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Anybody can make wealth, but the question is HOW?

Join us this Saturday by 12Noon prompt, at Rockview Royale Hotel Wuse-2 for Motion Summit 4.0 with the Theme “Building Capacity for Wealth Creation”.

We will be unlocking the secrets to building lasting wealth.

Featuring an extraordinary lineup of speakers:

1. Apostle Michael Orokpo, PhD
2. Dr. Linus Okorie
3. ⁠Dr. David Bello
4. ⁠Dr. Best Green, and our very own CEO, Amb. Lawrence Oloche MON (The Elon
Musk of Africa)

This is your chance to gain insights, strategies, and connections to transform your financial future. 
Don't miss this Event for any reason. 

Date: This Saturday 25th January
Time: 12 PM prompt
Venue: Rockview Royale Hotel Wuse-2

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The Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy in collaboration with non-governmental organisation, Photizo Life Foundation (Organizers of African Hair Summit) hosted the 2025 edition of the annual Creativity Week, which had as the theme "Transforming World, Promoting Sustainable Development". 

The ceremony which turned out to be a successful collaboration with the Ministry, was organized by Adanna Ifeoma Enwezor, founder of the African Hair Summit as part of their annual schools community training program to encourage creativity amongst the youth opening up opportunities for them in the natural hair industry in Africa. This ceremony took place at the main hall of Stella Maris College, Life camp Abuja with over 250 students, and also had in attendance dignitaries from the arts and creative sector and parents of the students who were also active guests. 

In his opening remarks, the Director overseeing the office of the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Mr. Raphael Oremuno expressed delight with the success of this year's event, assuring that the ministry will continue to work for the promotion and propagation of Nigeria's culture and creative arts and digital economy.

According to the Acting Permanent Secretary, the National Creativity Week is aimed at celebrating the power of creativity and providing empowerment, especially for youths of the country. 
"In the light of this, it gives me great joy that this particular occasion is directed towards discovering, nurturing and showcasing the inate creative potentials as well as talent of this beautiful, young children of Stella Maris schools life camp Abuja", he stated. 

He acknowledged numerous efforts being made by critical stakeholders in the sector, in the person of Adanna Ifeoma Enwezor, the founder of the African Hair Summit, and also convener of the Afro-hair culture and Beauty Festival. 

He said this year's theme resonates with the ability of creativity to transform both the people's mindset and the country's economy. 

"The theme of this year's occasion is 'Transforming the World, and Promoting Sustainable Development'. It is a testament to the ability of creativity to transform not only economically but also the mind, as well as empower everyone to imagine new ideas, make new decisions and take new steps towards making the world a better place through creativity and innovation".
Also speaking, the Executive Director of the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) Dr. Shuaibu Useni said the Creativity Week is celebrated on 18th January annually around the globe, noting that it comes with huge potentials for Nigeria's young population in the area of empowerment and capacity building.

"This event is not just about becoming an entrepreneur but also teaching the young generation how to take care of themselves. Understanding natural hair is very important for our African culture and beauty entrepreneurship.  

"I like the fact that we are partnering with the African Hair Summit to get this job done. We need to begin to train our young people on how to maintain natural hair so that they don't cause health hazards on themselves by using chemicals on their body, "he said. 

Also, the Founder and CEO of the African hair summit and Afro-hair and Beauty Festival, Adanna Ifeoma Emwezo recalled her ugly experience with the use of inorganic relaxers and chemicals, a situation that became a turning point when she decided to venture into the business of advocating for the promotion and acceptance of natural hair not just in Nigeria but Africa in general. 
She expressed delight in partnering with the Ministry of Arts, Culture, and Digital Economy to teach and empower the young students. 

"I'm passionate about this advocacy. I have been doing this for the past 8 years now, and the responses and results have been impeccably outstanding, "

"I urge the Students to make judicious use of what they have been taught today. I thank the minister of Arts, culture and digital economy, and her team for this auspicious collaboration. I'm delighted about this partnership, and I'm happy that this event helped achieve our objectives in propagating the opportunities in the natural hair industry, "she said.

We welcome more collaborations and partnerships in 2025. A lot of young people need to be empowered to be mentally and physically engaged and productive.

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The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has urged Nigerians to prepare for a nationwide boycott of telecommunication services in response to the Federal Government’s recent approval of a 50% increase in telecom tariffs.

In a statement on Wednesday, NLC President Joe Ajaero described the tariff hike as a “grave injustice” to citizens already struggling with economic hardship.

He criticized the timing of the increase, citing the rising inflation and declining purchasing power affecting millions of Nigerians.

Ajaero emphasized that telecommunication services have become a basic necessity, with the average Nigerian worker spending approximately 10% of their income on telecom charges. He called on the government to reconsider the hike and provide relief for citizens.

Telecommunication companies, however, defended the tariff adjustment, stating that it was crucial for the sector’s sustainability and the improvement of services for subscribers.

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) also urged telcos to prioritize service quality following the tariff approval.

He said, “The Nigeria Labour Congress expresses its unequivocal condemnation of the Federal Government’s recent approval, through the Nigerian Communications Commission of a 50 per cent increase in telecommunication tariffs. This decision, coming at a time when Nigerian workers and the masses are grappling with unprecedented economic hardship, is a clear assault on their welfare and an abandonment of the people to corporate fat cats.

“Telecommunication services are essential for daily communication, work, and access to information. Yet, an average Nigerian worker already spends approximately 10 per cent of their wages on telecom charges. For a worker earning the current minimum wage of N70,000, this means an increase from N7,000 to a staggering N10,500 per month or 15 per cent of his salary – an unsustainable cost.”

The NLC president criticised the government for fast-tracking the tariff approval within a month while taking nearly a year to implement the recently revised minimum wage.

He also argued that this disparity underscores the government’s bias towards corporate interests over the welfare of its citizens.

Ajaero said, “This hike exemplifies the government’s apparent ease in prioritising corporate profits over citizens’ welfare. It is shocking that the government approved this 50 per cent tariff increase for telecom companies within a month, yet took nearly a year to approve the recent minimum wage for workers, despite the rising cost of living and inflation eroding purchasing power.

