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Enugu Govt Recovers ₦1.28bn From Sujimoto CEO Over Smart School Funds

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The Enugu State Government has recovered ₦1.284 billion from Mr Olasijibomi Ogundele, Chief Executive Officer of Sujimoto Luxury Construction Ltd, following an investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission into the alleged diversion of funds earmarked for the construction of Smart Green Schools in the state. The recovered funds, which include payments made to the company for projects reportedly abandoned or largely unexecuted, were formally handed over to the state government on Wednesday at the EFCC Enugu Zonal Office through bank drafts and cheques. While presenting the cheques, EFCC Zonal Director in Enugu, Daniel Ise, said the recovery was carried out in line with the commission’s statutory responsibility to trace, recover and return public funds lost to economic and financial crimes. He explained that the action followed a petition submitted by the Enugu State Government, which triggered a full-scale investigation by the commission. “As of today, we have been able to recover drafts to the tune of ₦1,234,350,000 and an additional ₦50,000,000, bringing the total to ₦1,284,350,000 for the benefit of Enugu State government,” Ise said. He credited the progress made so far to the diligence and professionalism of EFCC officers handling the matter, but stressed that the recovery and handover did not signal the conclusion of the investigation. According to him, the commission will continue to scrutinise all aspects of the petition to ensure that no public funds remain unaccounted for. “This does not mark the end of the case. We will look at every facet of the petition to ensure that every kobo belonging to the Enugu State Government that is not accounted for is tracked and recovered,” he said. Ise added that where evidence of criminal wrongdoing is established, the EFCC would proceed with prosecution in line with existing laws. He also cautioned contractors to strictly comply with relevant regulations, particularly the Procurement Act. The EFCC reaffirmed its commitment to working with governments at all levels to protect public resources, warning that accountability in the execution of public contracts remains non-negotiable.

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FG Clarifies Position on ASUU Agreement, Says 2009 Accord Remains Last Signed Deal

Federal Government Allows Polytechnics To Award Degrees, Ending HND Gap

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The Federal Government has announced a major change for polytechnics in Nigeria, giving them the power to award university-style degrees. This move is aimed at ending the long-standing distinction between Higher National Diploma (HND) holders and university graduates. Education Minister, Dr. Tunji Alausa, unveiled the plan on Wednesday during a meeting in Abuja with polytechnic leaders, education commissioners, and other stakeholders. He described the change as historic, saying it would stop years of unfair treatment of polytechnic graduates and position polytechnics as top centres for higher education. Dr. Alausa explained that while polytechnics will now award degrees, they will continue to focus on practical, hands-on training that prepares students for real-world jobs. The policy is part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on creating jobs, expanding industries, and building skilled workers for Nigeria’s future. With this change, polytechnics are expected to work more closely with industries, access better funding, and gain public trust. The government promises that the transition will follow clear rules and quality checks to ensure Nigerian polytechnic degrees meet high standards. The minister also encouraged polytechnic leaders to promote innovation through entrepreneurship hubs, research centres, and partnerships with industries. He highlighted areas such as renewable energy, agriculture technology, digital manufacturing, and climate solutions as key fields for students to focus on. This reform is seen as a major step toward giving polytechnic graduates the same opportunities and recognition as university graduates, while strengthening Nigeria’s workforce and economy.

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Abuja Court Strikes Out Criminal Case Against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan

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An Abuja High Court on Thursday struck out the criminal charges brought by the Federal Government against the senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, ending a high-profile case that sparked widespread national debate. The charges were withdrawn after the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation filed a Notice of Discontinuance, leading the court to formally strike out the criminal defamation and related counts earlier filed against the lawmaker. The case stemmed from comments Akpoti-Uduaghan allegedly made during a televised interview and had drawn significant public attention, with debates focusing on freedom of expression, political accountability, and the limits of prosecutorial powers in a democratic society. The Notice of Discontinuance, dated December 12, 2025, brought proceedings in suit number FHC/ABJ/CR/195/2025 to an end. Justice C. N. Oji, who presided over the matter, acknowledged the notice and struck out the case. In his remarks, the judge said the development highlighted the need for restraint in the use of prosecutorial authority, expressing hope that it would encourage respect for the rule of law and promote healing within the democratic process. Counsel to the Federal Government confirmed the withdrawal of the charges in court, explaining that the decision was taken in line with the Administration of Criminal Justice Act and in the overall interest of justice and public confidence in the legal system. Reacting after the court session, Akpoti-Uduaghan described the ruling as a vindication of her position. She said the outcome reaffirmed her belief in the rule of law and pledged to remain committed to serving her constituents and defending democratic rights. The striking out of the charges follows months of legal controversy and sustained public discourse, with civil society groups and rights organisations previously condemning the case as an attempt to suppress free speech and political engagement.

