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The people of Unubi in Nnewi South LGA, Anambra State have thrown their weight behind Chief Ebuka Onunkwo, the candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for Anambra South Senatorial District, describing his ambition as genuine and deserving of collective support.


The declaration was made at a well-attended reception hosted by Chief Amobi Ogum (Onyechimel’eze Unubi) at his residence in Unubi, where the community trooped out en masse to receive the philanthropist and industrialist-turned politician. 


In keeping with tradition and as a mark of respect, Chief Onunkwo first stopped at the palace of the traditional ruler of Unubi, HRH Igwe Francis Umennajiego, Igwe Ohazurume Unubi, where he was warmly received by the King and members of his cabinet.


At Ogum's residence, where a mammoth crowd had already over-run every available space, speakers extolled Ebuka Onunkwo’s track record of job creation through his Seahorse Lubricant Industries, scholarship schemes, and community development initiatives, and whole-heartedly endorsed him to bring effective, people-oriented representation to Anambra South.


The host, Chief Amobi Ogum encouraged the teeming crowd not to be intimidated by the politics of the ruling parties in both the federal and state levels, and decried the prevalence of money politics in the country. He assured them that Chief Ebuka Onunkwo, whom they affectionately addressed as Nwoke Factory will drive employment and infrastructural development from the Senate. 


Responding, Chief Onunkwo thanked the Igwe and the people of Unubi for the warm reception and assured them of his commitment to quality representation if elected. He promised immediate employment to two indigenes of Unubi who were qualified as accountants and promised to carry the entire zone along, if elected. 


In a rare display of maturity and political sagacity, he implored party faithfuls to treat those in other parties as brothers and partners, and assured that his empowerment programmes, scheduled for next month, should be inclusive, as the dire economic situation in the country was biting everyone, irrespective of which party one belonged to. 


The occasion was graced by the leadership of the NDC in Anambra State, led by the State Chairman, Rt. Hon. Ikem Uzoezie, who implored the teeming crowd to vote massively for Mr. Peter Obi, and continue all the way down in their voting patterns. He decried the poor state of infrastructural development in the state and wondered what the ruling party in the state would campaign with, as all indices of growth were at an all-time low. 


He was joined by the Party’s State Publicity Secretary, Chief Okwuma Epuechi, the party’s Chairman in Nnewi-South LGA, Barr. Paul Chukwudumogu and all the 20 ward chairmen in the local government area. 


With this endorsement, Unubi joins other communities in the senatorial District that have adopted Onunkwo ahead of the 2027 general election, citing his accessibility, capacity, and track record of philanthropy and service.


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Date: October 18, 2026


EDEOHA, AHOADA EAST, RIVERS STATE — It was a historic and spiritually significant occasion on Sunday, October 18, 2026, as Prof. Chinedu Ogwus and his beloved wife, Amb. Dr. Ekwutoziam Ogwus Chinedu, children and their extended family, dedicated the new Presbyterian Church of Nigeria at Edeoha Parish, Ahoada East Local Government Area of Rivers State, to the glory of God.


The memorable ceremony attracted prominent traditional rulers, political stakeholders, religious representatives, family members, friends, and well-wishers from within and outside the community, all gathered to witness the dedication of the new church edifice.


The dedication was conducted by His Eminence, Most Rev. Dr. Ekpenyong Nyong Akpanika, and the Niger Delta Synod of the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria, who led the spiritual ceremony marking the consecration of the building to the service of God.


The occasion represented a moment of thanksgiving and fulfilment for the Ogwus family, who came together to offer the edifice to Christ as an expression of their faith, gratitude, and commitment to God’s kingdom.

The ceremony was graced by several distinguished personalities and traditional leaders, underscoring the significance of the occasion within the community and beyond.


Among the notable traditional rulers present were Eze Ekpeye Logbo, His Imperial Majesty, Eze Sir (Amb.) Kelvin Ngozi Anugwo, Ph.D., DSSRS, ACTI, FNIM, MNIMN, SFALPP, JP, AP, and His Majesty, King (Amb.) Noble Friday Uwoh, Eze Igbu-Ehuda IV, the Supreme Monarch of the Ancient Ahoada Kingdom (Igbu Ehuda). Other traditional rulers and community leaders were also in attendance to honour the Chinedu Ogwus family on the special occasion.


The event also welcomed relatives who travelled from far and near to witness the historic dedication, including Engr. Ndubuisi Azuka Utulu, Dr Chika, etc


In recognition of the spiritual significance of the event, Omega Power Ministry (OPM), Trans Amadi Branch, sent representatives led by Pastor Steve Osiago to attend the ceremony on behalf of the church.


Political stakeholders were also present, including the NNPP chairmen of Ahoada East and Abua-Odual Local Government Areas, Pastor Joe and Hon. Edi Omagile, respectively. Their presence added to the gathering of community, religious, traditional, and political representatives who came to celebrate with the family.

Beyond the dedication of the church, the occasion highlighted the longstanding philanthropic and humanitarian contributions of Prof. Chinedu Ogwus and his wife, Amb. Dr. Ekwutoziam Ogwus Chinedu, to the development and well-being of their community.


The couple are known for their support for education, youth participation in sports, and humanitarian outreach to widows and less privileged members of society. Through these initiatives, they have continued to demonstrate a commitment to improving lives, supporting young people, and contributing to the development of their community.


Their efforts have attracted commendation and appreciation from members of the community, who recognise the importance of supporting initiatives that promote education, social development, youth engagement, and the welfare of vulnerable people.


For the family, the dedication of the church represents another expression of their desire to give back, not only to society but also to God, whom they acknowledge as the source of their blessings and achievements.

Amb. Dr. Ekwutoziam Ogwus Chinedu is a businesswoman, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and political aspirant who has continued to participate in community development and humanitarian activities.


She is the Chief Executive Officer of Ekash Collections and serves as Vice President of the Ogwus Youth Empowerment and Community Development Organization (OYECDO).


She is also contesting for the Federal House of Representatives seat representing the Ahoada East/Abua-Odual Federal Constituency under the platform of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP).


Her involvement in business, philanthropy, youth development, and politics reflects her engagement in both economic and community affairs. The church dedication provided an opportunity for family members, friends, community leaders, and well-wishers to join the couple in celebrating a milestone rooted in faith and service.


The presence of Prof. Chinedu Ogwus, his lovely wife, their children, relatives, friends, and well-wishers made the dedication a deeply personal and memorable family occasion.

By dedicating the new church to Christ, the Ogwus Chinedu family marked what they consider a significant act of gratitude to God for His faithfulness and provision. The edifice is expected to serve as a place of worship, prayer, fellowship, and Christian growth for the congregation and future generations.