“This glaring disparity underscores a troubling reality: the government appears more aligned with the interests of wealthy corporations than with the needs of the workers and citizens it is meant to serve.

“We must ask: When will the government stand for the people it swore to protect? When will the National Assembly rise to its responsibility and hold the executive accountable for policies that blatantly undermine the welfare of the majority? When will the common man heave a sigh of relief in Nigeria?”

The NLC president, however, urged Nigerians to reject the tariff hike and prepare for collective action, including the possibility of a mass boycott of telecommunication services, to compel a reversal of the increase.

“NLC is not opposed to a tariff review but disagrees with the approved rate of increase. We therefore call on the government, the NCC, and the National Assembly to stop the implementation of this ill-advised hike to allow a reasonable conversation around it. If the dialogue agrees on the need for the hike, then, we can all seek a more humane increase and definitely not this 50 per cent hike.

“The NLC calls on all Nigerian workers and masses to reject this unjustifiable tariff hike. We urge citizens to prepare for collective action, including the possibility of a nationwide boycott of telecommunication services, to compel the reversal of this punitive increase.

“This is for our dignity, our rights, and our survival as a people. The Nigeria Labour Congress remains resolute in defending the interests of Nigerian workers and the masses. We will not allow the people to bear the brunt of policies that further entrench poverty and inequality. Together, we will do our best to resist this injustice and demand that the government prioritizes the interests of its citizens over corporate interests,” the union stated.

Telcos unfazed

Since the announcement of the 50 per cent telecom tariff hike, both the Nigerian Communications Commission and Mobile Network Operators have been under intense scrutiny, with the latest opposition coming from the NLC.

Despite the backlash, telcos remain unfazed and have maintained that the tariff hike is essential for the long-term sustainability of the sector and the improvement of services for subscribers.

The Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria insisted that the implementation of the approved tariff hike, which is expected to kick off in February, will proceed as scheduled.

“Whether it’s today, tomorrow, or in the near future, the tariff implementation is set to proceed. The key question now is the value that the price adjustment will bring to subscribers,” the Chairman of ALTON, Gbenga Adebayor, told The PUNCH.

Adebayor explained that many systems within the telecom sector are outdated and equipment requires optimisation. “We are actively working on improving the cost-mile experience significantly,” he said.

“Our goal is long-term sustainability—no telecom operator wants to provide poor service quality. Every minute of uptime contributes to revenue, and it’s crucial that we show tangible improvements in user experience and deliver something better to subscribers.”

Service improvement

Meanwhile, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission acknowledged the financial pressures faced by telecom operators; however, it urged them to prioritise service improvements.

“We unequivocally state that consumer interests remain paramount,” the consumer watchdog said, stressing that any increase in telecom tariffs must lead to tangible improvements in the quality of service.

The commission welcomed a new NCC directive requiring telecom operators to ensure that tariffs are more transparent.

It said operators must now disclose all critical details of their plans upfront, including costs, validity periods, and benefits. It noted that a mandatory disclosure table will also be introduced to help consumers make informed decisions and avoid unexpected charges.

“Consumers should no longer have to worry about hidden charges or unexpected costs,” the FCCPC emphasised.

The commission acknowledged ongoing consumer dissatisfaction with poor service quality, such as network congestion, dropped calls, inconsistent internet speeds, and inadequate customer service. It noted that consumers had consistently called for improvements in these areas before any tariff increase.

“It is crucial that tariff adjustments directly translate into demonstrable and tangible service enhancements,” the FCCPC said.

The FCCPC referred to the Memorandum of Understanding signed with the NCC, which reaffirms their joint commitment to consumer protection, fair competition, and the elimination of exploitative practices in the telecom sector.

The MoU ensures that any regulatory or pricing adjustments made by telecom operators are balanced with the interests of consumers.

“Operators must prioritise visible and measurable improvements in network reliability, speed, accessibility, and customer service as part of any tariff adjustment,” the FCCPC stated.

The commission also called on telecom operators to allocate the additional revenue generated from the tariff increase towards infrastructure development and enhanced service delivery. It emphasised the need for clear mechanisms to monitor the proper utilisation of these funds for the benefit of consumers.

“Operators must clearly communicate the rationale for the tariff adjustments to consumers, ensuring they are fully informed about how these changes align with efforts to improve service delivery and infrastructure,” it added.

 

(Punch)
Two unidentified Nigerians have been arrested by the Kuwait General Department of Criminal Investigation in Ahmadi Governorate for alleged involvement in an armed robbery.

According to a statement by the Kuwaiti Ministry of Interior, as reported by Arab Times Online on Wednesday, the suspects were apprehended within 24 hours of the robbery, which took place at an exchange office in Mahboula, a district in southern Kuwait City.

A 35-second video of the robbery, viewed on Arab Times Online, shows one of the suspects wearing a hooded top as he exits a white car and enters the exchange office.

Upon entering the office, the same suspect is seen in a short, inaudible video pointing what appeared to be a gun at the exchange office staff, as observed by our correspondent.

The suspects reportedly stole foreign currencies equivalent to 4,600 Kuwaiti Dinars, valued at approximately $14,918.69, using the currencyconvertonline.com conversion rate.

The report read, “Investigation revealed that the gang meticulously planned the crime, monitoring the exchange offices from nearby rooftops to identify peak times.

“They also used stolen licence plates to conceal the identities of the vehicles involved in the operation.”

One of the suspects, whose name was not disclosed, reportedly confessed after his arrest in Mahboula that he had surveyed the location and informed his accomplice, whose name was also undisclosed, when the office was clear of customers.

“The second suspect was apprehended in the Al-Qurain Market, and the stolen money, along with a small bag containing the narcotic substance ‘crystal meth,’ was recovered from his residence.

“The Ministry of Interior confirmed that the suspects and seized items have been referred to the public prosecution for further legal action,” the report read.

