The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Obi assures bereaved family of support

    Obi assures bereaved family of support

    Presidential Candidate of Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 election, Mr Peter Obi has assured family of three brothers who died in Lagos fire incident last year’s Christmas eve of support and encouragement.

    The trio, Mr. Steve Onyeka Omatu (40), Mr. Casmir Nnabuike Omatu (39) and Mr. Collins Kenechukwu Omatu (37) who died in the fire that gutted Great Nigeria Insurance House, Lagos Island were from Omatu family of Uzoakwa in Ihiala Local Government Area of the state.

    Speaking during the burial, Obi sympathized with the deceased family, promising to be in constant touch with them.

    He prayed God to grant the deceased eternal rest and immediate family fortitude to bear the irreplaceable loss.

    Read Also: Obi donates N5m to Nnewi school

    He said, ” I know when such incidents happen, the tendency to ask questions is there. And there’s every reason to ask questions in this circumstance, especially considering the lives involved.

    “But nobody can question God. Only him knows why he allowed what happened to happen. When I heard the news, I inquired to know the family and the burial date.

    “I would have attended the one held at Lagos, but I didn’t hear it on time. That’s why I insisted to be here.

    “We pray that the Almighty who it pleased to call them home at this time, as sad as it is, grant them eternal rest in his kingdom.

    “May he also grant the immediate family and all of us who are mourning them fortitude to bear the irreplaceable loss.”

  • Obi donates N5m to Nnewi school

    Obi donates N5m to Nnewi school

    Presidential Candidate of Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 election, Mr Peter Obi has presented check of N5million to Immaculatata Girl’s Model Secondary School, Nnewi, Anambra state.

    Addressing both students and staff of the school, Obi said the donation was in support of the development of the school.

    He urged the students to take education seriously, especially as female, describing education as springboard and strongest instrument for national development.

    He challenged them with the likes of Director General, World Trade Organisation (WTO), Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Prof Oby Ezekwesili, Prof Chimamanda Adiche and Prof Stella Okunna who have carved a niche for themselves in their various fields.

    Read Also: Obi assures bereaved family of support

    “You can’t go wrong with knowledge. See the way the likes of okonjo iweala, obi ezekwesili are being celebrated, The new Chairman of Fidelity bank is a woman. The list is endless.

    “Education can take you to where you don’t imagine. This can happen, just because of knowledge, not money,” he added.

    Obi, former governor of Anambra state pledged continued commitment to supporting education at various levels.

  • Foundation holds annual community outreach, marks one year of Wakati Isegun

    Foundation holds annual community outreach, marks one year of Wakati Isegun

    The V & J Foundation, a subsidiary of Divinity Meets Humanity, recently held its annual community giveaway, bringing together members of the community to receive, give, and celebrate the sovereignty of God through acts of service and compassion.

    The event also served as a moment of reflection and thanksgiving, as participants marked 52 weeks of consistent spiritual engagement through Wakati Isegun (Hour of Victory) — a faith-based platform dedicated to the teaching of God’s Word and the strengthening of believers.

    Since its inception, Wakati Isegun has focused on helping individuals experience spiritual growth, deliverance, and liberation, while encouraging faith, hope, and purposeful living. 

    Over the past year, participants have shared testimonies of transformation, renewed faith, and divine intervention, which organisers describe as evidence of God’s continued work through the platform.

    Beyond spiritual engagement, the annual giveaway underscored the V & J Foundation’s commitment to community upliftment and practical expressions of faith. Through the initiative, the Foundation reinforced its belief that faith should extend beyond words into tangible actions that positively impact lives.

    Attendees at the event described the atmosphere as one of gratitude, unity, and expectation, as individuals from different walks of life gathered to celebrate God’s faithfulness and to support one another. 

    The programme featured moments of thanksgiving, reflection, and community interaction, highlighting the importance of collective responsibility and shared purpose.

    Read Also: 1,000 receives foundation’s health care

    As the initiative enters a new year, organisers reaffirmed their commitment to expanding both the spiritual and humanitarian impact of Wakati Isegun and the V & J Foundation. With a focus on service, faith, and community development, plans are underway to reach more people and deepen engagement across communities.

