The Nation Newspaper

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  • Academy graduates 92 students in data analytics, advanced javascript

    Academy graduates 92 students in data analytics, advanced javascript

    eHealth Africa Academy has graduated 92 students across Nigeria and Africa, building their capacities in advanced javascript and data analytics. 

    The organisation said this was part of its goal to bridge the tech skills gap, especially among young people. 

    According to eHealth Africa, the 16-week advanced javascript and six-week data analytics cohorts empowered young people across Nigeria and Africa with relevant, in-demand digital skills to grow their careers, advance their knowledge, and create opportunities for themselves. 

    In a statement on Monday by its Communications Manager, Favour Oriaku, eHealth Africa said the Academy, which kicked off in 2016, has continued to up-skill young Africans by providing free training to build their technological capacity. 

    The statement said the program serves as one of eHealth Africa’s community development initiatives while contributing toward achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 4 and 5.

    Speaking during the graduation ceremony of the 7th and 8th Cohort in Kano, the Technical Lead, Jamil Galadanci said this year was especially significant because, for the first time, the Academy ran two cohorts. 

    He said: “In order to maintain the quality and impact of the Academy, we constantly assess industry trends and market demand. Based on this, we introduced a data analytics cohort alongside our software development cohort.”

    According to him, the advanced cohort allows participants to go deeper into their skills, making them more competitive and attractive to employers. 

    “The introduction of data analytics was driven by growing demand across nearly every sector, as we are now in a data-driven age where organizations need professionals who can interpret and use data effectively,” he said. 

    Galadanci said that having been running the eHA Academy for about a decade, there has been an immense impact, especially among young people. 

    He said: “Some of our former graduates are now part of our staff, while others have gone on to become partners and community leaders, including helping to establish open-source communities in Kano. There’s nothing more fulfilling than knowing we’ve made a meaningful difference in the lives of young people.”

    Representing the Kano State Commissioner for Science and Technology, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Abba Danguguwa, described the eHA Academy as a human resource and capacity-building initiative that complements government efforts. 

    He said: “The Kano State Government has its own roadmap, and what eHealth AFRICA is doing aligns with what the government has already envisioned. Therefore, we will carefully review their future plans to ensure alignment with the overall vision and development goals of Kano State.”

    He called on the graduates to harness their new skills to deliver on the responsibility of bridging the tech skills gap. 

    “To the graduating students, I want to emphasize that you have been equipped with the right skills, knowledge, and experience to help you navigate the complexities of providing solutions to community problems,” he said.

    One of the mentors of the eHA Academy, Muflihat Abdulmajeed, who joined the Academy as a student in 2020, revealed how she transitioned from a biology student to a software engineer.

    From graduating from the Academy to becoming a mentor and joining eHealth Africa as an intern, Muflihat described the transition as a life-changing experience.

    She said:“I had always wanted to be part of something impactful, and being a software engineer provides many opportunities to make a positive impact on society.” 

    She called on the graduates to build on the skills they have learnt. 

    “This is not the end of the journey. What you’ve been given are the basics, and these basics can take you as far as you want to go as a software engineer,” she added.

  • NSCDC deploys personnel to Jigawa borders, entry routes ahead of festivities

    NSCDC deploys personnel to Jigawa borders, entry routes ahead of festivities

    The Jigawa State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has intensified security operations with the massive deployment of personnel to international border areas adjoining the Niger Republic, as well as major entry and exit routes into the state.

    The move is aimed at strengthening surveillance and carrying out stop-and-search operations where necessary.

    This was disclosed in a press statement signed by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, ASC Badruddeen Tijjani Mahmud, and made available to journalists in Dutse.

    According to the statement, the deployment is part of the NSCDC’s special security operation put in place for the Christmas and New Year festivities.

    “Major entry and exit routes into the state, including border areas, are being adequately manned to enhance surveillance and conduct stop-and-search operations where necessary,” the statement said.

