National Archives | Page 2 of 11

NIDCOM Dismisses Allegations of Ethnic Bias as Spurious and Fabricated

By Kamal Yalwa | Abuja, Nigeria The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) has strongly denied allegations of ethnic bias in its operations, describing recent claims that the agency discriminates against the Igbo community abroad as “spurious and fabricated.” In a statement issued on Thursday, NIDCOM’s Director of Media, Public Relations and Protocols, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, said the allegations—made by one Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, who claims to be the Deputy President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo—are “mere conjecture based on a calculated machinery aimed to distract the NIDCOM boss.” The statement defended the Commission’s Chairman/CEO, Hon. (Dr) Abike Dabiri-Erewa, calling her leadership “dynamic” and her track record “unprecedented” in promoting the welfare of Nigerians abroad regardless of ethnic, religious, or political affiliations. “NIDCOM was established to engage and see to the welfare of all Nigerian citizens abroad—irrespective of sex, age, ethnic group, religion, or political affiliation,” the Commission stated. “The false and ignorant claims of selective treatment toward Ndigbo are not only misleading but dangerously divisive.” NIDO Chairman Backs Dabiri-Erewa Also reacting to the allegation, Chief Chibuzo Ubochi, Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation (NIDO) Europe and Coordinating Chairman of NIDO Worldwide, described the claims as unfounded and harmful. “Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa is affectionately known in the diaspora community as Mama Diaspora, a name earned through her consistent care and advocacy for Nigerians abroad, regardless of tribe or state of origin,” Ubochi said. He added that the reshared post by Isiguzoro risks sowing unnecessary division within the diaspora community. “Speaking from direct experience, I can affirm that she has always championed unity, inclusion, and the empowerment of all Nigerians in the diaspora,” he said. NIDCOM’s Record of Engagement The Commission listed several instances where it had intervened on behalf of Nigerians in distress across various countries—regardless of ethnic or regional origin. These include rescue and repatriation missions in the Central African Republic, Libya, Lebanon, Iraq, South Africa, the UK, USA, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Ukraine, and Sudan, among others. The Commission also emphasized that it celebrates Nigerians excelling globally and does not shy away from highlighting crimes committed by Nigerians where necessary—stressing that crime “has no federal character.” Call for National Unity Quoting American writer Mark Twain—“A lie can make its way around the world before the truth can even put on its shoes”—the Commission warned against the dangers of ethnic bigotry, calling on Nigerians to reject divisive narratives. “We cannot remain trapped in archaic ethnic rivalries and divisions,” the statement read. “We are not crabs in a barrel—we are proud Nigerians, at home and abroad, with a duty to join hands with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to build a united and prosperous nation.” NIDCOM reiterated its commitment to serving all Nigerians in the diaspora with fairness and dignity, while urging citizens to focus on what unites the nation rather than on ethnic or regional differences. The Ohanaeze Ndigbo group has yet to issue a formal response to the statement at the time of this report.

VP Shettima Urges National Council on Skills to Embrace Unity, End Fragmentation in Skills Development

Fola Badmus1 week ago1 week ago04 mins

By: Kamal Yalwa: September 10, 2025 Vice President Kashim Shettima has called on the National Council on Skills (NCS) and all relevant stakeholders to work collectively in advancing the federal government’s skills acquisition drive, declaring that the era of working in silos is over. Speaking during the 7th meeting of the NCS held Tuesday at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, Shettima emphasised that building a future-ready workforce requires unified action across government agencies, ministries, and the private sector. He described skills development as a core pillar of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu’s administration. “Let me be clear about what this means. The era of operating in silos is over. We must move towards a new streamlined workflow that embeds collaboration directly into the process of curriculum development and funding,” the Vice President stated. He noted that the ongoing “skills revolution” is a national commitment and must be driven with purpose and synergy to unlock opportunities for Nigerian youth and workers nationwide—from the aspiring artisan in Kaura Namoda to mid-career professionals in Ebute-Metta. Shettima lauded Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, for establishing and chairing the state’s first Council on Skills, calling it a model for other subnational governments to emulate. “We cannot build a future-ready workforce on a foundation of division,” Shettima stressed, urging the council to enforce a unified structure and eliminate institutional friction within the country’s skills ecosystem. He further emphasized that sustainable funding and implementation of the national skills agenda depend on strong inter-agency collaboration, not isolated action. Earlier in the meeting, Governor Uba Sani revealed that over 30,000 students were recently admitted into the Kaduna Vocational and Skills Development Institute. He thanked the Vice President for his continued support and dedication to job creation and skills development. Also speaking, Minister of Education Olatunji Alausa praised the Kaduna State Government’s efforts and announced that technical colleges have been directed to focus solely on relevant, practical courses for the upcoming academic year—aligning with the administration’s skills acquisition strategy. The council meeting reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to building a coordinated and inclusive framework to equip Nigerians with the skills needed to thrive in an evolving economy.

