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No fewer than 75 men and women will be recognised for their impact in the society in the 2025 edition of Global Excellence Summit where African Union Agenda 2063 Women's Impact awards is set to take place. 

With the theme, "Global Excellence in Diplomacy and Leadership: Africa's Part to Prosperity", the event comes up 23rd and 24th, May 2025 at the prestigious Oriental Hotel Victoria Island, Lagos.

The awardees who are from across Africa and in the Diaspora are I individuals who have distinguished themselves in the areas of leadership, diplomacy, entrepreneurial impacts, technological advancement innovation, and those who have excelled in their chosen endeavors.

The event is enjoying the partnership of AU Agenda 2063 Ambassador Assembly, the United Nations international peace and governance Council (UNIPGC), Nigerian Canada parliamentary friendship Inc. and other International Society of Diplomats. 

The Convener; Ambassador Dr. Fatoumatta Gaye, at a press conference said GESA 2025 is more than just a two-day event but a platform for connecting purpose with power.  

According to her, there is need for collective response to collaboration between government institutions, private sector leaders, change makers, and international allies. According to her, it is an awakening into the brilliance, resilience and global relevance of African leadership, diplomacy, and innovation"

She carefully outlined the various programs, days and what to expect. 

Day one will host the diplomacy and business summit, welcoming high level delegates and key voices in investment, policy, innovation, and continental partnerships"

Day Two will be our prestigious Awards gala night, honoring over 75 men and women across Africa and the diaspora-- individuals and institutions whose impact speaks volumes in the areas of governance, entrepreneurship, diplomacy, advocacy, technology, and social transformation."

According to Dr. Gaye, the event will attract high profile personalities in politics, private sector, the academia and othet VIPs, she called on other stakeholders to help amplify the event

" As we prepare to welcome governors, ministers, high commissioners, top entrepreneurs, and private sector investors, we call on the public especially the media to help us amplify the Vision." 

She thanked all stakeholders for their support and efforts towards the realization of the' vision'.

Watch video:


…Senate Highlights Nigeria’s Malaria Burden

By Henry Umoru

ABUJA — A bill seeking to establish the National Agency for Malaria Eradication (NAME) has successfully passed its second reading in the Senate.

The bill, titled A Bill For an Act to Establish the National Agency for Malaria Eradication and for Related Matters, 2025 (SB. 172), was sponsored by Senator Ned Nwoko of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Delta North. It aims to address the staggering malaria death toll in Nigeria, which, according to the World Health Organization’s (WHO) 2024 report, accounts for over 184,000 out of 600,000 global malaria deaths annually—the highest in the world.

The bill was presented during Thursday’s plenary session and, after scaling the second reading, was referred to the Senate Committee on Health by the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin (APC, Kano North). The committee is expected to review and report back in four weeks.

In his presentation, Senator Nwoko emphasized the urgency of establishing NAME, describing malaria as a national emergency that goes beyond public health, affecting maternal health, economic productivity, and national development. He highlighted that malaria contributes to about 11% of maternal mortality in Nigeria and is responsible for severe anaemia, miscarriages, stillbirths, and infant deaths.

“Malaria is not merely a public health issue; it is a structural crisis that impairs maternal health, drains economic productivity, and impedes national development,” Nwoko stated.

He noted that the economic impact of malaria is severe, leading to the loss of millions of man-hours annually, affecting business efficiency, and straining national productivity.

Senator Nwoko drew parallels between global responses to health crises, citing the rapid mobilization during the COVID-19 pandemic, where vaccines were developed within months, and global funding was swiftly deployed. In contrast, malaria—despite centuries of devastation—continues to suffer from fragmented and insufficient interventions.

“If malaria were endemic to Europe or North America, we would not still be grappling with it a century later,” he remarked, urging for political will and urgent action.

The bill proposes the creation of a centralized, autonomous, and fully resourced National Agency for Malaria Eradication, with a clear and aggressive mandate to:

Coordinate inter-agency and sectoral responses with authority.

Mobilize and manage resources efficiently and transparently.

Support vaccine research and genetic innovations targeting malaria.

Senator Nwoko criticized the current health architecture for being underpowered and fragmented, calling the National Malaria Elimination Programme (NMEP) policy-based but ineffective, and the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NPHCDA) limited in reach and capacity.

“A fragmented structure cannot confront a mutating threat. We need a unified, science-driven, and legislatively backed institution with the singular mandate to end malaria in Nigeria,” he concluded.

The bill received overwhelming support from senators, including Victor Umeh (LP, Anambra Central), Ede Dafinone (APC, Delta Central), Babangida Oseni (APC, Jigawa North West), and Onyewuchi Francis (LP, Imo East).

The proposed agency is seen as a historic step towards eliminating malaria in Nigeria, which has long held the highest global malaria burden.


An aspirant for Igbogbo -Baiyeku LCDA in Lagos State, Adelakun Abayomi has said the Saturday primary election in the LCDA failed to meet expectations of the people, including delegates and aspirants.

According to him, the process was shrouded in shenanigans and secrecy, noting that it was a rape on democratic principles which the leader of the party, President Bola Tinubu stands for.

Addressing a press conference supported by Ikorodu Concerned Leaders of APC, Abayomi called for cancellation of the primary election in Igbogbo -Baiyeku LCDA for a fresh exercise that will be transparent, open and devoid of interference by interested parties.

