The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Court sentences man to three years imprisonment for diversion, forgery in Kano

    Court sentences man to three years imprisonment for diversion, forgery in Kano

    A Federal High Court in Kano, presided over by Justice Musa Sale, on Wednesday sentenced Abdulrahman Sani Adam to three years in prison for diversion and forgery.

    The court, however, offered him an option of a ₦3 million fine.

    It also ruled that the diverted containers be forfeited to the Federal Government for auctioning.

    Adam was prosecuted on charges of criminal diversion and forgery after he was found to have diverted containers under customs supervision and falsified official documents to conceal the act.

    Director of Legal Services of the Nigeria Customs Service, Smart Akande—who served as prosecution counsel—said the convict’s actions denied the Federal Government revenue that should have been remitted.

    Speaking with journalists, Akande said the successful prosecution and sentencing serve as a strong deterrent to others who may engage in similar offences.

    He noted that diversion of customs-controlled containers and the bypassing of due procedures are criminal acts that must be prosecuted in accordance with the law.

    Akande expressed satisfaction with the judgment, saying it aligned with legal provisions.

    “This landmark judgment reeinforces.the NCS’s commitment to tackling revenue leakages, document forgery and other offences within the import‑export chain” Akande said.

  • Adegbonmire hails Tinubu as ‘Mega Empowerment’ initiative impacts lives in Ondo

    Adegbonmire hails Tinubu as ‘Mega Empowerment’ initiative impacts lives in Ondo

    The Senator representing Ondo Central Senatorial District, Senator Adeniyi Adegbonmire, has lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as a new phase of “mega empowerment” currently transforming the lives of people across his senatorial district.

    Senator Adegbonmire spoke at an empowerment programme personally initiated by him and tagged the Adegbonmire Renewed Hope Mega Empowerment Programme, held in Akure for members of his constituency.

    The Nation reports that items distributed at the programme included motorcycles, tricycles, generators, sewing machines, freezers, industrial machines, wheelchairs, dryers, educational materials, cash rewards and other livelihood-support tools.

    Speaking, Senator Adegbonmire said President Tinubu’s emphasis on inclusive development is becoming increasingly evident at the grassroots, with various empowerment interventions reaching the people.

    He noted that the economic reforms and intervention programmes of the Tinubu administration have brought development to several communities, with many witnessing improved access to livelihood support and small-scale economic growth.

    “As you can see, it is mega empowerment for renewed hope. That is the slogan of President Bola Tinubu. As a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the National Assembly, I am happy to continue to support Mr. President because I think he’s doing very well.

    “Since he cannot do everything himself, those of us who are supporting him must do everything to ensure that people feel the impact of Mr. President. So I thank President Bola Tinubu for giving me this opportunity to give back to my constituents,” the senator said.

    He added: “The President is not going to come to Ondo State to campaign. We will campaign for him. This is part of the campaign for Mr. President. Hence, it is in support of the President, in support of the state government also.

    “If we do well, then the government here has done well. The President has done well. So, this is in support of both the President and the state government, and my party – APC- the only party in Nigeria.”

    Adegbonmire further explained that the empowerment programme cut across widows, artisans, market women, and business owners, noting that close to 1,000 constituents would benefit from the gesture.

    “We are empowering about 200 widows, artisans, and market women with cash. Ultimately, cash beneficiaries are about 200 people, while items go to about 650 beneficiaries – approximately 850 to 900 people.

    “As you all know, I have spent about two and a half years in the Senate. In 2023, we couldn’t do much because of the budget cycle, so effectively, this is the first full year of representation.

    “I thought it was important to show gratitude to my constituents by helping them to fish rather than giving them fish. All these items can be used to generate income,” he said.

    Earlier, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa commended Senator Adegbonmire for his laudable initiative of giving back to the people who entrusted him with their mandate to represent them at the National Assembly.

    Represented by his Special Adviser on Legislative Matters, Babatunde Kolawole, the Ondo governor said the present administration believes that, in line with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, good governance must touch lives in meaningful ways.