IG Appoints Benjamin Hundeyin as Force PRO

Fola Badmus2 weeks ago2 weeks ago02 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.

PRESIDENT-TINUBU-DEPARTS-ABUJA-TO-BEGIN-2025-ANNUAL-LEAVE.jpg

President Tinubu Departs Abuja for 10-Day Working Vacation in Europe

Fola Badmus2 weeks ago2 weeks ago01 mins

Abuja, Nigeria — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu departed Abuja on Wednesday, September 4, to begin a 10-day working vacation in Europe, as part of his 2025 annual leave, according to an official statement from the presidency. The President is expected to spend the duration of his leave between France and the United Kingdom, before returning to Nigeria. The announcement was made by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy. President Tinubu’s trip marks his annual break from official duties, though it was noted that the vacation will also include time for official engagements, classifying it as a working vacation.

PRESIDENT TINUBU'S EASTER MESSAGE TO THE NATION

Tinubu: Nigeria Hit Revenue Target for 2025 in August

Fola Badmus2 weeks ago2 weeks ago05 mins

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu said on Tuesday in Abuja that the revenue target for 2025 was achieved in August, following economic reforms focused on stimulating the non-oil sector. He said that the bulk of the revenue came from the non-oil sector. The President assured Nigerians that the Renewed Hope Agenda is firmly anchored on building critical infrastructure, improving health facilities, ensuring food sovereignty, and providing security. He spoke at a meeting at the Presidential Villa with the founding members of the defunct Congress for Progressive Change and The Buhari Organisation, led by the former Governor of Nasarawa State, Umaru Tanko Al-Makura. President Tinubu said that the economy was heading in the right direction. “The economy is now stabilised. Nobody is trading pieces of paper for foreign exchange (forex) anymore. The economy is now predictable. You do not need to know the CBN Governor, Yemi Cardoso, to obtain foreign exchange or import goods. “What we need now is building the ship and the vessels for the export of our goods and creating more jobs for our people,’’ the President noted. He said the federal government will establish agricultural mechanisation centres in all regions of the country to build capacity, expand cultivation and harvest, and guarantee food sovereignty. “We are going to have trainees. That programme is our path to food sovereignty. “ Reflecting on his longstanding relationship with the CPC, President Tinubu described the political journey and merger as “a sweet memory,” and expressed gratitude to the group for their support: “When I see people like you, I am determined to work harder.” President Tinubu assured the delegation that the legacies of former President Muhammadu Buhari would be sustained and immortalised with a Buhari House, adding that more members of the old CPC would be given opportunities to participate in the government. “Thank you for your patience until now. But first of all, we must cure the economy and bring hope to the people, which is what we stand for. Thank you for believing in me,’’ he said. The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas thanked President Tinubu for his statesmanship and magnanimity towards the people and government of Katsina State. Abbas thanked the President for his vision and broadmindedness in accommodating all political stakeholders. The leader of the delegation and former Governor of Nasarawa State, Al-Makura, said members of the former Congress for Progressive Change are committed to the success of the APC government. Al-Makura thanked the President for his extensive participation in the final rites for President Buhari. “You not only buried President Buhari but also honoured him and ensured a befitting state burial with full military honours. Above all, your presence throughout the ceremony was comforting as it was reassuring,” Al-Makura stated. He assured President Tinubu of the group’s loyalty and support. “This is to assure you that we believe in your administration, and that will be our focus and commitment to ensure the success of our party and your ultimate victory in the 2027 elections,” Al-Makura stated.

President Tinubu Condemns Recent Tragic Attacks, Vows Justice and Protection for All Nigerians

Economic Growth vs Public Welfare: Is Nigeria’s Rising GDP Helping the People?