*Below is the text of the press conference:*
We the umbrella body of Concerned APC Leaders in Ikorodu local government area condemn the Saturday, May 12 conduct of APC primary election in Igbogbo -Baiyeku LCDA. 

We are deeply worried that at a time when our party both at the federal and local government level have continued to adopt transparency and openness to entrench democratic norms, so cannot be said of  Igbogbo -Baiyeku LCDA, where brigandage and rancour has been the order of the day as a result of imposition, impunity, recklessness and clear flouting of extant laws and electoral principles. 

To begin with, we are left at a loss on how 24 delegates were accredited as against 27 that ought to be accredited. That is not all, 26 people ended up voting, raising questions on how additional two people voted and how they came about. It raises a big question mark on the credibility of the process. 

It must also be clearly stated that during the sham called primary election, votes were cast in secret in a hall without the aspirants or agents witnessing it. Votes were suppose to be cast openly as witnessed during the national primary election held in Abuja but that was not the case in the last Saturday's primary election in Igbogbo -Baiyeku LCDA. 

We were also shocked that in the 26 ballot papers displayed, all the 26 delegates have the same handwriting, when it is really impossible for two people to have the same handwriting. That again faults the credibility of the primary election in Igbogbo -Baiyeku LCDA. 

According to the election committee all the 26 votes voted for only 1 aspirant out of 4. How could this be possible? How can none of the four contestants secure a single vote out of the 26?

The remaining 3 aspirants didn't get a single vote, whereas we came with different dedicated number of delegates. Apart from that, delegates were also sent out immediately after voting unlike what we witnessed at the presidential national primary election. It really fell below standard. 

The records are also there for everyone to see that some of the delegates that waited till the counting of vote registered their disappointment. They chanted "NO  I DIDN'T VOTE FOR THE PERSON DECLARED AS WINNER. Some were visibly in tears for our party because of flagrant and barefaced disrespect that the election committee displayed.

It also took the election committee 45 minutes to bring out the ballot boxes out for counting, after they had perfected their shenanigans. That is very sad for democracy. 

Agents were also not allowed access into the voting area. The purpose of each Aspirant taking an agent there was defeated because they were not allowed to witness the voting carried out secretly in a hall and NOT in the open.

We are calling on the leadership of our party to look into this rape on our democracy and reverse the election as it did not by any stretch of imagination reflect the collective will of delegates.
The Department of State Services (DSS) has denied claims that Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), is being held in solitary confinement.

Kanu, who is standing trial on a seven-count charge bordering on terrorism and treasonable felony, has been in DSS custody since 2021.

During the latest session at the Federal High Court in Abuja, a DSS operative—whose identity remains undisclosed for security reasons—continued testifying as a prosecution witness. Under cross-examination by Kanu’s lead counsel, former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Chief Kanu Agabi, SAN, the witness, referred to as PW-BBB, maintained: “Solitary confinement is not a practice of the DSS.”

Agabi had raised concerns over the duration and conditions of Kanu’s detention, alleging that the IPOB leader had been kept in isolation. Responding, the operative clarified that while he was part of the investigation, he is not directly responsible for handling Kanu. He said, “I am merely an investigator,” adding that he could not speak to Kanu’s psychological condition as it falls outside his duties.

Agabi pressed further, describing the continued detention as “cruel and inhuman treatment.” The witness reiterated that he was not involved in preparing the charges and could not recall the number of times they had been amended. He also declined to comment on whether the current charges were “speculative,” stating that his role was limited to investigation.

In the course of proceedings, the court admitted a medical report and death certificate of a former presidential aide, Ahmed Gulak, into evidence. The prosecution claims Gulak was killed in Imo State on May 30, 2021, allegedly following a directive from Kanu instructing his followers to enforce a sit-at-home order.

Additional evidence tendered by the prosecution, led by Adegboyega Awomolo, SAN, included a police report linking Gulak’s death to suspected IPOB members.

However, Agabi challenged a video submitted by the DSS, arguing that it showed only Kanu and his legal team and questioned its completeness.

The witness stood by the footage, saying it reflected DSS standard procedures and was presented in full. When asked whether he wore a mask during the interrogation, the witness said he could not recall.

The hearing was paused after Agabi informed the court that key documents requested from the police had yet to be provided, prompting him to ask for an adjournment.

Awomolo opposed the request, accusing the defence of trying to delay the case. He noted the court had previously ordered accelerated hearing and revealed that five additional prosecution witnesses were prepared to testify.

Justice James Omotoso, in his ruling, granted the adjournment “in the interest of justice,” despite provisions for day-to-day trial in such matters.

Before adjourning, Justice Omotoso addressed reports that DSS officials had blocked Kanu’s lawyers from visiting him. Agabi clarified that he arrived earlier than the scheduled 2 p.m. appointment.

The judge criticized a social media post by another defence lawyer, Aloy Ejimakor, which accused the DSS of denying access, cautioning against spreading unverified information and urging professionalism from all legal representatives.

The trial is scheduled to continue on May 21.


The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) National Office and Board Members have paid a courtesy visit to Start – Rite School, a pioneer pilot school for the Computer-Based Test (CBT) style examination.

The visit was aimed to assess the school’s readiness and conduct during the CBT exams.

