Fola Badmus

NELFUND Deepens Grassroots Engagement in Ogun State, Partners Senator Gbenga Daniel to Expand Student Loan Awareness

The Nigerian Education Loans Fund (NELFUND) has intensified its grassroots sensitisation efforts in Ogun State, partnering with Senator Gbenga Daniel to broaden awareness of the federal government’s student loan programme across Ogun East Senatorial District. The engagement, held in Ijebu North Local Government Area, formed part of Senator Daniel’s Mid-Term Community Assessment and Review Tour and drew community leaders, youth associations, parents, and prospective student beneficiaries. Speaking at the event on Sunday, NELFUND Managing Director/Chief Executive, Mr. Akintunde Sawyerr, said the initiative aligns with the agency’s ongoing efforts to strengthen partnerships across all levels of governance and community structures nationwide. According to him, the session “forms part of our broader commitment to strengthen partnerships across federal, state and community structures,” adding that it ensures “NELFUND’s mandate is well understood, properly aligned, and effectively delivered to the beneficiaries we serve.” Sawyerr explained that discussions during the engagement “reinforced the centrality of our mission and the critical role NELFUND plays in expanding access to tertiary education financing nationwide.” Reaffirming the agency’s nationwide reach, he stressed:“NELFUND remains firmly committed to taking its mandate to every community, ensuring that every eligible Nigerian who needs this loan can access it without barriers. Our goal is simple: no Nigerian student should be left behind.” The NELFUND delegation included: Mr. Akintunde Sawyerr, Managing Director/Chief Executive Dr. Fred Femi Akinfala, Executive Director, Finance and Administration Mr. Sola Fowobaje, Director of SERVICOM Mrs. Oseyemi Oluwatuyi, Director of Strategic Communications Mr. Yomi Gbadamosi, PA to the MD/CE Mr. Festus Adefehinti, PA to the EDFA

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NNPP Crisis: Kwankwaso Camp Loses as Court Affirms Agbo Major Leadership

Party writes INEC, demands immediate enforcement of court orders The leadership crisis rocking the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has taken a decisive turn as the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Abuja issued fresh orders affirming Dr. Agbo Gilbert Major as the authentic national chairman of the party. The orders, delivered on 25 and 27 November 2025 by Justice Bello Kawu of High Court No. 14, restrain the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from recognising or engaging with any faction other than the Agbo Major–led leadership. In the ruling of 25 November, the court granted the NNPP leave to apply for judicial review by mandamus and held that the leave would operate as a stay against any contrary action, recognition, or communication by INEC or the faction led by Dr. Ajuju Ahmed. The judge also ordered an accelerated hearing and abridged timelines, fixing 10 December 2025 for the substantive case. A follow-up ruling on 27 November authorised substituted service on 16 respondents via the NNPP National Secretariat in Abuja. The court further barred INEC from monitoring, attending, or participating in any congress or convention organised by the Ahmed-led group until the matter is resolved. Among the restrained respondents are Dr. Ajuju Ahmed, Hon. Abba Kawu Ali, Prince Nwaeze Onu, Hon. Aladipo Alayokun, Ladipo Johnson, Arc. Mohammed Abacha, and Mustapha Alkassim. Following the court directives, the NNPP’s legal team wrote to the new INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, SAN, notifying him of the binding orders. In the letter dated 26 November 2025, the party congratulated the chairman and reminded the Commission of several subsisting court judgments—including those from the Abia State High Court (HUZ/11/2024) and the FCT High Court (FCT/HC/CV/5518/2024)—all affirming the validity of the national convention that produced Dr. Agbo Major. The letter also faulted INEC for previously engaging the Ahmed faction despite these judgments, citing an “unauthorised and illegal” letter dated 31 October 2025 in which Dr. Ahmed and Dipo Olayoku purported to notify INEC of planned congresses and a national convention. The NNPP insisted that the individuals had “no authority, standing, or legal relationship” with the party. The party warned INEC that any further engagement with the factional group would amount to wilful disobedience of court orders and violate Section 287(3) of the 1999 Constitution. It cited the Supreme Court decision in Governor of Lagos State v. Ojukwu to emphasise that no public authority may place itself above judicial orders. Justice Kawu’s rulings categorically bar INEC from recognising, publishing, or uploading any logo, communication, or document originating from the factional respondents pending the conclusion of the judicial review. The court ordered the NNPP to serve all processes on the respondents within five days, while the respondents must file their counter-affidavits within five days thereafter. The NNPP may reply within three days. The matter is scheduled for hearing on 10 December 2025 at High Court No. 14, Apo, Abuja. In a firm position following the rulings, the NNPP demanded that INEC—“as a matter of necessity”—must upload the Dr. Agbo Gilbert Major and Comrade Oginni Olaposi Sunday–led National Working Committee (NWC) on its official website and restore the party’s original logo and colours within 48 hours of receiving the enrolled order. The party stressed that there must be no vacuum in administration as it prepares for the next court date. The latest court orders deepen the long-running leadership tussle within the NNPP—a dispute that has resulted in multiple litigations since 2023 and pitted two major factions against each other, including loyalists of former presidential candidate Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.

