The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • FG has shown commitment to resolving Ogoni injustices, says Fubara

    FG has shown commitment to resolving Ogoni injustices, says Fubara

    The Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, at the weekend, affirmed that the Federal Government has demonstrated commitment to addressing all injustices done to the people of Ogoni.

    Fubara called on all stakeholders in Ogoni to reciprocate the ongoing genuine dialogue of the government by embracing unity.

    A statement signed by the Rivers Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information and Communication, Dr Honour Sirawoo, said the governor spoke during the Ogoni Day celebration.

    Fubara described Ogoni Day as a powerful symbol of resilience, identity, and the historic struggle of the Ogoni nation.

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    The governor paid tributes to the trailblazing role of the Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People (MOSOP), saying the group’s peaceful struggle brought global attention to issues of environmental justice, equity, and human rights in Ogoniland and the rest of the Niger Delta region.

    He noted that the sacrifices and courage of the Ogoni people remained a defining chapter in Nigeria’s socio-political and democratic history.

    The governor emphasised that Ogoni Day provided an opportunity for reflection and renewed commitment to the ideals that have sustained the Ogoni struggle over the decades.

    He stressed that embracing unity of purpose was critical to advancing the collective interest of the people.

    He said his administration remained steadfast in its support for a united MOSOP and a united Ogoni people, adding that he was committed to supporting all genuine efforts to promote peace, dialogue, reconciliation, and sustainable development in Ogoniland.

  • JUST IN: NEMA confirms 25 dead, 14 missing in Yobe boat mishap

    JUST IN: NEMA confirms 25 dead, 14 missing in Yobe boat mishap

    The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has disclosed that 25 persons have died and 14 others are missing following a boat mishap in Nguru LGA in Yobe State.

    According to NEMA, 13 people were rescued after the mishap occurred around 7:48 p.m. on Saturday.

    The canoe was conveying 52 passengers travelling from Adiyani town in Guri LGA of Jigawa State to Garbi town in Nguru LGA of Yobe State.

    The passengers were reportedly returning from fishing and farming activities when the canoe capsized midway across the water channel.

    Following the incident, the Director-General of NEMA, Zubaida Umar, has activated the Agency’s Maiduguri Operations Office to deploy an Emergency Response Team (ERT) to support ongoing rescue efforts.

    The statement by NEMA read, “The NEMA team will coordinate with the Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (YOSEMA) and other relevant stakeholders to strengthen the search and rescue operations.

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    “NEMA was alerted to the incident by YOSEMA. The mishap occurred at approximately 7:48 p.m. on Saturday, 3rd January 2026, and involved a canoe conveying 52 passengers travelling from Adiyani town in Guri LGA of Jigawa State to Garbi town in Nguru LGA of Yobe State. The passengers were reportedly returning from fishing and farming activities when the canoe capsized midway across the water channel.

    “At the time of reporting, 25 persons have been confirmed dead, while 13 persons have been successfully rescued through the combined efforts of emergency responders and community volunteers. 14 persons remain missing, and search and rescue operations are still ongoing.”

    Umar expressed sympathy to the families of the deceased and reaffirmed the commitment of the agency to continue working closely with Yobe SEMA, the Local Emergency Management Committee (LEMC), local divers, and community volunteers to support the operation.

    She appealed to riverine communities to prioritise safety by avoiding the overloading of boats and ensuring the use of life-saving devices during water transportation.

  • Two injured as bus crashes into truck in Lagos

    Two injured as bus crashes into truck in Lagos

    The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has confirmed that two passengers sustained serious injuries following a road traffic collision that occurred in the early hours of Sunday along the Heritage Garden inward Oshodi–Oke corridor of Lagos.

    According to LASTMA, excessive speed was the primary cause of the incident. The long red Tata commercial bus with registration number MUS 507 XX, reportedly rammed into a moving truck, which fled the scene immediately after the incident without visible damage.

    LASTMA operatives stationed within the corridor promptly responded after receiving a distress alert. On arrival, officers rescued two passengers who were trapped inside the damaged bus and immediately activated emergency response procedures.

    The Lagos State Ambulance Services (LASAMBUS) was contacted and swiftly arrived at the scene, administering first aid before transporting the injured victims to a medical facility for further treatment.

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    According to LASTMA spokesperson Adebayo Taofiq, “LASTMA officers apprehended the driver of the commercial bus for investigation, while the damaged vehicle was evacuated from the roadway to eliminate obstruction, prevent secondary collisions, and ensure the uninterrupted flow of vehicular traffic along the expressway.”

