The Nation Newspaper

Category: News Update

  • Soyinka: ignoring history fuels tyranny

    Soyinka: ignoring history fuels tyranny

    Nobel laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka has said societies that neglect their history and fail to confront injustice, risk descending into tyranny.

    He said cultural identity and historical consciousness were central to justice and national renewal.

    Soyinka, delivering the Centenary Lecture of Yoruba Tennis Club (YTC), Lagos, where he traced the origin of the club to a broader struggle for social liberation, dignity and self-definition among Nigerians, said the organisation that later became Yoruba Tennis Club was conceived not merely as a social platform, but as part of a historical movement to reclaim dignity in the face of oppression.

    The Nobel laureate, who was guest lecturer at the event, described the club’s name as a powerful affirmation of identity, rejecting the notion that embracing Yoruba heritage contradicts global or universal values.

    “What is wrong with being Yoruba?” Soyinka asked, insisting that cultural rootedness does not negate cosmopolitanism.

    According to him, humanity is not built on cultural erasure, but on the recognition, respect and dignity of origins.

    READ ALSO: The dynamics of Kano governor’s defection

    “The founders of the club understood who they were and what they stood for,” he said.

    Reflecting on Nigeria’s post-independence experience, Soyinka said many leaders were more eager to replace colonial rulers than to dismantle the structures of injustice they inherited.

    He added that the excitement of independence often eclipsed the need for deep reflection on governance, accountability and justice.

    The playwright said his early work, A Dance of the Forests, was deliberately pessimistic, as it was meant to warn against repeating historical errors.

    Contrary to expectations that the play should celebrate independence, Soyinka said he believed the real task of nation-building had only just begun.

    “The future is not merely about liberating ourselves from the past,” he said, adding that genuine progress required remembering, confronting and learning from past mistakes, to avoid reproducing them in new forms.

    He said tyranny did not always arrive abruptly, but often emerged when societies neglected justice, silenced dissent and allowed leaders to step comfortably into the shoes of former oppressors.

    The Chairman of Yoruba Tennis Club, Chief Olawumi Gasper, reaffirmed the club’s commitment to preserving history, culture and intellectual leadership.

    He described the centenary milestone as a testament to the institution’s enduring legacy and sustained role in shaping Nigeria’s cultural and intellectual landscape, noting that the club, founded a century ago, had remained rooted in tradition while engaging contemporary issues.

    He described Soyinka as a man of deep intellectual capacity, cultural depth and moral clarity, noting that the interactive session provided a rare opportunity to engage with wide-ranging discussions on literature, culture, nationhood, humanity, conscience and the enduring role of history in shaping societies.

    Gasper paid tributes to the founding fathers of Yoruba Tennis Club, acknowledging their foresight, sacrifices and commitment to sustaining the institution’s values and traditions.

  • Edo APC, Odigie-Oyegun trade words over ‘indebtedness’

    All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State has called out a former national chairman of the party, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, to pay debt allegedly owed to the party.

    It said the debts arose from alleged loans and accumulated membership dues spanning several years when Odigie-Oyegun was the national chairman of the party.

    This was contained in a statement signed by Edo APC Chairman, Emperor Jarrett Tenebe.

    In the statement, the Edo APC chairman said Odigie-Oyegun failed to respond to several official demands for repayment, with the total liability of over N150million.

    The statement said: “All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State wishes to inform the public that as a law-abiding, people-centred political organisation, we have formally demanded the settlement of debts owed by the National Leader of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Chief Odigie-Oyegun.

    READ ALSO: The dynamics of Kano governor’s defection

    “The debts include loans allegedly advanced to Odigie-Oyegun during his tenure as national chairman of APC, as well as accumulated membership dues which he allegedly failed to remit throughout his period of membership.

    “Our records also reveal accumulated membership dues, which the ADC national leader refused to pay into the party’s coffers all through the period of his membership of the APC.

    “This open demand has become necessary due to the refusal by Chief Odigie-Oyegun to settle his commitments to the APC, the party that gave him the platform to tower politically.”

    Odigie-Oyegun, however, said the claims were baseless, and a sign of panic within the ruling APC.

    He said the allegations were driven by growing unease within the APC following the emergence of the ADC as a strong political force.