    ASC Mahmud added that special attention is being paid to the protection of places of worship, public utilities, recreational centres, government installations, motor parks, markets, shopping malls and other identified vulnerable locations across the state.

    Read Also: Yuletide: NSCDC deploys 1,000 personnel to man security in Ondo

    To ensure a peaceful, safe and hitch-free Yuletide and New Year celebrations, the State Commandant of the NSCDC in Jigawa has ordered the deployment of officers and men across the state’s 27 local government areas before, during and after the festive period.

    The deployment, according to the command, cuts across both regular and specialised units of the Corps, including Operations, Anti-Vandal Unit, Agro Rangers, Armed Squad, Counter-Terrorism Unit, CBRNE, Intelligence and Investigation, Disaster Management and Medical Units. 

    These units have been strategically positioned to guarantee effective security coverage.

    Badaruddeen stated that the State Commandant charged them to strictly adhere to the Corps’ Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), maintain professionalism and civility in the discharge of their duties, and apply minimal force except where absolutely necessary.

    He also stressed the importance of effective synergy and collaboration with other security agencies to ensure the overall success of the operation.

    The command further urged members of the public to remain law-abiding, vigilant and cooperative with security personnel, and to promptly report any suspicious movements or activities to the nearest security formation.

    “Parents and guardians are advised to closely monitor the activities of their wards, while the general public is cautioned against the use of fireworks, knockouts and other dangerous items capable of causing panic or fire outbreaks,” the statement added.

    The State Commandant also issued a stern warning to vandals and other criminal elements to desist from targeting government installations, critical infrastructure and public utilities, noting that anyone apprehended would be dealt with in accordance with the law.

  • Lagos traditional rulers hold symposium on population growth, infrastructure challenges

    Lagos traditional rulers hold symposium on population growth, infrastructure challenges

    The Association of Baales in Council, Eti-Osa East Local Council Development Area (LCDA) (Indigenous), on Thursday held its 2025 Annual General Meeting and Symposium to address challenges arising from rapid population growth and increasing pressure on infrastructure in the area.

    The event, which took place at Patron Hotel, Sangotedo, brought together traditional rulers, government officials, professionals and community stakeholders to deliberate on the theme, “Our Corridor: Addressing Population Growth and Infrastructural Needs cum Maintenance: The Roles of the Baales.”

    Discussions at the symposium centred on the strain population expansion has placed on roads, drainage systems, housing, security and other critical infrastructure across communities in Eti-Osa East.

    In his welcome address, the Executive Chairman of Eti-Osa East LCDA and Chief Host, Hon. Biliaminu Shamsideen Agunbiade, described the symposium as timely, noting that its outcomes would help shape policy direction and community-driven solutions aimed at improving living standards within the council area.

    Chairman of the occasion, Senator Wasiu Sanni Eshilokun of Lagos Central Senatorial District, represented by Hon. Sulaimon Oluwashina, commended the Association of Baales for its commitment to grassroots development and underscored the importance of traditional leadership in sustaining infrastructure and community growth.

    Delivering the keynote address, the Majority Leader of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Noheem Babatunde Adams, representing Eti-Osa Constituency I, through his representative, Mr. Adeyemi Ogundele, Special Adviser on Political Affairs and Strategy, stressed the need for coordinated planning and responsible urban development. He urged community leaders to closely monitor projects and promote accountability at the local level.

    Guest lecturer, the Executive Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki Local Government Area, Engr. Abdullah Sesan Olowa, represented by Hon. Quadri Adedayo Lukman, Chief Technical Adviser to the Chairman, spoke on sustainable infrastructure planning. He called for the adoption of long-term maintenance strategies to complement government efforts and advocated collaboration among neighbouring local governments to address shared developmental challenges.

    In a goodwill message, Hon. Yahya Adeniyi Dosumu praised the Association of Baales for its unity and consistency, describing the traditional institution as a stabilising force in governance and community cohesion within Eti-Osa East.

