different formations in Wase LGA were on their way to identify bandits’ hideouts.

Narrating how the attack occurred, Baffa said the team ran into an ambush set up by the bandits who were armed with sophisticated weapons and opened fire on the team, killing over 70 of them on the spot.

The vigilante Chairman added that by the evening of the day, they had conducted a mass burial for the deceased but feared there could still be more dead bodies in the bushes as quite a number of his members are still missing and unaccounted for.

“The clash occurred just a kilometer away from the main Kukawa town, when the bandits ambushed the vigilante team as they were heading to a bandits hideout located in the government reserve forest popularly known as Madam Forest which shares border with Bauchi and Taraba States,” Baffa said.

“We have buried more than 70 in Kukawa alone but it is likely that more bodies could be recovered from either side. Our men were overwhelmed by the bandits who carried superior weapons,” he added.

A resident of the Bunyun village, Musa Ibrahim, who also confirmed the incident in his community, said the bandits killed 10 vigilantes members who were providing security in the area, and also razed many houses in the community.

Oru-East Legislative Council passes vote of confidence on LGA boss, Okwaraigwe

Members of Oru-East Legislative Council have passed vote of confidence on the Executive Chairman of the local government, Hon. (Chief) Nnamdi Okwaraigwe. This was contained in a Press Release signed by the Leader of Oru-East Legislative Council, Hon. Timothy Chizoba.

The vote of confidence was a product of resolution passed at the Council’s Chambers during a plenary session on Tuesday, July 3, 2025.

According to the members, the decision to pass vote of confidence on the Chairman was taken after critical examination of the achievements of the chairman since assumption of office in September, 2024.

Other reasons for their decision were; the Chairman’s people-oriented policy, as well as the massive infrastructure and developmental projects within the local government area. “The people of the locality, both at home and in the Diaspora, strongly attest that the Executive Chairman, Hon. Chief Nnamdi Okwaraigwe, has set new developmental record in the local government area,” the Press Release further said.

The Legislative Council listed the Chairman’s achievements to include; completion of the Secretariat’s perimeter fence, re-construction of Administrative Office Block, Legislative Chamber and Political Office Block, massive rural road grading across communities in the local government area, and the on-going construction of two Administrative complexes.

Other reasons are: Prudent management of the LG’s resources, creating conducive working environment for the staff of the Council, ensuring cordial relationship between the Executive and the Legislative arms, strengthening primary healthcare system in the locality and for being staff-friendly.

“In view of the above, the Oru-East Legislative Council resolved and passed a vote of confidence on the indefatigable, pragmatic and people-oriented Chairman, Hon. Chief Nnamdi Okwaraigwe (Enyi Oha).

“Based on the above monumental achievements, the Legislative Council unanimously christened him the ‘Infrastructural Chairman’. Unequivocally, the people of Oru-East are proud of the Executive Chairman’s achievements”, the Legislative Council concluded

Military efforts key to Nigeria’s stability, says Ribadu

National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, has commended the Nigerian Armed Forces for their pivotal role in sustaining the country’s resilience and unity despite persistent security challenges.

Speaking in Abuja at the inauguration of the Joint Doctrine and Welfare Centre established by the Defence Headquarters, Ribadu said there has been a notable improvement in the security situation since the current administration assumed office.

He credited the military with effectively safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity, democracy, and rule of law, stating, “Terrorists and insurgents are being defeated, which signals a significant improvement in the security landscape. The country has faced challenges that could have brought down other nations, but Nigeria remains resilient.”Ribadu also highlighted major reforms carried out in the past two years, noting that long-standing security issues were being addressed with renewed vigour and commitment.

According to him, a new sense of freedom now allows citizens to travel and operate in areas once considered dangerous, including parts of Kaduna and Lokoja, marking a significant stride in restoring public safety.

He dismissed claims suggesting vast parts of the country were under siege or unsafe, describing such assertions as misleading narratives often pushed by critics or political opponents.He said, “Citizens, especially in rural areas, are benefiting from the reforms. Farmers are returning to their farms, businesses are reopening, and clinics are opening up. These tangible signs of improvement make a real difference in people’s daily lives.”

Security agencies will address potential threat to elections, says Ribadu

Ribadu said the establishment of the Centre would help to shape the future of the Nigerian military, characterised by enhanced collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking to strengthen their capabilities and effectiveness.

He urged the services to embrace the spirit of innovation, teamwork, and collaboration, as well as to embark on the idea and concept of practising ‘jointness’.

“Let us harness the potential of this centre to drive progress, complex challenges and shape the future of our armed forces.

“As we move forward, it is our hope that this centre will meet the expectations of our national aspirations, drive innovation and make a positive impact on our desire to advance our military in line with the renewed hope agenda of this administration,’’ he added.

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, emphasised the need for a unified approach to address complex security threats, adding that no single service or organisation can effectively tackle them alone.

Musa said that the new centre would serve as a hub for developing, refining, and codifying doctrines that guide joint operations, fostering an environment of continuous learning, critical thinking, and inter-service dialogue.