    Yemisi Wole Akinleye, the convener of Wakati Isegun encouraged attendees to continue sharing the message of faith and hope with their families and friends, while remaining actively engaged with the platform.

    The event concluded on a note of optimism and unity, reflecting a shared conviction that collective effort and faith-driven service can transform lives and communities.

    The V & J Foundation, operating under the banner of Divinity Meets Humanity, remains committed to its core mission: bridging divinity with humanity through faith, service, and compassion. 

  • FG explains EU delisting impact on Nigeria–EU financial transactions

    FG explains EU delisting impact on Nigeria–EU financial transactions

    The Federal Government has explained that Nigeria’s removal from the European Union’s list of high-risk jurisdictions for anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism will lead to the easing of compliance requirements on financial transactions between Nigeria and EU member states.

    This development will create a more favourable environment for trade, investment and cross-border financial flows.

    In a statement issued on Friday by the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), the government explained that transactions involving Nigerian individuals, businesses and financial institutions will no longer be subjected to the enhanced due diligence measures typically applied to high-risk countries.

    According to the NFIU, “This is expected to ease compliance burdens, support smoother cross-border financial flows, and enhance Nigeria’s attractiveness for trade, investment and financial partnerships with EU Member States.”

    The agency said the delisting comes at a critical time in the global economic landscape and is expected to strengthen Nigeria’s standing as a dependable economic partner for European markets.

    “In an increasingly competitive global trade environment, the delisting further strengthens Nigeria’s positioning as a reliable economic partner, reinforcing Europe’s role as a key destination for Nigerian exports and a source of investment and financial services,” the statement said.

    Reacting to the development, the Chief Executive Officer of the NFIU, Hafsat Abubakar Bakari, described the decision as a strong endorsement of the country’s reform efforts across the financial and regulatory landscape.

    “Beyond the immediate economic benefits, this outcome strengthens international confidence in Nigeria’s financial system and underscores our standing as a cooperative and responsible participant in the global financial architecture,” Bakari said.

    She explained that the NFIU has played a central role in coordinating national anti-money laundering, counter-terrorist financing and counter-proliferation financing efforts, while also improving the quality and use of financial intelligence to support supervisory, investigative and prosecutorial authorities nationwide.

    “This achievement is the product of collective national effort. While we welcome this progress, it also places a clear responsibility on all stakeholders to sustain momentum, guard against complacency and continue strengthening our systems in response to evolving financial crime risks,” she said.

    The NFIU said it will continue to engage with the Financial Action Task Force, the Inter-Governmental Action Group against Money Laundering in West Africa (GIABA), the European Union and other international partners, while working closely with domestic stakeholders to ensure that Nigeria not only maintains compliance but also improves the strength and resilience of its AML/CFT/CPF framework.

    “This decision represents an important external validation of Nigeria’s steady progress in strengthening its AML/CFT/CPF framework. It demonstrates that consistent reforms, effective coordination and strong national ownership can translate into tangible international outcomes,” Bakari said.

    The European Commission, in its own assessment, acknowledged that Nigeria and other countries removed from the list had strengthened the effectiveness of their AML/CFT regimes, closed major technical and operational gaps and fulfilled the commitments set out in their FATF Action Plans, which led to their earlier removal from the FATF grey list in June and October 2025.

    The NFIU in the statement said Nigeria’s delisting reflects the political will and leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whose administration prioritised financial system integrity, inter-agency coordination and compliance with international standards.

    It also credited the outcome to sustained collaboration among the National Assembly, law enforcement agencies, regulators, supervisors, the judiciary, the private sector and development partners.

    The NFIU, Nigeria’s national centre for the receipt, analysis and dissemination of financial intelligence related to money laundering, terrorist financing and related offences, said it will continue to work with both domestic and international partners to safeguard the integrity of the country’s financial system.

  • Radda flags off N21bn life, death benefits for Katsina workers

    Radda flags off N21bn life, death benefits for Katsina workers

    Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, on Monday in Katsina launched the disbursement of N21 billion in accrued liabilities for life and death benefits to state and local government workers.

