2025 | Page 117 of 135 | Trendbrio.com

President Tinubu departs for France

Our Reporters4 months ago4 months ago01 mins

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will depart Abuja on Wednesday for Paris, France, on a private visit en route to Addis Ababa, the Ethiopian capital. In Addis Ababa, President Tinubu, according to Bayo Onanuga, will join African leaders at the 46th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council and the 38th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of the AU Heads of State, scheduled from February 12th to 16th, 2025. The president will arrive in Addis Ababa early next week for the African Union summit. While in France, President Tinubu will meet with his French counterpart, President Emmanuel Macron.

FG expands palliative programme to support Students, FCT communities

Our Reporters4 months ago4 months ago04 mins

In a significant move to improve the lives of Nigerians, the Federal Government has expanded its palliative programme with the support of students across the country and residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja, building on the success of its previous distribution in Imo State. The Honourable Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, CFA, while distributing the palliatives weekend, emphasized that the gesture will address immediate needs, explaining that they form part of the broader economic reform agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’sAdministration. These palliatives serve as a bridge while our comprehensive economic reforms take root, she said. The initiative has reached multiple demographics across the FCT’s Area Councils, with beneficiary groups including student bodies, women associations, community organizations, and vulnerable groups. Notable student organisations that benefited from the programme include the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Nigerian Female Students Association (NFSAN), and NANS alumni networks. Commending the initiative, Mr. Sunday Asefon, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Student Engagement, praised the Minister’s commitment to student welfare: Dr. Uzoka-Anite has demonstrated remarkable understanding of students’ challenges in these times. Her proactive approach in extending these palliatives to students nationwide shows the Tinubu Administration’s dedication to supporting Nigerian students while implementing necessary economic reforms, he stated. In the FCT, the distribution has particularly impacted grassroots organizations across various Area Councils, with special attention to women groups and community associations. Key beneficiaries include FCT Market Women Associations, Area Council Youth Associations, Religious and Cultural Groups, Widows’ Associations, and Community Development Organizations. The Minister emphasized that the palliative distribution aligns with President Tinubu’s commitment to alleviating the immediate impact of economic reforms while building a more sustainable economic foundation for Nigeria. As we continue to navigate the complexities of our economic landscape, Dr Doris assured, our administration remains committed to supporting Nigerians through these challenging times, We are dedicated to creating a brighter future for our citizens, and this expanded palliative programme is a testament to that commitment. The FCT distribution follows a successful rollout in Imo State, where thousands of bags were distributed across all 27 Local Government Areas, reaching religious institutions, community groups, women organizations, youth associations, and vulnerable populations. As both a public servant and resident of the FCT, I understand the immediate needs of our communities, said Dr. Uzoka-Anite. The Minister emphasised that the palliative distribution aligns with President Tinubu’s commitment to alleviating the immediate impact of economic reforms while building a more sustainable economic foundation for Nigeria.

Sport heavyweights ready to volunteer at 2025 ECOWAS Marathon

Our Reporters4 months ago4 months ago04 mins

As preparations intensify for the 2025 ECOWAS Abuja International Marathon, key figures in the sports and fitness industry have expressed their eagerness to volunteer and contribute to the event’s success. The marathon, set for March 1, 2025, is part of activities to celebrate ECOWAS’ 50th anniversary. With thousands of runners expected to participate in the 21-kilometre half marathon and the 5-kilometre race, volunteers will be crucial in ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience for all. Gabriel Okon, the Race Director emphasized the significance of volunteers in an event that dedicated individuals to handle various logistical and operational aspects. “Marathon is not just about the runners; it’s about the team behind the scenes. Volunteers are the backbone of any successful race, from registration and logistics to hydration stations and medical support. Their role is invaluable in making the event smooth and enjoyable for everyone,” he said. Application for volunteers opened Monday, February 3, 2025, and interested applicants can pick up a form at the Athletics Federation of Nigeria office, Moshood Abiola Stadium, Package A, Abuja. Members of the sports family including athletes, coaches, fitness trainers, and others have pledged to support the event in different capacities, from technical assistance to race coordination and mentorship for young runners. Expressing his delight at the overwhelming response, Okon remarked, “The enthusiasm we are seeing from volunteers is inspiring. From retired directors in the ministry, elite athletes, to community fitness trainers, so many people are eager to be part of this celebration of unity and athleticism. This is more than just a race—it’s a movement that brings people together for a greater cause.” Beyond the competition itself, the ECOWAS Abuja International Marathon represents an opportunity to promote health, youth empowerment, and regional unity through sports. With over $71,000 in prize money up for grabs, the event is expected to attract elite runners while also encouraging participation from amateur fitness enthusiasts. Okon stressed that the marathon is not only about athleticism but also about making a lasting impact. “We want this marathon to leave a lasting legacy beyond race day. It’s about inspiring people to embrace fitness, fostering friendships across borders, and promoting a culture of healthy living,” he said. Interested participants can register at www.ecowasabujamarathon.org or visit the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) offices, FCT Sports councils, and local athletics associations across Nigeria.