Flood: NEMA deploys ambulances to Kaduna, Owerri, Uyo to boost emergency preparedness

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has deployed Mobile Intensive Care Unit (MICU) ambulances to its operational offices in Kaduna, Owerri, and Uyo to boost emergency response and save lives during the predicted flood season.

The director general of NEMA, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, approved the deployment following an assessment that revealed critical equipment gaps in some of the field offices.

The Agency, in a statement yesterday by its Press Unit, stated that the decision aligns with its ongoing efforts to optimise resource allocation and improve disaster response capabilities at the sub-national level.

Mrs. Zubaida Umar said the deployment is a strategic step towards strengthening the operational capacity of NEMA zonal directorates and Operation Offices.

She said: “With the increasing risk of climate-induced disasters, particularly flooding, our teams must be well-equipped to provide immediate and effective life-saving interventions.

“The MICU ambulances are equipped with modern emergency medical tools, including oxygen supply systems, patient monitoring devices, suction kits, and other essential life support equipment.

“These features make them suitable for stabilising patients during transit to medical facilities, thereby significantly improving survival chances in emergencies.

“The ambulances have been dispatched to NEMA’s operational offices in Kaduna, Owerri, and Uyo, based on vulnerability assessments and logistical considerations”.

The Agency added that the initiative reflects NEMA’s broader commitment to building a robust disaster preparedness and response framework nationwide.

“With current climatic forecasts indicating a high probability of severe flooding in several states, the agency has intensified its efforts to upgrade infrastructure, enhance inter-agency coordination, and engage communities in risk awareness programs”.

In addition to deploying the advanced rescue equipment, NEMA continues to conduct flood simulation exercises, community sensitisation campaigns, and stakeholder coordination meetings as part of its comprehensive disaster risk reduction strategy.

No ongoing strike by ASUU, says FG

The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, has clarified that the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) is not on strike, contrary to reports circulating in some media outlets.

Speaking in Abuja, Dr. Alausa reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to maintaining industrial harmony across federal tertiary institutions.

He attributed the current stability in the sector to sustained dialogue, mutual respect, and the administration’s genuine commitment to addressing the concerns of both academic and non-academic staff.

“It is not by coincidence that Nigerian public tertiary institutions have remained open and stable for the past two years—something that has not happened in several decades,” Dr. Alausa stated. “This is a reflection of our government’s unwavering commitment to maintaining cordial relationships with all stakeholders in the education sector. We are meeting demands in phases, and we are doing so respectfully and consistently.”

The Minister emphasized that staff welfare remains a top priority for the Federal Government, in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for human capital development.

“Our children are the heartbeat of the nation, and their uninterrupted education is non-negotiable. The Federal Government will continue to engage all unions in the education sector to ensure the gates of our institutions remain open,” he added.

Dr. Alausa urged the public to disregard any misinformation suggesting that ASUU is on strike, reiterating that the prevailing stability in the university system is a shared achievement that must be protected.

Gunboat mishap: Three naval personnel, two Corps members, civilian killed

Three Naval personnel, two members of the National Youth Service Corps, (NYSC), and a civilian have been killed, after a Navy gunboat reportedly capsized around the Escravos waters, in Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta State.

At the time of this report, two naval personnel and one corps member were still missing following the unfortunate incident which reportedly happened on Thursday.

The development occurred just hours after the Navy organised a medical outreach in Okerenkoko, a riverine community in Warri South West Local Government Area.

The victims were said to have attended the outreach earlier that same day.

According to a trending post by the Navy on the tragic incident, a total of 15 persons were onboard the gunboat—nine personnel and six civilians.

The post informed that the incident occurred around a Chevron facility along the waterway.

The gunboat was reportedly heading to a hotel in the Arunton community, still within the area, where the passengers had been lodged. The mishap occurred shortly after 7 p.m.

The naval signal currently circulating reads:

“NNS Delta Epenal gunboat, DE 24, capsized at POS LAR 05, 36.408 N, in front of Chevron Nigeria Limited (CNL). The gunboat was conveying 15 people—nine personnel and six civilians—from FOB Escravos to their hotel accommodation in Arunton community before the incident occurred.

“Swift integration of the search and rescue team led to the recovery of seven personnel and five civilians, while two personnel and one civilian are still missing.

“The rescued individuals were rushed to CNL Inc. for first aid treatment upon arrival. Unfortunately, three personnel and three civilians were confirmed dead by the Chief Medical Officer on duty. However, the search is still ongoing for the missing three.”

Senate denies ignoring Concurrence Bills from House of Reps

The Senate yesterday reacted to allegations by the House of Representatives that the red chamber has persistently delayed in granting concurrence to most legislative initiatives emanating from the green chamber.

Refuting the allegation, the Senate noted that it would never joke with any legislative initiative or request from the House of Representatives, revealing that it considered at least six of such concurrence bills just last week.

President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio and Leader of the Senate, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele made the clarifications during plenary on Tuesday.

The House of Representatives had resolved to suspend further consideration of bills originating from the Senate, citing persistent delays in the red chamber’s concurrence to House-passed legislation.

The lower chamber also accused the Senate of deliberately stalling the legislative process, citing its failure to act on over 140 bills passed by the House of Representatives, many of which were sponsored by the Speaker, Abbas Tajudeen.

