The Federal Government has indicated that it has reached an agreement with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) aimed at strengthening industrial harmony and improving teaching and learning conditions across the nation’s universities.
The government said the agreement is also expected to support sustainable development within the Nigerian university system.
Both parties are scheduled to sign the pact on Wednesday in Abuja.
According to a statement issued by Boriowo Folasade, Director of Press and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Education, the signing ceremony will be chaired by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, alongside the Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Sa’id Ahmad.
The statement noted that the event marks a significant step in the government’s ongoing efforts to establish a stable, productive, and globally competitive higher education sector.
“The agreement underscores the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to constructive engagement with critical stakeholders and the resolution of industrial issues through sustained dialogue, mutual understanding, and cooperation. It is expected to further enhance industrial peace across Nigerian universities, create a more conducive academic environment, and reinforce confidence among students, staff, and the wider public.
“This development aligns squarely with Mr. President’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which recognises education as a strategic driver of national development, human capital growth, and socio-economic transformation.
“The ceremony will bring together senior government officials, representatives of ASUU, heads of tertiary institutions, development partners, and members of the media, reflecting a broad-based commitment to the advancement of Nigeria’s education sector,” the statement said.
The government reiterated its dedication to sustaining reforms that will strengthen the university system and ensure the delivery of quality, accessible, and globally relevant education for all Nigerians.
“Members of the public are encouraged to follow the Ministry’s official communication channels for updates and highlights from the ceremony,” the statement added.
The Osun state chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has concluded the e-registration trainingfor the local government supervisors of the programme drawn from all the council areas of the state ahead of the registration exercise directed by the national secretariat.
The APC Director of Media, Chief Kola Olabisi, while speaking with The Nation, disclosed that the training was led by the party’s Organising Secretary, Mr. Akeem Bello, who took place at the state secretariat of the party.
He explained, “The e-registration is the migration of the APC membership register from analog to digital and that it involves registering of members of the party on a portal in view of responding to the demands of modern politics, data integrity and credible internal democracy.
“Bello stated further that all the members of the party and those who are wishing to join are all eligible to partake in the exercise. He disclosed that the full training involving all the supervisors and agents would start on Monday.”
He continued “Bello also disclosed that the supervisors are to onboard and supervise all the agents in their local government while the agents are to register the members in their wards.
In his words: “The Senatorial administrator is to onboard and supervise the supervisor under their Senatorial District.
“Onboarding means registering the supervisors and agents on the portal and creating username and password for them to enable them gain access to certain areas on the portal”, he explained.
Other members of the training team are: Dr. Babatunde Olawale who is the administrator for Osun Central Senatorial District; Mr. Olatunde Owojori, the administrator for Osun East Senatorial District and Mr. Bisi Ogunkale who is the administrator for Osun West Senatorial District.
Bello explained further that the objective of the intervention of his team in the programme is to make it seamless in a way that would be beneficial to the party and its members.
He enjoined all the members of the party to cooperate fully with the field agents who are responsible for registering members of the party. Party members are to come with their National Identification Number (NIN) and voters identification number (VIN) in order to get register on the portal by their ward agents as part of the ongoing efforts to institutionalise party membership records and strengthen grassroots mobilisation across Osun State.
The National Forum of APC Young Professionals (NFAYP), on Sunday, told President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led Federal Government, to intensive efforts in clearing up the outstanding debts owed the indigenous contractors in Nigeria.
It advised Ministers of Finance, Mr. Wale Edun; Works, Engr. Dave Umahi and the Accountant-General of the Federation (AGoF), Mr. Shamsedeen Babatunde Ogunjimi; against placing premiums on the foreign contractors above their local counterparts.
The call is coming on the heels of the protracted faceoff between the Federal Government and the Indigenous Contractors in Nigeria.
The last quarter of the year 2025 witnessed a lot of protests from the contractors over unpaid debts of the already executed and commissioned projects contained in the 2024 budget.
The Contractors, barricading the main entrance to the National Assembly and Ministry of Finance for weeks, were demanding payment of over N4tr debt owed them in the projects they executed the previous year.
In a statement by the National Chairman, Engr. Lukman Adejobi, and Secretary, Dr. Godwin Lukas, the National Forum of APC Young Professionals bemoaned the inability of the Federal Government to fulfill its promises, despite series of interventions and commitments.
“Despite the interventions of the National Assembly in October and the Presidential Committee set up by our dear President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in December, 2025; the Ministers and Attorney-General of the Federation have refused to clear the arrears.
