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Kano State Government has commenced the distribution of 100,000 10-kg bags of Dangote rice given to the State by the Dangote Foundation.

The commodity is being distributed to the needy across the 44 local government areas of the state.

The Government began the exercise through a Team assigned by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf,which directly distributed the rice to the needy across some targeted streets in the state capital.

The beneficiaries of the street distribution were needy individuals, both males and females,and the physically challenged.

The distribution team is headed by the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Umar Faruk Ibrahim,with the State Commissioner of Agriculture,Dr.Danjuma Mahmoud,and some Special Advisers to the Governor as members.

Addressing journalists shortly after the commencement of the exercise,Dr.Danjuma Mahmoud said before,it was the Dangote Foundation that handled the distribution by itself,but that this year,the body handed over the exercise to the State Government because of the trust it has in the Government.

“Before,it was the Dangote Foundation that usually came to flagg off and handle most of this thing, but because of the trust the Foundation under the leadership of Alhaji Aliko Dangote has in the Government of Kano State the leadership of Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, this year it handed over everything to the State Government to distribute.

“And we have a very robust system of distribution that the palliatives will go directly go to the needy,” the commissioner added.

Some of the beneficiaries of the rice palliative interviewed, joyfully thanked the Dangote Foundation for the gesture which they said would immensely enrich their Ramadan meals.

They also appreciated the State Government under the leadership of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf for facilitating the distribution exercise and prayed Allah(SWT) to reward them abundantly.


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Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have arrested Sheleru Sadiq, a former councillor in the Orimedu area of Ibeju-Lekki Local Government Area in Lagos State, over the alleged possession of illicit drugs.

Femi Babafemi, spokesperson of the anti-narcotics agency, said Sadiq was apprehended at his residence on March 2.

In a statement issued on Sunday, Babafemi said NDLEA operatives discovered 40 kilograms of skunk, a strain of cannabis, in one of the rooms in the suspect’s residence.

The agency also stated that Sadiq currently works as a legislative aide.

“In his statement, Sheleru admitted ownership of the exhibit and the property where it was recovered,” the NDLEA spokesperson said.

“He said he had previously served two terms as a councillor representing Orimedu community in Ibeju-Lekki local government council.”

Babafemi also disclosed that NDLEA operatives arrested Emeka Hyginus Okwor, a 32-year-old businessman, for allegedly possessing 1,000 pills of tapentadol 250mg hidden inside baby diapers.

According to him, Okwor admitted he was transporting the drugs to Guduwa village in Gurara LGA of Niger State, where he runs a provision store.

The agency further said its officers apprehended Mey Ali Muhamat, a 36-year-old Cameroonian, with a consignment of Colorado along the Kabba/Obajana highway in Kogi State.

“In Niger state, operatives on patrol along Mokwa-Jebba road on Wednesday 4th March intercepted a commercial bus coming from Ibadan, Oyo state with 500 pieces of improvised explosive device (IED) components concealed inside a white sack to be delivered to a recipient at Pelegi,” the statement reads.

“A swift follow up operation led to the arrest of the recipient, Osama Abdullahi, 21, at Pelegi, Mashegu local government area of the state.

“No fewer than 122,000 pills of tramadol and 700grams of methamphetamine were recovered from the false bottom of a truck marked ENU 645XX conveying 2000 cartons of local drinks by NDLEA operatives in Yola, Adamawa state on Wednesday 4th March.

“While Muhammed Ali, 20, was nabbed at Gadar Tamburawa, Kano, on Tuesday 3rd March, with 11,283 pills of tramadol, NDLEA officers in Ogun state conducted a raid operation in Ogere, where they arrested two suspects: Nazifi Mudansir and Kabiru Musa, in possession of 46 kilograms of skunk.”


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The United States embassy in Oslo, Norway, was struck by an explosion in the early hours of Sunday, though no injuries were recorded, police authorities in the Norwegian capital confirmed. Investigators said the cause of the blast was not immediately known.

According to a statement from the Oslo police department, the explosion happened at about 1:00 am local time (0000 GMT).

Norway’s public broadcaster, NRK, quoted police incident commander Michael Dellemyr as saying the blast affected the entrance to the embassy’s consular section.