Dr Josiah Dangut, Head National Office, commended the students and school management for their exceptional conduct during the ongoing exams.

He expressed satisfaction with the school’s infrastructure, technical capabilities, and overall exam administration.

The WAEC team described the execution of the CBT exams as seamless, attributing the success to the school’s thorough preparation and effective invigilation.

The students demonstrated confidence and familiarity with the CBT format, showcasing their adaptability and technical skills.

The Head Boy of the School, Chibueze Ajuibe, who  bagged 342 in the just concluded Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), gave the vote of thanks to the  WAEC team.

He confirmed that so far he and his fellow students had not experienced any difficulty using the new format.

Start – Rite School’s participation as a pilot school underscores its commitment to innovation and excellence in education.

The school’s experience will historically serve as a reference point while contributing to refining in the CBT process and benefiting other schools and students nationwide.
Neveah Limited, a trailblazer in Nigeria’s export and commodity trading sector, has been ranked 21st on the 2025 edition of the Financial Times Africa’s Fastest-Growing Companies list, and notably, 1st in the Metals and Mining category. This prestigious recognition marks a significant milestone in the company’s journey, affirming its position as one of the continent’s most dynamic and resilient enterprises. 

Founded with a bold vision to transform Africa’s participation in global trade, Neveah has consistently demonstrated exceptional growth, strategic agility, and a deep commitment to innovation. The company’s rise to prominence is not merely a story of numbers, but one of purpose-driven leadership and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Over the years, Neveah has expanded its footprint across international markets, strengthened its operational capabilities, and delivered consistent year-on-year revenue growth, all while maintaining a strong focus on sustainability and value creation. 

What makes this achievement particularly remarkable is the context in which it was realized. In a period marked by economic uncertainty, currency volatility, and inflationary pressures, Neveah not only weathered the storm but thrived. The company made a bold and forward-looking investment in a multi-billion naira aluminum and copper recycling plant, an ambitious project that underscores its commitment to industrial innovation and environmental stewardship. This strategic move, while capital-intensive, reflects Neveah’s long-term vision to drive sustainable development and create highimpact opportunities within Nigeria’s non-oil export sector. 

Despite the challenges posed by the fluctuating naira and broader macroeconomic instability, Neveah’s performance has remained resilient. Its ability to maintain momentum and deliver value in such a volatile environment speaks volumes about the strength of its leadership, its workforce's dedication, and its business model's soundness.

According to Ibidapo Lawal, Chief Executive Officer of Neveah Limited, “This recognition by the Financial Times is a powerful validation of our journey. It reflects not just our growth, but our grit. We are proud of what we’ve achieved, but even more excited about what lies ahead. Our mission remains clear: to build a globally competitive African enterprise that delivers value, empowers communities, and champions sustainability.” 

As Neveah looks to the future, it remains steadfast in its commitment to innovation, impact, and inclusive growth. The company continues to set new benchmarks in the industry, proving that with vision, resilience, and integrity, African businesses can lead on the global stage, even in the most challenging times.

The Federal Government has constituted a high-level panel to harmonise fee payment systems in tertiary institutions across the country, with the goal of improving coordination between universities and the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND).

Education Minister, Dr. Tunji Alausa, disclosed this on Wednesday in Abuja following a closed-door meeting with Vice-Chancellors and NELFUND executives.

Alausa told reporters that although universities had been receiving funds as expected, there was still a need to refine disbursement timelines and enhance the process for notifying students.

He addressed concerns raised about alleged irregularities in NELFUND, noting that: “The current processes are working, but we are working to better the system we have now. The aim is to serve both NELFUND and our citizens more efficiently, and align with the broader agenda of the current administration.”

One of the key outcomes of the meeting, according to the minister, is the establishment of a committee that includes officials from NELFUND, the Ministry of Education, the National Universities Commission (NUC), and representatives from various universities.

Alausa explained that the committee’s primary responsibility will be to unify the terminology used for student fees and charges, although actual amounts may vary among institutions. “The committee will determine and publish standard timelines for when NELFUND will disburse funds and when universities must notify students,” he said.

When asked about mismatches between fees charged by institutions and the sums disbursed by NELFUND, Alausa attributed the issue to inconsistent service charges. He noted that the committee would develop a standardised structure for fee components to ensure clarity.

“Universities will disclose service charges upfront to avoid misunderstandings in refunded amounts,” he noted.

Reaffirming the administration’s commitment to student-centered educational reforms, Alausa said the initiative reflects a broader strategy to ensure transparent and equitable access to education funding.

PlatinumPost reports that the committee has a three-week deadline to submit its recommendations. Once received, the final guidelines will be released to the public.

The Federal High Court in Kano has moved the sentencing of well-known TikTok personality Murja Ibrahimi Kunya to May 20, following a prosecution request to revise the charge filed against her.

Murja is currently being prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on a single count of alleged abuse of the naira.

The case stems from a viral video showing the influencer dancing and spraying N400,000 in cash at a party hosted in December 2024 in popular Kano hotel.

The defendant has already entered a guilty plea.

During the court session on Tuesday, which was initially set for judgment, EFCC counsel Musa Isa requested a modification to the charge — a move that was resisted by defence counsel Abubakar Saka.

Saka contended that the amendment could stall proceedings and jeopardize his client’s right to a fair hearing.

