StatePress NG

FG releases emergency medical numbers, urges Nigerians to dial 112

at August 20, 2026

The Federal Government has urged Nigerians to dial 112 during emergencies requiring urgent medical assistance, while releasing state emergency call centre numbers.

The National Emergency Medical Service and Ambulance System (NEMSAS), in an update on Wednesday, said 112 serves as a central contact for emergency medical assistance.

It said several states also had dedicated emergency call centre numbers to support faster responses to medical emergencies.

According to NEMSAS, the emergency response system provides fast response, professional care and life-saving services, with first responders available 24 hours daily.

The agency released emergency call centre numbers covering 35 states and the Federal Capital Territory, with most states using 112 alongside dedicated numbers.

For Abia, the listed emergency numbers are 112 and 08000000800, while Adamawa residents can call 112, 1755 or 07011111443.

Akwa Ibom residents can call 112, 08000022322 or 08000022422, while Anambra residents can use 112, 5111, 0800 220 0008 or 112.

For Bauchi, the listed numbers are 112 and 07038636433, while Bayelsa residents can call 112 or 0800 220 0223.

NEMSAS listed Benue’s emergency call centre as “Not Operational,” while Borno residents can call 112 or 08000000033.

Cross River has 112 as its listed emergency number, while Delta residents can call 112, 07041008130 or 07041008131.

For Ebonyi, the listed numbers are 112, 08086446891 and 08086445736, while Edo residents can call 112, 739 or 09037999871.

Ekiti residents can call 112, 08000606606, 08111111-22, -33, -44 or -55, while Enugu residents can use 112, 09074996090 or 07066466429.

Gombe residents can call 112 or 07033825646, while NEMSAS listed Imo’s emergency call centre as “Not Operational.”

Jigawa has 112 as its listed emergency number, while Kaduna residents can call 112 or 08064111599.

For Kano, the listed numbers are 112, 09019999920 and 09049999914, while Katsina and Kebbi each have 112 listed.

Kogi also has 112 as its listed emergency number, while Kwara residents can call 112, 09062010001 or 09062010002.

Lagos residents can call 112 or 767, while Nasarawa residents can use 112 or 08144911269 for emergency assistance.

For Niger, the listed numbers are 112, 0802 242 2953 and 0815 557 7513, while Osun residents can call 112, 08111110532 or 08111110561.

Ogun residents can call 112 or 08112000033, while Ondo residents can use 112 or 08055300300.

For Oyo, the listed emergency numbers are 112 and 615, while Plateau residents can call 112 or 09136982496.

Rivers residents can call 112, 09040222281, 09040222283 or 09040222285, while Sokoto residents can use 112, 07045963318 or 07071765080.

For Taraba, the listed numbers are 112, 07041122777 and 07041100777, while Yobe residents can call 112, 09169981792 or 08000090009.

Zamfara has 112 as its listed emergency number, while residents of the FCT can call 112, 09157892931 or 09157892932.

NEMSAS advised members of the public to save the emergency numbers and use them whenever urgent medical assistance was required.

The agency said its first responders were ready to provide quick response and professional care to help save lives during emergencies.

It urged Nigerians to dial 112 during emergencies, describing the service as available 24 hours daily, seven days weekly. (NAN)

National News Security

Tinubu orders 5-year national security threat assessment, defence plan

at August 20, 2026

President Bola Tinubu has ordered the immediate development of a comprehensive National Threat Assessment and a rolling five-year Strategic Defence Operations Plan to strengthen Nigeria’s response to emerging security challenges.

The directive, according to a statement issued on Wednesday in Abuja by the Presidential Spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, is aimed at improving coordination among the country’s defence, intelligence and security agencies and ensuring that national security operations are guided by clear, unified priorities.

Tinubu gave the order during a Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting at the State House, Abuja, where he stressed the need for a coherent national framework to identify security threats, set operational objectives and determine the capabilities required to tackle them.

An 11-member committee has been constituted to prepare the strategic plan, with the President’s Special Adviser on Homeland Security, Maj.-Gen. Adeyinka Famadewa, serving as coordinator and providing secretariat support.

Other members of the committee include the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu; Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa; Minister of State for Defence, Bello Muhammad Matawalle; Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede; and Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu.

Also on the committee are the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke; Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Adm. Idi Abbas; Director-General of the Department of State Services, Tosin Ajayi; and Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency, Amb. Muhammed Muhammed.

The President said recent security successes, including the rescue of pupils and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, demonstrated the importance of intelligence sharing and effective inter-agency collaboration.

“The operation demonstrated what can be achieved when our agencies work together with a clear objective and the necessary intelligence. We must build on such successes by strengthening coordination and ensuring that all our security capabilities are directed towards clearly defined national objectives,” Tinubu said.

He noted that security and operational requirements had often been addressed individually without adequate reference to a common national threat assessment or a unified medium-term strategy.

According to him, such an approach could undermine coordination, weaken long-term planning and affect the efficient deployment of resources across the country’s various security theatres.

Tinubu directed that the National Threat Assessment should clearly identify the major threats confronting Nigeria, determine their level of urgency and establish specific operational objectives for addressing them.