The ceremony also reinforced the message that meaningful contributions to society extend beyond material achievements. Their contribution and support in spiritual institutions, education, sports, and humanitarian services can help strengthen the social and moral foundations of the community.


The dedication of the new Presbyterian Church of Nigeria at Edeoha Parish, Ahoada East, on October 18, 2026, stands as a memorable milestone for the Ogwus Chinedu family and the wider community.

As the new edifice begins its service it remain that it will become a centre of prayer, peace, unity, and hope for generations to come.

The occasion concluded as a celebration of Gods love and faithfulness in the family, their philanthropy work and service to God and humanity, expressing gratitude to Almighty God for the opportunity to dedicate an edifice to Christ.





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I, Dr. Stephen Olawale Fasakin, KSM, National President, University of Ilorin Alumni Association and Deputy Chairman, Association of Nigeria Universities Alumni, on behalf of the entire alumni family, wish to most heartily commend His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for graciously extending the tenure of the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service, Mrs. Kemi Nanna Nandap, a distinguished alumna and a true Better By Far product of the University of Ilorin.


The extension is well merited, timely, and in the best interest of national security and service delivery. Mrs. Nandap has proven to be one of the most reform-minded and result-driven public servants in this administration.


Her sterling achievements that deserve the extension include:


1. Passport Reforms & Service Delivery:

She cleared over 200,000 passport backlogs within weeks of assuming office, centralized passport production to increase capacity from 300 to 5,000 per day, and fully digitized the passport application process to curb racketeering and restore dignity to Nigerians.


2. Border Security and Technological Innovation:

She launched the landmark e-Border Solution Project with Command and Control Centre, Advance Passenger Information System (APIS), Passenger Name Record (PNR), deployment of e-Gates at all international airports, drones and AI-driven surveillance, and consolidated over 15 million migration records into the Border Control System.


3. War Against Human Trafficking and Transnational Crime:

As DCG Migration and now as CG, she coordinated operations that rescued 137 victims of human trafficking and dismantled 42 trafficking syndicates, and strengthened collaboration with IOM, INTERPOL, ECOWAS and the EU.


4. International Recognition and Regional Leadership:

She was elected Chairperson of the ECOWAS Heads of Immigration Forum in 2024, championed the ECOWAS Biometric Identity Card for regional integration, and secured international partnerships including modern document verification tools from the Netherlands.


5. Personnel Welfare and Capacity Building:

She prioritized the welfare and professionalism of officers through improved health insurance and pension, and initiated specialized trainings in document fraud detection, migration data analysis and border management for over 87 senior officers.


Mrs. Nandap, the third female to lead the NIS in its history and a graduate of Biochemistry from the University of Ilorin with Masters in International Relations and an MBA, has brought intellectual depth, discipline and innovation to reposition the NIS in line with President Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda.


We of the University of Ilorin Alumni family are proud of her and assure Mr. President that she will use this extended tenure of 18 months to deepen these reforms and consolidate on institutional excellence.


Thank you, Mr. President, for believing in merit and competence.


God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.


Signed:


Dr. Stephen Olawale Fasakin, KSM

National President, University of Ilorin Alumni Association

Deputy Chairman, Association of Nigerian Universities Alumni

Former Personal Assistant to Chief M.K.O. Abiola

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Benjamin Nnayerugo, popularly known as Killaboi, has told a Lagos State High Court that he allegedly discovered Instagram messages in which his late girlfriend, Augusta Onuwaghagbe, was discussing a sexual encounter with another man for N1.5 million.


Nnayerugo, who is standing trial over Augusta’s death, gave the account while testifying in his defence before Justice Ibironke Harrison at the Lagos State High Court, TBS Annex, Igbosere.


He told the court that the alleged discovery left him emotionally distressed and prompted him to confront Augusta during a video call.


According to the defendant, the incident began in late June 2023 after he lost money on a sports bet and became upset.


He said Augusta had attempted to comfort him by reminding him of previous betting successes and encouraging him, but her efforts failed to improve his mood.


Nnayerugo said Augusta later returned to school, adding that he had access to her Instagram account and continued monitoring her conversations after she left.


He told the court that he noticed she regularly exchanged messages with accounts belonging to people who were not her friends on the platform, with some of the conversations subsequently deleted.


The defendant said he monitored the account for about a week and came across messages concerning invitations to clubs and enquiries about Augusta’s well-being.


He added that they later agreed that she could visit Lagos for the weekend.


Nnayerugo told the court that he intended to log out of her Instagram account before her arrival to prevent her from discovering that he had been monitoring her conversations.


However, he said that a day before the planned visit, he noticed a message from an account identified as “Yako”.


According to him, the sender addressed Augusta as “sweetheart”, explained that he had deactivated his Snapchat account and suggested continuing their conversation on Instagram.


The defendant said the sender asked Augusta when she would visit Lagos, to which she allegedly replied that she could come whenever he wanted.


He further claimed that their conversation progressed to a discussion about payment, during which Augusta allegedly insisted that she would not lower her price.


Nnayerugo said the sender subsequently requested her WhatsApp number to enable them to continue the discussion on the messaging platform.


He told the court that he became suspicious and decided to investigate the exchange using the phone number provided in the conversation.


According to him, he obtained a virtual SIM card, created a WhatsApp account using the name and profile picture associated with “Yako”, and contacted Augusta while pretending to be the man.


The defendant said he asked her to remind him of the amount she wanted, and she allegedly demanded N1.5 million.


He told the court that he offered N800,000, but she allegedly rejected the proposal, explaining that she was taking a significant risk.


Nnayerugo said he subsequently asked whether their proposed meeting would take place in a hotel or an apartment. He alleged that Augusta indicated that either location was acceptable, provided he sent the address.


He added that he later offered N1 million, which she allegedly turned down, before he agreed to pay the N1.5 million she had requested.


The defendant further claimed that he proposed having sex without a condom, provided both parties underwent medical tests beforehand, and that Augusta agreed.


He told the court that the exchange eventually convinced him that the discussion concerned a sexual encounter for payment, although he had initially been unsure about the purpose of the money.


Nnayerugo said he became so distressed during the conversation that he was shaking and experiencing an emotional breakdown.


He told the court that he initially considered sending the money through a friend and arranging a hotel meeting where he could confront Augusta.


However, he said he later abandoned the plan, reasoning that he did not need to spend such an amount to establish that his girlfriend was allegedly cheating on him.


The defendant said he subsequently decided to end the relationship and confront Augusta with the messages he claimed to have discovered.


According to him, he initiated a video call, which Augusta answered, but she screamed and dropped the phone after seeing him.


Nnayerugo said he confronted her over the alleged arrangement, told her he knew what she had been doing and informed her that their relationship was over.


He also told the court that he threatened to inform Augusta’s mother about what he had discovered.