He further explained that, “the defence team required adequate time to study the new charge.”

Justice Simon Amobeda accepted the prosecution’s application and adjourned the matter to May 20 for further proceedings.

The judge also ruled that Murja would continue to remain in the custody of her legal counsel, under an existing undertaking ensuring her appearance at the next hearing.

Mali’s military-led government has officially disbanded all political parties and associations in a sweeping move that follows days of rare public protests and increasing reports of opposition members being forcibly disappeared.

The announcement, delivered via national television on Tuesday, was personally endorsed by Colonel Assimi Goita, who rose to power after coups in 2020 and 2021.

This development intensifies the junta’s hold on the country, coming just days after all political activity was suspended—a decision that coincided with plans for anti-government demonstrations scheduled for Friday, which have since been canceled by opposition groups.

Earlier protests held on May 3 and 4 featured demonstrators carrying signs that read, “Down with dictatorship, long live democracy,” marking a notable act of defiance in a nation where public dissent has been scarce since the military took over.

Tensions rose sharply in April when a national forum recommended that Goita remain in power until 2030—a proposal that drew sharp criticism from both opposition leaders and human rights organizations.

Human Rights Watch reported last Thursday that Abba Alhassane, secretary-general of the Convergence for the Development of Mali (CODEM), was “arrested” by “masked gunmen”.

That same day, El Bachir Thiam, head of the Yelema party, was allegedly taken by unknown individuals in Kati, a town near the capital city, Bamako.

A source within CODEM, speaking anonymously to Reuters, said the party had lost contact with Abdoul Karim Traore, a youth leader, and suspects he may also have been abducted.

The authorities in Bamako have yet to release any official statement regarding the alleged disappearances.

Goita first seized power in August 2020, following a violent suppression of protests against the previous civilian government that left at least 14 dead. He went on to stage a second coup in May 2021, deposing the interim civilian leadership.

In a December 2024 report, Human Rights Watch accused Malian soldiers, alongside members of the Russian Wagner Group, of having “deliberately killed” no fewer than 32 civilians and setting fire to over 100 homes across central and northern Mali.

“Don’t call me a saint. I don’t want to be dismissed so easily.”

-Dorothy Day

“You cannot see God. But He sees you, and He knows how much you suffer. He protects you, and He will always be beside you to protect you. And He will give you signs to let you know that He is there. God is there for everyone. If you open your heart to Him, He will show you the way.”

-Carlo Acutis

May 1st 2025, is a landmark date for the family of Late Mazi Cyprian Osonduagwuike Okorieocha Onwubiko of NDIUCHE-ETITI ARONDIZUOGU because of the transition to eternal glory of the first daughter of my Parents, Mrs. Patricia Okereke who bore the name Patricia Onwubiko before she got married to late Mazi Godday Okereke of Ndiuche Ochie-uno.

Patty’s passage has brought heavy pains in our hearts as a family. Her departure is one of the most devastating disasters to have happened to us even as the departure of our Dad was painful but that of Patricia is uniquely painful because of her very tender age before her departure which is 61. Our Dad left us for the World beyond and for God’s kingdom at the ripe age of 90 or thereabout. If you wonder why we are so pained that our eldest sister has transitioned to eternity, it is precisely because of her formidable and unifying roles in our entire extended family.

As aforementioned, we missed her because of the stabilising roles she played in the family. She wasn’t the first born but she had this phenomenal charisma and qualitative attributes of a terrific leader that no one else in our family has. A void in the leadership of the family presented a great challenge but Mrs. Patricia Okereke nee Onwubiko summoned courage to confront and always encourage each of us in our family to fly the flag of peace, unity and collective progress as our motto. She was our second Mother.

As can be attested by all, our late eldest sister Patricia troubled no one and was often very quiet but spoke out loudly when things aren’t going on well in our family especially if there are red flags of internal schism and disunity. She was a peacemaker.

Patricia Okereke’s peaceful nature reminds us of Saint Paul’s affirmation on Jesus Christ when he noted thus: “He is our peace, who made the two groups one and destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility” (Ephesians 2:14). Through His death on the cross, Jesus made peace between us and God—and between people. Peacemaking is not a small part of the gospel—it is at the center of Christ’s mission.

Peacemakers, in the words of Saint Paul, are called children of God because they reflect His character. God is a God of peace (Romans 15:33). From creation to new creation, God’s work is about healing, restoring, and reconciling. When we work for peace, we act like members of His family. Peacemaking is never easy. It costs us something—comfort, pride, and sometimes even safety.

Jesus, the Prince of Peace, as we know, was crucified. The reality is that true peace often leads us to the cross. As one disciple said, “When Christ calls a man, He bids him come and die.” Peacemakers may carry hidden wounds, but they also carry sacred sstrength. No doubt, peace is a strong quality that cements relationship and togetherness in every family confronting internal conflicts.

The Onwubiko’s family of Ndiuche-Etiti, Arondizuogu in Onuimo LGA as followers of Christ, we acknowledge that we are called to healing divisions in the Church, bridging gaps in society.

Since the departure of our Dad over a decade ago, Patricia was the person who made her presence felt around our mother: Mrs. Gladys Caroline Adaudensi Onwubiko. Our Mother is well over 80’s and this made the job of often caring for her wellbeing and welfare a huge task which my late eldest sister Mrs. Patricia Okereke bore with equanimity, joy and happiness.

