The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • ‘Why Seyi Tinubu needs maximum security’

    ‘Why Seyi Tinubu needs maximum security’

    President, Friends of Seyi Tinubu (FOST) Humanitarian Foundation, Adejorin Tai Manuel, has said the son of the President, Seyi Tinubu, needs maximum security because of his active engagements, which involve movement from one location to another.

    In a statement, Manuel was reacting to the comments made by Nobel Laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka, regarding ‘excessive’ security escort for the president’s son.

    He said, “The security around him today is not an abuse of power; it is a protective necessity. Nigeria has faced insecurity for over 20 years. No serious nation going through such challenges would allow the President’s first son to move around without protection. Any attempt to harm him would not only embarrass the President but also the entire nation.

    “What makes Seyi Tinubu’s own case more visible today is simple. He chooses to be useful and actively engaged. He works closely with young people, communities, NGOs, and various sectors. Because of his constant public engagements, invitations, and community interactions, he frequently moves from one location to another, and as the President’s son, he must be protected.

    “Many people forget that the issue of security around the families of political leaders did not start with Seyi Tinubu, nor with the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Anyone familiar with Abuja knows that the children and family members of top government officials have always had state-provided security across multiple administrations. This is not new, strange, or unique.

    “Importantly, Prof. Soyinka himself acknowledged that Seyi approached him with respect. That is who Seyi is. If he were arrogant or entitled, Baba Soyinka may not even have realized he was present, and the scene would have appeared as the film set he thought it was.

    “Those who know Seyi in Abuja and Lagos can attest to his humility and modesty. It is widely known that he often drives himself. The paraphernalia of power is not new to him. His father has been a Senator, a two-term Governor of Lagos State, and a successful businessman long before becoming President. Seyi has grown within the realities of public office for decades while also building his own businesses.”

  • Youths hail Tinubu for military intervention in Benin Republic

    Youths hail Tinubu for military intervention in Benin Republic

    Youths under the auspices of Nigerian Youths Arising (NIYA), have commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Senate for military intervention in Benin Republic following a failed coup attempt.

    The group described the intervention as decisive step and a bold demonstration of Nigeria’s commitment to defending democracy within the West African sub-region.

    In a statement by its President General, Comrade Ben Emeruwa, and Publicity Secretary, Comr Chukwuemeka Innocent, NIYA expressed deep concern over what it called dangerous resurgence of military dictatorship across Africa, particularly in West Africa.

    The group noted that the continent, after decades of struggle against colonial rule and years of consolidating democracy, is witnessing a troubling reversal marked by frequent military takeovers.

    It condemned the ugly trend of military incursions into governance, warning that unchecked military coups threaten not only Africa’s political stability but also global peace. 

    NIYA urged the United Nations, African Union, ECOWAS, and  especially the Nigerian government to intensify efforts to curb the spread of authoritarianism.

    While emphasizing Nigeria’s historical leadership in championing democratic values across Africa, the group called on federal government to continue playing a frontline role in safeguarding the Africa continent’s democratic gains.

    “Nigeria has always been at the forefront in the struggle for attaining democratic freedom in Africa during the colonial era, we must continue to lead the fight to sustain this hard fought democracy in Africa. 

    Nigeria must support all efforts to repel and contain this spread of military violence which intends to take us back to the early post World War 2 era. Africa has come a long way to go back now into the trenches of authoritarian rule by despots”, it added. 

    It equally called for continuous vigilance and collective resistance from African citizens, especially young people to prevent the continent from sliding back into dictatorship.

    “We commend the move done by the Nigerian Senate and President Tinubu a few hours ago by approving military assistance to the West African country of Benin Republic where a military coup was narrowly foiled though tensions are still not dowsed. Yet, we must persevere.

    “We are at a critical crossroad in the history of Africa. We must be remembered as the generation of youths who spoke against, fought against, and consciously repelled military dictatorship rule in Africa”, the statement reads.

  • AEPA lauds NUPRC for transparent release of frontier exploration fund to NNPCL

    AEPA lauds NUPRC for transparent release of frontier exploration fund to NNPCL

    • …hails Komolafe’s leadership in strengthening regulatory credibility

    The African Energy Policy Alliance (AEPA) has lauded the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) for its transparent handling and timely release of the Frontier Exploration Fund (FEF) to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), describing the action as “a model of regulatory–industry synergy for the rest of the continent.”