“At around 1:00 am we received several reports of an explosion. We arrived shortly afterwards and confirmed that there had been an explosion that hit the US embassy,” he told NRK.

“There is minor damage,” he said.

“We are not going to comment on anything related to the type of damage, what it is that has exploded and similar details, beyond the fact that there has been an explosion” because “it is very early in the investigation”, he said.

Dellemyr later told TV2 that the police “have an idea of the cause”, adding: “It appears to us that this is an act carried out by someone.”

He explained that investigators were already speaking with witnesses, while TV2 reported that a bomb squad had been deployed to the scene.

Police also stated that investigators were working with the embassy regarding the incident, with a large police presence stationed at the location.

Residents living close to the embassy reported hearing a loud explosion.

A 16-year-old identified only as Edvard told TV2 he was watching television when the blast occurred.

“My mother and I first thought it came from our house, so we looked around a little, but then we saw the flashing lights outside the window and a ton of police,” he said.
“There were police dogs and drones and police with automatic weapons and helicopters in the air,” he said.

Media reports added that a large security cordon had been placed around the embassy, while officers were stopping vehicles attempting to approach the area.

US embassies across the Middle East have been on high alert amid American military operations in Iran, with some facilities targeted in retaliatory attacks by Tehran on industrial and diplomatic locations.

However, Dellemyr said authorities have not linked the Oslo incident to the conflict.

“We’re not connecting it to the conflict. It’s far too early for that,” he told TV2.

AFP

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The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Tunji Disu, has approved the immediate appointment of Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) Olabode Adeleye Akinbamilowo as the new Force Secretary at the Force Headquarters (FHQ), Abuja.

The directive was conveyed through a police wireless message issued by NIGPOL FORSEC Abuja and dated March 4, 2026.

Akinbamilowo, who holds professional titles including psc, mnips and mspsp, is expected to assume responsibility for the department that handles the appointment, promotion and deployment of senior police officers.

According to a report by SaharaReporters,  the posting has already been reflected in the official records of the force and is to take effect immediately.

The new deployment is part of efforts by the police high command to reinforce the administrative structure of the Force Headquarters.

Earlier, SaharaReporters reported that the Police Service Commission (PSC) promoted seven Assistant Inspectors-General of Police (AIGs) to the rank of Deputy Inspectors-General (DIGs) to fill positions left vacant following the retirement of several senior officers in the Nigeria Police Force.

The vacancies arose after the departure of senior police officers who served during the tenure of the immediate past Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.

In a statement issued on Friday, the PSC spokesperson, Ikechukwu Ani, explained that the promotions were based on merit, seniority, service records and performance in written and oral examinations conducted at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja.

According to the statement, the newly promoted officers include Zachariah Fera Achinyan, formerly AIG in charge of Zone 4, Makurdi; Zango Ibrahim Baba, formerly AIG, Department of Logistics and Supply; Isyaku Mohammed, formerly AIG, Armament, Force Headquarters, Abuja; and Margaret Agebe Ochalla, formerly AIG, FCID Annex, Lagos.

Others elevated are Mohammed Abdul Sulaiman, formerly AIG, Police Accounts and Budget at Force Headquarters; Kenechukwu Onwuemelie, formerly AIG in charge of Zone 15, Maiduguri; and Umar Shehu Nadada, formerly AIG in charge of Zone 14, Katsina.

The commission said the promotions were aimed at strengthening the leadership structure of the police force.

“The promotions, which are a result of merit, seniority, record of service and performance in written examinations and oral interviews conducted at the commission’s corporate headquarters in Abuja, are part of efforts to strengthen the leadership cadre of the Nigeria Police Force,” the statement said.

The PSC also explained that the promotions became necessary following the retirement of eight DIGs who previously held key positions in the police management team.

It added that Fayoade Adegoke, who had earlier been promoted to the rank of DIG, will continue to serve in the Force Management Team.

(SAHARA REPORTERS)



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The Kwankwasiyya Movement has cautioned the Kano State House of Assembly and the State Government against proceeding with moves to impeach the Deputy Governor of the state, Comrade Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, warning that such action could “deepen political divisions and undermine the mandate of the people.”

In a statement issued by the spokesperson of the Movement, Dr Habibu Saleh Mohammed, the group described the impeachment process as troubling and cautioned political actors in the state against actions that could be perceived as politically motivated.

