Nigeria and the United States officially marked two decades of impactful health collaboration between the Nigerian Ministry of Defence Health Implementation Programme (NMODHIP) and the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR). The historic event took place at the Abuja Continental Hotel, bringing together senior leaders, stakeholders, and defense health professionals from both nations. The commemoration not only celebrated 20 years of medical cooperation but also highlighted the groundbreaking progress achieved through joint initiatives in military medicine, public health response, infectious disease control, and research development. Over the years, the NMODHIP–WRAIR partnership has become a cornerstone of Nigeria’s military health system strengthening, ensuring enhanced readiness for armed forces personnel and contributing significantly to national healthcare. With joint research efforts, both countries have developed strategies to combat life-threatening diseases, improve epidemic response, and strengthen surveillance systems. One of the remarkable achievements of this collaboration is the fight against HIV/AIDS within the Nigerian Armed Forces, which has saved countless lives. This initiative also contributed to global health security and has served as a model for other nations. Beyond HIV/AIDS programs, the partnership extended to areas such as malaria prevention, emerging disease outbreaks, and advanced clinical trials, paving the way for medical innovation. Speaking at the Abuja ceremony, senior officials from both nations commended the resilience, dedication, and shared vision that have sustained the partnership for two decades. The event symbolized not only a celebration of achievements but also a renewed commitment to expand the scope of health cooperation in years to come. As Nigeria continues to face evolving health challenges, this bilateral health alliance remains a strategic tool for advancing public health, military readiness, and medical research. The collaboration reflects a model of how defense health diplomacy can foster stronger ties between nations while delivering tangible results that benefit citizens and service members alike. For two decades, this partnership has stood as a testament to what international cooperation can achieve in improving health systems, combating infectious diseases, and ensuring long-term resilience against public health threats.
The Network Against Corruption and Trafficking (NACAT) has strongly criticized what it described as the unlawful, unconstitutional, and politically motivated arrest and continued detention of Nigerian journalist Fejiro Oliver. In a statement released on Saturday and signed by NACAT’s Operations Manager, Mr. Stanley Ugagbe, the organization demanded the immediate and unconditional release of Oliver, who also serves as NACAT’s Chairman. According to the group, Oliver’s arrest demonstrates a clear case of abuse of power by the Delta State Commissioner of Police, Abaniwonda Olufemi. Mr. Ugagbe explained that Oliver was forcefully apprehended by Nigerian Police Force operatives in Abuja on Thursday, September 18, 2025. Following his arrest, he was quickly transferred to Asaba, Delta State, where he is currently held at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID). “This act is not only unlawful but also a deliberate attempt at political persecution, designed to silence a courageous journalist who consistently speaks against corruption,” NACAT declared. The statement further emphasized that Oliver is not just a journalist but also a renowned whistleblower and anti-corruption advocate. His investigative works have exposed entrenched corruption and abuse of office at different levels of government in Nigeria. NACAT stressed that Oliver’s detention represents a dangerous threat to civil liberties, freedom of expression, and the press. “The ongoing illegal detention of Mr. Oliver is more than an attack on one man—it is an attack on the fundamental human rights of every Nigerian citizen. Criminalizing voices that speak truth to power is a direct assault on democracy itself,” the statement warned. The group further accused the Delta State government of weaponizing state institutions to punish dissent and erode transparency. It condemned the Nigerian Police Force for being used as an instrument of political intimidation rather than maintaining impartial enforcement of the law. “This type of executive excess and disregard for the rule of law must not be tolerated. The police should function as protectors of justice, not as enforcers of political vendettas,” NACAT noted. NACAT therefore called on civil society organizations, the Nigerian media, human rights groups, and the international community to urgently step in and demand accountability. “This incident is a major test of Nigeria’s dedication to the rule of law and democratic values. The international community must not ignore this injustice. Today, it is Fejiro Oliver, tomorrow it could be any Nigerian who dares to challenge corruption and abuse of power,” the group warned. Concluding, NACAT demanded Oliver’s unconditional release, describing his detention as a betrayal of Nigeria’s constitution, the law, and citizens’ rights.