However, at yesterday’s plenary, both Akpabio and Bamidele rejected the claims of the House of Representatives, revealing that the Senate considered at least six concurrence bills that emanated from the green chamber in the immediate past week.

Nigerian govt sets minimum admission age for tertiary institutions at 16

The federal government has officially set the minimum age for admission into the country’s tertiary institutions at 16 years.

The government also cautioned that any admission carried out outside the Central Admission Processing System, (CAPS), would be deemed illegal, and those responsible would face prosecution.

The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, stated this yesterday while opening the ongoing Policy Meeting of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, (JAMB), in Abuja.

He cautioned that heads of institutions involved in admission malpractice would be prosecuted.

Alausa disclosed that the government’s official minimum admission age of 16 is final and non-negotiable.

JAMB sets 150 as cut-off mark for universities

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) yesterday announced 150 as the cut-off mark for admission into universities in Nigeria.

JAMB made the decision during the 2025 Policy Meeting on Admissions, held at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre in Abuja.

According to the board, the cut-off mark for colleges for nursing stands at 140, colleges of agriculture 100, while colleges of education remain 100.

“The minimum admissible scores for admissions for the next academic session have been fixed at 150 for universities, 100 for polytechnics, 100 for colleges of education, and 140 for colleges of nursing sciences by the stakeholders (Heads of Tertiary Institutions),” JAMB wrote on its X handle.

We did not suspend Eze Ofoegbu because of his support for Tinubu, Kalu

…It’s witchunt – Monarch

From Henrietta Ashikodi, Umuahia

The Chairman, Abia State Council of Traditional Rulers, Eze Linus Nto Mbah has noted that Eze Nnamdi Ofoegbu of Umudiawa kingdom in Umuahia, was suspended because of insubordination and flagrant disregard to the instructions of the council and not his affinity with President Bola Tinubu or deputy Speaker, Rep. Benjamin Kalu.

Eze Mbah revealed that the suspension was dated 6th June 2025 but was surprised that in a recent online news report with a headline, “Abia State Government Suspends Monarch Over Alleged Support for Tinubu, Benjamin Kalu”.

He said the report was malicious and unfounded

He explained the content of the letter which he equally made available to the press was not ambiguous and did not mention Mr. President nor the Deputy Speaker of the Federal House of Representatives.

” The suspension letter was not ambiguous. It reads in parts; Our letter, dated 6th June 2025, refers; consequent upon your consistent and flagrant disregard to the instructions of the Abia State Council of Traditional Rulers , with respect to your parading a parallel South East  Traditional Rulers Council, (code named South East Progressive Traditional Rulers Forum, Ndigbo Progressive Traditional Rulers Forum),

“Causing Rift amongst the traditional rulers of the South East, ably led by HRM Eze Dr. E.C. Okeke, and bringing Abia  State Council of Traditional Rulers to disrepute and dishonour to the State Government.

“You are hereby suspended from the Abia State Council of Traditional Rulers for six (6) months.

Mbah added  that the letter that suspended Eze Ofoegbu does not in any way suggest that it is because of his attitude or behaviour towards any political official, not even President Tinubu or Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, rather it is because of his disrespect to the Council’s instructions as regards to running a parallel association.

The monarch insisted that the online report was aimed at creating acrimony between the traditional institution in Abia state, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Deputy Speaker of the Federal House of Representatives.

He therefore advised all Abians, South Easterners and Nigerians at large to disregard the purported publication, saying that it is the handwork of individuals who agree to be hired to cause problems and fuel disunity among the people

It could be recalled that the Abia State Council of Traditional Rulers in March this year, disbanded all traditional rulers’ associations operating in parallel with various State Traditional Rulers Councils in the South East, a decision that was contained in a communiqué released by the 9th Assembly of the Abia State Council of Traditional Rulers after its meeting held at JAAC House, Umuahia and publicised widely.

Eze Ofoegbu while reacting insisted that his suspension will not stand the test of time, and maintained that it was a witchunt.

Umuororonjo Youth Secretary,  Nwosu Ugochukwu, shares his allowances among Ndom Umunwagbaraocha

The Secretary of Umuoronjo Youth Organization, Comr. Ugochukwu Nwosu, yesterday, played host to the women of Umunwagbaraocha village, in Umuoronjo Autonomous Community of the Owerri Municipal Council.
Speaking, during gathering, in Owerri, Nwosu noted, that mothers of the area have contributed towards the development of the State, adding that he holds them in a high esteem.
Nwosu applauded the administration of his Excellency Dist. Senator Hope Uzodinma ONWA in all his numerous road projects and achievements so far. He urged the women to keep supporting the Governor’s administration spiritually, physically and otherwise.
In his speech, during the ceremony, the Imo State Commissioner for Youths Development and Talent Hunt, Hon. Mandela Ukaegbu who was a guest, at the meeting commended the Secretary of Umuoronjo Youth, Comr. Ugochukwu Nwosu for the love he  hasshown to women of the area.
He pledged to support the programme with inclusion of ten (10) more women into the existing ones in order to be among the beneficiaries.
“We are going  to always bring in government initiatives to you through your beloved son”, he assured.
Head of the women,  Lady (Mrs.) Chizoma Emeana, in her speech, expressed appreciation to the Youth Secretary, Ugochukwu Nwosu for his benevolence
“Our son, we are grateful to you for remembering your mothers, even in these times of hardship in the country. We pray God Almighty to bless and reward you handsomely”, she prayed.
The Executive Chairman of  Owerri Municipal, Hon. Bldr. Chidiebere Emeribe breezed in during the meeting.