    Reacting to the incident, the General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, expressed sympathy to the injured passengers and wished them a speedy and full recovery.

    He described the incident as regrettable yet avoidable, stressing the dire and often irreversible consequences associated with speed-related traffic infractions.

    Bakare-Oki seized the opportunity to renew a strong appeal to both commercial and private motorists to exercise prudence, restraint, and responsibility while driving, by strictly observing prescribed speed limits as clearly displayed on government-approved highway signage.

    “Speeding remains one of the most prevalent causes of road traffic crashes and needless loss of lives. Adherence to speed regulations is not optional; it is a civic and moral obligation essential to safeguarding all road users,” he stated.

  • NCC decries scarcity of learning materials for visually impaired

    NCC decries scarcity of learning materials for visually impaired

    The Nigerian Copyright Commission has expressed concern over the acute shortage of learning materials available to blind and visually impaired persons in the country.

    Director-General of the Commission, Dr John Asein, disclosed that less than one per cent of published materials in Nigeria are produced in accessible formats such as Braille, audio, or digital text compatible with screen-reading technologies.

    Asein spoke in commemoration of World Braille Day 2026, observed annually on January 4 to celebrate Braille as one of humanity’s most transformative innovations for literacy, independence, and dignity. The theme for this year’s celebration is “Let the Blind Read.”

    In a statement marking the occasion, Asein said the limited availability of accessible learning materials reflects the broader challenges confronting persons with visual impairment.

    He noted that World Braille Day serves as a reminder that inclusion is not an act of charity, but a legal obligation, a moral imperative, and a development necessity.

    The statement further read, “For the Nigerian Copyright Commission, this commemoration is framed by a simple but powerful call to action: Let the Blind Read!

    “For centuries, Braille has enabled blind and visually impaired persons to access knowledge, participate meaningfully in education, and live with dignity. This year’s focus on inclusion, the bridging of digital divides, and the advancement of accessibility in education resonates deeply with the Commission’s long-standing advocacy.

    “Under the banner ‘Let the Blind Read,” we reaffirm our belief that the copyright system must serve not only creators and markets, but also learners, students, and readers with print disabilities. As we have consistently emphasised, access to knowledge is a right, not a privilege.

    “Yet, the reality in Nigeria remains deeply troubling. Available studies indicate that less than one per cent of published materials in the country are available in accessible formats such as Braille, audio, or digital text compatible with screen-reading technologies. This acute “book famine” mirrors broader challenges across much of the developing world and exposes the systemic barriers confronting blind and visually impaired persons.

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    “The Commission is therefore again drawing attention to the fact that the cost of inaccessibility is not merely social exclusion, but long-term harm to education, employment prospects, and the inclusion of the print disabled in the broader national development agenda.

    “It is against this backdrop that the Copyright Act, 2022, assumes particular significance. The Act marks a decisive transition from charity-based access to a rights-based framework for inclusion. Through section 26, Nigeria has domesticated the Marrakesh Treaty, expressly permitting the reproduction, distribution, and cross-border exchange of works in accessible formats for persons with print disabilities.

    “Importantly, the Act also establishes safe-harbour protections for Authorised Entities, recognising that access must be enabled lawfully, responsibly, and in a manner that builds trust throughout the book value chain.

    “In furtherance of this statutory mandate, the Commission has issued new Guidelines to strengthen the safe-harbour regime. These Guidelines provide much-needed clarity, transparency, and safeguards for the production and dissemination of accessible-format copies. We are confident that they will encourage broader institutional participation, rebuild confidence among rights holders and intermediaries, and substantially increase the availability of books in Braille and other accessible formats. This regulatory effort will be complemented by sustained advocacy, awareness-raising, and capacity-building initiatives targeting publishers, libraries, educational institutions, and other concerned stakeholders.”

  • Odu’a investment appoints Bamiduro as executive director

    Odu’a investment appoints Bamiduro as executive director

    The Board of Odu’a Investment Company Limited has appointed Abiodun Bamiduro as an Executive Director and Group Chief Financial Officer.

    Bamiduro, a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, was promoted from within the organisation, having served as the Group’s Financial Controller since 2021.

    During his tenure as Financial Controller, he made significant contributions to the company, including chairing the implementation of a cost-saving, group-wide enterprise resource planning system and establishing a robust internal financial control framework.

