The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

FG ramps up AMR response amid declining donors support

The federal government is set to reactivate the national antimicrobial stewardship network to enable hospitals across States share lessons, provide mentorship (virtual and physical), and coordinate efforts in a unified way to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR), it has emerged.

AMR occurs when germs become stronger than the medicines used to kill them which makes antimicrobial stewardship essential, ensuring antibiotics and other germ-killing medicines are used the right way, at the right time, and only when absolutely necessary.

To strengthen coordinated action against AMR, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has called for AMS committee leads from implementing hospitals to join the national Technical Working Group on AMR, while urging broader participation from national and state ministries, the veterinary and environmental sectors, and professional associations such as the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN).

NCDC Director General, Dr Jide Idris, emphasized in Abuja on Wednesday during the close-out and sustainability meeting of the Commonwealth Partnership for Antimicrobial Stewardship (CwPAMS 2.5) organized by Global Health Partnership, in conjunction with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, that the government’s move is necessary.

“This is because, under Nigeria’s first National Action Plan on AMR, stewardship performance was just below 40 per cent, and on closer scrutiny, effective implementation might be closer to 20 per cent,” he said.

He added that the move is further justified by the fact that only a few tertiary hospitals currently have functional antimicrobial stewardship programmes, despite widespread drug misuse and rising resistance.

“Because many antibiotics are consumed in the community, not just in hospitals, NCDC wants to engage community pharmacists and other community-level drug distributors to extend AMS beyond hospitals,” he said.

Represented by Dr Ridwan Yahaya, the DG urged the Federal Ministry of Health to make all tertiary hospitals AMS hubs , while calling on States to establish AMR governance structures to extend support to secondary and primary facilities.

“Stewardship cannot remain project-based, it must be institutionalised nationally with support from federal and state ministries, not just hospitals enrolled in CwPAMS 2.5,” he said.

Pharm. Estelle Mbadiwe, Founding Partner at Ducit Blue Solutions, the in-country coordinator for CwPAMS, said antimicrobial stewardship is essential to keep medicines like antibiotics and antifungals effective as bacteria and other pathogens evolve, safeguarding healthcare quality and underscoring the imperative of harnessing domestic funding to tackle the challenge.

“Drugs that used to work are no longer effective, and that threatens quality healthcare. Antimicrobial resistance is captured as a silent pandemic, but I beg to differ.

“We cannot be silent. We need to speak out and empower people to know the right actions,” she warned, rejecting the notion of AMR as a quietly unfolding crisis and stressing the need for deliberate, sustained measures to combat it.

She urged innovation-driven domestic financing, saying, “We need to look at domestic funding and look at the opportunities to innovate for the funding. At this event today, we are doing an AMR innovation marketplace to look at how stakeholders can innovate to address antimicrobial resistance”.

While highlighting major gains of the CwPAMS programme across 17 health facilities, including five hub sites, which established models that Nigeria must now integrate nationally, Mbadiwe stressed the critical need for sustainable domestic financing.

“This programme has helped Nigeria build systems, skills, and strategies to combat resistance, while also creating platforms for bilateral learning with UK health institutions,” she said.

Looking ahead to the global high-level meeting on AMR next year, Mbadiwe stressed the need for mass public education, saying, “We want to ensure that the message on addressing antimicrobial resistance is at the lips of every single Nigerian.

“We want them to understand what it means, we want them to understand their role and we want them to understand who the stakeholders are so they can ask the right questions and get results.”

Prof. Onyebuchi Chukwu, former Minister of Health and outgoing member of the United Nations Global Leaders Group on AMR, highlighted the urgency of sustained effort, noting that AMR remains one of the most serious public health threats in West Africa.

He recalled data from the Global Antimicrobial Surveillance System which showed the region as having the highest mortality.

“It showed that West Africa, the West African sub-Saharan region, had the highest mortality related to antimicrobial resistance. That mortality slide, for every 100,000 people, 227 actually die as a result of antimicrobial resistance

“In 2021, the data shows that in Nigeria alone, 65,000 people died directly from antimicrobial resistance. 65,000 people. These are human beings,” he warned.

Chukwu, however, underscored Nigeria’s readiness to continue the fight and pointed to next year’s major international meeting as evidence of the commitment of Nigeria.

On funding concerns, he urged diversification and creativity, saying, “Even the Global Fund is also funding some aspects of this antimicrobial resistance pandemic.

