Category: Local

The Federal Government has announced a transformative initiative to boost digital access and improve infrastructure in Nigerian universities. Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, revealed that no fewer than 12 federal universities will be connected to high-fibre digital infrastructure by the end of 2024, with free Wi-Fi services to be deployed across campuses. Speaking at the commissioning of the facility at the University of Abuja, Dr. Tijani urged students to harness this connectivity to build skills for the global tech ecosystem, citing young Nigerians who have developed billion-dollar online payment firms as examples to emulate. The project, a collaboration between the government, Galaxy Backbone Nigeria Ltd, Huawei Technologies Nigeria, and other tech firms, aims to serve as a digital equaliser for students across various economic backgrounds. The initiative will roll out in phases, with the University of Abuja leading as the first of seven institutions in the pilot scheme. Dr. Tijani emphasised that this access is critical to enabling students to create opportunities and solve real-world challenges, rather than relying solely on traditional employment. In addition to digital access, universities are also set to benefit from improved electricity supply. Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Alausa, confirmed that select universities, including the University of Abuja, will begin enjoying 24-hour electricity through the presidential renewable mini-grid project. He assured that all designated “special institutions” would receive similar support before the end of 2026, emphasising that reliable power is key to fostering innovation, research, and learning across campuses. University of Abuja’s Acting Vice Chancellor, Professor Patricia Lar, described the projects as game-changing for the institution. She expressed gratitude for the deployment of high-speed fibre and solar power backup on campus, noting that the initiative would enable students of all backgrounds to access the internet, fuel creativity, and advance their learning. The inauguration was attended by key stakeholders, including the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Nigeria Data Protection Commission, NigComSat, and Huawei Technologies Nigeria.

Nigerians have reacted fiercely to President Bola Tinubu’s midterm self-assessment, with critics from opposition parties, civil society groups, and ethnic organisations dismissing his speech as empty rhetoric that fails to address the nation’s worsening economic and security crises. The Ohanaeze Ndigbo described Tinubu’s two-year scorecard as “heavily tainted by the incompetence and corruption of his appointees,” blaming what it termed the “Yorubanisation” of his administration for undermining national unity. While commending a few ministers like Dave Umahi and Nyesom Wike, Ohanaeze warned that the government’s failures could lead to political consequences in 2027. In a similar vein, John Chuma Nwosu, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate for the Anambra governorship election, criticised Tinubu’s anniversary speech as a vacuous performance, arguing that Nigerians are “worse off than they were two years ago.” He described Tinubu’s policies as “knee-jerk reactions” that have worsened the cost-of-living crisis, pointing to soaring fuel prices, a devalued naira, and widespread poverty. Nwosu urged Nigerians to hold their leaders accountable through protest votes, warning against normalising extreme suffering. Civil society groups like the #EndBadGovernance Movement, JAF, and Youth Arise Movement also condemned the administration’s performance, accusing the government of reckless borrowing, suppressing dissent, and ignoring the worsening insecurity across the country. They criticised Tinubu’s economic policies as an IMF-imposed agenda rejected by Nigerians, and called for nationwide protests on June 12 to demand accountability and an end to anti-people policies. They also demanded the release of detained protesters and transparency on recovered public funds. In response, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) defended Tinubu’s policies, blaming past administrations for Nigeria’s current challenges and asking Nigerians to be patient. APC’s spokesperson, Felix Morka, likened the economic hardship to a child learning to walk, insisting that Tinubu’s reforms are necessary for long-term progress. However, critics warned that unless Tinubu changes course and reshuffles his cabinet, the administration risks losing public trust and could face a major political backlash in 2027.