    Aiyedatiwa noted that programmes that create livelihood opportunities, enhance self-reliance, and prepare citizens for competitiveness align with this vision, adding that the initiative underscores a shared resolve to build a society where progress is inclusive.

    On his part, the Chairman of APC in the state, Engr Ade Adetimehin, said that the senator had distinguished himself beyond the traditional roles expected of a federal lawmaker.

    Adetimehin stressed that although legislators do not control federal funds, Adegbonmire has demonstrated rare commitment to delivering tangible benefits to his constituents.

    “It is evident that the senator has done amazingly well. The duty of a legislator is to make laws and provide oversight, but Senator Adegbonmire has gone far beyond that. Today, we have a Federal Teaching Hospital because of his efforts,” the APC chairman said.

    Adetimehin added that the senator’s commitment was inspired by the legacy of his father, the late High Chief Wunmi Adegbonmire, whom he described as a mentor and role model.

    He noted that the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, had on multiple occasions praised Adegbonmire’s intellect and legislative competence.

    Also, the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, applauded the senator, saying he had shown uncommon commitment to service.

    “If he wants to do something, he will make sure he does it right. This is not just empowerment; it is mega empowerment. The items on display show that this is real and impactful,” the monarch said.

  • Property owners threaten legal action over Apapa road demolitions

    Property owners threaten legal action over Apapa road demolitions

    …demand justice, compensation

    Owners of several demolished properties along the Apapa Road axis of Lagos Mainland have issued a pre-action notice to the Lagos State Government and relevant officials, signaling their intention to seek legal redress if their concerns are not addressed.

    The notice, served on Wednesday, was directed to the Commissioners for Transportation; Environment and Water Resources; and Justice; as well as the General Manager of LASTMA and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Sola Giwa.

    The notice was issued  by the traditional ruler of Otumara Community, High Chief Kehinde Kalejaiye, along with Moses John-Adeyi, Abdulsallam Olawale, Rafiu Raheem and Mrs. Tope Okoro.

    The claimants stated that their properties, including containerized shops, wares and a community mosque, were removed during an exercise carried out on October 23.

    Through their legal representatives, Kayode Ajala & Co., they requested that the state government address the matter and provide appropriate remedies. 

    The notice advised the government officials to respond positively to avoid further legal steps.

    In an earlier petition dated October 24, 2025, High Chief Kalejaiye appealed to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Commissioner of Police, and the Lagos State House of Assembly to look into the development and ensure a fair resolution.

  • Reps to FG: declare January 15 national public holiday to honour fallen soldiers

    Reps to FG: declare January 15 national public holiday to honour fallen soldiers

    The House of Representatives has asked the federal government to declare every January 15 as a national public holiday in honour and celebration of the Nigerian Armed Forces and to institutionalise national remembrance while strengthening civic appreciation of the sacrifices made by military personnel.

    In a resolution following a motion by Sesi Oluwaseun Whingan (APC, Lagos), the House asked the Committees on Defence, Interior, and Legislative Compliance to liaise with the Federal Ministry of Interior and relevant stakeholders to ensure timely implementation.

    Whingan said that for decades, the Nigerian Armed Forces have made extraordinary sacrifices to defend the nation’s sovereignty, protect citizens, confront threats, and maintain peace both domestically and internationally, adding that their qualities of courage, discipline, and professionalism has been a lasting source of national pride.

    He acknowledged the day observed nationwide as Armed Forces Remembrance Day which commemorate the end of the Nigerian Civil War in 1970 and dedicated to honouring fallen heroes, celebrating serving personnel, and recognising the service and resilience of veterans who continue to contribute to national development.

    He said declaring January 15 a national holiday would institutionalise national remembrance, create a unifying civic tradition, and strengthen the bond between Nigerians and the men and women of the Armed Forces whose sacrifices uphold our freedom, security, and democratic order.

    According to him, “Over 70 countries across the world, including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Ghana, Kenya, South Africa, India, Australia, and New Zealand, observe national holidays dedicated to Armed Forces or fallen heroes, ensuring sustained public awareness, civic education, and national unity rooted in shared history and gratitude.

