The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Dafinone condemns murder of APC vice-chairman, deans police probe

    Dafinone condemns murder of APC vice-chairman, deans police probe

    Senator Ede Dafinone (Delta Central) has condemned the killing of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Vice Chairman of Ethiope East Local Government Area, Mr. Ese Idisi, describing the act as “brutal, horrific, and a devastating loss to his family, our party, and Delta State.”

    In a statement on Monday, the Delta Central Senator called on the Police Force to “immediately launch a full-scale, transparent, and uncompromising investigation into this heinous crime.”

    Dafinone insisted that the perpetrators must not escape justice, stressing that “those behind the murder of Mr Idisi must be identified, apprehended, and prosecuted without delay. Justice must not only be served—it must be seen to be served.”

    He described the late Idisi as “a dedicated party man who served with loyalty, commitment, and an unwavering belief in democracy.”

    The senator urged APC members and residents of Ethiope East to remain calm and avoid reprisal attacks, warning that “violence will only deepen our wounds and distract us from the urgent task of ensuring justice for Mr Idisi.”

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    He appealed for faith in the security agencies and called for collective cooperation.

    Dafinone further called on community leaders, youths, and stakeholders to support investigators with useful information, noting that “security is a collective responsibility, and your cooperation may prove invaluable in bringing the culprits to justice and preventing further occurrences of such violence.”

    Extending condolences on behalf of his family and political associates, the senator described Idisi’s death as a “colossal loss” to the APC and the people of Ethiope East. He prayed for the repose of the deceased’s soul and reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that justice ultimately prevails.

    According to him: “I, am deeply shocked, sad and utterly condemn the brutal killing of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Ethiope East Local Government Area Vice Chairman, Mr Ese Idisi. This horrific act is not only a devastating loss to his family and our party but also to Delta State.
    “Mr Idisi was a dedicated party man who served with loyalty, commitment, and an unwavering belief in democracy.

    “I call on the Nigeria Police Force and all relevant security agencies to immediately launch a full-scale, transparent, and uncompromising investigation into this heinous crime. Those behind the murder of Mr Idisi must be identified, apprehended, and prosecuted without delay. Justice must not only be served—it must be seen to be served.

    “This is a moment that demands calm, restraint, and faith in the justice system. I urge all APC members, supporters, and residents of Ethiope East to avoid taking the law into their own hands. Violence will only deepen our wounds and distract us from the urgent task of ensuring justice for Mr Idisi. Let us allow the police and security agencies the space and cooperation needed to do their work effectively.

    “We also call on community leaders, youths, and stakeholders across Ethiope East to join hands with the authorities by providing useful information that can facilitate swift action. Security is a collective responsibility, and your cooperation may prove invaluable in bringing the culprits to justice and preventing further occurrences of such violence.

    “On behalf of my family and political associates, I extend heartfelt condolences to the family of the late Mr Ese Idisi, the APC leadership in Delta State, and the people of Ethiope East. His death is a colossal loss, and we stand with all who mourn him. May his soul rest in perfect peace, and may justice prevail.”

  • Nigeria’s aviation sector among Africa’s most viable, under-exploited markets – Tinubu

    Nigeria’s aviation sector among Africa’s most viable, under-exploited markets – Tinubu

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Monday said Nigeria’s aviation sector remains one of Africa’s most viable and under-exploited markets, urging both local and foreign investors to use emerging opportunities across the industry.

    Speaking at the opening of the 2025 FAAN National Aviation Conference (FNAC) in Lagos, the President, represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, said current market fundamentals place Nigeria at the centre of the continent’s future growth in air transport.

    According to a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the SGF on media and publicity, Mr Yomi Odunuga, the President said, “The opportunities abound because Nigeria’s aviation industry remains one of the most viable and under-exploited markets in Africa.

    “With over 220 million people, a strategic geographic position, fast-growing travel demand and a $1.7 trillion AfCFTA-driven regional market, this sector offers real, ready and bankable opportunities for investors”, he said.

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    He noted that the nation’s expanding population, increasing travel demand and unique geographic location have combined to make this “the best time” to invest in aviation.

    President Tinubu highlighted cargo operations, maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services, aircraft leasing, charter operations and aviation-linked real estate as priority areas capable of attracting significant private-sector participation.

    Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to simplifying regulatory processes, promoting transparency and offering incentives across critical aviation value chains, the President said government policy is focused on building a globally competitive aviation ecosystem driven by innovation, safety and private-sector investment.