  • Excitement as Abiodun leads carnival train to end 50th anniversary celebration

    It was all glamour and colour whichever direction one turned yesterday on the roads of Abeokuta, Ogun State capital, as Governor Dapo Abiodun and Deputy Governor Noimot Salako-Oyedele led a carnival train procession in one of the activities marking the grand finale of the state’s 50th anniversary celebration.

    The procession comprising several floats, each depicting the state’s four zones – Remo, Ijebu, Yewa, Egba (RIYE) – as well as their unique cultures and occupations, including (eja nla) giant size fish measuring about the length of a 22-tyre truck fish float, to showcase the aquaculture of the riverine people of the state.

    The train included an estimated 3,000 Ogun indigenes as well as traditionally-dressed dancers, drummers, masqueraders, folklore skaters, bikers and other performers with each leaving a lasting impression of excitement, glamour and colour in the air, a kind of festive atmosphere.

    READ ALSO: The dynamics of Kano governor’s defection

    The procession took off at the Government House, Oke-Igbein, Ibara, Abeokuta, coursing through Omida, Ibara under bridge, Lalubu, Okelewo, Kuto road, before terminating at MKO Abiola International Stadium, Abeokuta.

    It was packaged by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism to celebrate culture, unity and development of Ogun State, which was created on February 3, 1976.

    The carnival train is also a pointer to a broader plan to make cultural celebrations an annual event in the state and to position the 50-year-old state as a major destination for cultural tourism in Nigeria.

  • Akinyemi, Osaghae, others extol Murtala Muhammed’s virtues 50 years after assassination

    Akinyemi, Osaghae, others extol Murtala Muhammed’s virtues 50 years after assassination

    Stakeholders in Nigeria’s foreign policy, family members and others, yesterday converged on the Nigerian Institute of International Affair (NIIA), Victoria Island, Lagos in remembrance of the late Head of State, Gen. Murtala Muhammed and the legacy he left behind.

    Gen. Muhammed was assassinated 50 years ago.

    According to them, the late Head of State continued to inspire a new generation of Africans to strive for unity and self-determination.

    They spoke at the Strategic Policy Dialogue organised by the NIIA in conjunction with the Murtala Muhammed Foundation (MMF) with the theme: “Has Africa Come of Age? Murtala Muhammed’s Pan-African Vision 50 Years After.” in Lagos.

    Speakers at the event included the NIIA Director-General Prof Eghosa Osaghae; MMF Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Aisha Muhammed- Oyebode (daughter of the late General); one-time Foreign Affairs Minister and Chairman of the Governing Council Prof. Bolaji Akinyemi; professors Hassan Saliu (President, Nigerian Political Science Association of Nigeria (NPSA); Bukola Adesina of University of Ibadan (UI); Charles Ukeje and Alade Fawole, both from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife and NIIA Director of Research Dr. Joshua Bolarinwa.

    They noted that 50 years after his assassination, Gen. Muhammed’s vision for a strong, united, and self-reliant Africa remained as relevant today as it was during his time in office.

    READ ALSO: President rallies relief materials to affected Kwara communities

    The dialogue is part of the 50th anniversary commemoration of Gen. Muhammed assassination and aimed to reflect on his fearless advocacy for African liberation and his stand on African collective diplomacy.

    Prof. Osaghae emphasised the importance of strategic autonomy and self-determination for Africa, citing Gen. Muhammed’s 1975 speech at the Organisation of African Unity (OAU), where he declared that Africa had come of age.

    The NIIA DG noted that the declaration was a statement of Africa’s determination to define its own identity, trajectory, and destiny, free from external influence and control.

    Saying that Africa’s coming of age was not about meeting external expectations, he said the continent should not be bound by as defined and determined by Western civilisation.

     “To say Africa has come of age is actually to put on the stamp the meaning of strategic autonomy and to say that Africa has become its own voice, its own master.

    “Africa has now insisted that it must only follow tracks and tractions that are determined by Africa for Africans. And so today, it resonates very well when we say African solutions to African problems.

    “Africa has come to define itself. And it’s not for nothing that the latest plan of action talked about self-reliance and Africa as self-determined. And so today, we are celebrating the legacy of General Murtala Muhammad, who gave to Africa a new identity, a new traction, a new pathway, and set aside for us this trajectory that we should now be asking the question, have we deviated from that? If we have, then we have not come of our own age,” Prof. Osaghae said.