He said the five-year Strategic Defence Operations Plan would convert the assessment into actionable priorities, outlining the forces and capabilities required in different theatres, existing gaps, equipment and support needs, as well as timelines for implementation.

The committee was also authorised to consult or co-opt representatives of other ministries, departments and agencies where necessary.

Tinubu directed the committee to begin work immediately and submit the completed National Threat Assessment and Strategic Defence Operations Plan within 90 days for his consideration and approval.

“Once approved, the plan will serve as the principal framework for coordinating military and defence operations over the medium term,” the President said.

“It will also provide the basis for a corresponding multi-year defence expenditure and procurement plan, ensuring that resources are directed towards agreed operational priorities and critical national security requirements.”

The President further directed the Secretary to the Government of the Federation and the Office of the National Security Adviser to take immediate steps to implement the directives.

(NAN)

Crime News

Osogbo Gunfire: Davido was target of attack on Adeleke’s convoy — Police

at August 20, 2026

The Osun State Police Command has said Afrobeat star David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, was the intended target of an attack that disrupted the convoy of Governor Ademola Adeleke in Osogbo on Wednesday.

The incident occurred as Governor Adeleke visited the palace of the Ataoja of Osogbo shortly after receiving his certificate of return from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Davido, a prominent supporter of his uncle during the election campaign, had accompanied the governor and other family members to the INEC office and later to the monarch’s palace.

However, the visit was disrupted after suspected thugs allegedly attempted to gain access to the music star, leading to a confrontation with his security team.

Osun Police Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Ojelabi, said preliminary investigations revealed that one Adebayo Taoreed, popularly known as “Small Rugged,” allegedly tried to reach Davido but was prevented by members of the singer’s security team.

According to the police, the suspect is an ex-convict and alleged member of the Eye Confraternity.

“The ensuing confrontation reportedly attracted other suspected gang members in the vicinity, who temporarily blocked the entrance to the palace and obstructed the movement of the convoy of the Governor,” Ojelabi said.

The violence later turned deadly after a 60-year-old man, identified as Tajudeen Yusuf, was reportedly shot by the fleeing suspects.

“Shortly afterwards, the suspected gang members reportedly departed the vicinity; however, on their way, they allegedly shot Tajudeen Yusuf at Itaolokan area of Osogbo,” the police spokesperson said.

He said police operatives were immediately deployed to the scene, where the victim was found in a pool of blood and rushed to the University Teaching Hospital, Osogbo.

“Unfortunately, he was pronounced dead by the doctors on duty,” Ojelabi added.

The police said a full-scale investigation had been launched to identify and arrest all those involved in the incident.

The Commissioner of Police (Election), Osun State Command, CP Samuel Etaifo, condemned the attack and assured residents that all available resources would be deployed to bring the perpetrators to justice.

The command also appealed to members of the public with useful information to assist the investigation to contact the nearest police station or reach the police through its official channels.

Ojelabi urged residents to remain calm and avoid taking the law into their own hands, assuring that updates would be provided as the investigation progresses.

(NAN)

News

FG moves to decriminalise attempted suicide, shifts focus to care and support

at August 20, 2026

The Federal Government has taken steps to decriminalise attempted suicide in Nigeria, following the approval of an amendment to the National Mental Health Act by the Federal Executive Council (FEC).

The proposed amendment, approved on Wednesday, will be transmitted to the National Assembly for enactment. It seeks to replace punishment with care, protection and support for people who attempt to take their own lives.

Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate, disclosed this while briefing State House correspondents after the FEC meeting presided over by President Bola Tinubu in Abuja.

Pate said the move was necessary because provisions in the Criminal Code Act and Penal Code, inherited from the colonial era, still criminalise attempted suicide despite the National Mental Health Act 2021 adopting a more supportive approach to people at risk of self-harm.

According to him, the existing law has created a contradiction in Nigeria’s legal and mental health framework and may discourage vulnerable persons from seeking help.

“The idea is that attempted suicide is not a crime. This legal approach discourages help-seeking behaviours and also conflicts with our national mental health policy and the National Mental Health Act 2021,” Pate said.

He described suicide as a major public health concern, citing World Health Organisation estimates of more than 7,000 suicide-related deaths annually and about 300,000 attempts across Nigeria each year.

Pate said the amendment was the outcome of consultations involving the Ministries of Health and Social Welfare and Justice, the Office of the Attorney-General, mental health advocates, a special task force and the National Assembly.

He said the task force was established following a resolution of the House of Representatives, which supported efforts to amend the law and align it with the country’s mental health policy.

FEC approves major health infrastructure projects

Meanwhile, the Federal Executive Council also approved a series of major investments aimed at upgrading Nigeria’s healthcare infrastructure.

Among the approvals was the National Centre for Oral Health Establishment Bill 2026, which will also be forwarded to the National Assembly.

The proposed centre is expected to serve as a national referral, research and training institution while providing a stronger legal and institutional framework for tackling oral diseases and related conditions.

FEC also approved several projects for the National Hospital, Abuja, including an administrative block valued at N18.74 million, modular clinics and a theatre complex estimated at N64.92 billion, a high-end wing costing N103 billion and a Neuroscience Institute valued at N69 billion.

