FG to Establish Armed Forces Medical College to Tackle 340,000 Doctor Shortfall

The Federal Government has announced plans to set up the Armed Forces College of Medicine and Health Sciences (AFCOM&HS) as part of measures to address Nigeria’s estimated deficit of 340,000 doctors and strengthen healthcare services within the military. The decision was reached after a high-level meeting involving the Minister of Education, Maruf Alausa; the Minister of State for Education, Suiwaba Ahmed; and the Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, alongside other key stakeholders in the education, defence, and health sectors. In a statement issued by the Director of Press and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Education, Boriowo Folasade, the government noted that Nigeria’s population has surpassed 240 million, yet only 189 medical personnel are currently serving in the Armed Forces. The situation, it said, underscores the urgent need for innovative and scalable medical training solutions. The proposed college is intended to serve as a strategic national intervention to strengthen military healthcare delivery, close manpower gaps within the Armed Forces, and expand the country’s overall medical training capacity. It is also expected to position Nigeria as a leading centre for military medical education in West Africa. As part of ongoing reforms, the government revealed that annual medical school admissions have increased from about 5,000 to nearly 10,000, with plans to raise the figure to approximately 19,000 in the coming years. The new institution will contribute to this expansion by producing combat casualty-trained doctors, surgeons, trauma specialists, emergency response medics, military public health experts, disaster response professionals, and other allied health workers. The initiative aligns with the administration’s broader education reform agenda, particularly its focus on science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medical sciences. In compliance with the Federal Government’s seven-year moratorium on new tertiary institutions and in line with directives from President Bola Tinubu, the college will operate within the existing framework of the Nigerian Defence Academy. Clinical training will be conducted in accredited federal and military hospitals, while admissions will be processed through the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB). Upon graduation, medical cadets will be commissioned as Captains in the Armed Forces. To ensure compliance and maintain standards, a Technical Working Group made up of representatives from the Federal Ministry of Education, Ministry of Defence, Nigerian Defence Academy, MODHIP, the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria, the National Universities Commission, JAMB, and other regulatory agencies has been constituted. The government stated that necessary arrangements are underway for the first batch of students to commence studies by October or November 2026.

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Ogun Governor Rewards Nigeria’s Best Primary School Teacher With New Car

Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has rewarded Mr Solanke Francis Taiwo, a teacher at Ansa-Ur-Deen Main School I, Kemta Lawa, Abeokuta, with a brand-new car after he emerged as Nigeria’s Overall Best Primary School Teacher. The presentation took place at the governor’s office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, with the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Abayomi Arigbagbu, and the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Mr Oloko, in attendance. Addressing guests at the ceremony, Arigbagbu said the teacher’s achievement reflects the impact of the state government’s sustained reforms and investment in education. He noted that Ogun has maintained a strong record of producing outstanding educators, adding that Mr Solanke had earlier won a Best Teacher Award in October before going on to secure the national honour in Abuja. He explained that the state’s declaration of a state of emergency in the education sector paved the way for the Ogun State Education Revitalisation Agenda. The reform framework, built on six pillars, focuses on curriculum development, effective school management, technology and innovation, improved infrastructure, sustainable funding, and the welfare of students and teachers. According to the commissioner, the reforms have produced tangible outcomes, including impressive performances in competitions such as JETS, where Ogun students once claimed the majority of available awards. He also revealed that five states are seeking to understudy Ogun’s Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) model, while both the Federal Government and the National Board for Technical Education have commended the state’s progress. Arigbagbu said the car gift was intended to motivate teachers across the state to pursue excellence, assuring that the administration remains committed to recognising and rewarding hard work. Governor Abiodun also reaffirmed plans to strengthen teacher development through workshops, seminars, digital initiatives, and AI-driven teaching platforms. In his remarks, Mr Solanke thanked the governor for creating a supportive environment for teaching and learning. He described the recognition as a great honour and pledged to continue giving his best. “I feel excited and fulfilled. I appreciate our education-friendly governor for celebrating excellence, innovation, and transformational impact among teachers across the state,” he said. He also encouraged fellow educators to stay committed to improving learning outcomes and nurturing the full potential of every student in their care.

