The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Nigerian Law School DG endorses PUSG, scholarship records more impact 

    Nigerian Law School DG endorses PUSG, scholarship records more impact 

    The Director-General of the Nigerian Law School, Prof Olugbemisola Odusote, has endorsed the Prada Uzodimma Law School Scholarship Grant (PUSG), citing its sustained contribution to improving access to legal education for financially disadvantaged Nigerian law graduates.

    The endorsement followed a courtesy visit by the Founder of PUSG, Dr. Prada O. Uzodimma, Esq., who met with the Director-General for congratulations on her recent appointment and brief her on the scholarship’s objectives, governance framework and track record of impact.

     During the engagement, Odusote acknowledged the initiative’s consistency and transparency and expressed support for its continued growth.

    PUSG is implemented in partnership with Principle Legal Consult as part of its corporate social responsibility framework, with a focus on ensuring that qualified candidates admitted to the Nigerian Law School are not denied the opportunity to proceed due to financial limitations.

    The endorsement builds on earlier institutional backing received by PUSG from the former Director-General of the Nigerian Law School, Isa Chiroma, as well as endorsement from the former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami. 

    The continuity of support across successive leadership underscores the initiative’s credibility within Nigeria’s legal education landscape.

    Since its establishment, the scholarship scheme has expanded steadily in scope and reach. 

    Beneficiaries have grown year-on-year as follows:

    • 2021: 5 beneficiaries

    • 2022: 10 beneficiaries

    • 2023: 15 beneficiaries

    • 2024: 21 beneficiaries

    In addition to tuition support, PUSG offers structured professional development through its PUSG Fireside Chat Series, which provides beneficiaries with mentorship and career guidance from senior members of the legal profession. 

    Beneficiaries are also supported through internship placements and post–Law School employment opportunities facilitated through the programme’s professional network.

    Commenting on the endorsement, Uzodimma said, “The endorsement by the current Director-General of the Nigerian Law School affirms the governance standards, accountability framework, and long-term sustainability of PUSG. Our focus extends beyond financial support to the deliberate development of competent, ethical, and socially responsible legal practitioners.”

    Odusote commended the initiative’s continuity and impact, noting the importance of structured private-sector interventions in promoting merit-based access to legal education.

    Preparations are underway for the next selection cycle, with organisers confirming that #PUSG2025 beneficiaries will be announced shortly.

    The Prada Uzodimma Law School Scholarship Grant continues to position itself as a sustained intervention aimed at strengthening equity and access within Nigeria’s legal profession through institutional collaboration and private-sector leadership.

  • FRSC records 10,446 crashes, 5,289 deaths in 2025

    FRSC records 10,446 crashes, 5,289 deaths in 2025

    The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has recorded 10,446 Road Traffic Crashes (RTCs) and 5,289 deaths nationwide in 2025.

    Speaking at a press briefing on Wednesday in Abuja, the Corps Marshal, Malam Shehu Mohammed said that the data showed a decrease in the numbers of deaths recorded in the same period in 2024.

    Mohammed said that while the reduction confirmed that post-crash response interventions were working, it fell short of the Corps’ strategic target of a 10 per cent fatality reduction.

    He said that it also confirmed that the challenge before the Corps was no longer response alone, but prevention, compliance and deterrence.

    “Conversely, the number of persons killed declined from 5,421 to 5,289, representing a 2.4 percent reduction in the same period under review.

    “Although, beyond the festive operation, on an annual basis, comparative analysis of 2024 and 2025 crash data shows that total crashes increased by 9.2 per cent from 9,570 to 10,446.

    “Fatal crashes rose 2,532 in 2024 to 2,608 in 2025 representing 3.0 per cent, serious crashes by 10.5 per cent that is from 6,131 in 2024 to 6,772 in 2025 and minor crashes from 907 to 1,066 signifying 17.5 percent increase.

    “The number of persons injured increased from 31,154 to 33,400 which is a 7.2 percent rise, and the number of people involved increased by 8.0 percent, ” he said.

    On the other hand, Mohammed said that comparison of 2024 and 2025 passenger and vehicular movement revealed steady growth with passenger traffic rising from 45.16 million in 2024 to 47.47 million, representing a 2.54 per cent increase.

    The FRSC boss said that the number of vehicles traveled also increased from 3.65 million to 3.74 million signifying a 1.25 per cent difference.

    “Luxury bus operations expanded from 26,728 trips to 29,844 trips, a 5.51 per cent difference; and total kilometres covered grew significantly from 4.07 billion kilometres to 4.88 billion kilometres, reflecting a 9.05 per cent difference.