She lived in Aba but once in a short while, our Mother is often transported to stay for few weeks with her for intensive medicare. Patricia Okereke provided succour to our mother and she often provided quality counselling to our mother on how to strictly take her medication as directed by the doctors. She was the teacher, the doctor literally and the comforter of our mother.

And if you know how profound is my affection for my mother, you will then know how I valued the services that Patricia rendered to our mother. She buys her foodstuffs and importantly, Patricia often buys her OKPOROKO (Stockfish) that is highly valued by my people in Arondizuogu and Aba is one huge market for OKPOROKO imported from Europe.

Patricia practically trained all of us her younger ones and most importantly, her house was a steady refuge for most of us her siblings who spend quality times holidaying in Aba.

Her husband often gives us money when we are travelling back after vacationing in his house. Her husband was a twin: two boys. Incidentally, her husband passed on few years back even as his twin brother just died few weeks back before the transition of our own blood sister.

I have never cried in my life the way I did upon beholding her remains at the Abuja hospital whereby she died at age 61 after a very brief illness. I was inconsolable because losing Patricia is massively painful. She was my most dependable confidant and she provided quality counselling on how to build my home and often insisted that I should love my wife and my children particularly because my wife Ugochi has this fondness for my mother. Patricia knew how I love our mother so she often told me to love my wife giving the way she cares for our mother. Patricia since we were kids in Aba and Kafanchan just as she stood as a living saint for us. She made sure we her younger ones did our chores and become clean, neat and intelligent children. Our Parents were visionaries to have named her Patricia after that phenomenal Italian Saint Patricia.

Saint Patricia, the niece of Emperor Constantine, was born in Constantinople in the year 30 of the Christian era. Brought up in the imperial court and trained in the Christian religion by a pious lady named Aglaia (now Blessed), she took the vow of virginity at an early age, and to remain faithful to her vow, she fled from her paternal home. With the faithful Aglaia as a companion, she sailed to Rome, where Pope Liberius bestowed upon her the veil of Christ’s Bride.

At the death of her father, she returned to Constantinople where she renounced all her worldly possessions, distributing her wealth to the poor. Patricia then embarked with her companion on a ship bound for the Holy Land in order to visit the places sanctified by Our Lord. During the voyage, they were overtaken by a violent storm that carried the vessel in the opposite direction, as far away as Naples, Italy. There they landed and took refuge on a rock near the bay, afterward called Castel del’ovo. After a few months of penitential life, she fell ill and died a saintly death at the age of 21. Whereas her patron Saint so young, our own living Saint Patricia Okereke died at 61 which to us is considered too young.

She, Saint Patricia was buried at the Church dedicated to the Martyr Saints Nicandro and Marciano, thereby remaining with her spiritual daughters, the Patrician Sisters. In 1864 the sisters brought her remains to the Monastery of St. Gregorio Armeno when their convent was suppressed.

St. Patricia is today venerated by numerous devout pilgrims who reverently kneel before those sacred remains and frequently witness a wonderful miracle – the liquefying of her blood which flowed from her mouth almost 600 hundred years after her death. Legend has it that one of her teeth had been pulled by a zealous knight in 1214 and blood flowed from the empty socket.

The miracle has been repeated for 12 centuries. Not only every year on her feast day, August 25, but frequently in the presence of pious pilgrims who come to pray.

Ecclesiastical authorities and scientists have investigated the phenomenon more than once, and have come to the conclusion that the liquefaction cannot be explained by science and, therefore, is a real miracle.

In Naples, every Tuesday is dedicated to St. Patricia. The Sister Adorers of the Blessed Sacrament of her order are in charge of her shrine.

Our own living Saint who just passed on, manifested saintly lifestyles and was often prayerful and in her attitudes she tried to be upright even though as an imperfect human beings she had her own faultlines.

But one thing you can never find lacking in her is her quietness. Just few minutes before she passed on, she was peaceful and at rest with her God. She was praying until she breathed her last. Patricia loved her children so much so that she ensured that they are all educated up to university level. Her children are all university graduates just as she had grandchildren.

Emeka Onwubiko our last born also paid glowing tribute to our late eldest sister Mrs. Patricia Okereke. Emeka lives in Australia but often kept in touch throughout the period of Patricia’s hospitalisation in Abuja and whilst she recovered living in my immediate elder Sister’s, Franka Onwubiko’s place.

Hear him: On the first of May, I lost my beloved sister Patricia whom I fondly called ( Aunty Patty), a moment that shattered my heart and left an irreplaceable void in our family. It was early morning in Nigeria, and I was at work when I received the heartbreaking news. Patricia was not just my sister; she was a beacon of hope, love, and strength for our family. Her simplicity and strength of character were among the many attributes that made her truly special.

Patricia lived her life with a profound love for God, embracing her faith with vigor. She was known as an apostle of truth, often speaking openly about her beliefs and encouraging those around her to seek honesty and integrity in their lives. This honesty was a reflection of her character; she valued truth above all else and instilled that value in everyone she met. Her faith guided her to make choices that were not only beneficial to her but also uplifting for those around her.