PDP BoT member, Waziri, defects to ADC, cites loss of credibility

A founding member of the Peoples Democratic Party and Board of Trustees member, Adamu Waziri, has resigned from the party and joined the African Democratic Congress.

Waziri announced his decision yesterday at his Dogo Tebo Ward in Potiskum, Yobe State.

He said the move was in line with the PDP constitution, which requires formal resignation at the ward level.

Explaining his decision, Waziri said the PDP no longer reflects the values of a credible opposition.

“I was a member of PDP, and due to the exigencies of the moment and in the interest of the nation, I have decided to resign,” he said.

He urged his followers to join him in supporting a new political movement that can strengthen democracy and ensure better governance.

Waziri described the decision as difficult but necessary, saying the current leadership of the PDP has lost its way.

In response, PDP Ward Chairman Malam Muhammad Bomai, who represented the local leadership, accepted Waziri’s resignation with regret, calling him a pillar of the party.

“Waziri has been an institution within the PDP, and we will feel his absence deeply,” he said.

Bomai also announced his resignation from the PDP and immediate defection to ADC, saying he shares Waziri’s vision for a better Nigeria.

NASS bye-elections: APC begins sale of nomination forms

Ahead of the August 16, 2025, National Assembly bye-elections, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) yesterday commenced the sale of nomination and expression of interest forms to aspirants seeking to contest vacant legislative seats across the country.

The bye-elections, to be conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), are scheduled to fill two Senatorial seats, five House of Representatives seats, and nine State House of Assembly seats spread across 12 states.

According to the APC, nomination and expression of interest forms for Senate aspirants are pegged at ₦20 million, while those seeking to contest House of Representatives seats will pay ₦10 million. Forms for State House of Assembly aspirants are being sold for ₦2 million.

The party has fixed its primary elections for July 16, 2025, to determine its flag bearers for the various legislative positions.

One of the early aspirants, Hon. Oscar Agedo, who is seeking to succeed the Edo State Deputy Governor, Hon. Dennis Idahosa, formally obtained his forms yesterday. Agedo is vying to represent the Ovia Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives.

Speaking to journalists after picking up his forms at the APC national secretariat in Abuja, Agedo pledged to deliver impactful representation and build on the developmental strides already recorded in the constituency.

He expressed confidence in the party’s internal democratic process and promised to prioritise youth empowerment, education, and infrastructural development if elected.

The upcoming bye-elections have drawn interest from key political stakeholders as they are seen as a test of the ruling party’s strength ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“My intention to represent my people in the Green Chambers is simple: to make good laws for our country and to ensure proper representation for my people, especially in the area of infrastructural development.

“As a legislator, my primary responsibility is to make laws. But, it is also obvious that in our democracy today, there is a high demand for lawmakers to implement constituency projects.

“For me, my major focus will be on youths  and citizens’ empowerment across Ovia South-West and Ovia North-East. Our predecessor, who is now the Deputy Governor of Edo State, has done remarkably well in infrastructure. I will not just add to that, but my key interest is in human capacity development.

“I assure you that I will make my people proud,” he added.

Aghedo, a former local government chairman, also urged the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) to conduct a credible primary election on July 19.

“I also want to appeal to the National Working Committee that our party is known for credible and transparent primaries. I am confident that come July 19th, we will have a free and fair primary election in our constituency,” he said.

Another aspirant for the Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency seat in Kaduna State, Comrade Yakubu Waziri, commended the Senator Uba Sani-led administration in the state in addressing insecurity, especially in the Southern Kaduna region of the state.

“For a long time, Chikun and Kajuru were constantly in the news for negative reasons. But today, thanks to the intervention of His Excellency, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the “People’s Governor”, the situation has improved. In fact, we are not just experiencing relative peace; we are enjoying permanent peace, to the glory of God.

“If elected as a member of the House of Representatives for Chikun/Kajuru Constituency, what we have done so far is just the beginning. Our people will have no regrets electing us. By the grace of God, we’ll deliver”.

I’ve no guber ambition; Tinubu’s re-election paramount – NDDC chair, Ogbuku

Against the widespread rumour of his future political interest in 2028, the managing Director and chief executive officer of the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku said he has no ambition for the Bayelsa State guber race.

Ogbuku however enjoined those clamouring for his declaration for the race called on those supporters to channel their energy into supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s reelection in 2027.

Speaking at the occasion of a world press conference to mark the 25th anniversary of NDDC in Asaba, Delta state, on this day, Ogbuku said, “I want to say I never told anybody I’m contesting the election.

“For now, Mr President has given me an assignment, and the assignment I have is to do the job of the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the NDDC. And my interest for now is to ensure that I have the concentration to do this job according to the dictates of Mr President to serve the people of the Niger Delta.