    “The data confirms that both vehicle and persons travelled increased significantly in 2025, leading to higher vehicle volumes, mobility and economic activity.”

    According to him, despite this increased exposure, fatalities declined by 2.4 per cent, meaning 132 lives were saved compared to 2024. The increase in injuries reflects higher crash occurrence alongside improved postcrash survival and rescue outcomes.

    Read Also: FRSC nabs 34 for traffic violations in Kebbi 

    “We therefore measure success not only by targets but by lives preserved. Enforcement and emergency response interventions are working, but they must now be intensified,” he said.

    While commending the media, the FRSC boss said the media remained a critical ally in the Corps national road safety agenda, serving as a bridge between policy, enforcement, and the motoring public.

    According to him, through your objective reportage and sustained advocacy, you help reinforce safe road use, promote accountability, and keep public attention firmly focused on the imperative of saving lives on our highways.

    Mohammed appreciated President Bola Tinubu for his unwavering support, strategic guidance, and policy backing extended to the FRSC over the past years.

    He also commended the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Sen. George Akume for the strong institutional support and coordination that have enhanced the Corps operational effectiveness.

    “This collective support has been pivotal to the strengthening of the Corps’ capacity, professionalism, and resolve in the discharge of its statutory mandate,” he said.

    (NAN)

  • Toyin Abraham slams online critics over photos with Tinubu

    Toyin Abraham slams online critics over photos with Tinubu

    Actress and filmmaker Toyin Abraham has responded to social media users who attempted to shame her after photos of her with President Bola Tinubu went viral, warning that those attacking her without cause will be publicly exposed.

    Abraham, on X, stated she has screenshots and videos of confessions from people who tried to drag her online, insisting that as long as she serves God and her hands are clean, anyone who attempts to disgrace her will be put to shame.

    She added that she has forgiven those who targeted her, but made it clear that the truth will come out.

    The actress made the fresh submission in response to a social media user who hinted that statements against her were sponsored.

    Read Also: NFC congratulates Toyin Abraham on ‘Oversabi Aunty’ N1bn milestone

    The X user, identified as @mariolexxx, wrote, “The moment Toyin Aimaku’s pictures with Tinubu was drop in the group, they told us to ask her for every comment section that ‘Wetin Tinubu tell you.”

    “Meself wey be mumu that time, I no allow Eni eleni to rest, any post from her, I don rush ask her. “Wetin Tinubu tell you.

    In response, Toyin wrote, “Even this recent one they munch everything to me that they said they should all call me Alabosi, but guess what, except I don’t serve a living GOD and my hands are not clean, will they not be put to shame.

    “Anyone born from a woman through natural or cs birth that collected money to shame or drag me without doing anything, I say it again and loud, except I don’t serve GOD and except my hands aren’t clean, trust me on this, they will all be put to public shame.

    “All the telegram and WhatsApp screenshots I have and videos of real confessions.”

  • Pastors getting tattoos not wrong – Pere Egbi

    Pastors getting tattoos not wrong – Pere Egbi

    Big Brother Naija star Pere Egbi has defended David’s Christian Centre lead Pastor Kingsley Okonkwo’s decision to get a tattoo, stating that it doesn’t make him less of a pastor.

    Egbi pointed out that other pastors have unconventional styles, such as braids, dreadlocks, or earrings, making the reaction to the tattoo seem inconsistent.

    He added that people often misjudge others, stating that some individuals deemed “carnal” may surprise everyone in heaven.

    Read Also: Why single women shouldn’t live alone – Pere Egbi

    He wrote, “I see nothing wrong with a Pastor getting tattoos. We have Pastors with braids, dreadlocks, Pastors who wear earrings, and who jerrycurl their hair!

    “Some people would be amazed at the people they’d see in heaven. People, most of y’all write off here on earth as carnal. Some are in for a rude awakening.”

  • NAF reactivates Super Puma Helicopter after 3 years 

    NAF reactivates Super Puma Helicopter after 3 years 

    The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has reactivated the Super Puma Helicopter after it was grounded for three years due to a main rotor hub challenge.

    The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, said that reactivating the helicopter was crucial due to its versatility particularly in handling demanding and complex operations.

    Aneke said this while inaugurating the reactivated Super Puma Helicopter at the 205 Rotary Wing, NAF, in Ikeja, Lagos State.