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Florida Lawmakers Approve Renaming Palm Beach Airport To Honor Donald Trump

Florida lawmakers have approved a bill to rename Palm Beach International Airport in honor of former U.S. President Donald Trump. Passed on Thursday, the measure designates the airport as the “President Donald J. Trump International Airport” and now awaits Governor Ron DeSantis’ expected signature to become law. Located in the coastal town of Palm Beach, just minutes from Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate, the airport would also need approval from the Federal Aviation Administration before the new name is officially adopted. If finalized, the airport would join a growing list of institutions bearing Trump’s name. In December, the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts board voted to rename the venue the “Trump-Kennedy Center,” while the State Department added Trump’s name to the United States Institute of Peace. Trump has reportedly sought to rename New York’s Penn Station and Washington Dulles International Airport after himself, though both proposals were rejected. Separately, the Treasury Department confirmed that draft designs have been prepared for a commemorative $1 coin featuring Trump’s image, despite laws prohibiting the depiction of a living or sitting president on U.S. currency. On Thursday, a large blue banner featuring Trump’s portrait was also displayed across the Justice Department headquarters, an agency traditionally considered independent from political influence.

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117 Repentant Terrorists Complete Nigeria’s Operation Safe Corridor Rehabilitation Programme

A total of 117 repentant terrorists have successfully completed the federal government’s De-Radicalisation, Rehabilitation, and Reintegration (DRR) programme under Operation Safe Corridor (OPSC) in Borno State. The announcement was made on Thursday during a high-level stakeholders’ meeting at the Nigerian Army Resource Centre in Abuja, according to Samaila Uba, Director of Defence Information. Y. Ali, the OPSC coordinator, said the graduates underwent the programme at Mallam Sidi Camp, emphasizing the strengthened collaboration between federal and state authorities in monitoring, reception, and community reintegration. He added that the meeting also finalised procedures for transferring the rehabilitated individuals to their respective national and state authorities for reintegration into communities. Ali explained that OPSC is a multi-agency initiative backed by the Nigerian Constitution and international humanitarian frameworks, involving personnel from 17 ministries, departments, and agencies. Since its inception in 2016, the programme has improved screening processes, enhanced ideological disengagement, strengthened psychosocial support, and expanded inter-agency coordination. He also highlighted the programme’s expansion to north-western states, including a facility in Zamfara established last year, with plans underway to open a similar centre in Benue. Chief of Defence Staff Olufemi Oluyede, represented by Jamal Abdusalam, Chief of Defence Operations, described OPSC as a critical component of Nigeria’s security strategy. He stressed that while military operations create space for stabilisation, structured rehabilitation and reintegration help prevent former insurgents from returning to violence. “The programme provides controlled, integrity-driven pathways for surrendering insurgents, helping to reduce insurgent cohesion, generate intelligence, and support long-term stability,” he said. The stakeholders’ meeting also included briefings on camp activities, community reintegration strategies, and timelines for the graduates’ return to their communities.

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Actor Eric Dane Dies At 53 After Battle With ALS

American actor Eric Dane has died at the age of 53 following a battle with ALS, his family confirmed to TMZ. In a statement shared with the publication, his loved ones reflected on his final days and the legacy he leaves behind: “With heavy hearts, we share that Eric Dane passed on Thursday afternoon following a courageous battle with ALS. He spent his final days surrounded by dear friends, his devoted wife, and his two beautiful daughters, Billie and Georgia, who were the center of his world. Throughout his journey with ALS, Eric became a passionate advocate for awareness and research, determined to make a difference for others facing the same fight. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered always. Eric adored his fans and is forever grateful for the outpouring of love and support he’s received. The family has asked for privacy as they navigate this impossible time.” Dane used his platform to raise awareness about ALS after his diagnosis, encouraging support for research and those affected by the disease. The family emphasized that he was surrounded by those closest to him in his final moments. They have requested privacy as they grieve and adjust to life without him. May his soul rest in peace.