“So there are international funding mechanisms that can still be explored and utilised. But there could also be innovative domestic ways of funding it. We can also approach the private sector in Nigeria.”

Ms Oluwatoni Akinola, AMR and IPC Programme Officer at DRASA Health Trust, said the close-out of the CwPAMS programme marked a milestone in Nigeria’s fight against antimicrobial resistance.

December 10, 2025
Tax Reform: JTB transitions to JRB ahead of 2026 tax regime

The Joint Tax Board (JTB) has unveiled a new brand identity, signalling its transition to the Joint Revenue Board (JRB) ahead of the commencement of new tax administration laws on January 1, 2026.

The transformation follows the enactment of the Joint Revenue Board of Nigeria (Establishment) Act 2025, which President Bola Ahmed Tinubu signed into law on June 26, 2025.

The unveiling took place during the Board’s 158th meeting which held on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at the Transcorp Hilton in Abuja.

Addressing members at the event, the Chairman of the Board, Dr. Zacch Adedeji, described the new logo and brand elements as powerful expressions of the institution’s evolution and future direction.

“The new brand identity represents renewal, transformation, and our collective commitment to excellence in revenue administration. It reflects what the JRB stands for and will guide our activities and operations in the emerging dispensation,” he said.

Adedeji explained that the transition from JTB to JRB marks a major step toward building a more unified and efficient national revenue administration structure.

He said the reform is designed to deepen collaboration across federal and state revenue authorities, enhance information sharing, and strengthen tax compliance across the country.

He called on member states and relevant institutions to align fully with the new framework and complete all necessary adjustments to ensure a smooth take-off of the new tax Acts on January 1, 2026. According to him, the success of the new regime depends on “full cooperation and readiness across all jurisdictions.”

Reflecting on the meeting’s theme, “Managing Transition: Driving Transformation, Building the Future of Tax Administration in Nigeria,” Adedeji stressed the importance of continuous capacity development and sustained investment in modern infrastructure. He said such efforts, combined with stronger cooperation among all tiers of government, would help position Nigeria’s tax system for long-term efficiency.

The Executive Secretary of the Board, Mr. Olusegun Adesokan who also changed his title from Secretary to Executive Secretary at the event addressed participants, stating that the transition to the JRB signals the beginning of a more inclusive revenue environment. “With the transition, the JRB will create a revenue-friendly environment that works for everyone,” he said.

Adesokan disclosed that the JRB is already working closely with revenue authorities across the country to harmonise taxpayers’ data and build a unified national database under the Tax ID project. He explained that the Tax ID will be issued to individuals and corporates using foundational identifiers such as the National Identification Number (NIN) and company registration numbers.

He added that the JRB would go further in coordinating taxes, levies, and rates nationwide. According to him, chairmen of internal revenue services who sit on the Board are already leading efforts to domesticate uniform Taxes and Levies Act across their respective states, with the aim of reducing inconsistencies and strengthening compliance.

The meeting also featured presentations from various committees of the Board and progress briefings on reform initiatives being implemented across the federation as the JRB prepares for full operation in the 2026 fiscal year.

December 10, 2025
Guru Maharaj Ji hails Ooni on 10th coronation anniversary

‎Founder of One Love Family, Sat Guru Maharaj ji has felicitated with Ooni of Ile-Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi on his 10th coronation anniversary.

‎He described the monarch’s decade on the throne as a blessing to Yorubaland and Nigeria, noting that his reign has strengthened unity, peace, and cultural rebirth.

A statement by Maharaji Ji praised Ooni for what he described as his unwavering commitment to preserving Yoruba identity, saying Oba Ogunwusi’s leadership over the past ten years has rekindled global interest in Yoruba heritage, values, and spirituality, further positioning Ile-Ife as the cradle of Black civilisation.

‎He commended the monarch for building bridges of harmony among Nigeria’s diverse people.

‎He described traditional institutions as the bedrock of societal order and ancestral wisdom, saying traditional leadership is essential towards maintaining Nigeria’s moral fabric and cultural essence.

‎He extended special greetings to the Alaafin of Oyo, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade; the Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja; the Soun of Ogbomoso land, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Gandhi Afolabi Olaoye, and other royal fathers, praising them for their steadfast roles as custodians of Yoruba culture and tradition.