“If there is any election I’m interested in, I believe everybody will ask why. The election I’m interested in is Mr President’s reelection. Because of those who talk about running for election, if Mr President does not win, how do I win an election? So Mr President must win”, he said.

According to him, President Tinubu’s election “is in front of me right now. So all those politicians who try to distract us by putting in the newspapers and all that.. Not only the politicians, even the people of the State who try to have some billboards trying to campaign on our behalf, I want to plead with them to convert that energy to campaign for Mr President for him to win reelection”, he concluded.

No going back on nuclear test ban in Nigeria – Shettima

Vice-President Kashim Shettima has reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to a comprehensive nuclear test ban through collaboration with the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organisation (CTBTO).

Shettima stated this yesterday when he received, on a courtesy visit to the Presidential Villa, the Executive Secretary of CTBTO, Dr Robert Floyd.

He said Africa’s priority, at the moment, is to address its existential challenges of poverty and the effects of climate change, not the pursuit of nuclear weapons capability.

” The outcome of any nuclear conflict is never a win-win situation; it is always the opposite. We are fighting poverty; we are fighting a war against the relationship between the economy and ecology in sub-Saharan Africa.

” We have no business dabbling in anything that has to do with nuclear weapons. I want to assure and reiterate our commitment to a comprehensive nuclear test ban.

” And I want to appreciate your organisation for the extra vigilance you have taken, having 337 stations spread across the world. All seven tests conducted by DPR Korea were detected,” he noted.

Shettima, while commending the CTBTO for its role, said, “The beauty of CTBTO’s function is that its monitors also serve civilian purposes, especially in assisting us to detect tsunamis, volcanic seismic activities.

” Your functions are contributing to the global stability of our ecology.”

Earlier, Floyd applauded Nigeria’s leadership under President Bola Tinubu for contributing to the attainment of the global average in the reduction of nuclear testing and the establishment of strong norms against it.

He described the relationship between the organisation and the country as a natural partnership.

He highlighted the contributions of Nigeria through focal agencies – the Nigerian Atomic Energy Commission (NAEC) and the Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NNRA).

Floyd acknowledged the quality of technical inputs and the commitment by the country in the actualisation of the goals of the CTBTO.

He spoke about the significance of the data generated by the NAEC and NNRA, particularly in saving lives through early detection of natural disasters and other human activities that are inimical to orderliness in the ecosystem.

Also, the Acting Chairman of NAEC, Anthony Ekedegwa, said Nigeria’s partnership with the CTBTO through the commission has been instrumental in building capacity and equipping the centre for the development of the sector.

On his part, the Director-General of the NNRA, Dr Yau Idris, underscored the relationship between his agency and the CTBTO in ensuring global adherence to international regulations on nuclear tests and the ban

2027: One term enough for any sincere leader to make impact – Obi

The presidential candidate of Labour Party in the 2023 election, Mr Peter Obi, said a four-year single term is enough for any serious and sincere leader to make impact in Nigeria.

Obi, in a statement issue by the Spokesman of Peter Obi Media Reports, Ibrahim Umar, yesterday in Abuja, also said that a single term of four years, particularly in 2027, would respect zoning and stabilise the polity.

“One term is enough to establish that good governance is possible, and if they can impact negatively on us for just two years, why won’t someone achieve a lot in four years?

“It’s also to respect the gentleman’s agreement of zoning, which has been a stabilising factor, even though it’s not in our constitution.

“I don’t need a day more than four years. I will show the direction of good governance.

“Two years can change it in a good direction. People want to get up and see a president who cares and shows compassion,” he said.

Obi, who reiterated his determination to run for the presidency again in 2027, said that he was qualified for the office.

“I’m going to contest for the president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and I believe I am qualified for it,” he said.

On the possibility of his becoming a running mate to former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar in the 2027 election, Obi said: “This is not in play; nobody has ever discussed that.

“People assume so many things. Nobody has ever discussed with me whether I am going to be A, B or C.”

He also dispelled the speculations that he had left Labour Party, following his open support for the coalition which had adopted African Democratic Congress (ADC).

Speaking on coalition with persons known to have played key roles in previous administrations, Obi explained that their experience was key to preventing the government he intends to form from failing.

“Their experience is critical. I can tell you one of the major companies in the world hired two people who had worked in failed companies because they can tell you why they failed.

“You need the experience of those who have failed and those who have succeeded in moving on, and I need everyone.

“It is a critical experience because they know what can fail a system and they know what was wrong with the system,” he said.

58 inmates sit NECO exam in Kano — NCoS

The Nigerian Correctional Service, Kano State Command, said 58 inmates from its custodial facilities are currently sitting for the 2025 National Examination Council Senior School Certificate Examination.

This was contained in a statement issued by the command’s Public Relations Officer, Musbahu Kofar-Nasarawa, on Sunday in Kano.

According to him, the milestone was achieved following the payment of registration fees by the Kano State Government under the leadership of Governor Abba Yusuf.

“The gesture is a testament to the state government’s commitment to the welfare, rehabilitation, reformation, and reintegration of inmates in the command,” Kofar-Nasarawa said.