Public assault: Orile Ifo monarch remanded in Prison

Our Reporters4 months ago4 months ago04 mins

The suspended Olorile of Orile-Ifo , Ogun State Oba Abdulsemiu Ogunjobi spent the night of Tuesday February 4 2025 at the Ifo Correctional Centre as he was unable to meet his bail conditions following his arraignment by the Nigerian Police at the Ifo Magistrate Court for his public assault on 73-year old Elder Abraham Areola. After he was suspended by the Ogun State Government for acts unbecoming of a traditional ruler following widespread criticism of his assault on Areola which was recorded and uploaded on the social media , the Nigerian Police also dragged him before Magistrate F. A. Iroko to answer to three-count charge of assault, conspiracy, and conduct likely to cause a breach of peace. He pleaded not guilty to the charges and was subsequently admitted to bail with two sureties in the sum of N5m each, who must reside within the court’s jurisdiction. But at the close of business on Tuesday he was unable to perfect the bail conditions necessitating his remand at the Ifo Correctional Centre.Ironically, while brutalising Areola the monarch boasted in the the viral video that led to his suspension that he would ensure that his victim was sent to jail through his connection with the police. The monarch will have his day in Court on March 6, the date the Magistrate fixed for the continuation of the case against him. The Charge Against Him:“That Abdul-Semiu ‘m’ and others at large, on 21st January 2025, at about 1100 hrs at Sojuolu Street, Ifo Magisterial District, did conspire to commit a misdemeanour, to wit: assault and conduct likely to cause a breach of the peace, thereby committing an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 517 of the Criminal Code Laws of Ogun State of Nigeria, 2006. “That you, Abdul-Semiu ‘m’, and others now at large, on the same date, time, and place in the aforementioned Magisterial District, did unlawfully assault one Areola Abraham by slapping him on the face and ear, thereby committing an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 351 of the Criminal Code Laws of Ogun State of Nigeria, 2006. “That you, Abdul-Semiu ‘m’, and others at large, on the same date, time, and place in the aforementioned Magisterial District, did conduct yourselves in a manner likely to cause a breach of the peace by forcing one Areola Abraham ‘m’ to kneel down and assaulting him in public, thereby committing an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 249 (d) of the Criminal Code Laws of Ogun State of Nigeria, 2006.”

Iheanacho drops hint on Sevilla future

Our Reporters4 months ago4 months ago02 mins

On-loan Sevilla star Kelechi Iheanacho has this week dropped something of a hint regarding his future plans with the club. Frontman Iheanacho is for his part fresh off sealing a move away from Nervión. Just six months on from his free agent arrival at Sevilla, the Nigerian international was farmed out on loan, linking up with English Championship side Middlesbrough. Iheanacho’s exit came after what had been a hugely challenging first half-season in La Liga, which saw the former Leicester City man struggle for both game-time and goals. Speaking during his presentation as a Middlesbrough player, as cited by Mundo Deportivo, though, Iheanacho hinted that he has unfinished business in Sevilla’s colours. Asked for his thoughts on the move, the 28-year-old explained: “It’s good to get out, to feel in a different environment. Sevilla is a great club. I loved my experience there. It’s a great team and I’ll be delighted to return there.”