    The symposium also featured a cultural interlude, with a stage play titled “The Ocean Roar,” written by Okunmoyinbo-Ebeloku, which highlighted themes of environmental consciousness and communal responsibility.

    Goodwill messages were delivered by representatives of the Nigeria Conservation Foundation (NCF), Lagos Business School and the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), who commended the initiative and called for inclusive, sustainable approaches to development, environmental protection and social justice.

    Speaking at the event, the Host and Chairman of the Association of Baales in Council, Eti-Osa East LCDA (Indigenous), Chief Shakiru Adekunle Akinlade, thanked participants and stakeholders for their support, reaffirming the commitment of Baales to peace, collaboration with government and sustainable development across their communities.

    Awards were presented to several personalities, including Engr. Abdullah Sesan Olowa, Hon. Biliaminu Shamsideen Agunbiade and Amb. Zainab Aderounmu, in recognition of their contributions to community development.

    The symposium ended with a call for stronger collaboration between traditional institutions and government authorities to effectively manage population growth and preserve critical infrastructure in Eti-Osa East and its environs.

  • FIFA Rankings: Super Eagles end 2025 38th globally

    FIFA Rankings: Super Eagles end 2025 38th globally

    The Super Eagles will end 2025 ranked 38th in the world, according to the latest FIFA rankings released on Monday.

    Nigeria’s position remains unchanged from the Nov. 19 ranking, after the team climbed three places from 41st.

    The Super Eagles also retained sixth position on the African rankings.

    Overall, 2025 proved mixed for Nigeria, but the team finished the year six places higher than its opening ranking of 44th.

    The first ranking of the year in April saw Nigeria rise to 43rd. Subsequent updates dropped the Eagles to 44th in July and 45th in Sept.

    October marked a turnaround as Nigeria surged to 41st, recording their biggest rise since Feb. 2024, following their AFCON silver-medal finish.

    Read Also: Oliseh backs Super Eagles to strike gold at  AFCON  2025

    The November ranking lifted the Eagles three more places to 38th, a position they maintain heading into 2026.

    In Africa, Morocco led the continent at 11th globally, followed by Senegal in 19th place. Algeria climbed to 34th, while Egypt dropped to 35th, ranking fifth in Africa.

    Globally, Spain topped the rankings ahead of Argentina and France. England is fourth, Brazil fifth, followed by Portugal and the Netherlands.

    Belgium, Germany and Croatia complete the top 10.

    The next FIFA rankings will be released on Jan. 19, 2026, a day after the AFCON final in Morocco.

    (NAN)

  • JUST IN: Makinde, Alaafin, Olubadan hold close door meeting

    JUST IN: Makinde, Alaafin, Olubadan hold close door meeting

    Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo state on Monday had a brief closed door meeting with the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade and the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja. 

    The brief meeting held shortly after the governor signed the 2026 Appropriation Bill at an event which held at the Executive Council Chamber of the Governors office, Agodi Secretariat, Ibadan. 

    The meeting, which was observed to be unscheduled, held at the Coffee Room opposite the photo gallery stage of the Exco Chamber.

    The details of the meeting remain unclear as at the time of this report.

    It was observed that, shortly after the signing of the 2026 Appropriation Bill, the governor and the dignitaries who attended the event were on the way to take group photographs at the photo gallery stand when the Governor invited both the Alaafin and Olubadan into the coffee room.

    The budget signing event was attended by traditional rulers, political office holders, lawmakers, the judiciary among other relevant stakeholders.

    Read Also: Makinde to sign N892b 2026 Appropriation Bill today

    The meeting lasted barely 15mins, as other dignitaries waited patiently at the photo gallery awaiting the arrival of the governor and the monarch.

    However, observers believed the meeting could be based on the need for unity and togetherness between the two first class monarchs.

    The social media was recently enmeshed with reports of acrimony and class tussle between the foremost monarchs over perceived superiority tag.