    He noted that the platform, known for its endurance and reliability, would boost rotary wing capabilities for tasks like troop transport, search and rescue, casualty evacuation, and logistics support.

    “Having demonstrated its effectiveness as a tactical mobility platform in Operation Hadin Kai, the Super Puma is a workhouse.

    “This occasion is not mainly about the return of an aircraft to our fleet, but also a demonstration of our unwavering commitment to my command philosophy.

    “Which is, to enhance and sustain a highly motivated professional mission ready force capable of delivering decisive air power effects in synergy with surface forces for the realisation of national security objectives,” Aneke said.

    Read Also: NAF to deploy unmanned air surveillance in Lagos

    The CAS added that the helicopter would also serve as an asset for close support and instruction of troops, movement of troops and equipment with the Army and Navy, where the need arises in terms of maritime domain.

    Aneke thanked President Bola Tinubu for his steadfast dedication to national security, clearly demonstrated by his approval of critical acquisition and support for the activation of legacy platforms.

    He said that the helicopter’s return to service directly strengthens NAF’s ability to support joint operations in the maritime and coastal environment of Lagos State.

    “As well as in our counterinsurgency and anti-binary operations in other theaters and parts of the country.

    “I urge all the personnel of 205 Rotary Wing who will operate and maintain this aircraft to uphold the highest standards of safety, professionalism and responsibility in operating this platform.

    “Treat this platform with utmost care, ensuring that it remains mission ready whenever required,” the CAS said.

    Aneke acknowledged the role and contributions of retired Air Commodore Taiwo Badru for his support and consultation toward the reactivation of the platform.

    “I also commend the Air Officer Commanding, Mobility Command, AVM Mike Onyebashi, and technicians of 205 Rotary for working tirelessly to restore the helicopter to flying condition,” he said.

    (NAN)

  • We don’t import refined petroleum products – Dangote

    We don’t import refined petroleum products – Dangote

    Dangote Refinery says it does not import refined petroleum products into Nigeria, insisting that all petrol and other fuels sold from its operations are fully refined locally.

    The clarification was made by the Chief Executive Officer of Dangote Refinery, Mr David Bird, during a news conference on Wednesday in Lagos, amid allegations over fuel importation and local refining capacity.

    Bird explained that materials often mistaken for imported fuel were, in fact, intermediate feedstocks used to optimise refinery operations.

    He said these include high catalytic sulphur gasoline and straight-run naphtha, unfinished components that undergo extensive processing at the Lekki-based facility before becoming market-ready products.

    “We do not import refined fuel. Everything sold as petrol, diesel or aviation fuel is refined here in Lekki to Nigerian and international Euro-V standards,” Bird said.

    According to him, the use of intermediate feedstocks is standard practice in complex and merchant refineries across major refining hubs such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Singapore and India.

    Bird noted that the Dangote Refinery, unlike refineries located directly at the end of crude oil pipelines, operates as a merchant refinery, sourcing diverse crude and feedstock grades largely by sea.

    He said this flexibility allows the refinery to maximise utilisation of its advanced conversion units and upgrade every molecule into high-value, clean fuels and petrochemicals.

    Bird accused some oil marketers and regulatory actors of undermining the nation’s local refining drive by importing cheaper, sub-standard fuels while declining to patronise domestically refined products.

    Read Also: Dangote, NNPCL seal gas supply deal

    Such actions, he warned, threaten the country’s energy security and foreign-exchange stability.

    Bird disclosed that the refinery currently supplies about 45 million litres of petrol daily to the domestic market and did not export petrol during the peak Christmas and New Year period.

    He said exports only occur when there is excess supply or limited domestic uptake, particularly during the early operational phase.

    Highlighting public health benefits, Bird said local refining had significantly reduced sulphur and metal content in fuels now consumed in Nigeria, making them comparable to products used in Europe and North America.

    Bird described the Dangote Refinery as one of the most modern and automated facilities globally, producing high-value “white products” such as petrol, diesel, aviation fuel and polypropylene.

    Reaffirming the company’s long-term vision, Bird said the refinery remained committed to meeting domestic demand first while positioning Nigeria as a hub for clean, world-class fuels in Africa.

    “West Africa should no longer be a dumping ground for inferior products.

    “Nigeria deserves and now produces the best,” he said.

    (NAN)

  • Fave cries out over alleged disruption of concert during Ramadan

    Fave cries out over alleged disruption of concert during Ramadan

    Afrobeats singer Fave has expressed disappointment and confusion over alleged reports that music shows are not allowed in Nigeria during the Islamic Ramadan period, affecting her plans to hold a birthday concert.

