Delta State Governor Oborevwori Warns Underperforming Commissioners of Possible Dismissal

Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has openly criticized the performance of three commissioners within his administration, signaling potential dismissals due to underperformance. During the inauguration of eight new duplexes at the Commissioners’ Quarters in Asaba, the governor emphasized that lackluster performance would not be tolerated. He highlighted that initiative, visibility, and tangible results are the benchmarks for retaining positions within his cabinet. Governor Oborevwori recounted informing one commissioner of their inadequate performance, stating, “As a commissioner, we don’t see you. You talk, carry your memo, and look for the Governor, because the Governor will not come looking for you.” He stressed that proactive engagement and energy are essential for effective governance. The governor further clarified that while there are rumors about dissolving the State Executive Council, there is no such plan. However, he reiterated that commissioners who fail to meet performance expectations would be relieved of their duties. He underscored the importance of accountability, stating that any issues within a ministry reflect directly on the commissioner in charge.

NAKSS Engages Northwest University Over Tuition Fee Hike, Begins Dialogue with School Management

The National Association of Kano State Students (NAKSS) has officially responded to the recent tuition fee increase at Northwest University, Kano, a state-owned institution. During an exclusive interview with LMSINT MEDIA on Monday, Isyaku Ali Kanwa, President of NAKSS, expressed deep concern regarding the sudden tuition adjustment, which saw fees jump from approximately ₦17,000 to ₦57,000. This development has sparked widespread anxiety among students. Ali Kanwa stated that the association has been inundated with complaints and appeals from students urging the leadership to step in and address the issue. Many students had budgeted for the former fee and were shocked by the abrupt change. “Since Sunday night, both students and stakeholders have reached out, asking us to urgently investigate and resolve the sudden increase in tuition fees,” Ali Kanwa said. He reassured the student body that NAKSS has already initiated action by consulting with the Kano State Government, which, according to him, clarified that they were not involved in the university’s fee adjustment. “We have communicated with the Kano State Government, and they made it clear that they are not responsible for the tuition hike,” he added. Ali Kanwa further revealed that the association is now in active negotiations with the management of Northwest University to seek a possible downward review of the new fee structure. He urged students to remain calm and trust the process, emphasizing that peaceful dialogue remains the most effective way to resolve the matter.

Nigeria’s CNG Vehicle Transition Faces Nationwide Challenges

₦785.6 Billion Investment at Risk The Federal Government’s initiative to shift Nigeria’s transportation sector from petrol to gas-powered vehicles is encountering significant obstacles. Stakeholders express concerns over supply shortages and a lack of infrastructure, leading to frustration among users and investors. Despite the availability of petrol nationwide, the scarcity of CNG is causing some users to revert their vehicles back to petrol. In many states, the presence of the CNG scheme is minimal or non-existent, with some areas having the necessary equipment but lacking operational activity. The Presidential CNG Initiative acknowledges these challenges but maintains that the program remains on track, with efforts underway to address the issues. Government Incentives To promote the adoption of CNG, the government has implemented several incentives, such as removing Value Added Tax (VAT) on CNG equipment and infrastructure. In May 2024, President Bola Tinubu directed all federal entities to purchase CNG vehicles. Additionally, the government funded the free conversion of one million commercial vehicles to CNG, aiming to reduce public transportation costs. However, delays in approving licenses for new CNG stations contribute to the scarcity of refill stations, particularly in Abuja and other regions. Some users allege sabotage, suggesting that stakeholders benefiting from petrol imports may be hindering the CNG rollout. A truck driver expressed frustration over the lack of accessible CNG stations, questioning why the government isn’t facilitating the establishment of more stations. Similarly, a taxi operator noted that long queues at gas stations are discouraging many from continuing with CNG, leading them to revert to petrol. In Abuja, a truck driver reported spending an average of six days to refill his CNG-powered truck, highlighting the inadequate number of functional stations. The situation is similar for car owners and taxi operators, who also endure long waits. Regional Situations Abuja/Nasarawa: Along the 38-kilometer Abuja-Keffi Road, there are over 49 petrol stations but only one non-functional CNG station in Ado, Karu Local Government Area. The only operational CNG station in Nasarawa is in Lafia. Motorists express frustration over the lack of conversion centers and refill stations, deterring them from adopting CNG. Lagos: Visits to stations in Ikeja, Mushin, and Apapa revealed that CNG was not being dispensed due to stock shortages. Sources indicate that efforts are being made to address the crisis, though challenges like delays at ports and shipment issues persist. Additionally, government-approved outlets report a lack of equipment for CNG conversions. South East: In Enugu State, the government has procured 50 CNG buses, with plans for an additional 50. However, these buses are currently parked and not in operation. Ebonyi State has purchased some CNG luxury buses but has yet to deploy them. Abia State plans to introduce electric buses instead of CNG, while Anambra State’s Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Company has embraced CNG technology, though local adoption remains low. South South: Despite being rich in gas resources, states like Delta, Akwa-Ibom, Bayelsa, and Cross-Rivers have not seen significant implementation of the CNG initiative. Labor leaders and residents report a lack of CNG buses and infrastructure. In Delta State, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed for a CNG conversion center, but progress has been slow. Akwa-Ibom State launched a CNG initiative but has yet to establish the necessary infrastructure.