    Commenting on the appointment, Chairman of Odu’a Investment Company Limited, Otunba Bimbo Ashiru, described Bamiduro as a strategic business leader with a deep understanding of the company’s vision. He said Bamiduro’s leadership in strengthening financial governance and driving operational efficiency gave the Board confidence that his elevation would provide the strategic direction required for the company’s next phase of growth and value creation for shareholders.

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    Before joining Odu’a Investment, Bamiduro spent more than two decades in the energy sector, including a distinguished 15-year career with Transocean, a global leader in offshore drilling. He rose to the position of Finance Manager for Nigeria and Africa Remote Operations, becoming the first Nigerian and African to assume full financial responsibility for one of the company’s largest operational regions.

    His professional expertise spans financial control, treasury, tax management, and complex financial integrations. He also serves as a Non-Executive Director on the boards of some Odu’a Investment subsidiaries, including Lagos Airport Hotel Limited.

    Group Managing Director, Abdulrahman Yinusa, said the appointment reflected the company’s commitment to recognising and rewarding exceptional talent.

    “Mr Bamiduro’s strategic financial expertise has been pivotal in strengthening our strategic plan. We are confident that he will provide the leadership required to accelerate growth and deliver enhanced, sustainable value,” Yinusa said.

    In his new role, Bamiduro will join the Board of Odu’a Investment Company Limited and assume responsibility for the group’s financial strategy, including capital management, financial planning, investor relations, and financial integrity across the diversified holding company.

  • Wabara woos Otti to join PDP for 2027 re-election bid

    Wabara woos Otti to join PDP for 2027 re-election bid

    Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Adolphus Wabara, has expressed confidence that Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, will defect from the Labour Party to the PDP to seek a second term in 2027.

    Wabara, who spoke with journalists in Umuahia, described Otti as a major asset to any political platform, noting that the PDP would readily present him as its governorship candidate should he join the party.

    He attributed the growing interest in the governor across party lines to his performance in office, particularly the recent launch of a 25-year Abia Development Plan, which he described as a visionary blueprint for a new and greater Abia.

    The former Senate President praised Otti’s achievements in road infrastructure, citing the reconstruction of the long-abandoned Port Harcourt Road in Aba, as well as strides in healthcare, education, industry, and security. He also commended the procurement of electric buses for the state’s urban mass transit scheme, saying the initiative would ease economic hardship for residents.

    “As an elder statesman and stakeholder in Abia politics, I have a moral duty to acknowledge good governance irrespective of party affiliation,” Wabara said, adding that many Abians are now eager to return home due to visible improvements across the state.

    He stressed that good governance should rise above partisan considerations and said he had been vindicated for earlier commending Otti’s handling of the Port Harcourt Road project, despite criticisms from some quarters.

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    Wabara urged the governor to seriously consider joining the PDP, citing what he described as an instigated leadership tussle within the Labour Party. He argued that the PDP’s national spread and organisational capacity would offer a stronger platform to counter the ruling party in 2027.

    According to him, the South-East remains a traditional stronghold of the PDP, and Otti’s defection would further strengthen the party’s prospects in the zone.

    Wabara also disclosed that PDP elders were working to reposition and rebrand the party under the Tanimu Turaki-led National Working Committee to make it more attractive to progressives ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    On national issues, he called for unity against attempts to turn Nigeria into a one-party state and commended the House of Representatives for approving mandatory electronic transmission of election results.

    Expressing optimism about the party’s future, Wabara said the PDP’s “gloomy days are over,” predicted the return of defectors, and forecast an eventual implosion within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

  • Union dismisses corruption claim against FERMA board

    Union dismisses corruption claim against FERMA board

    The Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) Joint Union has dismissed the corruption allegations and abuse of power levelled against the 6th Governing Board and its Chairman, Musa Babayo.

    Chairmen of the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN), Paul Onimisi, and the Amalgamated Union of Public Corporations, Civil Service Technical and Recreational Services Employees (AUPCTRE), Idris Abdulmumin, in a statement on Sunday, said the allegations were not true.

    According to them, the publications and press releases did not emanate from the joint union and did not reflect the union’s view and position.

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    Onimisi explained that the union, as a democratic body, believed in decorum and due diligence in all its operations and found the claims offensive and belittling, adding that they did not make those statements nor endorse such contents therein.