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Federal Government Praises Super Eagles After AFCON 2025 Semi-Final Exit

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The Federal Government has lauded the Super Eagles following Nigeria’s exit from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. Nigeria was eliminated on Wednesday night after a goalless semi-final against Morocco, losing 4-2 in a penalty shootout at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat. Morocco’s goalkeeper, Yassine Bounou, saved penalties from Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaechi, while Youssef En-Nesyri converted the winning kick to send the Atlas Lions to the final. Morocco will face Senegal on Sunday, who defeated Egypt 1-0 in the other semi-final. In a statement on Thursday, Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris praised the team for demonstrating discipline, unity, and resilience throughout the tournament. “Even in defeat, you showed character, teamwork, and resilience, and those qualities matter deeply to the nation you represent,” Idris said. He noted that football has both victories and setbacks, but the Super Eagles’ commitment and performance earned respect from Nigerians at home and abroad. “Your effort, commitment, and fighting spirit throughout this tournament have earned the respect and gratitude of Nigerians at home and abroad,” the statement added. Idris encouraged the players to learn from the experience, remain united, and return stronger, emphasizing that wearing the national colours represents courage and unity. “Nigeria remains proud of you and grateful for the joy and hope you gave us during this competition. Well done, Super Eagles. The nation stands with you, always,” he concluded.

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FG, ASUU Sign Landmark Agreement To Strengthen Universities

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The Federal Government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) have reached a new agreement aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s university system and promoting academic stability. The pact, which replaces the 2009 agreement that had repeatedly triggered strikes over unresolved issues, was signed and unveiled on Wednesday at the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) Conference Hall in Maitama, Abuja. The event was attended by top officials, including the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Alausa, and the Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad. ASUU President, Prof. Chris Piwuna, expressed cautious optimism about the deal, noting the union’s long history of industrial disputes with the government. He said the union hopes the new agreement will be implemented fully without the need for strike threats. “We are optimistic that the government will implement this agreement in totality, but pessimism still exists because of our history,” Piwuna said. “It is our belief that Dr. Tunji Alausa will be different, and that our union will not need to issue a strike threat before any part of this agreement is implemented. ASUU is open and accessible, and we expect the same from the government.” Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, described the agreement as a landmark moment for Nigeria’s tertiary education system. He credited President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for prioritizing quality education and ensuring that academic calendars remain uninterrupted across universities. “This occasion represents far more than the presentation of a document; it symbolises renewed trust, restored confidence, and a decisive turning point in the history of Nigeria’s tertiary education system,” Alausa said. “It is a clear demonstration of President Tinubu’s commitment to quality education and a stable academic calendar for all students in Nigerian tertiary institutions.” The new agreement sets the stage for improved collaboration between the government and ASUU, aiming to reduce strikes and enhance the overall quality of higher education in Nigeria.

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FG Restricts Graduation Ceremonies To Primary 6, JSS3 And SSS3 Nationwide

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The Federal Government has announced new guidelines limiting graduation ceremonies in schools across the country to only pupils and students in Primary 6, Junior Secondary School 3 (JSS3) and Senior Secondary School 3 (SSS3). According to the government, the move is intended to rein in extravagant celebrations and reduce the financial pressure placed on parents. The policy was unveiled by the Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Tunji Alausa, and the Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suiwaba Sa’idu. A statement issued on Friday by the Director of Press and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Education, Boriowo Folasade, said the decision forms part of ongoing efforts to reform Nigeria’s education sector and make schooling more affordable for families. Under the new directive, schools are no longer allowed to organise graduation ceremonies for classes outside Primary 6, JSS3 and SSS3, as part of measures to eliminate unnecessary expenses. In addition, the Federal Government has introduced a policy mandating the use of standardised, durable textbooks designed to last between four and six years. The initiative aims to curb repeated spending on learning materials and improve the quality of education nationwide. The policy also ends the practice of frequent, superficial textbook revisions that force parents to buy new books every academic session and prohibits the bundling of disposable workbooks with textbooks. The ministry noted that the new textbook guidelines will enable siblings to share books, reduce waste in schools and support environmental sustainability, while significantly lowering recurring costs for parents. The ministers further disclosed that a uniform academic calendar has been introduced to ensure consistency in teaching, learning and school planning across the country, adding that the reforms strengthen quality assurance and improve the assessment and use of instructional materials nationwide.