Recall that in 2019, some Nigerians were captured on video carrying out an armed robbery in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

During the same period, a Nigerian female drug trafficker, along with three other men, two from Pakistan and one from Yemen, was executed for drug trafficking offences.

The current Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission and former aide to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari on Diaspora Matters, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, had stated in an interview with journalists in Abuja that the executed woman was the eighth person to be executed for drug-related offences in the oil-rich kingdom within the past three years.
A Federal Capital Territory High Court has sentenced a prominent Abuja-based clergyman, Bishop Kenneth Duke, to 20 years behind bars without an option of fine for rape.

The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons revealed this in a statement on Wednesday by its National Press Officer, Vincent Adekoye, titled, ‘An FCT High Court sentenced a 52-year-old bishop to 20 years imprisonment for rape.’

NAPTIP had sued the 52-year-old, who hails from Cross River State, for raping a 12-year-old girl (name withheld).

Adekoye said the victim is the daughter of the bishop’s church member “who was entrusted under the care of his family.”

In case no: CR/702/2023 Federal Republic of Nigeria Vs Bishop Kenneth Duke, the Defendant was arraigned before Court 16 on 02/11/2023 on two counts for the offence of rape and intentionally caused emotional and psychological abuse on the victim.

The offence stated that the convict, who lives behind Dantata Construction Company, Dakwa, Abuja, on March 6, 2023, had carnal knowledge of the victim without consent, committing an offence punishable under the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act, 2015.

NAPTIP said its investigation revealed that the victim, an indigene of Ondo State, was living in Lagos before she was brought to Abuja to live with her mother.

The report indicated that on March 5, 2023, “her mother took her to the church located at Dantata Zuba Expressway, and after the service, she was taken to the family house of the bishop, who is also the pastor of the church, so that she could stay with them to enable the bishop’s wife to take her to where she would learn a skill which both families had earlier discussed.

“It was gathered that the following day, March 6, 2023, the convict, father of five children, sent his children on an errand, and being alone with the victim at home at about 10:00 a.m., gave her some mathematics work to solve and as she was trying to do it, the bishop pounced on her, covered her mouth and violently raped her on a chair despite her crying and pleading,” NAPTIP said.

In the judgment by Justice Adebiyi Osolo, the clergy was found guilty of one count of rape and was sentenced accordingly without an option of a fine.

The development came on the heels of the rescue of nine pregnant girls by NAPTIP operatives at a suspected baby factory located inside one of the sprawling estates in the Ushafa area of Abuja.

The victims were confined to a rented apartment inside the estate by a yet-to-be-identified suspected trafficking agent after recruiting them through an online platform.

NAPTIP’s raid on the facility followed a tip-off by a concerned citizen who noticed the unusual situation and movement around the area.

Speaking on the conviction, the agency’s Director General, Binta Bello, expressed gratitude to the judiciary for the landmark judgment, saying that it would serve as a deterrent to others.

“I want to thank the judiciary for this judgment. It will certainly serve as a deterrent to other people. As I warned a few weeks ago, NAPTIP will not spare anyone found to have violated any of the laws irrespective of status, either on human trafficking or violence against persons.

“Rape is a serious crime with everlasting psychological effect and lasting trauma on the victim. We must all rise to say no to this heinous crime and ensure the protection of our children.

“How can you imagine a 52-year-old man violating a 12-year-old girl? It is painful, and it is criminal. I am relieved that the judiciary has served the convict the commensurable punishment for his action. This is a warning to others,” the DG stated.

 

(Punch)
Former U.S. President Donald Trump has ramped up pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin to agree to a peace deal with Ukraine, warning of tougher economic sanctions if Moscow fails to end the ongoing war.

In a Truth Social post on Wednesday, Trump reiterated his commitment to resolving the conflict, claiming he could broker peace quickly. The Republican presidential candidate has made ending the war a key promise in his campaign for a potential second term.

“If we don’t make a ‘deal,’ and soon, I have no other choice but to put high levels of Taxes, Tariffs, and Sanctions on anything being sold by Russia to the United States, and various other participating countries,” Trump said.

Trump said he was “not looking to hurt Russia” and had “always had a very good relationship with President Putin,” a leader for whom he has expressed admiration in the past.

“All of that being said, I’m going to do Russia, whose Economy is failing, and President Putin, a very big FAVOR. Settle now, and STOP this ridiculous War! IT’S ONLY GOING TO GET WORSE.”

He added: “Let’s get this war, which never would have started if I were President, over with! We can do it the easy way, or the hard way – and the easy way is always better. It’s time to ‘MAKE A DEAL.’”
Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, has reinstated Jonathan Paragua Zamuna as the paramount chief of Piriga Chiefdom in Lere Local Government Area, following a court ruling.

The National Industrial Court in Kaduna had nullified Zamuna’s removal on June 14, 2024, deeming the dethronement unlawful. The former governor, Nasir El-Rufai, had deposed the monarch on May 22, 2023, shortly before the end of his administration.

Speaking during the reinstatement ceremony on Wednesday, Governor Sani affirmed his administration’s commitment to upholding the rule of law. He congratulated Chief Zamuna and urged him to govern the people of his chiefdom without bias, fostering unity and fairness across all ethnic and religious groups.

The governor stressed his administration’s commitment to the rule of law, due process, and justice, saying, “We are committed to upholding the principles of justice and fairness in all our actions.”

Reflecting on the significance of the reinstatement, Sani noted, “This is a solemn moment for us as a government and as a people. It is an opportunity for us to reflect on our past actions and their impact on our state. Have our actions fostered peace and understanding, or have they deepened divisions in our state?”

He urged the reinstated chief to use the opportunity to lead with dedication and compassion.

Governor Sani reiterated his administration’s commitment to the state’s development, pledging investment in education, healthcare, and infrastructure to ensure equal opportunities for all residents of Kaduna State.

In response, an elated Chief Zamuna expressed gratitude to Governor Sani for reinstating him, describing the governor as a blessing to Kaduna State.