The command expressed profound gratitude to the Governor for his unwavering support and partnership, adding that it would boost the morale of inmates and provide them with a second chance at education and a brighter future.

“The NCoS Kano State Command remains committed to providing a conducive environment for the rehabilitation and reformation of inmates.

“We are proud to have the support of the Kano State Government in this endeavour,” the statement added

Police launch manhunt for hoodlums who killed police constable, abducted ASP in Imo

Gunmen on Sunday launched a deadly attack on a police patrol team near Finas Gas station, along the Okigwe-Umuahia Road, in Imo State, killing a Police Constable and reportedly abducting an Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP).

The incident occurred around 9:00 a.m. near the Old Gariki area in Okigwe, which sources described as a “dangerous zone.”

“During the ambush, Police Constable, Oluebube, was shot dead, and his service rifle was taken by the attackers. ASP Casmir, who led the patrol team, has been missing since the attack, and fears are growing that he may have been abducted and killed.

“One PC, Oluebube, was killed in action, and his smoke gunner carted away. ASP Casmir and his AK-47 rifle are missing. Other members of his team have returned to base with their rifles and are currently receiving medical care,” a source disclosed.

The Imo State Police Command confirmed the incident yesterday and said a manhunt has been launched to apprehend those responsible.

Spokesman for the Command, Henry Okoye, said the attackers are believed to be affiliated with the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its Eastern Security Network (ESN), based on preliminary findings.

“An intense operation is ongoing to apprehend the miscreants responsible for the attack,” Okoye said. “We are aware that some may question why IPOB is being mentioned, but we cannot ignore confessional statements by suspects, who openly associate their actions with the group. As a law enforcement agency, it is our duty to report facts as uncovered during investigations.”

Kidnapper pleads guilty to abducting 17-year-old University of Ibadan student

One David Abiodun has pleaded guilty before a Federal High Court in Ibadan to kidnapping a 17-year-old student of the University of Ibadan, Divine Ayeni.
Abiodun pleaded guilty yesterday to the two-count charge bordering on kidnapping instituted against him by the Department of State Services (DSS).
Consequently, Justice Nkeonye Maha adjourned the suit until September 23 for presentation of facts and judgment.
Maha also ordered the defendant to be remanded in Agodi Correctional Centre.
Counsel to DSS, Mr T.A. Nurudeen, had earlier told the court that the defendant committed the crime between May 19 and June 5, 2024, in Ibadan.
Nurudeen added that Abiodun committed an illegal act by abducting the victim, thereby depriving her of liberty.
According to him, the offences contravened the provisions of sections 24A and 30A of the Terrorism and Prohibition and Prevention Act 2022.

Enugu Air’: Gov Mbah launches state-owned airline

Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, has unveiled a state-owned airline, Enugu Air, describing it as a giant leap for the state and a gold standard for government-private sector partnership.

The inaugural flight of the state-owned airline took off yesterday, marking what the governor called a historic moment for ‘Ndi Enugu’.

Speaking at the launch, Mbah said the achievement aligned with his administration’s vision of transforming Enugu into a premier destination for investment, living and tourism in Nigeria.

“It is an honour to stand before you today, not only as a governor but as a fellow believer in the power of vision,” he declared.

Although the launch came weeks after his administration’s second anniversary, Mbah described it as “a fitting gift to Ndi Enugu”.

He stressed that Enugu Air represented more than just an airline as it symbolised a bold step in creating the right enablers for enterprise and opening up sectors that once felt out of reach.

“We began this journey with no empty promises. Among the key objectives we outlined upon assuming office was the pledge to make Enugu the premier destination for investments, living, and tourism in Nigeria. Today, we are witnessing a clear pathway to that goal,” the governor said.

The launch of Enugu Air, according to Mbah, also signified the possibilities that could emerge when strategic public-private collaborations were nurtured.

He added, “With our airline, we are opening doors to a sector that once felt out of reach. Enugu Air has given more wings to our dreams, and today we take that first flight together.”

Speaking at the ceremony, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, addressed public concerns over the fate of the Enugu airport, clarifying that the facility was not being sold but concessioned to private investors.

“I have seen some comments saying, ‘No, we are selling Enugu airport out.’ We are concessioning it. The process is supported by Mr. President, by FAAN, by the Ministry of Aviation, and by the National Assembly committees.

“We are just in the process of handing Enugu airport to private investors who will come and make this place open, including the cargo terminal,” he said.

According to Keyamo, the cargo terminal will significantly boost economic activities in the region.

“You can now process exports directly from Enugu here—the cargo terminal—for the good and employment of Enugu people. I thought it was necessary to mention it here today.”

He praised Mbah for his proactive efforts in attracting private investments to the airport, noting that the governor refused to wait for bureaucracy to drive progress.

Igbo groups kick against RUGA project in South-East, warn Soludo, others

South-East stakeholders under the aegis of Concerned Igbo Groups have vowed to resist the implementation of any RUGA project in any part of the South-East.

The groups described the RUGA project as “reverse colonisation”, stressing that it offers no commercial value or benefit to the people of the region.

They also asserted that cattle rearing is a private business.