    He said the absence of a designated national holiday limits citizens’ participation in wreath-laying ceremonies, remembrance parades, military honour events, school-based civic lessons, and community led tributes, thereby weakens national consciousness of military history, reduces opportunities for intergenerational learning, and diminishes public recognition of the sacrifices that secure the nation.

    Whingan said most Nigerian youths are unaware of the symbolism, and historical weight of January 15, thus contributing to a gradual cultural disconnect between civilians and military families.

    He maintained that honouring the Armed Forces through a national holiday would promote deeper national identity, patriotism, and collective appreciation for military service, support the mental and emotional well-being of veterans who battle post-traumatic stress, physical disabilities, and assuring them that their sacrifices are not forgotten and the nation stands with them.

    He stressed the importance of the Nigerian Armed Forces in addressing security challenges, including insurgency, terrorism, kidnapping, banditry, illegal bunkering, piracy, and communal violence, adding that national recognition of their role enhances morale, fosters unity among personnel, and increases public awareness of their responsibilities in maintaining national security.

    He said declaring January 15 a national holiday will promote national pride, unity, historical memory, and civic discipline in line with the values upheld by the Constitution, including Section 14(2)(b), which affirms that the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government.

    Deputy Speaker of the House asked the Lawmaker to bring an amended to the public holiday act so that the resolution be made part of the law to make it binding.

  • Lagos facilitates 2000 CNG trucks for safer, cleaner freight

    Lagos facilitates 2000 CNG trucks for safer, cleaner freight

    The Lagos state government has strengthened its engagement with truck operators and logistics stakeholders by facilitating the acquisition of CNG trucks to promote safer, cleaner, and more efficient freight movement across the state. 

    The initiative was unveiled at a stakeholders’ engagement forum with maritime and logistics practitioners.

    The event, themed “Charting the Future of Maritime Logistics: Safety, Sustainability and Stakeholder Partnership,” brought together port operators, truck owners, freight forwarders, unions, regulatory agencies, financial institutions, and other stakeholders in the maritime and logistics sector. 

    The collaboration reflects the government’s commitment to modernising freight operations while ensuring compliance with safety and environmental standards.

    Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu said the administration has prioritised reforms that protect lives, improve operational efficiency, and reduce environmental hazards along major transport corridors. 

    “Our administration is focused on building a logistics ecosystem that is safe, sustainable, and productive. Modernisation of truck fleets, strict enforcement of safety standards, and partnership with operators are key to achieving this goal,” the governor said.

    A key initiative of the stakeholders engagement is the facilitation of a N15 billion credit facility to enable truckers acquire 2,000 compressed natural gas (CNG)-powered trucks for freight. 

    The programme, structured through partnerships with financial institutions, aims to replace ageing vehicles that often pose risks to road users and contribute to environmental pollution.

    In addition, the state has introduced dedicated welfare and safety measures for truck operators. 

    Free eye screening and visual health programmes will be offered to drivers, along with substance abuse sensitisation and testing. 

    Rehabilitation pathways are also being made available for operators who require support. 

    Authorities said these measures are designed to ensure truckers remain healthy, alert, and able to perform their duties safely.

    The government also plans to strengthen regulatory compliance through more rigorous vehicle inspections and safety audits. Trucks operating along the Apapa, Tincan, and Lekki corridors will undergo regular checks for brakes, tyres, reflectors, lighting, and overall mechanical stability. 

    The Lagos state Commissioner for Transportation, Oluwaseun Osiyemi, noted that this initiative is aimed at strengthening a greener future for Lagos state. 

    He emphasised that these interventions are preventive and aimed at reducing accidents, safeguarding cargo, and ensuring orderly movement of goods.

    The Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Transportation, Hon. Sola Giwa, who represented the Governor, highlighted the importance of collaboration between public agencies and private operators. 

    “We cannot achieve a safer and more efficient logistics system without the active participation of truck owners, drivers, unions, and regulators. This engagement is a platform to share challenges, design solutions, and foster accountability,” he said.

