Category: News

The Federal Ministry of Education has issued a clarification regarding recent remarks made by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, on the status of agreements between the Federal Government of Nigeria and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU). In a statement released by the Ministry’s Director of Press and Public Relations, Dr. Alausa addressed concerns that his comments from August 28, 2025, were misinterpreted. The Minister reaffirmed that the last officially signed agreement between the Federal Government and ASUU remains the 2009 FGN-ASUU Agreement. The Ministry further noted that in 2017, the then Minister of Education, Mallam Adamu Adamu, initiated a renegotiation process that led to the creation of the Nimi Briggs Agreement draft in May 2021. However, the draft was never formally signed by the Federal Government, and as such, it does not constitute an official agreement. “When the Honourable Minister mentioned that there had been ‘no new signed agreement’ with ASUU, he was specifically referring to the 2021 draft Nimi Briggs document, which has not been executed by the government,” the statement clarified. While the 2009 agreement remains binding, the Ministry emphasized that the 2021 draft serves only as a framework for ongoing negotiations. The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to resolving the longstanding issues with ASUU through a sustainable, constitutionally supported process, in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda. The Ministry urged the public to disregard any misinterpretations of the Minister’s comments and reassured stakeholders that the government’s primary focus remains on ensuring that Nigerian universities continue to operate for teaching and research, while working towards lasting industrial peace in the education sector.

Amid rising political speculations ahead of the 2027 general elections, former presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has declared that he has no intention of leaving the party, while remaining open to strategic dialogue with other stakeholders. Speaking in Abuja during the 9th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the NNPP, Kwankwaso reaffirmed his loyalty to the party, dismissing widespread rumours of a possible defection. “Many people thought today we would announce whether I will stay in NNPP or go to another party or join some individuals. That was not the intention of the meeting. We have our party, and we are comfortable and happy,” he stated. He acknowledged the speculation surrounding political realignments but urged party members not to be distracted by defections or political maneuvering, emphasizing that the NNPP is unified and prepared to offer credible leadership. “We are comfortable in the NNPP and believe that we have something to offer at the highest level of leadership in this country. We are ready to talk to anybody, but any negotiation will be collective,” Kwankwaso said. The former Kano State governor also addressed the broader national context, lamenting the pervasive poverty and insecurity affecting many communities across the country. “Poverty is everywhere in this country. Many communities are unable to visit the farm, go to the market, or even return to their homes. This situation must be urgently addressed,” he added. In his opening remarks at the NEC meeting, NNPP National Chairman, Dr. Ajuji Ahmed, reiterated the party’s confidence in Kwankwaso as its presidential candidate for 2027, describing the NNPP as the “beautiful bride” of Nigerian politics. Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, represented by Deputy Governor Aminu Gwarzo, also voiced his support for Kwankwaso’s leadership, noting his consistent efforts in strengthening the NNPP. Despite the ongoing influx of new members, the party emphasized that it remains focused and committed to its core principles, while allowing those who choose to exit the party to do so freely.