“They made some payments but to a large extent, over N2tr is still outstanding, according to our findings. This non-payment of debts owed indigenous contractors is seriously affecting us politically, aside the economic aspect of it.”
The statement further stressed the insincerity on the part of the Federal Government to fulfill its obligation to the local contractors, most of whom, the Forum alluded, took loans before executing the contracts, saying, it has greatly weakened their credit profile and rendered some companies bankrupt.
“We the Members of National Forum of APC Young Professionals (NFAYP) find this very harmful to our economy.
“We have sounded this warning severally. You are complaining of lack of funds and said you have appropriated the sum of N1.8tr in the 2026 budget, to clear outstandings of the 2024 capital projects executed by indigenous contractors; but you are paying foreign contractors, how do you want their local counterparts to feel?
The Forum called on the Federal Government to take desperate steps to urgently attend to the obligations owed the indigenous contractors while calling on the contactors to shelve their planned protests this January and give the Federal Government a little more time, to enable the outstandings of 2024 budget cleared.
Professors of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Osun State alongside a research group, have called for urgent policy reforms to tackle the growing vulnerability of aged citizens in Nigeria.
The group under the aegis of Social Network Research Group also blamed inadequate social protection, healthcare access and economic support systems as factors worsening the living conditions of the elderly across the country.
Speaking during presentation of the findings programme held at Ile-Ife, at the weekend, the principal investigator and the Host, Professor Bonke Omoteso, disclosed that the study which was sponsored by Tertiary Education Trust Fund(TETFUND) was conducted between 2021 and 2023 which aimed investigating the quality of life of the elderly citizens.
The don said the study was done in four states including Osun, Oyo, Benue and Imo about the social support that is needed for our elderly people to live meaningfully in the later stages of their lives.
“The research was carried out by 11 people. Nine staff members from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, a staff member from Adamawa State University and the last person was from Imo State University.
“We discovered that in Nigeria, we don’t take much cognizance of the healthy living of our elderly people. We also discovered that there is no social support system for elderly people in Nigeria.”
She added that, “formal and institutional systems remain largely inadequate. Psychological vulnerability, accessibility barriers, and policy weaknesses place octogenarians at heightened risk, particularly as traditional family structures continue to erode.”
Prof Omoteso called for improved access to healthcare services, promotion of economic empowerment through income-generating activities and fostering community engagement and elderly-friendly infrastructure.
A member of the team, Dr Akinjide Akintomide of the Obafemi Awolowo University , Ile-Ife, said the study identified substantial policy and implementation gaps in Nigeria’s approach to elderly care.
“Although a National Policy on Ageing exists, its implementation remains weak, underfunded, and largely generic, failing to address the specific needs of octogenarians.
“Critical gaps were noted in geriatric healthcare, income security, housing, legal protection, and data systems. Existing interventions were fragmented, urban-centred, and heavily dependent on non-governmental organisations and faith-based organisations, raising concerns about sustainability and equity,” Dr Akintomide noted.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio, on Sunday, congratulated the Super Eagles, for qualifying for the semi-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) holding in Morocco.
Akpabio in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Hon. Eseme Eyiboh, described the Super Eagles as the pride of the nation.
“I heartily congratulate the Super Eagles on their impressive 2-0 victory over Algeria, securing a well-deserved spot in the semi-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations,” Akpabio said while reacting to the outcome of the match played Saturday in Marrakech.
“I must say, you’re the pride of the nation. This achievement is a testament to the team’s unwavering dedication, resilience, and teamwork,” the Senate President told the high-flying Super Eagles.
He urged the players to maintain their focus and momentum as they face hosts Morocco in the semi-finals on Wednesday, adding: “We are proud of you; the 10th Senate and all Nigerians are behind you, cheering you on to bring home the trophy.”
Managerless Manchester United completed an unwanted cup double as former striker Danny Welbeck helped Brighton send them crashing out of the FA Cup at Old Trafford.
In front of his old boss Sir Alex Ferguson and with former team-mate Darren Fletcher in interim charge at his old club, Welbeck belted home Brighton’s second to send them into the fourth round.
It was the 35-year-old’s eighth goal against United and his sixth visiting the stadium he used to call home.
The thunderous drive into the roof of Senne Lammens’ goal doubled a lead given to Brighton by Brajan Gruda’s first-half opener.
Benjamin Sesko’s header five minutes from time breathed life into the home side but 18-year-old home substitute Shea Lacey was sent off in the final minute and Brighton held on for their first ever FA Cup victory against the 13-time winners at the seventh attempt.
