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Year: 2025

Youth Unemployment Hits 53% in Nigeria, Threatening National Stability

Youth Unemployment Hits 53% in Nigeria, Threatening National Stability – Report

Fola Badmus06 mins

ABUJA, Nigeria — Over 80 million Nigerian youths are currently unemployed, according to a new report that paints a stark picture of the challenges facing Africa’s most populous country. The State of the Nigerian Youth Report 2025, launched Thursday in Abuja by Plan International Nigeria in collaboration with ActionAid Nigeria, reveals that youth unemployment has surged to 53 percent, posing what the report describes as the “single greatest threat” to Nigeria’s future. The report was officially presented at the Nigerian Youth Dialogue, an event organized by the House of Representatives Committee on Youth in Parliament to commemorate International Youth Day 2025. Speaking during the presentation, Jonathan Abakpa, Advocacy and Youth Programme Officer at Plan International Nigeria, said that widespread unemployment, rising insecurity, and poor governance are driving young Nigerians into dangerous alternatives such as irregular migration, cybercrime, and other illicit activities. “This is not just a statistic—it represents shattered dreams and wasted talent,” the report warns. “Unless urgent action is taken, Nigeria risks losing its greatest asset.” According to the report, approximately 1.7 million graduates enter the job market annually, but face limited employment opportunities in an economy plagued by stagnation. Data from the National Bureau of Statistics indicates youth unemployment rose by 5.3 percent in Q1 2024, with only marginal improvement in Q2. Beyond joblessness, the report highlights insecurity as a significant obstacle to youth development. Over 600,000 people have been killed and 2.2 million kidnapped in recent years, with young people disproportionately affected. Additionally, more than 1,500 schools have been closed in the past two years due to violence, leaving over 1 million children out of school. Quoting UNICEF, the report also notes that armed conflict has displaced 2.6 million people, crippling agricultural activities and threatening food security for more than 25 million Nigerians. The authors emphasize that widespread poverty, affecting 40.1 percent of the population (about 82.9 million Nigerians), continues to limit opportunities for youth advancement. Structural challenges such as poor infrastructure, corruption, and digital exclusion further exacerbate the problem. Findings from a nationwide “We Listen” survey revealed regional disparities: Despite the grim outlook, the report underscores the resilience of Nigerian youth, particularly in the technology and creative sectors. It calls for urgent interventions including: One key recommendation is for Universal Basic Education to be enshrined as a constitutional right, ensuring that no child is excluded from schooling due to poverty, insecurity, or geographic barriers. In his remarks, Hon. Ayodeji Alao-Akala, Chairman of the House Committee on Youth in Parliament, reaffirmed the National Assembly’s commitment to youth-focused legislation. “Nigerian youths are the future of our nation,” Alao-Akala said. “Our task as leaders is to make sure the children of tomorrow inherit a country better than what we met—one with more opportunities and less hardship.” He added that the National Assembly has dedicated considerable effort toward passing bills and motions aimed at improving the lives of young people. As one of the younger members of parliament, Alao-Akala said he remains passionate about ensuring that policies from the House of Representatives translate into tangible outcomes for Nigerian youth. He pledged continued collaboration with stakeholders to strengthen youth development programmes and prepare the next generation for leadership, innovation, and economic growth.

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Putin Warns Western Troops in Ukraine Would Be Legitimate Targets