Public Assault: Ogun State Govt. suspends Olorile of Orile-Ifo for six months

Our Reporters4 months ago4 months ago02 mins

In a bid to ensuring dignity of persons and for the protection of sanctity of our revered traditional institution, the Ogun State Government led by Prince Dapo Abiodun, has placed Oba Abdulsemiu Adewale Ogunjobi, the Olorile of Orile-Ifo on six months suspension for his uncivil conduct not befitting the status of an Oba. The decision was reached after the Kabiyesi and his victim were invited by the Honourable Commissioner, Ministry of Local Govt and Chieftaincy Affairs for interrogation. This became imperative as a result of the reckless utterances and public misconduct of the Kabiyesi as it was evident in the social media and being bandied in the larger public space. After the investigation conducted on the matter, the Kabiyesi has been suspended and stripped of the paraphernalia of the stool of Olorile-Ifo pending the determination of his culpability or otherwise on the allegation. The foregoing decision was reached by the Ministry in conjunction with the Egba Traditional Council in accordance with Section 52(1) of the Obas and Chiefs’ Law of Ogun State 2021. Meanwhile, the Monarch has been charged to court today 4th February, 2025, on three-count charge of conspiracy, assault and conduct likely to cause breach of peace.He was granted bail while the case was adjourned to 06/03/2025. The police will continue to uphold the rule of law and the core values of the noble profession.

LNSA, Mushin Command arrest fraudster

Our Reporters4 months ago4 months ago02 mins

The Mushin Command of the Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Agency (LNSA) has arrested a suspected fraudster operating around Fatai Atere Way, and its environs. The female suspect named Toyin Ariyo, aged 48 years, was apprehended as she allegedly attempted to swindle 18-year-old Ayomide around the Cappa area of Agege Motor Road at about 9 am on the 3rd of February 2025. The suspect, who confessed to having been in the fraudulent trade for over 20 years, met her Waterloo when a Corp officer noticed and accosted the victim, Ayomide, who displayed signs of distress and fear. Following the completion of the preliminary investigation, the case was immediately transferred to the Police for further investigation and prosecution. The General Manager of LNSA, Prince Ifalade Oyekan commended the gallant officers who responded to the situation and warned criminals to relocate from Lagos State as the Law enforcement agencies in the State have been encouraged by the commitment of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu to the security and safety of residents and visitors in the State.