    In a series of posts on X, Fave stated that promoters are rejecting her proposed show, citing Ramadan, despite her being a Christian.

    According to her, she had intended to host the event on her birthday, March 13.

    Fave emphasised her respect for Ramadan practices but questioned its impact on her business, stating she’s never heard of such restrictions growing up in southern Nigeria.

    Read Also: Fave recounts collaboration with Davido on hit song ‘Kante’

    She wrote, “I started this year wanting to do my first show in Nigeria on my birthday as an independent artiste, and back to back, promoters kept sending word to my team saying the same thing.

    “I grew up in the south and never heard of Ramadan practices till I was in my late teens. I respect all religions. But I’m Christian, and I really want to do this on my birthday, so if you’re reading this and are open to organizing, I’d be so happy.”

  • You’re a generational award, Odumeje tells Davido after Grammy loss

    You’re a generational award, Odumeje tells Davido after Grammy loss

    Popular Anambra-based cleric, Prophet Chukwuemeka Ohanaemere, popularly known as Odumeje, has encouraged Davido to focus on his music and not let the recent Grammy Award loss get him down.

    He described Davido as a great musician and emphasised that his life and achievements are already an award, saying, “Your life is an award. Your step is an award.”

    He said, “There is one of our brothers that I love so much. That is a very great musician, and that is Davido. You are already a generational award, awarded a lot of awards.”

    “There is no award that you will receive now that means anything. You have already been awarded any award you need. Your life is an award. Your step is an award,” he added.

    Odumeje urged Davido not to let anyone demoralise him, adding that he’s already on top of the world and should keep inspiring his fans with new music.

    He also reminded Davido that he’s already received generational awards and that no other award can add to his legacy.

    Read Also: Flavour, Odumeje hail Davido’s new album ‘5ive’ as classic

    Odumeje said, “Don’t allow ordinary somebody to come and begin to use it to quench the fire of your joy. So go out and get more inspiration to shock the world with another new song. Don’t go where you are not accepted.

    “Be careful. You are already on top of the world. The world is the one that will come into you. Don’t allow people to demoralise you, demoralise your quality, and decentralise you, and make you weak.”

    Davido had been nominated for the Best African Music Performance category at the 2026 Grammy Awards but lost to South African singer Tyla.

    Despite the loss, Davido’s fans and supporters, including his wife Chioma, have rallied behind him, praising his talent and impact on the music industry.

  • Northern group rallies support for Tinubu’s reforms, spotlights youth, education, health gains

    Northern group rallies support for Tinubu’s reforms, spotlights youth, education, health gains

    Kaduna witnessed a convergence of civic voices on Wednesday as the Arewa Political Awareness Movement (APAM) hosted a public sensitization programme on key government policies and reforms under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at Asaa Pyramid Hotel.

    Convener of APAM, Jabir T. Usman, said the forum was designed to replace rumours with facts and deepen citizens’ understanding of governance, insisting that democracy thrives when people are informed and actively engaged.

    He said within two and a half years in office, the Tinubu administration had recorded measurable progress across education, healthcare, agriculture, security, infrastructure, and the economy, urging Nigerians to assess leadership by impact rather than rhetoric.

    Usman identified the National Education Loan Fund (NELFund) as a landmark intervention that now allows children from poor and middle-income homes to access tertiary education without financial barriers, describing it as a breakthrough in Nigeria’s education system.

    He also cited the new pension policy granting retired university professors earnings equivalent to their annual salary and the establishment of new federal universities of health and sciences in Kachia, Azare, Tsafe, and Funtua as steps to restore dignity to teaching and expand access to quality education.

    According to him, the Three Million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme is equipping youths with skills in data science, artificial intelligence, and cloud computing, positioning them for opportunities in the global digital economy.

    In the health sector, Usman pointed to the restructuring of the National Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance System (NEMSAS), expansion of cancer treatment centres, revitalization of over 1,000 primary healthcare centers, and increased health insurance coverage as evidence of people-centred policies.

    He said the creation of the Ministry of Livestock Development and the ₦130 billion injection into the National Agricultural Development Fund were aimed at boosting food production, modernizing animal husbandry, and reducing farmer-herder conflicts.

    On security, the APAM convener credited improved coordination among security agencies under the direction of the National Security Adviser for recent gains against banditry and insurgency in the North-West and North-East, enabling displaced communities to begin returning home.