The defendant said he shared a close relationship with her mother, who had supported their relationship, regularly prayed for him and attended a church he sometimes visited.


He said he initially could not reach her for about 20 minutes but eventually explained the messages he had allegedly found and informed her that he had ended the relationship.


According to Nnayerugo, Augusta’s mother questioned his decision to access her daughter’s account, telling him that the action was wrong and constituted a criminal offence.


He said he was angered by her response, explaining that his intention had been to inform her about the breakup rather than discuss how he accessed the account.


The defendant added that Augusta’s mother indicated she would speak with her daughter, but he reiterated that this was not the reason for his call before ending the conversation.


Earlier in the proceedings, defence counsel, Marcel Oru, asked the court to excuse Augusta’s mother and brother from the courtroom during the planned playback of a video recording.


Oru said the request was intended to spare the deceased’s relatives additional emotional distress while the recording was being played.


Prosecution counsel, Adebayo Araba, did not oppose the request.


The defence lawyer, however, clarified that the recording had not yet been tendered in evidence and that his application was aimed at preventing further emotional pain for the deceased’s family.


Justice Harrison subsequently adjourned the case to Thursday, October 22.


Nnayerugo is standing trial over Augusta’s death. The allegations concerning her private communications were made by the defendant during his testimony and have not, by themselves, been established as facts by the court.


(TVC)


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The Nigerian Guild of Editors has called on security authorities to reopen the investigation into the assassination of Dele Giwa, the co-founder of Newswatch magazine, insisting that the passage of four decades must not extinguish the quest for justice.


Giwa was killed on October 19, 1986, by a parcel bomb delivered to his home in Ikeja, Lagos. No one has ever been brought to justice for the murder.


In a statement signed by President Eze Anaba and General Secretary Onuoha Ukeh, the Guild described the unresolved case as a painful test of Nigeria’s commitment to press freedom, public accountability and the rule of law.


“Forty years is a long time to wait for justice. It is an unconscionably long time for a nation that claims to uphold the rule of law,” the Guild said.


The editors urged authorities to examine any credible evidence still available, preserve relevant records and pursue every lawful avenue towards establishing the truth.


The Guild, however, cautioned against trial by media, stressing that its demand was for a credible investigation rather than the condemnation of anyone without evidence.


“We are not calling for trial by media. We are not asking anyone to be condemned without evidence. We are demanding that a grave crime against a Nigerian citizen, a distinguished journalist and the freedom of the press should not remain an enduring symbol of impunity,” it said.


The Guild described Giwa as a journalist of uncommon audacity, intellectual rigour and literary elegance, saying his work demonstrated that Nigerian journalism could interrogate power fearlessly while maintaining professional excellence.


It said his assassination was not merely the killing of an individual but an attack on the freedom to ask questions, expose wrongdoing and hold those in authority accountable.


The NGE warned against reducing Giwa’s memory to annual commemorations without concrete action.


“Remembrance without action risks becoming an elaborate way of accommodating injustice,” the Guild said.

The statement was issued as a book, Dele Giwa’s Granite Journalism, was unveiled in Lagos to preserve his writings and legacy.


The collection was compiled by Ray Ekpu, the only surviving member of the original Newswatch quartet, and features Giwa’s articles from the Daily Times, Sunday Concord and Newswatch alongside tributes from friends and contemporaries.


Ekpu, speaking at the book presentation, said Newswatch colleagues and the late human rights lawyer Gani Fawehinmi fought tirelessly for justice but without success.


“That incident turned our day into night and threw us into an abyss of grief. For four decades, his partners, family, and friends have wrestled with sorrow,” Ekpu said.


He recalled how his five-year-old son abandoned his ambition of becoming a journalist after Giwa’s killing, telling him: “Don’t want to be killed like Uncle Dele”.


The Guild called for Giwa’s professional ideals to be taught in journalism schools and discussed in newsrooms, stressing that press freedom was a public cause because attacks on journalists threatened citizens’ access to independent information.


“Dele Giwa is gone, but the questions his murder left behind remain alive. The man was silenced; the search for justice must not be,” the Guild said.

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Written by Godson Ikpontu


Lawyer and former National Youth Leader Maurice Oru Ebam, Esq., says qualified young Nigerians are being shut out of the national conversation because they lack powerful political connections, and he has gone to the Federal High Court, Abuja, to demand answers from the Minister of Youth Development.


"Should qualified young people be denied a fair opportunity to participate because they lack powerful political connections?" the statement asks. Ebam is challenging the administration of the 2026 National Youth Confab by the Honourable Minister of Youth Development and the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, and has announced an alternative gathering for 11 November.


The proceedings include an application for judicial review and a request for an order of mandamus. The grounds cited include Sections 6(6)(b) and 4(8) of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, subject to applicable procedural and jurisdictional requirements. 


The challenge raises concerns about the exercise of administrative discretion, the principles governing access to the Confab and whether the stated commitment to inclusion and non-partisanship is reflected in the selection of participants. The legal questions remain subject to the judicial process and any determination by the court.


According to Ebam, the Minister has described the Confab as an inclusive, non-partisan national platform for young Nigerians aged 18 to 35. Born on 3 October 1992, he falls within that bracket as of the date of the announcement. He points to his experience in youth leadership, political party administration and legal advocacy as grounds for expecting fair consideration. 


Ebam is a former National Youth Leader of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), a former Interim Chairman and National Legal Adviser of the Forum of National Youth Leaders of Political Parties in Nigeria, National Legal Adviser of Nigerian Youths in Politics, and Chairman of the ADC Cross River State Disciplinary Committee.


He argues that a genuinely inclusive national platform should not leave qualified youth stakeholders feeling that political affiliation or access to powerful sponsors determines their opportunity to participate. While he believes his experience and eligibility warrant fair consideration, he acknowledged that the legal questions remain subject to the judicial process.

"I represent the sons and daughters of nobody," Ebam said. 


"I represent the young Nigerians who have qualifications, ideas, experience and the desire to contribute to national development but are often overlooked because they have no political godfather."


"We are told that the future belongs to the youth. Yet, when platforms are created to discuss that future, many young people find themselves asking whether their voices truly matter," he said. "Why should a qualified young Nigerian have to know somebody before somebody recognises their qualifications? Why should political connections matter more than the principles of fairness, transparency and inclusion?"


He added: "I refuse to believe that the absence of a godfather should become a barrier to participation in our national life. We are the underdogs. We may not have the strongest connections, but we have ideas, experience, courage and the right to be heard. We shall continue to demand fairness through lawful and democratic means until our voices are heard."


Ebam called on the Ministry of Youth Development to clarify the criteria for participation and ensure that the selection process is transparent and consistent with the stated objectives of the Confab.