As the breadwinner of our family, Patricia took it upon herself to support us in more ways than one. She worked diligently and selflessly to provide for us, ensuring that we had access to education and opportunities. Throughout my tertiary education, she stood by me, not just as a sister, but as a mentor and guide. Her encouragement and belief in my potential have left an indelible mark on my life. She sacrificed her own desires to ensure that I could focus on my studies and pursue my dreams.

Remarkably, Patricia had a heart of gold. She opened her home and her heart to children who were not her own, taking them in and nurturing them as if they were family. This selfless act of kindness reflects her deep compassion and willingness to help those in need, showcasing her belief that love knows no boundaries. She created an environment of love and support that transformed the lives of many children, instilling in them the values she cherished.

In remembering Patricia, I celebrate her simplicity, her unwavering faith, and her remarkable ability to make a difference in the lives of others. Though she is no longer with us, her legacy of love and kindness continues to inspire me. Her dedication to family and truth will forever remain in my heart, reminding me of the strength and love that she embodied. As I navigate life without her, I hold on to the lessons she taught me, striving to honour her memory in all that I do.

We will conclude by affirming that we will always love you; Nneoma, Adannnem, and God be with you and rest in the Lord. Amen. Go thee in peace, our dearest living Saint, Patricia Okereke.


*EMMANUEL/EMEKA ONWUBIKO WROTE IN FROM ABUJA.

Former Transportation Minister, Rotimi Amaechi, has said that he and ex-Jigawa State Governor Sule Lamido would have taken a strong stance against President Bola Tinubu’s administration had they still been state governors.

Speaking in Abuja during the public unveiling of Lamido’s autobiography titled Being True to Myself, the former Rivers State governor and one-time Chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum recalled the assertiveness of their era in office.

Amaechi said, “I asked you (Lamido) this morning, what is going on currently in the country, in Nigerian politics — would it have happened when we were governors? You said no. And the answer is no.

“We would have confronted the government, confronted the president. That’s how radical you were. That’s how our Governors Forum operated. That’s how determined we were to change things.”

Reflecting on their political alliance, Amaechi described Lamido as a close ally during their time in government, though their relationship eventually fractured over differences in political strategy.

“We were quite good friends in government. We had our bad times when we disagreed. I made the mistake of assuming he was as radical as I was. So, he was one of the governors I clung to when it came to radical decisions.

“The last one before we broke ranks was when we all agreed to go against President Jonathan. We formed a committee of governors and others. At the end of the day, he went to find a new party, the SDP. We said, ‘If we go to the SDP, we will lose the election. Let’s hang on to this one called the APC.’ He disagreed and left us. That’s where we parted ways,” Amaechi explained.

A total of 1,166 National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members have been given a combined transport allowance of N23 million to facilitate their movement from camp to their places of primary assignment.

The gesture was announced during the official closing ceremony of the 2025 Batch ‘A’ Stream I orientation exercise in Lokoja, where Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, represented by his deputy, Joel Salifu, made the presentation on behalf of the state government.

Addressing the corps members, Ododo encouraged them to actively engage in community development efforts throughout their service year. He stressed the importance of making positive contributions in key sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, social services, and education.

The governor assured the corps members of their safety and the hospitality of Kogi residents, urging them to be proactive and vigilant in their various places of assignment.

Also speaking at the event, NYSC State Coordinator Mr. Femi Osungbohun urged the corps members to put the skills and knowledge gained during the orientation course to good use. He praised the state government for its continued support, including the earlier donation of over 100 bags of rice to the current batch.

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has projected a combination of sunny intervals and thunderstorms across various regions of the country from Wednesday through Friday.

According to NiMet’s latest weather outlook, released in Abuja, clear skies are expected over the northern part of Nigeria on Wednesday, though isolated thunderstorms are likely in areas including Taraba, Borno, Kaduna, Kebbi, Zamfara, Bauchi, Gombe, and Adamawa during the afternoon and evening.

In the North-Central region, the forecast indicates a mix of sunshine and cloud cover, with localized thunderstorms anticipated later in the day in parts of Plateau, the Federal Capital Territory, Kwara, Benue, Nasarawa, and Kogi.

For the southern region, morning thunderstorms may occur in parts of Bayelsa, Rivers, Cross River, and Akwa Ibom, while areas such as Imo, Osun, Ogun, Oyo, Ondo, Enugu, Anambra, Edo, and Delta are expected to experience thunderstorms later in the day.

The agency’s forecast for Thursday suggests continued sunny spells in the North, alongside isolated thunderstorms in Taraba, Adamawa, Bauchi, Gombe, and Kaduna. The North-Central zone will see similar conditions with potential storms in Plateau, FCT, Nasarawa, Niger, Benue, and Kogi by the afternoon and evening.

Morning storms are likely in parts of Cross River, Bayelsa, and Akwa Ibom in the South, followed by broader thunderstorm activity in areas such as Abia, Enugu, Anambra, Ondo, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Lagos, Rivers, Delta, and others later in the day.

By Friday, NiMet expects mostly sunny weather in the North, punctuated by isolated storms in places like Kaduna, Adamawa, and Taraba during afternoon hours. Sunny conditions with occasional cloudiness are predicted in the North-Central region, with possible thunderstorms in Plateau, FCT, Nasarawa, Niger, Benue, and Kogi.

The South may start the day with thunderstorms in Bayelsa, Cross River, and Akwa Ibom, while states such as Ebonyi, Imo, Abia, Anambra, Enugu, Osun, Ogun, Oyo, Ondo, Rivers, Delta, and Lagos could see storms later in the day.

