The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • FUT Daura matriculates 580 students, unveils plans for maritime, aviation programmes

    FUT Daura matriculates 580 students, unveils plans for maritime, aviation programmes

    The Federal University of Transportation, Daura (FUTD), Katsina State, has matriculated 580 newly admitted students and announced plans to expand its academic offerings to include programmes in maritime engineering and aviation technology.

    The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Umar Adam-Katsayal, disclosed this during the university’s third matriculation ceremony held in Daura. He said additional programmes earmarked for expansion include transportation security, smart transport systems, signal and control systems technology, and sustainable urban mobility.

    According to Adam-Katsayal, the university is making steady progress and is on course to complete the first phase of its growth pathway by 2028.

    He added that FUTD plans to integrate modern technology into teaching and learning through the introduction of smart classrooms and the expansion of virtual learning platforms to cater to its growing student population.

    The vice-chancellor also noted that sustainability initiatives, including solar-powered facilities and the development of a green campus, are being prioritised, while efforts are ongoing to strengthen collaborations with strategic partners.

    “The university is witnessing expansion in students’ enrolment, campus infrastructure, including lecture halls, laboratories, workshops, and staff accommodations.

    “Short and executive courses will soon be introduced to satisfy the needs of the working class and executive officers.

    ”We are also planning to intensify research efforts in autonomous vehicles and green logistics, as well as sustain staff capacity building and industry partnerships,” the V-C said.

    He stated that achievements and prospects are being recorded despite some challenges in running the institution’s affairs, urging the new students to embrace the core values the university stands for.

    The V-C said that the values will not only guide them through their academic sojourn, but will also shape them into becoming the future leaders in the transportation ecosystem.

    “You must therefore avoid all forms of social vices such as drug abuse, bullying, cultism, examination misconduct, theft, fighting, and be good ambassadors of your family.

    “Take note that the matriculation oath you have been administered will guide you, and the university will employ it in making decisions on any act of misconduct.

    “I therefore strongly state here that the university will not take it lightly with violators of its set rules and regulations,” Adam-Katsayal warned the students

  • ‎Modibbo Adama University confers honorary doctorate on Gov Otu ‎

    ‎Modibbo Adama University confers honorary doctorate on Gov Otu ‎

    Cross River Governor Bassey Otu was at the weekend conferred with an Honorary Doctorate by the Modibbo Adama University (MAU), Yola, in recognition of what the institution described as his far-reaching contributions to governance, public service and humanitarian development across Nigeria. 

    ‎The honour was conferred during its combined 29th and 30th convocation ceremonies.

    ‎The conferment of the Doctor of Humanities (Honoris Causa) followed the collective approval of the University Senate and Governing Council, a decision described by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ibrahim Umar, as “a unanimous academic salute to a life of service defined by integrity, inclusion and measurable societal impact.” 

    ‎According to him: “This honour is reserved for leaders whose influence transcends office and geography, touching lives and strengthening institutions.”

    ‎Prof. Umar noted that Governor Otu’s public career exemplifies people-centred leadership and humane governance. 

    “His approach to power has been guided by compassion and conscience,” the Vice-Chancellor said. “Governor Otu has consistently demonstrated that governance is not merely about authority, but about responsibility to humanity.”

    ‎The University stated that the object of the award was to celebrate Governor Otu’s outstanding contributions to social development, national cohesion and humanitarian service, adding that his leadership philosophy resonates strongly with the core values of Modibbo Adama University. “He is a bridge-builder in public life,” Prof. Umar observed, “a leader whose governance prioritises inclusion, institutional strengthening and sustainable development.”

    ‎In his acceptance remarks, Otu described the award as “a profound affirmation that service to humanity is the highest credential any leader can earn.” 

    He added: “I receive this doctorate not as a personal trophy, but as a tribute to the collective efforts of all those who believe that governance must uplift the human spirit.”

    ‎Otu further reflected on the responsibility that accompanies such recognition. “An honorary doctorate is not a destination; it is a renewed call to duty,” he said. 