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Tinubu Forwards 32 Ambassadorial Nominees to Senate for Confirmation

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has submitted a fresh list of 32 ambassador-designate nominees to the Nigerian Senate for screening and confirmation. The list, announced on Saturday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, includes 17 non-career and 15 career diplomats. The nominees are expected to be deployed to key nations and multilateral institutions that are central to Nigeria’s foreign policy objectives. Non-Career Nominees Ogbonnaya Kalu (Abia) Reno Omokri (Delta) Mahmood Yakubu (Bauchi) – former INEC Chairman Bisi Angela Adebayo (Ekiti) – former Ekiti First Lady Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi (Enugu) – former governor Tasiu Musa Maigari (Katsina) – former Speaker, Katsina Assembly Yakubu N. Gambo (Plateau) Nora Ladi Daduut (Plateau) – former senator Femi Pedro (Lagos) – former Lagos deputy governor Femi Fani-Kayode (Osun) – former aviation minister Nkechi Linda Ufochukwu (Anambra) Fatima Florence Ajimobi (Oyo) – former First Lady Lola Akande (Lagos) – former commissioner Grace Bent (Adamawa) – former senator Victor Okezie Ikpeazu (Abia) – former governor Jimoh Ibrahim (Ondo) – businessman, former senator Paul Oga Adikwu (Benue) – former ambassador to the Holy See Career Nominees Enebechi Monica Okwuchukwu (Abia) Yakubu Nyaku Danladi (Taraba) Miamuna Ibrahim Besto (Adamawa) Musa Musa Abubakar (Kebbi) Syndoph Paebi Endoni (Bayelsa) Chima Geoffrey Lioma David (Ebonyi) Mopelola Adeola-Ibrahim (Ogun) Abimbola Samuel Reuben (Ondo) Yvonne Ehinosen Odumah (Edo) Hamza Mohammed Salau (Niger) Shehu Barde (Katsina) Ahmed Mohammed Monguno (Borno) Muhammad Saidu Dahiru (Kaduna) Olatunji Ahmed Sulu Gambari (Kwara) Wahab Adekola Akande (Osun) If confirmed, the envoys will be posted to Nigeria’s missions across strategic countries including China, India, South Korea, Canada, Mexico, UAE, Qatar, South Africa and Kenya, as well as major multilateral bodies like the United Nations, UNESCO and the African Union.

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FCT Administration Under Wike Restates Ban on Smartphones, Allows Only ‘Torchlight Phones’ During Work Hours