“The people of Kano are closely watching the unfolding events, and there is growing concern that the impeachment moves may be driven more by political considerations than by genuine constitutional necessity,” Mohammed said.

He noted that while the constitution provides mechanisms for legislative oversight, impeachment remains one of the most serious powers available to lawmakers and should not be deployed for political convenience.

“Impeachment must never be reduced to a tool for settling political disagreements or rearranging political alignments. It must be guided strictly by justice, fairness and the interest of the people,” he said.

The spokesperson reminded the state leadership that the mandate that brought the present administration to power was the result of the collective efforts of thousands of Kwankwasiyya supporters across the state.

“The victory that produced this government was not the achievement of any single individual. It was the product of the sacrifices, loyalty and unity of Kwankwasiyya faithful across the 44 local government areas of Kano State,” he said.

According to him, any action that appears to target key figures within the administration risks sending the wrong message to supporters who worked tirelessly to secure electoral victory.

“Those in power must remember the collective struggle that made their success possible. Political authority should never be used in a way that creates the impression of abandoning the alliances and loyalties that built the movement,” Mohammed said.

He also urged members of the Kano State House of Assembly to exercise their constitutional responsibilities with caution and independence.

“The authority of the Assembly comes directly from the people, and such authority must be exercised with wisdom, fairness and a clear sense of responsibility to the electorate,” he said.

He warned that political actions perceived as persecution could create unnecessary tension within the state’s political landscape.

“History has shown that when political power is used in ways that appear unjust or vindictive, the people ultimately deliver their verdict through democratic means,” the spokesperson said.

The Kwankwasiyya Movement, he further said, remains committed to peace, democratic stability and the protection of the political mandate given by the people of Kano State.

“At this critical moment, all political actors must act with restraint and wisdom, remembering the sacrifices of the millions of supporters whose collective efforts brought this government into office,” the statement added.


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The Nigeria Police Force has removed Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Benjamin Hundeyin from his role as Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO) as part of a reshuffle at the Force Headquarters.

Hundeyin has been replaced by Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Anthony Okon Placid, who will now serve as the new spokesperson of the force, police sources said.

“Hundeyin has been replaced by Okon Placid; the official announcement will be made later,” a source said.

As part of the changes, the police leadership has also established a new unit known as the New Media Office to boost the force’s digital communication and public engagement efforts.

Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Ali Giwa has been appointed to lead the newly created office.

The restructuring is understood to be part of broader efforts within the Nigeria Police Force aimed at improving communication, media relations and interaction with the public.

On Friday, it was  reported that the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, had not officially named a substantive Force Public Relations Officer after Hundeyin was removed from the spokesperson role.

Hundeyin was taken off the position less than six months after he assumed duty as the force’s spokesperson in September 2025.

His removal came amid a wave of internal adjustments within the police hierarchy following Disu’s appointment as the 23rd Inspector-General of Police by President Bola Tinubu.

Earlier reports had suggested that Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Aliyu Giwa could emerge as the next Force Public Relations Officer.

However, sources familiar with the situation said that Giwa was not appointed as the Force PRO and that his responsibility was restricted to managing the police’s social media operations rather than serving as the official spokesperson.

The sources also alleged that some individuals were attempting to pressure the Inspector-General to confirm Giwa for the position, claiming that certain bloggers had been mobilised to promote narratives intended to influence the decision.

“The Police Force PRO has not been appointed yet. Aliyu Giwa is limited to social media operations and also, a DCP will be appointed to that position,” a top police source previously said.

“By virtue of Giwa’s current position, he is close to bloggers, so he is trying to use them to force Disu to appoint him. That explains the reports you see online.”

Hundeyin’s removal occurred amid wider leadership adjustments within the police following Disu’s emergence as Inspector-General.

Before his appointment as Force Public Relations Officer, Hundeyin served as spokesperson for the Lagos State Police Command.

(SAHARA REPORTERS)


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He breaks his silence on the deeply personal role Olusegun Obasanjo played in his life

Nigerian businessman Olakunle Churchill has spoken about his relationship with former President Olusegun Obasanjo following comments from social media users suggesting the elder statesman might be his biological father.