‎Maharaj Ji acknowledged the monarchs continuous efforts to preserve history, promote peace, and uphold the values handed down by forebears.

‎He congratulated the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on her installation as the Yeye Asiwaju Ile Oodua by the Ooni during the celebration, describing the honour as a recognition of her grace, leadership, and support for cultural revival across Nigeria.

‎He urged the First Lady to continue championing initiatives that empower women, promote cultural dignity, and strengthen family values within the country.

Maharaj Ji stated her new title comes with a responsibility to inspire millions of Yoruba daughters and mothers.

‎He saluted President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his leadership and recent diplomatic strides, especially his efforts in the Benin Republic and his commitment to restoring order and stability within the sub-region.

He described the President’s interventions as timely and strategic for regional peace.

‎He encouraged the President to continue working closely with traditional rulers, noting that lasting development is rooted in cultural harmony and grassroots engagement.

According to him, traditional institutions must be key partners in national governance.

‎He however called on Nigerians to respect traditional authorities, uphold cultural values, and honour constituted institutions, saying one nation will prosper when its people embrace unity, discipline, and reverence for the pillars of its heritage.

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December 10, 2025
Kaduna financial inclusion rises to 66% in major milestone, says commissioner

Kaduna State on Wednesday stated that it has increased its account ownership by 20 percent in three years, adding more than 800,000 adults to the formal economy.

The state Commissioner for Finance, Ibrahim Tanko Mohammed, who disclosed this in a statement made available to the media, stated that financial inclusion in Kaduna State has now also reached 66 percent of the resident population.

In the statement, Mohammed noted that: “Kaduna grew at 6.67 percent per year over 2021-2024 (over 20 percent total) while Nigeria overall grew at only 2.67 percent per year over a similar period. More than 2.5 million accounts were opened; more than 800,000 adults joined the banking system for the first time; women’s inclusion climbed from 38 percent to 47 percent; and agent banking expanded to over 2,800 active agents statewide.

“A hands-on, homegrown effort was crucial to these gains. Kaduna’s Financial Inclusion and Literacy Committee deployed state-led enrolment drives and built its own software linking 7.9 million NINs with BVNs. This was the highest per-capita NIN registration rate among Nigeria’s 36 states.”

He stated that these achievements and the lessons behind them are detailed in the state’s new report: ‘The Last Mile: Kaduna’s Financial Inclusion Journey’, released today.

“We are proud of how far Kaduna State has come. Millions now have access to formal financial services for the first time. The next phase is about turning that access into real empowerment. Our ambition is clear: to ensure that more citizens use these tools in ways that strengthen their livelihoods, their resilience, and their connection to government services.

“Kaduna is building a digital economy that works for everyone, every day,” the commissioner stated.

Mohammed noted that on Kaduna State’s Approach, which is based on ‘People-focused, Practical and Proactive’, “When the Kaduna State Government introduced social safety net programmes following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, it faced a challenge. More than half of the residents lacked bank accounts to receive funds.

“The state identified three underlying reasons for its low financial inclusion: identity management was yoked with state and federal databases being disconnected from each other; identity verification and bank account registration were slow and depended on manual processes; and physical bank branches were too far away from residents.”

He further disclosed in the statement that the state adopted a people-focused, practical, and proactive framework to improve the material well-being of Kaduna residents.

“The state digitised government payments (pensions, farmer subsidies, emergency cash transfers) to help improve the lives of residents, create demand for bank accounts, and lead to higher account usage.

“Identity and bank account enrolment had to be easy and close to residents. The Kaduna State government deployed agents in urban clusters and tracked low agent coverage in remote areas via public maps.

“The state was proactive, as it intermediated between the federal government and banks to solve infrastructure gaps. In 2021, the state built software to link the state identity management agency (KADRIMA) records with NINs, which were then pushed to banking systems to register BVNs,” he stated.

On the challenges to financial inclusion, he said, “There is a stark gender gap in bank account ownership. Only 53 percent of women are financially included as compared to 71 percent of men, an 18 percent gap. This reflects lower handset ownership; poor digital literacy; persistent safety and cultural issues that block uptake; and a lack of utility as bank accounts are not designed for small informal traders.”

The finance commissioner added that moving from financial inclusion to creating real value in people’s lives also requires sustained efforts.