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has reaffirmed its prohibition on the use of smartphones and other smart devices by staff on Grade Level 14 and below during official working hours, SaharaReporters has learnt. The directive, issued through a circular dated November 28, 2025, applies to all personnel of the Department of Land Administration and the Abuja Geographic Information System (AGIS). Signed by Amaka Ezike, Assistant Director (Administration), on behalf of the Acting Director of Administration, the memo states that full enforcement of the policy will begin on Monday, December 1, 2025. According to the circular, the ban covers smartphones, smartwatches, and all internet-enabled devices, which staff are no longer permitted to use or possess within office premises while on duty. To ensure compliance, secured storage cabinets have been provided where affected staff must deposit their devices upon arrival. Access to these gadgets will only be permitted during designated break periods. The memo also referenced a staff general meeting held on November 18, 2025, where workers reportedly agreed that only basic “torchlight phones” without internet capability would be allowed for essential communication. “Affected officers are hereby reminded of our collective resolution that only torchlight phones without any internet facilities will be allowed for communication during office hours,” the circular read. It further warned that any violation of the policy would attract appropriate disciplinary action. Management staff have also been directed to ensure strict compliance among their subordinates. Earlier this month, SaharaReporters reported that FCT Minister Nyesom Wike ordered a sweeping ban on mobile phone use among AGIS and Land Administration staff. The initial directive, issued by AGIS Director Chijioke Nwankwoeze, prohibited officers on Grade Level 14 and below from entering office premises with their phones beginning November 12, 2025. The policy, which has generated significant debate, is being justified by authorities as a measure to improve productivity and reduce data leaks within critical land administration units.

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Anthony Joshua Losing to Jake Paul Would Be “The End for Boxing,” Says Eddie Hearn

Promoter Eddie Hearn has issued a dramatic warning ahead of Anthony Joshua’s upcoming heavyweight showdown with Jake Paul, insisting that a loss for the former world champion would be catastrophic for the sport. Joshua and Paul are set to meet on December 19 in Miami, in a fight that has generated massive global attention. While Paul has transitioned from YouTuber to professional boxer with 13 fights under his belt, he now faces an Olympic gold medallist and two-time heavyweight world champion in Joshua. Speaking to Sky Sports, Hearn said he cannot imagine a scenario in which Joshua loses — and suggested that such an upset would force the entire sport into embarrassment. “If I’m wrong, I think my time’s up. Not just AJ and me retire — I think we should all retire,” Hearn declared. “So AJ, the weight of boxing is on your shoulders, my man.” “This Would Be a Straightforward Obliteration” — Hearn Despite acknowledging Paul as a “top 50 cruiserweight,” Hearn was blunt about the skill gap between the fighters. “I don’t think any non-world-class cruiserweight can step up to heavyweight and beat Anthony Joshua,” Hearn said. “I really believe this is going to be a straightforward obliteration.” Hearn also emphasized that the bout is a legitimate, fully sanctioned contest. “Fair play to Jake Paul — he’s signed up for a real fight. But within less than a minute, he’s going to be thinking: ‘What on earth have I done?’” Jake Paul Eyes Fury Next Paul has remained defiant in the face of widespread skepticism. During the press conference, he boldly predicted: “I’m knocking AJ out… and then fighting Tyson Fury in 2026.” The American entertainer-turned-boxer has been gradually building his résumé, but many analysts believe he is now entering completely unfamiliar territory by facing a top-level heavyweight. Joshua Expected to Finish Fight Early Hearn said Joshua has no intention of dragging the fight out. “AJ’s not capable of hanging around. The minute he smells weakness or blood, he’s letting his hands go… and that’s a major problem for Jake Paul.” He suggested that Joshua should finish the fight inside two rounds. “Two rounds is fair. I’d be disappointed if AJ didn’t get him out of there in two.” The bout is one of the most talked-about matchups of the year, blending star power, controversy, and high stakes — with Hearn insisting that Joshua’s victory is essential to protect the reputation of the sport itself.

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Gunmen Kill Three Immigration Officers in Fresh Kebbi Border Attack

Gunmen suspected to be members of the Lakurawa terrorist group have attacked a Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) checkpoint in Bakin Ruwa, along the Maje border in Bagudo Local Government Area of Kebbi State, killing three officers. The attack, which occurred around midnight on Wednesday, has intensified fear and tension among residents of border communities already grappling with insecurity. Multiple local sources told Channels Television that the assailants stormed the immigration checkpoint unexpectedly and opened fire on officers on duty, killing three instantly. A security source revealed that the attackers escaped through nearby bushes, making it difficult for security agencies to track them. The spokesperson for the Kebbi State Police Command, Nafiu Abubakar, confirmed the incident but said details were still sketchy. Efforts to obtain an official response from the Nigeria Immigration Service in the state were unsuccessful, as officers were not reachable at the time of filing this report. However, residents and security personnel in Bagudo, who spoke anonymously, confirmed the deadly raid. This latest assault comes barely three weeks after gunmen killed a Nigeria Customs Service officer in a separate attack along the same border axis. “The terrorists came in large numbers and started shooting sporadically. Everyone ran for safety,” a local resident recounted. The attackers reportedly set the Customs camp ablaze during that earlier incident, leaving several official vehicles destroyed. The repeated assaults have raised serious concerns over mounting insecurity along the Nigeria–Benin border corridor in Bagudo. The Lakurawa gang is believed to be responsible for multiple violent attacks across Kebbi State, targeting both security personnel and civilians. While the motive behind the latest attack remains unclear, security authorities say investigations are ongoing.

