July 2025 | Page 11 of 48

FG Sets 12 Years as Minimum Age for JSS1 Admission in New Policy for Private Schools

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago04 mins

The Federal Government has officially set 12 years as the minimum age for admission into Junior Secondary School 1 (JSS1), as part of new guidelines released in a policy document on non-state (private) schools. The new directive, introduced by the Federal Ministry of Education and launched last week, mandates that children must first complete six years of primary education before transitioning to junior secondary school. By implication, this age requirement aligns with the expectation that students will complete their secondary education around age 18. The policy lays out a clear structure for early childhood education, stating:“Nursery education shall be of three years’ duration. Children shall be admitted into Nursery One at age three, Nursery Two at age four, and Kindergarten (one year of compulsory pre-primary education) at age five.” It continues:“Basic education shall be of nine years’ duration—six years of primary and three years of Junior Secondary School (JSS). Children shall be admitted into Primary One at age six and then into JSS1 at age twelve, following the completion of primary education.” Although the age of 18 was previously announced as the minimum for university entry by former Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, the current minister, Dr. Tunji Alausa, has revised the university admission age back to 16 years. The new policy document also highlights the increasing role of non-state schools in the country’s education sector. These schools, which are privately operated and often funded through tuition, donations, and community or religious support, have seen substantial growth in recent years. According to the Nigeria Education Digest 2022, non-state schools now outnumber government-run schools at the junior secondary level in at least 26 states. However, at the primary level, state schools remain dominant in 19 states. The report also reveals faster growth in the number of private schools between 2017 and 2022: The new policy is expected to standardize age-based progression in the Nigerian education system and improve oversight of private education providers across the country.

Peter Obi Caught in Fresh Coalition Controversy, Denies Being Tricked into ADC Alliance

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago06 mins

A new controversy has erupted over the involvement of former Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, in the emerging opposition coalition led by the African Democratic Congress (ADC), with claims surfacing that he was tricked into joining the alliance under false pretenses. Reports suggest that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar may be positioning himself as the coalition’s leading presidential hopeful for the 2027 elections, following recent statements hinting at his intention to run again. At a public event, Atiku vowed to clamp down on corruption if elected, saying, “I swear to God, if elected, whoever steals or engages in any corruption-related activities, we will declare war against them and they must be punished.” Meanwhile, Peter Obi clarified that he has not discussed any joint ticket arrangement with Atiku or anyone else. He reiterated his commitment to serve only a single term if elected president. “If there is any form of agreement that will restrict me to four years in office, I will comply with the agreement and be ready to leave office on the 28th of May 2031,” Obi said. Obi Was Deceived into Coalition – Ex-Adviser Alleges Katchy Ononuju, a former Special Adviser on Public Affairs to Obi during the 2023 presidential campaign, alleged that Obi was misled into joining the coalition. According to Ononuju, the promise was that Obi would emerge as the presidential candidate after the coalition’s launch, but those behind the move had other intentions. “They tricked Peter Obi, saying don’t worry, go and register, go, let us inaugurate. After the declaration, we will start negotiating on you being the presidential candidate,” Ononuju told DAILY POST. “But ADC is an Atiku Abubakar construct. You’re not going to get it.” Ononuju claimed he had warned Obi against trusting the arrangement and cautioned that any attempt to accept a vice-presidential slot under Atiku or anyone else would result in a “political death.” He stressed that the youth-led Obidient Movement would reject such a compromise. “Peter Obi as a political creation will die if he abandons the youths. In every single administration, the voice of the Vice President does not matter; it is muted and if he complains, he is degraded,” he said, citing past vice presidents such as Osinbajo and Atiku himself. Obi Remains with Labour Party – Tanko Reacts Reacting to the claims, Dr. Yunusa Tanko, National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, dismissed Ononuju’s assertions as attempts to sow discord. He denied that Obi was tricked into joining the coalition and reaffirmed his continued membership in the Labour Party. “They are trying to create distractions and disharmony,” Tanko said. “If Peter Obi is going to make any statement as regards the coalition, you will get it from him directly, from me, or from any of his aides.” Tanko emphasized that the coalition was being formed with 2027 in mind and does not affect Obi’s current affiliation with the Labour Party. “He has made it clear that he is a member of the Labour Party to protect the interest of his followers… The coalition is a coalition he is interested in for the 2027 general elections and we are in 2025,” he added. While the ADC-led coalition remains in the early stages of formation, internal power struggles and conflicting ambitions appear to be threatening its cohesion even before any formal structure has been agreed upon.