    Prof. Akinyemi described Gen. Muhammed as a military head of state who stood his ground, adding that he was a man of several parts, whose life impacted lives and the nation.

    He also described the late General as a fearless intellectual Head of State who stood up for what is right, adding that this is what Nigeria needs at the moment.

    At the event, the panelists at the event asserted that Africans must stand by their true identity wherever they find themselves.

    To Prof. Ukeje, Africa’s achievements over the past five decades are notable, but significant work remains. “Coming of age is not simply about independence or resources,” he said. “It is about building resilient institutions, fostering unity, and asserting our voice in global affairs.”

    Prof. Saliu assessed the state of Africa’s institutions, cautioning that weak governance frameworks undermine progress. He stressed the importance of strengthening legal, political, and economic institutions to safeguard national sovereignty and enhance Africa’s bargaining power internationally.

    Prof. Fawole underscored the need for solidarity across African nations and active participation in global institutions.

    “Africa must not only defend its interests but also promote its vision through collective action, partnerships, and diplomacy,” he said, advocating for strategic alliances within Africa and with other developing regions.

    Prof. Adesina drew attention to the importance of telling Africa’s story to the world. Using historical examples of Nigeria’s role in anti-apartheid movements, he stressed that the continent’s contributions often remain unrecognised. “If we do not document our achievements, others will define our legacy for us,” he said.

    Dr. Bolarinwa called for the use of digital media, podcasts, and short videos to engage younger generations in Africa’s political history and global contributions. “Future leaders must understand our past to chart a strategic path forward,” he added.

    The panel discussion was followed by audience questions, with participants exploring strategies to enhance Africa’s self-reliance, institutional capacity, and cultural diplomacy.

  • INEC gives recognition to Wike-backed PDP faction

    INEC gives recognition to Wike-backed PDP faction

    • Two new parties take off

    Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) yesterday conferred recognition on the Abdulrahman Mohammed caretaker committee as leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

    The electoral agency took the step in compliance with the last week’s Federal High Court judgment which voided the PDP’s November 16, 2025 convention in Ibadan.

    The convention, which produced the Taminu Turaki-led National Working Committee (NWC) was held in defiance to two Federal High Court judgments, precluding it from being held.

    At the quarterly meeting between the commission and leaders of political parties, the Caretaker Chairman, Abdulrahman Mohammed, and caretaker National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, represented the main opposition party.

    It was the first to be held since INEC Chairman Prof. Ojo Amupitan assumed office.

    Prof. Amupitan, who expressed worry over the multiple intra-party crises, said the internal feuds negatively impact on electoral integrity.

    READ ALSO: The dynamics of Kano governor’s defection

    He said although two associations that met the criteria for party registration – Democratic Leadership Alliance (DLA) and Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) – have been registered, following their compliance with the law.

    The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Netanwe Yilwatda, complained about the systematic disenfrachment of certain categories of Nigerians on occupational grounds.

    But his call for early voting was rejected by Amupitan,  who said it may breed distrust.

    The PDP factional Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, who chided the commission for recognising the Mohammed/Anyanwu faction, said in a statement that the NWC had applied for a stay of execution, adding that the umpire acted contrary to the constitution.

    He said: This action, though ordinarily vexatious and capable of causing widespread breach of peace, will be met with all possible legal response.

    Intra-party crises erode electoral integrity, says INEC

    Amupitan said internal crises and lack of internal democracy in parties often undermine electoral integrity, urging party leaders to avoid frequent leadership squabbles.

    He said numerous litigations, in which the Commission often finds itself joined as a party, divert its attention from the primary duty of  ensuring free, fair, and credible elections.

     Amupita  said “Our collective commitment to maintaining the integrity of our electoral processes is being challenged by the unfortunate and increasingly frequent leadership squabbles within various political parties across our esteemed nation.

    “The essence of democracy is rooted in the ability of political parties to flourish, debate, and contest ideologies in a manner that respects the tenets of fair play and mutual respect.

    “However, it is with great concern that I note the current trend of infighting among party leaderships, which not only detracts from the core objectives of these political entities, but also spills over into unnecessary legal battles that tax our judicial system and public resources.”

    Two new parties registered

    The INEC Chairman announced the registration of two new political parties, bringing the number of parties to 21.

    He said out of 177 associations that sought for registration, 14  satisfied the initial pre-qualification while eight successfully uploaded their documents on the Commission’s dedicated portal.