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The President of the Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, has disclosed that truck drivers working for the company are earning salaries far higher than the Nigerian national minimum wage. Speaking during an interview on Arise Television, Dangote highlighted that their drivers not only receive competitive pay but also earn more than many university graduates in the country. He emphasized that joining the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) remains a voluntary choice, stressing that their new transport initiatives are designed to create more opportunities rather than eliminate existing jobs. According to Dangote: “The introduction of our trucks has not taken away anyone’s source of livelihood. There have been speculations about possible job losses, but let’s be clear—our tankers will not be driven by robots. Each truck accommodates around six individuals, which means the new trucks we are rolling out will generate about 24,000 jobs.” He further revealed the incentives provided for drivers, noting that after five years of accident-free service, they qualify to apply for housing loans, adding another layer of benefit to their employment package. Dangote added: “The salaries we pay our drivers are almost three to four times higher than what others in similar roles earn. If you carefully evaluate their monthly income, it is nearly four times the national minimum wage. This puts our drivers ahead of many graduates in terms of financial earnings.” This statement reinforces the Dangote Group’s position on creating sustainable jobs, offering attractive pay structures, and improving employee welfare in Nigeria’s logistics and petroleum distribution sectors.
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Nigerians and energy industry stakeholders have expressed mixed feelings as the Dangote Refinery officially begins nationwide fuel distribution using its Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) trucks today, Monday, September 15, 2025. Over the weekend, hundreds of the refinery’s branded trucks were already sighted on Nigerian highways, particularly along the Lekki–Epe Expressway in Lagos State, signaling the start of what is expected to be a game-changing fuel delivery system. The multi-billion-dollar refinery, valued at $20 billion, earlier revealed that it invested about ₦720 billion to procure 4,000 compressed natural gas trucks, though reports indicate that only around 1,000 trucks have been delivered so far. According to the Dangote Group, the initiative is strategically designed to reduce retail fuel prices and is projected to save Nigeria a staggering ₦1.7 trillion annually in fuel distribution costs. New Fuel Price Template Last Thursday, the company rolled out its updated fuel pricing template, pegging the ex-depot price at ₦820 per litre. Retail pump prices, however, vary across states, ranging between ₦841 and ₦851 per litre. While this development has been described as innovative, it has also generated disruptions and concerns in the downstream oil sector, with unions and marketers divided on its impact. Stakeholders Voice Concerns The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), which has been at loggerheads with Dangote Refinery over alleged anti-labour practices, described the fuel distribution plan as a “Greek gift” to Nigerians. Similarly, the Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN) criticized the initiative, insisting that Dangote’s free delivery cost structure for nationwide distribution is misleading. In contrast, the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) has openly supported the scheme, urging members to take advantage of the opportunity by registering with the refinery. Rising Concerns Over Dangote Truck Accidents The deployment of thousands of trucks comes amid increasing road accidents involving Dangote vehicles nationwide. In one tragic incident, Ruth Otabor, sister of Big Brother Naija Season 7 winner Phyna, lost her life after being crushed by a Dangote truck in Auchi. Over the weekend, several passengers sustained injuries when a Dangote truck collided with a Benue Links passenger bus along the Lagos–Kogi expressway. Expert Opinion: Between Innovation and Monopoly Risks Speaking with LMSINT MEDIA, Professor Wumi Iledare, an Emeritus Professor of Petroleum Economics, noted that the refinery’s move into CNG-powered trucking is innovative and could potentially lower costs, promote gas utilization, and reduce carbon emissions. However, he raised concerns over the danger of unchecked dominance, stressing that Dangote’s control of both refining and transportation could stifle competition if not properly regulated. “Dangote’s foray into CNG trucking is commendable and aligns with global trends in vertical integration. However, the risk of a monopoly is high if a strong regulator is not in place,” Prof. Iledare explained. “Safety remains another pressing issue. Nigerians are still mourning Ruth, Phyna’s sister, who was killed by a Dangote truck in Auchi. Added to this are concerns about nationwide traffic gridlock as thousands of trucks take to the highways.” He emphasized that while innovation should be encouraged, government agencies must enforce safety standards, strengthen regulation, and protect fair competition to ensure that convenience and affordability are not overshadowed by disruptions.