“Your leadership has brought peace and stability to our state. You have demonstrated your commitment to justice and fairness, and we are grateful for that,” the chief said.

He also commended the administration’s developmental strides, adding, “Your investment in education, healthcare, and infrastructure has brought significant improvements to the lives of our people.”

 

Mrs. Beatrice Ekweremadu, wife of former Deputy Senate President Senator Ike Ekweremadu, has returned to Nigeria following her release from a UK prison.

Reports indicate that Mrs. Ekweremadu arrived in the country on Tuesday. This development comes after she served a six-year sentence handed down by a UK court in connection with a controversial organ harvesting case.

The case, which also involved Senator Ekweremadu and medical doctor Dr. Obinna Obeta, drew significant international attention.

Senator Ekweremadu was sentenced to 10 years in prison for his role in the incident, while Dr. Obeta also faced conviction.


(PoliticsNigeria)

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has arrested a 25-year-old suspect, Musa Usman, for stabbing one of its officers during an operation in Rahama Round, Bebeji Local Government Area of Kano State.

Usman was apprehended alongside his accomplice, Buhari Ya’u Bashir, 24. The NDLEA Kano State Command revealed that the operation team seized various quantities of illicit substances from the suspects.

Muhammad Maigatari, the NDLEA spokesperson for Kano State, condemned the attack on the officer, emphasizing that such acts would not deter the agency’s commitment to combating drug-related crimes.

Some of the substances, Maigatari said include 1.1 kilograms (wraps) of cannabis sativa, 8 grams (38 tablets) of diazepam, and 59 grams (165 tablets) of Exol.

According to the statement, Usman while attempting to resist arrest, attacked the officers on operation resulting to the stabbing of one of them.

Condemning the attack on the officer, Abubakar Ahmad, the NDLEA command in the state, said the agency would not relent in purging Kano of the use and trade of illicit substances.

He said, “Attacks on law enforcement officers in the line of duty will not deter us from carrying out our mandate to rid society of the scourge of drug abuse and trafficking.”

He also stated that the suspect are currently being held in custody and will facing prosecution by the NDLEA for drug-related offences and assault on an officer.


(PoliticsNigeria)

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is facing another internal scandal as a staff member at its Kaduna Zonal Office allegedly fled with over $30,000 and other valuables from the exhibit room.

Sources identified the staff member as Polycarp, who reportedly disappeared during an audit ordered by the Zonal Director, Benedict Ubi. Insiders revealed that Polycarp requested to be excused during the audit process but never returned.

This incident follows a similar scandal in January when 10 EFCC officers in Lagos were detained for allegedly stealing operational items, including gold bars worth over ₦1 billion, $180,000, and £140,000.

The audit at the Kaduna Zonal Office was part of a broader effort to ensure accountability in light of the Lagos theft.

“Immediately after the order for the audit was given, he took an excuse to ease himself. Efforts were made to contact him but all his telephone lines were switched off.

“This is only what the preliminary audit on foreign currency shows. There are chances that more could be uncovered after a thorough audit of the exhibit room,” said a source familiar with the development.

This newspaper learnt that the commission had launched a manhunt to trace the fleeing officer’s whereabouts.

In 2019, an official of the commission was indicted for receiving $20,000 as bribe from a business man at Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos state.

Despite his confession to the crime, he was reinstated by the then acting chairman of the commission, Ibrahim Magu. The matter was not made public.

In 2021, the anti-graft agency dismissed an officer after DAILY NIGERIAN published a leaked audio in which he was heard helping suspects on how their accounts could be unfrozen and charges dropped against them.

The then spokesman for EFCC, Wilson Uwujaren, described the officer as “a corrupt fifth columnist with scant regard for the values of the commission,” adding that his action was contemptuous of the Standard Operating Procedure of the EFCC.

“Without prejudice to the outcome of the investigation, snippets of the audio recording clearly showed an abysmally compromised ‘officer’ dropping names to ingratiate his benefactor, a relative of a crime suspect.

“By the alleged action, the said officer is no more than a corrupt fifth columnist with scant regard for the values of the commission.”

On January 6, the commission announced the dismissal of 27 officers from its workforce for various offences bordering on fraudulent activities and misconduct.

Although the anti-graft agency made it appear recent, credible sources however said it was the total number of members of staff sacked for fraud since the establishment of EFCC in 2003.

Attempts by our correspondent to get the reaction of the EFCC spokesman, Dele Oyewale, were unsuccessful as he neither picked calls nor responded to an SMS sent to his known mobile number.


(DailyNigerian)

International election observer, Amb. Dr. Jim Okolo Chimezie, along with other Nigerian delegation, including the General Superintendent of Deeperlife Bible Church, Pastor William Kumuyi, gospel minister Nathaniel Bassey and host of others participated at the inauguration ceremony of Donald Trump as the 47th President of the United States. 

Trump, who is coming for a second term in office was inaugurated on Monday, succeeding Joe Biden whose tenure of office has just ended. 

The colourful event which attracted world leader had Dr. Okolo, a UN accredited observer represent the election monitoring community. 
Amb. Dr. Okolo, who is also the MD/CEO Jimez Petroleum Resources Limited used the opportunity of Trump's inauguration to meet with top officials of the just inaugurated administration to foster possible collaboration between Nigeria and the United States. 

He has consistently been an advocate of close diplomatic ties between both countries to enable Nigeria tap from the huge potentials of the US especially in the area of energy, technology transfer, industrialization and security. 

He had also taken part in observing the November election in which Trump won then Vice-President Kamala Harris who was the candidate of the Democrat. 
Before his departure from Abuja to Washington, Amb. Dr. Okolo had been decorated by Trump Train Africa, a youth initiative as its Global Grand Patron. 

Speaking after his inauguration, Dr. Okolo said credible election has a synergy with good governance, justice and peace. 

He expressed expressed hope that with a shared vision of pragmatic approach to good governance between Nigeria and Trump, Nigeria and indeed Africa will benefit a lot from the second term of Trump. 