    Truck operators and union leaders expressed support for the initiative. 

    The National President of the National Association of Road Transport Operators (NARTO) said the programme would create new opportunities for investment, employment, and profitability while improving standards in the sector.

    “Operators who embrace these reforms will benefit from modern fleets and streamlined operations. The aim is to ensure a level playing field and sustainable growth,” he said.

  • Late Evelyn Osagie bags copyright award

    Late Evelyn Osagie bags copyright award

    The Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) has named The Nation’s former Assistant Editor, late Evelyn Osagie, as the winner of this year’s Moses Ekpo Prize for Innovative Copyright Reporting.

    The announcement was made on Wednesday by the Director-General of the Commission, Dr. John Asein, during the NCC’s Annual Dialogue in Abuja.

    Asein said Osagie, who received the inaugural award posthumously, was until her passing on August 17 not only a distinguished journalist but “a rare gift to the Nigerian creative and copyright community.”

    “She showed remarkable empathy that enabled her to amplify the voices of young and emerging creators who otherwise would have remained unheard. 

    “Her coverage of copyright issues reflected clarity, balance and an unwavering commitment to national development. She was a steadfast ally of the Commission, highlighting policy milestones, supporting our enforcement efforts and exposing the deepening threats of piracy with candour a d courage,” Asein said.

    He noted that the annual award which was inaugurated on Wednesday will celebrate media practitioners who in their reporting, contribute significantly to copyright education, public awareness, the Commission’s campaign for a more wholesome copyright system and a better creative sector in Nigeria..

  • Bauchi govt to reopen schools Jan. 4 – Official

    Bauchi govt to reopen schools Jan. 4 – Official

    The Bauchi government has fixed Jan. 4, 2026, for the reopening of schools in the state.

    The schools were shut in November due to insecurity and attacks on schools in some states.

    Dr Muhammed Lawal, Commissioner for Education, said this in a statement in Bauchi on Wednesday.

    He said the measure was sequel to significant improvement in the security situation, noting that critical stakeholders including principals, education managers and private school proprietors approved the school reopening.

    “The state governor has approved the reopening of all basic, senior secondary and tertiary institutions in the state with effect from January 4, 2026,” he said.

    Lawal said examinations scheduled before the closure would be held within the first week of resumption, and  followed by other academic activities.

    He said the state government also approved the reopening of three Unity Colleges in line with a directive of the Federal Ministry of Education.

    He urged parents to ensure their children return to school promptly, adding the government adopted proactive security measures to protect students, teachers and non-teaching staff across all institutions.

    (NAN)

  • Reps move to probe indiscriminate land sale, mining in Abuja

    Reps move to probe indiscriminate land sale, mining in Abuja

    The House of Representatives on Wednesday raised alarm over what it described as the indiscriminate sale of land, off-plan allocations, and dangerous mining activities around the Federal Housing Authority (FHA)/ENL Paradise Hills Estate in Guzape, Abuja.

    This followed the adoption of a motion sponsored by Hon. Esosa Iyawe, who warned that the activities now pose severe risks to residents, public assets, and the structural integrity of buildings in the area.

    Presenting the motion, Iyawe noted that the Paradise Hills Estate—developed by the FHA in partnership with ENL Consortium—was originally conceived as a secure, well-planned residential enclave designed within a hilly topography that served as natural protection. 

    He said the estate, long sold out, is now being subjected to harmful alterations.

    He expressed concern that after selling the houses, the developers allegedly began mining the surrounding sand-based hills, purportedly to create additional plots for sale. According to him, the hills are vital to the estate’s environmental stability and security buffer.

    The lawmaker warned that the mining has already weakened the hills, especially during the rainy season, leading to mudslides that render internal roads impassable. 

    He added that continued heavy downpours could worsen the situation, endangering houses and public infrastructure.

    Iyawe further disclosed that residents have reported tremors caused by daily excavation, raising concerns about the long-term safety of buildings within the estate and adjoining parts of Guzape.