According to him, “Only 38 percent of the 2.5 million opened accounts were actively used with more than three transactions per month. Only 11 percent have access to credit, insurance, and investment products.”

He said that as part of its 2025-2026 strategy roadmap, Kaduna State will focus its efforts on five areas, including “Financial Literacy and Awareness – Promoting knowledge of benefits and consumer protection through schools and community programmes. Inclusive Access to Financial Services – Expanding access to affordable financial services, including savings, credit, insurance, and payments for households, women, youth, smallholders, and MSMEs.

“Identity Integration and Easy Account Enrolment: Making account opening and access to services easier by linking state enrolment points with national ID systems and simplifying onboarding processes. “Improving digital connectivity at state service points, strengthening the ability of ministries, agencies, and local governments to plan, coordinate, and monitor initiatives, and creating conditions that support agriculture and MSMEs, and institutionalisation and sustainability – embedding financial inclusion objectives into Kaduna State’s development policies and programmes, supported by effective coordination across ministries and LGAs.”

December 10, 2025
NGO reiterates N50b demand over spills

Environmental rights group, Save the Earth and Secure the Future (SESF), has reiterated its demand for N50 billion compensation and full cleanup of affected communities, and investigation of concerned National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA) officials over perceived “ecocide” linked to multiple oil spills in OML 40.

In a statement signed by Mr. Nehemiah Tobolayefa and Mrs. Tari Gideon, the group accused Nigeria Exploration and Production Limited (NEPL) and ELCREST of failing to clean up the October 28, 2023 spill and two subsequent spills, as well as allegedly dumping hazardous waste around the Opuama Flow Station.

“They have become the mouthpiece of the companies. A rat defends the snake that bites him, while the forest burns,” the group said, criticising community leaders who recently defended the operators.

SESF said a joint investigation visit occurred nearly two weeks after the 2023 spill and confirmed equipment failure. It cited earlier petitions and press briefings by community elders in 2024 which it said were ignored by the companies.

The group invoked Section 54 of the Petroleum Industry Act and EGASPIN guidelines to argue that NEPL and ELCREST are legally responsible for cleanup, including so-called legacy spills.

It also claimed rising deaths and cancer cases in the area, referencing the UNEP Ogoniland report.

Efforts to get reactions from NEPL and NOSDRA were unsuccessful, as both did not respond to earlier messages seeking comments on the matter.

December 10, 2025
FG rallies security agencies, telecoms, media against kidnapping

The federal government has called for stronger collaboration among security agencies, telecom operators, and the media to enhance Nigeria’s national response to the growing menace of kidnapping.

The National Coordinator National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), Office of the National Security Adviser, Major General Adamu Laka, made the call during a High Level Stakeholders’ Workshop on the Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell (MAAKFC), in Abuja, on Wednesday.

Established in December 2024, the Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell, domiciled at the NCTC, is responsible for coordinating the efforts of the military, intelligence and law enforcement agencies, and other stakeholders toward enhancing Nigeria’s capacity to prevent, disrupt, and respond to kidnapping, with the overarching objective of saving lives.

General Laka noted that kidnapping remains the common trend that runs across the country’s security threats, serving as a major source of financing for criminal and terrorist networks, and enabling criminal groups to procure logistics, perpetuate their reign of terror, and, in some cases, exert territorial control.

Laka said that the growing national and international concern over the trend of kidnapping in the country prompted strategic collaboration between Nigeria and the United Kingdom to establish the Cell, to coordinate the efforts of the military, paramilitary agencies and other critical stakeholders toward enhancing Nigeria’s capacity to prevent, disrupt, and respond to kidnapping.

According to the NCTC boss, despite notable successes achieved since the establishment of the Cell, certain operational gaps have been identified, particularly the need to integrate key stakeholders such as the media, telecommunication operators, and social media platforms into the kidnapping response framework.

“This workshop therefore provides a timely opportunity to deliberate on how these stakeholders can be effectively integrated into the Multi-Agency Kidnap Fusion Cell architecture to enhance national kidnap management,” he said.

Laka noted that the workshop forms part of the NCTC’s deliberate efforts to strengthen coordination, intelligence sharing, and operational synergy in curtailing the menace of kidnapping in the country.

He emphasized that the initiative aligns with the centre’s mandate to coordinate counterterrorism efforts nationwide, while supporting ite broader vision of becoming a Regional Centre of Excellence in Counterterrorism in West Africa and the Sahel.