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Obasanjo: Nigerians Have the Right to Seek International Help if Government Fails to Protect Them

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has declared that Nigerians are justified in seeking assistance from the international community if the government fails in its constitutional responsibility to protect lives and property. Obasanjo made the statement during the 2025 Plateau Unity Christmas Carol held at the Ten Commandments Altar in Jos, where he served as a special guest at the invitation of the Plateau State Government. Speaking on the rising insecurity across the country, the former president said Nigerians should not feel compelled to apologise for seeking external support when internal mechanisms fail. “If our government cannot do it, we have the right to call on the international community to do for us what our government cannot do, and we should have no apology for that,” he said. Highlighting the capabilities of modern surveillance technology such as satellites and drones, Obasanjo questioned why criminals continue to operate freely and evade accountability. “Why are we apologising? Why are we negotiating? The government must stop the killing of Nigerians. We are being killed, we are tired, and we want the killing to stop,” he added. Obasanjo further expressed deep concern over the escalating violence and urged authorities to take decisive action to restore peace and stability across Nigeria.

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Chelsea vs Arsenal: Premier League Showdown Set to Shape Title Race

The Premier League’s most anticipated clash of the season takes place on Sunday as leaders Arsenal travel to second-placed Chelsea in a match that could transform the title race — or push the Gunners closer to ending their two-decade wait for a league crown. Arsenal hold a six-point advantage at the top heading into the weekend. With Liverpool collapsing in form and Manchester City struggling to keep pace, the title appears increasingly within Arsenal’s grasp. Chelsea, however, remain their closest challengers. Fresh off winning the FIFA Club World Cup and boasting a squad assembled at a cost exceeding $1bn, Enzo Maresca’s youthful side is pushing well ahead of expectations. The Blues head into the derby on a three-match winning run and have won nine of their last 11 matches in all competitions, losing only once. Arteta’s side is unbeaten in 16 matches across all competitions, winning 14 of them. Widely regarded as one of the strongest squads in Europe, Arsenal have shown consistency that has escaped their main rivals. Arteta: Chelsea “fully deserve” their spot Despite Chelsea being labelled outsiders for the title, Mikel Arteta is not buying into that narrative. “They are there because they fully deserve to be,” Arteta said on Friday. “The squad they have assembled, the quality they have, the numbers they’re producing — it makes sense. They’re very tough.” Arteta called Chelsea one of the teams he most enjoys watching due to their fluidity, individual brilliance and tactical clarity. “It’s a big London derby. They’re in really good form. We know the challenge — and the opportunity — on Sunday. We are fully ready.” Are Chelsea Arsenal’s biggest threat? This match represents the most difficult test yet for Chelsea’s title aspirations. Eighteen-year-old Brazilian sensation Estevao, with nine goals in his last 13 appearances for club and country, has been a revelation. His arrival from Palmeiras has added dynamism and unpredictability to Chelsea’s attack. With Liverpool in crisis — having lost nine of their last 12 matches — and Manchester City’s inconsistency continuing, Chelsea appear the only team capable of sustaining a push against Arsenal. City, however, could climb temporarily into second place if they defeat Leeds United on Saturday. Recent history After finishing runners-up for three consecutive seasons, optimism is building that Arsenal may finally reclaim the trophy. Chelsea’s last match Chelsea delivered one of their best performances of the season on Tuesday, beating Barcelona 3–0 in the Champions League. Maresca, in his second Premier League campaign, continues to blend youthful talent with an evolving tactical identity. Sunday’s encounter at Stamford Bridge now stands as a pivotal moment in the Premier League narrative — one that could define the season’s closing months.

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