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The recent directive by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reduce food prices across Nigeria has generated mixed reactions among farmers and food traders. While the initiative was announced to bring relief to struggling households, many within the agricultural and trading sectors believe it could create financial challenges for them. Last week, President Tinubu ordered an immediate crash in food prices as part of his administration’s measures to ease the rising cost of living for ordinary Nigerians. However, those directly involved in farming and food supply argue that the policy may have unintended consequences. Malam Abba Sani, a farmer based in Kano, expressed his concerns in an interview. According to him, the cost of farming inputs such as seeds and fertilizer has already risen sharply. He questioned how farmers would be able to recover their investments under the new price-slash directive. “We bought seeds and fertiliser at very high prices. If food prices are forced down, how are we supposed to regain our money?” Sani lamented. He further explained that although the policy might look attractive to the general public, farmers like him may end up suffocating under the pressure of reduced returns. In a similar development, Bashir Madara, the Public Relations Officer of Singer Market, one of the largest food markets in northern Nigeria, also shared his perspective in a discussion with LMSINT MEDIA. He acknowledged that Tinubu’s decision comes with good intentions for the poor, but highlighted the potential negative impact on traders with existing stock. Madara stated: “Every patriotic Nigerian who truly wants the less privileged to have some relief will appreciate the President’s decision to cut food prices. However, traders who already have stockpiled goods will suffer losses once the new directive is enforced.” He explained that in the past, many traders bought in bulk to maximize profits, but the current economic climate has forced them to change strategy. According to him, most traders now purchase smaller quantities of goods to sell quickly, reducing the risk of being affected by sudden government price interventions. “Today, traders carefully monitor market direction. Unlike before when businessmen made bulk purchases, now they prefer stocking what can be sold in a short time, hoping prices might drop further before their next purchase. This approach reduces heavy losses, although some risk remains,” Madara said. While acknowledging that losses are inevitable, he advised traders to dispose of their old stock promptly before the government’s price reduction order is fully implemented. He also appealed to the government to balance the interests of both traders and the citizens when implementing such economic measures. Despite his caution, Madara concluded that the order remains beneficial for ordinary Nigerians struggling under inflation. He reiterated that the government should, however, create supportive policies to protect those who supply the markets, ensuring both traders and consumers can thrive.
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The Olubadan-designate, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has emphasized that the frequent disputes and perceived rivalries among prominent Yoruba monarchs are not truly instigated by the royal fathers themselves but rather by their loyalists and followers. Oba Ladoja made this remark on Thursday at his Bodija residence in Ibadan while receiving the Olugbon of Orile-Igbon, Oba Francis Alao, alongside his wife, during a courtesy visit. The Olubadan-designate dismissed speculations surrounding supremacy battles among Yoruba kings, particularly between the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, and the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade. According to him, most of the tension originates from followers who rely on contested and conflicting historical narratives. “I have consistently said that neither the Ooni of Ife nor the Alaafin of Oyo is responsible for disunity. Rather, their supporters fuel the rivalry by defending different historical accounts, forgetting that history is often subjective and open to interpretation,” Oba Ladoja stated. He called on the Yoruba people to set aside divisive debates rooted in history and instead pursue peace, unity, and collective development. The monarch further explained that each traditional ruler has their domain and responsibilities, stressing the futility of unnecessary competition. “The Alaafin cannot abandon Oyo to rule in Ile-Ife, just as the Ooni cannot leave Ile-Ife to govern Oyo. Every king has his own designated kingdom,” he added. Using a global analogy, Oba Ladoja compared the situation to Britain’s colonial relationship with America. “The historical arguments used by supporters are like Britain colonising America—events of the past. Today, the relationship between both nations is one of mutual respect, where if America sneezes, Britain catches a cold,” he explained. Reflecting on Ibadan’s strategic position in Yoruba history, the Olubadan-designate acknowledged the city’s influential role. “Without Ibadan’s remarkable role, many Yoruba kings would have been left with titles resembling those of ‘Emirs’. What we must prioritize now is modernizing Ibadanland and strengthening the legacy of the Ibadan Empire, not merely dwelling on history,” Oba Ladoja noted. In response, Oba Francis Alao congratulated the Olubadan-designate on his emergence as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland. He described the ascension as an outstanding milestone, not only for Ibadan but also for Oyo State and Nigeria at large.