NiMet advised Nigerians to exercise caution as some of the thunderstorms could be accompanied by strong winds.

“Driving under heavy rain should be avoided. Disconnect electrical appliances from electrical sockets. Stay away from tall trees to avoid impact from falling branches and broken trees.

“ Airline operators are advised to get airport-specific weather reports (flight documentation) from NiMet for effective planning in their operations.

“ Residents are advised to stay informed through weather updates from NiMet. Visit our website www.nimet.gov.ng,“ it said.

Lagos businessman and socialite, Fred Ajudua, has been taken into custody by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Abuja, following a recent ruling by the Supreme Court that nullified his bail.

Ajudua is being prosecuted for allegedly swindling a Palestinian businessman, Zad Abu Zalaf, out of $1,043,000. His arrest was carried out on Tuesday, and he is currently being held by the anti-graft agency.

A senior EFCC source, who spoke under the condition of anonymity due to lack of authorisation, confirmed the development.

“We have arrested Ajudua pending his re-arraignment in court. He was arrested in Abuja on Tuesday and he’s in our custody as we speak,” the official stated.

However, when contacted, the EFCC’s spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, declined to comment on the matter.

The Supreme Court on Friday, May 5, 2025, upheld the EFCC’s appeal and overturned the bail earlier granted to Ajudua by the Lagos Division of the Court of Appeal on September 10, 2018. The apex court directed that he be remanded in a correctional centre.

The legal battle, which began in 2005, has experienced several setbacks due to changes in the presiding judges. The case initially began under Justice Morenike Obadina of the Lagos High Court and was subsequently reassigned to Justices Josephine Oyefeso and Mojisola Dada.

Ajudua was denied bail during his 2018 arraignment before Justice Dada due to the prolonged nature of the case. However, the Court of Appeal later granted him bail — a decision now overturned by the Supreme Court.

In its latest verdict, the Supreme Court reinstated the original denial of bail and instructed the Chief Judge of Lagos State to return the case to Justice Dada for continuation of trial.

Ajudua is expected to be re-arraigned shortly as legal proceedings resume.

(PUNCH)

Former Governor of Jigawa State,  Sule Lamido, has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to take a decisive step toward national reconciliation by authorising the payment of N45 billion allegedly owed to the family of late Chief MKO Abiola.

Speaking in Abuja at the launch of his autobiography Being True to Myself, held at the NAF Conference Centre, Lamido said settling the longstanding debt would provide moral and symbolic closure to the events surrounding the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election.

“When (General) Murtala (Muhammed) died, Abiola came in with a claim that he was owed, I think, about N45bn for contracts executed by International Telephone and Telecommunication for the Ministry of Communications. The military high command at that time said no. He went round the Emirs in the North to lobby and the emirs asked that they (military) should please pay the money,” Lamido recalled.

He further alleged that concerns within the military establishment over potential financial consequences were among the reasons cited for cancelling the historic election, which Abiola was widely believed to have won.

“The (military) said they cancelled the June 12 elections because if they made him president, he would take his money and the country will become bankrupt. Those who were close to Abacha should know this, because Abacha was then one of the big shots; they were all aware,” he stated.

Lamido made a direct appeal to Tinubu through the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Muhammad Idris, who represented the president at the event.

“Before I end my remarks, I want to appeal to President Tinubu to finally close the chapter of June 12. In his book, General Ibrahim Babangida acknowledged that Abiola won the election. When I visited him, he also confirmed that Abiola is owed N45 billion. He was doubly punished: first, denied the presidency; second, denied what is owed to him,” he said.

“Please tell the president to pay the Abiola family the N45 billion. Once this is done, the June 12 chapter will be closed. It is very important,” Lamido added.

The Nigeria Union of Allied Health Professionals (NUAHP) has issued a stern warning to the Federal Government, demanding the immediate release of their outstanding 2024 salary adjustment arrears. Failure to do so, they say, could trigger a nationwide industrial action.

The ultimatum follows a resolution passed during a joint National Executive Council (NEC) meeting of NUAHP and the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU), held in Jos.

In a communiqué made available to journalists in Abuja, and signed by NUAHP National President Mr. Kamal Ibrahim and General Secretary Mr. Martin Egbanubi, the unions expressed growing frustration over the delay.

Members of NUAHP include pharmacists, physiotherapists, medical laboratory scientists, imaging scientists, dental technologists, occupational therapists, dieticians, health information officers, and other allied health professionals.

According to the union leaders, the NEC decried the non-implementation of the revised Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS), which included 25% and 35% increases, despite these provisions being factored into both the 2024 and 2025 budgets.

“The NEC-in-session was particularly worried about the seven months arrears (June 2023 to December, 2023) of the 25 per cent and 35 per cent CONHESS in spite being captured in the 2024 budget and now in the 2025 budget.

“NEC describe the delay in the payment unacceptable, and considered it a violation of item five of the FG-JOHESU Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 29th October, 2024 and resolution reached on 20th December, 2024 respectively.

“NEC therefore demand for the payment of these arrears without further delay to avert industrial action,” they said.

The unions stressed that despite an MoU signed with the Federal Government in October 2024, following the suspension of an earlier strike, commitments made in that agreement have yet to be fulfilled.