The statement released yesterday was jointly signed on behalf of the groups by Ben Nwankwo and Evans Nwankwo, Executive Directors of Ambassadors for Self-Determination, USA; Sylvester Onyia, President of American Veterans Of Igbo Descent, AVID; Maxwell Dede of Rising Sun Group and Rev Father Augustine Odimegwa.

Opposing plans by the Federal Government to establish RUGA settlements in the South-East, the groups alleged that the project is a hidden plan to take over their ancestral lands and hand them to Fulani settlers, using agriculture as an excuse.

The groups lamented shortage of land in the South-East, which has over 800 people per square kilometre, making the area the most crowded region in Nigeria.

The Concerned Igbo Groups declared that there is no land for the RUGA project in the South-East.

“We the concerned people of Igbo land have said it before and we are saying it again, there is no land for RUGA anywhere in Igbo land — not today, not tomorrow, not ever.

“We are already struggling to find land for farming, housing, and industries. So how can anyone expect us to give out land for cows? If the government is serious about ranching, let them go to Niger State, which has over 76,000 square kilometres of land — far more than the whole of the South-East put together.

“We will resist it with everything in us. RUGA is not about peace or development. It is a private business disguised as a government policy. It is a hidden plan to take over our ancestral lands and hand them to Fulani settlers, using agriculture as an excuse,” the statement said.

The groups further expressed concern over the security implications of the project, particularly with the recent carnage and violence in Benue State which led to the destruction of lives and properties.

Urging the government to exercise caution in how it goes about the project, the groups noted that the Lokpanta cattle market in Abia State has become a hotbed of crime, kidnapping and killings and as such, they would not allow such a problem to spread or continue in the South-East.

The groups in the same vein warned Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, to tread with caution and stop any further negotiations that have to do with RUGA, saying such would amount to exercise in futility.

The statement added, “We are using this medium to warn Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State. Stop playing with Igbo lives. Stop negotiating with our blood.

You were not elected to sell our land or our future. We also call on all governors and politicians in the South-East who may have collected N6 billion each as bribe to support this RUGA project — return the blood money now. The people are watching. History will remember. And there will be no hiding place for anyone who betrays Igbo land.

“We are not against any Igbo man or woman who wants to do livestock business. In fact, many of our people are running successful farms in Nsukka, Eke, Obollo Afor, and other places.

But those are private businesses on family land — not federal land grabs under the cover of RUGA.

“What we reject is a plan that will turn us into strangers on our own land, where outsiders come, settle, multiply, and eventually take over our communities. That is reverse colonisation, and we will never allow it.”

Over staffing: ASOPADEC workers won’t lose jobs – Gov Otti

Abia State Governor Alex Otti has said that his administration will not sack workers of Abia State Oil Producing Areas Commission, ASOPADEC, following the discovery of over staffing in the agency by the Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission, RMAFC.

The governor rather directed the restructuring of the agency, stressing that staff discovered to be in excess could be redeployed to other government establishments, but not sacked.

Otti stated this on Sunday when he received the Federal Commissioner representing Abia State at the RMAFC, Mrs Nkechi Otti who led some officials of the Commission to hand over reports on findings after her recent familiarization visit and stakeholders engagements in Abia State.

He said, “I will also engage further with ASOPADEC to understand what their problem is. The truth is that we do not want to throw people into the job market.

“What I had instructed was some form of restructuring. If there is excess capacity, they could be sent somewhere else rather than putting them in the unemployment queue.

“The Head of Service should also be part of this meeting. It should happen as quickly as tomorrow, so that we can look at the headcount and know how to send some people to other places.”

He assured her that Abia State government would always collaborate with RMAFC.

In her speech, Mrs Oti said she was in Abia for a familiarisation visit to various government agencies and stakeholders and commended the governor for his administration’s achievements.

She listed some of her team’s findings to include issues of over staffing in ASOPADEC and need for community engagement with oil producing areas.

Tinubu should show more compassion to Nigerians — Obi

2023 Presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has urged President Bola Tinubu to show more compassion to Nigerians.

This is as he said that the office of the Nigerian president requires sacrifice and compassion, not detachment, luxury, or fear.

Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, Obi said the Tinubu administration is disconnected from the suffering of ordinary Nigerians.

He said, ”If I become president, I will use resources effectively. I cannot say, ‘buy a new jet.

“I don’t need one because I can go anywhere without a jet.

“I will not use N150 billion to buy a jet when 80 per cent of primary healthcare centres are not functioning.”

The former Anambra State governor said his time in office was marked by modest living and responsible governance.

“I was a governor, and for my first four years, I drove 406.

“For the rest of it, I didn’t drive bulletproof cars.

“Nobody will try to kill you if you do the right thing.

“It is when you do the wrong thing that you fear death.

“If your people are dying, you should be ready to die.

“The president should also be ready to die,” Obi said.

The former governor faulted Tinubu’s response to major tragedies in 2024, including the stampede at a Christmas party in Ibadan, Oyo State, which led to the death of several children.

According to him, Tinubu opted to remain in Lagos for the holidays instead of visiting grieving families.

“There is no compassion; people lost their children who will lead this country in the future, and he went on a Christmas holiday,” he said.