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The Dangote Refinery has officially announced a nationwide reduction in the pump price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), widely known as petrol. This development comes as the company also confirmed that its long-awaited direct fuel distribution initiative will commence on Monday, September 15, 2025. The initiative, initially scheduled for August 15, 2025, is a critical step in the company’s strategy to transform petroleum product delivery in Nigeria. With the new plan, the $20 billion mega-refinery will leverage 4,000 compressed natural gas (CNG) trucks to distribute petrol and diesel directly to consumers across the country at zero logistics cost. New Price Template Announced According to Dangote Refinery, the latest price update sets the gantry price at ₦820 per litre, consistent with last month’s announcement. However, retail prices vary across states: This adjustment translates to a ₦19 reduction in the South-West and a ₦34 reduction across Abuja, the North Central, and South-South regions. Implementation and Impact The company emphasized that the new price template and direct distribution scheme will take effect nationwide on September 15, 2025. By removing logistics costs and bypassing traditional middlemen, the refinery aims to make petrol more affordable and accessible for Nigerians. LMSINT Media can confirm that the revised template is not compulsory for independent petroleum marketers. However, it remains binding on Dangote Refinery’s major partners, including MRS Oil and other official distributors. Labour Union Response Meanwhile, tensions persist between Dangote Group and the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG). The union recently hinted at the possibility of resuming strike action, accusing Dangote of failing to uphold certain agreements. In response, Dangote Group reiterated its commitment to fair labour practices, stressing that it respects the voluntary membership of unions by its employees. The announcement has sparked mixed reactions nationwide, with many Nigerians hopeful that the initiative will bring lasting relief to fuel costs and reduce the frequent challenges associated with fuel scarcity and inflated prices.
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Kano Pillars have received a significant boost ahead of their highly anticipated Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) matchday three fixture against Katsina United, as midfielder Aminu Muhammad has returned to full training. The skillful midfielder had been sidelined since the beginning of the 2025/26 NPFL season due to illness, missing out on the opening two fixtures. His absence was felt within the squad, as the team struggled to find consistency in the middle of the park. Muhammad’s return to training on Tuesday brings fresh energy and depth to the squad. Known for his creativity, passing ability, and ball retention, his comeback is seen as a key factor in strengthening Kano Pillars’ midfield options. For Sai Masu Gida’s head coach, Evans Ogenyi, this is welcome news as he continues to chase his first victory of the campaign. The four-time NPFL champions have only managed to secure one point from their opening two games, a record they will be eager to improve. The clash against rivals Katsina United, set to be held this weekend at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium in Katsina, promises to be a fiery encounter. Local derbies between Kano Pillars and Katsina United have always drawn massive attention, not only because of the rivalry but also due to the passionate support of their fan bases. With Muhammad back in contention, Pillars fans will be optimistic that his presence could help swing the momentum in their favor as they push for their first win of the 2025/26 NPFL season.
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China has officially approved a one-year visa waiver policy for Russian passport holders, aiming to further boost bilateral relations and make cross-border travel more accessible, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs revealed on Tuesday. This new visa exemption is designed as a trial programme and will run from September 15, 2025, to September 14, 2026. During this period, Russian citizens entering China can enjoy a maximum stay of 30 days per visit without needing a visa. Details of the Visa-Free Programme China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Guo Jiakun, explained that individuals with ordinary Russian passports are now eligible to enter China for business trips, tourism, family and friend visits, cultural exchanges, and transit purposes. Guo further emphasized that the decision reflects the strategic cooperation between President Xi Jinping and President Vladimir Putin, noting that China-Russia relations have been consistently advancing on both governmental and public levels. According to Jiakun, the streamlined border policy aims to enhance people-to-people exchanges while contributing positively to the China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for the new era. China’s Wider Visa-Free Travel Policy Currently, China grants visa-free access to 47 countries whose citizens hold ordinary passports. This arrangement allows for a 30-day stay and remains effective until December 31, 2025, with certain extensions into 2026 for selected nations. Countries included in this policy are Andorra, Argentina, Austria, Australia, Bahrain, Belgium, Brazil, Brunei, Chile, Cyprus, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Ireland, Iceland, Luxembourg, New Zealand, Poland, Portugal, Greece, Norway, Japan, Peru, Uruguay, Monaco, Liechtenstein, South Korea, Bulgaria, Romania, Croatia, Oman, Kuwait, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Malta, Estonia, Latvia, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Spain, Slovenia, Switzerland, Slovakia, and the Netherlands. This initiative underscores Beijing’s goal of strengthening international connectivity and promoting tourism and business exchanges with its global partners.