    In a statement issued on Thursday, Dr. Randy Amuche, Executive Director of AEPA, said the Commission’s confirmation of the approval and release of over $185 million and N14.9 billion to NNPCL reinforces NUPRC’s reputation under Gbenga Komolafe’s leadership as a regulator committed to accountability, professionalism, and transparent resource governance.

    AEPA further noted that the Commission’s prompt dismissal of claims that it withheld the fund reflects a maturing regulatory culture guided by evidence-based processes.

    “The NUPRC, led by Engr. Gbenga Komolafe has once again demonstrated exceptional regulatory discipline. By explaining that the Frontier Exploration Fund is domiciled with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and not with the Commission, and that disbursement follows rigorous evaluation of NNPCL’s work programmes, the NUPRC has set a continental benchmark for transparency,” the statement reads.

    Dr Amuche praised the Commission’s decision to contract PwC to independently evaluate NNPC’s claims before approving payments, saying it reflects a commitment to financial integrity and best-practice oversight.

    “From the initial release of N14.9 billion and $45 million, to the final tranche of $140 million approved on November 27, the NUPRC demonstrated procedural discipline that boosts investor confidence. Such diligence is precisely what Africa needs as countries seek to unlock frontier basins from Uganda to Namibia,” he said.

    AEPA also applauded the seamless coordination between the NUPRC and the NNPC, describing the relationship as a model of how regulators and national oil companies should collaborate to drive national and continental energy security.

    “What we are witnessing between the NUPRC and NNPC is a productive, functional relationship rooted in mutual respect for institutional mandates. The regulator demands evidence; the national oil company meets the requirements; and both work together toward expanding exploration in frontier basins,” Dr Amuche observed.

    He urged other African nations reforming their petroleum governance structures to study Nigeria’s approach, noting that credible, transparent regulatory practices remain central to improving global investor perception of Africa’s energy markets.

    “For Africa to compete and grow, we need institutions that are predictable, professional, and transparent. The NUPRC’s handling of the Frontier Exploration Fund is a strong demonstration of how regulatory integrity strengthens the entire energy ecosystem,” he said.

    AEPA also encouraged stakeholders to rely on verified information and avoid “unsubstantiated claims” that undermine trust in public institutions.

    The continental organisation reaffirmed its support for Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to strengthen exploration funding, deepen frontier basin development, and expand domestic reserves in line with global energy transition realities.

    “Nigeria is setting the pace. Properly supervised frontier exploration, as currently driven by the NUPRC under Engr. Gbenga Komolafe is essential not just for national growth but for Africa’s collective energy future,” he added.

  • UNIPASS to bridge foreign study gap for Nigerian students

    UNIPASS to bridge foreign study gap for Nigerian students

    Renowned international education consultancy, UNIPASS, has said it would bridge the study gap for Nigerian students who aspire to study abroad by expanding access to quality higher education.

    Speaking at the official launch of UNIPASS Nigeria in Abuja on Thursday, its Chief Executive Officer, Alvin Atsegwasi, said the organisation is committed to creating transparent, accountable pathways for students seeking education abroad while also supporting vulnerable groups through scholarship programmes.

    He stated, “We also support scholarship programmes targeted at critical communities. Scholarship for people with disabilities.”

    Atsegwasi urged Nigerian youths abroad to contribute to national development.

    “At UNIPASS, we don’t only support Nigerians going abroad. We also promote opportunities for foreigners to come and study here in Nigeria,” he added.

    He noted that partnerships with Nigerian education institutions like the Isaac Balami University of Aeronautics and Management are central to its mission.

    “We are proud to be part of that. We are encouraging foreigners to come back to Nigeria,” he said.

    Atsegwasi explained that the UNIPASS model helps eliminate risks linked to unregulated study programmes and migration challenges, stressing that the organisation would work closely with the government and stakeholders to improve educational outcomes for Nigerian youths.

    “UNIPASS is here to change that story. We will work hand-in-hand with the Nigerian government and all stakeholders to create the same structured and transparent pathway for our youth.

    “Our promise to parents, communities, and our dear Nigeria is very simple: we will get you there.”

    Co-founder of UNIPASS Limited, Sanpreet Sehmi, said the organisation’s mission is built on ensuring equal access to quality education for all students, regardless of academic performance.