    “It challenges one to deepen the commitment to justice, equity and compassion in public life. Today, Modibbo Adama University has reminded me that leadership must always be accountable to the people it serves.”

    ‎Touching on education and national development, the Governor remarked that universities remain the soul of any progressive society. “Institutions like MAU are not just centres of learning; they are crucibles where the future of our nation is forged,” he noted. “I dedicate this honour to young Nigerians whose dreams depend on leadership that is purposeful and humane.”

    ‎He also paid tributes to the University for what he described as its “courage to celebrate values, not just titles.” According to him, “by honouring service, integrity and humanity, Modibbo Adama University has reinforced the moral compass of leadership in Nigeria.”

    ‎“I would be remiss if I departed this historic gathering without saluting my brother and friend, Professor Afolabi Ogufekun,” Governor Otu declared. “I made it a personal duty to be here today, no matter the circumstances, because he is a man I hold in the highest esteem—both for the depth of his intellect and the strength of his character.”

    ‎Reflecting on Professor Ogufekun’s impact, the Governor added, “I have followed with keen interest the remarkable work he has done here in Adamawa State. His contributions speak loudly and stand worthy of emulation. For some of us who are relatively new in leadership, these are the kind of exemplary footsteps we are eager to follow and carry forward.”

    Read Also: Gov Otu inaugurates rural development officers, urges them to be worthy ambassadors

    ‎Otu also commended the Modibbo Adama University community for its academic vitality and discipline. “I must sincerely thank the entire university family,” he said, “from the security personnel I encountered today, to the impressive body of students whose performances clearly rise above average. What I have seen here reassures me that this institution is firmly on a path of growth and excellence.”

    ‎Expressing optimism about the future of the University, he noted, “With the calibre of leadership and commitment evident here, I am confident that Modibbo Adama University will continue to expand in stature, influence and scholarly relevance.”

    ‎The Governor concluded on a note of gratitude and fellowship, saying, “I deeply appreciate all those who journeyed with me to witness this memorable occasion. Your presence has added meaning to this honour, and I remain profoundly grateful for the solidarity and goodwill that surround this moment.”

    ‎The Vice-Chancellor, on behalf of the Governing Council, Senate and staff, expressed gratitude for Governor Otu’s contributions to national development. “We are proud to be associated with a leader whose legacy speaks beyond politics,” Prof. Umar said, adding that the University “looks forward to sustained engagement with leaders who inspire hope and unity.”

    ‎The ceremony concluded on an atmosphere of academic splendour and civic pride, as Modibbo Adama University reaffirmed its tradition of recognising excellence in service. For Governor Bassey Edet Otu, today’s honour stood not only as a laurel of achievement, but as an enduring reminder that true leadership is measured by its impact on humanity.

  • Tinubu’s reforms yielding positive results – Idris

    Tinubu’s reforms yielding positive results – Idris

    The Federal Government has declared that the economic reforms instituted by President Bola Tinubu, specifically the removal of petrol subsidy, foreign exchange unification and the 2026 tax laws, are yielding positive results, citing a resurgence in foreign investment and the successful disbursement of N174 billion in student loans.

    The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, spoke on Saturday while delivering the 34th Convocation Lecture of the Federal University of Technology, Minna, titled “Youth and Nation Building: Navigating Opportunities in an Era of National Reforms”.

    Idris stated that the administration’s bold and ambitious reforms were necessary to reset the economic landscape and end the cycle of doing the same thing repeatedly while expecting different results noting that contrary to fears of an exodus, multinational corporations are renewing their interest in the Nigerian market.

    “The renewed attention of domestic and foreign investors, occasioned by these reforms, is opening up opportunities in every sector of the economy.

    “Many firms that had previously considered exiting the Nigerian market are now making a U-turn, given the scale and steadiness of the stability we have seen in the last 18 months. Serious investors are paying attention and responding positively,” Idris said.

    He highlighted that the Central Bank of Nigeria’s monthly survey of business confidence has recorded 13 consecutive months of expansion while citing a recent visit by Shell Plc’s CEO, Mr. Wael Sawan, who attested to the improved investment climate, stating that the new stability propelled the oil giant to invest for the long term.