    He pointed out that the publication might have arisen from those he called “unscrupulous persons” who want to use the name of the joint union to score cheap personal points.

    He accused the media houses that published the press releases of failing to do their due diligence, as the signatures and names used were scanned and lifted by unknown mischievous persons who are bent on tarnishing the union’s reputation.

    “The Joint Union, therefore, distances itself entirely from that publication and requests that it be retracted because it’s mischievous and malicious. The Union remains committed to constructive engagements on the Agency’s operations.

    “The Union pledges its allegiance to the 6th Governing Board Chairman, the Management of FERMA and its staff so long as it is within the ambit of the Public Service Rule (PSR) and the FERMA Act towards achieving the Agency’s legitimate statutory mandate,” the statement added.

  • Uba Sani commends Army’s role in securing Kaduna at WASA 2025

    Uba Sani commends Army’s role in securing Kaduna at WASA 2025

    Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, has commended officers and men of the Nigerian Army’s 1 Division for their gallantry and commitment in combating insecurity, saying their efforts have significantly improved peace and stability across Kaduna State and neighbouring areas.

    The governor gave the commendation at the weekend during the 2025 West African Social Activities (WASA) of the 1 Division, held at the 2 Battalion Parade Ground, Ribadu Cantonment, Kaduna.

    Represented by his Deputy, Dr. Hadiza Balarabe, the Governor described WASA as a cherished military tradition that not only marks the end of a year’s training and operational activities, but also provides an opportunity for officers, soldiers, their families, and civilians to bond and celebrate Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage.

    He said the performance of the 1 Division in the past year had been impressive, particularly in the fight against kidnapping, cattle rustling, and armed banditry, noting that the successes recorded had a direct positive impact on the security of Kaduna State.

    The governor specifically praised the Division’s collaboration with other security agencies under Operation FANSAN YAMMA, which he said had strengthened joint security efforts and enhanced safety across the state.

    He assured the Army of the state government’s continued support in 2026, urging troops to remain focused, professional, and resilient in the face of emerging security challenges, while sustaining their commitment to safeguarding lives and property.

    Earlier, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division Nigerian Army and Commander, Sector 1 Joint Task Force (North West), Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Maj.-Gen. Abubakar Mohammed Wase said WASA remained an important annual event that showcased the Army’s rich traditions and cultural diversity.

    Maj.-Gen. Wase explained that the celebration marked the successful conclusion of the Division’s 2025 training and operational activities, adding that a series of social, cultural, musical, and regimental displays had been lined up to entertain guests.

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    He disclosed that the 2025 training directives for the Division were effectively executed with a high level of professionalism and regimentation, despite some operational challenges.

    According to him, joint operations carried out under Operation FANSAN YAMMA, in collaboration with other security agencies, drastically reduced security threats within the Division’s area of responsibility, particularly crimes related to banditry, kidnapping, and cattle rustling.

    The GOC noted that WASA also provided an opportunity for the public to better appreciate the diverse customs and traditions of barracks communities, which he described as a melting pot of cultures and social backgrounds.

    He used the occasion to pay tribute to fallen soldiers who paid the supreme sacrifice in the defence of Nigeria’s peace and unity, praying for eternal rest for their souls and strength for their families.

    Maj.-Gen. Wase thanked Governor Uba Sani for his unwavering support to the Division and other security agencies, as well as the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. W. Shaibu, for his leadership and guidance in strengthening professionalism within the Nigerian Army.

    The event attracted top military officers, government officials, traditional rulers, and families of serving personnel, who were treated to colourful cultural performances and displays celebrating Nigeria’s diversity.

  • Otti moves to immortalise First House Speaker Jaja Wachuku

    Otti moves to immortalise First House Speaker Jaja Wachuku

    Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has announced plans to immortalize Nigeria’s first Speaker of the House of Representatives, the late Dr. Jaja Wachuku, warning that societies that fail to honor their heroes risk losing their sense of purpose and identity.

    The Governor spoke at Anglican Grammar School, Mbawsi, Isiala Ngwa North Local Government Area, during events marking the 108th posthumous birthday of the former Speaker, diplomat, and statesman, amid growing calls for the Abia State Government to name the state airport after him.

    “Any society that does not recognise and celebrate its heroes will soon disappear. We are celebrating him because of the sacrifices he made,” Otti said.

    He explained that the decision to honour Wachuku followed a deeper study of his life and achievements, which revealed that despite his immense national contributions as Speaker of the Federal House of Representatives, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Minister of Aviation, he had not received commensurate recognition.