    He said the conference theme, “Elevating the Nigerian Aviation Industry through Investment, Partnership and Global Engagements,” aligns squarely with his Renewed Hope Agenda, under which the administration has commissioned new international terminals in Lagos and Port Harcourt, rehabilitated major airports in Abuja, Enugu and Kano, strengthened regulatory oversight, expanded cargo and MRO facilities, and advanced work on a transparent framework for a national carrier.

    The President also identified emerging opportunities expected to shape the sector in the coming decade.

    These include aviation cargo and agro-export corridors, expanded MRO capacity to curb capital flight, development of smart and green airports powered by renewable energy, and upgraded aviation training through decentralised NCAT centres.

    He restated his administration’s commitment to aviation safety, operational efficiency, environmental sustainability and full compliance with international standards, adding that upcoming civil aviation policy reforms will modernise airport operations, enhance passenger experience and boost investor confidence.

    President Tinubu commended the Minister of Aviation, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and sector agencies for what he described as purposeful leadership and steady progress.

    He urged participants to sustain the momentum and deepen collaboration to strengthen the aviation industry.

    “The future of Nigerian aviation is bright and full of promise. Together—government, private sector and international partners—we shall build a safer, stronger and more globally connected aviation industry,” he said.

    The President formally declared the 2025 FAAN National Aviation Conference open, calling on stakeholders to continue working together to “keep Nigeria flying higher.”

  • JUST IN: Inflation drops to 16.05%

    JUST IN: Inflation drops to 16.05%

    The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) on Monday said that in October 2025, Inflation reduced to 16.05 per cent from 18.02 per cent in September 2025.

    This was contained in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) Report of October.

    NBS said, “In October 2025, the Headline inflation rate eased to 16.05% relative to the September 2025 headline inflation rate of 18.02%.”

    The report said the CPI rose to 128.9 in October 2025, reflecting a 1.2-point increase from the preceding month (127.7).

    According to NBS, looking at the movement, the October 2025 Headline inflation rate showed a decrease of 1.96 per cent compared to the September 2025 Headline inflation rate.

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    On a year-on-year basis, NBS said the Headline inflation rate was 17.82 per cent lower than the rate recorded in October 2024 (33.88 per cent).

    The report said this shows that the Headline inflation rate (year-on-year basis) decreased in October 2025 compared to the same month in the preceding year (i.e., October 2024), though with a different base year, November 2009 = 100.

    NBS added, “On a month-on-month basis, the Headline inflation rate in October 2025 was 0.93%, which was 0.21% higher than the rate recorded in September 2025 (0.72%).

    “This means that in October 2025, the rate of increase in the average price level was higher than the rate of increase in the average price level in September 2025.”

    Details shortly…

  • Firm reaffirms commitment to bridging policy gap

    Firm reaffirms commitment to bridging policy gap

    A Nigerian governance and policy advisory firm, Civitas Imperium Limited, has reaffirmed its commitment to bridging the gap between policy formulation and real-world implementation, with a focus on building efficient institutions and driving sustainable national development.

    In a statement titled “Shaping Policy, Shaping Progress: Civitas Imperium Limited’s Role in Shaping Nigeria’s Future,” the firm’s executives, O.M. Marshal-Umukoro and I.E. Anifowose, Esq, said weak policy design and poor implementation remain key barriers to Nigeria’s progress, noting that many well-intentioned reforms often fail because they are not grounded in research or designed for practical execution.

    “At Civitas Imperium Limited, we recognize that gap and work every day to close it,” the statement read. “Our mission is simple but ambitious: to help governments, organizations, and institutions turn ideas into well-structured, research-backed, and implementable policies that create lasting impact.”

    The firm, which provides advisory services across legislative drafting, institutional policy design, and governance reforms, said its approach combines legal expertise, socio-economic insight, and policy design rooted in global best practices, but tailored to Nigeria’s realities.

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    “Every project begins with deep research, stakeholder engagement, and alignment with local needs,” the statement continued. “Whether assisting state governments with reforms or working with organizations to strengthen governance structures, our process is inclusive, data-driven, and results-oriented, ensuring accountability and measurable outcomes.”

    Civitas Imperium described its work as a “quiet revolution,” focused on making institutions more efficient, enhancing public service delivery, and rebuilding trust in governance.

    “The impact of effective policymaking is often subtle at first, until systems begin to function better,” the firm noted. “We are driving change that lasts — enabling citizens to enjoy better governance and ensuring that reforms take root.”

