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Ex-Lawmaker Demands Reversal of FCT Nomination in North Central Development Commission Over Indigeneity Concerns

Our Reporters1 week ago1 week ago03 mins

A former member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Micah Yohanna Jiba, has sparked fresh debate by calling for the reversal of Mr. Solomon Adodo’s nomination as the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) representative on the newly approved North Central Development Commission board, citing concerns over marginalization and federal character violations. Hon. Jiba, who represented the AMAC/Bwari Federal Constituency of the FCT, contended that Adodo hails from Benue State and therefore cannot represent the interests of the FCT. He described the nomination as a continuation of systemic exclusion, alleging that the FCT was the only part of the North Central zone left without a native representative on the Commission. “The FCT is an integral part of the North Central zone and has nowhere else to go. Our people deserve proper representation,” Jiba said, urging the federal government to reverse the appointment in line with the principle of fairness and inclusion enshrined in the federal character framework. He referenced past instances where public outcry led to nomination reversals and called on President Bola Tinubu to act in accordance with his “Renewed Hope” agenda, which promises inclusivity and equitable representation. Jiba warned that allowing the appointment to stand could set a dangerous precedent for the continued marginalization of FCT indigenes in federal appointments. “The outcome of this matter will have significant implications for the representation of the FCT and the principle of federal character,” he concluded. The call for a reversal adds to growing tensions around equitable representation in national institutions, especially for the FCT, which often finds itself politically sidelined despite its central role in national governance.

Watch Video: NANS President and Seyi Tinubu Saga – Journalist attempts to uncover the truth

Our Reporters2 weeks ago2 weeks ago01 mins

Fasoranti Hails Tinubu: I’m Satisfied Well Done

Our Reporters4 weeks ago4 weeks ago07 mins

First Lady Empowers South-West Midwives, Distributes Professional Kits, N50m Grant to Women Traders Elder Statesman and National Leader of the Afenifere, Pa Reuben Fasoranti has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his various efforts and actions at improving the country, Trek Africa Newspaper. He was speaking when the First Lady of Nigeria Senator Oluremi Tinubu paid the 98 year old, a visit at his Akure, Ondo State residence. He noted that the President had indeed surpassed his expectations and prayed for Gods continued guidance of the President. Pa Fasoranti also commended the First Lady for the support she continually gives the President through her Renewed Hope Initiative as she continues to take its dividends round the country. The First Lady, Senator Oluremi who noted that the visit was an informal one to convey the Presidents warm regards to a man she and the President considers a father figure is on the sideline of her 2-day visit to the State to hand over Professional Kits to Midwives in the South West Zone of Nigeria. She expressed her joy at how well the Elder Statesman is. Earlier Senator Oluremi Tinubu met with the over 60 Traditional Rulers in the State led by the Deji of Akure Kingdom, Oba Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi Ogunlade who stood in for the Chairman of the Council, Olowo of Owo. The traditional Rulers who were full of encomiums for President Bola Tinubu and the First Lady assured that they will take the message of the Renewed Hope Initiative on heightened testing for Tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, prevention/ treatment of these diseases and end to stigmatization to all their subjects. The Ondo State Traditional Council also threw their weight behind the President for a second term in office. The First Lady’s train later proceeded to the Dome, in Akure where she formally handed over Professional Kits comprising of 10,000 scrubs and 10,000 crocs to midwives in the South West Geopolitical Zone of Nigeria. In her remarks of welcome the wife of the Ondo State Governor, Mrs Oluwaseun Aiyedatiwa thanked the First Lady for being a true mother especially as she has continually addressed the plight of women, youth and children. The Governor, Dr Lucky Aiyedatiwa pointed out that the various interventions of the President including the siting of the Airforce School in Akure, upgrade of the Adeyemi College of Education to a University of Education among others has greatly improved the lot of the citizens. In her keynote address, Senator Oluremi Tinubu applauded the frontline health workers adding that they should take training and retraining seriously so as to get better at their jobs. “This event is to complement the ongoing Federal Government retraining exercise for 120,000 frontline health workers nationwide. I am informed that 59,570 health workers have already completed their training and that is why the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) procured 60,000 branded scrubs and 60,000 pairs of crocs, as an incentive to encourage and support the tireless dedication of our Midwives”. “I commend the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Mohammed Ali Pate, CON, the Executive Director and CEO of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), Dr. Muyi Aina, and their entire workforce for their dedicated focus on improving healthcare delivery for our citizens as an important pillar of development, in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR”. “Since inception in 2023, the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) has provided targeted interventions in Agriculture, Economic Empowerment, Education, Health and Social Investment to improve the lives of families across Nigeria. RHI recognises that the demands of the health profession require not only skills and compassion, but also the right tools and kits to encourage our Midwives as they serve others. We thank you for all your good work”. Also at the event, the First Lady of Nigeria Senator Oluremi Tinubu gave a N50m (Fifty million Naira Grant) to the Wife of the Governor, Mrs Oluwaseun Aiyedatiwa for onward disbursement to 1,000 Women Petty Traders under the RHI Small Business Recapitalisation Program. Of the 1,000 women, 200 who are into selling fabrics also received 2 bales of the commodity to boost their trade. The distribution of Professional Kits to midwives in the South-West makes it the 5th Geopolitical Zone to benefit from the intervention by the Renewed Hope Initiative, RHI, an initiative of the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu.