He said no country can exist in isolation as both need each other for strategic partnership.




President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the appointment of Gen. Jibril Abdulmalik as the Secretary of the Civil Defence, Immigration, and Prisons Services Board (CDIPB).

A seasoned security strategist, Gen. Abdulmalik brings decades of experience from his service in the Nigerian Army and various security agencies. His expertise spans military intelligence, security operations, and strategic planning.

Notably, Gen. Abdulmalik served as the Director of Security for the Tinubu-Shettima Presidential Campaign Council (PCC) during the 2023 elections, a role in which he demonstrated exceptional leadership and operational efficiency.

In his new role, Gen. Abdulmalik is expected to lead the board in formulating policies and overseeing operational strategies for Nigeria’s paramilitary agencies. Security experts have expressed confidence in his ability to drive reforms and enhance the effectiveness of the Civil Defence, Immigration, and Prisons Services under his watch.

Gunmen suspected to be bandits attacked the Ngalda cattle and main market in Fika Local Government Area of Yobe State, killing at least seven people, mostly traders, and injuring 11 others.

The tragic incident occurred around 6 p.m. during the weekly market in Ngalda, the headquarters of Fika LGA. The attackers reportedly stormed the market, firing sporadically, robbing shops, and targeting the cattle market.

Dauda Yakubu Damazai, a social media aide to the Fika LGA Chairman, confirmed the attack to Daily Trust, stating that seven local traders lost their lives in the unfortunate incident.

‘‘Yesterday evening (Monday), the Ngalda cattle and main market was attacked by unknown gunmen. Seven innocent people were killed by the attackers.

‘‘At least eleven people sustained injuries. They were rushed to the General Hospital, Fika for medical treatment. Thank God three of the bandits were killed by the security agencies and vigilantes.

‘‘The council chairman of Fika LG, Hon Audu Bukar Gadaka, had paid a sympathy visit to the victims and prayed for Allah to forgive them and wished quick recovery to those who are hospitalised,’’ he said.

Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, SP Dungus Abdulkarim, said the attack was launched by a group of six armed robbers, led by Datti Alhaji Dadji of Ngalda town.

He said the incident resulted in seven fatalities and eleven injuries. The robbers made away with approximately N16.5 million.

‘‘In response, the people of Ngalda town mobilised and killed three of the robbers, while three others escaped with injuries.

‘‘The Divisional Police Officer (DPO) led a team of patrol officers to Alhaji Dadji’s house, where they recovered a locally made pistol with three cartridges. Alhaji Dadji was arrested and is currently in police custody, facing interrogation as the investigation unfolds.

“The victims and corpses were evacuated to the General Hospital Fika for medical treatment and autopsy. The Commissioner of Police, CP Garba Ahmed, has ordered an immediate investigation into the incident and called for calm,” he added.

The Nigerian Senate has suspended the 2025 budget defence for the Office of the Auditor-General for the Federation (OAGF), raising concerns that the office may receive zero allocation for the year.

The Senate had set Wednesday, January 22, 2025, as the deadline for all budget defences.

The suspension followed a disappointing appearance by the Auditor-General, S.K. Chira, and his team before the Senate Committee on Public Accounts.

Committee Chairman Senator Ahmed Wadada expressed frustration over Chira’s lack of preparedness, noting that he could not adequately address questions regarding the 2024 budget performance of his office.

Adding to the senators’ discontent was the discovery that the budget documents presented by Chira’s team were different from those given to committee members, creating confusion and further undermining the presentation.

Wadada described the situation as unacceptable but hinted that the office might still have an opportunity to return for appraisal. “We are disappointed, but there may still be a chance for the office to defend its budget if they prepare adequately,” he stated.

He said, “It is left for the Auditor General for the Federation to go get prepared and return, even in two hours now that he has been told that Wednesday is the deadline.

“He is the Auditor General auditing government agencies; Senate Public Accounts Committee is statutorily empowered to audit his office.”


(PoliticsNigeria)

President Bola Tinubu is currently in a closed-door meeting with Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State, along with leaders from Ogoniland, representing four Local Government Areas in the state.

Fubara and the Ogoni delegation had arrived earlier at the Council Chamber of the State House. Our correspondent noted that around 2:45 pm, the official vehicle of the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, was seen arriving at the Villa, indicating his presence for the ongoing discussions.

The delegation led by Governor Fubara includes several prominent figures such as Senators Lee Maeba, Magnus Abe, Olaka Nwogu, Victor Giadom, Kenneth Kobani, Monsignor Pius Kii, Leedom Mitee, Senators Bennett Birabi, Barry Mpigi, Kenneth Kobani, and Professor B. Fakae, among others.

Also in attendance are the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu; Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila; Minister of Information and National Orientation, Idris Mohammed; Minister of Regional Development, Abubakar Momoh; Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas; and the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, Mele Kyari.

Although the agenda of the meeting has not been disclosed, it is believed to be connected to the Ogoni clean-up project and the potential resumption of oil exploration in Ogoniland, Rivers State.

The Federal Government has previously raised concerns about the long suspension of oil exploration in Rivers State.

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Niger Delta Development Commission, Samuel Ogbuku, has also expressed worry over the conflicts that halted oil exploration and exploitation by international oil companies in Ogoniland.

Ogbuku noted that the ongoing standoff, coupled with a growing energy crisis following the removal of oil subsidies by the Federal Government, has deprived the nation of significant contributions to its Gross Domestic Product over the years.

Meanwhile, a coalition of civil society organisations has demanded $1 trillion from the Federal Government for the clean-up of the Niger Delta and compensation for the loss of livelihoods before crude oil production can resume in Ogoniland.

The demands were outlined in a statement by organisations including Environmental Rights Action/Friends of the Earth Nigeria, Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa, and the Health of Mother Earth Foundation, expressing concerns over the government’s reported plans to restart oil production in the community.

The group criticised the move, describing it as a disregard for environmental justice.

The statement also referenced the 2011 UNEP report, which documented extensive environmental degradation in Ogoniland caused by oil activities, including widespread pollution of land, water, and air.