    As global challenges continue to influence domestic economies, Civitas Imperium reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Nigeria’s development through sound, evidence-based policy frameworks.

    “We are not only building systems for today,” the statement concluded, “but also laying foundations for tomorrow — for a Nigeria that is stronger, more resilient, and ready to take its place as a leader on the continent.”

  • Anambra election witnessed increased voter turnout, says KDI

    Anambra election witnessed increased voter turnout, says KDI

    The Kimpact Development Initiative (KDI) has reported a significant improvement in voter participation in the 2025 Anambra State governorship election, describing it as a promising sign for Nigeria’s democracy.

    Presenting its post-election findings in Abuja, KDI Team Lead, Bukola Idowu, said the November 8 poll recorded a 21.34 percent voter turnout, more than double the 10.26 percent turnout in the 2021 election. 

    Idowu,  who addressed the press alongside Progamme Manager, Mercy Abiem and Head of Research and Strategy, Olufemi John Adebayo, said the sharp rise showed that more citizens were regaining trust in the electoral process.

    He noted that improved voter sensitisation, stronger security deployment, and greater transparency contributed to the outcome.

    KDI deployed 370 trained observers across 326 wards and monitored 1,153 polling units through its Election Day Data Room, he said.

    The group commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for uploading 98 percent of polling unit results on the IReV portal by midnight, which it said helped build confidence in the process. 

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    It also reported that the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) performed strongly, working efficiently in over 96 percent of polling units.

    However, the organisation raised concerns over late poll openings — with voting starting an average of 43 minutes behind schedule — alongside widespread vote buying and ballot secrecy violations recorded in all 326 wards. 

    Idowu said while the improvements were encouraging, Nigeria must tackle systemic issues such as weak enforcement, voter inducement and operational lapses.

    “This election shows voters are ready to participate,” he said, “but the system must do more to protect their choices and strengthen credibility.”

  • China-NUJ FCT hold 2025 table tennis tournament as Amajor, He Ling emerge champions

    China-NUJ FCT hold 2025 table tennis tournament as Amajor, He Ling emerge champions

    The 7th edition of the China-NUJ FCT Council annual table tennis tournament concluded on a cheery note, with Chioma Amajor of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) Abuja Correspondents Chapel emerging as female singles champion.

    In her remarks while declaring the event open, the Chairman of NUJ FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike, commended the friendship, collaboration, and healthy competition between the NUJ and the Chinese Cultural Centre in Nigeria. She said that table tennis is more than just a sport, describing it as a celebration of skill, agility, and perseverance—values that resonate deeply with the spirit of journalism and the unity it upholds.

    “I would like to extend our heartfelt appreciation to the China Cultural Center for their invaluable support in making this tournament possible. Their commitment to fostering cultural exchange and friendship through sport truly enriches this event. We are grateful for their partnership and dedication to strengthening ties between our communities,” she said.

    Chioma Amajor defeated Nie Xiaohua of the Chinese Cultural Center 11-2, 8-11, 11-9 in the final to emerge champion of the 2025 edition in Abuja on Saturday, while Chen Huiling came third.

    In the male singles category, Ignatius Nkoh of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) came third behind He Ling, who emerged champion, and Wang Yongtao, the first runner-up. Victor Okoye of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), making his debut in the tournament, also gave a good account of himself, dismissing his Chinese opponent in the round of 32 in two straight sets. He also defeated his colleague and fellow compatriot, Fortune Abang (2-0) in the Round of 16 before bowing out gracefully in the quarter-finals to Chinese top-rated player Gao Qian after a pulsating and nerve-wracking two-set encounter.

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    In the men’s doubles category, Wang Yongtao and He Ling emerged champions, while Shi Changqiang and Xui Haita were first runner-up, and Ignatius Nkoh and Nwokocha came third.

    In the mixed doubles category, Shi Changqiang and Chen Huiling emerged champions, He Ling and Nie Xiaohua were first runner-up, while Tan Jian and Wan Lu came third.

    NAN reports that winners of each category received a cash reward of N250,000, second-place winners received N200,000, while third-place winners took home N150,000.

    Earlier at the opening ceremony, the Director of the Chinese Cultural Center in Nigeria, Mr. Tang Jianxing, said that the competition is part of table tennis diplomacy. He noted that Nigeria and China are very close friends, saying that Nigeria ranks among the first five friendly nations to China.

    Jianxing, who is also the Cultural Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy, said there is mutual respect between both countries and that the competition was also an opportunity to get closer at heart and know each other better through sports.