    “I had always known about him, but sometime in 2023, I decided to read more about his life. By the time I finished, I felt that we had not done well enough. That was why I insisted that a documentary on his lifetime achievements must be produced,” the Governor stated.

    Otti said the celebration was deliberately fixed on Wachuku’s birthday rather than the date of his death, describing him as a father, elder statesman, brilliant lawyer, and exceptional leader who made enormous sacrifices for Nigeria.

    He disclosed that the state government had renovated Wachuku’s country home, preserved his renowned library, and rehabilitated the tombs of the late statesman and his wife. He added that the government was already considering naming a major public asset after Wachuku to further immortalise his legacy.

    “We are looking at naming something great after him,” the Governor said in response to appeals by stakeholders.

    In his remarks, the Senator representing Abia South Senatorial District, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, described Wachuku as a national icon and father figure, recalling personal childhood encounters with him.

    “What I saw and heard today has given me a new perspective on the man. It is our prayer that we too will be remembered positively when we leave this world,” Abaribe said.

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    Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Mr Emmanuel Emeruwa, said Wachuku’s life of service, alongside Governor Otti’s leadership style, should inspire present and future generations.

    Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, said the decision to renovate Wachuku’s home followed disturbing reports about its state of disrepair, noting that the Governor approved the funds immediately after a bill of quantities was submitted.

    “This is not about politics. The Governor does not celebrate himself; he celebrates others,” Ajagba said.

    President-General of Oha Nsulu Unity Forum, Chief Eric Opah, described the siting of the Abia Airport project in Nsulu land as symbolic, given Wachuku’s role in Nigeria’s aviation history, and appealed for improved infrastructure in the host communities.

    Also speaking, the leader of the Ngwa people and former Attorney-General of Abia State, Chief Theo Nkire, described Wachuku as a man whose life was defined by national firsts, while President of the Ngwa Social Club, Prof Paul Ananaba, noted that he was the first lawyer from the area and one of Nigeria’s finest legal minds.

    Senator Bob Nwanunu described Wachuku as a legend and an exceptional orator, proposing that the Abia Airport be named after him, a call echoed by the lawmaker representing Isiala Ngwa North and South Federal Constituency, Chief Ginger Onwusibe.

    Former Senator Nkechi Nworgu commended Governor Otti for reviving long-abandoned projects and for giving overdue recognition to the late statesman.

    Speaking on behalf of the family, Mr Ndubuisi Jaja-Wachuku expressed gratitude to the Governor and the state government, describing the honour as an unexpected but pleasant surprise.

    Born on January 1, 1918, Jaja Anucha Wachuku was a Pan-Africanist, lawyer, diplomat, and humanitarian.

    He attended Trinity College, Dublin, where he became the first African medalist and laureate in Oratory. He died on November 7, 1996, at the age of 78.

    The event featured the unveiling of Wachuku’s renovated residence and library, the rehabilitation of his tomb and that of his wife, the laying of wreaths, and the presentation of his walking stick by his son to the Governor in appreciation of his leadership and service to the state.

  • JUST IN: 16 feared dead in Jigawa canoe mishap

    JUST IN: 16 feared dead in Jigawa canoe mishap

    No fewer than 16 persons, including minors, have lost their lives in a tragic canoe accident in Adiyani village, Guri Local Government Area of Jigawa State.

    Reports from the area indicated that the canoe, which was conveying more than 40 passengers, capsized while they were crossing the Adiyani River on their way home after concluding their activities in the village.

    Confirming the incident, the Public Relations Officer of the Jigawa State Police Command, SP Lawal Shi’isu Adam, said the accident occurred at about midnight on Saturday.

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    According to him, 24 bodies have so far been recovered, while 10 persons were rescued alive. He added that several others remain unaccounted for.

    “The incident happened at midnight on Saturday as a result of water leaking into the canoe. Immediately, it was reported, security personnel mobilised a rescue team, including local fishermen, and were able to rescue 10 victims alive, while 24 deaths have been confirmed so far,” SP Adam said.

    Findings revealed that the victims were indigenes of neighbouring communities across the river in Nguru Local Government Area of Yobe State, who had visited the Adiyani market on Saturday.

    Search and rescue operations were ongoing at the time of filing this report, as authorities urged residents to exercise caution, particularly during nighttime river crossings.