More details to follow…



(Punch)

Adeniyi Oluwaseun, the Acting Head of the Audit Department at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Idi-Aba, Abeokuta, has tragically ended his life by jumping into a well in the Obantoko area of Abeokuta, Ogun State.

The incident occurred on Sunday evening shortly after Adeniyi had dinner. While the exact reason for his action remains unclear, reports indicate that the deceased had been battling mental health challenges and had previously undergone treatment.

Emergency responders recovered his body from the well, and it has since been deposited at a morgue.

On Tuesday, Segun Orisajo, Head of Public Relations and Communication at FMC Abeokuta, confirmed the incident. He described Adeniyi as a hardworking and loyal staff member, stating that his sudden death has left everyone at the hospital in shock and mourning.

He said “It is true that he committed suicide. It was an unfortunate incident. The management feels saddened about this development.

“The unfortunate incident caught the entire management off guard. It is a quiet and irreparable loss.The management extends its heartfelt condolences to the department, as well as to the immediate and extended family members of the deceased”.

Senator Adolphus Wabara, Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BoT) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has sharply criticized the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, over recent comments directed at him.

Wike had remarked that if Wabara were his father, he would have disowned him—a statement that has drawn widespread attention.

Responding to the remarks, Wabara, a former Senate President, likened Wike’s statements to “a broken water pipe without a tap,” emphasizing the lack of decorum in the Minister’s words.

As an elder statesman and a former Number Three Citizen of Nigeria, Wabara stated that it would be undignified to engage in a verbal exchange with Wike.

However, he expressed disappointment in the Minister’s unguarded utterances, especially given Wike’s position as a serving Minister of the Federal Republic and a former governor.

The PDP leader also said it was disgraceful for a supposed man of honour to speak without decorum, adding that “spewing gibberish like a broken water pipe without a tap is not a mark of maturity”.

“I will expect a man of his calibre and status to mind his language and words. He should be sure of his facts. But I don’t want to join issues with Wike and dignify him.

“Frankly for a son to disown his father, his father must have wronged him terribly. Can Wike please tell the world what it is I did wrong to him?

“Talking about corruption, Nigerians know those who are corrupt, and I can proudly say and beat my chest that I’m not one of them I, Adolphus Wabara, I’m not corrupt! I won’t be joining issues with people who have no respect for elders.”


(DailyTrust)

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the establishment of a Federal Polytechnic in Gwarinpa, one of Abuja’s largest residential estates. The institution will be named Bola Ahmed Tinubu Polytechnic in honor of the President.

In a letter dated January 16, 2025, addressed to the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, announced the federal government’s decision.

The letter outlined the purpose of the polytechnic, which is to advance technological, vocational, and entrepreneurial education in line with Nigeria’s national education policy.

Dr. Alausa also requested the FCT Minister to identify suitable locations within Gwarinpa for the institution’s temporary and permanent campuses to facilitate its takeoff.

The minister said the technical team from the Federal Ministry of Education and the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) would be visiting the sites and inspect the recommended locations, adding that base on the reports to be presented by the team, the approval will be given.

Meanwhile, the chairman of the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), Christopher Zakka Maikalangu, has commended Tinubu for approving the establishment of a Federal Polytechnic in Gwarinpa, a popular estate under the council.

In a statement by his Special Assistant on Media and Public Affairs, Kingsley Madaki, Maikalangu also appreciated the FCT Minister for the role he played in making the dreams of FCT residents a reality.

Maikalangu said the establishment of the Federal Polytechnic in Gwarinpa was a dream come true and would add to the progress of the FCT residents.

He recalled that, for the first time in history, an FCT native, Zaphaniah Bitrus Jisalo, who served as a two-term member representing AMAC/Bwari Constituency in the House of Representatives, was appointed as minister.

A tragic incident unfolded in the Gwagwalada Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, as a police inspector, identified as Lawal Ibrahim from the Kwali Division, was found dead in a hotel.

The unfortunate event occurred at Palasa Guest Inn last Thursday morning after the inspector reportedly met with a woman he had connected with online three months prior.

According to reports, the inspector had invited the woman, identified as Maryam Abba from Dutse, Jigawa State, to join him at the hotel. Eyewitnesses revealed that the pair checked into the hotel on Wednesday evening and engaged in intimate relations.

The following morning, around 6 a.m., they reportedly had another round of intimacy, after which the inspector began breathing erratically and became unresponsive. Alarmed by his condition, Maryam tried to revive him by sprinkling water but to no avail.

She quickly informed the hotel manager, Danlami Palasa, who contacted the Gwagwalada police division. Officers arrived at the scene to find the lifeless body of the inspector. His remains were later taken to the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, where doctors confirmed his death.

Authorities recovered several items from the hotel room, including watermelon, a suspected aphrodisiac drug, a phone charger, and the deceased’s police identity card. Maryam has since been taken into police custody for questioning as investigations into the cause of death continue.

A police source from the Gwagwalada division confirmed the incident and assured the public that efforts are underway to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the inspector’s death.


(PoliticsNigeria)

The key points of the inauguration speech made by the 47th President of the United States, Donald John Trump, were encapsulated in the following few chapters of his lengthy speech.

His words: “As we gather today, our government confronts a crisis of trust. For many years, a radical and corrupt establishment has extracted power and wealth from our citizens, while the pillars of our society lay broken and seemingly in complete disrepair.

The American dream will soon be back and thriving like never before. To restore competence and effectiveness to our federal government, my administration will establish the brand-new Department of Government Efficiency.

America will reclaim its rightful place as the greatest, most powerful, most respected nation on Earth, inspiring the awe and admiration of the entire world. A short time from now, we are going to be changing the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America.

The United States will once again consider itself a growing nation, one that increases our wealth, expands our territory, builds our cities, raises our expectations, and carries our flag into new and beautiful horizons. And we will pursue our manifest destiny into the stars, launching American astronauts to plant the stars and stripes on the planet Mars.