    “I have to thank the NUJ and all the journalists in your country. Without your understanding, focus on China, appreciation of Chinese culture, and commitment to mutually beneficial cooperation, the comprehensive strategic partnership between our countries cannot stand the test of time,” he said.

    In his goodwill message, the Managing Director of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Mallam Ali M. Ali, said that NAN is proud to be associated with the tournament. Represented by Deputy Editor-in-Chief Mr. Oluwole Shogunle, Ali said that the event represents values promoted by NAN.

    “It fosters friendship, stronger bilateral relations, and team building, and these are the values we promote in the News Agency of Nigeria. So we are glad to be here today to be associated with this event. We congratulate the organisers, the NUJ, and the Chinese Embassy for putting this together,” he said.

    Also, the Director-General of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Mr. Salihu Dembos, commended the centre for sustaining the competition to its 7th edition. Represented by the General Manager Sports, Mr. Ademuyi Kayode, Dembos recalled that table tennis was established in the late 19th century but became an official Olympic sport in 1988.

    He said that since then, Nigeria had been waxing stronger and has won many international medals across competitions. He added that given the level of talent displayed at the annual event, it is time to involve the Nigerian Table Tennis Federation.

  • Wike to Fayose @65: you are a valuable brother and friend

    Wike to Fayose @65: you are a valuable brother and friend

    Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has congratulated the former Governor of Ekiti State, Ayodele Fayose, on his 65th birthday, describing him as “a valuable friend and brother, who will never pretend about where he stands on issues.”

    In his letter of congratulation to the former governor, Wike said Fayose remained a reference point in politics and governance in Nigeria.

    According to a statement issued on Friday by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and new media, Lere Olayinka, the FCT Minister wrote, “From the deepest part of my heart, I congratulate you on the occasion of your 65th Birthday, coming up on November 15th, 2025.

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    “That you have attained this age is no doubt a confirmation of the grace the Almighty God has bestowed on you, and a challenge for more service to our country, Nigeria.

    “No doubt, at 65, you have remained a reference point in politics and governance in Nigeria.

    “You are such a valuable friend and brother, who will never pretend about where he stands on issues.

    “Ayodele my younger brother, may you reach the age of your elder brother in good health, and may God continue to make your days on earth fruitful, with immeasurable blessings.

    “To a dependable ally, whose yes is yes, and no is no, happy Birthday”.

  • NSCDC mining marshals boss honoured for protecting Nigeria’s mineral assets

    NSCDC mining marshals boss honoured for protecting Nigeria’s mineral assets

    Commander of the Mining Marshals under the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), John Onoja Attah, has been recognised for his role in combating illegal mining.

    He received the “nation builder for protection against illegal mining’’ award at the third Nigeria’s Nation Builders Annual Awards in Abuja.

    The event was organised by the National Council for Civil Society Organisations (NACCSO) in partnership with the Vision-One Leadership Development Initiative.

    NACCSO National President, Emmanuel Johnny, said the award was “a pat on the back and a push to do more’’ for the marshal.

    Johnny said Onoja’s work has helped safeguard mineral assets and “reverse Nigeria’s revenue fortune”.

    Responding, Onoja thanked the organisers for the recognition and dedicated the award to the Commandant-General of the NSCDC, Ahmed Audi.

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    He attributed recent gains recorded by the mining marshals to guidance from the corps leadership.

    He also acknowledged the support of the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and his solid minerals counterpart, Dele Alake.

    Other recipients at the event included former Chief of Defence Staff, Christopher Musa, Registrar of the National Examinations Council, Dantani Wushishi, Director-General of the National Directorate of Employment, Silas Agara, and Aisha Ahmed Audi, president of CDOWA.

    The organisers said the awards spotlight individuals contributing to better governance in the country.

  • I am not at war with MOWAA investors, says Okpebholo

    I am not at war with MOWAA investors, says Okpebholo

    Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has said that his administration was not at war with investors in the state, including the management of the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA).

    Governor Okpebholo said he would not hesitate to prosecute any wrongdoing uncovered in the MOWAA project.

    Okpebholo spoke, Friday when he received the Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, who paid him a courtesy visit at the Government House, Benin City.

    He said he remained committed to transparency, accountability, and institutional integrity in the ongoing controversy surrounding MOWAA.

    Governor Okpebholo insisted that his administration was deliberately excluded from crucial information and developments, including the arrival of foreign delegates for what he described as a questionable commissioning ceremony.