Fola Badmus3 weeks ago3 weeks ago05 mins

Nigeria’s economy recorded a significant boost in the first quarter of 2025, with the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) reporting a 3.13% year-on-year growth in real terms. This marks a substantial improvement from the 2.27% growth rate seen in Q1 2024, driven largely by strong performances in services, trade, telecommunications, and industrial activities. The rebasing of the GDP to ₦205 trillion using 2019 as the new base year further underscores the expansion of the country’s economic structure. While the figures suggest progress, many Nigerians are questioning if this economic growth is improving their day-to-day lives. The rising cost of living, soaring food prices, and persistent unemployment have made it difficult for citizens to feel the impact of these positive numbers. For many, the increase in GDP is a statistical achievement that does not reflect the harsh realities they face daily. Critics argue that economic growth without corresponding improvements in infrastructure, education, and healthcare is insufficient. Despite Nigeria’s wealth in natural and human resources, poverty remains widespread, with millions struggling to meet basic needs. “GDP growth is encouraging, but when people are still battling with high inflation and poor social services, it’s clear that the benefits of growth are not evenly distributed,” says economist Dr. Tunde Adeyemi. The rebased GDP data shows Nigeria’s economy is more diversified than previously recorded, with sectors like real estate, telecommunications, and trade becoming major contributors. Crop production alone accounts for 17.58% of the GDP, while services dominate with over 53%. Yet, this structural transformation has not translated into sufficient job creation or a better standard of living for most Nigerians. Another concern raised by analysts is the growing disparity between the formal and informal sectors of the economy. The informal sector now contributes 42.5% of GDP, reflecting the reality that a large portion of economic activity remains unregulated and untaxed. This has implications for government revenue, which is needed to fund essential services and social welfare programs. With the 2027 elections approaching, the conversation around Nigeria’s economic growth is becoming increasingly political. Opposition figures argue that while the government celebrates rising GDP numbers, it has failed to deliver policies that directly improve the lives of ordinary Nigerians. Issues such as youth unemployment, fuel subsidy challenges, and power shortages continue to dominate public discourse. The government, on its part, insists that ongoing reforms in agriculture, technology, and infrastructure will soon yield tangible results for the population. Officials maintain that growth in the services and trade sectors will lead to better job opportunities and higher productivity in the long term. As debates continue, Nigerians are left to wonder whether the country’s rising GDP will eventually trickle down to benefit the masses. For now, the question remains: Is the government working for the people, or are these numbers simply painting a picture of progress without impact?

We Will Hunt Down Malumfashi Mosque Attackers – FG

Federal Government Vow to Hunt Down Malumfashi Mosque Attackers

Fola Badmus4 weeks ago4 weeks ago03 mins

The Federal Government has vowed to apprehend and bring to justice those responsible for the brutal attack on worshippers in Malumfashi Local Government Area of Katsina State. Describing the incident as a “callous and barbaric” act, the Government condemned the killing of innocent citizens who had gathered peacefully for worship, pledging that the perpetrators will not escape justice. “This heinous crime must not go unpunished,” the Government said in a statement. “Security forces are already tracking down those responsible, and no stone will be left unturned until they are arrested and held accountable. Justice will be swift and decisive.” The Government emphasized that such acts of terror would never be allowed to take root in Nigeria, warning that those who commit violence against innocent citizens would face the full force of the law. “This is not only an attack on the people of Malumfashi, but also on our collective humanity and national values,” the statement continued. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims, the people of Malumfashi, and the Katsina State Government. “Their grief is our grief,” he said. “The Government stands with them in this dark hour. May the Almighty grant the departed eternal rest and comfort the bereaved with strength and peace.” The incident comes just weeks after Nigeria’s National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC) announced the arrest of high-profile terrorist leaders, including Mahmud al-Nigeri of the Mahmuda group and his deputy Abu Abba, as well as Mahmud Muhammad Usman (also known as Abu Baraa) of the Ansaru group. These individuals were on international wanted lists and are now in custody. The arrests, the Government noted, are part of ongoing counterterrorism efforts under the direction of President Tinubu, who has declared that acts of terrorism against the Nigerian state and its citizens will soon be consigned to history. Reiterating its stance, the Federal Government said: “Those who shed innocent blood will find no hiding place in Nigeria.”

RMAFC Commences Review of Revenue Allocation Formula After Three Decades

Fola Badmus1 month ago1 month ago03 mins

The Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) has officially begun a comprehensive review of Nigeria’s Revenue Allocation Formula (RAF), more than three decades after the last adjustment. Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Monday, RMAFC Chairman, Mohammed Shehu, explained that the review was necessary to reflect Nigeria’s evolving economic and constitutional realities. The current formula, introduced in 1992, allocates 52.6% of federally collected revenue to the Federal Government, 26.7% to states, and 20.6% to local governments, with one per cent each reserved for the Federal Capital Territory, ecological fund, natural resources, and stabilisation fund. Shehu noted that since the last review, Nigeria has undergone profound demographic and economic changes. He cited constitutional amendments by the Ninth National Assembly that devolved key responsibilities—such as power generation, railways, and correctional services—from the federal to the state level. This, he said, had created new financial and administrative burdens on state governments, making a fresh formula urgently needed to ensure fairness, equity, and sustainability across all tiers of government. The RMAFC boss assured that the review would be inclusive, transparent, and data-driven, incorporating empirical research, fiscal performance analysis, and global best practices. Broad-based consultations will be held with stakeholders including the Presidency, National Assembly, state governors, the judiciary, local government councils (ALGON), civil society groups, traditional rulers, the private sector, and development partners. According to Shehu, the ultimate goal is to produce a just and equitable revenue-sharing arrangement that promotes economic growth, strengthens sub-national independence, and ensures efficient service delivery across the federation.