"The purpose of a national youth platform should be to bring young Nigerians together, not to create the impression that access belongs only to those who are politically connected," he said. "These are legitimate questions about public administration and youth representation. They deserve transparent answers."


The National Youth Alternative Confab 2026, billed as the Underdogs' Summit and themed "Rise of the Underdogs," will hold on 11 November 2026 at the Shehu Musa Yar'Adua Centre, Abuja, under the motto "We Shall Emerge!" The gathering is aimed at amplifying the voices of young Nigerians who believe they have been excluded from opportunities for meaningful participation.

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The Director-General of the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC), Professor Nnanyelugo Ike-Muonso, has commiserated with the Deputy National Chairman (North) of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr Ali Bukar Dalori, over the death of his daughter.


During a condolence visit to the APC chieftain, Ike-Muonso expressed sympathy with the bereaved family, describing the loss as painful and irreparable.


The RMRDC chief urged the family to find comfort in the life of humility, devotion and service to God and humanity exemplified by the deceased.


He noted that although her passing had created a painful void in the family, the values she upheld and the positive influence she had on others would remain a lasting legacy.


Ike-Muonso prayed that Almighty God would forgive the deceased her shortcomings, grant her eternal rest and give the bereaved family the strength and fortitude to endure the loss.


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The Nigerian Institution of Marine Engineers and Naval Architects (NIMENA) has invited researchers, maritime professionals, engineers and industry experts to submit original research papers for its forthcoming NIMENA Conference 2026, scheduled to take place on November 20, 2026, in Lagos.


The conference, tagged MARVEL Nigeria 2026, will be held under the theme, “Advancing Maritime Sovereignty: Maritime Advancement through Resilience, Vessel Development, Energy Transition and Local Capacity.”


According to the institution, the event will take place at the Event Hall, Naval Dockyard, 28 Ahmadu Bello Way, Victoria Island, Lagos, bringing together maritime stakeholders to explore innovative solutions capable of strengthening Nigeria's maritime industry, promoting indigenous capacity and advancing sustainable development across West African waters.


NIMENA identified four major research tracks designed to address critical challenges and emerging opportunities within the maritime sector.


The first track, Classification and Standards, will focus on local inspection capacity, vessel safety and structural requirements suited to West African waters.


The second, Green Shipping, will examine vessel retrofits, alternative fuels, emissions reduction, as well as the technical and commercial viability of cleaner maritime operations.


The third track, Cabotage and Shipbuilding, will explore domestic fleet development, shipyard capacity, materials, modular construction and the implementation of cabotage policies to strengthen indigenous participation in maritime activities.


The fourth, Hydrodynamics of Domestic Craft, will address hull design, resistance, propulsion and stability for coastal, inland and shallow-draught vessels.


NIMENA explained that submissions must present clear research questions, sound methodologies and findings with practical relevance to maritime development in West Africa.


The institution further disclosed that authors of selected papers may be invited to submit expanded manuscripts for possible publication in the Journal of the Blue Economy and Sustainable Energy Development (JBESED) or the African Journal of Offshore, Marine Engineering and Naval Architecture (AJOMENA).


Interested researchers and maritime professionals are expected to submit abstracts of between 150 and 200 words on or before November 17, 2026, while the deadline for full manuscript submissions is November 27, 2026.



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The Director-General of the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC), Prof. Nnanyelugo M. Ike-Muonso, has called for stronger partnerships between research institutions, polytechnics and the private sector to convert research findings into commercial products, create jobs and stimulate industrial growth.


Ike-Muonso said Nigeria could reduce its reliance on imported goods, strengthen local manufacturing and accelerate economic development by linking research, technical education, technology transfer and private investment.


He made the call on Wednesday in Abuja during a strategic meeting convened by RMRDC with officials of the World Association of Industrial and Technological Research Organizations (WAITRO), representatives of tertiary institutions and members of the organised private sector.


According to him, Nigeria’s abundant natural resources, skilled workforce, entrepreneurial talent and research institutions provide a strong foundation for industrial development, but the country must establish effective mechanisms to turn these assets into tangible economic gains.


“For too long, the gap between research and industrial application has limited the economic benefits that Nigeria derives from its investments in research and development,” he said.


The RMRDC chief executive stressed that research should extend beyond academic publications to produce commercially viable goods, industrial processes and technologies capable of addressing real-world challenges.


He noted that closer collaboration between universities, polytechnics, research organisations and businesses would enable industries to communicate their technological needs while allowing researchers to develop practical solutions for commercialisation.


Ike-Muonso described the engagement with WAITRO as an opportunity to expand international cooperation, build sustainable institutional relationships and improve Nigeria’s capacity to develop, adapt and deploy technologies for industrial advancement.


He said RMRDC was exploring opportunities through its membership of the international organisation to help Nigerian institutions access technical expertise, undertake joint research, develop innovative products and improve industrial processes.


He added that the council was particularly interested in partnerships that would deliver measurable economic benefits to Nigerian businesses and the country at large.


The RMRDC director-general also highlighted the council’s collaboration with Chinese innovation institutions, including the Shanghai Yangtze Delta Innovation Institute, Jiangsu Industrial Technology Research Institute and Anhui Yangtze Delta Innovation Institute, under the National Innovation Center par Excellence.


He explained that a quadripartite memorandum of understanding with the institutions provides a framework for cooperation in research and development, technology transfer, innovation, capacity building and the commercialisation of research findings.


According to him, the partnership could help Nigerian institutions adapt foreign technologies to local industrial needs, improve the processing of indigenous raw materials and produce goods capable of competing in domestic and international markets.


However, he cautioned that technology transfer should go beyond importing equipment and finished technologies, stressing the need to develop local expertise and ensure that Nigerians can maintain, adapt and improve the technologies they acquire.


“Our aspiration is not simply to access technology, but to strengthen Nigeria’s capacity to understand, adapt, develop and apply technology for its own industrial advancement,” he said.


Ike-Muonso urged tertiary institutions and private-sector operators to use the engagement to identify shared interests and develop practical projects that would boost domestic production.


He encouraged universities and polytechnics to regard industries as strategic partners in research and innovation, while urging businesses to tap the technical expertise available in academic and research institutions.


He said such cooperation could support joint research, industrial attachments, technology incubation, student entrepreneurship, product development and the commercialisation of research outputs.


The organised private sector, he added, had a crucial role in attracting investment, identifying industrial challenges and creating markets for innovations developed by researchers.


He identified the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture and the Nigerian Association of Small and Medium Enterprises as important partners in connecting businesses with research institutions.


He also pointed to the potential roles of the Bank of Industry, Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority and National Automotive Design and Development Council in promoting industrial financing, technology-driven manufacturing, export-oriented production and local content development.


The RMRDC boss said a coordinated approach involving research institutions, investors, infrastructure providers and policymakers was necessary to accelerate Nigeria’s industrial growth.