  • Nigeria-U.S. relation stronger – FG

    Nigeria-U.S. relation stronger – FG

    The Federal Government says, the relationship between Nigeria and the United States (U.S.) is stronger and will continue to wax stronger and beneficial to both countries.

    The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, made this known at the End of Year Media briefing on Monday in Abuja.

    He explained that in 2025, Nigeria navigated complex international diplomacy with maturity and principle.

    He added that the recent diplomatic spat with the U.S. has been resolved through firm, respectful engagement, culminating in a strengthened partnership.

    “Just last week, the Federal Government of Nigeria signed a five-year, $5.1 billion dollar bilateral health cooperation Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the government of the United States.

    “In the agreement, the U.S. will provide $2.1 billion dollars in grant funding, while Nigeria will commits $3 billion dollars.

    “This has been described as the largest co-investment by any country to date under the America First Global Health Strategy.

    “It will strengthen Nigeria’s healthcare system, save lives, and attract investment.

    “Those that thought Nigeria’s relationships with U.S. was going down due to the recent misunderstanding can now see that the ties is even stronger than before,” Idris said.

    According to him, Nigeria is no longer on the sidelines, adding that it is a confident and strategic partner on the global stage, defending its national interests and attracting beneficial partnerships.

    “Just last month, we regained our Category C seat on the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council for the 2026–2027 biennium; a celebrated comeback following 14 years of absence”

    Still on the international scene in 2025, Idris stated that various Nigerians assumed significant international positions across various sectors, including Chairperson of the Council of the World Customs Organisation,

    Others are the Executive Director of the World Health Organisation’s Health Emergencies Programme, Vice Chair of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Council, and Vice President of the International Association for Ports and Harbours in Tokyo.

    “Additionally, this year, we secured hosting rights for the Creative Africa Nexus (CANEX) 2026, and the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) 2027, one of the largest trade gatherings on the African continent.

    “In 2026, our newly appointed Ambassadors will take up their posts in their countries of assignment, strengthening our bilateral relations and advancing our visibility and strategic engagements in the global community,” Idris said.

    (NAN)

  • JUST IN: NSA visits Fubara, says president happy with governor

    JUST IN: NSA visits Fubara, says president happy with governor

    …Lagos-Calabar highway redesigned to pass through Ogoniland, says Umahi

    …30 Ogoni indigenes to begin work in NNPCL in January, says Ojulari

    The National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has visited Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, conveying President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s satisfaction with the governor’s responsible leadership.

    Ribadu spoke during a courtesy visit to the Rivers State Government House in Port Harcourt, where he led a presidential delegation that included the Minister of Works, David Umahi; the Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal; and top officials of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).

    He described Rivers State as one of the most peaceful states in the country, noting that the federal government delegation was in the state to consolidate ongoing peace efforts in Ogoniland.

    According to Ribadu, a new chapter is unfolding in Ogoni, stressing that Nigeria “will no longer be what it used to be,” with the transformation beginning from the area.

    He said President Tinubu specifically directed him to commend Governor Fubara, expressing happiness with his leadership style and the manner in which he coordinated discussions on the resumption of oil exploration in Ogoniland.

    Ribadu also conveyed the President’s appreciation to the people of Ogoni for their support, patience and understanding throughout the process.

    The NSA further commended the Rivers State Government for providing a campus for the University of Environment and accommodating the Southsouth Zonal Office of the Office of the National Security Adviser.

    On his part, the Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, described the Ogoni peace initiative as strategic to the renewed unity of Nigeria, noting that the President took a personal interest in the wellbeing of the Niger Delta people.

    Umahi assured that all sections of the East–West Road affecting the Niger Delta would be completed to standard. 

    He said that on Ogoniland, the 15km Eleme axis of the East–West Road included five flyovers, one of which was being constructed by the Rivers State Government to support the effort of the President. 

    He said the over N200bn project was scheduled for completion in April next year. 