    The ceremony, held at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium, marked payments covering entitlements up to October 2025. With this phase, the state government has now released a total of N45.89 billion to 14,560 beneficiaries across state, local government, and local education authority levels since the administration assumed office.

    Radda reiterated that addressing pension arrears was a central priority even before he contested for governor, stressing the importance of treating retirees with dignity. 

    He noted that the State and Local Government Pension Reform Committee had verified a total liability of N23.99 billion as of August 2023, comprising N10.35 billion for state staff and N13.64 billion for local government and local education authority workers.

    He stated that since inception, N18.56 billion has been approved for 4,743 state beneficiaries, while N27.33 billion has been released for 9,817 beneficiaries at the local government and education authority levels.

    The governor also announced the signing of the New Contributory Pension Law 2025, describing it as a landmark reform designed to align the pension system with global best practices, eliminate administrative delays, and ensure prompt payment of benefits. 

    He inaugurated the Katsina State Pension Bureau, chaired by Alhaji Ibrahim Boyi, and the Katsina State Pension Transition Board, chaired by Alhaji Garba Sanda, to drive the implementation of the new scheme.

    He disclosed that, as of December 31, 2025, the Pension Bureau had collected more than N19 billion in combined employer and employee contributions and generated over N668 million in investment income since June 2025.

    Radda commended the state’s civil service for its professionalism and efficiency, assuring workers of continuous improvements in welfare, timely promotions, and expanded training opportunities. 

    He also highlighted the revitalisation of the Local Government Service Commission to guarantee full career development for local government workers.

    Earlier, the Head of Civil Service, Mallam Falalu Bawale, commended the governor for releasing N46 billion to settle long-standing gratuity liabilities owed to retired and deceased civil servants. 

    He assured that workers across the state would reciprocate through commitment to duty and support for the administration’s development initiatives.

    The Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in Katsina State, Comrade Hussaini Hamisu Yanduna, also lauded the governor for demonstrating strong political will and prioritising workers’ welfare.

  • Next Awujale: Olowu commends Fusengbuwa house as kingmakers await nomination list

    Next Awujale: Olowu commends Fusengbuwa house as kingmakers await nomination list

    The Olori Ebi (head) of Keregbetu of Ijebuland, Prince Adegboyega Olowu, has commended the three heads of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House of Ijebuland – Otunba Lateef Adebayo Owoyemi(Olori – Ebi), Otunba Adedokun Ajidagba(deputy Olori -Ebi) and Prof. Fassy Yusuf(Vice Chairman)-on the successful nomination of candidates for the Awujale stool.

    The Nation reports that no fewer than 95 candidates, including Princess Oluwakemi Adetokunboh, AbdulFatai Arowolo, were on Monday, January 12, 2026 nominated for the stool of Awujale of Ijebuland which became vacant with the death of Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, who joined his ancestors July 13, 2025 after 65 years reign on the throne. 

    The Nation gathered the Fusengbuwa Ruling House will submit the list bearing names of the 95 nominees to the kingmakers(afobajes) any time from next Monday as the selection process enters yet another critical stage. 

    Commenting on the progress of the exercise, Olowu lauded the Fusengbuwa leaders, saying the successful nomination process, had proved to the world that the Olori – Ebis are men of integrity, who assiduously working in unison to achieve good results. 

    Read Also: Awujale stool: Kwam 1 protests exclusion from nomination

    He noted as the morning shows the day, the credible conduct of the nomination process would usher in a widely accepted candidate for the Awujale stool in the end. 

    The leader of the Keregbetu of Ijebuland, however, advised Governor Dapo Abiodun to remain neutral in the matter by allowing the family heads and Kingmakers to take the necessary steps regarding the selection process.

    He said that posterity won’t forget the role played by every individual involved in the Awujale selection process.

    “The vacant stool of Awujale should not be politicised because Ijebu is unique and more exposed than many other ethnic groups in the country,” he said.