Responding in the comment section, Churchil explained that a father figure is not necessarily the person who gave birth to you.

According to him, a father figure can also be an uncle, relative, or family friend who plays a significant role in raising, guiding, and mentoring someone while growing up:

He added that what truly matters is the role such a person plays in shaping one's life and the respect earned through that influence.

Churchill further revealed that through Obasanjo's influence, he attended a military school in Abeokuta where he spent much of his childhood.





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Skyewise Foundation has reaffirmed its commitment to expanding women’s participation in technology, highlighting digital skills such as cybersecurity as a pathway to economic empowerment and leadership.

The commitment was reiterated at the Skills4Her International Women’s Day conference held in Abuja on Friday to mark International Women's Day 2026. Themed, “Give Skills, Gain Influence: Women’s Rights & Economic Leadership,” the event featured discussions on cyber security training, business growth, financial empowerment and women’s role in economic and civic leadership.

Speaking at the event, President of the Skyewise Group, Dr Elvis Abuyere who was represented by the Chief Operating Officer of the company, Stephanie Odia, stated that the organisation sees women’s empowerment as a strategic investment in innovation and sustainable growth.

Abuyere said the foundation remains committed to creating platforms that enable women to develop skills, contribute to industries and participate more actively in economic and leadership spaces.
“And of course, at Skyewise Group, we believe that empowering a woman is not just a social responsibility. It is a strategic investment in innovation, leadership and sustainable growth. And when women are given the platform to develop their skills, lead initiatives and influence decision making, the ripple effect extends far beyond even the workplace.

“Now, today's conference is a space for dialogue, learning and inspiration. It is an opportunity for us to share our experiences, strengthen network and reaffirm our commitment to supporting women in leadership, enterprise and economic participation. To every woman seated here today and around the world, your voice matters, your work matters," he said.

Head of Skyewise Foundation, Uchenna Stephanie Akurunwa, said the event focused on advancing women’s rights, advocacy and economic empowerment through skills development.

Akurunwa explained that the organisation was particularly interested in equipping women with digital skills that would enable them to access global opportunities and strengthen their economic independence.

She said cyber security was among the key trainings introduced during the programme as part of the foundation’s broader focus on technology-based skills.
She added that digital skills could help bridge that gap. She noted, “Right now, in 2026, cyber security is one of the most sought-after skills for anyone including women. With that training, you can reach out to international organisations, you can get a job”

She also disclosed that the foundation was planning an entrepreneurship and mentorship symposium in April to guide participants on grant applications and business development.

Cyber security facilitator at TerraSkills, Sophie Akpa, said technology offers opportunities for women to build solutions and contribute to digital innovation, adding that exposure to training and discussions can help more women explore careers in the sector.

She said initiatives such as the conference were designed to expose women to the possibilities within the technology space and encourage them to explore digital skills through training and mentorship, stressing that women bring unique perspectives needed to build balanced and inclusive digital solutions.

Automation specialist at Einao Solutions, Maureen Esekhile, said the narrative that women are underrepresented in technology may not accurately reflect the realities within the industry.

She noted that many women have already contributed significantly to technological development but often lack visibility and recognition.

She said: “Women are taking over tech, to be honest with you. Yes, because being 15 years in this industry, I’ll tell you that there are a lot of women who are doing a lot better in the sector. It’s just that we don’t have that avenue to be showcased.” She therefore urged more women to come out and be useful to the society and stop being the back bench.







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The Oba Yoruba of Kano, Engr. (Dr.) Murtala Alimi Otisese, has called on Yoruba sons and daughters in Kano and across the world to use the remaining days of the holy month of Ramadan to pray for global peace and stability.

In a statement signed by Prince Zakariyau Rotimi, Palace Secretary to the Oba Yoruba of Kano, the monarch urged the faithful to dedicate the final days of the fasting period to intense prayers, particularly for countries currently experiencing conflicts and unrest.

“These final days of Ramadan carry immense spiritual weight. I call on every Yoruba person, wherever you are, to raise your voice in prayer for our brothers and sisters in all parts of the world facing the horrors of war. May peace reign supreme,” the Oba said.

He specifically appealed for divine intervention in troubled regions, including Iran, stressing the need for global harmony and an end to violence.