Two years ago, you entrusted me with the sacred responsibility to lead our nation at a time of historic challenges. Together, we faced those headwinds with courage and determination. The economic and general situation I inherited required that we redirect the country’s affairs with a bold and new vision. I immediately implemented two necessary policies—to stop our country from drifting into the precipice. We removed decades-long fuel subsidies and dismantled the corruption-ridden multiple exchange rate windows. These were no longer sustainable and had become a chokehold on our nation’s neck, strangling our future. Let me be clear: the only alternative to the reforms we initiated was a fiscal crisis—runaway inflation, external debt default, crippling fuel shortages, a plunging Naira, and an economy in free-fall. Despite the bump in the cost of living, we have made undeniable progress. Inflation has begun to ease. Rice prices and other staples are declining. Our oil and gas sector is recovering—rig counts are up by over 400%, and over $8 billion in new investments have been committed. We have stabilised our economy. We’re better positioned for growth and prepared to withstand global shocks. Gross proceeds per barrel are aligned with forecasts. Fiscal deficit narrowed from 5.4% of GDP in 2023 to 3.0% in 2024. We recorded over N6 trillion in revenue in Q1 of this year. We have discontinued Ways & Means financing. The NNPC, no longer burdened by unsustainable fuel subsidies, is now a net contributor to the Federation Account. We are achieving fuel supply security through local refining. Our debt service-to-revenue ratio dropped from nearly 100% in 2022 to under 40% by 2024. We paid off IMF obligations. Our net external reserves grew from $4 billion in 2023 to over $23 billion by the end of 2024. Under our bold tax reform agenda, our tax-to-GDP ratio rose from 10% to over 13.5% in just one year. Food, education, and healthcare now attract 0% VAT. Rent, public transport, and renewables are fully exempted. We’re eliminating multiple taxation and protecting disposable incomes—especially for low-income households and small businesses. This is not just about revenue. It is about inclusive economic growth. This is about economic justice. This is the movement we promised—a government of action powered by the energy and innovation of young Nigerians. From Innovate Naija and NASENI’s digital reboot, to electric vehicle assembly and drone engineering, we are restoring dignity to work and opening a future of possibilities. I told security chiefs: up your game and collaborate to end this plague of evil men. Every Nigerian deserves to live without fear. We shall remain vigilant. We are preparing to welcome the world to Nigeria for the Motherland Festival—a landmark gathering that will spotlight our rich heritage, vibrant creative industries, and the beauty of our people. It will showcase Nigeria’s promise—inviting the world to rediscover our nation. Our journey is not over, but our direction is clear. So is our resolve. By the Grace of God, the worst is behind us. The real impact of our governance is beginning to take hold. The future is bright—and together, we will build a stronger, more inclusive Nigeria. Bet on Nigeria.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the appointment of former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara, as Chairman of the newly established National Credit Guarantee Company Limited (NCGC) Board In a statement released on Wednesday, the Presidency announced that Mr. Bonaventure Okhaimo will serve as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the NCGC, a strategic financial institution aimed at improving lending security and easing access to credit for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), manufacturers, and other businesses across Nigeria. Other key appointments to the board include Mrs. Tinoula Aigwedo as Executive Director of Strategy and Operations, Dr. Ezekiel Oseni as Executive Director of Risk Management, and Ms. Yeside Kazeem, a seasoned actuarial expert, as an Independent Non-Executive Director. The President also officially launched the NCGC with an initial capital base of ₦100 billion. The institution is expected to play a crucial role in boosting Nigeria’s economy by providing risk mitigation for lenders and improving access to credit for businesses and consumers nationwide. According to the Presidency, the initiative aligns with the government’s broader economic reforms aimed at strengthening financial inclusion, stimulating enterprise growth, and supporting job creation across all sectors.