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Trump Gives Iran 10-15 Day Deadline For Nuclear Deal As Tensions Escalate

US President Donald Trump has set a 10- to 15-day deadline for Iran to reach an agreement on its nuclear programme, warning that failure to do so could lead to “really bad things.” Speaking at the Board of Peace meeting in Washington DC, Trump stressed the need for a “meaningful” deal while underscoring the strong US military presence in the Middle East. Iran has responded by vowing to act “decisively” against any military aggression, stating that all bases, facilities, and assets of any “hostile force” in the region would be considered legitimate targets. In a letter to the UN Secretary-General, Iran’s permanent mission reiterated that the country does not seek conflict and would not initiate hostilities. Earlier this week, intensive talks between Washington and Tehran in Geneva ended without a breakthrough, intensifying regional tensions. The standoff comes amid threats from Iran’s Ayatollah, who warned of possible attacks on US warships.

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Ogun State Confirms Mirabel Safe, Receiving Medical Care As Investigation Continues

The Ogun State government has confirmed that social media content creator Mirabel, who recently alleged sexual assault, is safe and receiving comprehensive care at a state-run medical facility. State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Motunrayo Adijat Adeleye, made the announcement following a visit to Mirabel, accompanied by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry and the hospital’s Medical Director. Adeleye said the visit was aimed at assessing the survivor’s condition firsthand and ensuring she is receiving appropriate medical and welfare support. She confirmed that Mirabel has been admitted and is undergoing thorough medical treatment, psychosocial care, and all necessary clinical procedures in line with protocols for handling alleged sexual assault cases. She added that the victim is responding positively to treatment. The Commissioner also commended the Ogun State Police Command for their swift and professional response after the case was transferred to the state. She praised the medical team and the Ogun State Ministry of Justice for their coordinated efforts. “This structured approach is designed to protect the survivor’s welfare while ensuring that investigations are conducted professionally, thoroughly, and strictly based on verifiable evidence,” Adeleye said. She noted that while clinical examinations continue, security agencies have commenced investigations into the matter. Reiterating the government’s position, Adeleye emphasized that Governor Dapo Abiodun’s administration maintains a zero-tolerance policy on sexual and gender-based violence. “The welfare, dignity, and safety of every survivor are our top priorities. While we support survivors, we are equally committed to due process. Investigations must be evidence-based, transparent, and fair to all parties involved. Anyone found culpable will face the full weight of the law,” she said. Adeleye assured the public that updates would be provided as credible findings emerge from the ongoing investigations and urged citizens to avoid speculation or sensational commentary that could undermine due process. She reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to determining the truth behind the allegation.

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DSS Sets February 25 For Arraignment Of Ex-Governor Nasir El-Rufai Over Cybercrime, Security Breaches

The Department of State Services (DSS) has set February 25 for the arraignment of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai over alleged violations of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Amendment Act, 2024, and the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003. The case, assigned to Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court by Chief Judge Justice John Tsoho, is listed under suit number FHC/ABJ/CR/99/2026. Court filings show that the DSS filed a three-count charge against El-Rufai, accusing him of unlawfully intercepting the telephone communications of National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu. In the first count, prosecutors allege that during a February 13 interview on Arise TV’s Prime Time programme in Abuja, El-Rufai admitted that he and others intercepted the NSA’s communications without legal authority, an offence punishable under Section 12(1) of the Cybercrimes Act. The second count claims El-Rufai knowingly associated with an individual involved in the interception but failed to report the matter to security agencies, contrary to Section 27(b) of the same Act. The third count alleges that in 2026, in Abuja, El-Rufai and others still at large used technical equipment to intercept the NSA’s communications in a way that compromised public safety and national security, violating Section 131(2) of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003. The charges stem from statements El-Rufai made during the televised interview, in which he claimed to have overheard the NSA directing security operatives to detain him. He linked this alleged directive to an attempted arrest at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport on February 12, shortly after returning from Cairo, Egypt. The arraignment comes as El-Rufai faces multiple legal challenges. He was previously detained by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over separate corruption allegations. Although granted administrative bail on Wednesday evening, he was immediately taken into custody by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC). ICPC spokesperson John Odey confirmed that El-Rufai “is in the custody of the commission in connection with ongoing investigations.”

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