Windstorm Devastates 209 Homes in Fika, Yobe State: 2025 Disaster Preparedness Efforts Underway

A recent windstorm has caused significant destruction in Fika Local Government Area of Yobe State, Nigeria, damaging at least 209 homes, including public buildings. This information was disclosed by Dr. Mohammed Goje, Executive Secretary of the Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (YOSEMA), during a stakeholders’ engagement on the National Disaster Preparedness and Response Campaign organized by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) in Damaturu. Dr. Goje highlighted that in 2025, a single windstorm event in Fika affected approximately 209 households, encompassing both private residences and public structures. He emphasized that YOSEMA is actively monitoring the situation to determine appropriate support measures for the impacted communities. Data from YOSEMA reveals that in 2024 alone, 28,977 households, totaling 68,954 individuals, were affected by windstorms and flooding across Yobe State. Additionally, 544 individuals sustained varying degrees of injuries due to building collapses caused by floods. The disasters also resulted in 47 fatalities across 601 communities in all 17 local government areas of the state. During the stakeholders’ engagement, NEMA’s Director General, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, represented by the North East Zonal Director, Yakubu Suleiman, underscored the importance of engaging states in the region. This initiative follows the release of the 2025 seasonal climate prediction by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET) and the annual flood outlook by the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA). The engagement aims to implement proactive measures to mitigate disaster impacts in high-risk communities. The campaign is themed “Strengthening resilience, enhancing preparedness and response: Taking disaster risk management to the grassroots to save lives, restore normalcy, and build communal resilience across Nigeria.” National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).

Kano Government Declares Monday a Public Holiday to Mourn Late Athletes

Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has proclaimed Monday, June 2, 2025, as a public holiday in honor of the 22 athletes from Kano who tragically lost their lives in an accident while returning from Ogun State. The announcement was made during the governor’s pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia for the 2025 Hajj, where he instructed that the day be set aside for mourning, prayers, and solidarity with the bereaved families. A statement released late at night by the Governor’s Spokesperson, Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, conveyed the governor’s deep sorrow and commitment to supporting the affected families. “It is with a profoundly sorrowful heart that I received the heartbreaking news of this unfortunate tragedy that resulted in the deaths of 22 innocent individuals and caused injuries to several others,” the governor said. “On behalf of the Kano State Government and its people, I extend our sincerest condolences to the families who lost their loved ones. We grieve with you and stand with you in this painful time,” he added. The state government further urged Muslim clerics and worshippers, both within and beyond the borders of Kano, to offer prayers for the souls of the deceased athletes and for divine strength to their families during this difficult period.