According to NCTC boss, the Cell comprised analysts drawn from the military, intelligence services, and law enforcement agencies. He said the personnel, equipped with the requisite training, have generated actionable intelligence leading to the rescue and release of hostages, as well as the disruption of kidnapping syndicates across the country.

“To further close the gap between national coordination and state-level response, the Centre conducted a state expansion programme in July 2025 for Anti-Kidnap Commanders of the Nigeria Police Force and Department of State Services from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, to strengthen operational linkages and eliminating communication barriers,” Laka said.

The NCTC boss urged participants at the workshop to raise critical issues, share their experiences, and propose practical solutions that could support national efforts in rescuing victims, dismantling kidnap networks, and safeguarding our communities.

He also urged them to maintain close liaison with the Cell upon returning to their respective organisations, and to “provide continuous feedback that will support ongoing rescue operations and foster stronger interagency collaboration.”

The Acting High Commissioner, British High Commission, Gill Lever, said the UK government was highly impressed by the activities of the country since its establishment, assuring that the UK government would continue to support Nigeria’s counterterrorism and anti-kidnapooing efforts.

Head of UK’s National Crime Agency, Chris Gibson, said effective collaboration and communication among various critical stakeholders is key to the continued success of the cell.

He urged Nigerians to continue to support the government’s efforts, stressing that “anti-kidnapping is a responsibility of every citizen.”

December 10, 2025
Fubara denies rift with Rivers Assembly, vows to meet lawmakers’ demands

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has denied reports of a personal conflict with members of the Rivers State House of Assembly.

Speaking on Wednesday during the inauguration of the Ahoada-Omoku dualised road, Fubara explained that he had not met with the lawmakers because arrangements for such a meeting had yet to be made by the relevant leaders.

He noted that the Leader of the State Elders Council, Chief Ferdinand Anabraba, could attest to his ongoing efforts to engage with the lawmakers.

Fubara also said that the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Chief Nyesom Wike, whom he described as “our leader,” had not facilitated the meeting.

He refuted claims that he was unwilling to meet lawmakers or address their concerns.

The governor affirmed his commitment to meeting the legislators’ demands in the interest of peace, development, and progress in the state. He lamented being subjected to biased reports and called for stakeholders to work together, emphasizing that the unity and growth of Rivers State transcend personal matters.

Fubara said, “I do not have any disagreement or any anger anywhere with our members of the National Assembly or those of the State Assembly. Let me be very particular. I do not have any issue with the members of the State House of Assembly.

“I have made every effort, I believe that the leadership of the State Elders Council, led by Chief Ferdinand Anabraba, can attest to this. I have made every effort to meet with them, and the arrangement wasn’t for me to call them directly. It was for our leader, the Minister, to arrange the meeting, and till now that meeting has not been fixed.

“So when people go about saying I don’t want to meet with them or that I don’t want to meet their demands, that is not true. I don’t have any reason to do that.

I personally said whatever their need is, I am ready to meet it so that we can have peace in the State.

“So, please, I am saying it here. Whoever is telling you that I don’t want to meet with the members of the State House of Assembly is not true. I met with our leaders, and they said they will arrange a meeting. I don’t want to go behind them so that it won’t look like going behind is to divide the house. I am a gentleman and very principled. That is the reason I am saying it here.

“I have suffered so much due to a single story. A lot of times, things happened that nobody heard my side of. But I just have to deviate a bit to say it here. Please, Mr. Speaker, Leadership of the House, and other members, I have made every effort to meet with you. I am just waiting for that meeting to be fixed.

“The understanding we had is that they are going to arrange a meeting. So whoever is saying that I refused to meet you and there is an arrangement presented to me and I said I am not going to do it, it is not true. Please, we need to come together for the interest of the State. It is not about me, it is about the State”.

Fubara, who composed a new song for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, promised to drive the message of the Renewed Hope Agenda to all nooks and crannies of the state.

He recalled that he met with the President and later made a decision to move his supporters to the APC to enable Rivers to reciprocate the love Tinubu had shown him.

Fubara, who insisted that his administration was still standing because of Tinubu’s support, said the Renewed Hope was in the state with unimaginable vigour.

Speaking on his recent political decision, he said, “My supporters, I know you have been eager to hear from me. Though the story is everywhere. First, the reason we took this decision is not personal or for personal ambition, but to see that our State succeeds.