SEC Declares Unregistered Digital Asset Platforms Illegal Amid CBEX Controversy

Our Reporters1 month ago1 month ago02 mins

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has issued a warning regarding the operations of digital asset trading platforms in Nigeria, emphasizing that any such platform not registered with the Commission is operating illegally. This statement comes in the wake of growing concerns about CBEX, a digital asset platform reportedly facing operational issues, including users being unable to withdraw funds over the weekend. Rumors of its potential closure have circulated widely online. Speaking during a virtual stakeholders’ engagement on the Investment and Securities Act (ISA 2025) held on Monday, SEC Director General Emomotimi Agama addressed the situation, cautioning Nigerians against using unlicensed investment platforms. “Very recently, there has been a post that has gone viral around a particular platform and its activities. The aftermath of it has been more reports about its closure,” Agama said. “In fact, I was tagged in one of those messages. I want to state very clearly—if it is not registered, it is illegal.” While Agama did not directly name CBEX, his comments align with the growing scrutiny surrounding the platform’s operations. The SEC’s warning comes as part of broader efforts to protect investors and ensure compliance with Nigeria’s evolving regulatory framework for digital finance.

The Return of the Alaafin: A Personal Reflection by Tunde Kilani

Our Reporters1 month ago1 month ago04 mins

Telling the story of The Return of the Alaafin, which reached its grand climax on Saturday, April 5, 2025, gave me the honour of witnessing and documenting one of the most important historical and cultural events of this decade. This moment is deeply personal. In 1971, I stood as a young trainee cameraman with Western Nigerian Television (WNTV/WNBS), recording the coronation of the late Alaafin, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III. Over 50 years later, I returned to Oyo as a filmmaker—with my dear colleague, Rahman Oladigbolu—to chronicle the coronation of his successor, Ikú Baba Yeye, Ọba Hakeem Abimbola Owoade. Full credit must go to the Oyo State Government and the Local Organising Committee for achieving the almost impossible: receiving and entertaining over a thousand guests from across Nigeria and the world, with grace, cultural splendour, and precision. The magnitude and complexity of the coronation could only be fully appreciated as we captured it for our documentary, The Return of the Alaafin, currently in production. Across Oyo, receptions and after-parties sprung up like joyous fires to honour the new reign—but nothing compared to the unforgettable cultural showcase hosted by Nigerian Breweries for their flagship brand, GOLDBERG. Known for promoting Yoruba heritage under their iconic ỌMỌLÚWÀBÍ platform, Goldberg delivered an evening of pure magic. It was beautiful, relaxing, and deeply enjoyable—sitting under the soft glow of a Yoruba sunset that melted into a starry night, surrounded by vibrant lighting, clear sound, a charismatic MC, and a set design that rivalled any world-class stage. The musical lineup featured two titans of Yoruba music: Saheed Osupa (Fuji) and Musiliu Haruna Isola (Apala), who thrilled hundreds of spirited guests dancing into the new reign of Alaafin Ọba lHakeen Abimbola Owoade. It all came together for me when I heard that Òróró himself was in town! That wasn’t coincidence—it was divine alignment. As if that wasn’t enough, I was invited on stage to pick the winning raffle tickets—a moment that brought smiles and warm applause. I felt proud to be part of it all, and I now see the incredible potential of building this vibrant celebration into our documentary. Supported by Goldberg, this film can become more than a chronicle—it can be a timeless celebration of Yoruba resilience, royal heritage, and artistic excellence. Ire ni o.—TK