Zamfara APC Mourns Emir of Gusau, Alhaji Ibrahim Bello

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago02 mins

The Zamfara State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has mourned the death of the Emir of Gusau, Alhaji Ibrahim Bello, who passed away early Thursday morning at Nizamiye Hospital in Abuja after a brief illness. In a condolence message issued on behalf of the State Working Committee, party leaders, and members, APC State Chairman, Hon. Tukur Umar Danfulani, extended heartfelt sympathies to the Zamfara State Government, the Gusau Emirate Council, the State Council of Chiefs, and the people of the state over what he described as a profound loss. Danfulani hailed the late emir as a distinguished traditional ruler who upheld the legacies of his forebears, championed the development of the Gusau Emirate, and stood firmly in defense of Islamic values and human rights. “Late Ibrahim Bello was a great leader known for his simplicity, strong faith, and unwavering commitment to the progress of his people,” the statement read. “He will be fondly remembered for his exemplary leadership and dedication to the service of humanity.” The APC prayed for the peaceful repose of the emir’s soul and asked Almighty Allah to grant him eternal rest in Aljannatu Firdaus.

Tinubu Reportedly Distances Longtime Ally Eludoyin Amid NNPC Turmoil

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago04 mins

Abuja – In a dramatic turn of events that has gripped the political elite, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is said to have distanced himself from his longtime ally and confidant, Prince Dapo Eludoyin, as controversy deepens around the embattled Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC), Bayo Ojulari. According to insider sources, the President’s cold shoulder towards Eludoyin stems from a series of missteps and allegations surrounding Ojulari, who is facing scrutiny over what critics describe as poor judgment and questionable political alignments. Ojulari first came under fire over his ill-timed NNPC executive retreat in Kigali, Rwanda, which drew criticism given the country’s pressing economic challenges. However, the pressure mounted further following unconfirmed reports that he allegedly facilitated travel arrangements for key opposition figures, using NNPC aviation contracts in a manner seen by some as politically subversive. What appears to have drawn President Tinubu’s ire even more is the fact that Ojulari was reportedly nominated for the top NNPC role on the strong recommendation of Prince Eludoyin. Sources within Aso Rock suggest the President now feels blindsided, particularly after revelations of Ojulari’s alleged ties to businessman Bashir Abdulahi Haske — a figure currently under investigation over alleged fraud and corruption. Observers say Tinubu’s silence and visible detachment from Eludoyin signal a deep sense of disappointment. One senior official described the fallout as “a classic case of political self-preservation,” suggesting that the President may be trying to shield his administration from further reputational damage. Political analysts note that while Tinubu is known for rewarding loyalty, he is equally swift to reposition when allies become political liabilities. “This may be more of a strategic retreat than a permanent fallout,” said one source familiar with the situation. “The President is pragmatic — he distances himself when necessary but rarely closes the door completely.” As Abuja’s political circles continue to buzz, questions remain: Is Eludoyin’s influence within the Tinubu camp permanently diminished? Will Ojulari survive the mounting pressure? Or is this the beginning of a broader shake-up within the nation’s oil sector? What is clear, however, is that the episode has sent ripples through the upper ranks of government, laying bare the high-stakes calculations and shifting alliances that define Nigeria’s political theatre.

Kidnapper of 12 year Old Girl In Rivers Traced To Enugu Prison

14 Killed, Including Women and Infants, in Plateau Market Ambush

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago03 mins

Bokkos, Plateau State — At least 14 people, including women and infants, were killed on Thursday, July 24, 2025, in a brutal ambush by suspected Fulani bandits along Chirang Road in Mangor District, shortly after leaving the popular Bokkos weekly market. According to eyewitnesses who spoke to Daily Watch Nigeria, the victims had just concluded their trading activities in Bokkos town and were on their way home when armed attackers suddenly blocked the road and opened fire on the vehicle they were travelling in. Several passengers were reportedly killed instantly, while others sustained varying degrees of injuries. A survivor who requested anonymity described the horrifying scene: “The gunmen were heavily armed. They came out of nowhere, blocked the road, and started shooting without any warning.” The incident was confirmed in a statement on Friday by the Chairman of the Bokkos Cultural Development Forum (BCDF), Farmasum Fuddang. He expressed deep shock that the attack occurred despite ongoing peace and reconciliation efforts between farming and herding communities in the area. “The victims were returning from the weekly market in Bokkos town when their vehicle was ambushed. Victims included women and little babies,” Fuddang said. He criticized the persistent violence in the region, which continues despite several interventions aimed at fostering peaceful coexistence. Fuddang also openly accused Fulani militias of being behind the ambush, alleging that the attack was part of a broader attempt to take control of Bokkos Local Government Area, widely known as Nigeria’s potato production hub. “This violence occurs despite various so-called peace and reconciliation efforts,” he stated. “It is clear to us who is behind this, and we must not remain silent.” The attack has reignited tensions in a region long plagued by recurring violence between herders and farming communities. Security agencies are yet to release an official statement on the incident, but residents are calling for urgent government intervention to prevent further bloodshed.