The traditional ruler also offered special prayers for the Kano State Government and the Emir of Kano, His Highness Sanusi Lamido Sanusi II, while expressing gratitude for the support and peaceful environment enjoyed by the Yoruba community in the state.

According to him, the hospitality and protection extended by the government and the Kano Emirate have strengthened unity and peaceful coexistence in the ancient city.

“We are grateful for the atmosphere of brotherhood fostered by the State Government and the Emirate. Their leadership has ensured that we feel at home, and for this, we pray for their continued wisdom and the prosperity of Kano State,” he added.

The Oba also prayed for a peaceful conclusion of the Ramadan fast and extended advance Eid-el-Fitr greetings to the Muslim Ummah.

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Violence erupted in several parts of Oyo State on Saturday as suspected political thugs reportedly carried out coordinated attacks on local government congresses organised by a faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) aligned with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. The attacks left a number of party members injured and property damaged.

The disturbances coincided with reports that suspected political thugs also invaded the residence of former deputy governor, Hazeem Gbolarumi, in Ibadan, where property within the compound was destroyed, further escalating tension within the party.

Although full details of the incident were still unclear at the time of filing this report, sources close to the former deputy governor said he and his aides narrowly escaped during the invasion.

Witnesses and party sources stated that hoodlums stormed several venues where the congresses were being held, attacking participants and vandalising vehicles in what appeared to be a deliberate attempt to disrupt the exercise.

Chairman of the Wike-aligned faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state, Abdulrahman Akinoso, confirmed that the attacks were recorded in different locations, including Ibadan North, Ogbomoso South, Akinyele and Igboora in Ibarapa Central Local Government Area.

According to him, no fewer than ten persons were injured in the violence, while several vehicles were also damaged.

“Our local government congresses were attacked across Oyo State, including Ibadan North, Ogbomoso South, Igboora in Ibarapa Central and Akinyele,” Akinoso said in a telephone interview.

He added that three vehicles were vandalised at Gbolarumi House located on Are Avenue in the Bodija area of Ibadan, where members of the faction had gathered for the exercise.

The incidents have further heightened tensions within the party as rival factions continue to contest control of the party’s structure in the state.

(VANGUARD)


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Former Governor of Zamfara State and Senator representing Zamfara West Senatorial District, Abdulaziz Yari, has launched a new political movement, The Renewed Hope Network (TRHN), aimed at consolidating nationwide support for the administration and re-election of President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The formation of the group was disclosed in a press statement issued on Saturday by the National Facilitators of the movement, Alhaji Mohammed Abubakar and his deputy, Emmanuel Osita.

The facilitators said the movement was conceived by Senator Yari after extensive consultations with political stakeholders, grassroots leaders, youth organisations, women groups and former elected officials across the country who share a common vision of sustaining the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Tinubu administration.

According to the statement, the newly formed group is a broad-based national coalition made up of grassroots politicians, respected political actors, community mobilisers, women leaders, youth organisations and former councillors drawn from the 774 local government areas of the country.

The facilitators explained that the initiative was designed to unite progressive voices and grassroots political structures under a coordinated national platform committed to national development and political stability.

“Our collective resolve is anchored on the conviction that Nigeria is currently on a path of economic recovery, institutional reforms, and renewed national optimism under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” the statement said.

It added, “As patriotic Nigerians and stakeholders in the country’s democratic future, we believe it is necessary to consolidate these gains by building a strong grassroots movement that will mobilise support nationwide.”

The statement further noted that the primary objective of the Renewed Hope Network is to galvanise massive grassroots support across the federation for the re-election of Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election.

Beyond electoral mobilisation, the facilitators said the movement would also promote citizen engagement, political inclusion and national unity across the country.

They also disclosed that arrangements had reached an advanced stage for the official national launch of the movement, which is expected to attract thousands of supporters, political stakeholders, youth leaders, women groups and representatives from across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

“The Renewed Hope Network remains committed to strengthening Nigeria’s democratic culture, deepening grassroots participation in governance, and supporting leadership that prioritises economic growth, national security and social progress,” the statement added.

The group therefore called on Nigerians of goodwill, particularly young people, women, community leaders and political stakeholders, to join what it described as a growing national movement aimed at consolidating the Renewed Hope vision for a more prosperous and stable Nigeria.