Speaking at the meeting, the Executive Secretary of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), Prof. Idris Bugaje, warned that Nigeria’s industrialisation drive could falter without adequate attention to technical and vocational education and training (TVET).


Bugaje said polytechnics were established to produce technicians, technologists, artisans and other skilled professionals required to support manufacturing, infrastructure development and technological innovation.


He explained that while universities contribute to theoretical research and conceptual development, polytechnics are expected to equip students with the practical skills needed to translate knowledge into industrial production.


“Any nation that neglects TVET, be sure her industrialisation is doomed to fail,” he said.


The NBTE executive secretary maintained that Nigeria’s quest for self-reliance, import substitution and sustainable industrial growth depended on stronger links between technical institutions and industry.


He identified practical skills acquisition, technology adaptation, entrepreneurship and curricula aligned with employers’ needs as critical to making polytechnic education more responsive to the economy.


According to him, polytechnics could promote local innovation by producing agro-allied machinery, food-processing equipment and renewable energy prototypes from locally sourced materials.


He added that technical education should prepare graduates not only for paid employment but also for entrepreneurship and the establishment of businesses capable of generating jobs and strengthening small and medium-scale enterprises.


Bugaje cited China’s industrial development as an example of how technical and vocational education could be integrated with national industrial policies to drive economic transformation.


He said the country’s model demonstrated the benefits of linking technical colleges with manufacturing facilities and industrial zones, allowing students to combine classroom instruction with practical experience on production lines.


Such an approach, he argued, could help bridge the gap between the skills graduates acquire and those employers require.


The NBTE chief called for stronger partnerships between polytechnics and manufacturers to review curricula, upgrade laboratories and workshops, and expand opportunities for industrial training.


He proposed that industrial training placements should be developed into structured, long-term apprenticeship programmes through which students could gain practical experience on actual production lines while continuing their studies.


He also advocated work-based learning arrangements that would allow industry workers to earn National Diploma and Higher National Diploma qualifications through systems that recognise practical experience and assess workplace competencies.


Bugaje further urged the transformation of polytechnic workshops into production and research hubs serving nearby industrial clusters and commercial markets.


He cited the One Polytechnic, One Product initiative as a model for encouraging institutions to develop marketable products, promote local manufacturing and create opportunities for technical entrepreneurship.


The NBTE boss also drew attention to the longstanding disparity between Higher National Diploma holders and university degree holders, noting that discrimination against technical qualifications had discouraged students and affected career progression in the civil service and private sector.


He said addressing the disparity was essential to improving the status of technical education and encouraging more young Nigerians to pursue technical careers.


Bugaje also called for industry advisory boards at faculty and school levels in polytechnics to ensure that academic programmes reflected the changing requirements of manufacturers and other employers.


He explained that NBTE’s minimum academic standards allow polytechnics to tailor 10 per cent of their curricula to the specific needs of local industries while retaining the prescribed 90 per cent.


He stressed that adequately funded technical institutions, modern training facilities and meaningful partnerships with manufacturers were vital to making polytechnics drivers of industrial development.


At the meeting, Ike-Muonso proposed that discussions should prioritise areas for collaboration, joint research and technology projects, commercialisation, capacity building and mechanisms for monitoring agreed initiatives.


He reaffirmed RMRDC’s commitment to facilitating partnerships within its mandate and working with stakeholders to ensure that the engagement produced practical results.


The council’s WAITRO focal person, Dr. Oluremi Elusoji, expressed appreciation to the international delegation, government agencies, tertiary institutions and private-sector representatives for participating in the meeting.


Elusoji said the engagement had reinforced the importance of collaboration in converting research findings into practical solutions, promoting local value addition and advancing Nigeria’s industrialisation agenda.


He expressed optimism that the relationships established at the meeting would be sustained and developed into concrete initiatives that would benefit participating institutions and the country.


The meeting highlighted the need for Nigeria to strengthen the processes through which indigenous knowledge, technical expertise and locally available resources are converted into commercially viable products.


Participants were encouraged to pursue partnerships that would expand manufacturing capacity, create employment, develop local technologies and reduce dependence on imported industrial inputs.


The discussions underscored that Nigeria’s industrial transformation would depend not only on its natural resource endowment but also on its ability to connect research, technical education, investment and manufacturing to generate jobs, wealth and sustainable economic growth.


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Ali Pate, coordinating minister of health and social welfare, says Nigerians should remain vigilant, shun panic, and stop spreading misinformation about Ebola virus disease.


Speaking on Wednesday after meeting with Femi Gbajabiamila, chief of staff to the president in Abuja, Pate said citizens should rely on verified public health information from trusted sources rather than circulating false rumours.


The minister said the federal government is collaborating with Uganda to manage the situation.


“All I can tell you is that we are collaborating with our sister African nation of Uganda,” Pate said.


“What is important is that we have found this one case. We are doing contact tracing, and we are putting containment measures to ensure that it doesn’t go into our population.”


He urged Nigerians to remain calm and communicate responsibly, adding that the situation should be taken seriously without causing fear.


“Nigerians should be reassured. We must be vigilant, but not panic, and people should respect public health information from trusted sources, and not spread misinformation and false rumours,” Pate said.


The minister said Nigeria has the public health institutions and expertise needed to respond to the situation.


Pate added that the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) had activated its incident management system (IMS), with response teams working round the clock and the relevant task force coordinating containment efforts.


“They are working 24/7, and the task force is also active. So, we have things in place that give us confidence that Nigeria can weather this public health crisis,” he said.


He said the government would continue to monitor developments and provide updates as verified information became available.


“If the situation changes, we’ll come out and inform Nigerians,” he said.


Pate reiterated that the immediate priority was to contain the imported case and prevent its spread within the population.


The meeting between Pate and Gbajabiamila came nearly 24 hours after the federal government announced a confirmed case of Ebola disease in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).


On Tuesday, Pate said 44 close contacts had been identified for tracing to prevent further transmission.


He added that the patient, a woman who recently arrived in Nigeria on an international flight from Uganda, had been admitted to a private hospital in the FCT, where she received care for several days before the diagnosis was confirmed.


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Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has asked President Bola Tinubu to account for the N10 billion approved for Ebola preparedness in June.


The African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate made the demand in a statement issued on Wednesday by Phrank Shaibu, his director of strategic communication.


Atiku’s remarks followed an announcement by Ali Pate, coordinating minister of health and social welfare, that the federal government had confirmed an Ebola case in Abuja and identified 44 close contacts for tracing to prevent further transmission.


Atiku said the confirmed Ebola case in Abuja had raised questions about the government’s preparedness and response.


“Ebola is a grave public health threat. Nigerians deserve urgent action, competent leadership and the truth,” he said.