Pate said the proposed Neuroscience Institute would provide specialised services in neurosurgery, radiology, intervention and rehabilitation for patients with conditions such as stroke, brain tumours and other neurological disorders.

The Council further approved N302.3 billion for the design, construction, furnishing, equipment, supervision and commissioning of a National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT) Centre.

The cancer research and treatment centre is expected to be completed within 36 months and will serve as a major institution for cancer treatment, research, innovation and capacity building.

Pate noted that three upgraded cancer centres in Katsina, Benin and Enugu had already been completed and inaugurated.

According to the minister, the investments are part of the Federal Government’s broader plan to modernise the health sector, improve access to specialised care and reduce the need for Nigerians to travel long distances—or abroad—for treatment.

He added that the projects followed due process and competitive procurement procedures, with necessary clearances obtained from the Bureau of Public Procurement.

“Ultimately, quality healthcare is not cheap,” Pate said, stressing that Nigeria must continue to invest in its health system to deliver the level of care required by its growing population.

The minister also expressed optimism that improved healthcare facilities and working conditions would help retain more Nigerian health professionals and reduce the pressure driving medical workers to seek opportunities outside the country.

NAN

News Politics

Obi/Kwankwaso ticket offers Nigerians new direction, says Kwankwaso

at August 20, 2026

As the 2027 presidential campaign officially gets underway, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso has called on Nigerians to reject divisive politics and rally behind the Obi/Kwankwaso ticket of the New Democratic Congress (NDC), saying the election offers the country an opportunity to choose a new direction.

Kwankwaso , in a message to Nigerians marking the commencement of the campaign, said the country is at a critical crossroads, with millions of citizens grappling with rising cost of living, unemployment, insecurity and deteriorating social infrastructure.

He said the increasing cost of food and essential commodities had placed enormous pressure on families, while businesses are struggling with high operating costs and an uncertain economic environment.

According to him, millions of young Nigerians are searching for meaningful employment and opportunities, stressing that the country urgently needs leadership capable of responding to the economic challenges confronting citizens.

The NDC bigwig also expressed concern over persistent insecurity, noting that terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other forms of violence had claimed lives, displaced families and destroyed livelihoods across the country.

“Our farmers need security to return to their farms, our children need safe schools, and every Nigerian deserves to live without fear,” he said.

Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso further called for urgent investment in education and healthcare, improved infrastructure, stronger institutions and greater transparency and accountability in the management of public resources.

Despite the challenges, he said Nigeria remained a country of enormous potential, with the human and natural resources needed to build a prosperous and secure nation.

“What we need is leadership with the competence, courage and commitment to put the interests of Nigerians first,” he said.

Explaining his decision to support the Obi-Kwankwaso ticket, Kwankwaso said the partnership is not driven by regional, religious or personal interests but by a shared commitment to rebuilding Nigeria.

“This is why I have chosen to work with His Excellency, Peter Obi, on the Obi-Kwankwaso ticket,” he said.

“Our partnership is not about region, religion or personal ambition. It is about Nigeria.”

He said the coalition believes in a country where the government serves the people, hard work is rewarded, young Nigerians can build successful futures at home, and that every citizen has a fair opportunity to prosper.

Senator Kwankwaso urged young people, women, workers, farmers, entrepreneurs and professionals to join the political movement and demand accountability, competence and measurable results from public office holders.

He also appealed to Nigerians to move beyond politics of division and focus on issues affecting their daily lives.

“The 2027 election presents Nigerians with an opportunity to choose a new direction,” he said.

He,therefore, called on Nigerians to support the Obi-Kwankwaso ticket and candidates of the NDC, urging them to participate actively in the effort to rebuild the country.

Kwankwaso also appealed to political parties, candidates and supporters to conduct their campaigns peacefully and responsibly, with the national interest placed above personal and sectional considerations.

“Together, we can build a stronger nation and Nigeria will be OK,” he said.

Crime News

JUST IN: Gov Adeleke escapes death as hoodlums attack convoy in Osogbo

at August 20, 2026

Suspected thugs on Wednesday attacked the convoy of Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, shortly after his visit to the palace of the Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Oyetunji, triggering an exchange of gunfire with the governor’s security personnel.

The shooting, which lasted for about 12 to 15 minutes, occurred shortly after Adeleke left the palace hall where he had met with the monarch.

Adeleke had arrived at the Ataoja’s palace at about 3:15 pm in a motorcade of about 20 vehicles after leaving the Osun State headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission in Osogbo, where he received his Certificate of Return following his re-election.

An eyewitness, who spoke with our correspondent on the telephone on condition of anonymity for security reasons, said Adeleke and his entourage were received by Oyetunji, where the governor reportedly presented his Certificate of Return to the monarch.

The eyewitness said trouble started as the meeting was winding down after the monarch had offered prayers.

According to her, Adeleke had already left the hall through an exit reserved for the monarch and his wives when the shooting started.

She said, “He was already in the bus that brought him and his close aides to the palace when we started hearing heavy gunshots. Those that attacked had come in an “The shooting lasted for about 12 to 15 minutes before the governor’s convoy eventually left the palace. The governor’s security men and those hoodlums exchanged gunshots. Those hoodlums later fled the scene.” Sienna space bus through the Ita Olokan area of Osogbo.