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The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Banco Central do Brasil (Brazil’s Central Bank) have initiated fresh dialogues to enhance economic and financial collaboration between Nigeria, Africa’s largest economy, and Brazil, Latin America’s biggest market. During the meeting, CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso highlighted that Brazil’s large Afro-Brazilian community—considered the biggest population of African descent outside the African continent—presents not only strong cultural ties but also a significant opportunity to increase remittance flows between Nigeria and Brazil. The discussion took place on the sidelines of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s state visit to Brazil and was part of a wider working mission designed to strengthen institutional and technical cooperation with the South American nation. Cardoso emphasized that both countries stand to gain substantially through knowledge-sharing and collaboration in digital finance, payments infrastructure, fintech innovation, and mobile money services. He stated: “Nigeria is building a stronger, more resilient financial system aimed at attracting capital, leveraging diaspora remittances, and creating a stable environment that encourages sustainable trade and investment.” The CBN Governor further explained that Brazil’s vast experience in financial inclusion policies offers Nigeria valuable lessons, while Nigeria’s rapidly growing fintech industry can also share innovative approaches that could benefit Brazil. “Brazil’s expertise in driving financial inclusion provides critical lessons, just as Nigeria’s fintech ecosystem offers insights and solutions that can be adapted in Brazil,” Cardoso remarked. On his part, Gabriel Muricca Galípolo, President of Brazil’s Central Bank, welcomed the dialogue and reaffirmed Brazil’s commitment to broadening financial cooperation with Nigeria. He described the engagement as a strategic step toward promoting financial stability, economic resilience, and mutual prosperity between the two nations. Beyond the high-level talks, the Nigerian delegation participated in several technical sessions with Brazilian counterparts. These discussions covered monetary policy frameworks, financial stability mechanisms, and regulatory cooperation strategies aimed at aligning both countries’ financial systems for future collaboration. The CBN Governor was accompanied by directors overseeing currency operations, financial policy regulation, and monetary policy, underscoring the importance Nigeria attaches to the partnership. This emerging partnership between Nigeria and Brazil signals a new era of financial diplomacy, with potential benefits for trade, remittances, fintech growth, and diaspora engagement.
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Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD But we know that the law is good, if a man use it lawfully; Knowing this, that the law is not made for a righteous man… (1 Timothy 1:8-9). Did you ever read in the Bible that the Law and its ordinances were abolished? Ephesians 2:15 says, “Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace.” Therefore, having become a Christian, the commandments, “Thou shalt not steal” or “Thou shalt not kill,” etc., no longer apply. Does that mean you can steal? No, and a thousand times, no! The reason they don’t apply isn’t because stealing and murder are permitted. Rather, it’s because in Christ, you have a new life, a new nature that doesn’t steal or kill. You’re of a higher class. 1 Corinthians 6:11 says, “… but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.” Consider what we read in our opening scripture: The law isn’t made for the righteous. In Christ, you’re the righteousness of God; therefore, the Law isn’t for you. The Law was for the children of Israel, which they couldn’t keep. They saw the commandments as laws to be obeyed and not as life. But the Word of God is life, and in Christianity, we live the Word because we’re born of the Word. We have the life of the Word. For example, when the Lord Jesus said, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God,” He wasn’t trying to obey it; He was describing His righteous nature. Also, when He said, “Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God,” it was a description of His identity. Likewise, when you read, “Thou shall not kill” or “Thou shall not steal,” it’s the description of your righteous nature. Being born again, you’re righteous and holy; therefore, it’s inconsistent with your nature to steal or to kill. It’s like what the Bible says in Colossians 3:9-10: “Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him.” The reason it says don’t tell lies is because of who you are. You’re born of God, and the Spirit of truth lives in you. Glory to God! You have a new nature that’s created after God in righteousness and true holiness. PRAYERDear Father, thank you for making me righteous in Christ Jesus. I walk in the light of who I am in Christ. I’m governed by the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus. I walk in righteousness, and I manifest the character of Christ effortlessly. Amen. FURTHER STUDYEphesians 4:20-24But ye have not so learned Christ; 21 If so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus: 22 That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; 23 And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; 24 And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. 2 Corinthians 5:17 & 21 KJVTherefore if any man [be] in Christ, [he is] a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. 