It added that details of the official launch and nationwide mobilisation activities would be communicated to the public in due course.


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Socialites and prominent figures in the governing APC City Boy Movement, Obinna Iyiegbu popularly known as Obi Cubana and Seyi Vodi, also a prominent fashion designer have called on the residents of Abuja, the nation's capital to come out in their large numbers to be part of the long-awaited comedy show, Evolution of Washington taking place this Sunday, March 8, 2026. 

Tagged, "Wetin Women Really Want 2", the show is aimed at celebrating women and the immeasurably value in nation building. 

Evolution Of Washington comedy show is also incidentally happening same day with the International Women's Day, driving towards appreciating women for the role they play in the society as champions of peace at home front and the society in general. 

Expected to perform at the second "Wetin Women Really Want", are veteran musicians, including Mr. P of the defunct Psquarecomedy icons, notable MC`s and electrifying dancers. 

Because it is a day to specially recognise women, more women artistes have been selected to thrill audiences at the comedy show. 

Spearheaded by Washington, a member of 26 Pals Development Initiative who is leaving a legacy in Abuja, this comedy show will take place on March 8, 2026 at Transcorp Hilton Hotel Abuja. 

It promises to be exciting more than previous editions of the programme, as it seeks to build on those beautiful records. 

Ticket cost has been reduced to 10k, 25k, 2m and 3m for regular, VIP, gold table and premium table respectively.

Washington whose real name is Ernest Anyanwu is a talented MC, event compere and skit maker has anchored high profile events. Very popular in Abuja entertainment and social cycle, he is one man who has developed a unique way of connecting with people.

Meanwhile, it comedy show has continued to generate buzz on the social media, with prominent celebrities promoting the show. 

It has also attracted massive partnership from top brands, including Amanda Group, D-Ben Real Estate, Wincorp Homes, Seman Global, AerialView Group and more.

While the most anticipated after party of the night of fun and laughter will be at Evro lifestyle with all the entertainers in attendance.
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All is now set for the long-awaited comedy being spearheaded by Abuja multitalented entertainer, Master of Ceremony (Mc) and radio personality, MC Kpako.

A respected personality in the industry, MC Kpako is known for his energy-filled performances that hold audience spellbound at every event.

The show coming up this Sunday, March 8, 2026 is tagged, "Undefined" and is the third in the series.

Taking place at Ogadis event centre, Dutse Abuja, the event is currently generating massive buzz on the social media as top celebrities have joined in creating awareness around it.

Artistes and entertainers expected to perform include, Destalker, MC Bob, MC Nappy, MC Godpikin, 2Sap, MC Apapa, Dr. Laff Laff, MC Pokiyour, MC Orolee, Holy Mouth, Senior Man, Emperor, Kennedy, MC Archb, MC Matthew and several others.

Promoters urge Abuja residents to come out in their large numbers to have a refreshing moment of laughter, music and dance.


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The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has forecast a three-day period of dust haze across the country from Saturday through Monday.

In its weather outlook issued in Abuja, the agency projected moderate dust haze on Saturday over the northern region, with horizontal visibility expected to range between two and five kilometres.

NiMet also warned that some areas of Katsina, Kano and Jigawa states may experience reduced visibility of less than or equal to 1,000 metres during the forecast period.

The outlook further indicated that the North-Central region would experience moderate dust haze throughout the same period.

For the southern part of the country, NiMet predicted mostly sunny conditions with a few patches of clouds. However, it noted slim chances of afternoon or evening thunderstorms accompanied by light rainfall in parts of Lagos, Bayelsa, Delta, Rivers, Cross River and Akwa Ibom states.

On Sunday, the agency said moderate dust haze would continue to affect both the northern and North-Central regions.

It also projected largely sunny skies over the southern region with occasional cloud cover, alongside slight chances of isolated thunderstorms and light rainfall later in the day in Ondo, Bayelsa, Rivers, Delta and Edo states.

According to NiMet, Monday’s forecast points to slight dust haze over the northern region and continued dust haze conditions across the North-Central zone.

It added that the southern region would again see sunny conditions with patches of cloud, with slim chances of isolated thunderstorms and light rainfall expected later in the day in Lagos, Edo, Delta and Bayelsa states.