    “I didn’t want to speak publicly on this again, but the time has come to state the facts.

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     “At the end of the day, there will be criminal prosecution on this matter. We are not fighting investors. Our duty is to protect Edo State and, by extension, Nigeria. There will be no hiding place for criminals in our land.”

    He stated that available documents obtained by the state showed major changes to MOWAA’s registration details six days before his swearing-in.

    Describing the action as suspicious and deeply troubling, Okpebholo said he was never informed about the arrival of expatriates to the state.

    He said the move reinforced the lack of transparency that has characterized the project’s operations.

    The Minister said the federal government was aware of the MOWAA issues and pledged a collaborative approach to resolving what she termed “an original sin.”

    She said the issue must be addressed to restore dignity to traditional institutions and safeguard Nigeria’s international cultural reputation.

    “Sir, I want you and your fantastic team to work closely with the traditional institution that has been grossly wronged.

     “We want to find a balanced solution that respects history, protects traditional institutions, and strengthens Nigeria’s global credibility. The federal government is willing to listen and support all efforts to bring lasting succour.”

  • JOHESU declares indefinite nationwide strike

    JOHESU declares indefinite nationwide strike

    The Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) and the Assembly of Healthcare Professional Associations (AHPA) have declared an indefinite nationwide strike, starting from midnight on November 14, accusing the federal government of “long delay, inaction and outright disregard” for a twelve-year demand to adjust the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS).

    The decision was announced on Friday at the Medical and Health Workers’ Union of Nigeria (MHWUN) National Secretariat in Abuja, following what the union described as a unanimous resolution of its Expanded National Executive Council.

    JOHESU said that all its affiliate unions: MHWUN, Nigeria Union of Allied Health Professionals (NUAHP), Senior Staff Association of Universities, Teaching Hospitals, Research Institutes, and Associated Institutions (SSAUTHRIAI), and Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions in Nigeria (NASU), would withdraw services from all Federal Health Institutions beginning midnight of November 14, 2025.

    It directed workers in the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory to “immediately serve their government’s 15-day notice in line with relevant provisions of the labour laws,” and assured state councils of full national support.

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    In a statement at the end of the meeting signed by the National Chairman of JOHESU, Comrade Kabiru Minjibri, the unions said it was necessary to “intimate our members in health institutions across the country and members of the public about the declaration of Trade Dispute in the Health Sector” and to highlight outstanding issues between the Federal Government and the unions.

    The union said several correspondences had been sent to relevant ministries, departments, and agencies since the suspension of its last strike on June 5, 2023, which took what it called “the personal intervention of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”

    JOHESU stated that despite signing a Memorandum of Understanding with the Federal Government on October 29, 2024, after a seven-day warning strike, “there has been no positive response from the Federal Government on some of these issues despite assurances during subsequent meetings with relevant MDAs.”

    The union described the current situation as “worrisome and unacceptable,” stressing that government inaction had left them with no alternative.

    The union emphasised that the core of the dispute remains the non-implementation of the High-Level Body (HLB) Committee report on the adjusted CONHESS, which was submitted to the Presidential Committee on Salaries and Wages in 2022.

    According to JOHESU, this demand has remained unresolved since January 2, 2014, when the government implemented a parallel adjustment for the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS), “in violation of the Collective Bargaining Agreement that established the two salary structures in the health sector in 2009.”

    The statement lamented that “nothing has been done by successive administrations to redress this infraction,” adding that even after President Tinubu received a two-man JOHESU delegation in June 2023 and offered assurances, the demand was still ignored.

    The unions said MDAs had repeatedly blamed the delay on the non-reconstitution of the Presidential Committee on Salaries, but asserted that “since the reconstitution of the PCS, the matter was not given priority attention until probably the last 48 hours when the Federal Government appears to have made practical moves to ameliorate the unpalatable delays which have pervaded for almost twelve years now.”

    While expressing concern for ordinary Nigerians who will be affected, JOHESU said, “This situation is beyond our immediate control because of government inaction.”

    The unions insisted that they had consistently prioritised social dialogue and had shown “maturity, selflessness and patriotism even in the face of extreme provocations and government’s long delay,” but now believe that “our maturity and patriotism have been taken for granted.”

    The statement urged members to fully comply with the directive and warned that it “will not accept victimization of its members by the Government or any employer in the public health institutions across the country on account of this strike action, which is a dispute of right.”

    JOHESU assured that all communication channels would remain open throughout the period of the strike.