A trader near the palace, identified simply as Munirat, said the assailants might have learnt of Adeleke’s visit and waited for his arrival.

She said, “We suspected that those hoodlums heard about Adeleke’s visit and had been waiting for him. They came in a Sienna space bus. They even damaged the main gate to the palace. They shot at the palace main gate, but the security men pushed them back.

“We all ran away and left our wares. They also engaged the governor near the Osogbo Central Mosque before they fled towards Ita Olokan along the Osogbo-Ilesa Road.”

The incident caused panic in the area as traders and other residents reportedly fled their businesses and sought safety during the shooting.

When contacted, the Osun State Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, confirmed the attack.

Alimi said the governor’s security personnel successfully repelled the assailants and that no casualty was recorded.

“They are hoodlums, and the governor’s security repelled them. They attacked the governor’s convoy at Ataoja’s palace. No casualty,” he said.

As of 4:45 pm, when our correspondent left the scene, sporadic gunshots were still being heard around the area, while several business owners had hurriedly shut their shops for fear of being caught in the violence.

THE PUNCH

Crime News

JUST IN:Tinubu direct EFCC to channelled reovered funds to NELFUND

at August 20, 2026

President Bola Tinubu has directed that all funds recovered by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) be channelled to the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND).

Tunji Alausa, minister of education, spoke on Wednesday during a press briefing at the State House shortly after the federal executive council (FEC) meeting.

Alausa said FEC also approved that all other unclaimed dividends in the Capital Market Trust Fund and Dormant Account Trust Fund be channelled to the student loan scheme in a bid to expand the reach of the fund and strengthen its efficiency.

“The president, in his benevolence, has now directed that all funds recovered by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission be diverted to NELFUND to continue to support its funding,” Alausa said.

“This was also approved by FEC: that all unclaimed dividends from the Capital Market Trust Fund and the Dormant Account Trust Fund should also be directed to NELFUND, so that NELFUND will be financially buoyant to meet its growing obligations today.

“Note, and the President was very clear, not ceased properties, or recovered looted funds, but liquid funds, from the EFCC will now be transferred to NELFUND.“

NELFUND was established in 2024 after Tinubu signed the Student Loans (Access to Higher Education) Act into law to provide interest-free loans to eligible students in tertiary institutions.

As of August 8, the fund said it had paid out over N322 billion for institutional fees and upkeep allowances to over 1.6 million students nationwide.

THECABLE

News Politics

INEC flags six major threats ahead of 2027 general elections

at August 20, 2026

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has identified six major threats that could undermine the credibility of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections if left unchecked.

INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, SAN, disclosed this on Tuesday in Abuja when he received a Pre-Election Assessment Mission (PEAM) delegation from the International Republican Institute (IRI), led by former United States Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, Ambassador Jendayi Frazier.

According to Amupitan, the threats include

Security risks,

Localised electoral violence,

Vote-buying,

Hate speech,

Disinformation,

and Foreign Information Manipulation and Interference (FIMI).

He warned that the challenges could weaken public confidence in the electoral process and create significant obstacles to the successful conduct of the 2027 elections if not addressed early.

The meeting came three days after the Osun State governorship election and on the eve of the statutory commencement of public campaigns and rallies for the 2027 general elections.

Amupitan described the IRI assessment as timely, saying the independent mission would provide an external perspective as INEC moves into full-scale preparations for the elections.

He disclosed that the commission was expanding its operational capacity ahead of the polls, with plans to deploy about 1.4 million ad-hoc personnel across more than 176,000 polling units nationwide.

On voter registration, the INEC chairman said the commission had deployed the Automated Biometric Identification System (ABIS) under the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) framework to detect duplicate registrations and strengthen the integrity of the National Register of Voters.

He added that recent off-cycle governorship elections and legislative by-elections had provided opportunities for INEC to test its logistics, security coordination and technological systems ahead of 2027.

Amupitan said technology had helped reduce some of the vulnerabilities associated with Nigeria’s previous electoral processes.

He specifically highlighted the performance of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), which is used for biometric verification, as well as the real-time display of polling unit results through the INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV).

According to him, result-upload rates exceeded 98 per cent in recent off-cycle elections, which he described as evidence of the systems’ growing operational reliability.

INEC, he said, was also preparing for the elections through voter register audits, early transportation arrangements with unions to ensure polling units open by 8:30 a.m., and improved assistive facilities for persons with disabilities, pregnant women and elderly voters.

On election security and financial inducements, Amupitan said INEC was strengthening its collaboration with security agencies through the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES).

The commission is also working with anti-corruption agencies, including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), to enforce campaign finance regulations, monitor electoral offences and ensure that offenders face prosecution.

With the 2027 elections approaching, INEC’s latest assessment places security, electoral violence, financial inducement and the growing influence of harmful information among the key issues likely to shape the credibility of the polls.

News

Tinubu meets EFCC, housing Minister over management of forfeited properties

at August 20, 2026

President Bola Tinubu has held talks with the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Olanipekun Olukoyede, and the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Muttaqha Rabe Darma, as the Federal Government moves to strengthen the management of properties recovered through corruption and financial crime cases.