    The eight are the All Democratic Alliance (ADA), Citizens Democratic Alliance (CDA), Abundance Social Party (ASP), African Alliance Party (AAP), Democratic Leadership Alliance (DLA), Green Future Party (GFP), National Democratic Party (NDP) and the Peoples Freedom Party (PFP).

    Amupitan said: “Out of the eight above, only two qualified for final assessment and verification of due compliance with the Constitution and the Electoral Act. After due consideration, only the Democratic Leadership Alliance (DLA) was found to have complied fully with the requirements of the law.

    “Accordingly, the Commission has decided to register the Democratic Leadership Alliance (DLA) as a political party, effective from today, 5th February 2025.

    “Furthermore, the Federal High Court sitting in Lokoja, Kogi State, in Suit No. FHC/LKJ/CS/49/2025 between Barr Takori Mohammed Sanni & Ors v. INEC ordered the Commission to register Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) as a political party.

    “The Commission has decided to comply with the order and is being registered as a political party. Certificate of Registration will be handed over to the two new political parties in due course”.

    Amupitan assured that the Commission will conduct free governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun, and  Area Council polls in FCT on February 21.

    The Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council, Dr. Yusuf Dantalle, urged INEC to remain independent and provide a level playing field for all political parties.

    He urged party leaders to utilize IPAC’s internal alternative dispute resolution rather than resorting prematurely to the court after the Supreme Court has repeatedly affirmed lack jurisdiction over party leadership disputes.

    Dantalle said “As we approach the eighth general election under INEC’s supervision, we must resolve to get it right. There should be no excuse for elections that fall short of credibility, transparency, and public acceptability.”

    “The conduct of the FCT Area Council election and the forthcoming governorship elections in Ekiti State and Osun State will send a strong signal regarding expectations for the 2027 General Election. The Commission must rise to the occasion. Indeed, the eyes of the nation — and the world — are upon us.”

    Yilwatda, Amupitan disagree on early voting

    Yilwatda said the disenfrachment of election day workers contribute to low voter turnout in elections.

    He said thousands of Nigerians who are legally eligible to vote are effectively disenfranchised on election day because of the very roles they play in safeguarding the process.

    Yilwatda listed such individuals as INEC ad-hoc staff, security personnel, civil society observers, medical doctors, journalists, and other essential support staff who are deployed for election duties, but are unable to cast their votes.

    Noting that their absence from the polling booth is a direct consequence of national service, he call for a deep reflection on the proposal for early voting.

    However,  Amupitan explained that while early voting had been considered, it raised serious operational and cultural concerns.

    He cautioned against a system where votes are cast early and “warehoused” for counting after the general election.

    Amupitan said such an arrangement could expose the process to abuse, manipulation, and loss of public trust, with fears that “huge votes could suddenly appear from somewhere.”

    He stressed: “At the heart of the matter is Nigeria’s electoral culture. Nigerians are deeply invested in real-time voting and counting, wanting to see results as they emerge. Until the country builds a culture and system that enjoys absolute public confidence and is seen as incorruptible, adopting early voting may remain difficult.”

    The INEC Chairman also highlighted the heavy financial implications of conducting elections in a single day nationwide.

    He explained that doing so would require the Commission to almost double its electoral materials since the current staggered process allows for the reuse of some equipment.

  • Japa syndrome: Fed Govt’s measures reversing trend, yielding results, say Ganduje, NMCN boss

    Japa syndrome: Fed Govt’s measures reversing trend, yielding results, say Ganduje, NMCN boss

    • Council inducts 206 foreign-trained nurses

    Stakeholders in the nation’s health sector have said the recent government interventions at addressing the mass migration of health workers, popularly known as the ‘Japa’ syndrome, are beginning to yield results.

    The stakeholders spoke yesterday in Abuja at the induction ceremony of 206 foreign-trained nurses, where they assessed the renewed efforts to retain skilled medical personnel in the country.

    The nurses were inducted into the profession after completing a compulsory six-month adaptation programme conducted in 10 Nigerian universities and passing the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) professional examination.

    The inductees graduated from 15 institutions across several countries, including Niger Republic (62), Ghana (35), Cameroon (35), India (22), Cyprus (19), the Philippines (nine), Sudan (nine), Egypt (five), Turkiye (two) and Ukraine (one).

    As part of the registration process, all successful foreign-trained nurses are required to undergo formal induction, similar to their counterparts trained in Nigeria.