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AFCON 2025: Wilfred Ndidi Vows to Pay Super Eagles’ Unpaid Bonuses If Government Fails

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Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi has pledged to personally cover outstanding match bonuses for players and officials at the ongoing 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco if the Federal Government does not fulfil the payments before Saturday’s quarter-final clash with Algeria. Ndidi made the commitment in comments shared by BBC journalist Oluwashina Okeleji on Thursday, despite assurances from the Federal Government that the funds would be released between Thursday and Friday. “I have been encouraging the team to stay focused and continue training for the Algeria game. I’ve been doing this since our second match,” Ndidi said. “I have now assured the players and staff that I will personally pay the bonuses if the authorities fail to do so before Saturday.” He stressed that financial distractions must not affect the team’s performance, noting that he does not want unresolved bonus issues to disrupt preparations. Reports had earlier surfaced that players and officials were considering refusing to travel to Marrakech or attend training sessions over unpaid bonuses for their group-stage matches and the round of 16. In response, the Minister of State for Finance, Doris Uzoka-Anite, announced that group-stage bonuses had been released and had passed all regulatory approvals. She added that new measures had been introduced to prevent further delays. According to her, the Federal Government and the Central Bank of Nigeria have streamlined foreign exchange processes to ensure timely payments, with transfers to players’ domiciliary accounts already underway and expected to reflect between Thursday and Friday. The Super Eagles arrived in Marrakech on Thursday and trained ahead of Saturday’s quarter-final against Algeria. Nigeria are chasing a fourth AFCON title, having previously won the tournament in 1980, 1994, and 2013.

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FG Denies Abandoning Nigerian Scholarship Students In Morocco, Calls Viral Reports False

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The Federal Government has denied claims that Nigerian scholarship students in Morocco have been abandoned, calling the reports misleading and “deliberately crafted to misinform the public.” The denial follows a viral video on social media showing Nigerian students under the Federal Government scholarship scheme in Morocco allegedly facing hardships, including homelessness and lack of medical support. The video featured activist Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, speaking with several students who claimed they had not received financial support for years despite being scholarship beneficiaries. In a statement signed by Boriowo Folasade, Director of Press and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Education, the Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, clarified: “No Nigerian student on a valid Federal Government scholarship has been abandoned. All beneficiaries duly enrolled under the Bilateral Education Scholarship (BES) Programme prior to 2024 have received payments up to the 2024 budget year, in line with the Federal Government’s obligations. Any temporary delays in outstanding payments are attributable to fiscal constraints and are currently being addressed through ongoing engagements between the Federal Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Finance.” The statement also warned against circulating false information: “No new bilateral scholarship awards were made in October 2025 or at any time thereafter. Documents being circulated to suggest otherwise are fake, unauthenticated, and constitute a calculated attempt to mislead the public and discredit government policy.” Dr Alausa explained that the discontinuation of government-funded bilateral scholarships abroad followed a policy review which found that Nigeria now has sufficient capacity within its universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education to run the affected programmes locally. “Consequently, only scholarships fully funded by foreign governments are now being supported, with all financial obligations borne entirely by the host countries,” the statement added. The Ministry reassured that the government remains committed to supporting students already enrolled under previous arrangements until they complete their programmes. It also offered an option for students who wish to return to Nigeria, saying: “Such students will be seamlessly reintegrated into appropriate tertiary institutions of their choice. The Federal Government will cover their return travel costs to ensure a smooth and orderly transition.” Dr Alausa emphasized that the current administration is focused on eliminating inefficiencies and abuses in the scholarship system, noting that past practices of sponsoring overseas training for courses already established in Nigeria placed unnecessary financial burdens on the nation.

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