    “Potential lives everywhere, and opportunity should live everywhere too,” Sehmi said.

    She added, “It proves that a world-class international standard is not something students must travel across oceans to find. It is something we can build, nurture, and proudly offer right here.

    On her part, Executive Director of UNIPASS, Maureen Mutsiya, described the new Abuja office as “a passport to global education” for Nigerian students.

    “This office is more than a physical space. It is a commitment to work with you, step by step, as you pursue education beyond borders,” she said.

    Mutsiya added that more than 1,200 students have benefitted from UNIPASS guidance in the past two years across destinations including Canada, Australia, the UK, the US, New Zealand, Ireland, and Germany.

    “We know that trying to study abroad can feel overwhelming. That’s where UNIPASS comes in, and we turn confusion into confidence,” she said.

  • Fusengbuwa ruling house disowns KWAM 1, says Fuji star not eligible for Awujale throne

    Fusengbuwa ruling house disowns KWAM 1, says Fuji star not eligible for Awujale throne

    The Fusengbuwa Ruling House of Ijebu-Ode, on Thursday, officially disowned Fuji music icon and Olori Omooba of Ijebuland, Otunba Wasiu Ayinde, KWAM 1, stating that he is not a member of the royal family.

    The Fusengbuwa Ruling House is next in line to produce the Awujale of Ijebuland following the demise of the late Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona on July 13, 2025, who reigned for over 65 years and passed at the age of 90.

    KWAM 1 had on Tuesday submitted a letter to the head of the Fusengbuwa, expressing his intention to contest for the Awujale stool, claiming his legitimacy through the Jadiara unit of the ruling house.

    However, it was gathered that the Fuji star is actually from the Fidipote ruling house, according to a letter signed by the late Oba Adetona when he conferred on him the chieftaincy title of Olori Omooba of Ijebuland.

    KWAM 1’s submission has sparked mixed reactions among Ijebuland princes and princesses, with many questioning how a member of the Fidipote house could contest a stool meant for Fusengbuwa princes.

    The Jadiara unit subsequently wrote a petition to the Fusengbuwa chairman and the Ogun State Government, asserting that KWAM 1 is not part of their family.

    Addressing journalists at Agunsenbi Ule Nla, the seat of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House, spokesperson of the Fusengbuwa nomination committee, Omoba Abiodun Adesanya Ogidan, reiterated that Wasiu Ayinde is “not our family member.”

    He explained that an investigation into family history, as well as consultations with all units of the ruling house, including Jadiara, confirmed that KWAM 1 is neither a Jadiara nor has his lineage endorsed by the Olori-Ebi of the unit he claimed.

    Read Also: Why I’m qualified to become Awujale, by KWAM1

    Omoba Ogidan stressed that the Fusengbuwa Ruling House will not admit non-family members, warning that doing so would amount to introducing “fake people” into the lineage.

    He added that history cannot be rewritten to include outsiders.

    He also clarified that the collection and submission of the official nomination forms had closed, adding that what KWAM 1 submitted was a family lineage form, not a nomination for the Awujale stool.

    The names of the nominated princes and princesses are scheduled to be announced on December 15, 2025, at Bisrod Hall, GRA Ijebu-Ode, in line with the established guidelines.

  • Tinubu transmits 2026-2028 MTEF/FSP to the Senate for approval

    Tinubu transmits 2026-2028 MTEF/FSP to the Senate for approval

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday transmitted the 2026/2028 Medium Term Expenditure and Fiscal Strategy Paper to the National Assembly for consideration and approval.

    Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau read the president’s letter of request during plenary.

    The letter, titled “Submission of the FGN 2026 to 2028 Medium Term Expenditure Framework and Fiscal Strategy Paper,” reads in part, “It is with pleasure that I forward the 2026-2028 Medium Term Expenditure Framework and Fiscal Strategy Paper (MTEF and FSP) for the kind consideration and approval of the Distinguished Senate.

    Read Also: Tinubu deserves support, continuity in 2027 – APC chieftain Obilade

    “The 2026-2028 MTEF and FSP were approved during the Federal Executive Council meeting of December 3rd, 2025.

    “As the 2026 budget of the Federal Government will be prepared based on the parameters and fiscal assumptions of the approved 2026-2028 MTEF and FSP, I seek the cooperation of the National Assembly for expeditious legislative action on the submission.”