Fola Badmus05 mins

VLADIVOSTOK, Russia – Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned that any deployment of foreign troops to Ukraine as part of Western-backed security guarantees would be treated as a “legitimate target” by Russian forces, rejecting international efforts to shore up post-war security in the region. The statement, delivered Friday during the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, comes after 26 countries pledged to provide troops to Ukraine in the event of a peace agreement with Russia, a plan proposed at a summit in Paris the day prior. “If some troops appear there, especially now during the fighting, we proceed from the premise that they will be legitimate targets,” Putin said. He added that any foreign military presence would undermine, not support, long-term peace efforts. Putin insisted that Ukraine’s growing military alignment with the West remains one of the “root causes” of the war, which began with Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022. “If decisions are reached that lead to peace, to long-term peace, then I simply do not see any sense in their presence on the territory of Ukraine, full stop,” he said. The summit of what has been dubbed a “coalition of the willing” saw several NATO and EU member states agree to send troops to Ukraine to deter future Russian aggression—particularly if peace is brokered through ongoing diplomatic efforts, including those reportedly being pursued by former U.S. President Donald Trump. However, questions remain over the level of U.S. participation. While some Western leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, were physically present at the Paris summit, others, such as British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, joined remotely. Trump, who has opened direct communication channels with Moscow, has previously said the U.S. would not commit ground troops but might offer other forms of military support, such as air power. Speaking after the summit, Trump confirmed he would be speaking with Putin soon. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed that such a call could be arranged “quickly” if needed. Peskov also sharply criticized the Paris proposal, calling it “definitely not acceptable.” He said any deployment of international or NATO troops near Russia’s borders would be seen as a direct threat. Instead, he pointed to the 2022 Istanbul peace framework, in which Ukraine would agree to a neutral, non-nuclear status and forgo NATO membership, in exchange for security assurances from major powers including Russia, the U.S., China, the UK, and France. While the Kremlin continues to reference the Istanbul framework, Western leaders have highlighted Russia’s repeated violations of past agreements, particularly between 2014 and 2022, when Moscow-backed separatists fought Ukrainian forces in eastern Ukraine. Under the Paris summit’s proposal, a “reassurance force” would patrol Ukrainian territory to enforce any post-conflict agreement. The plan is seen by some as a response to mounting concerns over Trump’s stance on the war and fears that a second Trump presidency could embolden the Kremlin. Putin reiterated that any future security arrangement must account for Russia’s interests, not just Ukraine’s. “I repeat once again, of course, Russia will implement these agreements. But, in any case, no one has discussed this with us at a serious level yet,” he said.

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Eid-ul-Maulid: Governor Fintiri Urges Emulation of Prophet Muhammad’s Virtues

Fola Badmus03 mins

YOLA – The Governor of Adamawa State, Rt. Hon. Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, has extended warm greetings to the Muslim Ummah on the occasion of Eid-ul-Maulid, calling on citizens to reflect the timeless virtues of Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) in their daily lives. In a statement released Friday by his Chief Press Secretary, Humwashi Wonosikou, the governor congratulated Muslims in Adamawa State and across Nigeria, urging them to embody the Prophet’s teachings of peace, kindness, humility, selflessness, and tolerance. “As we reflect on the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) on tolerance, sacrifice, and peaceful coexistence, let us strive to emulate his virtues and work towards a brighter future for our state and nation,” Governor Fintiri said. He expressed hope that the celebration would bring peace, happiness, and blessings to all Nigerians, adding that the Prophet’s life remains a model for building a more united and compassionate society. The governor also used the opportunity to encourage citizens to remain committed to the developmental initiatives of his administration, which he described as focused on improving lives and fostering inclusive progress. “May this celebration inspire us to pray for enduring peace, love, and unity,” the statement read. “Together, in the spirit of Maulid, we can build a stronger, more prosperous Adamawa and Nigeria.” Governor Fintiri concluded by praying for Allah’s guidance over the nation’s leaders and for the success of efforts aimed at securing lasting peace and economic growth. The message comes as Muslims around the world commemorate the birth of the Prophet Muhammad, a day marked by prayers, reflections, and acts of kindness. Earlier, the Federal Government declared Friday, September 5, 2025, a public holiday in observance of Eid-ul-Maulid. In a statement issued by Dr. Magdalene Ajani, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, on behalf of Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, Nigerians were urged to reflect on the Prophet’s virtues and commit to peace, stability, and national development.

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Eid-ul-Maulid: NOA Task Nigerians On Peace, Development

Eid-ul-Maulid: NOA Urges Nigerians to Promote Peace, Unity, and National Development