    Addressing the controversial tax laws, which took effect on January 1, 2026, Idris dismissed reports of negative impact as misinformation and scare-mongering.

    “In recent weeks, many salary earners have received higher take-home pay following implementation,. The goal was never to take more from Nigerians but to simplify taxation and make it fairer and more transparent” he asserted, adding that the objective was to simplify taxation rather than overburden citizens.

    On the impact of these reforms on the education sector, the Minister revealed that the National Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has received nearly 1.5 million applications since its launch in May 2024.

    “Over ₦174 billion has so far been disbursed as tuition fees and monthly upkeep allowances to more than 900,000 beneficiaries,” Idris confirmed, describing the scheme as incontrovertible proof of the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

    Read Also: 2027: Tinubu will surprise the naysayers in north – Ganduje

    The Minister also provided sobering demographic projections, noting that within 25 years, Nigeria will become the world’s third most populous country with 400 million people, surpassing the United States.

     He challenged the graduating students to reject cynicism regarding government programmes, citing the success of the 3 Million Technical Talents (3MTT) programme and the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation as evidence of available opportunities.

    “Opportunities do not automatically transform lives unless they are sought, seized, and harnessed,. They are merely potential in raw form and of little use of left untapped. It is possible for affordable credit, student loans or technical and vocational programmes to exist and yet but to benefit, either due to lack of awareness or because you have given in to the cynical voice that says you don’t bother about such opportunities,” he warned.

    Idris urged the graduates to engage with the ongoing reforms and leverage technology for empowerment rather than distraction.

  • Edo doesn’t rely on FAAC to pay salaries- Commissioner

    Edo doesn’t rely on FAAC to pay salaries- Commissioner

    Edo Commissioner for Finance, Engr. Emmanuel Okoebor, has said that the State does not rely on allocation from the federation account to pay its salaries.

    Okoebor said workers in the State Government payroll have received their January salaries.

    He was reacting to report that payment of January salaries might be delayed due to disagreement in sharing allocation from FAAC.

    Read Also: Sunday Igboho lauds Tinubu, Southwest governors, Obas over freedom

    The Edo Finance Commissioner said preparations were made ahead for salary payment before funds ade disbursed from FAAC.

    “We don’t rely on FAAC to pay salaries in Edo. We have paid January salaries,” he stressed. 

  • A’Ibom community gets borehole water, phone charging centre

    A’Ibom community gets borehole water, phone charging centre

    Natives of Ikot Ebo Ikono community in Uyo local government area of Akwa Ibom state have heaved a sigh of relief following the installation of a 5,000 litres borehole facility for them

    The villagers are also excited that the problem of charging their phones have been permanently solved. Hitherto, they used pay to spend between N800 and N1,000 traveling to far-flung areas to charge their phones.

    Their nightmarish experiences were overturned last Saturday by a couple, Mr Mrs Itoro Atakpa and Mr Cavil Inwang, an aide to Governor Umo Eno on Digital Marketing and Social media.

    Atakpa, while presenting the items to the community on behalf of the husband, a native of the community,said it was part of connecting to their roots and giving back to their kith and kins.

    Atakpa said the150 feet borehole has the capacity to store 5,000 litres of water, adding that the facility is powered by two 644 watts bifacial solar panels.

    “Those solar panels power a pump that pumps water from underground up to the tank that you see there. That tank is 5,000 liters in volume and it supplies water to all of the output points that we’ve installed here. 

    “So there’s an outlet at the residence of the pastor of Qua Iboe Church. There is another outlet at our auntie’s house behind.

    “And then as you can see behind me, we have three outlets that are meant for the community, for anyone who wants to come and use water, those are available publicly”, she said.

    Read Also: A’Ibom community resolves land dispute with oil firm

    On the charging of phones, she said: “And as we know in this day and age, people need their phones. People need their phones to communicate with their families, to run their businesses, to be productive, even to use the internet and so on. So that was one of the challenges that we saw here. 

    “So, typically, a lot of people will pay transport fare of N500 to a place that is not close to here and pay 300 to charge their phones, pay 500 to come back. 