Probe missing N26bn in Ministry of Petroleum Resources, PTDF, SERAP tells Tinubu

Our Reporters4 months ago4 months ago012 mins

Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged President Bola Tinubu “to direct the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice Mr Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, and appropriate anti-corruption agencies to promptly probe allegations that over N26 billion of public funds are missing, diverted or stolen from the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) and the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources in 2021.” These damning revelations are documented in the 2021 audited report published on Wednesday 13 November 2024 by the Office of the Auditor-General of the Federation. SERAP said, “Anyone suspected to be responsible should face prosecution as appropriate, if there is sufficient admissible evidence, and any missing public funds should be fully recovered and remitted to the treasury.” SERAP urged him to “use any recovered stolen funds to fund the deficit in the 2025 budget and to ease Nigeria’s crippling debt crisis.” In the letter dated 1 February 2025 and signed by SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organisation said: “There is a legitimate public interest in ensuring justice and accountability for these grave allegations. Tackling corruption in the oil sector would go a long way in addressing the budget deficit and debt problems.” According to SERAP, “The allegations suggest a grave violation of the public trust, the Nigerian Constitution 1999 (as amended), the country’s anticorruption legislation and international anticorruption obligations.” The letter, read in part: “Poor Nigerians have continued to pay the price for the widespread and grand corruption in the oil sector.” “Despite the country’s enormous oil wealth, ordinary Nigerians have derived very little benefit from oil money primarily because of widespread grand corruption, and the entrenched culture of impunity of perpetrators.” “According to the 2021 annual audited report by the Auditor-General of the Federation, the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) in 2021 reportedly paid over N25 billion [N25,607,890,403.11] for ‘contracts without any supporting documents.’” “The Auditor-General fears ‘the money may have been diverted.’ He wants the money recovered and remitted to the treasury.” “The PTDF also reportedly failed to account for over N326 million [N326,065,638.00] deposited in two banks. The Auditor-General fears the money may be missing and wants it recovered and remitted to the treasury.” “The PTDF reportedly failed to account for over N107 million [N107,691,733.93] being money for ‘the supply, installation, and commissioning of Library automation system and RFID at the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI).’” “The contract for the library ‘was awarded without the prior approval from the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA). The Auditor-General fears ‘the money may have been diverted.’ He wants the money recovered and remitted to the treasury.” READ ALSO CTC of Judgment ordering Buhari’s minister to account for N729bn payment to poor Nigerians“The PTDF reportedly paid over N46 million [N46,974,216.43] to ‘three companies for services without evidence of execution.’ ‘One of the contractors was engaged on 13th April 2021 but was paid for services rendered in March 2021. All the three contractors were paid for periods they had not rendered the services to the PTDF.’” “The Auditor-General fears ‘the money may have been diverted.’ He wants the money recovered and remitted to the treasury.” “The PTDF also reportedly failed to remit over N60 million [N60,355,670.03] of ‘stamp duty from the capital expenditure contracts awarded in 2019 and 2020.’ The PTDF ‘provided no reason why the money was not remitted.’” “The Auditor-General fears ‘the money may have been diverted.’ He wants the money recovered and remitted to the treasury.” “The PTDF also reportedly failed to account for over N64 million [N64,088,158.44] ‘being payment for store items not supplied.” The Auditor-General fears ‘the money may have been diverted.’ He wants the money recovered and remitted to the treasury.” “The PTDF also reportedly paid over N41 million [N41,367,493.50] ‘for services not yet performed or goods not yet supplied.’ The payments were made ‘without relevant supporting documents such as invoices, receipts.’” “The Auditor-General fears ‘the money may have been diverted.’ He wants the money recovered and remitted to the treasury.” “The Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources reportedly spent over N137 million [N137,751,789.85] ‘from the Capital Vote for expenditures which were recurrent in nature without any approval by the National Assembly and the Minister of Finance.’” “The Auditor-General fears the money may be missing. He wants the money recovered and remitted to the treasury. He also wants sanctions applied ‘for gross misconduct specified in paragraph 3129 of the Financial Regulations 2009.’” “The Ministry reportedly failed to account for over N232 million [N232,509,238.21] ‘being payments to seven companies for consultancy services for stakeholders’ engagement in the Niger Delta in January 2021.’” “According to the Auditor-General, ‘the type of engagements and the reasons for contracting the seven companies were not stated. The venue of the engagement remains unknown. This spending of public funds appeared fictitious.’” “The Auditor-General fears “the money may have been diverted.’ He wants the money recovered and remitted to the treasury.” “The Ministry also reportedly failed to remit over N25 million [N25,516,938.00] of ‘taxes collected from payments of N137,929,394.58] made to contractors.’ The Auditor-General fears ‘the money may have been diverted.’ He wants the money recovered and remitted to the treasury.” READ ALSO Xenophobia: African commission to ‘take appropriate action’ on SERAP’s request to sue South Africa for $10bn“The Ministry also reportedly failed to account for over N43 million [N43,533,036.65] ‘being irregular payments for the replacement of broken ceiling.’ The Auditor-General fears “the money may have been diverted.’ He wants the money recovered and remitted to the treasury.” “The Ministry failed to account for over N74 million [N74,721,625.03] ‘being payments made as cash advances granted to officers between March and December 2021 without retirement.’ The Auditor-General fears ‘the money may have been diverted’, and wants it recovered and remitted to the treasury.” “We would be grateful if the recommended measures are taken within 7 days of the receipt and/or publication of this letter. If we have not heard from you by then, SERAP shall consider appropriate legal actions to compel your government to comply with our request in the public…