For United, this defeat followed up the embarrassing EFL Cup second-round exit at League Two Grimsby, meaning they had exited both domestic cup competitions at the earliest possible stage for the first time since 1981-82.
It also means Fletcher’s two-game stint as interim boss contributed a disappointing Premier League draw against Burnley and this home defeat to a campaign that is beginning to unravel.
United have now won once in their last seven games, with title contenders Manchester City and Arsenal their next two opponents.
Within the next 48 hours, the club are due to name who will replace Ruben Amorim until the end of the season, with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Michael Carrick viewed as the frontrunners.
Ewe Chinedum Evans (born April, 2003, Port Harcourt) is a Nigerian architect, author, Creative Diplomat, innovator(Quantum technology specialist), and executive leader whose work bridges creativity, leadership, and community transformation. He is the Founder and Creative Director of Art In Heart, a hybrid social enterprise registered as both a profit and non-profit Organisation, dedicated to driving sustainable community development through art, culture, and innovation.
Early Life and Family
Ewe Chinedum Evans was born into the Ewe’s family. He is one of six children, growing up in a lively household where values of resilience, faith, and creativity were quietly nurtured. As a child, Evans was naturally quiet, often channeling his expression through dance and creative pursuits. An early shoulder injury limited his dancing and sporting activities, but this setback opened him to deeper self-expression in other forms of creativity.
One defining childhood moment came in his secondary school years. Struggling with physics, he made a personal resolution to pursue excellence with integrity—never cheating in exams and striving to succeed through honesty. After teaching his peers a physics topic, only to forget everything during the test and break down in tears, Evans experienced a shift: his love and understanding of physics grew unexpectedly, becoming a lifelong passion.
Evans obtained his first school leaving certificate in 2013, followed by his West Africa Examination Council (WAEC) in 2020. Evans attended Hallel College, where a key figure in his development was Mr. Felix, his physics teacher and school pastor. Through his kindness, calmness, and wisdom, Mr. Felix inspired Evans to pursue physics seriously, even when his results faltered. Evans often credits him as a quiet but transformative mentor in his journey.
He later pursued higher education in Architecture at Baze University (2021–2024), where he cultivated a passion for design, cultural expression, and innovation. He is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Business Administration (Executive Leadership) at the IIBM Institute of Business Management, awarded in partnership with the Swiss International Academy(Completion by 2026 on his way to be one of the youngest professor in Nigeria). His ongoing research focuses on how transformational leadership in Nigerian creative enterprises can drive sustainable community development.
He also has an undergraduate certificate in Military Intelligence Operations at the London School of International Business (LSIB), further broadening his analytical and strategic leadership skills.
In addition, Evans has earned multiple professional certifications from international institutions, including:
● Quantum Mechanics I & II – Stanford University (edX) Online
● Climate Action: Tackling the Climate Crisis for a Better World – University of Leeds (Acumen)
● Designing for Environmental Sustainability and Social Impact, Introduction to Human-Centered Design – Acumen
● AI Augmented Professional Skills – ALX
● Construction Safety and Health, Gateway to Quantum Computing, Diploma in electrical and electronics engineering – Alison
● Courses in Disruptive Thinking, Operational Management, Art Gallery Management, and AI Home Automation (Udemy)
This diverse academic and professional foundation reflects his philosophy that knowledge must be holistic, combining science, creativity, and leadership to address real-world challenges.
Career and Impact
As an architect, Evans explores cost-effective housing strategies for Nigeria, guided by his design philosophy of “Vibration Architecture”—the idea that buildings are more than structures, but living vessels of human energy and spirit.
Evans’ first professional experience came during his internship at Kingfem while in his third year of university. After earning his degree, he worked at Shades of Seven Limited as a creative architect, contributing to architectural projects ranging from multidisciplinary and multipurpose buildings to furniture designs.
Beyond architecture, Evans expanded into innovation, technology, and leadership. He has been developing an AI predictive maintenance device for buildings called AfaSense, combining engineering, creativity, and artificial intelligence. He is also working on a foldable housing project, aimed at tackling housing challenges with cost-effective, portable solutions.
In 2020, after an initially failed attempt to host a student exhibition, he founded Art In Heart, a creative social enterprise that has since grown into a recognized platform for art, culture, and innovation. Over the years, the initiative has expanded its reach, blending creative practice with community development.