    Describing the situation as a looming disaster, he stressed that the indiscriminate mining threatens both government and private properties in the area and could result in loss of lives if not urgently addressed.

    The House also expressed wider concern that several estates in the Federal Capital Territory, including FHA/ENL developments, frequently deviate from approved master plans by allocating and selling plots not originally designated for residential or commercial use.

    Following deliberations, the House resolved to urge the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) to clarify the controversial developments and strengthen monitoring of Paradise Hills Estate and other estates across the FCT.

    It also mandated the Committees on Public Assets, Housing and Habitat, and the FCT to jointly investigate the matter and take steps to halt further allocation and development of plots that fall outside the approved master plan of the FHA/ENL Estate in Guzape and other government-owned estates in the Federal Capital Territory.

    The committees are expected to report back to the House for further legislative action.

  • Nigeria urges ECOWAS to remain steadfast in defending constitutional order

    Nigeria urges ECOWAS to remain steadfast in defending constitutional order

    Nigeria’s Minister of State, Amb. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, on Wednesday called on member states of the Economic Community of West African States to remain committed to defending constitutional order, promoting inclusive political dialogue, and supporting credible transitions that strengthen regional stability.

    She also urged the acceleration of economic integration across the sub-region.

    Odumegwu-Ojukwu made the call at the opening of the 95th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Council of Ministers in Abuja.

    Addressing delegates, she challenged ECOWAS to respond to the aspirations of millions of young people who look to the regional body for opportunities and a clear pathway to progress.

    While noting that ECOWAS is still celebrating its golden jubilee, she said the bloc must confront the pressing challenges before it, including the recent wave of military takeovers, banditry, and kidnappings.

    “Recent years have witnessed political instability and lack of inclusivity, including forceful unconstitutional changes of government, deliberate prolonged transitions, and governance uncertainties and deficits in a number of Member States,” she said.

    “These situations challenge not only the democratic values to which we have all subscribed, but also threaten hard-won development gains. They undermine citizen confidence and weaken the regional cohesion that has defined ECOWAS for half a century.

    “We must therefore remain steadfast in defending constitutional order, promoting inclusive political dialogue, and supporting credible transitions that reinforce stability. Our unity and collective resolve are essential to navigating these periods of uncertainty.”

    She also added, “At the heart of ECOWAS lies the aspiration for economic integration that delivers tangible benefits for our community citizens. It is this ideal of shared markets, interconnected infrastructure, increased mobility, and coordinated development that inspired our founding fathers to establish the regional body and has guided our Community since 1975. 

    “Today more than ever, we must accelerate these efforts. Our region’s future depends on deepening intra-regional trade, strengthening value chains, facilitating investments, and creating opportunities for the over 400 million people, especially the young people of 25 years and below who constitute about 65% of the population. They no doubt rely on ECOWAS to chart a path toward progress.”

    She also noted the ECOWAS at 50 celebration that is still running, offered an opportunity to reflect deeply on our achievements over the past five decades. 

    “We celebrated the establishment of free movement, significant trade and economic integration frameworks, regional peacekeeping leadership, improved cooperation in critical sectors from health to infrastructure, and ongoing efforts to address the problems of insecurity in the region. 

    “Our accomplishments stand as a powerful testament to the vision of our founders, who understood that West Africa’s greatest strength is forged through unity, solidarity, and collective progress. Moving forward, we are inspired to reach even higher, nurturing a region defined by peace, prosperity, and limitless possibilities for generations to come.”

    She therefore reminded the gathering that their insights and decisions will be instrumental in shaping the recommendations to be submitted to the Authority of Heads of State and Government.

    On his part, the Sierra Leonian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Timothy Kabba stressed the need to be persistent in the integration efforts. 

     He said, “We must persist in our effort to foster an environment conducive to the growth of the private sector, the principal catalyst of the economic integration agenda. While it is acknowledged that integration may sometimes invoke complex sovereignty issues, it is ultimately advantageous to all Member States. 

    “Furthermore, it is imperative that we demonstrate a robust commitment to the promotion and enhancement of trade within the subregion.”