    The inductees also took the Oath of Allegiance, pledging to maintain confidentiality and abstain from acts harmful to patients.

    READ ALSO: The dynamics of Kano governor’s defection

    The immediate past National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former Kano State governor, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, said reforms introduced by the Federal Government were gradually reversing the trend of outward migration.

    Ganduje expressed optimism that ongoing reforms under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration would further strengthen the health sector and encourage professionals to remain in the country.

    “To now finish the internship and decide to go back to where they were coming from, after the government has spent some investment on them? I assure you it will be a different story because the reforms undertaken by the present government will turn the tide,” he said.

    The former APC national chairman noted that improvements in health service delivery were already influencing the decision of many Nigerians trained abroad to return and practise in their country.

    “I think it is a welcome development, because when we have our own children studying abroad and then coming back and joining the service, that is very encouraging,” Ganduje said elatedly.

    NMCN’s Registrar and Chief Executive Officer, Al-Hassan Ndagi, said Nigeria was no longer facing a shortage of trained nurses, following the expansion of training capacity and the introduction of new retention measures.

    Responding to concerns about Nigerians studying nursing abroad, despite the availability of accredited programmes locally, he acknowledged the concern but said the number involved was relatively small.

    “Well, it is a matter of concern because we have a very large number of institutions in Nigeria. But the 206 that you are seeing is just a drop in the ocean of the number of nurses that we train in Nigeria,” Ganduje said.

    The APC stalwart said Nigeria produces no fewer than 27,000 nurses per examination cycle, conducted twice yearly, in addition to midwifery graduates.

    “In every year, we produce nothing less than 115,000,” he said.

    He explained that foreign-trained nurses are required to undergo an adaptation programme to align them with Nigeria’s professional ethics and healthcare delivery system.

    “The ethics and other principles of service here in Nigeria are not the same as those of the outside country. We have noticed the difference in them that does not align with our system. That is why we have to remodel them and make them conform to Nigerian society,” he said.

    Baring his mind on the retention of nurses in the country, Ndagi said existing policies ensure that newly inducted nurses remain in the country for at least two years.

    “They will go for a one-year internship. After that, they will also do another one-year National Youth Service. They will remain in the country for two years,” he said.

    To bolster the in-country retention of the nurses, the registrar announced that the Federal Government had approved a central placement system for newly inducted nurses, enabling authorities to deploy them to health facilities nationwide for service and further training.

    “While they are rendering the service, they are also acquiring more and more skills,” he said.

    Addressing concerns about shortages arising from previous large-scale migration, he said training quotas were expanded to offset losses.

    “About three years ago, in a single year, we recorded about 57,000 nurses leaving the country. So, it meant we were training for outsiders,” he said.

    Ndagi added that over 250,000 nurses are currently serving in Nigeria, while urging the government to accelerate recruitment to absorb available manpower.

    “My call to the government is that more and more nurses should be employed in the service,” he said, noting that Nigerian nurses remain highly regarded internationally.

    Ndagi urged the newly inducted nurses to prioritise the interests of Nigerians, particularly those in hard-to-reach and underserved communities.

    “I encourage you to be exemplary ambassadors of the nursing profession. Demonstrate humility, discipline and respect in your interactions with the public. Let kindness and compassion guide your care for all patients,” he said.

    He emphasised strict adherence to professional ethics and cautioned against unprofessional conduct, including on social media, “Please note that you are now solely responsible for your nursing actions,” he said.

    Ndagi also advised the nurses to embrace lifelong learning, pursue further training and contribute positively to the image of the profession.

    Other speakers at the event advised the inductees, who will proceed on a one-year internship followed by the National Youth Service, to take their training seriously, uphold confidentiality and adapt to the evolving needs of patients.

    The event also featured the presentation of awards to outstanding inductees and the institution that produced the overall best inductee, Cynthia Okwor.

  • 25m to benefit as Tinubu expands women’s economic programme

    25m to benefit as Tinubu expands women’s economic programme

    • Fed Govt rolls out Happy Woman App to connect women to finance, markets, skills, services

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expanded the Nigeria for Women Programme to reach 25 million beneficiaries nationwide.

    The President announced the expansion yesterday while unveiling a digital platform designed to connect women to finance, skills, markets, essential services and government support.