    The minister also revealed that, with presidential approval, designs were ongoing to dualise the Bonny–Bodo Road from its starting point to the East–West Road, including the construction of two flyovers.

    Umahi added that the President had ordered a redesign of the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway to pass through Ogoniland.

    Also speaking, the Minister of Environment said the Ogoni cleanup project remained.a priority for the ministry. 

    He explained that projects recommended by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) were progressing well, including mangrove restoration, healthcare delivery, human capital development, and women empowerment initiatives.

    On his part, the NNPCL’s Bayo Ojulare, said the national oil company was fully committed to the Ogoni dialogue process. 

    He stressed that going forward, the focus would be on the people rather than oil.

    He disclosed that the employment of 30 Ogoni indigenes by NNPCL had reached the final stage, with appointment letters already issued and resumption scheduled for January 2026. 

    He described the developments in Ogoni as a model for a new Nigeria.

    In his response, Governor Siminalayi Fubara thanked President Tinubu for his intervention, saying it reflected the actions of a leader who genuinely loved Rivers State.

    The governor noted that resolving a crisis that lingered for over three decades in Ogoniland was not an easy task. 

    Read Also: Fubara highlights benefits of new housing development

    He said with the President’s intervention, residents could drive with ease along both ends of the East–West Road, connecting Bonny and Bayelsa.

    Fubara emphasised that beyond physical infrastructure, the President’s administration was rebuilding confidence in the region. 

    He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the peace process and managing emerging conflicts, noting that development cannot thrive in an atmosphere of crisis.

    He added that adjustments and compromises are necessary for sustainable development to take place. 

    The governor also appealed to Ogoni leaders to engage the youths to allow oil facility operators access to repair faulty equipment, in order to prevent fresh oil spills while environmental restoration is ongoing.

  • Ex-Edo information commissioner Charles Idahosa dies at 72

    Ex-Edo information commissioner Charles Idahosa dies at 72

    A former Commissioner for Information and Orientation in Edo State, Charles Idahosa, is dead.

    Idahosa reportedly died in his sleep on Saturday afternoon.

    Popularly known as Charly T, he was said to have been in high spirits before his death and only took a nap from which he did not wake up.

    A close associate disclosed that Idahosa had earlier attended the wedding ceremony of a daughter of Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu and also shared rice with the needy shortly before his passing.

    Idahosa served as Commissioner for Information and Orientation under the administration of former Governor Chief Lucky Igbinedion. 

    He also served as Political Adviser to ex-Governor Adams Oshiomhole, was Chairman of Uhunmwonde Local Government Area, and later emerged as the governorship candidate of the defunct Democratic Peoples Party (DPP).

    While there has been no official statement from the family, a family member described the death as shocking.

    “Daddy was full of life this morning. As usual, he came downstairs to receive people. I don’t know what happened; it is shocking,” the family member said.

  • Tinubu renames FUMS Azare after late Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi

    Tinubu renames FUMS Azare after late Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the renaming of the Federal University of Medical Science (FUMS), Azare, after the late renowned Islamic scholar, Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi, as part of efforts to preserve and immortalise his legacy.

    The President made this known on Saturday during a condolence visit to the family of the late cleric in Bauchi State , describing his death as a “great national loss.”

    Nation reports that President Tinubu arrived in Bauchi on Saturday to condole with the state government and the family of the late renowned Islamic scholar, Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi.

    Sheikh Dahiru, the spiritual leader of the Tijjaniyya Brotherhood in Nigeria, died on November 27 at the age of 98.

    The President arrived at the Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa International Airport at about 4:10 p.m., where he was received with a Guard of Honour by the Nigerian Air Force.

    Tinubu was accompanied by the Governor of Yobe State, Mai Mala Buni; the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas; his son, Seyi Tinubu; and other top government officials.

    He was received at the airport by the Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed; Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang; the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate; the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar; and Senator Shehu Buba (APC, Bauchi South).

    The President is expected to proceed to Lagos after the condolence visit to spend the end-of-year holidays.