The meeting, held at the State House in Abuja on Tuesday, focused on how forfeited houses, land and other landed assets can be properly secured, managed and eventually deployed or disposed of in accordance with transparency and accountability requirements.

The engagement comes as the volume of properties recovered by the EFCC continues to grow, creating the need for a coordinated system to preserve the value of the assets while ensuring they are put to productive use.

One of the major properties already transferred to the Housing Ministry is the 753-unit housing estate located at Plot 109, Cadastral Zone C09, Lokogoma District, Abuja.

The estate, built on more than 150,000 square metres of land and comprising duplexes and apartments, was finally forfeited to the Federal Government in December 2024.

Five months later, in May 2025, the EFCC handed the estate over to the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development for completion and eventual deployment for public benefit.

The estate was linked to former Central Bank of Nigeria Governor, Godwin Emefiele.

Several other properties connected to Emefiele have also featured in forfeiture proceedings, including houses and apartments in Lekki Phase 1 and Ikoyi, undeveloped land and a bungalow around Queens Drive, Ikoyi, as well as properties on Probyn Road and Adekunle Lawal Road.

An industrial complex covering 22 plots in Agbor, Delta State, and a multi-storey development containing several housing units in the Otunba Elegushi area of Lagos are also among the assets involved in the proceedings.

The portfolio extends to industrial and warehouse facilities, residential properties and undeveloped plots across Lekki, Ikoyi and Amuwo-Odofin.

In 2026, the Supreme Court also affirmed the forfeiture of seven landed properties linked to the former CBN governor, alongside monetary and other assets.

Malami properties add to growing portfolio

The Federal Government’s asset-management challenge has been further expanded by forfeiture proceedings involving former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, his associates, family members and companies.

In January, a court granted an interim forfeiture order covering 57 properties estimated at about ₦213 billion.

By July, 48 of those properties, valued at approximately ₦180 billion, had been finally forfeited to the Federal Government, while nine properties were released.

The properties are spread across the Federal Capital Territory, Kebbi, Kano and Kaduna states and include residential buildings, hotels, commercial developments, factories and large parcels of land.

Among them are a luxury duplex on Amazon Street, Maitama, Abuja; a two-winged storey building formerly occupied by Harmonia Hotels on Onitsha Crescent, Area 11, Garki; and a five-storey hotel containing 53 rooms in Jabi.

Other properties in Abuja include a 15-room hotel on Rhine Street, Maitama, terraces and buildings in Asokoro, as well as residential properties in Gwarimpa, BUA Estate, Apo Legislative Quarters, Wuse II and Karsana.

The portfolio also contains commercial developments in Wuse II and other parts of the capital.

Beyond Abuja, the forfeited assets include residential and hospitality properties in Kano, while properties in Kebbi comprise extensive landed developments, buildings linked to agro-allied and hospitality businesses and large parcels of land, including more than 100 hectares along the Birnin Kebbi-Jega Road.

A residential property in Abakpa GRA, Kaduna, is also among the assets covered by the proceedings.

More properties under EFCC custody

The EFCC has also secured an interim forfeiture order over nine high-value properties in Abuja allegedly linked to former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva.

The properties include terraces in Dakibiyu, duplexes and office complexes in different parts of Abuja, blocks of flats in Wuse and Garki, and buildings in Maitama and Mpape.

In a separate case, 52 terrace and maisonette housing units at Mercyville Estate, Covenant Way, Ilasan, Lekki, Lagos, were finally forfeited in July 2026.

The anti-graft agency has also secured final forfeiture orders over several unclaimed landed assets in Abuja and other states, including residential and commercial properties in Karsana, Dakibiyu and Guzape in the FCT, as well as properties and land in Borno, Nasarawa and Niger states.

The scale of the recoveries underscores the growing responsibility facing the Federal Government. The EFCC has reported the recovery of more than 1,500 non-monetary assets, largely properties, between late 2023 and 2025.

However, not all properties in the EFCC’s custody have the same legal status. While some have been finally forfeited to the Federal Government, others remain subject to interim orders and may still face claims, appeals or further judicial proceedings.

Against this backdrop, Tuesday’s meeting is expected to deepen cooperation between the EFCC and the Housing Ministry in developing a more effective framework for handling the growing portfolio.

While the EFCC is responsible for pursuing forfeiture orders and taking possession of recovered assets, the Housing Ministry has the technical capacity to assess, complete, manage and ultimately deploy suitable housing properties for public benefit.

The meeting therefore signals a possible shift from simply recovering assets to ensuring that billions of naira worth of forfeited properties do not remain idle, but are properly preserved and converted into productive assets for Nigerians.

Events News

Youth Day 2026: Waterlight Save Initiative Hosts Global Youth Forum, Empowers Participants

at August 20, 2026

The Waterlight Save Initiative has hosted the 2026 i-HEAL Global Youth Impact Forum in Abuja as part of activities to commemorate International Youth Day, with over 100 sewing machines, grinding engines and millions of naira in grants distributed to selected participants.

The forum, held at the NAF Conference Centre, Abuja, brought together youth stakeholders, captains of industry, philanthropists, young leaders, innovators, policymakers, entrepreneurs and development partners from Nigeria and other parts of the world.