“Instead, the first confirmed case in Abuja has exposed unanswered questions about preparedness, surveillance and the protection of health workers. Tinubu must account for the N10 billion he said would be released immediately in June.”


Atiku asked the president to publish the amount disbursed, the dates of payment, details of contract awarded, the recipients and items delivered.


The former vice-president said Tinubu must explain if the money had not been released.


“Tinubu must explain why he announced emergency funding that never reached the people responsible for protecting Nigerians. A press statement cannot replace an audit,” he said.


Atiku questioned the timeline of the reported case, saying the patient arrived in Nigeria on October 5, developed symptoms on October 7 and sought treatment at a private hospital on October 11.


He said the government did not publicly confirm the case until October 20, nine days after the patient sought treatment.


Atiku alleged that 44 close contacts were not monitored during that period and that private health workers who handled the case lacked adequate protective equipment.


“This is a failure of preparedness with potentially grave consequences,” he said.


Atiku called on the government to disclose the steps taken at every stage of the response, including travel history and exposure screening, follow-up after the patient developed symptoms, and when the 44 contacts were first reached and monitored.


He also questioned why frontline health workers were allegedly left without adequate protection.


“Nigerians deserve answers, and those responsible for these failures must be held accountable,” he said.


Atiku further faulted the role of political appointees in the response, noting that Tinubu had announced a presidential task force chaired by Femi Gbajabiamila, his chief of staff, in June.


He said medical experts should lead the response, with the authority and resources to act.


“The NCDC, epidemiologists, doctors and public health professionals must be in charge, with the authority and resources to act. Political titles cannot trace contacts, equip hospitals or save lives,” he said.


The former vice-president warned that the government’s handling of the outbreak could deepen public anxiety and disrupt movement, livelihoods and economic activity.


He attributed the country’s economic hardship to Tinubu’s policies, saying Nigerians should not bear the cost of both economic difficulties and an inadequate emergency response.


“The people must not pay twice for the same failure: first through hardship, then through a bungled emergency response. Both caused by Bola,” he said.


On June 9, Tinubu ordered the immediate release of N10 billion as emergency intervention funding to strengthen Nigeria’s preparedness against Ebola and other emerging public health threats.


The president’s directive followed the discovery of Ebola in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Uganda, both of which were affected by outbreaks at the time.


In a statement, Bayo Onanuga, special adviser to the president on information and strategy, said Tinubu also approved the establishment of a presidential task force (PTF) on Ebola virus disease preparedness and emerging public health threats.


Onanuga said the fund would strengthen the operational preparedness of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) and support critical national public health emergency response activities.


TheCable


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The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has barred its personnel from escorting politicians during campaigns for the 2027 general elections.


ACM Abimbola Owolabi, Zonal Commanding Officer, RS6, gave the directive during her maiden visit to the Cross River Command in Calabar on Wednesday.


Owolabi said patrol vehicles and sirens must not be used for political activities or private engagements, including weddings and funeral processions.


She directed officers deployed to campaign venues to focus exclusively on traffic management to prevent congestion and road crashes.


The zonal head warned personnel against leading political convoys or providing escorts for politicians, stressing that official vehicles must not be used for unauthorised purposes.


She urged officers to intensify public education on road safety, noting that sustained awareness campaigns could reduce crashes and help achieve zero fatalities.


Owolabi also warned against extortion, corruption and other unprofessional conduct, urging personnel to protect the corps’ reputation through accountability.


“Misconduct by patrol operators and other personnel undermines public confidence in the corps. Officers must be extremely accountable across operational units,” she said.


She advised officers to prioritise their safety during enforcement operations and avoid unnecessary confrontations that could lead to assaults, injuries or damage to their uniforms.


Owolabi urged personnel to exercise professionalism and discretion when dealing with motorists, particularly in volatile situations that could escalate into violence.


She called for stronger partnerships with private operators to ensure broken-down vehicles were promptly removed from highways and traffic obstructions cleared.


The zonal commander also stressed the need for prompt emergency response, effective rescue operations and intensified patrols to reduce road crashes and fatalities.


“I urge FRSC personnel to maintain high standards of service delivery, process official correspondence carefully and ensure requests for operational support are properly documented,” she said.


She encouraged officers to prioritise their health and utilise the National Health Insurance Scheme, noting that good health was essential for effective service delivery.


Owolabi also appealed to wives of FRSC personnel under the Road Safety Officers’ Wives Association (ROSOWA) to support their husbands in discharging their duties effectively and safeguarding lives. (NAN)


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The African Action Congress (AAC) has asked President Bola Tinubu to approve the use of the Presidential Villa, Abuja, for the inauguration of its Presidential Campaign Council ahead of the 2027 general elections.


The party also requested food, drinks and other logistical support for participants at the proposed event scheduled for November 11, 2026.


The AAC made the requests in a letter dated October 21, 2026, addressed to the President and signed by its National Secretary, Oshiokhai Ikpeminioghena.


In the letter titled “Request for Approval to Hold the Inauguration of the AAC Presidential Campaign Council at the Presidential Villa and for Logistical Support,” the party said the event was part of its preparations for the 2027 general elections.


“On behalf of the African Action Congress (AAC), I respectfully write to request approval to hold the inauguration ceremony of our Presidential Campaign Council on the 11th of November 2026 at the Presidential Villa, Aso Rock, Abuja, in preparation for the 2027 general elections,” the letter read.


The party said its request was based on the principles of multiparty democracy, political inclusiveness and equal treatment of political parties.


“In the spirit of multiparty democracy, political inclusiveness, and equal treatment of political parties, we also request the provision of food, drinks, and other logistical support for participants at the event, consistent with the arrangements reportedly extended to the All Progressives Congress (APC) for a similar political engagement,” it stated.


The AAC argued that approving the request would demonstrate the Presidency’s commitment to fairness and equal access for political parties.


“We believe that granting this request would demonstrate the Presidency’s commitment to fairness, equal access, and the principle that public institutions must serve all Nigerians without partisan discrimination,” the letter added.


The party said it looked forward to a favourable response and requested information on the procedures and conditions applicable to the approval.


“We look forward to your favourable consideration of this request and would appreciate information on the applicable procedures and conditions for its approval,” it said.


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President Bola Tinubu has said his relationship with former Kano State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso will endure despite their political differences and the prospect of competing on different platforms in the January 2027 election.


Tinubu stated this in a birthday message to Kwankwaso, who turned 70 on Wednesday.


He recalled their political relationship spanning more than three decades.


The president said their relationship dated back to 1992, when Kwankwaso was a member of the House of Representatives, and he was a senator.


Their paths crossed again in 1999 when both became governors under the democratic transition that ushered in the Fourth Republic.


“As members of the Class of ’99 Governors, we both played pivotal roles in laying the foundation for the democracy the nation enjoys today,” Tinubu said.