He also criticised Tinubu for failing to visit Yelwata in Benue State, where suspected herdsmen attacked and displaced thousands.

Obi said, ”People want to get up and see a president that cares, a president that shows compassion.

“Today we have a country without compassion.

“Leadership without compassion does is a minus.

“It is not good for a country.”

Tinubu vows to tame inflation, strengthen transparency

President Bola Tinubu said his administration is fully committed to reducing inflation and promoting economic stability through fiscal discipline, transparency, and citizen participation.

Tinubu made this known yesterday while declaring open the National Conference on Fiscal Governance, Transparency and Accountability in Abuja.

The three-day event was organised by the National Assembly’s Public Accounts Committee.

Represented by the Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, the president said efforts are underway to strengthen financial systems across government agencies.

These include supporting the Office of the Auditor-General, improving procurement transparency, and expanding digital finance tools.

“Public funds must be traceable, and officers accountable. Transparency and accountability are not optional, they are key to Nigeria’s future,” Tinubu said.

He said Nigeria must reduce inflation by fixing structural issues, especially in food production and supply chains.

He also stressed the importance of cutting wasteful spending.

“Oversight is not a political tool. It is a patriotic duty,” he told lawmakers.

Tinubu called on civil society, the media, and everyday Nigerians to hold the government accountable and play an active role in governance.

In his remarks, British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery, represented by William Robinson, praised Nigeria’s economic reforms, such as the fuel subsidy removal and tax reforms.

He said the UK remained committed to helping Nigeria strengthen financial systems, but noted that real progress depends on “transparency, accountability, and citizen engagement.”

Montgomery also urged Nigeria to adopt digital tools and embrace innovation in public finance management.

Lawyers storm Presidential Villa, NASS, submit petition against NMDPRA boss

About 500 public interest lawyers yesterday stormed the Presidential Villa and National Assembly with a petition against Ahmed Farouk, the Chief Executive Officer, CEO of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).

The lawyers and members of some civil society organizations have been protesting for days, demanding immediate investigation of corruption allegations against Ahmed. They are equally demanding his sack and prosecution over the alleged offences, which include abuse of office and conflict of interest.

Speaking on behalf of the lawyers, Samuel Ihensekhien alleged that Ahmed had left the country in an attempt to evade possible arrest.

“This flagrant misuse of public resources, at a time when millions of Nigerians suffer from deteriorating public education

infrastructure, is both morally reprehensible and criminally indictable.

“The actions of Mr. Ahmed represent a clear abuse of office, a betrayal of the Nigerian people’s trust, and a severe breach of the fiduciary duty required of all public servants,” he said, citing allegations of diversion of $5 million in public funds to pay the school fees of his children in luxurious foreign universities.

The lawyers demanded that the National Assembly commence an immediate investigation, and recommend Ahmed’s immediate sack and suspension.

They also called for the freezing of local and offshore assets belonging to the NMDPRA boss.The protesters, in the same vein, demanded sweeping reforms in the appointment of regulatory agency heads in the oil and gas sector.

The petition is backed by civil society organizations including the Situation Room for Oil Sector Reforms, the Concerned Young Professionals Network, and the Coalition for Public Accountability (COPA), who have held protests calling for Farouk’s suspension and prosecution.The petitioners emphasised that Farouk’s actions represent a clear abuse of betrayal of the Nigerian people’s trust, and a severe breach of duty. According to the, his continued occupation of the position threatens transparency, accountability and reforms in the petroleum sector.

Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Olakulehin is dead

The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, is dead.

It was gathered that Olakulehin died at the age of 90.

According to the reports, the monarch died in the early hours yesterday.

Olakulehin died during the ongoing 90th birthday and first anniversary coronation celebrations.

The late Oba Olakulehin received the staff of office from Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde on July 12, 2024, as the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland.

Ex-SGF, Babachir Lawal formally quits APC as fears of implosion hits party

Amid growing fears of implosion in the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, a Chieftain of the party and former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF, Dr Babachir David Lawal has formally bowed out of the party.

However, contrary to speculation, the renowned technocrat and politician said he has not aligned with any political party yet.

Babachir Lawal resigned from APC in a letter to the Chairman of Bangshika Ward of Hong Local Government Area of Adamawa State.

Titled “Letter of Resignation from the APC”, the politician did not give any reason for his current action, though he has had a running battle with President Bola Tinubu over the choice of Muslim- Muslim ticket in the pre-2023 presidential election process.

The letter read in part “My Chairman Sir, I write to formally notify you of my resignation from the All Progressives Congress APC.

“In due course, I will make public my current political affiliations where I plan to join other compatriots to work towards making Nigeria, a better living place for all citizens.

“This resignation takes immediate effect. Please, remain blessed and extend my warm regards to other members of your party”.

With Babachir Lawal’s exit, fears of implosion have become high in the ruling APC on the fate that may befall it before the 2027 general elections due to growing ill feelings among the members, especially in the Northern part of the country.

It will be recalled that a coalition headed by a former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar had recently adopted the African Democratic Congress, ADC, as a platform for the opposition to wrestle power from the ruling party.

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