Ganduje Mourns Death of 22 Kano Athletes, Calls for Investigation into Tragic Road Accident

Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, the former Governor of Kano State and National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has expressed deep sorrow over the demise of 22 Kano State athletes who tragically lost their lives while returning from the National Sports Festival held in Abeokuta, Ogun State. According to official reports, the unfortunate incident occurred when the team’s vehicle plunged off a bridge at Dakatsalle, near Kura Local Government Area in Kano State. In a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Edwin Olofu, Ganduje described the tragedy as an enormous loss—not just to the victims’ families and Kano State but to the entire Nigerian nation. “This is a deeply sorrowful moment. These young athletes travelled with a spirit of unity and national pride to represent their state. Losing them so suddenly and tragically is a huge blow to the country,” he said. Ganduje praised the athletes for their dedication, describing them as symbols of hope and the bright future of Nigerian sports. He acknowledged their commitment and the honor they brought to Kano State. The former governor extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, the Kano State Government, and Nigeria’s sports community. He also offered prayers for the souls of the departed and strength for their grieving loved ones. Furthermore, he urged the relevant authorities to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the root causes of the accident. He also called for the establishment of stricter safety measures to safeguard the welfare of Nigerian athletes during future national events. “May Almighty Allah (SWT) comfort the bereaved families and grant the deceased eternal peace,” Ganduje added.

Ganduje Grieves 22 Kano Athletes Who Died in Tragic Road Accident

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has expressed deep sorrow following the tragic loss of 22 young athletes from Kano State. These athletes tragically lost their lives in a devastating auto crash while returning from the National Sports Festival held in Abeokuta, Ogun State. In an official statement released through his Chief Press Secretary, Edwin Olofu, Ganduje conveyed his heartfelt grief over the incident, calling it a national tragedy that has significantly affected not just the bereaved families and the people of Kano, but the entire country. Ganduje referred to the deceased as highly committed and talented youths who represented the bright future of Nigerian athletics and the pride of Kano State. “This is a deeply painful moment for all of us. These athletes embarked on this journey with courage and determination, embodying the values of unity, patriotism, and sporting excellence. Their sudden and untimely death is a painful blow to our national aspirations,” Ganduje stated. The APC leader extended his deepest condolences to the grieving families, the Government of Kano State, and Nigeria’s sports community as a whole. While praying for the eternal rest of the departed souls, Ganduje also prayed for strength and solace for the families and loved ones left behind in this moment of sorrow. Currently in Saudi Arabia performing Hajj, Ganduje urged concerned authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash. He emphasized the need to enforce stricter safety guidelines to ensure the security of Nigerian athletes during official assignments. “May Almighty Allah (SWT) strengthen the affected families to bear this immense tragedy and grant eternal peace to the souls of the deceased,” he concluded.

Mokwa Flood Disaster: Ongoing Search for Missing Persons and Government Response

Four days after the catastrophic flood that devastated Tiffin Maza and Anguwan Hausawa in Mokwa Local Government Area of Niger State, families continue to search desperately for the bodies of their loved ones to ensure they receive proper burials. Official reports indicate that at least 151 people have died, with over 100 still missing. The flood, triggered by prolonged heavy rainfall and exacerbated by the collapse of a nearby dam, led to the destruction of 50 houses and displaced approximately 3,018 individuals. Many of the displaced are currently taking refuge at Mokwa Central Primary School, which has been converted into a temporary shelter. WikipediaWikipedia The Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) reported that the disaster affected 265 houses across three communities, destroyed two roads and two bridges, and injured 11 people. The suddenness and magnitude of the flood caught the community off guard, leading to significant loss of life and property. Eyewitnesses recount harrowing experiences, with some families losing multiple members. Alhaji Belle Ibrahim, a resident who lost his entire family, expressed his anguish, stating that he is still searching for their remains to provide them with proper burials. Others, like Musa Adamu and Hauwa Kudu, continue to comb through debris and floodwaters in hopes of finding missing relatives. The floodwaters, which began rushing in around 6 am on Thursday, quickly overwhelmed Unguwan Hausawa while most residents were still asleep. The disaster also blocked the Tatabu Bridge in the Mokea area, a critical link between the North and South-West, causing significant traffic disruptions. Local authorities, including the leader of the Hausa community, Mal Tanko Bala, report that over 100 bodies have been buried, with more than 100 individuals still unaccounted for. Entire families have been wiped out, and the community is calling on the government for immediate assistance. In response, the Niger State Deputy Governor, Comrade Yakubu Garba, confirmed ongoing search and rescue operations and the provision of relief materials to victims. The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) is coordinating response efforts, and President Bola Tinubu has directed that all available federal resources be deployed to address the situation. The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, conveyed the President’s deep concern over the loss of lives and emphasized the need for public sensitization campaigns to prevent future disasters. The Minister for Humanitarian Affairs, Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatdo, pledged to assess the needs of internally displaced persons and provide necessary support. The state government has approved the distribution of 6,000 bags of rice and other essential materials to cushion the effects of the disaster on victims. Efforts are also being intensified to construct stem water drainage systems in Mokwa and Mashegu council areas to mitigate future flooding risks. As the community grapples with the aftermath, many corpses remain trapped under collapsed buildings, and a significant number of almajiri (Quranic school pupils) are still unaccounted for. The government and emergency responders continue to work tirelessly to provide relief and prevent further loss of life.