Fola Badmus04 mins

ABUJA – As Muslims across the country celebrate Eid-ul-Maulid, the National Orientation Agency (NOA) has extended warm greetings to the Muslim Ummah and all Nigerians, urging citizens to embrace the values of peace, forgiveness, and national unity in line with the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him). In a statement released Friday and signed by the Director of Communication and Media, Bala Musa, the agency called on Nigerians to use the occasion to reflect on the Prophet’s life and commit to fostering a peaceful and progressive society. The Director General of NOA, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, emphasized the importance of upholding the rule of law and promoting values that unite the nation. “On the celebration of the birth of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), we urge Nigerians to embrace forgiveness and draw closer to the noble life and teachings of the Prophet, which remain a guide for peaceful and upright living,” the statement read. Issa-Onilu noted that unity among Nigerians is a critical tool in combating insecurity and achieving lasting peace. “When citizens stand together and support ongoing security efforts, the nation is better positioned to overcome violence and build a stable future,” he said. Describing the Prophet as an embodiment of peace, compassion, and tolerance, the NOA chief called on Muslims to reflect these virtues in their daily lives and interactions, while also contributing to national harmony and development. The statement included a prayer for peace, unity, and progress across Nigeria, as well as guidance and wisdom for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in his efforts to lead the country toward sustained growth. Earlier, the Federal Government had declared Friday, September 5, 2025, a public holiday in commemoration of the Eid-ul-Maulid celebration. In a related message, the Ministry of Interior, through a statement by Dr. Magdalene Ajani, Permanent Secretary, on behalf of the Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, congratulated the Muslim faithful and urged all Nigerians to reflect on the Prophet’s timeless virtues of love, humility, tolerance, and compassion. The ministry also encouraged Nigerians of all faiths to use the occasion to pray for national security, stability, and unity, and to support ongoing government efforts to strengthen peace and development across the country.

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Israel kills 7 children as offensive reaches the ‘heart of Gaza City’

Seven Children Among Dozens Killed as Israeli Offensive Reaches Heart of Gaza City

Fola Badmus03 mins

GAZA CITY — At least 30 Palestinians, including seven children, were killed on Friday as Israeli forces intensified their assault on Gaza City, targeting densely populated residential areas and displacement camps, according to local reports. The latest attacks bring the death toll from the ongoing offensive to alarming levels, with eyewitnesses and Al Jazeera correspondents confirming that Israeli ground forces have now pushed into the heart of Gaza City, marking a significant escalation in the military campaign. Israel’s military announced it now controls approximately 40 percent of Gaza City, as operations continue in urban areas where thousands of civilians remain trapped amid the violence. According to Al Jazeera, at least 20 people, including children, were killed in airstrikes on residential neighborhoods on Friday alone. Tents housing displaced families have also been hit, raising fresh concerns about the safety of non-combatants seeking refuge from the fighting. The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) described the current situation as “unthinkable“, warning that the continued bombardment of civilian areas is having catastrophic consequences for Gaza’s already vulnerable population, particularly children. “These are not just numbers — these are lives lost, families shattered, and futures stolen,” a UNICEF spokesperson said. Israel has defended its operations as necessary to dismantle Hamas infrastructure, but international observers have repeatedly called for restraint and the protection of civilians, particularly in densely populated urban zones and shelters. As the humanitarian situation worsens, rights groups and aid organizations are calling for urgent international intervention, warning of a looming catastrophe as food, water, and medical supplies remain critically scarce.

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IG Appoints Benjamin Hundeyin as Force PRO

Fola Badmus02 mins

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun has approved the appointment of CSP Benjamin Hundeyin as the new Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO). CSP Hundeyin holds a BA (Hons) in English Language from Lagos State University and an MSc in Legal Criminology & Security Psychology from the University of Ibadan. He also obtained a Certificate in Civil-Military Coordination from the Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peacekeeping Training Centre, Jaji, Kaduna State. He is an Associate of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), a Member of the International Public Relations Association (IPRA), and an Associate of the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria (CIPM). A seasoned communicator, CSP Hundeyin previously served as the Police Public Relations Officer at Zone 2 Command Headquarters, Onikan, Lagos, was part of the Nigerian contingent to the United Nations Peacekeeping Mission in Darfur, Sudan (UNAMID) in 2020, and served as the Administration Officer at the Force Public Relations Department, Force Headquarters, Abuja. Until his present appointment, he was the Police Public Relations Officer for the Lagos State Police Command. The Inspector-General of Police has charged him to leverage on his communications and security experience to bolster the Force Public Relations activities and ensure continuous positive relations with the public. He can be reached on 07062606717 or benjamin@hundeyin.com.