We are one people, one family, and one glorious nation under God. So to every parent who dreams for their child, and every child who dreams for their future, I am with you, I will fight for you, and I will win for you. We are going to win like never before. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.

In recent years, our nation has suffered greatly. But we are going to bring it back and make it great again, greater than ever before. We will be a nation like no other, full of compassion, courage, and exceptionalism. Our power will stop all wars and bring a new spirit of unity to a world that has been angry, violent, and totally unpredictable.

America will be respected again and admired again, including by people of religion, faith, and good will. We will be prosperous, we will be proud, we will be strong, and we will win like never before. We will not be conquered, we will not be intimidated, we will not be broken, and we will not fail. From this day on, the United States of America will be a free, sovereign, and independent nation.

We will stand bravely, we will live proudly, we will dream boldly, and nothing will stand in our way because we are Americans. The future’s ours. And our golden age has just begun. Thank you, God bless America, thank you all.”

President Trump anchored his speech and unveiled his blueprint on the mantra of MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN (MAGA), even as he promised to ensure that in every action he would take during his second stint as the world’s most powerful political leader, his country’s national interest comes first, which he termed “AMERICA FIRST.” Throughout his inaugural address, which was witnessed live by some of the wealthiest living human beings in our time—such as Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, Mark Zuckerberg, and other heavyweights whose combined net worth is higher than the wealth accumulated by every member of the human race—the assembly that saw President Trump as the leader of the USA was made up of the richest living persons to have ever existed on the planet.

The presence, solidarity, and endorsement of the second coming of President Donald John Trump for his second term, beginning on January 20th, 2025, demonstrates the main thrust of the administration, which is to once again make America the richest and most productive nation on Earth. Trump also signaled his determination to flush out undocumented immigrants numbering in the millions, just as border security was emphasized as the central theme of his mandate as the President of the USA for the next four years. He said he had already detailed military troops to safeguard some borders through which illegal aliens flood into the USA, and one novel approach to law enforcement was Donald Trump’s declaration of hard drug cartels and barons as TERRORISTS, having accordingly signed an executive order to that effect. Trump signed over 100 executive orders to begin the implementation of some of his salient programs which he believes would make America great again.

There are fears that Trump’s closeness to the dictator of Russia, Vladimir Putin, could endanger the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), which connects Europe and the USA in a binding security and defense treaty. Trump is not known to be a supporter of the massive scale of funds that the Joe Biden administration gave out to Ukraine during its ongoing war with Russia, which invaded and annexed several Ukrainian territories. Just as Trump has stressed the strategic importance of imposing tariffs to discourage US markets from being flooded by foreign-made goods, especially from competitors like China, Trump’s administration is expected to be at odds with many foreign policies pursued by the previous administration. Trump wants TikTok to belong to American billionaires, with the Chinese founder retaining 50%. Already, the US Supreme Court validated a congressional law banning TikTok in the USA for security reasons, but Trump signed an executive order to suspend the execution of the law for a few days so that there could be a negotiated settlement giving 50 percent ownership to American billionaires.

Ideologically, the presidency of Donald John Trump is seen as the right answer to the departure of much of the American establishment from the belief in God. In the last few years, the Democrats pursued policies that antagonized belief in God, and the epithet IN GOD WE TRUST, the motto of the USA, was almost abrogated by Joe Biden, a self-acclaimed Roman Catholic, who against all logical thinking, declared Easter Sunday as GAY DAY, just to offend conservative Christians. Trump’s return would serve as an effective check and balance to the near domination of the world order by defenders of the rights of those with lifestyles that manifest same-gender sexual orientations. It is in this light that Nigeria and much of Africa would experience a reprieve from the external political and economic pressures mounted by the Democrats, led by Joe Biden, a rabid supporter of gay rights.

A policy paper published by a US government foreign services agency, dated June 17, 2013, at 10:36 AM, stated the following: “The passage of the Same-Sex Marriage Prohibition Bill on May 31, 2013, by the Nigerian House of Representatives places President Goodluck Jonathan in a tricky position. Not signing the bill risks alienating his own government and signaling to the general public that he does not support one of the few issues that brings the majority of Nigerians together. Alternatively, signing such legislation may cost the country substantial sums of international aid and investment. Either way, gay marriage—an otherwise unlikely political issue—may significantly influence the Nigerian political debate leading up to the 2015 national elections.”

The bill, which received unanimous approval in the House, inched closer to becoming law in the oil-rich nation. In simple terms, the bill prohibits same-sex marriage contracts from being issued or recognized by the state. However, if President Jonathan signs the current version, the law would also enable courts to levy criminal charges against public displays of affection between individuals of the same sex. It would further make it a criminal offense to establish or operate gay organizations in Nigeria—incurring penalties of mandatory imprisonment if found guilty.

Recent studies have found Nigerians to be overwhelmingly against accepting homosexuality, even in comparison to other African nations with anti-gay legislation. However, according to Nigerian civil society groups, the recent version passed by the House places more than just the LGBT community at risk. Both Nigerians and international aid workers implementing HIV/AIDS prevention programs may be prosecuted under the new law if their efforts are construed as promoting same-sex relationships.

If President Jonathan signs the bill, questions loom as to what extent the law will be enforced and if the international community will retreat. In 2011, when the Nigerian Senate passed a similar bill, the United Kingdom threatened to withdraw aid; but the Nigerian Senate did not back down.

Even more may be at stake for Nigeria this time. Since the 2011 passage of the Senate version of the bill, the Obama administration publicly affirmed its stance toward the advancement of LGBT rights across the globe, even suggesting that the United States might tie aid to support for LGBT rights. However, it remains an open question whether the United States will divest aid from countries with anti-LGBT legislation, particularly in light of President Obama’s previous statement that “Africa’s future is up to Africans.”

Under the Obama administration, and later under Joe Biden’s presidency, the U.S. claimed that Nigeria’s anti-gay laws have the potential to violate not only international treaties and conventions—many of which Nigeria has signed—but also the country’s Constitution. There is a justifiable concern that this law could be used to abridge Nigerians’ rights to freedom of speech, association, and assembly. Yet, the bill’s enactment may also lead to political blackmailing and rampant abuse by the country’s security forces.