International Youth Day, observed annually on August 12, recognizes the contributions of young people to society while drawing attention to the challenges and opportunities confronting the next generation.

Held under the theme, “Youth Empowerment for a Sustainable Future,” the i-HEAL Global Youth Impact Forum focused on equipping young people with the resources, knowledge and opportunities needed to contribute meaningfully to national and global development.

The forum provided participants with exposure to career, innovation and entrepreneurship opportunities, mentorship, visibility for their ideas and projects, access to non-refundable grants, as well as startup equipment to support their businesses and chosen areas of endeavour.

The Special Guest of Honour and First Lady of Kwara State, Her Excellency, Amb. Professor Olufolake Abdulrazaq, urged young Nigerians to take advantage of the opportunities provided by the forum to advance their careers and pursue their aspirations.

“I encourage our youth to remain focused and hardworking. Use education, innovation, entrepreneurship, and active citizenship to pursue your dreams, fulfil your potential, and help build a more peaceful and prosperous Nigeria,” she said.

Also speaking, the First Lady of Abia State, Her Excellency, Mrs. Priscilla Otti, stressed the important role of young people in the development of the nation.

She described the forum as another opportunity for young people to build a better future, commending the organizers for their intervention and expressing her commitment to supporting youth-focused initiatives such as the i-HEAL Global Youth Impact Forum.

In his welcome address, the Convener and Chief Executive Officer of Waterlight Save Initiative, Dr. Prince Ero Ibhafidon, said the forum was designed to empower young leaders, innovators and entrepreneurs to drive sustainable development through initiatives centred on health, education and economic empowerment.

According to him, the initiative aligns with the #iHEALBlueprint, which seeks to promote creative youth development and encourage sustainable solutions to Africa’s development challenges.

The event featured panel discussions on youth development initiatives and advocacy, a business pitching competition, goodwill messages and the presentation of empowerment items, including sewing machines, grinding engines and grants to support startups and existing businesses seeking to scale.

Among the notable personalities who attended the forum were former House of Representatives member, Shina Peller; Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady of Benue State, Mrs. Scholastica Ben Sor; Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady of Edo State; and media personality Morayo Brown, among others.

The organizers said the empowerment programme was part of broader efforts to equip young people with practical resources and opportunities that would enable them to become self-reliant and contribute to sustainable development in Nigeria and Africa.

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News

NLC urges FG to resolve health workers’ pay dispute, to avert strike

at August 19, 2026

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has called on the Federal Government to urgently address lingering salary and welfare issues affecting health workers, warning that continued delays could trigger another round of industrial action in the nation’s health sector.

NLC President, Joe Ajaero, made the appeal in a letter dated August 6 and addressed to the Minister of Labour and Employment. The letter was made available to journalists on Tuesday in Abuja.

Ajaero expressed concern over what he described as the prolonged delay in the adjustment of the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS), as well as the unresolved demands of the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU).

According to him, members of JOHESU have continued to wait for the implementation of agreements reached with the Federal Government, despite several Memoranda of Understanding, terms of agreement and Collective Bargaining Agreements signed by both parties.

“Years after signing MoUs, terms of agreement and CBAs, in addition to promises and assurances from appropriate authorities, members of JOHESU have been ignored or abandoned,” Ajaero said.

The NLC president urged the Minister of Labour and Employment to facilitate the immediate resumption of collective bargaining negotiations between the government and JOHESU.

He also called for the intervention of the Presidential Committee on Salaries to ensure that all outstanding issues, particularly those relating to the health workers’ salary structure, are addressed without further delay.

Ajaero said the labour movement was deeply concerned about alleged discriminatory practices and the impact prolonged industrial disputes continue to have on health workers and Nigerians who depend on public healthcare services.

He warned that the collapse of ongoing efforts to resolve the dispute could have serious consequences for the already fragile health sector.

“It needs no telling that the consequences of a complete breakdown in negotiations are quite grave,” he said.

While stressing that the NLC’s intervention should not be seen as a threat, Ajaero maintained that the Congress would stand firmly with JOHESU should the union be forced to embark on further industrial action.

“We strongly urge that you do all that is within your power to ensure immediate resumption of the collective agreement negotiation,” he added.

The NLC, therefore, called on the Federal Government to demonstrate stronger commitment to honouring agreements with health workers, resolve all outstanding issues and avert what could become another major industrial crisis in the country’s health sector.

(NAN)

News Politics

2027: Tinubu, Obi, others sign peace accord as campaigns begin

at August 19, 2026

Presidential, governorship and National Assembly candidates contesting the 2027 general elections have signed a Peace Accord, pledging to pursue peaceful, issue-based campaigns and shun violence, hate speech and disinformation before, during and after the polls.

The accord was signed on Tuesday in Abuja by presidential candidates and leaders of political parties, alongside candidates seeking governorship and National Assembly seats.

Among the presidential candidates who signed the agreement were President Bola Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress (APC), represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume; Peter Obi of the Nigeria Democratic Congress; and Adewale Adebayo of the Social Democratic Party (SDP).

The agreement was organised by the National Peace Committee (NPC), chaired by former Head of State, Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar (rtd.), as part of efforts to reduce political tension, promote social cohesion and ensure that the outcome of the elections reflects the will of Nigerians.