    President Tinubu launched the programme, now called the Nigeria for Women Programme Scale-Up (NFWP-SU), at the State House in Abuja, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima.

    The President said Nigeria could not achieve sustainable growth without placing women at the centre of national planning.

    He described the scale-up as a key pillar of his administration’s social and economic inclusion agenda.

    In a statement yesterday in Abuja by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications in the Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, President Tinubu stressed that “a nation that relegates its women is a nation bound for implosion”.

    He added: “We have long understood this truth. That is why this administration has not only placed women at the forefront of decision-making but has also entrusted them with leadership in causes that redeem our national promise. Today stands as proof of that commitment.”

    The expanded initiative follows a pilot phase in six states, which, according to the Presidency, reached over one million beneficiaries.

    READ ALSO: President rallies relief materials to affected Kwara communities

    With the national scale-up, the government introduced the Happy Woman App Platform, described as a secure digital interface that links women to empowerment opportunities, including finance, skills training, market access, protection services and social support.

    The programme is headed by Dr. Hadiza Maina and is co-financed by the World Bank alongside the Federal Government and participating state governments.

    It is designed to strengthen women’s economic empowerment, financial inclusion, and social development nationwide.

    President Tinubu said his administration had set a “bold but achievable national ambition” of reaching 25 million Nigerian women through the programme, while calling on the World Bank to strengthen its financing, technical support and innovation partnerships to sustain the scale-up.

    “Digital inclusion is no longer optional; it is foundational to effective service delivery and national competitiveness,” he said.

    In a related policy announcement, the President designated 2026 as the “Year of Social Development and Families in Nigeria,” directing coordinated action across all levels of government.

    The declaration, the Presidency said, followed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed during President Tinubu’s January official visit to Türkiye, aimed at strengthening family cohesion and social welfare systems.

    The President hailed the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development for integrating technology into policy implementation and for reorganising social development into a more coherent system since the launch of the Renewed Hope Social Impact Intervention in Lafia last year.

    He also praised governors and the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) for aligning federal vision with state-level execution.

    President Tinubu stressed that “national transformation succeeds when all levels of government move with shared purpose”.

    The Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, described the initiative as a major shift in Nigeria’s governance framework.

    “Today is a structural signal for Nigerian women, children, and families,” she said.

    “It is a signal that under your leadership, women are no longer treated as beneficiaries at the margins of development but as primary drivers of Nigeria’s economic, social, and democratic stability.”

    The minister said the programme builds on the achievements of Phase I of the Nigeria for Women Project in six states.

    She announced that 26,577 women’s affinity groups were formed with over 560,000 members.

    Hajiya Sulaiman-Ibrahim said participants recorded significant financial progress.

    “Through the Women Affinity Groups formed, they collectively saved over ₦4.9 billion of their own money and have inter-loaned significantly to expand their businesses, cover health costs, and pay school fees,” she said.

    The minister described the new phase as a major continental investment in women’s empowerment, noting that it is a $540 million programme co-financed by the World Bank and the Federal and State Governments.

    According to her, the initiative is designed to directly reach at least five million women across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, while supporting national priorities such as job creation, food security, rural revitalisation and financial inclusion.

    Sulaiman-Ibrahim also said the programme had strengthened civic identity among women beneficiaries.

    “In Niger State, for instance, during programme rollout, many women, for the first time in their lives, obtained formal identification to participate,” she said.

    “The fastest and most accessible ID available to them was the voter card.”

    The minister added that the newly registered women “became politically visible”.

    Hajiya Sulaiman-Ibrahim announced that the Happy Woman App would serve as a central hub for women’s empowerment.

    “This platform will aggregate access to programmes, finance opportunities, skills training, protection services, and market linkages. Our target is 10 million verified women registrations within the next ten months,” she said.

    Also, the World Bank Regional Representative for Africa, Mr. Robert Chase, said the project was designed by the bank’s Social Policy Department to place women at the centre of development, stressing that investing in women remains the most impactful investment any nation can make.

    The Director of the Nigeria Country Office of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Mr. Uche Amaonwu, noted that empowering women directly translates to healthier families and safer communities, noting that women’s empowerment significantly reduces disease and insecurity at the household level.

    The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, expressed his ministry’s readiness to collaborate on women-focused empowerment initiatives across the country.