“We cannot thrive in an atmosphere of rancour. Development cannot come to our State when there is continuous disunity. You are also aware that we are standing because of the support of Mr. President.

“Let it be very clear to everyone that the Renewed Hope agenda is here with a vigour that you cannot imagine. We are out, and we are ready to drive it to every door in every local government area of Rivers State.

“Let me say here that we are out to move everywhere to preach without limitations the gospel of Asiwaju in Rivers State.”

Fubara thanked God for making the road inauguration possible, observing that people within and outside the state were wondering about the situation of his government.

The governor described the inaugurated road as a campaign promise he made to the people of Ahoada, recalling that he promised to execute the project if the people cast their votes for him and President Tinubu.

He said, “Today we have rolled our drums out, with our dancing shoes, to celebrate with our people. To tell them that even in the face of our challenges, we are still focused on delivering the dividends of democracy

First, this project was a campaign promise to the people of Ahoada and Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni when we came here to seek their support, when we came to commission the first phase of the project by my predecessor, the immediate past governor, Chief Barr. Nyesom Ezenwo Wike.

“We made a promise that if you support us, vote for us, and Mr. President too, because it wasn’t just myself alone, that we will extend the road to Omoku. We are here today to tell you that we have fulfilled that promise.

“This project will enhance the economic activities of this region. I also believe issues of insecurity experienced in this area before will be a thing of the past.

“The success of this project cannot only go to us, but it also goes to the people of Ahoada and Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni. Let me thank everyone of you and assure you that because of this continuous support, we have every reason to be coming here from time to time.”

He promised not to take the support of the people of Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni and Ahoada for granted but warned the people against disrespecting the simplicity of his administration.

The governor urged the people to be peaceful, saying that no part of the state could be developed in an atmosphere of rancour.

December 10, 2025
Prof. Duru gains recognition for work on gender, media reform, governance

Nigerian-American public-policy scholar, Prof. Sandra Chidinma Duru, has attracted attention for her work on gender, media reform, and administrative ethics across Africa and the diaspora, following a series of academic achievements, programme launches, and professional initiatives.

Born in Imo State, Duru registered her first NGO at 17 and has since operated across multiple sectors, including strategic communications, governance research, organic health production, and youth leadership development.

She holds a PhD in Public Policy & Administration from African American University (2025), where her dissertation examined the weaponisation of gender-based laws and their effects on public administration.

Her qualifications also include degrees from Escae Benin University, a certificate from the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, and various honorary titles from international institutions.

Duru was appointed Professor of Public Policy & Strategic Communications at the International American University, Los Angeles, in 2023 and received several professional fellowships and memberships in 2025 from organisations including the National Institute of Credit Administration, the Chartered Institute of Human Resource Management, and the Institute of Strategic Management of Nigeria.

She serves as President/CEO of Mgbeke Village Hut LLC in Texas, an organisation focused on public-health research, organic food production, and social education. Since 2012, she has worked as an independent media scientist and public-policy consultant in Nigeria and the United States.

Between 2023 and 2025, she coordinated the National Campaign Against Political and Gender-Based Disinformation and has provided gender-mainstreaming consultancy to the Nigerian Police Force Gender Unit (2021–2024).

She also directs the Students & Youth Leadership Integrity Programme.

Her earlier contributions include developing a proposed policy framework for a merged Ministry of Gender Affairs submitted to the African Union and the Presidency, and collaborating with the Standards Organisation of Nigeria on its Conformity Assessment Programme (SONCAP).

Duru has published several works in 2025, including Unheard Screams: The Hidden War on (Wo)men, Weaponizing Policy, The Laws They Twist, and Lie-Tasha: The Symphony of Deceit.

She founded Project TruthShield in the same year and produced the Lie-Tasha documentary series on disinformation and social manipulation. She also hosts media programmes including Bare It Out With Prof. Mgbeke and TUFF Connect With Sandra Duru, while producing Case Study Live and Youth Round Table.

In 2025, she received the Overall Best PhD Graduating Student Merit Award from African American University, alongside recognitions for peace and excellence from global research institutes.

Her previous honours include awards from the Global Women Leaders Forum, African Policy Institute, West African Media Network, and Transparency International Africa.