Speaking at the event, Abubakar urged political parties, candidates, campaign councils and their spokespersons to focus their campaigns on issues affecting Nigerians rather than personal attacks and inflammatory rhetoric.

Represented by a member of the committee, Martin Agwai, the former Head of State said the NPC had facilitated 30 peace accords since 2015, including five national accords ahead of the 2015, 2019 and 2023 general elections and 25 others during sub-national and off-cycle polls.

He said the introduction of an issue-based peace accord in 2019 was aimed at shifting political campaigns away from sentiments, name-calling and character assassination towards debates on policies and programmes.

According to him, political campaigns over the years had increasingly lost “dignity and decency,” creating a toxic atmosphere capable of inciting citizens against the government, political parties and opposing candidates.

With the 2027 general elections five months away and official campaigns set to commence on Wednesday, Abubakar appealed to political actors to uphold the commitments contained in the accord.

“Campaign based on issues that are of significant concern to Nigerians. Avoid the spread of false and fake news, personal attacks and insults,” he said.

He also urged politicians and their supporters to promote tolerance, respect opposing views, maintain civility in public discourse and comply fully with both the spirit and provisions of the agreement.

Meanwhile, the Programme Officer of the Kukah Centre, Asabe Ndahi, said findings from previous election cycles showed widespread violations of the Peace Accord, particularly provisions requiring political parties to conduct issue-based campaigns.

Presenting findings on emerging national issues, Ndahi said Clause One of the accord, which commits parties to issue-based campaigns, recorded a 43 per cent breach.

She added that clauses prohibiting fake news and disinformation were violated by as much as 90 per cent, while provisions against insults and violence were also breached.

According to her, spokespersons accounted for 58 per cent of violations relating to the conduct of issue-based campaigns.

She said 32 of Nigeria’s 36 states recorded violations, with Kaduna, Plateau, Kano, Lagos, Rivers and Benue identified among the most affected.

Ndahi called on political parties, candidates and their supporters to ensure that the 2027 campaigns were conducted peacefully.

She urged candidates to debate policies and ideas, while calling on campaign teams and supporters to mobilise responsibly without intimidation or violence.

Ndahi particularly charged party and candidate spokespersons to exercise restraint, provide timely and verified information and avoid inflammatory statements.

She also called on the media and civil society organisations to verify information before publication or amplification and pursue evidence-based advocacy.

Security agencies and the Independent National Electoral Commission were equally urged to maintain neutrality, impartiality, transparency and consistency in enforcing electoral laws.

The signing of the accord comes as political parties prepare to formally begin campaigns on Wednesday, with stakeholders hoping the commitments made in Abuja will translate into a more peaceful and issue-driven electoral process.

(NAN)

News Politics

2027 Elections: INEC plans deployment of 1.4m Ad-hoc staff to 176,000 polling units

at August 19, 2026

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) says it is preparing to deploy about 1.4 million ad-hoc personnel across more than 176,000 polling units nationwide for the 2027 General Election.

INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, disclosed this on Tuesday in Abuja during a meeting with a Pre-Election Assessment Mission from the International Republican Institute (IRI), led by former United States Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, Ambassador Jendayi Frazier.

Amupitan said the commission has begun intensifying preparations for what is expected to be one of Nigeria’s biggest electoral exercises, with attention focused on voter registration, logistics, security, accessibility and technology.

He said recent off-cycle elections, including the Ekiti and Osun governorship elections and legislative by-elections, had provided INEC with opportunities to test its operational capacity.

According to him, the elections served as “live operational stress tests” for the commission’s technology, logistics arrangements and coordination with security agencies.

With the focus now shifting fully to 2027, the INEC chairman said the commission would build on the lessons from those elections to strengthen its preparations.

Amupitan also highlighted what he described as significant improvements in the use of technology, particularly the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and the INEC Result Viewing (IReV) portal.

He said the real-time upload of Polling Unit Result Sheets, known as Form EC8A, exceeded 98 per cent during recent off-cycle elections.

“Technology has permanently closed the door on legacy voting vulnerabilities, ensuring that the ballot box alone determines electoral outcomes,” Amupitan said.

However, he cautioned that technology alone could not guarantee a credible election.

He identified insecurity, electoral violence, vote-buying, hate speech, disinformation and Foreign Information Manipulation and Interference as some of the major threats capable of undermining voter confidence.

To tackle the challenges, he said INEC was strengthening collaboration with security agencies through the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security.

The commission, he added, was also working with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission to enforce electoral laws, monitor campaign finance and prosecute offenders.

On voter registration, Amupitan said INEC was conducting a comprehensive audit of the national register through the Continuous Voter Registration exercise and the Automated Biometric Identification System to identify and eliminate duplicate registrations.

He also said the commission was expanding its early deployment strategy and strengthening partnerships with transport unions to ensure that personnel and election materials arrive at polling units early enough for voting to commence by 8:30 a.m.

INEC, he added, was placing greater emphasis on inclusive elections by providing assistive devices and priority access for Persons With Disabilities, pregnant women, nursing mothers and elderly voters.