  • Don: Nigerian varsities must tackle poverty, unemployment

    Don: Nigerian varsities must tackle poverty, unemployment

    • By Daniel Olugbodi, BABCOCK

    A professor of Strategy and Entrepreneurship, Olalekan Asikhia, has urged higher institutions to redesign curricula to meet national needs, foster human‑capital development, promote modern economic sectors, and support social‑economic mobility.

    Professor Asikhia, the Vice Chancellor of Caleb University, Imota, Lagos, who delivered the 57th inaugural lecture of Babcock University, held at the main campus in Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State, said universities across the country have a decisive role to play in reducing poverty and stimulating economic growth.

    In his lecture themed, “It is Time For Functional Businesses to Kill Poverty In Africa, he said universities can empower individuals to break the cycle of poverty by designing curricula that meet national needs.

    He said this approach not only prepares graduates for the dynamic demands of the modern economy but also positions universities as pivotal contributors to national competitiveness and economic development.

    To achieve this, he recommends that universities must go beyond traditional teaching and research to become active engines of entrepreneurship and innovation hubs.

    He noted that these multifaceted roles position universities as “Critical agents in Nigeria’s transition from a resource‑dependent economy to a knowledge‑driven society.”

    Citing a three‑dimensional approach of scientific, educational, and cultural poverty alleviation, Prof. Asikhia said that from a scientific perspective, university‑led research and technological innovation can generate practical solutions for economic challenges in impoverished regions.

    He explained that educational poverty alleviation aims to improve access to quality education for disadvantaged groups, provide financial support, and nurture intellectual and vocational skills to break the cycle of intergenerational poverty.

    The cultural dimension, he added, emphasizes “promoting values, fostering social cohesion, and encouraging innovative thinking that drives sustainable community development and empowers individuals toward lasting prosperity.”

    In his recommendations, Prof. Asikhia called for collaboration with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) to register student start‑ups and enable them to operate while still in school.

    He stressed the need for flexible curricula that align with the National University Commission (NUC) guidelines, adding, “This speaks to the need for flexible curricula that are in tandem with the National University Commission (NUC). Student entrepreneurs should be empowered to overcome traditional resource constraints, reduce operational costs, and access global markets.”

    He also highlighted the importance of university‑led research that addresses socio‑economic challenges and community‑service initiatives that directly benefit local populations.

    “The presence of higher institutions of learning in a community should foster a unique environment where innovation, entrepreneurship, and collaboration thrive,” he said.

    “Universities should serve as incubators for start‑ups, providing resources such as research facilities, mentorship, and access to funding within the community,” he said.

    Aside from these, he submitted that business owners should think beyond profit-making to building start-ups as well as providing viable platforms for a university-industry collaboration, which will provide students with the relevant exposure to real-world industry practices, thereby equipping them with the essential 21st century skills and increasing their employability.

    “This symbiotic relationship between universities and local businesses enhances job creation and stimulates economic growth,” he added.

    Similarly, he drew attention to the need to collaborate with the universities for poverty alleviation, a movement that represents a coordinated global approach to integrate poverty reduction into their core missions through education, research, and social impact.

    “This global network underscores the evolving role of higher education institutions beyond traditional teaching and research, positioning them as key players in societal transformation,” he said.

    The lecturer emphasised the urgent need for Nigerian universities to adopt a more proactive, market‑oriented approach to equip graduates with the skills and mindset necessary for self‑reliance and societal advancement.

  • Monarchs oppose parallel chiefs’ affiliations

    Monarchs oppose parallel chiefs’ affiliations

    The Urhobo Traditional Rulers Council has kicked against chiefs of the 24 kingdoms joining parallel associations.

    It said defaulters will face sanctions.

    The resolution was reached at a meeting of the monarchs on Tuesday, at the Ovie of Oghara’s palace, Ethiope West council area of Delta state.

    Speaking on behalf of the council, the Ovie of Idjerhe Kingdom, His Majesty Udurhie I outlined the decisions reached during the session.

    He said the monarchs were concerned about the rise of rival chieftaincy groups. 

    “We are now aware that there are a lot of split-up groups who call themselves Urhobo Traditional Chiefs Association. Others say they are in several names. But this communiqué is issued to put a stop to that unnecessary acrimony,” the royal father stated.