Duru maintains affiliations with the International Public Policy Association, African Studies Association, African Leadership Forum, Commonwealth Business Council, and several Nigerian professional bodies.

She has founded multiple organisations since 1999, covering areas such as organic farming, education, media production, and enterprise development.

Recent updates highlight her continued mentorship and grassroots engagement, with reports that a mentee recently won a local government election using governance frameworks developed under her guidance. Analysts note that her expanding body of work continues to contribute to discussions on governance reform, gender politics, and strategic communications in Africa and beyond.

December 10, 2025
Reps summon CBN governor over non-remittance of N16 trillion to government coffers

The House of Representatives on Wednesday invoked the provisions of order 19, rule 1 and 2 of its standing order, and its constitutional power to summon the governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to appear before the House Committee on Public Account to explain the non-remittance of about N16 trillion into the coffers of the federal government.

The CBN governor is to appear unfailingly before the committee on Tuesday, 16th December 2025, to explain the non-remittance of the identified Government revenues and present a concrete plan for the immediate payment of all outstanding amounts into the designated Federal Government accounts.

In a motion on notice, Chairman of the House Committee on Public Accounts, Bamidele Salam the apex bank failed to remit over N5 trillion operating surplus as N11 trillion government revenue to the government accounts.

He reminded members of the strategic and statutory role of the Central Bank in the administration of the Remita Revenue Collection System established pursuant to the Fiscal Responsibility Act, 2007, Central

Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007, the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), and other extant fiscal and financial management laws of the Federation.

He said under the Fiscal Responsibility Act, 2007, the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007, the Finance Act, 2020, and the relevant subsidiary legislation, the Central Bank of Nigeria is mandated to collect, account for, and remit all Federal Government revenues accruing through the Remita platform into designated Government accounts in a transparent, efficient and in line with regulatory standards.

He disclosed that the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) is duly empowered by Sections 85(5), 88, and 89 of the 1999 Constitution, as well as Order 20, Rule 6 of the Standing Orders of the House to consider the Auditor-General’s Reports and to conduct investigations into the general and specific areas of Nigeria’s public financial management.

He said in the course of the ongoing investigation by the Public Accounts Committee into the Auditor General’s Report of the 2022 financial year and the administration of the Remita Revenue Collection System by the Central Bank of Nigeria, covering the period from 1 March 2015 to 30 April 2016, the Committee uncovered various infractions.

He said the committee discovered “the CBN undisputed liability of ₦5.2 Trillion, in unpaid operating surpluses due to the FGN for the years ended 2016 to 2022, which has remained unremitted to date; refunds of Collected Charges by the Central Bank of Nigeria. (a) Amount collected by the Central Bank of Nigeria: ₦954,302,576.67, (b) Amount Refunded by the Central Bank of Nigeria: ₦0.00; c) Difference/Variation ₦954,302,576.67; (d) computed Interest at Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) of 27.25%: ₦2,329,027,728.92” (e) Total Amount Due for Refund: ₦3,283,330,305.05

“Discrepancy in Total Collections Claimed by the Central Bank of Nigeria: (a) CBN Claim of Total Collections (as per data submitted): ₦8,736,481,203.58; (b) PAC-Computed Central Bank of Nigeria Collections (from the same data):

₦19,834,886,731.77; (c) Difference/Variation: ₦11,098,385,528.19.

“Missing Balance Take-On on Central Bank of Nigeria Core System

He said further that the committee discovered a migration discrepancy amounting to ₦2,686,325,119,825.10 being outstanding and payable to the Federal Government’s Assets Recovery Account.

He expressed concern that “cumulatively, the Committee has uncovered that the Central Bank of Nigeria is indebted to the Federal Government of Nigeria in the sum of over ₦11 trillion, arising from the foregoing infractions and discrepancies.

“Despite several formal communications and invitations extended to the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria by the Public Accounts Committee to appear, provide explanations, and remit the outstanding amounts into designated Government accounts, the Central Bank of Nigeria has failed, refused, or neglected to honour the invitations or effect the required remittances as directed by the Committee.

“At a time when the nation is confronted with acute revenue shortages, heightened insecurity, and pressing developmental needs, the prompt recovery of all Government funds is critical for national stability and economic sustainability.

“The constitutional mandate of the Legislature to provide oversight over public finances and to safeguard the assets and revenues of the Federal Republic of Nigeria”.