Saudi Arabia Imposes Visa Ban on Nigeria and 13 Other Countries Ahead of Hajj

Our Reporters1 month ago1 month ago02 mins

In a significant move, Saudi Arabia has imposed a visa ban on Nigeria and 13 other countries in preparation for the upcoming Hajj pilgrimage. This decision is likely to impact thousands of Muslim pilgrims who were planning to travel from these nations for the annual religious event. The ban, which has raised concerns among Nigerian citizens and religious leaders, comes as part of the Saudi government’s efforts to control the number of pilgrims amid health and safety considerations. Saudi Arabia has been making efforts to manage the scale of Hajj in recent years, especially following the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The 14 countries affected by this visa ban are yet to be officially disclosed in full, but the move is expected to affect numerous potential pilgrims from the affected nations. In response, the Nigerian government, through the National Hajj Commission (NAHCON), is expected to engage with Saudi authorities to clarify the situation and explore possible solutions for Nigerian pilgrims who have already made arrangements for the pilgrimage. Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam, and millions of Muslims travel to Saudi Arabia every year to participate in this sacred journey. However, due to the ongoing global health concerns and logistical challenges, restrictions on the number of pilgrims have been enforced by the Saudi authorities in the past few years. More details are expected to be released as the Saudi government continues to address the situation and communicate its plans for the 2025 Hajj season.

Fidelity Bank Distributes Food Packages to Communities in the FCT

Our Reporters1 month ago1 month ago04 mins

As part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts, Fidelity Bank Plc recently provided food packs to residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja. The initiative, called the Fidelity Food Bank, saw the bank’s representatives distribute food supplies to seven communities within the Mabushi district of the FCT. At the distribution event, Mr. Sufiyanu Garba, the Executive Director for the North at Fidelity Bank, highlighted the bank’s commitment to supporting community development and its alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 2, which focuses on eradicating hunger. “This initiative is a reflection of our deep-rooted responsibility to assist underserved communities and combat hunger across Nigeria,” said Mr. Garba. “At Fidelity Bank, we believe that addressing the underlying causes of poverty and hunger allows us to create lasting change. While we cannot solve all societal issues, our contributions are making a real difference, as shown by the positive responses we continue to receive.” He further emphasized the bank’s dedication to empowering communities: “We understand the importance of promoting growth and prosperity within the areas where we operate. By investing in the well-being of these communities, we are helping build a more sustainable and just society.” The Fidelity Food Bank is a core part of the bank’s CSR strategy, focusing on health and social welfare. The nationwide initiative aims to provide food relief to underserved communities, with a special focus on women and children. Mr. Hassan Danagna, the District Head of Mabushi Community, expressed gratitude for the bank’s support, calling it “unprecedented” and noting the relief it brings to vulnerable households. “Fidelity Bank’s generosity has had a profound impact on our community, providing much-needed relief to struggling families. With the current economic climate, this support is particularly timely as we approach the holy month of Ramadan,” said Mr. Danagna. One of the beneficiaries, Mr. Mukhtar Mohamed, also shared his appreciation, acknowledging the positive impact of the food distribution. Fidelity Bank Plc, a fully-fledged commercial bank, serves over 9.1 million customers across its 251 business locations and various digital platforms in Nigeria and the United Kingdom. The bank has received numerous local and international accolades, including the 2024 Excellence in Digital Transformation & MSME Banking Award from the BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards, the 2024 Most Innovative Mobile Banking Application Award for its Fidelity Mobile App from Global Business Outlook, and the 2024 Most Innovative Investment Banking Service Provider Award from Global Brands Magazine. Additionally, Fidelity Bank was named the Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria by the Euromoney Awards for Excellence and the Export Financing Bank of the Year by the BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards.