    He added that fiscal and monetary reforms, including exchange rate stabilization, increased federal allocations to states and the push for local government autonomy, were intended to bring development closer to the grassroots and stimulate economic growth.

    Speaking on youth empowerment, Hon. Mukhtar Zubairu said the future of Nigeria depended on whether young people were equipped with skills and opportunities, warning that neglect could turn a demographic advantage into a social risk.

    Zubairu highlighted federal initiatives such as 3MTT and the NIYA programme, alongside Kaduna State’s K-YEEP, vocational centres, digital hubs, and Youth Advisory Council, as examples of how leadership at different levels can create an enabling environment for youths.

    He stressed that non-governmental organizations play a crucial “last-mile” role by reaching vulnerable groups, providing mentorship, and complementing government efforts through community trust, innovation, and accountability.

    In a presentation on education reforms, Anas Halliru said the Renewed Hope Agenda had repositioned education as human capital investment through frameworks such as DOTS and the Nigeria Education Sector Renewal Initiative (NESRI), major investments in medical education, solar power for tertiary institutions, and sustained dialogue that has brought relative stability to universities, describing the reforms as “education in motion” for national development.

  • Fans, colleagues celebrate Nollywood veteran Desmond Elliot @ 51

    Fans, colleagues celebrate Nollywood veteran Desmond Elliot @ 51

    Fans and colleagues of veteran Nollywood actor and lawmaker, Desmond Elliot, have celebrated him as he marks his 51st birthday on Wednesday.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the ace actor had earlier made a post on Instagram announcing his birthday.

    He said: “Today, I celebrate my 51st birthday with a heart full of gratitude and reflection.

    “As I embrace this new year of life, I want to take a moment to honor the memories of those we recently lost: Bukky Coker, Gbenga Adenowo, and Omolara Obatolu.

    “In their memory, I dedicate this special day to them, praying for comfort and strength for their families during this difficult time.

    “I am truly grateful for the gift of life and the love of my family and friends.

    “Here’s to cherishing every moment and holding our loved ones even closer.

    “Thank you, God, for the blessings in my life and for the memories that will always remain in our hearts. #BirthdayReflections #InMemory Gratitude #51AndThriving #Blessed #Joyinoverdrive.”

    Following the post, his fans, well-wishers and industry colleagues have flooded social media with goodwill messages and prayers for the ace thespian.

    Iam_osayandeogiemwonyi posted: “Happy birthday papa. May this new chapter be a new beginning of God’s innumerable blessings in your life.”

    25billiondollars said: “This is so amazing, HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU SIR. God bless you. We believe you wella. Our future president.”

    Olori_Folaademi offered prayers for him,”Happy birthday Hon. DOE. Age with God’s unending grace and increase in all that you do.”

    Odamttencharlotte said  “Happy birthday my big boss. May God continue to bless you n give you more years. Enjoy to the day to max sir.”

    Frankysage wrote “Happy Birthday Sir, Long Life and Prosperity, Good Health, More answers to your secret prayers, Wisdom, Knowledge, and Understanding of God, More Light of God Shine Upon Your Life in Jesus Mighty Name I Pray, AMEN.”

    Also, some of the veteran actor’s colleagues in the motion picture industry offered glowing birthday wishes to him.

    Ufuoma Mcdermott(ufuomamcdermott), said, “Happy birthday dearest. Blessings unending.”

    Chioma Akpotha (chiomakpotha) wrote “Happy birthday Dessy.”

    Iniedo  said “Happiest birthday Des.”

    Read Also: Yuletide: Desmond Elliott spreads love, joy to constituents with ‘Santa on the Street’ initiative

    Nancy Isime(nancyisimeofficial)  “Happy Birthday Uncle Des.”

    Ace comedian and actor (aycomedian) wrote,”Happy birthday brotherly.”

    NAN reports that Desmond Elliot, born Feb. 4, 1974, in Lagos, began his career in television soap operas such as Everyday People, One Too Much and Saints and Sinners.

    He later became one of Nollywood’s leading actors, appearing in over 200 films, including Men Who Cheat, Yahoo Millionaire and 30 Days in Atlanta.

    The actor has received several major nominations, including African Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Supporting Role in 2006 and multiple Best Actor nominations at the Nigeria Entertainment Awards.

    Beyond filmmaking, Elliot ventured into politics in 2014 where he contested under the All-Progressives Congress and won the Surulere Constituency in the April 2015 Nigerian General Elections.

    He is also known for his advocacy work, including involvement in initiatives aimed at addressing child illiteracy in Nigeria and across Africa.

    (NAN)