  • Akwashiki planned to step down in 2027, says SDP National Chairman 

    Akwashiki planned to step down in 2027, says SDP National Chairman 

    The. Acting National Chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Professor Sadiq Gombe has disclosed late Senator Godiya Akwashiki, who died penultimate week, had signified intention not to seek re-election in 2027 following his failing health.

    He made this revelation on Thursday night in Lafia, Nasarawa State, capital during a special night of tributes organised by the party in honour of the former Senate Committee Chairman on Inter-Parliamentary Affairs.

    Addressing the solemn occasion which attracted political leaders across the party lines, the SDP National Chairman recalled that shortly before his death, Akwashiki had expressed concern that his failing health might affect his ability to serve effectively and had even contemplated stepping aside.

    This, Gombe said, was to ensure quality representation for his people—an action he described as a rare demonstration of responsibility and patriotism.

    The federal lawmaker died penultimate week at an Indian hospital at 52.

    Gombe described Akwashiki as a rare example of integrity, selfless service, and principled leadership whose impact would remain deeply rooted in the political history of Nasarawa State.

    The Chairman noted the late lawmaker lived a life defined by honour, compassion, and the fear of God, which earned him respect across political, ethnic and religious lines. Adding that his leadership style was anchored on service, accountability, and deep commitment to the welfare of his constituents.

    Read Also: 2027: Senator Agboola, over 50,000 PDP, SDP, ADC members defect to APC in Oyo

    Eulogising Akwashiki,  the SDP leader said: “While we mourn his departure, we are grateful to Almighty Allah for a life well spent. True leadership is measured not by years or titles but by the legacy one leaves behind. Senator Akwashiki’s legacy speaks for itself.”

    He prayed for the emergence of leaders who are God-fearing, accountable, and genuinely committed to public service.

    At the tribute night, other speakers, including Senator Suleiman Adokwe, Nasarawa State Deputy Governor Dr. Emmanuel Akabe, SDP leaders at national and state levels, elected officials, traditional rulers, and members of other political parties, highlighted the late senator’s dedication to dialogue, integrity, and grassroots development.

    They recalled his role in executing impactful constituency projects across communities in Nasarawa North Senatorial District, noting that he was widely regarded as one of the most effective lawmakers the state has produced since 1999.

    Special prayers were offered for the repose of his soul.

    Born in Angba Iggah, Nasarawa Eggon Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, the late senator was first elected into the Senate in 2019 and re-elected in 2023. He earlier served as a member of the Nasarawa State House of Assembly, where he rose to become Majority Leader and later Deputy Speaker.

    He also served in several key capacities in the National Assembly, including Chairman of the Senate Committee on Inter-Parliamentary Affairs, Vice Chairman of the Committee on Media and Public Affairs, and Chairman of the Senate Committee on Air Force.

  • Kano suspends doctors over scissors found in patient’s stomach

    Kano suspends doctors over scissors found in patient’s stomach

    The Kano State Hospitals Management Board has confirmed that the death of Aishatu Umar, a mother of five, was linked to medical negligence at the Abubakar Imam Urology Centre, a government-owned health facility in Kano.

    In a statement, the Board’s Public Relations Officer, Samira Suleiman, said a preliminary investigation ordered by the Executive Secretary, Dr Mansur Mudi Nagoda, revealed that surgical scissors were inadvertently left inside the patient’s body following a surgical procedure.

    Following the findings, the Board announced the immediate suspension of three medical personnel directly involved in the case from clinical duties. 

    It also disclosed that the matter has been referred to the Kano State Medical Ethics Committee for further investigation and possible disciplinary action in line with professional standards and existing laws.

    “The Board extends its deepest condolences to the family of the late Aishatu Umar and sympathises with them over this painful loss. We assure the public that negligence will not be condoned in any form,” the statement said.

    The incident came to public attention after reports emerged that Aishatu Umar died after experiencing prolonged complications from a surgery carried out at the facility.

    A relative of the deceased, Abubakar Mohammed, said Aishatu underwent surgery at the Urology Centre in September, after which she began suffering persistent and worsening abdominal pain. 