The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has partnered with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and the Food and Beverage Recycling Alliance (FBRA) to promote sustainable plastic waste management in Lagos State through circular economy practices. The initiative, titled *UNIDO Project 210184: Promoting Sustainable Plastic Value Chains through Circular Economy Practices*, is funded by the Government of Japan and aims to strengthen Nigeria’s capacity for sustainable industrial development by addressing plastic pollution at the source. The project involves the establishment of four plastic waste collection facilities and thirty designated collection points across the Lekki and Lagos Mainland municipalities. LAWMA will provide the necessary land and infrastructure, while UNIDO and FBRA will co-finance the development and lead public awareness campaigns under the zero plastic waste initiative. LAWMA’s Managing Director/CEO, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, confirmed that two land parcels in both Lekki and Lagos Mainland have been secured for the project. Dr. Osuji Otu, the National Programme Officer at the UNIDO Sub-Regional Office in Abuja, emphasized the significance of the partnership in driving positive change for Nigeria. He highlighted the project’s role in laying the groundwork for a nationwide waste management strategy. Otu also called for greater involvement from other agencies to support environmental sustainability, particularly in plastic waste management, which is a global priority. The project, which was initiated in 2022, is aligned with LAWMA’s mission to enhance waste management and environmental sustainability in Lagos. The collaboration is led by a cooperation committee consisting of representatives from UNIDO, LAWMA, and FBRA. The committee is responsible for monitoring progress, selecting private sector recycling companies to operate the facilities, and addressing any challenges during implementation. The initiative will continue beyond its official timeline, which runs until September 2026, to ensure long-term sustainability and impact. This collaboration marks a significant step in addressing plastic pollution in Nigeria, promoting recycling, and supporting green job creation. The facilities will be managed by private sector operators selected through a transparent process, and FBRA will lead community awareness campaigns in both Lekki and Lagos Mainland. The success of this initiative is expected to set a benchmark for future waste management efforts in Nigeria.

LAWMA Partners UNIDO and FBRA to Tackle Menace of Plastic Waste

Our Reporters1 month ago1 month ago04 mins

The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has partnered with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and the Food and Beverage Recycling Alliance (FBRA) to promote sustainable plastic waste management in Lagos State through circular economy practices. The initiative, titled UNIDO Project 210184: Promoting Sustainable Plastic Value Chains through Circular Economy Practices, is funded by the Government of Japan and aims to strengthen Nigeria’s capacity for sustainable industrial development by addressing plastic pollution at the source. The project involves the establishment of four plastic waste collection facilities and thirty designated collection points across the Lekki and Lagos Mainland municipalities. LAWMA will provide the necessary land and infrastructure, while UNIDO and FBRA will co-finance the development and lead public awareness campaigns under the zero plastic waste initiative. LAWMA’s Managing Director/CEO, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, confirmed that two land parcels in both Lekki and Lagos Mainland have been secured for the project. Dr. Osuji Otu, the National Programme Officer at the UNIDO Sub-Regional Office in Abuja, emphasized the significance of the partnership in driving positive change for Nigeria. He highlighted the project’s role in laying the groundwork for a nationwide waste management strategy. Otu also called for greater involvement from other agencies to support environmental sustainability, particularly in plastic waste management, which is a global priority. The project, which was initiated in 2022, is aligned with LAWMA’s mission to enhance waste management and environmental sustainability in Lagos. The collaboration is led by a cooperation committee consisting of representatives from UNIDO, LAWMA, and FBRA. The committee is responsible for monitoring progress, selecting private sector recycling companies to operate the facilities, and addressing any challenges during implementation. The initiative will continue beyond its official timeline, which runs until September 2026, to ensure long-term sustainability and impact. This collaboration marks a significant step in addressing plastic pollution in Nigeria, promoting recycling, and supporting green job creation. The facilities will be managed by private sector operators selected through a transparent process, and FBRA will lead community awareness campaigns in both Lekki and Lagos Mainland. The success of this initiative is expected to set a benchmark for future waste management efforts in Nigeria.