    He also lamented the current trade gaps in the sub-region, describing it as the lowest when compared to other regions of the world. 

    He therefore called for the resuscitation of all trade mechanisms to boost intra-regional trade and investment. 

    According to him, “The current percentage of intra-regional trade lags behind that of other regions. To address this disparity, we should utilize existing mechanisms to foster greater regional economic collaboration, such as the ECOWAS trade liberalization scheme, the ECOWAS investment code, improve transport and energy connectivity, and promote digital transformation as a catalyst for innovation. 

    “In addition, we must address non-tariff barriers, modernize and operationalize brotherhoods, and improve the joint border management process. We must also prepare our region to fully capitalize on the opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Agreement, which directly advances our internal integration agenda.”

    Speaking on the current security and political situation in the region, Kabba said, “They can only be resolved through enhanced cooperation and mutual understanding among our member states. “Consequently, we must assist in investing in peace and security initiatives both through joint border operations, joint intelligence cooperation, and mediation efforts, activate the ECOWAS Standard Force, and provide support to member states facing threat.

    “In addition, it is essential to ensure that diligent diplomacy, strategic leadership, political dialogue, military cooperation, and development assistance are integrated effectively to address the root causes and foster long-term resilience and sustainability.”

    He concluded by charging member of the council of ministers to “seize this opportunity to reflect on the broader security and governance challenges confronting our region, and to renew our collective determination to safeguard peace, protect democratic institutions, and ensure that the aspirations of our peoples for stability and development are not derailed. Our region has endured too many disruptions to democratic order. 

    “Let us stand together firmly and in solidarity to defend the principles of democracy, transparency, and the people’s right to choose their leaders.”

  • Tinubu sets up panel to clear N1.5tn debt owed to 2,000 federal contractors

    Tinubu sets up panel to clear N1.5tn debt owed to 2,000 federal contractors

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday established a high-level committee to resolve the lingering backlog of payments owed to federal contractors, expressing “grave displeasure” over the mounting debt estimated at about N1.5 trillion.

    Speaking to journalists at State House, Abuja, after the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting in Abuja, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said the President was visibly upset after learning that more than 2,000 contractors are being owed for completed projects.

    “He made it very, very clear he is not happy and wants a one-stop solution. An important highlight in the course of the FEC meeting is that the President expressed grave displeasure about the fact that contractors are being owed money”, Onanuga said.

    According to him, the Director-General of the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), Dr Adebowale Adedokun, briefed the Council on the magnitude of outstanding obligations, prompting the President’s directive to constitute a multi-ministerial team to design a funding plan and clear the backlog.

    The committee comprises the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun; Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Atiku Bagudu; Minister of Works, Dave Umahi; Minister of Education, Olatunji Alausa; Minister of Housing, Ahmed Dangiwa; and the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Gboyega Oyetola. 

    Also included are the Director-General of the Budget Office of the Federation, Tanimu Yakubu, and the Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Dr Zacch Adedeji.

    “All of them are supposed to sit down, develop a plan as a committee, and then go to the President to tell him the solution they have found in allocating funds to pay contractors,” Onanuga said.

    He added that the President was determined to “find the money and fix the problem,” even hinting that the government could borrow to settle verified obligations if necessary. 

    “He even said that, as a sovereign country, we can go and borrow to pay those contractors,” the presidential aide noted.

    The remarks follow weeks of pressure from contractors, who have repeatedly protested delays in payment of certified arrears. 

    In September, the All Indigenous Contractors Association of Nigeria claimed more than N4 trillion was outstanding for 2024 capital projects during demonstrations in Abuja and at the National Assembly.

    The Ministry of Works had previously acknowledged a significant backlog and launched a verification exercise in January 2024 to account for roughly N1.5 trillion in unpaid federal highway contracts.

    The issue has been further complicated by overlapping budget cycles, with 2024 capital components rolling into 2025. 

    In November, the National Assembly approved an additional N1.15 trillion in domestic borrowing to help cover a widened 2025 deficit, even as the government tapped international markets with a $2.35 billion Eurobond to bolster its financing needs.