“Dust particles would remain in suspension, the public to take necessary precautions. People with asthma and other respiratory conditions are to be cautious under the prevailing weather conditions.

“Motorists should drive with caution during rainfall while airline operators are to obtain airport-specific weather reports from NiMet for effective operational planning.

“Residents are to stay informed through regular weather updates by visiting www.nimet.gov.ng,’’ it said.

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Nigeria recorded notable progress in its health sector reforms in 2025, according to the 2025 State of Health of the Nation Report.

The report shows that more than 23,000 additional frontline health workers were trained during the year, increasing the total number of trained workers in the past two years to 78,146.

The 2025 State of Health of the Nation Report was made available on Saturday in Abuja.

It was produced by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare in accordance with the National Health Act of 2014.

The document provides a detailed evaluation of progress recorded under the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative and the Sector-Wide Approach, both designed to coordinate investments and reforms across the health sector.

According to the report, the number of trained frontline health workers represents 65 per cent of the Federal Government’s target of 120,000 workers, aimed at strengthening service delivery, especially at primary healthcare facilities.

The report also highlighted improvements in financial protection for Nigerians through expanded health insurance coverage.

It stated that the number of Nigerians covered by any form of health insurance increased from 19.2 million in 2024 to 21.7 million in 2025, representing about 13 per cent national coverage.

The report further revealed that the government secured a presidential commitment for the full implementation of mandatory health insurance.

It added that capitation and fee-for-service payments were increased by 93 per cent and 378 per cent, respectively, to reflect current economic realities and ensure the sustainability of healthcare services.

The report also noted that the Basic Health Care Provision Fund 2.0, launched in October 2025 with improved fiduciary and operational reforms, had enrolled about 2.7 million Nigerians by the fourth quarter of the year.

On maternal and newborn health services, the report stated that the National Health Insurance Authority signed memoranda of understanding with more than 200 health facilities to expand access to Comprehensive Emergency Obstetric and Newborn Care (CEmONC) for poor and vulnerable women.

It revealed that CEmONC services reached 19,270 women nationwide, while 20,486 claims were reimbursed to 186 facilities, with 242 facilities across the country empanelled under the maternal component.

The neonatal component of the programme was also launched in seven facilities in Kano and Lagos in September 2025, it added.

Emergency medical response services were also strengthened during the year, with the State Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance System responding to 26,431 maternal emergencies nationwide, according to the report.

In addition, the Rural Emergency Services for Maternal and Newborn Transport initiative assisted 34,331 pregnant women and newborns in 124 local government areas through dedicated rural transport systems.

The report also highlighted gains in disease prevention and treatment programmes.

Nigeria began the implementation of the malaria vaccine in Bayelsa and Kebbi states, marking a significant step in malaria control efforts.

Similarly, the HIV programme maintained treatment coverage above 87 per cent and viral suppression above 95 per cent, contributing to a continued decline in new infections.

In the area of health security, the Federal Government launched the second National Action Plan on Health Security, aimed at integrating disease surveillance, immunisation and veterinary services into a coordinated emergency response framework.

The government also introduced the MSDAT digital platform to host interactive dashboards for monitoring health system performance and quality of care.

On strengthening the health value chain, the report indicated progress in local manufacturing of health products.

It disclosed that tax waivers exceeding six billion Naira were implemented under the Presidential Executive Order on Health Products, benefiting 47 pharmaceutical manufacturers.

Nigeria also inaugurated new facilities, including a Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) factory by Codix Bio and a syringe manufacturing plant with a daily production capacity of 750,000 units.

According to the report, 37 pharmaceutical facilities are currently undergoing upgrades to meet international Good Manufacturing Practice standards, while 38 per cent of publicly procured medicines and health commodities are sourced locally.

To strengthen medicine supply chains and curb the circulation of counterfeit drugs, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control seized and destroyed over one trillion Naira worth of banned, expired and substandard medical products in 2025.

The report stated that these efforts form part of broader reforms aimed at improving governance, financing and service delivery under the Health Sector Strategic Blueprint (2023–2027).

It said the reforms focus on improving maternal and child health, accelerating immunisation, expanding health insurance coverage, strengthening the health workforce, improving supply chains and enhancing pandemic preparedness.


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