21 For he hath made him [to be] sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him. Romans 6:4 KJVTherefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. DAILY SCRIPTURE READING1-Year Bible Reading Plan1 Corinthians 14 & Proverbs 3-4 2-Year Bible Reading PlanLuke 19:41-48 & 1 Samuel 18 DAILY AFFIRMATIONS: I walk in supernatural strength, supernatural health, supernatural supply, and supernatural abilities every day. My progress is unstoppable because I cannot be limited by sickness, disease, or the negativities of the ordinary life. As Jesus is above all things, so am I. The Holy Spirit has beautified my life. He brings colour into my life. I live a wonderful, colourful, beautiful, and productive life. I rejoice because the Lord Jesus has overcome this world for me. I have been made more than a conqueror in this life. I live in the victory Christ provided me; therefore, I am not afraid of sickness, for I reign in life through Christ Jesus. There’s no death in my path! In my path are life, health, blessings, peace, and prosperity. Christ is my wisdom, and the Word of God informs me daily, through the Holy Spirit. I’m filled with the fullness of God; loaded with all power, glory, might, and grace! The totality of divinity is fully present in my spirit and uniquely expressed through me! I display the perfections of Christ everyday in sound health and with a life that is sickness-free. I’m seated together with Christ in the heavenly realms. Far above all principality, power, might, dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world but also in that which is to come! I’m exalted with Him in glory; I know who I am: chosen, royal, and peculiar! I experience the supernatural in my body every day by the power of God’s Spirit. I am a carrier of divinity. The fullness of the Godhead dwells in me bodily. I live life in its fullness. Every day of my life is full of God’s glory, beauty, excellence, and grace. I have been conditioned to live a life of glory. I have all that I require to excel and live in perpetual health, godliness, righteousness, and dominion here on earth. I am not
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The Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, has retracted his earlier declaration that there was no legally binding agreement between the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU). In a new statement issued on Friday, the minister clarified that a formal pact was indeed signed in 2009, confirming the validity of the FGN-ASUU 2009 Agreement. Alausa’s retraction came less than 24 hours after he initially dismissed ASUU’s position as being rooted in what he described as “just a draft.” His earlier statement claimed that no formal agreement had ever been endorsed by the government, a position the union immediately challenged. The Ministry of Education has now acknowledged that the 2009 agreement remains the last and only binding document officially signed between the government and ASUU. Background of the FGN-ASUU Agreement According to the ministry, steps to revisit and update the 2009 agreement commenced in 2017, when the then Minister of Education, Mallam Adamu Adamu, set up a renegotiation committee. That effort eventually led to the draft Nimi Briggs Agreement in May 2021. However, the Federal Government insists that this draft was never formally approved or executed. “When the Honourable Minister stated 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 legally executed,” the statement explained. Government’s Current Position The ministry reiterated that: The statement also called on Nigerians, students, and education stakeholders to ignore misinterpretations of the minister’s earlier remarks, reaffirming that keeping universities open for academic research, teaching, and learning remains the utmost priority of the Tinubu-led administration.
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The Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrosheed Adewale Akanbi, has openly praised Canada, describing it as the best country in the world. The respected Yoruba monarch made this statement while narrating his experience of renewing his Canadian passport, which was processed in less than 24 hours. In a trending online video, Oba Akanbi proudly revealed that the swift passport renewal process reflects Canada’s excellence in governance and service delivery. He emphasized his optimism that Nigeria will one day reach such global standards and earn recognition as one of the best countries in the world. Speaking further, the Oluwo explained: “My Canadian passport is close to expiration next year, so I decided to renew it. The process only took 24 hours. They issued me a new 10-year passport while punching holes through the old one. It was seamless, fast, and reliable. Canada truly stands as the best country in the world right now. But I strongly believe Nigeria will also become one of the greatest nations someday.” The monarch’s remarks come at a time when the Nigerian government, through the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), recently announced a sharp increase in the fees for obtaining international passports. According to the new directive, the cost of a 32-page Nigerian passport booklet has risen to ₦100,000, while a 64-page booklet now costs ₦200,000. This increase has triggered public debate and concerns over affordability, especially given the country’s economic challenges. While Oba Akanbi applauded Canada’s efficiency, he reassured Nigerians that the country has the potential to rise above its current difficulties and eventually compete with the best nations globally.