Through Art In Heart, he has transformed what began as a gallery into a movement for creative rebirth, empowering young Nigerians through exhibitions, publications, volunteer programs, and community engagement. He has authored three books—Creative Rebirth, Creative Decay, Quantum Jurisprudence and The Vibration Architecture Theory—each weaving together creativity, spirituality, and cultural renewal.
In 2023, he delivered a TEDx talk at Baze University, where he spoke on creativity as a force for social transformation. As he once wrote in Creative Rebirth:
“The greatest rebirth is not when the world sees your light, but when you rediscover the fire that was within you all along.”
Evans’ career milestones include being awarded a medal for technical drawing at Hallel College, publishing books such as Creative Rebirth, Creative Decay, and The Vibration Architecture, and delivering a TEDx Talk at Baze University in 2023.
Heritage and Identity
Evans traces his roots to Ogba Egbema Ndoni (ONELGA), Obiozimini, a heritage that grounds his philosophy of community-centered leadership. He often speaks of creativity not only as personal expression but as a cultural duty—an inheritance from ancestors that must be reimagined for future generations.
Challenges and Growth
Life has tested Evans in different ways. Bone Injuries challenged his physical expression through dance, while moments of heartbreak and lack of recognition for his design work tested his resilience. Yet these periods pushed him deeper into faith, prayer, and fasting, refining his sense of purpose and sharpening his vision.
Leadership and Impact
At Baze University, Evans served as President of the Christian Fellowship and Vice President of the baze Archi-prenuer club, demonstrating leadership in both spiritual and entrepreneurial spaces. Today, as Creative Director of Art In Heart Gallery, he continues to lead innovative projects that merge art, technology, and social impact.
He views himself not just as an individual, but as a sign to the world—a pointer to a new golden era of creativity and leadership emerging from Nigeria. Among his proudest works are his his published books and his innovation yet to be launched which are the AI predictive maintenance device for buildings.
Personal Life and Philosophy
Evans is a man deeply committed to God. His Christian faith remains the foundation of his personal and professional journey. He is also reflective, often navigating the tension between authenticity and the fear of criticism. Yet, through it all, he continues to grow, striving to align his life with purpose and divine direction.
Future and Legacy
Still in his early twenties, Evans is part of a new generation of Nigerian leaders redefining the role of creativity in national development. Looking ahead, Evans envisions himself as a trailblazer shaping Nigeria’s and Africa’s creative and technological future. His legacy, he believes, will be one of innovation, love, and leadership—a life that inspires others to embrace creativity as a tool for transformation.
His mission is clear: to position art, architecture, and innovation at the heart of sustainable community building. As he has said of his journey:
“Art is not merely expression—it is leadership, it is healing, it is nation-building.”
Fuji music maestro and Olori Omooba of Ijebu land, Alhaji Wasiu Ayinde, has expressed concern over perceived moves by the Fusengbuwa Ruling House to exclude him from the nomination process for the next Awujale of Ijebuland.
Ayinde alleged that the Fusengbuwa ruling house, which is next in line to produce the next Awujale, has been taken decisions that run contrary to the Chieftaincy Declaration, Obas and Chiefs Law of Ogun State.
In a letter written to Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, KWAM 1 who is said to be of the Fidipote Ruling House claimed that the Fusengbuwa house was sidelining him from the ongoing selection process for the next Awujale.
This is coming as the Fusengbuwa Ruling House resumes the nomination process tomorrow, January 12, 2026 in Ijebu Ode, the Headquarters of Ijebu Ode Local Government Area of Ogun State after an initial halt to the process.
Scores of princes were said to have indicated their intentions to succeed the last Awujale, late Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, who joined his ancestors at 91 on July 13, 2025 after 65 years reign on the throne.
KWAM1’s allegations of exclusion were contained in a letter dated January 8, 2026, sent to Governor Abiodun by musician’s lawyer, Dr. Wahab Shittu, SAN.
Earlier, he had approached the Ogun State High Court in Ijebu Ode seeking an interim injunction to restrain Governor Abiodun and six others from proceeding with the selection process but the court declined the request.
The musician eventually withdrew the suit, without providing explanations.
However, in the recent letter to the governor, he recalled that the Ijebu Ode Local Government, had through a letter dated January 6, 2026, from its Secretary, Oke Adebanjo, granted the Fusengbuwa Ruling House the approval to commence the nomination process and conclude it within 14 days starting from January 6.
He said he was surprised to know that while family members were preparing for the meeting, one Prince Adeleye Lateef Ademuyiwa, the family’s Public Relations Officer, issued a notice directing candidates to collect nomination cards and appear before a screening committee.