Nigerian Navy Enhances Maritime Security with New Warships and Helicopters

The Nigerian Navy has intensified its efforts to combat maritime crime by commissioning a new fleet of advanced ships and helicopters. This move, announced by Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, underscores the government’s commitment to securing Nigeria’s maritime domain and promoting economic activities along the nation’s coast. During the induction ceremony in Lagos, Matawalle emphasized that the federal government is serious about enhancing the Navy’s capability to monitor, deter, and respond to threats at sea. He highlighted that the new platforms demonstrate President Bola Tinubu’s determination to protect national interests and boost economic prosperity under the Renewed Hope agenda. The newly commissioned vessels and aircraft are equipped with advanced surveillance technologies and rapid response capabilities. These enhancements will enable the Navy to maintain continuous surveillance over Nigeria’s territorial waters, thereby limiting criminal activities. Notably, the fleet includes long-range helicopters capable of extended surveillance missions, complementing existing platforms for effective monitoring. Matawalle described the fleet renewal and operational capability enhancement as a significant milestone, coinciding with the Nigerian Navy’s 69th anniversary celebrations. He also announced that additional naval platforms from international partners are expected to arrive later this year, further strengthening the Navy’s capacity to patrol offshore waters and safeguard critical national assets. Beyond hardware acquisition, the Ministry of Defence is prioritizing human capital development. Plans are underway to enhance technical training, ensuring personnel can effectively operate and maintain new capabilities. Additionally, efforts are being made to improve morale and welfare activities to keep personnel motivated and mission-ready. In conclusion, Matawalle issued a stern warning to thieves, pirates, and other maritime criminals operating within Nigerian waters, stating that the country’s naval forces are now more capable than ever of enforcing maritime law to protect Nigeria’s economic resources.

Akpabio Urges Governors: Avoid Choosing Kneeling Loyalists as Successors

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has urged Nigerian state governors serving their second term to exercise caution in choosing their successors. While speaking during the inauguration of the first 30 kilometers of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway in the Lekki axis of Lagos, Akpabio warned that selecting a successor based solely on submissive behavior may lead to regret and betrayal in the future. He emphasized that true leadership requires foresight and readiness, not mere flattery or superficial loyalty. Leadership Requires Vision, Not Flattery – Akpabio Akpabio stated that many leaders often misjudge loyalty by giving power to individuals who display exaggerated respect, like kneeling or having their spouses roll on the floor. According to him, such actions do not equate to preparedness for leadership or good governance. “We have a President who possesses both sight and vision. I must advise our second-term governors, especially those under the All Progressives Congress (APC), not to hand over power to someone who is unprepared or uninterested in leadership,” Akpabio said. He continued, “Do not assume that someone who consistently kneels before you, or whose spouse behaves with extreme reverence, deserves to be entrusted with governance. These gestures don’t reflect readiness or capability. Choosing successors based on such shallow reasons is often the root of betrayal.” Akpabio reiterated that proper governance and sustained development stem from electing capable, visionary leaders—not those chosen out of blind loyalty or personal favoritism. Akpabio Commends Progressive Leadership Commending the APC leadership, Akpabio noted that Nigeria’s progress is driven by a visionary President who exemplifies leadership with purpose. He advised governors to emulate this example by endorsing individuals with strategic focus and competence. According to him, “The progressive governors are performing well because they are guided by a leader who not only sees the present but also envisions the future.” Key Attendees at the Event The commissioning event was attended by notable dignitaries, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Minister of Works David Umahi, and several second-term governors such as Governor Hope Uzodimma (Imo), Governor Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos).