    “So it’s not easy. It’s like an investment. So some people will go days without turning on their phone because they can’t make that investment”.

    The elated village head of the community,Etteidung Samuel Moses Udoh thanked Governor Umo Eno for remembering Ikot Ebo by appointing their son, Mr Cavil Inwang as his aide.

    Udoh said that they used to go to Urua Nkpafi to charge phone but with the intervention the villagers are now happy.

  • Ribadu, Aiyedatiwa, two others receive MAU Yola’s honourary doctorate degrees

    Ribadu, Aiyedatiwa, two others receive MAU Yola’s honourary doctorate degrees

    National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu and Ondo Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa have bagged honorary doctorate degrees from the Modibbo Adama University (MAU), Yola.

    Cross River Governor Bassey Otu and his Zamfara counterpart Abdulaziz Yari were the other two prominent personalities bestowed similar honour on Saturday when MAU held its 29th and 30th combined convocation.

    The four were handed the symbols of their recognition just as over 7,000 regular graduands of the 2023/2024 and 2024/2025 sessions for whom  the combined convocation was organised were also awarded their respective undergraduate, postgraduate and academic doctoral degrees.

    Read Also: TETFund sponsors 185 workers in MAU Yola

    Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor Ibrahim Umar, said the four honorary degree recipients were carefully selected for reward in recognition of their exceptional contributions to a better Nigeria.

    He said that since its establishment in 1981, the university has been contributing significantly to the intellectual and moral development of Nigerian youths, but said the university faced certain challenges, including lack of all-round perimeter fencing to fully secure the expansive main campus.

    Adamawa Governor Ahmadu Fintiri, who attended the convocation as a guest, announced plans by his government to construct a five-kilometre internal road network within the university.

    The Governor said the project is part of his administration’s commitment to sustaining its partnership with the Federal Government and improving infrastructure in tertiary institutions across the state.

  • Police arrest 10 suspects over murder of four villagers in Ebonyi

    Police arrest 10 suspects over murder of four villagers in Ebonyi

    The Ebonyi Police Command has arrested 10 suspects in connection with the killing of four persons during a violent communal attack on Okporojọr Village in Oso Edda Community, Edda Local Government Area of the state.

    The attack, which occurred on January 29, 2026, reportedly involved persons from Ndukwe Community in Amasiri, Afikpo Local Government Area, and is believed to be linked to a long-standing land dispute between the two neighbouring communities.

    According to the Police, four villagers—three men and one woman—died in the incident while several mud houses were razed. Windows of a church building were also vandalised, and harvested paddy rice destroyed during the violence.

    In response to the incident, the Commissioner of Police in Ebonyi State, CP Adaku Uche-Anya, fdc, on January 30, 2026, visited the affected community for an on-the-spot assessment of the damage. 

    Upon receiving the report of the attack, she ordered the immediate deployment of tactical squads and personnel of the Police Mobile Force (PMF) to the area to prevent further breakdown of law and order.

    The Police Command said the deployment has successfully restored calm and normalcy in the community.

    While addressing residents of Okporojọr Village, CP Uche-Anya commiserated with them over the loss of lives and destruction of property, assuring that justice would be served. 

    She disclosed 10 suspects had already been arrested in connection with the killings, adding that investigations were ongoing to apprehend other individuals involved.

    The Commissioner warned communities across the state against resorting to self-help or taking the law into their own hands, stressing that the Police would not tolerate acts of violence arising from communal or land disputes. 

    She further assured residents that security presence in the area would be sustained until the situation is fully resolved.

    Read Also: Nwifuru sacks all political appointees, monarchs, community leaders in Ebonyi community

    The Youth President of Okporojọr Village, while speaking during the visit, thanked the Police for their swift response and appealed for a permanent security presence in the community. 

    CP Uche-Anya assured him that a standby security arrangement had already been put in place.

    Chairman of Edda Local Government Area praised the Ebonyi State Government and the Nigeria Police Force for their prompt intervention. 

    He commended the affected community for remaining law-abiding despite the provocation and assured that the state government was committed to achieving a lasting solution to the dispute.