They urged authorities to consider the dire consequences a renewed strike could have on the country’s already strained health sector.

“NEC calls on President Bola Tinubu, to honour his promise to JOHESU by directing relevant Ministries, Department and Agencies (MDAs) and other organs of the federal government to expeditiously deal with this matter for sustainable industrial harmony and in public interest,” they said.

In addition to the demand for arrears, the unions called on all levels of government to introduce tax relief on clinical duty allowances—such as call, shift, and teaching duties—as a buffer against the rising cost of living.

They also pressed for the implementation of a retention allowance to encourage medical professionals to remain in Nigeria.

“The NEC-in-session observed with great concern the high electricity tariff to citizens and bands categorisation without proportionate electricity supply in the country.

“It called on government to grant subsidy on electricity tariff to Nigerians in low-income residential areas, hospitals and educational institutions across the country.

“The NEC also urged the government to consider decentralisation of power generation, transmission and distribution amongst sub-nationals,” they said.

The meeting concluded with a call for stronger political will to revitalise the nation’s refineries and ensure access to affordable petroleum products for citizens.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has suspended a former member of the House of Representatives, Muhammad Shehu Koko, along with nine other party officials from Koko Local Government Area.

Among those affected by the suspension are the APC Vice Chairman in Koko LGA, Muhammad Danyado; Secretary Biyaminu Muhammad; and Women Leader, Talatu Zauro. Also listed are the youth leader, financial secretary, welfare secretary, and several other executives.

A copy of the suspension letter, cites alleged acts of disloyalty, anti-party conduct, and harassment of executive members as reasons for the disciplinary action.

The letter bears the signatures of the local APC chairman, Muhammad Maibarga; Koko LGA executive chairman, Sirajo Usman Koko; and 14 other prominent stakeholders of the party in the area.

Associates of the suspended former legislator, while declining to speak on his behalf, suggested the move might be connected to his speculated bid for a Senate seat-an ambition said to have created friction with powerful interests within the state’s APC structure.

The Kano State Command of the Nigeria Forest and Security Service (NFSS) says it handled over a hundred reports related to criminal activities within forest areas across the state last month.

According to Usman Umar, the Public Relations Officer of the command, a total of 115 complaints were received in April.

He made this known during an interview on Tuesday in Kano.

Umar noted that the agency has been working diligently to fulfill its responsibilities in tackling crimes and unlawful acts taking place in forest zones.

He said, “Most of the cases were on animal theft, phone theft, motorcycle theft, kidnapping, robbery, among others.”

Umar added that 85 of the cases have been resolved while 30 are still being processed.

He further assured the public of the agency’s commitment to maintaining safety and security in forested areas. “The NFSS would continue to secure and make forest free of crime,” he said.

Residents of Tashar Kaɗanya in Kankara Local Government Area of Katsina State are living in fear following a ₦60 million levy imposed on them by armed bandits, who have threatened violent repercussions if their demands are not met.

The threat was made public on Monday through a post by security analyst @DanKatsina50 via his X (formerly Twitter) account.

According to him, the criminals gave the village a deadline to pay the hefty sum, sparking panic among locals. “Many have begun fleeing the area to escape a possible attack,” he wrote.

As of press time, security agencies had not released an official statement concerning the situation.

This latest extortion attempt has heightened anxiety over the ongoing insecurity in Katsina State, where banditry, including kidnappings and extortion, continues to plague several communities despite government intervention.

Kankara, in particular, has remained a hotspot for such violent incidents, and this new demand threatens to deepen both the humanitarian and security crises in the region.

Suspected Boko Haram terrorists have launched deadly attack on a Nigerian Army base in Marte Local Government Area of Borno State, leading to casualties among troops and the seizure of military hardware.

Security and local sources disclosed that the raid took place at around 3:00 a.m. on Monday, targeting the Forward Operating Base of the 153 Task Force Battalion.

Marte, located in northern Borno, has long been a strategic and contested location in the ongoing insurgency.

A military source who spoke on condition of anonymity confirmed that the assailants overpowered the troops, capturing some soldiers and forcing others to flee.

“ISWAP took control of Marte. An unknown number of soldiers were killed, some were captured, and many fled. They ran toward Dikwa and are now at the 24 Task Force Brigade in Dikwa.

“The terrorists also burned down armoured tanks and carted away arms and ammunition from the base,” the source said.

Dikwa, situated approximately 38 kilometers from Marte, received fleeing soldiers and became the staging point for military reinforcements.

A resident from Dikwa reported that aerial support from the Nigerian Air Force was observed in the area.

“We heard that reinforcements arrived in Marte, including hunters and members of the civilian Joint Task Force, and the base has now been retaken by the troops.

“However, the arms store was looted and set ablaze and operational vehicles were destroyed,” he added.

Many civilians from Marte have fled to Dikwa, though reports indicate that thousands remain trapped in New Marte, especially women and children.

“Unfortunately, the terrorists have trapped thousands of residents, mostly women and children, in New Marte.

“It wasn’t long ago that the Malam Fatori military base was attacked, where one of our commanders and 21 soldiers paid the supreme price,” a soldier said.

Since the start of the year, several military facilities have been targeted by terrorists across the Lake Chad region, Sambisa Forest, and the Mandara Hills spanning Borno and Yobe states.