The motion elicited heated disagreement from members on the mode to approach the issue, leading to a rowdy session and making the House uncontrollable.

While some members wanted the CBN governor invited to address the whole House at plenary, Ghali Mustapha (NNPP, Kano) suggested the setting up of an ad-hoc committee comprising relevant committees of the House, while Ahmed Jaha (APC, Borno) believed that he matter should be referred back to the Public Accounts Committee.

Jaha argued that taking the matter away from the Public Accounts Committee will affect the confidence of other committees that may have similar reports, while giving heads of government agencies more confidence to disregard invitations from the House.

Sada Soli (APC, Katsina) said the President should take special notice of the information contained in the report, considering the fact that it was brought to the House by a constitutional committee headed by a member of the opposition.

He asked the House to invoke order 19 of its standing order and summon the CBN governor to appear, failing which, the House will take appropriate actions.

Speaker Abbas, who presided over the plenary, was, however, not happy with the rowdy nature of the House, cautioning that their actions were unparliamentary, warning that they would refer members to the House Committee on Ethics.

He said members cannot achieve anything by shouting, adding that those who were not in support of referring the matter to the Public Accounts Committee were free to vote against it.

In a voice vote that sounded equal, the House resolved to refer the matter to the Public Accounts Committee, while asking the CBN governor to appear before the committee unfailingly on Tuesday, December 16.

December 10, 2025
FG unveils three documents on teachers’ development, two others

The federal government has unveiled three key policy documents to address teachers’ education, Almajiri education, and drugs and substance abuse in secondary schools and tertiary institutions.

The policy documents were launched yesterday by Minister of Education, Dr Olatunji Alausa, alongside the Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Sa’id Ahmad, representatives from UNESCO and Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).

The policy documents included: national teachers’ policy and its implementation guidelines; the national policy on Almajiri education and its implementation guidelines; and the national policy on drug and substance abuse in secondary schools and tertiary institutions.

Alausa said the ministry has adopted an 80 per cent implementation and 20 per cent policy development model in line with international standards.

The minister said that Nigeria’s education reforms must now translate into measurable outcomes across all states.

He appreciated the continued support of development partners, including UNESCO, UNICEF, and others, for Nigeria’s education sector.

The minister stated that the new policies would either improve existing ones or address areas where no policy previously existed.

Alausa stressed that policy is just 10 per cent of the work, adding, “Implementation is the heart of what we do, and the commissioners will drive this work, while the Federal Government will provide the technical support and resources required.

“The first of the three policies presented is the National Teachers’ Policy alongside its implementation guidelines. The policy is designed to strengthen teacher quality, upgrade competencies, and improve professional development.”

Alausa said the government had accelerated the digitalisation of teacher training programmes and would soon launch a digital platform for continuous professional development.

He added that the government was working to ensure that all public school teachers are licensed by the Teacher Registration Council to produce the best students.

The minister said the second policy document on Drug and Substance Abuse in Schools was meant to address the rising rate of drug and substance abuse among students in secondary schools and tertiary institutions.

“This is the first time Nigeria is developing a national policy and implementation guideline on drug abuse in schools,” the minister said.

He added that the policy incorporated counselling and behavioural support but affirmed that the government would not hesitate to punish repeat offenders.

Alausa said, “We must protect our youth. Addiction destroys lives, and President Bola Tinubu believes strongly in the capacity of Nigerians.”

Also speaking, the minister of state for education said the new policies would directly attack the problems of education in the country.

The minister said, “These documents compliment the Nigeria Education Sector Renewal Initiative and reinforce our commitment to ensure that no child is left behind.

“The policy documents respond to the high-impact deliverables assigned to the education sector and reflect strong alignment with national priorities and the strategic outcomes envisioned for our country.

“To achieve our aspiration, it is not enough to design policies. We must translate them into measurable results.”

Kwara State Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, Lawal Olohungbebe, pledged to fully implement the new policies.

He emphasised that while policies were formulated at the federal level, implementation rested squarely with the states.

“Most of the implementation steps can easily be captured in our 2025 project plans for those who have not gone beyond that stage,” he explained.

He pledged the commitment of all state commissioners of education to ensuring the policies translate into concrete results across the federation.

“We’ll do our best to ensure that every part of these policies is well implemented. We are strategic, decisive, and deliberate. We will do everything we can,” he stated.

December 10, 2025