    The Ebonyi State Police Command reiterated its resolve to maintain peace and security across the state and urged residents to channel grievances through lawful means.

  • Defection: Governors remain leaders of APC in states, Tinubu declares

    Defection: Governors remain leaders of APC in states, Tinubu declares

    President Bola Tinubu has declared that governors under the All Progressives Congress (APC) remained leaders of the party in their respective states.

    Tinubu made the declaration on Saturday at the Official Reception of Gov. Agbu Kefas into the APC held in Jalingo.

    Represented by Sen. Kashim Shettima, Vice President, Tinubu announced that Gov. Kefas has assumed the leadership of the party in Taraba by the virtue of his defection from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) into the APC.

    He expressed his determination to support the governor and his cabinet to bring development to Taraba.

    He noted that the governor was  making efforts to unite the state and harmonise the diversities in the state to attain unity.

    The president urged the people of the state  to rally behind the governor and support him to succeed.

    He expressed satisfaction with the defection of a governor in the North East geopolitical zone, calling on both Adamawa and Bauchi to join the party at the centre.

    Earlier, Prof. Nentawe Yelwatda, National Chairman of the APC commended Kefas for being courageous by decamping to the ruling party.

    Yelwatda said that Kefas did not make a mistake by leaving the sinking PDP to the APC.

    He described the decision as a big achievement as it would enable the governor to get the economy of the state and the youth and women of the state to be productive.

    According to him,  the state will now be a part and parcel of the winning party in 2027.

    He assured all the members of the APC, both old and new of equal opportunities in the activities of the party, advising the governor to stand for everybody as one.

    He further advised  the governor to unite the party and not descriminate.

    In his remarks, Sen. Godswill Akpabio, President of the Senate congratulated the people of Taraba  and the governor, saying the defection would benefit the state more development and enhancement of infrastructure including the strengthening of security.

    Read Also: 2027: Tinubu will surprise the naysayers in north – Ganduje

    Represented by Sen. Barau Jibril, Deputy Senate President, Akpabio said that the decision of the governor to defect to APC would enable the state to enjoy equal opportunities in all spheres of governance at the national level.

    ‎Gov. Kefas said that the event was to shape the future of Taraba, encouraging all in attendance and everybody  not to dwell in the past but focus on the future.

    He said the move was for the people of Taraba not for his personal interests.

    “The move is to bring jobs for the jobless and business for entrepreneurs. To serve the state and be committed to the people and show results and fulfillment through discipline and patriotism,” he said.

    ‎The governor thanked APC for the opportunity and handing him the broom to sweep away division, poverty, tribalism and insecurity.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that Kefas won under PDP in the 2023 governorship election.

    He decamped to APC in 2025 and secured his membership registration card.

    (NAN)

  • EPL: Madueke shines as Arsenal go seven points clear

    EPL: Madueke shines as Arsenal go seven points clear

    Noni Madueke starred as Arsenal extended their lead at the top of the table to seven points as they beat Leeds United to record their first league win in four Premier League matches.

    Madueke was not meant to start the game and was a late replacement for winger Bukayo Saka, who limped out of the warm-up with a hip problem.

    And Madueke, who has had to play the role of back-up for most of this season, took his chance to impress as he curled in an excellent cross for Martin Zubimendi to nod Arsenal in front.

    The home side had started the game well but Arsenal pinned Leeds back for large parts of the first half, winning a number of corners and throw-ins to increase pressure on the Leeds defence.

    Read Also: UCL: Madueke double at Brugge helps Arsenal keep 100% record

    It was from one of these corners that Arsenal doubled the lead when Madueke’s curling delivery caught out goalkeeper Karl Darlow and he could only punch the ball into his own net.

    Viktor Gyokeres then made sure it was a comfortable end to the game when he fought to get on the end of Gabriel Martinelli’s inviting cross to make it 3-0 before substitute Gabriel Jesus added a fourth late on.

    The expectation was on Arsenal to deliver a result coming into this game after their recent form, but they recorded an important victory to put pressure on their title rivals, Manchester City and Aston Villa, who are not in action until Sunday.