    Read Also: Police intercept explosives, drugs, arrest suspects in Kano 

    He alleged that despite repeated visits to the hospital, she was reportedly given pain-relief medication without comprehensive medical investigations.

    According to him, diagnostic scans conducted only a few days ago revealed that a pair of scissors had allegedly been left inside her body during the initial surgery.

    “She complained of severe abdominal pain for months after the surgery. Each time she returned to the hospital, she was given painkillers,” Mohammed said.

    “It was only recently that scans were done, and that was when doctors discovered that scissors had been forgotten inside her body. Another surgery was planned, but she died before it could be carried out,” he added.

  • NIMENA chair Sylvanus bags doctorate, leads MIMA 2026 voting

    NIMENA chair Sylvanus bags doctorate, leads MIMA 2026 voting

    The National Chairman of the Nigerian Institution of Marine Engineers and Naval Architects (NIMENA), Eferebo Sylvanus, has opened the year 2026 with notable accomplishments, earning a doctorate in Naval Architecture and Shipbuilding from the Marine Engineering Department of Rivers State University.

    He has also emerged as the leading nominee for the 2026 Maritime Industry Merit Award (MIMA), alongside other distinguished practitioners. The organisers are expected to announce the date for the conferment of the award in the coming days.

    Engr. Sylvanus, who was elected National Chairman of NIMENA last year in Port Harcourt—an affiliate of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE)—had pledged to elevate the organisation to international prominence. 

    Since then, he has established a journal house dedicated to publishing research and development work aimed at addressing maritime challenges in Nigeria and the sub-region, with the broader goal of contributing to Africa’s development.

    He has also taken steps to address weak regulatory standards and enforcement gaps in the maritime sector, issues that have historically resulted in significant revenue losses for the country. 

    His leadership is currently engaging regulatory agencies, policymakers, and key industry stakeholders to strengthen partnerships and enhance the institution’s profile.

    Meanwhile, friends and associates have extended goodwill messages, congratulating him on both his academic feat and his early professional achievements in the new year.

  • Ex-Senate Minority Leader dumps PDP for APC

    Ex-Senate Minority Leader dumps PDP for APC

    A former Senate Minority Leader, Simon Mwadkwon, has defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    Mwadkwon represented Plateau North in the 10th National Assembly and briefly served as Senate Minority Leader in 2023.

    He announced his defection during a visit to APC elders in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State, on Thursday.

    “I am here to formally announce my entry into the APC and to seek the counsel of party elders at the grassroots,” he said.

    Mwadkwon said his decision followed extensive consultations with constituents, political stakeholders, family members and associates across Plateau North, which comprises Barkin Ladi, Riyom, Jos North, Jos South, Jos East and Bassa local government areas.

    He described the move as a strategic realignment aimed at strengthening political collaboration and ensuring better representation of his constituents at the national level.

    “This decision is driven by the desire to work more effectively with leaders who share a commitment to improving governance and ensuring that the voices of our people are heard at key decision-making levels,” he said.

    Mwadkwon reportedly told party leaders that his defection was not merely symbolic but part of a broader effort to build and strengthen the APC in Plateau State ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    He also informed the elders of his intention to contest for the Senate seat in the 2027 elections.

    Mwadkwon had won the Plateau North senatorial election in 2023 on the platform of the PDP.

    However, his victory was overturned by the Court of Appeal, which nullified the election and ordered a rerun.

    The subsequent bye-election produced the current senator, Dachungyang Mwadkon, on the platform of the Action Democratic Party (ADP).

    The chairman of the APC Elders’ Council in Barkin Ladi, Solomon Bature, welcomed Mwadkwon into the APC, said the party remained open to all Nigerians willing to abide by its principles.

    Mr Bature urged party members to remain loyal and committed to the growth of the APC, describing the former minority leader’s defection as a positive development for the party.

    Party elders also offered prayers for Mr Mwadkwon and wished him success in his political aspirations.

    He was accompanied by several supporters, including former local government officials and party loyalists.

    Mr Mwadkwon’s defection is expected to boost the APC’s profile in Plateau State as political realignments intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections.