The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Osun mourns as MICOM Golf owner Tunde Ponnle dies at 94

    Osun mourns as MICOM Golf owner Tunde Ponnle dies at 94

    Osun State has been thrown into mourning following the death of Prince Tunde Ponnle, a prominent son of Ada town, who passed away in the early hours of Sunday, December 14.

    He was 94.

    The sad news of his death was announced on Sunday by a Facebook user, Babalola Sunday Emmanuel.

    Prince Ponnle, a respected elder statesman and philanthropist, served as a member of the Governing Council of Osun State University (UNIOSUN) until May 2023.

    He was widely celebrated for his enduring commitment to education, healthcare, and community development across the state.

    A major benefactor of UNIOSUN, the late prince donated several high-value assets to the institution, including a multi-million-naira mansion and the MicCom Cancer Centre.

    The cancer facility has since become an integral part of the university’s medical training, hosting regular rural postings for students in the MBBS programme.

    Tributes have continued to pour in from Ada town and across Osun State, with many describing Prince Ponnle as a rare gem whose life was defined by service, generosity, and humility.

    The university community and residents of Ada town have expressed deep condolences to his family, praying that God grants them the strength to bear the loss and that the soul of the departed rests in perfect peace.

    The family is yet to release details of his burial programme.

  • JUST IN: Supreme Court strikes out PDP states’ suit against emergency rule in Rivers

    JUST IN: Supreme Court strikes out PDP states’ suit against emergency rule in Rivers

    The Supreme Court has struck out the suit filed by Adamawa and 10 other Peoples Democratic Party-led states challenging the propriety of the state of emergency declared by President Bola Tinubu in Rivers State, during which elected state’s officials were suspended for six months.

    In a split decision of six-to-one on Monday, the Supreme held that the plaintiffs (the 11 PDP states) failed to establish any cause of action capable of activating the original jurisdiction of the apex court.

    Justice Mohammed Idris held, in the lead majority judgment, that the plaintiffs failed to show that there existed any actionable dispute between them and the federation to require the court to exercise its original jurisdiction.

    Justice Idris proceeded to strike out the suit for want of jurisdiction.

    Details shortly…

  • Customs, NMDPRA collaborate to end fuel diversion 

    Customs, NMDPRA collaborate to end fuel diversion 

    The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) have strengthened their collaboration to combat the diversion of petroleum products intended for domestic use and to safeguard Nigeria’s energy security. 

    This renewed partnership, highlighted during a meeting between Comptroller General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, and NMDPRA Executive Director of Distribution Systems, Storage and Retailing Infrastructure of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Ogbugo Ukoha in Abuja.

    During the engagement, Adeniyi reaffirmed the Service’s commitment to strengthening interagency cooperation, particularly in safeguarding Nigeria’s domestic energy security and ensuring that petroleum products meant for local consumption are not diverted to neighbouring countries.

    He noted that collaboration between both agencies had already produced measurable results, especially through Operation Whirlwind, which he described as a model for intelligence sharing, joint enforcement and coordinated field operations.

    Adeniyi said the Nigeria Customs Service remains fully aligned with ongoing reforms in the petroleum regulatory space and will continue to provide technical input, operational feedback and border management expertise to support the implementation of new guidelines being developed by the NMDPRA.

    He commended the Authority for its efforts to harmonise legacy processes with the Petroleum Industry Act, stressing that clear and efficient export point procedures are essential as Nigeria moves from being a net importer to an emerging exporter of petroleum products.

    “We welcome every initiative that strengthens energy security and ensures that the gains made in reducing cross border diversion are not reversed. Our shared responsibility is to protect national interest, support legitimate trade and maintain a transparent system that stakeholders can rely on. We will continue to work closely with sister agencies to achieve these outcomes,” he stated.

    In his remarks, the Executive Director, Ukoha, said the NMDPRA enjoys a longstanding and productive working relationship with the Nigeria Customs Service, noting that Operation Whirlwind remained the high point of that collaboration.

    He explained that both agencies deployed personnel, exchanged intelligence and jointly monitored petroleum products in border corridors, leading to a marked reduction in cross border diversion.

    Ukoha said the purpose of the visit was to brief the CGC on newly developed guidelines for designating export points for petroleum products as Nigeria’s refining capacity expands.

    He said the NMDPRA is engaging key institutions, including Customs, the Central Bank of Nigeria, the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, and the Nigerian Navy, to ensure the guidelines reflect operational realities before implementation.

    He recalled several field operations and strategic engagements with the Customs leadership, including the joint launch of Operation Whirlwind in Yola, where both agencies reinforced their commitment to curbing diversion and securing the domestic supply chain.

    He added that while enforcement had played a major role in reducing irregular movements of petroleum products, the removal of fuel subsidy had significantly reduced the economic incentive for cross border smuggling.

    According to him, the NMDPRA will continue to work closely with the Customs Service to sustain progress and ensure that petroleum exports are properly regulated without exposing the country to energy security risks.

  • Oborevwori condoles with Diri, family, Bayelsans over passing of Ewhrudjakpo

    Oborevwori condoles with Diri, family, Bayelsans over passing of Ewhrudjakpo

    Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has extended heartfelt condolences to Governor Douye Diri, the government and people of Bayelsa State over the passing of the state’s Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo.

    In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Festus Ahon, Governor Oborevwori described the death of Senator Ewhrudjakpo, affectionately known as “a man of many proverbs” as both tragic and deeply saddening.

    The governor noted that Senator Ewhrudjakpo was a man of uncommon wisdom, intellect and humility, and whose contributions to governance and public service left a lasting impact on the Niger Delta and Nigeria at large.

    Oborevwori said, “I join the Governor, his family, Government and people of Bayelsa State, friends and allies in mourning Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo. 

    “He was a team player, a dependable partner in leadership and a fountain of wisdom. His passing is a painful reminder of the fragility of life.”

    The governor also extended prayers for God’s comfort to the bereaved Governor, Senator Douye Diri, family, and the people of Bayelsa State, and urged them to take solace in the legacies of service and dedication left behind by the late Deputy Governor.

    “On behalf of my family, the people and Government of Delta State, I pray that the Almighty God grants Governor Douye Diri, his family and all who mourn him the strength to bear this irreparable loss,” he added.

    Senator Ewhrudjakpo, who served as Deputy Governor under Governor Douye Diri, was widely respected across the Niger Delta region for his eloquence, deep grasp of governance and his trademark use of proverbs in public communication.

  • Ondo philanthropist Victor Ogunmola joins APC, lauds Tinubu’s economic, tax reforms

    Ondo philanthropist Victor Ogunmola joins APC, lauds Tinubu’s economic, tax reforms

    A renowned philanthropist and political figure in Ondo State, Victor Ogunmola, has joined the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), citing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ongoing economic and tax reforms as the major reasons for his decision.

    Ogunmola was officially received with a rousey welcome into APC at the weekend by party leaders at Itaogbolu, Ward 1, Akure North Local Government Area of the state.

    Speaking at the event, Ogunmola said his decision followed a careful assessment of the policy direction of President Tinubu administration, particularly reforms aimed at stabilising the economy, improving revenue generation, and building a transparent and sustainable tax system.

    He acknowledged that some of the reforms – especially the removal of fuel subsidy – have posed short-term challenges but insisted they were necessary steps to reposition Nigeria for long-term economic growth and development.

    According to him, the impact of subsidy removal is already evident in increased allocations to states and local governments, which have enabled greater investment in capital projects and infrastructure.

    “If you know what tax reform is, all of us like to talk about America, love to talk about United Kingdom, how the economy are working but what we have not really asked is, what policy do they have that makes their economy to be thick and strong? Tax reform, as it’s been stewarded by President Ahmed Bola Tinibu, is one of our ways, our pathways to prosperity in this country.

    “So, if you now look at the current administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, you would see that it is putting in place very serious and deep programmes that are capable of withstanding the test of time. You want to take the tax reform, for instance,” he said. 

    Ogunmola added that while subsidy removal came as a shock to many Nigerians, the policy had exposed years of unsustainable practices and opened new opportunities for development at subnational levels.

    He also praised the quality of infrastructure delivery by the federal government, describing it as a reflection of competent leadership and commitment to national development.

    “You talk about the subsidy removal. Yes, the subsidy removal is a shock to the entire nation because for a very long time, we are used to doing things in a way that is not sustainable. Today, you see more allocation to the state. You see more allocation to the local government, and the only reason why you could see the state government doing some capital projects is just because they have more allocation from the federal state. 

    “When you look at all these infrastructural projects that the federal government is doing, you see the road. They are not just constructing roads. When you see the quality of delivery, you see the quality of even the members of the administration. Then, you want to reflect. This is a government, this is a leader that is worthy of working for. And not just working for the leadership, but working for the nation,” he stressed.

    He added, “You now see more allocations to states and local governments. That is why state governments are able to embark on meaningful capital projects.”

    Ogunmola said his decision to join the APC was further informed by the party’s political will to implement tough but people-oriented policies that strengthened the economy, enhanced security, and modernised democratic institutions.

    He described the APC as an inclusive platform that values ideas and encourages active participation by professionals, youths, women, and community leaders.

    Ogunmola also commended ongoing infrastructural development in Ondo State, particularly the Akure – Ado Ekiti road project, which he said has brought significant growth to surrounding communities. 

    He further appreciated the President’s appointments of indigenes of Ondo State into key national positions.

    “By joining the APC, I am stepping into a platform where my voice, my experience, and my contributions can meaningfully influence policy, leadership, and development at multiple levels.

    “I am particularly inspired by the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President, His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR), with its focus on economic transformation, job creation, infrastructure expansion, and national unity. 

    “These priorities strongly resonate 

    with my values and aspirations for Nigeria. I am especially encouraged by the ongoing infrastructural development in Ondo State. With deep gratitude, 

    I acknowledge the Akure–Ado Ekiti road construction, which has brought monumental and transformative growth to our communities. 

    “The President’s strategic appointments of sons and daughters of Ondo State 

    into key national positions are equally commendable and deeply appreciated.

    Ultimately, my decision to join the APC is a commitment to participate, to contribute, and to help shape the 

    future of Akure North LGA. His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR), Ondo State, and Nigeria from within,” he added.

    The geoscientist and community advocate, known for his philanthropic interventions in education, healthcare, and youth empowerment, pledged to support APC programmes and mobilise grassroots support ahead of future elections.

    He also lauded Ondo State Governor, Mr Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, for maintaining peace and advancing development across the state, citing improvements in road construction, water supply, workers’ welfare, education, and economic growth.

    Similarly, Ogunmola saluted the leadership of Akure North Local Government Chairman, Hon. Johnson Ogunbodude, for implementing impactful welfare programmes, road grading, and construction of shop complexes.

    Welcoming Ogunmola into the party, Chairman of APC Ward 1 in Akure North LGA, Mr Sunday Opokiti, described his entry as a major boost to the party, noting his influence and strong grassroots appeal.

    “We are happy to receive him. He is a responsible man who loves his community and has contributed immensely to its development. He is capable of leading his people very well,” Opokiti said.

    Also speaking, the APC Chairman in Ondo State, Engr. Ade Adetimehin described Ogunmola’s defection as a “big catch” for the party, adding that his popularity would further strengthen the APC ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    Adetimehin added, “For a young man like this to join the progressive family, I feel highly elated. He has added value to the party, and his grassroots support will boost our fortunes in the state.

    “He works in ExxonMobil. When he was in Nigeria, he did a lot to help his people. You can see a lot of crowds and a lot of eminent personalities from this local government. 

    “They turn out to receive him. That shows that he has value, which is going to be added to our party, APC.”

    The Nation reports that Ogunmola was received into the APC by party leaders who included Hon. Ebenezer Alabi and Hon. Kolawole Ologede, APC member representing Akure North Constituency in the Ondo State House of Assembly among several others. 

  • Fed govt stops transfer of students into SS3 in public, private schools 

    Fed govt stops transfer of students into SS3 in public, private schools 

    The federal government has announced a nationwide prohibition on the admission and transfer of students into Senior Secondary School Three (SS3) in all public and private secondary schools.

    The government said the directive followed growing concerns over the increasing incidence of examination malpractice, including the use of “so-called special centres during external examinations, which undermine the integrity and credibility of Nigeria’s education system.”

    A statement signed by the Director, Press and Public Relations, Federal Ministry of Education, Boriowo Folasade on Sunday in Abuja, the government said the policy will take effect from the next academic calendar 2026/27 with admissions and transfers now restricted strictly to Senior Secondary School One (SS1) and Senior Secondary School Two (SS2). 

    It added that admission or transfer into SS3 will no longer be permitted under any circumstance.

    The ministry explained that the measure was aimed at discouraging last-minute movement of students for examination-related advantages, ensuring proper academic monitoring, and promoting continuity in teaching and learning.

    “School proprietors, principals, and administrators nationwide have been directed to comply fully with the policy, as any violation will attract appropriate sanctions in line with existing education regulations and guidelines,” the statement said. 

    The ministry reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to maintaining academic standards, promoting fairness, and restoring credibility to public examinations across the country.

  • Summit asks Kano govt to domesticate law against gender based violence

    Summit asks Kano govt to domesticate law against gender based violence

    A summit held at the Bayero University (BUK), Kano, has sought to strengthen legal protections and ensure community accountability structures for zero tolerance on Gender Based Violence (GBV) in the state.

    Convener of the gender justice summit, Barr. Aisha Hamman, said the event was to reflect, test responsibility and call for the protection and dignity of women and girls.

    “It (GBV) lives with us every single day, in our homes, schools, streets, and now, increasingly, in our digital spaces.

    “So, the question before us is: are our systems truly doing enough to protect the most vulnerable amongst us?,” she asked.

    Hamman, who is the founder of Lift Africa which organised the summit, disclosed that the Foundation was inspired as a dream, during her 23 years as a public defense lawyer, during which she worked closely with survivors of gender-based violence.

    She lamented her experience: “I met girls who were abused simply because they were selling groundnuts on the street.

    “I met girls raped while selling rogo (boiled cassava). Girls assaulted for carrying kola nuts worth as little as ₦2,000—leaving home early in the morning and returning late at night.

    “These girls had dreams. They wanted to be educated. They wanted dignity. They wanted to contribute meaningfully to society.

    “But poverty stood in the way. Their parents could not afford school. So they dropped out, turned to street trading, and became exposed to danger. That is where abuse happened.”

    She pointed out that on May 28, 2015, Nigeria signed into law the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act, which criminalised rape, domestic violence, emotional abuse, harmful traditional practices, female genital mutilation, forced isolation, and other forms of violence against women, children, and vulnerable groups.

    She queried that 10 years on, Kano remains the only state in Nigeria yet to domesticate the law against GBV.

    “Kano is home to over 15–16 million people. Yet the entire state relies on one Sexual Assault Referral Centre serving the 44 Local Government Areas. One centre. 44 LGAs.

    “This means thousands of survivors face limited access to medical care, forensic evidence, psychosocial support, and justice.

    “Kano is also one of Nigeria’s highest Gender Based Violence hotspots, yet, Kano operates with weaker coordination, fewer resources, and outdated legal tools, which means that the state lacks the comprehensive legal systems to address this painful menace that has eaten deep and torn the very fabric our society is weaved with. This gap is not merely legal, it is human,” she said.

    She explained that the Kano Gender Justice Summit 2025 is the flagship event of Nigeria’s commemoration of the United Nations 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.

    According to her, the summit was not a gathering to trade blame, but to share responsibilities as leaders and coordinate action.

    “Together, we are here to push for the passage of the Kano State Penal Code Amendment Bill 2021 containing the Harmonised Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act Provisions.

    “A society is not judged by the laws it drafts, but by the speed, sincerity, and fairness with which justice is delivered.

    “Today, Kano has a choice to move from intention to action, from dialogue to decision and from delay to protection,” Barr. Hamman said.

  • COAS: We’re transforming NMS into world-class institution

    COAS: We’re transforming NMS into world-class institution

    The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has said that the Nigerian Army is making sustained investments to improve teaching methodology, classroom aesthetics, and the deployment of modern technology to provide a world-class learning environment at the Nigerian Military School (NMS), Zaria.

    General Shaibu said this while addressing students of the school during an official visit on Saturday.

    The COAS reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to sustaining high standards in military education and training, describing the NMS as a “sacred foundation” that shapes the students’ contribution to national development.

    He charged students to uphold discipline, academic excellence and focus, noting that while some of the students would progress to further military training and eventually serve as officers of the Armed Forces, others would proceed to tertiary institutions. 

    “Wherever you find yourselves in the future, you will be different from your peers because of the discipline, enthusiasm and leadership values instilled in you here. 

    “This institution will always remain part of your life,” he said.

    The COAS also urged the students to uphold the school’s long-standing tradition of academic excellence, particularly its past achievements in inter-school quiz competitions, stressing the importance of hard work and commitment to studies.

    He said: “You have emerged through a rigorous selection process and have been introduced to a world-class learning environment. Everything is in place for you to succeed, and you must make the best use of this opportunity.”

    The Army Chief commended the officers, soldiers and instructors of the school for their dedication to grooming the students, describing them as custodians of the nation’s future leadership.

    “These young men are our future. Ensure they are properly guided, protected and kept on the trajectory of excellence,” he added.

  • Military retires 576 personnel after reintegration course at NAFRC

    Military retires 576 personnel after reintegration course at NAFRC

    The military has retired 576 personnel including 26 women after they completed the pre-discharge course at the Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre (NAFRC) Oshodi. 

    The senior non-commissioned officers (SNCOs) comprising 366 from the Army, 90 from the Navy and 120 from the Air Force, who retired after over 30 years of unblemished service to the country, were among 629 participants enrolled in the course earlier this year. 

    While one of the enrollees died during the training period, 52 were declared medically unfit and returned to their units with certificates of exemption.

    Addressing the retiring officers at their passing out ceremony, Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS) Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, said the pre-discharge course was designed to prepare personnel for life after service through vocational and management training.

    Represented by the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) Western Naval Command (WNC), Rear Admiral Abubakar Mustapha, the CNS noted that their successful retirement was a moment of pride, joy and reflection, thanking them for their devotion to defending Nigeria’s peace, unity and territorial integrity.

    He said the graduation ceremony was a tribute to their resilience and professionalism during war, counter-insurgency operations, peacekeeping missions and humanitarian assignments at home and abroad.

    “You stood firm in the face of danger and uncertainty, and your contributions to national security remain indelible,” he said, urging them to embrace financial prudence, discipline and adaptability in order to succeed outside the uniform. 

    He advised them to remain role models in their communities and support security initiatives in collaboration with law-enforcement agencies, while upholding the honour and integrity synonymous with the Nigerian military.

    NAFRC Commandant, Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Bashir Rimi Mamman, listed some of the achievements of the centre under his watch including renovated accommodation blocks, improved workshops, solar lighting, new administrative buildings and expanded vocational and entrepreneurship programmes. 

    The centre, he said, introduced business registration lectures in partnership with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).

    Deputy Director of Training, Navy Captain Jennifer Oklobia, said participants were trained in 33 vocational and entrepreneurship trades, followed by written and practical assessments and an eight-week industrial attachment in public and private establishments.

  • Yoruba group donates gifts to child patients at Dutse general hospital

    Yoruba group donates gifts to child patients at Dutse general hospital

    A Yoruba socio-cultural group, the Okun Development Association (ODA), Dutse Branch, Jigawa State, has presented gifts to children receiving treatment at the Paediatric Unit of Dutse General Hospital as part of its end-of-year humanitarian outreach.

    Speaking after the presentation, the Vice Chairman of the association, Mr Ojo Jacob Olanrewaju, who led members on the visit, said the gesture was in keeping with ODA’s long-standing tradition of giving back to society, particularly during the end-of-year period.

    He explained that the association has a history of carrying out similar charitable initiatives, including visits and donations to orphanages, correctional centres and other vulnerable groups.

    “This is a culture we have sustained over the years. At the end of every year, we try to put smiles on the faces of our brothers and sisters who are going through difficult times,” Olanrewaju said.

    He added that this year’s outreach focused on the Paediatric Unit of Dutse General Hospital, where gifts were distributed to children receiving care in both the medical and surgical wards.

    “You can see that the children are happy. Our aim is to share joy with them during this season and to pray for their speedy recovery,” he added.

    He further noted that the Okun Development Association comprises members of the Yoruba community residing in Dutse, stressing that the initiative was part of their commitment to giving back to the community in which they live peacefully.

    The vice chairman also commended the Jigawa State Government, under the leadership of Governor Malam Umar Namadi, for improvements in the health sector and other critical areas of development. 

    He called for more inclusive governance policies to address the needs of marginalised groups in the state.

    In his remarks, a nursing officer at the hospital, Dr Nasir Auwalu, expressed appreciation to the association for the visit and urged other organisations to emulate the gesture. He noted that such acts of kindness help boost the morale of patients, especially children, during festive periods.

    Also speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Malama Binta Usman thanked the association for its support and prayed for the emergence of more humanitarian groups like the Okun Development Association in Jigawa State.