He recalled that their political paths later diverged before they reunited in 2013 to form the All Progressives Congress (APC).


“Since then, history and service have kept us intertwined,” the President said.


Tinubu acknowledged Kwankwaso’s record in public office, including his two terms as Kano State governor, his tenure as Minister of Defence, his time as a senator and his presidential bid.


He also described Kwankwaso as an influential figure in Nigerian politics.


However, Tinubu acknowledged that their political differences could place them on opposing sides in the January 2027 election.


“That we are in different political parties and competing on different platforms in the January 2027 election will not remove my affection for Senator Kwankwaso,” he said.


The president wished Kwankwaso good health and personal fulfilment as he marked his birthday.


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A House of Representatives committee has summoned the Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) of major telecommunications companies operating in Nigeria over poor network quality across the country.


The ad hoc committee investigating poor telecom services issued the summons on Wednesday, demanding that the heads of MTN Nigeria, Airtel Nigeria, Globacom (Glo), Mafab Communications Limited, and other service providers appear before it on October 28.


The panel passed the resolution after lawmakers expressed dissatisfaction with the alleged failure of the chief executives to honour earlier invitations.


The committee directed the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to ensure that the CEOs comply with the summons.


The lawmakers asked the service providers to explain the persistent decline in service quality, which has disrupted communication and commercial activities for millions of subscribers and businesses nationwide.


The committee threatened to issue arrest warrants to compel chief executives who failed to appear.


The Committee Chairman, Olumide Osoba, said telecommunications plays a significant role in Nigeria’s economy, noting that the sector has evolved beyond voice calls and internet connectivity to become integral to essential commercial transactions, including point-of-sale (POS) payments.


He said businesses, financial services, and other critical economic activities rely heavily on stable telecommunications networks, adding that deteriorating service delivery is a national concern.


Osoba explained that the committee was set up to probe the barrage of subscriber complaints and uncover the underlying causes of the substandard services.


An Abia lawmaker, Ibe Osonwa, said the CEOs’ failure to appear before the committee shows disregard for parliament.


Osonwa said companies that benefit significantly from the Nigerian market could not reasonably ignore invitations from the legislature, especially when the inquiry concerned the quality of services they provide to customers and the broader economy.


On Tuesday, NCC said 75 million subscribers have received airtime compensation for poor telecom service in 2026.


The regulator said the intervention under the consumer compensation framework is expected to translate into better connectivity for consumers.


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The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) says the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola diagnosed in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has to do with a diplomat whose condition has deteriorated into “multi-organ failure”.


Ebola Bundibugyo is a rare and severe species of the genus Orthoebolavirus that causes Bundibugyo virus disease (BVD), a form of viral hemorrhagic fever in humans.


It was first discovered in Uganda in 2007. It spreads via direct contact with infected bodily fluids or contaminated materials.


On Tuesday, the federal government confirmed a case of Ebola disease in the FCT, detailing that it also identified 44 close contacts for tracing to prevent further transmission.


Ali Pate, minister of health and social welfare, said the patient is a woman who recently arrived in Nigeria on an international flight from Uganda.


He said she was admitted to a private hospital in the FCT, where she received care for several days before the diagnosis was confirmed.


“She is currently in isolation and receiving medical care,” Pate said.


“The Federal Minister of Health and Social Welfare and NCDC are working closely with the FCT Health Services Secretariat and other relevant authorities to contain the infection and prevent further spread.


“Contact tracing has commenced with 44 close contacts identified presently, with public health teams identifying and monitoring people who may have been exposed, including healthcare workers, patients, caregivers and travel contacts.”


Speaking on Wednesday during an emergency incident management meeting in Abuja, Olajumoke Babatunde, NCDC’s director of the public health laboratory service, said the Ebola case detected in Nigeria is the Bundibugyo strain, which is behind a major DR Congo outbreak.


Babatunde added that the patient is experiencing multi-organ failure.


“We did three levels of tests, but all were molecular. The strain was Bundibugyo,” Babatunde said.


“This person is actually a diplomat,” another official said.


The official noted that the patient’s condition has deteriorated into “multi-organ failure”.


The official did not disclose the nationality of the diplomat.


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The Federal Government has launched a National Digital Literacy Dashboard to track interventions, identify gaps and measure progress towards achieving 70 per cent digital literacy by 2027 and 95 per cent by 2030.


Mallam Kashifu Inuwa, Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), unveiled the dashboard at the National Digital Literacy for All (DL4ALL) workshop in Abuja.


The workshop had the theme: “Measuring Progress, Strengthening Partnerships, Accelerating Impact”.


Inuwa said the dashboard would provide a common platform for government agencies, technology companies, educational institutions, development partners and civil society organisations to report their digital literacy interventions.


“The initiative will help address duplication of efforts, identify gaps in service delivery and ensure that resources reach communities where digital skills training is most needed.


“Our ambition is to achieve 95 per cent digital literacy by 2030. But ambition without measurement is not enough,” he said.


According to him, the dashboard’s latest data showed that 248 organisations had reported approximately 2.76 million training achievements since January 2022, with interventions recorded across the 36 states and the FCT and all 774 local government areas.


He, however, said women accounted for only 32.9 per cent of recorded participation, highlighting the need to make digital literacy programmes more inclusive.


Inuwa stressed that digital literacy was about improving people’s livelihoods and productivity, rather than simply teaching them how to operate digital devices.


“Nigeria’s greatest resource is our human capital. Our future prosperity will depend on how effectively we develop their capabilities and create opportunities for them to contribute,” he said.


He added that the success of the programme should be measured by how beneficiaries applied their skills to improve their businesses, work and daily lives.


“The measure of success is not the number of trained people, but the number of empowered people,” he said.


Mr Oladejo Olawunmi, Director, Digital Development Services Department, said the dashboard would strengthen accountability by bringing previously fragmented interventions into a common reporting framework.


He said stakeholders needed to move beyond counting trainees to assessing the competencies they acquired and how they applied them in everyday life.


Lailah Sanusi, Research Lead at Digitalcore Nigeria Ltd., said the dashboard showed that about 75 per cent of recorded beneficiaries were below 35 years, while women accounted for approximately 32 per cent.


She said available records showed that digital literacy training beneficiaries had increased from about 707,000 in 2022 to 2.7 million as at Oct. 16, 2026.


Sanusi said the reported interventions had reached communities across the country, adding that the data would help stakeholders identify areas requiring further investment.


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The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) says accessing its student loan scheme is voluntary, stressing that students who do not need financial assistance are not required to apply.


‎The Fund said the scheme was established to provide financial support to eligible Nigerian students facing difficulties meeting the cost of higher education.


‎Mrs Oseyemi Oluwatuyi, NELFUND’s Director of Strategic Communications, stated this in a statement issued on Wednesday in Abuja.