    Reaffirming the established hierarchy, he said the traditional structure remained inviolable, adding: “Every chief in each kingdom are members of the traditional council of that kingdom. Hence, no Urhobo chief is allowed outside his kingdom to go and form a parallel chieftaincy association.”

    He said the directive carries firm consequences for defaulters.

  • Institute set for maiden convocation lecture

    Institute set for maiden convocation lecture

    • By Tayo Alhassan, OOU

    The Olusegun Obasanjo Leadership Institute (OOLI), Abeokuta, Ogun State, is set for its maiden convocation lecture, billed for December 13.

    The institute noted that the Guest speaker is Prof. Banji Oyelarin-Oyeyinka, Senior Special Adviser on Industrialisation, African Development Bank Group.

    The lecture has the theme: “Leadership and Economic Development.”

    It noted that the convocation lecture will connect lessons from Singapore’s institutional excellence and Africa’s innovation imperative to practical pathways for inclusive industrialisation and human-centred growth.

    Sequel to the event, OOLI announced highlights from its recently concluded leadership training sessions featuring Vice President for Social and Economic Development, International Leadership Foundation (ILF); Dr Victor A. Koh, and Founder and President, International Leadership Foundation (ILF), Prof. Delanyo Adadavoh, among other outstanding international resource persons and facilitators.

    Their lectures—on transforming leadership and governance and Africa’s resource-powered future—set the stage for OOLI’s Maiden Convocation Lecture.

    The institute remains committed to its mission of equipping values-driven leaders to translate vision into measurable socio-economic outcomes, among others.

  • ‘YABATECH students to get funding, training, career opportunities’

    ‘YABATECH students to get funding, training, career opportunities’

    • By Temitope Adejuwon, YABATECH

    The career prospects of students of Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) have received a major boost as the Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers (CIS) announced a robust package of funding support, training programmes, and career pathways aimed at grooming young professionals for Nigeria’s financial markets.

    The CIS delegation, led by its Registrar/CEO, Mr. Ayo Adeonipekun, who represented the President and Chairman of Council, Mr. Oloropo Dada, visited the institution to address senior management and students on the opportunities available through the Institute’s certification programmes.

    Speaking at the session, the Registrar described YABATECH as “Nigeria’s first tertiary institution and an enduring symbol of academic excellence,” noting that the visit forms part of the Institute’s drive to build a vibrant pipeline of young professionals for the capital market. He explained that the CIS- established by Act 105 of 1992 – offers globally recognized certifications that open doors to unlimited career opportunities locally and internationally.

    He highlighted two key certification routes: the flagship CIS Professional Examination and the Certified Securities and Investment Support Specialist (CSISS) examination, both now fully digitised and accessible to candidates anywhere in the world.

    He added that the syllabus has recently been expanded to include emerging areas such as digital assets, cryptocurrency, and blockchain-based investment models, in line with the Federal Government’s 2025 digital economy agenda.

    In a development that excited many students, the Registrar announced that CIS is intensifying efforts to provide financial support for young Nigerians who wish to pursue the certification but are constrained by funding.

    He revealed that an endowment-based support scheme is being designed in collaboration with industry employers and CIS alumni, as he personally committed to sponsoring at least three YABATECH students annually through his foundation.

    Other members of the CIS delegation reinforced this commitment. They disclosed that several partner organizations are willing to fund examinations for qualified students, citing the example of a company currently financing 10 students from Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) who have met the required academic standard.

    Responding, the Rector, Dr Ibraheem Abdul, praised the institute for its forward-looking initiatives and expressed the college’s readiness to expand collaboration with CIS in curriculum development, co-teaching arrangements, and industry immersion programmes.

    He disclosed plans to introduce an institutional loan/grant scheme to support students seeking professional certifications and appealed to CIS to consider rebate-based encouragement to ease the financial burden.

    The rector emphasized that industry engagement is crucial to restoring students’ confidence in education amid increasing distractions.

    “The youth of today need inspiration,” he said. “We want professionals from the industry to come into our classrooms and show them the real possibilities that education and certification can unlock.”

    Dr Abdul noted that YABATECH recently produced students who qualified for major professional examinations while still in school, stressing that more can be achieved through strengthened partnerships and student-focused incentives.

    The CIS delegation, in their final remarks, assured the rector of continued support through scholarships, training via the CIS Academy, mentorship, retirement planning sessions for staff, and industry placements for outstanding students.