    Speaking at the late Sheikh Dahiru mosque, Tinubu said the decision to rename the university after the Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi was in recognition of the cleric’s lifelong contributions to education, religious scholarship, humility, and service to humanity.

    He prayed for Allah’s mercy upon the soul of the late scholar asking that he be granted Jannatul Firdaus, while also seeking strength for the family, the Bauchi State Government, and the people of the state to bear the loss.

    The President urged Nigerians to continue praying for peace and unity in the country, stressing the importance of collective resilience during challenging times.

    Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, who received the presidential delegation, appreciated President Tinubu for honouring the late cleric and Bauchi State through the retention and renaming of the institution.

    Responding on behalf of the family, the eldest son of the late cleric, Sheikh Ibrahim Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi, expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for the visit, prayers, and the decision to immortalise their father through the university.

    He also thanked Governor Mohammed for his continued support to the family.

    Recall Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi died at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital (ATBUTH), Bauchi, and was buried on Friday, November 28, in accordance with Islamic rites.

    Born in 1927 in Gombe State, Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi devoted his life to the advancement of Islamic education, promotion of peaceful coexistence and fostering of unity across the country.

    His teachings, which emphasised moral discipline, tolerance and adherence to Islamic principles, earned him a large following and deep respect within and beyond Nigeria.

    He also played a significant role in community development, mentorship of young scholars and the strengthening of religious understanding.

  • APC candidate Oyebamiji, Adeleke trade words over Osun health sector

    APC candidate Oyebamiji, Adeleke trade words over Osun health sector

    The governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the 2026 election in Osun State, Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji (AMBO), and Governor Ademola Adeleke have engaged in a war of words over the state of the health sector in the state.

    Oyebamiji had earlier promised a total overhaul of Osun’s health sector if elected governor, lamenting what he described as the moribund condition of health facilities across the state. He said the situation constitutes a major setback to development.

    However, Governor Adeleke dismissed the claims as baseless and a deliberate attempt at disinformation, insisting that Osun is ranked first in the South-West in the provision of primary healthcare. 

    He said his administration has renovated over 200 primary healthcare centres across the state.

    Adeleke further alleged that Oyebamiji, while serving under the previous APC administration, was part of a committee that mismanaged a $20 million World Bank grant meant for the renovation of primary healthcare centres.

    “Osun will not return to the days of insensitive leadership,” the governor said.

    Reacting, Oyebamiji, through his campaign movement coordinator, Adebayo Adedeji, insisted that the health sector has deteriorated since Adeleke assumed office.

    In a statement issued on Saturday, Adedeji said attacks on Oyebamiji would not change facts already in the public domain. 

    He cited a report by CheckMyPHC.org, which he said highlighted a critical workforce gap in Osun’s primary healthcare centres.

    According to the report, 73 per cent of primary healthcare centres in the state lack adequate staff to function effectively, with the majority having between zero and one personnel, while 44 per cent reportedly have no staff at all. This, he said, means nearly three out of every four PHCs in Osun State are severely understaffed.

    The report also noted that many PHCs lack access to clean water, functional toilets and basic hygiene supplies, making effective patient care difficult.

    Adedeji further recalled that during the administration of former Governor Adegboyega Oyetola, under whom Oyebamiji served, over 300 of the state’s 600 primary healthcare centres were renovated. He accused the Adeleke administration of failing to build on that legacy.

    “Adeleke administration chose to play uncharitable politics with the health of the people, sacked health workers employed by the APC government, badmouthed the facilities, which representatives of the World Bank—the donor agency for the project—had endorsed as world-class.

    “The APC government’s contribution to health is eternally commendable. The records are there; therefore, no amount of name-calling can diminish such an outstanding achievement witnessed under the leadership of Oyetola.”

    He added, “About 9,000 health workers needed in Osun, yet the government has not recruited a single worker to replace those sacked out of jealousy and political vendetta.”