KWAM1 noted that the directive scheduled the nomination exercise for Monday, January 12, 2026.
The letter read, “It is a matter of deep concern to our client that all these directives, which contravene the Chieftaincy Declaration, Obas and Chiefs Law, and the letter from the Secretary of Ijebu-Ode Local Government, were included in the family’s letter dated January 6, 2026.
“It is clear that there are plans by the leadership of the ruling house to disenfranchise members desirous of participating in the nomination of candidates for the Awujale stool.
“We wish to emphasize that all members of the ruling house are entitled to attend the meeting to nominate candidates of their choice.
“A group of people in the ruling house cannot usurp these rights. The directive providing for screening and nomination by delegates is inconsistent with both the spirit and letter of the Chieftaincy Declaration and the Obas and Chiefs Law of Ogun State 2021.
“In the interest of justice and compliance with due process, we urge timely intervention to address these concerns, ensuring the integrity of the process and protecting our client’s rights.”
The Lagos State Waterways Authority LASWA has reiterated that night time travel on the states inland waterways remain prohibited, warning residents and visitors against attempting water transport after sunset.
The authority gave the reminder on Sunday ahead of the Fuji concert by popular musician Alhaji Sule Alao Malaika scheduled to hold at Ilashe Beach, noting that the restriction applied to both commercial and private boat operations.
LASWA said all boat movements on Lagos waterways were restricted to daylight hours in order to reduce risks associated with poor visibility and navigational hazards, stressing that the policy is aimed at safeguarding lives and property.
The authority urged fun seekers and other passengers travelling to Ilashe and similar waterfront destinations to plan their trips properly, arrive early and ensure they complete their return journeys before nightfall.
It also warned boat operators to strictly comply with approved operating hours and safety regulations, including the compulsory use of life jackets by all passengers.
LASWA added that it was working jointly with the National Inland Waterways Authority NIWA and other safety and security agencies to intensify patrols across the waterways, noting that violators would be sanctioned in line with existing laws.
All eyes will be on the Red Carpet as the 9th All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) rolls out one of its most glamorous moments, with top media and fashion personalities set to lead the show.
The Red Carpet is expected to start at 3:30 PM (WAT) on Sunday, January 11, 2026, at the Eko Convention Centre, Eko Hotels and Suites, Lagos, Nigeria, and will end by 6:30 pm, shortly before the main AFRIMA Awards Ceremony begins by 7 PM (WAT).
Famous Nigerian influencer, actor, director, film producer and television personality Enioluwa Adeoluwa, popularly known as Eni, will join Kenyan actress, Claudia Naisabwa, as hosts of the AFRIMA Red Carpet. Stylish, confident and media-savvy, the duo are expected to bring charm, excitement and pan-African energy as they welcome Africa’s biggest music stars and celebrities to the awards night.
The fashion spotlight will shine even brighter with respected style voice Tosyn of Style Infidel stepping in as fashion police. Known for his keen eye and bold commentary, Tosyn will break down the best looks, daring outfits and headline-making fashion moments from the red carpet.
Joining him is Ariane Celeste Moua. From elegant gowns to statement suits, Ariane will deliver sharp, entertaining reviews of what the stars are wearing as they make their grand entrance.
Speaking on the exciting Red Carpet line-up, Victoria Nkong, AFRIMA Associate Producer, said the selection reflects AFRIMA’s vision of blending music, fashion and African excellence on one global stage.
“The AFRIMA red carpet has grown into a major entertainment moment. It is where music meets fashion and culture. With Eni, Claudia, Tosyn and Ariane, guests, artists, attendees and even millions of viewers watching the show across the world should expect colour, class and unforgettable moments,” Nkong said.
She noted that beyond the awards, the red carpet gives African artistes and designers the chance to express creativity, confidence and identity before a global audience.
Africa’s biggest music celebration is scheduled to run from January 7 to 11, 2026. The week-long festival officially kicked off on Wednesday with a special Welcome Soiree for nominees and invited guests, hosted by the British High Commission in Nigeria.
Activities continue on Thursday, January 8, with the Africa Music Business Summit, where key players discussed the business and future of African music. On Friday, January 9, the spotlight moves to the AFRIMA Music Village at Ikeja City Mall, Lagos, where more than 25 top African artistes and DJs thrill fans with live performances.
The award will reach its peak on Sunday, January 11, with the Main Awards Ceremony. The event will be transmitted live to viewers in over 84 countries across the world.