During Obama and Biden’s administrations, many Nigerian anti-gay activists feared that then-President Obama might pressure President Buhari during his U.S. visit. Nigerian opponents of gay rights vowed to defend the country’s anti-gay laws as President Muhammadu Buhari met his United States counterpart, Barack Obama, in Washington D.C., on Monday. Some feared that Washington would threaten to reduce aid if these laws remained on the statute books.

On July 20, 2015, a U.S. media publication affirmed that former Nigerian president Goodluck Jonathan steered an anti-gay law through parliament in 2014, which also banned same-sex marriage. The law criminalized public displays of affection between same-sex couples and penalized organizations advocating for the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) people.

Mausi Segun, a Human Rights Watch researcher in Nigeria, said, “This law serves no purpose at all. It restricts the right of freedom of assembly and freedom of association.” The United States Supreme Court had recently ruled that gay marriage was a constitutional right, and the U.S. government was trying to push the Nigerian government to review the law.

U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, had stated that supporting gay marriage would now be part of Washington’s foreign policy. The United States had recently pressured Uganda to reverse its anti-gay law and had influenced Mozambique to scrap its own anti-gay laws.

The American administration knows that Nigeria is a very religious country, with recent polls indicating that 85 percent of Nigerians oppose gay marriage. The Nigerian government, however, is very unlikely to give in to this pressure, as stated by Bishop Felix Akinbuluma: “The Nigerian government will never succumb to that. The people will never succumb to that. The Bible is our standard, and it says that men and women should be married together. This is the will of God. In Nigeria, several religions oppose it as well.”

Anti-LGBT activists argue that the U.S. is now the major exporter of gay rights in the world. They fear that Obama could leverage U.S. assistance to pressure Buhari’s government into reversing Jonathan’s anti-gay law, and they have called on Buhari to resist such a trade-off.

Buhari, elected that year, had to contend with several major issues during his four-day trip to the U.S. Pro-LGBT activists were fully aware of these complexities. Michael Ighodaro from the Global Advocacy for HIV Prevention group noted that, “The situation is still the same; people are being attacked, and there have been a few arrests.” Public awareness and the rights of LGBT people need to be a primary focus, he said.


What Does a Donald Trump Presidency Mean for LGBTQ+ Rights?

Lucy Middleton posed the question in a piece published on November 6, 2024, asking, “What does a Donald Trump presidency mean for LGBTQ+ rights?”

Trump, whose campaign was criticized for being anti-LGBTQ+, made a comeback and won the 2024 U.S. presidential election. His victory followed a campaign that heavily featured anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric. Trump and his running mate, J.D. Vance, secured more than the 270 Electoral College votes needed to win the presidency. Both have been accused of seeking to roll back key LGBTQ+ rights, and millions of dollars were spent on ads using anti-transgender messaging during the campaign.

LGBTQ+ advocates and allies have described a possible Trump administration as dangerous for the community, citing policies against gender-affirming care for minors, education in schools, and protection from discrimination. Here’s a summary of Trump’s stance on LGBTQ+ rights:

What Has Trump Pledged to Do on LGBTQ+ Rights? Trump has outlined a number of policies that will change the rights of LGBTQ+ Americans, particularly transgender individuals. His plan includes:


1. A ban on gender-affirming healthcare for trans minors.

2. Restricting government programs that “promote” changing gender at any age.

3. Blocking the participation of trans female athletes in women’s sports.

4. Removing any clinician who provides trans healthcare to minors from Medicare and Medicaid.

5. Imposing severe consequences for teachers who suggest to children that they might be a different gender than their biological sex.

6. Federal recognition of only the gender assigned at birth, either male or female.

7. Giving parents control over what their children are taught in schools, including cutting federal funding for any school that promotes “gender ideology.”

Trump also promised to eliminate “left-wing gender programs” from the military and remove Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) bureaucrats from universities.

What Is Trump’s Record on LGBTQ+ Rights? In his first presidency, Trump sought to roll back anti-discrimination protections for LGBTQ+ people across various sectors, including healthcare, employment, adoption, school restrooms, housing, and homeless shelters. Many of these policies included religion-based exemptions that allowed LGBTQ+ people to be excluded on the grounds of faith.

Additionally, the Trump administration banned trans Americans from serving in the military, a policy Biden reversed, and removed LGBTQ+ content from federal websites. Trump also re-assigned the U.S. Special Envoy for LGBTQ+ Rights, leaving the post vacant until 2021.

What Have LGBTQ+ Groups Said? Multiple LGBTQ+ organizations have strongly criticized Trump’s actions. GLAAD, a nonprofit LGBTQ+ advocacy organization, documented Trump’s anti-LGBTQ+ policies, while the Human Rights Campaign described him as the most anti-LGBTQ+ president in American history.

The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) published an analysis of Trump’s record, highlighting the harmful impact of his policies on LGBTQ+ individuals. Advocates have said defeating Trump in the election is “critical for the cause of equality.”

In conclusion, there is a general belief that President Donald John Trump represents a New World Order, but for how long and how impactful this new order will be remains to be seen. While it is within the remit of any president to prioritize the interests of their own country, it is crucial that Trump does not forget that the strength of the United States is also rooted in its support for democracy and human rights worldwide. As he works to make America great again, he must not neglect the global spread of democracy or the human rights of citizens across the world. America’s greatness will remain limited if it allows nations like Uganda, Rwanda, and Nigeria to continue to be led by dictatorial regimes. Ensuring that periodic elections in African nations are transparent, free, fair, and peaceful should become a cornerstone of Trump’s New World Order. That way, Trump can avoid betraying and alienating the conservative Africans who supported him during his campaign. America First, yes—but the well-being of the rest of the world matters too.

Emmanuel Onwubiko is the head of the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) and was a National Commissioner of the National Human Rights Commission of Nigeria.