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Flamingos Resume Camping Ahead 2025 U17 Women’s World Cup

Fola Badmus03 mins

Head Coach Bankole Olowookere has invited a total of 30 players to the camp of Nigeria’s U17 girls, Flamingos, as the team kickstarts preparations for this year’s FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup finals, taking place in Morocco. Invited are four goalkeepers, nine defenders, nine midfielders and nine strikers. 2022 FIFA World Cup bronze medallists, Nigeria overpowered South Africa and Algeria in the qualifying series to pick a ticket to the first-ever 24-team FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup finals, which will be played across four venues in two cities in Morocco, 17th October – 8th November. Venues earmarked for the finals (the first of five straight final tournaments to be hosted by Morocco) are the Prince Héritier Moulay el-Hassan Sports Complex, Prince Moulay Abdellah Sport Complex, Al Barid Stadium and Mohamed VI Football Academy. The invited players are expected to arrive camp in Abuja on Sunday, 7th September. ALL THE INVITED PLAYERS Goalkeepers: Elizabeth Boniface (Abia Angels); Onyinyechi Opara (Imo Strikers); Abigail Nmecha (Team Abia); Sylva Echefu (Bayelsa Queens) Defenders: Hannah Ibrahim (Remo Stars Ladies); Jumai Adebayo (Naija Ratels); Azeezat Oduntan (FC Robo); Christiana Sunday (Imo Strikers); Ufuoma Lucky (Royal Queens, Warri); Choice Ovwighovwiroro (New Generation, Abuja); Maryjane Ikeche (Ahudiyannem Queens); Blessed Isigbo (Remo Stars Ladies); Grace Ufot (Fortress Ladies) Midfielders: Shakirat Moshood (Bayelsa Queens); Muinat Rotimi (Nakamura Football Academy); Fatimah Shuaib (Confluence Queens); Waliat Rotimi (Nakamura Football Academy); Taiwo Lukman (Confluence Queens); Esther Lasisi (N-Youth, Abuja); Precious Nkwocha (Imo Strikers); Gift Anekan (New Generation, Abuja); Ayomide Abubakar (Onimarg FC) Forwards: Kaosara Olanrewaju (Aisha Yusuf Academy, Lagos); Kindness Ifeanyi (Bayelsa Queens); Queen Joseph (Fosla Academy); Shavih Istifanus (Youth Arise Academy); Tabitha Terlumu (Braavos, Edo); Destiny Itodore (Delta Queens); Chisom Nwachukwu (Rivers Angels); Nofisat Tijani (Youthful Talent 99)

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World Cup Qualifier: Eagles Insist Focus Is On Amavubi Before Bafana

Fola Badmus03 mins

The Super Eagles are not making the mistake of thinking too much about the showdown with South Africa’s Bafana Bafana in Bloemfontein on Tuesday, but are rather focused on their clash with Rwanda’s Amavubi in Uyo on Saturday, according to team captain William Ekong. “You take one step at a time. We have Rwanda to play on Saturday, and there are three points there. After that is concluded, then we begin to think of South Africa. There are three points also in there when we play in Bloemfontein, but that is a few days after Rwanda. Rwanda comes first,” Ekong said on Thursday. Nigeria has not had a campaign to shout about, especially in the first four matches of which she won none, but Ekong says the squad has committed to taking all points in the remaining games, believing that will be good enough to send Nigeria to the 48-nation finals in North America next summer. “We will do our very best to go all out and win the remaining four matches. Hopefully, that will be good enough to take us there.” The encounter with Rwanda, who lost the Matchday 5 that brought both teams at loggerheads in Kigali in March, is a Matchday 7 fixture, while the confrontation with South Africa is a Matchday 8 encounter. During the 1998 FIFA World Cup finals in France, the Super Eagles were focused on a potential Match-of-the-Tournament clash with Brazil in the quarter-finals, and failed to focus on their Round of 16 tie with Denmark. Following a 4-1 thumping of Nigeria in the game, Denmark’s ace winger Brian Laudrup said at the post-match conference: “Nigeria should learn to count one before four.” Nigeria’s camp attained full capacity on Wednesday evening, with the arrivals of midfielders Raphael Onyedika and Christantus Uche, and forwards Victor Osimhen, Samuel Chukwueze and Tolu Arokodare.

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