Amupitan assured the IRI delegation of the commission’s open-door policy, describing international observers as important institutional partners whose recommendations could help improve the electoral process and strengthen public confidence.

He also maintained that INEC would remain neutral in the conduct of the 2027 elections.

“As an electoral management body, INEC holds no preference for any political party or candidate. Our sole responsibility is to act as an uncompromising, impartial umpire,” he said.

The IRI assessment mission arrived in Nigeria on August 11 and is expected to conclude its visit on August 21.

The visit comes at a crucial period in Nigeria’s electoral calendar, following the August 15 Osun governorship election and as political activities begin to gather momentum ahead of the 2027 General Election.

News

Kano launches N27.8bn ICT, CBT project to take digital exams to grassroots

at August 19, 2026

The Kano State Government has awarded contracts worth ₦27.8 billion for the construction of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and Computer-Based Test (CBT) Centres across its 44 Local Government Areas.

The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Mohammed Tajo-Othman, disclosed this during the contract award ceremony held at the ministry on Tuesday in Kano.

This is contained in a statement by the ministry’s Public Relations Officer, Aminu Bello-Sani, on Tuesday in Kano.

He quoted the commissioner as saying that the initiative was aimed at expanding access to digital learning, e-examinations, and technology skills for the teeming youth at the grassroots.

The commissioner described the project as another historic milestone in the history of Kano State.

“This historic achievement would not have been possible without the vision and foresight of Gov. Abba Kabir-Yusuf.

“By bringing ICT/CBT centres to every local government area, we are taking digital opportunities closer to our people and preparing our youth for the future,” the commissioner stated.

Tajo-Othman explained that each centre would be equipped with modern facilities, including a high-capacity internet server network, 300 computers, and an uninterrupted power supply system powered by the national grid, solar energy, and standby generators.

According to him, a project of this magnitude is the first of its kind across all local government areas in the country, and is expected to be completed within 16 to 18 weeks.

He listed the awarded companies as Odaleg Properties and Constructions Limited, Aytaam Construction Limited, Trusted Development, KODAK PRIME, VIND R&D PARTNERSHIP Limited, and CORNERSTONE CONSTRUCTION & ENGINEERING Limited.

The commissioner further disclosed that the overall supervision and quality assurance would be handled by Vivid R&D Partnership Limited as Project Consultant.

In their response, the awarded contractors appreciated the Kano State Government for finding them worthy to handle the project.

They pledged to execute the work according to the required standards and within the stipulated timeframe.

The commissioner further explained that teams from the local government areas and the ministry would conduct regular site inspections to ensure quality delivery.

He noted that the centres were expected to create jobs and support examination bodies such as the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB), West African Examinations Council (WAEC), and National Examination Council (NECO).

The centre, Tajo-Othman said, would also provide platforms for digital skills training across the state. (NAN)

News

Revenue allocation: FG, states, LGs share N3.007trn for July

at August 19, 2026

The Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) has shared N3.007 trillion among the Federal Government, 36 state governments and 774 Local Government Councils (LGCs) as revenue for July.

The Director, Press and Public Relations Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation (OAGF), Mr Bawa Mokwa, said this in a statement on Tuesday in Abuja.

Mokwa said the allocation was approved by FAAC at its regular monthly meeting in Owerri, Imo.

He said the meeting was convened on the margins of the ongoing National Council of Federation and Economic Development (NACOFED).

He said the July figures indicated an improvement in statutory revenue, with gross statutory revenue rising to N4.359 trillion.

Mokwa said it represented an increase of N658.087 billion, or 17.8 per cent, compared with the N3.700 trillion recorded in June.

According to Mokwa, the gross Value Added Tax (VAT) revenue stood at N793.968 billion, a marginal decline of N5.778 billion, or 0.7 per cent, from the N799.746 billion recorded in June.

He quoted the FAAC communiqué as saying that the increase in statutory revenue was driven by significant growth in several revenue streams, including Petroleum Profit Tax (PPT).

“Others are Hydrocarbon Tax (HT), Companies Income Tax (CIT), Capital Gains Tax (CGT), Stamp Duty Tax (SDT), petroleum royalties, mineral royalties, excise duty and gas-flaring penalties.

“The gains were partly offset by declines in VAT, import duty, CET levies, rental of gas-flaring fees and miscellaneous oil revenue,” he said.

He said that the committee would continue to work with revenue-generating agencies to address collection gaps and strengthen remittance discipline.

Mokwa also reaffirmed FAAC’s commitment to the full, transparent and timely remittance of collectable revenues into the Federation Account, ahead of the planned accounts reconciliation exercise.

He stressed the need to diversify the federation’s revenue base beyond oil, in line with ongoing tax administration and non-oil revenue mobilisation reforms.

“FAAC also highlighted the importance of continued coordination between the Federal Government and state governments.

“The coordination is through NACOFED on fiscal policy, revenue sharing and broader economic development priorities,” he said.

He said that solid minerals and other non-oil royalty streams remained areas with significant potential for expanding federation revenue.

Mokwa also said that improvement in statutory revenue recorded in July would require continued discipline in revenue collection and remittance by Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).

He reiterated support for reforms aimed at improving the predictability, sustainability and growth of allocations to the three tiers of government. (NAN)