    Representative of the Senate President, Senator Ireti Kingibe, said the scale-up reflected the Federal Government’s commitment to addressing the needs of women, adding that the National Assembly would continue to enact legislation to expand women’s access to governance and economic resources.

    Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of the NGF, Katsina State  Deputy Governor Faruk Jobe reaffirmed the commitment of state governments to providing counterpart funding for the successful implementation of women-focused projects.

    He announced that Katsina State, a participating state in the project, had earmarked ₦4 billion in its current budget to support the initiative.

  • Nigeria-U.S. security alliance transparent, policy-driven, says DHQ

    Nigeria-U.S. security alliance transparent, policy-driven, says DHQ

    The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has dismissed concerns raised by some citizens over the United States’ deployment of troops in Nigeria.

    It described the deployment as part of longstanding military cooperation between the two countries.

    The Director of Defence Information, Maj.-Gen. Samaila Uba, said in a statement yesterday that the partnership is structured, policy-driven and aligned with Nigeria’s constitutional provisions.

    The clarification followed confirmation by the U.S. that it had deployed a small number of troops to Nigeria to support efforts against terrorism and violent extremism.

    During a virtual briefing on Tuesday, the U.S. Africa Command described Nigeria as a “willing partner”.

    The development generated mixed reactions, with some Nigerians questioning the basis of the deployment.

    Responding, Uba said all engagements under the partnership are conducted with full respect for Nigeria’s sovereignty and within existing bilateral frameworks.

    He added that the cooperation focuses on capacity building, professional military education, intelligence sharing, logistics support and strategic dialogue.

    READ ALSO: The dynamics of Kano governor’s defection

    The director explained that a recent two-day high-level Working Group meeting between senior U.S. officials and Nigerian counterparts at the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) formed a part of ongoing engagements, following earlier meetings in the United States.

    According to him, the discussions were aimed at strengthening cooperation, improving coordination and enhancing accountability in joint counterterrorism operations and other transnational threats, while prioritising civilian protection and community safety.

    Uba said proposals from the meeting are still under review by relevant Nigerian authorities, adding that the Armed Forces of Nigeria remain committed to safeguarding the country’s territorial integrity without compromising national independence.

  • RMAFC: New pay package for political office holders ready

    RMAFC: New pay package for political office holders ready

    The Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) yesterday announced that it had finalised work on a new remuneration for political office holders in the country.

    The commission said it had submitted the new pay package to the President through the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF).

    RMAFC’s Chairman, Mohammed Bello Shehu, who announced this at a budget defence of the agency before the House of Representatives Committee on Finance, said the new proposal is for ministers and political office holders.

    He said the President will soon forward the new salary package to the National Assembly for further scrutiny and approval.

    Shehu said the agency was also working on “vertical, horizontal revenue sharing formula. We are also on that. We will conclude this year”.

    The chairman, who provided an update on the ongoing review of the revenue allocation formula for the three tiers of government as well as the remuneration for political office holders, stated: “Very soon, we will conclude. We have done everything. We have concluded. We are just about to finish analysing the data and bring it before you.”

    READ ALSO: President rallies relief materials to affected Kwara communities

    “We hope that very soon this will be transmitted to you so that it becomes law. Of course, your own doesn’t require any legislation. It’s for the ministers and others.”

    He expressed concern over the interference of state governments in the fiscal governance of the local government areas over the years.

    Shehu said: “The commission would like to establish a Local Government Committee now, like we used to do before the Supreme Court said we were busy bodies. Now, we will monitor every single local government in Nigeria.

    “I’m glad that Mr. President spoke to the governors, that ‘if you don’t allow this, I will issue an Executive Order’. So, the commission is fully in support of Mr. President over this course.

    “The crisis we are having in Nigeria today is the lack of functionality of the local governments, and every single one of us knows this. Even under the military, the local governments performed much better. So, I thank you profoundly, sir; it’s your committee that initiated this.

    “Three years ago, when we came, we told you, you (Committee Chairman Abiodun Faleke) said you could handle this, and you guided me. I followed your advice and the rest is a success. So, we are grateful for this also.”

    “I sincerely thank this committee for what you have done for the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission. You have brought us out. We are now being respected by almost all the revenue-generating agencies in Nigeria.

    “Even before we knock now, they are knocking at our doors, having discussions with us. Some of the issues that have been, over the years, are being addressed by some of these revenue-generating agencies; whether it is the Nigerian Customs, the NUPRC, and other agencies.