Nigerian Elites Are Detached from Grassroots Struggles – Kano Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II Raises Alarm Over Rising Poverty

The Emir of Kano, Khalifa Muhammadu Sanusi II, has expressed deep concern over the growing economic hardship in Nigeria, stating that many elites remain disconnected from the day-to-day realities faced by ordinary Nigerians. Sanusi made this declaration on Saturday during a public lecture in Abuja, commemorating the 60th birthday of former Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi. In his remarks, the former Central Bank Governor recounted his personal experience after ascending the throne as Emir. He explained that he only came to truly understand the severity of poverty when he became deeply involved with the rural populace. “I encountered true hardship when I became Emir. The statistics I saw as an economist could not fully explain the lived experiences of the masses,” Sanusi shared. He observed how millions of Nigerians struggle daily, particularly in remote communities where basic amenities like clean water and healthcare remain out of reach. “You see the water people drink in villages, the broken-down houses they live in, and classrooms with no roofs. It is heartbreaking,” he added. Sanusi criticized how infrastructure projects in cities, such as overhead bridges and underpasses, are prioritized, while rural areas remain deprived of basic healthcare access. “Do we genuinely care for the people, or are we only interested in ruling them? What truly are our priorities?” He urged leaders to embrace empathy and compassion, emphasizing that the nation’s current economic crisis demands leaders who are grounded and sensitive to the suffering of the people. “We are in a crisis. Our concern should be how to get out of it, not further entrench divisions or selfish governance,” Sanusi concluded.

Zamfara Ulama Condemn Governor Lawal’s Anniversary Celebration for Violating Islamic Values

A prominent Islamic organization in Zamfara State has expressed strong disapproval of the events that marked Governor Dauda Lawal’s second anniversary in office. The Zamfara Ulama Defence Forum (ZUDF) issued a statement in Gusau, criticizing the celebration for reintroducing behaviors contrary to the state’s Islamic values. The group highlighted that the event featured musical performances with scantily clad female dancers and the public consumption of alcohol, actions deemed unacceptable under Islamic law and cultural norms in Zamfara. Sheikh Bashir Mu’azu Marafa, the forum’s president, described the scenes as unimaginable in a state known for pioneering Sharia law in Nigeria. He stated, “It is both unfortunate and shameful that on the second-term anniversary of a sitting governor in a core Islamic state like Zamfara, alcohol was served, and women of questionable character were paraded on public stages in revealing clothes.” He further emphasized that such displays are a clear departure from the values cherished by the people of Zamfara, who have long upheld Islamic governance. The presence of entertainers with female dancers in revealing attire was seen as a disgrace, especially in a society where modesty is a fundamental value. The forum warned that this incident could signify a dangerous shift, undermining the efforts of Islamic clerics and moral reformers dedicated to preserving the state’s values. They questioned the message being sent to the younger generation when leaders appear to encourage moral decay in the name of celebration. ZUDF called on Islamic clerics across the state to speak out against what they described as the creeping secularization of Zamfara under Governor Lawal’s administration. They urged the governor to issue a public apology and commit to restoring the moral sanctity of public events. The forum also appealed to the state house of assembly, traditional institutions, and community-based organizations to hold the governor accountable for the coordination and content of the celebration. They stressed that leadership should be guided by wisdom and humility, noting that the event’s optics have caused dismay among the Muslim community in Zamfara and beyond. Finally, the group expressed appreciation to members of the public who raised concerns on social media, particularly the youth, who they believe are more conscious of right and wrong than some officials. ZUDF reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the moral integrity of the community and holding those in authority accountable.

FG Set to Commission Completed Segment of Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway Today

The Federal Government is poised to inaugurate a completed portion of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway on Saturday, May 31, 2025. This milestone encompasses Phase I, Section I, covering 30 kilometers of the planned 750-kilometer stretch. The commissioning ceremony is scheduled at Kilometer 8 of the project, situated in the Jakande Estate area of Lagos State. Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, revealed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will virtually commission additional completed projects under the Renewed Hope initiative across Southern Nigeria. These projects include: The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, a vision conceived by President Tinubu 27 years ago, aims to enhance transportation networks, improve accessibility along coastal communities across nine Nigerian states, foster regional integration, and stimulate inclusive, sustainable development. This project stands as one of the four Renewed Hope Legacy Projects initiated by President Tinubu. Minister Umahi expressed, “Today, as the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, a dream conceived has become a dream actualized.”