She said the initiative was designed to remove financial barriers to higher education, promote equal access to learning opportunities and prevent eligible students from being denied education because of financial constraints.


‎According to her, students should decide whether to apply for the loan based on their individual financial circumstances and genuine need for assistance.


‎“Students who do not require financial support are under no obligation to apply for or access the facility,” she said.


‎Oluwatuyi said that making access to the loan compulsory for all students, regardless of their financial circumstances, would contradict the scheme’s fundamental purpose.


‎She explained that NELFUND’s objective was not to encourage every student to borrow, but to ensure that eligible students who genuinely needed financial assistance could access it.


‎“The student loan scheme is a support mechanism, not an obligation,” she said.


‎The director reiterated that the loan was interest-free and intended to help beneficiaries overcome financial challenges associated with pursuing higher education.


‎She, however, noted that beneficiaries were required to repay the loans in accordance with the provisions of the Student Loans Act.


‎Oluwatuyi therefore urged students to understand the scheme’s terms and conditions and make informed decisions before applying.


‎She also called on tertiary institutions, student leaders and other stakeholders to provide accurate information about the scheme and guide students appropriately, particularly those requiring financial assistance to continue their education.


‎She reaffirmed NELFUND’s commitment to ensuring that financial hardship did not prevent eligible Nigerian students from pursuing their educational aspirations.


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The Nigerian Institution of Marine Engineers and Naval Architects (NIMENA) has congratulated three of its distinguished members on their elevation to the rank of professor in the Department of Marine and Offshore Engineering at Rivers State University, Port Harcourt.


The newly elevated professors are Engr. Professor Kombo Theophilus-Johnson, FNSE; Engr. Professor Daniel Tamunodukobipi, MNSE; and Engr. Professor Ugochukwu Charles Orji, MNSE.


In a congratulatory message signed by its National General Secretary, Engr. Dr. Azubuike John Chuku, the institution described the elevation as a remarkable academic achievement and a source of pride to NIMENA and the wider marine and offshore engineering profession.


The message, issued on behalf of the National Chairman, Engr. Dr. Eferebo Ibietela Sylvanus, FNSE, the Council of NIMENA (CONIM) and the entire membership, commended the professors for their sustained contributions to scholarship, research, engineering education, mentorship and professional development.


NIMENA noted that their elevation went beyond personal accomplishment, describing it as recognition of their contributions to advancing knowledge and developing the next generation of engineering professionals.


NIMENA expressed confidence that the professors would continue to use their academic expertise, professional experience and leadership to promote innovation in marine and offshore engineering, maritime technology and the blue economy.


It also expressed hope that their new academic status would create greater opportunities for impactful research, mentorship, professional service and national development.


“Congratulations, Distinguished Professors! NIMENA proudly celebrates you,” it said. 


The elevation of the three engineers highlights the importance of academic excellence, research and professional development in strengthening Nigeria's marine and offshore engineering sector and building the expertise required to harness opportunities in the maritime industry.

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Safwan Garba, a businessman, has petitioned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), alleging that Jordan Nyesom-Wike, son of FCT minister Nyesom Wike, claimed he had his father’s approval to facilitate the allocation of 60 hectares of land in Abuja.


In a petition dated December 11, 2025, and signed by their lawyer, Hamza Dantani, the petitioners alleged that Jordan promised to secure 30 hectares each in Katampe and Guzape, assuring them that he routinely facilitated land allocations and had his father’s backing.


They accused Jordan of fraud, obtaining by false pretences, criminal misappropriation and conversion of $2.1 million allegedly paid for the proposed land allocations.


According to the petition, Jordan reinforce his claims by calling his father on the telephone in the businessman’s presence, ostensibly to inform him of the proposed transaction.


“Our client met Jordan Nyesom-Wike in London, following which the two developed a rapport,” the petition reads.


“Upon returning to Nigeria about three months ago, Jordan met with our client. He promised to facilitate the acquisition of land within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), based on his prior representations that he routinely provided such facilitation and that he had his father’s knowledge and approval, as the Honourable Minister of the FCT.


“To strengthen these representations, Jordan placed a telephone call to his father in the presence of our client, ostensibly informing him of the intended transaction.


“Jordan thereafter assured our client that he could secure 30 hectares of land in Katampe and 30 hectares in Guzape.


“Jordan demanded and received the sum of USD2,000,000 (Two Million United States Dollars) as the fee he would deliver to his father, the Honourable Minister, to facilitate the land allocation.


“Additionally, our client paid USD100,000 (One Hundred Thousand United States Dollars) to Jordan as his personal facilitation fee.


“These amounts were paid in cash on 17th October 2025, at the insistence of Jordan Nyesom-Wike, in the presence of the following witnesses: Adamu Sani and Aliyu Sarki. Jordan was accompanied by one Onor Sandy, whom he introduced as his friend and associate.


“Jordan promised to deliver the land allocations within one month. After receiving the funds, he failed to deliver on the agreement and became incommunicado.


“The UK phone number he provided is no longer reachable, and all attempts by our client, including through individuals known to the Honourable Minister, to establish contact with him have failed.


“Based on the foregoing, our client reasonably believes that Jordan Nyesom-Wike has committed offences, including but not limited to: Obtaining by False Pretence contrary to Section 1(1) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Related Offences Act; Fraud; Criminal Misappropriation; and Criminal Conversion of the sum of USD2,100,000 entrusted to him.


“Our client hereby requests that the Commission: commence an immediate investigation into the actions of Jordan Nyesom-Wike; arrest and interrogate Jordan Nyesom-Wike; and initiate prosecution where the investigation establishes criminal liability.


“Our client is prepared to provide all necessary help, including the witnesses and any further information that may assist the Commission.


“We trust in the professionalism and diligence of the EFCC and kindly request prompt action on this matter. Attached is the Acknowledgment of Payment signed by Jordan Wike.”


Addressing journalists at the federal high court in Abuja on Monday, Ibrahim Waru, counsel for the claimants, said the EFCC had acknowledged receipt of the petition but had yet to act on it.


Waru said the petition was intended to prompt an investigation into the alleged criminal aspects of the dispute, separate from the civil proceedings already pending before the FCT high court.


Meanwhile, Silvanus Oriji, judge of the FCT high court, has fixed December 1 for the continuation of hearing in the civil suit, marked CV/008/2026, filed by the claimants against Jordan.


Jordan has denied the allegations, telling the court that he was not in Nigeria on the date the claimants said they handed the money to him.


He tendered his international passport in support of his position, maintaining that he travelled outside the country with his American passport during the period in question.


The claimants have also petitioned the chief judge of the FCT high court, seeking Oriji’s removal from the case over an alleged relationship with the minister’s family.


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