  • MEXC Unveils Industry-First Gold Launchpad: Zero-Fee Tokenized Gold Investments Arrive as Gold Prices Hit Record Highs

    MEXC Unveils Industry-First Gold Launchpad: Zero-Fee Tokenized Gold Investments Arrive as Gold Prices Hit Record Highs

    MEXC, a leading global cryptocurrency exchange, today announced the launch of the industry’s first dedicated Gold Launchpad — a groundbreaking event that enables users to buy tokenized gold at half price with zero trading fees. As gold price continues its historic bull run, surpassing multiple all-time highs in 2025 and early 2026, MEXC is democratizing access to the world’s most enduring safe-haven asset through blockchain technology.

    The new Gold Launchpad allows users to seamlessly acquire tokenized gold; digitally backed 1:1 by physical gold stored in secure vaults without the traditional barriers of high fees, complex custody, or geographic restrictions. With zero fees on purchases and trades within the Launchpad, investors can now participate in gold’s upward trajectory at the lowest possible cost, making it an ideal entry point for both seasoned traders and newcomers exploring real-world assets (RWAs) in crypto.

    Why Now? Gold’s Unstoppable Rise in Price

    Gold has emerged as one of the top-performing assets in recent years, driven by persistent inflation concerns, geopolitical uncertainty, central bank buying, and its proven role as a hedge against market volatility. 

    Spot gold (XAU/USD) has repeatedly shattered records, climbing steadily through 2025 and maintaining strong momentum into 2026. Investors worldwide are searching for simple, cost-effective ways to buy gold, invest in gold, and track the live gold price — trends that have reached all-time search highs.

    MEXC’s Gold Launchpad directly addresses this demand by combining the stability of physical gold with the speed, transparency, and accessibility of blockchain. 

    Users benefit from:

    • Zero Fees: No transaction fees on the Launchpad, maximizing returns.

    • Instant Accessibility: Buy tokenized gold in minutes using USDT or other major assets.

    • Full Backing & Transparency: Every token is backed by audited physical gold, with real-time redemption options.

    • 24/7 Trading: Trade gold anytime, just like any crypto asset, with deep liquidity on MEXC’s proven platform.

    Exclusive High-Leverage Trading and High-Yield Opportunities

    Taking innovation further, MEXC now officially supports 500x perpetual leverage on Futures, an industry-exclusive feature that empowers traders to amplify positions and unlock the next level of growth. 

    Combined with the platform’s high-yield MEXC Earn products offering up to 300% APY, users have unparalleled tools to grow their portfolios, whether hedging with gold, pursuing high-risk strategies, or earning passively.

    “This launch marks a pivotal moment for real-world asset tokenization,” said a MEXC spokesperson. “As gold prices continue their remarkable ascent, we’re proud to offer the first dedicated Launchpad that puts more value directly into users’ hands. Whether you’re protecting wealth or capitalizing on gold’s bullish trend, MEXC makes digital gold and gold-backed cryptocurrency easier and more affordable than ever.”

    A Game-Changer for Crypto and Traditional Investors

    The Gold Launchpad positions MEXC at the forefront of the RWA revolution, bridging traditional finance and decentralized markets. For crypto natives, it introduces a high-utility stable asset; for traditional gold investors, it offers the convenience of blockchain without compromising security or backing.

    Users can get started today by visiting the MEXC platform, navigating to the Gold Launchpad section, and participating with just a few clicks.

    About MEXC

    MEXC Global is a leading digital asset trading platform committed to expanding financial access worldwide. With deep liquidity, a wide range of trading products, and a focus on technological innovation, MEXC empowers users to explore, trade, and grow with confidence across crypto, traditional finance, and beyond.

    For media inquiries, please contact MEXC PR team: media@mexc.com

    Risk Disclaimer:

    The information provided in this article regarding cryptocurrencies does not constitute investment advice. Given the highly volatile nature of the cryptocurrency market, investors are encouraged to carefully assess market fluctuations, the fundamentals of projects, and potential financial risks before making any trading decisions.