Thailand and Cambodia Exchange Fire in Deadly Border Clashes

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago04 mins

Border tensions between Thailand and Cambodia escalated into violent confrontations on Thursday, leaving at least 14 people dead and dozens more injured, as both nations exchanged artillery fire and airstrikes near the disputed Ta Moan Thom Temple.* Thai officials confirmed that a Cambodian shelling campaign killed 13 civilians and one Thai soldier, prompting the Thai military to launch retaliatory airstrikes into northwestern Cambodia. Six Thai F-16 fighter jets reportedly bombed Cambodian military targets following attacks that hit civilian areas, including a petrol station and a hospital zone. The fighting erupted early Thursday morning near the ancient Ta Moan Thom Temple in Cambodia’s Oddar Meanchey province. According to Thailand’s military, the violence began when Cambodian drones and troops approached the Thai border before launching rocket attacks into Surin and Sisaket provinces. Cambodian forces allegedly fired BM-21 multiple rocket launchers, including a strike near a hospital and a petrol station in Ban Phue, which killed six civilians. Rear Admiral Surasant Kongsiri, a senior Thai military official, said clashes quickly spread to at least six points along the border, leading to the closure of official border crossings. In response, Thailand’s caretaker Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai denied any declaration of war but insisted that the fighting must stop before any negotiations could begin. Health Minister Thepsuthin Somsak condemned Cambodia’s attacks as “war crimes,” citing the shelling of civilian areas, including an already evacuated hospital. The violence has triggered mass evacuations, with over 40,000 civilians fleeing more than 80 villages near the border. Local authorities have set up emergency shelters fortified with sandbags and concrete, as verified videos showed displaced residents fleeing on foot with bags of belongings. Cambodia’s Defence Ministry, however, blamed Thailand for provoking the confrontation, claiming Thai forces first deployed a drone and fired across the border. It described its actions as self-defence in response to an alleged Thai incursion. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet has called for an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council, stating that Thailand’s actions “gravely threatened peace in the region.” Former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen also weighed in, accusing Thailand of shelling Cambodian provinces and forcing Cambodia’s military to defend its territory. As both sides trade blame, regional leaders and international observers are calling for urgent de-escalation to prevent the crisis from spiraling into a broader conflict.

Sanusi Charges Nigerian Coaches to Keep Advancing their Knowledge

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago03 mins

The General Secretary of the Nigeria Football Federation, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi (MON) has called on coaches who have successfully completed their Coaching Educators’ Course to continuously enhance their knowledge, given that the laws of the game frequently evolve. The closing ceremony was held at the NFF/FIFA Technical Centre auditorium inside the MKO Abiola National Stadium, Abuja on Thursday, with the presence of all fifteen participating coaches, their instructors, and a CAF expert, Mr. Michael Amenga. Sanusi emphasised the importance of mastery in specific subject areas related to coaching. “In coaching education, acquiring knowledge, understanding the methods of imparting that knowledge, and effectively communicating it, are vital. To achieve this, one must have a thorough understanding of the subject matter,” he stated. He also noted that feedback received from the technical officer indicated areas that require serious improvement. “I have received plenary reports and engaged in discussions with the CAF expert, who has recognised that while considerable progress has been made, certain challenges still need to be addressed.” In conclusion, Dr. Sanusi advised the coaches to remain committed to keeping themselves updated with the latest innovation, emphasising that continuous learning is essential in their profession. “This type of programme necessitates ongoing engagement. Improvement must be a constant goal. We, as educators, are dedicated to enhancing our knowledge in line with the dynamic nature of football and sports. “There are continual advancements in our field, and without staying abreast of global trends, one risks falling behind. Therefore, I encourage you to internalise, comprehend, and apply what you have learnt. If you have any doubts, always feel free to consult your peers, and when necessary, reach out to the educators for guidance,” he concluded. Also present were NFF Technical Director, Coach Augustine Eguavoen; CAF expert Michael Amenga; NFF Director of Communications, Dr. Ademola Olajire; Head of Education, Dr. Terry Eguaoje; Consultant on Finance and Administration, Mr. Charity Kadiri and; Deputy Director, Women’s Technical Programme, Mrs Faith Omon Ben-Anuge.

WBO Orders Usyk to Face Mandatory Challenger Parker

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago02 mins

Undisputed heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk has been ordered by the WBO to begin negotiations with mandatory challenger Joseph Parker. The Ukrainian, 38, unified the division for a second time on 19 July with a fifth-round stoppage of Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium. New Zealand’s Parker beat Zhilei Zhang to win the WBO interim belt in March 2024. Both parties have 30 days to find an agreement or the WBO will order purse bid proceedings. Parker held the WBO title between 2016 and 2018, beating Andy Ruiz Jr to claim the vacant belt, but lost it to Anthony Joshua after two defences. Following defeat by Briton Joe Joyce in 2022, the 33-year-old has won six fights in a row to re-emerge among the title contenders. Parker was set to face Dubois for the IBF strap in February, but the Briton withdrew on two days’ notice due to illness. The New Zealander remained on the card in Riyadh and defended his interim title status with a stoppage victory against Martin Bakole instead. Parker was an ever-present and vocal figure during the build-up to Usyk’s latest success and he watched from ringside as the two-weight undisputed champion put on another masterclass in London. Usyk said he wanted to rest for “two or three months” after earning his second win against Dubois, but named Parker, Tyson Fury, Anthony Joshua and Derek Chisora as potential opponents. He has yet to lose in 24 contests as a professional, with 15 victories by knockout.