The crisis rocking the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) deepened on Tuesday as the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) was formally informed that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) recognises Senator Samuel Anyanwu as the PDP’s National Secretary. The revelation came from the PDP Fact-Finding Committee led by Taraba State Governor, Agbu Kefas, during the party’s 99th NEC meeting in Abuja. Kefas disclosed that INEC’s position is based on a Supreme Court judgment affirming Anyanwu’s status and the party’s own constitutional processes, which require a 21-day notice and compliance with legal procedures for his removal. The NEC has now scheduled a follow-up meeting for June 30 to address the resolution from the South-East Zonal Executive seeking Anyanwu’s removal, following growing discontent among party leaders, especially over his loyalty to the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike. Wike, who has been at loggerheads with the PDP leadership, recently withdrew from the party’s reconciliation efforts, accusing Governors Seyi Makinde and Peter Mbah of fuelling the crisis. The development threatens to further fracture the party, already grappling with multiple crises across several zones. At the chaotic NEC meeting, a South-East member moved a motion questioning the status of Ali Odefa as the PDP’s South-East Zonal Chairman, citing a court judgment that purportedly removed him. The issue was deferred for further deliberation at the next NEC meeting. In a communique issued at the end of the meeting, Acting PDP National Chairman, Umar Damagum, confirmed the acceptance of the Kefas committee’s report and the NEC’s decision to deliberate on the South-East petition on June 30. The party also ratified the composition of its National Convention Planning Committee and Zoning Committee ahead of the PDP’s national convention scheduled for August 28-30, 2025. Meanwhile, the crisis threatens to worsen divisions within the party, with Wike’s allies and governors such as Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau), Ahmadu Fintiri (Adamawa), and others increasingly at odds with the party’s leadership. As tensions mount, there are fears that the festering crisis may trigger further defections to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), as seen recently with Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar appears to have declared political war on governors elected under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and party officials opposed to his bid to form a coalition with other political parties against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Despite Atiku’s push for an opposition coalition, which he argues is the only viable path to unseating the APC in 2027, the PDP leadership has firmly rejected the idea. The party insists it is strong enough to defeat the APC without any alliance, provided it can put its house in order. In this regard, the PDP recently constituted a reconciliation committee headed by former Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki. Tensions came to a head on Friday when Atiku visited Osun State for the coronation of the new Owa of Ijesaland, HRH Adesuyi Haastrup, but pointedly shunned Governor Ademola Adeleke and the state PDP leadership. Instead of paying a courtesy visit to the governor, Atiku met with former Osun Governor Rauf Aregbesola, a key figure in his coalition plans. Sources within the PDP interpreted Atiku’s actions as a clear message of political hostility. “He has drawn the battle line because our governors are not with him on this coalition move,” a party source at the PDP national secretariat told our correspondent. The cold shoulder extended to Adeleke reportedly left the governor and PDP leaders in Osun State shocked, with many interpreting it as Atiku’s attempt to sideline the party’s established structures in pursuit of his 2027 presidential ambition. Political observers warn that Atiku’s gamble may backfire, especially in Osun State, where Adeleke remains highly popular, while Aregbesola’s influence is perceived to be on the decline. A senior state official described Atiku’s visit as a “deliberate slight,” adding: “It is a misstep. Aregbesola cannot win Osun for him in 2027.” Inside sources revealed that Atiku’s cold attitude towards Adeleke stems from the governor’s refusal to back the coalition plans, as well as suspicions that Adeleke may lean towards President Bola Tinubu in 2027. The development comes against the backdrop of longstanding political tensions between Adeleke and Aregbesola, who have publicly sparred over their respective performances in office. Despite the backlash, Atiku is forging ahead with his coalition plans. It was gathered that he and his allies—among them former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, ex-Transportation Minister Rotimi Amaechi, and Aregbesola—are set to meet in Abuja today to fine-tune their 2027 strategy. The group has reportedly settled on the Action Democratic Party (ADP) as the vehicle for their ambitions, after earlier considering the Social Democratic Party (SDP). Atiku’s camp is also banking on support from groups like the League of Northern Democrats (LND), which has vowed to mobilize across the North to back a new opposition front, either by registering a fresh party or merging into an existing one. However, the PDP appears unmoved. At a recent meeting, its governors reiterated their rejection of any coalition for the 2027 election, insisting the party is capable of defeating the APC on its own. Governor Adeleke was present at that meeting. As the political chess game heats up, all eyes are on how Atiku’s coalition gamble will unfold—and whether it will strengthen the opposition or fracture it further ahead of 2027.

An Abuja-based lawyer, Victor Giwa, has been dragged before the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court sitting in Apo over allegations of conspiracy, forgery, and impersonation in an attempt to deceive the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) into dropping a criminal case. Giwa, along with a co-defendant identified as Bukola, is facing a three-count charge marked CR/150/25, filed by the Inspector General of Police (IGP). According to the prosecution, the defendants allegedly fabricated a letter dated June 28, 2024, purportedly from the chambers of Chief Awa Kalu (SAN), urging the AGF to suspend Giwa’s arraignment in a pending criminal case. The letter, titled “Urgent and Solemn Appeal to Suspend the Arraignment of Our Colleague Victor Giwa on Charge Number: CR/222/2023,” was reportedly addressed to the AGF on Kalu’s official letterhead, falsely arguing that dropping the charges would serve the interest of “natural justice, equity, and fair play.” The prosecution alleged that the forged document was intended to mislead the AGF into halting Giwa’s arraignment, scheduled for July 2, 2024, before Justice Bature of the FCT High Court in Maitama. Giwa, along with property developer Cecil Osakwe and others, is also facing a separate nine-count charge involving allegations of illegal eviction, criminal intimidation, threats to life, and property damage amounting to N300 million. The case is being prosecuted by Rabiu Usman from the Legal/Prosecution Section of the Police, under the authority of the IGP. At the scheduled arraignment before Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie on Monday, proceedings were stalled as both defendants were absent. Giwa’s counsel, U.J. Udo, informed the court that his client was bereaved and had travelled for his sister’s burial, requesting an adjournment. Justice Onwuegbuzie granted the request, adjourning the matter to September 15, 2025, for arraignment. However, he issued a stern warning that no further delays would be tolerated.