    “So, I thank you profoundly and I think you have done a great service to Nigeria. This is just the beginning. I will now go to the document before you.”

    Shehu told the lawmakers that the agency was carrying out an audit of the nation’s oil assets in the Niger Delta.

    He said: “What you have done for us and for Nigeria; your name will go down in gold, sir. We are being respected by all revenue-generating agencies. Anywhere we go now, everybody is like shivering, trying to really identify with us.

    “For the first time, the verification that we are doing of oil wells all across the Niger Delta region has never been done before. The equipment that we have; not even new precursors. No governor now will say, ‘When you come to my state, you have to beg me,” where even we are going to stay, provide vehicles and things like that. Now, we can do that.

    |My people spent three to four months in the field. Some of them went into the creeks, up to here, to identify those oil assets that we have in Nigeria. By the time we finish, when Mr. President receives this report, this country will shake. I’m not making it up. I have provided you with an internal report, but I don’t want to let the cat out of the bag. So, this is remarkable, sir.”

  • Empower Academy will unlock skills development

    Empower Academy will unlock skills development

    The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, has described the Empower Academy Nigeria as a strategic national platform to accelerate skills development and unlock our healthcare value chain.

    He spoke after witnessing the inauguration of the academy.

    The Academy, unveiled as a phased programme beginning with a digital learning platform, will expand into hybrid innovation hubs and permanent world-class training centres in partnership with universities and research institutions.

    Prof. Pate said the initiative reflects President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision under the Presidential Initiative for Unlocking the Healthcare Value Chain (PVAC) to reposition Nigeria as a manufacturing hub while creating quality jobs for young Nigerians.

    He emphasized that Empower Academy Nigeria directly addresses the country’s critical gap in industry-ready professionals, especially in pharmaceutical manufacturing and life sciences. According to the Minister, while many Nigerians possess academic qualifications, there remains a shortage of practical “how-to” skills needed for regulated manufacturing, quality assurance, and regulatory science. The Academy is designed to bridge this gap by combining classroom learning, laboratory practice, mentorship, and factory-style training, equipping young people with both technical competence and purpose, while strengthening local production and global competitiveness.

    READ ALSO: President rallies relief materials to affected Kwara communities

    Also speaking at the event, PVAC National Coordinator, Dr. Abdu Mukhtar, announced that the Academy’s courses will be offered free to qualified Nigerians for the next two years, adding that the curriculum is designed to be practical, realistic, and industry-driven. He called on private sector players and academic institutions to actively collaborate with the Academy to ensure learners gain real-world, hands-on experience.

    Prof. Pate commended the National Coordinator of PVAC, the entire PVAC team, Empower School of Health, Prof. Paul Lalvani, and all partners for bringing the vision to life. He also expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for providing the leadership and policy direction that made the initiative possible.

    He noted that Empower Academy represents a growing narrative of innovation, hope, and opportunity in Nigeria. The Minister reaffirmed government’s commitment to expanding access for young talents nationwide, saying the programme marks a major step toward building a resilient healthcare workforce and a stronger Nigerian economy.

    Pate added: “I’ve heard from Dr. Mukhtar, and also Professor Albani,  is actually this Latin narrative.  The possibility of an exciting future,  repositioning Nigeria on the African continent  for its own people, but also on the global stage. What we’re doing here is world class.

     “And I believe this is just the beginning. That’s why when the President lists the Renewable Agenda, it’s not just a political slogan. There’s a vision, and there is an expectation  that there’s a different reality that you have to imagine,  and then walk the path to realize it.

    “Nigerians will see that this vision is real,  and that Nigeria can be a manufacturing hub, can unlock the healthcare value chain,  can create jobs, quality jobs, not any job.  Because here we’re not talking about just jobs,  because you can have jobs that are short term, no progression, not well-paying, those are not quality jobs.  That’s not the kind of jobs we’re talking about.”

    Prof. Lalvani said: “What we are providing here is practical accessible skills for industry. Good news, under the arrangement that we have under this partnership,  we are providing in the first instance, so this is going to be delivered in three phases that  Paul is going to demonstrate, but the first phase which we are launching today, the virtual platform  is going to provide about 40, at least 40 different courses, ready-to-use courses, and Honorable Minister, these courses are going to be free of charge to all Nigerians for the first two years, for the first two years, every Nigerian.”